Whenever you are making emergency preparations for the safety of your home and its occupants, it’s important that you fully understand the operation of every system and component you’re using. We often get asked exactly how the Surefire Stove Sentry works; this article will answer that question and help you to be even more prepared when a power outage causes your pellet stove to stop functioning.
SUREFIRE STOVE SENTRY OVERVIEW
First of all, what is the Surefire Stove Sentry? It is an automatic emergency battery backup for alternative heating appliances (wood/corn pellet stoves, kerosene/gas heaters, water circulation pumps). When your AC power goes out, Stove Sentry starts operating automatically to power your stove without interruption. Then, when AC power returns, Stove Sentry instantly resumes charging the battery so that you’re prepared for the next power outage.
- Model 933 with a 1200 watt capacity
HOW SUREFIRE STOVE SENTRY WORKS
Stove Sentry interfaces between your heating appliance and its AC wall outlet. As you can see in the illustration below, Stove Sentry is connected to the pellet stove, a battery, and your AC power outlet. When AC power is present, that power charges the battery and operates your stove as usual. But as soon as the AC power goes out, Stove Sentry kicks in and your stove continues operating without missing a beat.
A NOTE ABOUT BATTERIES
Another common question we receive when people ask us about Stove Sentry is regarding what kind of battery should be used. Only a sealed, deep cycle battery—like a marine battery—should be used with the stove sentry. Automotive batteries are not recommended. You may read other information that says it’s okay to use different types of batteries for this kind of application. But believe us—this is coming directly from the manufacturer. Only use the recommended battery type.
Also, keep in mind that the size of the battery (along with the condition of the battery) will determine the operating time. You can connect multiple batteries (2 or 3) to increase your operating time.
Even when the power goes out, stay warm with a Surefire Stove Sentry. View our list of trusted distributors.
The Model 933 battery backup is available from our website.
If you have any questions or would like to know more, please contact us.