
Winter is approaching, and it’s essential to make sure your pellet stove is in top condition to heat your home efficiently. Here are five maintenance and operating tips to keep your stove in top condition throughout the cold season.
In-depth cleaning of internal components :
Before the first start-up of the season, you’ll need to carry out a complete service on your equipment. Remove the ash, dust and residue accumulated in the ash pan and pellet tank. Cleaning the combustion system and flue is also essential to avoid blockages, which will reduce the risk of fire and improve air quality. A clean installation is not only more efficient, it’s also safer.
Check ventilation and air supply :
Make sure the air inlets and ventilation ducts are clear. Oxygen is crucial to combustion, so a sufficient flow of air optimises your stove’s performance. If your stove has air filters, regular maintenance is required in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards.
Checking seals and components :
Over time, door seals and other components can wear out. A regular check will ensure that they are still in good condition and replace any damaged parts. A good seal prevents air leaks, making your heating solution more energy-efficient and effective. It’s also a good idea to check fans and grilles to make sure they’re working properly.
Choice of quality pellets :
Opting for certified, low-moisture pellets ensures cleaner combustion and less ash build-up. High-quality pellets not only reduce wear and tear on your stove, but also ensure optimum heat output. Keep a stock of pellets for the winter, storing them in a dry place to avoid the risk of mould.
Professional interview before winter
Even if you carry out the basic maintenance yourself, an annual check by a professional is strongly recommended. A specialist will be able to check that the appliance is working properly, adjust the combustion parameters and ensure general safety. Regular maintenance extends the life of your stove and ensures that it runs smoothly during the winter months.
By following these simple but essential tips, you can enjoy optimum thermal comfort while saving energy. A well-maintained stove is an invaluable ally in keeping you warm and comfortable all winter long!
Comparison: Maintaining a pellet stove vs. a fireplace and wood-burning stove
Maintaining your heating system varies according to the type of equipment. Here are the main differences to be aware of to optimise the operation of each system:
Cleaning frequency
Pellet Stove :
- Crucible cleaning: every 2-3 days
- Vidage du cendrier : hebdomadaire
- Full maintenance: 2 times per season
Pellet Stove :
- Emptying the ashes: every 2-4 days
- Window cleaning: weekly
- Chimney sweeping: 2 times a year in accordance with standards
Traditional fireplace :
- Ash disposal: after each use
- Cleaning the hearth: weekly
- Chimney sweeping required: 2 times a year
Technical specifications
Pellet stove
- Requires mechanical ventilation
- Regular inspection of electronic parts
- Annual diagnosis of electrical components
- Checking air quality and combustion
Wood-burning stove
- More frequent visual inspection of the duct
- Checking door seals
- Less complex performance control
- A more autonomous heating solution
fireplace
- No mechanical parts to maintain
- Pay particular attention to the print run
- Monitoring refractory brick wear
- Higher energy consumption
Costs and professional services
Pellet Stove :
- Mandatory annual professional maintenance
- Average cost: €150-200/year
- More technical spare parts
Pellet Stove :
- Mandatory professional chimney sweeping
- Average cost: €80-120/year
- Fewer parts to replace
Fireplace :
- Mandatory professional chimney sweeping
- Average cost: €60-100/year
- Few wearing parts
💡 Expert advice: Whatever your type of heating system, regular maintenance will :
- Guaranteeing the safety of the installation
- Optimising energy performance
- Reduce operating costs
- Extending the life of the appliance
BONUS
If you don’t have a pellet stove, we’ve put together a Buying Guide for you. How do I choose the right pellet stove?
For optimum performance from your pellet stove, the LONGTIME® label is a valuable guide. By identifying durable and repairable products, LONGTIME® helps consumers to make more responsible and environmentally-friendly choices. Choosing a LONGTIME®-labelled stove means opting for an appliance that is designed to last, is easy to repair and helps to reduce waste. With this approach, you’re investing in a high-performance product while promoting a more sustainable and eco-responsible lifestyle for this winter and beyond.