Updated at: 05-10-2022 - By: cnbusinessnews

Pellet stoves are often regarded as a sustainable and cost-effective option for home heating. It’s possible, though, that they’ll make a lot of noise. So, if you’re looking for ways to reduce the noise output of your pellet stove, consider the following:

  1. Bring the screws down tight
  2. Check the levelness of the feet.
  3. The heat exchanger rod should be cleaned and adjusted.
  4. You should probably clean the rest of it, too.
  5. Gasket tape is a handy tool for making temporary repairs.

I’ll go into more into about these fixes below, but first it’s important to determine what could be causing the noise in your pellet stove. If you’re considering a new pellet stove, I’ll discuss some of the most quiet models available.

How a Pellet Stove Works

Pellet Feeding Mechanisms

The auger in most stoves transports pellets from the hopper to the firebox. A solid-state control, adjusted either manually (on some ranges) or automatically (on others) via a wall-mounted thermostat, moves the auger. The pace of feed determines how big a fire will get. Delivering pellets at a rate of 1 pound per hour will create a warm, relaxing fire that lasts for hours. A pellet fire will be blazing in an hour if you feed it 5 pounds.

How To Make A Pellet Stove Quieter? 4 Easy Steps - Krostrade

Combustion Chambers

The pellets are added to the combustion chamber, where they are burned in a fire pot or on a burner ring. The chamber is fed combustion air to fan the flame into a high-intensity state. Some pellet stoves require manual lighting while others ignite on their own. They stop burning if the electricity goes out or if they are turned off.

Pellet Stove Heat Exchangers

Room air is drawn in by a fan and blown across the heat exchanger, which is heated to about 250 degrees F., and the warmed air is returned to the room. Pellet stoves provide heat through convection rather than radiation like wood stoves.

Therefore, most pellet stoves do not get excessively hot to touch, which is especially useful for households with young children. This also means that combustibles like walls can be placed closer to a stove (most have a minimum clearance of 3 inches to side walls, 1 inch to back walls). They must, however, be placed over a tile or other nonflammable floor with a thickness of at least 3/8 inch.

Pellet Stove Venting

Typically, a 3-inch flue protrudes from the back or top of the unit and vents any remaining combustion gases to the outdoors. The vent on the top or the back can be switched on some of them. Venting kits for pellet stoves are available from pellet stove retailers and on the web.

You can save money and creative freedom by not installing a standard chimney for your pellet stove, but the flue will draw better if it exits the wall and curves upward. Extending the vertical part beyond the eaves is a good idea for reasons of both security and soot management.

Why do pellet stoves make noise?

Rather of using logs as fuel, pellet stoves burn small pellets. These are typically fabricated from sawdust, bark, and other forms of agricultural by-products. They are preferable because they make use of materials that would otherwise be thrown away.

When operating, a pellet stove will make noise, but this is to be expected, as with any other mechanical appliance. However, they are normally fairly quiet things, so excessive noise may indicate a more serious problem.

The three most prominent noises coming from your pellet stove are:

1. The fan

A fan is included in some pellet stove models to aid in air circulation. Other systems, however, rely on natural convection, and as a result, operate in silence.

The fan automatically turns on and off and makes noise the whole time it’s running. Under typical circumstances, however, the noise level shouldn’t exceed that of a refrigerator motor.

The fan may become noisier than usual if the system becomes blocked with soot or other particles. It’s also worth noting that certain budget devices could be noisier than others simply because they use lower-quality parts.

2. The pellets

Just like any other appliance that generates heat, a stove that is in use will make noise. Cracking, sputtering, or the sound of falling fuel are all noises that will be produced by the fuel itself.

It’s not always a negative noise (it might be soothing on a chilly day), but it can be annoying sometimes. You should know that it is common for burning fuel to produce some noise.

Due to reduced airflow, wheezing or whistling noises may be produced if the system has gotten clogged due to inadequate cleaning. However, this is an easy problem to fix.

3. The fuel system

When it comes to heating your home, a pellet stove’s built-in fuel dispenser can be a lifesaver. This method employs a motor to continuously feed fuel from the hopper into the combustion chamber. The video is down below.

Due to its low power and intermittent operation, the motor is usually quiet. A louder volume is possible as a result of wear and tear, just like with any other moving part.

Even if replacement is the most practical option, repair work may be able to get it up and running again.

How to make a pellet stove quieter

There are some nearly silent pellet stoves available, but if you can get your current stove to run more quietly, there’s not much purpose in upgrading.

In time, you may notice that your pellet stove is noisier than it used to be. This is due to the fact that it wears down over time, just like everything else does, which might reduce its useful life and effectiveness.

To sum up, try any of these options if you feel like the noise level from your pellet stove is a little too high. However, if you think the noise levels could be indicative of a more serious issue, you should seek professional assistance.

1. Tighten everything up

Over time, a pellet stove’s moving parts might get looser, just like those of any other device. In addition, the expansion and contraction of the metal as it is heated and cooled repeatedly should be taken into account, as this might put stress on the connections.

Depending on the construction, all you need to fix this is a screwdriver and/or a wrench. Ensure that all of the fasteners are secure by going around and checking each one.

Plastic ties, perhaps cable ties, may be used to secure the motor in place. As the motor might occasionally wobble loose, these can be tightened or replaced as needed.

Why Is My Pellet Stove So Loud? - HVACseer.com

For optimal functioning, I would advise conducting a thorough inspection every several months. Screws that aren’t securely fastened will cause the stove to generate more noise and work less efficiently.

2. Make sure the feet are level

Stoves usually have their feet leveled out during installation. However, the stove may have shifted over time, making it no longer level. Even though it probably won’t wobble very much on its own, crooked feet can cause a lot of tremors.

These workbench feet (Amazon) might be a good choice, as they can be readily adapted to the stove. The rubber feet dampen both noise and vibration.

A different option is to construct your own foot pads out of heat-resistant foam, which can be purchased from places like Amazon. Even if your pellet stove has a wide base and rests on the floor, this is a viable alternative.

Just be sure the pad’s material can handle the stove’s temperature if you want to use it. You don’t want it melting and starting a fire, do you?

3. Clean and alter the heat exchanger rod

A heat exchanger is a component of pellet stoves. It absorbs heat from the burned fuel within the stove and radiates it into the room. So that the room doesn’t become very smokey, it’s been constructed in this way.

The heat exchanger needs to be cleaned because it becomes clogged with ash and other debris over time. If the stove’s air intake becomes clogged with debris, the stove’s efficiency drops and the noise level rises.

This issue can be addressed in two ways:

  • If it’s merely ash, you can get rid of any stubborn particles by brushing the area down with a paintbrush.
  • Use a vacuum cleaner on it, which can be a messy process.
  • If you see tar accumulating, turn the heat up to high for about 30 minutes.
  • The tar should be reduced to ash at this point, making it easier to clean up.

How often you need to clean the interior of your pellet stove will vary. When used frequently, inspect it every few weeks.

If you only use it during the winter, a once-per-winter inspection should be sufficient. If you want to know how to clean a pellet stove, you can watch this video.

4. Clean the rest of it too

The heat exchanger should be the primary focus of cleaning, although it also helps to scrub the rest of the components. Debris can block the system like it would a regular wood-burning stove, increasing the level of noise produced.

Think about the burn grate and the bottom of the fuel pot. You should assume that there is a buildup of debris wherever there is difficulty gaining access to it.

Abrasive materials like wire wool could come in use here. To remove the grate from the stove, you can use a screwdriver, but be careful not to break anything. The first time will likely be the most challenging, but subsequent cleanings should be easier.

There isn’t much to cleaning a pellet stove, but you can learn more about what works best here.

5. Use some gasket tape for a quick fix

If you’ve tightened all you can and are still experiencing vibrations or noises, gasket tape is a quick and easy solution.

You’ll need gasket tape that can withstand high temperatures (Amazon). This one is made specifically for grilling, so it will perform admirably. The following are some examples of possible applications:

  • Put it on the bottom to dampen noise and tremors.
  • To enhance the draft, you should make minor repairs around the chimney.
  • Repair any holes that could be preventing ventilation.

But gasket tape isn’t a permanent fix. Make use of it to address a minor issue, but always consult a specialist if the condition persists.

The best quiet pellet stoves

Buying a new pellet stove? Why not opt for one that doesn’t make a lot of noise? All of them are quite effective and inexpensive, so there aren’t many considerations while purchasing one.

The most efficient and silent pellet stoves, in my opinion, are:

1. Comfortbilt HP22 Pellet Stove

  • The 2,800 square feet it can heat with its 50,000 BTU capacity is impressive.
  • Extra-Sized Display Area; Bay Style; All-Black Finish
  • Energy-efficient and effective 110-volt blower with EPA certification
  • Automatic Ignition, Ash Tray, Adjustable Temperature Control, with a 55-Pound Hopper Capacity
  • After the Sale, You Can Get Technical Support and a Year of Free Replacement Parts

The design of this pellet stove isn’t radically different from those of others on the market, but it is noticeably quieter. The bay shape and thick walls do the most to muffle the noise it generates.

It may warm a broad “viewing area,” which is another way of saying “area.” This pellet stove is a suitable option for homes up to about 2,800 square feet in size.

The only audible component is a fan, and even that operates silently. This model’s reduced number of moving parts reduces the likelihood of breakdowns and makes it easier to maintain.

Ashtrays can be easily wiped down and only need to be emptied once every six months, even with daily use. If you’re looking for an excellent pellet stove, this one is great, and the fact that it’s so quiet only adds to that.

2. Wiseway GW1949 Pellet Stove

The lack of electronics in this model is one of its many outstanding features. It uses gravity to move its fuel hopper and a basic draft system to power its fan. This is significant because it prevents the possibility of audible moving parts.

The stove can heat an area up to 2,000 square feet in size using convectional radiation. Simply since it doesn’t require electricity to function, it uses no energy whatsoever, making it significantly more efficient than competing models.

Check out the video for additional information, but if a quiet stove is what you’re after, you won’t go wrong with this one. Furthermore, its odd appearance makes it a great topic of conversation.

Simply because there are less moving parts, it’s much simpler to clean and maintain. It simply has to be cleaned once or twice a year at most to remain functioning properly.

3. Harman Absolute 43 Pellet Stove

This pellet stove is not only promoted as being among the most silent available, but also the most intelligent. There’s a built-in touchscreen interface for adjusting settings like heat, burn rate, and more.

And most importantly, it has a Whisper mode that drastically lowers its noise output, making it ideal for our needs. In a setting where silence is already the norm, this virtually achieves complete silence.

It also has some cool (but maybe needless) features like a light-up hopper lid, reflective glass, and adjustable venting.

These enhancements may sound amazing, but they inevitably add complexity because of the increased number of elements involved. These have a whisper option that reduces noise, albeit this obviously increases the risk of malfunction. More moving pieces also means more cleaning.

4. Quadra-Fire Castille Pellet Stove

This stove’s maximum coverage area of 1,700 square feet is the smallest of all the options here. It still performs admirably, making it ideal for compact quarters.

More than anything else, it is extremely quiet and simple to keep up. Although it lacks the complexity of more recent models, it still relies on electrical components. Both the feeding mechanism and firepot have been made with maintenance in mind.

Mt. Vernon AE Pellet Stove - Encino Fireplace Shop

Additionally, the softer pellets used in this model result in significantly less combustion noise compared to competing stoves. In general, it’s a solid option for individuals shopping for a basic pellet stove that gets the job done.

How To Clean and Maintain Your Pellet Stove

Basic Stove Cleaning

In general, you should clean your stove every three to four days (twice a week). Basic cleaning and maintenance like this must be done frequently to keep the stove running well. Make it a habit to do these things twice a week:

  • Clean out the ash from the fire chamber and the burn chamber. (You’ll need an ash vacuum!)
  • For stubborn carbon deposits, the stove-cleaning tool should be used. (To protect your machinery, use only the tools designed for this task.)
  • Take off the baffles protecting the tubes and fins in your heat exchange system.
  • To remove carbon deposits from the wood pellet stove’s exchanger, repeatedly pull out or push in the front, top lever. (Use a wire brush to get rid of the deposits if they won’t come off)
  • Get rid of any lingering ash by giving the firebox another thorough vacuuming.
  • Use a reputable window cleaner to clean the glass.

Investing in better pellets is one method to guarantee a stove’s smooth operation. Koopman Lumber is confident that Lignetics Wood Pellets provide excellent value for the money. Lignetics Wood Pellets are the best pellets to use in a pellet stove if you want it to last a long time.

Monthly Stove Cleaning

Every month, you should make time to do the following duties (or at the end of every ton of pellets burned).

  • Use a small paintbrush and vacuum to clean the blower motor and fan. The accumulation of dirt should be eliminated if at all possible.
  • Check the hopper lid and door gaskets. Remove any lingering residue and possibly even replace them.

The chore of cleaning once a month isn’t so horrible, now that you think about it, right? Simply add a few minutes to what is otherwise a relatively quick cleaning operation.

Annual Pellets Stove Cleaning

Give your stove a thorough “goodbye for now” cleaning before putting it up for the year every December. It’s like a “cleansing hibernation” for it. Prepare to get your hands dirty on this one by wearing appropriate attire.

  • To begin, empty the stove of its pellets.
  • Clean up the ash and dust.
  • Check for damage or wear on the pressure/latch switches, hopper, and auger plate.
  • Remove all ash from the chimney’s liner by cleaning or vacuuming it.
  • Let the fumes out.
  • Lubricate and clean the combustion and convection blowers as needed.
  • The auger motor should be cleaned and oiled as needed.
  • Check the vacuum sensors, heat switches, and wiring in the electrical system.
  • Glass door, please clean.
  • Make that the electrical sensors and spark plug are in good working order by testing their continuity.
  • Turn on the stovetop again to double check that it is functioning properly.

Tips and Warnings

When cleaning your stove, there are several things to keep in mind and some things you should never do. All of those are listed below; please read them thoroughly.

  • To prevent spreading ash throughout your home, invest in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or a dedicated ash vacuum.
  • Stove rusting can be avoided by always clearing out the pellets at the conclusion of the heating season.
  • Remember to always clean your stove without power. And especially if water is involved.
  • You should not clean your stove until it has cooled down entirely.
  • Scrub the stove’s outside until it shines.
  • Fire up your stove with quality pellets. It appreciates it very much!

Some final thoughts

Silencing a pellet stove is not a difficult task. I’ve tried to convince you that frequent cleaning and maintenance is the best strategy for accomplishing this goal.

Consider one of these whisper-quiet pellet stoves, though, if you’re in the market for a replacement. How much of a change something can make is beyond your wildest imagination.