WhatStove?

Review of Villager A

My new best friend

Andy 12 years ago

After a thorough and long period of research I bought this stove mostly buoyed up by the consistently good reviews on this site. I spoke to villager about some technical issues and they were extremely helpful. NB we had to abandon the 200 year old oak surround to the fire for the recommended 1 meter clearance for combustible materials

The stove is our only form of heating in a large open plan barn style area with very high ceilings, which is a nightmare to heat and the previous stove failed miserably. The villager flat A was not deemed to be sufficient for this size area either but I felt it was our best bet as a back boiler wasn't feasible.

From day one the stove was user friendly, easy to light, very very easy to control.We were advised to have a damper with the stove and it seems it is very good advise to help with the control.She now has a name and will purr away on a gentle heat or opened up and full of wood she will kick out a lot of heat.Managing to heat a difficult area and keep us warm. This is a serious stove with nice looks that delivers. My only struggle has been the log size is somewhat inhibited by the front grate and door size, more log splitting needed, BUT I am totally delighted. Be warned though the cost of fitting in France was nearly as much as the stove cost to buy! Want heat, buy this stove. 3/1/2012

Stove expert replied: out of interest what name did you give to your stove?

Overall rating:

4.5 flames

Build Quality 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Quality of finish 5 flames (avg 4.4)
Value for money 5 flames (avg 4.6)
Ease of use 5 flames (avg 4.5)
Ease of lighting 5 flames (avg 4.7)
Firebox size 4 flames (avg 4.8)
How well does the airwash work 2 flames (avg 3.8)
Controllability 5 flames (avg 4.2)
Handle operation 5 flames (avg 4)
How likely are you to buy it again? 5 flames (avg 4.5)
What is your overall satisfaction? 5 flames (avg 4.5)