WhatStove?

Review of Firebelly FB1 stove

FB1

David Burton 13 years ago

Fitted in late 2006 we are very pleased with the FB1 and quite look forward to the wood-burning season each year. It's not perfect, but it is stylish (very few contemporary stoves come close in this respect) and we would certainly buy one again.\n\nIt lights easily using newspaper, some cardboard and kindling. I usually run with a fully open top draught as it is fiddly to adjust to partially open (our stove has a small slider rather than the later knob control). Run in this way the glass only needs cleaning once every 6 to 8 fires (and even then it is only lightly "bloomed" rather than being sooty). To clean the glass I use a light dab of Stovax stove glass cleaner gel on a paint brush.\n\nThe fire-bricks (boards on side, back and top) are lasting well although the back is cracked now - however I don't anticipate having to change it for several years.\n\nThe best aspects are the stylish design, the large glass door and efficient air curtain. Also the stay-cool door handle.\n\nSlight negatives are the squeaky door hinges and the paint finish marking with use (although this can be re-sprayed easily) . Also the door seal is a little perhaps a little vulnerable and needs re-attaching at the bottom of the door from time to time. These minor negative points are easily out-weighed by the positives.\n\n

Stove expert replied: Good glass cleaner is woodash on a damp cloth or vinegar on a damp cloth, cheaper tan a proprietary brand. The firebricks when cracked should not cause a problem and a small amount of fire cement will hold them together if required. They should be changed when they do not protect the metal of the stove.

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 4.1)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 3.9)
Value for money 5 flames (avg 3.9)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 4.1)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 3.5)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 3.8)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 3.9)