Corn vs. Pellets

When deciding between investing in either a corn stove or a pellet stove it is important to understand the many similarities as well as the distinct differences. Both corn stoves and pellet stoves offer an easy transition into alternative energy especially when compared to wood. Unlike wood, which needs to be tended to throughout the day, both corn stoves and pellet stoves can be filled once a day as they both offer the convenience of metering mechanisms to keep the fire pots supplied. Another convenience that both corn stoves and pellet stoves offer is the ease and cleanliness involved in the handling of the fuel itself. There is no dirty bark or insects as is associated with wood burning. Filling either corn stoves or pellet stoves involves the pouring of bags into the hoppers once every day or two.
 
In addition, there is no smoke with corn stoves or pellet stoves which makes them suitable for any home regardless of the proximity of neighbors. Another similarity between corn stoves and pellet stoves is simplicity of their venting requirements. Both can be direct vented and in most cases are simply exhausted directly through the wall behind the stove with well-designed kits tailored for each unique installation. The btu value is fairly equal for corn and pellets though, because it is a manufactured products, pellets can be somewhat variable depending on both the raw materials used and the quality (compression) of the pellet itself.
With respect to the differences between corn stoves and pellet stoves it is safe to say that, while both are extremely low maintenance compared to most alternative energy options, the management of ash is one area where the two stoves differ. The burning of corn results in the creation of hard silica ash known as clinker. Though many of today’s corn stoves are designed with a focus on operator convenience, all corn stoves must manage this clinker to maintain efficiency and performance. The different designs for clinker management vary from ultra-simple manual removal to ultra-convenient automated removal such as is found on the Bixby 115.

Perhaps the greatest factor in determining which is the better choice, a corn stove is or a pellet stove is geography. More specifically, fuel availability may be the determining factor in deciding which to choose. For example, in states such as Massachusetts or Connecticut it may be difficult to find a steady supply of corn given that they are not corn-producing states. Conversely, someone from the Midwest would have a hard time justifying not going the route of the corn stove given its availability. The great abundance of corn gives it a decided cost advantage over any energy source including pellets. The current supply of pellets is tight given the high demand and lack of pellet producers. This problem should be remedied in the next 2-3 years as more and more pellet manufactures are starting up. In addition, the entire industry will be looking at additional sources of raw materials to pelletize as the trend toward alternative energy grows. Some stoves, such as the Bixby 115 and the Harman PC-45, offer the best of all worlds with their ability to burn either corn or pellets.

In conclusion, whether you choose a corn stove or a pellet stove, you are investing in a product that will dramatically reduce your home heating costs thus making you, the homeowner, the winner either way.