Review of Villager Chelsea Solo
Little Scorcher
This is the only stove we have ever had. Bought it new almost two years ago based on output, style, and a few reviews. Turns out to have been a great buy. Have never had any problems lighting, and always heats the room up really quickly. I have noticed like an earlier reviewer that it doesn't "shut down" very well when closing the vents. Have noticed that the rope seal needs replaced, but also noted the comment below that a chimney with good draught (which ours has) can also be a cause of this. Effectively though, we couldn't shut it down and leave it burning, it would be stone cold in the morning. Cleaning it a few weeks ago, I noticed that the baffle plate has warped with the heat, and a fire brick has broken.
As the stove is not our primary heat source, we are very happy with it. We primarily burn seasoned hard wood, but have also burned peat which gives fantastic heat. Not tried coal yet. I would judge it to be good value for money and would probably buy another Villager stove depending on the situation.Stove expert replied: If you notice that you can't shut it down getting a flue damper or stabilizer will help to get control of the stove and also to prevent damage by excessive heating of the components, well worth the extra expense and will save on replacement parts.