Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents

Pellet heating

So what is a pellet heater?

A pellet heater is a type of heating system that burns compressed wood or biomass pellets to generate heat for a single room or an entire home. These pellets are typically made from waste materials like sawdust or agricultural residues, making them an eco-friendly heating option. Pellet heaters are known for their efficiency, as the pellets burn cleanly and produce minimal ash and emissions.</span>

The heater works by automatically feeding pellets from a storage hopper into a combustion chamber, where they are burned. Many models have a fan to distribute the heat evenly, and some can even be programmed for temperature control.

Have you been considering one for your home, or are you just curious?

A pellet heater operates using a straightforward yet efficient system designed to provide consistent warmth. Here’s how it works:

  1. Pellet Feeding: The heater has a hopper, where you load the wood or biomass pellets. These pellets are gradually fed into the combustion chamber by an automated auger system.

  2. Ignition: Once in the combustion chamber, the pellets are ignited, often by an electric starter. This eliminates the need for manual lighting.

  3. Combustion: The pellets burn in a highly controlled manner, producing heat. The combustion is efficient, resulting in minimal waste and clean emissions.

  4. Heat Distribution: A built-in fan blows the warm air into the room. Some pellet heaters also use ductwork or radiators to distribute heat throughout a larger space.

  5. Ash Collection: The small amount of ash produced is collected in a tray or container, which you empty periodically.

  6. Temperature Control: Many models include thermostats or timers, allowing you to adjust the heat output and program the heater to turn on or off at specific times.

Pellet heaters are valued for their convenience, eco-friendliness, and ease of use.

One tonne of pellet fuel per year is the average consumption for a typical Tasmanian home. Pellets come in 15kg bags so one tonne is 66 bags which only takes up about 1.6 square meters of space.

Most customers buy pellets buy the bag or car boot load as they require them, some buy 1 whole pallet in advance to reduce the trips to the fuel depot.

Read more Pellet Fuel Page

Pellet Fuel prices today Prices Hobart & Launceston

Yes, you can run a pellet stove overnight, and many people do so to keep their home warm continuously. Pellet stoves are designed to operate for extended periods and are equipped with features like automatic pellet feeding and thermostatic controls, which make overnight use convenient.

To reduce running costs, the heater can also be shut down over night and programmed to automatically start again in the morning so that the home is warm when you get up.

However, here are some considerations for safely running a pellet stove overnight:

  • Sufficient Pellets: Ensure the hopper is filled with enough pellets to last through the night.

  • Maintenance: Regular cleaning of the stove and its components (like the ash pan and air vents) helps maintain efficiency and safety.

  • Safety Features: Most modern pellet stoves have safety features, such as automatic shut-offs, to prevent overheating or other issues.

With proper precautions and maintenance, running a pellet stove overnight can be a reliable way to keep warm.

Whether a pellet heater needs a hearth depends on the type of heater, local building codes, and safety requirements:

  • Freestanding Pellet Stoves: These often require a non-combustible hearth or pad beneath them to protect the floor from heat and potential sparks. The hearth also helps meet clearance requirements for fire safety.

  • Built-In Pellet Fireplaces: If the pellet heater is installed as an insert in an existing fireplace, the fireplace typically provides the necessary protection, so an additional hearth may not be needed.

It’s always important to check the manufacturer’s specifications and local regulations to ensure safe installation.

The cost of running a pellet heater depends on several factors, but generally, they are considered economical compared to other heating systems. Here’s why:

  1. Fuel Cost: Pellets are often affordable and made from recycled materials, such as sawdust and wood chips. Their price can vary depending on your location, but they are typically cheaper than electricity or oil for heating.

  2. Efficiency: Pellet heaters are highly efficient, often reaching efficiency ratings of 80% to 90%. This means most of the fuel’s energy is converted into usable heat, reducing waste and lowering overall costs.

  3. Controlled Heating: You can control the temperature and heat output, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption and helping you save on running costs.

  4. Automated Operation: With features like programmable thermostats and timers, you can efficiently manage heating schedules to avoid wasting fuel when you’re not home.

While the initial cost of purchasing and installing a pellet heater can be significant, the lower operating costs often balance this out over time.

The cost of pellet heaters can vary widely depending on the brand, size, and features. On average:

  • Basic Models: These can start at around $2,000 to $3,000 AUD.

  • Mid-Range Models: Expect to pay between $3,500 and $5,000 AUD for more advanced features like programmable thermostats or higher efficiency.

  • High-End Models: Premium pellet heaters with larger capacities or smart technology can cost upwards of $6,000 AUD.

Additionally, installation costs can range from $500 to $2,000 AUD, depending on the complexity of the setup. Don’t forget the ongoing cost of pellets, which is typically around $10 to $15 AUD per bag.

The cost to install a pellet heater can vary depending on factors like the complexity of the installation, the type of heater, and local labor rates. On average, installation costs range from $500 to $2,000 AUD. This includes expenses for venting, electrical work, and any necessary modifications to your home.

In Tasmania, Pellet Fires Tas  has a flat rate price to install a pellet heater of only $800.

Yes, a pellet heater requires a flue or venting system, but not necessarily a traditional chimney like a wood stove. Here’s how it works:

  1. Direct Venting: Pellet heaters typically use a smaller, specialized flue or vent pipe. This can be vented directly through an exterior wall, making installation simpler and more versatile than a full chimney setup.

  2. Exhaust Requirements: The venting system is essential for safely expelling combustion gases, such as carbon monoxide, and ensuring proper airflow for the heater.

  3. Vertical or Horizontal Venting: Depending on your home’s layout, the vent can run vertically through the roof or horizontally through a wall.

  4. Sealed Systems: Many pellet heaters have sealed venting systems that improve efficiency and safety by preventing backdrafts and maintaining air quality inside your home.

Before installing a pellet heater, always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and local building codes to ensure compliance and safety.

The size of the pellet heater you need depends on factors like the size of your home, insulation quality, and climate. Here’s a general guide:

  1. Calculate Heating Needs: Pellet heaters are rated in Kilowatts.  A rough estimate is:

    • Cubic space  (LxWxH) X 30 watts for well-insulated homes in Tasmania.

    • Cubic space  (LxWxH) X 40 watt for average insulation in Tasmania.

    For example, a 80 sqm space with a ceiling hight of 2.1m with average insulation would need a heater with about 6k watts to heat the space from cold. A larger space will require a more powerful heater.

  2. Consider Ceiling Height: If your ceilings are higher than the standard 2.1 meters, you’ll need additional power to heat the extra air volume.

  3. Home Layout: Open floor plans distribute heat more effectively, while closed-off spaces may require a larger burner or additional units.

  4. Insulation and Windows: Homes with good insulation and energy-efficient windows retain heat better, reducing the size of the burner needed.

Pellet heaters can produce some noise, but it’s usually not too disruptive for most users, less than a heatpump.

Here’s what to expect:

  1. Fan Noise: Most pellet heaters have a built-in fan to distribute warm air, which can create a whirring sound. The noise level depends on the fan’s speed and the model of the heater.

  2. Pellet Delivery: The auger system, which feeds pellets into the combustion chamber, may produce a low level sound when operating.

  3. Combustion Noise: The crackling or burning sound of pellets is generally quieter than a wood fire and often described as a gentle background noise.

High-quality models tend to have quieter components, so it’s worth considering noise levels when choosing a heater. If you’re particularly sensitive to sound, you might prefer models specifically designed for quieter operation.

The Palazzetti range of heaters can operate with the room fan off when operating on low making them the quietest heater on the market. It is always best to observe the heater running in the showroom before making a purchasing decision. Most people would classify a pellet heater as being quiet compared to other heating types.

Wood pellets and pellet heaters are often considered eco-friendly, but their environmental impact depends on several factors:

Wood Pellets

  • Renewable Resource: Wood pellets are made from compressed sawdust, wood chips, and other biomass by products, which would otherwise go to waste. This makes them a renewable energy source.

  • Carbon Neutrality: When burned, wood pellets release carbon dioxide, but this is offset by the carbon absorbed by the trees during their growth. This makes them relatively carbon-neutral.

  • Sustainability Concerns: The environmental friendliness of wood pellets depends on how the wood is sourced. There are 3 pellet mills in Tasmania and all source their sawdust from waste and do not cut down trees specifically to make pellets.

Pellet Heaters

  • High Efficiency: Pellet heaters are highly efficient, converting most of the fuel into usable heat. This reduces waste and emissions.

  • Low Emissions: They produce minimal smoke and ash compared to traditional wood-burning stoves, making them a cleaner option.

  • Electricity Use: Pellet heaters require a very small amount of electricity to operate their fans and feeding systems.

Overall, wood pellets and pellet heaters can be eco-friendly if the pellets are sourced sustainably and the electricity used is from renewable sources.

Yes, pellet heaters are generally safe, provided they are installed and used correctly. They include several built-in safety features, but like any heating appliance, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here’s what makes them safe and some precautions to keep in mind:

Safety Features of Pellet Heaters

  1. Automatic Shut-Offs: The heater will automatically shut down if the heater overheats or if there’s an issue with the combustion process.

  2. Sealed or semi-sealed Combustion System: This prevents smoke and gases, such as carbon monoxide, from escaping into your home.

  3. Controlled Pellet Feeding: The auger system feeds a controlled amount of pellets, reducing the risk of overloading or uncontrollable flames.

Precautions for Safe Use

  • Proper Installation: Ensure the flue or venting system is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and local codes.

  • Regular Cleaning: Clean the heater and flue regularly to prevent blockages or build-up of ash and creosote.

  • Keep Flammable Materials Away: Ensure there’s no clutter or combustible materials near the heater.

With these features and practices, pellet heaters are a reliable and safe heating option for your home.

Unlike a wood heater, you never open the door of a pellet heater while it is burning to add wood. Pellets are fed automatically so you do not have smoke and  dust in your home like you do with a wood heater.

Wood pellets themselves can produce some dust, but it’s typically manageable. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. During Handling: When loading pellets into the hopper or transferring them, you might notice some fine dust from the compression process. High-quality pellets usually produce less dust because they are more tightly compressed and contain fewer loose particles.

  2. Storage: Dust can accumulate where pellets are stored, especially if the bags are opened and handled frequently.

  3. In the Heater: Pellet heaters are designed to burn pellets cleanly, so there is minimal dust produced during combustion. However, regular cleaning of the ash tray and internal components is essential to maintain efficiency and air quality.

Using pellets from a reputable brand and storing them in a dry, clean space can help reduce the amount of dust. Some people even use a small vacuum to keep the pellet hopper and surrounding area tidy.

Yes, pellet heaters require about 40 to 60 watts of electricity to operate. (that’s a small light bulb).

Here’s why:

  1. Pellet Feeding System: The automated auger that moves pellets from the hopper to the combustion chamber needs power.

  2. Fans and Blowers: These components circulate warm air and manage exhaust gases, ensuring efficient heating and safety.

  3. Ignition System: Most pellet heaters use an electric starter to ignite the pellets. The electric starter called an ignitor can be rated at around 250 watts but this is only turned on for a few minuets during the start up phase.

  4. Control Panel: Features like programmable thermostats and timers also depend on electricity.

If there’s a power outage, pellet heaters won’t work unless connected to a backup power source, like a generator or battery pack. Is access to electricity a concern for your setup?

Yes, you can run a pellet heater off-grid, but it requires some adjustments since pellet heaters rely on electricity for their operation. Here are a few ways to make it work:

  1. Battery Backup: You can use a battery system to power the heater. This is a common solution for off-grid setups, especially if paired with solar panels to recharge the batteries.

  2. Generator: A small generator can provide the necessary power. Pellet heaters typically draw around 500 watts during startup and about 60 watts per hour during operation.

  3. Solar power: A solar panel, battery and 240 volt inverter can run a pellet heater while off grid.

If you’re considering an off-grid setup, it’s worth exploring these options to find the best fit for your needs. Are you planning to go fully off-grid, or is this for a backup heating solution?

Pellet heaters generally last 15 to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan can vary based on factors like the quality of the unit, frequency of use, and how well it’s maintained.

Tips for Maximizing Longevity:

  • Regular Cleaning: Clean the hopper, ash tray, and flue regularly to prevent buildup and ensure efficient operation.

  • Annual Servicing: Have a professional inspect and service the heater to address wear and tear or potential issues.

  • High-Quality Pellets: Using premium pellets reduces residue and wear on components.

  • Timely Repairs: Address minor issues promptly to avoid larger, costlier problems.

Investing in a well-built, reliable model and keeping up with maintenance can help extend its lifespan.

The cleaning frequency for pellet stoves depends on how often you use them, but regular maintenance is key to keeping them efficient and safe. Here’s a general guideline:

Daily or After Every Use

  • Clean the Burn Pot: Remove ash and unburned pellets from the burn pot to ensure proper combustion.

Weekly (or After Every Few Uses)

  • Empty the Ash Tray: Clear out accumulated ash to maintain airflow and efficiency.
  • Check the Glass: If your stove has a viewing glass, clean off any soot buildup for clear visibility.

Monthly

  • Vacuum the Interior: Use a vacuum (designed for ash) to remove dust and ash from internal components, like the heat exchanger and hopper.

Annually

  • Professional Servicing: Have a professional inspect and clean the stove, including the flue or venting system, to address deeper build up and ensure everything is in working order.

No, a pellet heater’s flue doesn’t necessarily need to be as tall as the highest part of the house, but it does need to meet specific height and clearance requirements for safety and efficiency. Here are the general guidelines:

  1. Minimum Height: The flue should extend at least 1 meter above the floor where the heater is installed. This ensures proper draft and safe venting of combustion gases.

  2.  Regulations: Always check local building codes and the manufacturer’s specifications, as requirements can vary depending on your location and the specific model of the heater.

Proper flue installation is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your pellet heater.

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Pellet Fuel

What and how are wood pellets made?

Wood pellets are a type of renewable fuel made from compressed biomass materials, primarily sawdust, wood chips, and other wood waste. The process of making them is both efficient and environmentally friendly, as it often uses byproducts from the timber industry. Here’s an overview of how they’re made:

1. Raw Material Collection

  • Wood waste, such as sawdust, wood shavings, and offcuts from lumber mills, is collected. Some manufacturers also use agricultural byproducts like straw or corn husks.

2. Drying

  • The raw materials are dried to reduce moisture content, typically to around 10%, which is ideal for efficient burning and compacting.

3. Grinding

  • The dried materials are ground into a fine, uniform powder to ensure consistency in the final pellets.

4. Compression

  • The ground material is fed into a pellet mill, where it’s compressed under high pressure and heat. This process naturally releases lignin, a compound found in wood, which acts as a natural binder to hold the pellets together.

5. Cooling

  • The newly formed pellets are hot and fragile after compression. They’re cooled and hardened to improve durability and handling.

6. Screening and Packaging

  • Any broken or irregular pellets are screened out, and the high-quality pellets are packed into bags or stored in bulk for distribution.

Wood pellets are valued for their high energy density, consistent quality, and eco-friendly production process. Many people use them in pellet heaters as a cleaner alternative to traditional firewood.

You can find wood pellets at several places in Tasmania. Here are a few options:

  1. Pellet Fires Tasmania: Located at 108 Gormanston Rd, Moonah and 16 Goodman Court Invermay, they specialize in pellet heaters and fuel.

  2. Bunnings Glenorchy: They stock a variety of home improvement products, including wood pellets.

  3. Mitre 10: Some Mitre 10 stores in Tasmania carry hardwood pellets.

Proper storage of wood pellets is crucial to maintain their quality and ensure efficient burning. Here are some tips for the best way to store them:

  1. Keep Them Dry: Pellets are highly absorbent and will disintegrate if they get wet. Store them in a dry location, away from any moisture or humidity.

  2. Use Airtight Containers: Leave them in their bags or seal your pellets in airtight containers or heavy-duty plastic bins to protect them from humidity and pests.

  3. Off the Ground: Store pellets off the ground, such as on wooden pallets, to prevent contact with damp surfaces and improve air circulation.

  4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep them in a stable environment. Extreme heat or cold won’t necessarily ruin the pellets but can weaken the storage bags.

  5. Store Indoors if Possible: If you have space, indoor storage is ideal. If storing outdoors, cover the pellets with a waterproof tarp and ensure they’re well-protected from the elements.

By following these steps, you can preserve the quality of your wood pellets and avoid wastage

When buying wood pellets, quality is key to ensuring efficient heating and minimal maintenance for your pellet heater. Here’s what to look for:

1. Low Moisture Content

  • High-quality pellets typically have a moisture content of less than 10%. Lower moisture ensures they burn more efficiently and produce more heat.

2. Minimal Dust

  • Excess dust or “fines” in the bag can clog your pellet stove and reduce efficiency. Choose pellets with minimal debris to avoid issues.

3. High Density

  • Denser pellets have more energy per volume, providing longer-lasting heat. Look for pellets that feel hard and solid, not crumbly.

4. Low Ash Content

  • The best pellets leave less ash after burning. Opt for brands with an ash content of 1% or less to minimize cleaning and maintenance.

6. Wood Type

  • Hardwood pellets typically burn slower and hotter, while softwood pellets ignite quicker and can sometimes have higher heat output but burn away faster.. Both are great, but your choice depends on personal preference .

7. Local Availability

  • Locally sourced pellets may be more cost-effective and have a lower environmental impact due to reduced transportation.

8. Manufacturer Reputation

  • Choose pellets from a reputable manufacturer with good reviews. High-quality pellets can improve stove performance and reduce wear and tear.

If you’re uncertain, buying small bags to test in your heater before committing to a bulk purchase is a great strategy.

The lifespan of a bag of pellets depends on the size of the bag, your pellet heater’s burn rate, and how long you run it daily. Here are some general estimates for a standard 15kg bag:

  • Low Heat or Eco Mode: On lower settings, a bag could stretch to 25 hours or more. Your heater  should be on Eco mode once the house reaches the thermostat set temperature.

  • Medium heat setting: Typically lasts 12 to 18 hours on a medium heat setting.

  • High Heat Usage: If you’re running your heater at a high setting, a bag might last only 8 to 12 hours.

For example, if you burn pellets for 6 hours daily at a moderate setting, a bag could last about 3 to 4 days. To estimate your annual usage, calculate based on the number of hours and the heater’s consumption rate (often found in the manual).

Check out the Pellet Fuel page for more details :

https://www.pellet.com.au/products/pellet-fuel/

Current pellet price list :

https://www.pellet.com.au/pellet-fuel-price-list/

 

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Ventilation - condensation control

How does Ventilation Stop Crying Windows??

Ventilation is the process of moving air in and out of a space to maintain fresh air and remove stale air, odors, moisture, heat, or pollutants. It plays a critical role in ensuring good indoor air quality, keeping environments comfortable, and preventing health issues caused by poor airflow.

There are different types of ventilation systems:

  • Natural Ventilation: Uses openings like windows, doors, or vents to allow fresh air to flow naturally.

  • Mechanical Ventilation: Involves systems like fans, air purifiers to circulate air. Or systems like the WarmNdry ventilation management system manufactured and supplied by Pellet Fires Tasmania.

  • Mixed-Mode Ventilation: Combines both natural and mechanical methods for optimal airflow.

A typical 3 bedroom house  ventilation system costs $3,200 fully installed. This mechanical ventilation system uses a series of fans or a whole-house fan and ducts to cool, heat, and improve the home’s air quality. All of the mechanical ventilation systems can be used to achieve whole-house ventilation.

Whole-house ventilation systems can be worth it, depending on your specific needs, the climate you live in, and the condition of your home. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating their value:

Benefits:

  1. Improved Indoor Air Quality: They help remove pollutants, allergens, and excess moisture, ensuring fresher and healthier air throughout your home.

  2. Moisture Control: They reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues, which is particularly helpful in humid climates.

  3. Energy Efficiency: Many modern systems are energy-efficient and can complement your heating and cooling system.

  4. Consistent Ventilation: Unlike relying on windows or individual fans, these systems provide constant airflow in every room.

Proper storage of wood pel

Yes, bathrooms should ideally be vented. Ventilation in a bathroom serves critical purposes, such as:

  • Moisture Control: Bathrooms generate a lot of moisture from showers, baths, and sinks. Without proper ventilation, this moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage to your home over time.

  • Odor Removal: Ventilation helps eliminate odors, keeping the space fresh and comfortable.

  • Improved Air Quality: It prevents the buildup of excess humidity and airborne contaminants, such as cleaning chemicals.

You can achieve bathroom ventilation in two main ways:

  1. Exhaust Fans: These are mechanical systems that remove moisture and odors by pulling air out of the room and venting it outside.

  2. Windows and Natural Ventilation: A bathroom with a window can rely on natural airflow. However, in many cases, windows aren’t as effective as exhaust fans, particularly in colder climates or during humid weather.

In some regions, building codes mandate proper bathroom ventilation, so it’s worth checking your local regulations.

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Wood Heating

What are the rules for wood heaters in Australia?

In Australia, wood heaters are subject to strict regulations to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. Here are some key points:

  1. Manufacturing Standards: All wood heaters sold in Australia must comply with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 4013, which sets limits on smoke emissions.

  2. Installation Standards: Installation must follow AS/NZS 2918, which includes guidelines for flue height, clearance from walls, and proper venting to prevent smoke from re-entering the home.

  3. Flue Requirements: The flue must be at least 4.6 meters high from the floor and extend 600mm above the roofline. It should also be at least 1 meter taller than any nearby structures within a 3-meter radius.

  4. Hearth Specifications: Wood heaters must be installed on a non-combustible hearth that extends beyond the heater to protect against fire hazards.

  5. Environmental Considerations: Many states and territories have additional regulations to minimize smoke pollution, such as restrictions on burning wet or green wood.

It’s always a good idea to consult local building codes and hire a professional for installation to ensure compliance.

Heating with wood can be worthwhile depending on your circumstances and priorities. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:

Benefits of Heating with Wood

  1. Cost Savings: Wood can be more affordable than electricity, gas, or oil if you have access to your own firewood supply. If you buy wood, then the high cost of wood in Tasmania makes it more expensive than other forms of heating.

  2. Sustainability: When sourced responsibly, wood is a renewable energy source. Burning dry, seasoned wood efficiently can minimize your carbon footprint.

  3. Reliable Heat: Wood heaters work even during power outages, which can be crucial in remote or storm-prone areas.

  4. Cosy Atmosphere: There’s something uniquely comforting about the warmth and ambiance of a wood fire.

  5. Large spaces: Modern wood heaters provide considerable amount of heat which is ideal for heating a large area or a very cold building.

Wood heaters are no longer suitable for smaller living areas due to the amount of uncontrollable heat they produce. Ideal for large areas above 160 sqm but not so good for areas less than 160 sqm. This is due to the new emission standards that limit how low the heater can burn. 

Even the most efficient currently available wood heating appliances are still more polluting than modern natural gas or pellet appliances. Burning wood produces smoke, and excessive smoke can cause health and other problems for your family and your neighbours.

  • Labour-Intensive: Cutting, splitting, stacking, and storing firewood takes effort. You’ll also need to regularly clean the fireplace or stove.

  • Air Quality Concerns: If not burned properly, wood can release smoke and pollutants. It’s important to use a modern, compliant wood heater to reduce emissions.

  • Storage Needs: Firewood requires significant storage space, and it must be kept dry to burn efficiently.

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