Corner Pellet Stove Installation Tips and Ideas

Installing a pellet stove in the corner of a room can be a great way to maximize space heating efficiency. Corner pellet stoves provide supplemental warmth while occupying minimal floor area. With some planning and preparation, you can have a cozy and convenient stove heating your room in no time.

Read on for tips to help you get the most out of this space-saving heating option.

Choosing the Right Corner Pellet Stove

When selecting a corner pellet stove, the first thing to consider is the size of the space you want to heat. Pellet stoves are rated by their heating capacity, measured in BTUs. Choose a stove with an output that's appropriate for the room - a rating too small won't provide enough warmth, while too large will constantly cycle on and off.

Look for stoves specifically designed for corner installations. These have a small, triangular footprint to tuck neatly out of the way. Options include:

• Compact stoves around 25 inches wide - best for small spaces
• Larger stoves up to 36 inches wide - offer more heating power
• Extra-slim linear stoves - maximize tight corners

When comparing stoves, factor in hopper capacity as well. Larger pellet hoppers allow you to go longer between refills. Hoppers around 35-60 pounds are common.

Also, consider features like programmable thermostats, automatic ignition, and heat exchangers. More premium corner stoves even provide zone heating by connecting to your existing ductwork.

Price-wise, budget models typically cost $1,500-$2,000. Expect to spend $3,000 or more for higher-end stoves with more bells and whistles.

Pellet Stove Venting Options

Proper venting is a critical part of pellet stove installation. Pellet stoves produce combustion gases and ash that must be exhausted outside safely.

Most corner pellet stoves vent vertically, using existing chimneys or new stainless steel chimney liners. Vertical vents utilize natural draft for excellent performance. But they also take up interior floor space.

For a more seamless look, you can vent horizontally through an exterior wall. This keeps your stove tucked neatly in the corner, though may lower efficiency slightly.

Many stoves today are direct vent. This means they can vent vertically or horizontally using a single vent pipe. Direct vent systems are easy to install but limit your flexibility if issues arise.

Clearance Requirements

For safety, building codes require certain clearances around pellet stoves to prevent combustible surfaces from overheating. Common minimums are:

• 6 inches from rear wall
• 3 inches from sidewalls
• 18 inches from corners

These clearances can eat up valuable space in tight corners. But you can often reduce them substantially with proper heat shields constructed from metal, cement board, or brick.

Pellet stoves also require an approved hearth pad beneath them. These are typically non-combustible materials like stone, brick, or tile.

Planning the Installation

Careful planning is a must for a smooth corner pellet stove installation.

First, thoroughly measure the intended corner and surrounding areas. Be sure to account for heat shields or anything else that may impact the footprint. Make an outline of where the stove, hearth pad, and venting will go.

This is also the time to plan your venting route. Take into account existing electrical or gas lines that may need relocating to accommodate the vent.

It's wise to leave 1-2 feet of clearance around the stove for filling the hopper and routine maintenance. An installation too crammed in the corner will be difficult to work with.

Installation Process Step-by-Step

Once you have your stove and layout planned, you're ready to begin installation.

First prepare the corner area. Protect nearby floors and walls, and construct any required heat shields from metal or non-combustible cement board.

Next, build your hearth pad if you don't already have one. This provides the necessary fireproof floor protection beneath the stove.

Now you can construct your venting system. With direct vent stoves, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for cutting holes and connecting vent sections.

Position the pellet stove in the corner on top of the hearth pad. Double check your clearance distances and ensure the stove is level. For freestanding stoves, secure them to the floor using screws.

Connect your pellet vent to the stove, sealing all joints with high-temp silicone. Also connect any electrical and gas lines needed for auto-ignition or blowers.

Once assembled, have your installer perform a test firing and verify the vent system is drafting properly. Make any adjustments needed.

Finally, finish up with trim kits, surrounds, or anything else to refine the look. And you have a fully functional corner pellet stove!

Operating and Maintaining a Corner Pellet Stove

To get the best performance from your corner pellet stove, be sure to operate and maintain it properly.

Use only premium wood pellets, and keep them stored in a dry area away from the stove itself. When filling the hopper, avoid over-packing or undersized pellets that can jam feed systems.

Routinely empty the burn pot and ash pan to prevent buildup. Scrape or brush heat exchanger tubes weekly to maximize efficiency.

Setting the proper combustion air settings and keeping exhaust paths clear allows for ideal burning conditions.

Develop a regular maintenance routine as well. Thoroughly clean the stove interior and venting yearly. Replace gaskets as needed to prevent leaks. And get a professional service call if you encounter any problems.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Despite best efforts, corner pellet stove issues can occasionally crop up. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

• Failure to ignite - Ensure pellets are dry and auger is not jammed. Check ignitor fuses and heat sensor if needed.
• Smoking/poor heat - Clean burn pot and double check pellet quality. Adjust air inlet for proper combustion.
• Vibrations or noises - Vacuum ash from blower and inspect bearings. Isolate stove if vibrating on uneven floor.

Be sure to unplug your stove and contact the manufacturer if any problems persist after troubleshooting. Never try to service the internal components yourself.

Decorating Ideas Around a Corner Pellet Stove

With some creativity, you can make your corner pellet stove a stylish design feature as well as a heat source.

For a classic look, install brick or stone surrounds and hearths. Or frame the stove in the same wood or tiles used elsewhere in the room. This helps tie the stove into the decor seamlessly.

Flanking built-in shelving or bench seating makes the corner even more inviting. This allows the stove to double as a cozy gathering place.

You can also accessorize with hearth essentials like fireplace tools, candles, and rustic wood boxes to complete the look.

Installing a pellet stove in a corner nook can make an unused space practical again. Corner pellet stoves provide concentrated heat output from a compact footprint.

You can create an efficient and attractive heating solution with proper planning and installation. Just be sure to maintenance and operate your stove per manufacturer guidelines for best performance.