A conservatory is your place to relax and enjoy abundant natural light, but when temperatures drop, it can quickly become a chilly space.
Whether you’re spending an evening unwinding or trying to make the most of your conservatory during the colder months, you will need a high-quality radiator to battle the cold temperatures.
The right radiator will do that for you, but only if you choose correctly. Plus, they have the ability to look great too. Let us make more of your home, and we’ll explore how to choose the perfect radiator for your conservatory.
Vertical or Horizontal Radiators: Which is best?
Typically, when looking at radiators for conservatories, your first decision is whether to go vertical or horizontal.
For conservatories, vertical radiators are an excellent choice, especially if you’re looking to maximise space. Vertical radiators are incredibly popular right now, and they always work really well with conservatories.
These radiators not only take up less floor space, allowing for easier furniture placement, but they also heat the room efficiently, providing warmth to the height of the room.
Horizontal radiators are also a valid choice. These radiators tend to provide a more expansive surface area, which can be effective in distributing heat across the room evenly.
If your conservatory has low ceilings, you may want to consider this.
The choice between vertical and horizontal radiators comes down to your specific needs and preferences. No matter which you choose, both options will ensure your conservatory gets warm, retaining the heat is your biggest problem.
Choosing Between Electric And Plumbed Radiators
Electric or plumbed? The choice largely depends on how you intend to use the space and your existing heating system.
Electric radiators are ideal for conservatories that are not connected to the main heating system, as you won’t need to plumb it in.
They’re ideal for occasional use as they’re quick and efficient to heat when you need it, and they give you the flexibility to control the temperature independently.
On the other hand, plumbed radiators are better suited for conservatories that are regularly used or are an extension of your home’s central heating system. They provide consistent warmth over longer periods and can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if your conservatory is a year-round space.
Assess Your Conservatories Heating requirements
When you pick a radiator, it needs to provide the necessary warmth per the specific room.
The easiest way to check this is via a BTU (British Thermal Unit) calculator (online), which takes into account factors such as the size of the room, the type of windows, insulation, and the typical temperature difference (known as delta T) between the room and the desired indoor temperature.
Once you have this figure, you can determine the appropriate radiator size and output needed to efficiently heat your conservatory.
Key Features To Look Out For
There are a few features that may help you out with conservatory heating.
One important feature/accessory is a thermostatic valve, which allows you to set your desired temperature.
The valve will automatically shut off once that temperature is reached, preventing energy waste and maintaining a consistent level of warmth.
This is particularly useful in conservatories, where temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Features such as anti-frost settings can be beneficial for keeping the space warm in colder months. Low water content radiators are good for quicker heat-up times, making them ideal for spaces that are used intermittently.
Installing your new radiator in the right place
You have to consider where you’re putting your radiators. Ideally, they should be beneath windows to counteract heat loss and keep warmth spread evenly throughout the space.
Avoid obstructing the radiator with furniture or heavy curtains, as this can block airflow and reduce its efficiency. If possible, position the radiator away from doorways to prevent heat from escaping.
Looking for the latest insights on conservatories? Whether you’re upgrading your space or planning a new build, our blog has everything you need to know. Read more here.
