WhatStove?

Review of Westfire 23 stove

Westfire Uniq 23 on 100mm block

John Moore 10 years ago

I've been using this stove for about 3 months now. It takes a while to get it going but it looks great and kicks out loads of heat. The controls do get very hot and can be fiddly to use with a glove.

I have had a number of issues with the quality of the stove. Firstly, when heated up, the primary air leaver becomes so stiff it's virtually impossible to move it.

The gap at the side of the door measures 4mm at the top and 9mm at the bottom, and I've now noticed some surface rust appearing inside the stove and on the front of the ash tray.

Very disappointing considering the price of the stove and the short amount of time it's been in use.

Customer service have been helpful and sent some grease for the leaver. unfortunately it didn't help. Now waiting to see how they respond.

Stove expert replied: Rust on the inside of the firebox may be due to damp wood or the stove not working hard enough allowing condensation to form. Wood should have less than 20% moisture content for use in a stove. Great to hear that the customer service has been responsive so far.

Overall rating:

3 flames

Build Quality 2 flames (avg 4.1)
Quality of finish 3 flames (avg 4.2)
Value for money 1 flames (avg 4)
Ease of use 3 flames (avg 4.1)
Ease of lighting 2 flames (avg 4.4)
Firebox size 5 flames (avg 4.4)
How well does the airwash work 5 flames (avg 4.4)
Controllability 4 flames (avg 3.8)
Handle operation 4 flames (avg 3.3)
How likely are you to buy it again? 2 flames (avg 4.1)
What is your overall satisfaction? 2 flames (avg 4.1)