Winters can be a lot of fun, but only if you are geared up for them! We know how uncomfortable cold winters can be without a proper heating system in the house.
Having said that, we have a very budget-friendly solution for you. Pellet stoves offer incredible heating and will allow you to toggle between various heat settings and timer controls. You can set these to start at a specific time automatically. Return to a cozy warmed-up space every day with a pellet stove at home.
But when we set out to purchase one, we found multiple choices in the market, and choosing one was rather challenging.
To save you from this challenging quest, a comprehensive and unbiased list of the 4 best pellet stoves has been curated. We have also included a buyer's guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
So, without further ado, let's get down to business!
Listed below are the 5 best best pellet stoves from our list:
- Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22: This stove is notable for its high heat capacity of 50,000 BTU and auto-ignition system, featuring a large viewing window and an easily removable ash pan, although its efficiency could be affected by the quick burning of pellets.
- Castle Pellet Stoves 12327 Serenity: Designed for fitting easily into any house, this compact stove boasts a programmable controller for automatic on and off, delivers customizable burn levels, and has an easy process of cleaning, but the noise from the fans can be loud.
- US Stove 5040 Pellet Stove: An excellent choice for mobile and modular homes due to its compact body, this stove can warm a space continuously for 40 hours, comes with 4 heat settings, and a digital control board, but has experienced inconsistent customer service.
- Cleveland Iron Works PS130W-CIW Pellet Stove: Regarded for its smart home features and Wi-Fi capability, this pellet stove with 130-lb hopper capacity can heat spaces up to 2,500 sq. ft, though the professional installation required might mean an additional cost.
- US Stove Wiseway Non-Electric Gravity-Fed Pellet Stove: Distinguished by its electricity-free operations, this silent, compact pellet stove has a natural gravity feed system that works even during a power outage, though it lacks advanced controls and could be aesthetically less appealing.
Here's the list of the 5 best pellet stoves right now, ensuring you stay warm and cozy during those chilly winter months
1. Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22 - Best for Instant Warmth
If you are looking for a product with commendable heat capacity, the Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22 will fit the bill. It has proven to be an excellent choice for instant warmth. Equipped with an auto-ignition system and a large viewing window, you can keep a watch on the pellets at all times.
To begin with, this product has a heat capacity of 50,000 BTU with a powerful blower installed. It heats up quickly, and the room is warmed up in no time. We bought this just before winter to enjoy the cozy atmosphere that it creates.
Furthermore, we found that the ash pan can be removed separately. This was very helpful as it made it easier to clean once the pan was full. We would suggest purchasing an ash vacuum that will clean up the ash immediately and leave the pan clean without any additional effort.
While most stoves make some sound, which can sometimes be very disturbing, this one is almost soundless and heats quietly.
Finally, we found the customer service to be optimal. In case you face any problem with a part or with heating in general, call them up, and they will look into the matter immediately. We got a replacement within 3 days of complaining about the panel, which had arrived slightly damaged.
So, initially, we found that the pellets were burning a little too quickly. If you experience the same issue, check the manual and its troubleshooting section where they will advise you to adjust the exhaust voltage. Once we did that, this problem was solved for good!
What We Like
- Large viewing area
- Powerful blower for better efficiency
- Auto-ignition
- Programmable thermostat
What We Don't Like
- Pellets burned too quickly
2. Castle Pellet Stoves 12327 Serenity - Best for Programmable Control
One of our top recommendations for its brilliant features and ease of use is the Castle Pellet Stoves 12327 Serenity. If you are searching for a small product that will fit into your house easily, this is the one to go with. It comes packed with nifty features and can heat 1,500 square feet of an area very quickly.
The best part about this product is the programmable controller, which enables you to switch it on and off automatically. You can adjust the built-in thermostat and set a specific time and temperature beforehand. So, you can wake up to a warm and cozy room, thanks to this.
Also, adding to the temperature and time settings, you can choose the kind of burn level you want between 1 to 5. Set it up depending on the space and temperature needed, and you are good to go.
Besides, every pellet stove has to be cleaned occasionally, and this unit has a very easy process. You will not need to fiddle with deep chambers or complex boxes. Just take out and dump the access firepot and sweep out the exhaust pipe. It should do the trick correctly.
One area which needs improvement is the sound of the fans. They are pretty loud, and you will be able to hear it distinctly throughout the house. Even when set on low, there is a considerable humming sound. Long story short, we wished that the noise could be reduced.
What We Like
- Easy to clean
- More than 69.8% thermal efficiency
- Comes with a detailed manual
- Safety shut-off and heat shields included
What We Don't Like
- Fans are pretty loud
3. US Stove 5040 Pellet Stove - Best for Compact Spaces
Do you want a compact device that is known to be incredibly sturdy? The US Stove 5040 Pellet Stove is an excellent pick and will become a part of your house decor easily. It offers the perfect combination of style and efficiency and will give you a warm home every time you come back.
The specialty of this product is that it is fit to be used in mobile and modular homes. Now, we know that the space in any of these will be extremely limited, and hence, the body is super compact and can fit into tiny spaces easily. The dimensions are 24.5 x 21.5 x 28.5 inches, and it will fit in between furniture.
Even when it is snowing outside, you will be able to walk into a warm space, thanks to this unit and its ample warming area of 1800 square feet. The place can be warmed for 40 hours at a stretch because of its noteworthy capacity.
To further add to the user-friendliness, this has 4 heat settings and features a digital control board. This will provide easy access to the settings, and you can adjust them according to your heating needs.
We needed a replacement of parts, and we have tried contacting customer service multiple times. Even if they spoke to us nicely, the replacements never arrived, and they kept delaying it. Ultimately we got it from a local reseller, but we were disappointed with the service provided.
What We Like
- Digital control board for better efficiency
- Large viewing window
- Heat capacity of 34,000 BTU
- Can be used for mobile or modular homes
What We Don't Like
- Inefficient customer service
4. Cleveland Iron Works PS130W-CIW Pellet Stove
The Cleveland Iron Works PS130W-CIW Pellet Stove, also known as Model No. 205, is a larger version of Cleveland Iron Works' earlier models, No. 215 and No. 200. Priced at $1,249, this pellet stove comes with a 130-lb hopper capacity, making it an ideal choice for heating spaces up to 2,500 sq. ft. Equipped with smart home features and Wi-Fi capability, this EPA-approved pellet stove provides impressive value for homeowners.
The PS130W-CIW offers a 130-lb hopper capacity, ensuring longer heating periods without the need for constant refills. With a heating area of 2,500 sq. ft., it's perfect for medium-sized spaces. Additionally, its 75.8% energy efficiency rating means it is an environmentally conscious choice.
This pellet stove comes with built-in smart home technology and Wi-Fi capability, so you can easily control and monitor the heat settings remotely, offering convenience and ease of use.
The PS130W-CIW is an EPA-approved pellet stove, which means that it meets the stringent emission standards designed to protect the environment and air quality.
The Cleveland Iron Works PS130W-CIW pellet stove requires professional assembly and installation, which may add to the cost if not already factored in. Additionally, it exclusively burns wood pellets and it may not provide the same flexibility as those that can use other fuels like wood chips or corn.
What We Like
- Suitable for medium-sized spaces
- EPA-approved
- Built-in smart home technology and Wi-Fi capability
- 75.8% energy efficiency rating
- Large 130-lb hopper capacity
What We Don't Like
- Requires assembly and installation (professional installation recommended)
- Exclusively burns wood pellets
5. US Stove Wiseway Non-Electric Gravity Fed Pellet Stove
Introducing the US Stove Wiseway Non-Electric Gravity Fed Pellet Stove, a high-performing heating solution that requires no electricity. This stove is an excellent option for areas vulnerable to power outages. Let's dive in and explore why we liked it, what could've been better, and its pros and cons.
The US Stove Wiseway Pellet Stove captured our attention with its innovative natural gravity feed system that eliminates the need for electricity. With a 40,000 BTU output, this stove quickly and efficiently heats spaces of up to 2,000 square feet. The sizable 60-pound hopper ensures continuous heat for up to an impressive 36 hours. Moreover, the absence of electrical ignition means relying on a propane torch for lighting, simplifying operation for those seeking an off-the-grid heating solution.
What sets this stove apart is its silent operation. With no moving parts, it generates no disruptive noises, creating a tranquil environment for relaxation. The stove's compact dimensions of 15 inches deep and 14 inches wide make installation a breeze, particularly in mountain cabins or off-the-grid structures. Despite its unassuming appearance compared to traditional pellet stoves, the inclusion of a glass viewing window allows users to monitor pellet levels effortlessly.
While the US Stove Wiseway Pellet Stove shines in many aspects, it does have a couple of drawbacks to consider. One downside is its aesthetic appeal, which some may find less attractive compared to traditional pellet stoves. Additionally, this stove lacks the advanced controls commonly seen in other models. However, if these factors are not of utmost importance and you prioritize reliability and simplicity, this stove is an excellent choice.
Considering its reliable performance, power independence, and extended burn time, the US Stove Wiseway Non-Electric Gravity Fed Pellet Stove offers a compelling heating solution for those seeking a hassle-free experience during power outages or off-grid living scenarios.
What We Like
- Natural gravity feed system requires no electricity
- 40,000 BTU output effectively heats up to 2,000 square feet
- 60-pound hopper allows for up to 36 hours of continuous heat
- Silent operation with no moving parts
- Compact design facilitates easy installation
- Glass viewing window for monitoring pellet levels
What We Don't Like
- Less visually appealing than traditional pellet stoves
- Lacks advanced controls found in other models
What is the Best Pellet Stoves?
This section provides an in-depth analysis of the most efficient pellet stoves available. The comparison table below evaluates crucial factors including material, dimensions, hopper capacity, voltage, heating capacity, and heat output.
Product | Material | Dimensions | Hopper Capacity | Voltage | Heating Capacity | Heat Output |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22 | Alloy Steel | 25″ x 12″ x 32.5″ | 55 lbs | 110V | 2,800 sq ft | 50,000 BTU |
Castle Pellet Stoves 12327 Serenity | Alloy Steel | 23.75″ x 18.25″ x 34″ | 40 lbs | 120V | 1,500 sq ft | 22,226 BTU |
US Stove 5040 Pellet Stove | Alloy Steel | 24.5″ x 21.5″ x 28.5″ | 40 lbs | 120V | 1,800 sq ft | 34,000 BTU |
Cleveland Iron Works PS130W-CIW Pellet Stove | Other | 28.35″ x 24.49″ x 42.13″ | 130 lbs | 120V | 2,500 sq ft | 24,129 BTU |
US Stove Wiseway Non-Electric Gravity Fed Pellet Stove | Alloy Steel | 52″ x 24″ x 15″ | 60 lbs | N/A | 2,000 sq ft | 40,000 BTU |
Buying Guide for the Best Pellet Stove
A pellet stove looks very similar to traditional fireplaces but offers you technologically advanced features. Previously you would have to find good wood logs and light them up properly to ensure that the fire burns well. Here you can start it with a press of a button.
Now that you have gone through the 5 best products, you will know that each one is unique in its own way. There are many factors to consider, like heat capacities, size, ventilation, and insulation, to name a few.
To help you out, we have put together a list of essential factors that you must pay attention to, before buying any of these options. Take a look now. We hope this guides you toward buying the one that fits the best.
Insulation
Is your home well insulated? If you live in a place with very cold weather, it is absolutely essential to make your houses completely insulated to prevent the cold from coming in. If that is not the case, no matter how good a product you buy, the house will still not be properly heated up, and pellets will burn very fast.
So, make a note to check the insulation before you make a purchase.
Ventilation
The ventilation also has to be paid attention to while purchasing. Check if the stove meets the venting and building requirements. This is extremely important to protect the family's health and always opt for a device with a good ventilation system. Also, ensure that you clean the vents every once a year with a chimney brush. This will prevent them from getting clogged.
Ceiling Height
The ceiling height is an essential consideration, as it will help you choose the heat capacity that you need. If you have high cathedral ceilings, you will need a device with a greater heat capacity that is a higher BTU rating. Since higher ceilings mean more area that needs to be heated, the capacity also has to be more.
If the ceiling is not very high, a lower rating will work well. These will be less expensive and more compact in comparison.
Design
Although you are bound to be more concerned with the utility of this product type, the design and compactness matter too. There are some stoves that are wide while there are those which are broader but take up less space when it comes to length.
Check the dimensions of a unit that you like and compare it with the space that you have available in your house.
Coming to the design, you will find some with a sleek body and rounded or square edges that would fit in very well with modern or mid-century furniture. On the other hand, there are stoves designed traditionally and can be kept wherever you want the fireplace to be.
Control Board
Products come with a different number of heat settings. They usually range from 4 to 7 types depending on the model, and you can choose among them. Switching on a gadget should be extremely easy with the touch of a button and make sure that the one you like has this option.
Also, the control board should be easy to handle, and a timer would be of great benefit. With a timer, you can schedule the device to start and stop at a particular time, even if you are not there to do so physically. Some options will even let you set the duration and the schedule for an entire week at once.
How does a pellet stove work?
A pellet stove functions by directing wood pellets from its hopper into a burn pot, where an electric igniter kindles the pellets; the perpetuation of the flames is supported by a combustion blower, while the regulation of heat output is determined by modulating the pellet feed rate and combustion blower speed.
How efficient are pellet stoves?
Efficiency ratings of pellet stoves are typically impressive, with some models achieving scores ranging between 70% to 90% or even higher; this high-rate efficiency is largely due to the meticulous combustion process and the usage of densely packed wood pellets as fuel.
Are pellet stoves suitable for all homes?
The suitability of pellet stoves in different homes is contingent upon a variety of factors, one of which is adequate insulation, particularly essential in mitigating the harshness of colder climates. Compliance with local building regulations and the provision of proper ventilation play key roles in ensuring the stove's safety and effective performance.
How do I maintain a pellet stove?
Ensuring optimal performance of a pellet stove demands regular maintenance, which typically entails cleaning the burn pot, ash pan, and the glass, alongside inspecting and cleansing the venting system, all in line with the guidance provided by the manufacturer's maintenance instructions.
Can a pellet stove be used during a power outage?
While the majority of pellet stoves necessitate electricity to facilitate the functions of components such as the auger, fans, and control systems, there exist models that can function during power outages due to their incorporation of a battery backup system or a manual ignition feature - checking the specifications of the stove or consulting with the manufacturer can offer clarity on these available features.