Whether you’re fully upgrading your bathroom or just replacing a radiator, it’s important to do your homework before you buy. Let’s look at the main considerations to make when choosing a new bathroom radiator.
What size radiator for my bathroom?
It’s really important for any bathroom to be cosy in the winter months, so you need to make sure you buy a radiator that can successfully warm up the space it’s in.
Luckily there’s an easy way to work this out before you buy. There’s a calculation called a BTU – British Thermal Unit – that’s designed for this purpose. Every radiator is given a BTU rating which tells you what size room it can comfortably heat.
Then it’s just a case of finding radiators you like and checking they have the right BTU rating! Remember you can choose a single radiator, or if you have a large bathroom, buy two to reach the total BTU you need.
If you have a smaller room, you can save money on both the radiator and heating costs by choosing a smaller unit with a lower BTU.
Above, Black Traditional 8 Column Towel Radiator
Choosing a style of radiator
The great news is that there is an almost endless range of radiators to choose from. The first decisions to make are whether or not you want a radiator designed to hold and dry your towels. A towel radiator can be large or small, and there are lots of different options in how they both look and how they store towels.
If you prefer a straightforward, traditional radiator, there are lots of design choices. The first decision is usually whether you want a classic style, ideal for an older house, or a more modern, designer look.
Oval, flat or colosseum radiators?
A traditional radiator is often called a colosseum radiator, as it consists of lots of parallel columns. Many colosseum radiators can have a modern twist: coming in an anthracite grey or styled as a high and narrow vertical radiator.
If you prefer a more modern look, a flat panel radiator gives a sleek finish to any room. You can take this to a new level with an oval radiator, where each panel has a subtle oval shape. Check out our designer radiators to get sight of the cutting edge of style.
Coloured radiators
Not long ago all radiators looked the same and they were always white. Not any more! Chrome and grey radiators are hugely popular these days, and if you really want to create a feature in your bathroom, take a look at our copper towel rail.
Above, Faro Matt Black Single Flat Panel Vertical Radiator 1600x490mm
Don’t forget the valve
Once you’ve chosen your radiator you’ll need to buy a suitable valve too. We make this easy and will highlight the appropriate fitting as part of your purchase. Now you just need a plumber to fit and connect your shiny new appliance.
Buying a radiator can take some consideration. To help you, there’s lots more advice on choosing the best radiator for your bathroom – or anywhere else in your home – here.
Once you have a plan for task, mood and general lighting you then need to buy lights that will complement each other and the style of your room. Make sure to pay attention to the type of bulb the light needs and the colour effect you want to make.
A confident DIYer might be able to change existing light fittings, however, when it comes to installing new ones you may want to get the experts in.
Go ahead and try creating a lighting plan for your home, we’d love to see you get creative so make sure to share your designs over on our social channels.
