The feature radiator market has exploded over the past 10 years, with a wealth of products now available in most size, style and finish imaginable. However, imitation is rife; images of radiators often look the exact same, but quality varies hugely.
What exactly should I be looking out for?
1. Is this supplier reputable?
Keep clear of companies with pages and pages of 5* reviews as these can be easily bought. Instead search for other indicators of a long-term and conscientious approach. Have they committed 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 for instance ISO:9001 evidence a critical method of quality and a brand they care about.
2. Look at a radiator specialist
Often kitchen and bathroom retailers sell radiators but will 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 using a true radiator specialist, you may get any technical and installation questions answered quickly and accurately and you are able to select from the complete of the radiator market to find something to generally meet your specific criteria. They need to also manage to offer expert services such as for instance heat output requirement calculations.
3. Are you confident in the salesperson's knowledge?
By choosing a respected radiator specialist, you must feel reassured that you have ordered the best product and it will arrive as expected. Any doubts in your mind ought to be put to rest. Ask who do you call when there is a challenge? Do they have technical specialists or an after-sales helpline? Keep clear of those who just give 'yes' answers without backing them up. In the end, if you do encounter a challenge, they could fob you off with how many a random warehouse to call.
4. Can it be well made?
Make certain the radiator features a guarantee of at the least 5 years. The standard and thickness of steel can vary; a heavy grade of steel will help ensure a long life. Go through the brackets: this kind of detail may give an immediate indication of quality; a poorly designed bracket may reflect a low quality radiator. Modern radiators are "powder coated" and the majority are sold as a "semi-gloss" finish; cheap radiators may be poorly finished with not enough paint leaving an "orange peel" effect.Black Towel Radiators
5. Are their images accurate?
Images are often created or doctored using computer software, whether online or in brochures. These may look great but can often be a wrong representation of the final or model of the radiator. So try and visit a showroom; there is no replacement for seeing the merchandise "in the flesh" ;.
6. What sizes can be found?
Many retailers limit their range to just several sizes to help keep manufacturing costs to a minimum. This might mean you will need to compromise on heat output or aesthetics if you decide to get a cheap option.
7. Has got the radiator been independently tested?
Radiators ought to 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 have to know that 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 standard in the UK. However underside connections (where valves sit underneath the radiator) are an increasingly popular choice, because they enable you to maximise the width of a radiator in a restricted space and look much neater. There are even some models available with "hidden valves" for the ultimate minimalist look.
9. Where is the radiator made?
The nation of manufacture does not at all times dictate the quality of the item but you might want to think about it alongside other factors. Many designer radiators are created in Europe, mostly in Italy, Germany and Turkey but you will find increasingly more models being stated in Asia which can be sold at lower prices. Some high end, bespoke models are created in Great Britain.
10. The devil's in the detail!
Think about not only the radiator itself nevertheless the finishing touches. Have a chat together with your potential supplier about valves and pipes - a radiator specialist will have the ability to tell you what your choices are to ensure you get the best result within your budget.
It's clear from the above that choosing a feature radiator might not be the most simple decision, but by following the guidance provided, you won't make a false economy.
For more information on buying top quality radiators with an acceptable price tag, then talk to a specialist.
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