Radiators – Your Questions Answered (Part 1)

Posted on 12. Jun, 2012 by in Design Tips

Nancy Radiator, 1450mm x 600mm, from BathEmpire

Nancy Radiator, 1450mm x 600mm, from BathEmpire

If you were thinking of purchasing a radiator, then you may like some more information that would allow you to narrow down the styles and choices available to you. A good place to start would be the BathEmpire Radiator Buying Guide, which outlines the range we offer and also introduces information on electric and thermostatic radiators.

In the first part of this e-series, we cover one of the most common theories surrounding the placement of radiators in the home.

The Theory:

“Radiators are placed under the windows to ensure that cold air from the outside is warmed before entering the house.”

The Believers’ Camp 1:

“Radiators set up a cycle of air. We have deliberately fitted them under the windows of our house to warm up the cold air entering the rooms. The cold air helps convect the hot air into and around the room, and as it cools, it goes back toward the radiator, and the cycle is in motion.”

The Cynics Camp 2:

“A total myth. This is just a great way of heating the outdoors.”

The Verdict:*

The actual solution to this actually quite logical, given that a radiator sets up a convection current. Consider the following two scenarios:

In the first scenario, consider the radiator on one wall, and the glazed window opposite. The hot air will rise from the window, and move in a circular fashion towards and past the window, reach the floor and go back in towards the centre. The cool air will therefore be brought into the centre of the room.
In the second scenario, consider the radiator sitting beneath the glazed window. The hot air will rise past the window, reach the ceiling, go across and down and back in towards the centre of the room. This way, the cooler air from the window will have had the chance to be warmed before affecting comfort levels in the room.

* Sourced from the Energy Savings Trust.

However, as double glazing is one of the most common window fittings in the UK, the possibility of a cold draught will be reduced. And if you need other ways of reducing your central heating bill, then read our previous post on the issue.

Did you have any further questions about radiators that you couldn’t find the answer to? Get in touch, and we will try to get to the bottom of the problem for you!

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