Tuesday, Oct 08, 2013 at 15:42
I've looked at available gas stoves and so far I'm not too impressed, although a Primus stove I borrowed performed
well. There's still the issue of reliability when a long way from any spare parts or replacements.
>Alcohol is much lower heat output than gas - therefore, slower water boiling and cooking times.
Not entirely true. Alcohol has a lower energy density, but the stove output can compensate for this. Reviews I've seen comparing the Origo vs propane stoves showed not much difference in cooking times.
>Possibility of lower availability of alcohol when travelling.
I've never had a problem sourcing metho, apart from Edinburgh ( we had to go to a chemist and sign for it so they could
check we weren't metho drinkers).
>Alcohol burners are more susceptible to draughts and wind gusts than gas burners.
They put wind shields on stoves for a reason, and I've had problems with gas stoves when the wind is from the wrong direction. The Origo needs wind shields made for it.
>If alcohol leaks in a confined area, alcohol fumes are still explosive - but not quite as explosive as gas fumes.
You'd have to spill a lot of alcohol to get an explosive mixture in the air. I'm cooking outside anyway so it's not an issue.
>Alcohol burner flame is nearly invisible - thus, a much higher chance of accidental burns.
The pictures I've seen of an Origo in action show a blue flame. My old Trangia flame was always visible.
>I've seen user reviews on Dometic-Origo where the user claims their stove finish is poor, with many sharp edges and poor quality spot welds.
I've yet to buy a camping stove without sharp edges on it. I thought they were a standard feature :>) I'd like to look at one before buying, I just have to find somewhere local that stocks them.
FollowupID:
799462