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Review of Clearview 650 stove

Clearview 650

Martin J 11 years ago

I have had my 650 for 6 years now and upgraded it from an Olsberg Skagen 8 which kept cracking the glass so it had to go. The 650 pretty much does what it says on the tin - very robust construction and easy to use. The large rear fire brick cracked in the centre fairly early on but causes no problems, I'll probably replace it this year along with fresh door seals. I also give it a freshen up each year after cleaning the flue with a light paint touch up using the correct Clearview paint. Lighting is easy and it gets upto temp within about 45 mins depending on fuel. Airwash works great and I just lightly dust the glass each day with a tissue, I burn turf sometimes which will cause it to blacken but only if run to slowly. Overall heat output is good - I generally run mine at an average of 500 degrees but have had it up close on 600 a few times without any problems, I've read reviews saying the top has warped in the heat but mine is perfect despite been run very hot regularly. It heats a very large open plan loft area about 35 ft x 15 ft with a 12 ft pitched ceiling without a problem. I probably should have gone for the larger 750 but I think a slightly undersized stove run hard is better and more efficient. The controls are easy to use and respond well - much better then rotating knobs etc on some makes. Some reviews have reported the doors are a bit fiddly but I don't have much problem with mine. I have adjusted them once in 6 years which takes a bit of care to do but is straightforward enough. The ashpan door can be a bit tricky to close, a snug fit but I guess there's a bit of a knack. I would have preferred one large door similar to the Woodwarm stoves so you get a better view of the fire but maybe that increases the risk of the glass cracking. Also, the primary air inlet at the side could do with a spark 'trap' as it will blow out sparks if you get a down draft when lighting so be careful of this though not a big deal. If I was buying another stove I would consider Woodwarm also as their designs seem a bit more up to date, Clearview make great stoves but probably need to refresh the range as many have been around for over thirty years now - mind you if it ain't broken...... I would akin my 650 to a Landrover Defender - an old design but very robust and tried and tested! Like any stove, they are only as good as the fuel you use so make sure to use only fully seasoned wood or dry turf. I use a mix of Beech, Oak and Sitka Spruce softwood which is surprisingly good and cheaper then hardwood. I use turf also which when mixed with timber makes a great fire although a bit dusty. Also make sure your flue is well installed and use a small self tapper screw at the back of the collar to secure the flue to the stove otherwise it will 'creep' up when expanding/cooling. Overall a great no nonsense stove, easy to light, control and throws out good heat just ensure like any stove that its well installed and you use good dry fuel.

Stove expert replied: The last sentence sums this feedback up well.

Overall rating:

4 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 4.3)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.1)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.5)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.5)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 4.6)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.4)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Handle operation 3 flames (avg 3.8)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4 flames (avg 4.2)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 4.2)