WhatStove?

Review of Charnwood Cove 1 stove

charnwood cove1 multifuel?

Chris Gee 13 years ago

fitted the stove in November ('10) replacing a Franco Belge belfort.\nIt is advertised as a multifuel and is certainly capable of burning wood and smokeless fuel. I tend to use smokeless fuel predominantly.\n\nThe stove looks good, is well made and the airwash system keeps the glass spotless. \n\nUnlike wood, if the ash of smokeless fuel is allowed to build up, the fire will go out. \n\nWhen the riddling system is operated to remove the ash a surprising amount of partly burnt fuel is dropped into the ash pan, leaving a choice to either throw it away or to sieve the ash and raturn the unburnt fuel to the stove; neither of which is really satisfactory. I would recommend the Cove1 as a wood burner but not very highly for anyone wishing primarily to use smokeless fuel particulrly for overnighting. \n\n

Stove expert replied: It can be difficult to get a happy medium when wanting to use a mixture of fuels. The secret is not to riddle too much as then unburnt fuel will not fall into the ashpan. A light riddle should be enough to allow the air to move through the fuel to keep the burning process alive. Wood needs and over draught whereas smokeless fuel requires an under draught, wood needs the bed of ash and the smokeless needs air through it to ensure the burning process can continue so hence mixing fuels can cause difficulties. Perhaps use wood more when you are around to refuel more frequently and then use the smokeless for the overnight burn if required when attending the stove is not possible.

Overall rating:

4 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 3.9)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 3.5)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Handle operation 4 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 3 flames (avg 4.2)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3 flames (avg 4.4)