Radiator Guide

Radiators

Radiators are designed to emit heat by radiation and convection. Heat is emitted via a convector or “Fin” behind the initial radiator panel.  These convectors provide the majority of heat, with a small amount radiating direct from the steel panel. This leads to greater efficiency and a more even heat distribution throughout the room. 
Radiators come in a large range of various sizes, styles and outputs, which vary depending on a variety of differing factors.  It is important to ensure that the radiator chosen is sufficient in size to adequately heat the room in question.

You will find a wide range of different radiators here at PlumbNation, from the simple standard radiators to the more contemporary designer range.   We also offer only the best quality radiators from the UK’s market leading manufacturers, such as Myson, Stelrad and Delonghi, that you are sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Single Panel Single Convector (also referred to as K1 or Type 11)

A Single Panel Single Convector radiator consists of one front steel panel, and one convector or “fin”.

The output of a radiator is measured in British Thermal Units per hour (B.T.U.s/hr). For any given room you need a radiator (or radiators) with sufficient capacity to heat that room to a satisfactory temperature level, which ensures that it will run to its maximum efficiency.  All heat outputs are listed on our website alongside every radiator in BTU/kW.   Alternatively a heat loss calculation should be done to work out an approximate size required.  

Double Panel Single Convector (also referred to as P+ or Type 21)

A Double Panel Single Convector radiator consists of two steel panels (one front, one back), and one convector or “fin”.

The output of a radiator is measured in British Thermal Units per hour (B.T.U.s/hr). For any given room you need a radiator (or radiators) with sufficient capacity to heat that room to a satisfactory temperature level, which ensures it will run to its maximum efficiency.   All heat outputs are listed on our website alongside every radiator in BTU/kW. Alternatively a heat loss calculation should be done to work out an approximate size required.  

Double Panel Double Convector (also referred to as K2 or Type 22)

A Double Panel Double Convector radiator consists of two steel panels (one front, one back), and two convector or “fin”.

The output of a radiator is measured in British Thermal Units per hour (B.T.U.s/hr). For any given room you need a radiator (or radiators) with sufficient capacity to heat that room to a satisfactory temperature level, which ensures it will run to its maximum efficiency.  All heat outputs are listed on our website alongside every radiator in BTU/kW.  Alternatively a heat loss calculation should be done to work out an approximate size required.  

LST (Low Surface Temperature)

Low Surface Temperature Radiators, or more commonly referred to as LST Radiators, are designed to provide the perfect solution where a low surface temperature is required for safety reasons.  LST Radiators comply with NHS Estates Health Guidance Notes 1998 (less than 43oC with inlet water at 82oC).  LST Radiators is made up of an efficient internal heat emitter in an attractive and robust steel enclosure, that gives heat protection and conceals pipe work and valves.

They are known to be used widely in hospitals, schools and retirement homes.  They are now however becoming increasingly popular within the domestic market, most commonly for nurseries, child bedrooms and disabled occupants.

Fan Convectors

Hydronic Fan Convectors connect to your central heating system just as a radiator does. However where as radiators take up wall space, Fan Convectors can provide high heat outputs, where space is limited.

Fan Convectors can be easily controlled and act as the perfect replacement for a radiator, freeing up valuable space within your home.   Fan Convectors can be installed as an alternative to a radiator, these are known as Hydronic Fan Convectors, as they are connected and run via your central heating system.  Fan Convectors are also available in Electric models, which enable you to run them separately from your central heating system.  Hydronic/Electric models (also referred to as Duo) can be switched between Hydronic and Electric, usually dependent upon the time of year.

PlumbNation prides itself on providing our customers with top quality products, that’s why we have chosen Myson as our leading Fan Convector supplier. Myson offer a large range of Fan Convectors, suitable for domestic properties and business premises.  These include a plinth model called Myson Kickspace, which is ideal for Kitchen or bathroom areas, whereas wall hung models, which are ideal for other areas in the home such as living rooms and conservatories.  Myson also provide a wide range of grille colour options, which means you can choose a fan convector that will perfectly blend in with any decor.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV’s)

Thermostatic Radiator Valves are most commonly referred to as TRV’s.  TRV’s can be fitted to radiators to give you ultimate control of your heating system.  Thermostatic Radiator Valves, enable you to control the heat output from your radiators on a room by room basis.  TRV’s actually work using a sensor that establishes the surrounding air temperature. It will close down the flow to the radiator, thereby cooling the radiator and generally regulating the room temperature.

TRV’s even allow you to set the room temperature that is required, you can even turn the TRV completely down, if you are not occupying the room in question, thus conserving energy and saving you money on your heating bills.

PlumbNation offer a range of TRV’s from the market leading manufacturers such as Danfoss, Honeywell and Drayton.  Thermostatic Radiator Valves can be purchased individually, if you are looking to fit to an already installed radiator, or they can be purchased in a “Combi Pack”, which contains the TRV and Lockshield Valve (to close off the other end of the radiator).  These are ideal if you are installing/replacing radiators, in your home.  Thermostatic Radiators Valves are also available for the more design conscious, offering all chrome models that will blend in wonderfully with any decor.

It is also necessary that you choose the correct size TRV, which is dependent on the size of the pipe work on your radiators, generally 8mm, 10mm or 15mm.   Some TRV packs include adaptor sizes to fit all, or they are individually sold in the one size.

Towel Rails

Heated towel rails can provide that extra feel of luxury to your bathroom. Available as both a wet system and electric, means that heated towel rails can be installed in any property.  Wet System towel rails are run via your central heating system and function similar to that of a normal radiator.  Electric versions are quick and easy to install, as there is no need to break into your existing central heating system. You simply need a qualified electrician to connect it to your power supply.  Towel rails can also be fitted with an electric element, which is known as “Duel Fuel”, this means that when the central heating is switched off, the electric element kicks in to provide heat to the towel rail. (Possibly during the summer months)

PlumbNation offer a wide range of Towel Rails, from Myson, Stelrad and Delonghi, ranging from the standard ladder rails to the more unique and contemporary designs, that will not only provide warmth to your bathroom but also style.