WhatStove?

Review of Westfire Series One stove

Westfire One

Lyn Rushbrooke 13 years ago

After weeks of research decided for the Westfire One. I was at first shocked by the diminutive size of the fire box but soon realised this was not a problem. The stove is plugged into an existing open fire place which is served by a 12" square ceramic liner. I bricked up the opening and placed the horizontal flue pipe so that it terminates 6" inside the old fire place. No chimney liner. Provided we keep stuffing it with wood the heat percolates throughout our 16m long house and the other day of 0 degrees C we did not need the central heating. Stuffed with fuel before bedtime, in the morning the embers are still glowing. So this little stove works better than I imagined it would and we love its' sleek contemporary lines. Provided we can get the wood, this I think will reduce our lpg central heating bills by loads.

Stove expert replied: expect a lot of tar deposits in this un-insulated chimney with a very efficient stove connected to it. If it is not lined and insulated then make sure it is swept very regularly. That horizontal run does not meet regs in England, and although this is often allowed on the continent, one should bear in mind the worst case scenario: what would an insurance company think of it if you were trying to make a claim - would it let them wiggle out of it?

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.8)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 5)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.5)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 4.8)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 5)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 4.3)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 4.3)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.8)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 5)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 5)