To say that the white gloss enamel finish version of the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove stands out a mile is an understatement to say the least. However, while the white enamel version is very prominent in the promotional pictures, there is much more to this stove. Coincidently, it also comes with a matt black paint finish for those looking for a more traditional multifuel stove. So, what do you get with the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove?
The look of the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove
While this particular stove is sold as a “contemporary design” it is actually a contemporary design based on a traditional wood-burning stove shape. It is perhaps the significantly extended glass viewing area which makes it a contemporary look but traditional in feel. The square box shape ensures that this is a stove which can be placed anywhere in your room and while it will be “inconspicuous” it will also be a conversation starter and a great centrepiece.
Technical aspects of the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove
The dimensions of this extremely well designed and well manufactured stove are height 550 mm, width 430 mm, depth 360 mm and it weighs in at just 90 kg. The heat output is between 2.5 kW and 6 kW creating a 5 kW nominal machine which offers gross efficiency of 76.3% and a net rating of 83.8%. Interestingly, the machine already meets the criteria for the incoming SIA EcoDesign Ready regulations which do not go live until 2022. At this point it is also worth mentioning that the stove is certified smoke exempt therefore you burn wood in smoke controlled areas.
Creating an ambience
When looking at any wood-burning or multifuel stove there are two main aspects to consider, the heat efficiency and the ambience the stove can create in your room. There is no doubt that the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove ticks all the boxes; the extended viewing area allows you to watch the flickering flames and the burning embers, the heat is extremely relaxing yet subtle and the airwash system ensures the glass area is clear at all times.
There is definitely an art in creating a contemporary stove which gives the look and feel of a traditional model but hides the latest in combustion technology below the surface. It is not difficult to see why this 5 kW multifuel stove is proving popular, the ten-year warranty on all stove castings shows a high degree of confidence and even general spares are easily accessible when parts need replaced over the years. The stove itself is suitable for small to medium-sized rooms and the ability to retain heat within the stove, to be released in a controlled manner, ensures that the machine will still pump out heat many hours after it has effectively burnt out.
Summary
While the white enamel version of the ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove tends to grab the headlines and the promotional images, it is worth remembering that this contemporary design is also available in more traditional matt black. The ability to put together a contemporary design based around traditional shapes comes with experience. The skill to incorporate the latest combustion technology within a traditional design comes with time. Thankfully, ACR have been able to incorporate a great design and the latest technology to produce the very popular ACR Birchdale 5kw Multi Fuel Stove. We strongly recommend seeing one in real life if you ever get the chance!