When it comes to heating homes and workplaces in winters, the best alternative to heating systems are Pellet stoves. Pellet stoves are more economical, safe to use and efficient.
If we compare a pellet stove with a gas-powered and electrical heating system, pellet stoves are environmentally friendly and easy to maintain.
Pellet stoves use compressed wood pellets to burn and produce heat. They are loaded in the backside of the stove and one can control the amount of pellets according to the need.
However, pellet stoves are available in multiple sizes and styles and to shortlist the best ones was a pretty daunting task. It took several months to shortlist the best ones after testing them in every possible way.
So, let’s get straight into it.
Our Best Pick
In reference to our testing and buyers reports, we recommend Comfortbilt HP22 pellet stove. This one offers high efficiency and doesn’t cost you a fortune. Overall, this one is a considerable option to opt for as it attracted us in most of the departments.
Comparison of Top Rated Pellet Stoves
If you are in a hurry then below we have compared our best picks of Pellet Stoves that consumer also reported very good. These are also reviewed in the later section below.
Select any two pellet stoves from the dropdown option below in the table to compare.
| Best Pellet Stoves | VS | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. US GW1949 Wiseway Non-Electric Pellet Stove | 2. Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22- 50,000 BTU | |||||||||||||||||||
| Product | 
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| ||||||||||||||||||
| Material | Alloy steel | Alloy steel | ||||||||||||||||||
| Installation type | Freestanding | freestanding | ||||||||||||||||||
| Heat output (BTUs) | 40,000 BTUs | 50,000 BTUs | ||||||||||||||||||
| Heating coverage | 2000 sq.ft | 2800 sq.ft | ||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 131 pounds | 295 pounds | ||||||||||||||||||
| Award | Best non-electric pellet stove | Author’s choice | ||||||||||||||||||
| Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | ||||||||||||||||||
| Ebay | Check on Ebay | Check on Ebay | ||||||||||||||||||
| Full Review | Jump to Full Review | Jump to Full Review | ||||||||||||||||||
#1 Pick
Comfortbilt HP22 is the #1 Best Pellet Stove in our list.
How Does a Pellet Stove Work?
It is important to know how a pellet stove works, especially if you are a beginner. Here is a brief description.
The pellet stove consists of a hopper, auger, burn pot, ash tray and heat exchanger. The hopper stores the pellets and auger pushes the pellets into the burning pot where pellets are ignited and produce heat. The ashtray is present below the burning pot where ashes of pellets are collected.
The heat produced goes through the heat exchangers which further distribute the heat in the room/place.
Things to Consider When Buying a Pellet Stove – Consumer Guide
When looking for a high-quality pellet stove, one needs to consider some important factors which we are going to discuss below. These factors will help you make a better decision. Let’s have a look at them.
Installation Type (Freestanding, Insert or wall-mounted)
Pellet stoves are available in two installation methods; either you can insert them in your existing fireplaces, place them anywhere in a freestanding position or can mount it on the wall as well (such pellet stoves are not common).
The choice solely depends upon your personal preference. However, these types of pellet stoves are operated via an electric power source. Some of them are battery powered.
So, before making a purchase, consider if you have enough space to place it in a freestanding position or you would go with the insert option.
BTU (Heating Capacity)
BTU is the unit of energy (British Thermal Unit) and it indicates the heat output of the product. Selecting the heat output of your pellet stove is the most important factor to consider. As per the standards of the US department of energy, a pellet stove with 60,000 BTUs can easily heat a 2000 square foot place.
One can select the heat output according to the temperature of where one lives. For example, if you live in a colder place where temperature drops throughout the season, then opting for a pellet stove with a high BTU rating would be a good option.
Furthermore, pellet stoves are available in a wide BTU ratings range and you can select as per your preference. However, we will guide you thoroughly as well side by side.
Pellet type
Another important factor to look for is the pellet type your stove can burn. The most commonly used pellets are made up of wood or corn. Make sure to look for the pellet type your stove is compatible with.
Adding wrong pellets in your stove can easily damage your stove.
Hopper capacity
The place where pellets are filled is called a hopper. Hopper capacity is another feature to look for which will determine how frequently you would need a refill. Smaller hoppers will need frequent refills.
Most of the pellet stoves offer a hopper capacity of 50Lbs (on an average) which is enough to burn continuously for a day (24 hours).
Vented Or Ventless pellet stoves
When it comes to pellet stoves, most of the models are vented as the pellets are burnt and they need a proper channel (pathway) to vent out the smoke or ash. Whether a pellet stove is gas powered or electrically corded, it still needs a vent to function properly.
However, some freestanding pellet stoves can be installed ventless but they should be 2 to 3 inches away from the wall.
Top 10 Pellet Stoves (Reports & Reviews)
Below we have reviewed the best stove pallets one can get right now and these are highly durable and efficient.
1. US GW1949 Wiseway Non-Electric Pellet Stove
The first recommendation on our list is US GW1949 Non-electric pellet stove. The installation and usage of this pellet stove is quite easy. Comparing it with its predecessors, it uses a gravity fed system to add pellets.
Technical specifications
| Brand | US stove company |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 40,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 2000 sq.ft |
| Weight | 131 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15 x 52 x 24 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers 40,000 BTUs of heat output and can easily warm the temperature of an area up to 2000 sq.ft. The operation of this unit is quite easy as it operates via a naturally gravity fed system. The 30 pounds of hopper is enough to carry pellets for 30 hours with continuous burning.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of this non-electric pellet stove is impressive in reference to our testing. Half of the assembly is already done on the arrival of the package. It takes a few minutes to heat the area and is suitable for medium and large sized homes.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Easy installation.
- It offers good performance when running continuously for hours.
- The even ash layer doesn’t make a fuss when cleaning.
- Tweaking the machine is easy.
Cons
- One needs to control it manually.
Consumers Report
Buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4 ratings out of 5.
As per the reports, the heating performance is quite impressive. However, one needs to keep check and balance on the hopper and fill it when needed otherwise the unit will make smoke inside it.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are tired of increased electric bills and looking for an alternative pellet stove, then this Non-electric pellet stove would be a considerable option.
2. Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22- 50,000 BTU
Author’s Top Pick.
The next recommendation is the Comfortbilt pellet stove HP22 model. For those who don’t know, Comfortbilt is the most popular and reputed brand when it comes to pellet stoves and we have mentioned a few of them in our list as well.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Comfortbilt |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Carbon black |
| Heat output | 50,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 2800 sq.ft |
| Weight | 295 pounds |
| Dimensions | 24 x 27 x 35 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers 50,000 BTUs of heat capacity which can easily heat 2800 sq.ft area. And, it offers 50 lbs of hopper capacity which is more than enough to ignite pellets for straight two days without any interruption.
Overall Performance
The design of it is quite eye-catchy when placed in a living area (as per our testing) and the build is sturdy. Installation is easy and venting as well. Heating large spaces with high efficiency is one of the best features which attracted us.
However, the hopper opening is a bit small which might create a fuss when adding the pellets into the hopper. The ash it produces is removed after every two weeks only.
Pros
- Silent performance.
- Works really well.
- Easy installation.
- Good aesthetics.
- Reliable.
Cons
- The hopper opening is a bit small in size.
Consumers Report
Hundreds of buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.7 ratings out of 5.
In reference to the reports, the buyers are quite impressed with its performance. The overall performance, installation and ease of operation has impressed them the most.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with a 9.5 score out of 10.
In our opinion, this one is the best pellet stove one can get in the market right now. It is highly efficient and offers an auto ignition feature which impressed us a lot. Furthermore, you can set the settings to its highest where you can run the stove for continuous 20 hours.
3. Ashley Hearth Wood Burning Stove
Best wood pellet stove.
A lot of people asked us about wood pellet stoves; are they available or does a pellet stove can burn wood? Yes! Pellet stoves can burn wood as well and here we are with the Ashley Hearth wood burning stove. This one offers good heating performance.
Let’s have a look at its details.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Ashely hearth |
| Material | Wood |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 68000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 1200 sq.ft |
| Weight | 224 pounds |
| Dimensions | 21 x 22.5 x 31.7 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers 68000 BTU of heat output which can easily heat 1200 sq.ft area. The heating efficiency is not remarkable unlike the previous ones but it is good enough to heat medium sized homes. This one is good for burning wooden sticks and allows 18 inches size in it.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of this wood pellet stove is good. We would recommend you to install it with a professional help as it might take a bit time if installed without having any experience. It is installed in a freestanding position and it occupies less space.
Pros
- Available in multiple sizes.
- It burns both pellets and wood.
- Good efficiency.
- Easy installation.
- It allows 18 inches wood sticks to burn.
Cons
- It is a bit difficult to clean.
- The blower is sold separately.
Consumers Report
Buyers have rated this wood pellet stove with 4.5 rating out of 5.
As per the reports, this small wood stove (despite its small size) offers quite an impressive heating performance which most of the buyers complimented about.
Our suggestion
We rate this wood pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
This one is good for small to medium sized places and if you are looking for a wood stove, then this one would be a considerable option.
You may also like to read: Best Ventless Gas-logs Consumer reports
4. Cleveland Iron Works PS20W-CIW Mini Pellet Stove
The next recommendation is Cleveland iron mini pellet stove. Comparing it with its predecessors and others, this one is suitable for small places.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Mr. heater |
| Material | Iron |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 50,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 400 to 800 sq.ft |
| Weight | 143 pounds |
| Dimensions | 20.27 x 34.25 x 22.04 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers 50,000 BTUs of heat output and can heat small places of area around 400 to 800 sq.ft. The 18 pounds of hopper capacity is enough to burn a small and confined area for a day continuously.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of this mini pellet stove is considerable. It comes with a remote control and digital panel which makes its operation easy. In addition, it can easily connect to Wi-Fi connected smart phones and one can control it via smartphone as well.
It is available in a freestanding position and its size is small and compacted enough to be installed in confined areas. Cleaning it is easy as well but the hopper opening is a bit small which you might find difficulty in adding the pellets.
Pros
- Best for small places.
- Easy to install.
- Easy to operate.
- Sturdy build.
- Best ventless pellet stove.
Cons
- The hopper is small.
- The unit beeps a bit loud when settings are changed.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4 stars out of 5.
The buyers who have been using this pellet stove for months are satisfied with its overall performance. However, whenever the settings are changed, the unit makes a loud noise which irritates some buyers.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are someone who lives in a small and cozy home and looking for a pellet stove to suit your place, then this one would be a considerable option.
5. Castle Pellet Stoves
The next one is the Castle pellet stove. What sets this pellet stove apart is its programmable feature which one can set according to its lifestyle. Here is more to its features, let’s have a look.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Castle pellet stoves |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 22,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 1500 sq ft |
| Weight | 186 pounds |
| Dimensions | 24 x 19 x 37 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers a BTU rating of 22000 and can easily warm the area of around 1500 sq.ft. Despite having mid-range heat output, it is highly efficient. The 40 lbs of hopper capacity is enough to ignite the pellets for more than a day consistently.
However, this unit heats the pellets more fast as compared to others.
Overall Performance
The interesting and distinguishing feature of this pellet stove is it comes with a programmable and temperature control feature. One can easily set the temperature settings according to the whole week schedule.
The unit is ETL certified which means you can control it via RV as well (if you have one).
Pros
- Simple design.
- Easy to clean.
- Programmable.
- It offers safety features as well.
Cons
- The heat exchanger (fan) of it is a bit loud.
- Collection of ash from an ashtray is a bit difficult as it is collected in the burning chamber instead of an ashtray.
Consumers Report
Hundreds of buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.4 ratings out of 5.
According to the reports, the temperature control this pellet stove offers really impressed them the most. It burns the pellets very fast which provides higher efficiency but requires refilling as well.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are too lazy to set the settings everyday and looking for a programmable one, then this one would be a considerable option.
6. Comfortbilt HP22i Pellet Stove Insert Carbon Black
This one is another Comfortbilt pellet stove and unlike the previous one (Comfortbilt HP22), this one is an insert. This one is a heavy duty pellet which offers multiple features.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Comfortbilt |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Carbon black |
| Heat output | 42,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 1700-2000 sq.ft |
| Weight | 242 pounds |
| Dimensions | 41 x 33 x 28 |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
It offers the heat output of 42,000 BTUs which can heat the space of 1700 to 2000 sq.ft area easily. Good for medium to large living areas/rooms. Also, it offers 47 pounds of hopper capacity which is good enough to burn pellets for continuous 24 hours.
Overall Performance
The overall performance of this insert pellet stove is quite impressive. The ash produced can be easily collected from the ashtray and is easy to clean. This one can also be programmed and offers auto-ignition as well.
However, according to our tests, the unit takes time to burn the pellets and to maintain the heat in a room but once it is on track then it runs smoothly. It comes with a huge window from where one can see what is happening inside. The view of it is quite impressive.
Pros
- Easy to maintain.
- Easy to clean.
- Smooth performance.
- One can easily replace the parts.
Cons
- The instruction manual is a bit difficult to understand.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.5 ratings out of 5.
As per the reports, the buyers who have been using this unit for months are still content with its overall performance. Also, it is budget-friendly as well unlike its predecessors.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are looking for an insert pellet stove with good performance overall, then this one would be a considerable option. Also, we consider this one the best insert pellet stove.
7. ComfortBilt HP50S Pellet Stove Arctic White
This one is another Comfortbilt pellet stove and the users who are conscious about outer looks and aesthetics might find this edition good. Let’s look at what it has more to offer us.
Technical specifications
| Brand | ComfortBilt |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | White |
| Heat output | 42000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 2000 sq.ft |
| Weight | 290 pounds |
| Dimensions | 20 x 24 x 36 |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
This one is good for large spaces/areas as it offers 42000 BTUs of heating output which can easily heat an area of 2000 sq.ft. And, for the hopper capacity, it comes with 47 pounds of capacity.
Overall Performance
Overall, the performance of this pellet stove is good and it is among one of the top-selling products in the market right now. The installation is super easy as it is installed in a freestanding position.
Furthermore, it offers high aesthetics and its frame comes in a white color which is being admired by many customers who want something different apart from basic black frame.
The heating performance is impressive as per our testing as it takes a few minutes to start burning the pellets and maintaining the room temperature.
Pros
- Good aesthetics.
- It works great.
- Easy to install.
- Good for large spaces.
- Easy to clean.
Cons
- The unit might face electrical issues.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.5 stars out of 5.
Overall the response received from the buyers is satisfactory and those who have been using this stove for months now praised its performance and appearance.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8.5 score out of 10.
The overall performance of this pellet stove is good but we would recommend you to consult a professional electrician before installing it. Also, it has high aesthetics as compared to others.
8. Pelpro Pellet Stove
Pelpro Pellet stove is another pellet stove which caught our attention due to its automation and efficiency. Operation of it is easy as well. Let’s have a look at the details.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Pelpro |
| Material | Alloy steel |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 40600 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 2500 sq.ft |
| Weight | 243 pounds |
| Dimensions | 22.8″D x 24.5″W x 36.5″H |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
This unit is highly efficient as it can easily warm the temperature of a 2500 sq.ft area with a heat output of 40600 BTUs. The distinguishing feature of this unit is its hopper capacity; 134 pounds which is good to burn pellets for 96 hours straight.
Overall Performance
As per our testing, the heating efficiency of this unit is impressive and it is designed specifically for large areas. The controls are easy as it comes with an auto-ignition feature which allows you to set the temperature and time and the rest is handled by the unit.
You can run it as long as you want and it won’t stutter at all (for continuous 96 hours) in reference to our testing.
Pros
- Highest hopper capacity.
- Silent performance.
- Easy to clean.
- Auto ignition feature.
Cons
- Some of its parts have compromised quality.
- A bit difficult to install.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.4 stars out of 5.
In reference to the reports, the buyers are quite impressed about its hopper capacity and it is good for large areas without worrying about pellet refilling. A few of them faced a bit of difficulty in installing it.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8.5 score out of 10.
If you are looking for a pellet stove for your workplace or for big living areas, then this one would be a good consideration.
9. Q-Stoves Wood Pellet Outdoor Heater
Best Hybrid pellet wood Stove.
The next recommendation is for the outdoors. Q-stoves wood pellet stove offers highest heat output as compared to others. For further details, let’s have a look at the details.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Q-stoves |
| Material | Steel |
| Color | Black |
| Heat output | 10,6000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 10 feet radius |
| Weight | 61.6 pounds |
| Dimensions | 30 inches x 24 inches x 17 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
This unit offers 10,6000 BTUs of heat output and warms up the temperature of 10 feet radius instantly. It comes with a hopper capacity of 18 pounds.
Overall Performance
This unit can be operated via an electrical cord, propane or wood pellets depending upon your need and preferences. Another interesting feature of this pellet stove is, it produces a little ash in the ashtray even after igniting the pellets for hours.
Furthermore, it is good for outdoor functions, specifically for big functions, parties or dinners. However, we would recommend not running it for a long time as it will get pretty heated up. The unit is portable as it weighs only 61.6 pounds.
Pros
- High heat output.
- Hybrid model.
- The unit produces very little ash.
- Portable.
- Quick to install.
- Most efficient pellet stove.
Cons
- Not good to use for continuous hours.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with a 4 stars out of 5.
The overall experience of customers using this unit is good as it heats the area very fast and the results last for 3 to 4 hours. A few of them recommended not using it for a long time.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
The interesting feature of this pellet stove is, one can run it with wood, propane and electricity. We consider it the best hybrid pellet stove one can get in the market right now. Also, it is good to be used outdoors.
10. Englander Pellet Stove
Last but not the least, we came up with the Englander pellet stove as a lot of users asked us so we came up with the best one among all Englander pellet stoves.
Technical specifications
| Brand | Englander |
| Material | Stainless steel and Iron |
| Color | silver |
| Heat output | 42,000 BTUs |
| Area (heating coverage) | 1800 sq.ft. |
| Weight | 212 pounds |
| Dimensions | 9.02 x 6.57 x 0.28 inches |
Heat output and Hopper capacity
This combustion blower offers 42,000 of heat output which is efficient enough to heat medium sized spaces of around 1800 sq.ft. it offers 40 pounds of hopper capacity which is good enough to burn the pellets for a day continuously.
Overall Performance
Overall the performance of this pellet stove is quite considerable. The installation and cleaning of the unit is easy. The distinguishing feature of this pellet stove is, it comes under a low budget and the price to performance ratio is not compromised.
Pros
- Easy to install.
- Good for medium sized homes.
- Cheapest option available.
- Easy to clean.
- Easy maintenance.
Cons
- A bit expensive.
Consumers Report
The buyers have rated this pellet stove with 4.4 ratings out of 5.
As per the reports, the installation and performance of this pellet stove is quite impressive. A lot of buyers praised that despite being expensive the performance it offers is worthy to spend money on.
Our suggestion
We rate this pellet stove with an 8 score out of 10.
If you are on a very low budget and want the best bang for your buck, then this one would be a considerable option.
How to Vent a Pellet stove?
There are two ways to vent a pellet stove; either horizontally or vertically(L-vent pipe). For horizontal venting, one end of the pipe is connected to the back of the pellet stove to the outside of the exterior wall (the pellet stove should be 6 inches away from the wall).
Horizontal venting is the cheapest and simplest method.
Vertical venting is mostly present in pre-existing fireplaces or chimneys. For vertical venting, L-shaped pipes are used. You can install it in two ways;
- Inside the house (directly from the stove).
- Outside the house.
How to Install and Clean a Pellet Stove?
Installation of pellet stoves are easier than other heating systems. Most of the pellet stoves are available in freestanding position.
A chimney or any venting pathway in your dedicated area would suffice as burning pellets creates smoke and it needs to be vented out. The pellet stove should be placed only 2 to 3 inches away from the wall (freestanding ones).
IMPORTANT NOTE: Most of the freestanding pellet stoves are ventless but it would be best to install a vent (by seeking a professional help) to vent out the smoke.
For inserting pellet stoves, they are installed in pre-existing fireplaces or in chimneys.
Cleaning Pellet Stove
Cleaning the stove pellet depends upon how often a user uses it. On average, it would be best to clean the inside of the pellet stove after every 2 to 3 days with a normal vacuum cleaner. Light scrubbing of the frame and inside of the stove with a vacuum cleaner would suffice.
FAQs Regarding Pellet Stoves
How much are pellets for a pellet stove?
Most of the pellets are available in 40 pounds per bag which only costs $5. One bag is enough to ignite for one continuous day.
Which one is the best pellet stove for 1000 sq.ft?
Ashley Hearthwood pellet stove would be a considerable option for a 1000 sq.ft surface area.
How much electricity does a pellet stove use?
On average, a pellet stove needs at least 120 Volts of AC power.
How much does it cost to burn a pellet stove?
The only cost you are going to pay continuously is the cost of pellets. The cost of pellets per ton is around $180 to $250.
Which is the best ash vacuum for a pellet stove?
In order to remove/clean the ash of a pellet stove, we would recommend opting for CRAFTSMAN 17585 vacuum ash cleaner.
What are the best pellet stove brands?
Following are the most reliable brands to consider for petter stoves.
- Comfortbilt.
- Ashley Hearth wood.
- Pelpro.
- Castle pellet stoves.
- Cleveland pellet stoves.
Final Words
Pellet stoves are the best alternatives of electrical and gas heating systems as they are more economical and efficient. We hope the list we have mentioned has helped you choose the best one as per your needs and preferences.
We would recommend looking for the heat output and heating surface area as these two are the main factors to consider when looking for a pellet stove. However, if you are having any confusion regarding this topic or facing any difficulty while making a decision, then feel free to consult us.
