WhatStove?

Review of Villager Chelsea Solo

Warped firebox

Ed

Had this stove for four years, mostly burn kiln dried wood.

Very occasionaly we burn coal. The firebricks need replacing , upon trying to re-fit the grate after a new rear brick installed, I found the firebox has warped. We have had to grind off about 10mm from the front of the grate to allow it to drop into position.

Next stove will be all cast iron and hopefully avoid this problem with a steel firebox again.

I would not buy this stove again because of the warping also not very good heat output with wood.

Overall rating:

2.5 flames

Build Quality 3 flames (avg 3.6)
Quality of finish 3 flames (avg 3.9)
Value for money 1 flames (avg 3.9)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 4.2)
Ease of lighting 4 flames (avg 4.4)
Firebox size 3 flames (avg 3.6)
How well does the airwash work 4 flames (avg 3.8)
Controllability 3 flames (avg 3.6)
Handle operation 1 flames (avg 3.1)
How likely are you to buy it again? 1 flames (avg 3.5)
What is your overall satisfaction? 1 flames (avg 3.7)