Which fuel type should I choose?
A first consideration when buying a radiator will be what fuel type to opt for. There are many reasons why one fuel type may be better suited to your requirements.
Central Heated
The majority of our radiators can be fitted straight into a standard
central heating system. Central heated systems are usually powered by a gas boiler, or in some installations by electricity or oil.
Electric
There are some situations where fitting a radiator into a standard central heating system is just not an option. For example, it could be too expensive to extend a current central heating system such as for a conservatory or house extension, or it could be simply because there is no central heating system and electric is the only option such as in a lot of modern apartments.
Electric radiators have developed massively over recent times when it comes to the available styles and how efficient they are.
Dual Fuel
A superb solution for the bathroom, a dual fuel radiator allows you to heat the radiator by your central heating system in the winter, and then use an electric element in the Summer to keep your towels warm.
Which function valve do I need?
Radiator valves generally function in one of two ways; manual operation or thermostatic.
Manual Valves
Easy to use, just twist the top and it alters the flow of heat into your radiator. It is just like turning a tap.
Manual valves are usually simpler and smaller than thermostatic valves.
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV)
Thermostatic valves (also known as TRV), are similar in design to manual valves but feature a sensor. This sensor reacts to the room temperature and self-regulates the radiator output, meaning you can save money on heating costs when used right.
Which Radiator Valve Type Do I need?
Valves connect your water pipes and radiator together. The placement and the design of your radiator and pipes will affect which type of valve you will require.
Please see the below table which gives you an idea of which type of valve is suitable depending on pipe and inlet locations.
Radiator Inlet Location |
Pipes coming out of wall |
Pipes coming out of floor |
Pipes run exposed along wall |
Inlets on the side / side entry |
angled / corner |
angled |
straight |
Inlets underneath / underside entry |
angled / corner |
straight |
angled |
If you need any assistance please contact us and we will be happy to help. It may also be worth asking a plumber to take a look at your configuration to provide advice.
Which element type should I choose?
There are two types of electric element available:
Standard
Our standard elements very simply have two states - on or off. When you switch on a standard element, it heats to a certain temperature until switched off.
Thermostatic
Thermostatic elements offer variable heat by adjustment of the controls. This is useful for adjusting the heat output depending on the weather or to lower the surface temperature of the radiator for when children are present.