USSC 6041 How To Use And Maintain page 16

pellets in the ground, even if on a pallet. This will prevent mice and other animals trying to dig
into the pellets from the underside. Also, placing a waterproof tarp over the pellets helps cut
down on moisture.
Step Four: Check Pellets For Moisture
As stated before, it is important not to use pellets with too much moisture in them. Figure 18
shows acceptable pellets. A normal pellet will have a smooth cylindrical body, with its only
jagged edges being on the ends as a result of manufacturing. When a pellet gets wet it will
expand and the bonding agent used to keep it at a consistent size will break down. Figure 19
depicts a good pellet (shown on the left) beside a pellet has gotten wet. 20 shows a group of
pellets from the side that have been wet. Once a pellet gains any moisture beyond
manufacturing, it should no longer be used in your pellet stove.
Figure 20
Figure 19
Figure 18
Step Five: Load Pellets
When it comes time to load ensure that pellets are not in the auger safety switch. (Figure 21)
The auger safety switch is located near the back left hinge. Also, when loading pellets, ensure
that the pellet hopper is not overfilled to point that the lid will not close. Check hopper twice a
day to ensure there are enough pellets in this hopper to last until next check.
Figure 21
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