Advantages & Disadvantages of Pellet Stoves

Pellet stoves have been around for many years, but have increased in popularity because of the volatile cost of competing heating fuels like oil or natural gas. Pellet stoves have advantages and disadvantages that consumers should be aware of before purchasing.

Advantage-Tax Credit

Buyers who purchase a pellet stove with at least a 75 percent biomass efficiency may be eligible for a tax credit from the federal government. The credit is for 30 percent of the cost of the stove, up to $1,500, for stoves placed in the home in 2009 or 2010.

Advantage-Energy Efficiency

Wood pellets are the main type of fuel used in a pellet stove. These pellets have a moisture content of only 4 to 8 percent, much less than regular wood. This makes them more efficient at providing energy.

Advantage-Automation

Most wood pellet stoves have automated feed systems, where the wood pellets are automatically fed to the furnace to be burned when needed.

Disadvantage-Electricity Needed

Almost all pellet stoves require electricity to operate, so this may limit where the pellet stove can be placed in the house. It also means additional cost to pay for the electricity.

Disadvantage-Extensive Remodeling

Pellet stoves must be vented to the outside, either through the wall or ceiling. If the pellet stove is installed after the house is constructed, extensive remodeling may be required to complete the installation.

References

• Peller Stove Tax Credit
• Wood Pellet Stoves