WhatStove?

Review of Fireline PV5W

12 months - very impressed so far

James Price 5 years ago

We wanted a large fire box but didn't want an air brick so we're limited to big 5kw stoves. This one was expensive (probably not worth the extra over competitors) but we were installing in a freestanding area and paid for the stand and liked the classic look of the cpv5w.

It throws out a lot of heat and burns economically - better than our last stove a little thurlow which we also loved. I like that it uses convection so that the sides aren't too hot - safer for our young one. The bricks are nifty as they go white when they''re hot and clean themselves. A good indicator the stove is up to temp. The active baffle is a neat design but can let smoke in the room if the door is opened too quickly.

I do worry that the push close door means springs and moving parts could be an issue further down the road. It comes with a 12 year warranty so hopefully build quality is good.

The stove is easy to control and has a good size ash pan. We run it mostly on the setting just right of closed - just off center. Closed to the left side burns cleaner, but slightly too fast. The large glass door is easy to keep clean and only needs a wipe with a paper towel. If wood burns too close to the front or the stove is shut right back it will blacken but a damp cloth with ash will bring it back like new.

Handle stays cool and the single air control is effective. If it was cheaper I'd thoroughly recommend. We paid over £1500 so unless you're set on the style there are stoves as good for less money. I loved the clock stove I saw in a showroom but it was too low for our space.

Stove expert replied: It is a misconception that a stove that is rated up to 5kW does not require an airbrick, as properties become more efficient and well insulated even stoves below may require more free air than the room can provide.

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 4.8)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 5)
Value for money 2 flames (avg 4)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.8)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.8)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 5)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 5)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 5)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 5)
How likely are you to buy it again? 3 flames (avg 4.5)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 4.5)