Choosing the right radiator

Barbara Payne Head of product and marketing, Bisque Radiators

Choosing a radiator style is as much of a design statement as a practical consideration, and there are hundreds of designs to choose from. Barbara Payne, head of product and marketing at Bisque Radiators, shares her expertise on what to consider before you buy.

‘Think carefully about where you intend to position your radiators. In the past, radiators were placed under windows to counteract cold downdraughts and prevent condensation, but with double-glazed windows and modern levels of insulation this is changing. You can now fit them where it’s most pleasing aesthetically.

‘Tall, slim radiators can be installed in areas that are otherwise unusable and can make an attractive feature in their own right. For large areas of glazing, which may be prone to condensation, consider using low level radiators.

‘White and chrome are bestselling shades, but many companies offer a wide range of colours and finishes – from earthy, textured shades to two-tone iridescent colours. There are also radiators made from wood and marble. Some companies offer a colour-matching service so the radiator can match your walls or furnishings.

‘Aluminium radiators are gradually being introduced into the UK. These have a lower water content, which means they require less energy from the boiler. They are also faster to respond to changes in the heating requirement, thereby reducing energy waste. They have had their drawbacks, with many of them regarded as being bulky and unattractive, but now there are ranges featuring compact and stylish designs.

‘Use thermostatic valves where possible, as these automatically adjust the radiator output to meet changes in your room environment (as well as taking advantage of any ‘free’ heat, such as from the sun or electrical equipment).

ABOVE: Blok, a new recycled aluminium radiator from Bisque, which combines stylish Italian design with energy-efficient technology. (H)59x (W)70x(D)8cm, from £615

‘Whether you have a new build property or want to replace existing radiators, it is worth doing a quick check on the heat output required for the rooms. Most reputable radiator suppliers have easy-to-use calculators on their websites.

‘Don’t forget to discuss pipework installation with your plumber so that it’s as neat and discreet as possible, as poor installation can mar the final appearance.

‘Keep your radiators clean by using warm water and a small amount of washing up liquid. Other cleaners – such as those designed for tiles or worktops – can damage the finish and the chrome-plated valves.’

FEATURE SALLY GILLAM
Feature in the February 2012 issue of Real Homes