WhatStove?

Review of Franco belge Savoy Elegance - MKII

Franco Belge Savoy Elegance MK 11

Jonny Johnson 4 years ago

We purchased this stove 6 + years ago and it

has exceeded our expectations in both heat output and reliability.

A flue thermometer is essential to avoid excessive temperature and subsequent cracking of the fire bricks. I purchased a sheet of vermiculite board from the local merchant ( approx cost £30 ) and have used less than half a sheet and none since the flue thermometer was

fitted. It is easy to cut with a hand or pad saw using the damaged fire brick as a template .Franco Belge fire brick spares are expensive so buy a thermometer.

The original fire brick retaining screws are

occasionally difficult to remove requiring an impact drill to '' shock '' them off. Replacement screws cost £4-5 each so used copper grease on threads to facilitate future removal; might be worth

considering doing this at the outset.

We managed to break the glass through our error ( overloading fire box ) but it was simple to replace, likewise door ropes.

Only hardwood with a moisture content of less than 20% is burnt resulting in relatively low flue liner deposits.

This is our first stove and have nothing to compare it with but would readily buy another Franco Belge based on our experience with this model, albeit hopefully not for a few years yet !

Overall rating:

5 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 3.4)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4)
Value for money 5 flames (avg 3.4)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.3)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.4)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 3.9)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 3.8)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 3.1)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 2.9)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 3.4)