WhatStove?

Review of Stovax Riva 55 stove

Good..but for one BIG problem.

G Dineen 12 years ago

Got a Riva 55 6 years ago. It has a great heat output and heats up quickly, the flame is amazing.

Have one major complaint with this stove however. Major problem with a back-draught when the stove door is opened. Have a flue liner in place - have had a larger air vent inserted in the room - have tried multiple types of cowls - presently have a spinning cowl in place. All to no avail. The smoke will enter the room in preference to going up the chimney, and the resulting blackening of the chimney breast and ceiling results in having to repaint every 6-8 weeks.

Such a shame to have this problem with blackening of the room, when it is otherwise an excellent product. Unfortunately could not recommend getting a Riva 55 based on our experience. Family and friends have got other models / brands and have not had this issue.

Stove expert replied: Is there another chimney in the property as this may be causing the problem of smoke coming back into the room. Discuss with a chimney expert, a flue fan may be the answer long term!!

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 4 flames (avg 3.7)
Quality of finish 4 flames (avg 4)
Value for money 2 flames (avg 3.2)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 3.9)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 3.8)
Firebox size 2 flames (avg 4)
How well does the airwash work 2 flames (avg 3.6)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 3.7)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 3.5)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 2.9)
What is your overall satisfaction? 2 flames (avg 3.3)