Pellet Stoves Are Replacing Oil Heat

2 August 2012      

Oil has long been the primary heating source across much of the Northeast. However, the number of households seeking viable alternatives to expensive oil has continued to rise since the price skyrocketed to more than $4 a gallon.

Sales of pellet stoves have been increasing as more Americans seek affordable alternatives to costly home-heating oil.

In general, pellet stoves pay for themselves in about four years. Pellets are usually delivered on a 1-ton pallet of 50 40-pound bags that costs between $200 and $300. On average, it takes 2 to 3 tons a year to heat a home, which translates to spending about $900 to heat a typical three-bedroom home with a pellet stove.

Pellets also offer price stability, as buying an entire year’s supply in bulk avoids the often-volatile cost of heating oil.

Pellet fuel can substitute home-heating oil as an economically viable source of heating for residential homes.

Pellets offer consumers efficiency and environmental benefits. Pellet stoves burn more cleanly and more efficiently than wood because they effectively generate more heat while emitting less pollution. Specifically, pellet stoves are 80% efficient and come with thermostats. And, unlike wood stoves, they shut off when they reach a determined temperature. They then relight themselves when the desired temperature drops.

The sharp rise of heating oil prices has fueled a consumer thirst for viable alternatives such as wood pellets. Pellets so far have replaced about 8 million barrels of oil annually. Such energy displacement helps stimulate the American economy while enhancing national security and helping protect the environment.

Take advantage of the tax free weekend in Massachusetts, August 11-12, check out our selection of pellet stoves for your home. Contact The Fireplace Showcase.

Eco RI News