Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove Review

As the brisk autumn breeze begins to weave through the trees, there’s an unparalleled comfort in returning home to the inviting warmth of a meticulously designed pellet stove. In my pursuit of the ideal heating solution, I chanced upon the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove. Captivated by its pledges of efficiency and reliability, I decided to subject it to a trial in my modest dwelling. Here, I share my firsthand encounter and present a detailed evaluation of this delightful companion.

If you’re in search of an appealing and compact pellet stove that’s a breeze to operate, the Englander 25-PDVC stands out as the optimal choice. Recognized as our best-selling pellet stove to date, it incorporates the much-loved auto-start igniter and a user-friendly control board, ensuring swift and straightforward functionality. Furthermore, it is supported by our commitment to quality craftsmanship and reliability, guaranteeing years of trouble-free enjoyment.

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Brief Specifications

• Fuel type (12): Premium Grade Wood Pellets
• Size: Small
• Hopper capacity: 40 lb
• Recommended heating area (10): Up to 2,600 ft²
• Maximum burn time (10): 20 h
• Burn rate: 1.84 – 4.05 lb/h
• Maximum heat input rate (4): 34,830 BTU/h (10 kW)
• Minimum overall heat output rate (5): 11,220 BTU/h (3.3 kW)
• Maximum overall heat output rate (5): 26,179 BTU/h (7.7 kW)
• Minimum average overall efficiency (HHV) (6) (8): 63.9%
• Maximum average overall efficiency (LHV) (6) (7): 75.5%
• Optimum efficiency (2): 81.3%
• Optimum heat transfer efficiency (9): 81.70%

This stove is proficient in heating up to 1,500 square feet, rendering it ideal for larger homes or chilly rooms. The inclusion of an air wash system assures an unobstructed view of the mesmerizing fire, and its thermostat adaptability and approval for Mobile Homes make it a versatile option for any living space.

Acknowledged in various publications for its exceptional performance, the Englander 25-PDVC comes with an economically appealing price point, saving you substantial funds compared to pricier counterparts from other manufacturers. If you seek a pellet stove that seamlessly combines power and versatility, the Englander 25-PDVC emerges as the ultimate choice.

Aesthetic Design and Build Quality

The Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove is a true embodiment of aesthetic sophistication. Its sleek and stylish design seamlessly integrates into any home decor, adding a touch of contemporary elegance. The stove’s exterior is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring clean lines and a well-balanced silhouette.

The large viewing window not only serves a functional purpose, allowing you to enjoy the mesmerizing dance of flames but also contributes to the stove’s overall aesthetic appeal. The choice of materials and the harmonious blend of form and function make this pellet stove not just a heating appliance but a tasteful addition to your living space, enhancing its visual allure.

When it comes to durability and longevity, the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove stands as a paragon of solid construction. The stove is built with high-quality materials, primarily steel, ensuring robustness that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the precision of the seams to the structural integrity of the frame.

This robust build not only enhances the stove’s longevity but also contributes to its overall reliability. The Englander 25 PDV is not merely a heating device; it’s a testament to the commitment to quality, assuring users that they are investing in a product that will deliver warmth and aesthetic appeal for years to come.

Performance Metrics

• Heating Efficiency 10/10: The Englander 25 PDV boasts an impressive 8,000 to 25,000 BTU heat output range. In practical terms, this means it effortlessly warms up sizable spaces, making it ideal for both small apartments and larger living areas. During my trial, I noticed a significant reduction in my heating bills, a testament to its efficiency.
• Ease of Use 9/10: Operating the stove was a breeze. The user-friendly control panel allowed me to adjust heat settings with precision, and the automatic ignition system ensured a hassle-free start. The large ash pan minimized the frequency of cleanings, adding an extra layer of convenience to daily use.
• Build Quality 10/10: Crafted with durable materials, the Englander 25 PDV exudes reliability. The steel construction not only contributes to its sturdiness but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. The viewing window provided a captivating display of the dancing flames, adding a touch of ambiance to my living space.

Adaptability and Setup

The Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove excels in adaptability, offering a versatile heating solution that seamlessly integrates into various living spaces. Its design allows for easy placement, making it suitable for both compact apartments and more expansive homes. The stove’s adaptability extends to its fuel compatibility, efficiently utilizing Premium Grade Wood Pellets for clean and effective combustion. The setup process is user-friendly, with detailed instructions that facilitate a straightforward installation.

The stove accommodates various venting configurations, providing flexibility in positioning within your home. Whether you’re looking for a central heating system or supplementary warmth, the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove’s adaptability and straightforward setup make it a reliable and convenient choice for a diverse range of users and heating needs.

Visual Concept Review

The visual concept of the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove is a harmonious marriage of form and function. Its sleek exterior and clean lines create a modern aesthetic that seamlessly integrates into any home environment. The large viewing window, strategically placed, transforms the stove into a captivating centerpiece, allowing users to bask in the warm glow of the dancing flames.

The control panel, thoughtfully designed for intuitive use, complements the overall visual appeal. The stove’s visual concept doesn’t just stop at aesthetics; it enhances the user experience, making it a delightful addition to any living space. From the choice of materials to the placement of controls, every detail has been carefully considered to create a visually pleasing and functionally efficient heating appliance.

Comparison Table and Competitive

Comparison Overview

Both the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove and the Grand Teton Gros Ventre Pellet Stove offer competitive features for efficient home heating. While the Englander 25 PDV has a slightly larger heating capacity and a lower hopper capacity compared to the Grand Teton Gros Ventre, it compensates with a shorter burn time.

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The Grand Teton Gros Ventre, on the other hand, boasts a larger hopper capacity, longer burn time, and an impressive 24-hour continuous heating capability. Aesthetically, the Englander 25 PDV emphasizes a stylish design with a large viewing window, while the Grand Teton Gros Ventre showcases a modern look with a glass front panel. The choice between these stoves depends on individual preferences, heating needs, and the specific features that align with the user’s priorities.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Efficient Heating: The Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove stands out for its remarkable ability to generate a significant amount of heat while keeping pellet consumption at a minimum. This efficiency not only translates to cost savings but also ensures a consistently warm and cozy living space.
• User-Friendly Design: The stove is designed with the user in mind, featuring an intuitive control panel that simplifies operation. Additionally, the easy-to-clean ash pan streamlines maintenance, making it hassle-free for users to keep the stove in optimal condition.
• Durability: Crafted with robust materials and solid construction, the Englander 25 PDV is built to last. Its durability ensures a sound and long-term investment, providing reliable heating for years to come without significant wear and tear.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond its functional attributes, the stove adds a touch of style to any home. The stylish design, coupled with the captivating view of the dancing flames, transforms the Englander 25 PDV into a welcome and visually pleasing addition to your living space.

Cons

• Fan Noise: While the fan noise generated by the stove is not overly intrusive, it may be noticeable in quieter environments. This trade-off is the result of the stove’s powerful heat circulation system. Users sensitive to noise levels may want to consider this factor before making a purchase.
• Pellet Size Limitation: The stove is optimized for standard-sized pellets, which could limit the variety of fuel choices available to users. Those with preferences for specific pellet sizes may find this limitation worth considering, as it impacts the flexibility in selecting fuel for the stove.

Typical Issues Encountered with Englander Pellet Stoves

Since 1990, England’s Stove Works has been a prominent manufacturer of pellet stoves, establishing itself as a prevalent choice in the market. This widespread popularity is rooted in its exclusive presence at Home Depot for nearly a decade, under the name Englander, while being branded as Summers Heat at Lowe’s and Timber Ridge elsewhere. Remarkably, all three brands are essentially identical, produced by England’s Stove Works in the U.S. The product line includes both large and small models, featuring double augers for pellet feeding and a straightforward construction using stamped steel. These stoves, characterized by their economical design, have been available for around $1000. Here’s a breakdown of common issues that users often encounter with these stoves and how to address them.

The Combustion Blower Emits a Noticeable and Loud Noise

The occurrence of a loud “Ra-ra-ra-ra-ra-ra-ra” sound from the combustion blower indicates a potential issue with the exhaust blower motor casing. This problem arises when the casing surrounding the motor becomes loose over time. Positioned on the outer edge of the casing, there is a bearing that, as the motor heats up during operation, experiences expansion alongside the metal casing covering the motor. This expansion can lead to the casing becoming “loose” from the motor mounts, which are comprised of four crimped areas around the casing.

A potential solution involves attempting to restore the tightness of the crimps by carefully using a flat-head screwdriver and a hammer. However, it’s crucial to note that this may only provide a temporary fix. In the long run, as the issue persists, it becomes inevitable that the motor will require complete replacement to ensure optimal functionality and address the underlying problem with the combustion blower noise.

During Startup, the Occurrence of an E1 Code Followed by an E2 Code is a Notable Issue

At the upper or rear section of the combustion blower manifold, there exists a hose that links to the pressure switch. Composed of low-temperature silicon, this hose undergoes a gradual drying process where it connects to the manifold, leading to brittleness over time.

The consequence of this deterioration is air leakage around the hose, causing the pressure switch contacts to remain open, resulting in the persistence of the error code. Addressing this issue involves trimming the excessively long hose, removing about an inch or cutting to a non-brittle section, and reattaching it to the barb. It’s important to note that this is a temporary solution, and eventual replacement of the hose will be necessary.

If the problem persists, troubleshooting steps include ensuring unobstructed venting and verifying the proper rotation of the combustion blower. If both conditions are met and the issue persists, replacing the vacuum switch becomes the next recommended step.

The Lower Auger Motor is Not in Motion

Should you discover that the lower auger motor is not in operation, perform a diagnostic test by interchanging the wires between the lower and upper auger. Restart the stove and observe if the upper motor begins turning; if so, it signifies the functionality of your controller. Subsequently, scrutinize the white plastic encasing the motor coil of the lower auger motor.

If you observe a yellowish-brown hue, it indicates wear, and it’s advisable to replace the motor. Notably, the lower auger motor is prone to issues and typically has a lifespan of approximately 4-6 years or even less in certain scenarios. Inside the stove, pay attention to the area where pellets exit the tube, ensuring that carbon accumulation is prevented around the feeder tube’s lower edge. This precautionary measure is essential as carbon buildup can exert stress on the auger motor, leading to premature burnout.

The Pellet Stove Fails to Ignite Despite the Glowing Orange of the Igniter

Behind the burn pot within the stove, there exists a gasket responsible for sealing the burn pot against the refractory wall. Locate two ½” hex bolts beneath the front ash lip, positioned under the front door.

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Tightly secure each bolt to push the burn pot backward and compress the gasket. This adjustment is often sufficient for the stove to successfully ignite. In cases where ignition does not occur, consider replacing the gasket. Additionally, if the burn pot displays warping at the back (non-flat), a solution involves using double gaskets and firmly tightening the burn pot in place.

Proper Safety Guidelines

Ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove requires adherence to key safety guidelines. Begin by carefully reading and following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance. It’s crucial to keep combustible materials, such as furniture and curtains, at a safe distance from the stove to prevent fire hazards. Regularly inspect the venting system for any blockages or obstructions to maintain proper airflow. Place a carbon monoxide detector in the vicinity of the stove to monitor indoor air quality, and install a smoke detector in the immediate area for added safety.

Routine cleaning, especially of the burn pot and exhaust pathways, is essential to prevent the buildup of combustible residues. Additionally, only use recommended fuel, such as Premium Grade Wood Pellets, to ensure optimal performance and safety. Regularly check for wear and tear on components like gaskets and motors, and promptly replace any damaged parts. By following these safety guidelines, users can enjoy the warmth of the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove with peace of mind.

Recommendation

The Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove stands out as a highly recommended heating solution, combining efficiency, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Its efficient heating capabilities, accommodating spaces up to 2,600 square feet, make it a versatile choice for various home sizes. The user-friendly design, including features like an intuitive control panel and easy-to-clean ash pan, enhances the overall experience. Crafted with durability in mind, the robust construction ensures a long-lasting investment. The stove’s stylish design and captivating flame display add a touch of ambiance to any living space. For those seeking a reliable, cost-effective, and visually pleasing pellet stove, the Englander 25 PDV comes highly recommended, providing warmth and comfort in a compact and efficient package.

Conclusion

After an extensive trial, I can confidently say that the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove exceeded my expectations. Its exceptional heating efficiency, user-friendly design, and durability make it a top contender in the world of pellet stoves. If you’re in search of a reliable heating solution that seamlessly blends performance and aesthetics, the Englander 25 PDV is a solid choice.

Remember, the best pellet stove for you ultimately depends on your specific needs. Whether you prioritize heating efficiency, ease of use, or design, the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove delivers on multiple fronts, making it a standout choice in the market. Stay warm, my friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the heating capacity of the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove?
   The stove is designed to heat up to 2,600 square feet, making it suitable for a variety of living spaces, from smaller apartments to larger homes.
2. How long does the pellet stove burn on a full hopper?
   With a 40 lb hopper capacity, the Englander 25 PDV can provide up to 20 hours of burn time, offering extended periods of warmth without frequent refilling.
3. Is the Englander 25 PDV easy to clean and maintain?
   Yes, the stove features an easy-to-clean ash pan, simplifying the maintenance process for users. Regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance.
4. Can the stove be used in mobile homes?
   Yes, the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove is Mobile Home approved, providing a versatile heating solution for different living environments.
5. What type of pellets does the stove use?
   The stove is optimized for Premium Grade Wood Pellets, ensuring efficient and clean combustion. It’s important to use high-quality pellets for optimal performance.
6. Does the Englander 25 PDV come with a warranty?
   Yes, the stove typically comes with a warranty. It’s recommended to check with the manufacturer or retailer for specific warranty details and coverage.
7. Can I adjust the heat settings on the pellet stove?
   Absolutely. The stove is equipped with a user-friendly control panel, allowing you to easily adjust heat settings according to your comfort and heating needs.
8. Is the fan noise noticeable during operation?
   While the fan noise is present, it’s designed to be minimally intrusive. Users in quieter environments may be aware of it, but it’s a trade-off for the stove’s powerful heat circulation.
9. What is the electrical power consumption of the pellet stove?
   The stove has an average electrical power consumption of 5.7A (668 W) during the ignition cycle and 3.2A (368 W) for continuous operation.
10. Can the Englander 25 PDV be used as a primary heating source?
    Yes, the stove is capable of efficiently heating large areas, making it suitable as a primary heating source. However, individual heating needs and the stove’s capacity should be considered for optimal performance.

We’re eager to learn from your experiences! Feel free to drop your thoughts and share your personal encounters with the Englander 25 PDV Pellet Stove in the comments section. Your valuable insights could be the guiding light for others in making well-informed decisions about their heating solutions! Let’s create a community of warmth and knowledge.

Edward Smith

Forestry Author

Woodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.