Heating With Pellets – Hardwood vs Softwood

When it comes to heating your home with pellets, the type of wood you choose can have a significant impact on your experience. Hardwood pellets and softwood pellets are the two most common types of wood pellets used for heating. In this blog post, we’ll compare the two types and help you make an informed decision.

Hardwood pellets

Hardwood pellets are made from trees such as oak, maple, and hickory. They are denser and heavier than softwood pellets, which means they can produce more heat per unit of volume. Because of their density, they burn longer and produce less ash than softwood pellets.

One of the benefits of hardwood pellets is their high energy output. They can produce up to 8,000 BTUs per pound, which makes them ideal for homes in colder climates. Hardwood pellets are also less likely to cause clinkers, a type of ash that forms when the pellets melt and then re-solidify.

However, hardwood pellets can be more expensive than softwood pellets. They are also not as widely available as softwood pellets. If you live in an area where hardwood trees are not abundant, you may have to pay a premium to get them.

Softwood pellets

Softwood pellets are made from trees such as pine, spruce, and fir. They are lighter and less dense than hardwood pellets, which means they produce less heat per unit of volume. Softwood pellets are also more likely to produce clinkers than hardwood pellets.

One of the benefits of softwood pellets is their affordability. They are generally less expensive than hardwood pellets and are more widely available. If you live in an area with an abundance of softwood trees, you may be able to find them locally at a lower cost.

Softwood pellets also burn faster than hardwood pellets, which means they produce more ash. However, this can be an advantage for some homeowners who prefer to clean their stove less frequently.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between hardwood pellets and softwood pellets, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and availability. If you live in a colder climate and are willing to pay a premium for a higher energy output, hardwood pellets may be the best choice for you. If you are looking for an affordable option that is widely available, softwood pellets may be the better choice. Regardless of your choice, it’s important to use high-quality pellets that are made from pure wood and do not contain any additives or fillers.