WhatStove?

Review of Villager Bayswater stove

Not a good buy in my opinion

Carly Gillan 14 years ago

I have only had my Villager Bayswater stove for 5 years, and already it needs to replaced due to a leakage at the back caused by corrosion of the back boiler. My plumber advised me not to continue using the fire as I am fortunate that the fire has not already burst. He said the stove could be removed, and the area welded, but at best I would get another year, As you can imagine, I am not happy.

Stove expert replied: corrosion to the boiler is a real classic with boiler stoves, especially where the heat output to water of the boiler stove is undersized compared to the system it connects to. This means that it takes a very long time for the water to come up to temp (if it ever does) if the stove is the only heat source. This increases condensation on the boiler and hence corrosion. Fitting a load valve or load unit would do a lot to reduce this from happening as the load valve or unit gets the boiler up to running temperatures quickly and then keeps it there. This is not necessarily a problem with the stove - it is probably more likely due to the installation in terms of the plumbing. Running the stove briskly and not slumber burning it would also help.

Overall rating:

2 flames

Build Quality 1 flames (avg 3.8)
Quality of finish 1 flames (avg 3.9)
Value for money 1 flames (avg 4)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 4)
Ease of lighting 2 flames (avg 4.2)
Firebox size 2 flames (avg 3.6)
How well does the airwash work 2 flames (avg 4.3)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3.9)
Handle operation 3 flames (avg 4.1)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 3.8)
What is your overall satisfaction? 1 flames (avg 3.9)