Are you shopping for a wood pellet stove, but wondering how to choose the ideal model? These tips allow you to shop smart and understand which brands and models will suit your specific needs.
Tip # 1 – Looks Are Important
A wood pellet stove creates a focal point in your living space. Unlike your furnace or wall-mount heaters, wood pellet stoves stand out and help to set the tone of your room. Browse through the different makes and shapes, from classic styles to more contemporary versions. Buy a model that complements your decorating style and reflects your tastes.
Tip # 2 – Consider Size Specifications
Calculate the square footage of your heating area. Wood pellet stoves are made to heat anywhere from 1,500 square feet to 2,500 square feet, and larger models can cover more expansive homes. Industry experts recommend choosing a model that provides a minimum of 25 btu/hour for every square foot. If you need to heat 400 square foot of living space, purchase a stove that produces at least 10,000 btu/hour. Go even higher in the btu department for rooms with poor insulation, high ceilings or several windows.
Tip # 3 – Maintenance Factors
Read through the instruction manual of several different wood pellet stove models. You’ll need to find a stove that you can easily operate, including tasks like filling the hopper and cleaning out the ashes.
Semi-regular maintenance tasks also include cleaning the glass front and servicing the heat exchanger. Although some stove owners opt to hire someone to handle these jobs, it makes sense to familiarize yourself with the model’s specific maintenance schedule to understand how and what you’ll need to plan for.
Take the time to research several different wood pellet stoves before deciding on the ideal model. These tips will help you to narrow down the selection and invest in a model that suits your needs perfectly.