Pellet stove installation

Pellet stove installation: more than just positioning a stove

Installing a pellet stove is not as simple as placing a piece of furniture and plugging it in. It is a technical installation that requires deep knowledge of flue gas extraction, air supply, fire safety, and Belgian NBN standards. An incorrectly installed pellet stove performs poorly, consumes more pellets, and can, in the worst-case scenario, pose a serious safety risk.

At Pelletkachelzorg, you receive a complete full service: we first conduct an on-site inspection, advise on the best location and the correct output, and then carry out the complete installation. After fitting the stove, we fine-tune it, explain its operation, and immediately schedule your first annual maintenance service.

"I have seen €4,000 pellet stoves underperform because of a €200 flue pipe that was incorrectly installed. And I have seen budget stoves run flawlessly thanks to a correctly sized flue channel. The installation makes all the difference, not just the stove itself."

How we install your pellet stove: step by step

1. Free site visit and advice.

   We visit your home free of charge to evaluate the situation. What heat output suits your home? Where will the pellet stove operate most efficiently? Is there an existing flue system that can be reused? Does an external air intake need to be installed?

   Unsure about the required output? The general rule of thumb is 1 kW per 25 m³ for average insulation. A living room of 50 m² with a 2.5 m ceiling height (= 125 m³) requires a pellet stove of approximately 5 kW. For well-insulated homes, 1 kW per 30-35 m³ is sufficient. Find more calculation examples in our article on calculating the correct pellet stove output.

2. Installing or adapting the flue system

   Without a proper flue pipe, a pellet stove cannot operate safely. In Belgium, the flue system must terminate above the roof ridge; wall terminal flues are not permitted in Flanders for solid fuel appliances. The ducting must comply with the NBN EN 1856-1 (single-wall) or NBN EN 1856-2 (twin-wall) standards.

   Do you have an existing chimney? We will assess whether it is suitable. Frequently, the chimney can be reused by relining it with a stainless steel flue liner, saving you €600-1,500 compared to a brand-new system. Read more about this in our article on connecting to an existing chimney.

   No existing chimney? Then we will install a completely new twin-wall flue system through the roof or along the exterior wall. The best option depends entirely on your property. You can find a detailed comparison in our article on flue installation through the roof or wall.

3. Connecting the pellet stove

   The pellet stove is connected to the flue system (including a T-piece, condensation drain, and inspection hatch), plugged into a grounded power socket (230V), and connected to an external air intake if required. In airtight homes (new builds or recently renovated properties), an external combustion air supply is not optional: it is an absolute necessity for correct combustion.

4. Calibrating and commissioning

   After installation, we calibrate the pellet stove for optimal combustion: air intake, pellet feed rate, and combustion parameters are tailored to your specific space. We ignite the stove, check the flame, measure the chimney draft, and verify that everything operates flawlessly.

5. Demonstration and clean-up

   We provide a comprehensive explanation of how to operate the unit, set the programmable thermostat, perform daily maintenance, and spot potential warning signs. Naturally, we leave your property clean and tidy, without exception.

Pelletkachelzorg installs all types of pellet stoves:

Freestanding pellet stove

The most popular choice. The stove sits on the floor and heats the room using a convection fan. Installation is relatively straightforward: position the appliance, connect it to the flue pipe and power outlet, calibrate it, and it is ready to use. Ideal as supplementary heating for your living room or primary heating in compact homes.

Inbuilt pellet stove (insert)

An inbuilt pellet stove is fitted into an existing open fireplace or chimney breast. Heating efficiency increases from under 15% (for an open fire) to over 85%. The installation process is more technical, as the recess must fit precisely, the flue system must be adapted, and adequate ventilation must be provided. Find full details on our inbuilt installation page.

Pellet boiler stove (hydro)

A hydro pellet stove does not just heat the room: it also supplies hot water to your central heating radiators or underfloor heating network. In addition to setting up the flue pipe, the installation involves connecting to your central heating system, installing a buffer tank, and balancing the hydraulic circuit. Read more about this in our blog article on pellet stoves connected to central heating.

How much does pellet stove installation cost?

The total cost for installing a pellet stove comprises the unit itself, the flue system, and the installation labor:

At Pelletkachelzorg, you always receive a clear upfront quote. Every single cost is itemized: stove, flue system, labor, and optional accessories. No fine print, no hidden fees.

Do you need a planning permit?

In 95% of cases, no. Fitting a pellet stove connected to an existing flue pipe is considered an internal alteration that requires no permit. When installing a brand-new flue system on an external wall, certain municipalities may require notification. You can read all local requirements in our article on permits for pellet stoves in Belgium.

The optimal placement for your pellet stove

Where you choose to position your pellet stove directly impacts how efficiently it heats your room:

• Centrally located in the room: ensures heat spreads evenly throughout the space

• Against an internal wall: reduces heat loss compared to exterior walls

• Near an existing chimney flue: significantly reduces overall installation expenses

• Adequate safety clearances: most manufacturers mandate 20-40 cm distance from combustible materials on all sides

• Solid, level floor surface: a pellet stove weighs anywhere between 70 kg and 150 kg

Which pellet stove suits your property best?

Selecting the ideal pellet stove depends on the room volume you need to heat, insulation quality, building type, and budget. Pelletkachelzorg offers completely brand-independent advice. We do not sell stoves: we strictly install and maintain them. Our recommendations are strictly tailored to your home, free from dealer sales targets.

After installation: maintenance and ongoing care

Even a flawlessly installed pellet stove will experience operational issues within two years if neglected. That is why we immediately schedule your initial annual professional maintenance service right upon installation. This keeps your appliance running efficiently for years to come without hassle.

Should an unexpected malfunction or fault occur, Pelletkachelzorg remains your trusted single point of contact. Simply call us directly and we will assist you, without passing you on to third-party subcontractors.

Pellet stove installation in Limburg and Flemish Brabant