Guide: Radiators
Willesden Bathrooms buyers guide for purchasing radiators will help you choose the perfect radiator suitable for your home. This buyer’s guide has been created so you can explore the different choices available to ensure you pick the right one.
What Are The Different Types of Radiators?
We have a range of radiators in a wide selection of styles including designer radiators which adds a statement piece to any room, providing functionality and style in one. Designer radiators are perfect for a modern household; we have a choice from vertical and horizontal designs so that you can choose one which is most suited to the style of your home. There are a number of finishes you can choose from such as anthracite, black gloss, and chrome. We also have a range of traditional white radiators, suitable for traditional households.
Vertical Radiators
Vertical radiators are sleek, tall and thin which are perfect for a modern house. They are ideal for fitting in smaller spaces as they don’t take up much space on the wall. The stand tall feature creates a striking piece and can make a smaller room look more spacious and contemporary.
View Vertical Radiator Product RangeHorizontal Radiators
Horizontal radiators are wider in comparison to the vertical radiators. They are ideal for fitting under windows or shelves, allowing you to make the most use out your space. The flat bar radiators are best suited for larger rooms as higher outputs are achieved with more surface area. We have a variety of sizes and styles for you to choose from, such as the chrome and anthracite radiator which creates a unique touch to your room.
View Horizontal Radiator Product RangeImportant Considerations
What Size Radiator Will I Need?
Before buying a radiator you will need to measure the space you have available. We have horizontal and vertical radiators in different sizes so you’re bound to find one that will fit a large or small space. It’s best to check the depth of the radiator and the length to see if it will fit the space you require it to go in. We also stock radiators in single, double and triple bars.
What is the Best Material for a Radiator?
The material your radiator is made from can determine the speed in which it heats up and cools down. Aluminium heats up quickly but cools down just as fast, whereas cast iron will heat up slowly and retain its heat for much longer. The finish can also affect the heat output; chrome radiators are less efficient at radiating heat due to its insulating quality.
How Do I Check the Heat Output of a Radiator?
The heat output of a radiator is measured in BTU (British Thermal Units) or watts. The BTU must be considered when choosing a radiator as you need a heater which has a powerful output to heat the room.
To calculate the BTU you will need to know the ceiling height and the size of the room in square feet and an estimate of the heat loss of the room. A BTU calculator can be used to estimate this or a plumber should be able to advise you to ensure you buy a radiator with a BTU which will heat the house effectively.
What is a designer radiator?
Aesthetically pleasing and intended to be a feature as much as functionality, designer radiators come in huge ranges of shapes, sizes and unique designs. It doesn't need to be the traditional white: choose from black gloss, chrome, anthracite or silver to give your room a sleek finish.
Do I Need a Radiator Valve?
All radiators need valves as they connect to the heating system. There are two different types of valves you can choose from. The standard valves allow you to turn the radiator on and off in a room whereas the thermostatic valves allow you to alter the heat output which is more cost efficient.
View Radiator Valves Product RangeHow energy efficient are central heating radiators?
Radiators are one of the most efficient ways of heating your home. There are a number of ways to ensure their energy efficiency that will in turn save you money. Radiator reflector panels are foil sheets that stick to the wall behind your radiator. These help to keep heat in your room rather than letting it escape from the external wall. Regular bleeding will also ensure energy efficiency; if they become blocked you will use more energy to try and produce more heat.
Maintainence and Safety
How can I maintain my radiator?
It’s best to check the energy efficiency of your radiator by regularly bleeding your radiator which is most cost efficient, because if the radiator becomes blocked it uses more energy to convey greater heat output. You can check if a radiator needs bleeding by touching the tops of it. If it takes a while to reach its full temperature then it will require bleeding so the air bubbles trapped in the pipe are released. You do this by using a radiator key on the valve so air escapes; you continue to do this until water appears from the valve.
Central Heating Radiator Safety Advice
When bleeding radiators make sure they are fully cool to avoid burns from scalding steam escaping from the valve.
When fitting, repairing or servicing your central heating system make sure you use a Gas Safe registered engineer if it is connected to a natural gas or LPG supply.
It is important to get your gas boiler serviced regularly to minimise your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Use carbon monoxide alarms around the home to alert you of any dangers.
Use radiator covers if you have hot radiators and children in the house. This is an easy way to child proof them.