Should you switch to wood pellet heating?

If you're planning to replace a home heating solution, a wood pellet heating system offers some unique benefits worth considering.

Central wood pellet heating systems (also known as automated or advanced wood heating systems) offer all the comfort and hands-off convenience that people have come to expect from traditional heating systems, but are fueled by local, sustainable wood pellets instead of fossil fuel. Pellet boilers and furnaces are available and may be able to work with your existing heating distribution system.

Pellet stoves are popular space heating systems in Vermont because they use renewable fuels and can be a cost-effective way to heat your home. However, most Vermont homes do not heat by wood stoves alone. Central systems provide sustainable, efficient whole home heat.

• Save on heating bills. Vermonters who switch to wood pellet fuel typically save annually when compared to oil and propane fuel heating options.
• Stable fuel prices. Local pellet prices are much steadier than the global fossil fuel market.
• Cleaner and greener. Local wood pellets are sustainable, renewable, and low carbon. They are also safe to transport and store.
• Support local jobs. Wood pellet production and delivery supports Vermont job growth. Wood pellets are made, sold, and delivered from locations throughout Vermont, so heating dollars stay in Vermont.
• Hands-free and simple. Automated fuel feed systems make wood pellet heating as easy to use as propane or oil systems, and more convenient than cordwood.
• Rebates and financing. Rebates and low-interest financing are available to cover the initial cost of purchasing and installing a central wood pellet heating system in your home or business.

You'll need room for pellet storage. Hoppers that store the pellets are often located in the basement near the boiler. Bulk pellets usually take up more space than oil or propane.

Ash bins must be emptied. You’ll need to empty the bin 3-5 times during the heating season. Wood ash consists of naturally occurring minerals and can be spread on wooded areas, lawns, or gardens.