What radiators do I need?

Like most things in life, your choice of radiator in any domestic or commercial setting is a personal choice.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind – let’s take a look at what they are.

How much heat is needed

Before choosing a radiator, consider how much heat a room needs.

The best way of doing this is to measure your room (the dimensions), whilst considering your current insulation level and even any window types you may have – for example if you have single glazed windows then you will need a radiator with a much larger output when compared to double or even triple glazed windows.

There are lots of BTUs calculators online which will take care of the maths for you so you know the output/heat required from the radiators that you select.

Consider the type of radiator that you will need

There are a few different types of radiators which suit different spaces due to the heat that they provide. They are…

Panel Radiators

These are the most common type of radiator and come in two versions.

• Single panel – otherwise known as ‘Type 11’.
  They have a lower heat output but have a slim profile which is best for space saving
   
• Double panel – otherwise known as ‘Type 21’ or ‘Type 22’.
  They have a higher heat output, especially when compared with single panel radiators, this makes them best for large rooms.

Column Radiators

These have gained in popularity over the years, they do look very modern and stylish in many homes. Often bridging the divide for those wanting a modern look in a typically traditional home.

The great thing about column radiators is that they have a high heat output which makes them great for rooms with high ceilings and hallways.

Towel Radiators

These are traditionally found in bathrooms, great for heating bathrooms but also for keeping your towels toasty.

Typically towel radiators have a lower heat output, this isn’t a problem for most bathrooms which tend to be one of the smaller rooms in any home, but if you are lucky to have a large bathroom then you may want to consider additional heating sources.

Consider the size of the radiator

When you know the heat output needed from your radiator and you have chosen the style of radiator you prefer, you can look at the size of the radiator.

Whilst it’s important to consider the physical space available for a radiator within the room in question, it is also important to consider how your current radiators are fed.

If your network of pipes is fixed due to concrete flooring or carpet/laminate that you are not looking to replace, then you may be best selecting a similar size radiator to what you currently have. This will lessen the chances of needing to carry out further works to your flooring or pipework to fit your new radiators.

If you are lucky enough to be fitting radiators in a brand new property, or a completely refurbished premises, then you can choose where you want your radiators and aren’t bound by any existing pipework (within reason as there may be limitations or where radiators can be fitted due to other features in your home).

When it comes to the size of the radiator you should measure the width and height, look at the type of radiator (see above) and what the manufacturer reports the heat output of the radiator to be.

Don’t forget, if you are looking for radiators in a large room, you can consider installing multiple radiators to get the required BTU (mentioned above) for the space you are looking to heat.

Consider the radiator finish

The look of your radiators is important, for many they can be quite an imposing element in any room.

The vast majority of radiators can be found in white, but there are lots of other colours on the market. The popular choice as the moment is for a anthracite/black radiator. There is also the option for decorative finishes on radiators, most commonly found on the traditional cast iron radiators.

When considering the radiator finish, do remember the impact that colours can have on heat output and retention. White radiators will have the highest heat output, whilst darker colours such as anthracite and black radiators will have a lower heat output.

Don’t forget to consider your room

The last thing you want to do when installing radiators within your home is to block off the radiators with curtains or furniture. This will massively reduce the effectiveness of the radiator to heat the space.

Whilst it cannot always be helped in small spaces, do your best to keep the area directly in front of the radiator clear.

Need help?

If you are looking to replace any existing radiators, or if you are looking to install radiators in a brand new space, contact Knight Gas Services today.

We can take a look at your space and talk through the options that you may have.

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