Why You Should Buy Column Radiators Now!

Column Radiators Now!

Are you looking to upgrade your home heating system? Installing column radiators can be an excellent option. Column radiators, also known as designer radiators, provide efficient and stylish heating for any room in your home.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of column radiators and why you should consider them for your next heating upgrade. We’ll cover topics like efficiency, design options, cost, installation, and more. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, column radiators offer versatility and performance that can enhance any living space.

What are Column Radiators?

Column radiators, sometimes called designer radiators, are tall, vertical radiators that distribute heat via internal water tubes. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and finishes to match any decors. Column radiators are an attractive alternative to bulky, utilitarian heating units.

Modern column radiators offer efficient heating performance in a slim, minimalist package. Instead of taking up valuable floor space, they mount neatly onto walls, freeing up room for furniture placement and aesthetics.

Below are some of the most popular types of column radiators:

• Single panel – These have one vertical panel and take up the least space. Great for smaller areas.
• Double panel – Two connected panels that provide more heating capacity for larger rooms.
• Curved – Elegant curved or wave-like panels for added style.
• Multi-column – Several vertical panels connected together in various configurations. Provides expanded heating coverage.
• Plinth – Column combined with a built-in lower storage cupboard. Maximizes function and form.

Benefits of Column Radiators

There are many excellent reasons to choose column radiators for your home.

Superior Heat Output

Column radiators provide excellent heat output thanks to their high water content and vertically stacked internal elements. The tubes and fins are arranged vertically rather than horizontally like old-fashioned radiators. This allows more surface area for transferring warmth into the surrounding air via convection currents.

Column radiators also utilize thermostatic valves to fine-tune the temperature output. This prevents energy waste from overheating.

Energy Efficient Operation

Modern column radiators are designed for energy efficient operation. Their high heat output allows them to heat a room using less energy than outdated heating units.

Many new models have an A+ or A++ energy rating. This means they consume minimal energy while still providing comfortable warmth.

Using programmable thermostats and individual thermostatic valves on each column helps optimize energy use based on occupancy and demand. This saves electricity and fuel consumption.

Compact, Space-Saving Design

One of the best features of column radiators is their slim profile. They take up far less space than bulky cast iron radiators and freestanding heaters. This gives you more options for furniture layouts without awkward placement around the heating units.

The vertical orientation means column radiators can fit into narrow spots like small nooks, underneath windows, flanking doorways, and along walls. This also helps preserve the open feel in larger rooms.

Versatile Installation Options

Column radiators can be installed almost anywhere in the home. Their lightweight modular construction makes mounting easy on nearly any wall surface. Many homeowners prefer to install them below windowsills to provide direct warmth right where it’s needed most.

They can also be fitted onto sloped walls and in upstairs rooms where large heaters aren’t feasible. The vertical panels stream warmth efficiently across multiple floors when mounted on upstairs walls.

For bathrooms and other damp locations, waterproof models prevent rust or leaks. Outdoor models are also available for heating covered patios and porches.

Modern, Stylish Appearance

Perhaps the greatest benefit of column radiators is their attractive, contemporary appearance. They infuse any room with a touch of modern elegance.

The clean, minimalist look blends seamlessly into modern decors. There are also classic column styles with traditional charm for more historic homes.

Column radiators serve as sculptural interior design elements that enhance the visual appeal of your spaces. They come in a diverse range of finishes like polished chrome, brushed nickel, glossy enamel colours, and more. Glass, stainless steel, and stone panels also create captivating aesthetic focal points.

Durable, Long-Lasting Construction

Quality column radiators are built to last using robust materials like thick rolled steel, premium enamelled coatings, and sturdy welded construction. This durability ensures they provide years of trouble-free heating service.

Many models come with warranties of 10 years or longer, giving confidence in their longevity. With just occasional maintenance like descaling, a good column radiator should serve your home for decades.

Column radiators provide an attractive, space-saving heating solution.

Things to Consider Before Buying

While column radiators offer many impressive benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind as you evaluate options.

Output for Room Size

Carefully calculate how much heating capacity you need for the rooms you want to heat. A reputable supplier can help you determine the proper BTU (British Thermal Unit) output. Too small, and the room won’t get warm enough during cold snaps. Too large causes excessive drying and stuffiness.

Consider heat loss factors like room size, window coverage, insulation, and climate. North-facing and drafty rooms need more oomph.

Placement

Think about the best positioning in the room. Column radiators work best when unobstructed so their convection currents can circulate freely. Avoid backing them into tight corners or enclosing them in cabinetry.

Also measure to ensure they fit into the planned spaces vertically. Leave several inches clearance at the top and bottom for air circulation.

Controls & Valves

Look for programmable thermostats and thermostatic radiator valves to control heat precisely. Opt for models that can be grouped into zones.

Thermostatic valves automatically throttle water flow to maintain comfortable temperatures without wasting excess heat.

Hot Water Supply

Determine if your water heater can handle supplying enough hot water for the additional radiators. Larger homes or many added columns may require upgrading the water heater.

Consult with heating pros to ensure your plumbing can meet the increased hot water demand. This prevents shortages of hot water in other parts of the home.

Column radiators come in a wide variety of sizes, configurations, and coverages.

Cost of Column Radiators

Pricing for column radiators varies based on:

• Size – Taller and wider columns cost more.
• Materials – Steel, aluminium, glass, and stone impact price.
• BTUs – More heating capacity means higher cost.
• Design – More complex shapes and finishes add cost.
• Brand – Leading European brands command higher pricing.

As a ballpark, expect to pay:

• $150 – $300 for shorter steel panels under 1000 BTUs
• $300 – $600 for midsize 2000 – 3000 BTU steel models
• $600 – $1200+ for larger or higher end materials

Installation, valves, and accessories add £200 – £500. Shop sales to save on high-end imported radiators.

The investment quickly pays off through lower heating bills and reduced energy consumption. And the visual enhancements can increase your home’s value.

Here is a comparison of radiator heating options:

Radiator Type	Pros	Cons	Cost
Column	Slim profile, high efficiency, stylish	Upfront cost, professional installation	£
Cast Iron	Traditional appearance, very durable	Bulky, uneven heating, prone to leaks	£
Electric	Easy plug-in use, flexibility	High energy costs, dry heat	£
Hydronic	Even warmth, zoned control	Complex setup, space for equipment	£

Installation Tips

Column radiators are relatively straightforward DIY installations if you’re handy. But for many homeowners, hiring a professional is worth the cost for proper setup and performance.

Here are some tips for getting them installed correctly:

• Carefully measure available space and order the proper size. Leave a few extra inches clearance.
• Have a qualified plumber connect the radiators to the home heating system.
• Securely anchor the columns to wall studs, not just drywall. They’re heavy when full of water.
• Pitch horizontal pipes back towards the boiler for proper drainage.
• Isolate each column on a dedicated heating loop for individual temperature control.
• Install a drain valve at the radiator’s lowest point for maintenance.
• Pressure test for leaks before closing up walls. Fix any drips immediately.
• Add an automatic air vent at the top to remove trapped air bubbles.

Proper installation prevents headaches down the road and ensures columns heat efficiently for many years.

FAQs About Column Radiators

Looking into column radiators for your home? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

How do column radiators compare to cast iron radiators?

Cast iron radiators are bulky, boxy, and notorious for uneven heating. Columns provide more even warmth in a compact, aesthetically pleasing package.

Do you have to drain column radiators to change their position?

Yes, a professional should drain the system before relocating or altering connections. Avoid DIY antics.

Do columns heat rooms as well as forced air systems?

Columns provide very even, comfortable warmth though at a slower pace than forced air. Optimal column layout prevents cool spots.

Can you paint column radiators?

Yes, but specialized high-temperature paint must be used to prevent flaking or yellowing. Avoid overspray inside.

Do columns dry out the air like older steam radiators?

No, column radiators don’t boil water to steam so they don’t create excessive dryness.

Key Takeaways on Column Radiators

• Column radiators offer efficient, comfortable heating from a slim, compact unit.
• Their vertical orientation saves space while allowing excellent heat circulation.
• A broad range of styles, sizes, and finishes enables customization for any decors.
• Energy efficient operation reduces heating costs compared to outdated radiators.
• Proper sizing and placement ensure columns can heat the whole room effectively.
• Quality manufacturing provides durability and longevity lasting for decades.
• Installation is relatively straightforward but often best left to heating professionals.

If you’re looking for an efficient, stylish radiator system, column radiators are an excellent option. They can transform the comfort and aesthetics of any room while providing plentiful, even heat. Ditch those old cast iron relics and embrace the modern elegance of column radiators