Pellet stoves are an alternate method for heating your home. They are more environmentally conscious and energy-efficient than most heating methods, though they aren’t without their drawbacks. They cost a significant amount of money just to buy, not to mention installation costs and recurring fuel costs.
The best pellet stove is the U.S. Stove Non-Electric Pellet Stove. It can heat up to 2,000 square feet and requires no electricity to run.
There are two main types of pellet stoves: freestanding and insert.
Most stoves require some electricity to function. They use two motors to power two parts: the auger and the blower. The auger is an automatic loader that adds more pellets to the fire as needed, based on your heat settings. The blower is a fan that helps to disperse the generated heat more evenly.
Non-electric stoves use a gravity-based method for feeding pellets into the flames. They require piping and external fans to disperse their heat.
Top- and bottom-fed pellet stoves have pros and cons.
Pellet stoves list the amount of heat they generate using British Thermal Units, typically anywhere from 8,000 to 80,000 BTU. You’ll need roughly 30 BTU to effectively heat each square foot of space.
Even the most basic pellet stoves are expensive, typically costing $1,000-1,500. Larger options with better features can cross the $2,000 mark, with the best-of-the-best models hitting up to $3,000.
A. There are many pros and cons to them.
A. This depends on your local and state laws. On the bright side, some state and local governments offer incentives for switching to pellet stoves. Do your research on both before deciding.
U.S. Stove Non-Electric Pellet Stove
What you need to know: This is an efficient pellet stove approved for use in all types of homes.
What you’ll love: It uses no electricity, making it perfect for off-the-grid homes, especially cabins. It uses natural drafting to bring its temperature up and it feeds in additional pellets using a gravity-based system. A full hopper can last for up to 30 hours.
What you should consider: A propane torch is required to light it. Hardwood pellets can cause the burn basket to clog. It needs regular maintenance.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
What you need to know: This smaller stove is a good choice for smaller homes.
What you’ll love: Its main draw is a unique double auger system that feeds in pellets smoothly and quickly. It can heat up to 1,500 square feet of living space. A variable-speed blower lets you adjust temperature easily. An optional adjustable thermostat can be purchased and attached for even easier control.
What you should consider: There are some durability concerns with some of the parts it uses. It can go through pellets faster than similar models.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot
What you need to know: This is a great stove for those who dislike feeding the hopper.
What you’ll love: It has a 120-pound hopper that can feed in pellets for up to 70 hours when fully loaded. It can heat homes of up to 2,200 square feet, can be used in mobile homes and includes the parts required for installation.
What you should consider: Installation can be difficult, possibly requiring a professional. Some consumers had issues with faulty parts not covered under warranty.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot
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Jordan Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.