WhatStove?

Review of Charnwood Island I stove

Charnwood Island 1

David Laws 12 years ago

We have several stoves but this is our main one and is used on a daily basis in the winter. We burn well seasoned wood that has less than 20% moisture. Usually hardwood with occasional bits of softwood and we use a flue thermometer. \nThis stove is attractive and generally well built. The fire bricks seem to be very durable and last much longer than the ones in the Little Wenlock it replaced. The handle remains cool but the pin in the door hinges can work loose and the door has needed repositioning a few times. \nIt's best feature is ease of use. It is no problem to light and gets going really easily. The controls are really simple particularly with one lever for all the air intakes. The riddling grate is the best I have seen and clears the whole box of ash instead of a bit in the middle.\nOne gripe is the throat plate. Admittedly I didn't realise it had to be cleaned on a monthly basis but it has buckled after otherwise careful use. The one in the local pub had done the same thing. Presumably this doesn't happen if the ash is cleared off the top of the plate.\nOverall a great piece of kit if you look after it as instructed.\n\n

Stove expert replied: Perhaps get the flue draught checked, it too high can expose internal components (like the baffle plate) to a higher than normal working temperature which can make them fail prematurely.

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 3 flames (avg 4.6)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.2)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 4.1)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.6)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 4.4)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 4.3)