Heating

Radiator Sizing and Style Guide

They’re the trusty appliance and home staple that every space needs. Essential for keeping our homes warm and cosy and useful for drying out clothes, radiators are an indispensable piece of home furniture.

However, they can bring more to a home than just their function. From double-panel and single-panel radiators and heated towel rails to cast iron and oil-filled options, this humble heating appliance can double as an aesthetically pleasing addition to any space. So, if you’re not sure which radiator best suits your space or which size your space demands, we’ve composed this guide to answer your radiator queries.

Image of modern black radiator mounted on a green wall

What are the different types of radiators?

Before considering radiator sizing, it’s important to consider the many shapes, formats and styles that modern radiators come in. Gone are the days of the plain white facades and basic shapes; there’s now a wealth of radiator styles to discover. Whether you prefer a designer radiator or the traditional options, there’ll be an option that suits you and your space perfectly.

Vertical radiators

Due to the tall and slim shape of vertical radiators, they’re ideal for those cramped and awkward spaces around your home, such as spaces beside a door, in downstairs toilets and in utility rooms. They’re also commonly used in bathrooms as heated towel rails as they fit smaller spaces without compromising on heat.

Horizontal radiators

Horizontal radiators are the perfect way to heat wide and long spaces, as they tend to have more width than height. This makes them the best solution for under windows or shelves and makes the most of your space. Matched with a stylish radiator cover, horizontal radiators can easily transform into an appealing feature in your home.

Column radiators

Similar in appearance to cast iron radiators, these home appliances are a timeless and classic addition to any home. Whether you’re looking to mimic your home’s traditional interior or balance a modern space with a classic piece, a column radiator is the perfect option. They’re also available in a range of sizes, making them a versatile and adaptable choice for your home.

Oil-Filled radiators

Affordable and energy-efficient, oil-filled radiators are a practical and portable way of delivering heat when your home demands a boost of cosiness. Due to their exposed surface area, however, these heaters are not always the best solution for families with young children or pets.

Panel radiators

Available in both vertical and horizontal compositions, panel radiators are a stylish and modern option. While they may not heat up quite as efficiently as their column counterparts, there’s no denying that panel radiators can provide heat quickly. Single-panel and double-panels are also popular heater options among those looking for a sleek and sophisticated finish.

What radiator size do I need?

Radiator sizes can vary from extremely thin and tall, to short and wide. The thinnest can be between 23cm and 50cm. These are mostly vertical radiators with heights of around 180cm. Horizontal radiators tend to start at around 50cm wide and are almost square. Horizontal radiators can be wider than a metre.

The material and BTU (or heat output) of the radiator you choose will also influence its size.

What is the heat output of a radiator?

The heat output of a radiator is measured in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour) or Watts. It’s vital to consider this when choosing the most appropriate source of heat for your room as you need a radiator that will efficiently heat your space. To calculate this, you’ll need the ceiling height and room size in square feet and an estimation of the heat loss for the room. This will help to inform the radiator size you select.

To get your figure, simply use a BTU calculator online tool to help or seek advice from a professional plumber.

What is the best material for a radiator?

The material your radiator is made from can determine the speed at which it heats up and cools down. Aluminium heats up quickly but cools down just as fast, whereas cast iron will heat up slowly and retain its heat for much longer. The finish can also affect the heat output; chrome radiators are less efficient at radiating heat due to their insulating quality.

Do you need a valve for a radiator?

Radiators connected to the central heating system must have valves. These are positioned at the point where the radiator connects with the pipes. There are two options: standard or thermostatic valves. Standard radiator valves act like taps, as they allow you to turn radiators on and off in specific rooms but cannot alter the heat. Thermostatic valves also give you the ability to change the heat output, which can save you money on energy bills.

How do you maintain a radiator?

To keep them in tip-top condition, you’ll need to bleed your radiators from time to time. Doing this releases the air bubbles that build up over time and become trapped in the pipes.

Check which radiators need bleeding by heating them and touching them near the tops. The ones that aren’t heating up to full temperature will need attention. Allow them to cool down and then use a radiator key on the valve to bleed it. Continue while you hear air escaping and then stop when water appears.

Corrosion can also occur when air is inside your radiator. You can use anti-corrosion fluid in the system to prevent this.

 

There you have it! Our guide to all things radiator sizes and styles to keep your home warm and cosy. For more buying guides and DIY inspiration, explore our Ideas & Advice page.



Homebase

Homebase

Writer and expert