WhatStove?

Review of Esse 200 stove

Excellent stove

JamesP 11 years ago

I was brought up with an old stove in a holiday home that I use and was keen to get one for my house. After much research I settled on the XK and have not been disappointed. I have had it for just over 12 months (I thought I would allow sufficient time to pass before writing a review), burning wood every day from about September through to May (yes, a lot of wood!)

It is robust, looks great with a huge window and has an excellent air wash system requiring very minimal cleaning. It has a large firebox, thus cutting down on cutting up, and the small amount of ash that is produces is extraordinary. Simply leagues ahead of the old stove I am used to. I have had no issues with it at all.

I would say, however, that I was slightly taken in by some reviews on this site regarding the heating properties of stoves in general. Like any other large stove, the XK is effectively a big, very hot radiator. Unless you live in a box it won't replace central heating no matter how much wood you burn!

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 4.5 flames (avg 4.6)
Quality of finish 4.5 flames (avg 4.3)
Value for money 4.5 flames (avg 4.7)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 4.7)
How well does the airwash work 4.5 flames (avg 4.8)
Controllability 4.5 flames (avg 4.4)
Handle operation 4.5 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4.5 flames (avg 4.5)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 4.7)