Pellet Stoves - How to Choose the Best Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves are a more efficient option in comparison to traditional wood stoves. The pellets are made from recycled sawdust that is compressed and dried. The pellets are heated before being fed through an auger into the combustion chamber.
Pellet stoves are cheaper and require less maintenance than traditional fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. They are also safer than wood stoves.
Aesthetics
The most effective pellet stoves are attractive and offer a superior alternative to wood-burning stoves. Some feature large windows that let you observe the flames, while others are more modern and utilitarian in design. Certain models have an energy-efficient electric fan to ensure better and faster combustion. Some are also eligible for tax credit for fuel that can help you save on your heating costs.
Pellet stoves are not only attractive however, they also generate less particulate pollution than fossil fuels. They burn pellets made of sawdust and recycled wood which prevents the material from ending up in landfills. Additionally, they reduce carbon emissions by around 1.5 tons per year.
Pellet stoves are available as freestanding units, placed on a wall, or installed into a fireplace. The freestanding units have distinct advantages and drawbacks. You can put them anywhere in your house and control the temperature easily through a thermostat. Ideal for rooms with open floor plans or without a fireplace.
The output of heat produced by a pellet stove should be the primary factor in your decision. The stove should be sized appropriately for the space you have. A stove that isn't sized correctly will not be able to heat your entire home, and an over-sized unit will use more fuel than is needed and will result in greater energy costs.
Another aspect to take into consideration when purchasing a pellet stove is how the stove is vented. The majority of pellet stoves require a venting system, which includes an insulated chimney line as well as an air intake to allow fresh air from outside to be used for combustion. The system should be properly sealed to keep moisture out of your home. Most manufacturers recommend professional installation.
Besides considering the amount of heat a pellet stove is able to generate, you should also consider how it will integrate into the decor of your home. Freestanding pellet stoves are typically rustic, while wall-mounted models are more modern. You can also choose pellet stoves that are built into your fireplace it is a great option if you're looking to cut down on installation costs.
Energy efficiency
The kind of pellets you use in your stove will impact how efficient it is. Premium or super-premium pellets work better than standard or utility pellets. This is because premium pellets are sourced from solid wood, not paper, cardboard, bark or other synthetic materials. They are also less likely to contain contaminants which can block the burner pot of the stove and cause a decrease in efficiency.
The BTU rating of a pellet stove will tell you the amount of heat it produces for the amount of fuel it uses. This is crucial, since it will tell you if your stove can provide sufficient heat for your home. If it's not, you'll require a second source of heating in case the stove fails to meet the requirements of your home. The capacity of the hopper will determine how often you need to refill your stove.
The way the stove's maintenance is another factor that affects its energy efficiency. To ensure optimal performance, most manufacturers require that their pellet stoves be maintained and cleaned regularly. This includes cleaning the blower, heat exchanger and venting system. The hopper must also be kept free of dust and ash. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the highest efficiency. A dirty stove will decrease its effectiveness.
Pellet stoves are an excellent alternative to traditional heating sources. Pellet stoves can be the primary source of heating for homes in colder climates. However, it is important that you choose a stove which is sized appropriately for your space and that it is regularly maintained. As a rule of thumb you should set aside 5,000 BTUs per square foot to heat.
If a homeowner decides to switch from oil or propane to a pellet stove, they can expect to save about $800 to $1,000 per year on heating expenses according to Smeltz. This can be a major selling point for some customers.
Burn time
Pellet stoves provide a wonderful middle space between wood heat and other forms of supplemental heating. They're more manageable than traditional wood-burning stoves and are more attractive and efficient than an average mini-split. They also produce less heat than central furnaces, which makes them ideal for smaller spaces.
Similar to other forms of heating pellet stoves also require an outside venting system that can expel the combustion gases out of the home. A vent pipe is connected from the stove and connects to a chimney or through an exterior wall of the house. The venting system is a bit complicated dependent on the size of your home and whether you have an electric or non-electric stove. Electric stoves require an electrical connection in order to power the mechanical feed hopper, that is the one that delivers pellets into the firebox. Non-electric models require the user to manually insert the pellets into the firebox or utilize gravity feed.
The size of the hopper of stoves determines how long time it can run before needing to refill. A large hopper will hold enough pellets to keep a stove running for a few days without refilling and is an important aspect to consider when considering the best pellet stove to buy.
The energy efficiency rating is another aspect that determines the top pellet stoves. The EPA assigns the stove an amount that represents its fuel efficiency. The higher the number, the more efficient the appliance is. Some of the most efficient pellet stoves can attain an efficiency of 83 percent or more however, no stove can ever achieve 100 percent efficiency, as some heat is lost through the venting system.
The BTU rating of a stove tells you the amount of heat it's capable of producing. A stove with a higher BTU rating will be able to heat larger areas or entire website houses however, it will consume more power than one with a lower BTU rating. Certain models come with digital controls, which allow you to set the temperature precisely. Other models come with simple dials with an on/off button.
Pellet stoves are available in a variety of designs. They can be wall-mounted, freestanding or insert stoves. Insert stoves fit into existing fireplaces. Freestanding stoves have an old-fashioned look and can be used in locations where no other type of heater will do and wall-mounted models conserve floor space.
Maintenance
Pellet stoves are a great alternative to traditional wood-burning or gas heaters. They offer a reliable method to heat a home however, they can be expensive to set up and require regular maintenance to function optimally. Proper pellet stove care can help owners save money while ensuring their pets' and family's safety. It also helps avoid problems that can lead to costly repairs.
The first step to avoid problems with your pellet stove is to ensure it is clean. Cleaning is easy if you make use of the correct tools and follow the directions in your owner's guide. Regular cleaning will eliminate the buildup of soot and ash and keep your stove operating smoothly.
A good ash cleaner and a HEPA filter specifically designed for fine dust will make this task easier. The feed area and hopper must be cleaned regularly. This can be done manually, but a cleaning set which includes a sweep, brush and a pot is a good investment. This will let you get rid of all the components of your stove without making a mess. It is crucial to disconnect the stove and allow it to cool before beginning cleaning.
The heat exchanger is yet another component that requires regular maintenance. This device is designed to convert the heat created by the combustion of the pellets into warm air that is distributed throughout your home. It can become clogged with creosote, which is harmful if breathed in. Cleaning the heat exchanger regularly keeps it in good working condition.
It's also important to check the burner and hopper for any loose parts. The efficiency of your stove is reduced if the burn pot or hopper is damaged. Your heating costs will also rise. It is also crucial to have a professional check your stove each year. This will allow you to identify any potential problems and ensure it's operating properly prior to winter.
It is important to remember that although pellet stoves are convenient, they rely on electricity to power their digital controls and fans. In the event that your house loses power the fan and pellet feeder could not function. It is important to prepare an emergency heating system in such situations. This is especially true in areas where there is cold weather.