Radiators can be single or double panel, cast iron or aluminium, horizontal, vertical, or even mirrored. But before style enters the picture, getting the heat output right, and understanding how manufacturers actually measure it, matters more than any of that.

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Radiator types

Panel radiators

The most common type in UK homes, in three main varieties:

• Single Panel (Type 11): one metal panel with a single layer of convection fins, suited to narrow hallways or small rooms.

• Double Panel (Type 21): front and back panels with one layer of convection fins between them.

• Double Panel (Type 22): front and back panels with two layers of convection fins, delivering greater heat output than Type 21, better suited to medium or large rooms.

Vertical radiators

A modern alternative to horizontal designs, useful where wall space is limited.

Column radiators

Inspired by vintage cast iron designs, available in a range of colours, shapes, and finishes. Can be floor-standing or wall-mounted, though they tend to be bulkier and less suited to narrow spaces.

Towel radiators

A popular bathroom choice, providing heat and somewhere to hang and dry towels. Towel radiators typically resemble column radiators with a rail attached.

Designer radiators

Prioritise style and often multi-purpose features, like mirrored fronts that reflect light in smaller rooms, alongside high heat output.

Fuel sources

Plumbed-in (central heating) radiators

The most common option, relying on your boiler to heat and circulate water. Efficient, but take longer to heat up and are less flexible than electric, since they need the whole central heating system running.

Electric radiators

A good fit for rooms without existing pipework, such as a loft conversion. Built-in thermostats give precise, energy-efficient control. Some plug straight into a wall socket; others need a qualified electrician to install.

Dual fuel radiators

Combine both, adding an electric element to a central heating radiator so you can heat it independently of the whole system, particularly useful for bathroom towel rails in summer, when you want warmth or drying without running the full heating.

Already have radiators but they're not performing well? See our guide on how to make radiators hotter before assuming you need new ones altogether.

Calculating radiator heat output (and why BTU comparisons can mislead)

Getting the heat output right matters more than how a radiator looks. Too low, and the room never quite warms up; too high, and you're overheating the room and wasting money running it.

Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), or increasingly in watts. But there's a catch that catches a lot of buyers out: the same radiator can be listed with very different BTU figures depending on the "Delta T" rating used to test it. Delta T is the difference between the average radiator temperature and the room temperature; a higher Delta T value inflates the BTU figure without the radiator actually performing any better in your home.

• Delta T50 is the current UK and EU standard, and what most retailers use.

• Delta T60 was the previous UK standard until 2013, and some radiators (or older listings) still use it, showing roughly 25% higher BTU figures for the same physical radiator.

• Delta T70 is used by a handful of manufacturers and inflates figures further still.

If you're comparing radiators across brands, check they're quoted at the same Delta T rating, ideally T50, before comparing BTU numbers directly. A radiator that looks more powerful on paper may simply be measured differently, not genuinely more powerful.

What size radiator, and how many?

Required heat output depends on room dimensions, number of external walls, window type, and insulation level. An online BTU calculator is a helpful starting point, and if you're between sizes, it's generally better to round up slightly.

For larger rooms, you may want to distribute heat across more than one radiator; divide the room's total BTU requirement by the number of radiators to get the output needed from each.

A qualified heating engineer can calculate the correct BTU for each room and recommend radiators to match, at the correct Delta T rating for your system.

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Key considerations when choosing a radiator

1. Room size and placement

Larger rooms may need multiple radiators or a higher-output model. Radiators are traditionally placed under windows to counter heat loss, though modern designs offer more layout flexibility.

2. Positioning

• Wall type: solid brick supports most radiator sizes and weights; plasterboard walls may need studs for secure mounting.

• Existing pipework: replacing a radiator where pipework is already in place is quicker and cheaper than moving a radiator to a new spot.

• Furniture placement: avoid positioning radiators behind large furniture, which blocks the heat from circulating properly.

3. Material

• Cast iron: slow to warm up, but holds heat far longer than steel or aluminium.

• Mild steel: low-cost, durable, and easily shaped for different spaces.

• Stainless steel: doesn't rust and stays warm after switching off, useful for hanging damp towels.

• Aluminium: a strong all-rounder; heats a space quickly and efficiently, and is lightweight and easy to install.

4. Valves and control

• Manual valves: the traditional option, turned on and off by hand like a tap.

• Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs): automatically adjust flow based on the room's temperature, letting you control each radiator individually.

• Smart valves: WiFi-connected and app-controlled, for scheduling and remote control even when you're out.

5. Style and covers

Radiators now come in a wide range of colours, finishes, and designs, from a bold coloured column radiator as a kitchen focal point to a streamlined vertical model that blends into minimalist decor. Radiator covers and cabinets can disguise more basic models and add a layer of protection for young children.

Cost to move a radiator: 2026 UK price guide

Moving a radiator is a great way to complete decorating jobs, improve efficiency and refresh the design of your room. Get our top tips on ways to reduce the costs.

Learn more

How much do radiators cost?

Cost depends on type, size, and material, and prices vary considerably across brands and retailers, so use current retailer and installer pricing rather than a fixed figure when budgeting. Standard panel radiators tend to sit at the lower end, with column, vertical, and designer models costing more. Electric radiators are typically priced higher for the unit alone (supply only), before factoring in installation.

Before you buy

• Confirm the Delta T rating used for any BTU figure you're comparing

• Get the room's BTU requirement calculated properly, not estimated by eye

• Check your wall type supports the radiator's weight, or plan for studding

• Decide on manual, thermostatic, or smart valves

• Get several quotes if a plumber, electrician, or heating engineer is needed

Find a qualified professional to fit your radiator

• Work involving the boiler needs a Gas Safe registered engineer

• Moving or installing pipework needs a qualified plumber

• Any mains electrical work needs a qualified electrician

Get several quotes, compare them like-for-like, check qualifications and experience, and read genuine reviews from previous customers. Checkatrade can help connect you with vetted tradespeople in your area.

In summary

Choosing the right radiator means balancing style, heat output, and how it fits your specific heating system, not just picking on looks. Get the BTU comparison right (checking the Delta T rating), and the rest comes down to budget and design preference.

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