WhatStove?

Review of Charnwood c4 stove

Problems with backplate

Nick Parker 10 years ago

I've had this stove for over 3 years now and although we loved it at first. It obviously has issues; the backplate warps badly. This first occurred after about 1.5 years of use and Charnwood admitted the problem and sent out a new plate (which was a different design from the original). They only did this after proving we have a thermometer and only use the stove within optimum temperatures.

1-2 years further on and the new plate is warping again. This time, Charnwood are saying that the back and side plates are "sacrificial" items and are designed to be periodically replaced every 2-4 years. This is not mentioned anywhere when buying the stove.

I would avoid this stove, and considering their customer service, I would avoid Charnwood in the future.

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 1 flames (avg 3.8)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4.2)
Value for money 2 flames (avg 4)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 4.1)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 3.7)
How well does the airwash work 3 flames (avg 3.8)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 4.3)
Handle operation 4 flames (avg 4.3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 3.7)
What is your overall satisfaction? 2 flames (avg 3.9)