Pellet Stoves and Inserts
Just as wood stoves can come freestanding, with four legs, or can be slid into your old masonry fireplace; So can Pellet Stoves. If you have major damage to your older masonry chimney, pellet inserts are a great option for you.
Convenience
Pellet stoves are generally easier to use than wood stoves and fireplaces, and some models come with features like automatic controls and wireless room sensors that allow you to remotely manage the fire. They also provide precise heat control and consistent warmth, and can be used to supplement traditional heating sources like a furnace. Not to mention, it’s much easier to haul around bags of pellets, than to split or purchase tons of fire wood.
Efficiency
EPA-certified pellet stoves can have combustion and heating efficiencies of 70–83%, and some models can provide up to 90,000 Btu of heat per hour. Most models heat up to 1,600+ sq. ft.
Pellet stoves can also be more cost-effective than other energy sources, with pellets costing around $300 per ton compared to oil, which can cost over $475 per ton. They have a thermostat that automatically turns on when the temperature drops below a threshold, and then shuts itself off once the room is warmed.
While a pellet flame is small it pumps out an outstanding about of heat for such a small amount of fuel.
Environmental impact
Pellet stoves are considered a sustainable option because the wood pellets they use are often made from recycled wood byproducts, sustainably-managed forests, or other materials that would otherwise go to waste. When burned, wood pellets produce minimal smoke and ash, and are considered carbon neutral because the amount of CO2 they release is equal to the amount the tree absorbed while growing. Pellet stoves can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions when used instead of heating oil, propane, or natural gas.