WhatStove?

Review of Esse 125 wood burning stove

Esse 125Se (guarantee is rubbish).

Brian Needham 9 years ago

Had the stove installed last year. Works well with a good heat output, even with both dampers closed it burns fierce and does not seem to dampen the flames.

Esse guarantee is not good, in fact the only thing guaranteed is the metal box, I asked for a new baffle that bent within six months, the reply was:- the guarantee does not cover Glass, rope, grates or baffles.

Stove expert replied: This guarantee policy is standard for most if not all manufacturers who do not cover consumable parts. As your baffle plate warped in such a short time and you state you can't dampen your stove down it would appear that you have a flue draw problem as it seems to be over-drawing. This is an installation issue and not a stove issue and should be investigated in the near future as leaving may lead to further problems with metal distortion of the stove if left unchecked. First thing would be to get a flue draw test undertaken and check that it matches the manufacturers instructions.

Overall rating:

3.5 flames

Build Quality 3 flames (avg 4.1)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.1)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 4.6)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 4.7)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 4.2)
Controllability 2 flames (avg 3.7)
Handle operation 3 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 3.9)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3 flames (avg 4.2)