WhatStove?

Review of Franco Belge Monaco stove

Not impressed!

Ron Bastin 10 years ago

We bought our Monaco about 5 years ago, to say it was disappointing is putting it mildly.

The first baffle lasted about two and a half years before it dropped out. Over the next two and a half years we went through another two baffles, and in the end I was not prepared to put up with the poor quality and expense of replaceing them. All three baffles were out of shape, my thought are that the fire runs out of control due to the poor heat controls.

I have now purchased a Villager Espri Duo. The heat control is excellent and the look of the fire is excellent, highly recommended.

Overall rating:

1.5 flames

Build Quality 1.5 flames (avg 2.7)
Quality of finish 1.5 flames (avg 3.6)
Value for money 0.5 flames (avg 2.8)
Ease of use 1 flames (avg 3.6)
Ease of lighting 2 flames (avg 3.8)
Firebox size 1.5 flames (avg 3.7)
How well does the airwash work 1.5 flames (avg 3.8)
Controllability 0.5 flames (avg 2.8)
Handle operation 3.5 flames (avg 3.8)
How likely are you to buy it again? 0.5 flames (avg 2)
What is your overall satisfaction? 0.5 flames (avg 2.6)