WhatStove?

Review of Charnwood Island I stove

Worth every cent

Julian Popple 9 years ago

I am an 'ex-pat' living in Cape Town and whilst we enjoy mild winters compared to the UK, the houses are not built for the cold and lack decent heating. I inherited my home with a large cast iron stove from China ('rated' at 14KW). I installed a second stove - Island I (7KW max) - in a second lounge where our TV was sited. The cost of the Island I was just short of double the cost of the much larger Chinese product so I had every reason to be sceptical that I would feel a strong sense of good value for money. However, my extra investment paid off. Whilst the Chinese product crudely does the job, the refinements on the Island I, were really worth the extra money. The air in take is very easy to use. I successfully conducted an over-night burn (unable to with my other stove). Heat resistant handle did its job (none with the other stove). I also went with the cream (Charnwood call it 'Almond'). Yes, I did pick up dirt marks but I was made aware of this prior to purchase and supplied with a can of 'touch-up' should I need it. I am also very chuffed with the output on this little stove. I feel like I am getting 'what it says on the tin' and it seems to perform as well as the much higher rated larger stove. All in all, it was a winner for me! PS, I had to pay in 'Rands' (18 to the pound)!

Overall rating:

5 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Value for money 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 4.1)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.6)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 4.4)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 4.3)