Pellet Stoves - How to Choose the Best Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves are a more efficient alternative to traditional wood stoves. Pellets are made of recycled sawdust, which has been dried and compressed. The pellets are heated in a combustion chamber, and fed by an auger.
Contrary to traditional wood-burning fireplaces or stoves pellet stoves are much more efficient in energy and require less maintenance. They are also more secure than wood stoves.
Aesthetics
The most attractive pellet stoves look attractive, making them a beautiful alternative to traditional wood-burning stoves. Certain models feature large windows that let you see the flames. Others are more utilitarian and modern in design. Certain models have an energy-efficient electric fan to ensure a faster and more efficient combustion. Some are also eligible for the tax credit for fuel, which can help you save on your heating bills.
Pellet stoves are not only attractive, but they also produce less pollution from particulate matter than fossil fuels. They burn pellets that are made from recycled wood and sawdust which prevents the materials from being thrown into landfills. They also reduce carbon emissions from the atmosphere by approximately 1.5 tons per annum.
Pellet stoves can be bought as freestanding units, mounted on a wall, or installed into an existing fireplace. Freestanding units come with their own advantages and drawbacks. They can be placed anywhere in your home and easily regulate the temperature by using the thermostat. They are ideal for rooms that have open floor plans or without a fireplace.
The most important aspect to consider when selecting a pellet stove is the heat it could generate. It is essential to ensure that the stove is designed appropriately for the space you have. A stove that is too small will be unable to provide heat to your home, and a stove that is too large will require more fuel.
When buying pellet heaters, you should also consider how it will be vented. Most pellet stoves require venting systems that include an insulated flue line, as well as an air intake system to draw in fresh air from outside to ignite the stove. The stove must be properly sealed to keep moisture out of your home. Most manufacturers recommend professional installation.
You should think about the aesthetics of your home when choosing a pellet stove. Freestanding pellet stoves are usually rustic, while wall-mounted models are more modern. You can also choose a pellet stove built inside your fireplace if you're looking to save money on installation.
Energy efficiency
The kind of pellets you use in your stove will influence the efficiency of the stove. In general premium or super-premium wood pellets will give you better efficiency than utility or standard pellets. The reason for this is that pellets of superior quality are made from solid wood and not cardboard, paper or bark. They are also less likely to be contaminated that will clog the stove's burner pot and decrease the efficiency.
The BTU rating will tell you how much heat the stove produces for each one pound of fuel. This is important because it will allow you to determine whether the stove is able to provide enough heating for your home or if you'll need a secondary source of heat in the event the stove isn't able meet the demands of heating your home. The capacity of the hopper is an important consideration, as it will dictate how often you will need to refill your stove.
Another factor that influences pellet stove energy efficiency is the degree to which it is maintained. The majority of manufacturers require that their stoves are maintained and cleaned on a regular basis to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning the blower, heat-exchanger and venting systems. Additionally the hopper should be kept free of dust and ash. A dirty stove can drastically reduce its efficiency, therefore it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the highest efficiency possible.
Pellet stoves are a great alternative for traditional heating methods. They can be a primary source of heat for a lot of homes, especially in colder climates, but it is essential to select an appliance that is proportioned to your space and that it is maintained regularly. A best practice is to allow for five thousand BTUs of heating power per square feet of living space.
If a homeowner decides to switch from oil or propane to a pellet stove they could save about $800 to $1,000 annually on their heating costs according to Smeltz. This can be a major selling point for some customers.
Burn time
Pellet stoves are a beautiful middle ground between wood heat and other forms of heating. They are easier to use than a wood-burning stove and more attractive than the average mini split. But they also produce less heat than central furnaces, making them suitable for smaller areas.
Like other types of heating supplemental to the home pellet stoves also require an external venting system to exhaust the combustion gases. The vent pipe is connected to the stove, and can be accessed via the chimney, or through an external wall. The vent system is complicated dependent on the space and whether you have an electric or nonelectric 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 on the stove determines the amount of time it will run before needing to refill. A large hopper will hold enough pellets to keep the stove running for days without needing a refill and is an important feature when considering the best pellet stove to buy.
Another aspect that determines the best pellet stoves is their energy efficiency rating. The EPA assigns an amount to stoves that reflect their fuel efficiency and the higher the number, more efficient the stove is. Some of the most efficient pellet stoves are 83 percent efficient or better however, no stove will be 100% efficient because some of the heat is lost through the venting system.
The BTU rating of a stove is a measure of the amount of heat it's capable of producing. A stove that has an extremely high BTU rating can heat larger rooms and whole homes however it will use more electricity than a low-rated stove. Some models offer digital controls that permit you to set the temperature precisely. Other models come with simple dials with an off/on button.
Pellet stoves are available in a variety of styles. They can be freestanding, wall-mounted, or insert stoves. Insert stoves fit in existing fireplaces. A freestanding stove evokes an old-fashioned look and can be used in areas where no other kind of heater is suitable, while wall-mounted models save floor space.
Maintenance
Pellet stoves can be a viable alternative to traditional gas or wood heaters. The click here stoves are a reliable method of heating your home, but can be costly to install. They also require regular maintenance in order to function optimally. Proper care for your pellet stove can help owners save money while ensuring their pets' and family's safety. It also helps to avoid issues that can lead to costly repairs.
Clean your pellet stove to avoid issues. If you follow the guidelines and use the proper tools, cleaning is easy. Regular cleaning can keep your stove in good condition by removing soot and ash.
A good ash vacuum and a HEPA filter designed for fine dust will make this task easier. The hopper and feed area should be cleaned weekly. You can do this yourself but investing in cleaning kits that include a brush, a sweeper tool and a pan is worth it. This will let you get rid of all the components of your stove and not create the mess. It is essential to unplug the stove and allow it to cool before beginning cleaning.
The heat exchanger is a different component that requires regular maintenance. This device is responsible for converting the heat generated by the burning of pellets into warm, circulating air throughout your home. It can become clogged with creosote that can be poisonous if inhaled. Cleaning the heat exchanger regularly keeps it in good working condition.
It's also important to examine the hopper and burner for any loose components. The efficiency of your stove will decrease in the event that the burner pot or hopper has been damaged. Your heating costs will also increase. A professional should check your stove at least once a year. This will let you know of any issues that might arise and ensure it is in working order before the winter.
It is important to remember that while pellet stoves are convenient, they use electricity to power their digital controls and fans. As such, if your home loses power the fan and pellet feeder may not work. It is crucial to have a backup heating plan for these situations, especially when you live in a place that is prone to cold weather.