Extolling the benefits of heating with pellets (Maine)

http://www.pressherald.com/news/Extolling-the-benefits-of-heating-with-pellets-.html

What's the quickest way to burn 25 percent less heating oil in the Northeast?

Wind energy won't do it. Conservation and efficiency will make a big difference, but how about switching 1.4 million homes in seven states from oil heat to clean-burning, biomass boilers that are popular in Europe.

The conversion -- done over the next 15 years -- would cut annual oil use by 1.14 billion gallons, create 140,200 jobs and keep $4.5 billion in the regional economy.

These are among the conclusions of a recent study that outlines the benefits of a large-scale switch of central heating systems in the region from oil to wood pellets and other forms of renewable biomass. Called "A Bold Vision for 2025," it was prepared by five trade groups that include the Maine Pellet Fuels Association and the newly formed Biomass Thermal Energy Council.

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We spend about 400 to 500 dollars a season where when we used propane prior to that we were spending 1200 to 1500 dollars a season. The last time I put a pencil to it we were in excess of 4000 dollars to the good even after the price of the three stoves factored in that we've bought in that time. The first stove was very basic as the pellet heating stoves were relatively new at the time, the second one was a self igniter and a lot more efficient but we just didn't like it and this most recent one is more than likely the last one we'll be buying as we like it so well. We've passed our other two down to our son so they wouldn't be smothered with the cost of heating with propane or electric, our only options here. This last stove, Harman Advance, qualified for 1200 dollars in tax rebate and I must say it is one awesome wood pellet burning heating stove. We keep our home at a comfortable 75 degrees both in the winter and in the summer too, no skimping. I highly recommend wood pellet stoves for heat.

http://www.harmanstoves.com/products/details.asp?cat=stove&prd=pellet-stoves&f=ADVPSTV

Clean burning too with very little ash

But I have electric heat. Wood pellets would be much more efficient for me. Maybe I will convert in a couple of years.

Wood is relatively dirty and dusty though. And woodpiles takes up a lot of space. And then there are the bugs and rodents.

I would say pellets are the way to go. Recycled wood waste can be used to make them and from what I read they burn clean with little residue and ash.