How To Convert Pellet Stove To Fireplace [5 Easy Steps]

You can convert a pellet stove to a fireplace by following simple steps. The converting steps are:

• Checking whether the prefab is approved.
• Adjusting the size of the opening of the existing fireplace.
• Making venting arrangements.
• And checking heat output and electricity supply.

If you want more efficient heat, then you can convert your pellet stove to a fireplace. So, we have explained why you should convert a pellet stove to a fireplace and how to transform it.

So, go on reading and everything…

How To Convert Pellet Stove To Fireplace [5 Easy Steps]

Pellet stoves are automated instruments that give more efficient heat but require more space than fireplaces. Fireplaces are a bit traditional and less costly. You can convert a pellet stove to a fireplace by following some easy steps below:

Note: You can also read to learn how to convert wood stove to pellet stove.

1. Check Whether Prefab Is Approved

There are some factory-built or manufactured fireplaces that are constructed entirely off-site. These types of fireplaces are called prefabricated, in short, prefab.

The fireplace and chimney have been designed and tested to work together as a unit. A pellet stove may or may not fit inside a prefabricated fireplace.

It is possible that the pellet stove insert would need to be certified before it can be used in the constructed fireplace. To find out, you will need to speak with a professional or the manufacturer.

You must confirm that the fireplace is safe to use. Prefabricated fireplaces must be installed in exact accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

2. Size Of The Opening Of The Existing Fireplace

A pellet stove must be able to fit within the fireplace. As a result, it cannot be larger in height, width, or depth.

There are mainly two types of pellet stoves: pellet stove inserts and free-standing pellet stoves. Free-standing pellet stoves are typically tall and designed to sit on the floor.

On the other hand, pellet stove inserts are specifically designed to sit within the opening of an existing masonry fireplace.

So, before deciding on a pellet stove insert, you’ll need to measure the firebox of your masonry fireplace. If the size of the existing fireplace and the pellet stove doesn’t match, then you won’t be able to insert it.

Once you have checked the size of both, you can fit the pellet stove in place of the fireplace. Pellet stove inserts are more useful than freestanding pellet stoves in case of converting to a fireplace.

3. Venting Requirement

There is always a venting way for the pellet stoves so that the flues can get out of the house quickly. Pellet stoves must be appropriately vented which means that waste air from the stove must exit the home through a properly sized chimney.

If the existing chimney doesn’t have a flue liner or the flue liner isn’t the right size, you have to install a suitable chimney flue liner with the appropriate diameter.

You must install it following the manufacturer’s specifications for that specific model of the pellet stove. Plus, you can watch the tutorial to install the chimney flue liner.

4. Heat Output

The energy output and British thermal unit (Btu) rating of each pellet stove are indicated on the label. A high-output stove produces more heat in a shorter amount of time.

If your pellet stove will be your primary source of heat throughout the winter, this is a must-have option. So, the pellet stove should be appropriately sized for the area to be heated.

5. Electricity

A pellet stove will need electricity to run. So, it will need a source of mains electricity. For that reason, the pellet stove may require an electrical outlet within the existing fireplace’s firebox.

Your pellet stove will require energy, which a conventional home electrical plug socket will provide.

You know that generally, fireplaces use the wood component to produce heat, and there is no necessity for electrical support.

So when you are thinking of converting the pellet stove to a fireplace, you need to ensure the electric support. A pellet stove requires a dedicated main power source for all main components to function correctly.

Why Should You Convert Pellet Stove To Fireplace?

Pellet stoves are like other fireplaces or stoves commonly put within fireplaces. They fit into the opening of the existing fireplace.

Pellet stoves will help you to produce heat more efficiently for a room than what may be possible using the original fireplace.

If you have an old fireplace in your living room or cellar that isn’t heating your home while consuming a lot of wood, you can now install a pellet-burning insert into the existing structure.

You can use a pipe within the existing chimney flue; a pellet-burning insert will allow you to restore your old fireplace in no time. As you might expect, all construction work is kept to a bare minimum. It is pretty advantageous, right?

Pros And Cons Of Pellet Stove To Fireplace Conversion

The pellet stove-to-fireplace conversion includes the following pros and cons: 

Pros:

• Pellets last longer than wood and provide more efficient heat.
• Pellets burn very cleanly.
• After conversion, they will be easier to use and automated.
• It is possible to leave them unattended.
• Easy to use and have thermostatic control. 

Cons:

• Pellets are costlier than wood.
• Pellets are not as available as in the woods.
• The life expectancy of the instrument will be less than before.
• Regular maintenance is required.
• Requires electricity and makes noise.

FAQ:

Can a pellet stove be piped into a chimney?

A pellet stove can be vented through a wall or a pre-existing brick chimney. If you’re venting through a wall, a through-wall fitting is utilized to ensure sufficient clearance to combustibles before the vent pipe is passed through.

Can a pellet stove look like a fireplace?

Pellet stoves and inserts appear like a classic fireplace or stove, complete with flashing flames. Instead of wood, they use higher-efficiency (low-moisture) pellets.

Is it cheaper to burn wood or pellets?

Pellets are slightly more expensive per year than wood but last longer. In either instance, a cord of wood or a ton of pellets should cost around $190, according to the Department of Energy.

How long does a pellet stove last?

Generally, pellet stoves can last up to ten years when used correctly. However, this can range from a few years for cheaply produced pellet stoves used regularly to over ten years for well-built and well-maintained pellet stoves used just seldom.

Conclusion

In a positive light, the above article was quite instructive. Now you know the way of converting a pellet stove to a fireplace. You also know the reasons for conversion and its pros and cons.

So, if you want more efficient heat in a very easy way, you can convert your home’s heating system. If you have any inquiries regarding the pellet stove-to-fireplace conversion system. Comment on it. We will answer your question ASAP.

Note: You can also read the Avalon pellet stove manual.