What is the most Energy-Efficient Radiator?

Energy-efficiency remains a top priority for many home owners and Nick Duggan, MD of The Radiator Centre, talks us through best options when considering heating the home

What is the most efficient radiator?

Energy efficient radiators are more efficient because they tend to use lower volumes of water coupled with a high internal surface area. Less water means you don’t need to use so much energy to heat it. For example, aluminium radiators often have less water content and faster reaction times than their steel equivalents. And they look fantastic too.

The flat panel radiators in the Synergy range are ideal for air and ground source heat pumps, as they contain up to 90% less water than conventional radiators. If you’re struggling to heat the room on particularly cold days, some models come with fan assistance to get the room up to temperature more quickly.

If you want a discreet, slimline radiator, the Linea Plus provides an elegant solution for energy efficient heating. Floor standing or wall mounted, it can be installed close to large windows or beneath bay windows or window seats to help keep the heat in and the cold out.

For conservatories and rooms that have large windows, the Mini provides a much higher heat output than its size suggests. With its low-water technology and ultra-fast heat exchanger, it produces maximum heat for minimum energy consumption.

What is the best radiator for a bathroom?

A towel rail radiator can warm your room and will make sure that your towels are nice and snug. If size permits, we would also recommend an actual radiator in your bathroom in addition to a towel rail.  While traditional, vertical towel rails are still a popular choice, there are an increasing number of stylish options coming available. Long, low designs are a great solution for anyone with a smaller bathroom as they can fit in areas which would otherwise be dead space, such as above the bath.

We would recommend looking at a dual fuel option when it comes to bathroom heating. Many towel radiators are also now available with an optional electric heating element, which will ensure you have warm and dry towels even when your central heating is turned off in the summer.

What are the best energy-saving tips when buying or using radiators?

When selecting a towel rail or radiator, we would always advise customers to avoid chrome radiators, as they do not emit heat as efficiently as coloured or matt finishes. In fact, chrome plated radiators can give out up to 20% less heat than painted options. Another thing to keep in mind is that the bigger the bars, the better the heat output. Designs which separate the towel from the radiator section are also great options, as these heat the room more effectively.

Another way to save fuel is to install thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on all your radiators. TRVs control the flow of water into individual radiators, which means you can control the maximum temperature in each room.

Electric radiators can also help you become more energy efficient because of their controllability. Each radiator comes with a timer, allowing you to set it to come on at the precise time you need it. Some electric radiators, such as the Vela, come with smart technology, allowing you to control it via an app on your phone. And since 2018, all electric radiators have been built with ‘open window’ sensors. If the sensor detects a draught from an open window or door, it will automatically switch the radiator off to prevent heat waste.

Finally, the Art series - are beautiful, designer radiators more expensive to run?

Not necessarily. Some of the latest designs include Low H20 technology so you no longer need to sacrifice on style to be eco-friendly.

Nick Duggan, Director, the Radiator Centre, 01727 840344

www.theradiatorcentre.com