Top 10 Best Radiator Brands in the UK Now!
Elite Radiator Brands in the UK for 2024: Top Selection Reviewed
Investing in an efficient, long-lasting radiator can make a huge difference to the comfort and running costs of your property. With so many brands and models on offer, deciding on the right solution can feel overwhelming.
This guide profiles the top 10 radiator manufacturers on the UK market. We break down costs, heat outputs and key features to help you select the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Read on for our ranking of brands offering the best value, reliability and performance.
Quick Comparison Table
Brand | Avg. Price From | Warranty | Efficiency | Style Variety |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rads 2 Rails | £250 – | 10 years | A+ | Huge range |
Zehnder | £600- | 5 years | A / B | Premium decorative designs |
Vogue | £250 – | 5 years | C / D | Affordable basics |
Terma | £250 – | 10 years | A / B | Designer contemporary looks |
Reina | £250 – | 5 years | A | Modern and classic designs |
Paladin | £400 | 3 years | B | Cost effective basics |
Eskimo | £200 – | 5 years | A/B | Great value vertical models |
DRS Radiators | £200 – | 10 years | A / B | Electric and hybrid |
DQ Heating | £100 – | 5 years | B / C | Reliable low cost models |
Carisa & AEON | £400 – | 10 years | A+ | Premium efficiency |
What to Consider When Choosing Radiators
There are four key factors to weigh up when deciding between radiator brands:
- Efficiency – This is crucial for minimizing energy usage and bills. Look for A, A+ or high BTU outputs.
- Cost – Set a budget and compare pricing across brands offering the features you need.
- Reliability – Leading names provide 5-10 year warranties. Consider materials too.
- Styles – Ensure the size, shape and finish complements your interiors.
Getting the balance right between these elements is vital. Next we explore how the top 10 brands compare across all criteria.
1. Rads 2 Rails- Best Overall
Our #1 choice, Explore the impressive selection of designer radiators at Rads 2 Rails, featuring everything from classic multi-column and cast iron designs to modern, lightweight aluminium and sleek steel options.
Efficiency
Thanks to precision engineering, Rads 2 Rails achieve some of the highest efficiency ratings and BTU outputs per square metre. Their Slimline and Compact ranges also heat small spaces rapidly.
Styles
From tall columns to horizontal designs, traditional aesthetic to contemporary minimal – Rads 2 Rails truly offer endless size, configuration and finish options.
Cost
While premium collections fetch higher prices, Rads 2 Rails radiators start at just £150. Bulk orders and regular sales help keep costs highly competitive too.
Warranty
An industry leading 10 year manufacturing defect warranty provides real peace of mind on your investment.
Our Top Model
- Rads 2 Rails – A brilliant all-round performer, available in numerous sizes to match any room. Prices from £250.
2. Zehnder Radiators- Most Stylish Performers
For homeowners seeking high visual impact combined with reliable heating delivery, Zehnder should rank highly on your list.
Efficiency
Most models achieve A or B ratings. Carefully match sizing to room dimensions for optimal performance – their technically geared conducts heat faster than decorative pieces.
**Styles **
Zehnder, Our credibility stems from a combination of compelling design and pioneering innovation. Our products encapsulate a central ethos that seamlessly weaves together elements of style, functionality, and advanced technology.
Cost
As a premium brand, expect prices between £600 up to £6000+ for larger designer models.
Warranty
A 5 year guarantee provides reliable after-sales support.
Our Top Model
- Zehnder Charleston- An elegant timeless built loved by traditional and contemporary homes alike. From £600.
3. Vogue Radiators-With premium touches and impressive value
Since its inception in 1990, Vogue UK has been crafting towel rails and designer radiators, amassing a vast collection of designs. This experience allows the company to provide a tailored service, perfect for those seeking to recreate a genuine period aesthetic or align with an existing design theme. Our customized service is dedicated to bringing your vision to life, exactly as you envision it.
Efficiency
Most Vogue Radiators-radiators achieve average A or B ratings. However, newer collections like the Economy+ optimize efficiency over standard economy offerings.
Styles
Focusing on price over visual flair, Vogue Radiators- offer in various sizes straightforward horizonal, column designs and towel rails .
Cost
A budget Vogue UK radiators start at £250. Large or high spec models exceed £2500.
Warranty
A 5 year guarantee provides peace of mind given the high spec.
Our Top Model
- Vogue Focus Vertical Towel Radiator – An affordable and effective column style solution. From £250.
4. Terma – Most Stylish Premium Brand
Terma the worlds of designer interior fashion and heating functionality. Contemporary creations merge elegance with advanced thermal performance.
Radiators: A Legacy of Innovative Design and Superior Engineering For more than three decades, Terma has been at the forefront of crafting designer radiators.
Efficiency
Most models achieve A or B energy efficiency ratings. Select steel for maximum heat conduction or rapid aluminium warming.
Styles
Few brands offer such a wealth of sleek modern steel designs – from softly rounded profiles to gorgeous polished chrome finishes. Various shapes and sizes available.
Cost
As an aspirational brand, costs range from £250 up to £3,500+ for high end bespoke creations. The stunning aesthetics make this price tag worthwhile for most buyers.
Warranty
A 10 year guarantee provides real peace of mind given the premium pricing.
Our Top Model
- Terma Hex Vertical- Beautifully built with integrated towel warming space. From £513
5. Reina- Best Looking Mid-Range Models
Hitting a pleasing middle-ground, Reina supply thoughtfully designed contemporary and classic steel radiators between £250-£600.
Efficiency
Precision engineered for high conductivity and heat emission, most Reina radiators achieve A ratings.
Styles
While range sizes can’t compete with market leaders, Reina thoughtfully craft clean lined modern to elegantly traditional solutions spanning various dimensions.
Cost
As a small bespoke producer, Reina position models from £250 up to around £600 for larger statement designs. Expect premium quality at mid market pricing.
Warranty
All Reina radiators come with a 5 year defect warranty.
Our Top Model
- Reina – A beautifully crafted vertical column built merging classic and contemporary cues. From £349.
6. Paladin – One of the Best
Paladin Radiators – The Pinnacle of Home Heating
For over 35 years, Paladin Radiators have been trusted by homeowners across the UK for their superior quality and efficiency. As Britain’s top selling radiator brand
Conventional steel builds with average heat outputs earn most models B efficiency ratings. Sizing correctly remains important for best performance.
Styles
Paladin delivers leading edge engineering to create the ultimate heating solutions for UK homes.
Cost
The elegant Paladin Kensington cast iron radiator seamlessly integrates into any historical decor, providing impressive economic heat efficiency. It adds a touch of classic grace and serves as a stunning addition to any room in your home. From £150
Warranty
A 3 year warranty provides adequate protection given the smaller price tags.
Our Top Model
- Paladin Kensington Cast Iron Radiator – Simple, no frills vertical built at one of the lowest prices around £150.
7. Eskimo Designed by a world class team of designers
Born and bred in North London in the Spring of 2001, designed by a world class team of designers and engineers in a Bristol Studio and manufactured by a highly skilled and experienced construction team at the Eskimo factory in Birmingham, this luxury designer radiator brand is truly the best of British.
Efficiency
These style superheroes might be a bit tongue in cheek but their mission is important, bringing style and function to the homes of many. Eskimo are innovators.
Styles
While the approach of these style superheroes might be somewhat playful, their purpose is significant: to blend style with practicality in numerous homes. Eskimo stands out as pioneers in this field
Cost
From just £265 for smaller Eskimo Column Radiator deliver impressive value without compromising on quality.
Warranty
A 5 year defect warranty rightly surpasses many rivals.
Our Top Model
- Eskimo Outline Gong Vertical From £1500.
8. DRS Radiators
Direct from Designer Radiator Showroom, the DRS collection is our very own designer radiator range, featuring everything from soft rounded designs, to straight edged designs inspired by cubism; radiators made from steel, aluminium, stainless steel; designs which fit tastefully into the kitchen, sit quietly in the background in the bedroom, keep your towels cosy in the wet-room, or make a big impression in the living room
Efficiency & Styles
We take pride in offering a diverse array of styles and designs that cater to every room in any home. Whether it’s ultra-modern and sleek or classic, period aesthetics, our collection is designed to suit a variety of tastes..
Cost
Budget to high end pricing reflects the advanced engineering involved. Expect to pay between £100-£500+.
Warranty
A 10 year comprehensive cover rightly provides peace of mind.
Our Top Model
- DRS Henry From £600
9. DQ Heating
DQ Radiators offer a distinctive and expansive collection of radiators, with the unique option to customize in any RAL colour of your choice, ensuring each DQ radiator is a personalized addition to your space.
Efficiency & Styles
DQ’s meticulous approach to every aspect of radiator construction and design highlights their dedication to excellence, setting their products and services apart
Cost
Very reasonable pricing from £200-£600+ makes DQ Radiators an ideal solution for any budget .
Warranty
A standard 5 year defect warranty gives adequate protection given low price tags.
One of our Top Model
- DQ Tornado Single Vertical, Does what is says on the tin! From £392 .
10. Carisa & AEON Radiators – Premium High Output and Choices
Carisa
Taking the designer radiator world by storm, Carisa is the beautiful combination of design, technology and innovation that allows them to dominate in their field.
Efficiency
Optimized fin lengths, welding spots and waterways enable the highest heat outputs and A+ energy ratings across the sector.
Styles
Carisa focus investment on engineering over aesthetic niceties. Understated designs still exude refined quality to match performance.
Cost
Priced between £291-£600+, costs directly reflect premium materials and construction involved.
Warranty
A 10 year guarantee provides further peace of mind.
Our Top Model
- Carisa Radiators – Market leading efficiency paired with rapid heat up technology. From £273.
AEON The Best of the Best
The word ‘Aeon’ alludes to an eternal divine being, drawing on the romantic stimulus of a beauty which is deific and everlasting. This name is fitting for Aeon and their inspiration to create radiators of perfection, from stainless steel; radiators which are sights to behold, exquisite products which last forever.
Efficiency & Styles
Aeon’s esteemed designers draw inspiration from a vast array of historical themes and concepts. Their influences range from the opulent magnificence of the Renaissance era to the crisp contours of
Cost
Priced between £350-£4600+, costs directly reflect premium materials and construction involved.
Warranty
Efficiency & Output Comparison
To understand real world differences, see how heat outputs (BTUs) vary by size across the top brands:
Brand | rad. Size | BTUs |
---|---|---|
AEON | 500 x 600mm | 2341 |
Carisa | 500 x 600mm | 2583 |
DQ Heating | 500 x 600mm | 1936 |
DRS Radiators | 500 x 600mm | 2450 |
Eskimo | 500 x 600mm | 3850 |
While more premium radiators achieve far higher outputs, also balance requirements against room sizes and your budget.
Installation & Setup Costs
Once bought, factor in professional fitting fees:
- Basic connection – £50-£100
- Adding valves – £100-£250
- Pipe rearrangements – £250-£500
- Full system upgrades – £500+
Consider DIY installation to save on labor. But have your system pressure tested afterward to check for leaks.
Choosing Radiators By Room
Each area needs tailored solutions – here are our recommendations:
Living Rooms – Focus on high heat outputs from substantial column or horizontal steel radiators.
Bedrooms – Compact or fast heating models ensure cosy warmth without waste.
Bathrooms – Opt for electric or dual fuel radiators to provide heat when rooms are unoccupied.
Hallways – Vertical column designs suit narrow spaces.
Additional Running Costs
Whichever brand you choose, maximize savings by:
- Installing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
- Using programmable timers and smart settings
- Turning off radiators in unused rooms
- Setting water temperature only as high as needed
- Bleeding radiators to avoid system glugs and gurgles
- Adding reflective foil behind models on external walls
See our energy saving tips in the FAQs below.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort with our best Radiators
Invest in long-lasting warmth and energy savings with our top-selling, affordable radiators. We offer reliable models to fit any budget and heating needs – no more cold spots or high bills. Check your eligibility for government heating grants, and let us help you create a cosier home while reducing your environmental impact.
Contact our team today to find the perfect, energy-efficient radiator solution. We’ll ensure you get the right size, output and features to maximize savings and comfort this winter and for years to come.
FAQs
What radiator material is most efficient?
Steel emits heat most effectively thanks to wide flat surfaces optimized for conduction and emission. Aluminium warms up quicker but releases warmth faster too.
How many BTUs are needed per square metre?
As an approximate guide for UK homes:
- 150 sq ft room = 3,000 – 4,000 BTUs
- 250 sq ft room = 4,000 – 6,000 BTUs
- 300+ sq ft room = 6,000+ BTUs
But insulation, window efficiency etc all impact requirements.
Should I choose electric or water filled radiators?
Electric models provide highly responsive controllable heat and easier installation.
Water-filled radiators linked to central heating systems provide whole home warmth but slower temperature control.
Hybrid radiators enabling both electric and water functionality offer maximum flexibility.
How long should quality radiators last?
Top brands like Stelrad and Capital provide 10 year warranties, reflecting realistic lifespans of 15-20 years with proper maintenance.
Cheap low quality radiators may fail after less than 10 years though.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide helps you select the perfect radiator brand for your home and budget. Balancing value, efficiency, quality and visual styles takes research but ensures the ideal long-term solution.
Whichever brand you choose, always precisely measure your rooms, calculate required BTU outputs, and use these figures to select appropriately sized models. This guarantees every area receives sufficient warmth to stay perfectly comfortable all year round.