Englander pellet stoves are renowned for their efficiency and ease of use. However, if you find that your Englander pellet stove is feeding pellets too quickly, it can lead to operational problems and reduced efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes and solutions for this issue, ensuring that your Englander pellet stove functions optimally.
Understanding the Pellet Feeding System
Englander pellet stoves, like most pellet stoves, operate on a controlled pellet feeding system. Here’s a brief overview of how it works:
Hopper: Pellets are stored in a hopper, which feeds them into the combustion chamber.
Auger System: An auger, a screw-like mechanism, controls the rate at which pellets are delivered from the hopper to the combustion area.
Combustion Chamber: Pellets are ignited in the combustion chamber to produce heat.
Ash Removal: Ash is generated during combustion and is typically removed via an ash pan or tray.
Common Causes of Excessive Pellet Feeding
Several factors can lead to a pellet stove feeding pellets too quickly:
1. Auger Jam
An auger jam occurs when pellets clog the auger system, preventing it from turning properly. This can result from using low-quality or wet pellets, foreign objects in the hopper, or insufficient lubrication of the auger.
2. Incorrect Auger Speed Setting
If the auger speed is set too high, it will feed pellets at a faster rate than the stove can efficiently burn. This can happen if the control panel settings are misconfigured.
3. Dirty or Faulty Sensors
Englander pellet stoves are equipped with safety sensors that monitor combustion conditions. Dirty or malfunctioning sensors can cause the stove to feed pellets too quickly or too slowly.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
To address the issue of your Englander pellet stove feeding pellets too fast, follow these steps:
1. Check for Auger Jams
Inspect the hopper and auger for any blockages or obstructions. Remove any foreign objects or debris. Ensure that the pellets you are using are dry and of good quality to prevent future jams.
2. Adjust Auger Speed
Access the control panel of your stove and review the auger speed setting. Adjust it to a lower setting to slow down the pellet feeding rate. Consult your stove’s manual for guidance on making these adjustments.
3. Clean or Replace Sensors
If you suspect that dirty or faulty sensors are causing the issue, clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the problem, consider replacing the sensors as necessary.
4. Inspect the Combustion Chamber
Ensure that the combustion chamber is clean and free of ash buildup. A dirty chamber can affect the stove’s efficiency and pellet feeding rate.
Preventative Maintenance
To prevent future issues with pellet feeding, consider these maintenance practices:
- Regularly clean the hopper and combustion chamber.
- Use high-quality, dry wood pellets.
- Lubricate the auger system as recommended in the manual.
- Keep the stove and its components clean and free from debris.
In conclusion, if your Englander pellet stove is feeding pellets too quickly, it’s essential to troubleshoot and address the issue promptly to ensure the stove operates efficiently. By checking for auger jams, adjusting the auger speed, maintaining sensors, and practicing regular maintenance, you can resolve the problem and enjoy the benefits of a well-functioning pellet stove. Always refer to your stove’s manual for specific instructions on maintenance and troubleshooting.