Many factors need to be taken into account when you go to find out which radiators you need, whether it’s part of a renovation project or a complete self-build.
Here is a short but comprehensive rundown on what is best to look out for when choosing the perfect type of radiator for you.
But first, some important information!
What Are British Thermal Units (BTUs), And How Do I Calculate Them?
The first and by far most important thing you need to be aware of when choosing a radiator is the need to understand the level of heating required for a particular room.
The way to measure this is in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour.
In short, each radiator has a heat output specific to it. When you know just how much heat a room will require, you can choose the type and size of radiator, which will perfectly suit the design of your room.
While there are many BTU calculators online to help you, you can always elect to have a heating engineer work this out for you.
What Size Should My Radiator Be?
The amount of British Thermal Units required per radiator depends on the number of radiators within a particular room.
But, generally speaking, the larger the radiator, the greater the heat output. Some heating manufacturers can create your radiators to the exact size you require.
If you are heavily tied by space, however, you may wish to consider underfloor heating.
What Style of Radiator Should I Be Considering?
While radiators serve an essential function, consumers are increasingly looking at style when choosing which radiator to purchase.
No longer do we have to put up with clunky, oversized heat machines; the market is full of stylish, sleek, and surprisingly affordable offerings.
Wall hanging radiators are growing ever-popular for living spaces, while ladder designs and slim-line models are often most sought after for bathrooms and even kitchens.
Luxury radiators are widely available – with a higher price tag attached – in an assortment of styles and finishes. These include powder-coated finishes, if you wish to add that pinch of indulgence throughout your rooms.
There is a great selection of sleek, stylish and functional radiators available online, you can find a great comprehensive list of some of the best radiators available by clicking here.
What Valve Is Best For Energy Saving?
Choosing the correct radiator valve is a move that can potentially save you quite an amount of money on your energy bills in the future.
There are three main types of value you should consider:
- Manual Values
- Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
- Digital TRVs
Manual valves, as the name suggests, are hand adjusted and allow a constant flow of water. In contrast, TRVs enable you to adjust the temperature manually; they also detect the surrounding air temperature and adjust the radiator accordingly.
Digital TRVs, however, are now highly popular amongst consumers as part of the recent smart-home insurgence. These, coupled with a thermostat, can save you a large chunk on your energy bills for the foreseeable; so these types of valves are a cost-effective option in the long term.
Although there is a lot to consider when choosing which radiators you need, by using our handy list of tips above, you cannot go wrong in choosing the perfect radiators for you.
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