How to Extend the Life of Your Pellet Stove in Clovis

If you’ve got a pellet stove in your Clovis home, you already know what a game-changer it can be during chilly evenings. That warm, steady heat feels amazing—and it’s a pretty efficient way to keep your space cozy without running up the energy bill. But here’s the deal: just like anything else that runs regularly, pellet stoves need a little love to stay in good shape. You don’t have to be a technician to keep it running like new—you just need to know what to look out for, what to clean, and when to call for help. Because let’s face it, skipping maintenance only means you’ll be shelling out more later for a full Pellet Stove Repair.

Start with the Basics: Clean It More Than You Think

Here’s a simple truth no one tells you when you first get a pellet stove: ash builds up fast. And when it does, it doesn’t just make things messy—it actually chokes the system and makes the stove work harder than it should.

Here’s what to clean regularly:

Burn pot: This is where pellets combust. If it’s clogged, it affects performance.
Ash pan: Empty it every few days during heavy use.
Glass door: A clean door not only looks better, it also helps you spot problems early.
Heat exchanger: This transfers heat into your room, and dust or soot here can slow things down.

You don’t need fancy tools—just a small vacuum, a brush, and a cloth. Some stoves come with cleaning kits, and they’re totally worth using.

“Treat your stove like a pet—clean up after it often, and it’ll treat you better in the long run.”

Pellet Quality Matters (A Lot More Than You Think)

It’s tempting to grab whatever wood pellets are cheapest, especially if you go through bags quickly. But here’s the thing: low-quality pellets are full of fillers and moisture. That means more ash, more clogs, and more stress on your stove.

High-quality pellets burn cleaner, produce more heat, and leave less residue behind.

Pellet Type	Burn Quality	Ash Production	Price Range (per bag)
Hardwood premium	Excellent	Very low	$6 – $8
Softwood (quality)	Great	Low	$5 – $7
Mixed wood (cheap)	Okay	High	$3 – $5
Unknown bulk brands	Poor	Very high	$2 – $4

If you’re unsure, look for pellets that are labeled “Premium” or have low moisture content (under 8%).

Schedule Annual Maintenance (Yes, Even if It’s Working Fine)

Let’s be real—most of us only call a repair person when something stops working. But with pellet stoves, prevention really is cheaper than the cure.

Annual maintenance should include:

Deep cleaning of internal components
Exhaust fan check and lubrication
Gasket inspection
Smoke path cleaning (chimney, vent, etc.)
Control board and thermostat test

A technician can also spot small issues before they become big ones—like a weak fan motor or worn igniter.

Pellet Stove Service Cost in Clovis:

Service Type	Typical Cost
Basic cleaning (DIY)	$0 – $20 (supplies)
Professional tune-up	$120 – $200
Full repair (parts + labor)	$250 – $600+
Emergency visit or winter rush	Add $50 – $100

You’ll probably spend less on a yearly tune-up than you would on just one emergency repair.

Know When Something’s Off

Even with regular care, things can go wrong. But the earlier you catch it, the less damage it’ll cause. Here are a few red flags to watch for:

Weird smells: A smoky or burning smell might mean poor airflow or a blocked exhaust.
Unusual noises: Clicking, banging, or whining sounds? Time to check the motor or fan.
Less heat than usual: Could be bad pellets or an airflow issue.
Soot on walls or furniture: Big sign the exhaust system needs cleaning.

The sooner you call in help, the faster (and cheaper) the fix will be.

Safety and Must-Have Features

Your pellet stove should be keeping you warm—not giving you stress. Here’s how to make sure it stays safe to use all season long:

Carbon monoxide detector nearby – Always. No excuses.
Check for proper venting – Exhaust should flow out of your home, not in.
Child and pet safety barriers – Those glass doors get hot.
Auto shut-off features – Many newer models turn off if something’s wrong.
Cool-touch surfaces – Useful for families or small spaces.
Certified professional servicing – At least once a year.

FAQs: Let’s Clear the Ash

Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean the ash?
A: Use an ash vacuum only. Regular vacuums can catch fire if warm embers are still present.

Q: What’s the best time to schedule a service?
A: Early fall, before peak season. You’ll avoid wait times and winter rush fees.

Q: Is it okay to leave pellets in the hopper during summer?
A: Not really. Pellets absorb moisture and can swell, jam, or mold. Empty it out if you’re not using it.

Q: Do I need to shut it off if I leave for a day or two?
A: Yes, especially if you’re not around to monitor it. Better safe than sorry.

Q: How long does a good pellet stove usually last?
A: With care? Easily 10–15 years.

Final Thoughts: Treat It Right, and It’ll Warm You for Years

In Clovis, where winters aren’t brutal but definitely chilly, having a pellet stove makes your home feel extra welcoming. But like any appliance, it needs routine care to stay reliable. Clean it regularly, use high-quality pellets, get it serviced once a year, and watch for signs that something’s not right.

Taking a few extra minutes here and there can save you from bigger problems down the line. And when something does go wrong? Don’t sweat it—there’s always a skilled local tech ready to help with Pellet Stove Repair.