WhatStove?

Review of Merlin Classic stove

Merlin Classic - It''s literally a classic.

Michael Hodges 6 years ago

I looked at every log burner on google, went to many stove shops and looked around peoples houses before deciding on the Merlin Classic.

I picked the physical size of fire based on the Classic being a good fit for the builders opening in my chimney, fire in the middle 6" either side. I do not care for KW rating as 3 logs give out the same heat (energy) no matter the size of the fire box. It only gets too hot if you put too much wood and air in at the same time. I only use it as a wood burning stove so can not comment on the multi fuel use.

The chimney was lined during installation and full building regs certificate was issued.

The stove looks the part, large steel fire box, with a sturdy cast iron door. I can get 18" x 6" log in no problem, which means I don''t have to process my wood into tiny chunks, and a log of hardwood at those dimensions will last 4+ hours.

You have really good control of the air flow, so when it''s burning you can restrict the air and watch the gasses being heated out of the log and giving a great "flame picture". I never shut the air vents right down, I just choke it back a little when the flue thermostat is a bit high. This control makes this stove very efficient.

The feet of the fire don''t get too hot, not sure how they accomplished that (or why!). However the door handle does get hot during use, especially when the whole stove is hot! I use a glove...no problem, but surely its not beyond the wit of man to insulate the handle somehow. The glass may get dirty if you shut the air flow down too much or burn too much soft wood, but a quick go with a glass cleaner once its cooled down and its back to new in a minute.

Overall I love the Merlin Classic, I wouldn't settle for anything else. I''m considering a Merlin Standard for the front room. I recommend it at every opportunity =)

The look of the stove and the control over the heat make this the perfect stove in my opinion. Manufactured and built in the UK is also a plus.

Stove expert replied: Any stove will work best on logs that are not larger than 4" in diam, this makes the rate of burn more controllable and fuel efficiency is at its best.

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

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