Recommend a multifuel stove?

[Seahorse]

I'm looking at getting one of these but there seems to be a huge range of prices. Are the cheap ones (ebay etc) a bit too good to be true

I'm looking to heat a room about 30' x 13' (it does have two rads in it but I would prefer to turn them off, or at least right down, if practical). We've knocked out the old fireplace and now have a gap of about 3' wide x 4' high, so can accomodate a stove of reasonable size if necessary. We're in a smokeless zone.

Can anyone who has one recommend a good make and perhaps even model? Obviously bargains are best but I'd rather pay out a bit more initially than be disappointed with what I get.

Thanks!

[winstonwobble]

I got mine from stoves4uor something like that it was on the internet anyway it's great i love it it heats all my hot water and run's the central heating and you wont need the radiators turned on at all in that room got great service from them but a word of caution when they deliverd only the driver came so make sure you'v got some strong lads about when it comes as they are real heavy best of luck julia

[burnie]

The cheap ones are welded together and are showing to be of poorer quality if used a lot.Fine in a shed down the allotment,but not for primary heat source in your home.As you are in a smokeless zone you need one with a grate and I recommend you get one that has the air wash system to try and keep the glass clear,it is nice to be able to see the fire.
The size of stove is dictated by the size of room,the btu rating is calculated by room size.
We have a charnwood cast stove and have used it for the last six winters,it heats our cottage and does the hot water too.We have had no problems so far.
I also recommend you get proper advice on how it should be installed,they are popular up here in Scotland and there are some horror stories when folk have tried to cut corners.

[barney]

I have got 2 Stovax multifuel burners and I wouldn't be without them in the winter. The chimney space is quite small so got the smallest burner that Stovax sell, but they heat our lounge and dining room really well and are also a great focal point.
I bought the fires from a local company and they also fitted them.
They have just returned this week to sweep the chimneys (should be done every year) and reseal the cement at the top of the burners.

[beaufontboy]

yup we have s stovax too, very good but not the cheapest ! our room calculated out at 2.5 kw and we have a 4.9 kw stove, over 5kw and you need a room vent fitting, would recommend getting the chimmney tested ! recommended !!