Radiators

Design 

There was a time when radiators were pure objects of purpose — not so any more. Now there is seemingly no limit to how far designers are prepared to push the boundaries of function towards those of modern art and sculpture. The feature radiator is so commonplace now that, as a backlash to the movement, old-school classic column radiators have enjoyed a huge comeback — even in contemporary homes, where extra-wide or tall models update the look.

But even if you have no interest in turning your radiators into a design statement, don’t kid yourself into thinking no one notices them — they do. And if you want them to err on the right side of subtle, then you’ll have to take even more care choosing them, opting for classic, well-proportioned designs. If you really hate the sight of radiators, consider an invisible method such as trench heating – sunk under the floor with a grille cover – or skirting radiators, which hide the evidence away in the skirting boards.

Otherwise, there are radiators available to fit any position in a room, from stubby, low designs which sit neatly beneath windows, to tall and thin for narrow wall spaces, and even floor-mounted — all in an endless range of colours, shapes and materials.

In the bathroom, a sleek stainless steel heated towel rail is a near necessity — with some models using a supplementary electric heater for when the central heating is off in the summer.

For a typical design, most come in standard sizes, usually between 300mm and 700mm high and from 500mm to 3,000mm long.Manufacturers tend to produce three or four height options, each available in lengths which increase in 100mm steps. Column radiators are often ordered in sections.

From left to right: Moon electric-only steel radiator by The Radiator Company, from £734.70 (01342 302250); The Ripple H polished aluminium radiator by MHS Radiators, from £600 (01268 546700); Weaver bespoke stainless steel radiator by Tubism, from £1,000 (01283 761477); Parisienne reproduction cast iron radiator by 21st Century Radiators, £35 per section (01767 627500)  

Materials

Single- or double-panel pressed-steel radiators are readily available off the shelf and are also the cheapest option. Traditional column designs are available but steel is also the preferred choice for many unusual and designer radiators, because it is easy to work with, as well as a good conductor of heat.

Cast iron column radiators are perfect for traditional-style homes, and many manufacturers produce accurate period reproductions. However, cast iron is an expensive choice — although because it is an excellent conductor of heat, you can get away with smaller sizes than with steel.

Other available metals include aluminium, which is an excellent heat conductor, and less commonly, copper and brass. More unusual materials on the market include glass – and mirror – as well as smooth stone.

You can specify pre-finished radiators in almost any colour, usually powder coated. You can also specify metallic finishes in stainless steel or chrome. Many cheaper radiators come primed ready for painting with special radiator paint which you can buy from DIY stores.

Salvaged Radiators

For unique character and period charm, reclaimed cast iron radiators are usually cheaper than new models. Their downfall is that it is difficult to spot damage in a salvage yard, such as hairline cracks or ‘sludge’, which can wreak havoc in a new heating system. Make sure they are well flushed out and pressure-tested for leaks. Ideally, have them shot-blasted clean. Bear in mind that most old radiators will be made for imperial-size plumbing fittings and rarely come with original valves— which can complicate the installation.

Cost

A run-of-the-mill pressed steel radiator can be bought for as little as £15; but to make a feature of your heating, £100-300 will buy a more attractive, sleek design. A particularly unique ‘talking-point’ radiator will set you back as much as £1,000 — or even more. To save money, purchase just a couple of feature radiators, and install cheaper models in lesser-used rooms. Cast iron column radiators cost between £20-50 per section.

From left to right: Bisque’s Mini Hot Spring, from £413.60 (01225 478500); The Climber stainless steel towel rail by MHS Radiators, from £615 (01268 546700); Aeon’s Marbella stone radiator has stainless steel belts, which can be extended to become towel rails, prices start at £699 (01525 379505); The Jacob stainless steel bespoke radiator by Tubism, from £1,000 (01283 761477); The Metacrylic steel and acrylic radiator by The Radiator Company, from £2,068.65 (01342 302250)

Further Reading:

• The Death of Central Heating
• How to Balance Radiators
• Underfloor Heating or Radiators?