Like a small child who wants to build a model car, adults who have purchased a new “toy” want to assemble it as fast as possible and get it running. It’s important to not rush the process for pellet stoves, as not installing the stove properly can result in immediate danger. There are some safety tips to remember during the process.
A pellet stove needs amiable space in which to operate. It can quickly become a fire hazard if the minimum space specifications aren’t met. Some home owners are so cautious that they plan for more space than what the minimum specifications outline- which is a good idea if you like to play it safe. Most models will likely be fine in give a 10 square foot leeway space, but do consult the manual first.
A fire won’t start without the proper prerequisites- one being oxygen that is necessary for combustion. The combustion process varies from one model of pellet stoves to another, but you may be required to install a special combustion chamber so that the fire draws in air from the outside. The installation professional should be able to set this up.
Some locations in your home won’t allow for a vertical vent to be installed- which poses a serious problem. As a last resort only, a horizontal vent can be installed that leads to the outside. This is generally not recommended due to critters outside getting in, hot vents being accessible to minors, and a plethora of other problems. Stick with vertical vents to stay safe.
Only place the pellet stove on approved materials. The material in which it rests could potentially catch fire if it isn’t flame retardant. A good example is with carpet- most models of pellet stoves will not be safe around a carpet that is dry enough to catch fire. Instead the pellet stove is best placed in a shed with a cement or tile flooring.
As a last safety check, make sure that the wattage rating for the pellet stove meets the specifications of your home wiring. Supplying the wrong voltage to the pellet stove, or allowing for a surge to happen, could potentially lead to a fire or at the very least a ruined pellet stove. If you aren’t too familiar with the process, an electrician or a professional installation technician can you help you out with it.
Closing Comments
It can take several hours in total to get a pellet stove up and working for someone who has never done it before- and that’s without accounting for mistakes. It’s better to outsource the installation process by asking a professional to do it for you. It may cost money, but the job gets done right the first time.
Learn more about pellet stoves and pellet stove inserts.