Both wood and wood pellet stoves are available either as stand-alone units or as fireplace inserts that make use of existing masonry or prefab fireplace and chimneys. Inserts take up less space, but can be more difficult to install.

Unlike traditional wood stoves, wood pellet stoves don’t require a conventional chimney and flue. Freestanding models can go almost anywhere if within reach of an electrical outlet. Although wood pellet stoves are less expensive to install than wood stoves, it is recommended that you use a professional installer to ensure the safety of the exhaust system.

Wood stoves warm through radiant heat and many have either a built-in, or optional, blower to help distribute heat more evenly over a greater area. This helps save fuel and increases the overall comfort level in the space being heated. Some models provide enough surface space to cook on and most provide an enjoyable view of the wood flame. Even basic wood stove models are often much more effective than older units. Some newer models include a catalytic combustor resulting in cleaner exhaust gases.

Wood pellet stoves operate at much lower temperatures—often cool to the touch—and utilize an integrated blower to help warm a room. The wood pellet stove has a built-in pellet hopper and automated feed system that delivers wood pellets into the stove’s burn chamber where combustion air is forced through the fire to create a furnace-like effect. The feeder system allows the fire to burn longer without loading than a traditional wood stove. State-of-the-art technology helps control fuel-to-air ratio within the stove and ensures a more complete combustion of the fuel.

Maintenance depends on your stove choice. A non-catalytic wood stove might take longer to heat and produce more smoke, but it is less expensive and requires less servicing. A catalytic wood stove must be inspected regularly and serviced. Wood pellet stoves are easy to maintain, but routine maintenance is necessary to ensure proper function. Before the start of each heating season, you should have your stove and chimney inspected by a professional.

Wood remains the more popular choice of fuel because it is widely available, usually inexpensive, pleasing to view as it burns and you can vary your heating capacity based on wood type and seasoning. However, it may require chopping and is cumbersome to stack and load. It also creates smoke, requiring a chimney exhaust.

Wood pellets are created from leftover wood materials. They are tightly compacted and dense, creating a more efficient and consistent burn than wood. The low emission levels produce minimum soot, ash and creosote which helps protect the environment.

Sold in 20-to-40 lb. bags or by the ton, pellets range in size from 3/8’’ to 1’’ in length with the look and feel of rabbit food. Safe, easy to transport and store, wood pellets can be produced and sold locally. Unlike heating oil and natural gas, they pose no threat for explosions or environmental spills and their storage poses no threat to water or soil for contamination.

Options
Both types of stoves, whether as a freestanding or insert model, can be accented with these additional features: