How much electricity does a pellet stove use? In this article, we will take a look at the amount of electricity that is consumed by pellet stoves. We will also provide some suggestions on how you can reduce the amount of energy that you use.
Introduction
When choosing a new method of heating your home, it is essential to take into consideration not only the expense and the level of efficiency it provides but also the effect it will have on the surrounding ecosystem. The use of renewable fuels like sawdust or agricultural waste to power the combustion process in pellet stoves makes them an environmentally responsible choice for home heating.
But what is the actual amount of electricity that they consume? In most cases, pellet stoves only need a minimal amount of electricity to run their ignition systems and fans. These are responsible for distributing the heat produced by the stove. The total amount of electricity used will be determined not only by the size and style of your pellet stove but also by the frequency with which you operate it.
How Much Electricity Does A Pellet Stove Use
To calculate the total energy output of a pellet stove, one must take into account both the amount of wattage consumed over an hour and the 500 watts needed to ignite the pellets. After eight hours of operation with no more ignitions, this amounts to around one kilowatt-hour.
In addition, the fan on a typical pellet stove consumes 400 to 800 watts of power. They operate on the standard household current of 120 volts. Energy consumption for a pellet stove averages 100-kilowatt hours per hour.
Given that the typical price of a kilowatt is $0.08, the cost of operating a stove comes out to 2.42 cents for each hour it is used. If you left your stove on for its full rating of 24 hours a day, the electricity bill would come to $2.42 (or 58.176 cents).
Factors Influencing Pellet Stove Electrical Consumption
The amount of electricity they use can vary based on several factors.
1) Efficiency Rating
This rating, measured in percentage, determines how much of the heat produced is being used as opposed to being wasted through the venting system. The higher the efficiency rating, the less electricity the pellet stove will need to operate. A mere 5% increase in efficiency can result in a significant decrease in electricity usage and cost.
So while it may be tempting to go for a lower-cost option with a lower efficiency rating, investing in a pellet stove with a high-efficiency rating can save money and energy in the long run. It is also worth mentioning that any pellet stove certified by the EPA is required to have an efficiency rating of at least 75%, ensuring that even entry-level models are fairly efficient. However, for maximum savings and effectiveness, searching for a pellet stove with an even higher efficiency rating is recommended.
2) Outside Temperature
Wintertime can bring plenty of chilly nights. For those without traditional heating options, a pellet stove can provide much-needed warmth. However, the efficiency with which it heats a space can be affected by the outdoor temperature.
When temperatures are low, pellet stoves require less electricity to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. However, during periods of mild weather, the pellet stove may need to run more frequently. This is to keep up with heat loss through the walls and windows.
During extremely cold periods, it may need to be used more frequently and for longer periods to keep the space heated. This is because pellet stoves rely on electricity to ignite and sustain the fire, meaning that they require more electricity as temperatures drop. So before cranking up the pellet stove on an especially frigid day, take a look at the forecast – adjusting usage accordingly in anticipation of low temperatures can help save on electricity costs in the long run.
3) Moisture Of The Pellets
The moisture content of biomass pellets can have a significant impact on their combustion efficiency. When burned, the water in wet pellets must first be evaporated, using up a portion of the energy that would otherwise be converted into heat. This can result in reduced efficiency and an increased need for supplemental electricity to maintain proper function.
On the other hand, dry pellets have a higher combustion efficiency and can generate more heat while using less electricity. Therefore, it is important to monitor and control the moisture content of biomass pellets. It is to ensure optimal performance and maximized energy generation. Additionally, using dry pellets greatly reduces the risk of clumping or failure to ignite. It can lead to smoother operations and lower maintenance costs.
4) Using Fans Or Blowers
When using a pellet stove, fans or blowers may seem like an easy solution for distributing heat throughout a building. However, these mechanical devices can significantly increase electricity usage and raise energy costs. Instead, individuals can maximize their pellet stove’s efficiency by ensuring proper ventilation and keeping the stove clean. Routine maintenance can also help to maintain optimal heat flow and distribution.
Additionally, investing in a high-quality thermostat or using strategic furniture placement can further assist in evenly distributing heat without the need for additional powered equipment. While it may be tempting to rely on fans or blowers, taking the time to properly utilize and maintain your pellet stove can result in significant savings on electricity bills in the long run.
5) Turning Down Thermostat
The pellet stove is a great source of heat during the colder months, but it’s important to remember to turn down the thermostat during periods of mild weather. Not only does this practice conserve energy, but it also helps to reduce electricity usage.
In addition, it can save money on heating bills and lessen the strain on the power grid. Of course, adjusting the temperature shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort – use additional blankets or layers of clothing if necessary. To form a good habit, try setting a reminder on your phone or marking dates on your calendar as reminders to adjust the pellet stove’s thermostat.
6) Using Recycled Materials For Pellets
Using pellet fuel made from recycled materials instead of virgin wood can have many benefits for both energy efficiency and electricity usage. When virgin wood is used for pellet fuel, it must first be processed, leading to higher electricity usage during production.
Pellets made from recycled materials, on the other hand, require less energy in the manufacturing process. In addition, using pellets made from recycled materials can lead to improved appliance efficiency. Since these pellets produce a more consistent and higher-quality burn, they result in better heat output and reduced ash buildup in appliances.
Final Thoughts
A pellet stove may seem like a budget-friendly alternative, but it requires a large amount of electricity to operate. If you are set on utilizing a pellet stove, these are some great strategies to lower your power usage, as explained in this article. Ultimately, taking the time to investigate and properly maintain your heating source can have a major influence on both the environment and your wallet.