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Radiators
 The first thing that comes to mind
when someone mentions radiators, aside from the functional aspect, is a white
rectangular block of metal attached to the wall.Times have changed. Radiators now
come in all sorts of shapes, materials and colours, round steel plates, hot
boxes, even stone and clear glass models, partly because of the need to find
more eco-friendly solutions and partly because of the wealth of material options
available.
Radiators FAQs
Can I control the temperature in an individual room?
Yes, by fitting thermostatic radiator valves which automatically switch each radiator
off as they reach the desired temperature. The hot water will then go to other
radiators instead and if you use a timer system, energy is only used when
necessary.
Can I improve the efficiency of my radiators?
Usually, yes. Over a period of time your radiators will become less efficient as they develop a build up of silt, sludge and corrosion and will probably end up with cold spots. A power flush will get rid of this build up and return your radiators to maximum efficiency. Adding anti corrosion chemicals to the system will also help to reduce this in the future.
Are new radiators suitable to replace my existing central heating
radiators?
Yes, most models that are available are built to suit all central heating
systems. They have British standard pipe connections, most of the ranges are wall
hung and connected to pipes and valves, just like any ordinary radiator.
Do I need to replace all my radiators or can I replace them one by one?
There is no need to replace every radiator. You can replace the look of your
decor room by room.
What if I want warm towels in the summer?
If like most people you turn off your heating during the summer, you can buy
towel radiators with supplementary electrical heaters so the luxury of warm
towels is not a problem.
Can I paint any of the radiators you supply?
Yes, some radiators come in a primer coat, so you can paint them to suit your
own decorative needs.
Where is the best position to put a radiator?
Tests show that the most effective place to put a radiator is the coldest part
of the room, but don't let that restrict your ideas, as shape and size vary so
much, you can let the freedom of design help you to place them wherever you
want, the choice is completely yours.
How do
I know which radiators are most suitable for my property?
Aluminium radiators are lightweight, easy to install, and give terrific
output for the size. They are quick to heat up, too, but quicker to cool down.
Aluminium is also reasonably priced and popular in modern and period homes as
the flat-fronted panels make them discreet.
If you want reclaimed original cast-iron Victorian radiators, you’ll have to
find the perfect size and have it restored, and you risk damaging your boiler.
It’s hard to assess its output to know if it’s the right size for the room, and
it can be hard to spot leaks. You also have no recourse if you bought it as
seen from a salvage yard. If you buy reproduction radiators, they will come
with a guarantee, and you can have them professionally spray-painted.
Cast iron takes a while to get going but retains heat very well. You need to
turn them on 90 minutes before you want to use the room, but you can turn them
off earlier. They also tend to give a good all-round heat rather than the
quick, intense burst you get from steel, so are great in old houses.
Stainless steel is great for bending into sexy shapes, this is often the
contemporary material of choice. It lasts well and is very efficient. But if
you go for designer look, think about whether you can live with it for a long
time.
Natural stone materials are coming through now including marble radiators,
which are fantastic for retaining heat and look great in a bathroom. You can even
have them with a rail attached for a towel.
Glass radiators are electric but come with their
own thermostats and have no visible pipes or wires. The glass is covered with a
clear film that does the heating. Or you can have one that looks like a mirror.
They are expensive to buy but only cost around 2p an hour to run.
Why not contact Conservenergy
today to discuss how you can dramatically reduce your energy bills.
We provide you with a no obligation quotation together with a free
energy efficiency check.
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Radiators