A pellet stove is a good investment this time of year, where the weather is getting exceedingly cold. However, the pellet stove you may have always wanted might not be suitable for the room you had in mind. N reviewing the installation process, you will be better educated on whether or not you should buy one.

A pellet stove needs amiable space in which to operate. It can quickly become a fire hazard if the minimum space specifications aren’t met. Some home owners are so cautious that they plan for more space than what the minimum specifications outline- which is a good idea if you like to play it safe. Most models will likely be fine in give a 10 square foot leeway space, but do consult the manual first.

A fire won’t start without the proper prerequisites- one being oxygen that is necessary for combustion. The combustion process varies from one model of pellet stoves to another, but you may be required to install a special combustion chamber so that the fire draws in air from the outside. The installation professional should be able to set this up.

It is standard that any ventilation system should be as vertical as possible. The reason being that a horizontal vent could easily be touched, whether intentionally or on accident, by young children and even adults. With the immense heat from the fire flowing through the vent, this could lead to serious burns. Plan ahead and try to install vertical ventilation instead.

The surface in which the pellet stove is placed on will not usually be a problem, but it can be if the surface is carpet or a plush rug. If you must “cushion” the leggings of the stove, use something such as secured stone blocks or something that isn’t flammable. Carpet and rugs will always pose a fire hazard, even if the chance is somewhat small.

As a last safety check, make sure that the wattage rating for the pellet stove meets the specifications of your home wiring. Supplying the wrong voltage to the pellet stove, or allowing for a surge to happen, could potentially lead to a fire or at the very least a ruined pellet stove. If you aren’t too familiar with the process, an electrician or a professional installation technician can you help you out with it.

Final Thoughts

Pellet wood stoves should only be installed by those certified to do so. Otherwise you run the risk of destroying the stove, home, and potentially endangering those within the home. Don’t take chances- have help where needed and follow ever step listed within the accompanying manual.

Learn more on pellet stove inserts and pellet wood stoves.