The best radiators should not only heat your home efficiently, but they should look great and enhance your interior scheme. Our collection brings together the top designs, no matter what your needs
There are several decisions to make when choosing the best radiators for your home. While this is most certainly a design choice, there's more to looking for new radiators than just selecting those products that are going to look great with the rest of your interior scheme.
One of the most important factors to consider is, of course, efficiency but with so many types of radiator out there, opting for the best design for you can be tricky. When buying new radiators, one of the main things you'll need to look at is heat output to ensure you get a model best suited to your room of choice.
Whether you are self building and choosing radiators as part of your new heating system; renovating an old property with out-of-date heat sources; or you just fancy swapping your current models for something that will better suit your interior scheme, we're here to help.
We've collated the very best radiators available right now so you can ensure you are choosing the right product at the best possible price.
The Quick List
Not much time to search for best radiators for your home? Not to worry — we've put together a handy overview of all the radiators on this list, along with useful quick links that allow to you skip down the page to get right into a more detailed review of the particular product that you like the look of.
This is the perfect radiator for those keen to install classic-style column radiators, but who are not so keen on the cost that usually goes hand in hand with this type of radiator. Instead of cast iron, this product is made from premium quality steel.
If it is sleek and subtle that you are after from your radiator design then this one is a great option for you. It is made from 1.5mm premium mild steel and is perfect for those areas of the home where you are keen to keep as much wall space free as possible — it is also good value for money.
Radiators need not be huge to give a really good heat output — and the Milano Aruba is a great example of this. Despite measuring just 400mm x 413mm, it still manages to provide an impressive heat output of 1638 BTUs, plus other sizes are available in the range if you want a cohesive look throughout.
This radiator really is one to consider if you want your heat source to make something of a style statement, without it overtaking the room it is fitted in. It has a high BTU rating of between 6500-7000 and comes in many different colours and sizes.
This is a great all-rounder that may not compete for the most exciting design on the market but has an awful lot of other advantages to take into consideration. Budget-friendly and ideal for smaller spaces, it is also lightweight, making it easy to fit. This model measures 600 x 300mm and has a heat output of 1003 BTUs.
If you thought electric radiators were old-fashioned and somewhat unsightly then this model should make you reconsider. Just one of these radiators can heat a 22m2 space and it features a digital thermostat. Even better, it can simply be plugged in — no plumber required.
Flat panel radiators are a great option for those living in more modern-styles of home as they are sleek and unobtrusive and come in a range of contemporary colours too. With its matt gret finish, it can be paired with a range of other sizes and configurations from the range.
It can be really difficult to know what type of radiator to opt for in kitchens, where wall space is usually at a premium — but this stylish offering from NRG is well worth considering. The matt anthracite finish is really attractive, plus it is lightweight and easy to install too.
Electric, oil-filled radiators are great for those times where you want a boost of heat without firing up your central heating. This light grey model from Delonghi is easy to move around thanks to the castors it sits on and has a heat output of 2000 Watts.
1. Milano Windsor Traditional Cast Iron Style Double Column Horizontal Radiator
Classic good-looks, without the weight
Specifications
Size: 300mm x 605mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU rating: 1561
Weight: 9.6kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
Classic yet modern design
+
Lightweight
+
Part of a matching range
Reasons to avoid
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Expensive compared to panel radiators
Part of the Windsor range of classic-style radiators from Milano, the horizontal model is perfect for anyone looking to replicate the look of a traditional cast iron radiator without the weight or price tag usually associated with column radiators.
The 1.5mm thick premium quality steel construction means heat is efficiently distributed through the columns and into your room, while the white powder coated finish will fit in with both traditional and classic contemporary interior schemes alike.
Another bonus of this radiator is that it can be combined with other models from the range for a nice cohesive look — including the tall vertical design, which would work well in awkward spaces.
Best contemporary radiator
(Image credit: Amazon)
2. NRG Modern Vertical Radiator
Contemporary, stylish and durable
Specifications
Size: 1800 x 354mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 4699-6888
Weight: 27kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
Durable construction
+
High heat output
+
Contemporary and elegant
Reasons to avoid
-
Takes a while to heat up
This stylish radiator from NRG boasts a contemporary style which enables it to fit with modern and minimalist home designs.
Not only is it eye-catching, but it's efficient too. Made from 1.5mm premium mild steel and featuring a high quality white finish, it's extremely durable. It's no surprise therefore that this model comes with a 15-year manufacturer's guarantee.
Given its 1800 x 354mm size (multiple size options are available), you certainly get bang for your buck, and it makes for a suitable option if you're planning a renovation or conversion on a budget. Brackets and fixings are included, but valves are not.
Best small radiator
(Image credit: Amazon)
3. Milano Aruba
The best radiator for smaller rooms
Specifications
Size: 400 x 415mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 1638
Weight: 5.68kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
20-year guarantee
+
Impressive heat output for size
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Contemporary design
Reasons to avoid
-
Costs more than some compact rads
The Milano Aruba comes in a variety of sizes, but we particularly love the 400 x 415mm radiator, which is smart, compact and has an impressive heat output.
Despite its dinky dimensions it generates an impressive heat output of 1638, making it ideal for small spaces, awkwardly-shaped rooms or for sneaking in underneath window cills.
Whilst it might cost a little more than some of the other compact radiators, it also offers a smart, contemporary appearance which makes up for the extra cost.
Made from extra thick low carbon steel, the manufacturers are so confident of its durability that they offer a 20-year guarantee.
Best designer radiator
(Image credit: Elegant)
4. Elegant Modern Vertical Column Designer Radiator
A great heat output with a striking design
Specifications
Size: 1600 x 480mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 6500-7000
Weight: 38.09kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
Handy in spaces with limited wall space
+
Plenty of sizes and colour options
Reasons to avoid
-
Some buyers found fitting a little tricky
As the name suggests, this vertical radiator really is an elegant way to heat a room.
It's an ideal radiator for awkward spaces, which would look particularly stylish in a kitchen or hallway, both rooms in which wall space is often at a premium. It comes in single or double formats.
This is another radiator with a really high BTU; it's very efficient. Do ensure you get help lifting this one though as it's a little heavier than some in the line up, and its height and width could make it tricky to carry for one person.
It comes with wall brackets, a plug and a vent, but valves need to be bought separately.
Best budget friendly radiator
(Image credit: Henrad)
5. Henrad 110960 Type 11 SC 1003 Compact Radiator
Plain, but lightweight and budget-friendly
Specifications
Size: 600 x 300mm
BTU Rating: 1003
Weight: 5.91kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
Perfect for small spaces
+
Lightweight
+
Inexpensive
Reasons to avoid
-
Plain design
Whilst this compact radiator from Henrad might not be shortlisted for its eye-catching good looks, there is certainly nothing wrong with it. In fact, many people will be drawn to its ability to simply sit, unnoticed within an interior scheme.
This is a great little radiator for small spaces as it takes up very little room. It is lightweight too, meaning even fairly non-substantial walls will hold it easily.
In short, this is the ideal radiator for anyone on a budget, whether replacing old radiators as part of a heating system upgrade or building from scratch.
Best electric radiator
(Image credit: Warme)
6. Wärme Designer Panel Heater
Electric wall heater with a wow factor
Specifications
Size: 470 x 820mm
BTU Rating: Operates at a 2KW output. One Wärme heater can heat a 22 metre square room
Weight: 9.3kg
Valves included?: N/A
Reasons to buy
+
Does not need to be plumbed in
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Fitted in minutes
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Futuristic design
Reasons to avoid
-
Programming can be complicated
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More expensive to run than traditional rads
Proving that electric radiators are anything but boring, the Wärme Designer Electric Wall Heater Low Energy Panel Heater Radiator will definitely make a statement in your home — it can even be used in bathrooms thanks to its waterproof casing.
As well as looking pretty space age, its ability to heat the house is not to be sniffed at either. One heater can heat a 22 square metre room, whilst built-in heat sensors avoid overheating.
The heater features a digital thermostat too, allowing you to choose between an 'instant heat' mode or to programme it to work to a weekly cycle.
Another benefit of this one is how easy it is to install — it is simply mounted on the wall brackets that are included and plugged in. You will need to ensure there is an electrical socket within reach and ensure there is a minimum of 30cm clearance space above and below the unit.
Best flat panel model
(Image credit: Amazon UK)
7. Horizontal Flat Panel Radiator
Competitively-priced contemporary design
Specifications
Size: 600x408mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU rating: Various depending on size chosen
Weight: 8.3kg
Valves included?: No
Reasons to buy
+
Slimline
+
Modern design
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Easy to fit
Reasons to avoid
-
Larger sizes reported as heavy
Crisp and modern in form and available in a huge range of sizes and configurations, this smart flat panel radiator comes with all the brackets and fittings needed for installation and has a pleasing matt grey finish.
On the downside, the radiators are rather on the heavy side compared to some of the other models here, despite being made from 1.5mm premium mild steel, although this will obviously depend on the size you opt for — something to consider if you are planning on a DIY installation job.
Eye-catching so not for those wanting their radiators to be subtle
Perfect for those looking to minimise the amount of wall space taken up by their radiator or working with awkward spaces — kitchens and bathrooms would really benefit from this design.
Super sleek and contemporary in its form, the matt anthracite finish shown here would make a really modern statement at the same time as being subtle enough to blend in with a range of interior styles.
The radiator is made from low carbon steel and is praised for its ease of installation.
On the downside, it is perhaps not one for those trying to stick to a tight budget.
Best oil-filled radiator
(Image credit: Amazon UK)
9. DELONGHI TRRS 0920 Oil Filled Radiator
Modern take on the oil-filled radiator
Specifications
Size: 6.3cm(D) x 18.6cm (W) x 25.6cm(H)
Heat output: 2000W
Weight: 12.2kg
Valves included?: N/A
Reasons to buy
+
Portable
+
Can be operated independently from the central heating
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No plumbing in required
+
Choice of three power levels
Reasons to avoid
-
No carry handle
Oil-filled radiators have increased in popularity in the last couple of years, with more of us working from home, keen not to turn on our central heating when just one room needs warming up as opposed to the whole house.
Oil-filled radiators work by using electricity to heat oil with an element inside a reservoir. When this element heats up, warmth is transferred to the liquid which then circulates through the appliance, warming its metallic panels.
The DELONGHI TRRS 0920 Oil Filled Radiator is a great model to consider and is easy to move around the house to wherever it is needed thanks to the fact that is on castors. It's light grey finish and subtle design makes it one of the better-looking offerings on the market and it has an impressive heat output — plus you have a choice of three power levels to choose from.
On the downside, those wishing to carry the radiator upstairs may find it a little cumbersome as there is no carry handle to help with this.
FAQs
What is a BTU?
Design and budget are foremost factors, but in order to choose the best radiator for your room, you will need to determine the heat requirements of the space.
Room sizes, window dimensions and even the materials used in the walls will all be used to calculate the required outputs of the radiators you will need to heat the room properly.
You will notice that radiators have a 'BTU rating'. BTUs are ‘British Thermal Units’ and this is the unit in which radiator efficiency is measured.
A heating engineer or plumber should be able to work this out for you, or you could use an online BTU calculator.
Our handy guide to to help you find a plumber for your project is a must-read.
Electric vs plumbed-in radiators: Which is best?
You can trust Homebuilding & Renovating.
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and materials in order to help you choose the best for your home and garden. Find out more about how we test.
Are electric radiators better than plumbed in?
Before you begin your search, decide whether you will need electric radiators or those that are plumbed in.
Electric radiators use mains electricity. Some are designed to be plugged into a socket, while others will need to be fitted by an electrician. You might also see infrared electric radiators for sale. These are good for small spaces as they have a high heat output with a slim profile.
Plumbed-in radiators are connected to your boiler and use hot water as their heat source. They’re controlled as part of the central heating system.
How we test the best radiators
Here at Homebuilding.co.uk we like to get our hands dirty and trial as many products as possible, but in the instances where we aren’t able to, such as with the best radiators, we leave no stone unturned to provide you with the crucial information you need to know before buying. Our team is passionate about DIY and home improvement (which probably won’t be a surprise) so we already have knowledge about the brands that make these radiators. Moreover, we have taken into account user reviews when compiling this buying guide. There's a lot to consider to ensure you buy the best radiator, and we’ve scanned the pros and cons of each model in this buying guide to ensure you feel confident in choosing the right product for your home.
This PELONIS PHOENIX 13M oil radiator uses 3D convection technology to generate a circulating air flow that heats up the entire room evenly and gently. With three heat settings and an adjustable thermostat, it is fan-free so is quiet at night.
You can snap up this stylish vertical radiator for 20% less than usual this Black Friday. Made from low carbon steel construction, this is an ideal model for those after a space-saving heating solution.
After some classic style in your home? This chunky column radiator could be just the thing. Made from high quality steel and available in a range of size options, you could make some considerable savings when updating your heat sources this Black Friday.
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Natasha is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Content Editor and has been a member of the team for over two decades. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she has written for a number of homes titles. Over the years Natasha has renovated and carried out a side extension to a Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project. She is now looking for her next project — something which is proving far harder than she thought it would be.
