The Radiator Centre , DOTS
draughty and poorly insulated , a larger radiator will be required to heat it to the same standard as a similar sized room that is facing south , has efficiently insulated cavity walls and triple glazing . In larger rooms , you may even need more than one radiator . If you install a radiator that ’ s too big for the room , you ’ ll be producing too much heat , so constantly having to turn it down , which could mean you ’ ll be wasting energy .
What are the features and benefits of plumbed vs electric radiators ?
Choosing between plumbed and electric radiators depends on your specific needs , existing infrastructure and preferences for control and energy efficiency . Sometimes it is not possible to plumb in a radiator due to the cost of laying new pipe work or getting gas to a new boiler . Having electric radiators might prove to be a sensible alternative .
The key consideration when choosing an electric radiator should be its controllability , as this will ultimately be the thing that determines how efficient you can make it run . Having 24 / 7 timers allow you set precise on / off times so you have the heat just when you need it . Most electric radiators will come with an override button if you should then need to turn them on outside the usual schedule . Many will also come with apps that allow you to see what is working in real time .
The Radiator Centre , Tonda
‘ Holiday ’ functions are also a bonus , allowing the heating to come on if the temperature drops too low , in order to protect water pipes , etc while you are away . This is more cost-effective than leaving the heating on full for the duration of a two week winter holiday .
Since 2018 , all electric radiators should also have ‘ open window ’ sensors . These detect drafts from doors and windows and will shut the radiator down until the opening is closed . This means no more heat being lost out of a window in the middle of winter .
There is a definite growth in interest for electric radiators for a number of reasons and they are becoming a lot more controllable and energy efficient as a result . Many flats , especially in and around London , rely on old , large and inefficient storage heaters . These can now be swapped out for something smaller and more stylish . Likewise , properties which have tended to use oil in the past are switching to electric as the fluctuations in running costs can be less severe .
Plumbed radiators on the other hand , can be more energy-efficient , especially when connected to a modern , energy-efficient boiler or heat pump . They spread heat evenly and are well-suited to larger homes . Typically controlled via
The Radiator Centre , Sfere
a central thermostat , this allows for the regulation of temperature across multiple radiators in the home , which may also be done via an app with the correct set up . Although the initial installation may be higher , running costs can be lower , especially with a wellmaintained boiler or heat pump , leading to savings over time . Many homeowners also prefer the look of plumbed radiators , especially in older homes where they match the traditional style .
What are the design options for your home ’ s radiators ?
Whether you favour traditional styles or more cutting edge designs , you will find some beautiful options available which will make a stylish addition to the home . Radiators are no longer just functional white boxes , many of today ’ s designs come in a variety of shapes and sizes , not to mention every colour of the rainbow . Indeed , with some of the latest art radiators , you ’ d be forgiven for not realising it was a radiator at all .
www . theradiatorcentre . com www . refurbandrestore . co . uk - 43