If you are thinking of buying a pellet burner, here's what to consider.

Free-standing/insert/basement furnace

All three versions are available. Unlike woodburners, fireplace insert pellet-burners produce as much heat and are as efficient as freestanding models. The basement furnace models are connected to water-filled radiators in the house, or via a heat exchanger, to standard central-heating air-ducts to distribute heat throughout the home.

Wetbacks

Some models have provision for a wetback. This can reduce your hot-water bill, but possibly not enough to recoup the wetback's expensive installation costs.

Heat output

The maximum output of most lounge-installed pellet burners is in the 9 to 11 kWh range. But overheating of the room is less likely with a pellet burner because the heat output is controllable over quite a large range - usually 1.9 to 11 kWh.

Controls

Pellet-burner controls - the on/off switch, start button, and heat-control knob - are electrical.

Cleaning

Pellet fires produce less ash than a conventional woodburner. Often, the ash will only need emptying once per week. Most models have a pull-out ash tray.

Flue system

Flues are typically 75mm in diameter, which is smaller than a conventional woodburner. Many flue arrangements are possible. Insert models can have their flue inside an existing chimney; and freestanders often have their flue exiting the room horizontally through an exterior wall and then running up the outside of the building.

Installation costs

Every house is slightly different, but installation costs should be similar to those of a woodburner. Remember a power outlet needs to be nearby.

Safety guards

The surfaces of a pellet burner can get very hot and be a danger to small children. Protective guards are available and highly recommended.

Building consents

You must obtain a building consent from your local authority to install a pellet burner.

Running costs

Running a pellet burner costs around 8c to 14c per kWh. This is more than a woodburner (using bought firewood), or a heat-pump - but less than half the cost of running a conventional electric heater. They're also competitive with flued reticulated gas heaters and central heating - depending on regional prices.