The radiator – a future-proof solution

As homeowners become increasingly aware of the need to make cost-effective adjustments to their heating systems, Heatline commercial director Mark Derbyshire explains the key role of radiators in the future of domestic heating, and how they can help save money as well as lower fuel consumption.

Initiatives such as the Green Deal and the Renewable Heat Incentive clearly demonstrate the government's intention to make domestic energy efficiency a priority in the coming years. These initiatives, combined with the rise in fuel prices, are giving heating engineers the opportunity to offer advice to homeowners on how to make simple, inexpensive changes to their heating systems that will significantly reduce their fuel costs and make their homes more energy efficient for the years to come.

Replacing inefficient boilers with new high-efficiency models or renewable technology is the first, and most obvious step towards reducing energy wastage. However, regardless of how advanced the technology may be, it cannot deliver on its energy-saving promises if the heating system is not properly set up to work efficiently as a whole. We therefore encourage gas engineers to go back to basics and evaluate all elements of the system - including the heat emitters.

Available in a huge variety of shapes, sizes, colours & styles, the radiator is the UK's most popular heat emitter, present in over 85 per cent of British homes, offering a low-cost, flexible and reliable heating solution. With many reputable manufacturers offering a 10-year guarantee as standard, radiators can provide long-term peace of mind for homeowners.

But what of the future? As the industry continues to evolve, can radiators keep up with the new challenges and opportunities presented by modern heating technology?

Research carried out by the Manufacturers' Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC) confirms that the answer to this is a resounding 'yes'.It highlights how responsive and efficient radiators can be when partnered with either renewables or modern condensing boilers, clear proof that the radiator has a long future ahead of it - offering genuine comfort, flexibility and ease of use.

Cold Spot
But radiators can only deliver these benefits if they are of suitable quality and have been fitted correctly. If they are old or badly maintained, there are serious implications for the rest of the system. Residue, which will gather over time, can lead to cold spots or ultimately make its way into the new boiler or heat pump, causing costly and inconvenient damage.

Leaving existing radiators in place without assessing whether they have been sized correctly can also have a detrimental impact on efficiency. Radiators that have been sized and positioned so as not to disrupt the aesthetics of a room might be too large and unnecessarily waste energy, or too small and not generate enough warmth.

With so many factors in play, the only way to ensure a new boiler or renewable will work at its best is for heating engineers to complete a thorough evaluation of the system as a whole. Not only might this provide new sales opportunities, but it will give the homeowner confidence that they are receiving the energy efficiency and subsequent cost savings that they expect.

Heating technology may be evolving but homeowner priorities remain the same. They want to be warm and comfortable without the prospect of high energy bills - something that is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve.

That's where the gas engineer comes in. Through regular replacement, resizing and maintenance of radiators, they can ensure that new installations deliver value for money & long-term reliability.

Source - Gas Safe Register

Posted Date: 05th Oct 2011