WhatStove?

Review of Little Thurlow stove

Does the job if you keep an eye on it

Graham Llewellyn 11 years ago

My ratings aren't based on comparison with other stoves, as this is my first, but prospective buyers might be interested in my experience after two months of mild and cold weather.

Some promises are offered by sellers which turn out to be myths, in my opinion:

"You can revive it in the morning." No, it's always stone cold and I don't need the tool for lifting the ashpan. Perhaps it applies with coal but we only tried coal once and it just sat there, a grey, sulking mass and was messy to transfer from bag/scuttle.

"You only need to empty the pan once a week." Once a day or there'll be ash all over the place.

"Turn the vents off when the fire gets going." I don't do that any more because the fire just goes out; it needs the air all the time. Sometimes you need to leave the door slightly open to get some life into it. A friend suggested leaving a window open! I thought the idea was to get the place warm.

Does the airwash work? I've no idea but I reckon the Eco fan does.

Initially we bought a supply of kiln-dried logs which were excellent - ideal consistent size, stacked in a crate and got alight quickly. We did get through them quickly, though. Then we got some cheaper, seasoned local logs, some of which, although split, are too big and don't burn very well. We've also tried different types of briquette: two of these were OK when the fire was already hot but not much use at the start. The other was better and we're awaiting a larger supply.

The review title means: keep checking the fire, because it needs constant refuelling. Nothing seems to last for very long so if you're on the computer round the corner or in the kitchen, keep popping back.

These aren't complaints, just observations.

Overall rating:

4 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.8)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.9)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.8)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 4.9)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.9)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 4.7)
How well does the airwash work 3 flames (avg 4.5)
Controllability 2 flames (avg 4.7)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.6)
How likely are you to buy it again? 4 flames (avg 4.9)
What is your overall satisfaction? 4 flames (avg 4.8)