Nov 9 2010
Wood pellets made using primarily softwood feedstock could pose a potential safety risk for wood pellet stove owners.
Research shows softwood pellets, often created from one of several varieties of Southern Yellow Pine, naturally contain higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than the hardwood pellet counterparts.
These VOCs, given off in the burning process, combine and condense on the way out of a wood pellet stove's chimney or ventilation pipe. The condensing of VOCs creates creosote -- a gummy, foul smelling, corrosive and extremely combustible substance -- that can coat the inside of chimneys or ventilation pipes.
"Indeck Energy is committed to providing the best possible product for its customers," said Jeff Schultz, plant manager, Indeck Ladysmith BioFuel Center. "Our pellets are produced from an all-natural blend of Wisconsin hardwood. We know that consumers are concerned with quality and safety. Indeck Energy provides the best option in both areas."
After building up on the inside of a chimney or ventilation pipe, creosote from softwood pellets can potentially catch fire.
"When you are placing a wood pellet stove in your home," said Schultz, "it just isn't worth the risk, especially if you ever leave the stove unattended."
Indeck Energy employs a third-party testing firm, Twin Ports Testing in Superior, Wis., to oversee its quality control standards.
"Our wood pellets burn hotter and cleaner than our competitors," said Schultz. "They are created with our own Wisconsin hardwood and are potentially safer for your family than softwood pellets."