Q&A pellet vs wood stove

Question:

Can you provide me some information that would help me decide between purchasing a wood stove or a pellet stove. Total costs (stove- installation- flues- fuel- etc.) is of primary concern- although convenience is also important. What units would one use to compare $/BTU/unit of fuel?



Answer:

Basic Chart at http://www.hearth.com/what/compare.html. A new calculator that can compare the cost of different fuels is at the link at the bottom of this page.
Pellets cost more than wood in many cases. The fuel costs more- the stoves cost more. Of course- you don't have to season pellets- and stack them. They will burn longer. Pellet Stoves do not need a full chimney- so depending on your installation- the Wood and Pellet units may cost the same when venting is included.So - it's usually a lifestyle decision. As far a $$ goes- an efficient- newer wood stove will usually win the economics battle.

Link: Compare the Costs of various fuels