WhatStove?

Review of Firebelly FB1 double sided stove

Wait and see

MARTIN AYMES 10 years ago

The stove is all as website indicated and the service when a basic but easily rectified fault was found in the control plates was OK although required a bit of pushing to get a speedy solution and to get an engineer to call. I find the controls a bit basic compared with other stoves and not easily fine tuned. I have been unexpectedly advised that firebricks will probably need replacement about every 3 years but this is usual with all fire bricks which I find surprising. Apparently ALL fire bricks are subject to moisture absorption during long (summer) periods of no fires which tends to damage the bricks when a fire is subsequently lit, this can possibly be avoided by lighting a fire at regular intervals during the summer to drive out small amounts of moisture as it occurs. The outer surfaces remain safely cool which is a bonus compared with many other stoves as there is a convection panel round the fire sides. I will wait to see how long lasting the fire bricks are but otherwise generally reasonable.

Stove expert replied: It is best to leave the door ajar so that a good air movement can be maintained during the summer months and should help to prevent a problem with the liners.

Overall rating:

3.5 flames

Build Quality 3.5 flames (avg 2.4)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 2.8)
Value for money 3.5 flames (avg 3.6)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 3)
Ease of lighting 4.5 flames (avg 2.9)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 2.8)
How well does the airwash work 3 flames (avg 2.8)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3.5)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 3.5 flames (avg 3.6)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3.5 flames (avg 3.6)