If you’re looking for the warmth and style a traditional fireplace can offer, but aren’t sure if you’re ready for the commitment it requires, a pellet stove might be the perfect option for you! Here’s what you should know about these types of fireplaces and how they work.
What is a pellet stove?
A pellet stove is a type of fireplace that burns pellets made from organic materials like food or wood waste. They come in the form of densely packed, small cylindrical pellets where one ton (about 50 bags) is equal to 1½ cords of firewood.
Pellet stoves are also unique in that they use a thermostat. It releases pellets into the firebox until there’s enough to bring the heating to room temperature. When you lower the thermostat, it releases fewer pellets. Inside the stove, one fan blows air across the fire to maintain a steady temperature, and the other blows warm air into the room.
Pellet stove efficiency
These types of fireplaces are much more energy-efficient than the traditional fireplace. While not all manufactures will show their efficiency ratings, a good pellet stove will generally have a 65%-75% rating.
Pellet stove maintenance
Maintaining a pellet stove is an ongoing task like traditional fireplaces. You should clean the ash pan weekly or daily, depending on how often you use it. If you neglect your stove, it will shorten its 10- to 15-year life expectancy.
As a trusted fireplace company in Northern California, our qualified experts at The Energy House can find you the perfect free-standing stove for your home. You can contact us here for more details.