Pellet Stoves vs Gas Stoves

Choosing between pellet stoves and gas stoves can be a very difficult decision. Both options present you with a number of unique benefits. However, there are also some drawbacks associated with each one as well. Here are a few things to consider when trying to choose between a pellet stove or gas stove.

Maintenance

One of the major considerations that you should think about is the maintenance level that is required with each type of stove. A pellet stove is going to require far more regular maintenance than if you chose a gas stove. In order to use a pellet stove, you will have to fill it with the proper pellets on a daily basis. Depending on what type of stove you have, you might have to do it more than once a day.

In addition to that, you also have to physically remove the ashes periodically once the pellets burn down and fill the stove. With a gas stove, this will not be an issue for you. You simply turn it on when you want heat and turn it off when you don't. There is no transporting of pellets or shoveling involved. This makes the gas stove the clear winner in the maintenance department.

Cost

Another major consideration when choosing between these types of stoves is the cost factor involved. In nearly every case, using a pellet stove will be cheaper for you. A pellet stove could potentially heat your entire house and still cost less than paying for natural gas. While natural gas can be very efficient and convenient, you will be able to purchase the pellets that you need and burn them for cheaper cost than what you could with gas. Therefore, pellet stoves have the advantage as far as ongoing costs are concerned.

Emergency Situations

Many people would like to have some type of heating system that can heat their house even when the power is out. Many people might believe that having a pellet stove would provide this option. However, in order to distribute the heat that is put off by burning the pellets, you will still need electricity for the job. While they do make backup power sources for pellet stoves, most of the time, these will only work for about 8 hours at the most. In addition to that, you will have to pay for the backup power source which is another added expense.

A gas stove can be set up to work without electricity, although it will not work as efficiently. The gas lines are always on and pumping into your house regardless of the weather outside. Therefore, this might be to your advantage if power outages are a concern.

Final Considerations

As a consumer, you are going have to make a personal decision about which type of stove to purchase. Both options present you with some benefits. You will have to decide whether the extra work associated with a pellet stove is worth the amount of money that you will save by not purchasing gas.