Why should I buy from Feature Radiators?

Choice can be a gift and a curse, the more we have to choose from the better? Or too much to choose from and how do you differentiate?

The designer radiator market is now full of choice, many different products and many different retailers to choose from. Feature Radiators is a pioneer in this market with 19 years’ experience within the industry. We were ‘The’ original radiator retailer, only focusing on radiators, not bathrooms, not kitchens, we specialise in radiators!

Now in a diluted market we try to stand out by continuing our longstanding ethos of quality products and quality service. All of us here are self-professed radiator geeks with an eye for interior design.

For you the customer how do you possibly select the best company to go with? It would be easy enough for us to write, ‘just use us, simple’, but we think it’s best to justify that somewhat.

If Feature Radiators being the pioneer in the industry isn’t enough then consider the fact that we do evaluate literally every radiator that we sell. A strict process is undertaken when we look at a new radiator, we quite literally feel and touch the product. We obtain a sample in exactly the same way you would receive it, so we can make sure everything from packaging to labelling and how the brackets are sent are as we would expect.

Our range is second to none, just because a radiator exists doesn’t give it the privilege to adorn our website and brochures, we scrutinise quality, style, heat output, size variants, price, to name a few. What you see on our website are the best radiators, selected by people with an extensive overview of the market and in combined years, over 95 years’ experience. The people here have lived through the start of this designer radiator movement when there was literally a handful of models available to the now saturated market with copycat models and inferior models available from one pop up radiator site to the next.

We actually exist! Seems odd we need to let you know that we live and breath and we have an office, 10 humans and the UKs largest radiator showroom, in the online age this is oh so relevant, we champion those points!

Due to the fact we are humans we want to know you, not necessarily down to the knee complaint from tennis but certainly your next room décor ideas or any mood board ideas, we work with you sending emails back and forth, giving you a quick call to check the finer details, we like to communicate, we don’t disappear into the online abyss at the drop of a hat.

We’re not competitor bashers, as we are confident in what we do. That said, something we do want you to know is that a good amount of the first pagers on Google are what we deem as ‘pop up’ retailers, short life span, set up by larger e commerce companies who in the background sell anything from light bulbs to online payment systems, they are far from specialist, stacked high sold cheap. They imitate and we innovate.

www.featureradiators.co.uk

01274 567789

Contact@featureradiators.co.uk

Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/FeatureRadiators

Twitter: @featureradiator

Instagram: @featureradiators

Vertical radiators – 5 key points to consider

Over the last 20 years, feature radiators have become an increasingly important consideration for those renovating a property. One popular way to maximise wall space and comfort, whilst adding an extra design element is to go for a vertical radiator. Here are 5 key points to consider when looking at a tall, modern heating solution.

Heat output

Heat output is the most important factor when buying a radiator, to ensure a comfort and efficiency. Key to maximising the heat output and efficiency of a tall radiator is down to the amount of surface area so look for ways in which the surface area can be maximised. For example:    

·         Does the radiator include as many tubes as possible? – see our Cirque design, where tubes are tightly packed together;

·         Does the radiator include as many internal fins as possible? – see our Alchemy design, which you can see is full of vertical surfaces; or

·         Does the radiator include as much “radiator” behind a front panel as possible? – for example, it may be difficult to see but, our Outline range has a tightly packed aluminium radiator body behind a sleek front panel.

Feature Radiators’ team can help you with your heat output calculations and make recommendations for the Watts or BTUs you require then make a range of radiator suggestions.

Measuring up

Tall radiators are often chosen for use where width space is restricted. Therefore measuring up the space accurately is essential to ensure you select something that maximises the heat output, whilst fitting comfortably into a tight space. As a retailer, we recommend measuring the full gap, allowing us to consider all radiator options with a range of valve positions when combined with a range of valves.

Alternatively, if your pipes are already in place, then measure the distance from the centre of one pipe to the centre of the other and we can recommend products that will fit neatly onto the existing pipework, minimising your potential plumber’s bill.

Valve connections

When width space is restricted and you need to maximise the heat output in a narrow space then you may want to consider a vertical model with “underside” rather than side connections. This is often the case in kitchens where wall space is limited due to units and appliances. As standard, radiator valve connections go at the bottom of a radiator on either side (BBOE), however an increasing amount of designs come with valve connection positions on the underneath, freeing up space either side and giving a neater finish. Examples of such models are our Classic and Svelte ranges.

Designs

Vertical radiators now nearly outsell horizontal radiators, so consequently manufacturers have been proactive in bringing a huge choice of designs to market. 

The most popular designs consist of vertical columns or tubes with various profile shapes in a range of sizes, such as:

·         Round – see our modern Pentola radiator

·         Oval – see our best-selling Ellipse

·         Square – see our Cube-Tube, high output design

·         C shaped as hollow tubes help to maximise surface area – see our high output Cirque design.

Flat panel radiators such as our Dansk Odin are popular in white for their minimalism, but, alternatively, these flat designs are now available in a huge range of colours and finishes such as our Arteplano in copper and Cliff with a stone veneer face.

 

Tall “feature radiators” come in a myriad of shapes. For example,

• Spirals – see our Spiro 2 and Hot Spring designs
• Twists – see the stainless steel Twister
• Surfboards – see the iconic Blade
• X-factor – see our Papillon hand-made design  

Materials

The most popular material to make tall radiators is mild steel; this is relatively low cost yet hard-wearing and can be made into a huge range of designs.

However, the radiator market is increasingly moving towards aluminium which offers a practical alternative; aluminium is easy to recycle meaning and aluminium radiators are often made of recycled material. It also heats up quickly and is very light weight making it easier to transport and hang. It can be extruded into long finned pieces, offering good value and a high output. One of the top quality options on the market is our Swell range, which comes in a huge range of sizes and finishes.

Many customers request cast iron radiators in vertical versions, but these can only be made to a maximum of 1m high. A suitable alternative would be a steel column radiator such as our Bordo or Classic models to get the period style.

For more information on vertical radiators, contact an expert such as Feature Radiators.

www.featureradiators.co.uk Tel: 01274 567789

The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 2HL

Feature radiators - stylish and efficient

Feature Radiators by name Feature radiators by nature! Our contemporary, traditional, electric or towel rail ranges include radiators that double up as works of art to give the ultimate wow factor to your home, whilst providing function as well as form. Style and substance are no longer mutually exclusive when it comes to designer radiators

Feature Radiators' showroom in West Yorkshire is the largest in the UK

Feature Radiators is an award-winning radiator specialist and has the UK's largest radiator showroom with over 250 display models in their premises in Bingley, West Yorkshire. Here Jason, Head of Sales and a true radiator expert, gives a tour and explains the different radiator styles, designs, materials and finishes now available.

How to choose a heated towel rail or bathroom radiator

The choice of towel radiators these days is huge.  In this video our radiator expert, Jason, offers a layperson's guide to choosing the best heated towel rail or bathroom radiator for your particular circumstances.  He shows a range of contemporary and traditional towel radiator designs and gives advice on ensuring the appropriate heat output for you bathroom, wet room or en-suite. 

For more tailored advice, please call our expert team directly on 01274 567789 or, for more information, visit www.featureradiators.co.uk.

Production of our Tetro radiators - made from 100% recycled aluminium!

Did you know that every single one of our Tetro radiators is made from 100% recycled aluminium? Boasting good looks and eco-credentials, our elegant Tetro combines all the benefits of modern radiators with beautiful retro styling. It’s profile and filigree pattern reflect the cast iron radiators of old but being made from aluminium, the Tetro is slim, light and energy efficient. And it looks gorgeous too!


For more information on this product call 01274 567789 or visit our website, www.featureradiators.co.uk

Do I need straight, angled or corner radiator valves?

You have bought your radiator, but the question of radiator valves has now come up.  So which type do you need?

Radiator valves for a long time just came in "straight" versions, for use on towel rails with underside connections, if pipes came from the floor. or "angled" versions for use on any "standard" radiator or when pipes came from the floor. 

However with an increasing range of radiator styles available and with an increased customer demand for the smartest and most stylish options, valve manufacturers have sought to increase the choice available not just in style, but also in format, to ensure the neatest finish.  As they say, the devil's in the detail!

A radiator expert, such as Feature Radiators, can identify which valve format you need for your situation depending on the style of radiator you choose, the position of the valve connections and the position of your pipework. 

So watch this video for more information or just give us a call directly for some tailored advice on 01274 567789 or, for more information, visit www.featureradiators.co.uk.

How efficient are electric radiators?

Feature Radiators are a leading expert in electric radiators and electric heating systems and electric heating is becoming more common in homes in the UK.  So here our expert, Jason, provides a beginners guide to electric radiators, how to judge the efficiency and what choice in electric radiators are now available. 


Feature Radiators offers a huge range of models, sizes and finishes of electric radiators including traditional and contemporary radiators.  We also offer a range of different levels of controls for electric radiators including smart controls to enable radiators to be controlled via PC, tablet or smartphone.


For expert advice on electric radiators, please call our team on 01274 567789 or visit www.featureradiators.co.uk

Bleeding a radiator is an efficient way to get rid of cold spots. The process enables you to remove air, vent or purge a radiator and it is done by opening the air vent at the top of the radiator. 


Here our expert, Jason, provides a step by step guide to the easiest and most effective way to bleed a radiator.


For more information, visit www.featureradiators.co.uk.

Differences between flat panel radiators

Dansk flat panel radiator

 

There are a wealth of minimalistic flat panel radiators on the market, available at a wide range of prices, but how can you tell which offer good value for money?  This article provides a clear guide on what to look for when buying a flat panel central heating radiator. 

Flat panel radiators in white are a popular option as they provide a simple inoffensive design that sits close to the wall.  This type of radiator provides a discreet “designer” option as an alternative to a bolder “feature radiator”.

A customer asked me the other day, “What’s the difference between these flat panel radiators 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.

“Designer radiators” are becoming increasingly the norm in homes with a high quality finish and consumers often demand more than the “bog-standard” pressed steel, corrugated panel radiators that we are used to seeing in so many British homes.  As a consequence, the market for more stylish heating products has grown rapidly to include a wealth of flat fronted radiators but with significant variations in quality and price.  Architects, especially, are looking for radiators that optimise the space they are developing, so want high quality, slimline minimalist radiators, which take up as little living space as possible but provide a great heat output.

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

So how do flat panel radiators vary?  What differences should you be looking out for? 

Below we have detailed the various points to consider when purchasing flat-fronted or flat panel radiators. 

General

·         Guarantee period: A relatively short guarantee period may indicate lesser quality welding or thin steel.  You should be looking for a radiator with a minimum guarantee period of 5 years.

·         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, product labelling and safety. 

·         Heat output confirmation: 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 design.  Look for signs that recognise the quality of the radiators and materials used such as the “RAL Steel Radiator Quality Mark”.

·         Country of manufacture: The country of manufacture does not always dictate the quality of the product but you may want to consider it alongside other factors.  Flat panel radiators are usually made in Europe, mostly in Denmark, Germany and Turkey but there are increasingly more models being manufactured in Asia.  Some bespoke models are made in Great Britain. 

Design

·         There are 2 types of flat panel radiators:

1.       Specifically designed flat-fronted radiators: These have been designed for the architects market, offering clean lines and a high quality finish.  They consist of a neat, simple design that sits close to the wall and often have a plain flat top rather than a grille top. 

2.       Standard-style corrugated steel radiators with flat panels fitted to the front: These have been designed to try and replicate the same look as those specially designed flat panel radiators, but these are usually the less expensive option as behind the flat panel is usually a mass produced, commodity product.  The nature of this construction makes them often deeper in design, causing them to protrude more into a room, and the top of these radiators may be covered with a grille. 

·        Sizes available: Increasing popularity of this type of radiator has led to an increased range of sizes available.  For instance, flat panel radiators are now available in both horizontal and vertical designs, with widths from 200mm to 3000mm and heights from 300mm to 2000mm.

·        Heat output performance: A critical aspect when choosing any radiator, no matter what type, is the heat output.  A well designed flat panel radiator will have fins or “convectors” hidden behind the front panel to maximise the heat output.  Without these fins, heat output will be significantly less, so don’t be fooled by a cheap, ultra skinny flat panel radiator; it could give you the same amount of heat out as a couple of light bulbs!

·         Finishing of the top and sides: Flat panel radiators can have open or closed sides; this does not affect the performance of the radiator and is purely cosmetic.  They can also have an open or grille top; the effect on the heat output of the radiator is negligible when adding or removing a grille.  A grille is usually added for practical reasons (mostly to stop small children putting toy cars down the back!).

·        Valve connection positions: These types of radiators come with either “side connections”, like standard pressed steel radiators, where the valves are installed at the bottom of the radiator on either side, or “underside connections”, where the valves are situated underneath the radiator, either centrally or at either end.  Underside connections are a popular choice especially on vertical radiators as they mean that the valves sit directly underneath the radiator meaning you don’t need to allow any more space to fit the valves in.  There may also be other valve connection options available should you require them.  Whichever valve positions you require, it is essential that you check with your radiator specialist that the radiator you are considering will be suitable.  

·        Design of brackets: To maximise space, look at radiators with cleverly designed brackets that keep the radiator as close to the wall as possible.    Look for the “wall to front face measurement” to confirm how far into the room a radiator will protrude, not just the depth measurement, as this may not include space for the bracket.  

Materials

·         Grades of steel – Pressed steel radiators in white are a popular product but the quality of steel can vary between models.  A thick grade of steel, such as 1.20mm or 1.25mm internal construction will help ensure a long life.   Front panels should be a minimum 1.1mm thick steel; top quality flat panel radiators may even be 2mm thick steel. 

·         Pressure-testing – Flat panel radiators should be tested to a minimum of 10 bar. 

·         Paint quality: Flat-fronted radiators in white or coloured paint finishes are “powder coated” and should have a smooth, semi-gloss surface, similar to those seen on home appliances.  Poorly finished radiators may have a “orange peel” effect due to little paint being used. 

·         Quality of brackets: Brackets can give an immediate indication of the quality of the manufacturing, as a poor quality bracket may well reflect a poor quality radiator.

·         Packaging: Make sure the product you are purchasing is adequately packaged as transit damage could cause delays to your project.  Ask your retailer how the radiator is packaged. 

Service

Always bear in mind the service provided when you purchase heating products.  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 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 kitchen, bathroom or bedroom 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 “designer” 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 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. 

·         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 flat panel radiator may not be the most straightforward decision, but by following the guidance detailed above, your radiator won’t be a false economy. 

For more information on buying good quality flat panel radiators with a reasonable price tag, then speak to a specialist such as Feature Radiators.  Their expert team will help you to choose the best radiator for your specific circumstances, so contact them on 01274 567789, visit them at their showroom in Bingley, West Yorkshire or see http://www.featureradiators.co.uk

Coloured and painted radiators

Next time you think heating, think hue.  Why go for radiators in white when the heating industry now offers a rainbow of radiator finishes and you’ll be tickled pink by the palette of possibilities; consider radiators in yummy yellows, rosy reds or beautiful blues that will make your neighbours green with envy. 

With the summer being a wash-out, decorators are using colour to bring warmth to the inside of our homes.  Radiators provide the perfect base for a splash of colour.

“Bright colours are the most natural anti-depressant in the world,” says the interior and product designer Jonathan Adler. “Whenever I look at an orange cushion my serotonin levels start soaring, it gets me in my gut. Colours are cheering, that’s all there is to it.”
Consider Feature Radiators’ Colori radiator, a stunning piece of design that in neutral tones could easily blend in to a white wall, however in an outrageous orange, it’s a different story; suddenly a blast of colour adds interest and warmth to what could otherwise be a dull space. 

Choosing a radiator in an accent colour can really help tie in your fixings and fittings.  For instance, the Svelte radiator stocked in bromine red looks stunning when used alongside red appliances. 

Pastels can work as well as primary and secondary colours, adding a subtle but equally sophisticated finish to any interior.  The Classic radiator from Feature Radiators is available in 100s of colours including baby blues, pretty pinks and minty greens.

Coloured radiators can also be used to develop specific themes within a room; why not go for navy to give a nautical feel, go green to bring the outside in or pick purple for a funky vibe.

If you want a specific colour match, then speak to a radiator specialist who will be able to advise you of the range available.  Many radiators can be finished in colours to match those of household paint manufacturers such as Dulux and Farrow & Ball; if you ask for radiator painted in “Dead Salmon” or “Elephant’s Breath” then it’s good to know your supplier won’t think that you’re requesting bizarre sacrificial offerings! 

So go magenta, not magnolia. Go crimson, not cream.  And don’t go white, go wild!

For information on radiators in a huge range of colours, speak to a radiator expert such as Feature Radiators.  View their rainbow of radiators at their showroom in West Yorkshire, visit their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk or call them directly on 01274 567789.

Hotting up for Summer

With summer just around the corner, the time to store away the winter bedding and take the heating off its timer is fast approaching.  But before you bask in the sunshine and the harsh winter nights become a distant memory, spare a thought for your radiators.  Not surprisingly, most of us don’t think about heating our houses until its cold.  But when it comes to changing your radiators, summer is the best time to do it.  No need to shiver without heating in the cold months, wait for your plumber to slot you in, or limit your choice of radiators to stock items because you need warmth quickly. 

 
If it’s stylish radiators you want, then there’s good news as there is now a wealth of stunning designs on the market.  From traditional cast iron to cutting edge contemporary designs, there’s something for everyone.  While some radiators are designed to make a striking statement in a myriad of colours and finishes, others can blend discreetly into walls so you barely notice they are there.  There are central heating, electric and dual fuel formats and with a wide range of pricing, there are models to match every budget.  “Feature radiators” are now a firm favourite amongst architects, developers, heating engineers and homeowners alike, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for the high heat outputs they can provide.  

As heating requirements change to reflect the way we live, the market has been quick to respond with innovative products to match demand. For example, electric radiators, such as the award winning iRad from Feature Radiators, have become the product of choice putting the heat and all year usability into garden buildings and summerhouses.  And in line with the increasing number of sliding folding doors and large picture windows gracing our homes, “trench heating” has been launched, an ingenious and efficient heating solution that has the additional benefit of eliminating condensation and the cold feel of glass.   

Choosing the right radiators for your home is crucial and contacting a true radiator expert will ensure that you get it right.  Look for a company whose sales team don’t work on commission to ensure that the advice you receive is genuine and unbiased; a knowledgeable and solution driven sales person will guide you to the best product in terms of heat output, budget, style, dimensions, finish and lead times; quality is vital as well as functionality, design, and of course value for money. 

It is crucial to consider that your particular situation will have its own unique set of requirements and restrictions, whether the issue is lead time, budget, heat output, limited wall space, design or all of them.  So if you want to review your heating system to find the best way of meeting your specific heating needs, then speak to a radiator specialist. 

Contact Feature Radiators’ team on 01274 567789 or via their website http://www.featureradiators.co.uk.  You can also visit Feature Radiators’ expert team at their showroom where they have over 250 radiators on display:

Feature Radiators, The Old Post Office, 134-140 Main Street, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 2HL.

Heating a garden building, outdoor office, summerhouse or posh shed

The garden building business is blooming booming!

Thanks to technological advances aiding mobile communications and the ever-increasing costs of commuting, many of us are opting to work from home. A self-contained office in the garden provides the perfect environment to do just that.

The downturn in the economy has also played its part in the garden building boom. Financial uncertainty has resulted in a reluctance to move house, with homeowners choosing to stay put and improve and/or extend properties. In some cases this has lead to the introduction of a garden building, whether used as a garden room, summerhouse or kids’ den.

To get the maximum use from a garden building, heating (along with light and power) is a must. If the building isn’t warm and cosy, then it won’t be used, particularly in the colder winter months. This article looks at factors to consider when it comes to heating your garden building.

Insulation is key
Is there adequate insulation? Some, but not all purpose-built garden rooms, are adequately insulated. If you have converted a shed or outbuilding, or opted for a lower cost garden building, then you will probably need to add insulation. Without this, the cost of heating could be prohibitively expensive.

Add Heating
In order for any garden building to be comfortable and useable (for more than just storage), all year round, it will need to be heated.

So what factors should you consider when choosing heating for a garden building?

Heat output – when choosing any form of heating it is critical that the option you select has the capacity to adequately heat the space. If in doubt, oversize the heater, as you can always turn it down.

Thermostatic control – choosing a heating option with a thermostat will ensure that your garden building is heated optimally at a constant and comfortable temperature. Thermostatic controls provide efficient and cost effective use of power; for instance, they can turn off a heater when the room has reached its optimum temperature; perfect on a sunny day for taking advantage of any “free heat” from the sun. By maintaining the temperature above a certain minimum level, you protect the contents of the building, including computers and soft furnishings, from cold or damp related damage.

Timer – by opting for a product with a timer, you can ensure that the heating is on when it needs to be. A timer allows you to set the heating to come on just before you start your day, ensuring a toasty office in time for when you arrive.

Space – by their very nature, many outbuildings are small in size. Therefore space is often a critical factor in choosing your heating option. These days, radiators are available in unusually narrow or low sizes, so there is likely to be something to accommodate even the most awkward of wall spaces. There are also floor-standing heaters, which are portable and take up no wall space.

Budget – it may seem obvious, but costs vary immensely on heating options for garden buildings. For instance, the price of an electric heater can range from £20 for a basic fan heater to £2000 for the ultimate in designer model. Take account of installation costs as well, for example if you opt for electric underfloor heating, bear in mind that installation costs may be considerable, especially if the floor needs to be taken up to allow the electric foil mat to be fitted underneath.

Aesthetics – Whether your new space is for living or working, as well as being a comfortable and functional environment, you may also want to add style with an attractive looking heater; the many designs now available mean you can choose minimalism to aide focus, bright colours for inspiration or soft curves to give a relaxed feel.


So what are the different heating options available for garden buildings?
ELECTRIC RADIATORS

Water and oil filled electric radiators
The water inside a water-filled electric radiator is heated by an electric element and is used as a heat reservoir. Oil-filled electric radiators are heated electrically; the oil is not burnt but again is used as a heat reservoir. Both types of electric radiators work on the same principle and have similar running costs.

ProsWall mounted and floor standing models available;
Many floor mounted versions can be plugged into a socket, so there are no installation costs and the radiators are often portable;
Wide range of contemporary and traditional styles available. From minimalist sleek designs like the Electric Royce (which is made of lightweight aluminium), to classic column style cast iron radiators like the Electric Etonian;
Many are available with timers and thermostats; and
Some styles heat up quickly (particularly those made of lightweight aluminium); others cool down slowly (such as those made of cast iron).

ConsThe wall-mounted versions don’t sit as close to the wall as some of the electric radiant panel radiators currently on the market.

Electric radiant panel radiators
Electric panel radiators radiate heat (rather than convecting it) and don’t contain any liquid. These radiators have become extremely popular in recent times, due to their efficient, environmental and practical qualities. One of the best electric panel radiators around is the iRad from Feature Radiators, which is beautifully designed, slim, flat and sits close to the wall.

ProsLightweight;
Sits close to the wall;
Many sizes, finishes and colours available;
Heats up quickly;
Radiates warmth without “blowing”;
Warms both objects and the surrounding air;
Available with thermostats and timers; and
Precise, focused, highly efficient heating.

ConsAlmost always wall-mounted, so there will need to be at least some wall space available.


Wood burners
A wood-burning stove burns wood fuel and wood-derived biomass fuel whilst creating heat.

ProsLovely cosy feel with attractive real fire flame;
Carbon neutral, if fuel comes from sustainable sources;
Warms both objects and the surrounding air; and
Relatively low running costs.

Cons
Lack of controllability, which can lead to high temperatures;
Sourcing and moving around fuel can be difficult and messy;
Demands time and effort on a daily basis to keep it running;
Ash created needs to be cleaned up;
Requires reasonable amount of space, taking up both wall and floor space; and
Significant installation costs.


Fan heaters
A fan heater works by passing air over a heating element, this heats up the air, which then leaves the heater, warming up the surrounding room.

ProsHeats up a room quickly;
Warms both objects and the surrounding air;
Relatively small so doesn’t take up much floor space; and
No installation costs.

Cons
As soon as its switched off, the room will cool down quickly;
Fan creates noise;
Often unattractive;
Uses a lot of energy resulting in high running costs; and
Heat is blown out rather than convected or radiated, which can create a stuffy and snoozy environment.


Infrared heating panels
Infrared heating panels are a relatively new idea in the UK but have been widely available in Europe for more than ten years. Infrared heaters heat through the use of infrared waves.

ProsFocused heating, infrared waves only heat what they hit;
Provide heat rapidly;
Reasonably efficient to run;
Can be fitted onto the ceiling to keep them out of the way; and
Thermostats and timers available.

ConsOnly heat the objects that the infrared waves hit. If you sit facing an infrared heater, then the back of your body and head and any part below the heater will remain cold.
The surrounding air is not heated at all.
Potential fire hazard – As heating is focused and direct, there may be a risk of fire if the heater is placed too close to an object. For example, if an infrared heater fell onto a wood floor.



Electric underfloor heating
Electric underfloor heating consists of a foil heat mat containing heating wires, which warm the floor surface which in turn heats the air above it. The foil mat must be laid under the laminate or wooden flooring intended for the garden building.

Pros
No wall space required;
Nice feeling under foot;
When working to an optimum, whole room is evenly heated with an ambient background temperature;
Many are available with thermostats and timers; and
Relatively low running costs.

ConsMay not have sufficient capacity to provide adequate heat for building – depending on level of insulation, ceiling height, and amount of glass;
Relatively high installation costs;
Insulated floor required;
Must be installed under the floor, so may not be a desirable option where the flooring is already down;
Slow to respond, can take up to 3 hours to get up to temperature, so forward planning needed and can take a long time to cool down;
Limits choice of floor-coverings; and
If it fails, the cost and inconvenience of repair will be significant, as flooring may need to be removed or replaced.


Portable gas heaters
Historically, a popular option for heating rooms or outbuildings particularly where there was no power source. Power is provided to these heaters via gas bottles that sit at the bottom of the heater.

ProsHigh heat output;
Self contained heaters, requiring no external power source;
No installation charges; and
Portable.

ConsSafety - you must not place items on top or directly in front of gas heaters. This may be a challenge if you are working in a small space;
Unpleasant gas odour;
Adequate ventilation is vital to prevent a build up of dangerous fumes;
Risk of carbon monoxide leak; and
Large bulky items taking up valuable space, both when in use and in storage.


Conclusion
Whatever type of garden room heating you choose, you must ensure that it has the capacity to heat the relevant space. It is important to maximize the power used to efficiently provide heat whilst minimizing energy wastage through the use of good insulation, timers and thermostats.

Bear in mind that these days having a comfortable warm outbuilding doesn’t mean you need to compromise on style with ugly, bulky and/or ineffective heating options. There is now a wide range of stylish, safe yet efficient electric heating solutions available.
For more information on finding the most suitable heating product for your garden building, speak to a heating expert such as Feature Radiators. Visit their showroom where they have over 250 radiators on display and expert advice on hand, call their expert team directly on 01274 567789 or browse their electric radiator range at: http://www.featureradiators.co.uk/Electric.htm

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.