When it comes to heating your home, you have numerous choices. And while newer technology has emerged in recent years, few options work as well as the traditional pellet stove. Have you considered installing one in your own home?
What is a Wood Pellet Stove?
A pellet stove is simply a stove that burns biomass pellets or compressed wood to create a source of heat. It’s commonly used in both residential and industrial spaces. Pellets and wood chips are fed into a storage container (known as a hopper) that provides a steady source of fuel that requires very little maintenance. And because wood pellets are a renewable energy source, these stoves are very energy efficient.
According to eFireplaceStore, “Pellet stoves come in two main varieties. The first resembles a traditional wood stove with a pedestal or legs and is designed as a room heater. The second style functions more like a furnace. It features larger hoppers and a system to force heated air to other parts of the home. Both styles work in a similar fashion and have similar components.”
Because of their sturdy construction and simple design, wood pellet stoves can last for decades without any problems or concerns.
6 Benefits of Pellet Stoves
Pellet stoves don’t get as much attention as modern options like gas fireplaces or electric heating sources, but they’re definitely worth considering. Here are some reasons why:
1.Cost Savings
Depending on the type of stove, the style, the size, and the output, a typical pellet stove will run somewhere between $1,000 and $5,000. And while that may sound expensive, it’s not a huge amount when compared to other fireplace alternatives. (Plus, some states offer income-tax rebates and other incentives.) But here’s the kicker: It offers major cost savings over time. Wood pellets aren’t very expensive and burn for a long time. Both firewood and gas are more expensive.
2.Powerful Heat
Did you know that some pellet stoves can heat up to 2,500 square feet (depending on the floor plan)? Unlike many other heat sources, which are mainly for aesthetic appeal, pellet stoves produce significant heat. This makes it ideal for large spaces.
3.Eco-Friendly
Pellets are a renewable fuel source and produce far less greenhouse gases than fossil fuel systems. The high burn efficiencies and density of pellets allow for low particulate emissions and minimal waste.
4.Low-Maintenance
Wood fireplaces need to have ash removed every one to three days. They can also cause soot to build up around the hearth (which may require daily cleaning after each use). With a wood pellet stove, there’s minimal cleanup involved.
“High-quality pellets limit ashpan cleaning to once a week or less,” This Old House mentions. “Scrape the burn pot weekly to remove combustion residue and unburned pellets. Clean and inspect vents at the outset of heating season.”
5.Style and Design
While a wood stove is highly functional, it also provides a nice aesthetic touch. They come in a number of appealing designs – including sleek, modern options and more traditional varieties. Wood stoves instantly become the focal point of any room.
6.Safe to Operate
When it comes to heat sources, you have to be cognizant of fire hazards. And whereas wood burning fireplaces and gas fireplaces come with some degree of risk when not properly cared for, wood pellet stoves pose virtually no threat. You can even place them close to a wall and they won’t cause problems. This is because wood stoves produce minimal external heat (making them a safe choice for children and pets).
Assuming the hopper and door are properly closed, you can safely run a wood stove while out of the house or asleep. The stove will continue burning so long as there are pellets in the hopper.
Choosing the Right Heat Source
As you can see, a pellet stove is highly beneficial. It provides clean, cost-effective heat without the need for constant repairs or maintenance. As you consider different options – including wood burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces, electric heaters, and traditional furnace-style heating systems – think about what a pellet stove can do for your home. You may discover that it’s the best option at any price point.
