The 7 Best Pellet Stoves of 2024

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As the chill of winter approaches, finding the right heating solution for your home becomes a pressing concern. Many overlook the efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective option of pellet stoves due to a simple lack of awareness about what they are, how they operate, and the benefits they offer.

Drawing from over a decade of experience in home central heating solutions, I’ve navigated the complex world of pellet stoves, from understanding their operation to selecting the best models on the market.

For those of you, like me, who seek a balance between environmental responsibility, heating efficiency, and cost savings, this article is crafted to guide you through the many of options to find the perfect pellet stove for your home.

a pellet stove in a house

Pellet Stove Quick Comparison Table

If you are in a hurry, review our pellet stove quick comparison table below. It includes all the crucial specifications like BTU and heating capacity.

We do, however, recommend to go over our in-depth individual review. Remember that you should check out the pellet stoves in person before committing to purchasing; these views are our own and may differ from yours.

Comfortbilt HP22-N Pellet Stove
Best Overall

Comfortbilt HP22-N Pellet Stove

  • Efficiency: 86%+
  • Heating Capacity: 3,000 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 43,000
  • Max Burn Time: 24 Hours
Castle 12327 Serenity Pellet Fire Place
Best For Small Spaces

Castle 12327 Serenity Pellet Fire Place

  • Efficiency: 69.8%+
  • Heating Capacity: 1,500 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 22,226 
  • Max Burn Time: 24 Hours
Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW
Best Smart Technology

Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW

  • Efficiency: 75%+
  • Heating Capacity: 2,500 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 40,000 
ComfortBilt HP50S Free Standing Pellet Stove
Best Design and Space Efficiency

ComfortBilt HP50S Free Standing Pellet Stove

  • Efficiency: 75%+
  • Heating Capacity: 2,200 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 42,000 
  • Max Burn Time: 20 Hours
Freedom Stoves PS21
Best Versatile Design

Freedom Stoves PS21

  • Efficiency: 75%+
  • Heating Capacity: 1,800 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 34.700
  • Max Burn Time: 32.5 Hours
Harman P61
Best For Large Spaces

Harman P61

  • Efficiency: 85%
  • Heating Capacity: 3,500 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 61,000

Selection Criteria

When selecting what we consider to be the top pellet stoves we consider numerous factors – these are detailed below:

  1. Heating Efficiency and BTU Rating: The thermal efficiency of a pellet stove is crucial for ensuring it can adequately heat your space while minimizing fuel consumption. A higher BTU (British Thermal Units) rating indicates a higher heat output, making the heater capable of warming larger areas. Efficiency is typically expressed as a percentage, showing how much of the generated heat is usable within your home.
  2. Heating Capacity (Square Feet): The capacity of the pellet stove, measured in square feet, indicates the maximum area it can effectively heat. Choosing a stove with a capacity that matches or exceeds the size of the space you need to heat to ensure comfortable and uniform warmth throughout is important.
  3. Pellet Types and Hopper Size: Compatibility with different pellet types and hopper size affects convenience and operational costs. Some pellet stoves may be more efficient with high-quality pellets, while others can handle a broader range. A larger hopper size means longer burn times between refills, offering more convenience and a continuous heat supply.
  4. Style and Placement: The physical design of the stove, whether freestanding or an insert for an existing fireplace, impacts its suitability for your space. Consideration of the models placement is also important due to space requirements for safe operation and aesthetic integration into your home décor.
  5. Venting Requirements and Electricity Needs: Pellet stoves require proper venting for safety and efficiency, with options for vertical or horizontal venting depending on the model. Since pellet stoves require electricity to operate the auger, fans, and controls, understanding the electrical requirements and planning for a power source is essential.

A Closer Look At The Top Pellet Stoves

1. Comfortbilt HP22 Pellet Stove

comfortbilt hp22 pellet heater

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: At least 86%
  • Heating Capacity: Up to 3,000 square feet
  • BTU/Hour Input: 50,000 max
  • BTU/Hour Output: 43,000 max
  • Max Auto Burn Time: 24 hours
  • Compatible Pellets: Wood pellets only

The Comfortbilt HP22 Pellet Stove stands out in the current market with its high-efficiency capabilities and modern aesthetics. Boasting a sleek design with a stainless steel trim around its large bay view window, this model not only serves as a powerful heating solution but also enhances the ambiance of any room with its elegant appearance. 

The Comfortbilt HP22 offers a robust heating capacity of 50,000 BTUs per hour, capable of warming spaces up to 2,800 square feet, coupled with a 55-pound hopper capacity. Its efficiency is further highlighted by its EPA and CSA certifications.

This pellet stove features a programmable 7-day internal thermostat and five power settings, allowing for tailored heating schedules and intensity levels. It has a few other features with noting such as a clean glass air wash system for reduced cleaning frequencies, a large 2.5-gallon ash pan for easy maintenance, and a remarkably low noise level ranging from 45 dB to 60 dB.

However, this pellet stove has an absence of smart home integration, and a higher price point compared to competitors.

The Comfortbilt HP22 comes with a limited lifetime warranty on steel parts and a one-year warranty on electrical components, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its product which is usually a sign of a quality model.

Despite some users reporting issues with the control panel and customer service, our testing showed no signs of this and the consensus highlights its ease of use, reliability, and exceptional heat output.

The Comfortbilt HP22 Pellet Stove is recommended for those seeking a stylish, efficient, and powerful heating solution for large spaces. Its unique combination of design, functionality, and performance makes it a valuable addition to any home, though potential buyers should weigh its higher initial cost against its long-term benefits and efficiency.


2. Castle 12327 Serenity Pellet Fire Place

Castle Pellet Stoves Serenity Wood Pellet Stove

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: At least 69.8%
  • Heating Capacity: Up to 1,500 square feet
  • BTU/Hour Input: 31,960 max
  • BTU/Hour Output: 22,226 max
  • Max Auto Burn Time: 24 hours
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The Castle 12327 Serenity Wood Pellet Stove is a compact and budget-friendly option. Recognized for its space-efficient design and user-friendly technology, this model has carved a niche for itself in the competitive pellet stove market.

It’s design is minimalist and modern and the Serenity Wood Pellet Stove is tailored to blend seamlessly into a variety of home decors. Its space-saving shape and smart controller, prominently top-mounted for easy access, underscore its appeal.

Its modest footprint provides a heat output of 31,960 BTUs per hour and can warm areas up to 1,500 square feet, making it ideal for small to medium-sized homes.

pellet stove in lounge area

We loved the 40-pound hopper capacity and EPA certification, attesting to its efficiency and environmental friendliness. This models standout feature, its smart controller, facilitates four operational modes—manual, thermostat, weekly, and eco—offering exceptional control and customization to the user. This, coupled with its low maintenance requirements and notably quiet operation (37 dB on low to 49 dB on high), positions the Serenity as a user-centric appliance.

However, it’s not without its limitations. The absence of a battery backup, remote control, and smart home integration may deter some, while its relatively small hopper capacity necessitates more frequent refilling. Additionally, the pellet stove’s heating coverage is not suitable for larger spaces.

Castle backs this model with a one-year warranty on electrical components and a three-year firebox and heat exchanger warranty.

Despite some igniter and thermostat issues reports, we did not experience such problems. The online user feedback highlights its installation, operation, and cleaning ease.

The Castle 12327 Serenity Wood Pellet Stove best suits those seeking a compact, efficient, and smartly controlled heating solution.

Its affordability and operational flexibility make it a valuable option for smaller homes, offering good value for those prioritizing convenience and efficiency over extensive coverage and advanced tech features.


3. Cleveland Iron Works – PSBF66W-CIW

Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: Over 75%
  • Heating Capacity: 2,500 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 40,000
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW Bayfront Pellet Stove combines traditional heating with modern technology. We loved this model for its significant heating capabilities and smart home integration, positioning itself as a forward-thinking choice for tech-savvy consumers looking for efficiency and convenience.

Design-wise, the PSBF66W-CIW features a bayfront construction with a large viewing area, allowing for a panoramic view of the flames, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any living space. Its classic and functional appearance fits seamlessly into various home decor styles while offering the warmth and comfort of a traditional fireplace.

This pellet stove model boasts a heating capacity of 40,000 BTUs per hour, warming areas up to 2,500 square feet, making it suitable for sizable living spaces. The 66-pound hopper capacity minimizes the need for frequent pellet refills. Additionally, its EPA certification underscores its environmental friendliness and efficiency (over 75%).

Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW

The PSBF66W-CIW sets itself apart with its built-in Wi-Fi smart home technology, allowing for remote control via smartphone or tablet, a digital control panel, and our tests showed this unit to be whisper-quiet.

The unit is relatively heavy and bulky, which should be considered when planning for space.

Cleveland Iron Works supports this model with a five-year limited warranty on steel parts and a one-year limited warranty on electrical components.

The Cleveland Iron Works PSBF66W-CIW Bayfront Pellet Stove is an excellent choice for those prioritizing heating efficiency, large area coverage, and the convenience of smart technology.

Its unique blend of traditional warmth and modern functionality offers good value, making it a compelling option for homeowners.


4. ComfortBilt HP50S Free Standing Pellet Stove

ComfortBilt HP50S Free Standing Pellet Stove

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: Over 75%
  • Heating Capacity: 2,200 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 42,000
  • Max Auto Burn Time: 20 hours
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The Comfortbilt HP50s Pellet Stove offers a sleek solution for those looking to heat their space efficiently while maintaining elegance. Notable for its small footprint and European-inspired design, this pellet stove fits perfectly into various home decor styles, particularly where space is at a premium.

The HP50s has a heat output of 42,000 BTUs per hour, capable of warming areas up to 2,200 square feet. This efficiency is supported by a 47-pound hopper capacity, ensuring prolonged burn time of up to 20 hours before a refill is needed. This model’s EPA and CSA certifications underscore its compliance with environmental standards, offering peace of mind to environmentally conscious consumers.

One of the models key features is its programmable thermostat, which allows for precise temperature control, optimizing pellet usage and maintaining consistent warmth. Additionally, its compact design does not compromise on durability, thanks to a heavy gauge exterior and a sizable ash pan that simplifies the cleaning process.

ComfortBilt HP50S Free Standing Pellet Stove

The absence of smart home integration, and a remote control might deter some users, and its lower heat output and coverage area might not be sufficient for larger spaces.

Comfortbilt offers a limited lifetime warranty on steel parts and a one-year warranty on electrical components.

The Comfortbilt HP50s Pellet Stove is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, stylish, and efficient heating solution. Ideal for small to medium-sized rooms, its unique design and functional features make it a valuable addition to any home.

Its best use case scenarios include spaces where aesthetics and space efficiency are prioritized alongside heating needs, offering good value for potential buyers despite some limitations.


5. Freedom Stoves PS21

Freedom Stoves Freestanding Independence PS21 Pellet Stove

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: Over 75%
  • Heating Capacity: 1,800 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 34,700
  • Max Auto Burn Time: 32.5 hours
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The Freedom Stoves PS21 Pellet Stove represents a blend of functionality and adaptability in the realm of pellet stoves, making a significant mark in the market with its innovative features.

This freestanding stove, with its ability to heat up to 1,800 square feet and output 34,700 BTUs per hour, is EPA certified, meaning its efficiency is over 75%. Its 40-pound hopper capacity, while not the largest, supports its compact and versatile design and has a long max burn time of over 32 hours.

Aesthetically, the PS21 offers a sleek and modern look, fitting seamlessly into various home decor styles. The option for removable legs adds a unique feature, allowing for installation as a fireplace insert or wall mount, providing flexibility unmatched by many competitors. This design versatility is a key selling point for those looking to integrate a heating solution without compromising on space or style.

Freedom Stoves Freestanding Independence PS21 Pellet Stove

The fireplace’s standout features include a battery backup system ensuring operation during power outages, Wi-Fi capability for remote control via smartphone or tablet, and a low maintenance design free of complex internal structures.

However, the absence of a glass air wash system, programmable thermostat, and remote control may be viewed as drawbacks. .

Freedom Stoves supports the PS21 with a three-year warranty on the firebox and heat exchanger, and a one-year warranty on electrical components.

The Freedom Stoves PS21 Pellet Stove is suited for users seeking a reliable, efficient heating source that offers advanced technological features like Wi-Fi control and battery backup. Its design flexibility, and operational reliability present a valuable option for those in smaller homes or seeking an adaptable heating solution.


6. Harman P61

harman p61 pellet stove

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: 85%
  • Heating Capacity: 3,500 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Input: 61,000
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The Harman P61 Pellet Stove is a top-tier choice for those seeking an advanced, eco-friendly heating solution. Known for its intelligent design and robust performance, Harman has established a strong reputation in the market, with the P61 model exemplifying the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. This model is tailored for large spaces, boasting the ability to heat up to 3,500 square feet with a substantial 72-pound hopper capacity, ensuring long-lasting warmth and comfort.

The P61 features a sleek and sturdy construction that complements a variety of home decor styles. Its smart-sensing technology, accordion heat exchanger, and room temperature regulator are not just technical highlights but also contribute to its aesthetic appeal, promising efficiency and a consistent room temperature.

Technical specifications are where the P61 truly shines. With a heat output ranging from 21,400 to 60,700 BTUs per hour, it adapts to varying heat demands through its smart-sensing technology. This feature adjusts the pellet feed rate and fan speed based on the current heat requirement and fuel quality, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency.

harman p61 pellet stove in a house

The Harman P61’s room temperature regulator and large ash pan for easy cleaning are a great time saver, making it a user-friendly option despite its sophisticated technology. However, its reliance on a 120-volt outlet, absence of smart home integration, and the initial cost need to be considered.

Harman offers a reassuring warranty policy, including a limited lifetime warranty on the firebox and heat exchanger and a five-year warranty on electrical components, demonstrating confidence in their product’s durability and reliability.

The Harman P61 Pellet Stove is ideal for those requiring a powerful, intelligent heating solution for large spaces. While it comes with a higher price tag, its performance, efficiency, and smart features make it an excellent investment for homeowners prioritizing warmth, convenience, and eco-friendliness. Its unique combination of advanced technology and high-capacity heating offers substantial value, positioning it as a leading choice among premium pellet stoves.


7. US Stove Company US GW1949

US Stove Company US GW1949

Key Specifications

  • Thermal Efficiency: Not known
  • Heating Capacity: 2,000 sq ft
  • BTU/Hour Output: 40,000
  • Max Auto Burn Time: 30 hours
  • Compatible Pellets: wood pellets only

The US Stove Company US GW1949 presents a unique option in the pellet stove market with its non-electric and gravity-fed system. Ideal for those seeking simplicity and reliability, this model has the ability to operate without electricity, ensuring warmth even during power outages. Its rustic design and large viewing window add a cozy charm to any living space, making it not just a heating appliance but also a decorative piece that complements various home decor styles.

The US GW1949 has a heating capacity of up to 2,000 square feet and a 60-pound hopper capacity, providing a substantial burn time (up to 30 hours) between refills.

The stove’s 40,000 BTU per hour heat output is controlled manually via a damper, allowing users to adjust the heat output and efficiency according to their needs.

US Stove Company US GW1949

The large viewing window enhances the ambiance by showcasing the beauty of the flames and glowing embers.

The absence of modern conveniences such as smart home integration, remote control, and programmable thermostat might be a negative for some buyers, while others will appreciate its simplicity. Additionally, its relatively lower efficiency and higher emissions than other models, alongside the need for frequent ash removal and pellet refilling, are notable drawbacks.

The US Stove Company supports this model with a three-year warranty on the firebox and heat exchanger and a one-year warranty on the cabinet.

The US Stove Company US GW1949 is best suited for those valuing simplicity, off-grid capability, and the aesthetic appeal of a traditional wood-burning stove. While it may lack the high-tech features of more modern pellet stoves, its non-electric operation offers unmatched reliability during power outages, making it a valuable option for rural homes or anyone prioritizing independence from the electrical grid.


What To Consider When Buying a Pellet Stove

So you have made the decision to invest in pellet heating, now you just need to decide which is the best pellet stove for you.

Not all pellet stoves are created equal –  each brand and type is designed for it different situations, so it is important that you carefully consider your options and make a decision that is right for your home.

The following sections are areas we recommend you pay special attention to when choosing a pellet stove to suit your requirements.

Related article: Are pellet stoves worth it?

Heating Efficiency

When shopping for a pellet stove, one of the most important factors is the BTU rating. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the pellet stove can provide to your home.

But what does that even mean?

What is a BTU Rating

BTU stands for British Thermal Units and it is used to measure heat output.

One BTU = the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

Now I know this sounds complicated, but you don’t really need to get into the nitty gritty of how the BTU measurement works.

What you do need to know is this:

The specifications or salesperson may quote one, or both of the possible BTU measurements:

  • BTU input
  • BTU output

Firstly, you need to understand that most premium wood fuel pellets contain about 8,500 BTU per pound.The BTU input is the maximum amount of fuel that can be fed into the pellet stove per hour.

The BTU output is how much heat the heater can actually deliver to the home, the rest is lost to inefficiencies in burning, heat transfer, up the chimney/venting etc.

Learn more about BTU and what it is here.

Thermal Efficiency Rating

So now that we understand what a BTU rating is, we can then understand the next number that is often quoted to us – the pellet stoves heating efficiency.

Efficiency% = (input BTU/output BTU) * 100

This gives us our efficiency as a percentage. This number tells us how much of the heat that is generated in the pellet stove is usable in the home.

The higher the efficiency, the more cost-effective your heater will be to run.

Capacity (Square Feet)

Another critical factor is the capacity, or the area the pellet stove can warm. After all, you want to ensure the unit you get has enough capacity to heat your home.

For example, if you live in a 1,800-square-foot home, you will likely want to get a pellet stove with a heating capacity greater than that. In this case, I would recommend a pellet stove with a capacity of at least 2,000 square feet to ensure it’s enough.

Pellet Types

While pellets are reasonably easy to find, it is important that you know which pellet types are compatible with your heater and which will burn efficiently. However, heating pellets will work with any type of wood pellet stove. 

But cheaper ones usually have worse efficiency. Compared to better brands, they won’t burn as long, won’t produce as much heat, make more pollutants, etc.  

Style And Placement Of Wood Pellet Stove

There are two basic types of pellet stoves:

  • Free-standing pellet stove
  • Pellet stove insert
pellet stove insert vs free standing

If you have an existing fireplace, you can use a pellet insert that fits into the existing fireplace and chimney. The U.S Department of Energy (DOE) strongly recommends that before you fit a pellet insert, you should have a professional installer inspect your fireplace and chimney to check for suitability and safety requirements.

Choosing where to locate your pellet stove is very important. Before deciding which stove you will buy, get a hold of the manual and ensure you can meet the space requirements.

The manual will usually list the minimum space between the stove and certain combustible materials.

Many pellet stoves include a blower to circulate heat throughout your home. But, since it isn’t connected to ductwork, you may have to use fans and leave doors open to help the heat reach every corner of your house.

Venting Requirements

Just like wood burning models, pellet stoves need to be vented to allow the expulsion of gases and smoke due to the burning of the pellet fuel.

Because a pellet stove uses a fan to eliminate the smoke and gas, they can often be vented vertically through the ceiling OR horizontally through a wall.

It does depend on the stove model though, so make sure you look into what type of venting you need and make sure the stove you choose is compatible with your requirements.

Hopper Size/Burn Time

One of the best things about pellet stoves is that you can load up the hopper and it will automatically feed in fuel for hours and hours.

But how long your heater can go without a refill depends on the hopper size, the heat setting, and how fast the auger feeds the pellets.

Generally, the larger the hopper size, the longer your stove will be able to go without needing to be refilled. Some models even have an optional hopper extension, allowing huge amounts of wood pellets to be loaded in.

Glass Viewing Panel

Everyone loves seeing a fire burning – which is why most models of pellet stoves have a glass viewing panel. 

Make sure that your viewing panel suits the aesthetics you are looking for.

You also need to consider the glass will need to be cleaned, so taking note of any features such as air wash technology is important too.

Electricity Requirements

Most pellet stoves do require a constant electricity source to operate, so be sure to consider where your nearest power outlet is in relation to where the stove is likely to be fitted.

There are options to backup the power of your pellet stove. See our pellet stove battery backup guide for more info.

Ask A Professional

One of the biggest traps consumers fall into when buying a pellet heater, is not getting a professional to look at the area to be heated before making a decision. You can research info on the best pellet stove, but in the end you should consult a professional to make sure you have made the right choice.

A consumer may under or overshoot the heating needs and buy a stove that is too small or too large for their needs. Home size, layout (open vs many rooms), and home insulation all play an important part of choosing the right pellet stove.

How To Maintain a Pellet Stove

As with any device involving heat and electricity, keeping your pellet stove properly maintained is important. This ensures that your pellet heater runs as efficiently as possible; following the maintenance guidelines for your stove means your heater will be as safe as any heater can be.

Maintenance tasks required vary for each stove model, but we have written up a summary of general maintenance tasks required with most pellet stoves below.

pellet stove maintenance tasks

Daily maintenance tasks:

  • Pellet hopper: Check it is clear of any accumulated saw dust and top up it up to ensure you don’t run out of fuel just when you need it the most.
  • Burn Pot: Check the burn pot in your stove daily to ensure the air inlets look clear and open.

Weekly maintenance tasks:

  • Ash pan: empty all the ash that the ash pan has caught. This usually has to to done 1-2 times a week although some newer designs can go as long as a month without requiring emptying.

Periodic maintenance tasks:

  • Burn pot: Clean the burn pot in your stove as you notice soot build up.
  • Ash trap: Ash traps help to stop flying ash exiting the stove via the vent, these require cleaning to ensure your pellet stove can burn efficiently.
  • Glass: Clean the glass to prevent a build up of soot, the longer you leave it between cleans the harder it will be to remove the soot.
  • Heat exchanger: This needs to be cleaned, some models include a device to let you clean this yourself, other models may require a professional.

Annual tasks:

  • As with any heating appliance, we recommend getting your pellet stove checked by a professional every 12 months to ensure it is operating safely and within efficiency parameters

Wood Pellet Stove FAQ

What is the life expectancy of a pellet stove?

The life expectancy of a pellet stove is around 10-12 years. However, it can last much longer if you perform routine maintenance and take good care of it. Conversely, if you skip maintenance, your pellet stove will likely not make it ten years.

How long will a 40 lb bag of wood pellets burn?

Generally, it takes about 24 hours for a 40-pound bag of wood pellets to burn. However, depending on your pellet stove’s settings, it may burn faster or slower.

Are pellet stoves efficient?

Yes! Because they used a manufactured, controlled fuel source, they are designed to burn it as efficiently as possible. Pellet stoves are one of the most efficient forms of space heating available

What are pellet stove clinkers?

When manufactured wood pellets, they have an element of impurities (dirt) that is not burned during the combustion process. A “clinker” is a combined mass of these impurities that look like a clump of ash.

Use low ash pellets to reduce the possibility of clinkers forming. Also, ensure your pellet stove is clean.

Do pellet stoves need power to run?

Yes, without power they will not function correctly and may even allow smoke to escape into the heated area. You can learn about how a pellet stove works here.

It is possible to use different methods to provide backup power for your pellet stove. We have a complete article written about it here.

Further Resources

For more info to assist with choosing the best pellet stove? I suggest checking out the following resources:

Do you have any questions relating to this article? Email us at [email protected] or call us on +1 (310) 961-4908

This content may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links we may be compensated. More info.

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Author
Aaron is the founder of and Essential Home and Garden. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in home ownership, lawn care, and gardening, Aaron is a seasoned expert in areas like lawn care, DIY, HVAC, and pest control.

9 thoughts on “The 7 Best Pellet Stoves of 2024”

  1. Avatar photo

    I have the top of the line Harman insert and it has yet to make a single heating season reliably..and it’s not cheap to fix either

  2. Avatar photo

    We would not recommend a Harman stove to anyone. We have put a lot of money into the stove which is only two years old. In the first place, the dealership had two people do the installation and they didn’t know what they were doing. We have had to spend over a thousand bucks to have the stove reinstalled and it just got reinstalled and we will have to have the guy back to fix it because something in it has broken down. This is in Maine where the winters are cold and we are looking forward to a weekend without any heat and we had to wait quite a while to get parts the first time so we have no idea when we will be able to get this stove up and running again. Talk about buyer’s remorse.

    • Aaron Green

      Hi Marcia, that certainly seems like you had a bad experience with Harman. Did you contact Harman directly to let them know your concerns?

  3. Avatar photo

    We regret getting the Harman P43 and not upgrading to the next highest model. Our neighbor bought a pellet stove at the same time we did. Same installer only he got the model above the P43. We’ve both had them for five years now.

    We bought the P43 years ago for a house that’s just barely over 1,000 sq. ft. We were told that stove was perfect for the house size and open layout. Loved it the first year. Loved the second year, though the combustion fan and auger both went, but the warranty covered the auger so we didn’t have to pay for that. In the third year, the distribution blower fan went. At this point, we were about $400 in repairs and $400 in professional cleanings. We’re into the fifth year now and are at a point where we don’t know if it’s worth fixing it again, The burn pot at the top near the air holes cracked. The combustion fan is also shot again. The ignitor is also starting to have issues, and we were told if we’re doing the burn pot, it makes sense to do them both. All in all, we were quoted about $700 for the repairs. We have a 15-year-old wood stove that’s in better shape and is in perfect working condition, inspected, and the chimney is cleaned. We’re considering going back to wood instead, even if it is more work.

    • Aaron Green

      Hi Ann, That certainly doesn’t sound like a great experience with the Harman P43! The P43 has a great reputation, and they are usually quite reliable.
      Have you tried contacting Harman direct and let them know the problems you are having? You never know, there might be something they can do!

  4. Avatar photo

    what about inserts.

    • Aaron Green

      Hi Bruce – we are working on this in depth details on pellet stove inserts – check back soon!

  5. Avatar photo

    looking for a pellet stove / boiler, that will work with my in floor heat . the building is 1600sqft . this is my little shop and I can not afford a 10.000 dollar heat system. I need something really simple to operate. I don’t have time to babysit .

    • Aaron Green

      Hi Marvin, I actually havent done anything with pellet boilers before. But you have got me interested and I will look into it. You will probably see an article that can help you pop up in the next few weeks.

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