The feature radiator market has exploded within the last 10 years, with a success of products available these days in most size, style and finish imaginable. However, imitation is rife; images of radiators often look the exact same, but quality varies hugely.
Just what exactly should I be shopping for?
1. Is this supplier reputable?
Be wary of companies with pages and pages of 5* reviews as these may be easily bought. Instead search for other indicators of a long-term and conscientious approach. Have they dedicated to a showroom? How long have they been selling radiators for? Do they have independent recognition of the quality of their products and service? Accreditations such as ISO:9001 evidence a significant method of quality and a brandname they care about.
2. Consider a radiator specialist
Often kitchen and bathroom retailers sell radiators but could have limited technical knowledge on heating. Plumbers will most likely just approach their merchant and loyalty schemes are typical place meaning choice is limited. So with a true radiator specialist, you will get any technical and installation questions answered quickly and accurately and you are able to choose from the whole of the radiator market to get something to meet your specific criteria. They need to also have the ability to offer expert services such as heat output requirement calculations.
3. Are you currently confident in the salesperson's knowledge?
By choosing a reliable radiator specialist, you need to feel reassured that you have ordered the best product and it'll arrive as expected. Any doubts in your mind must certanly be put to rest. Ask who would you call if there is an issue? Do they have technical specialists or an after-sales helpline? Be wary of the ones that just give 'yes' answers without backing them up. In the end, should you choose encounter an issue, they could fob you off with how many a random warehouse to call.
4. Can it be well made?
Make certain the radiator includes a guarantee of at least 5 years. The product quality and thickness of steel may differ; a heavy grade of steel may help ensure an extended life. Consider the brackets: this sort of detail may give an instantaneous indication of quality; a badly designed bracket may well reflect a bad quality radiator. Modern radiators are "powder coated" and the majority are sold as a "semi-gloss" finish; cheap radiators might be poorly finished with not enough paint leaving an "orange peel" effect.Black Towel Radiators
5. Are their images accurate?
Images tend to be created or doctored using computer software, whether online or in brochures. These could look nice but can often be an inaccurate representation of the conclusion or model of the radiator. So try and visit a showroom; there's no replacement for seeing these products "in the flesh" ;.
6. What sizes are available?
Many retailers limit their range to just several sizes to keep manufacturing costs to a minimum. This could mean you need to compromise on heat output or aesthetics if you determine to choose a cheap option.
7. Has got the radiator been independently tested?
Radiators must certanly be tested to at the least 10 bar pressure and to the European Standard EN442. Testing a radiator will guarantee that its meets the minimum standards on various aspects including heat output, product labelling and safety. You need to find out your desired radiator will heat your space.
8. Where would be the valve connection positions?
Side connections at the bottom of the radiator (BBOE) are the norm in the UK. However underside connections (where valves sit beneath the radiator) are an increasingly popular choice, because they permit you to maximise the width of a radiator in a limited space and look much neater. You can find even some models available with "hidden valves" for the best minimalist look.
9. Where is the radiator made?
The nation of manufacture does not necessarily dictate the quality of the product but you may want to take into account it alongside other factors. Many designer radiators are made in Europe, mostly in Italy, Germany and Turkey but you can find increasingly more models being manufactured in Asia which are sold at lower prices. Some top quality, bespoke models are made in Great Britain.
10. The devil's in the detail!
Consider not just the radiator itself nevertheless the finishing touches. Have a conversation with your potential supplier about valves and pipes - a radiator specialist will have a way to share with you what your options are to make certain you get the most effective result within your budget.
It's clear from the above that picking a feature radiator may not be the most simple decision, but by following guidance provided, you won't create a false economy.
For more information on buying top quality radiators with a reasonable price, then speak to a specialist.
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