Question 1

Where is the best place to put a radiator in a bedroom?

Accepted Answer

As with any other space, the best place to put a radiator in a bedroom is the coldest part of the room.

Often, this will be beneath the bedroom window or on wall space nearby the door.

The reasoning for this relates to heat conduction, which is fully explained in our Advice Centre blog, Where to Position a Radiator.

Question 2

Do vertical radiators give out enough heat?

Accepted Answer

Whilst in general, vertical radiators won’t provide as high a heat output as horizontal radiators, everything is relative with regards to whether or not they give out enough heat.

Use a BTU Calculator to work out if your preferred vertical radiator design provides an adequate level of heat to warm your chosen space to a comfortable temperature.

It might prove the case that a vertical radiator is actually a much better option regardless of the lower overall heat output it delivers, depending on the layout and size of the room it will populate.

Question 3

Where is the best place to position a central heating thermostat?

Accepted Answer

The best place to position a central heating thermostat is on an interior wall, a comfortable distance from the likes of windows and doors, air vents and the kitchen or hallway.

You should also look to install a central heating thermostat away from direct sunlight, so as few external factors as possible can potentially affect its performance.

Where possible, the thermostat should be fit towards the centre of the home. And think about which rooms you and others in your household spend the most time in, ensuring your thermostat is positioned perfectly so that these are kept as comfortable as possible.

For a more detailed explanation, explore our full Advice Centre blog, Where To Position a Central Heating Thermostat.

Question 4

What is the best position for radiators?

Accepted Answer

The best position for radiators is the coldest area of your chosen room. This will often be beneath a window or close to an entrance door.

Everything is related to how heat is conducted, which you can find out more about in our full Advice Centre blog, Where to Position a Radiator.

Question 5

Is it ok to put a radiator behind a sofa?

Accepted Answer

No. It isn’t wise to position a radiator behind a sofa, or any other form of sizeable furniture.

A sofa would prevent heat from being distributed properly throughout the room, and might become damaged over time as a result of close exposure to the heat.

Our guide on where to position a radiator offers insight into some of the better locations to position your home heating devices.

Question 6

Why are radiators placed under windows?

Accepted Answer

Radiators are traditionally placed under windows due to that tending to be the coldest part of the room. It all relates to heat conduction, which is explained in greater detail in our full guide on where to position a radiator.

Furthermore, the space beneath a window will usually be plain, and not populated with any other form of décor or fittings.

Question 7

Where should you place radiators?

Accepted Answer

You should place radiators in the coldest area of the room they are being installed in, where possible. In most cases, this will be beneath the window or close to the entrance door.

It’s all about heat conduction, which is explained in more detail in our full guide on where to position a radiator.

Question 8

Where to position radiators?

Accepted Answer

You should position radiators in the coldest area of your chosen space where possible, whether that be near an entrance door or underneath a window.

It all relates to heat conduction, which is explained in greater detail in our guide on where to position a radiator.

Question 9

What should I paint my radiator with?

Accepted Answer

Specialist radiator paints are available, but you can also use paint designed for use on wood or metal like satin, gloss or eggshell.

Find out more about the specific types of paint to use, and the overall process of successfully painting a radiator, in our How to Paint a Radiator blog.

Question 10

Should I install my valves on the flow or return pipe?

Accepted Answer

Most modern thermostatic radiator valves are bi-directional, so they can be fitted to either the flow or return pipe.

However, it is considered best practice to attach the valves to the flow pipe whenever possible.

Otherwise, if a non-bi-directional TRV is installed on the return pipe, it will cause a vibrating noise as the water attempts to flow through it.

Question 11

What is a bleed valve?

Accepted Answer

A bleed valve is the small metal square or screw located within the surrounding nut, usually found at the top of the radiator corner, either on the left or right hand side.

It can be opened to release trapped air from within your radiators or heated towel rails.

Our guide on How to Bleed a Radiator offers a more detailed insight into bleed valves, and how they can be adjusted to help you make the most of your home heating.

Question 12

How long will an average boiler last?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of an average boiler, in proper working order, is expected to be between 10 to 15 years.

You should ensure the boiler is well maintained, and serviced on an annual basis, to keep it fully operational for as long as possible.

Question 13

What is the best way to prevent corrosion in your radiator?

Accepted Answer

The best way to prevent corrosion in your radiators is to perform a heating system flush.

This will rid your radiators of any sludge, preventing a build-up of unwanted debris that could lead to tiny holes forming and causing radiator leaks.

Question 14

Will a heated towel rail heat my bathroom?

Accepted Answer

Many heated towel rails will provide an adequate heat output to keep most bathroom spaces comfortably warm.

However, everything is relative to the size of the area – larger bathrooms might require an extra heating source to provide a sufficient BTU output.

As with any room, you can make use of our BTU Calculator to work out which heated towel rail design will be appropriate to heat your bathroom. Or, whether you also require the likes of radiators to provide extra warmth.

Question 15

Why are my radiators hot at the top but cold at the bottom?

Accepted Answer

Radiators can be hot at the top but cold at the bottom when something is preventing the flow of water throughout them.

In most cases when the radiator is cold at the bottom, you will find a build-up of sludge towards the foot of the radiator.

Our Advice Centre blog, What is a Heating System Flush, explains how you can take preventative measures against sludge and other debris, to ensure your radiators operate to their full capacity.

Question 16

What is the danger if the boiler is not serviced regularly?

Accepted Answer

FAQ Header Image (What is the danger if a boiler is not serviced regularly?)

Boilers should be serviced at least once a year to make sure they are running safely and efficiently.

A faulty boiler could expose household inhabitants to a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Furthermore, boiler servicing can help you identify leaks and other potential issues early, helping to prevent massive repair costs from building up.

Question 17

How often to service a boiler?

Accepted Answer

It is advisable to check with the manufacturer of your boiler for their specific recommendation. But usually, the first service of your boiler should be completed 12 months after installation in accordance with its warranty.

Following this, the boiler should be serviced on an annual basis moving forwards to make sure it is assisting your radiators and heated towel rails to perform to full capacity.

The BestHeating Guide to Buying a New Boiler includes further useful information.

Question 18

Can I use electric radiators to heat my hallway?

Accepted Answer

You can use electric radiators to heat your hallway if they meet your preferences with regards to style, and suit your budget.

Learn more about all the available hallway heating options available to you in our Advice Centre blog, How to Heat a Hallway.

Question 19

Is an all aluminium radiator better?

Accepted Answer

An all aluminium radiator could be considered the best type of radiator to buy.

Aluminium is considered the finest material for radiator manufacturing, with an abundance of advantageous features from a home heating perspective.

All aluminium radiators will heat up quickly and retain their warmth well, in addition to offering supreme responsiveness and a higher potential BTU output than any other type of radiator.

Everything you need to know about all aluminium radiators is covered in our blog, Why Buy Aluminium Radiators?

Question 20

How do I calculate what size radiator I need for my conservatory?

Accepted Answer

You can use a BTU Calculator to work out the required heat output to comfortably warm your conservatory, and decide on what size radiator to choose from there.

The same logic applies to any room in the home – the needed BTU output is a crucial factor in determining what size radiators should be acquired.

Question 21

Can I remove and refit my radiators for decoration purposes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can follow a few simple steps to complete the successful removal of your radiators for decoration or refurbishment work.

Firstly, you should switch off the radiator and drain the water within it. Once all the water is gone, you can temporarily clog the valve inlets using tissue paper or something similar.

Your radiator will then be ready for removal from the wall. Just lift it from the wall brackets gently and commence with your painting or renovation tasks.

When the refurb work is done, you can re-attach your radiator to the wall and refill it to get back up to speed.

More detailed instructions can be found in our Advice Centre blog, How to Remove a Radiator for Decorating.

Question 22

What makes electric radiators efficient?

Accepted Answer

All electric radiators from BestHeating are filled with a thermodynamic fluid called glycol, which enables them to operate with the utmost efficiency.

Glycol is used because it is excellent at retaining and transferring heat, and incorporates an anti-corrosion inhibitor to prevent rusting.

Further information can be found in our blog, What’s Inside an Electric Radiator?

Question 23

Do electric radiators heat up quickly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Electric radiators heat up very quickly.

However, as the most energy efficient heating solutions available, they distribute their warmth gradually, so as to preserve as much energy as possible.

Consult our blog, Should You Buy an Electric Designer Radiator? for further information.

Question 24

What is the difference between reproduction and vintage radiators?

Accepted Answer

Essentially, reproduction radiators are heating designs that are manufactured multiple times. The BestHeating designer radiator collection features plenty of examples of stunning contemporary reproduction models.

Vintage radiators will tend to have a more traditional aura, perhaps incorporating bespoke design elements. They often come in the form of cast iron radiators, and are sourced second hand or in a used condition.

For a more detailed analysis of the differences between the two types, take a look at our full Advice Centre blog, What’s the difference between Reproduction and Vintage Radiators?

Question 25

Can I choose whether to have a horizontal or vertical radiator?

Accepted Answer

Provided that the radiator you opt for delivers an adequate heat output to warm the space, you can choose whether to have a horizontal or vertical radiator in your chosen room.

Typically, vertical radiators will prove an excellent option for compact rooms where space is at a premium, considering horizontal radiators usually take up a lot more wall space.

Essentially though, the choice between vertical and horizontal radiators will be based on what fits your personal preferences, and looks and fits best within your specific room.

Be sure to use our BTU Calculator to guarantee that any radiator you select, vertical or horizontal, offers a strong enough heat output to warm your room to a comfortable temperature.

Question 26

How do I keep my radiator clean?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, you should ensure your radiator is switched off for safety reasons before commencing with cleaning your radiator.

It is important to remove dust from in between radiator panels, so as to not prevent the distribution of heat, and ensure they are performing to optimal capacity.

To do so, you should fashion a cleaning device from a stick or thin plank, with a towel or cloth wrapped around the end. This will allow you to reach into narrow crevasses and eliminate dirt and dust that could cause potential blockages.

With regards to the actual radiator surface, you can use a sponge and some soapy water to tackle any stains or markings.

Get more radiator cleaning advice in our full guide, How to Clean a Radiator.

Question 27

What key do I need to bleed a radiator?

Accepted Answer

A specialist radiator bleed key is recommended for bleeding radiators. You can usually find bleed keys at your local DIY or hardware store.

If you are unable to source a bleed key or have misplaced the one you own, a flat-blade screwdriver can usually be used as a substitute.

Read our guide on How to Bleed a Radiator for key tips on bleeding your radiators.

Question 28

How do you bleed a radiator without a key?

Accepted Answer

It depends what type of bleed screw is fitted to your radiator.

For radiators with a slotted bleed screw, a simple screwdriver represents an ideal alternative to a bleed key. Just insert the screwdriver into the slot and turn it in a counter-clockwise direction to bleed the radiator.

If your radiator features a different sort of bleed screw, perhaps including a square or hexagonal orifice within it, there are other alternative options.

You could use an Allen key, spanners or a plier to grip and twist the nut for an effective radiator bleed.

If you want to know more about the basic principles of the process, check out our Advice Centre guide, How to Bleed a Radiator.

Question 29

What radiators give off the most heat?

Accepted Answer

Aluminium radiators provide the highest potential BTU output possible.

That doesn’t mean that every aluminium radiator has a higher heat output than every steel radiator, for example. But aluminium radiators have the greatest heat output potential of any type.

In addition to this, they are also the fastest type of radiator to heat up and spread their warmth, and offer excellent responsiveness as well.

Our blog entitled Why Buy Aluminium Radiators explains in more detail. And for further insight into all types of different radiators, take a look at the BestHeating Radiator Buying Guide.

Question 30

Are aluminium radiators better than steel?

Accepted Answer

Aluminium and steel radiators both offer their own unique benefits. That said, aluminium is widely considered to be the very best radiator construction material.

Of the two types, aluminium radiators are quicker to heat up, deliver a greater optimal BTU output and offer a better level of responsiveness.

Learn more in our blog, Why Buy Aluminium Radiators.

Question 31

Are steel or aluminium radiators better?

Accepted Answer

Steel and aluminium radiators each possess their own unique advantages. However, aluminium is largely thought of as the very best material for radiator construction.

Aluminium is faster to heat up than steel, and also offers a higher maximum BTU output as well as superior responsiveness.

Check out our Why Buy Aluminium Radiators blog for further insight, and the BestHeating Radiator Buying Guide.

Question 32

What is the best material for a radiator?

Accepted Answer

Aluminium is widely considered to be the best material for a radiator.

As a material, aluminium offers excellent conduction properties, enabling radiators to heat up quickly and transport heat around the space rapidly as well.

Aluminium radiators also provide the highest possible BTU output and have superb responsiveness, so tend to be the most expensive available type as a result.

Our Why Buy Aluminium Radiators blog offers a more in-depth look at aluminium radiators, and there’s analysis of all different types of radiators in the BestHeating Radiator Buying Guide.

Question 33

Who can install cast iron radiators?

Accepted Answer

A qualified heating engineer or plumber should be called upon to install cast iron radiators. The extra weight and bulkier design makes them more difficult to fit than standard designer radiators.

Question 34

How do I choose the size of my radiator?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, you need to use a BTU Calculator to work out what size radiator will provide an adequate heat output for your chosen room.

Once you know how big a radiator is required to heat your space to a comfortable temperature, you can set about selecting the right design that takes your fancy aesthetically, and matches the layout of the room size-wise.

Question 35

How do I know what size radiator I need?

Accepted Answer

You can work out what size radiator you need to comfortably heat your chosen space using our BTU Calculator.

The dimensions of the room will be an influencing factor, as well as the layout. Once you have worked out what size radiator will deliver an adequate heat output, you can select the perfect model to fit your desired installation location.

Question 36

What are the benefits of radiator thermostats?

Accepted Answer

Radiator thermostats are very advantageous in that they allow you to pre-set your preferred temperature in specific rooms, at different levels.

For example, you can program radiators in the bedroom or kitchen to operate at a contrasting temperature to those installed in the living room or lounge, where you might prefer more or less heat for your own personal comfort.

In turn, radiator thermostats also help ensure your radiators aren’t working harder than they need to in rooms where less heat is required, so your energy bills won’t spiral unnecessarily.

Question 37

How to balance performance throughout the house on different radiators?

Accepted Answer

First, switch off your heating system and ensure all your radiators are cooled down. Then, open both valves up on each of the radiators and turn the heating on.

You might have to enlist the help of other family members in the household, but all the radiators need to be examined so you can work out when they heat up and the order in which they heat up.

If you want a particular room to heat up quicker, you should open the lockshield valve on the radiators in that space a touch more.

For the opposite effect in rooms that perhaps aren’t used very often, you can delay the heating process by tightening the lockshield valve slightly more.

More detailed instructions can be found in our Advice Centre blog, Here's How To Balance Radiators.

Question 38

What makes electric radiators energy efficient?

Accepted Answer

Unlike standard hot water radiators, electric radiators are filled with a thermodynamic fluid called glycol. This solution is excellent for the retention and transfer of heat, helping electric radiators to perform with the utmost energy efficiency.

Learn more in our Advice Centre blog, What’s Inside an Electric Radiator?

Question 39

Can electric radiators be controlled via smartphone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The majority of electric radiators on the market can be remotely controlled via an app installed on a smartphone or tablet.

Browse our Ultimate Guide to SMART Home Heating Controls for further information.

Question 40

What's inside an electric radiator?

Accepted Answer

Electric radiators are filled with a thermodynamic fluid known as glycol, which enables them to operate with such extreme efficiency.

Find out more about the solution, and the make-up of electric radiators in our Advice Centre blog, What’s Inside an Electric Radiator?

Question 41

Do I need a remote control for an electric radiator?

Accepted Answer

Most electric radiators can be controlled remotely, but not typically so via a remote control.

Usually, a smartphone or tablet will be used to adjust the settings on the smart thermostat that will typically accompany an electric radiator.

Our Ultimate Guide to SMART Home Heating Controls provides a more detailed look at the various available remote heating options.

Question 42

How do I prevent cold spots on my radiator?

Accepted Answer

You can bleed your radiators to eradicate the problem of cold spots. Follow the advice specified in our guide on how to bleed a radiator.

Question 43

Why is my radiator noisy?

Accepted Answer

Usually, the cause of a noisy radiator is trapped air inside it – you’ll likely notice the sound when the heating is switched on.

Our blog on how to cure a noisy central heating system offers a more in-depth explanation.

Question 44

What advantages do smart heating controls offer?

Accepted Answer

Smart heating controls allow the user to adjust their home heating remotely, in accordance with a range of factors, including the time of day and the weather outside.

You can set your heating to switch on 10 minutes before you return home from work, for example, using a tablet or smartphone.

More information can be found in our Ultimate Guide to Smart Home Heating Controls.

Question 45

What are smart heating controls?

Accepted Answer

Smart heating controls work alongside central heating systems or boilers to provide an unrivalled level of control over your home heating.

They allow you to alter the level of heating remotely via a tablet or smartphone, based on factors such as outdoor weather, the time of the day and other factors.

Read our Ultimate Guide to Smart Home Heating Controls for a better insight into smart heating controls.

Question 46

What is a heating system flush?

Accepted Answer

A heating system flush is a chemical solution that removes sludge, rust and other unwanted debris from within a central heating system or boiler, helping it to perform to its full capacity.

Also known as a ‘power flush’, the solution essentially combats blockages and central heating inefficiency.

Find out more in our full Advice Centre blog, What is a Heating System Flush?

Question 47

What is a 'condensing' boiler?

Accepted Answer

A condensing boiler is a water heater that is powered by oil or gas.

Condensing boilers offer excellent energy efficiency by condensing water vapour in the exhaust gases.

It therefore recovers the excess energy emerging from vaporization, which otherwise would have been lost.

Question 48

Can electric radiators plug into a normal socket?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can hang an electric radiator nearby a standard plug socket and connect it as you would with any electrical device.

Question 49

Why are some of my radiators hotter than others?

Accepted Answer

There could be several reasons why some radiators are hotter than others in the home. It might simply be the case that certain radiators have higher heat outputs than others.

Or, if you know the radiators to have identical heat outputs when working properly, it is likely that trapped air is present in the colder models, which can lead to reduced heating efficiency.

The solution is to bleed the colder radiators, which can be done relatively simply by following the steps in our guide on how to bleed a radiator.

Question 50

Why do all my radiators heat up except one?

Accepted Answer

It is likely that the radiator that isn’t heating up properly has trapped air inside it, leading to cold spots.

You can bleed the radiator to release trapped air, following the steps listed in our guide on how to bleed a radiator.

Question 51

Who should install radiators?

Accepted Answer

In some cases, you might be able to fit new radiators yourself, especially if they are to operate with existing pipework. Our guide on how to fit a radiator can help.

For a professional job, grab a quote from a plumber or a central heating engineer.

Question 52

Why do you need to bleed a radiator?

Accepted Answer

Radiators need bleeding to release trapped air, which can prevent hot water from travelling around the radiator.

Essentially, you need to bleed a radiator when necessary to ensure your heating is working as efficiently as possible, and that your radiators are warming up your chosen space in adequate time.

Our guide on how to bleed a radiator will guide you through the process.

Question 53

Do you bleed radiators when the heating is on or off?

Accepted Answer

Off. You should never try to bleed radiators with the heating switched on for safety reasons.

Potential injury risks attached to the spilling of hot water include burning and scalding. Check out our guide on how to bleed a radiator to perform the task safely.

Question 54

How to determine radiator size?

Accepted Answer

You should use a BTU Calculator to find out what size radiator you need to heat your chosen room to a comfortable temperature.

After you have worked out how big a radiator is required from a heat output perspective, you can select the perfect design to match the layout of the space.

Question 55

Does the size of a radiator matter?

Accepted Answer

It is vital to get the correct balance with the size of your radiators in relation to the heat output they offer.

If your radiator is too big, it will minimize essential wall space and use excess energy whenever it is in operation. By contrast, if your radiator is too small, it won’t have the capacity to properly heat your space to the required temperature.

Our BTU Calculator can help you work out what size radiator you need.

Question 56

Should radiators be placed under windows?

Accepted Answer

Underneath the window is usually an excellent location to place a radiator, especially considering it will often be the coldest area of the room.

Also, the space beneath a window will typically be plain in the absence of a radiator, so it provides a good chance to add a touch of style to the space in the form of home heating.

To find out more about heat conduction and how it relates to the space beneath a window being a good place to fit a radiator, take a look at our full guide on where to position a radiator.

Question 57

How much does it cost to move a radiator?

Accepted Answer

You can move a radiator yourself free of charge if it’s not a major switch, and will continue to operate with the same existing pipework.

If you need to move the radiator to a location with alternative or new pipework, a plumbing professional will probably charge between £150-200 (not including the radiator).

Question 58

Can you bleed a radiator when the heating is on?

Accepted Answer

You should never bleed a radiator when the heating is switched on, as it could be too hot to touch and result in scalding or burning.

There is also the potential for hot water to spurt from the radiator. Detailed tips for safely bleeding a radiator can be found in our guide on how to bleed a radiator.

Question 59

What are the different radiator colour options?

Accepted Answer

FAQ Featured Image (What are the different radiators colour options?)

BestHeating offer an excellent selection of radiator colour options, ranging from standard black, white and anthracite styles to modern designs in pink, red, blue, green and many more shades.

Explore the full range of coloured designer radiators at BestHeating.com.

Question 60

Is there anywhere I shouldn't put a radiator?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the layout of the room, there are many less than favorable areas to position a radiator. The main thing to consider is the distribution of heat, and whether surrounding fixtures and fittings will prevent it from travelling freely around the room.

In smaller spaces, it might be unavoidable to fit a radiator nearby to large furniture, but try to leave as much space as possible between your radiator and a sofa, for example. Our blog on where to position a radiator offers further guidance.

Question 61

Why do chrome radiators have lower heat outputs?

Accepted Answer

It purely comes down to the emissivity value of chrome. In general, chrome will trap warmth, which makes it difficult to emit or radiate heat.

As such, chrome radiators don’t tend to kick out quite as much heat as similar models with alternative finishes.

Question 62

Can I paint my radiator?

Accepted Answer

You can, but it’s not quite as simple as grabbing a paintbrush and a tin and setting to work.

The more involved process involves sanding and priming your radiator, and you might want to use specialist paint to get the job done as well.

Everything you need to know is covered in our Advice Centre guide on how to paint a radiator.

Question 63

What is the difference between a radiator section and a column?

Accepted Answer

A radiator section can be defined as the individual parts that, when teamed together, make up a radiator. A radiator column is understood to be the amount of vertical columns contained within each section.

Question 64

How do I clean my column radiator?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, fill up a bucket with hot water and washing up liquid. Soak a dishcloth in this solution, before wringing it out. Then, position a towel beneath the radiator to catch any excess water that may trickle down.

Use the dishcloth to reach into every nook, cranny and crevasse between the radiator columns from top to bottom, giving it a thorough wipe down across the entire surface.

Should you require it, there’s more radiator cleaning advice in our blog on how to clean a column radiator.

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