Here at Designer Radiators Direct, we understand that we have a great deal of knowledge on heating products - and it's easy for us to slip into jargon from time to time. However, when you think of a 'standard' radiator and go to Google, we probably pop up on your search engine results. As you browse through our products, you'll find designer radiators, column radiators, towel radiators and underfloor heating: but what about those 'normal' heaters you're used to seeing and recognising already? Yes, we've got those too.
Convector Radiators - How They Work
The traditional white horizontal radiators found in most properties in the UK remain by far the most popular type today, and we've got plenty of them in stock.
Convector radiators fill up with hot water in an internal tank and disperse the temperature of this water through its external (usually metal) panels. As the hot air from the convection radiator rises, convection currents carry it through the room to heat it to an ambient, warm or desired temperature. This heat output is, in the UK, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units).
It is always recommended to purchase a radiator with the right BTU output for your room. If the BTU is not correct you may have issues in heating your space.
If you are looking to purchase a new radiator please use our free BTU calculator to work this out for you and show you relevant radiators suitable for your room. You can also use this calculator if you are looking to purchase an electric radiator. Just fill in the details as you normally would and choose Wattage instead of BTU.
But Are Convector Radiators The Same As Panel Or Flat Panel Radiators?
You might have noticed that on our site we have a convector radiator category along with a panel and flat panel radiator category. But are these not the same type of radiator?
Not at all. The difference between convector radiators and panel radiators is the way they heat. Panel radiators don't have the radiator metal fins inside whereas convector radiators have a range of single and double convectors, along with single or double panels. So it can be a little confusing as both convector radiators and panel radiators come in both single and double designs and have similar appearances. This is why we have labelled all of our convector radiators as convector, so if you can't see that in the name it is likely a panel radiator.
What Is The Difference Between Single And Double Convector Radiator?
When you look to buy a radiator, you'll often be asked if you'd prefer the model with single or double panels. But what is the difference between single and double-panel radiators? Well, put simply: heating performance.
The external panel of a radiator is the long metal 'wall' type tank of the appliance, which holds the water inside. The longer the panel, the wider the surface area there is for the radiator to emit heat.
Originally, all radiators were flat-fronted with a single panel. However, as it became more apparent that an increased surface area would also increase heat output, manufacturers began to introduce the option of having a second panel (a double radiator panel). Rather than lie one panel on top of the other, which could stifle the hot air, convector fins were introduced.
Convector fins are the metal zig-zag shaped panels that sit at the back of single-panel radiators and in the middle of double-panel radiators. Convector fins being zig-zag shaped allows for maximum surface area, and when doubled up, increases it further. The fins are welded to the main tank and heated up by the water within.
When it comes to weighing up single vs double radiators for your property, it's worth considering the differences. These are:
The Kartell K-Flat Single Panel Single Convector Radiator Offers low prices & a wide range of size options.
- Heat performance - double radiators are able to heat a larger space and faster
- Energy costs - as double radiators are larger, they do cost slightly more in heating bills
- Size - double radiators are slightly larger, so for small spaces, a single may be a better fit.
All of this information may lead you to believe that double radiators are just newer models, but that's not strictly true. So, are single radiators better than double ones? If not, why do they still exist? Well, as property prices soar, more of us than ever live in smaller homes and don't have the space or need for high-performance heating.
Whether a single or double radiator is right for you is completely based on your individual circumstances.
How To Replace A Single Radiator With A Double Radiator
If your property already has single radiators but you'd prefer doubles, you can replace a single radiator with a double. However, there are a few things to consider first:
- Space - Does your room have the space for a larger radiator?
- Boiler Capacity - A higher performance radiator will affect your overall central heating system, so you must be sure that your boiler is up to the job.
- Infrastructure - Does the existing pipework line up and fit with a larger radiator?
- Bracket Sizing - Double radiators usually have larger brackets than singles, so you may need to purchase new accessories if they're not provided with your new radiator.
To replace a single radiator with a double, simply remove the single and its brackets, install the larger brackets and install the new radiator as directed. If you need help with the new radiator, contact a plumber or heating engineer for guidance.
Speak To Our Radiator Specialists For Advice
We understand it can be a little confusing when it comes to radiators and how they work, especially when reading it. So if you would like to learn more about our convector radiators or any of our other radiators please contact us today. Our award-winning customer service team can help you with choosing a new designer radiator that's right for you.
If you are on a budget and need a new radiator please see our range of radiators on sale. We have a huge range from flat designer radiators and column radiators to bespoke coloured radiators to match your interior.
