WhatStove?

Review of Merlin Standard stove

Merlin standard review

7 years ago

This is a good stove, the self clean is very good. The stove has been in use for 3 winters now using only well seasoned hardwood. Sadly the back throat failed in year 2 and was replaced. Even more sadly it has gone again for the 2nd time. Also the door rope failed in year 1. The side bricks have failed in year 3. I must say I would expect a stove bought for its quality (and resulting price) should last longer before major returns. As I said this is a good stove but some components/quality let it down and I have recently decided to go for a Morso instead. Andrew Jenkins

Stove expert replied: Internal components such as baffle / throat plates, side bricks and rope seals are subjected to varying degrees of heat depending on how the stove is operated and classed as consumable items. It is a shame that you have had to replace the throat plate twice, it may be that you are overdrawing it and perhaps should operate it on a sightly lower setting - a stove thermometer will help you with the ideal temperature it should be operated at.

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 3 flames (avg 3.7)
Quality of finish 3 flames (avg 3.7)
Value for money 2 flames (avg 3)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 3.7)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 3.7)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 3.3)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 3.7)
Handle operation 3 flames (avg 3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 2.3)
What is your overall satisfaction? 3 flames (avg 3)