Problems With Pellet Fireplace Insert

Constant Attention

• Unlike gas or oil-powered fireplace inserts, or other heating systems, a pellet fireplace insert requires regular and constant attention. Most models can hold at least half a day's worth of pellets, but only the most expensive models will automatically feed the correct amount of fuel into the fire. The experts at Consumer Reports say that all fireplace inserts require relighting when the fire goes out, regular fuel refills and cleaning or maintenance. If you are used to a system that works with minimal attention, a pellet fireplace insert may be too time consuming for you.

Availability of Fuel

• The compressed wood pellets burned in a pellet fireplace insert are not always available in all areas of the country. According to Galt Home Buying Guides, the recent slowdown in new home construction has limited the amount of sawdust that is made into wood pellets. Check that you will have a steady and affordable supply of wood pellets before purchasing and installing a pellet fireplace insert, or you can't keep it running during the winter. Some models are more adaptable and can burn other fuels, like dried corn pellets or waste paper.

Lower Efficiency

• Homeowners looking for the most efficient way to heat their homes may already be aware that a traditional fireplace is not an efficient way to heat a home or a room. A fireplace insert provides better heating, but it still cannot compare to the efficiency of a free-standing pellet stove. However, a pellet stove is easier to install because it uses the preexisting chimney and hearth of a fireplace instead of requiring the installation of a new vent pipe and floor protection, according to the Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living.

Requires Electricity

• Unlike an old-fashioned wood stove, a pellet fireplace insert uses a variety of fans and blowers to bring in fresh air for combustion and move heated air into the room, which requires an electrical power source, says the Old House Web website, which means if the power goes out, your pellet fireplace insert will not work properly. Also, this limits the placement of the fireplace insert. Even if you have a nearly perfect fireplace to install the appliance in, if there is no wall outlet with the correct wattage nearby, you must either chose a different location or install a new wall outlet.

Chimney Repairs or Improvements

• Pellet fireplace inserts require less home alteration than a free-standing stove due to the fact that they utilize preexisting chimneys and hearths. But the experts at the Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living say that not all chimneys are ready for a fireplace insert. If the chimney has air leaks or cracks, it will need repairs first. Improper venting of a fireplace insert will cause fine ash, smoke and water vapor to lower the air quality of your home. Many installation situations require additional stove pipe or metal plating installed in the chimney for the safest ventilation.