Radiators

Traditional Column Radiators

These are the ones with vertical tubes arranged in rows. They've been around since Victorian times and never really went away. Available in 2 column or 3 column configurations, with heights typically ranging from 600mm to 1800mm. Column radiators work particularly well in period properties where modern flat panels would look out of place. But they're not limited to old houses. Plenty of new builds use them to add character to otherwise bland rooms. Finishes have moved beyond basic white. Anthracite grey has become increasingly popular over the past few years. Black makes a bold statement but shows dust more readily. White remains the practical choice for most homes, it matches everything and hides marks better than darker finishes. The 2 column versus 3 column decision comes down to space and heat requirements. Two columns project about 100mm from the wall. Three columns extend to roughly 150mm but generate more warmth. If wall depth is tight, go with two columns. If you need serious heat output, three columns deliver.

Designer Flat Panel Radiators

Flat panels represent the modern approach to heating. Instead of multiple tubes, they use large steel sheets with water channels behind. The result is a clean, minimalist look that either disappears into the wall or becomes a design feature. They project less from the wall than column radiators, typically 50-60mm. That extra space makes a real difference in compact rooms or where furniture needs to sit close to walls. Heat distribution differs slightly from column radiators. Flat panels radiate heat more directly from their surface rather than creating convection currents. Neither method is inherently better, they just heat rooms differently. Vertical configurations suit narrow wall spaces brilliantly. An 1800mm tall panel that's only 280mm wide heats surprisingly well for its footprint. Horizontal models work under windows or along longer walls. Matt black finishes command premium prices but create striking focal points. Gloss white stays cheapest and works in any room. Anthracite grey splits the difference, dark enough for visual impact without the starkness of black.

Towel Radiators

Bathrooms need their own category. Towel radiators combine room heating with towel warming functionality. The ladder-style design lets you drape towels whilst they dry.
Sizes range from compact 480mm x 480mm units for small bathrooms up to 600mm x 1200mm models for family bathrooms. Curved or straight rail designs both work, curved rails project slightly further but some people prefer the look. Chrome finishes dominate bathroom radiators but white-painted steel versions cost less. Chrome looks sharp initially but water marks show easily. Central heating towel radiators connect to your existing system like any other radiator. Electric-only versions also exist for bathrooms without central heating pipes, though running costs are higher.

Radiator Covers

Radiator covers serve two purposes, hiding ugly radiators and creating usable shelf space. The slatted or grilled front allows heat through whilst concealing the radiator behind.
MDF construction with white paint is standard. More expensive versions use solid wood with various finishes. Adjustable-width covers adapt to different radiator sizes, which helps if you're not sure of exact measurements. Heat loss through covers is minimal if they're properly designed with adequate ventilation. Covers that sit too close to the radiator or have insufficient gaps will reduce efficiency. Some covers double as furniture. Models with drawers or substantial top surfaces work as console tables whilst hiding radiators. These cost more but add functionality beyond simple concealment.

Mirror Radiators

These combine a mirror panel with heating functionality. The mirror sits in the centre with radiator panels on either side. They work particularly well in hallways or bedrooms where wall-mounted mirrors are useful. Sizes match standard radiator dimensions, typically 1800mm tall with widths from 380mm to 565mm. The mirror section takes up about half the width, with heating panels flanking each side. They're not as efficient as full-width radiators of the same size because the mirror doesn't generate heat. But if you need a mirror anyway, combining both functions saves wall space.

Oval Radiators

These feature rounded tube designs instead of traditional square columns. The softer lines appeal to people who find standard radiators too industrial-looking. Heat output matches similarly sized traditional radiators. The oval tubes don't offer any efficiency advantage, they're purely aesthetic. But if appearance matters and you like the softer look, they're worth considering. Available in the same finishes as other radiator types. White, black, and anthracite cover most preferences. Heights and widths align with standard radiator dimensions.

Choosing the Right Size

Room volume calculation remains the starting point. Length times width times height in metres, then multiply by 40 for approximate BTU requirements. Radiator specifications list output in watts, multiply by 3.41 to convert to BTUs. Factor in windows, insulation quality, and room orientation. North-facing rooms need more output. Rooms with large windows or poor insulation require oversizing. Single-glazed windows demand significantly more heat than double-glazed.

Don't assume bigger is always better.

They create more even temperature distribution and give you flexibility in room layouts. One radiator each side of a room typically outperforms one large radiator on a single wall.

Installation Factors

Pipe centres vary between radiator types. Standard spacing is 500mm or 550mm between flow and return connections. Check your existing pipework before ordering. Mismatched centres mean plumbing modifications, which adds cost and time.
Wall fixings need to support the radiator's weight when full of water. Solid walls handle standard brackets without issues.

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) allow room-by-room temperature control. They're not expensive but make a noticeable difference to heating bills. Set bedrooms to 18°C, living areas to 20-21°C. No point heating every room to the same temperature.
Bleed valves should be accessible after installation. Some radiator positions make bleeding awkward. Think about how you'll maintain the radiator before finalising placement.

Stock and Delivery

Most common sizes and finishes ship immediately. Less common configurations or specialty finishes may require ordering. Check individual product pages for current availability. Free UK mainland delivery applies across the range. Radiators are heavy items, having them delivered beats collecting them yourself. Most arrive well-packaged to prevent transit damage.