Whether you store your pellets inside or out, it’s always important to inspect your fuel when it arrives. We have a quality guarantee and process and treat your pellets with care along the entire journey.  If your pellets arrive damaged, call us right away at 1-800-PELLETS.

Storing Wood Pellets Inside

If at all possible, we always recommend storing your fuel inside. Choose a dry area free from flooding, mold, and excessive humidity. If you have the space, reuse the wooden pallet your fuel arrived on. Place it in a dry area, put cardboard over the pallet, and stack your bags on top. The pallet is strong and can handle the weight pellets stacked high. Check out this article on how to safely stack pellets in your small garage.

If your space can’t accommodate the 40” x 48” pallet your fuel arrived on, you can also stack in a narrow space, as pictured here. Re-stacking your pellets in your preferred space takes a little extra time and work, but it’s a great way to save space and make sure your pellets are in a location that works best for you.

Storing Wood Pellets Outside

It’s not always possible to store your wood pellets inside. If your garage or basement can’t accommodate your pellets, a shed or shelter is the next best option, particularly in a raised, dry place.

However, outside storage works, too! By taking a few extra steps, your pellets will be protected until you need them.

As we mention above, inspect your fuel when it arrives. Your pellets will be carefully wrapped in a protective plastic shroud before delivery. If there are any rips or holes in the plastic shrouding – and this can happen during transport – repair them with waterproof tape or additional layers of plastic.

Choose your storage location. Do not store your pellets in an area subject to water pooling or flooding, which can cause your pellets to get wet and turn to sawdust. Also look for irrigation heads and spray paths that could damage your pellets, and avoid storing near heat sources, as this can cause the pellets to self-ignite.

Securely fasten a right-sized tarp* over your fuel. This will protect it from water damage and deter birds, small animals or snakes that may try to puncture the plastic and nest in your fuel. Fill milk jugs with sand or water and tie to the edges of the tarp to prevent it from dislodging. You can also use tent stakes or large rocks to secure the tarp.

Recommended Tarp Size based on # of Bags

Are you feeling handy? You can also make your own tarp out of empty wood pellet bags! Check out this article on how to DIY a water blob and make a square or rectangle instead of a pouch. Also, check out this simple trick that helps prevent liquid from pooling on the top of your pellet pile!

Check on your pellets periodically. Even under a secure tarp, small animals can be persistent. Ensure a clever critter hasn’t started a home in your fuel pile!

If you’re storing your fuel outside during the heating season, too, keep using the tarp and the shroud. When you need a new bag of pellets, remove the protective wrap, and carefully slice the shroud on the top edge of the pallet to slip the top bags out. Secure the shroud after to protect the remaining bags and cover again with the tarp. 

When the snow flies, shovel a path to your fuel and shovel around the entire pallet to keep snow off your fuel and prevent any water or ice damage. Continue to use the shroud and tarp to protect your fuel from snow and ice, and continue to check on it periodically, too.

As mentioned above, all of our Quality Certified fuels are backed by guarantee. If your pellets arrive damaged, call us right away at 1-800-PELLETS. It’s vitally important to note that all physical quality claims must be made within 30 days of delivery and why you need to closely inspect them as soon as they arrive!  You can also call anytime with general questions. We’re happy to assist!