Buying radiators online: what to consider and look for

For those new to buying a radiator, the prospect of doing so via a website and choosing between hundreds of different models on a screen can be daunting. But, with some guidance, it needn’t be such a challenge to buy radiators online …

 Heat output

The starting point is to calculate what heat output will be required from a radiator in the room in which you plan to have it installed. Most online radiator retailers will have a page on their website that enables you to do this – you can do so on our ‘BTU Calculator’ page. Here, by inputting details (dimensions of the room and additional factors), you can calculate the British Thermal Units and/ or Watts required. Working this out is necessary because it will define the size your radiator will have to be to warm the room.

Size and positioning

Now, armed with the knowledge of the heat output, you can assess the size of radiator required. By visiting the pages of our website directing you to the types of radiators we sell, you’ll notice you can select models according to different ranges of heat output.

Our website also allows you to choose specific models according to size – length and width. Note that it’s critical you measure the room’s wall space available for the radiator – even if you’re sure you know the dimensions of your room it’s best to double check – and consider against which wall it would be best to position the radiator or on which wall it would be best to mount it (some lighter radiator models, such as those made from aluminium, can be mounted). These factors will determine the dimensions of radiator model you search for. Moreover, bear in mind that if space in the room is limited, a single radiator may not provide enough heat output, so you may be obliged to increase the radiator’s depth – why not look for a double or triple option?

Models, colour and price

As you search for the ideal radiator, you ought to consider too the type you want or the one that will best suit the room. A steel, aluminium or cast iron radiator? A vertical or horizontal model? A towel radiator? Or one from a brand you trust in particular? Again, the pages on our website devoted to choosing models enable you to do this. Just as they do should you want to select a radiator according to colour, price or top-sellers.

Valves

Finally, a new plumbed radiator will require valves to control the flow of water from the central heating system (if you’re looking for an electric radiator, this obviously won’t be a concern). Your desired radiator will either need straight or angled valves depending on the arrangement of the pipework it will connect with – roughly speaking, straight valves go with conspicuous horizontal pipework; angled valves with water systems piped directly from the wall or below. Plus, you’ll need to choose between manual valves and thermostatic (automatic) valves.