WhatStove?

Review of Esse 100 stove

Esse 100

Bill Fowler 11 years ago

Solid gooding looking stove. Have had 5 firings so far and all is well. Am using a combination of anthracite and bone dry well seasoned hard wood. I mix a small amount of anthracite with kindle on light up, which ensures a steady warm up. Though having an open fire for many years I have found this combination economical and creates a good heat base and bed to continue with good sized hardwood logs. Though the firebox is long it is not very wide and consequently, even with having the airwash open most of the way (with primary air intake shut)I do get discolouration of the glass and have presently had to clean the glass regularly. (ash from pan and damp cloth is an excellent glass cleaner...and its free!!)

Still lots to learn. The site 'How a Stovax stove works' gives useful info on how to control the airflow in your burner.

Overall rating:

3.5 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 3.9)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4.2)
Value for money 3 flames (avg 3.8)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 4.1)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 4.4)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 3.9)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3.8)
Handle operation 4 flames (avg 3.8)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4 flames (avg 3.9)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 3.9)