Radiators
Radiators which use circulating hot water are a flexible form of heating. This means you are not committed to a particular fuel source, because you can always replace the boiler or heating unit.
A good indoor environment and very comfortable heat
Radiators which use circulating hot water provide an excellent indoor environment and a very comfortable heat. They operate at lower temperatures than electric radiators. This makes a big difference. The lower temperature means a better indoor environment because less dust swirls up, and the air feels less dry.
Lower risk than electric radiators
There’s no risk of being burnt when touching a radiator, and no fire risk associated with clothes left on, or close to, a radiator.
Installation of radiators
Installation of central heating pipes
Central heating pipes are normally enclosed in pipe ducts running along the floor, but they can also be routed via the basement or above the ceiling. Your plumbing and heating installer will be able to advise you on the options. Heating pipes are typically 1.5 cm in diameter.
Installation of radiators
New radiators with thermostatic valves are mounted on the wall and connected to the central heating pipes.
Underfloor heating
Even heat
Underfloor heating provides an even heat in the room. In older houses it may still be necessary to fit radiators below the windows to prevent draughts caused by poorly fitting or badly insulated windows.
Gradual heating up and cooling down
Underfloor heating works like a giant radiator. It takes a long time; both to heat up and cool down again.
Underfloor heating in the bathroom
If you install underfloor heating in a bathroom with one or more exterior walls, the underfloor heating will not typically cover the heat loss. In this situation you should install a supplementary radiator or other heat source – a thermostatically controlled heated towel rail for example.
Page last updated 14.09.2010