How many pellets does a pellet stove use per day?
Illustrative examples · WattRumo English edition
There is no universal number of pellet bags consumed each day. Consumption depends on the useful heat delivered, run time, pellet quality and the stove's efficiency and modulation.
A worked example
Assume a stove supplies an average of 3 kW of useful heat for 8 hours. Pellets contain 4.8 kWh/kg and the appliance delivers 85% efficiency. Each kilogram then provides 4.08 kWh of useful heat.
Pellets per hour = 3 ÷ (4.8 × 0.85) ≈ 0.735 kg.
Over 8 hours ≈ 5.88 kg.
Over 30 equivalent days ≈ 176.5 kg, or 11.8 bags of 15 kg.
At €5.50 per bag, fuel would cost approximately €64.71/month.
Why real consumption can be different
Insulation, outside temperature, power modulation, thermostat setting, moisture in pellets and appliance maintenance can all affect actual fuel consumption. Eight operating hours do not necessarily mean eight hours at the same heat output.
Measure your actual use
Record the kilograms of pellets loaded over several comparable days and the number of operating hours. That provides an observed average to compare against the theoretical example. If your stove malfunctions or shows abnormal smoke, consult its manual or a qualified professional rather than changing combustion settings without evidence.
Try different pellet prices and efficiencies in the WattRumo heating cost calculator.
All inputs in the free calculator are editable. The default figures are examples with prices expressed in euros.
Methodology and source notes
Pellet energy content and appliance efficiency are example assumptions, not independently tested values for a specific brand of fuel or stove. Calculations follow the shared WattRumo methodology. For background on heat-pump operation, see the Department of Energy. These sources explain equipment principles; they are not the source of our sample tariffs.
Editorial review: 31 October 2026 · WattRumo · Contact