What is the Difference between a Pellet Burner and a Wood Burner?
Quick Answer: Both pellet burners and wood burners are highly efficent heat producers, either of which will keep you warm through a cold Spanish winter. That is where the similarity ends.
The technology behind them, how they operate, even the fuel they use, are all completely different.
What are the obvious differences?
Do I need a power supply?
Pellet Burner: Requires mains electric to power the electronic controls, fans and auger.
Wood Burner: Powered by natural draw so usually does not require a power supply. Some stoves are fitted with convector fans which require mains electric.
What type of wood is used?
Pellet Burner: Burns processed wood pellets.
Wood Burner: Burns natural hardwood logs.
How do I add fuel to my stove?
Pellet Burner: By adding pellets into the hopper.
Wood Burner: By adding logs to the firebox.
How do I control the heat from my burner?
Pellet Burner: The heat ouput is controlled automatically by the Electonic Control Unit (ECU). The ECU senses various parameters within the stove, room temperature and takes into account the power and temperature settings selected by you. It adjusts the fan speeds and fuel feed to deliver the heat as efficiently as possible. It will run autonomously until you change a setting or it runs out of pellets.
Wood Burner: You control everything manually. You decide, according to how you feel, when to add logs to the firebox or when to open or close the air controls. A log burner needs constant attention from you to run well.
How much storage space do I need?
Pellet Burner: Pellets can be bought in bulk but generally most people buy the 15kg bags. They are ready to use so you can buy and store as many, or as few, as you want depending on your space.
Wood Burner: Logs can be bought in bulk, in bags, or pick your own. The problem with logs is they often need to be dried before use so additional space is necessary. (see our article Why does Properly Dried Wood matter? )
Do I need a flue pipe for my stove?
Pellet Burner: Absolutely! All pellet burners need al least a ⌀80mm flue, to about 2m height as a minimum. This is to ensure some natural draw and prevent sparks exiting the flue.
Wood Burner: Definitely!. Without a flue natural draw will not take place turning your stove into a metal box. Wood stoves typically require a flue ⌀150mm-200mm, to a height of 4-5m.
How do I choose between a pellet burner or wood stove?
A pellet burner is designed to provide all the warmth and atmosphere of a real fire, combined with the convenience, efficiency and control of modern technology. Whereas a wood burner creates a stylish and relaxing living environment based on tradition and romance.
Both will do a great job, but if you are trying to decide which one to go for, you have to make a practical choice based on your own needs and lifestyle. Here are some things to consider.
What to do next
Still not sure about which burner is best for you? Get in touch or visit the showroom, we’re always happy to help you get the most from your heating system.
For more information about Pellet Burners, take a look at our Pellet Burner Catalogue.
For more information about Wood Burners, take a look at our Wood Burner Catalogue.