In addition to keeping you warm, a new radiator can form a stylish centrepiece. Here are some tips for buying them.

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Blend in with your décor

Do you have modern or traditional themes in your home? Seek out desig ns that will make the most of your decorative schemes. For example, cast iron column radiators suit a classic look, while modern homes are enhanced by sleek designer vertical radiators.

British Thermal Units

You need to figure out the size of the space you hope to heat. After this, finding radiators with suitable British Thermal Unit (BTU) heat output for your room is vital; online calculators can help.

Materials

Materials include cast iron, aluminium and steel. Mild steel is the most commonly used and cheapest material.

Lightweight aluminium comes in flat panels and more elaborate styles. To see a range of aluminium radiators, check sites like http://apolloradiators.co.uk/Category/3/header/3/radiator-ranges.

 

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Cast iron radiators

Column cast iron radiators take longer to become warm but retain heat for longer. They are heavy, so your wall needs to be strong.

Bathroom radiators

If you have a traditional design scheme, a column radiator will fit in. Designer radiators shine in a modern setting.

Column towel radiators are a great option. If your bathroom is small, choose a compact or vertical radiator to save space.

With an all-white bathroom, be bold and choose a striking colour, such as red. If you have a grey suite, anthracite blends well, while stylish chrome fits in with any design. For a classic look, choose simple white or black.

Kitchen radiators

Choose eye-catching designs that will impress your guests. Country kitchens suit column radiators, while sleek vertical radiators go nicely in contemporary spaces.

If your kitchen is small, choose a tall or compact space-saving design. Larger kitchens may need more than one radiator for effective heating.

There is more advice on choosing a radiator at https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/choosing-the-right-radiator/.

Where to put a radiator

Radiators should go in the coldest area of the room, which is usually next to or under a window, or on an outside wall.

Brick, masonry and blocks will be strong enough to carry the weight of radiators made from heavy metals. If your wall consists of plasterboard with a hollow area, look for where the studs are placed – this is where the radiator should be attached.