If you’re a pellet stove owner, whether new or seasoned, understanding the importance of pellet selection is key for your stove’s longevity and performance. Here’s some advice on picking the best pellet fuel:
What are pellets, anyway?
Pellets are simply compressed bits of sawdust, bound together by lignin, a natural “glue” that’s released under pressure. They’re environmentally friendly since they’re made from natural by-products of wood manufacturing processes like those from the flooring or furniture industries.
Why is pellet quality so crucial?
Choosing high-quality pellets can save you a lot of cleaning time. The wood type in the pellets matters because softwood pellets typically produce less ash compared to hardwood pellets.
Pellets are categorized by their ash content, much like octane ratings in fuel. These grades are utility, premium, and super-premium. The super-premium, often softwood pellets, can mean cleaning your stove as infrequently as every two weeks, whereas utility-grade pellets might require a cleaning every few days because of higher ash content.
Additional tips for choosing pellets:
- Go for 100% Wood: Ensure the pellets are pure wood, without additives like cardboard or bark.
- Size Matters: Shorter pellets are generally better, as they feed into the fire more reliably.
- Check the Moisture: Aim for pellets with a moisture content under 10% for optimal burning efficiency.
By keeping these pointers in mind, you can select the right pellets to keep your pellet stove running smoothly and your home cozy.
