Gas stove replacement
Replacing your gas stove with a pellet stove?
Advice from the experts at Duroflame
Easily replace your gas stove
Thinking of replacing your gas stove with a pellet stove? That is an important decision. Both options have their own advantages, but they also have distinct disadvantages compared to each other. We are going to look at the factors that can help you decide why you would want to replace your gas stove with a pellet stove.
You have probably heard the most well-known arguments for installing a wood pellet stove in your existing gas fireplace. Wood pellet stoves are an economical home heating solution, using compressed sawdust instead of more expensive fuels.
A pellet stove reduces your dependence on natural gas for heating, which of course is so important right now because gas prices are high. Not to mention the cosy atmosphere that a gas stove simply cannot compete with.
So is it that simple, or are there still things you need to think about?
Installation
Gas fireplaces usually feature masonry that is both decorative and durable and can withstand the heat of a gas flame. This means that the tile, masonry and base for the fireplace can support an appropriately sized pellet stove.
The size of your fireplace will determine the size of the stove you can install. Before pellet stove installation, check stove sizes and heat ratings to see if your fireplace is big enough for a stove that will produce enough heat for the room.
Maintenance
Thinking beyond installation, it is important to consider the type of maintenance your stove needs to keep it running. Gas heating systems require less daily maintenance. They are simply switched on and off at the touch of a button. This does not mean that pellet stoves require a lot of maintenance. With pellet stoves, you need to add pellets and clean the ashtray from time to time.
The overall maintenance of a pellet stove is easier than a gas stove. Gas heaters require a specialist to perform annual maintenance such as pipeline inspections and vent cleaning.
Ventilation
One of the main challenges in installing a wood pellet stove in a gas fireplace is proper ventilation. You need to attach the stove’s exhaust system to the chimney of the fireplace to allow smoke and carbon by-products to escape. If the flue of your fireplace is too narrow or not sufficiently insulated, you need to make a new hole through the outer wall for ventilation. The wood pellet stove should also be placed inside the fireplace so that it can draw in oxygen-rich air for combustion.
While both stoves are extremely safe, pellet stoves tend to be a little safer. The risk with gas stoves is a carbon monoxide leak if the ventilation system is not properly installed. It is important to note that both stoves are hot to the touch, so it is best to keep them away from small children and pets.
Cost
The cost of a gas stove can vary considerably, depending on the price of gas. If you are looking for the more economical type of stove to run, a pellet stove will easily win out. The pellets are relatively cheap and even with the electrical cost of running the fans, a pellet stove will provide heat at a much lower cost than you might expect from a gas stove.
Shall we go and take care of it for you?
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a stove to heat your home, we think a pellet stove is obviously the best choice. With maximum efficiency and ambience, easy cleaning and maintenance, and environmental and personal safety, you will definitely be happy with your replacement purchase!