WhatStove?

Review of Esse 500 stove

Build quality, after sales, costly extras.

Skywalker 16 years ago

Bought the stove from a well known on line retailer. Took 2 months for Esse to get the door/grate tool & glove to us. After purchase realised that multifuel means coal + the occasional log. If burning soley wood need to get a costly extra kit. Door seal failed after 2 months and the fire is difficult to keep on an even keel in terms of temperature output even with very dry wood. The down draft (airwash) air supply is too coarse to allow for good control.

All in all dissapointing and we wish we had bought a Moso, Clearview or Charnwood.

Overall rating:

3.5 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 3.4)
Quality of finish 2 flames (avg 4)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 3.6)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 3.7)
Ease of lighting 2 flames (avg 4.3)
Firebox size 2 flames (avg 3.6)
How well does the airwash work 2 flames (avg 3.1)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3.2)
Handle operation 4 flames (avg 3.3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 3.2)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3 flames (avg 3.5)