Are you looking for new radiators? Confused by the huge range? Well, you're not alone. There are over 40 manufacturers who produce around 200 different radiator models.
The majority of your choice will be determined by the type of heating system that's already in place and the number of radiators required for a room. Also, don't forget to consider where you want to install the radiator. Some can only be fitted vertically on a wall rather than horizontally.
But, back to slimline radiators, what do you need to know, and why could they be an excellent choice for your home? In this guide, we'll provide all the answers!
What Are Slimline Radiators?
Slimline models have an average depth of only 30mm, which is way less than most traditional radiator designs' standard 50mm depth. This means that if you wanted to install a standard design in a contemporary room with low ceilings, it's going to look overbearing and clunky.
Slimline radiators solve this problem as they can fit into small or awkward spaces without taking up too much floor space.
The Advantages of Slimline Radiators
Perfect for small rooms
Slimlines are perfect for small rooms. They're slimmer than regular radiators, and they're great at heating narrow spaces. When you have a radiator that's too wide, the heat doesn't usually go far enough, which is why slimlines are able to warm a room more efficiently.
More living space
Slimline radiator manufacturers claim it could add 10% extra living space due to the fact they take up less room than traditional models. This will be useful if you're redecorating or refitting an older property. You'll have more room for storage, seating, or appliances.
Improved heating efficiency
Slimline radiators are also more efficient than traditional versions, saving on energy costs. By having a thinner radiator that's 30% smaller, it will heat up quicker, and there will be less chance of overheating and condensation caused by overheated rooms.
The result is warm and dry bedrooms and living spaces at a lower cost to the environment and your bank balance!
Where to place a slimline radiator?
Now that we know what slimline radiators are, it's time to think about where they're going to be placed in your home. Here are a few places to consider:
Bedrooms - It will help keep rooms warm and dry, which is especially useful if you have young children or pets who go into the bedroom. The extra warmth can also aid sleep, so your little ones won't wake up as frequently during the night.
Study/Office - If you use this space for working at home, using slimline radiators will make it easier for you to concentrate on tasks. It'll be more comfortable too with less distraction! You could even set up an office in a small kitchen by installing them under units or above cupboards.
Living Rooms - Slimlines are an excellent choice for living rooms as they fit well in smaller spaces and won't add clutter. They'll add warmth to the room without taking up too much room.
Kitchens - In older properties, some kitchens can benefit from slimline radiators above doors or units to create a cosy atmosphere while saving space at the same time. This is also a great idea if you're looking to update a dated kitchen design by giving it an up-to-date look.
Bathrooms - Not only will slimlines keep bathrooms warm, but they'll be perfect for heating towels on cold days! You might even want them around your bath so you can enjoy a long soak whenever you get the chance...
Are there any reasons why you wouldn't want a slimline radiator?
Slimlines are a brilliant space-saving solution that's perfect for modern properties where storage is at a premium. However, if you have very high ceilings, then they might not be able to deliver as much warmth as thicker versions. They work best in rooms under 4m, so if your room is any higher, it may be worth considering something else.
How to Fit Slimline Radiators
Most slimline radiators can be fitted independently from the boiler, which means it's quick and straightforward to install them yourself. Most models have wall brackets that'll secure your slimline against the wall without the need for any extra parts.
The brackets will attach directly to a wall stud or above a wooden beam. If you don't have any studs or beams, then there's the option of fixing them to existing wall fittings such as sockets and switches if they're securely fitted into a wall block.
To fit a slimline radiator
- First, choose a wall bracket that'll hold your model securely in place.
- Next, attach it to a stud for added strength and stability. The brackets will usually have pre-drilled holes, so you'll just need an electric drill with a screwdriver bit attached to secure the unit properly.
- Once your slimline is secured by two screws on each side of the bracket, all that's left to do is fit the radiator.
- To complete a slimline installation, you'll need a set of standard radiator valves which can be found at your local hardware store or online.
Don't forget about your boiler size
Your boiler size defines how many radiators you can use at the same time. If your boiler's too small, then it'll struggle to heat rooms quickly enough and may also struggle to keep your radiators warm. A boiler that's too big will mean you'll be wasting energy, and that means higher fuel bills and increased emissions.