An ode to the radiator: 8 reasons to love your heating system

Radiators have long been a staple in UK homes, and their brilliance lies in their efficiency, adaptability, and reliability. You could call them the unsung hero of the British home. Smart, practical and efficient, you’d have to work hard to find something to beat it. Of course, we’ve all been wowed recently by the introduction of air fryers and the new model iPhone, but here are 8 great reasons why your humble radiator is actually the star of the show. 

1 Efficient heat distribution

When hot water flows through the radiator’s coils or panels, it heats the metal, which in turn radiates warmth into the surrounding space. Exceptionally efficient at heating large spaces in a matter of minutes, it’s no wonder that the concept has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years.

2 Zone heating 

Working in partnership with your boiler, radiators allow you to control the temperature of individual rooms by simply turning the radiator on or off. With thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), you can even customise the heat output in each room, which helps optimise comfort while saving energy. Most families will live in one or two rooms in the evenings, meaning heat can be wasted if released into unoccupied areas of the home. 

3 Low maintenance

Let’s hear it for the reliable, low maintenance tools that just work, right? Radiators are relatively low-maintenance heating systems. They require occasional bleeding to remove trapped air, but beyond that, they don’t need much attention. Compared to some other heating systems, such as wood-burning stoves or underfloor heating, radiators are comparatively hassle-free. Of course, if issues do crop up, our friendly team is always on hand to help. 

4 They’re works of art

Ok, that might be pushing it a little, but some radiators do genuinely resemble design features nowadays. Coming in a wide range of designs, sizes and finishes, to suit the interior of your home, a radiator is so much more than a bland block of metal. From classic, cast iron radiators to sleek modern models, there’s a radiator to complement any decor. 

5 Space saving

The standard UK home isn’t massive. Of course, homes do come in all shapes and sizes but the majority of us are not blessed with space, when compared to our cousins across the Atlantic. Radiators are an incredibly practical, space-efficient heating solution. They can be installed on walls, freeing up valuable floor space.

6 Reliable

The snap of autumn is just starting to make itself known and we’re all reminded of what being cold actually feels like; not pleasant. Fortunately, our home radiators are well-suited to the cold, damp conditions we experience in the UK and can work on through winter without fail. 

7 Future-proof

Radiators can be easily integrated with renewable energy sources, such as solar thermal systems or heat pumps. As Britain starts to move towards using these energy systems over traditional ones, there’s no reason that your radiators can’t come along for the ride.  

8 Cost-effective

Radiators are cost-effective to install and maintain, making them an accessible heating option for a wide range of households. Unlike wood burners, which could set you back anywhere from £700-£3,500, radiators do the job for much less. With proper care and efficient controls, they can also help reduce your energy bills.

Your boiler and radiators work hand-in-hand over the colder months to keep your home safe and warm. Unlike other household fixtures, they tend to be relatively untroublesome; until something does go wrong, then it’s a nightmare – especially in winter. To protect your home heating and keep everything running smoothly this winter, why not chat to our friendly team about our Sensible Cover Plans? With policies starting from less than £1.50/week, you can achieve total peace of mind for less than the price of a sandwich, winner!

Need help with your boiler or heating system? Contact us today