How to Buy the Best Wood Pellets for a Pellet Stove

If you live in a cold winter climate, you have probably heard that pellet stoves are in high demand this year. If you decided to make the change to pellet stove heating, then you'll need to know a bit about making wise wood pellet purchases. This article will help you avoid overpaying or buying substandard pellets.

Things You'll Need

• Telephone
• Pad and Paper
• Internet Access

Instructions

1. Set up your pellet stove so that it is working properly.

   If you need to have it installed, call in a professional that specializes in wood pellet stove installations. They will properly vent the stove so that you can safely burn wood pellets throughout the winter to heat your home.

2. Find out if there are any recommendations on fuel from the company.

   Consult with your wood pellet stove's manufacturer to determine if they make any recommendations about which type of pellets to use. Every stove burns differently. Also place a call to the store where you purchased the stove, if possible. Experienced sales staff can tell you what brands have worked best in the past with your particular stove make and model.

3. Calculate how many bags you will need for the season.

   You can buy the pellets by the bag or ton. Since most stoves burn approximately a bag a day during the winter season, it is common for people to pre-buy their pellets in advance so that they don't have to keep running out to get more fuel.

   Ask the salesperson or previous owner how much the stove burns per day during the winter.

   Then, using the pad and paper, calculate how many bags of pellets you will need to make it through the season. Most people will have the bags delivered on a pallet, but if you have a truck and want to avoid a delivery charge then you can pick them up yourself with a truck or rented U-Haul. The cost of delivery ranges based on your proximity to the warehouse, but costs average $50-$75 for the first ton, and $25 for each additional ton.

4. Find the best prices for the pellets you need.

   Buying in quantity usually gives you a discount off the per bag price. Using the Internet, search using keywords like "wood pellets" and the name of your closest city and state. This will give you a selection of wood pellet vendors that are nearby.

   Then, get on the phone and start calling! Talking to the supplier over the phone is better because you can explain any unusual storage or delivery situations, if you choose to have it delivered.

   At this stage, create a list so that you can easily compare each supplier's prices. The list should include the name of the supplier and their phone number, what brands of pellets they sell, whether they are hardwood or softwood pellets, what the BEST PRICE is for the quantity you need, if they are running any type of special promotions for orders larger than yours, and what the delivery charges are. If you don't want to store the pellets at your home, some places will store them for you and deliver them to you as you use them. If this is important to you, add it to your comparison listing.

   Compare the information in comparison listing to see which vendor is offering the best deal. Once you determine the best price, circle the brands of pellets you will be buying.

5. Before making any purchases, research the brand of pellets.

   Unless the brand is the one that was recommended by the manufacturer of the stove salesperson, do some homework on the brand before buying.

   Using the Internet, research the brand(s) of pellets that are involved in your "best deal". There are many forums, sites, and unbiased information about the scientific data from each brand. This will include data about how much ash is left behind after burning, how hot the pellets burn, etc.

6. Buy your pellets with confidence!

   Once you know that you are getting a fair deal, buy them! Pellets are in high demand now, and many suppliers are having trouble securing pellets to sell. Once you find what you want, buy it so that you are locked in with pellets for the winter. Then relax, and enjoy the toasty comfort of a warm home!

Tips & Warnings

• Do your research to be sure you are getting a fair price for the pellets and the delivery.

• Ask if there are any hidden charges.

• Confirm, in writing if possible, the exact brand of pellets that you will be receiving.

• Pre-buy pellets in the spring or summer for the following year. You will get better prices during the off-season.

• Save money by renting a U-Haul with a neighbor and picking up your pellets. Splitting the cost of the UHaul is probably less than the delivery charge.

• Buying more usually involves a cost savings. Ask the supplier for a deal for larger quantities.

• Don't get caught up in the fear tactics some suppliers use to try to get you to BUY NOW - sometimes the prices are inflated.

• Don't overpay for pellets - read forums online to see what others are paying.

• Avoid using substandard pellets. It can damage your stove.

• Create a dry space for your pellets. Wet pellets left outside (even covered) won't burn.