Pellet Stove Outdoor Patio Heaters
Wood pellet patio heaters are a cost-effective and stylish heating option. They also have low production of ash, which decreases the risk of blocking and chimney fires.
But, like any alternative heating source, pellet stoves have pros and cons that homeowners should consider before committing to one. Find out more about these renowned heating appliances.
Efficiency
Pellet stoves burn solid combustible pellets which are about the size of a BB, or a rice grain. These pellets are usually compressed sawdust, but some are made from other biomass fuels like switchgrass, corn or other agricultural waste. The majority of pellet stoves require a hopper to hold between 35 and 130 pounds of fuel. A pellet feeder puts the pellets into the combustion chamber to be burned, and a fan system directs exhaust gases through the vent pipe.
Like other types of heating stoves, the efficiency of a pellet stove depends on how well it is maintained and the quality of the fuel used. It is essential to use the best quality pellets. They must have a low water content (below 10 percent) and a high BTU output. Additionally the feed rate and combustion air settings must be adjusted according to manufacturer's specifications.
A great pellet stove has a heat exchanger constructed of cast iron or stainless steel, and an internal combustion blower that pushes room air across the burner area. The warm room air is circulated by the air, expelling the exhaust gases through small chimneys or flue pipe which is directed from an exterior wall or up to the ceiling. A professional installer can assist you in choosing the best ventilation system for your home, and in installing it correctly.
Despite This Internet page that the EPA no longer assigns stoves a default efficiency rating, some manufacturers still show verified efficiency on their showroom hangtags. However, a number of these values are often misleading. To ensure that you're receiving an accurate efficiency rating, look for the stove that has an EPA-verified label. It will be printed on a label that is located on the top and back of the stove's visible firebox. Today, the majority of pellet stoves are 70 to 75 percent efficient. Some have a gravity-feed system that replenishes the fire with new pellets without the need for electricity. This removes the necessity to clean the hopper and reduces the ash volume, making maintenance easier.
Convenience
Pellet stoves are extremely user-friendly and offer a substantial amount of heat in a simple system. They require less maintenance than alternative heat sources. These stoves are an excellent alternative for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The pellets are made from wood and waste materials that would otherwise be thrown away. They are also a renewable energy source and emit less carbon dioxide than other stoves.
Most homeowners don't require a special chimney to house their stove as the smoke from a pellet stove can be emitted through an existing flue. Pellet stoves can be ducted into your heating system for backup heat in colder weather.
One of the most significant benefits of pellet stoves is that they are able to heat your home for up to 12 hours in a single "batch" of pellets. This means that a single stove can provide a substantial amount of heating for your entire house, making them an economical and efficient alternative to traditional fireplaces.
The combustion process is highly efficient, and many models can boast an energy efficiency rating of up to 96%. The pellet stoves are able achieve this because they use fuels that are low-moisture and high-density. Many models also have an automatic fuel supply system that replenishes the fire with no electricity. This feature eliminates the requirement for an auger and blower fan, which can cause several issues in other types of stoves.
The flames of a pellet stove can be controlled through the settings for heat and fan speed. This gives you a variety of options for different preferences and can even allow you to enjoy the flames in the evening without generating too much heat.
Pellet stoves are energy efficient, but they still require electricity to run their automated features such as the hoppers, fans and the digital controls. It's therefore important to have a backup heating plan in place for times where the power goes out. Many pellet stoves are equipped with battery backups that keep them running. However it's an excellent idea to have generators on hand in case of an emergency.
Cleanliness
Pellet stoves are a great way to reduce heating expenses. They use a renewable fuel, compressed sawdust or other wood waste. The stoves produce little to no smoke and can reduce pollution from both indoors and outdoors. They also require only minimal supervision when burning. Pellet stoves also employ an extremely high temperature combustion process to remove creosote that can block vents.
To operate safely and efficiently To operate safely and efficiently, a pellet stove requires regular maintenance. The majority of owners' manuals suggest basic user maintenance be done weekly and a thorough professional clean-up after every ton of pellets that are burned.
One of the most important things to remember when cleaning pellet stoves is to wear a mask and protective clothing, as this will reduce dust buildup and prevent scratches or abrasions on delicate surfaces. The first step to clean the stove is to clean the ash and debris off the walls and the outside of the vent pipe. If the stove has an ash pan, open it by unlocking it using a key or screwdriver and then empty it. Then, if the stove has glass windows, remove and wipe down the surface. It is also possible to apply a glass cleaner to any stained areas of the window, though be sure to follow the instructions on the label to ensure the proper application.
Another important aspect of a pellet stove's maintenance is to prevent the stove from becoming rusty. The kiln-dried wood fibers used in the making of pellets attract and absorb moisture from the surrounding environment and eventually cause rust to develop on the inside walls of the stove. You can prevent this from happening by sweeping away any pellets that haven't completely burned after using the stove. This is particularly important during humid summer months.
Be careful not to overfill your pellet stove as this could pose a fire risk. If you have a blower fan installed, it's a good idea for you to maintain it regularly and ensure that it's working correctly. Also, you must remove any creosote that's built up in the stove as it progresses from its initial dry and flaky stage to a sticky tar-like state. This chemical is dangerous to breathe in and could cause a fire. It is best to clean the stove immediately when you notice it.
Safety
Pellet stoves must be correctly installed to guarantee maximum safety and performance. During the installation process pellet stoves must be placed at a safe distance from furniture and combustibles objects. They should also be set near a wall that is exterior to allow the exhaust to exit directly to the outside. If the pellet stove isn't properly vented carbon monoxide can be leaking into your home, which could cause serious health issues.
It's also important to keep pets and children away from the heat of your pellet stove. The best method to do this is to install a fireplace gate. You should also regularly clean your stove to keep it in good condition and to prevent combustible accumulation. Also, you should clean your stove's hopper and feed area frequently to keep them free of blockages.
It is important to follow the recommended maintenance and cleaning guidelines to ensure safety for outdoor pellet stoves. All manufacturers offer specific instructions on the proper care and use of their products. Therefore, take the time to locate the owner's manual and go through them before using your stove. This simple step can help minimize fire risks and avoid the need for costly repairs in the future.
Pellet stoves are only able to use a specific kind of fuel. It is recommended to stick to that brand to avoid damaging the appliance or creating fire hazards in your home. You should also use only high quality pellets, as low-quality pellets can cause more smoke and require more frequent cleaning.
If you are buying a new pellet stove, you need to consult with an experienced professional for proper installation and ventilation. The installer should be in a position to recommend the ideal location for your stove, and ensure that it is in compliance with local regulations. Additionally, the installer should be able to install a CO (carbon monoxide) detector within 10 feet of your stove. This will alert you to any CO leaks which could be hazardous to your family.
Although pellet stoves are generally safer than traditional fireplaces made of wood, they still emit carbon monoxide and particulate matter into the air you breathe. Proper ventilation and regular cleaning will help reduce the emission while ensuring your family's safety.