Best radiators to buy: The Best Radiators for Efficiency, Style and Value for Money

Best Radiators – Which Are The Best Radiators & Most Energy Efficient?

Which are the best radiators for keeping energy bills down but look good at the same time?

These radiators are great for creating a cosy feeling in a space while also providing great efficient heating output all year round.

It’s a design decision to find the right radiators for your home as we all know that looks really matter as they are in every room. But, there are more things than simply looking for attractive radiators, especially with the rising bills and cost of living.

Efficiency is a key consideration. To keep your radiators working efficiently, there are many things you can learn about them, including how to bleed a radiator. When buying new radiators, you will want to consider heat output and the right sized radiator so you choose the right model for your room.

A radiator that is too big will be wasting far more energy than required, or a radiator that is too small will be switched on forever causing higher gas bills. And that is the last thing we need right now! We always suggest using the best thermostatic radiator valves to ensure maximum efficiency.

Get an online fixed price in 20 seconds:

Q What kind of fuel does your boiler use?

Buying the best radiator for your home

If you’re buying a new energy-efficient boiler, you want to ensure that you are getting the most out of it with the best radiators available. Here we look at the best in terms of value for money, energy efficiency and of course looks! And if you are buying a boiler from boiler central, you could get them included in the cost of a new boiler as well as finance them interest-free if required.

We can help you with everything: whether you’re self-building and choosing radiators for your new heating system, renovating an older property with outdated heat sources, or simply wishing to swap out your existing models for something more in line with your interior design.

These are the five best radiators on the market right now, so you can be sure you’re getting the best product at the lowest price. Always ensure that you get an expert who knows how to balance your radiators too, which is different from bleeding them to ensure maximum efficiency!

Get an online fixed price in 20 seconds:

Q What kind of fuel does your boiler use?

#1 Best Radiator – NRG Modern Vertical Radiator

Modern, stylish, and long-lasting

NRG’s stylish radiator is modern in style and will fit well with minimalist or modern home designs.

It’s not only eye-catching but also very efficient. It’s made from 1.5mm premium stainless steel with a high-quality white finish. This model is covered by a 15-year manufacturer guarantee.

Its 1800x354mm dimensions (multiple sizes are possible) ensure that you get the most bang for your buck. This is a good option for anyone who’s looking to renovate or convert on a tight budget. Valves and brackets are not included.

Radiator Specifications

Size: 1800x354mm (multiple sizes are available)

BTU Rating: 4699-6888

Weight: 27kg

#2 – Elegant Vertical Column Designer Radiator

High heat output and a striking design.

This vertical radiator is elegant and efficient, as the name implies. There will definitely be no radiator covers needed for this one.

This radiator is ideal for narrow spaces. It would look great in a hallway or kitchen, where wall space is limited. You can choose from single or double versions.

Another radiator with high BTU. It’s extremely efficient. This one is a bit heavier than others in the line-up, and it can be difficult to transport for one person due to its width and height.

The kit includes a wall bracket, a plug, and a vent. However, valves must be purchased separately.

Radiator Specifications

Size: 1600x480mm (multiple sizes are available)

BTU Rating: 6500-7001

Weight: 38.09kg

Get an online fixed price in 20 seconds:

Q What kind of fuel does your boiler use?

#3 Milano Aruba

The ideal radiator for small rooms

There are many sizes of the Milano Aruba, but we love the 400x415mm radiator. It is compact, stylish, and produces a lot of heat.

Its small dimensions make it suitable for tiny spaces and awkwardly-shaped rooms.

It may be more expensive than other compact radiators but it has a modern, stylish appearance that makes up the difference.

The extra-thick low carbon steel is so durable that the manufacturers offer a 20 year guarantee.

Radiator Specifications

Size: 400x415mm (multiple sizes are available)

BTU Rating: 1638

Weight: 5.68kg

#4 –  Warme Designer Panel Heating Unit

Wall heater electric with wow factor

The Warme Designer Electric Panel Heater Low Energy Heater Radiator is a stunning example of electric radiators that are not boring. It can be used in any room in the house, and even in bathrooms due to its waterproof case.

It is space-age in appearance, but it can also heat your house. A single heater can heat 22 square metres of space, while heat sensors built in to the heater prevent overheating.

You can choose between an instant heat mode or set it up to run on a weekly basis.

This unit is also easy to install. It is mounted on the included wall brackets and plugged in. It is important to make sure that the electrical socket is within reach of the unit and there is at least 30cm clearance between the unit and the wall.

Radiator Specifications

Size: 470x820mm

BTU Rating: Heats at a 2KW output. A 22-metre square room can be heated by one Warme heater

Weight: 9.3kg

Get an online fixed price in 20 seconds:

Q What kind of fuel does your boiler use?

#5 –  Henrad 110960 Type11 SC 1003 Compact Radiator

Simple, yet lightweight and affordable

Although this Henrad compact radiator is not a top choice for its striking looks, it’s still a great option. Many people will find it attractive because of its ability to sit quietly in an interior design.

It is small and compact, making it a great radiator for small spaces.  It’s lightweight means that even walls with very little substance can hold it.

This radiator is the perfect radiator for anyone with a tight budget, whether they are replacing radiators or starting from scratch.

Radiator Specifications

Size: 600 x300mm

BTU Rating: 1003

Weight: 5.91kg

Are Valves Included? Valves not included?

Are you looking for electric or plumbed-in radiators?

Before you start your search, determine whether you need electric radiators or ones that are plumbed in.

Electric radiators use mains electricity. While some can be plugged directly into a wall socket, others require an electrician to install. Infrared electric heaters might also be available for purchase. These radiators are ideal for small spaces because they offer high heat output and a slim profile.

The plumbed-in radiators connect to your boiler and heat water from hot water. They are controlled by the central heating system.

How to Pick the Best Radiators for Your Home

While design and budget are important, it is also important to consider the heat requirements of your space.

To calculate the output of the radiators required to heat the room, you’ll need to consider the dimensions of your windows and the materials in the walls.

What’s a BTU Rating?

Radiators have a “BTU rating”. BTUs stand for British Thermal Units and are the unit that measures radiator efficiency.

You can either have this done by a heating engineer or a plumber or use an online BTU calculator.

If you’re choosing a new boiler with Boiler Central, then you could invest in some new energy-efficient radiators to go with it. Speak to one of our heating experts today to add these fantastic bits of equipment to your order.

Get an online fixed price in 20 seconds:

Q What kind of fuel does your boiler use?

Best radiators: all the knowhow you need to keep your home warm in style

Real Homes is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s why you can trust us.

Milano radiator, from Best Heating

(Image credit: Best Heating)

Join our newsletter

Get the best home decor ideas, DIY advice and project inspiration straight to your inbox!

Thank you for signing up to Realhomes. You will receive a verification email shortly.

There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again.

By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

Looking for the best radiators to heat your home? Whether you’re after better energy efficiency, like the idea of swapping a boring design for something with style, or are building an addition to your home and need to extend your home heating system, you might be surprised about just how much choice there is.

You’ll need to select from radiators fuelled by electricity or those that use the hot water made by a boiler to heat individual rooms. But you can also choose from radiators made from different materials, a host of styles, and a range of finishes, too, including attractive colors.

We’ve taken a look at all the options available here, and we’ve asked the experts to share their advice so you can make the best choices for your home.

Vetro Stone electric radiator , £1,275, Frontline Bathrooms

(Image credit: Frontline)

Shop the look…

No price information

Check Amazon

The best radiators: types, materials, styles and sizes

In order to pick the best radiators for your home, you’ll first need to think about whether it’s an electric or plumbed in version that’s required. After that both what it’s made from, and its heat output are important factors. Aesthetics count, too, as a radiator is a relatively large feature within a room. Our guide has all you need.

D Series electric radiator, Rointe

(Image credit: Rointe)

What type of radiators are there?

There are two types of radiators – plumbed in and electric – and the best type for your home will depend on your current situation.

Plumbed-in radiators make use of the hot water created by the boiler to emit heat. They’re controlled centrally as part of the heating system.

Electric radiators work in individual rooms and use mains electricity. Some versions are plugged into a socket, while others will need to be fitted by an electrician. You’ll also see infrared electric radiators on offer. These have a high heat output and are slim, so can be a good small space solution.

You might need replacements within an existing heating system or to extend it. However, if you have plumbed-in central heating, don’t rule out adding in an electric radiator to heat a space that’s not currently covered by the system.

The Milano Windsor range from Best Heating combines classic looks with modern tech, from £114.95

(Image credit: Best Heating)

How to choose the right size radiator

Getting the right heat output for the space is vital. Radiators come with a BTU rating, which tells you the heat output calculated in British Thermal Units. You can use an online calculator such as this one from The Radiator Company or call on a heating engineer to work out what’s required.

Don’t forget that to create even heat large spaces may need more than one radiator if the room doesn’t have another heat source such as a stove.

Rococo II 760mm 10 sections in Full Polish finish with wall stay, Chatsworth thermostatic valve, shrouds and base plates (all Satin Nickel), £955.20, Castrads

(Image credit: Castrads)

What about pairing radiators with a heat pump?

If you have a heat pump rather than a boiler in your home, this does need to be kept in mind when choosing the best radiators. ‘Heat pumps generally work on lower temperatures than conventional gas boilers so as a consequence radiators generally need to be bigger to compensate,’ explains Nick Duggan, director, The Radiator Centre .  

‘This is not necessarily a problem as there are plenty of radiators out there which are designed to get the maximum amount of heat from the smallest amount of warmed water.’

Can you use old or reconditioned radiators?

It’s possible to use old cast-iron radiators in a modern heating system. However, they’ll need to be flushed of debris and tested to ensure they are up to the job.

Not blessed with original designs? You could bring in reconditioned models. Consider, alternatively, going for modern radiators that have the same period looks but 21st century efficiency.

Simplicity II wall-mounted electric radiator , from £232.80, Vogue (UK)

(Image credit: Vogue UK)

What materials are radiators made from?

Modern radiators are frequently made from steel and traditional versions from cast iron, although there are other materials on offer.

Steel is extremely durable, and has high heat output and efficiency. It’s generally the most budget-friendly option. ‘Steel radiators will heat up and cool down quickly providing manageable control,’ says Simon Morris, marketing manager at The Radiator Company .

Cast iron suits industrial-style schemes and older homes. It heats up more slowly but retains heat for longer once it’s switched off. The material is heavy, though, which will affect where these radiators can be located.

‘Traditional cast-iron radiators have been the staple material in period homes and schools since the Victorian age,’ says Simon. ‘Their dense heavy structure takes time to reach optimal temperature but remains hot long after the central heating is turned off – perfect for cold drafty period homes.’

Aluminum is light, which increases the possibilities when it comes to where you can hang these designs. It heats up – but also cools down – quickly.

‘Aluminum is a highly efficient conductive material that will heat up instantly after the central heating is turned on, giving you total control over your central heating system,’ says Simon.

Multisec Raw radiator , £573 for a 1800mm x 438mm model, MHS

(Image credit: MHS)

What shapes do radiators come in?

Horizontal radiators are the classic option. They’re generally easy to fit under windows or wall shelving, so can help make room layout space-efficient. Slim designer versions will fit under low windows.

Vertical radiators are frequently used in bathrooms but there’s an array of vertical designs for every room now on offer. They can fit into awkward spaces and also make a stylish feature.

Column radiators consist of vertical pipes that may be set, for example, two, three or four columns deep. The more columns, the higher the heat output but the more space the radiator will take up.

Sitar radiator color co-ordinated to Farrow & Ball Citron 74, The Radiator Company

(Image credit: The Radiator Company)

Towel radiators come in classic ladder designs as well as a whole host of other styles these days. They’ll warm towels and the room. Choose from those plumbed in to the heating system, electric versions, or dual fuel. The latter are plumbed in but also have a switch that allows you to turn on the electric heating element when the central heating is off in summer so your room is warm for showering or bathing and towels are dried.

Don’t forget to consider the depth of the radiator when you’re picking a design for a room. Whether a radiator is single or double panel will influence how far it juts out. Single panel designs are, of course, slimmer. These have lower heat output, so are more likely to be the right choice for a smaller room. Double panel radiators produce a lot more heat for the same surface area and will intrude further into the room.

Outcorner radiator in on-trend Modern Grey , from £345, Frontline Bathrooms

(Image credit: Frontline Bathrooms)

What radiator colors and finishes are there?

There’s definitely no need to pick a white panel when you’re choosing the best radiators for your rooms. Radiators come in a huge array of colors and finishes these days. Make it a focal point in a bold shade, subtly blend it with a wall paint color, or opt for a sleek and sophisticated modern look in gray or black. There are also a whole host of metallic finishes you might like including gold, silver, copper, bronze, brass and so on. And there are even amazing patterned radiators, those featuring artwork, and textural finishes on offer these days.

And if you aren’t ready to replace a white radiator but like the idea of a revamp, you can discover how to paint a radiator to update a dull design.

Blue Milano Aruba colored designer radiator, Best Heating

(Image credit: Best Heating)

Do you need radiator valves?

Radiator valves, which control the temperature of individual radiators, are essential for giving you flexibility room-by-room. There are different styles of valve available so you can complement the choice of radiator design. You might hear them referred to as thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs).

Halo Horizontal in matt black 9005, 2000mm x 133mm diameter, £1,087.20, The Radiator Company

(Image credit: The Radiator Company)

Where should radiators be positioned?

Radiators are frequently to be found under the window to counteract cold drafts. However, if your home is double or triple glazed, this certainly isn’t the only option, making room layouts more flexible.

Bear in mind, however, that if you’re swapping radiators into an existing system, the pipes may well be placed with the traditional radiator location in mind. This doesn’t mean you can’t re-position them, but it will entail additional work.

The wall itself is also an issue when it comes to the location of the radiator. Masonry, brick or block walls are strong, so the radiator options available are considerable. Studwork walls require that the radiator is hung from the studs, so this can limit both size and shape of radiator.

Don’t block the radiator by putting a couch or other large piece of furniture in front of it as this will stop it heating the room efficiently. Draping curtains over it is also a bad idea. 

The galvanised finishes from The Radiator Company are available on the Ancona column radiators and include Antique Copper, Antique Brass and Satin Nickel finishes. Ancona Galvanised Antique Copper radiator , three column vertical, 1800mm high, 10 sections with welded feet, £2905.20

(Image credit: The Radiator Company)

Are traditional radiators efficient?

Traditional radiators can retain heat for a long time, so despite taking longer to heat up compared to modern column radiators, they can still warm your home efficiently. Smaller cast-iron designs even boast the same heat output as larger steel or aluminum models.  

Usually made from cast-iron, traditional radiators are heavy, but bring a very charming aesthetic to a home, and particularly to Victorian buildings.

(Image credit: MHS)

Maintaining radiators

Air can build up in a plumbed heating system, which will stop it working efficiently. Gurgling radiators or one that is cold at the top or has cold patches are all giveaways and, if you live in a two-storey house, you may begin to notice that the radiators upstairs aren’t getting as hot as those downstairs. To counteract this, you need to know how to bleed a radiator, which releases the trapped air.

Another issue you might encounter is that some radiators heat up fast while others take a while. If that’s the case, knowing how to balance radiators could solve the problem, ensuring water from the boiler is distributed evenly.

Frame Corallo radiator, The Radiator Centre

(Image credit: The Radiator Centre)

Which radiators give out the best heat?

You might want to opt for cast iron or aluminum radiators for the best heat. ‘In terms of retaining heat, an old-school classic cast-iron radiator is a strong choice,’ says John Lawless, content marketing manager of BestHeating . ‘It is slow to get going, but it will hold on to its heat for a far longer period than steel or aluminum alternatives will, which helps efficiency as they can be turned off if at an appropriate temperature. Plus, because of the nature of the material, you will find a range of more ornate and detailed designs in cast iron than you will in any other range.

‘If you are looking for speed, aluminum radiators heat up the quickest. As a superconductor, aluminum is amongst the most effective materials for warming a space quickly and efficiently. However, as quickly as it heats up, it will cool down again just as fast, which could be considered a bad thing, but arguably makes it perfect for achieving the ideal ambient room temperature, too.’

Which radiators are most energy efficient?

Electric radiators are the most energy efficient. ‘With 100 per cent of power being converted into heat, electric radiators are more energy efficient,’ says Jordan Chance at PlumbNation .

However, bear in mind that when it comes to the energy bill for heating the whole of your home, it’s how much you pay for the fuel that powers the heating that counts. Where electricity is more expensive than the gas or oil that fuels a boiler then electric radiators could work out to be more expensive if used for every room.  

For plumbed-in radiators, you might want to opt for aluminum versions. ‘Designed to heat up quickly and run at a higher temperature than traditional materials, this makes them generally more cost-effective,’ says Jordan.

What are the best modern radiators?

Vertical radiators are a modern choice that many people have fallen for. ‘Sleek and contemporary or elegant and traditional, vertical radiators are dominating the market,’ says Jordan Chance. ‘Vertical radiators offer more than just a way to heat your home, they create a super stylish focal point too, especially the more decorative radiators.’

However, the beauty of modern radiators is there a huge variety of designs, sizes, and colors so you can select the one that best suits your room, as well as being energy efficient.

In general, radiators aren’t such a dominant feature of a room as they used to be. ‘Radiators have become far better at producing heat and consequently smaller,’ says Nick Duggan. ‘Heat from radiators is the result of “surface area”, with the greater the surface area the more heat, so a lot of research has gone into the design and manufacturing process in order to achieve this. ’

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor writing for websites, national newspapers, and magazines. She’s spent most of her journalistic career specialising in homes – long enough to see fridges become smart, decorating fashions embrace both minimalism and maximalism, and interiors that blur the indoor/outdoor link become a must-have. She loves testing the latest home appliances, revealing the trends in furnishings and fittings for every room, and investigating the benefits, costs and practicalities of home improvement. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house revamper. For Realhomes.com, Sarah reviews coffee machines and vacuum cleaners, taking them through their paces at home to give us an honest, real life review and comparison of every model.

Our best-selling radiators of 2021

Choosing a new set of radiators for your home is not a decision to be taken lightly. You need to think about whether you want to increase the heat output in each room, consider the best position for your rads and whether you want to go for a completely different design than you have done previously.

Once you’ve thought about these things, then you’re probably ready to take a look at all the different radiators available to buy and narrow it down to the ones you think are most suitable for your needs. To make things slightly easier and to give you a little food for thought, we thought we’d compile a list of some of the best-selling radiators our customers bought in 2021. We hope you’l find it inspiring!

#5 – Paladin Cast Iron Radiators

For those with vintage or period properties, cast iron radiators are an integral way of heating up their homes in a way that is authentic to the aesthetic of the building. With this in mind, it’s only natural that our Paladin cast iron rads have consistently proved to be very well-regarded by our customers.

Paladin are a well-known radiator manufacturer who take pride in their hand-built ‘casties’, using specialist designers to craft them. Because of their incredible attention to the smallest detail, Paladin have supplied radiators to some seriously important buildings, such as the Tate Modern and Somerset House in London.

All of our Paladin radiators are custom made and we work with our customers to ensure their specific requirements are fully adhered to, resulting in them getting a customised radiator completely tailored to exactly what they want. A focal point of any room, the intricate detail incorporated into Paladin designs will make your radiator be a real statement piece, adding the finishing touch to your room, while emitting a serious amount of heat.

View these radiators >>

#4 – Reina Neva Designer Radiators

If you’ve been thinking about ordering some sophisticated new radiators for your home, office or any other space in need of heat, then our Reina Neva radiators are among the finest designer rads you’ll find in our entire catalogue. Reina have a great reputation for building high quality radiators and the Neva range is no exception.

Reina Neva rads come in horizontal and vertical orientation, making them suitable for a variety of different places. It is worth noting that the horizontal versions of the Neva all come with a height of 550mm, which is the most common height for domestic radiators in the UK and is one of the reasons they’re so popular. This doesn’t always make them suitable for offices however, where heights required are often 300 – 400mm, so you may want to opt for the vertical Neva rads if looking to heat an office space.

Coming in white, anthracite or chrome (the most common colours for radiators), the Neva designer radiators all come with comprehensive 10 year guarantees and are available with free, fast delivery to all mainland UK addresses.

View these radiators >>

#3 – Trade Direct Chrome Heated Towel Rails

No list of our top-selling radiators would be complete without including our most-popular towel rail – our Trade Direct Rail finished in a stunning chrome. Our budget friendly chrome towel rails are a brilliant option for any bathroom in the home and are also becoming increasingly popular in kitchens and utility rooms.

Combining style with functionality and efficiency, these towel rails really are the full package. Coming with very affordable prices, and with several styles to choose from, it’s little wonder that are chrome rails are such a hit.

Available with curved or straight bars and in a huge selection of sizes, you’re sure to find the perfect heated towel rail for your bathroom in our Trade Direct range. Also available in black, anthracite and white, it’s the rail finished in mirror finish chrome plating that has continuously been a best-seller since our company was founded nearly two decades ago!

View these radiators >>

#2 – Trade Direct White Horizontal Column Radiators

Incredibly versatile in nature, these white column radiators, from our affordable Trade Direct range, are available in a fantastic array of sizes, enabling you to easily create a lovely sense of cohesion throughout your home. There’s literally a white column radiator to fit every room.

Suitable for both contemporary and traditional interiors, these horizontal beauties are a great way of introducing well-priced radiators into your space without compromising on style or quality. This is one of the reasons our Trade Direct Column Radiators continue to be such a popular purchase among our customers.

Available with the choice of 2, 3 or 4 column options, these classic column radiators can really pack a punch when it comes to emitting heat and means you can get considerable heat into all sorts of rooms and spaces. These rads also come in other colours and in a vertical orientation, but in terms of top-sellers, the horizontal white version of these column radiators are always the most popular.

View these radiators >>

#1 – White Convector Radiators

It’s perhaps not a surprise that our best-selling radiators of 2021 were our classic, standard white, convector radiators. Sometimes the oldies are the best and this certainly seems to be the case with many people still opting for convector radiators for their homes and, increasingly, buy-to-let properties.

While convector radiators have been installed in UK homes for decades, the quality of the modern ones are absolutely top notch. Improvements in radiator manufacturing technology means that new convector radiators are more powerful and energy efficient than ever before, important in these days of high household energy bills.

Here at Trade Radiators, we think our range of convector radiators is as good as you’ll find. With many sizes available from a variety of quality manufacturers, we’re certain you’ll find one that will perfectly match your space. Using our price match guarantee, we ensure that you won’t find a better convector radiator for a cheaper price. Free, fast delivery as well!

View these radiators >>

 

The BestHeating radiator buying guide

Contents

The radiator buyer’s guide

How To Select The Best & Most Efficient Radiators For Your Home

With over 190 million of them in UK homes, the humble radiator is a hard-working heating essential that can often get overlooked.

But not here at BestHeating!

In this new buying guide, we’ll give you the lowdown on selecting the right models for your home and take a look at the latest and most popular designs.

From bathrooms and studies, to kitchens, bedrooms, and lounges – to the now more important than ever, home office –  it’s the one you’ve been waiting for, the NEW BestHeating Radiator Buying Guide (sorry it’s been a while since the last one!).

Contents

A huge collection of radiator choices

You could be updating your existing heating or bringing a warm and cosy feeling to a space that doesn’t yet have it, but, whatever you are doing with your home’s heating, it’s only right that you know what the best radiators are.

If you are swapping out the boring metal box under your window and upgrading to a striking modern panel design, buying a new radiator is about understanding the practicalities of installation and selecting the best design.

• Do you need plumbed or electric radiators?
• Should you choose a horizontal or vertical design?
• Which is the best material for radiators – steel, cast iron or aluminium?
• What should the finish of the radiator be?

There are a lot of questions surrounding radiators that you might not ever think to ask!

With so much choice, it is vital that to get the sizing of your radiator right to ensure that your space is heated in the best way possible – but you want it to have a bit of style too!

So, let’s take a look at how to select the best, most efficient and stylish radiators on offer…

What different types of radiator are there?

When selecting a radiator, you will typically have to choose between plumbed or electric variations.

These may be direct replacements for existing appliances or as an extension to your current heating system.

You may even choose to add an electric radiator that works independently of your central heating – typically when heating a conservatory or extension.

This can often save on expensive installation costs and be a little more practical than pulling up floorboards to move pipework or trying to work out if your boiler can handle the extra load.

Alternatively, you may opt for dual fuel heating which combines electric and plumbed power sources to give you greater heating control when you need it.

There’s something to suit all budgets as well, with cheap designer radiators accompanied by the very same 20-year warranty as the most expensive available models. You can find out how to make sure you find the right budget rad in our guide, Cheap Designer Radiators: Too Good To Be True?

Let’s take a closer look at the different types you will find at BestHeating. com

Plumbed radiators

As you may expect, plumbed radiators make use of the hot water supplied by your boiler to produce a warm and comforting heat.

These radiators are usually controlled centrally as part of your central heating system.

It’s often very simple to swap out an old plumbed radiator for a new and more modern design, but if you are looking to add a plumbed radiator to your existing system – in addition to those you already have – you will have to consider the impact it will have on your boiler.

Plumbed radiators make up the bulk of the radiators in the BestHeating store.

Electric radiators

Working independently of your central heating, as their name suggests, electric radiators are powered by mains electricity.

Filled with an anti-corrosive, rust resistant heating solution, and heated by an element that is usually inserted into their base, electric radiators at BestHeating are both durable and efficient and should always be installed by a qualified electrician.

Available in a range of sizes and styles, these radiators are ideal for use during the summer months when you may only want to heat a single room and not the entire house.

Find out more about them in our guide to electric radiator sizing.

Dual fuel radiators

An intelligent and practical combination of both plumbed and electric variations, a dual fuel radiator features the same sort of heating element that an electric radiator has, but it is connected to your plumbed central heating too.

This allows for the radiator to be used as part of the entire central heating of your home, while also offering the independent functionality on offer with an electric design.

So, in winter, it works with the central heating and then in summer it can be isolated and used independently just like an electric radiator – perfect for bathrooms, shower spaces and conservatories.

Check out our ultimate dual fuel towel rail guide for more info.

Choosing the correct radiator size

When it comes to choosing the right size of radiator, many people use a simple BTU calculator like ours to work out their requirements.

But the materials used, the height and depth of the appliance and even the colour, can each have an impact on a radiator’s output.

For example: You could select a tall and thin designer radiator or a more standard compact design that is a little deeper and both may have similar outputs to one another.

Or, as an alternative, you could choose two radiators to meet your BTU calculation and use them as more practical decorative items in your room. 

To calculate your BTU requirements, use our BTU Calculator to guide you to the best choices and check out our helpful article on sizing radiators for an extra bit of advice.

BestHeating top tip

To heat any space in your home effectively and efficiently, choosing a radiator with the correct heat output is vital for the space.

For plumbed radiators, you need to look for the BTU output figures listed in the product specifications on every radiator or towel rail product page.

For electric, look for the wattage outputs. Every electric radiator product listing shows the wattage output of the element supplied with the radiator.

Calculate Your BTU Requirements

What materials are radiators made from?

Radiators are generally made from one of these four materials:

•   Cast Iron
•   Aluminium
•   Mild Steel
•   Stainless Steel

You may not think it at first, but the material that a radiator is made from can have an impact on its performance.

How quickly it heats up and how long heat is retained by the radiator, can all be affected by the material the appliance is constructed from.

But is there one radiator material that is better than the other?

Well, that depends on what you want and how much you would like to spend – you could say it’s  “radiator relative” (sorry).

Cast iron radiators

An “old-school” classic (quite literally in my old school), cast iron was a popular choice for home heating before modern home insulation became a thing people knew about.

It is slow to get going, but it will hold onto its heat for a far longer period than steel or aluminium alternatives will.

Plus, because of the nature of the material, you will find a range of more ornate and detailed designs in cast iron than you will in any other range.

Discover our extensive collection of cast iron radiators if you’re considering a touch of vintage styling for your home heating.Browse Cast Iron Radiators

Mild steel radiators

Low cost and incredibly common in home heating design, mild steel is a dependable and surefire winner when it comes to heating your home.

A durable material that has been around in radiator construction for over 50 years, mild steel features in a selection of both decorative designer radiator styles, as well as being the prominent material found in standard convector type radiators too.

Hardwearing and built to last, at BestHeating you will find that many mild steel radiators feature an industry-leading guarantee of up to 20 years. Discover Steel Radiators

Aluminium radiators

Of all the radiator materials there are, Aluminium is the one that heats up the quickest.

As a superconductor, Aluminium is amongst the most effective materials for warming a space quickly and efficiently.

That said, as quickly as it heats up, it will cool down again just as fast, which could be considered a bad thing, but arguably makes it perfect for achieving the ideal ambient room temperature too.

Lightweight and easy to install, an Aluminium radiator is perfect for installation on interior stud walls and will work in the same way that steel and cast iron radiators will.

Check out our full range or pay a trip to this article on why you should consider Aluminium rads! View Aluminium Radiators

Stainless steel radiators

As you’ll already be aware, if you take one look in your cutlery drawer, stainless steel is designed not to rust, making it the ideal material for radiators and towel rails.

Keeping its heat long after you switch off the power supply, stainless steel is usually used for bathroom radiators, for the obvious reason that you may often drape a damp towel over it and it won’t do any harm.

A strong and solid choice for a heated towel rail, the stainless steel radiators at BestHeating are constructed from Grade 304 stainless steel, making them amongst the very best quality items available.

Discover the range and add a touch of durable quality to your bathroom heating.Browse Towel Radiators

What styles of radiator are available?

Modern radiators feature a selection of styles for you to choose from, each with their own unique looks and designs.

There are several benefits (and drawbacks) to each – and a few variations to consider too – but at BestHeating you will find:

• Single & double panel convectors
• Single & double panel designer radiators
• Horizontal radiators
• Vertical radiators
• Traditional column radiators
• Heated towel radiators
• Coloured designer radiators
• Accessories

Convector radiators

Type 11 convector radiators

As the name suggests, these radiators feature a single panel that fills with water to heat your space. Known as Type 11 convector radiators, they are amongst the most common radiators in UK homes.

Alongside their single panel, they also feature a set of convector fins at the back that are designed to increase the surface area of your radiator and help to raise its heat output. 

You can learn more about Type 11 convectors in our handy guide.

Type 21 & 22 convector radiators

Again, the clue to these radiators is in the name – double panel. 

Double panel convector radiators have an additional panel that sits behind the other and they come in two variations – Type 21 (two panels & one set of fins) & Type 22 (two panels and two sets of fins).

Visit our expert convector radiator guide, to discover more about the difference between these types of convector radiators.

Single panel designer radiators

Working in just the same way as the radiators above, single panel designer radiators are often called flat panel radiators. 

These radiators usually feature a set of flat individual columns that are filled with hot water or – in the case of our electric radiators – heating solution.

Though some styles can be more oval or round shaped – and some are just a big single panel all on its own – single panel designer radiators are designed to be slimline and help to make the most of a room’s available space.

Double panel designer radiators

Simply put, a double panel designer radiator is just two single panels stacked beside one another – providing approximately twice the heat output as the single style.

Sticking out from the wall a little more than single panel radiators, double panel designer rads are also much heavier because they contain around twice as much water. 

This is why you will sometimes see double panel radiators that feature radiator feet. 

These can help to brace the radiator and take pressure off the wall on which you choose to install the appliance.

Horizontal radiators

The standard radiator shape and style. 

Wider than they are taller in shape and most commonly found under windows – as that is usually the coldest part of the room – horizontal radiators have been a mainstay of domestic home heating for some time.  

All Type 11, 21 & 22 radiators are horizontal in shape and there is a huge range of affordable designer horizontal radiators available too. 

If you are simply swapping out a dated older radiator for a modern design, in terms of style and practicality, this shape is definitely the safest option. 

They tend to be a little less expensive than vertical radiator designs and feature a range of finishes, to complement a range of interior design schemes.

Vertical radiators

Not as common, but definitely growing in popularity all the time, vertical radiators are the kind that are taller than they are wide. 

Great for saving space and often functioning as a decorative centrepiece rather than just to heat a space, vertical radiators are considered by some to be more like a piece of furniture than an appliance that warms your home. 

With a wide variety of shapes and sizes available, here at BestHeating, we have one of the largest online collections of designer vertical radiators on the market.  

From a range of manufacturers, including – Milano, Lazzarini & Terma – the depth and quality of designs available mean that, whatever space you are looking to bring heat to, there is a vertical radiator that will be ideal for the job.

Traditional column radiators

Including both steel and cast iron styles, these vintage look column radiators may evoke feelings of an era long since past, but they are equally adept at adding style and value to a more modern home too. 

The Milano Windsor range is all steel and is available in both horizontal and vertical designs to suit your space, with finishes ranging from white & matt black to anthracite grey & raw metal lacquer. 

These radiators come in two, three or four column designs and as you may expect, the larger the size, the higher the heat output and more space they will take up in your room.

For a more adventurous look, the Windsor range also features a selection of dramatic metallic finishes too, including copper, brushed gold and silver designs that will create a hyper-stylised focal point in any space.  

If it’s a Georgian restoration project you are undertaking – or if you just love the period look – the ornate detailing and evocative styles of our cast iron collection could be just the ticket for your home.

Discover more about Beatrix, Tamara & Alice to find out why our cast iron rads are amongst the best cast iron solutions on the market.

Heated towel radiators

Heated towel radiators – or heated towel rails if you prefer – are specifically designed to heat your bathroom, ensuite or cloakroom space. 

So called for their ability to accommodate towels, these durable radiators offer much in terms of style and practicality, with a range of sizes and shapes to suit your bathroom heating needs.

From tall ladder styles to more compact traditional designs, the options are many and varied.

Finishes range from standard chrome to brushed gold and oil-rubbed bronze and feature several profiles depending on your requirements. 

Most designs are available in plumbed, electric and dual fuel variations and many feature warranties of up to 10 years too! 

Discover the full heated towel rail collection, or check out our ultimate heated towel rail guide for some extra inspiration and info.

Coloured designer radiators

For an entirely different and bold approach to heating your home, coloured designer radiators offer a vibrant and unusual alternative to standard radiator designs. 

With several colours on offer, there is a finish to suit almost any taste and finishes that are perfect for children’s bedrooms, man caves and more eccentric office spaces too.

At BestHeating, you will find the Milano Aruba and Capri ranges feature these coloured designs, and despite what you may think, they have proved very popular since their appearance in our store a year or two ago.

Horizontal and Vertical installations are available, and if you are struggling to decide exactly which colour you should choose for your home, why not take our test to see which one suits your personality best?

Radiator accessories

You could be forgiven for thinking that a radiator has no need for accessories, but there are a number of additions that could enhance the look and functionality of the appliance.  

From robe hooks to towel bars and even covers to hide your ugly convector radiator, there are several clever ways to save space and enhance the look of both new and old radiator designs alike. 

Add a touch of authenticity to your cast iron radiator with a specially designed wall stay, or heat your bathroom with a vertical radiator that features a stylish chrome towel rail attachment. 

At BestHeating, you’ll discover an array of radiator accessories to help you make the most of your home’s heating.

Do I need radiator valves too?

The short answer is, yes you do!

Radiator valves can help control the output of radiators in individual rooms and without them, all the water would come out of the radiator and ruin your floor!

Controlling a radiator’s output can be done manually with standard radiator valves, or remotely with Smart or Connected valves. 

You will also find a selection of thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) too – they are the ones with the numbers on – that are a little more complex than your basic manual valves.  

Find out more about TRVs in our helpful guide, or read on to get a basic overview of each of the valves you will discover at BestHeating.

Manual radiator valves

As the name suggests, manual valves are operated manually by hand. 

These are the most basic valves available and work in a very similar way to a tap – lefty loosey, righty tighty sort of a thing. 

You’ll find an array of both contemporary and traditional manual radiator valves at BestHeating.

Thermostatic radiator valves

A TRV is a “self-regulating” radiator valve – meaning it pretty much takes care of itself and the heat output of your radiator.

It does this by sensing the ambient temperature of the air in a room and adjusting the flow of water into your radiator to ensure the temperature remains constant.

TRVs feature several numbers on a dial on the head of the valve. These are to allow you to adjust your TRV by hand to limit the output of your radiator. 

Discover our range of TRVs and learn more about them in our guide to TRVs.

Smart radiator valves

When compared to standard manual and thermostatic radiator valves, Smart valves are a little more advanced and help to create something known as zoned heating. 

This means that as well as being able to operate them manually, they are also connected to a Wi-Fi hub and can be controlled via a smart tablet, phone or other device.

They also feature a range of other functions too, such as open window detection, geo-location (that can ready your home heating when you’re on the way home) and scheduling, allowing you to be in complete control of your home’s heating, wherever you are. 

Learn more about Smart heating kits and Smart valves with the help of our ultimate BestHeating guide.

Radiators for every room of your home

No matter what room you’re looking to improve, at BestHeating it is our mission to help you to transform your habitat and bring warmth, comfort and style to any space.

From your living room “lairs” and kitchen “grazing grounds” to “cosy bedroom dens” and the “tranquil wetlands” of your bathroom, we have a heating solution to suit any style or taste.

So let’s take a look at the options for the different rooms of your home.

The living room radiator?

If you’re like most people, much of your time at home will be spent in the living room.

From curling up in front of the TV to having an afternoon nap – whether you call it the living room, lounge or sitting room – the chances are you spend most of your leisure time there.

Because of that, it’s only right to make the space sing with style and panache and have a real sense of homeliness about it.

And what better, more functional way is there to achieve a goal like that, than with a designer radiator?

Vertical designer radiators make a big style statement regardless of the room you put them in, but in the sitting room they are especially grand and bold and help to maximise space.

Radiators were historically placed under windows to help release heat into the room, but modern vertical radiators with high outputs can adequately heat a space without having to ride on the back of any draught from a window.

If you’re not keen on a vertical radiator, you could easily swap out your old convector for a fresh modern horizontal designer radiator instead.

Keeping your radiator where it is – and improving its style – means spending less on a plumber and a new horizontal radiator will help to add an attractive finishing touch to your living room lair.

Check out our living room radiators guide for advice on transforming your living room lair.

The bedroom radiator?

A high-quality bedroom radiator could be the difference between starting your day in a warm and welcoming mood or shivering under the covers not wanting to face anyone.

As the first and last thing you see each morning, it makes sense to have a good-looking bedroom radiator staring back at you, don’t you think? We do!

In your bedroom, don’t think that you have to stick with layout of your existing pipework.

Where the pipes currently are shouldn’t automatically dictate the position of your bedroom radiator – if it isn’t working where it is, move it!

A shift from one side of the room to another could free up valuable floor space for furniture and potentially make the room more economical to heat.

Another thing to consider for your bedroom heating is an electric radiator.

Easier to install and requiring less maintenance, an electric designer radiator offers a little more flexibility and control of temperature – making them the perfect bedroom heating solution.

Space saving vertical radiators help to make even the smallest bedroom appear bigger, while cast iron and steel column designs are perfect for vintage style lovers.

If contemporary is more your thing, combine form and functionality with a mirrored designer radiator and kill two birds with the single proverbial stone.

Whatever your style, our collection features a range of designs and finishes to complement any bedroom space and help you add a wow factor to your “Cosy Den”.

The bathroom radiator?

Your bathroom radiator needs to keep towels warm and dry and enhance the fixtures and fittings that you already have in your “Tranquil Wetlands”.

Of course, if you’re a little bit ‘out there’ you could go for something that’s a huge departure from the norm; but generally, your bathroom radiator or heated towel rail is an extension of your other brassware.

Vintage style classics include the Milano Derwent and Elizabeth collections, both designed to add a touch of warmth and authenticity to a traditionally styled bathroom space.

While lovers of a more modern approach may opt for the matt black delights of the Nero range; combining a dark finish with long-lasting durability, to create a striking look that stands the test of time.

Nothing beats stepping out of the bath or shower to be greeted by a warm and welcoming towel, and whether it’s a compact en-suite or a grand master bathroom, everybody wants a stylish heated towel rail to be on hand to provide it.

With both dual fuel and electric powered options available, you can have greater control over your bathroom heating then ever before.

To learn more about finding the very best bathroom radiators, check out our top 7 towel rails!

The kitchen radiator?

Kitchens have become the focal point of many a modern family home. Contemporary kitchens are now designed for families to cook with one another and to help bring people together in one space for entertaining.

Though usually the warmest room in the house – because of the oven and hob – you’ll still want to keep your kitchen heated in the winter when the temperature drops, so a durable kitchen radiator is a must for any “Grazing Grounds”.

Luckily for you, there are a huge number of options available that will add a touch of style and elegance to your kitchen and still provide you with the warmth that you’ll need when the days start to get a little shorter.

A small kitchen might not be the biggest heating challenge you’ll ever face, but finding somewhere for your rad to go – what with all the worktops, cupboards and appliances to contend with – can be quite difficult.

Thankfully there are stylish, compact heating solutions available that will give you the heat that you need and help to add an impressive design touch to your space too; turning a once bland bit of warm metal into a statement-making piece of kit.

As you would expect, a large kitchen will require a radiator with a much higher heat output, but modern designs mean that you don’t need to look at an over-sized radiator to adequately heat the space.

Newer radiators combine seamless functionality with intelligent design, so you can make the most of the styles on offer regardless of the size and shape of your kitchen space.

Discover a selection of affordable kitchen radiators and learn how you can make the most of your kitchen with our ultimate kitchen heating guide.

Other people’s radiators?

So, now we’ve given you all the radiator information you can handle, let’s take a look at how some of our customers have transformed their heating habitats with the help of BestHeating.

John Lawless

John trained in journalism before finding his way to the BestHeating Advice Centre team. He uses his journalism skills to meticulously research heating topics and bring you the latest news and views on all things home heating related. He’ll also beat you at any sport that involves a cue!

8 Best Designer Radiators to Elevate Your Lifestyle (2022 Buying Guide)

If you’re on the market for a designer radiator, chances are good you’re either replacing an old clunker or renovating the room entirely. But don’t worry, getting a suitable upgrade doesn’t have to cost you dearly. In fact, there is an abundance of super-stylish radiators which absolutely belt heat. And today, we’re taking a look at eight of the very best.

Table of Contents

• 8 Best Designer Radiators on the Market
• Designer Radiators FAQs
• Conclusion

8 Best Designer Radiators on the Market

Comparison shopping can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be.

Below, we’ve pared down the wide marketplace to what we believe are the eight best designer radiators for any home or budget. While we stand by our top recommendation as the overall best, we’ve grouped the remaining models according to type: vertical, towel rail, horizontal, cast-iron style, and electric panel.

Without further ado, the top 8 designer radiators:

1. NRG Vertical Oval Column Radiator

NRG are a dominant force on the market due to their exceptional line of designer column radiators. The best-selling of all are their vertical oval column models, which produce impressive amounts of heat, boast superior efficiency, and flexibly fit into (and enhance) most any home décor.

Aesthetics

Unlike the cast-iron radiators of yore, NRG’s line of vertical column rads bears a refined look. Instead of pitting and mottling, you get a smooth anthracite or white powder coated finish. Not only does this wear hard, resisting both corrosion and yellowing alike, but it provides an amazing opportunity to add a touch of modern elegance to any room.

We also particularly like the design of the bars themselves, which are a sort of flat-ish oval. While these do call back to older style radiators, they shed the visual bulk and rustic dishevelment for a truly designer aesthetic. From a distance, the flattened ovals present themselves almost as panels, lending the NRG an understated chameleonic quality.

NRG were smart to keep things slim as well; whether you buy the smallest model or require something rather larger, they remain conservative in their usage of your wall space. Visually, it’s easy to balance an NRG with wall decorations and surrounding furniture. They provide a distinct presence, without dominating the space.

An interior decorator would find this all immensely handy, enabling aesthetic creativity to run free.

Performance

For all their virtues as a product manufacturer, NRG are surprisingly tight-lipped on just how much heat their radiators produce. We only know the endpoints, with the smallest column rad (1600 x 236mm, 4 bars in a single row) weighing in somewhere north of 2000 BTU; and the largest (1800 x 590mm, 20 bars in a double row) belting close to 11500 BTU.

On the plus side, there are 15 models to choose from; it’s fairly easy to do some rough calculations to pick which one is the best fit for the size of room it will occupy.

Regardless of which model you end up with, rest easier knowing that NRG builds their radiators to last. Occupying a modest price point, these radiators further justify your investment with significant long-term savings relative to other types of space heaters. They’re made of low-conductance 1.5mm mild steel, which offer similar heat retention to cast-iron but warm up more quickly.

Tips and final thoughts

In summation, we categorically recommend NRG’s amazing line of designer oval column radiators. There’s a tonne of choices to fit any room, and you can get truly great heat production without spending a fortune. Moreover, NRG builds their products solidly with durable materials and triple-layered finishing. Your return is further guaranteed with a 15-year manufacturer warranty.

Check price on Amazon

2. Elegant Vertical Single Oval Column Radiator with Mirror

UK-based heating company Elegant Showers produce designer rads that truly live up to the brand’s namesake. Their mirrored vertical single oval column radiator (say that five times fast) is a particularly alluring pick–so long as your space is around 55 sq. ft.

Aesthetics

While there are plenty of radiators with a mirrored chrome finish, very few actually incorporate a full-length mirror directly into the design. But that’s precisely what we have from Elegant.

This mirror provides a satisfyingly angular complement to the organic curves of the oval radiator bars. Set in twin rows of three, they not only provide a comforting heat but form an attractive frame to the mirror in their midst. Overall, it’s a bit difficult to pin Elegant’s column rad to a single style, which definitely works to its advantage.

Whether you’ve got a retro-themed living space in need of an Art Deco accent, or you’re planning a new build or renovation, Elegant’s mirrored radiator provides an ideal focal point. Install it directly on the wall, or have it rise up from a floor mounting–the choice is yours.

Moreover, you can further customise your purchase with the choice of a titanium white or anthracite finish. Not only does this provide exceptional durability to the radiator, it adds a smooth matte texture for that modern touch.

Performance

While we could fawn over the Elegant vertical mirror column rad’s appearance all day, the real star of the show is its core functionality. Constructed from low carbon steel, the Elegant is highly responsive to your central heating system, warming up quickly to banish chilly air post-haste.

However, it still works well to retain heat–even after you’ve cut the thermostat off. The Elegant literally radiates at a slow burn, producing a comforting, gentle warmth that is friendly to people with allergies. Moreover, it saves a bundle on total power consumption in the long term.

Sadly, Elegant doesn’t produce their vertical mirrored column radiator in more than one size, which is 1800 x 500mm. The nominal heat output is 2750 BTU, which is best suited to warming rooms up to 55 sq. ft. Admittedly, this is a good range to occupy considering the average living spaces in the UK. But still, it’d be nice to have more options with the mirror.

In terms of durability, you really won’t have much to worry over with the Elegant; they’ve tested this model up to 10 bar of pressure, ensuring minimal risk of leaks and ruptures forming through normal use. If that’s not enough value for money, Elegant ship their mirror rads with an amazing 25-year guarantee.

Tips and final thoughts

Oval column radiators offer perhaps the best balance of aesthetics and performance, and Elegant makes some of the best on the market. Their designer line of vertical radiators is sure to elevate the style of your room, producing a gentle, natural heat all the while.

But the integrated mirror really puts this model over the top. We love the seamless blend of form and function, and we’re confident you will too. Use it as a centrepiece to your room, or as a bold accent.

We just narrowly decided against giving the Elegant our top recommendation due to the fact that only one single size is available with the mirror. If your room is 55 sq. ft. or thereabouts, get this one over the NRG.

Check price on Amazon

3. Requena Luxury Towel Rail Radiator

Form meets function in grand display in Requena’s luxurious towel rail radiator. It produces outstanding heat, yet lends your bathroom a sophisticated air all without breaking the bank.

Aesthetics

The Requena doesn’t so much break the mould of towel rad aesthetics as it refines them. Getting up close, you’ll first notice the deep lustre of the chrome plated finish. This is the finish of choice for those seeking a distinctly modern vibe; but moreover it resists corrosion exceptionally well, lending itself to heavy usage over a long period of time. It’s not just skin-deep either; Requena use a special 6-layered plating process that means the quality runs deep.

Also notable is what you don’t see; namely the weld joints holding the rails to the pipes. Sure, many people are perfectly happy with radiators with visible welds. But it drives home the level of quality when you see the care that went into the Requena’s literal seamless construction. Adding to this sense are gracefully bevelled edges you just want to run your fingers over for the sheer joy of premium tactility.

All total, there are seven sizes to choose from, running from 800x500mm to 1600×600. All models share the same slim-line depth of just 30mm. The number of towel rails range from 10 all the way up to 22–great if you need a lot of heat or just have a large family’s-worth of towels.

Performance

Requena’s designer line of towel radiators put out a respectable amount of heat, ranging from 680 BTU to 1651 BTU. Considering the average bathroom size in the UK is around 47 sq. ft., this is admittedly on the lower end of the spectrum as far as radiators go. Throughout the house, you generally want 50 BTU per square foot, so some back-of-napkin calculations suggest the Requena falls short.

But keep one thing in mind: most bathrooms do still benefit from the central heating system. Moreover, they are relatively slow to lose heat being so small. Thus, when you consider the Requena as a supplement or extension of your central heating system, it comes to life as a truly viable, attractive option.

The Requena designer towel rad installs easily into any standard UK combi boiler, heat pump, or tank fed heating system. While it is quick to heat up and disperse heat, it also retains thermal energy quite well. We can easily recommend the Requena as an economical option that will greatly increase your comfort without greatly increasing your power bill.

Tips and final thoughts

As with most manufacturers, Requena doesn’t ship valves with their towel radiator. We recommend you go for a thermostatic valve, which will give you a level of control over the total output of the radiator. There are plenty out there that will match the Requena’s lovely chrome finish, so just shop around.

Additionally, Requena is compatible with electric heating elements, allowing you to enjoy toasty warm towels even when you haven’t got the central heating on. This is also sold separately, but the added flexibility is well-worth your consideration.

The only complaint we can come up with is that the wall fittings seem a little inconsistent. Some work exactly as they should, whilst others are a bit loose. Considering the extremely affordable price point, exceptional good looks, and efficient usage, we’re not too bothered by this possibility, and we doubt you will be either.

Check price on Amazon

4. WarmeHaus Juva Flat Panel Towel Rail Radiator

Headquartered in Manchester, WarmeHaus are a household name in home heating. Their Juva line of flat panel towel rads are yet another of their popular product offerings, sure to elevate your bathroom décor while keeping your towels toasty warm.

Aesthetics

WarmeHaus bill this designer towel radiator as “minimalist”, and it’s hard to argue with that description. Unlike the towel rads of yore, you’ll see no connective nuts or bolts, just a simple, elegant façade adorned by perfectly manufactured flat panels. While it certainly leans modern in its aesthetics, it can easily fit into most styles of bathroom.

There are three finishes available: semi-gloss white, matte anthracite grey, and a vibrant mirrored chrome. Of the three, the chrome Juva is perhaps the most luxurious–though it is also the most expensive by a fair margin. Nevertheless, you get what you pay for: a contemporary, functional installment which, by some wizardry of manufacturing, manages to stay clear of smudges, scratches, and corrosion with ease.

Indeed, Juva owners report high satisfaction with their designer radiator retaining its panache, even through heavy usage. And after all, towel rads aren’t meant to be museum pieces so much as daily drivers!

Performance

We review a lot of different types of heaters on this site, and WarmeHaus are absolutely no strangers to our “best-of” lists. Each of their designer towel radiators puts out an impressive amount of heat for their size. This is thanks in large part to the design of the flat panels which provide plenty of radiant surface area.

The smallest Juva measures 650 x 400mm, has space for two towels, and with 7 radiator bars outputs a respectable 1009 BTU. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the largest Juva measures 1800 x 600mm, offers four towel slots, and belches up to 3754 BTU from its 19 bars. Truly, there’s a WarmeHaus designer heating solution for any size bathroom!

Got high mains pressure? Not to worry, as WarmeHaus have stress tested the Juva up to 10 bar, though a maximum of 7 bar is recommended. This means that with proper installation, pressures spikes and water hammers won’t cause ruptures or cracks to form, as there’s plenty of safe margin. Moreover, you’ll get the most out of your modest investment with a radiator that really lasts.

Tips and final thoughts

Fitting the Juva is a simple matter. It’s fairly lightweight due to its mild steel construction, and ships with all the necessary mounting hardware. In terms of installation, you can mount it easily yourself, provided you have the valves to hand and the piping is already in place. The fittings are sturdy, and offer enough adjustable wiggle room to make wall-mounting a drama-free affair.

As always, however, we recommend you hire a professional if you’re not 100% sure you’ll get the job done right. After all, if you can prove you went with a licensed plumber, WarmeHaus will be all the more willing to honour their 10-year warranty.

Check price on Amazon

5. WarmeHaus Designer Horizontal Oval Column Radiator

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re living inside a Kubrick film, consider WarmeHaus’ horizontally orientated oval column radiator. All jokes aside; these are excellent designer radiators for anyone in need of maximum heat production at a reasonable cost.

Aesthetics

While it’s got a designer aesthetic, the WarmeHaus remains accessible to UK home décor at large due to smart styling and proportions, with just the right colour options. To the former point, oval columns are simply more aesthetically flexible than any other style. The borrow the sleek, platonic appearance of flat panels, then soften the visual edge with organic curves.

To the latter, WarmeHaus offer two attractive colour finishes to choose from. The first is a milk white, which complements earth tones quite nicely. A second option is their Sand Grey, which is like a lighter anthracite with a smooth matte finish that is a joy to touch.

In either case, you can count on your WarmeHaus’ finish to wear hard and withstand corrosion and abrasion. That means your designer radiator should stay looking “designer” without having to baby it!

Performance

Comparing oval panel heaters to truly flat models, the oval comes out ahead in terms of heat production. Given the same overall horizontal and vertical dimensions, you’ll find oval radiators fit more columns into the same space as their flat counterparts. Moreover, their shape allows for more radiant surface area, to the tune of about 24% greater output.

Consider also how even amongst WarmeHaus’ own catalogue, their designer oval column radiators are cheaper than their flat panel versions. This means pound for pound, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more effective heating solution, especially if space constraints are in play.

The smallest single-row model runs 600 x 414mm, producing 1035 BTU; while the largest double does a whopping 7420 BTU using 600 x 1594mm of space. There are 14 models to occupy all sizes and outputs in between, so you can make the choice the best fits your room without having to compromise.

Tips and final thoughts

If you’re not 100% sure which designer oval column radiator to get, keep in mind that the double-row models put out about just under 86% more heat than their single-rowed counterparts. Thus, if you’re short on wall space but have a large room you need to warm, you’ll be well-served by a double.

As we’ve previously mentioned, WarmeHaus have something of a unicorn with this range in terms of pure value for money. You’ll get a tonne of heat for your sterling, and it will continue to operate efficiently without spiking your power bill.

Aesthetically, oval radiators can really fit into any home, though we must admit the powder coat finishes are a cut above the rest with WarmeHaus. And backed by a 10-year guarantee, you can count on getting the full return for your investment.

Check price on Amazon

6. WarmeHaus Designer Horizontal Flat Panel Radiator

WarmeHaus have earned yet another spot on our list of the best designer radiators with their range of horizontal flat panel rads. Offering high heat output in a handsome, futuristic package, it’s hard to argue with their value proposition.

Aesthetics

WarmeHaus are here to prove that “minimalist” isn’t just empty marketing-speak. Their designer flat panel radiator protrudes barely 8.5cm from the wall, conserving your precious space and looking great doing it. We particularly like how the piping is well-hid behind those bold 60mm panels–it strikes a futuristic pose suggesting a chic new normal where bulky appliances are reduced to their most platonic shapes, then hovered in midair for good effect.

Editorial speculation aside, WarmeHaus offer their designer horizontal rad in polished chrome, gloss white, or a matte sand grey (sort of a lighter anthracite). That means there’s a model to fit most home décor–even if it doesn’t have a Jetsons aesthetic. At 600mm tall, it fits cleanly beneath most standard window sills, allowing you to make better use of space that would otherwise go to waste.

Performance

With 15 configuration and size variants, WarmeHaus are clearly not to be outdone when it comes to sheer consumer choice. These range across both single and double-column radiators, from a mere 410mm wide all the way out to 1430mm. The smallest single rad outputs 1012 BTU, while the largest double impresses with 6490 BTU.

So, when selecting your WarmeHaus designer radiator, consider the heat requirements for the size of your room. Then, weigh that against the available wall space. As a general rule of thumb, the double-column variants put out 83% more BTUs than a single of the same dimensions. For reference, the 600 x 750mm single and the 600 x 410mm double offer equivalent performance (and occupy the same price point). Thus, across WarmeHaus’ full line, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Owners praise their WarmeHaus radiators for exceptionally even heat dispersal, quiet operation with no knocking or banging, and a durable finish which retains its good looks for years upon years. Even with high-pressure mains, you can count on your designer rad to continue working admirably, having been safety tested up to 10 bar.

Tips and final thoughts

As with any hydronic heater, we suggest you hire a plumber to install your WarmeHaus unless you’ve already got the valves perfectly in place from a previous unit. The good news, plumbers always find these radiators particularly easy to fit, allowing for quicker installations and lower overall bills.

Overall, the WarmeHaus designer panel rad is eye-catching, and tends to work more as a focal point for the room, rather than just another accent. You only need minimal clearance about the unit, so feel free to flex your interior decorating muscles dressing up the space around it.

Buy in full confidence from a trusted UK brand, with their solid 10-year no-questions warranty.

Check price on Amazon

7. NRG Traditional Colosseum Cast Iron Style Radiator

While “designer” is often synonymous with “modern”, there’s still plenty of love for traditional aesthetics among interior designers and home renovators. If you’re looking for a touch of the old world, you’ll be well-pleased with NRG’s colosseum cast-iron style column radiator.

Aesthetics

True cast-iron radiators are not only expensive, they have a rough-hewn look due to their porous material, which often presents a mottled, uneven appearance. The charm is undeniable, but it doesn’t fit every décor by a long shot.

So, if you’re looking for a way to get that old-world styling but with a bit more refinement, NRG’s colosseum radiator is a smart pick. Made of highly workable SPCC dead mild steel, NRG are able to accurately mould the intricate lines of double and triple columns without excessive manufacturing cost. Moreover, the process yields clean lines, lending this traditional aesthetic a modern elegance.

NRG are also well-known for their impeccable finishes; in this case they’ve gone for a matte anthracite, though titanium white is also available. In either case, the powder coating is resilient enough to withstand years of wear and tear, and will never lose its colouring or go dull.

Performance

NRG may offer affordably priced designer radiators, but they never compromise on performance. Indeed, their choice of material and general design chops yield a highly efficient radiator. While SPCC will never hold heat as well as cast iron, it’s really even necessary in most modern home environments unless you have truly cavernous rooms which require continuous heating.

And even if you do have a large home, there’s an NRG radiator to fit. Available in 12 total combinations of sizes and column configurations, you can truly choose the radiator which best matches your BTU and space requirements.

Sizes run from 600 x 425mm to 600 x 1460mm, producing a range of heat outputs from just under 2000 BTU to well over 10000 BTU. If you find you don’t have the wall space for a suitably sized double column rad, you can size down twice and opt for a triple to get roughly the same performance. Just keep in mind that NRG’s triples output roughly 40% more than their double-column counterparts.

Tips and final thoughts

This is a floor-mounted radiator which comes with all the necessary hardware, though you’ll need to have your own 15mm valves to hand to complete installation. Do keep in mind that the inlet is on the left and outlet on the right when deciding where and how to position this radiator.

In closing, we can easily recommend NRG’s designer colosseum radiator for anyone looking for a modern take on a classic design. It should prove not only stylish, but reliable in keeping your home nice and warm.

Just remember that most manufacturers, NRG included, are quicker to honour warranties when you can prove installation was competently done. The best way to do that is by hiring a professional plumber. After all, 15 years’ guarantee is nothing to sneeze at!

Check price on Amazon

8. Adax Neo Modern Designer Electric Panel Radiator

Rounding out our list of the best designer radiators, we present something a bit different: The Neo Modern from Norwegian designer Adax.

Aesthetics

True to its name, the Neo Modern definitely brings a heaping dose of modernity to any room. With a single, unbroken panel with a white or black metallic sheen, Adax heaters absolutely radiate that clean minimalist Nordic aesthetic. There’re no bright lights or unsightly buttons to interrupt the façade either; just a single, minimalist LCD display to help you operate the controls

The Neo Modern really is a feat of engineering, fitting an incredible array of heating technology into a lithe form. It measures just under 9cm thick, and projects barely more from the wall once mounted. Each model is the same 37cm high, but varies in length according to the power output (from 71cm to 140cm).

Overall, the Neo is incredibly attractive, and due to its permissive dimensions can easily fit anywhere in the house. It’s not so much a focal point as it is an accent to your décor, and is really meant to blend in seamlessly rather than stand out.

Please note the 3-pin plug exits to the right of the radiator.

Performance

While electric radiators are not as efficient as their hydronic counterparts for continuous usage, Adax have a few tricks up their sleeve to lower your power bill. The foremost of these is the adaptive start function, which “learns” what time it needs to start warming up the room to reach the temperature you’ve set precisely at the time you’ve set it.

It accounts for time of day, room size, and even human activity within the room to calculate this incredible convenience. That means you waste zero time and energy getting the comfort you desire. And, thanks to the 24/7 programmable thermostat, the Neo Modern shuts off when you won’t be needing it, further conserving the energy consumed.

Need more? Consider the open window recognition system, which does precisely what it sounds like it does. Whenever you open the window, hot air rushes out, and a “dumb” electric thermostat will kick into overdrive in an attempt to compensate for the sudden drop in temperature. This can cause dangerous overheating, and wasted energy besides.

Instead, the Adax Neo Modern can tell the sudden drop is due to a window, and will shut off to prevent an overreaction. Once it senses the room is sealed up again, it begins dutifully refilling the room with warm air.

The Neo also protects itself and you through the use of a child lock, anti-frost mode, and overheat protection. The fan blows whisper-quiet, and the convected heat is quite gentle on allergy sufferers.

Choose between 800W, 1000W, 1200W, 1400W, and 2000W (6828 BTU) models to fit your room size.

Tips and final thoughts

For all its virtues, the Adax Neo Modern is not without its criticisms–however minor. Users sometimes report that programming the thermostat isn’t as intuitive as it could be, and this is where the minimalist design does work to its disadvantage somewhat. You’ve got to follow the instructions closely, as the interface has no visual real estate to spare on walking you through the process.

Other than that, though, the Adax is a user-friendly designer radiator. You don’t even need to hire professional help to handle installation. The mounting bracket is quite simple to hang even with modest DIY experience, and all but the largest models are light enough for one person to handle with ease. Just make sure you don’t install it in the bathroom, as the Neo Modern only has an IP20 rating (good for keeping dust and fingers out, moisture not so much).

If you have kids, you’ll appreciate the child lock, and the fact that the maximum surface temperature only reaches 75°C. This is due to smart design from Adax, which isolates the aluminium heating element from the exterior.

In summation: If you’re looking for an extremely stylish, highly efficient electric radiator with that designer flair, check out Adax’s Neo Modern. It’s made in the EU, and comes backed by a 5-year warranty, making your investment all the more sensible.

Check price on Amazon

Designer Radiators FAQs

Comparison shopping can be overwhelming. Not only do you need to compare the various features of all the different models, but you have to consider where and how the radiator will be used in your home.

To help you make the most cost-effective selection, we answer a few of your most frequently asked questions about designer radiators below.

Are designer radiators any good for heat production, or are they primarily for aesthetics?

Much has been made in reviews (just like this one) about the aesthetic benefits of designer radiators. But how do they actually stack up against the wider market of radiator solutions? Do they give good heat, or do they sacrifice performance for looks?

Believe it or not, you don’t actually need a tonne of bulk to produce a great radiator. In fact, slim-line designer rads make for some of the most efficient heating solutions out there. In place of sheer mass and bulk, designer radiator manufacturers typically opt for smarter design geometry to maximise the physics of radiant heat surfaces. This means more even, consistent heating while using less energy.

Moreover, designer rads radiators are not so tightly bound by tradition, and typically consist of more modern materials. These allow you to really pick and choose how you want your radiator to perform.

Are designer radiators efficient?

Whereas cast iron is always slow but steady (sometimes excruciatingly so), designer radiators can mimic cast-iron’s efficiency on the one hand, while ranging all the way to highly conductive materials on the other for more intense heat production.

We always recommend you use the right tool for the job, so being able to tailor your radiator purchase is a massive advantage in the long-term. Remember, cast-iron may be the most efficient overall, but it might not be the most efficient choice for your specific use-case. Designer radiators allow you to choose the perfect solution for your needs, regardless of space constraints

Does it matter which way you install the radiator?

Despite their symmetrical appearance, most designer radiators do indeed have a set top and bottom. That means unless it specifically says so, your rad will not tolerate installation into any orientation other than right-side up. It’s not just that it won’t heat properly or at all, but it may risk rupturing or damage to your central heating system.

Similarly, be very aware of the fact that most radiators do have a set inlet and outlet; that is to say they are not usually ambidextrous. The reason for this is that most rads will have restrictors on the inside which direct the flow of water in a very specific direction. If you go counter to this intended motion, damage can easily occur.

So if you want a radiator which hangs vertically on your wall, get a vertical rad, rather than turning a horizontal one 90°. And, when it does come time for install, ensure you know your inlet from your outlet; there should be stickers or etchings indicating which is which.

How can I prevent damage to my designer radiator?

The number-one enemy of any hydronic heater is corrosion, which can afflict both the interior and exterior of your radiator. Here’s what you can do to take care your radiator.

Exterior

Most designer manufacturers use durable plating or powder coating finishing processes for their radiators, but they can still wear thin or become marred with time. Say for example an unfortunate trip or collision scratches the paint of your radiator, then the metal beneath is now open to oxidization.

The fix for bare patches is actually pretty simple: just apply a lick of nail polish to seal it back up. Additionally, be smart about where you install your radiator; if it’s behind a door, make sure the knob doesn’t slam into it. Or, perhaps reconsider placing it in a high-traffic area where coats, bags, and cargo will scrape up against the finish.

Interior

The interior of your radiator is not something you have ready access to, so its health is rather at the mercy of your water system. Sudden spikes, temperature changes, debris, and chemical makeup can all speed along damage or rust within.

The best thing you can do is always ensure your central heating system is topped up with inhibitor. This is a special liquid which coats the inside of your pipes and prevents nasty build-up which can harm your radiator. Equipping your boiler with a magnetic filter can also strip particulate debris before it settles in your radiator, as well. Finally, don’t neglect the occasional radiator flush, either. You only really need to do every 5 years or so; but it dramatically prolongs the useful life span of your radiator.

In all cases, if you’re uncomfortable performing this maintenance yourself, call your local plumber or heating engineer. These are all standard services any reputable professional will gladly offer.

Conclusion

As you can see, there’s a lot out there for anyone searching for a designer radiator. We’ve covered vertical and horizontal radiators, towel rail rads, traditional cast-iron style columns, and even electric panels. No matter the size, aesthetic, or usage of your room, you’ll find the perfect designer solution among our recommended radiators.

Which style of designer rad best fits your lifestyle, décor, and budget? Do you have any other tips to help your fellow readers on their quest for the perfect radiator? Sound off in a comment below!

Ultimate Guide to Buying The Best Radiators for Your Home

In this extensive radiator guide we’ve included everything you could ever possibly need to know when it comes to central heating radiators. From installation and maintenance, to our top-picks and how-to guides – we’ve put together our best resources into one convenient place for you to come back and revisit whenever you need more information.

When it comes to choosing the perfect radiator, there are lot’s of options, functionalities and specifications to consider. So if it’s your first time purchasing, installing or fixing a radiator it can soon become overwhelming – leaving you frustrated and confused.

That’s why we’ve organised everything into neat sections for you so you’ll never again be left wondering where to find the most relevant, detailed explanations for your radiator questions… Heat Adviser is here to help!

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck in…

Step 1: Consider the size of the room

One of the first things you’ll need to consider is the size of the room because it will dictate the amount of space you have available for the radiator. Plus, the larger the room is the more heat you’ll require in order to keep it sufficiently warm throughout the year so it’s something worth considering. Typically, larger rooms are better suited for 2-3 large radiators, whereas a small room may only require 1 or 2 small radiators.

How much heat do I need for my room?

A BTU (or British Thermal Unit) is a universally-accepted measurement of heat output which is used to determine hot much heat a radiator releases into the room. The higher the BTU, the hotter the radiator! One of the first steps to choosing your perfect radiator is making sure that you know the total amount of BTU’s for the room that you’re fitting the radiators into. 

Not sure how to calculate the amount of BTU’s your room requires…?

You’re in luck! We’ve already done the complicated calculations for you by creating a BTU calculator which does all of the hard work for you in just a few clicks.

How many radiators do I need and what size should they be?

Once you’ve calculated the total BTU output required for your room, we can simply divide this number by the amount of radiators that you’re looking to install in the room to give us the average BTU required per radiator. This amount that you install is usually based on the wall space you have available, your budget or even the amount and location of pipework installed underneath the floorboards.

Which room the radiator will the radiator be installed into?

Depending on the room that you are looking to heat, there are often different radiator types associated with different rooms. For example:

The best bathroom radiators tend to be a heated towel radiator as you can easily place towels on the multiple bars to keep them toasty warm – ready to keep you cosy when you’re stepping out of the shower. A dual fuel setup is particularly popular in bathrooms too. Not sure what dual fuel is? Don’t worry, we cover it in our next section titled ‘fuel type’.

Living rooms usually require a large horizontal or vertical radiator with a large heat output. You might consider a statement piece to draw attention to an area of the room or you might prefer a plain white convector radiator underneath the window – tucked neatly away and out of sight.

Bedrooms are best suited with a smaller radiator which doesn’t take up too much wall space. A short horizontal radiator is ideal if you want something discreet but still powerful enough to provide warmth.

The best Kitchen radiators are typically tall and thin as these are generally placed conveniently in tight spaces between your kitchen cabinets and appliances. Plus, their additional height means that they provide a fantastic heat output. 

The home office needs to be a comfortable temperature for working in all day without looking bulky and cumbersome in the background of your Zoom meetings! For this, we’d recommend a typical white panel radiator or even an electric portable heater to keep near your feet for those extra-chilly winter mornings.

What are the different types of radiator?

Fuel Type

There are now a vast array of options available on the market to suit any home. From traditional cast iron radiators to modern steel models, there are plenty of choices out there to help you find the suit the needs of you and your home. You’ll need to first think about the fuel type that you’d like to go for, there are three options:

• Electric radiators
• Hydronic (Central heating radiator / convector radiator) 
• Dual fuel (Combination of Electric and Hydronic)

Typically, hydronic radiators are the most economical and energy efficient in comparison to electric radiators. Although, electric radiators are still very popular as they offer a great deal of flexibility with their design and installation.

If you’re planning on installing an electric radiator, then you’ll need to decide whether you want one that is plumbed directly or if you would prefer to use a dual fuel setup. 

What is A Dual Fuel Radiator?

Dual fuel towel rails combine both electricity and water together in order to provide an efficient, versatile heating solution. You’ll need a T-piece and standard radiator valves which supply the water to the radiator, while the electric heating element and electrical supply allow you to set schedules on a thermostatic remote control.

Do I need a duel fuel setup?

Typically, dual fuel is only really used in bathrooms or downstairs toilets where you need to quickly dry towels without turning the full heating system on.  

Orientation

It’s important to note that there are two main orientations for radiators, these are:

• Vertical radiators
• Horizontal radiators

Vertical vs Horizontal – which is right for me?

This largely depends on the room you’re looking to heat – vertical radiators are a great option for kitchens with limited wall space due to kitchen cabinets and appliances.

They create a visual elongation of the room which can give the illusion of higher ceilings. Whereas, horizontal radiators tend to work well underneath windows in living rooms or bedrooms. At the end of the day, it really comes down to personal preference as to which orientation you prefer.

Wall mounted vs floor mounted – which is right for me?

In most cases, a radiator will be wall mounted because, as you’d expect, it takes up less space than a floor-standing radiator. This will often depend on the location of your pipework and the type of radiator you’re installing.

For example, many cast iron radiators are so heavy that they can’t be fixed to the wall so they come with feet which allow them to be free standing. Whereas heated towel rails are always wall-mounted to allow easy access at eye level to hang and dry towels.

Materials:

Different radiator materials offer different features and benefits such as higher heat output of corrosion resistance. Here are the most common materials used in 2022:

• Mild Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Cast iron
• Aluminium
• Mirror (glass)

Which material should I choose?

This really depends on the features you’re looking for in a radiator. Here are some of the benefits for each material:

Mild steel is the most common material so you really can’t go wrong with a steel unit. They tend to be the most affordable option, too. Although that doesn’t mean they’re not built to last – in fact, many modern steel radiators come with a guarantee of 10+ years! 

Stainless steel is the next step up in terms of quality – the process of making the stainless finish really makes them an excellent choice their anti-corrosion helps to prevent rusting. Therefore, these radiators often come with a guarantee of over 15 years.

Cast iron is a fantastic choice for vintage or period properties, they’re seriously powerful radiators which are heavy and substantial, with an impressive heat distribution and output that’ll keep the largest of rooms toasty warm. They’re also fantastic at heat retention so they’ll stay at an ambient temperature for long after you’ve turned the heating off.

Aluminium is the new hot topic in home heating – it’s lightweight, energy efficient and heats up between 3-4 times faster than standard steel radiators! Plus, they’re fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle which means you can rest assured that they’re an eco-friendly option.

Mirror radiators are excellent if you have limited wall space and would like to combine the benefits of a tall radiator with the functionality of a mirror.

Style

One of the most exiting parts about choosing a radiator… deciding on a style that you’ll love! There’s such a large range of designs to choose from:

• Traditional radiators are classic, timeless and elegant. The traditional design has been around since Victorian times and there’s no better way to add warmth and character to any room.
• The Best Column radiators are thick, chunky units which come in multiple sections and typically come in either a single, double or triple thickness variation.
• Modern radiators are sleek, contemporary and stylish. These radiators are usually made of aluminium but can also be crafted out of other metals like brass and copper. They’re incredibly versatile and can fit into almost any décor.
• Contemporary radiators are a great alternative to traditional radiators. They feature clean lines and simple shapes which make them perfect for minimalist interiors.
• Floor standing radiators are the ultimate statement piece. They look amazing when installed in a living area, dining room or kitchen.
• Designer radiators are an excellent choice if you want something unique and different. They’re available in all sorts of sizes, styles and finishes to suit any home.
• Flat Panel radiators are becoming increasingly popular and offer a number of advantages over traditional radiators. Flat panel radiators are much more compact and therefore take up less floor space. They’re also very easy to install and come in at an affordable price tag.
• Single radiators are simply one layer in thickness.
• Double radiators have two layers packed together in parallel.
• Triple radiators are the largest thickness configuration, with three layers packed together in parallel. These provide great heat output as a result of this but protrude out into the room more.
• Efficient radiators are obviously a great option for anyone wanting to be more eco friendly or save money on their energy bills. These are typically made from aluminium.
• Space saving radiators are an excellent way to maximise your home’s square footage. These are typically designed to sit flush against the walls and are most commonly used in bathrooms or cloakrooms.
• Heated towel rails are the obvious choice if you’re installing into your bathroom or downstairs toilet. They could be fit into any room but they might look a little out of place in your living room or kitchen!
• Type 11 convector radiators are the most common radiator type in UK homes, they have a single panel and a single set of internal fins (each denoted by the number 1 in the name ‘type 11’)
• Type 21 convector radiators have double panels with only one set of fins.
• Type 22 convector radiators have double panels and two sets of fins. Therefore, they produce the greatest heat output of the three.

Colour

Then you’ve also got to consider the colour that you’d like to go for. White is the most common colour, although copper and anthracite radiators are becoming even more popular in recent years. At Heat Adviser, we believe that your radiator should be more than a functional heating accessory – it should make a statement that draws you in and holds your attention.

As ever more stylish designs come into the market, boring white convection radiators are quickly becoming a thing of the past. They blend into their surroundings whereas designer radiators are beautifully crafted pieces that can transform even the dullest of rooms into a stylish, contemporary space.

Choosing the right valves for your radiator

Often an afterthought, radiator valves are an important piece of the puzzle that shouldn’t be forgotten as it can make or break the overall look and feel that you’re going for. There are a few different types and variations and the one you’ll need will depend on the orientation and location of the pipes that are coming out of the wall or floor and into the heater.

Manual Valves

Manual valves are used when there’s no thermostatic control fitted to the radiator itself. These valves allow you to regulate the flow of water through the radiator via a handle. You may find yourself using this type of valve if you’re looking for the cheaper option with less functionality.

Thermostatic Valves

Thermostatic valves allows you to set the desired temperature and then the valve will automatically adjust the flow of water to maintain that temperature by itself. The advantage of these valves is that they provide greater accuracy and flexibility over manual valves with less manual adjustments.

Straight Valves

Straight valves are used when the flow of water through the copper pipes goes directly into the radiator inlets in a straight line (as the name suggests). An example of this might be when you’ve got a towel radiator close to the floor and the pipes come straight up from the flow into the heated towel rail.

Angled Valves

Angled valves are used when there is a 90 degree angle between the copper pipes and the radiator inlet. An example of this might be when the pipes come from the wall and then up into a towel radiator at a 90 degree angle.

Corner Valves

Corner valves are less common, although they can still be useful in certain cases. Much like the angled valve, they are used when the water flow changes at a 90 degree angle between the pipes and the inlets. However, in this instance the thermostatic control itself is at an angle – meaning that it doesn’t stick out into the room but instead lies neatly tucked away, parallel to the wall.

Additional accessories to consider

These radiator accessories are also useful for adding additional styling, functionality or to help with the maintenance of the radiator:

• Electric heating elements
• Radiator covers
• Bleed valve key
• Extended radiator paintbrush
• Extended duster
• Radiator paint
• Radiator hangers or hooks

What are the costs associated with buying a radiator?

The cost of a radiator can vary greatly depending on the style, size, colour and type you go for. Generally speaking, you’ll pay between £50-£100 for a basic radiator and anywhere up to £800 for a large, bespoke radiator in cast iron or stainless steel.

You’ll also need to consider the installation cost of a qualified heating engineer or plumber. 

Page does not exist Error 404

The address was entered incorrectly, or the page no longer exists on the site. Go to the main page or use the search

• Heating
  • Gas boilers
  • Condensing boilers
  • Electric boilers
  • Solid fuel boilers
  • Heating radiators
  • Electric heaters
  • Gas convectors
  • Thermal curtains
  • Electric fireplaces
  • Accessories for heating
  • Heating installation
  • Pipes for heating
  • Warm water floor

• Warm floor
  • Cable
  • mats
  • Infrared film
  • thermostat
  • Heated carpet
  • Accessories for underfloor heating
  • Mirror heater
  • Ready kits
  • By Brands

• Water supply
  • Storage boilers
  • Accessories for boilers
  • Indirect heating boilers
  • Heat accumulators
  • Geysers
  • Towel dryers
  • Hydraulic accumulators
  • Storage tanks
  • Pumps
  • Plumbing work
  • Sewerage
  • Pressure reducers
  • Water coolers
  • Polypropylene pipes

• Water purification
  • Water purification in the apartment
  • Water purification for home
  • Kitchen filters
  • mechanical cleaning
  • Industrial water treatment
  • Filter flasks
  • Filter cartridges
  • membranes
  • Accessories for filters
  • Filter Loads
  • UV disinfection
  • Water analysis
  • Services: Service and Installation
  • Components for water treatment systems

• Conditioning
  • Household air conditioners
  • Monoblocks
  • Split systems (industrial)
  • Multisplit systems
  • Services

• Heat pumps
  • air-water
  • air-to-air

• Ventilation
  • Fans
  • Ventilation units
  • Recuperators
  • Industrial fans
  • Accessories for ventilation
  • Breezers

• Household products
  • For swimming pools
  • Entertainment for home
  • Ajax signaling

• markdown

  Page does not exist Error 404

  The address was entered incorrectly, or the page no longer exists on the site. Go to the main page or use the search

  • Heating
    • Gas boilers
    • Condensing boilers
    • Electric boilers
    • Solid fuel boilers
    • Heating radiators
    • Electric heaters
    • Gas convectors
    • Thermal curtains
    • Electric fireplaces
    • Accessories for heating
    • Heating installation
    • Pipes for heating
    • Warm water floor
  • Warm floor
    • Cable
    • mats
    • Infrared film
    • thermostat
    • Heated carpet
    • Accessories for underfloor heating
    • Mirror heater
    • Ready kits
    • By Brands
  • Water supply
    • Storage boilers
    • Accessories for boilers
    • Indirect heating boilers
    • Heat accumulators
    • Geysers
    • Towel dryers
    • Hydraulic accumulators
    • Storage tanks
    • Pumps
    • Plumbing work
    • Sewerage
    • Pressure reducers
    • Water coolers
    • Polypropylene pipes
  • Water purification
    • Water purification in the apartment
    • Water purification for home
    • Kitchen filters
    • mechanical cleaning
    • Industrial water treatment
    • Filter flasks
    • Filter cartridges
    • membranes
    • Accessories for filters
    • Filter Loads
    • UV disinfection
    • Water analysis
    • Services: Service and Installation
    • Components for water treatment systems
  • Conditioning
    • Household air conditioners
    • Monoblocks
    • Split systems (industrial)
    • Multisplit systems
    • Services
  • Heat pumps
    • air-water
    • air-to-air
  • Ventilation
    • Fans
    • Ventilation units
    • Recuperators
    • Industrial fans
    • Accessories for ventilation
    • Breezers
  • Household products
    • For swimming pools
    • Entertainment for home
    • Ajax signaling
  • markdown

    Page does not exist Error 404

    The address was entered incorrectly, or the page no longer exists on the site. Go to the main page or use the search

    • Heating
      • Gas boilers
      • Condensing boilers
      • Electric boilers
      • Solid fuel boilers
      • Heating radiators
      • Electric heaters
      • Gas convectors
      • Thermal curtains
      • Electric fireplaces
      • Accessories for heating
      • Heating installation
      • Pipes for heating
      • Warm water floor
    • Warm floor
      • Cable
      • mats
      • Infrared film
      • thermostat
      • Heated carpet
      • Accessories for underfloor heating
      • Mirror heater
      • Ready kits
      • By Brands
    • Water supply
      • Storage boilers
      • Accessories for boilers
      • Indirect heating boilers
      • Heat accumulators
      • Geysers
      • Towel dryers
      • Hydraulic accumulators
      • Storage tanks
      • Pumps
      • Plumbing work
      • Sewerage
      • Pressure reducers
      • Water coolers
      • Polypropylene pipes
    • Water purification
      • Water purification in the apartment
      • Water purification for home
      • Kitchen filters
      • mechanical cleaning
      • Industrial water treatment
      • Filter flasks
      • Filter cartridges
      • membranes
      • Accessories for filters
      • Filter Loads
      • UV disinfection
      • Water analysis
      • Services: Service and Installation
      • Components for water treatment systems
    • Conditioning
      • Household air conditioners
      • Monoblocks
      • Split systems (industrial)
      • Multisplit systems
      • Services
    • Heat pumps
      • air-water
      • air-to-air
    • Ventilation
      • Fans
      • Ventilation units
      • Recuperators
      • Industrial fans
      • Accessories for ventilation
      • Breezers
    • Household products
      • For swimming pools
      • Entertainment for home
      • Ajax signaling
    • markdown

      Page does not exist Error 404

      The address was entered incorrectly, or the page no longer exists on the site. Go to the main page or use the search

      • Heating
        • Gas boilers
        • Condensing boilers
        • Electric boilers
        • Solid fuel boilers
        • Heating radiators
        • Electric heaters
        • Gas convectors
        • Thermal curtains
        • Electric fireplaces
        • Accessories for heating
        • Heating installation
        • Pipes for heating
        • Warm water floor
      • Warm floor
        • Cable
        • mats
        • Infrared film
        • thermostat
        • Heated carpet
        • Accessories for underfloor heating
        • Mirror heater
        • Ready kits
        • By Brands
      • Water supply
        • Storage boilers
        • Accessories for boilers
        • Indirect heating boilers
        • Heat accumulators
        • Geysers
        • Towel dryers
        • Hydraulic accumulators
        • Storage tanks
        • Pumps
        • Plumbing work
        • Sewerage
        • Pressure reducers
        • Water coolers
        • Polypropylene pipes
      • Water purification
        • Water purification in the apartment
        • Water purification for home
        • Kitchen filters
        • mechanical cleaning
        • Industrial water treatment
        • Filter flasks
        • Filter cartridges
        • membranes
        • Accessories for filters
        • Filter Loads
        • UV disinfection
        • Water analysis
        • Services: Service and Installation
        • Components for water treatment systems
      • Conditioning
        • Household air conditioners
        • Monoblocks
        • Split systems (industrial)
        • Multisplit systems
        • Services
      • Heat pumps
        • air-water
        • air-to-air
      • Ventilation
        • Fans
        • Ventilation units
        • Recuperators
        • Industrial fans
        • Accessories for ventilation
        • Breezers
      • Household products
        • For swimming pools
        • Entertainment for home
        • Ajax signaling
      • markdown

        Which Radiators (Heating) is Better to Choose for an Apartment?

        A wide range of heating radiators gives the buyer a lot of freedom in terms of budget, design, efficiency and durability. But at the same time, there are more difficulties with the choice. The article will help you choose such heating batteries that are best suited for an apartment with a central heating system (CHS). After all, not all types of radiators are suitable for this seemingly simple task.

        Contents

        • Features of the central heating system
        • Types of heating radiators for an apartment and their features
        • Bimetal radiators
        • Aluminum radiators
        • Steel panel radiators
        • Cast iron radiators
        • Steel tubular radiators
        • Totals
        • Comparison table by types of radiators

        Features of the central heating system

        On the one hand, the central heating system (CH) has its undeniable advantages. You don’t even have to think about:

        • boiler room design
        • choice of coolant
        • operation and maintenance of the entire heating system.

        On the other hand, you should know the important features of the CA, which impose certain restrictions on the use of certain heating radiators. Let’s highlight the main problems.

        1. Water hammer . The most common reason for the failure of radiators in apartment buildings is water hammer, which is possible due to a sudden influx or shutdown of water. This can happen with a sharp overlap of the ball valve. Only the most modern central systems with pressure compensating reducers are able to provide a smooth change in pressure when using ball valves.
        2. High working pressure . In modern multi-storey buildings, the pressure in the heating system can reach 15 atm. In “Khrushchev”, other old houses and modern low-rise buildings – 6-8 atm. In the latter, all types of radiators will cope with the working pressure, but in multi-storey buildings – no.
        3. Reactive additives . Water in central heating systems contains an increased level of chemically active impurities (for example, alkali), which favorably affect some types of radiators and negatively affect others.
        4. Sludge and fine particles . Industrial water is not cleaned as well as drinking water, so it contains all sorts of extraneous fragments and particles, which, by their abrasive effect, gradually erase the inner walls of radiators, increasing their wear.

        Knowing these features, you can already navigate the wide variety of radiators presented in Russia.

        Types of heating radiators for an apartment and their features

        The following types of radiators are widely represented in Russia:

        1. Bimetal sectional
        2. Aluminum sectional
        3. Steel panel
        4. Cast iron
        5. Steel tubular

        Bimetal radiators

        These radiators consist of two types of metal – steel and aluminum. Due to the thick steel walls of the channel through which the coolant flows, this type of radiator is less afraid of corrosion and natural wear and tear from sludge in process water. Aluminum panels in contact with steel channels quickly release heat and warm up the room. At the same time, aluminum does not come into contact with the coolant, which also favorably affects the service life of the radiator, as you will read below. Thus, the bimetal includes the best characteristics from each metal. Hence the higher cost.

        The main advantage of bimetallic radiators is the ability to withstand water hammer up to 36 atm. In fact, this is the only type of radiator that can withstand such burst pressure.

        In addition to the price, bimetal has another drawback – a small thermal output per radiator. Since the steel channels have a very small diameter, the maximum number of radiator sections at which the working pressure can cope with the circulation of the coolant is 14. The most powerful such radiator can heat approximately 30–35 m ² . For a larger area of ​​the room, you will have to purchase an additional radiator (s), which will also entail costs. In comparison, the most powerful steel panel radiator can heat about 130 m ² .

        Benefits of bimetal radiators

        • Water hammer resistance is the highest of all

        radiators

        • Long life 25-35 years depending on manufacturer and operating conditions
        • Good heat dissipation – warms up the room quickly enough

        Disadvantages of bimetal radiators

        • Higher cost of compared to aluminum and steel panel radiators
        • Reduced heat output per radiator

        Bimetal radiator in apartment

        Bimetal radiator in apartment

        Bimetal radiator large

        Aluminum (sectional) radiators for an apartment

        Absolute aluminum radiators are not recommended to be installed in a centralized heating system. Aluminum, when interacting with an increased or reduced alkali content (PH value less than 7 and more than 8), releases hydrogen and quickly decomposes. Even if you do an analysis of the process water in your home, the PH value may change over time.

        Some manufacturers carry out anti-corrosion treatment of the inner walls of the radiator, guaranteeing an operating PH range of 5 to 10. Nevertheless, we refrain from such recommendations, since we do not have reliable information about the PH level and its deviation in all apartments in Russia. Therefore, in the framework of this article, we do not recommend choosing this type of battery for an apartment.

        Aluminum radiators are strictly not recommended for installation in a centralized heating system.

        Aluminum radiator in a private house

        Aluminum radiator in an apartment

        Large aluminum radiator

        But this is not due to the coolant, steel in this regard interacts perfectly with any water, unlike aluminum. But with pressure surges, steel panel radiators cope extremely poorly. The water hammer caused by the abrupt closing of a ball valve can easily penetrate the steel wall of a panel radiator.

        It is impossible not to note the fact that in modern urban development, steel panel radiators are found all the time. This is understandable, because with excellent thermal performance, the prices for this type of battery are the most favorable. Residents of such new buildings have to rely on the management company, which makes sure that the supply and discharge of water occur smoothly.

        But residents of low-rise buildings, where the working pressure is in the range of 4-8 atm, can also install panel radiators. However, it would not be superfluous to clarify with the management company which shutoff valves are installed in the house. If it is screw, then you can not be afraid of water hammer, and if it is ball, then the risk of the human factor remains.

        When using ball valves on heating systems with steel panel radiators, water supply and shut-off must be smooth.

        Benefits of steel panel radiators

        • Best value for money is the best value of all radiators
        • Large range of sizes – one radiator can be matched up to 150 m2 ²
        • Excellent heat dissipation – quickly warms up the room

        Disadvantages of steel panel radiators

        • Not resistant to water hammer – low operating and burst pressure
        • Simpler design (subjective)
        • Collects dust inside which is very inconvenient to clean

        Steel panel radiator in apartment

        Steel panel radiator in apartment

        Steel panel radiator with bottom connection

        Cast iron radiators for apartments

        Cast iron radiators for apartments are rarely bought today. They are heavy, do not look modern, and are poorly regulated.

        This type of battery was widely used in the USSR. They were installed almost everywhere. In low-rise houses of that time, heating systems had an operating pressure of 4 to 8 atmospheres, so cast iron products did an excellent job with an operating pressure of 9 to 12 atmospheres. In modern high-rise buildings, the working pressure can reach 12 atmospheres and even higher. For all its hardness and density, cast iron is a rather brittle metal and may not withstand such pressure.

        Another serious problem is water hammer, which, with the advent of ball valves, has become a common occurrence in apartment buildings. The cast-iron radiator holds pressure up to 16 atmospheres at burst, and the water hammer can reach more than 20 atmospheres. A sharply closed ball valve forms such a pressure surge that can literally split a fragile cast-iron battery. Previously, there were no such problems, since screw valves were used in heating systems to ensure smooth supply and shutoff of water.

        Cast iron products in this regard do not differ from steel panel products. They can be used in low houses and preferably with screw taps in the boiler room, or with special pressure compensating gearboxes. Then the good old cast iron can last up to 50 years in the central heating system.

        In other respects, cast iron is a rather unpretentious metal, which is not afraid of either chemical impurities or fragments of particles and sludge that come with process water in open heating systems.

        Benefits of cast iron radiators

        • Long service life (in the absence of sudden changes in temperature and pressure)
        • Long-term heating inertia – heats well and retains heat for a long time when the heating is turned off
        • Insensitive to thermal fluids with aggressive chemical composition.

        Disadvantages of cast iron radiators

        • Higher cost – the cost of the section is more expensive than bimetal
        • Very heavy – up to 50 kg or more per battery
        • Sensitive to sudden temperature changes
        • Poor temperature control – inability to use thermostatic heads
        • Heat dissipation gets worse with time – the porous surface of the cast iron inside and outside contributes to the overgrowth of the radiator, up to the failure of individual sections.

        Old cast iron radiator

        New cast iron radiator

        Cast iron batteries They have a spectacular design, a large number of sizes, including vertical high products, but they are much more expensive than other radiators discussed in the article. And everything would be fine, but only the technical characteristics of a steel tubular radiator are no different from an inexpensive steel panel radiator. It’s all about the welds characteristic of this type of radiator. Despite the thick steel walls, the seams can leak under temperature and pressure changes. Therefore, steel tubular batteries are far from the best option for a central heating system.

        Steel tubular two-channel radiator for apartment

        Vertical steel tubular black radiator for apartment

        Vertical steel tubular white radiator for apartment

        for apartments with a central heating system, bimetallic radiators can be recommended without any doubt.

        These batteries will definitely not let you down.

        We exclude aluminum radiators immediately. There are steel and cast iron products that can be used with some restrictions. Preferably in a low-rise building and preferably with boiler rooms that provide smooth supply and shutdown of water.

        We hope our article has helped you make your choice and answer the question: “which heating radiators are better to install in an apartment?”

        Comparative table of characteristics of different types of radiators for an apartment

        Radiator type	Heating system and coolant			Design	Price	Warranty, years		Heating pressure
        	Private, WATER	Private, ANTIFREEZE	Central, ALKALINE					Operating, mbar	Burst, mbar	Central ~ 12 mbar	Partial ~ 2-3 mbar.
        Aluminum	+	–	–	+	+	5	+/-	16	24	+	+
        Bimetal	+	+	+	+	+	10	+	24	36	+	+
        Steel panel	+	+	+/-	+	+	10	+	10	16	+/-	+
        Steel tubular	+	+	+/-	+	–	10	+	10	16	+/-	+
        Cast iron	+	+	+/-	–	–	2	–	9	15	+/-	+

        The best heating radiators (batteries) for an apartment and a private house, which ones are better to choose?

        We reveal the secrets: which heating radiators are better?

        The type of radiator battery not only affects the design of the interior, but also determines the parameters of the heating system. Therefore, in order to obtain maximum comfort and warmth, it is important to determine when choosing heating batteries which are better are suitable in a particular case, for specific heating features and the type of room. The article will help you understand the types of batteries and make an independent choice.

        Contents:

        1. What kind of heating radiators are there?
        2. Which radiators are best for a private house?
        3. Which batteries are best for an apartment?
        4. Central heating system.
        5. Autonomous heating system.
        6. Which heating radiators are better, sectional or panel?
        7. Results: The best radiators

        What kind of heating radiators are there?

        ---

        Experts, answering the question, which battery is better than , recommend more modern steel, aluminum, bimetallic and tubular design radiators.

        Bimetal radiators: reliability and heat efficiency

        Bimetal radiators feature a special design with an anti-corrosion steel core inside and an aluminum layer on the outside. Due to the fact that water comes into contact only with stainless steel, the radiator does not lose its properties and appearance for a long time.

        Many experts claim that bimetal – is the best heating radiator for the following reasons:

        • The outer aluminum layer does not come into contact with water and is not subject to corrosion. They serve 5-10 years longer than aluminum batteries.
        • High heat dissipation.
        • Possibility of installation in systems with pressure up to 18-25 Atm.
        • Ergonomic sectional design, which makes it easy to calculate the optimal battery power for the room.
        • Compatible with all pipes.

        The durability and reliability of bimetallic radiators largely depends on the quality of workmanship. The slightest defect can lead to aluminum corrosion. That is why we recommend installing radiators from companies that have been on the market for more than 3 years and have already proven themselves. Even if the price for them is 20-30% more expensive than for conventional aluminum radiators, this will pay off in the future.

        Aluminum battery heats the best?

        Aluminum batteries visually differ little from bimetallic ones. But they are completely made of die-cast aluminum, thanks to which they pass water better. The tube that connects the upper and lower collectors is wider than that of bimetallic counterparts, more coolant flows through the radiator. That is why heats the aluminum radiator best of all – it heats up faster and gives off heat 3 times faster than its counterparts. The heat in the room becomes already after 15-30 minutes after turning on the heating.

        When deciding which radiator is better than , many choose aluminum appliances for a number of advantages:

        • Light weight and easy installation without the need for massive brackets.
        • Ability to withstand pressure up to 6-12 Atm.
        • Stylish modern design.
        • The highest heat dissipation among all radiators – about 190 W.

        The main problem with aluminum is its sensitivity to abrasive composition and high pressure. During operation with clean water, the internal surfaces are covered with an oxide film that prevents corrosion. However, a galvanic couple with a copper heat exchanger of a boiler in autonomous heating quickly leads to thinning of the film, destruction of intersectional seals and the formation of corrosion centers. That is why it is better to use this radiator for central heating , otherwise its service life will not exceed 3-5 years.

        Which radiators are best for a private house?

        ---

        The main advantage of the arrangement in terms of engineering systems is the individual heating system , which is designed, equipped and installed at the request of the user, taking into account the actual characteristics of the premises. When considering which batteries are best for a private home, should be borne in mind that you have the ability to create an optimal working environment, control the quality of the coolant, avoid water hammer and pressure drops, which significantly expands the possibilities.

        One of the most popular and modern options for a private house with individual heating are tubular steel radiators. They have a more refined modern design and, with a small volume, provide greater heat transfer due to the increased heating area. The advantage of such radiators is the ability to install them almost anywhere: on the wall, under a panoramic window, etc.

        1270 . Panel have optimal heat transfer characteristics, which depend on the type of radiator (type 11, 21, 22, 33) and, accordingly, the depth. Panel radiators have a large heating area, so they do an excellent job of blocking cold air from wide window structures in houses.

        To create a unique design inside a private house, exclusive design radiators made of cast iron and steel are in demand. Unique shapes or exquisite engraving will create a truly unique and cozy atmosphere.

        For modern autonomous heating systems with forced circulation of the coolant using pumps, there are practically no restrictions on the type of radiators. But if you have a natural circulation system, choose cast iron or aluminum appliances. Wider internal connecting holes contribute to the circulation of the coolant inside and uniform heating.

        Which batteries are best for an apartment?

        ---

        When choosing batteries for an apartment, you should focus on the following options:

        1. Aluminum radiators – are recommended for apartments in the old fund, where a vertical centralized heating system is also called riser . When the heating pipe goes from top to bottom through all floors. Side connection only. They have the highest heat dissipation.
        2. Bimetallic – is recommended for apartments in the old fund, where there is a vertical centralized heating system. Side connection only. Bimetal is more reliable, as it can withstand pressure up to 25 bar. Combine the advantages of steel and aluminum radiators. They are resistant to coolant of any composition, while having almost the same heat transfer as aluminum, which allows them to be used in any type of system.
        3. Steel radiators – developers install in new buildings, as they have good heat transfer rates and an acceptable price. We recommend in new buildings, as they use radial pipe distribution along the floor, as a rule, they use the bottom connection, which is practically invisible.
        4. Tubular design – recommended for apartments in the new fund , the best option, if you need a beautiful radiator , many connection options.

        Mandatory: install radiators with an operating pressure of 10 bar or more on the central heating system .

        The design of radiators is selected individually in each case, depending on the size and design of the room. Today the market offers both classic sectional and panel batteries, as well as more elegant tubular ones with an increased heating area.

        Radiators for central heating system

        The central heating system has its own specific features that affect the choice of radiators:

        Pressure – in central heating, it is mandatory to install batteries with an operating pressure of 10 bar. These are aluminum, bimetallic, steel and tubular radiators.

        Connection – means bottom, side, diagonal, saddle and other connection options. Each brand and type of radiator has its own set of radiator connection options. You need to decide how you want to connect the battery and choose a radiator for it.

        Radiators for an independent heating system

        An independent heating system does not create restrictions for the buyer in the selection of a heater. In fact, this system is compatible with all types of radiators. Therefore, the fundamental point is only the taste of a person.

        • Recommended in the economy segment: steel radiators.
        • Recommended in the premium segment: tubular steel, design radiators.

        Which heating radiators are better, sectional or panel?

        ---

        Both types of radiators are characterized by excellent heat dissipation. However, it is not always advisable to install panel radiators. In high-rise buildings with a standing heating system, the pressure in the line can exceed 10 atm, so you should carefully study the characteristics of panel models.

        Sectional radiators do not have this drawback, they can withstand more pressure, but they require careful and professional connection of the sections, otherwise there is a risk of leakage. By changing the number of sections, you can easily adjust the optimal battery power.

        The best radiators

        ---

        The choice of heating radiators is determined only after studying future operating conditions, determining the type and power of the heating system, location and installation possibilities. Much in this matter depends on the budget. However, savings in this matter should not be. We recommend only the best heating radiators, aluminium, steel or bimetal, from proven manufacturers that will extend the life of the entire system and provide comfort for at least 10-15 years, saving you money on subsequent repairs and replacements.