Radiators for kitchens

The kitchen is increasingly becoming the heart of the home, so it’s no surprise that radiator experts are often asked: “Which radiator is best for a kitchen?” The answer will depend on the specifics of your kitchen, but there are some common factors that apply to all kitchens when considering heating.

Heat output
This is always the first and most important factor. Speak to a radiator specialist or heating engineer to find out how much heat your kitchen needs from radiators to ensure a comfortable environment.

Space
As kitchen cabinets often take up the majority of wall space, finding a suitable place on the wall for a radiator can be a challenge. However, with so many different shapes and sizes of radiators available, there is likely to be a simple solution, such as a vertical radiator that can be positioned behind a door or on a pillar taking up otherwise unused space.

Hanging tea towels
You may wish to dry tea towels on a kitchen radiator so options could include a heated towel rail in ladder style with towel hanging space or, for more heat output, go for a radiator with a towel-hanging rail attached.

Valves
Due to the fluctuating temperature of a kitchen, from the hob, oven and other appliances, experts recommend the installation of thermostatic valves. Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) have an in-built temperature sensor. The thermostatic valve maintains room temperature, by automatically adjusting the heat output from the radiator.
This means that you can make the most of any “free” heat the room receives, such as that from the sun, gas cookers or electrical appliances. As the valve is controlled automatically, it turns itself up and down, ensuring the radiators perform as efficiently as possible, reducing energy waste. For this reason, TRVs are the environmentally friendly valve choice.

Hygiene
It’s always worth considering hygiene when choosing appliances and materials for use in the kitchen. Radiators with a smooth finish are generally easier to wipe clean than radiators with a textured finish. Where possible, it is a good idea for the radiator’s pipework to come out of the wall instead of up from the floor. This will make mopping the floor easier and will limit areas where dirt could build up.

Matching
In order to really finish off a room and ensure a high quality finish, clever matching of finishes is essential. This can be done in all manner of ways as considered below.
Is there an Aga or Rayburn in your kitchen? If so, look for a matching paint finish on your radiator.
Going for granite worktops? Then consider a granite radiator; choose from a variety of stones such as Nero Assoluto. You can now even get radiators made of Silestone, a natural quartz material that is popular for use on kitchen work surfaces.
If you have a cooker hood in a brushed finish, then why not consider a radiator in brushed stainless steel to match.
And for those finishing touches, don’t forget your valves; a high quality valve in a matching finish can link key features together. Why not match your radiator valves to your light switches, cabinet handles and/or plug sockets for a high-end look.

Don't rush into a decision when considering the radiator(s) in your kitchen design. Think carefully about the position, design, practicality and finish of your radiator. Speak to an expert who will be able to guide you in the right direction, helping you avoid common pitfalls and enabling you to make the best choice for the heart of your home.

To speak to a real radiator specialist, contact Feature Radiators. Their expert team are available Monday to Saturday, so call them on 01274 567789 (10 lines), contact them via their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/ or visit them in their West Yorkshire showroom where they have over 250 radiators on display.

Feature Radiators celebrates excellent customer service

Last week (3rd – 7th October), Feature Radiators celebrated National Customer Service week, which coincided with the company receiving the ISO 9001 accreditation, the internationally recognised quality standard for supplying goods and services.

Each year, the Institute of Customer Service organises National Customer Service Week to encourage companies to focus on quality and the importance of fulfilling customers’ needs in respect of the service provided.

Feature Radiators is a prime example of an organisation that prides itself on providing a high level of customer service. They monitor this by customer feedback. Whether positive or negative, Feature Radiators believes all feedback is valuable, as it gives them the opportunity to build upon what they do well, and to improve upon what could be better.

A couple of examples of recent feedback received by the team at Feature Radiators are set out below.

“The guy doing the work said that whoever he spoke to at Feature Rads [Radiators] had been very helpful about how to join the radiator that was in several parts, so thanks again. I can’t fault the service you’ve provided and would have no hesitation in recommending you to anyone.”

Andrew

“I thank you for your kind offer to still help me and I realise that you are in no way obliged to make such an offer. Many thanks once again. Whenever I have occasion to contact your company I am always impressed by the bright and friendly attitude and you seem genuinely interested in helping your customers both new and existing.”
John
Feature Radiators’ excellent reputation is also reflected by the wealth of celebrity customers that they supply radiators to, many of which have themselves provided constructive comments:

“I located the rather amazing Feature Radiators who are making me a "landscape" towel rail in a sprayed coloured finish at the excellent price of £300”

Naomi Cleaver, celebrity interior designer, product designer and TV presenter. http://naomicleaver.typepad.com/naomis-new-home/

“Helena - thank you SO much for all your help. Very unEnglish, and very much appreciated.”

Ruth Watson, Presenter of Channel 4’s Country House Rescue, Owner of the Crown and Castle Hotel, Suffolk and best known as the original Hotel Inspector.

Feature Radiators are also not afraid to publish feedback from customers whose orders did not run as smoothly as they would have liked and this approach reflects the transparent nature of their organisation. They aim for perfection from initial enquiry, through to delivery and beyond, but at the same time are realistic enough to acknowledge that at the end of the day we are only human, and issues will arise from time to time. They know that its how any problems and issues are dealt with that set them aside as a company. Feature Radiators are keen to listen to their customers, give useful advice and solutions, and above all, they act decisively, promptly and effectively. The company realises that dealing with a problem in a manner that matches or exceeds customers’ expectations is vital.

“Thank you very much for your swift reply. It is very refreshing to see a company taking responsibility for their products and dealing with product-related problems so professionally.”

Ralf

As well as their positive approach to receiving customer comments, Feature Radiators were also keen to be recognised independently by an official body and expert in quality. This has led to them being awarded the ISO 9001 accreditation by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service that recognises that Feature Radiators has achieved the standard required to provide their customers’ with confidence in the quality of their products and the provision of their services. Feature Radiators now has official permission to use the UKAS and ISO 9001 logos, which are recognised internationally and illustrate that a company has the procedures and policies in place to offer a quality service to all its customers.

For a radiator specialist with an officially accredited quality system and excellent reputation, then visit Feature Radiators at their showroom in The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire. BD16 2HL, contact them on 01274 567789 or view their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk

Feature Radiators celebrates Central Heating Day!!

“Central Heating Day” is on 1st October each year, and it’s the official day when most folk in the UK switch on their central heating. Every year Feature Radiators marks the day with a party for their team and customers at their West Yorkshire showroom.

This year Feature Radiators are giving away a pair of Elegance thermostatic valves or Minimus manual valves with every radiator ordered on 1st October 2011.*

“Central heating has come on leaps and bounds in the last decade." commented Helena Gerwitz, General Manager at Feature Radiators. “We celebrate Central Heating Day in recognition of the vital role of heating and the advances made.”

Wendy Middleton of Age Concern commented “We know only too well that for old people, protection against the cold is vital and that freezing temperatures pose a serious threat to health. We are urging friends, neighbours and families to help older people to check their systems now, and also get any problems fixed before winter arrives”.

Source:
http://www.ledburyreporter.co.uk/news/local/8402655.Heating_advice_from_Age_Concern/There have been impressive developments in central heating in the last decade, relating to aesthetics as well as function, and that’s reason to celebrate. With the boom in the home improvement market, consumers demanded better heating products. Feature Radiators were quick to respond with a comprehensive range of stylish, efficient, well-designed radiators and accessories. The Yorkshire based company offer an impressive range of products made from a wide range of materials including handsome valves with thermostatic controls. As well as the traditional heating systems that are powered by gas or oil, there is now some innovative radiator systems powered by electricity (a potentially sustainable fuel). Feature Radiators also offers an exclusive range of electric radiators, namely iRads, which can be invisibly linked together to provide a central controlled heating system in their own right.

To join in the celebrations and mark the day or just to take advantage of the free valves, visit Feature Radiators at their showroom at The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire. BD16 2HL, see the website at http://www.featureradiators.co.uk or phone on 01274 567789.

For more information on Central Heating Day, contact Helena at Feature Radiators on 01274 515734, tweet @featureradiator or email Helena@featureradiators.co.uk


*Customers ordering on this day will be entitled to one free pair of valves with every radiator ordered on Saturday 1st October 2011. Valves included in this offer are the Elegance thermostatic valves in white and chrome or all chrome finishes and the Minimus manual valves in chrome or satin finishes. This promotion is not redeemable for cash or credit and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Feature Radiators reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time.

Which radiators are most efficient?

The question “which central heating radiators are most efficient?” is not straight forward, as in this context the word “efficient” means different things to different customers.

An official definition of the word “efficient” is:

“Acting or producing effectively with a minimum of waste, expense, or unnecessary effort.”

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/efficient

It can be argued that all central heating radiators are equally efficient insofar as the energy put into a radiator will equal the amount of heat it gives out. In other words, all properly functioning radiators with same heat output capacity, will give out the same amount of heat as one another and will use the same amount of energy to do so.

Radiators are just vessels designed to release energy in the form of heat. The amount of heat they release will depend on the amount of energy put into them.

In asking “Which central heating radiators are the most efficient?”, customers could mean:

1. Which radiator gives out the most heat for its size?
2. Which radiator is the cheapest to run?
3. Which radiator wastes the least fuel?
4. Which radiator heats up the quickest?

Relevant factors to consider in answering the above questions and ensuring you get the right radiator(s) for your specific needs are considered below.

Size and surface area

Its surface area determines the maximum heat output capacity of a radiator. The larger the surface area, the higher the potential heat output.

Surface area will be greatly increased by convectors, fins, or double or triple panels. So for example, the heat output capacity of a flat single panel radiator will be considerably less than a radiator of the same size (height x width) with double panels, and/or convectors or fins.

When considering one model of radiator, then generally, the bigger the radiator, the bigger the heat output. However this is not necessarily the case when comparing one model of radiator against another.

Water content

In theory, the less water a radiator holds, the less time it takes to heat up, and the less fuel is would require to reach full temperature. Consequently, the lower the water content of a radiator, the more “efficient” it could be considered to be. However, in reality, there is little difference in the level of water content across radiator models, although over an entire system the slight variation would multiply.

Design
The shape of a radiator and its design does have an effect on the amount of heat it radiates, but again this is due to the particular surface area of the model. For example, a tubular radiator with hollow tubes offers a lot more surface area than a flat panel design without fins as the heat can be emitted from both the outside and the inside of the tubes. So the design of a radiator does have a direct effect on its maximum heat output.

Material
A radiator’s material of manufacture does not have a direct impact on the amount of heat it gives out. However, the material will be a determining factor in the speed in which the radiator heats up and cools down. For instance, aluminium heats up quickly and cools down quickly, whereas cast iron heats up at a slower rate and cools down at a slower rate.

Finish

Science proves that the finish of a radiator affects its heat output in varying degrees.

There is a principal known as “emissivity” that enables experts to measure the ability for heat to leave (or radiate from) the surface of an object.

Levels of emissivity vary between finishes of radiators. Painted radiators have a higher level of emissivity than bare metal radiators, meaning that painted finishes absorb and release heat more than bare metal finishes. Matt finishes have a higher level of emissivity than gloss radiators. Even the colour of the finish can affect the level of emissivity. For instance, black paint has a higher level of emissivity than white paint. However, the difference in the emissivity of radiators is negligible and would only be realised in laboratory conditions.

Only a chrome finish has a noticeable affect on the heat output of a radiator as chrome has a very low level of emissivity. The chrome coating works on the same principal as the space blankets (the silver insulation blankets) used to keep athletes warm. The chrome coating, whilst looking beautiful, does reduce the ability of the radiator to radiate heat. Chrome (chromium plated) radiators are proven to emit approximately 20% less heat than the equivalent sized radiators in a painted finish.

In theory, the optimum radiator when looking for high heat output and rapid heat up time, taking all factors into account (no matter how minimal their impact) would be a matt black aluminium radiator with the greatest surface area for its size.

In practice, there are many other aspects that will determine the best radiator(s) for your project, including, aesthetics, dimensions to fit your space, budget and availability. Your choice will be governed by which factors take priority.

For more advice on choosing the right radiator(s) speak to a radiator specialist such as Feature Radiators. Contact their expert team directly on 01274 567789, meet them at their large West Yorkshire showroom, where they have over 250 radiators on display or visit their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/.

Positioning of radiators

When revamping your heating system you may feel restricted by the current position of pipework. However, with radiator technology coming on leaps and bounds over recent years and the ever improving insulation of properties, you no longer need to feel restricted by the standard conventions for radiator installation.

Radiators were historically always situated in the coldest part of a room, often against an outside wall or under a window, where the cold air drops to the floor. This meant that radiators were traditionally always around 600mm or 2ft high.

There was logic behind this standard at the time. Older properties that were poorly insulated with single glazing were prone to draughts; if a radiator was positioned on a wall opposite the window, this would cause cold air to be drawn across the floor due to the convection process. So a radiator was put under the window to help eliminate the cold draught problem.

Nowadays, though, most properties are far better insulated and double-glazing is rapidly becoming the norm. Alongside this, radiators are now available in a wealth of shapes and sizes and are definitely no longer the “normal” corrugated panels that we have become accustomed to. This means that you can now choose a radiator in the size and shape that you want, and position them, to best suit your room design.

With so many different radiator options now available, there are likely to be several possible places where you could put your radiators. So consider the following points when deciding on a setting for your radiators:

· Try and make the best use of space where possible and don’t be restricted by the positioning of current pipework. A new radiator in a new position might free up valuable wall space. For instance, it might be worth considering switching from a horizontal radiator, to a vertical model that can be installed in a corner or alcove, a place that would have previously been considered unusable.

· If you are opting for full length curtains, then the radiators should not be placed under the windows as much of the heat will be shut behind the curtains when they are closed.

· In a lounge, it is preferable not to put a radiator behind furniture such as a sofa, which may absorb the radiant heat. However, if your options are limited and behind furniture is the best position available, then it is better to look at radiators that are designed to ‘convect’ i.e. emit heat from the top, rather than models that ‘radiate’ i.e. emit heat from the front.

· In a kitchen, units often take up most available wall space, so the best solution may be a tall slim radiator, to fit behind the door or fill a space that you previously considered to not be wide enough for a radiator.

· In a bathroom, where a radiator is often used to dry towels, consider where the radiator will be in relation to the bath or basin.

· Why not consider positioning radiators to highlight a particular feature of the room? For example, you could place two identical radiators symmetrically, one each side of an entrance, archway or window. Or you could consider aligning the top of a vertical radiator with the top of a door, a window or a painting; the radiator will seek to draw the eye upwards towards the feature.

In conclusion, the radiator world is your oyster! No longer do you need to go for the boring bog-standard radiators we are used to, that often take up much needed wall space. Instead, look at your room afresh and speak to a radiator specialist for some advice on which products might best suit your space.

For more information on where to position your radiators, then speak to an expert such as Feature Radiators. Browse their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk, call their specialist team on 01274 567789 or visit them at their showroom in The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire. BD16 2HL.

What differentiates towel rails and radiators?

A customer asked me the other day, “What’s the difference between these towel rails as one is much more expensive than the other?” So I answered the question, justifying the price difference and realised that this is a common enquiry and something worth addressing properly.

Heated towel rails or radiators for bathrooms are now considered the norm in the UK. Almost all new properties now include a ladder style radiator and the market has rapidly become flooded with options, with huge variation in quality and, consequently, price.

However, opting for the “cheapest” option for heating is rarely a worthwhile investment in the long term and customers usually find that they get what they pay for.

So how do towel radiators vary? What differences should you be looking out for?
Below we have detailed the various points to consider when purchasing towel radiators, helping you avoid the old saying: “buy cheap, buy twice”.

General

· Guarantee period – A relatively short guarantee period may indicate poor quality welding or chroming. You should be looking for a radiator with a minimum guarantee period of 5 years for central heating models.
· Independent testing - Are the radiators tested to EN442, the official European Standard? This certificate guarantees that a radiator meets the minimum standards on various aspects including heat output, material thickness, pressure testing, paint quality, product labelling and safety.
· Heat output - Has an independent laboratory tested the heat output of the radiator? A BSRIA (Building Services Research and Information Association) certificate or similar will confirm that the heat output stated has been confirmed by an independent expert.
· Awards and accreditations – Independent recognition helps to ensure that the radiator is of a good quality and practical design.

Design

· Sizes available – Mass production can help keep costs down on towel radiators, however this often means there is a limited range of sizes available. For instance, you may not have the option of 300mm wide towel rails that maybe perfect for use in your downstairs cloakroom or loo.
· Position of brackets – Rails may include brackets that don’t maximise the space for holding towels as much as they could. Consider going for towel radiators with the brackets located at the edges as this leaves the full width of the radiator free on which to hang towels.
· Position of bars - Closely spaced bars maximise the heat output of a towel rail but are not a feature on cheap rails as they are more difficult to manufacture, especially in chromed versions. For this reason, a high quality chrome rail may often offer a better heat output than a cheaper chrome towel rail in an equivalent size.

Material

· Grades of chrome – Chrome towel rails are still a popular choice, and the quality of chrome varies hugely between models. A luxurious, thick application of chrome adds to the look and the durability of a product. It is recommended that radiators must have at least level “SC2” chrome to ensure that they are suitable for use in spaces with condensation such as bathrooms.
· Consider stainless steel - Recent trends have led to an increase in stainless steel radiator options. This inert metal offers various benefits as due to it’s non-corrosive properties; for instance, it has a long life expectancy meaning guarantees are often 20 or 25 years and it does not have to be used in conjunction with corrosion inhibitor. Stainless steel towel rails also offer better heat outputs than similar models in chrome, as it is bare metal finish as opposed to a coated metal finish. Polished stainless steel offers a finish that is virtually identical to chrome, and stainless steel is also available in a brushed finish giving an alternative matt effect.

Service

Always bear in mind the service provided when you purchase heating for your bathroom. Follow the guide below to ensure you get the best service possible and minimise the chance of encountering problems.

· Choose a reputable supplier. Look for reviews or feedback online, or ask friends and family whom they used when buying a towel radiator.
· Look for awards and accreditations. Independent recognition of the supplier will help back-up their reputation, and will indicate that they have a brand they care about and wish to protect.
· Use a radiator specialist. Even bathroom retailers may have limited knowledge on heating. By using a true specialist, you can get any technical and installation questions answered quickly and accurately.
· Ask how long they have been selling radiators for. Although the towel radiator industry is relatively young, a reputable supplier should have a number of years of successful trading behind them.
· Avoid online only sellers and “Add to basket” shopping. If a radiator or towel rail is chosen without expert advice, it can often lead to the wrong products being ordered, causing problems for all parties involved.
· Find out if they have a showroom. High quality premises can indicate a long-term outlook for the business. If you can’t visit their premises “in the flesh”, then why not look at their showroom online?
· Ask about after-sales service. For instance, does the supplier have technical specialists and a helpline? Some retailers have been known to fob off customers with the phone number of the warehouse, when they report a faulty product.

It’s clear from the above that choosing a heated towel rail or radiator for your bathroom may not be the most straightforward decision, but by following the guidance detailed above, your towel radiator won’t be a false economy.

For more information on buying good quality, durable heated towel rails and radiators with a high end finish, then speak to a specialist such as Feature Radiators. Their expert team will help you to choose the best radiator for your situation, so contact them on 01274 567789, visit them at their showroom in Bingley, West Yorkshire or see http://www.featureradiators.co.uk

Interiors Shopping around Bingley, West Yorkshire

Are you looking to renovate a property or looking for an iconic piece of design for your home? Are you reluctant to visit the many chain stores that we are now so familiar with due to their generic products and lack of personal service? Then why not look to a local independent merchant for products to upgrade your home.



You don’t need to be in a big metropolis to find help on your quest for stylish interiors. Even in small UK towns, there is a wealth of high quality products and services available from local businesses. Often retailers may be in more random locations but as real specialists, selling niche products, their shop may be a destination in it’s own right.



We decided to do some research into what interior design businesses are situated in our local area and we chose Bingley, West Yorkshire as our test area. We wanted to see what independent merchants are situated in a small British town, such as Bingley, and what they can offer the style conscious homeowner.



Bingley is a small market town with a population of just under 20,000 and is situated in the Aire Valley, West Yorkshire, close to both Leeds and Bradford and on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.

Bingley is situated in the heart of the UK’s textile industry and its Victorian mills still illustrate its history of producing woollen goods. This expertise is reflected in the wealth of carpet suppliers in the area.



For instance, Carpet Time, based in Bingley, is one of Bradford’s best-known carpet retailers. Started in 1947, this family business has adapted over the year’s to suit ever-changing consumer demands adapting their flooring range to include the latest in high quality laminates and vinyls.



Another legacy from the industrial revolution is Salts Mill, which is now a real destination in West Yorkshire when it comes to interiors. The Home store on the mill’s main floor offers stunningly presented designer homewares and the ultimate in classic furniture; Mies van der Rohe chairs sit alongside Alessi kettles and Phillipe Starck lemon juicers. The Mill, Saltaire also sells affordable art for the home with a wide range of posters and prints available from the bookshop.



As the UK’s leading radiator retailer, Feature Radiators, based in The Old Post Office on Bingley's Main Street, is the one-stop port of call for anyone wanting stylish, high performance heating at competitive prices. This award winning company offers a selection of the best contemporary, designer, traditional cast iron and electric radiators and heated towel rails on the market in terms of quality, design and value for money. With over 250 styles on display in their showroom, expert advice, unrivalled customer service and nationwide delivery, we are widely recognized as the UK's leading radiator specialist.



For textiles, The Design Mill at Castlefields Industrial Estate offers supply and design services for curtains and blinds from a range of fabulous fabrics at discounted prices. With Bradford and Keighley close by, Bingley also is ideally located for sourcing Asian fabrics due to Airedale’s connections to the East. Asian textiles are readily available from a huge array of merchants around the city, most notably Bombay Stores, Shearbridge Road, Bradford, which is the UK’s largest Asian department store.



It’s clear to see that big cities and chain stores are not the only option when it comes to sourcing the right interiors products. Local independent merchants operating around the country can offer a personalised service and as specialists in a particular field, their knowledge of products and the market makes choosing the features for your home not only easy and uncomplicated but also enjoyable.



For more information on shopping in Bingley, then contact Bingley’s Chamber of Trade and Commerce.



For more information on Feature Radiators specifically, then visit their showroom at The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, BD16 2HL, call their expert team on 01274 567789 or browse their website www.featureradiators.co.uk

Glossary of radiator terms

Are you considering at ordering a radiator and getting a bit overwhelmed with all the jargon? Then look no further than this glossary of radiator terms and definitions. This article acts as a dictionary/handbook for anyone having trouble understanding or defining any words or phrases related to radiators and central heating systems. For instance;

What is a lockshield valve?
What are “BTUs”?
Do I have an open or closed heating system?
What does balancing mean?
Define a closed heating system?

If you can’t find the information you need below or need help with choosing a radiator, then contact a specialist such as Feature Radiators. Visit their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk, call their expert team on 01274 567789 or see over 250 radiators on display and meet the team at Feature Radiators’ showroom, The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire. BD16 2HL (near Leeds, Bradford and North Yorkshire).

Air vent - A small valve, which enables air that has accumulated at the top of a radiator to be let out or ‘bled’ from the radiator using a special air vent key. Also known as a bleed valve or bleed vent.
Angled valves - Valves that have a 90° turn on them for use on radiators with side valve connections, where pipe work is coming up from the floor or out of the wall. Also used on radiators with underside valve connections, but only where the pipe work comes out of the wall. See also "Straight valves".
Balancing - Adjusting the flow of water throughout a piped central heating system in order to achieve a similar drop in temperatures across all radiators. It is important to ensure that heat is distributed evenly to all radiators so that they all run at equal temperatures and all take an equal amount of time to reach their operating temperature. A plumber should ‘balance’ the system after installing radiators. Lack of balancing within a system is often the cause of cold spots on radiators, radiators failing to heat up properly or noisy radiators.
BBOE – Bottom Bottom Opposite Ends - Radiator valves are installed at the bottom of the radiator, on either side.
Bleeding a radiator - Getting rid of any air that has accumulated at the top of radiator, using an air vent or bleed valve. Trapped air in a radiator will result in a radiator failing to heat up properly.
Bleed valve - see "Air vent"
Bleed vent - see "Air vent"
Boiler - a device that heats water using gas, oil or electricity. This is the most common way to provide hot water central heating for domestic properties.
Bracket - a part used to secure/fix radiators to the wall
British Thermal Unit - (BTU or Btu) is a traditional unit of energy equal to about 1,055 joules. It is approximately the amount of energy needed to heat 1 pound (0.454 kg) of water (therefore around 0.1198 gallons) from 39 to 40° F (3.8 to 4.4° C). This unit of measurement is now being replaced with the alternative unit of measuring heat output, Watts.
BS 3528 - The old British standard for radiators. BS EN 442 has now superseded this.
BS 5449: 1990 - The British Standard for internal room temperatures, identifying acceptable comfort levels.
BS 7593: 2006 - The British Standard for the treatment of water in domestic hot water central heating systems, including the use of corrosion inhibitors and cleaners.
BS EN 12828 & 12831: 2003 - British Standards for designing heating systems.
BS EN 442 - The official European Standard for radiators. It covers various standards that radiators need to meet including heat output, minimum material thickness, pressure tests, paint quality, product labelling, safety, etc.
BTU – See "British Thermal Unit"
Bush – see "Reducer"
Central Heating – A system that provides warmth to the whole interior of a building (or portion of a building) from one point to multiple rooms.
Closed System - A piped central heating system that is "closed" or "sealed" means that the water contained within the system is taken from the water mains upon installation. Once filled and pressurised the system is sealed off and then the water within the system is circulated repeatedly around the system and is not (unless actioned via the filling loop) replaced by new water entering the system.
Combi boiler - a device that provides both central heating and hot water. A combi boiler is a high-efficiency water heater and a central heating boiler, combined (hence the name) within one compact unit. Therefore, no separate hot water cylinder is required, offering space saving within a property. "Combis" are a very popular choice for domestic properties.
Combination boiler - see "Combi boiler"
Convector - a device that is designed to "convect" heat, using the physics of warm air rising and cold air falling to create a natural cycle of air circulating around a room. Radiators convect heat as well as radiating heat.
Corrosion inhibitor - a chemical that installers add to the water in standard piped central heating systems to prevent internal corrosion of non-inert metals as per BS 7593: 2006. Examples of corrosion inhibitors include Fernox MB-1 and Sentinel X100.
Direct System - Cold water is taken from the mains and goes directly to points of delivery (taps) around a property where cold water is required.
Dt - Also written as Dt or Delta t. "BTUs" or "Watts" are a measure of how good a radiator is at heating a room at standard temperature; the Dt value defines what that standard temperature is. Naturally the hotter a radiator is, the more heat it gives out. Since water cools on its passage through a radiator, the temperature of the water entering it is higher than the temperature of the water leaving it. The mean value of the inlet (flow) and outlet (return) temperatures is taken and the approximate room temperature is subtracted from this figure, universally quoted as 20°C. The difference, known as Dt, is the operating temperature that is given in the radiator’s specifications.
Dt of 50°C - Delta t 50: The European standard for the operating temperature of central heating systems, which determines the heat outputs achievable from radiators.
Dt of 60°C - Delta t 60: The British standard for the operating temperature of central heating systems, which determines the heat outputs achievable from radiators.
Duel Fuel - A radiator that is connected to the central heating system, but also has an electric element for use in the warmer months when the central heating isn't turned on. A popular choice for bathroom radiators.
Economy 7 - An electricity tariff, where you pay a different price for your electricity at different times of day, so the electricity you use at night costs less than the electricity you use during the day - a bit like peak and off-peak phone calls. It's called "Economy 7" because you get cheaper electricity for 7 hours each night. Some appliances, like storage heaters, are designed to take advantage of the cheaper electricity available during the night.
End bush - see "Reducer"
Expansion tank - The tank at the top of on open system, which allows the expanding hot water from the cylinder to spill out and be stored.
Expansion vessel - A small tank used in closed water heating systems and domestic hot water systems to absorb excess water pressure, which can be caused by thermal expansion as water is heated. The vessel itself is a small container divided in two by a rubber diaphragm. One side is connected to the pipe work of the heating system and therefore contains water. The other, the dry side, contains air under pressure. This is not the same as an expansion tank.
Flow - In central heating terms, this refers to the water coming from the boiler and also the point at which water enters radiators. See also "Return".
Heat calculations - These are performed in order to work out the heat output requirement of a room. The calculations are based on numerous factors, but are primarily based on the volume and type of room. The actual size of the radiator required to achieve the required heat output can also be affected by other factors: see "t" and "Mean Water Temperature".
Heat output - the amount of heat that is emitted from a heat source. The heat output can be measured in units of Watts or British Thermal Units.
Indirect System - Cold water is taken from the mains and enters the property. It has one draw off point (generally the kitchen sink) as well as pipework that feeds the cold water tank. The stored water in the tank feeds all other cold water points in the property.
Inert metals - Do not corrode when in contact with oxygenated water. Examples include stainless steel, copper and brass. Non-inert metals include mild steel, cast iron and aluminium and are used on central heating systems in conjunction with corrosion inhibiting chemicals as per BS 7593: 2006.
Joining nipple - a metal collar with opposing threads at each end, which acts like an internal nut and is used for joining radiator sections together.
Lockshield - A valve that is used to restrict the flow of water on the return side of a radiator in order to "balance" the radiator on the system. Valves usually come as a pair and the "lockshield" valve is supplied along with either a "thermostatic" or "manual" control valve. See also "Return" and "Balancing".
Manual radiator valve - Act simply like taps as they directly control the flow of water into a radiator and consequently how hot the radiator gets, regardless of the surrounding room temperature. Manual valves have no labelled settings – you simply turn the valve head until the radiator is giving the amount of heat desired.
Mean water temperature (MWT) - The mean temperature of the water in a central heating system. For example; a system operating at 90-70-20°C will have a mean water temperature of 80°C
Microbore (piping) - pipe that is only 10mm and 8mm in diameter that is narrower than the standard 15mm copper pipe or traditional 22mm pipe.
Nipple - See "Joining nipple"
Open System - an un-pressurized central heating system. Water is drawn into the system from the mains when required via the expansion tank. As water heats up and "expands" in the system, the excess water is released as necessary back into the expansion tank, which is usually, but not always found high up within a property. Also known as an open-vented system.
Pipe centre measurement - the measurement from the centre of one pipe to the centre of another pipe and the measurement from the wall to the centre of the pipe. This measurement is useful for the installation of pipework for a radiator; especially where pipework is to be installed before the radiator is present.
Pressurized system - see "Closed System"
Radiator - a device that is designed to "radiate" heat, to force heat outwards. In reality, most radiators also convect heat to some degree, for example most standard corrugate steel panel radiators radiate 85% of their heat and convect 15% of their heat.
Radiator valve - see "Valve"
Reducer - a part that is designed to reduce the size of a connection, often used on radiators. Also known as an "end bush" or "bush".
Return - This refers to either the water going back to the boiler or the point on a radiator where the water exits. See also "Flow".
Sealed system - see "Closed System"
Secondary Hot Water System - a piped central heating system where the water that runs through the system is the same water that comes out of your taps. As a consequence, the water needs to be clean and free from chemicals, so radiators and parts on this system need to be made of inert metals such as copper, brass or stainless steel. Parts made of mild steel, aluminium and cast iron, which need to be used in conjunction with corrosion inhibitor, are not suitable.
Straight valves - Valves that are straight for use on radiators with underside connections where the pipes are coming out of the floor.
Tap - A valve controlling release of liquids or gas. The word 'tap' is sometimes used as an alternative to 'valve'.
Tapping centre measurement - The distance between the valve connection points on a radiator.
TBOE – Top Bottom Opposite Ends - Radiator valves are installed at the top on one side of the radiator, and the bottom of the other side of the radiator.
TBSE - Top Bottom Same Ends - Radiator valves are installed at the top and bottom on the same end of the radiator.
Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRVs) - Include an in-built temperature sensor. A thermostatic valve will maintain a space at the temperature selected, by automatically adjusting the heat output from the radiator. As a thermostatic valve is controlled automatically, it turns itself up and down, ensuring the radiators perform as efficiently as possible, reducing energy waste. For this reason, TRVs are the environmentally friendly valve choice as they prevent energy wastage.
Towel radiator - A radiator that is designed specifically to warm towels as well as a room, often used in bathrooms or kitchens.
Towel rail - Historically this phrase just meant a rail for hanging towels, but over recent years this phrase has come to mean a radiator that has been designed to keep towels warm and dry. It is now used in both instances. Other terms used included heated towel rail and towel radiator.
TRV – See "Thermostatic Radiator Valve"
Un-pressurized system - see "Open System"
Valve - A device that regulates, directs or controls the flow of a fluid by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways. In radiators and central heating systems, valves are used to control water flowing around a system and particularly in and out of radiators.
Wall tie - a device used to attach a radiator or similar to a wall. Sometimes called a wall stay.
Watts - A derived unit of power in the International System of Units (SI), named after the Scottish engineer James Watt (1736–1819). The unit, defined as one joule per second, measures the rate of energy conversion. In heating, watts are used to measure the heat output given by a heat source such as a radiator.
75-65-20°C operating temperature - Water on a hot water piped system will leave the boiler at 75°C and return to the boiler at 65°C losing a nominal 20°C across the whole system. See also Dt 50°C
90-70-20°C operating temperature - Water on a hot water piped system will leave the boiler at 90°C and return to the boiler at 70°C losing a nominal 20°C across the whole system. See also Dt 60°C

If you can’t find the information you need above or need help with choosing a radiator, then contact a specialist such as Feature Radiators. Visit their website, call their expert team on 01274 567789 or see over 250 radiators on display and meet the team at Feature Radiators’ showroom, The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire. BD16 2HL (near Leeds, Bradford and North Yorkshire).

Heating A Conservatory – What Options Do I Have?

Even with rising global temperatures, a conservatory in the UK will need heating if it is to be used all year round.

There are several heating options for conservatories, and the best choice will depend on various factors particular to your project.

Conservatories can have high heating requirements, due to large expanses of glass, outside walls and high ceilings. Greater heat loss will occur through glass (even specialist glass such as Pilkington glass, or gas filled glass) than through a standard interior or exterior wall. Similarly, conservatories are subject to more extreme heat variations than other rooms. When the sun disappears and the outside temperature drops, good efficient heating enables continual use of a conservatory.

There are several options available for heating conservatories:
· Electric underfloor heating;
· Piped underfloor heating run off a boiler;
· Additional radiator on an extended piped hot water central heating system;
· Independent electric radiator;
· Additional radiator on an electric central heating systems; and
· Trench radiators.

The suitability will depend on how a household uses a space so it is important to consider both the pros and cons when deciding on the right heating choice for your conservatory.

And, whichever option you go for, it is essential that the particular heat output required is calculated, to ensure that the temperature of the conservatory is kept at a comfortable level.

Underfloor heating This option is available in two formats: electric (dry) and central heating (piped hot water). In general, underfloor heating provides a warm floor and will equally act to radiate heat upwards into the conservatory to provide even warmth in the room, with no space lost to radiators. However there are a number of negatives to bear in mind when considering underfloor heating for your conservatory. · Conservatories tend to have high ceilings and big expanses of glass relative to their floor area; so underfloor heating often isn’t sufficient to heat some conservatories during the colder months. Additional heating such as radiators may be required. · Underfloor heating takes a long time to warm up, so planned rather than spontaneous use of the conservatories in the colder months is needed.· This slow response time can also result in the conservatory becoming too hot and taking many hours to cool down. · Certain floor coverings are best avoided for use with underfloor heating – such as carpet, which will insulate the heat and stop it rising, or solid wood, which is prone to split or warp when used with underfloor heating. Tiles or engineered wood flooring (including laminate) are a good choice instead. · Piped underfloor heating systems are often only an option at the design stage of the build and due to the disruption and labour involved, installation costs can be prohibitively expensive. Also, installation needs to be carefully co-ordinated with the construction of the conservatory itself. · Electric underfloor minimises installation costs as it is easier and more convenient to install and can be fitted retrospectively, however with the slow response time and the cost of electricity still being more than gas, running costs could be relatively high. So for many homeowners, underfloor is not a suitable option leading them to look for alternatives.

Electric radiators

A popular and straightforward option to heating a conservatory is adding an electric radiator. As you don’t need to extend any pipework, it eliminates the disruption and cost of installing or extending a fully piped, wet system. Electric radiators are a perfect solution:
· If there isn’t already a central heating system in the rest of the house;
· If you don’t want to extend the existing central heating system from elsewhere in the house to the conservatory; or
· If you need additional heat in the conservatory.
The market in electric radiators has boomed over the last few years and as a result the choice of electric radiators has increased significantly. Many shapes, sizes and finishes are now available ranging from minimalist flat panels in white, ultra modern spirals in chrome and traditional cast iron designs.

Due to the large amount of glass, conservatories often lack wall space; so electric radiator options now include low level and tall, skinny wall-mounted designs as well as floor-mounted options.

Electric radiators offer efficient performance and the nature of their design means they can bring a room up to temperature relatively quickly, in comparison to other options such as underfloor heating.

Extending your piped central heating system and adding a radiator
Adding another radiator to your central heating system is a good option provided you already have a central heating system that can be extended.
Radiators, whether they are central heating or electric, can achieve the necessary heat output required a conservatory in full due to their increasingly high performance.
Following the boom in the interior decoration industry over the last 20 years, radiators are now available in a vast array of designs and finishes, in styles to suit any interior whether it is contemporary or traditional.
There is now a wide range of radiators that are popular for heating conservatories, where the heat output required is high, yet wall space is limited. A wealth of vertical models are now available that can utilise otherwise unused space, short radiators are now often in heights to go underneath windowsills in conservatories and bench radiators offer the option of combining your radiator with a piece of furniture.
Modern radiator valves have also followed suit with a wide variety of models available to match any radiator, alongside offering the option of thermostats that ensure a room never gets too hot and heat isn’t wasted.

Trench Heating

A less recognised option, but effective none the less, trench heating offers a toasty warm room with the benefits of radiators, without the loss of wall or floor space. A trench provides a site for a radiator below floor level with a stylish grille being placed over the top at floor level allowing heat to convect up without the slow response times of underfloor heating.

Summary

As there are many factors affecting heat loss in conservatories, your conservatory supplier or heating engineer is best informed to work out how much heat is needed to keep your conservatory warm. Failing that, a real underfloor heating or radiator expert can work out the approximate heat outputs required, based on the information provided by you – e.g. dimensions, materials, etc.

For more information on heating conservatories then speak to a specialist such as Feature Radiators. You can visit their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk call their expert team on 01274 515734 or visit them at the showroom in West Yorkshire.

My radiator isn’t as hot as it should be, why?

A cold radiator or a radiator with cold spots often indicates that the water is not flowing through the radiator as it should. This is almost always down to an installation issue and is very rarely due to a problem with the radiator itself.

This means that the issue should be easy to correct by following the step-by-step instructions detailed below.

1. Bleed the radiator

Firstly, you need to make sure the radiator has been “bled” properly. Bleeding a radiator means getting rid of any air that has accumulated at the top of radiator, using an air vent/bleed valve. Where air is present, there is no water, which means no heat.

Ideally radiators should be checked for air accumulation at least once a year. Bleed keys (vent keys) can be purchased from a plumbers’ merchant or home improvement store.

Bleeding a radiator is a simple process:

a) Ensure both valves at the bottom of the radiator are open;
b) Attach the bleed key (vent key) onto the bleed valve (air vent) at the top of the radiator;
c) Unscrew the air vent and have a cloth ready to catch minor drips;
d) Listen for the change in sound; you will hear a hissing noise at first (the sound of air escaping), then it will change to a steady squirt of water. At this point you can retighten the air vent.

Please note: On first filling a system it is air that is vented from a radiator. From then on the periodic venting required is actually releasing hydrogen that is the by-product of rusting in the system. If regular bleeding is continually required, then this is a strong indication that the system requires draining, cleaning and refilling incorporating a corrosion inhibitor to prevent further rust in accordance with BS5449 section five commissioning.

2. Check that the valves are open

Make sure the valve is fully open, to ensure water can flow into the radiator.

3. Is a “flow diverter” required?

Certain radiators need “flow diverters” that are fitted internally, to ensure that the water flows in the right direction around the radiator. A flow diverter is designed to ensure that all parts of the radiator get as hot as they should. If a flow diverter is required then it will be sent out with your radiator but occasionally installers do forget to put these in. Failure to install a flow diverter when it is required will almost always result in a radiator not performing properly.

4. Does your system need ‘balancing’?

Finally, if your radiator is still not hot all over, then you need to check whether your radiators need ‘balancing’. Your plumber or heating engineer should balance your system following installation or maintenance of your central heating system. Balancing is adjusting the flow of water through each radiator on a system so that all radiators are running at equal temperatures and take an equal amount of time to reach their operating temperature. Lack of balancing within a system is often the cause of cold spots on radiators, radiators failing to heat up properly, or radiators making noises. If your radiator is not heating up correctly then it is highly unlikely that the problem is caused by a manufacturing fault.

Please note: If you have paid a plumber or heating engineer to install your radiator(s), then unless there is a manufacturing fault with the radiator(s) (which is rare), then any newly installed radiators should function correctly before that person leaves your property. Your installer should also ensure that the performance of any existing radiators on the system has not deteriorated as a result of the work carried out. Problems are sometimes caused by installers failing to balance a system following maintenance but these checks should be included as standard as part of the service provided by them.

For more information on radiators including expertise and technical advice from a specialist, then contact Feature Radiators on 01274 567789, meet the team at their showroom in West Yorkshire or visit http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/

The History of Radiators

When it comes to renovations, choosing the right radiators is now often considered along with the wallpaper and floor coverings. Many consumers are keen to select radiators from the right era, to bring stylish authenticity to a period property, or to opt for a funky radiator design, to add the wow-factor to a contemporary interior.

Research makes it clear that many changes have taken place in heating products over the years.

As many history buffs will be aware, the Romans were the one of the first to use “central heating” to warm their villas using a system called a hypocaust that used a furnace to heat air and conduct it through voids under floors. Similar systems were also used in ancient Korea, possibly even dating back to the Bronze Age. By 1700, Russian engineers had started designing water based systems for central heating.

Steam-heating systems were then developed and installed in the 1830s. The first was installed in the home of Governor of the Bank of England, John Horley Palmer, so that he could grow grapes in England's cold climate.

However, there are various people who are claimed to have invented the radiator as we would recognise it today. All evidence points to their development occurring sometime around the mid 19th Century.

Franz San Galli, a Polish-born Russian businessman, invented an early form of radiator between 1855-1857, and two distinguished inventors known as Joseph Nason and Robert Brigss also designed and produced a radiator using vertical wrought iron tubes screwed into a cast iron base in 1863. In 1872, Nelson H Bundy came up with the “Bundy Loop”, a popular cast iron radiator design that is still reflected in products we see today.

The Victorian period is greatly associated with the introduction of cast iron radiators that we are all familiar with and it was in this period that heating became not only a practical installation but also a decorative item.

However, it wasn’t until the 20th Century that radiators were popularised as even up to the 1970s comparatively few homes had central heating. Steel was then introduced as the most popular option for radiator manufacture in the UK, supporting the British steel industry. Consequently, pressed steel corrugated panels became commonplace, despite the prevalence of aluminium radiators elsewhere in Europe.

As interior fashions changed cast iron radiators were thought of being too big and obtrusive and steel radiators were consider ugly, so homeowners discarded them, boxed them in or simply painted them, but in the 21st Century we have seen the radiator market come full circle. Yet again radiators have become a desirable feature in our homes.

Cast iron remains a popular choice amongst today’s heating engineers and architects, particularly for older properties that could otherwise be prone to damp. Radiators made of cast iron stay warm long after the central heating has been turned off, providing a constant, gentle undulating heat, which retains the warmth in the fabric of the building, as well as heating the interior space. Today’s trend of restoring period properties back to their original splendour has re-launched the cast iron radiator that now claims pride of place in many homes.

Cast iron radiators available today are either “reclaimed”, meaning they have been salvaged from older buildings, or “reproduction”, meaning they are new but have been cast from original designs, with both options having a boom in popularity over the last decade. See our blog article “reclaimed vs. reproduction” for more information on this subject.

Contemporary radiators are now available in wide variety of wonderful shapes sizes and finishes, from sleek minimalist radiators that fit close to the wall to wow-factor feature radiators that make a unique and stunning statement.

Yet whatever style you opt for, be assured that there is no need to compromise on heat output, as good looks and performance are not mutually exclusive.

Radiators, be they Victorian in style or ultra-modern designs, no longer have a ‘humble’ status within a room; they are now an essential centrepiece that serves a functional purpose as well as being a stylish accessory to complement any interior.

For more information on radiators, be it reclaimed or reproduction cast iron, or the latest in designer models, then speak to an expert such as Feature Radiators. You can speak to their team in person and see over 250 models on display at their West Yorkshire showroom, call them on 01274 567789 or visit http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/

Do I need to pay the VAT on radiators I purchase?

Please note, this article only acts as a guide to the VAT situation regarding radiators. This is not a government publication and the rules and regulations are often amended.

Not surprisingly, homebuilders and renovators are always keen to keep the costs down on any project, but this doesn’t just mean shopping around for materials. It can also help to identify any opportunities for reducing your potential VAT bill.

Value Added Tax or VAT is a tax that is levied in the UK on all non-essential items. When building or renovating a house, there are a number of conditions in which you can have the VAT waived on your radiators or claim a refund from the taxman, otherwise known as Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs.

VAT on your radiators may be zero-rated or refunded if:

1. The radiators are to go in a new build or new extension;
2. The radiators are part of a conversion or renovation; or
3. The radiators are for a listed property.

However, tax is a complicated subject and this issue can be a potential minefield. There are many specific criteria that you and your project need to meet before your purchases including radiators can be classed as VAT exempt.

1. New builds or extensions

In order to be eligible for VAT exemption on materials for a self-build such as radiators, the property or extension you are building must meet all of the following criteria:

· It must be a “dwelling” that you personally will be living in.
· It must be self-contained living accommodation without internal access to other, different dwellings.
· It cannot be sold, leased, rented or used as a B&B.
· It cannot be accommodation that is separate from the main house, if that accommodation could not be sold separately from the main house i.e. granny annexes.
· It cannot be a detached swimming pool, playroom, workshop or similar as these are not classed as “dwellings”.

If your build meets the criteria above, then you may be able claim VAT back on some, but not all, of your costs and purchases for the new build.

VAT can be claimed back on building costs incurred and goods that are provided on a “supply and install” basis. These purchases may include incorporated building materials, fitted furniture and appliances that are built in, wired in or plumbed in including radiators and wired in electric central heating systems.

You cannot claim a VAT refund on appliances that are only “plugged in”, garden items such as sheds or any home furnishings.

So in order to have the VAT zero rated on your radiators, then you need to pay for them along with their installation, otherwise you are not purchasing “fitted” products and VAT is chargeable.

By far, the easiest solution to this is for your tradesperson (builder, plumber, heating engineer, electrician, etc.) to buy and install your new radiators. As long as they are VAT registered, then they may be able to zero rate your bill. They can then claim a VAT refund on your behalf through their own business.

2. Converting or renovating properties

Some costs incurred when converting or renovating properties may be VAT exempt, however a number of rules apply and, in this context, a conversion is not the same as a renovation.

“Conversion” means a property is being changed from non-residential use into a “new dwelling” or has not been used for residential purposes for over 10 years. If this is the case then many of the same rules apply as per “new builds” detailed above. In this situation, costs such as the installation of new radiators may not be VAT exempt but it may be charged at a significantly reduced rate.

“Renovations” are not normally considered new dwellings. They only qualify for a VAT reduction when they have been uninhabited for more than 10 years, so it would be unusual to be able to claim a VAT refund on radiators for a renovation.

Again, merchants cannot zero rate purchases; it is only VAT registered installers that can do this, as they are able to claim the VAT back through their business.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to pay for the goods yourself, then you can personally submit a claim to HMRC for fitted goods that have been installed in the property you are converting or renovating. Only one claim can be submitted following completion of the project and there is usually a time limit on this.

3. Listed properties

If you can get alterations to your listed property approved, then you may, in certain circumstances, be able to claim a VAT refund on some items. Again, the “supply and install” rule applies, so if you wanted to claim the VAT back on radiators for instance, then it is advisable to arrange for them to be purchased and fitted by a VAT registered tradesperson.

Are there any other opportunities for VAT exemption?

Not that we are aware of, however customers do often enquire about other situations where they may believe the goods they purchase such as radiators may be exempt from VAT, but are not; for instance, if a customer is registered as disabled.

If you or a resident of your property is registered as disabled then you may be able to claim the VAT back on work done or products purchased for adaptation of your home. However, these adaptations must be made in order to assist directly in aiding the resident with the disability. Unfortunately, radiators are not classed as directly aiding a disabled person in the management of their disability so therefore radiators are not VAT exempt in this situation.

Consumers also often believe that VAT should not be charged on delivery charges they may incur, but unfortunately, this is not the case. Deliveries are classed as a non-essential service, so VAT is always payable. Some VAT registered companies are not aware of this rule and so, incorrectly, they do not charge VAT on deliveries.

So I am eligible to claim some VAT back, how do I go about this?

So if you meet the criteria as detailed above, and can prove it, then your property may be VAT exempt or you may be eligible to claim the VAT back on qualifying goods and services.

Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs states that VAT must always be paid at the time of purchase of goods, even if the property qualifies for zero VAT.

You can allow your builder to take on this job if he is VAT registered. If they are purchasing materials on your behalf, then they can zero rate your bill and then claim back the VAT at the end of the project.

If you choose to claim it back yourself, then you need to submit a claim form to HMRC detailing the materials and work you believe should be due a VAT refund.

Please be aware, HMRC imposes strict deadlines for claims and failure to meet these deadlines could result in significant losses for either the homeowner or their contractor.

Conclusion

In summary, VAT costs are often a significant factor when deciding whether or not to undertake a self-build or renovation project. Due to the potential size of the refund you may be entitled to, it is imperative that you contact HMRC directly regarding your particular situation. Information provided can be contradictory and therefore you always need confirmation that you are eligible to claim and what goods and services are VAT exempt. It is also vital that you speak to any potential contractors in advance to ensure that they understand the situation and that they are happy to zero rate where possible.

For more information on claiming VAT back on radiators specifically, then contact a radiator specialist such as Feature Radiators. You can speak to their team in person at their West Yorkshire showroom, call them on 01274 567789 or visit http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/

Help when choosing or installing radiators

Homeowners and renovators that are considering installing new radiators, whether it be traditional cast iron, contemporary models or towel rails, often get a bit stuck on a few of the technical aspects they need to consider.

Feature Radiators, a radiator specialist, confirmed that their customers often ask them the following questions:

1. Do I want a radiator with side or underside connections?

2. Do I need angled or straight radiator valves?

This article tries to help answer those questions by providing a clear explanation of the subject.

So what is the relevance of whether a radiator has side or underside valve connections?

The location of the valve connection points on a radiator should be considered as they determine:

· Whether straight or angled radiator valves are required; and

· The total width of wall space needed to accommodate a radiator once it has been installed.

Side Connections = angled valves required

Radiators with side valve connections (bottom opposite ends) are the standard connections used on traditional steel panel and cast iron radiators. Side connections mean the valves will be situated on either side of the radiator.

On a radiator with side connections, you need angled valves where conventional pipe work is used. Add approximately 150mm to the width of the radiator to give the total width needed to accommodate the radiator and valves once installed.

Many radiators including all cast iron and standard steel panel radiators have side valve connections.

Underside Connections = angled or straight valves?

Radiators with underside valve connections are a good choice where only a narrow space is available. This type of connection allows the valves to sit neatly underneath a radiator, as opposed to protruding either side, meaning less space is required.

When a radiator has underside connections, either straight or angled radiator valves are required, depending on where the pipes are coming from.

· If the pipe work comes up from the floor = straight valves are required; but

· If the pipe work comes out of the wall = angled valves are required.

Most heated towel rails and many contemporary radiators now have underside connections.

For more information on choosing and installing radiators and valves, then contact a specialist such as Feature Radiators. You can meet their expert team at their West Yorkshire showroom, call them on 01274 567789 or visit their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/ where they have a comprehensive list of FAQs.

Spring cleaning brings new models to Feature Radiators

Spring is in the air, so our thoughts don’t necessarily turn to heating, but as summer approaches now is almost the perfect time to perform maintenance on or upgrade your central heating system and radiators. The new season always brings exciting new products to the radiator market and this year is no exception.

Feature Radiators, for example, are particularly pleased with the latest additions they have selected for their range. They are keen to show them off so last week was dedicated to re-vamping the displays at their West Yorkshire showroom; it’s out with the old and in with the new.

New models on display include Alchemy – a range of high output aluminium radiators stocked for quick delivery in 4 funky finishes, Crest – an exclusive, highly efficient and very well priced vertical radiator available from stock in both white and “anodised” finishes and iRad Picture – a practical, slimline electric radiator with a choice of stunning graphic images printed on the front face.

New products coming in has led to a number of older products going out, the suppliers are keen to clearout and as a consequence are offering fantastic deals on last year’s radiators. For instance, Feature Radiators are offering a number of products for sale from their Clearance range that are from brand new stock but now discontinued. Look at the Tubo Minor, Mini Hot Spring and Riva as examples of stunning designer radiators, on sale at hugely discounted prices.

Showroom makeovers also lead to a wealth of ex-display models being available at rock bottom prices, such as Feature Radiators’ Bingley Warehouse Stock Clearout, giving you the opportunity to purchase designer radiators starting from only £50 + VAT.

To see a comprehensive selection of brand new radiators or discontinued and ex-display products, visit the Feature Radiators' website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/, or better still, speak to their expert team either via phone on 01274 567789 or in person at their West Yorkshire showroom.

*Bingley Warehouse Stock Clearout radiators are for collection only. These items are either ex-display or cancelled orders so must be inspected personally by the customer prior to sale and are sold as seen.

How warm is your house?

Feature Radiators considers an article written by the BBC that asks the question; should we be turning the thermostats down on our central heating?

“Spring is in the air in the UK, but it will be weeks - if not months - before the nation's radiators switch off. The average indoor temperatures of British houses are creeping up now central heating is the norm, and double glazing and insulation are added to older, draughtier homes.” (Lane, 2011)

The article makes it clear that consumer demand for heating has changed.

“Forty years ago, few houses had central heating, and chilly hallways and spare rooms dragged the average temperature down. Radiators now warm rooms that previous generations wouldn't have heated - corridors, bedrooms, and bathrooms.” (Lane, 2011)

But it appears that lowering room temperatures, or even turning radiators off, isn’t enough to adequately reduce our energy use.

“Dropping it [average indoor temperature] to 16C - the lowest setting in this virtual world - only shaves 7% off carbon emissions. Even if we all get in the habit of wearing woollies inside, this will still feel chillier than usual to most people.” (Lane, 2011)

So what else can we do to reduce our energy consumption, whilst maintaining our home comforts?

“David MacKay, the DECC's chief scientific adviser, practises what he preaches in his once draughty semi-detached 1940s house. As well as adding double glazing and insulation, he has turned the heating right down. He hopes that insulating more homes, smarter thermostats and "the promotion of sweater-wearing by sexy personalities" will encourage more people to follow suit.” (Lane, 2011)

The article makes it clear that energy efficiency gained through increasingly effective technology is key, alongside a good dose of common sense.

“So will smart thermostats and radiator valves help, allowing homeowners to target heat where it's needed at different times in the day? Experts say technology can do only half the job. A smart thermostat is only as smart as the person operating it.” (Lane, 2011)

So get smart. Investment in double-glazing, improved insulation and thermostatic controls will mean an initial financial outlay, but these options can dramatically reduce your carbon emissions as well as your heating bills.

For more information on efficiently heating your home or ways of minimising your energy usage, contact Feature Radiators on 01274 567789, visit them at their West Yorkshire showroom or http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/

Lane, M. (2011). How warm is your home? [Online]. 3 March 2011. Available from http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-12606943. [Accessed: 21 March 2011]

Hot Gossip! - Radiators of the stars

Hot off the press is the news that radiators are the latest topic on many celebs’ lips! No longer an ugly necessity in our homes, radiators have recently undergone a major make-over and regularly feature in the properties of well-known celebrities. Radiators are now also stars in their own right, appearing on many of our most popular British TV programmes.

A certain style icon has been seen eyeing up posh radiators recently, but this spicy lady isn’t the only celebrity to be upgrading the radiators in their home.

Rumour has it that ‘it’ girl, multi-millionairess and owner of net-a-porter.com, Natalie Massanet, has been renovating her luxurious London base with the inclusion of some Etonian cast iron radiators. Jamie and Jules Oliver have chosen the same radiators to add to the warm, family feel of their Primrose Hill property.

Colin and Justin, TV stylists and presenters of 60-minute makeover, admit to their love of fabulous, feature radiators. A premiership footballer opted for particularly “striking” radiators that curl around the walls of his contemporary home. And rock ‘n’ roller, Shakin’ Stevens loves Classic radiators in his Buckinghamshire palace.

A well-known hotelier has installed the latest in electric radiators, iRads, alongside stunning stainless steel towel rails from the Alpine range in their stunning country house hotel. Movie star and model, Saffron Burrows chose suitably stylish electric heating from the Bordo range in her London home.

Celebrities can be demanding; a certain engineering enthusiast requested radiators hanging from the ceiling when sourcing top gear for his home. Interiors expert, Naomi Cleaver, required an unusually shaped towel warmer in green for her latest, particularly personal, project, her new home:

'I located the rather amazing company, Feature Radiators, who are making me a "landscape" towel rail in a sprayed coloured finish at the excellent price of £300'

Cleaver, N. (2011), Naomi’s New Home [online] Available at: http://naomicleaver.typepad.com/naomis-new-home/ [Accessed 14 March 2011]

And its not just celebrity cribs that feature designer radiators, the latest in interior products also have a starring role in many popular TV series.

More than cast iron alibis have been needed in the Queen Vic recently, as cast iron radiators are now also appearing, tying in with the Victorian architecture of this world famous pub. Feature radiators regularly appear in popular interior design and renovation programmes such as DIY SOS, Grand Designs and Sarah Beeny’s Property Ladder. The infamous Big Brother houses regularly showcased the latest in contemporary heating such as a Bench radiator and even Harry Hill’s TV Burp, known for its classic comedy, has Classic radiators on set.

For more information on radiators that grace the homes of the stars, or heating that features on stage and screen, then contact Feature Radiators, www.featureradiators.co.uk, 01274 567789.

Radiators for those with dust allergies

Which radiators should you install to help minimise the symptoms caused by allergies to dust, dust mites or other air borne particles?

If you are allergic to dust, or other air borne particles, then you should avoid installing radiators that work by convection.

Convection radiators circulate air and accordingly will cause dust to be circulated around the room. Such movement of dust will aggravate the allergy.

You are best to look for radiators that work by radiating heat, as opposed to convecting heat, as these designs cause less air and dust movement so are a better choice.

Popular radiators that work by radiation are made of cast iron or stone, so are a good solution for those who suffer from dust allergies. Examples of suitable cast iron radiators include the best-selling Etonian from Feature Radiators or one of their ornate designs such as the Liberty. Stone radiators such as the Marbella offer the ultimate in radiant heat as well as the luxury of organic finishes such as limestone, marble and granite.

Other options to consider are radiant panel heaters, electric radiators or glass and mirror radiators. For instance, Feature Radiators' iRads are a range of electric radiators that radiate heat from the front panel and their slimline, flat design minimises the collection of dust.

Consider the ability of the radiator to retain dust and the ease of cleaning. Flat panel radiators that are easy to wipe down lend themselves particularly to those who suffer with allergies. Have a look at the Dansk Flat Panel or Carat central heating radiators from Feature Radiators, that offer mimimalist style along with easy cleaning.

Also, it is advised against drying clothes on radiators, as humidity can exacerbate symptoms.

For further information on suitable products, it is worth contacting a radiator specialist or expert such as Feature Radiators. Their team can provide practical and affordable yet attractive solutions to meet any specifications and are used to dealing with all sorts of unusual requests.

For more information contact Feature Radiators on 01274 567789, visit their showroom at The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 2HL or their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/