Did you know that your wood pellets might not be burning at full potential, if your stove hasn’t been cleaned properly? Much like a car needs oil changes and tire rotations, your pellet stove requires maintenance in order to operate as safely and efficiently as possible.
Although many stove owners believe their own cleaning techniques are sufficient, and some perhaps are, the fact remains that some things should be left to trained professionals.
Whether you’re taking care of your pellet stove cleaning yourself, or hiring a professional – here’s what the checklist should include for a thorough cleaning:
- Check Unit for Visible Defects, Ash, Discoloring
- Vacuum Inside of Unit
- Remove Baffles – Clean and Reinstall
- Clean and Inspect Heat Exchanger
- Remove Access Doors/Panels – Vacuum and Reinstall
- Clean and Inspect
- Heat Exchanger
- Burn Pot
- Ignitor
- Ash Pan
- Convection Fan
- Glass
- Combustion Fan
- Pressure Switch/Hose
- Tee and Venting
- Inspect
- Gaskets
- Electrical Wiring
- Auger Motor(s)*
- Venting Seals
- Inspect Hopper for Pellet Quality and Excess Fines
- Vacuum Back of Stove
- Check and Lubricate Shaker Grate Cam*
- Test Fire the Stove or Insert (Make sure the unit is fully operational)
*May not be applicable on some stove models.
If you would prefer to hire a trained technician, you can check if Cleancare Professional Pellet and Wood Stove Cleanings are available in your area by calling 1-800-PELLETS, or by entering your zip code at www.Woodpellets.com.