Radiators are heat exchange devices that help keep an area warm during the cold winter. They heat a given space by transferring thermal energy from one medium to another.
How does radiator heating work?
In a radiator, electrically heated water travels through metal pipes placed inside walls and ceilings. Through the process of convection heating, this heated water in turn produces heat. The water is heated in a central boiler that circulates throughout the building by means of pumps through a radiator.
The radiators can be of the monotube or double tube type. Single tubes work with steam, while double tubes work with steam or water.
Types of radiators
Radiators have been around for quite some time. Over the years various types have evolved and brought a variety of designs to suit modern homes.
* Compact radiators are perfect for small rooms. They come with factory installed top grilles and end panels.
* Steel panel convector heaters involve low installation and maintenance costs. They are compact in size and come with or without a top grill. They can be as small as 11 square inches. Electrogalvanizing and powder coating create resistance against wet conditions.
* Towel radiators, better known as bathroom radiators, are powered by electricity and can be installed separately from the central heating system. They bring the comfort of having hot towels in the bathroom. They come in various designs and often become an object of attraction.
* Low surface temperature radiators were initially designed to prevent burns. They were first introduced in health centers. Nowadays, they have become quite popular for children’s and elderly rooms. The temperature in a low surface temperature radiator does not exceed 1.9 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Storage radiators are excellent energy conservation radiators and prove to be cost effective. They store energy at night when electricity demand is low. The stored energy is then discharged during the day.
* Tubular radiators are sleek and stylish and designed for modern homes. They come in various colors and can match any interior decor. Buyers have the freedom to choose the shape, color and finish based on their home design.
* Cast iron radiators can appear bulky and can take up a considerable amount of space. However, they have their own set of advantages. These can be painted to match the color of the rest of the house design. In addition, the paint helps control the heat generated. Heat resistant paints are also available for this purpose. Cast iron radiators are powered by hot water or steam. Although there are electric versions, they may not be the best option for large spaces.
When winter comes, the cold can penetrate to the bone. In such weather, the best cozy place one can think of would be home sweet home. Installing an efficient radiator at home can make this even more comfortable. It is not possible to have fireplaces in every home today, but it is definitely possible to have radiators. Select the best one for your home and enjoy a warm and happy winter.