Hot water radiators are an efficient, cost-effective means for heating your home. But with such a wide choice of designs available, it can be tough to identify the perfect option to suit your needs. We explore the benefits provided by many different types here. We hope to help you find the best radiator options for your home.
First, you should understand what a hot water radiator is and how it operates. It is actually very simple. This kind of radiator heats their contained water continuously from a central boiler. It will get very hot, but never reach a boiling temperature. Water is pumped from the heater to all hot water radiators in the house. Only once they have reached your preferred temperature, of course.
In one-pipe systems, the water will run in a loop. Two-pipe systems transport the water up and back down repeatedly. Some of the heat is eventually lost as the water passes through each radiator. At this point it returns to the boiler for re-heating. To effectively warm up a home, the cycle restarts every time the temperature needs to rise. A thermostat usually connects to the heater and pump to show when a greater output is required. This helps to ensure the system only works to its full capacity when necessary. In turn, energy is saved and costs are reduced.
A number of factors will determine what type of hot water radiator is best for your home. You need to know which room to install your radiator in as a very basic starting point. Different styles will be better suited to the kitchen than they will to the bathroom, for example. So make sure you have a clear idea of where your radiators or towel warmers will be installed before buying.
The size of your space will obviously help you decide what size of radiator to opt for in terms of looks. And how generous a heat output you require in terms of practicality. Of course, choosing from a wide array of finishes is probably the easiest part. Simply select a radiator that will suit your existing decor if you want to keep costs as low as possible. A huge variety of modern and traditional radiators are available. You can be sure to find an ideal option to match. You also need to choose between horizontal radiators and vertical radiators. Available wall space and ceiling height will no doubt play a part in your decision.
In most cases, it makes sense to position a hot water radiator on an external wall. This is because they are easy to mount, and usually one of the coldest areas within a room. If the wall is situated close to a window, this is all the more likely still. However, a hot water radiator installed beneath a window could be covered by curtains. In such cases, heat can be lost via the window or wall. Therefore, it could be a good idea to add a shelf to separate the radiator and window. Another useful tip is to add a radiator fan to your chosen room. This enables the hot air to be distributed evenly throughout it. This is especially worth considering in larger areas where you spend a lot of time. For example, a lounge or kitchen could greatly benefit from a radiator fan. They’ll help to make sure everyone in the room enjoys a comfortable level of warmth. If you’d like to explore a more in-depth assessment of the best installation location for your home heating, take a look at our guide on where to position your radiator.
Our full designer hot water radiator collection ensures a durable, long lasting performance. They are each constructed to the very highest standard of quality. All models provide an outstanding heat output and brilliant aesthetics. You can therefore have complete confidence that your radiator will enhance your home for many a year. To guarantee the ultimate performance from your hot water radiators well after purchase though, you could opt to bleed them. The process is simple, and it can lead to improved efficiency and reduced energy bills.
Initially, turn your central heating system on to spring your radiators into life. Once they’ve heated up, you can decide which, if any, require bleeding. Check all hot water radiators individually to see if all parts are warming up to the full extent. Take care, of course, not to scald yourself! If you do identify any cool areas, it could be a sign that gas or air is trapped, and the radiator needs to be bled.
To actually begin bleeding your radiator, first switch off your central heating. This step will ensure you don’t burn yourself or flood your floor. Preferably, you’ll have a radiator key for each component, or be able to find one at a local hardware store if not. Alternatively, you might make do with a flat-blade screwdriver to bleed your radiators.
One side of the radiator will feature a radiator valve. If you have a radiator key then it can be attached to the square section in the center. If you’re using a screwdriver, you can simply apply the end of it into the groove. From there, use a cloth to gain a better grip of your key or screwdriver, and turn it in an anti-clockwise direction. A hissing sound will emit if gas is emerging. Lay a towel down beneath your hot water radiator to catch any potential drips. Once the gas has gone, liquid will emerge and the valve will need to be quickly closed. More modern valves will discharge liquid in a jet-like stream as opposed to a dribble.
The gauge on your boiler will indicate its pressure levels. If you deem it too low, you’ll need to ‘top it up’. This can be done via the boiler’s tap or lever, often referred to as the filling loop. After this is done, you can run a simple heating test to make sure everything has worked as planned. Just switch on your heating and check for any cool spots again. Providing there aren’t any, you’re good to go – that’s how easy the radiator bleeding process is!
You should have all the information needed to select the right hot water heating radiators for the home. You should also be well equipped to maintain them for years to come. A radiator is a significant investment, so don’t rush into a purchase. Explore a wide range and make sure of the radiator’s quality and durability before buying. That way, you’ll add a radiator certain to enhance the look and functionality of your property well into the future.