Pellet Stoves - How to Choose the Best Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves are an efficient alternative over traditional wood stoves. The pellets are made from recycled sawdust, which is compressed and dried. The pellets are heated in a combustion chamber and fed by an auger.
Contrary to traditional wood-burning fireplaces or stoves, pellet stoves are more efficient in energy and require less maintenance. They are also more secure than wood stoves.
Aesthetics
The best pellet stoves are stylish and offer a superior alternative to wood-burning stoves. Some feature large windows that allow you to watch the flames, and others are more contemporary and functional in design. Some models come with an energy-efficient electric fan to ensure an efficient and faster combustion. Some are also eligible for the tax credit for fuel that can help you save on your heating costs.
Pellet stoves aren't just attractive however, they also generate less particulate pollution than fossil fuels. The pellets are composed of sawdust or recycled wood and prevent these materials from ending up in landfills. They can also cut carbon emissions from the atmosphere by approximately 1.5 tons per year.
Pellet stoves are available as freestanding units, wall mounted, or inserted into existing fireplaces. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages However, the freestanding units are generally considered more practical. You can place them wherever you want and easily regulate the temperature with thermostats. They are ideal for open-plan layouts and rooms that don't have an existing fireplace.
The most important aspect to consider when choosing a pellet stove is the heat it can produce. It is essential to ensure that the stove is built to fit your space. A stove that is too small will not be able warm your home and a stove that is too big will use more fuel.
Another factor to consider when purchasing a pellet stove is how the stove is vented. Most pellet stoves need venting systems, which includes an insulated chimney line as well as an air intake for fresh air from outside to be used in the combustion. The system must be properly sealed to stop moisture from entering your home. Most manufacturers recommend professional installation.
Besides considering the amount of heat that a pellet stove could 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 select a pellet stove that is integrated inside your fireplace if you're seeking to save money on installation.
Energy efficiency
The kind of wood pellets you choose to use will affect how efficient your stove is. Premium or super-premium pellets work better than utility or standard pellets. This is because premium pellets are sourced from solid wood and not cardboard, paper, or other synthetic materials. They are also less likely to contain harmful substances that can block the stove's burner and decrease its efficiency.
The BTU rating of a pellet stove will tell you the amount of heat it produces for the amount of fuel used. This is important because it will help you determine if the stove will be capable of providing enough heat for your home or if you'll require a second source of heat in case the stove isn't able meet the demands of heating your home. The hopper capacity will determine how often you will need to replenish your stove.
Another factor that influences pellet stove energy efficiency is how well it is maintained. ventless pellet stove require that their stoves are maintained and cleaned regularly to ensure their performance is at its best. This can include cleaning the blower, heat exchanger and venting system. Additionally the hopper must be kept clean of accumulated dust and ash. A dirty stove will significantly reduce its efficiency, so it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the highest level of efficiency.
Pellet stoves can be an excellent alternative to traditional heating sources. Pellet stoves can be the primary source of heating for homes in colder climates. However it is essential that you choose a stove which is sized to fit your space and that it is regularly maintained. As a rule of thumb it is recommended to allow the equivalent of 5,000 BTUs per square foot to heat.
Smeltz estimates that homeowners who make the switch from oil or propane stoves to pellets will save between $800 and $1000 per year on their heating expenses. This can be a major selling feature for some customers.
Burn time
Pellet stoves walk an attractive middle line between wood heat and other supplemental forms of heating. They are less complicated to use than a stove that burns wood and more attractive than the typical mini split. They also produce less heat than central furnaces, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
Like other types of heating supplemental to the home, pellet stoves also require an external venting system in order to exhaust the combustion gases. A vent pipe runs from the stove to either a chimney or through an exterior wall of the home. The venting system is complex dependent on the size of your home and whether you have an electric or non-electric stove. Electric stoves need an electrical connection to power a mechanical feed hopper that delivers pellets into the firebox. Nonelectric models employ gravity feeders or require the user to manually load pellets into the firebox.
The size of the hopper of the stove determines the amount of time it can run before needing a refill. A large hopper will hold enough pellets to keep the stove running for a few days without needing a refill, and this is a crucial aspect to consider when you are deciding on the best pellet stove to buy.
Another factor in determining the best pellet stoves is their energy efficiency rating. The EPA assigns a stove an amount that represents its fuel efficiency. The higher the number, the more efficient the stove is. Some of the most efficient pellet stoves are at least 83 percent efficient or higher, but no stove can achieve 100 percent efficiency because some of the heat is lost through the venting system.
A stove's BTU (British thermal unit) rating indicates how much heat it is able to generate. A stove with an increased BTU rating will heat larger areas or entire houses however, it will consume more power than one that has a lower BTU rating. Certain models come with digital controls, which permit you to set the temperature precisely. Some models have simple dials that have an off/on button.
Pellet stoves can be found in various designs, including freestanding models that can stand on their own, wall-mounted models that are mounted on the wall, and insert stoves that fit into fireplaces already in place. Freestanding stoves have an old-fashioned look and is suitable for places where no other type of heater will do and wall-mounted models conserve the floor space.
Maintenance
Pellet stoves offer an alternative to wood-burning or gas heaters. They provide an efficient way to heat your home, but they can be costly to install and require regular maintenance to perform optimally. Proper care for your pellet stove can help homeowners save money and ensure their family's and pets' security. It also helps to avoid issues that can lead to costly repairs.
The first step in preventing issues with your pellet stove is to keep it clean. Cleaning is easy if you employ the right tools and follow the directions in your owner's manual. Regular cleaning will keep your stove in top working in good order by getting rid of soot and ash.
A good ash vacuum and a HEPA filter specifically designed for fine dust will make this task simpler. The hopper and the feed area should be cleaned weekly. This can be done by hand however a set of cleaning tools which includes a sweep, brush and a pot is an excellent investment. This will let you get rid of all the components of your stove and not create the mess. It is important that you disconnect your stove and let it cool before cleaning.
Another area that requires constant attention is the heat exchanger. This device is designed to convert the heat created through the combustion of pellets into warm air which is distributed throughout your home. It can become clogged with creosote, which can be harmful if breathed in. Cleaning the heat exchanger frequently keeps it in good condition.
Check the burner and hopper for loose parts. If the hopper or the burn pot are damaged, it will decrease the efficiency of your stove and also increase your heating costs. It is also essential to have a professional examine your stove each year. This will help you identify any potential issues and ensure that it is in good working order before winter arrives.
Although pellet stoves are very convenient, it is vital to keep in mind that they require electricity to power their fans as well as digital controls. If your home is without electricity, the fan or automatic pellet feeder may not function. It is crucial to have an alternate heating plan in these situations, especially if you live in an area that is susceptible to cold weather.