WhatStove?

Review of Romotop Stromboli stove

stromboli review

Ashley Coates 13 years ago

this is a comprehensive review.

when buying this stove as i did from an internet picture it does not tell you two things, how it comes packaged and its weight. the stove comes in a wooden crate well packaged and well screwed together. it also weighs a complete tonne.

you will have to dismantle the crate before even thinking about moving the thing. lots of things are removeable from the fire so take out and off everything you possibly can.i sat my stove on a 30mm granite hearth.i would not advise a glass hearth, its really heavy. there are three ways you can have this stove finished. plain grey, stone or ceramic. i chose the ceramic which adds extra cost but in my opinion worth every penny. the only problem is hoping the colour matches the chart.in my case it was near enough.

when lighting i use newspaper and good kindlers. lighting is pretty easy but you need to start with small logs until you get a good heat and a red hot base of embers.when the fire is in full flow the the large glass window really does the fire justice, its terrific.the airflows can be used to alter your burning pattern. although its great to look at, it burns wood like no tomorrow. its like a new born baby, always needing attention. this is however all part of the woodburning joy. putting a log on to burn the whole evening and heating half your house is complete nonsense. be prepared to work hard.

chopping and storing wood is another story but when you are buying one of these you basically know thats all part of the charm.i heat an area of about 30 square metres. yes and you will spend more time looking at the flames than your telly. an expensive purchase especially with the ceramic plates but worth every penny.

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.4)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Value for money 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Ease of use 4 flames (avg 4.6)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 4.6)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 4.6)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4.3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 4.7)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 4.5)