WhatStove?

Review of Jotul F 400 stove

Jotul 400 Stice

Rolfe Jaremus 8 years ago

I have owned a black Jotul 400 for about 10 years now. I like it but have found it to be tricky to operate.

One issue mentioned by many reviewers is the air flow. I assume that the slower air flow is due to the re-burner above the stove box. To avoid smoking, I only burn 2 year dried and split wood. I start with paper and small "sticks". I wait to add thicker wood until the sticks are burning quite well. Then add larger wood. Only open the door when the wood is well burned. Once the temp is up to 300 F I shut down the damper to about a quarter. For some reason the Stove will get nice and hot.

To clear soot off the glass I get the temp up to 450+F this is no problem for me as our midwest temps get pretty cold and our country house has old windows.

I do need to feed the fire at least once to get through the night but I've gotta get up anyway. Key thing is to load up the stove with thick dry oak or maple and turn down the damper to max

Other than the occasional smoke issue which will happen if I have starting problems, I love the stove.

Overall rating:

4 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 3.9)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 3.8)
Value for money 5 flames (avg 3)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 3.2)
Ease of lighting 3 flames (avg 3.7)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 3.7)
How well does the airwash work 3 flames (avg 2.1)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 2.9)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 3.6)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4 flames (avg 2.4)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 3)