Pellet stoves have become a popular variation of wood stoves and even gas burning heating units, using wood chips and sawdust as a primary fuel source. Pellets are made from trees and plants in the local area, and are ground up to a pulp. These are then combined with sawdust and other wood scraps to create blocks of small pellets that do not crumble. Pellets may also be made from unprocessed corn, fruit pits, and other farm waste materials. These make them very environmentally-friendly, and different combinations are available depending on the country or region. These compact slabs and pellets can be used as a highly efficient heat source, and offer an all-natural fuel option.

Pellet stove are designed for workshops, garages, basements, and even some small homes. Since they use an all-natural wood pellet as fuel resource, they can be economical and efficient. Pellett stoves are generally easy to clean, and can be filled easily with a hopper. Many feature heat exchange vents, a large glass panel, a hearth extension, and an electric component for ignition and turning on or off.

Most pellet stoves are used as a source of supplemental heat, and an produce a concentrated, dense fire that burns hot very quickly. Some stoves can include the use of ceramic logs to imitate a real-looking fire, and this is common for pellet stoves that have a large window and viewing space area. Maintaining and servicing a pellet stove can be complicated. You can select from a top-fed stove or a bottom-fed model, depending on the type of pellets you will be using. Bottom-fed models require premium fuel, while top-fed models can handle standard pellets.

Most building supply stores carry blocks and slabs of pellets, and even some local farmers and co-ops offer bags of them on request. Pellets can also be found at garden stores, discount stores, bird feed stores, and farmer’s outlets. The Pellet Fuel Institute does set some guidelines and standards for usage, and will grade the fuel on a few criteria including density, dimension, chloride levels, ash, and fines.

Pellets generally offer a minimum of 40 pounds of material per cubic foot, and should measure between 1.5 inches long and ¼” wide in diameter. There is a set amount of sawdust that is allowed to be mixed into the pellet composition, and also a limited amount of salt or chloride content. Pellets do range in composition by manufacturer, and so will burn at different rates. Although trace minerals are found, you will find a generally clean burn overall.