WhatStove?

Review of Nestor Martin IT33 Insert woodburning stove

Poor performance from a very expensive stove.

Roger Evans 13 years ago

This is advertised as a multi fuel stove, but in our experience, it doesn't cope well with the high temperatures generated by smokeless fuel.Once the metal box expands, air seals aren't that effective, and the resulting leak of cold air inevitably results in bent log retaining bars. Also this degree of over heating will inevitably shorten the life of the stove - not good news since it costs over £2,500. We have the extra height ITH33 version, but I'm afraid it will have to be replaced - after just two years. In our case, this has not been a good buy.

Stove expert replied: with an insert stove there is the problem of getting the heat from the stove into the room. A common solution is to install the stove into an insulated chamber and then vent this top and bottom to recover the heat back to room.

Overall rating:

2.5 flames

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