Review of Stovax Riva 55 stove
Riva 55 Stove
We bought the Silver Riva 55 stove to put into the lounge when we moved house in 2010. Its size was perfect to fit into the existing fireplace with use of the large surround also. This stove looks very impressive and most visitors comment on it. My only gripe with the finish is that there are 2 small spots (about the size of water drops) where the paint has darkened, and this is annoying to those of us who know the defect is there. In practice however it is hardly noticeable.
It took a few fires to get used to lighting the stove, but then we were new to this. Just remember to open the main air intake by about 1/3 to 1/2 before lighting, and always to open the secondary vent fully. In practice it will light within 10 minutes if done properly (when you can close the main vent completely), though it will take another 30 to 40 to really reach full temperature - where you can close the secondary vent to half way and still have a good hot fire going. Overall it is very easy to light and produces a good heat. The room is about 7 by 3.5 metres, and the fire is more than adequate for that space. It is also very easily controllable, and will give a good heat even at half vent. We have been able to close it down and keep the firebox hot overnight, and managed to keep it going continuously for 3 days over the New Year. I would recommend this stove and would purchase again. It is attractive, effective, easy to use and the effect of the flames enhanced by the ring of hot air jets around the top is fascinating to watch. I have missed bits of TV programs because I was busy watching the fire...Stove expert replied: The fire can be much more interesting than the TV and it is fascinating to watch the flames leaping in the firebox and what's more it's producing heat. Good review and with most things it takes a short while to learn how to get the best from the product.