Pellet, gas, wood and coal stoves and inserts are all natural sources of heat that burn at various degrees of efficiency. Efficiency is measured by cost as it relates to expense and length of burn time for the product.

With a fireplace insert or a freestanding stove, you can better control the heat in your home. This is especially valuable in homes that do not feature more than one “zone” for heating. With proper stove size selection based on the size of the residence, supplementing a home’s main source of heat—be it electric, forced air or hot water—can help save energy and money.

Generally speaking, wood burns slower than oil or propane; therefore you get more for your money. Additionally, coal has a longer burn time than pellets or wood with combustion lasting for up to 24 hours. Natural gas can do more than heat your home, as it is also used for cooking, clothes drying, water heating, barbequing and more.

Wood pellets – 80-85% efficiency
Natural gas – 78-90% efficiency
Coal – 65% average efficiency
Wood – 40-65% efficiency