The world of Column Radiators is varied and colourful. With designs reminiscent of radiators made during the Victorian and Edwardian eras, industrial inspired models and bright, colourful finishes, you are sure to find a stunning addition to your home. Column Radiators are perhaps the most customisable radiator on the market, as there is a wide breadth of sizes, styles and luxurious finishes to choose from. Their designs can vary from super traditional Edwardian and Victorian inspired models, championed by Paladin, or industrial chic bare metal lacquers, even brightly coloured models from luxury brands such as DQ, Vogue and Reina.

Column Radiators are extremely effective at their primary purpose: giving out heat! They work well in any room of the home when plumbed into your existing central heating system. The water from your central heating system is pumped into the radiator, filling each of the individual columns. The result is a huge surface area with hot water on one side of the metal and cold air on the other, causing a quick transfer of heat from the radiator to your room.

This is why column radiators have such a high heat performance compared to more modern models of radiator, there is simply more material to heat and in turn give out heat!

What is a column radiator?

Traditional Column Radiators

Traditional column radiators have been a mainstay of home heating systems for over a century. Usually made of cast iron, these vertically oriented radiators consist of connected sections that allow hot water or steam to flow through.

As the hot water passes from section to section, the large surface area of the radiator allows heat to radiate into the room. Column radiators are an effective way to distribute heat due to their vertical orientation and sectioned construction.

The columns promote thermal convection as the hot air rises from the radiator, circulating heat in the room.

While antique cast iron radiators with ornate flourishes remain popular in historic homes, more contemporary models in sleek metals and minimalist styles exist as well. Despite advances in heating technology, traditional column radiators continue to provide an aesthetically pleasing and effective means of residential space heating.

A column radiator is made up of 2 main components:

Columns

Columns are the vertical tubes that run from the top to the bottom of each section of the radiator. Most column radiators are produced in 2-4 columns, although larger made to order sizes are available for sizeable rooms and spaces.

Sections

Sections determine the overall width of the radiator. You will notice on some column radiator products the size options state the height and width with the number of sections in brackets.

As always, the best place to start when choosing a radiator is to calculate the

BTU you will need for the space your radiator will be installed in. Once you have your BTU, you can play around with column numbers and sections to determine the best size and shape of radiator for your home.

The next important thing to consider is the wall your radiator will be installed on.

Solid Walls

Most solid walls will be able to hold the weight of a column radiator without additional support. However, if you are purchasing a cast iron column radiator we would err on the side of caution and purchase a model constructed with feet or purchase additional feet to handle the weight.

Stud Walls

A column radiator must have additional support if it is to be installed on a stud wall. Internal stud walls can typically only hold up to 40kg weight before additional support is required. This can be achieved by removing the plaster from your wall, adding supportive plywood bars to give strength to the wall, affixing the wall brackets of your radiator to the wood and replastering to achieve a smooth finish before your radiator can be mounted.

There are multiple mounting options for your column radiator.

Wall mounting

The most common method of mounting a traditional radiator is on the wall using brackets. Your radiator will be supplied with a standard wall mounting bracket set, but you may require a specially constructed stud wall bracket kit, or consider specially designed wall stays that will complement the overall look of your radiator.

Feet

Each radiator company offers multiple feet options. Feet are the supportive additional elements that support the weight of your radiator and add style to the design

Each radiator company will have their own bespoke feet suited to their column radiators, but they typically come in the following styles.

Slip-on feet

Slip-on feet do exactly that – they are slipped onto the bottom of the radiator and screwed into the floor to support the weight of the radiator. While size varies across brands, slip-on feet typically add 100-120mm height to your radiator, so consider the height of any skirting boards and windows whilst purchasing your column radiator.

Welded feet

Welded feet offer a more traditional look to your column radiator and are welded onto the bottom of your radiator, providing support and style.

Finish and Colour options

Column radiators are commonly made from steel or cast iron and feature a powder coat treatment, as this kind of pain is resistant to corrosion and ensures high levels of heat resistance without sacrificing colour tone.

Most column radiators are stocked in the most popular radiator colours, white and anthracite. You will find some models are available in the very attractive bare metal lacquer finish which gives an industrial style suited for many modern homes. Even though column radiators are traditional in nature, they don’t have to look that way. Most column radiators are available in a variety of RAL colours and special finishes.

Why not choose a bright orange colour or an on-trend sage green? The options are almost endless!

Although there is an additional cost for special finishes and colours, the

opportunity to have a unique and interesting design in your home is not one to be missed.

Valves & Sleeving Kits

Your new column radiator will need some valves. For a more modern feel try a satin nickel or black nickel finish TRV. For more traditional designs, wooden top TRVs will complement a classic model well.

Sleeving kits can enhance the overall look of your radiator by hiding unsightly pipework. You can match your sleeving kit finish to your TRV to ensure a cohesive and considered final look.

What are the overall benefits of buying a column radiator?

High Heat Output

Compared to other styles of radiators of a similar size, column radiators produce a much higher heat output than their more modern counterparts. This is simply due to the large surface area allows them to maintain a steady flow of heat.

Perfect for high ceilings

Column radiators are ideal for rooms with high ceilings. Heat rises naturally and rooms with more height will feel the benefit from the superior heat output produced by your column radiator.

Flexibility

Column radiators have the most flexibility when it comes to size. As they are constructed column by column there is a much wider variety of sizes. If you have a specific space or height restriction, altering the number of columns or sections is easy to create your perfect radiator.

If the multitude of stocked sizes are still not ideal for you, brands like DQ offer made to order sizes so we can construct your radiator exactly to your needs.

Design

Our column radiators range from simple, clean designs to Victorian inspired exquisitely intricate cast iron masterpieces. If you are looking for something unique that will stun in your home then a column radiator is the way to go.

As always, if you need further help with choosing the perfect radiator for your home, our sales team are on hand to help, call on 01257 452 879 or email sales@designerradiatorshowroom.co.uk

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Explore our best-selling radiators in the UK and choose one that fits your budget and requirements. Don’t settle for a subpar heating system and upgrade your home or business with the best selling radiators today. Your comfort, energy bills, and the environment will thank you.

It is crucial to seek guidance from the manufacturer and a certified professional for the installation process to ensure safety and compliance with all technical specifications and requirements. Proper installation is key to the optimal performance and longevity of the product.

Additionally, professional installation may be necessary to maintain the product’s warranty. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consult with experts and not attempt to install the product yourself unless you are qualified to do so.

With the wide variety of radiators available these days it is hard to know which will be the most efficient, both in terms of cost and energy. We are all watching our wallets right now and no one wants to spend a lot on a product that will not serve us well. Designer Radiator Showroom offers radiators to suit all homes, in a variety of materials. Below we have outlined a guide to the efficiency of different radiator materials.

CAST-IRON

Cast-iron radiators look stunning in traditionally styled rooms. But are they efficient? Cast iron heats up slowly and cools down slowly. This means they may not warm the room as quick as you would like but once they are up to temperature they will stay warm for longer than more modern styles. This means you may not need to keep the heating on as long as expected, saving you money on your bills. This makes them a great choice for large areas, living rooms and bedrooms. They can come with a hefty price tag though, but typically lost a long time.

ELECTRIC

Electric radiators are excellent for small spaces that are not typically as busy in your home, guest bedrooms for example. By only turning them on when you need you save the cost of having them continuously on. Obviously, the electric bills need to be considered so having a whole house of electric radiators is not ideal, but for intermittent use they are perfect. They are quick to heat, but very quick to cool down, so may need to be kept on for longer, costing more.

STEEL

Steel is a highly conductive material which heats up quickly. Steel radiators retain heat well so your heating does not need to stay on continuously to keep you warm. Steel is perhaps the most popular material radiators are manufactured in, so you are sure to find a huge range of styles. However, steel radiators typically have a shorter lifespan as they are prone to degrading and rusting. You may find you need to replace steel radiators more often than other materials, costing you more money in the long run. By properly taking care of your radiators and having them powerflushed you can slow down this degradation massively and breathe a new lease of life into your boiler and radiators.

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel offers all the benefits of their steel counterparts but with a huge bonus: they require much less maintenance and are much less prone to rusting and degradation. By paying a little bit more for something that will last longer and maintain its excellent look and performance, you are saving money in the long run.

ALUMINIUM

Aluminium radiators truly shine when it comes to efficiency. Aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat, meaning less energy is used bringing your radiator up to temperature. Aluminium radiators typically use a lower amount of water, which puts less strain on your boiler. Aluminium radiators are great at heating up quickly, although they are fairly quick to cool down. But by using less water, they are still more efficient even when run for longer. By installing aluminium radiators in your home you could save as much as 15% on your energy bills than compared to a home with radiators manufactured in alternative materials.

Aluminium is also a more environmentally friendly material – it can be recycled and reused easily.

Once your aluminium radiator can no longer be used, it will be dismantled and the materials can be reused.

CHROME

Chrome is a very popular choice for towel rails and towel bars. It is a perfect material for adding some shine to your bathroom, and a little extra heat. Chrome is not the best conductor of heat, typically producing around 15% less heat than its steel and aluminium alternatives. While this might not be the best option for high-performing radiators, it is perfect to warm towels.

Overall, each radiator material type has its own pros and cons, and suitability for different purposes. Consider chrome and electric for smaller spaces and extra sources of heat. Choose steel, aluminium and cast-iron for delivering impressive heat outputs and warming larger spaces. We pride ourselves on offering a range of radiators and towel rails with a minimum 5 year guarantee, all the way up to a 25 year guarantee. We promise to deliver a long-lasting and stylish designer product.

Still can’t decide? Our team are on hand Mon-Sat to help you find the perfect radiator for you.

Give us a call on 01257452879 or send an email to sales@designerradiatorshowroom.co.uk

From column radiators to glass radiators, there’s such a huge range of radiator designs on the market nowadays and there is a solution for every room in the home. Whether you want to make a design statement with an eye-catching style or you’re looking for something more understated and elegant to heat your home, here at the Designer Radiator Showroom we have something for absolutely everyone.

One particular type of radiator that is becoming increasingly popular and many are now installing throughout their homes is the flat panel radiator. Designer flat panel radiators aren’t overly flamboyant and they don’t overpower the room, yet they still have a modern and sleek appearance. Whether you’re looking for a new radiator for your living room, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom, a flat panel radiator is a great choice.

Below we have explored some of the main reasons why you should consider purchasing flat panel radiators for your home.

Energy Efficient

Modern flat panel radiators are designed to be more energy efficient than traditional alternatives. Not only do they heat up much faster than other designs but their larger surface area helps them to transfer heat more efficiently. Many designer flat panel radiators have good heat output and they use less energy to maintain a consistent temperature. This makes them a great choice for anyone who is conscious of their energy usage and wants to reduce their energy bills whilst keeping their living spaces warm.

You can even purchase double versions of flat panel radiators which nearly double the total heat output provided by the radiator, so they’re ideal for rooms which require higher BTU levels. You can use a BTU calculator to make sure you’re purchasing the best radiator for your space.

Space Saving

When compared to standard vertical or horizontal radiators, flat panel radiators are much slimmer and they will take up less space in your home. This is particularly useful for those who have limited wall space and floor space or want to make the most of their living areas. Flat panel radiators are also available in a range of sizes and shapes, so you can choose one that works perfectly in even the smallest of spaces in your home.

Stylish Design

Designer flat panel radiators have a sleek and modern appearance that can add a touch of style to any room. They are available in a range of colours and finishes, so you can choose one that complements your interior design. It’s easy to find flat panel radiators that work well together too as there aren’t many visual differences between designs. With both vertical and horizontal panel designs to choose from, you can also trick the eye to make a wall seem longer or taller.

Easy to Clean

Due to their sleek design, flat panel radiators are much easier to clean than traditional radiators. They have a smooth surface that can be wiped down with a damp cloth, making them ideal for anyone who suffers from allergies or asthma. Flat panel radiators also have fewer crevices and corners, which means there are fewer places for dust and dirt to accumulate. They are the perfect choice for busy, family households.

Versatile

Flat panel radiators are incredibly versatile and they can be installed in a variety of spaces, such as bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens. They are also available in a wide range of different sizes, so you can choose one that suits your needs and there are lots of compact designs to choose from. Flat panel radiators can be installed in a range of locations, including under windows and behind pieces of furniture.

Ordering Designer Flat Panel Radiators for Your Home

Bisque coloured retro style decorative kitchen radiator mounted on white wall near window. Vintage ornamental heating unit adding warmth and accent to kitchen design — Flat Panel Radiator

It’s fair to say that flat panel radiators are an excellent choice for any homeowners who want an energy-efficient, space-saving and stylish heating solution. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why designer flat panel radiators have become increasingly popular in recent years and if you’re looking for a new heating solution for your home, you should consider purchasing a designer flat panel radiator.

Should you be trying to find the perfect flat panel radiator for your home, be sure to explore the selection of designs we supply at the Designer Radiator Showroom. We have created a collection of simple and sophisticated radiators, and many of our designs are available in a range of colours. To find out more about flat panel radiators, feel free to contact our team. We will happily answer any questions you may have to help you find a high-quality heating solution for every room in your home.

Final Thoughts

Flat Panel Radiator is a great versatile space saving option that can be used as:

Kitchen radiators – Flat panel radiators work well in kitchens where wall space is limited. Their sleek low profile design suits modern minimalist kitchen aesthetics.
Bedroom radiators – Discreet flat panel radiators complement bedroom décor. They provide warmth without dominating the room or cluttering walls. Their compact size suits small bedrooms.
Living room radiators – Flat panel radiator horizontal layouts maximize heat emission while minimizing protrusion from living room walls. Their minimalist style integrates elegantly into contemporary living spaces.
Bathroom radiators – Flat panel radiators for bathrooms occupy less wall space and allow better clearance around sinks, tubs and doorways. Their wipe-clean surfaces assist easy maintenance in damp environments.
Home office radiators – Compact flat panel radiators warm home offices efficiently. Lower clearance from walls saves space for furniture positioning.

So with its adaptable sizing and space-saving abilities, the flat panel radiator can suit kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms and home offices.

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Conservatories are a popular addition to many properties, offering a unique space that can be enjoyed by homeowners. They provide a bright and airy environment that can be used for a variety of purposes, from a dining area to a home office, and they can be designed to meet your unique requirements. However, conservatories are notorious for being difficult to keep at a comfortable temperature all year round.

Not only can conservatories get unbearably warm during the summer months, but they can get very cold during the winter months too. Many struggle to keep their conservatory cosy and comfortable when the temperature starts to drop outside, and this can result in them not using the space as much as they should. To help you make the most of your conservatory, below we have explored the different heating options available for conservatories and listed some tips on how to create a warm and inviting space that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Why Conservatories are Cold in the Winter

Conservatories will often be colder than other rooms in your home due to their unique design and construction. They are typically made up of large windows, doors and glass panels, which can cause heat to escape quickly. This can make it much harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Conservatories are often subject to draughts too, particularly if they have a lot of gaps or cracks in the structure, and this can make them colder.

During the design process of a conservatory, insulation can also be overlooked. The lack of insulation in the walls and roof can contribute to heat loss, making it more challenging to keep the space warm during the colder weather. Unlike other rooms in the home, many homeowners won’t use heavy curtains or blinds to trap heat inside either, which can impact the overall temperature and energy efficiency of a conservatory.

How to Heat Your Conservatory

No matter what size or shape your conservatory may be, there are a few different ways you can keep it warm during the colder months;

Electric Radiators

Electric radiators are a popular choice for heating conservatories. They are very easy to install and can be plugged into a standard wall socket, which means there is no need for complicated plumbing. Electric radiators are also available in a wide range of sizes and styles, from vertical radiators to horizontal radiators, so you can choose one that suits your conservatory.

Modern electric radiators have impressive heat output and they are very energy-efficient. You can often control them via Bluetooth or WiFi too, so you can easily regulate the temperature in your conservatory. To ensure you’re installing the best electric radiator for your space, use a BTU calculator to make sure you don’t get too little or too much heat.

Underfloor Heating

Underfloor heating is another great option for heating your conservatory. If you don’t have much free wall space in this room for a radiator, underfloor heating is a space-saving solution and it’s installed underneath your flooring. This heating solution can provide a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout your conservatory. Underfloor heating can be more expensive than electric radiators and may require professional installation, but this is something our team of professionals can assist you with.

Portable Heaters

Sometimes, homeowners will use portable heaters in their conservatory and they can be a more convenient option. These heaters can be moved around as needed and are available in a range of sizes and styles. However, portable heaters are often less energy-efficient than electric radiators or underfloor heating, and may not provide the same level of comfort.

Other Useful Heating Tips

There are a few other ways you can help to keep your conservatory warm and cosy all year round, including;

Closing the doors between your conservatory and the rest of your home – this can help to prevent heat from escaping and your heating system won’t have to work as hard to keep your conservatory warm.
Having a rug or carpet in your conservatory – this can help to insulate the floor and reduce cold draughts. It can also help to make your conservatory feel warmer and it won’t be cold underfoot.
Investing in thermal curtains or blinds – this can help trap heat inside your conservatory. It’s easy to find curtains or blinds that complement your decor and even if you have double-glazed windows, they can be beneficial.
Installing draught-proofing strips or using draught excluders – this can help to prevent cold air from getting into your conservatory and keep the space comfortable. It can also help to save you money on your heating bills.

Finding the Perfect Solution for Your Conservatory

All in all, heating your conservatory can be a challenge, but there are several heating options available that can help to keep your conservatory warm and comfortable. Hopefully, the information above will help you to choose the most effective heating solution for your needs and create a comfortable and energy-efficient space.

When searching for somewhere to purchase electric radiators or underfloor heating, be sure to explore the Designer Radiator Showroom website. We supply a huge selection of horizontal radiators and vertical radiators, and our range includes various styles, materials and colours. No matter what you have in mind for your conservatory, you can trust that we will have the perfect heating solution for you. If you have any questions before ordering radiators online, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today.