WhatStove?

Review of Charnwood Island III stove

Charnwood III

K Maciver 13 years ago

Pretty good heat but the logs must be very dry. Wet sticks are hopeless unlike a good old open fire.\nAirwash is very disappointing, must be a sales con because it doesn't seem to work - lots of brown glass which is almost impossible to clean properly.\nNot sure it is worth the high price tag.\nRelaoding is a pain unless all signs of a flame are gone.\nLike an open fire it take a good bit of cleaning each day\n\n

Stove expert replied: Damp / wet fuel should not be used on any closed appliance as it will prevent it from working effectively, tar up the firebox and turn the glass black. Only use wood that is less than 20% moisture content, perhaps a moisture meter would be a good purchase! To clean glass use a cloth dipped in wood ash or vinegar to remove deposits. Give stove short periods of fast burn to minimize deposits forming on the glass, say 15-20 mins each use once you have an established fire.

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 3 flames (avg 4)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 3.6)
Value for money 3 flames (avg 2.6)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 3.3)
Ease of lighting 3 flames (avg 3.3)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 4.1)
How well does the airwash work 1 flames (avg 2.5)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 3.4)
Handle operation 3 flames (avg 3.5)
How likely are you to buy it again? 3 flames (avg 2.7)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3 flames (avg 2.5)