Proper Storage of Pellets

If you have a pellet stove or insert, purchasing and stocking up on fuel is a periodic ritual. And protecting your investment by storing your pellets properly is important. In fact, pellet fuel can have an indefinite shelf life if properly stored.

We’ve put together some simple, but very important guidelines for storing pellets. There’s also a safety element to consider, so read on…

• The best place to store pellets is indoors, such as in a garage or basement. The area should be free from moisture and humidity, and should not be susceptible to flooding. It’s best to store the bags off the floor on pallets or cardboard slips.
• If you don’t have an indoor storage area, the next best thing is a shelter or shed that stays dry. In this environment, it’s especially important to stack the bags on pallets off the ground. While stacking, inspect the bags for any holes and repair them with duct tape or another water-proof tape. To further protect the fuel from water, cover the stack of bags with a tarp and securely fasten it.
• Because we burn pellets inside our homes, it’s important to keep them as clean as possible. Be sure to protect your pellets from dust and other contaminants.
• It has been reported that stored bags of pellets can release carbon monoxide gas (CO), especially when kept in warm environments. Make sure your storage area is well ventilated, install a CO detector and be aware of symptoms of CO poisoning. For more information, read here and here.

Enjoy the fire!