Pellet stoves are an efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat your home. They’re charming and nostalgic, but like other heating systems, they need routine maintenance to keep them safe and efficient. Neglecting maintenance can lead to several problems, including reduced performance, costly repairs, and serious safety hazards. Here’s why pellet stove maintenance is so crucial.

Why Pellet Stove Maintenance is Important

Efficiency and Performance

Like an HVAC system, a pellet stove operates more efficiently and provides better heat output when it’s in good condition. Over time, ash and soot can accumulate in the stove’s burn pot, heat exchanger, and venting system. This buildup reduces airflow and heat transfer. This makes the stove work harder, and use more pellets to keep you comfortable. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure the stove runs efficiently, saving money on fuel costs and keeping the home at the desired temperature.

Stove Longevity

Pellet stoves are an investment. With many models costing $1,000 or more, making yours last as long as possible is in your best interest. The best way to do that is by getting it serviced by a trained professional. Regular upkeep prevents excessive wear and tear that can significantly shorten its lifespan, allowing you to get the most use out of it.

Environmental Benefits

Pellet stoves are an eco-friendly heating system known for their low emissions, but that depends on your maintenance habits. A neglected stove can release more pollutants into the air, negating its environmental benefits.

Dangers of Neglecting Pellet Stove Maintenance

Fire Hazards

The biggest risk of not maintaining your pellet stove is fire. Ash and soot buildup can ignite in the stove or venting system, causing a deadly chimney or flue fire. The Chimney Safety Institute of America says, “Dirty chimneys can cause chimney fires, which damage structures, destroy homes, and injure or kill people.” Regular maintenance and cleaning by a trained professional remove these combustible materials, reducing the fire risk and keeping you and your family safe.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Fire isn’t the only thing you have to worry about with a neglected pellet stove; there’s carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that’s potentially lethal. Blocked vents, faulty gaskets, or improper airflow caused by debris can lead to incomplete combustion and put your family at risk. The worst part about carbon monoxide poisoning is that most people don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.

Reduced Heating Capacity

Ignoring maintenance can cause your pellet stove to struggle to keep you warm and comfortable. Blocked airflow and inefficient combustion can leave your home feeling colder than you want, forcing you to rely on other heating systems like a furnace or space heater, driving up energy costs.

Costly Repairs

Another consequence of ignoring maintenance is the increased chance of major mechanical failures or premature system failure. For example, the auger may jam due to excessive ash, or the exhaust fan could stop working because of soot buildup. These issues often require expensive repairs or a total system replacement.

How Often Should You Schedule Maintenance for Your Pellet Stove?

How often you should get your pellet stove maintained depends on how much you use it and the types of pellets you burn. Here’s a general guide.

Weekly Maintenance: Clean the glass to maintain visibility and prevent soot buildup, vacuum ash, and debris.

Monthly Maintenance: Inspect the venting system and check for obstructions. Clean the heat exchanger to ensure maximum efficiency.

Annual Maintenance: Schedule an inspection at least once a year by a certified professional. The technician will check the stove’s mechanical and safety components, perform a thorough cleaning, and inspect for potential dangers.

Contact Keystone today and ask about our pellet stove, fireplace, and chimney maintenance services.