Radiators

Radiators are an essential part of any home central heating system. At Toolstation, we have a huge range of styles, sizes and colours to choose from – with hundreds of radiators in stock right now, you’ll find the perfect fit for any room.

Types of Radiators

There are several main radiator types to choose from, depending on your available space and heat output requirements. Panel radiators come in a range of options.

For smaller rooms, a single panel radiator is a great choice thanks to its slimline design. For medium or large-sized rooms, you’ll need the higher heat output that a double panel wall radiator can offer – a Type 21 radiator has one layer of convection fins in between the two panels to retain a slimmer profile, while a Type 22 radiator has two layers of fins for an even higher heat output.

For maximum heat output, a Type 33 radiator features three panels and three fins – ideal for even larger rooms or areas. Looking for a more specialist option? You can install towel radiators for your bathroom, or fit a designer radiator to add to your room’s interior style.

When is the Right Time to Replace a Radiator?

Most modern radiators have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If your current ones have been in use for 15-20 years, it’s probably time to consider fitting new radiators.

How will you know if you need a new radiator? If you’re noticing a significant drop-off in heat output, it could be down to your radiator’s age. Even if it looks fine from the outside, older radiators are more likely to develop issues such as internal corrosion.

The reaction between water and metal can cause small flakes of corrosion that will fall off and build up at the bottom of the radiator. This can create a sludge that will block the water and reduce the efficiency of your heat output. With your system working harder to heat the room, you’ll use more energy – which means your heating bills will rise.

Exterior rust patches are a more obvious sign of corrosion on a radiator. If you start to notice these appearing, it might be time to look for a replacement radiator.

Radiator Sizes

Radiators are available in all shapes and sizes. Whatever your wall space, you’ll find a radiator to fit it perfectly.

If space is tight, you’ll need a small radiator – we have wall radiators with heights as low as 300mm, and widths of just 400mm. A more standard radiator size will give you a height of 500-600mm, while a large radiator can be as long as 2m. Our most popular radiator sizes include:

• 600 x 600 radiator
• 1200 x 600 radiator
• 600 x 300 radiator
• 300 x 300 radiator

When choosing a new radiator, you’ll need to consider BTU as well as size. Use our BTU calculator to work out the exact heating requirements of your room, so you can heat it as efficiently as possible. If you're still unsure which is the best radiator for the job, our Radiator Buying Guide will have all the answers!

Radiator FAQs

What is a BTU?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit – it’s a unit of measurement used to show how much energy is required to heat a pint of water by 1°F. Every room will have a different BTU requirement based on its size, and every radiator will have a specific BTU output.

What size radiator do I need?

It depends on your wall space, and the size of your room. Use our BTU calculator to work out the BTU requirement of your room, and then find a radiator with a suitable output – remember to check its dimensions to make sure it will fit your wall too.

How do I bleed my radiator?

Simply switch your heating off, let the radiator cool down and open the radiator bleed valve to release the air. Once the hissing stops and water starts to escape, close the valve. Job done!

Bleeding a radiator is a quick and simple process to release trapped air and improve water circulation for a more efficient performance. Still unsure? Our guide on how to bleed a radiator will give you step-by-step instructions to follow.

How long do radiators last?

Most modern radiators have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. The older a radiator gets, the more likely it is to suffer from internal corrosion – this can stop water from flowing, reducing your radiator’s heat output and efficiency.

What radiators are best for heat efficiency?

The efficiency of your radiators very much depends on the size of the room. A single panel Type 11 radiator is the most economical choice, but its lower heat output means it’s only suitable for smaller rooms. If you install it in a room that’s too big, it won’t be able to heat it and you’ll just be wasting energy.

For maximum efficiency, it’s always best to buy a radiator with a BTU output that matches your room’s requirements. Fit a radiator with too high a BTU output, and you’ll just be wasting energy and money unnecessarily. Too low a BTU output, and you’ll end up having to keep your heating on for longer.

Remember to consider other potential heat loss areas in your room as well. An open door or window can also have a negative impact on your radiator efficiency.

What is the difference between central heating radiators and electric radiators?

Central heating radiators are plumbed into your heating system, and are filled with water heated by a boiler. Electric radiators are plugged in at the mains, and use an electrical element to warm up.