ADIGE Towel Radiators: Blog Blog https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/ Tue, 19 Mar 2024 07:27:55 GMT urn:store:1:blog:post:67 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designing-the-perfect-en-suite-bathroom-for-your-home Designing the Perfect En-suite Bathroom for Your Home <p style="text-align: justify;">There are a lot of reasons why you may want to add an en-suite bathroom when you redesign the bedrooms in your property. It can be a great way to add a private bathroom space for growing kids, it can make your guest room more comfortable for visitors, or it can simply take some of the hassle out of mornings when everyone in your home needs to get ready at the same time!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Designing a flawless en-suite bathroom for your home is a task that requires careful consideration and planning. This private space should not only be functional but also reflect your personal style and provide a sense of relaxation and comfort. To achieve this, it is essential to focus on various aspects such as layout, fixtures, materials, heating and lighting. A lot of the time, en-suite bathrooms tend to be small, and they are rooms where you are not likely to be able to fit luxurious bathtubs or many of the other things you would put in your home’s main bathroom. However, a lack of space needn’t mean a lack of style or comfort! Here are some ideas to make your new en-suite bathroom extra special.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to designing the perfect en-suite bathroom, attention to detail is key. Begin by assessing the available space and determining the most efficient layout that suits your needs. Consider the placement of fixtures such as the shower, toilet, <a title="Towel Radiator" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/towel-radiators"><strong>towel radiator</strong></a> and vanity, ensuring they are easily accessible and well-organized. Opt for high-quality materials that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also offer durability and easy maintenance.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Transforming your en-suite bathroom into a luxurious retreat requires careful planning and a focus on creating a serene ambiance. Incorporate elements such as a spacious shower with rainfall showerheads, a freestanding bathtub for ultimate relaxation, and ample storage solutions to keep the space clutter-free. Choose a color scheme that promotes tranquility, such as soft neutrals or soothing pastels, and complement it with elegant fixtures and lighting options that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. By paying attention to every detail, you can design an en-suite bathroom that perfectly complements your home and provides a haven of relaxation and luxury.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">Heated Towel Rails</h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">One of the easiest ways to save space and make your bathroom comfortable is to have wall mounted heated towel rails in place of radiators. Not only does this mean you or your guests can enjoy warm towels when they emerge from the shower, but it will also keep the room heated without the extra space consumption of a radiator. You can choose a vertical design that minimises space usage while also looking sleek and stylish, and even in the smallest of en-suite bathrooms, there is usually wall space to accommodate a rail set-up like this.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">Multi-jet Showers</h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Another way to give your en-suite bathroom that high-end feel is to consider a shower fitting with multiple jets, as well as a movable shower head. This looks great and also gives you flexibility when you shower. A common arrangement for this type of shower is three jets positioned vertically, and then an extending part that you can use to shower your head, as well as a normal shower head on a hose. You can switch between the different parts, allowing you to personalise your shower experience.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">Lighting</h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A third way to add an attractive touch to your small en-suite bathroom is to consider how you use lighting. Colour changing LED lights in the shower lets you create different moods, for example, using blue or green light in the morning to invigorate yourself for the day ahead, or using warm red or purple light in the evening to help you relax and get ready to sleep. Good LED lights in the bathroom itself are also a good idea, as they are energy efficient and will give good lighting for things like shaving or applying make-up using the bathroom mirror. Spotlights over the mirror can work well for this while also giving a modern, chic look.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Making the most of a small room is easy to do when you add luxurious things like heated towel rails, in-shower lighting, and powerful showers the user can adapt to their own preferences. With these tips in mind, you can create a beautiful and functional en-suite for your home.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:66 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/diy-step-by-step-guide-for-converting-a-towel-radiator-to-a-stand-alone-electric-only-towel-rail DIY Step-by-Step Guide for Converting a Towel Radiator to a Stand-Alone Electric Only Towel Rail <p>Towel radiators are an excellent addition to any bathroom or living space, providing warmth and a sense of luxury to your daily routine. While many towel radiators operate on central heating systems, it's also possible to convert them to a standalone electric-only type. If you're looking to make this switch, here's what you need to know. A Comprehensive yet simple 8 steps to follow;</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h2><strong>Check Compatibility:</strong></h2> <p>Almost all our bathroom towel radiators can be used as electric only including our Horizontal Towel Radiators, it's essential to note that not all towel radiators are compatible with electric-only conversion. Before you start, ensure that your radiator is one and you have an empty space/allowance at the bottom of the radiator. Depending on the element model, you will need approx. 200mm space from floor level to the bottom of the radiator. This will allow for the inclusion of an electric element, which is required to heat the water inside and generate heat.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h2><strong>Decide on Heating Element Type, Wattage &amp; Finish:</strong></h2> <p>Once you've confirmed your radiator's compatibility, the next step is to purchase an electric heating element and a blanking plug. All elements are designed to fit standard British BSP sized towel radiators, ranging from 200 mm to 1600 mm in length. The wattage required will vary, depending on the size of your radiator, amount of water intake and the intended room use. You will also have the option of a basic/standard heating element or a more sophisticated thermostatic one where you can control the heat output, run it on timer, use boosters etc.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <h2><strong>Check the Required Parts &amp; Tools:</strong></h2> <p>As well as the main parts, you will need the correct amount of de-ionized water and a radiator inhibitor. These will be mixed as per inhibitor’s recommended dilution/mix level and used to fill the radiator manually during installation. You will also need all the usual tools, a funnel and a bucket for the mix. Before you begin, ensure all items, parts, tools below are in hand;</p> <ol> <li><strong>Towel Radiator</strong></li> <li><strong>Electric Heating Element</strong></li> <li><strong>A Blanking Plug (2 if your towel radiator did not come with one and it has 4 inlet points)</strong></li> <li><strong>De-ionized Water &amp; Inhibitor</strong></li> <li><strong>Funnel, Bucket, Cloth or Old Towels</strong></li> <li><strong>Basic and Common Tools to Complete the Job</strong><br /><strong>Screwdriver set, drill, spirit level, 8mm allen key, spanner, plyers etc. and a cup of tea.</strong></li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2><strong>Step-by-Step Installation:</strong></h2> <p>When it comes to installation, you will need to take your time and follow these steps in the same order listed below. Missing one, or not completing each step properly may result poor performance from your electrically heated towel radiator and you may need to remove the radiator off the wall, drain it and do it all again from step 1.</p> <ol> <li>Turn the radiator upside down and decide where the element will be. i.e., left or right and install the element to your selection and make a note (say right). While all our heating elements come with a rubber O ring, it is still recommended to use a generous amount of PTFE tape to ensure no leaks from joints.</li> <li>Install the blanking plug purchased to the other side (left). Again, use plenty PTFE tape to ensure no leaks from joints.<br /><br /></li> <li>Turn the radiator correct way up and fill it up manually using the funnel with de-ionized (distilled) water and inhibitor mix. All our radiators do have their water intake levels listed on product details page.<br /><br /><strong>Tip:</strong> You should fill the radiator as slowly as possible avoiding sudden gush of water blocking the air around or inside the tubes. It is also advisable to tilt the radiator left and right a few times while filling to make sure water mix goes through and fill ALL the bars.<br /><br /><strong>Important</strong>: Make sure that the radiator is NOT filled all the way to the top by leaving 1 or 2 inches of space for water to expand when heated.<br /><br /></li> <li>Once filled, insert and secure the blanking plug (supplied with the radiator) to the same side of the radiator as the element. i.e., if element installed on bottom right, install the blanking plug on top right.<br /><br /></li> <li>Affix the towel rail on to the wall using wall brackets supplied while keeping it level to avoid spillage.<br /><br /></li> <li>Wire the heating element to your fused spur on the wall. Put a few towels over the radiator and turn the element ON to its maximum power.<br /><br /><strong>Tip:</strong> ** please note that at this stage the top left inlet point is still open to air **<br />As the water heats up, it will expand and if the radiator is filled too much earlier, some water may spill out. (Have some old towels nearby to soak up any spillage)<br /><br /></li> <li>Once the towel rail recaches its max temperature, insert and screw the bleed valve to the top left inlet point.<br />Important: ** it is important to install the element and the bleed valve on opposite sides ** (i.e., element on bottom right would mean bleed valve on top left)<br /><br /></li> <li>Check that all inlet points secure and air-tight and there are no leaks or hissing. Wipe clean any damp or spillage and enjoy your stand-alone Electric Towel Rail many years to come.</li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Depending on the electric element you've purchased, there will be different installation instructions, but most require you to wire them into a fused spur either inside or outside the bathroom. If you opt in for a thermostatic one, you can try and use various settings till you find the best settings suits you most and works well with your daily routine.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Inconclusion, converting your towel radiator to an electric-only type is a straightforward process. However, if you're not confident working with electric appliances, it's best to consult a professional plumber and an electrician to the wiring. That said, this conversion will provide you with efficient and effective heating, allowing you to enjoy the luxurious warmth of your heated towel radiator all year round.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:65 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-part-seven-can-you-hang-clothes-on-heated-towel-rail WarmWaves - Part Seven “Can you hang clothes on a heated towel rail?” <p style="text-align: justify;">Heated towel rails are a popular addition to many bathrooms, providing warmth and comfort as well as a convenient place to hang towels. But, can you hang clothes on a heated towel rail?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The short answer is yes, you can hang clothes on a heated towel rail. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Firstly, it's important to check the weight limit of your heated towel rail. Most towel rails are designed to support the weight of towels and light clothing items such as bathrobes. Hanging heavier items such as jeans or heavy coats may exceed the weight limit and damage the towel rail.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Secondly, it's important to avoid overcrowding the towel rail. Overcrowding can reduce the efficiency of the towel rail and make it less effective at heating towels and clothes.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Thirdly, it's important to avoid placing damp or wet clothes on the heated towel rail. Doing so can cause moisture to build up on the rail and damage it over time. It's also important to avoid hanging wet clothes on the towel rail as they can take longer to dry, reducing the efficiency of the rail and potentially causing a musty smell in the bathroom.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Lastly, it's important to ensure that the clothes are hung securely on the towel rail. Use hangers or clips to hang the clothes and avoid placing them directly on the rail, as this can cause damage to the rail and increase the risk of the clothes falling off.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In summary, it is possible to hang clothes on a heated towel rail, but it's important to keep in mind the weight limit, avoid overcrowding, avoid placing damp or wet clothes on the rail, and ensure that the clothes are hung securely. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of a heated towel rail while also making the most of its convenient hanging space.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:64 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-part-six-how-to-fit-a-towel-radiator-to-an-existing-pipe-work-valves WarmWaves - Part Six “How to Fit a Towel Radiator to an Existing Pipe Work & Valves” <p>If you're looking to install a towel radiator in your bathroom, it's important to ensure that it's fitted properly to the existing pipe work. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fit a towel radiator to your existing pipework and valves:</p> <p>1)    Turn off the central heating: Before you begin, it's important to turn off the central heating to ensure that the radiator is cool and safe to work with.</p> <p>2)    Drain the radiator: To avoid any water leaks or damage, you will need to drain the radiator of any water. Locate the valve that controls the flow of water to the radiator and close it. Then, open the bleed valve at the top of the radiator to let the water drain out. You may need to use a bucket or bowl to catch the water.</p> <p>3)    Remove the old radiator: Once the radiator is drained, you can remove the old radiator from the wall. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the radiator to the valves, and carefully lift the radiator off the wall.</p> <p>4)    Prepare the new radiator: Before fitting the new towel radiator, you will need to ensure that it's ready for installation. If the radiator requires assembly, follow the manufacturer's instructions to put it together. Then, attach the brackets to the back of the radiator. It's important to make sure that the brackets are level and securely attached.</p> <p>5)    Install the radiator: Once the new radiator is prepared, you can install it onto the existing valves. Attach the valve tails using the nuts provided, and ensure that the radiator is level.</p> <p>6)    Connect the valves: Once the radiator is securely attached to the wall, you can connect the valves to the radiator. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts that connect the valves to the radiator. It's important to ensure that the valves are securely attached to the radiator and that there are no leaks.</p> <p>7)    Refill the radiator: Once the radiator is securely attached, you can refill it with water. Close the bleed valve and open the valve that controls the flow of water to the radiator. Wait for the radiator to fill up, and then check for any leaks.</p> <p>8)    Bleed the radiator: Once the radiator is filled with water, you may need to bleed it to remove any air bubbles. Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve at the top of the radiator and release any trapped air.</p> <p>9)    Turn on the central heating: Once the radiator is installed and filled with water, you can turn on the central heating and test the radiator to ensure that it's working properly.</p> <p>In conclusion, fitting a towel radiator to existing pipe work and valves is a straightforward process that can be done with the right tools and instructions. By following these steps, you can install a new towel radiator and enjoy the benefits of warm, dry towels and efficient heating in your bathroom.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:63 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/part-five-towel-radiator-valves-an-important-component-for-efficient-heating WarmWaves - Part Five “Towel Radiator Valves: An Important Component for Efficient Heating” <p style="text-align: left;">Towel radiators are a great addition to any bathroom, providing warmth and comfort while also keeping your towels dry and fluffy. However, to ensure that your towel radiator operates efficiently, it's important to choose the right valves. In this article, we'll discuss the different types of <a href="/radiator-valves"><strong>towel radiator valves</strong></a> and their importance in achieving efficient heating.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">What are towel radiator valves?</h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Towel radiator valves are the components that connect your radiator to the central heating system. These valves control the flow of water to and from the radiator, allowing you to regulate the temperature of the radiator and the room. There are two main types of towel radiator valves: manual valves and thermostatic valves.</p> <table width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="50%"><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/mca-towel-radiator-valves.jpeg" alt="Towel Radiator Valves" width="95%" /></td> <td width="50%"><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/dfac-dual-fuel-towel-radiator-valves-anthracite.jpeg" alt="Dual Fuel Towel Radiator Valves" width="95%" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;"><br /> <br /><strong>Manual Valves</strong> - Manual valves are the simplest type of towel radiator valves. They are operated manually by turning a valve to open or close the flow of water to the radiator. Manual valves are a good choice if you want a basic, low-cost solution for controlling the temperature of your radiator. However, they don't provide precise temperature control and require manual adjustment to maintain a constant temperature.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/manual-radiator-valves.png" alt="Manual Radiator Valves" width="689" height="619" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Thermostatic Valves</strong> Thermostatic valves are a more advanced type of towel radiator valve. They contain a temperature-sensitive element that automatically adjusts the flow of water to the radiator to maintain a constant temperature. This means that they can provide precise temperature control, which can help to reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Thermostatic valves are also more convenient than manual valves, as they require minimal adjustment and can automatically adjust to changes in room temperature. This makes them ideal for use in busy households where the temperature requirements may vary throughout the day.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/thermostatic-radiator-valves.png" alt="Thermostatic Radiator Valves" width="502" height="574" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><br />The Importance of Choosing the Right Towel Radiator Valves is essential for achieving efficient heating. If you choose manual valves, you will need to manually adjust the flow of water to the radiator to maintain a constant temperature, which can be time-consuming and inefficient. On the other hand, thermostatic valves can automatically adjust the flow of water to the radiator to maintain a constant temperature, helping to reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In addition to choosing the right type of valve, it's also important to choose valves that are compatible with your towel radiator and central heating system. This will ensure that the valves operate efficiently and effectively, providing optimal heating performance.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In conclusion, towel radiator valves are an important component for achieving efficient heating in your bathroom. Whether you choose manual valves or thermostatic valves, it's important to select valves that are compatible with your towel radiator and central heating system. By choosing the right valves, you can ensure that your towel radiator operates efficiently, providing optimal heating performance and helping to reduce energy consumption and lower heating bills.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:62 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-part-four-towel-radiator-an-efficient-and-stylish-bathroom-heating-solution WarmWaves - Part Four “Towel Radiator: An Efficient and Stylish Bathroom Heating Solution” <p><em>A towel radiator, also known as a heated towel rail or towel warmer, is an efficient and stylish way to heat your bathroom while also keeping your towels warm and dry. These radiators come in a variety of sizes, styles, and finishes, making them a versatile addition to any bathroom decor.</em></p> <p> </p> <h2><em>How do towel radiators work? </em></h2> <p><em>Towel radiators work by using hot water from your central heating system to warm up the radiator. The heated water flows through the radiator's tubes, which then radiate heat to warm up the bathroom and dry your towels. Some towel radiators are also available with an electric heating element, allowing you to use them independently of your central heating system.</em></p> <p> </p> <h2><em>What are the benefits of a towel radiator? </em></h2> <p><em>A towel radiator offers many benefits, including:</em></p> <p><em><strong>Energy efficiency:</strong> Towel radiators are an efficient way to heat your bathroom, as they use hot water from your central heating system. This means that they don't consume any additional energy and can help to reduce your heating bills.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Versatility:</strong> Towel radiators come in a variety of sizes and styles, making them a versatile addition to any bathroom decor. They can be mounted on the wall or floor, and some models are even available as freestanding units.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Improved Hygiene:</strong> A towel radiator can help to reduce moisture in your bathroom, which can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Additionally, by keeping your towels dry, you can avoid unpleasant odors and maintain a hygienic bathroom environment.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Increased Comfort:</strong> With a towel radiator, you can enjoy the luxury of warm, dry towels every time you step out of the shower or bath. This can help to keep you comfortable and cozy even on chilly days.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Style:</strong> Towel radiators come in a range of finishes and designs, from sleek and modern to more traditional styles. This means that you can choose a radiator that complements your bathroom decor and adds a stylish touch to the space.</em></p> <p><em>In conclusion, a towel radiator is a practical and stylish addition to any bathroom. Whether you're looking for an energy-efficient heating solution, improved hygiene, or simply the luxury of warm towels, a towel radiator can meet your needs. With a range of sizes, styles, and finishes available, you can find a radiator that fits your bathroom decor and enhances the look and feel of the space.</em></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:61 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-part-three-choosing-a-right-towel-radiator- WarmWaves - Part Three “Choosing a right towel radiator“ <p><em>Choosing a towel radiator involves considering several factors, including the type of towel radiator, size, material, and design that best suits your needs and preferences. Here are some steps to help you select the right towel radiator for your home:</em></p> <p><em><strong>1) Determine the type of towel radiator:</strong> There are three main types of towel radiators -<strong> standard, electric, and dual fuel</strong>. Standard towel radiators are connected to your central heating system and require plumbing work for installation. Electric towel radiators are independent of your central heating system and require an electrical connection. Dual fuel towel radiators can be used with both central heating and electric options, providing flexibility.</em></p> <p><em>If you are looking to heat your bathroom and add the extra comfort of warm, dry towels, but don’t plan to have central heating in your home, then electric towel rails by Adige offer a great solution. These stylish electric towel rails provide all of the warmth and style of towel heater radiators with electric heating. You can choose from a DRY type electric towel rail with minimal installation effort or select a pre-filled type WET version for more heat, comfort and size options. Please visit our website for more products.</em></p> <p> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/0004730_tody-500mm-wide-1420mm-high-chrome-square-tube-designer-towel-rail_600.jpeg" alt="Choosing a right towel radiator" width="600" height="569" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2</strong><em><strong>) Measure the available space:</strong> Measure the available space in your bathroom or other areas where you plan to install the towel radiator to ensure that the radiator fits properly. Consider the height, width, and depth of the radiator, as well as the distance from the wall.</em>  </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3) </strong><em><strong>Choose the material:</strong> Towel radiators are made from various materials, including steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and brass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, heat output, and appearance. Consider the material that best matches your bathroom decor and budget.</em></p> <p><em> </em></p> <p><em><strong>4) Consider the heat output:</strong> The heat output of a towel radiator is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or Watts. It determines how much heat the radiator can provide to your bathroom. Consider the size of your bathroom and the desired level of warmth when choosing a towel radiator with an appropriate heat output.</em></p> <p><em> </em></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><em><strong>5) Think about the design:</strong> Towel radiators come in a wide range of designs, including ladder-style, panel, and traditional radiator designs. Consider the overall aesthetic of your bathroom and choose a design that complements it. You can also choose between horizontal or vertical orientations depending on the available space and your preference</em></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/questions.png" alt="Think about the design" width="306" height="268" /></em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><strong>6) Set your budget:</strong> Towel radiators come in various price ranges, so it's essential to set a budget before you start your search. Keep in mind that while cheaper options may be more budget-friendly, they may not always be of the highest quality. Consider your budget when making your final decision.</em></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/budget.png" alt="Set your budget" width="298" height="264" /></p> <p><em><strong>7) Read reviews and compare options</strong>: Look for customer reviews and ratings of different towel radiators to gauge their performance and reliability. Compare the features, specifications, and prices of different models to make an informed decision.</em></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/reviews.png" alt="Read reviews and compare options" width="585" height="297" /></em></p> <p> </p> <p><em><strong>8) Check for warranties:</strong> Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer or retailer for the towel radiator you're considering. A longer warranty period can provide you with peace of mind and protection against defects or issues with the radiator.</em></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/warranty.png" alt="Check for warranties" width="531" height="338" /></em></p> <p> </p> <p><em>By considering these factors, you can choose a towel radiator that meets your heating needs, fits your available space, matches your design preferences, and falls within your budget. Remember to consult with a professional if you're unsure about the installation process or have specific requirements for your towel radiator.</em></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:60 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-part-two-sleek-stylish-towel-radiator WarmWaves - Part Two Sleek & Stylish Towel Radiator <p><em>Towel radiators have become increasingly popular in the United Kingdom over the years due to several benefits they offer:</em></p> <ol> <li><em>      </em><em>Warm towels: One of the primary benefits of towel radiators is that they keep your towels warm and dry, providing you with a comfortable and refreshing experience when you step out of the shower or bath.</em></li> <li><em>      </em><em>Space-saving: Towel radiators can be wall-mounted, which means they don't take up valuable floor space in your bathroom, making them an ideal choice for smaller bathrooms or en-suites.</em></li> <li><em>      </em><em>Energy efficient: Towel radiators can be very energy-efficient, with many models using less energy than traditional radiators, which can help you save on your energy bills.</em></li> <li><em>      </em><em>Stylish design: Towel radiators come in a range of styles and designs, from traditional to contemporary, and can be used to complement the overall look and feel of your bathroom.</em></li> </ol> <p> <img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/af1040.jpg" alt="Stylish Design Towel Radiator" width="480" height="600" /></p> <ol start="5"> <li><em>      </em><em>Improved hygiene: By keeping your towels dry, towel radiators can help prevent the growth of bacteria and mildew, improving hygiene levels in your bathroom.</em></li> </ol> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><em><img src="/Images/uploaded/blog-images/foldedtowels.png" alt="Folded Towels" width="572" height="395" /></em></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p><strong><em><span lang="EN-IN">Overall, towel radiators are a convenient and practical addition to any bathroom, providing warmth, comfort, and style while helping you save on energy bills and improving hygiene levels</span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span lang="EN-IN"> </span></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><span lang="EN-IN">Stay tuned for the next part.....</span></em></strong></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:59 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/warmwaves-sleek-stylish-towel-radiator WarmWaves - Sleek & Stylish Towel Radiator <p><span lang="EN-IN">One of the standout features of this magnificent bathroom is the sleek and stylish towel radiator that adds both comfort and functionality to the space. The modern design of the radiator perfectly complements the contemporary aesthetic of the room, with its clean lines and minimalist profile.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span lang="EN-IN">Not only does the towel radiator provide a warm and cozy environment, but it also serves a practical purpose by keeping towels dry and fresh. The heated bars of the radiator gently warm towels, robes, and other linens, providing a luxurious experience when stepping out of the shower or bath.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span lang="EN-IN">With its ample capacity, the towel radiator can accommodate multiple towels at once, ensuring that there's always a fresh, dry towel on hand. The radiator is also energy-efficient, using minimal electricity to operate, making it an environmentally-friendly choice for those who are conscious about their carbon footprint.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span lang="EN-IN">The polished chrome finish of the radiator adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the bathroom, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space. Whether you're looking to create a spa-like atmosphere or simply want to add a touch of luxury to your everyday routine, the towel radiator is an essential element of any lavish bathroom.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span lang="EN-IN">In short, the towel radiator is a stylish and practical addition to any bathroom, providing warmth, comfort, and convenience while adding a touch of elegance to the space.</span></p> <p> </p> <h3><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/wave-1200mm-wide-635mm-high-chrome-designer-towel-radiator">WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High</a></h3> urn:store:1:blog:post:58 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/radiator-pipe-covers-types-installation-and-maintenance Radiator Pipe Covers: Types, Installation, and Maintenance <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers are a great way to add style and functionality to the radiator and its surrounding area. They come in various materials, shapes and sizes, so choosing the right one for your application is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of radiator pipe covers, their benefits, installation and maintenance tips, and more.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Introduction to Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers are a great way to give your radiator a new look and keep it in good condition. They are available in various materials, shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your needs. Radiator pipe covers are also helpful for hiding unsightly pipes and wires and providing insulation against heat loss.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Types of Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers come in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes. Some of the most popular radiator pipe covers include chrome, copper and plastic. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your application.</p> <h3 dir="ltr">Chrome radiator pipe covers: </h3> <p dir="ltr">Chrome radiator pipe covers are a great way to give your radiator a sleek, modern look. Also, they are easy to clean and maintain, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Chrome radiator pipe covers are also resistant to rust and corrosion, making them a great choice for areas with high humidity.</p> <h3 dir="ltr">Copper pipe cover: </h3> <p dir="ltr">Copper pipe cover is another popular option for radiator pipe covers. Copper is a great insulation material, as it is an excellent conductor of heat. Copper pipe covers are durable and can last for years with proper care and maintenance.</p> <h3 dir="ltr">Plastic radiator pipe covers: </h3> <p dir="ltr">These are an excellent choice for those on a budget. They are available in various colours and styles, so you can easily find one that fits your needs. Plastic radiator pipe covers are lightweight and easy to install, making them a great option for those who really want to save time and money.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Benefits of Using Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers are a great way to give your radiator a new look and protect it from damage. The covers are available in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes, so that you can easily find the one that fits your needs. Radiator pipe covers are also useful for hiding unsightly pipes and wires, as well as providing insulation against heat loss.</p> <p dir="ltr">In addition to giving your radiator a new look, radiator pipe covers also provide added protection against damage. They are available in various of materials, so you can easily find one that is resistant to rust and corrosion. Radiator pipe covers also help to keep your radiator clean, as they can trap dirt and debris.</p> <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers are also a great way to add insulation to your radiator. They are available in various of materials, so you can easily find one that provides the right amount of insulation for your application. Radiator pipe covers also help to reduce heat loss, making them a great choice for areas with high humidity.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">How to cover radiator pipes</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Covering radiator pipes is a relatively simple process. Depending on the type of radiator pipe cover you are using, the installation process may differ slightly. Generally speaking; however, the installation process is fairly straightforward.</p> <p dir="ltr">Before you begin, make sure that you have all the necessary materials and tools. You will need a screwdriver, a drill, a hacksaw, and the appropriate screws and bolts. It’s also a good idea to have an assistant to help you with the installation.</p> <p dir="ltr">Once you have all the materials and tools you need, you can begin the installation process. Start by removing any existing covers from the radiator. Make sure to take note of the size and shape of the radiator pipe covers you are installing, as this will help ensure that the installation is done properly.</p> <p dir="ltr">Next, mark the location of the radiator pipe covers on the wall. Make sure to measure twice and mark once to ensure that the covers are installed in the correct location. Once the locations have been marked, you can begin drilling the holes for the screws and bolts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Once the holes have been drilled, you can attach the radiator pipe covers to the wall. Make sure to use the appropriate screws and bolts for the type of radiator pipe cover you are installing. Once the covers have been attached, you can plug the wires and pipes into the radiator.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Different Materials Used in Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Radiator pipe covers are available in various materials, so choosing the right one for your application is essential. Some of the most popular materials used in radiator pipe covers include chrome, copper and plastic. Each material has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the right one for your application.</p> <p dir="ltr">Chrome radiator pipe covers are a great way to give your radiator a sleek, modern look. Also, they are easy to clean and maintain, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Chrome radiator pipe covers are also resistant to rust and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for areas with high humidity.</p> <p dir="ltr">Copper pipe cover is another popular option for radiator pipe covers. Copper is a great insulation material, as it is an excellent conductor of heat. Copper pipe covers are durable and can last for years with proper care and maintenance.</p> <p dir="ltr">Plastic radiator pipe covers are an excellent choice for those on a budget. They are available in various colours and styles, so you can easily find one that fits your needs. Plastic radiator pipe covers are lightweight and easy to install, making them an excellent option for those who want to save time and money.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Chrome Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Installation of chrome radiator pipe covers is relatively simple. Start by measuring the area where the covers will be installed. Make sure to measure twice and mark once to ensure that the covers are installed in the correct location. Once the locations have been marked, you can begin drilling the holes for the screws and bolts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Chrome radiator pipe covers are easy to clean and maintain. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to regularly dust them off and wipe them down with a damp cloth. Chrome radiator pipe covers are also resistant to rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about them deteriorating over time.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Copper Pipe Cover</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Installation of copper pipe covers is similar to that of chrome radiator pipe covers. Start by measuring the area where the covers will be installed. Make sure to measure twice and mark once to ensure that the covers are installed in the correct location. Once the locations have been marked, you can begin drilling the holes for the screws and bolts.</p> <p dir="ltr">Copper pipe covers are easy to clean and maintain. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to regularly dust them off and wipe them down with a damp cloth. Copper pipe covers are also resistant to rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about them deteriorating over time.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Other Types of Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">In addition to chrome and copper, there are a variety of other materials used in radiator pipe covers. These include plastic, stainless steel and aluminium. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your application.</p> <p dir="ltr">Plastic radiator pipe covers are an excellent choice for those on a budget.</p> <p dir="ltr">They are available in various of colours and styles, so you can easily find one that fits your needs. Plastic radiator pipe covers are lightweight and easy to install, making them a great option for those who want to save time and money.</p> <p dir="ltr">Stainless steel radiator pipe covers are a great choice for those looking for a durable, corrosion-resistant material. Stainless steel is also highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a great choice for areas with high humidity. Stainless steel radiator pipe covers are also easy to install and maintain.</p> <p dir="ltr">Aluminium radiator pipe covers are an excellent choice for those looking for a lightweight material. Aluminium is also a great conductor of heat, making it a great choice for insulation. Aluminium radiator pipe covers are also easy to install and maintain.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Maintenance and Care of Radiator Pipe Covers</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">It’s important to regularly maintain and care for your radiator pipe covers to ensure that they last for years to come. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to regularly dust them off and wipe them down with a damp cloth. It’s also important to check for any signs of rust or corrosion, as this can cause the covers to deteriorate over time.</p> <p dir="ltr">In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, it’s also important to inspect the radiator pipe covers for any signs of damage. If you notice any cracks or holes, it’s important to replace the covers as soon as possible to prevent further damage.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion </h2> <p dir="ltr">Installing radiator pipe covers is a relatively simple process. Depending on the type of radiator pipe cover you are using, the installation process may differ slightly. Generally speaking; however, the installation process is fairly straightforward.</p> <p dir="ltr">It’s also important to regularly maintain and care for your radiator pipe covers to ensure that they last for years to come. To keep them looking their best, it’s important to regularly dust them off and wipe them down with a damp cloth. It’s also important to check for any signs of rust or corrosion, as this can cause the covers to deteriorate over time.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-67eb6f7f-7fff-d2ab-1387-0e9e7319f150">If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to give your radiator a new look and protect it from damage, radiator pipe covers are a great option. Buy the radiator pipe covers from <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/">towelradiator.co.uk</a> to get the best quality and value for your money.</span></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:57 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/buy-install-maintain-the-best-vertical-radiators-for-kitchens Buy-install-maintain the best vertical radiators for kitchens! <p dir="ltr">Are you looking for the <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators">best vertical radiators</a> to heat up your kitchen? Vertical radiators are an excellent choice for kitchens because they can be installed in any corner of the room, providing an efficient and stylish heating solution. In this blog, we will discuss about some kitchen radiator ideas, the types of vertical radiators, their benefits, factors to consider when choosing the best kitchen radiators in UK, and tips for installing and maintaining them.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">What are Vertical Radiators?</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Vertical radiators are a type of heating system that is tall and thin, with a series of vertical columns that radiate heat. They are designed to be space-saving and can be installed into a corner or wall of the room. They come in various of styles to suit any décor, and they are an excellent way to add a contemporary look to your kitchen.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Types of <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators"><span style="color: #008000;">Vertical Radiators</span></a></span></h2> <p dir="ltr">There are a variety of vertical radiators available on the market today. They come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and colours. Here are some of the most popular types of vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/stainless-steel-radiators-towel-rails">Steel Vertical Radiators</a></strong>: Steel radiators are the most popular type of vertical radiator. They are durable and efficient and come in a variety of designs and sizes. </p> <p dir="ltr">Aluminium Vertical Radiators: Vertical aluminium radiators are a great choice for kitchens because they are lightweight, energy-efficient, and stylish. They come in various of colours, and some models even come with a timer for convenience. </p> <p dir="ltr">Glass Vertical Radiators: Glass radiators are a great choice for kitchens because they are stylish and modern. They come in a variety of designs, and they are energy-efficient and heat up quickly.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Benefits of Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Vertical radiators offer a variety of benefits for your kitchen. They are energy-efficient, space-saving, and can be installed in any corner of the room. They also come in a variety of designs, so you can find one that fits your kitchen’s décor. Here are some of the benefits of vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Energy-Efficient:</strong> Vertical radiators are energy-efficient because they heat up quickly and evenly. They also use less energy than other types of heating systems, which can save you money on your energy bills. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Space-Saving:</strong> Vertical radiators are a great choice for small kitchens because they take up less space than other types of radiators. They can be installed in any corner of the room, which frees up valuable floor space. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Stylish:</strong> Vertical radiators come in a variety of styles, so you can find one that fits your kitchen’s décor. They are also a great way to add a modern look to your kitchen.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Tips for Choosing the Best Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">When choosing the best vertical radiators for your kitchen, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some tips for choosing the best vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Size:</strong> Choose a vertical radiator that is the right size for your kitchen. Measure the area where you will be installing the radiator, and make sure to choose one that is the right size for the space. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Material:</strong> Choose a radiator that is made from a durable material. Steel and aluminium radiators are the most popular choices, but you can also find glass, wood, and other materials. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Design:</strong> Choose a vertical radiator that has a design that you like. There are a variety of designs available, so you can find one that fits your kitchen’s décor.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">The Best Materials for Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">When choosing the best vertical radiators for your kitchen, it is important to consider the material they are made from. Here are some of the best materials for vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Steel:</strong> Steel is the most popular material for vertical radiators. It is durable and efficient and comes in a variety of designs. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Aluminium:</strong> Aluminium is an excellent choice for kitchens because it is lightweight, energy-efficient, and stylish. It also comes in various colours, so you can find one that fits your kitchen’s décor. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Glass:</strong> Glass radiators are an excellent choice for kitchens because they are stylish and modern. They come in a variety of designs, and they are energy-efficient and heat up quickly.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Factors to Consider when Buying the Best Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">When choosing the best vertical radiators for your kitchen, it is essential to consider a few factors. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Heat Output:</strong> Make sure to choose a vertical radiator with enough heat output to heat your kitchen effectively. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Installation:</strong> Make sure to choose a vertical radiator that is easy to install. Some models come with installation instructions, while others require professional installation. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Maintenance:</strong> Make sure to choose a vertical radiator that is easy to maintain. Some models require regular cleaning and maintenance, while others are more self-sustaining. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Style:</strong> Choose a vertical radiator that has a style that you like. There are a variety of styles available, so you can find one that fits your kitchen’s décor.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Buy the Best Vertical Radiators for Kitchens at a Reasonable Price</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">If you are looking for the best vertical radiators for your kitchen at a reasonable price, you should consider <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/">towelradiator.co.uk</a>. We offer a variety of vertical radiators in different sizes, shapes, materials, and colours. We also offer competitive prices on our products, so you can find the best vertical radiators for your kitchen at a reasonable price.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Tips for Installing Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Installing vertical radiators can be a bit tricky, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Here are some tips for installing vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Read the Instructions:</strong> Make sure to read the instructions carefully before you start installing the radiator. This will ensure that you install the radiator correctly and safely. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Check the Connections:</strong> Make sure to check the connections before you start installing the radiator. This will ensure that the connections are secure and that the radiator is properly connected to the power source. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Level the Radiator:</strong> Make sure to level the radiator before you install it. This will ensure that the radiator is evenly heated and that it heats up quickly and efficiently.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Maintenance and Care for Vertical Radiators</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Vertical radiators require regular maintenance and care to ensure that they are working properly and efficiently. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for vertical radiators: </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Check the Connections:</strong> Make sure to check the connections regularly to ensure that they are secure and that the radiator is properly connected to the power source. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Clean the Radiator:</strong> Make sure to clean the radiator regularly to remove dust and dirt. This will ensure that the radiator is working properly and efficiently. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Inspect the Radiator:</strong> Make sure to inspect the radiator regularly to check for any signs of damage or wear. This will ensure that the radiator is in good condition and that it is working properly.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <h2 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #008000;">Conclusion</span></h2> <p dir="ltr">Vertical radiators are an excellent choice for kitchens because they are energy-efficient, space-saving, and stylish. When choosing the best vertical radiators for your kitchen, make sure to consider the size, material, design, and heat output. You should also make sure to choose a radiator that is easy to install and maintain. </p> <p dir="ltr">If you are looking for the best vertical radiators for your kitchen at a reasonable price, you should consider <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/">towelradiator.co.uk</a>. So if you’re looking for the best vertical radiators for your kitchen, make sure to follow these tips above. </p> <p dir="ltr">With the right radiator, you can enjoy a stylish and efficient heating solution for your kitchen at a reasonable price. Buy the best vertical radiators from <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/">towelradiator.co.uk</a> and enjoy a warm and cozy kitchen all year round.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:56 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/energy-saving-tips-for-your-bathroom Energy Saving Tips for Your Bathroom <p>Bathrooms are traditionally the smallest rooms in the home, but in terms of energy consumption a bathroom is right up there near the top of the list. Nearly a quarter of our energy consumption goes towards heating water for showers, baths, and sinks. This is bad for our pockets and the environment, so it is important to look at ways to save energy, so your cash isn’t disappearing down the drain on a daily basis.</p> <p>There are many ways to save energy in the bathroom. Some are fairly obvious, but others may not have occurred to you, so check out the following list and see how many you can implement in your home.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Reduce Water Consumption</span></h2> <p>Water wastage is a big problem in many households. Because water is viewed as an infinite resource, we are all guilty of leaving the tap running when we brush our teeth, or ignoring a dripping tap for weeks because it is a hassle to fix the problem.</p> <p>The problem is, a dripping hot tap could be wasting thousands of litres of water every year, not to mention the fact that your boiler is heating water unnecessarily. It isn’t a huge job to fix a dripping tap, but if it is beyond your DIY skills, call in a plumber.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Swap the Bath for a Shower</span></h2> <p>Nothing beats a long, leisurely soak in a hot bath. It’s blissful to lie there for thirty minutes or more, relaxing and thinking about nothing in particular. Unfortunately, a daily bath uses an awful lot of water – as much as three times the amount of water used by a shower. Modern showers are more economical to run, so if you are looking to reduce your energy consumption, it is sensible to skip the bath and have a quick shower instead.</p> <p>Water efficient shower heads can reduce water and energy consumption, but they are only suitable for power showers and mixer showers.</p> <p>Speaking of showers, do you really need to have a shower twice a day? Personal hygiene is important, but some people take it a bit too far. It’s perfectly understandable that you would want a shower after a gym session or hot, sweaty day at work, but showering too often is bad for us. As your grandma probably used to say: a little bit of dirt never killed anyone!</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Heat and Ventilation</span></h2> <p>Heat and ventilation are very important in a bathroom. If the bathroom is too cold, moisture in the air can’t evaporate and over time mould and mildew form. Ventilation will allow moist air to escape, but leaving the window open all day during winter is unproductive, as it will take a lot more energy to heat the room back up in the evening.</p> <p>Ideally, you need to make sure you have sufficient heating installed in your bathroom. A radiator plus a heated towel rail is best, but in a small room, a <strong>heated towel rail</strong> on its own will provide enough heat to keep the room warm and your towels dry.</p> <p>In the summer, open the windows and let the steam escape naturally. In the winter, open the window for a few minutes to allow the room to ventilate, and then close it again.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Fit a Modern Bathroom Suite</span></h2> <p>If your bathroom is old and dated, it could be worth replacing it with an energy efficient new one. A smaller bath will reduce the amount of water you use and fitting a dual flush toilet will save around 16,000 litres of water every year. Alternatively, try inserting a brick in the cistern, as this will also reduce water consumption.</p> <p>Making a few changes to your bathroom will save lots of energy, so give it a try and let us know how you get on!</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:55 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-make-your-guest-room-extra-welcoming-this-christmas How to Make Your Guest Room Extra Welcoming This Christmas <p>When Christmas is coming, many of us plan to open our homes to family or friends for the big day, and often, if you are inviting people who live far away, this means overnight guests. If you have a guest room in your home and want to make it especially pleasant for your visitors to stay in this Christmas season, here are some tips!</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">Make the Bathroom Cosy and Comfortable</span></h2> <p>If you have an en-suite bathroom for your guest room, now is the time to make sure it feels nice and cosy for guests staying in the coldest part of the year. <strong><a href="/heated-towel-rails">Heated towel rails</a></strong> make for a warm and enjoyable shower experience and are also a good space-saving device for smaller bathrooms like many secondary or en-suite rooms. If you already have heated towel rail-style radiators, make sure these are nicely stocked with fluffy towels and perhaps even robes for your guests to use. This is always appreciated in winter! If your guest room does not have an en-suite bathroom and your guests will be sharing yours, leave some nice soft towels nicely folded in their room so they do not have to ask for them or wonder about which towels to use in your bathroom.</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">Winter Bedding</span></h2> <p>If you don’t have overnight guests staying very often throughout the year, you may tend to use the same bed linen all year round in your guest room. With heating, this is normally perfectly fine, but if you want to make the room feel cosier and more Christmassy, then swapping in some warmer blankets or a higher tog count duvets can be a nice way to make your guests really comfortable. It can often be a good idea to have layers, such as a sheet, a duvet and a blanket, so people can use what suits them most and they won’t end up feeling too hot or cold at night.</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">Festive Touches</span></h2> <p>A fun way to make your guests feel especially welcome for Christmas is to extend your Christmas decorations into their room. This doesn’t mean you need to turn it into a replica of Santa’s grotto (though that can be a fun thing to try if you have children visiting!), but some small touches like some fairy lights or a little miniature Christmas tree on the nightstand can make your guest room feel more festive without being distracting when your guests are trying to sleep. Another cute touch, for both kids and adults, is to hang simple Christmas stockings at the end of the bed with some treats like sweets inside.</p> <p>Getting ready for Christmas can involve quite a lot of work, especially when you are hosting the celebrations. However, if you can find some time to make the guest room as warm, welcoming and comfortable as possible, this can go a long way to ensuring your guests have a special and memorable Christmas while they are staying in your home.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:54 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/choosing-the-right-lighting-for-your-bathroom Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Bathroom <p>The main bathroom is often one of the most underrated parts of a house. Just because it is one of the smallest rooms, people who are decorating or renovating often think it needs less thought put into aspects like colour and lighting than the living room, kitchen, or bedrooms. In actual fact, how comfortable and luxurious your bathroom is can make quite a difference to how it feels to live in or visit your home, and so it is worth putting some time into planning out the details. This doesn’t just mean the main fixtures like the shower or bath, but also aesthetic elements like lighting.</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">Why is Lighting Important in a Bathroom?</span></h2> <p>You may think that as long as you aren’t trying to shower or use the toilet in the dark, then the lighting in your bathroom is fine. Actually, with good lighting, your bathroom can become a more relaxing place in the evening, a more energising place in the morning, and a more convenient place to do things like put on makeup, style your hair or shave. This generally means that you need to think about separate lighting elements – your above mirror lighting, lighting for the room in general, and possibly also lighting for the shower or bath.</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">LED is Always Best</span></h2> <p>When it comes to bathroom lighting, always go for LED for new or refurbished fittings. LED lasts longer, is more energy efficient, and gives you more choice when it comes to light tones or colours. Plain LED lights allow you to choose between blue, yellow or white tones for your light, and in the bathroom, a yellow tone that emulates sunlight is preferable. This is because it is less harsh and gives you a better impression of how you actually look in daylight when you are getting ready in front of the mirror. White or blue tones can be effective as a style choice for the whole room, but if you are using spotlights above the mirror, a warmer tone is better there.</p> <h2><span style="color: #339966;">Colour Changing Lights</span></h2> <p>It is currently quite fashionable in interior design to use colour changing lights in showers, and there is a good reason for this. It has been shown by psychologists that different colours from the light spectrum have different effects on the brain. This means that being able to change the lighting in your shower is not just a cool gimmick but can actually be used to help relax you or wake you up. Naturally, this makes taking a shower is a better experience, and also looks great, so consider getting a colour changing LED light system for your shower. These are less expensive than they were just a few years ago and can make a big difference to how luxurious and pleasant using your home shower is!</p> <p>As you can see, bathroom lighting is important when you are trying to make your bathroom as convenient as possible, just as other things like <strong>heated towel rails</strong> can make your bathroom one of the nicest parts of your home, despite it being small!</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:53 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-often-should-you-wash-your-bath-towels-and-rugs How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Towels and Rugs? <p style="text-align: justify;">The question of how often you need to wash towels, bath mats and rugs is a common one. If you stay in a hotel, you would expect the towels to be freshly laundered, but at home, it is very easy to overlook the fact you haven’t washed a towel for a week or two, particularly if it is a colour that doesn’t show the dirt. So how often should you be throwing these items into the laundry basket?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Mould and Bacteria</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Hygiene is a big issue in a bathroom. Water, moist air and a lack of ventilation can all cause mould, mildew and harmful bacteria to build up. Towels are absorbent, so they hold on to moisture. Damp towels soon become a breeding ground for bacteria and other germs. Hanging a damp towel on a radiator or heated towel rail will help it to dry out faster, but if the heating isn’t on during the day, damp towels stay damp for extended periods of time.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Every time you use a towel to dry off your body when you step out the shower or bath, dead skin cells collect in the fibres of the towel. Over time, that’s a lot of exfoliated skin!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Hand towels are used multiple times a day: for drying hands and wiping faces. If there are four people living in your home, that’s an awful lot of use for one towel every single day.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Washing Bath Towels</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Whether you have a shower once a day or every three days, it really doesn’t matter, but what does matter is that you wash your towel every 3-5 times you use it. So if you have a shower every other day, your towel needs washing about once a week. Ideally a towel should be left to dry out completely between each use, preferably on a heated towel rail or over a radiator. But, if your towel never has the opportunity to dry out thoroughly, it needs washing more frequently.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Washing Hand Towels</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Hand towels get a lot more use, so these need washing regularly. The more people sharing the bathroom, the more often you need to wash your hand towels. Experts advise that a hand towel should be laundered every two or three days. For this reason, it is sensible to have a stack of clean towels on the go, so you can throw the dirty one on the laundry basket and replace it with a fresh one.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Washing Bath Mats</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Bathmats don’t have the luxury of being allowed to dry off. They usually sit in a waterproof floor, so every time someone climbs out of the bath and stands on the mat, dripping, as they towel dry their body, that’s a lot of water collecting right there.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Damp bath mats soon become a magnet for bacteria and mould, so it is sensible to wash a fabric bath mat once a week. Just throw it in with your towels. Rubber backed bath mats need to be treated with greater care, as frequent washing will destroy the rubber coating. If this is the case, wash it every 3-4 weeks and have a spare handy, in case your mat starts to look grubby.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Towels and fabric bath mats need to be washed on a warm 60 degree setting, as this is the only temperature guaranteed to eradicate germs. They can then be thrown in the tumble drier or hung on a washing line for a dose of outside freshness (note: rubber backed bath mats should be left to air dry; do not put them in a tumble drier!).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once your towels start to look a bit threadbare or they have lost their colour, replace them with some fresh new ones.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:52 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-en-suite-bathroom How to Get the Most Out of Your En-Suite Bathroom <p>En-suite bathrooms are no longer a luxury accessory, reserved only for wealthy home owners. Today’s modern homes come with an en-suite as standard and if you have kids, having an en-suite adjacent to the master bedroom is a definite advantage. So how can you get the most out of your en-suite if you decide to add one, or you want to give an existing en-suite a makeover?</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">The Benefits of Adding an En-suite Bathroom</span></h2> <p>If you don’t yet have an en-suite and are considering the pros and cons of one, here are a few reasons why adding an en-suite could be a smart decision.</p> <ul> <li><span lang="EN-US">No more queues – It is no fun at all having to queue up outside the family bathroom in the morning while your teenager conducts her beauty routine on a go-slow. If you have an en-suite, you can roll straight from bed into the shower in one easy movement. </span></li> <li><span lang="EN-US">Add value to your home – A stylish en-suite bathroom attached to a master bedroom will definitely add value to your home, as long as you have not sacrificed a bedroom in the process.</span></li> </ul> <p>Attract buyers – Most buyers have a list of must-have features in their head when they go to view a property. Since an en-suite is considered to be very desirable, especially for families, you could lose out on a sale if you do not have one.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Space Saving Designs</span></h2> <p>An en-suite bathroom is typically on the small side, so it is important to maximise what space you do have in order that the room doesn’t feel claustrophobic. Luckily there are lots of ways to do this. </p> <p>Fitted bathroom units will make the most of the space by hiding pipework away. Back to wall toilets have cisterns hidden behind panels and small, modern sinks are ideal for smaller en-suites. Look for units with a toilet and sink, plus storage space in one unit. By removing a sink pedestal and adding extra storage, you create more space. Alternatively, consider fitting a half pedestal sink so that the floor area remains clear.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">En-suite Showers</span></h2> <p>A shower is a popular choice for an en-suite bathroom. Walk-in showers are a very modern option, but if you really want to push the boat out, go for a wet room instead. With a wet room, you can remove the need for a shower tray and create a greater sense of space. As long as the room is correctly waterproofed by an experienced professional, it is the perfect solution for many home owners.</p> <p>Many en-suites are not large enough for a full-size bath, but if you have the space, look at a roll top or standalone bath. These are the ultimate in luxury and guaranteed to turn your bathroom into a high-end oasis of pampering. </p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Create the Illusion of Space</span></h2> <p>The best way to create the illusion of space in a small room is to keep the floor as clear as possible and use light, bright colours. Floor to ceiling white tiles are a good choice for a small en-suite. Cabinet storage and wall mounted sanitary ware is another way of creating the illusion of space. Lastly, don’t forget to use mirrors to reflect light back into the room.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Minimalist Design Ideas</span></h2> <p>Less is more in an en-suite, so make sure you include adequate storage for your toiletries. Glass shelves above sinks and functional, yet stylish fitted furniture will all help to create a modern vibe in your en-suite. A <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/emreno-500-1232mm-chrome-designer-towel-radiator">modern designer towel rail</a></strong> will also help to cement the minimalist look in your en-suite.</p> <p><em><strong>Start work on your en-suite today – it will be money well spent!</strong></em></p> <p> </p> urn:store:1:blog:post:51 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-design-the-perfect-bespoke-bathroom How to Design the Perfect Bespoke Bathroom <p style="text-align: justify;">A well-designed bespoke bathroom will significantly enhance your home. Nobody enjoys spending time in an old, slightly grubby bathroom with cracked tiles, mouldy grout and an avocado bathroom suite. If you install a beautiful white suite with a walk-in shower, chrome towel rail and designer tiles, it’s a very different scenario: instead of rushing in and out, you will want to spend lots of time in there!<br />Designing a bespoke bathroom is way to achieve the right bathroom for your individual requirements. It can sometimes be tricky to make the most of what space you have to work with, so it pays to consider the layout practically as well as aesthetically when planning the perfect bathroom.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Create a 2D Bathroom Plan</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Draw a plan of your bathroom and carefully measure up each dimension, making a note of where doors and windows, soil pipes, extraction vents, etc. are. You will already have various fixtures and fittings in place, but unless you are retaining any of these, start with a blank slate. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are many things to consider when designing a bespoke bathroom.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Storage</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Think about whether you need storage. Many older bathrooms don’t come with any storage, so you end up with bottles left on the side of the bath and towels stored elsewhere, which is not convenient. Incorporating storage in your bathroom design will lead to a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing bathroom.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">This can be achieved in a number of ways. Sink vanity units come with storage in the form of drawers and cupboards. Alternatively, you can go for a fitted unit along one wall that includes a sink and a toilet – this type of design maximises space, which is useful in smaller bathrooms. Fitted units can be built to suit any space; even awkward spaces in non-standard shaped rooms. This is a popular choice for modern bathrooms, as it allows you to select from a range of doors and worktops. </p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Bathroom Heating</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There is nothing worse than stepping out of a hot shower into a glacial bathroom, so think carefully about what type of heating you want. Radiators are typically used to heat a bathroom, but underfloor heating is also useful if you want the floor to feel warm underfoot. A <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/towel-radiators"><strong>heated towel radiator</strong></a> is a stylish and attractive option for a bathroom, plus it will keep towels nice and warm, but on its own, a <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-towel-radiators">designer towel radiator</a></strong> may not give out enough heat for a larger bathroom.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Fixtures and Fittings</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Think about what sanitary fixtures and fittings you would like. Standard bathroom suites include a bath, toilet and sink. However, if you never use the bath, consider installing a walk-in shower instead. Or, if you have the room, how about a roll top or freestanding bath together with a shower cubicle? There are many options available, so be creative!<br />Water pressure is also a major consideration when designing a bespoke bathroom. Gravity fed central heating systems don’t deliver sufficient water pressure for a power shower, so this will directly influence your choice of products.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Floor and Wall Tiles</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Tiles are a practical choice for bathrooms, as they are hygienic and cut down on maintenance. Colourful, patterned tiles go well with plain bathroom suites, but neutral colour schemes usually work best if you plan on selling the property.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #339966;">Lighting</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Lighting is also important. Ceiling spotlights work well in bathrooms, but don’t forget to include extra lighting around mirrors. <br />It is always advantageous to take advantage of a free bathroom planning service offered by bathroom retailers. They can help you get a good feel for the space and suggest things you might not have considered. You are not obliged to use their products or installers, but do make sure you use a professional bathroom fitter when you are ready to have the work done.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:50 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-prevent-a-central-heating-meltdown How to Prevent a Central Heating Meltdown <p style="text-align: justify;">With winter upon us, the nights are growing colder and you can no longer avoid turning the central heating on. If your central heating is in good condition, this will be a seamless process, but if your boiler is feeling its age, there is every chance that you might run into problems in the very near future. So how can you reduce your risk of ending up with no heating as winter approaches?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In a wet system, central heating boilers heat the water that circulates around your network of radiators. If the boiler is working correctly, you turn the heating on and within a few minutes the radiators will begin to heat up. There are other types of heating, but in the UK, a central heating boiler powered by gas, electricity or oil is the norm.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Annual Boiler Service</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Boilers need servicing every year. Some boilers are less complicated than others – oil boilers have relatively few working parts – but even so, they still need checking over once per year if they are to remain in good working condition. If you buy a new central heating boiler, it will be covered by a warranty for parts and/or labour. This will give you peace of mind for the first twelve months or so, but you do still need to have it serviced.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Servicing a boiler helps to ensure that any faults are picked up before they become major problems. It also means your boiler will work more efficiently, which will save you money on fuel in the long term. However, there is little point in having your central heating boiler serviced if you don’t use a suitably qualified engineer. Engineers lacking experience or qualifications are not going to do a good job and under certain circumstances could even put your life in danger.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Gas Safety</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Gas boilers need to be serviced by a Gas Safe registered gas engineer. Registered engineers are listed on the Gas Safe register; they also carry a Gas Safe registration ID card, which you can check. These are the only people who are legally allowed to work on gas appliances, including gas central heating coilers, so if you are not sure of an engineer’s qualifications, ask him to show you his Gas Safe ID card.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Simple Reasons Why the Heating Isn’t Working</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If your central heating is not working, it is worth checking to see if there are any ‘quick fixes’ before you call out an engineer after hours.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If radiators are coming on, but not getting very hot, there may be air in the system so try ‘bleeding’ your radiators. If the radiators upstairs are hot, but the ones downstairs are stone cold, your pump might have stopped working. Another common problem is where the waste water pipe from the boiler to the outside freezes in very cold temperatures – using better insulation on the pipe can prevent this problem from recurring. Other possible issues include:</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Gas boilers</span></h2> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Has the pilot light gone our? If it has, try re-lighting it.</li> <li>Have you run out of gas – this is only applicable if you are on LPG rather than mains gas.</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Oil boilers</span></h2> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>If the water pressure has dropped below safe level, the boiler will automatically lock out. To correct this, top up the water pressure and then press the restart button (check the manual for details on where to find this button).</li> <li>Have you run out of oil? This is unlikely if your oil tank has a sensor, but it can still happen if the sensor is faulty.</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Central Heating in Rental Homes</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Landlords are responsible for fixing central heating problems as quickly as possible. Having no spare cash to pay an engineer won’t cut it, so if your landlord drags their feet and you have been without heating and/or hot water for more than 72 hours, give your local housing officer a call and explain the situation.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most central heating problems can be fixed fairly easily, but if your heating is off more than it is on, it might be time to replace the system with a new one.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:49 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/flat-vs-house-which-one-is-better Flat vs House- Which One is Better? <p style="text-align: justify;">Homes come in all shapes and sizes and for many people, as long as they have a roof over their head, they don&rsquo;t care whether the home has one floor or ten. But if you are looking at buying a new home, you might be wondering whether a flat or a house is going to be a better choice. Both are likely to be on offer, although if you are looking at inner city properties, flats will be more prevalent than houses. So what are the main differences and what do you need to be aware of before investing?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Leasehold Vs Freehold</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Flats are normally leasehold whereas houses are freehold. This creates a lot of problems and can make it harder to sell the property or obtain a mortgage if there are not many years left on the lease. If you are considering buying a flat, always take specialist advice on the subject of leases, as they can be very restrictive.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Extra Expenses</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">When you buy a house, you expect to pay the usual expenses such as gas, electricity, etc. With flats it can be a bit different and there are sometimes ground rent and service charges to take into account. You may also be expected to contribute to major building repairs such as a leaking roof, even if your flat is not affected, so once again, take advice before buying.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Size Matters</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Although there is a common perception that flats are smaller than houses, this is not true at all. Many flats are just as spacious as houses and encompass just as many square feet of living space. You may even find a flat with living space split over two floors. However, if you want a property with multiple bedrooms and a large amount of living space, there will be a lot more houses to choose from. And if you are short of money and can&rsquo;t afford a large home, the opposite will be true and flats are likely to be at the top of the affordability scale.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Shared Space</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most flats have some degree of communal space, be it a shared landing and staircase or a communal hallway. This doesn&rsquo;t mean that you will ever see any of your close neighbours, but if you are the solitary type who prefers to avoid other human beings, a flat might not suit you. It is possible, however, to find self-contained flats with their own private entrance that feel like houses rather than flats. These are perhaps the best of both worlds.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Noise Levels</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A lot of modern houses, particularly low-cost homes, are built in very close proximity to one another, with paper-thin walls. This can lead to noise problems if you have neighbours who like the sound of their rock music and enjoy arguing at 3AM in the morning. Flats can be even worse and there is nothing worse than listening to an ignorant resident in the flat above stomping around and making a racket for hours. The only way to avoid this problem is to buy a detached house on a large plot.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Accessibility</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">People with mobility problems will find it hard to cope with stairs, which rules out most homes built over more than one level. Since flats tend to be built on one level, they are a good choice for people with disabilities, although anything above ground level may represent a problem unless there are elevators in the building. If you still want to live in a house, your best option is to opt for a bungalow.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ultimately, whether you buy a house or a flat will be a decision governed by your personal circumstances and the property available, but do make sure you take expert advice before investing any money in property.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:48 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/top-diy-gadgets-every-home-should-have Top DIY Gadgets Every Home Should Have <p style="text-align: justify;">Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or not, there are some gadgets and power tools you really should invest in. You don&rsquo;t necessarily need to be skilled at DIY to use them, but if you do decide to undertake a DIY project such as removing a <a title="Vertical designer radiators" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators"><strong>vertical designer radiator</strong></a> from the wall in order to strip off old wallpaper, a few handy tools will make life so much easier. So what tools and gadgets are worth investing in?</p> <table style="width: 100%;" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Screwdriver Set" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/1-screwdriver.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">A Multi Purpose Screwdriver Set</span></h2> <p>Every home should have a set of screwdrivers stashed away in a drawer somewhere. Screwdrivers come in handy for all kinds of things. From opening a plug to change a fuse to tightening up a hinge on a door, there will come a time when you need a screwdriver, so make sure you have at least one of each variety available.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Wallpaper Stripper" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/2-steam.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Steam Wallpaper Stripper</span></h2> <p>Scraping off wallpaper by hand is a backbreaking job if you are tackling decades of ugly woodchip painted in magnolia. By contrast, most wallpaper will come off pretty easily if you use a steam wallpaper stripper. The only thing you need to be careful of is that if you get a bit too enthusiastic with the steam, you might notice chunks of plaster falling off too.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Power Drill" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/3-drill.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Power Drill</span></h2> <p>You can&rsquo;t put up a shelf without a power drill. Well, you could, but it might not stay up for more than five minutes. Electric drills are cheap and easy to use. Choose from corded economy drills or upgrade to a cordless drill for outdoor projects. For simple DIY projects, go for a cheap and cheerful brand, but if you plan on building an extension, look at quality brands such as Makita or Bosch.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Electric Screwdriver" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/4-elecscrew.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Electric Screwdriver</span></h2> <p>If you are a big fan of flat-pack furniture, an electric screwdriver will make your life an awful lot easier. Instead of sweating away with an old screwdriver, you can get the job done in half the time. And the good thing about electric screwdrivers is that they often come with a selection of multi-functional accessories, such as corkscrews, so if you are struggling to uncork a bottle of wine, pull out your trusty electric screwdriver and get Happy Hour off to a fine start.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Mini Sander" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/5-sander.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Mini Sander</span></h2> <p>In order to achieve a professional finish when painting skirting boards and doorframes, you need to sand the wood down to remove lumps, bumps and imperfections. To do this by hand takes ages and the end result is not always that great. Investing in a mini sander will make life a lot easier. You can also use mini sanders to renovate wooden furniture if you fancy introducing a bit of &lsquo;shabby chic&rsquo; into your home.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Chop Saw" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/6-saw.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Chop Saw</span></h2> <p>Chopping sticks for the fire is a pain when you have to do it by hand. A far easier way of chopping small sticks for kindling is to use a chop saw instead. Chop saws are great if you have a huge pile of timber off-cuts. It takes minutes to zap through a stack of wood and turn it into kindling size pieces. For larger pieces of timber (for example old pallets), a circular saw is a better choice, although this requires more strength to wield for any length of time.</p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="width: 205px;" valign="top"><img alt="Universal Cutter" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/7-unicutter.jpg" width="200" /></td> <td style="text-align: justify;" valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Universal Cutter</span></h2> <p>A universal cutting tool is like a penknife on steroids. With one of these little gadgets you will be able to cut through just about anything: carpets, vinyl flooring, electric cabling, and anything else you need to sever in two.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">This is just a small selection of the many DIY gadgets you will find at your local DIY store, but with one or two of these in your garage, you should have most DIY projects covered.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:47 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-find-a-top-tradesman How to Find a Top Tradesman <p style="text-align: justify;">There are times when it feels as if a good, reliable tradesman is more elusive than a unicorn. You know the feeling: you want a new <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/stainless-steel-radiators"><strong>stainless steel radiator</strong></a> or a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk"><strong>towel radiator</strong></a> fitting in your home, but finding a plumber to do the job is impossible. None of the people you contact are interested in such a small job, and most don&rsquo;t even bother replying to your voicemail message. So what are your options?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You could have a go at doing the job yourself, but there is only so much you can learn from a YouTube video and besides, you don&rsquo;t have the right tools for the job anyway.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Asking a DIY enthusiast friend to help you out is a better option, but that will leave you indebted to them and do you really want &ldquo;Big Mike&rdquo; asking you to baby-sit his Rottweiler for a weekend?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Word of Mouth</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">The best way to track down a reputable tradesman who isn&rsquo;t going to rip you off and leave your home looking like a building site is to use personal recommendations. Using word of mouth will ensure you only hire tradesmen who have a good reputation. If you have some work that needs doing, ask friends and family if they can recommend a plumber, heating engineer, electrician, etc. It isn&rsquo;t foolproof, but it will weed out the worst offenders.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Another way to find someone reliable is to task another tradesman in a different niche. For example, if you need a plasterer, ask a builder or plumber as they usually work with plasterers and will therefore have lots of contacts. You might even be able to score a discount in the process.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">TrustMark</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">TrustMark is a government-backed scheme. Tradesmen listed on the website have to be approved, which means they are more trustworthy. In order to be able to display the TrustMark logo, a tradesman must sign up for a code of practice, submit to checks on his financial and trading history, plus allow on-site inspections. There is no guarantee that a TrustMark approved contractor won&rsquo;t go out of business and leave you high and dry, but you are more protected than if you hire a random person from the Yellow Pages.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Online Recommendations</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are plenty of online recommendation websites purporting to offer reviews and ratings of tradesman. Think of them as a kind of &lsquo;Trip Advisor&rsquo; for tradesmen. How they work is pretty simple: Fred the Plumber can register on an online recommendation website, which provides a convenient platform for him to tout for business. Once he has done a job, his customer is invited to rate his services and the more positive reviews he has, the more work he will get. In theory it sounds good, but in practice sites have been accused of removing negative reviews. There is also nothing to stop tradesmen asking friends and family to leave glowing feedback in order to boost their online profile.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are several big recommendation websites to choose from, including:</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li><strong>RatedPeople</strong></li> <li><strong>Mybuilder</strong></li> <li><strong>Trustatrader</strong></li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Practice Due Diligence</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once you have drawn up a shortlist of potential tradesmen, check them and their work out thoroughly. Make sure they carry the correct licenses for the type of work they are quoting for. Ask if they can provide references and if they use social networking, look at how they interact with customers.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Always obtain detailed quotes and if there is anything you are not sure about, ask for clarification. Do not pay in advance for work to be carried out, although you may be asked to pay a percentage of the cost of materials in advance. Lastly, make sure you get everything in writing, including the scope of the job and the amount agreed upon. That way you are protected if it all goes wrong at a later stage.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:46 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/five-cheap-ways-to-keep-your-home-warm-in-winter Five Cheap Ways to Keep Your Home Warm In Winter <table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once the weather turns colder, heating becomes a priority. Living in a cold home is plain miserable, but if you can&rsquo;t afford to have the central heating on for more than an hour a day, you may have little choice but to wrap up in lots of thick, woolly jumpers and dance in front of the TV when your toes turn blue. So what cheap things can you do to ensure your home stays warm and cosy this winter?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Prevent Heat Loss through Windows</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A large percentage of heat is lost through windows. Installing expensive double-glazing will make a difference, but if you can&rsquo;t afford to do this then try replacing your thin, fashionable curtains and blinds with some thick, heavy duty drapes. And if you can&rsquo;t afford to replace your curtains, buy some old blankets and hang these up over doors and windows at night, or line existing curtains with an extra layer of fleece.&nbsp;</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 255px; text-align: right;"><br /><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/heat-loss.jpg" width="250" alt="thermal image" title="Heat Loss" /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Credit to: www.bbc.co.uk</span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" style="width: 255px; text-align: left;"> <p><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/tesa-film.jpg" width="250" alt="Window Film" title="Window Film" /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Credit to: www.greenstamp.co.uk</span></p> <p><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/radiator-foil.jpg" width="250" alt="Radiator Foil" title="Radiator Foil" /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Credit to: www.energyscrooge.com</span></p> </td> <td valign="top"> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Window Film for Single Glazed Units</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Extra heat protection for windows can be bought in the form of self-adhesive window film. It is very easy to fit &ndash; apply to the window frame using tape and fix in place with a hot hair dryer. You won&rsquo;t be able to open the window once you have fitted window film, but it&rsquo;s cheap enough to replace every year.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Keep Radiators Clear</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Radiators need space around them. Placing large items of furniture in front of radiators means the heat they emit will be absorbed instead of spreading out into the room. You can also maximise heat from radiators by putting a shelf above it to channel the hot hair outwards. This is particularly useful if a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/horizontal-radiators" title="Designer Horizontal Radiators"><strong>horizontal radiator</strong></a> is fitted beneath a window, as it will stop the heat from being trapped behind curtains and blinds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Another way of making radiators more efficient is to stick aluminium foil on the wall behind the radiator. This works to reduce heat loss through walls by reflecting heat back into the room. It is very useful for radiators fitted into external walls. Purpose designed aluminium foil can be bought very cheaply. You can also use regular household tin foil, but this is not as effective.&nbsp;</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Block Drafts</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Drafts make a home feel cold. Most drafts creep in under doors and between gaps in window frames. These can be fixed with simple foam strips and draft excluders. Other drafts are more insidious and you might not be aware of where they are coming from. If you find drafts coming through the letterbox and/or keyhole in your door, buy a purpose made cover to keep cold air out. Cat flaps are also great for letting drafts in &ndash; either lock your cat flap and persuade Fluffy to become a house cat, or fix a thick piece of fabric over the opening and hope that Fluffy is smart enough to push it to once side when he wants to go outdoors for a wander.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Live in a Smaller Space</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There is little point in paying good money to heat rooms you don&rsquo;t use. It is a lot easier (and cheaper) to heat one or two rooms, so if you are trying to save money, close off rooms you don&rsquo;t need and concentrate on heating the rooms that you use regularly. Just remember to air these rooms out regularly or damp will become a problem.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are plenty of things you can do to reduce your energy bills and stay nice and warm. There might even be grants available to help pay for the cost of extra loft insulation or cavity wall insulation, so check out what&rsquo;s available to find out if you are eligible.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:45 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/simple-household-ingredients-for-sparkling-bathrooms Simple Household Ingredients for Sparkling Bathrooms <table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <p style="text-align: justify;">Cleaning the bathroom is probably one of the many chores on your &ldquo;to do&rdquo; list. In an ideal word the bathroom would be thoroughly cleaned every single day, but if you are permanently chasing your tail, it is a once-per-week task. Yes, Saturday mornings are a time to dig out some rubber gloves and a bottle of bleach before knuckling down to scrub the bath and toilet. But how can you ensure your bathroom is spotlessly clean if you have run out of big brand name cleaning sprays and solutions?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Brand name cleaning products are expensive and not especially good for the environment. Products containing harsh chemicals are also not recommended to us on your <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-towel-radiators" title="Designer Towel Radiators"><strong>designer towel radiators</strong></a>. If the advertisements are to be believed, your bathroom will be a festering cesspit of germs if you don&rsquo;t blitz it with a few brand name sprays and solutions. However, you don&rsquo;t need any brand name cleaners to maintain a hygienic and sparkling clean bathroom &ndash; there are lots of simple household ingredients you can use instead.</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 310px; text-align: right;"> <p></p> <p><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/bathroom-cleaning.jpg" width="300" alt="Home Cleaning Products" title="Non-Toxic Home Cleaning" /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">image credit to&nbsp;</span><strong><span style="font-size: xx-small;">eartheasy.com</span>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">White Vinegar</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">White vinegar is a fantastic all-purpose cleaning solution. You can use it anywhere, even radiators and skirting boards, but it is especially good on glass and ceramic tiles because will remove water marks and soap scum effortlessly. Dilute vinegar with water in a 50:50 solution and use a spray bottle to apply the solution to glass and tiles. Diluted vinegar is great for cleaning floors and neat vinegar can be used to clean toilet bowls and sinks.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Baking Soda</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Baking Soda is another handy store cupboard ingredient that doubles as a household cleaner. Its abrasive qualities make it perfect as a scrubbing agent on grimy sinks and other hard surfaces. It can also be used to absorb nasty odours, so sprinkle some on the hinges of the toilet seat or around the base of the toilet if it gets a bit whiffy and finish off with a solution of bleach.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Clear Blocked Sinks and Baths</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If your sink or bath drain is slow to empty because of a build up of soap scum, instead of spending money on expensive drain cleaning agents, pour some baking soda down the plug hole and add a cup of vinegar. The resultant volcano of white foam will clear the blockage and refresh your drains, plus it will keep the kids entertained and ignite their interest in science.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Lemons</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Lemons are a lot more than a great accompaniment to a nice gin and tonic. If you have a lemon handy you can put it to good use in the bathroom for it is an excellent natural bleaching agent. Lemon juice is very efficient at removing soap scum and hard watermarks in bathrooms. Lemon juice is also very useful if you have brass plated taps; unlike other cleaning products, lemon juice won&rsquo;t damage the finish. If you need a more abrasive cleaner, use a cut lemon in conjunction with some baking soda.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Cleaning Floors and Tile Grout</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Bathroom floors can be freshened up with solutions of vinegar and water. For tougher stains, sprinkle baking soda over the floor and follow it up with a dilute solution of bleach. Baking soda can also be used as a very effective cleaner for grubby grout between tiles. Mix some baking soda into a thick paste and apply to the affected areas.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With a bottle of white vinegar, some baking soda and a bit of elbow grease, your bathroom will be soon be looking as good as new. You do need to be careful, however, because lemons in particular can bleach surfaces. Always test your cleaning agent in an inconspicuous area if you are trying it out for the first time. That way you won&rsquo;t end up with marks you can&rsquo;t get rid of.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:44 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/basement-conversions-and-creations-good-or-bad Basement Conversions and Creations - Good or Bad? <p style="text-align: justify;">When space is at a premium, and you have exhausted all other avenues of expansion, a basement conversion could be the way forward. Certainly in overcrowded central <st1:city>London</st1:city>, expensive basement conversions have become the norm with super-rich Oligarchs and well-known celebrities vying on who can build the most ostentatious basement conversion. But is a basement conversion a good idea for the average person? Or would you be better <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/loft-conversions-a-cheap-and-cheerful-way-to-add-extra-space">renovating the attic</a> or building a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/conservatories-vs-extensions-which-one-is-best-for-your-home">regular extension</a> instead?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you already have an existing basement, converting it into a habitable space won&rsquo;t be too difficult. Your basement should already be waterproofed and ventilated, so aside from the addition of extra lighting and other mod cons, it will not cost you too much money to turn it into a spare bedroom, playroom, or whatever else you need.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Creating a whole basement from scratch is a different story and definitely not one for the faint hearted. Digging out a basement is a major project. It is not something a keen DIY enthusiast can do on their weekends as foundations need to be checked to ensure they can support the structural alterations. There is also water drainage to consider &ndash; imagine the carnage if you accidentally severed a water main. Lastly, there is a cost implication &ndash; digging out a whole new basement from scratch is not cheap, so be prepared to spend a lot of money to achieve your perfect underground living space.&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Is Planning Permission Needed?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">You shouldn&rsquo;t need <a href="https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">planning permission</a> if you are converting an existing basement. Your new basement living space can even be larger than the old basement as long as you don&rsquo;t extend beyond the boundary of your property. However, in some cases, specific planning permission will be required. For example, if you live in a terrace house, you will need a Party Wall Agreement in place since you share a common wall with your neighbours. To avoid any problems, always check with the local planning office before you start excavating &ndash; or it could get a bit messy further down the line.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Important Considerations for Basement Development</span></h2> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li><b>Damp proofing</b> &ndash; A damp basement might be ok for storing old tins of paint and a few bottles of wine, but it certainly won&rsquo;t be very pleasant for guests, so an adequate damp proofing strategy is essential. There are different methods of keeping the water out; your building contractor will be able to advise you on the most appropriate one for your basement. A water membrane system can be used to seal the space and allow water to drain away. Alternatively a cement based system may be more suitable.</li> <li><b>Heating</b> - Basements are usually cool all year round which can be comfortable in summer but a bit chilly in winter months. Basements are often partially insulated by the ground around them, so your existing heating system should provide the reasonable amount of heat required for comfortable temperatures. You will however need to check with a heating engineer to see if your existing central heating system can handle a new designer vertical radiator. Alternatively, you can opt in for an <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/electric-towel-rails"><strong>electric designer heated towel rail</strong></a> independent from your central heating system.</li> <li><b>Lighting</b> &ndash; Natural light is key to a successful basement renovation. Often natural light is in short supply when you build down instead of up, but there are ways and means to introduce natural light into a basement, even if you don&rsquo;t have any windows. Light tubes can be used to pipe light down into a basement. Alternatively, you may be able to fit a flat double glazed window at ground level, which will have the added benefit of giving you an extra source of ventilation.</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Plan the Space Carefully</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">How you use the extra space will probably depend on how much light there is down below. If natural light is in short supply, consider turning your new basement into a games room or gym, but if you are able to introduce natural light, it could make a great guest bedroom or teenager&rsquo;s bolt hole.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Choose an Experienced Contractor</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Basement renovations can be challenging, so always choose a reputable contractor who has previous experience with basement conversions. It can be tempting to try and save money in the short term, but when things go wrong, it is usually extremely expensive to try and fix them.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:43 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/can-the-green-deal-save-you-cash Can the Green Deal Save You Cash? <table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="3" align="center" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <p style="text-align: justify;">An energy efficient home is far more than an eco-home with a compost toilet and a turf roof. By maximising your energy efficiency you can potentially save hundreds of pounds per year. You can also have a much nicer home; a home that is warm in the winter. So what is the Green Deal and how can it help to make your home more energy efficient?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The Green Deal is a scheme devised by the government to help households pay for home improvements that can reduce energy bills. The idea is that instead of taking out a loan to pay for big home improvements such as installing double-glazing or a new energy efficient boiler, you pay for the improvements via savings made on your electricity bill. And if this sounds way too good to be true don&rsquo;t worry because it really is a very good scheme; or at least it is for most households.</p> </td> <td style="text-align: right; width: 200px;" valign="top"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/the_green_deal_big.png" width="195" alt="Green Deal Stamp" title="Pay as you save with Green Deal" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A Green Deal for Everyone</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Unlike some government sponsored schemes, the Green Deal is open to everyone. You don&rsquo;t have to be on a low income to qualify for Green Deal grants. Anyone can apply for Green Deal money, although those on a low income will be eligible for extra assistance. The Green Deal is even available to tenants, the only caveat being that a tenant must get their landlord&rsquo;s permission as the repayments are tied to the property rather than the tenant. You can also apply for Green Deal money if you have an electricity meter.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">How the Green Deal Works</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Borrowing money to pay for energy efficiency improvements via the Green Deal initiative is fairly straightforward. Unlike a regular loan, Green Deal repayments shouldn&rsquo;t cost you any more per month than what you are currently paying out on bills. Because the Green Deal scheme is supposed to save you money on your energy bills, once the energy improvements have been made, your energy bills will be lower and therefore there will be no net increase in annual expenditure.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Repayments are the amount you are predicted to save on your bills, plus interest. The repayments are spread over a long period of time &ndash; between 10 and 25 years. The money is deducted directly from the electricity account, so if you move home, the debt stays with the property.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">To apply for Greed Deal funding, you need to invite a Green Deal assessor to come and check out your home. This part of the process isn&rsquo;t free, so make sure you shop around for one of the cheaper organisations. You should also check that whomever you invite is a member of the Greed Deal scheme. There may also be free assessment deals available in your area &ndash; so check before you pay for an assessment.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Eligible Home Improvements</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are lots of home improvements you can make with Green Deal funding:</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Double-glazing</li> <li>Loft insulation</li> <li>Replacement boiler</li> <li>Solar panels</li> <li>Cavity wall insulation</li> <li>Solid wall insulation</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">One important thing to note is the some of the more expensive home improvements will require a portion of the payment upfront. The reason for this being that the energy savings you are predicted to make will not cover the cost of the installation entirely. So do make sure you can afford to inject some cash into the deal before you apply for funding.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once you have had your energy assessment done, you can shop around for the cheapest quote for the work. You are not obliged to have the work carried out by the company that did the Green Deal assessment, even if they imply you are. So don&rsquo;t be ripped off &ndash; get at least three quotes before you sign on the dotted line.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Here are some useful links for more information on Green Deal;</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures/overview" title="Green Deal: energy saving for your home - GOV.UK" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">https://www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures/overview</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.greendeal.co.uk" title="Green Deal | UK Government Scheme | Assessor Training &amp; Providers" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;">http://www.greendeal.co.uk</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.greenenergyadvisor.co.uk" title="Green Energy Advisor" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: justify;">http://www.greenenergyadvisor.co.uk</a></li> </ul> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/the-green-deal.jpg" width="750" alt="green deal footer banner" title="Green Deal = Green Cities" /></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:42 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/when-not-to-try-diy When NOT to Try DIY <p style="text-align: justify;">Home improvement programmes have become massively popular in recent years. Turn on the TV on any given day and you will be confronted with bright and breezy presenters telling you how to transform your home from an uninspiring box into a palace fit for an A list celebrity. And the best bit? Instead of paying a fortune to a builder or interior designer, if you follow the tips on screen, you can achieve some amazing results with a spot of DIY.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">But is it really such a great idea to have a go at complex home improvement projects? Surely it would be better to pay someone else to do the work, even if it&rsquo;s more expensive. Well, it depends. DIY is obviously going to be cheaper if you have the skills and tools available. It can also be more satisfying to do the job yourself and let you select a stunning <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-bathroom-radiators"><strong>designer bathroom radiator</strong></a> instead of a standard <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/eco-heated-towel-rails"><strong>eco heated towel rail</strong></a> using your savings. However, there are times when you shouldn&rsquo;t attempt DIY, so if you have a burning desire to have a go at home improvement, give it some serious thought before you pick up any power tools.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">The Sharp End</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">When you don&rsquo;t know one end of a tool from another, DIY is not a good idea. Power tools are lethal weapons in inexperienced hands. One false move and you could end up in casualty, so start small and work your way up to more complicated jobs.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A Complicated Project</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Some DIY tasks are relatively simple. Most people can change a tap washer or put up a shelf without any major problems. You don&rsquo;t need specialist skills or lots of tools to do simple jobs - some general knowledge will suffice. And even if you do get it wrong, the consequences won&rsquo;t be too serious.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">However, many DIY jobs are not simple and it is these that the amateur DIYer should stay well away from. Some tasks need specialist skills that only a qualified tradesman will have. For example, installing a new central heating boiler should not be attempted unless you are suitably qualified. Whilst a competent DIYer is more than capable of fitting a new radiator or replacing a shower, installing a boiler is a whole different ballgame, so don&rsquo;t be tempted to &lsquo;have a go&rsquo;.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A Poor Track Record</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you have spent time in casualty as a result of severing something vital with a power tool, don&rsquo;t even think about attempting any DIY task, no matter now simple it appears to be. There are some people who just can&rsquo;t be trusted with a sharp tool, either because they are clumsy or just unskilled. If this sounds like you, pay someone else to do the work instead. Yes, it will be more expensive, but unless your spouse has a huge life insurance policy with your name on it, it is the safer option.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Building Regulations</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are many home improvements where the finished result has to adhere to building regulations. For an experienced builder or tradesman, this won&rsquo;t be a problem, but if you are an amateur, you probably won&rsquo;t have a clue about such things. To avoid falling foul of the local housing department, don&rsquo;t be tempted to cut corners and save money by doing it &lsquo;on the cheap&rsquo;. Your house might not fall down, but a bad job will definitely cause issues when you want to sell at a later date.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">DIY can be enormous fun. It can also be very rewarding as the sense of pride that comes with surveying a completed project is hard to beat. However, DIY is an expensive folly if you attempt a project well beyond your skill set, so never overestimate what you are capable of or you could end up with an expensive repair bill.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:41 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/garage-conversions-good-idea-or-terrible-mistake Garage Conversions: Good Idea or Terrible Mistake? <p style="text-align: justify;">The garage is often the most underused space in our homes. Originally garages were intended for storing cars, but over the years garages attached to modern homes have shrunk to such an extent that a large percentage are too small for even compact cars. As a result, garages tend to become the dumping ground for a vast range of miscellaneous items: bicycles, gym equipment, gardening equipment, DIY junk, and anything else that doesn&rsquo;t have a home, including spiders.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">But there is another way. Garages can be converted into useful living spaces that enhance the rest of the property instead of becoming a graveyard for unwanted board games and half used tins of paint. Imagine how much more useful your garage would be if it was transformed into a study, kids&rsquo; play room, or even teenager&rsquo;s annexe. So what do you need to consider before starting a garage conversion?</p> <h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #008000;">Change of Use Application</span></h2> <p>Simple garage conversions will only need a wall and window/door in place of the existing garage door. However, since a garage is not designed as a living space, in order to turn it into one, you will need to apply for Buildings Regulations approval since you are changing its use. You may also need to build extra foundations or add lintels to support the new structures.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Is Planning Permission Necessary?</span></h2> <p>Unless the existing structure is altered, planning permission won&rsquo;t be necessary. However, if your home is a listed building or the garage is a stand-alone structure, planning permission may be needed from your local planning department, even if you are only making a few very minor alterations. As such, it is always sensible to check with the local planning officer before doing anything &ndash; and make sure you ask for written confirmation.</p> <p>Building Regulations require that a room created from a garage must have adequate ventilation and an escape route in the event of a fire. Infill walls will also be subject to Building Regulations to ensure adequate foundations are in place. Once the conversion has been completed, the building inspector will come and inspect the work before he issues a certificate of completion. For this reason, it is a good idea to employ a reputable contractor rather than attempt to do the work yourself (unless you are suitably qualified of course). Without a certificate of completion, you will run into serious problems if you try and sell the property at a later date, as your buyer&rsquo;s solicitor is likely to start asking difficult questions about the change of use of the garage.&nbsp;</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Create a Lovely Living Space</span></h2> <p>Before starting a garage conversion, think about what you want to do with the space. Where will access from the main house be? What about lighting, damp proofing and ventilation? At the very least the new space will require a window large enough to escape through. The new space will also need extra insulation, and if you want to sub-divide the space into two rooms, you will need to construct a new block or stud wall. Additional wiring and plumbing will also be required &ndash; can your central heating boiler cope with the extra load of a new <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators"><strong>vertical radiator</strong></a> (or two)?</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Loss of Use</span></h2> <p>One important thing to consider when planning a garage conversion is that the creation of a new living space will entail the loss of a large storage space. Do you have somewhere else to keep your bicycles, DIY equipment and a whole host of other junk?</p> <p>You should bear all of these things in mind before making a final decision. Although a garage conversion is always going to be cheaper than moving to a bigger property, don&rsquo;t forget to factor in all of the less obvious costs such as a new central heating boiler, new flooring, plus a new shed for all of your items.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:40 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-design-the-perfect-teenagers-bathroom How to Design the Perfect Teenager’s Bathroom <p style="text-align: justify;">There comes a point in every parent&rsquo;s life when you dream of having a bathroom all to yourself. Instead of queuing up outside the bathroom every morning, feeling as if you are a tenant in your own home, you can relax and enjoy a pleasant soak in the bath or a leisurely shower. With teenagers in the house, such a happy scenario is out of the question. They take forever in the bathroom, doing what teenagers do best, which is personal grooming on an epic scale.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The best way to avoid losing access to the bathroom every morning (and evening) is to provide them with their very own bathroom. That way you can enjoy having a bathroom all to yourself and they can spend as much time as they like primping and preening in front of the bathroom mirror. So, what things should you include in a teenager&rsquo;s bathroom?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Power Shower</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ideally install a shower in a teenager&rsquo;s bathroom. They will want to have a bath or shower at least once per day, so it makes sense to provide a shower as it will save you money on your water bill if you are on a water meter. You may even wish to consider the possibility of a wet room.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Storage Space</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ample storage space is a must-have in any teenager&rsquo;s bathroom. Most teenagers have vast collections of makeup, lotions and potions, all of which take up a lot of space. One bottle of shampoo and conditioner won&rsquo;t be enough. They are more likely to have about fifty, plus matching bottles of conditioner, hair serum, and anything else they think will make them look cool.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Since the majority of their time will be spent staring into the bathroom mirror, it makes sense to have a fitted vanity unit rather than a standard sink. This will give them lots of room to store their bottles, spot creams and beauty accessories. A storage unit in the shower cubicle or above the bath is also a good idea as this will keep some of the clutter out of the shower tray and bath.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Mirror, Mirror</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">As we have already mentioned, teenagers do like to spend an inordinate amount of time gazing into the bathroom mirror. A large mirror with an inbuilt lighting &ndash; think movie star - vanity mirror would be the ideal bathroom accessory for an image conscious teenager. Providing adequate lighting should help to ensure they don&rsquo;t overdo the fake tan or makeup.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A Laundry Basket</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most teenagers treat the floor as one big laundry basket. They assume that the laundry fairy is hovering nearby, ready to collect their dirty laundry and return it in a convenient pile, washed and ironed. One way to encourage your teenager to be a bit tidier is to provide them with a laundry basket. Do make sure it is large enough, though, as most of them use a clean towel virtually every day and bath towels soon fill a laundry basket up.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Funky D&eacute;cor</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">It is a good idea to consult your teenager before deciding upon a decorative scheme. Just because you like pastel colours or plain white tiles, they might not be of the same mind. Take their tastes into consideration, but don&rsquo;t allow them to talk you into something too outrageous. Just because they have seen an amazing bathroom on At Home with the Kardashians, it doesn&rsquo;t mean that floor to ceiling marble is a great idea in their small bathroom.&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">However you choose to design your teenager&rsquo;s bathroom, make sure you provide them with lots of cleaning equipment and full instructions on how to clean a bath, shower and toilet. It will be a valuable lesson for them.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:39 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/loft-conversions-a-cheap-and-cheerful-way-to-add-extra-space Loft Conversions - A Cheap and Cheerful Way to Add Extra Space? <p style="text-align: justify;">When space is in short supply and you can&rsquo;t afford to move to a larger property, the next natural step is to think about extending upwards. Since all homes have some degree of loft space, turning what is &lsquo;dead space&rsquo; into usable living space can make perfect sense if your home is just too small now that you have kids/teenagers/elderly parents living with you. But loft conversions are not as straightforward as some people think, and there are a number of important issues to take into consideration before you install a dormer window and a new staircase.</p> <table border="0" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Is the Loft Suitable for Conversion?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sadly, not all attics are suitable for converting into living space. Older properties, typically those built pre: 1960, are usually suitable, but modern homes tend to have different roof constructions that are more difficult to convert. Truss sectional roof structures are the norm in modern houses. To convert a roof of this type is an expensive job because it entails adding structural support in the form of steel beams. Older properties have traditional framed roof structures, which can be opened up fairly cheaply. The best way to check whether (or not) your loft is ripe for conversion is to open up the loft hatch and take a look.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">How Big is the Loft?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Head height is very important in a loft room. There is little point in building a room in the loft if you can&rsquo;t actually stand up in there. Depending on how tall you are, there needs to be at least 2.2m of head room in the main part of the roof space, so a loft with a low roof pitch is not going to be suitable unless it is redesigned or large dormer windows are added to increase the amount of available floor space.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Water tanks and chimney stacks can also prove to be major obstacles in the roof space. You might be able to move a water tank, but it is pretty difficult to relocate a chimney stack.</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 300px; text-align: right;"><br /><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/loft.jpg" width="290" alt="Loft Conversions" /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.artdomconstruction.co.uk/loft-conversions-london.php" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Credit to&nbsp;Artdom Construction Ltd</a></span></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Building Regulations</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Loft conversions must meet current <a href="http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations" title="Building Regulations" rel="nofollow">Building Regulations</a>, so it is a good idea to have your plans for a loft conversion drawn up by an architect before you start looking for a building contractor. This should help to iron out any potential problems before building work begins. If your property has any party walls, you must tell your neighbour about the work. If you intend on adding dormer windows to the roof to create extra light and head room, you may need to apply for <a href="http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/loftconversion" title="Loft Conversion Planning Permission">planning permission</a> &ndash; check with the local planning department for clarification.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Fire Safety Issues</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Fire safety is very important in a property with more than two storeys. It is a lot harder to escape a fire when you are on the third floor of a house, so the new floor must have adequate fire protection in the form of a fire door and windows large enough to escape from.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Other Considerations</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Obviously you will need a staircase into the attic if it is turned into additional living space, but do you have room for a staircase? There is no point adding a new room if you have to sacrifice a room in the process. A bespoke staircase design might save you space, but it will cost more. Spiral staircases can also save space, but they are a nightmare when it comes to shifting furniture.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Can your central heating boiler cope with the addition of extra radiators or maybe even a new <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/stainless-steel-towel-rails" title="Stainless Steel Towel Rails"><strong>stainless steel heated towel rail</strong></a>? If it can&rsquo;t, you may need to upgrade to a new boiler, which will be further expense.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A loft conversion will add value to your home and make it easier to sell, but only if the conversion is a quality one. So weigh up the costs and don&rsquo;t be tempted to hire a cheap builder or you could end up paying dearly in the long run.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:38 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/top-6-kitchen-design-disasters Top 6 Kitchen Design Disasters <p style="text-align: justify;">Kitchen design can be tricky. Not only do you have to deal with issues surrounding plumbing, electrics and how on earth you are going to fit all those cabinets in that teeny tiny space and still have room to cook, but you also need to think about the overall design of the room. Most people opt to have a kitchen designed by a professional. It&rsquo;s the easiest way of ensuring everything fits as it is supposed to. But even if you do go down this route, you are still responsible for choosing the fixtures and fittings, so if you are in the market for a new kitchen, here are a few tips to help you avoid any design disasters.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Be Boring</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Being boring isn&rsquo;t a crime, but when it comes to kitchen design, it really should be. Imagine how uninspiring it is to walk into a kitchen where everything is beige: pine cabinets, sandy coloured floor tiles, light brown worktops and beige wall tiles. If that&rsquo;s your idea of tasteful, you really should consider asking someone else to design your kitchen. At the other end of the extreme, imagine the horror of red lacquered units, black marble worktops, and magenta walls. Once again, if you think that sounds cool you need taste-bypass surgery.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Opt for Poor Quality Kitchen Cabinets and Accessories</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Not everyone has tens of thousands to spend on a new designer kitchen, but even if you are shopping on a budget, you should never opt for really low quality kitchen cabinets and cheap appliances because if they don&rsquo;t fall apart during the installation, they almost certainly will before the end of the first year. However, if you are installing a new kitchen in a rented house, don&rsquo;t be tempted to spend a fortune on good quality units unless you are hoping to attract executive tenants.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Go Too Mad on the Colour Chart</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Kitchens are a great place to inject some colour, but you do need to rein in your creative urges to a degree, particularly if you are planning on selling up in the next couple of years. It is ok to paint the walls a bright colour as long as the kitchen cabinets are fairly neutral, but if you have chosen some super modern lacquered cabinets in a bright colour, don&rsquo;t then paint the walls in a contrasting shade of paint. This is not to say you shouldn&rsquo;t stamp your personality on the room, but there is such a thing as &lsquo;too much&rsquo; personality.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Go Overboard on Cabinets</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sufficient storage space is a requisite for a well-designed kitchen as it removes miscellaneous clutter from worktops and helps you to maintain clean lines. However, as with most things in life you can have too much of a good thing and filling every available piece of space with cabinetry is not so great from a design perspective. It will make the room feel too overcrowded and cost a lot more in the process.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Skimp on Worktop Space</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">The Worktop is where the practical jobs happen. It&rsquo;s difficult to carve a roast chicken on the hob and even more difficult to measure out the ingredients for a nice cake on the draining board, so make sure you have enough worktop space in the right areas or things could get a trifle messy.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don&rsquo;t Attempt a DIY Kitchen Unless You Know What You&rsquo;re Doing</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are a fan of daytime makeover shows, you will know exactly what a DIY kitchen disaster looks like when the person who installed it knew next to nothing about DIY. So if you don&rsquo;t know one end of a screwdriver from another, pay a professional to do the job.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A smart, modern new kitchen can add value to a property, but only if it is a quality installation, so bear this in mind before you start the project.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:37 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-fix-a-leaking-tap How to Fix a Leaking Tap <table border="0" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <p style="text-align: justify;">Leaking taps are hardly an emergency, but if left to drip incessantly they can drive a person insane. A constantly dripping tap is also a tremendous waste of water, which if you are on a water meter, could prove to be rather expensive: a leaky tap can quite easily drip away up to 24,000 litres of water over a twelve month period. So why do people ignore leaky taps?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A DIY Fix</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most people put up with a leaking tap because they mistakenly think it is difficult to fix and if they have to call out a plumber, it will cost them a fortune. But really, sorting out a leaky tap is well within the capabilities of a competent DIY enthusiast and if you have the right tools to hand, there is no reason why you can&rsquo;t fix the tap yourself.</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 400px; text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/leakgin-tap.png" width="390" alt="Leaking Tap" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">The Right Tools for the Job</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">To fix a <a href="http://www.leakingtaps.co.uk" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">leaking tap</a> you need a few basic tools:</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>A set of spanners</li> <li>A screwdriver</li> <li>Some clothes to protect the chrome tap fittings</li> <li>Replacement tap washer</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Fixing a Leaking Tap</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Before doing anything, make sure you turn the water off at the mains stop tap. Do make sure the water is off before you remove the problem tap or you will end up soaked and standing in a foot of water, which won&rsquo;t do either the kitchen or bathroom much good. To do this, turn the taps on and leave them to drain out until there is no more water in the pipes.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Remove the top of the tap and the screw beneath. This will enable you to take the tap head off. If the tap head is stuck, spray some WD-40 into it to loosen it up (you may need to leave it for ten minutes or so to work).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Remove the body of the tap using a spanner. Do this very carefully and protect the chrome surface with a soft cloth. The washer is the circular rubber donut at the end of the tap body. Replace it with a new washer and re-assemble the tap, making sure you don&rsquo;t over tighten any of the parts.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Turn the water back on and test the tap (if no water comes out, make sure you have closed off all the other taps). Does it still leak? If so, the washer was not the underlying issue and you need to go back to the drawing board and start again.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">When the Washer isn&rsquo;t the Problem</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">More often than not, a worn out washer is not the cause of a leaking tap. A more likely root cause is the valve seat upon which the washer sits. Over time, this becomes worn, often as a result of lime scale in hard water. The surface develops fine grooves and etched lines, which break the seal of the washer and allow water to seep through. Grinding down this surface with a purpose made seat grinder will solve the problem by creating a smooth surface for the tap washer to adhere to.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Help! I Can&rsquo;t Fix My Tap!</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">In theory it should take no more than 20 minutes to fix a leaking tap, but if the mechanism is worn or you have tried all of the above and you still have a leak, then it is probably time to call on a plumber to do the job for you. Most plumbers will charge for one hour&rsquo;s work, even if the job takes them less than five minutes, including a cup of tea and a chat. If you want to pay as little as possible, try and be flexible about when the plumber can visit &ndash; if he is able to call in on his way home, for example, he might charge you less. Or wait for a few weeks and call him to install your new <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/stainless-steel-towel-rails" title="stainless steel towel radiator"><strong>stainless steel towel radiator</strong></a> and replace your tap at the same time.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Don&rsquo;t forget to get a couple of quotes before engaging a plumber and ideally go with someone you know or who comes with good references.&nbsp;</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:36 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/super-storage-ideas-for-teeny-tiny-bathrooms Super Storage Ideas for Teeny Tiny Bathrooms <p style="text-align: justify;">Unless you are lucky enough to live in a Bel Air mansion, it is highly likely that your bathroom is a bit on the &lsquo;compact&rsquo; size. Sad to say, most <st1:country-region>UK</st1:country-region> bathrooms are pretty small. Older properties built before indoor bathrooms were standard often have small bathrooms tacked on to the back of the house or constructed in a partition of a large bedroom. Modern homes are not much better. Here space is at a premium and the family bathroom is squeezed in between two or three equally small bedrooms. So if you, like most people, have to make do with a tiny bathroom, what are your storage options?</p> <table border="0" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Built in Shelves</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Built in shelves are perfect for irregular shaped bathrooms. Sometimes, thanks to poor planning, you end up with a gap between the end of the bath and the wall. Or you could have a small space next to the sink that is begging to be filled with something. Either way some shelves would be useful for storing toiletries or towels. Just remember that if you build them from scratch, the wood will need to be treated in order to protect it from the humidity.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The more shelves in a small bathroom you have the better. They are useful for storing toiletries and medication. You don&rsquo;t even need to leave items on full view &ndash; simply buy some small storage containers and place them on your shelves. You could also build shelves above a towel radiator if it is not a full height one.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Multi Functional Storage</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Simple shelving units can be used in a variety of different ways in a bathroom. In general, when space is at a premium, look for tall, thin units that will slot easily in between a bath and sink, or shower and sink. Shelves can be used for storing towels and larger items. Place baskets on lower shelves for toiletries and personal items you don&rsquo;t want lying around in full view of your guests. If you place a shelf next to the bath or shower, fix a towel rail to the side of it and you instantly have a dual-purpose piece of bathroom furniture. Laundry baskets can be used as shelves. Buy a wooden laundry basket and stack towels on the top.</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 250px; text-align: right;"> <p></p> <p></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/shelves.jpg" width="240" alt="Built in Shelves" title="Shelves" /></p> <p></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table border="0" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 250px;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/toysrus2.jpg" width="240" alt="Bath Caddies" /></td> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Bath Caddies</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><st1:city>Bath</st1:city> caddies sit over the bath. They are a bit old-fashioned &ndash; your grandma probably had one a few decades ago &ndash; but if you purchase a stylish bath caddy it will be a useful investment. You can use a bath caddy to store bath toys for the kids, shampoo, soap and conditioner. Children like bath caddies because they can play with them at bath time, but you can use it to prop up a book for those moments when you are able to lock the door and enjoy a nice relaxing soak.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p></p> <table border="0" cellspacing="2" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Sink Storage Units</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are lots of sink storage units to choose from. In-built units are a good option if you are in the process of redesigning your bathroom. These offer extra storage beneath a sink unit and remove the need for a pedestal. If you already have a bathroom and you don&rsquo;t wish to change the configuration, look at storage units that fit around an existing sink. Use them for storing cleaning products or toiletries.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to small bathroom storage, be creative. It is easy to source useful storage furniture on the cheap if money is in short supply; or you could build your own from discarded wood. Make use of all your small nooks and crannies and instead of struggling to find room for your favourite bath soaps and scented candles, you can enjoy a small, but perfectly formed, bathroom.</p> </td> <td style="width: 250px; text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/sinkstore.jpg" width="240" alt="Sink Storage Units" style="float: right;" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> urn:store:1:blog:post:35 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/hard-or-soft-know-your-drain-blockages Hard or Soft - Know Your Drain Blockages! <p style="text-align: justify;">Blocked drains of any description can be a total nightmare. Nobody likes standing in a foot of soapy water every time they have a shower and a blocked toilet is deeply unpleasant, particularly if it&rsquo;s the only one available and you all ate curry last night. Blockages are one of the commonest plumbing problems. They affect most home and business owners at one time or another, but what not many people realise is that there are two types of blockage: hard and soft. So what is the difference and how should you deal with each type of blockage?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Do I Have a Blocked Drain?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Drain problems often develop slowly. In the beginning when all is right with the world and your drains, water disappears instantly down the plughole and you don&rsquo;t give the matter a second thought. After a while, though, you have standing water in the sink, shower or bath and curious &lsquo;glugging&rsquo; noises are emanating from the plughole as the water slowly drains away. In the case of toilets, you might find that it doesn&rsquo;t always flush properly and you have to flush several times before the contents of the bowl disappear.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">What Causes Blockages?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are many reasons why drains become blocked and not all of them are within your sphere of control. In answering the question of what causes blockages, I will also address the difference between soft and hard drain blockages.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Soft Drain Blockages</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Soft blockages are the most common type of material clogging up drains. Hair mixed with soap scum is a very effective material for gluing up bathroom drains. In the case of toilets, excessive amounts of toilet paper, sanitary towels and even disposable nappies can do a great job of causing a pile-up in the U-bend. In the kitchen, blocked drains are usually caused by a build-up of cooking fat and food residue: deeply unpleasant and difficult to shift if it has been allowed to accumulate over a long period of time.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Clearing Soft Blockages</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">For minor blockages, your best bet is to try a drain cleaner from your local supermarket. They are usually effective when the blockage is relatively near the sink drain. However, if a lot of material has built up and the blockage extends deep down into the pipe system, you will require professional assistance in the form of a plumber and a plumbing snake. Toilet blockages can often be cleared with the aid of a large plunger. Alternatively, strap some rubber gloves on and go on an exploratory mission down the u-bend. It won&rsquo;t be pretty, but it could save you time and money. If this doesn&rsquo;t work, call a plumber.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Hard Drain Blockages</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A hard blockage is more serious and expensive to fix. In this instance you are dealing with objects blocking the drain, usually outside. Tree roots are a good example of a hard drain blockage. Over time tree root systems can infiltrate external drains and sewer pipes causing all kinds of mayhem. Mineral build-ups are another example of a hard blockage, although this is more common in hard water areas and doesn&rsquo;t happen overnight.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Clearing Hard Blockages</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A bottle of drain cleaner is not going to get rid of a tree root in your drainpipe. In fact not even a plumber with his trusty sink plunger and plumbing snake is going to have much luck clearing a hard blockage. You may also need to hire a specialist drain camera inspection company to work out exactly where the blockage is.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">For blocked drains, leaky towel radiators and any other plumbing emergencies, use your common sense: if you don&rsquo;t have the skills or tools to fix the job, call in a plumber!</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:34 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/add-style-to-your-kitchen-with-a-designer-radiator Add Style to Your Kitchen with a Designer Radiator <p style="text-align: justify;">Kitchen makeovers are rarely cheap unless you have been lucky enough to be selected by a TV makeover programme to have the work done for free. And if you have, don&rsquo;t start congratulating yourself yet because you could end up with a monstrosity only a flamboyant designer could love.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Because cost is such an issue, or at least it is for the majority of people, it is often tempting to try and cut corners on the budget. So instead of ripping out everything and starting with four walls and a window, you decide to keep the existing radiator and flooring in the hope that nobody will notice. But this is a huge mistake if you want the end result to be super stylish. It won&rsquo;t be as expensive as you think to replace your old, slightly rusty radiator with a smart new designer towel radiator and the end result will be well worth it.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Does My Kitchen Need a Radiator?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Unless your home is still at the design stage, it is highly likely that you have at least one radiator in your kitchen. Radiators are a standard feature in the majority of <st1:country-region>UK</st1:country-region> homes and are designed to heat the space in rooms, kitchen included. However, since there are other sources of heat in a kitchen, most notably the oven, it may be that your kitchen is toasty warm without needing an extra source of heat.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are not sure whether a radiator is necessary, consider what else throws out heat in your kitchen. Do you have an Aga for example? If so, you can probably do without a radiator unless the Aga is for show only. You may also be able to manage without a kitchen radiator if you have a wood burning stove or similar in the kitchen.&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">A Multi Functional Appliance</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Before you opt to do without a radiator, remember that a radiator is more than just a source of ambient heat. Most people use radiators for other things. For example, radiators can be used to dry clothing, tea-towels, etc. They are very useful for hanging damp tea-towels and hand towels. They are also great for drying small items of laundry on damp days. So if you currently use your kitchen radiator for all that and more, or if the dog likes to have snooze beneath it on cold days, think twice before removing it and tossing it in the skip during your kitchen renovation.</p> <table border="0" align="center" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Install a Designer Kitchen Radiator</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once you have established that you can&rsquo;t possibly live without a kitchen radiator, the next stage is to consider whether (or not) you can live with the existing one. This will probably be an easy decision to make if you are spending lots of money on a designer kitchen and the existing radiator is old, chipped and rusty. But even if you are trying to save money on the project, a new radiator won&rsquo;t break the bank and it will more than pay for itself when the kitchen installation is complete and you survey your smart new room.</p> Designer kitchen radiators come in many different styles and are available to suit all budgets. A beautifully sleek, vertical radiator will really add something special to a smart, modern kitchen design and a polished chrome radiator is the perfect accompaniment to a designer kitchen. You can use a towel radiator to hang towels, damp dish clothes and miscellaneous items when the weather is cold and wet outdoors.</td> <td valign="top" style="width: 185px; text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/blog-vertical.jpg" width="173" height="250" alt="Vertical Radiator" title="Vertical" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p>And finally, don&rsquo;t forget that your old radiator has scrap value. Don&rsquo;t throw it in the skip &ndash; instead take it to your local scrap merchant and pocket a bit of cash. You can put this towards the cost of a new designer radiator!</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:33 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/decisions-decisions-how-to-choose-the-right-bath Decisions, Decisions - How to Choose the Right Bath <p style="text-align: justify;">Showers are great for washing off the dirt and grime of the day, but nothing beats a luxurious soak in a lovely hot bath. In an ideal world we would have both in the bathroom, but in many modern homes there is barely room for a shower never mind a full-sized bath. But if you do have room for a bath, here are a few tips to help you choose the right one.</p> <table border="0" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Baths from a Bygone Age</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Choosing a bath one hundred years ago would not have been a very taxing decision. Most ordinary people had to make do with a tin bath shared by the whole family. There was no chance of enjoying a leisurely soak with a few scented candles and some soothing music playing in the background. Instead you had to join the queue to step into what was basically a glorified bucket of lukewarm water.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Thankfully things have changed since then and today&rsquo;s modern baths are large, spacious and as long as your boiler isn&rsquo;t on the blink, full of piping hot water. So what are the options in terms of bath design?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Size Matters in the Bathroom</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Baths come in many different sizes, so it is important to take accurate measurements before ordering a new bath. The size of your bathroom will dictate how large you can go, but don&rsquo;t forget to make a note of where existing plumbing is and the configuration of the other essential pieces of the jigsaw.</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 310px;"> <p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/bath-candle-indulge.jpg" width="300" height="273" alt="A Luxury Bath" title="Bath" /></p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">You also need to decide whether (or not) you want a separate shower enclosure. Compact baths are perfect for small bathrooms because they take up the least amount of room, but a tall person would feel seriously cramped in a super short bath. Freestanding baths are lovely, but again you need lots of floor space or the bathroom design won&rsquo;t work.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Who Will Be Using the Bath?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">When you have children, baths are very useful. Most young kids don&rsquo;t really like having a shower because the water goes in their eyes. They much prefer having a bath because they can splash around, play with toys, and generally burn off excess energy. Non-slip surfaces are useful for families as they help to prevent accidents. Non-slip baths are also a sensible choice for the older generation; you may also wish to buy hand grips for a bath if anyone has mobility issues.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Multi Purpose Shower-Baths for Modern Families</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Shower baths are the perfect solution for smaller family bathrooms, or bathrooms where the layout won&rsquo;t accommodate a separate shower cubicle. Shower baths are P-shaped. The shower is fitted at the wider end of the bath and a glass screen or shower curtain installed to prevent the water from splashing all over the floor. A shower bath is not as spacious as a separate shower cubicle, but they are economical and are available from all reputable bathroom suppliers.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Spa Baths &ndash; the Luxury Option</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes a normal bath is not enough. Spa baths pump air bubbles into the water and can be both therapeutic and relaxing. Some spa baths even have lights included in the design so you can lie back and enjoy a massage and light show at the same time. They are, however, a lot more expensive than a regular bath and require specialist installation because of the extra equipment needed. But if you can afford it, a spa bath will definitely add the &lsquo;wow&rsquo; factor to your bathroom together with a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/stainless-steel-towel-rails" title="Stainless Steel Radiators"><strong>designer stainless steel bathroom radiator</strong></a>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Bathroom design is not always straightforward and even if you are planning on doing the work yourself, it is sensible to have a design drawn up by a bathroom installation company. Most large stores will come and measure up for free, so why not take advantage of the service and that way you can ensure everything fits exactly where it is supposed to.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:32 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/heat-your-entire-home-efficiently-with-these-three-options Heat Your Entire Home Efficiently with These Three Options <p style="text-align: justify;">The winter months can be rough on us in just about every way: our mood suffers, our skin suffers and our ability to be active suffers. Many people just want to stay in the house whenever they're not at work and avoid the brutal temperatures that wintertime brings. Unfortunately, some people do not have adequate heating solutions that will make this more comfortable. Between having old, inefficient heating systems that do not distribute heat evenly throughout the home, to stand-alone heaters that can be dangerous if tipped over, many people have much to gain by adding a modern, efficient radiator to the home. Our line of home radiators, heated towel racks and other solutions can help you add simple, effective heating to any and every room of the home &ndash; all while saving on your monthly utility bills! Find out more below about three options you have to consider.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Designer Bathroom Radiators</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">On a cold winter morning, all you really want to do is crawl back into bed and say &ldquo;no thanks&rdquo; to the day ahead. The naturally cold, sterile climate of a bathroom can make your morning routine even more excruciating, which is why a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-bathroom-radiators">designer bathroom radiator</a> could be a perfect solution. Some people lug their portable ceramic heaters to and fro depending on which room they currently are in, but a bathroom radiator will provide efficient, consistent heating without all the work. We have many different brands of designer bathroom radiators to choose from, in colours such as black, white, silver and stainless steel. You can avoid heating the entire home with a central heating system and instead opt for smart, targeted solutions like this to make winter mornings a bit less irritating.&nbsp;</p> <table border="0" align="center" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Tasteful Living Room Radiators</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you have a cold or draft-filled living room or other comparable space, then you know how the winter can be a dreaded time. Portable heaters may not put off enough heat, and central heating units are expensive and inefficient when it comes to targeting that heat to one room or another.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Our extensive selection of vertical radiators can be discreetly mounted to any wall in the living room, taking up very little space. In fact, some of our vertical radiators project from the room by less than 10 centimetres, meaning that your floor area will not be impacted in any substantial way. Best of all, these designs are astounding: you won't be reminded of your grandmother's old radiator.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you don't believe us, then be sure to check out some of our more popular vertical radiators, such as the <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/fiore-400-1800mm-anthracite-designer-radiator">Fiore 400/1800 designer radiator</a> now available.&nbsp;</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 205px; text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/0000893_fiore-4001800mm-anthracite-designer-radiator.jpeg" width="200" alt="Fiore Designer Radiator" title="Fiore" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table border="0" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" style="width: 205px;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/0001023_panox-1200600mm-stainless-steel-column-radiator.jpeg" width="200" alt="Panox Designer Radiator" title="Panox" /></td> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Sleek Bedroom Radiators</span></h2> <p>For a bedroom or similarly sized area, horizontal radiators can make the difference between a winter of misery and inconvenience, and one with lower energy bills. Imagine having to heat your entire home for eight hours while you are asleep, and then imagine only having to heat one room with a high-efficiency alternative.</p> <p>Horizontal radiators can be easily mounted along the bottom of a wall, and with a very slim profile, will not create fire hazards or risks for burns like many other radiators do. Our <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/panox-1200-600mm-stainless-steel-column-radiator">Panox 1200/600mm Stainless Steel Radiator</a>, for instance, is a solid piece that doesn't give off the illusion of being a radiator.</p> <p>With dozens of different design options to choose from, you can find a horizontal radiator for the bedroom or kitchen that makes more of an art statement than it does about your desire to save energy.&nbsp;</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">These three types of radiator solutions for the home &ndash; whether we're talking about the bedroom, the living room or the bathroom &ndash; all add energy efficiency and comfort throughout the home. When you consider how each room can be individually heating only when required, the investment in designer home radiators is a smart, long-term project that will save you thousands of pounds on your heating bills in the years ahead.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:31 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/three-signs-that-your-home-radiator-is-going-bad Three Signs That Your Home Radiator is Going Bad <p style="text-align: justify;">Here at ADIGE Towel Radiators, we often deal with customers who are seeking to replace their existing radiator for a more energy efficient solution, or who want to add a new radiator to an existing room in the home. Just as often as we handle these desires for our customers, however, we also help customers replace radiators that have malfunctioned. Lacking the proper heating capability during the winter months is not only inconvenient, but it can also be deadly under the worst of circumstances. Most people are not skilled in identifying or repairing radiators, though, so you may need some assistance in identifying whether or not the radiator has gone bad. Below, we've put together three of the most prevalent signs to watch out for to determine if it's time to finally replace your old radiator.&nbsp;</p> <table border="0" align="center" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">The Radiator Leaks</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Radiators function by distributing heat (and in some cases, water) throughout the structure to warm the home. The biggest problem with old radiators is that they can crack after years of use, which will cause them to become rapidly inefficient and will require either a repair or a complete replacement.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The number one indicator of a cracked radiator is the accumulation of water on the floor surrounding the unit. While it can sometimes be common for a radiator to release a small amount of moisture, puddles of water on the floor are indicative of a busted unit. Most home radiators require annual inspection and maintenance; if yours is currently leaking, then be sure to call a technician as soon as possible to see if it will need to be replaced.</p> </td> <td style="width: 260px; text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/2-WC6-17-AF2.JPG" width="240" height="320" alt="Leaking towel radiator" title="radiator leak" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">The Radiator is Cold</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A radiator that doesn't function properly can cause frustration and unnecessary anguish in the home. Another common problem that indicates a radiator is malfunctioning is it remaining cold while running. There are several issues that can cause this, but the good news is that most can be addressed without the need to replace the unit. Old thermostats in radiators are bound to go bad at one point or another &ndash; it may be time to replace it, as a malfunction here will render the unit worthless. The condensate pipe is another area that may need addressing; this pipe can actually back up and freeze during cold weather, and will need to be defrosted to restore the radiator's ability to heat. A cold radiator may also require the <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/the-dos-and-donts-of-bleeding-a-radiator">system to be bled</a>, when too much air builds up in the unit. Thankfully, this issue can also be quickly corrected.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">The Radiator Overheats</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">This can be a disastrous side-effect of a radiator going bad, and will often require more comprehensive, quick action to save the unit. A radiator overheats when the flow is blocked or there is a build-up of material somewhere inside the unit. This can unfortunately result in the radiator wasting energy at best, or cracking in the worst-case scenario. To minimise the likelihood of having to replace a home radiator, you should always contact a qualified service technician at the first sign of the unit overheating. When the lives of you and your family are at stake, you don't want to neglect a needed maintenance, repair or replacement of the device.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The three most common symptoms of a radiator going bad include overheating, a lack of heating properly and leaking. With a variety of radiators out there that provide heat through different methods, it's impossible to say for sure what exact issue may be at the root of the problem. The good news is that many signs of a radiator going bad can be fixed before it causes irreparable harm. For those who have to replace their heating solution, however, ADIGE Towel Radiators will always be here to provide top-notch service and the best radiators available today.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:30 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/prevent-costly-bathroom-plumbing-problems-tomorrow-by-acting-today Prevent Costly Bathroom Plumbing Problems Tomorrow by Acting Today <p style="text-align: justify;">The bathroom is considered one of the most private rooms of the home, and certainly the most important to proper hygiene. We all have heard about the value you can add to your home by <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-add-value-to-your-home-with-a-new-bathroom">remodelling your bathroom</a></strong>, but what many people fail to realise is the potential cost a bathroom can add to your credit card if small issues are not caught and fixed promptly. Between plumbing systems and heating systems that run throughout the area, small problems can quickly turn into costly ordeals that impact the quality and value of your house. While there are quite a few different issues that could potentially arise in any bathroom, we will be covering three major issues that are the most common problems in any bathroom. If you act quickly when the symptoms are spotted, then you'll be able to get one step ahead of the problem and avoid massive remodelling or repair bills.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Check Your Water Pressure</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">While a bathroom radiator or an <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/eco-heated-towel-rails"><strong>ECO heated towel rail</strong></a> can help provide air comfort in the cold winter months, your water is usually heated by a water heater or boiler. This device contains all sorts of equipment that individually are quite simple, but all work together to ensure proper functioning of your plumbing and hot water. The pressure regulator is one of these parts, and it's designed to keep the water flowing properly while not causing damage to your plumbing. If your pressure indicator states that the water pressure in your pipes is above 550 kPa, then you are in danger of causing a pipe rupture. These costly occurrences become astronomically expensive if not easily accessible, so be sure to regularly test your pipe pressure.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Install a Powerful Bathroom Radiator</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">The winter months can be difficult on your body and spirit, but pipes don't complain until it is too late. The cold climate of winter will in some cases cause weakened pipes to rupture. If your bathroom is adjacent to the exterior of the home, then a risk of ruptured pipes in your bathroom increases. One way you can help prevent this is by installing one of our <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-bathroom-radiators">bathroom radiators</a></strong>. Not only will this keep the ambient temperature in the room high enough on the coldest of nights to prevent a rupture, but it is also useful for avoiding those freezing winter mornings when you have to jump into the shower. A couple of hundred pounds of investment today makes a lot more sense than a couple of thousand pounds of plumbing bills tomorrow.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Install Above-Floor Plumbing</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Did you know that many toilets now exist with above-floor plumbing to help minimise repair problems in the bathroom? These macerating, above-floor units take water in from the sink or shower, and use a very powerful pump to liquefy any contents that are expelled before they are sent back the same way, into the sewer or septic tank. A leaky toilet can cause untold number of problems, including smelly bathrooms and rotten floors. An above-floor plumbing system for your toilet (these can also be used on sinks and showers) will prevent these issues from occurring, since the toilet's bond with the floor becomes structural and not plumbing-related. No more replacing toilet seals or worrying about maintenance costs whenever a leak springs up!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Nobody wants to deal with costly plumbing problems. Sometimes, the solution to this is to have a proactive approach. Whether you are keeping an eye on your existing plumbing systems or replacing them with a less-liable alternative, you can certainly minimise the likelihood of any problems tomorrow by acting today. With this information in hand, you can now decide whether or not you are doing everything you can to keep your bathroom &ndash; and plumbing &ndash; in great shape!</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:29 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/anger-the-energy-company-by-saving-big-with-these-smart-thermostats Anger the Energy Company by Saving Big with These Smart Thermostats <p style="text-align: justify;">Heating the home is by far the biggest utility cost during the winter months for home owners. You may not be aware, but up to twenty five percent of your energy consumption in peak months comes from the use of home heating through central systems, which is why so many people are moving to <strong>energy efficient designer home radiators</strong>&nbsp;and other methods to keep energy costs lower. It wasn't too long ago that thermostats for heating the home were standard devices: they couldn't be programmed and lots of energy was lost due to inefficiencies. We now have the ability to save on across-the-home heating by updating our thermostats and using 21<sup>st</sup> century solutions to heat the home. Below, we will discuss some of these awesome solutions that, when coupled with single-room heating solutions like radiators, can save you big money each and every winter.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Total Connect Comfort</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">We lose so much energy through improper insulation and leaving the heater running constantly to avoid the cold when we get off of work. If there was a solution to fix at least one of those problems, would you act upon it? The <a href="https://infoeu.mytotalconnectcomfort.com/gb" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Total Connect Comfort</a> system is an innovation by Honeywell that functions with compatible Honeywell smart thermostats, and can be operated from anywhere in the world through a mobile application. The app's interface gives you the ability to adjust the temperature for the entire house, or just for one room. The thermostat can be configured to turn on before you get home and turn off when you leave the house, which saves tons of energy and makes sure that you're never cold. Various Connect Comfort systems are available, with thermostats starting at as little as &pound;100.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Rogers Smart Home Monitoring</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Using your heat sparingly can help save energy, as can using a combination of <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/neva-column-radiators">column radiators</a> and central heating. To get the most out of your central heat potential, you can install a solution like the Rogers Smart Home Monitoring system. Much like the Honeywell system, this works with various Rogers thermostats and can be controlled through the use of mobile technology. Not only can you adjust the thermostat when at home from the unit itself, but you can also do so when out and about. The system will even learn your heating preferences and set a schedule that is optimal for saving energy and preserving comfort.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Smart Air Conditioner</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">You can purchase <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/towel-radiators">heated towel rails</a> to keep your towels warm, and a bathroom radiator to do the same for your bathroom, but what about the home as a whole? Samsung wasn't about to be outdone by its competitors, and as such has introduced its Smart Air Conditioner line of thermostats. Don't let the name fool you: it can be used year-round for home climate control and management, and usually runs around &pound;150 for a compatible thermostat and system. Integrated with mobile apps, real-time statistics are delivered to any mobile device for review and input. This will allow you to make any changes in the home's temperature as necessary. Planning to come home early? You can override the smart schedule to warm things up before you get there. You'll also be able to activate settings such as the clean air wizard and smart saver energy feature whenever needed.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Saving energy and maintaining comfort during the winter months is a prime objective for most. Just in case you were wondering, all of these aforementioned systems can also be used in the summer months for cooling the home efficiently. With all of these savings, you may want to invest in single-room radiators and heated towel racks to increase the winter comfort of your home, or simply save that money for another purpose. Whatever your decision, it will surely irritate the utility companies who continue to want to earn pound after pound of your hard-earned income.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:28 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/inject-comfort-and-charm-into-your-living-room-with-a-new-radiator Inject Comfort and Charm into Your Living Room with a New Radiator <p style="text-align: justify;">Few things speak about the quality and ambiance of your home like the living room does. An area that, by definition, brings life into the home, the living room provides ample opportunity to express creativity, embrace functionality and enjoy the company of others. For many, the living room is the centrepiece of the home but may not be at the actual centre of the home. The trouble with many home heating systems is that they distribute heat unevenly throughout the house, causing some rooms to be less comfortable than others. The addition of a home radiator to various rooms throughout the home can produce added value, wintertime comfort and &ndash; when done properly &ndash; actually enhance the aesthetic charm of the room. We'll outline a few designs that can incorporate a radiator into your living room while not having to sacrifice beauty or your existing floor plan.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"></p> <table border="0" cellspacing="5" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Column Radiators Near the Windows</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Many people think of bulky, old-fashioned radiators when the word is mentioned, but modern design and technological innovation have produced new versions that look beautiful and provide more efficiency. Column radiators are one of these examples, which measure anywhere from one to two metres in length and can be affixed to any wall or compatible surface. Our range of <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/oliver-column-radiators">Oliver column radiators</a> for instance, resemble drawn-back curtains or window shutters when paired on each side of a window. With finishes in stainless steel, anthracite, black and white, you'll be able to find one or more column radiators that go well inside the home. Others decide to place these near the front door in the living room, as a design element that resembles a wall-mounted coat rack or something similar.</p> </td> <td style="width: 200px; text-align: center;" valign="top"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/blog-oliver.jpg" height="200" alt="Oliver" title="Oliver Column Radiator" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p></p> <table border="0" cellspacing="5" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 200px; text-align: center;" valign="top"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/blog-sena.jpg" width="168" height="250" alt="Sena" title="Sena Designer Radiator" /></td> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Horizontal Radiators Near the Floor</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Many people use wallpaper or decorative accents along the lower half of their living room walls to add a bit of flare and character to the room. Raised elements in particular can break the monotony of an otherwise dull, drab room. This is where and why a horizontal radiator can be an excellent addition to the living room.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Besides the heating functionality that it will provide, horizontal radiators from Neva, Bonera and <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/sena-595-550-black-designer-radiator">Sena</a> come in multiple colours and can be used with virtually any existing design schematic. Our horizontal radiators look especially good in contrast with light coloured walls and wood floors; a studio apartment design or post-modern ambiance in the home can be accentuated even more through the addition of such a unit.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p></p> <table border="0" cellspacing="5" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Vertical Radiators Everywhere Else</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Last but not least, you have the option of adding a vertical radiator to the living room as both a design element and a heating source. With models from <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/search?q=Oria" title="Oria">Oria</a>, <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/search?q=Cascia" title="Cascia">Cascia</a>, <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/search?q=Amara" title="Amara">Amara</a> and others, these <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators" title="Vertical Radiators"><strong>vertical radiators</strong></a> look more like pieces of art than they do home heating solutions.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Available in stainless steel, black and white finishes &ndash; with a variety of altered shapes, curves and designs to consider &ndash; you'll be able to find something that makes a bold statement while being a functional product at the same time.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">One of our most aesthetically pleasing vertical radiators is the <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/terano-400-1800-black-designer-radiator">Terano 400/1800 Designer Radiator</a>; when you see it, you'll understand why.&nbsp;</p> </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 200px; text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/blog-vertical.jpg" width="173" height="250" alt="Xeina" title="Vertical Radiators" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">Having a comprehensive heating element in the living room no longer has to be an ugly, obstructive affair. ADIGE Towel Radiators strives to keep the most aesthetically-pleasing and best performing home radiators, designer towel radiators and other heating solutions in stock to give you absolute say in what your living room can truly be. If you're desiring comfort and charm while lounging about for your next design project, then our selection of radiators will provide you with the ability to start the project off right.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:27 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/six-things-you-should-know-before-adding-a-radiator Six Things You Should Know Before Adding a Radiator <p style="text-align: justify;">Adding a new radiator or changing an existing radiator is a relatively simple job, but if you don't know one end of a valve from another, it is a good idea to ask a plumber to tackle the job. It shouldn't cost you a fortune and at least you don't have to worry about flooding the place. However, if you are reasonably competent at DIY, changing or adding a radiator in a wet central heating system (the most common type in the <st1:country-region>UK</st1:country-region>) is well within the capabilities of any DIY savvy person. However, before you begin, there are a few things you need to consider.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Can the Boiler Cope?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Boilers don't have an unlimited energy output. If there are too many radiators on a system, they will work but they won't get hot enough. So, before you go adding extra radiators all over the place, check your boiler's BTU&mdash;this will tell you the maximum output of the boiler. It is normally ok to add one or two extra radiators, but use a BTU calculator for radiators in the home and cross reference this against the boiler output.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Check It's All There</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Buying a new radiator online may seem like a cheap solution, but unless you buy from a reputable company, you could end up missing a few vital pieces. The worst-case scenario is that you remove your existing radiator, only to discover that the new one doesn't have any screws to hold it and the stores are now closed. So check the package before you start the job.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Location, Location, Location</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are installing a radiator in a new location, think carefully about where the pipes are going to go. It is a lot easier to fit a new radiator to existing pipe work than it is to pipe in from somewhere else. Do you want the pipes to feed up from the floor? If so the floor boards will have to come up, which could be messy. Give this some thought before you make a snap decision.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Air in the System</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Adding a radiator means draining down the system, which invariably leads to trapped air in the pipes. Air locks are noisy, but <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/the-dos-and-donts-of-bleeding-a-radiator" title="How to bleed a radiator">bleeding the radiators</a> should solve the problem.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Top Up the Boiler Pressure</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Draining down the system will also reduce the water pressure in the boiler so don&rsquo;t forget to top this up once you have everything running smoothly. A loud, whining pump is a symptom of low water pressure. If you ignore it the pump will eventually wear out&mdash;and a replacement pump is unlikely to be cheap!</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">More Inhibitor Needed</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Another side effect of draining down the system is that you will need more inhibitor (the product that stops sludge building up in the system). The good news is that inhibitor isn&rsquo;t very expensive.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If in doubt about your DIY skills when fitting <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/quick-find" title="Find towel radiators by size">heated towel rails for small bathrooms</a></strong>, call on the services of a reputable plumber to do the job. It might be more expensive, but at least your carpets won't be ruined.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:26 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/shower-vs-bath-which-one-is-better Shower vs Bath – Which One Is Better? <table border="0" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top"> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once upon a time, most families were lucky to have a tin bath for special occasions. But times have changed and modern households can easily have two, three or even four bathrooms and en-suites. However, some smaller properties only have room for one small bathroom, so the question of whether a shower would be more space efficient is a pertinent one. Naturally there isn&rsquo;t a straight forward answer, so if you are wondering whether to swap your bath for a power shower, or vice versa, here are a few points to bear in mind.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Water Consumption</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">According to the study, the average eight-minute shower used 62 litres of hot water, and some power showers can use up to 136 litres, compared with an average bath's 80 litres. Even four minutes under a water-inefficient power shower still uses less water than the average bath. Using less water in the bathroom isn&rsquo;t just about the environment &ndash; there is a strong link between the hot water you use and the size of your energy bill.</p> </td> <td style="width: 310px; text-align: right;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/bath-candle-indulge.jpg" width="300" height="273" alt="Bath" title="Filled bath with scented candles around" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Advantages of a Bath</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most homes have at least one bath, but we all lead busy lives so in this day and age, a bath might not be right for your home. However, there are some advantages to installing a bath rather than a shower.</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Kids &ndash; Younger children love baths. It gives them a chance to play in warm water and relaxes them just in time for bed. Parents can also have a bath at the same time, which is useful when you have a baby as well as a toddler.</li> <li>Joint problems &ndash; For anyone suffering with the pain of arthritis, soaking in a hot bath can be a huge comfort. It won&rsquo;t cure the disease, but the heat of a bath can significantly soothe the symptoms.</li> <li>Relaxation &ndash; At the end of a long, stressful day, nothing beats lying in a nice, hot bath, with a glass of wine nearby and a few scented candles dotted around the bathroom. After about thirty minutes, you might actually feel human again.</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Advantages of a Shower</span></h2> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Speed &ndash; Running a bath takes time, and when you are late for work, time is something you probably don&rsquo;t have. It is possible to have a quick shower in less than five minutes, so showers are the ideal solution for busy people.</li> <li>Mobility issues &ndash; It isn&rsquo;t easy climbing into a bath when you are crippled with arthritis or you have some other serious mobility issue. A shower is more suitable for those who are unable to sit down without help. Showers can also be adapted for wheelchair users.</li> <li>Space &ndash; A small shower cubicle takes up less space than a large bath, so if your bathroom is a touch on the &lsquo;compact&rsquo; size, installing a shower will give you more room to play with. Showers are also more suited to en-suite bathrooms because of the space issue.</li> </ul> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Selling a Home</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">No matter what your preference is, should there be any possibility that you might need to sell your home in the future, be careful of removing a bath and replacing it with a shower. Most people, in particular families, are going to want a bath and a property without one is likely to be less attractive to potential buyers. So bear this in mind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The ideal solution is to have both. If space is a problem, consider installing a bath-shower as this will take up less room than a shower cubicle and separate bath. And don&rsquo;t forget to look at <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/electric-only-use-towel-rails" title="Electric towel rails">towel rails with electric options</a></strong> for an extra &lsquo;wow&rsquo; factor.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:25 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/give-your-bathroom-a-seaside-makeover Give Your Bathroom a Seaside Makeover <p style="text-align: justify;">Bathrooms are no different to any other room in the home&mdash;they look fantastic when you first have a new bathroom suite fitted, but as the months and years pass, the d&eacute;cor begins to fade and everything starts too look tired and past its sell by date. Ripping out the entire bathroom is a costly exercise, but don&rsquo;t despair because there are cheaper ways of giving your bathroom a fresh new look. So if the seaside appeals, here are a few tips on how to give a bathroom a seaside theme.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Paint the Bathroom in Seaside Colours</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Use colour to create a seaside theme in an otherwise boring bathroom. Paint the ceiling pale blue and continue the blue colour down the walls about two thirds of the way. Next, using a soft cloth or sponge and some white paint, paint fluffy clouds on the ceiling for a touch of tranquillity. Wood cladding also goes well in a seaside themed bathroom, so use tongue and groove cladding for the lower wall and bath panel. Paint it with diluted white paint.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Distressed Beach Wood</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Distressed wood is perfect for a seaside bathroom. Look for storage cabinets and shelves made from distressed or whitewashed wood. Alternatively, buy an old cupboard, sand it down, wash it with diluted paint, and then apply a coating of protective wax.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Use Pretty Sea Shells</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sea shells are perfect for a seaside themed bathroom. Bags of small shells can be bought from shops in coastal resort towns, or you can spend an afternoon collecting your own shells. These can then be used to create an attractive decorative feature around mirror frames or along the edge of your tongue and groove wall cladding. Alternatively, if you can&rsquo;t find any shells, improvise and stencil some shells on to the wall or buy a few shell design decorative tiles.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Choose a Watery Themed Floor</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A new floor will add some pizzazz to an old bathroom, but if you are opting for a seaside theme, it is important to choose the right flooring. Vinyl floor is a good choice for a bathroom as it is relatively inexpensive, waterproof and easy to clean. There are some fantastic designs to choose from, including ones that look as if you have pebbles on the floor, which would be a great choice in a bathroom. You could also sand down the floorboards if they are in good condition and then wax or whitewash them for a distressed look.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Add Some Watery Accessories</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Accessories really finish off a bathroom to perfection. For a seaside theme, look for accessories that have fishes, shells or boats as part of the design. An abstract pebble modern art canvas or a fishy shower curtain will look great. And don&rsquo;t forget extras like a pebble toilet seat, a nautical striped bath mat or a window blind with a sea shell print.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Nautical Shelves</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Shelves are always useful in a bathroom, so put up some shelves, paint them blue, and fill them with cute seaside themed ornaments such as miniature boats and fishes. And don&rsquo;t forget to add <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-bathroom-radiators">designer towel radiators</a></strong> to complete the stunning new look.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:24 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-cope-with-a-plumbing-emergency How to Cope with a Plumbing Emergency <p style="text-align: justify;">Plumbing emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, from blocked toilets and leaking radiators to burst pipes and broken taps. However, some problems are more urgent than others. For example, you shouldn&rsquo;t ignore a blocked toilet or a burst pipe whereas a leaking radiator could be left for a bit longer as long as you placed a container under the leaking section of pipe. So if the worst happens and you end up dealing with a plumbing emergency, what do you need to do?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/burstwater.jpg" width="750" alt="Burst water" title="Plumbing Emergency" /></p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Turn the Water Off Immediately</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Hopefully you will know where the stop tap is in the event of a plumbing emergency. In most houses the stop tap is either under the kitchen sink or where the water meter is. However, it could be outside or in a basement if you have one. If you don&rsquo;t have a clue, it is a seriously good idea to find out well in advance where the stop tap is, or you could end up with a larger than necessary flood should the worst happen and a pipe bursts.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Do Some Damage Limitation</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once water starts spewing everywhere, you need to try and contain the mess as quickly as possible. Grab bowls and place them under the leak to catch as much water as you can. If this isn&rsquo;t practical for whatever reason, use towels to soak up the water until you are able to disconnect the water supply. If the water is leaking out faster than you can cope with, find someone to empty pots and bowls, or help you scoop water out and into the nearest drain.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Move Furniture and Valuables Out of the Way</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Water can wreak havoc as anyone affected by flooding will be all too aware. Water soaks into soft furnishings and carpets very easily, and therefore causes a lot of damage in a short space of time. Water can also damage electrical goods, so it is a good idea to move any vulnerable items well out of the way. If the leak is perilously close to electrical outlets or has already affected electrical equipment, be very careful before you move these items. To be on the safe side, turn off the electricity supply first.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Call the Emergency Plumber</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once you have done some damage limitation, if you are not in a position to fix the problem yourself, you need to contact an emergency plumber. Hopefully you already know a good plumber, but if you are forced to go looking online for someone local, do make sure you are clear about what their call-out fee is before you ask them to come and fix the damage. Don&rsquo;t forget to check whether you have emergency cover under an insurance policy&mdash;some bank current accounts offer this kind of extra as part of their package.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Deal with the Aftermath</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">De-humidifiers are very useful for drying out damp rooms in the aftermath of a leak. Sodden carpets and furnishings can take a while to dry out, particularly in the winter. A de-humidifier can speed up the process and make the room habitable a lot quicker. And if the damage is extensive, consider claiming on your home insurance policy to replace your old leaky radiator for new <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/aboutus" title="ADIGE">ADIGE towel radiators</a>.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:23 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/ptfe-tape-the-idiot-proof-plumbing-accessory PTFE Tape – The Idiot Proof Plumbing Accessory <p>The average plumber has dozens of tools in his box: wrenches, screwdrivers, spare washers and bits of pipe. He will use all of them at any given time, but the one piece of kit he won't be able to do without is a roll of PTFE tape. <strong>PTFE tape</strong> is commonly known as 'plumber's tape', and for a very good reason. This stuff is incredibly useful. However, as useful as PTFE tape is, you do need to use it correctly or it won't be able to do its job.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <div class="product-grid active" data-tabid="8"> <div class="item-grid"> <div class="item-box"> <div class="product-item hover-variant-one sevenspikes-ajaxcart" data-productid="883"> <div class="ribbon-wrapper"> <div class="picture"><a title="Show details for SLIZZA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 1300mm High" href="/slizza-500mm-wide-1300mm-high-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator"> <img title="Show details for SLIZZA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 1300mm High" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004318_slizza-designer-anthracite-towel-radiator-500mm-wide-1300mm-high_300.jpeg" alt="Picture of SLIZZA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 1300mm High" data-lazyloadsrc="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004318_slizza-designer-anthracite-towel-radiator-500mm-wide-1300mm-high_300.jpeg" /> </a></div> </div> <div class="details"> <div class="details-top"> <h2 class="product-title" style="height: 54px;"><a href="/slizza-500mm-wide-1300mm-high-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator">SLIZZA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 1300mm High</a></h2> </div> <div class="sku"><span style="font-size: .9em; font-weight: 600;">Product Code:</span> SLZ5013A</div> <div class="stock"> <div class="stock-availability">Availability</div> <span style="color: #65c3a7 !important;">22 in stock</span> <div class="stock-yes">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="description">500mm wide and 1300mm high square-tubed S-shaped anthracite designer towel radiator with 516 Watt - 1760 BTU/h @ Delta 50.</div> <div class="prices" style="height: 19px;"><span class="price only-price">£259.99 inc. VAT</span></div> <div class="add-info"> <div class="buttons"> <div class="quick-view-button"><a title="Quick View">Quick View</a></div> <div class="ajax-cart-button-wrapper qty-enabled" data-productid="883" data-isproductpage="false"><input class="productQuantityTextBox" type="text" value="1" data-quantityproductid="883" /> <button class="button-2 product-box-add-to-cart-button nopAjaxCartProductListAddToCartButton" type="button" data-productid="883"> Add to Basket </button></div> <button class="button-2 add-to-wishlist-button" title="Add to pre-sale quote" type="button">Add to pre-sale quote</button> <button class="button-2 add-to-compare-list-button" title="Add to compare list" type="button">Add to compare list</button></div> <a class="item-box-overlay" title="Show details for SLIZZA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 1300mm High" href="/slizza-500mm-wide-1300mm-high-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator"> </a></div> <div class="attribute-squares-wrapper">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="item-box"> <div class="product-item hover-variant-one sevenspikes-ajaxcart" data-productid="772"> <div class="picture"><a title="Show details for EMRENO Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 800mm High" href="/emreno-500-800mm-chrome-designer-towel-radiator"> <img title="Show details for EMRENO Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 800mm High" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004292_emreno-chrome-designer-towel-radiator-500mm-wide-800mm-high_300.jpeg" alt="Picture of EMRENO Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 800mm High" data-lazyloadsrc="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004292_emreno-chrome-designer-towel-radiator-500mm-wide-800mm-high_300.jpeg" /> </a></div> <div class="details"> <div class="details-top"> <h2 class="product-title" style="height: 36px;"><a href="/emreno-500-800mm-chrome-designer-towel-radiator">EMRENO Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 800mm High</a></h2> </div> <div class="sku"><span style="font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: 600;">Product Code:</span> EMR5080C</div> <div class="stock"> <div class="stock-availability">Availability</div> <span style="color: #65c3a7 !important;">31 in stock</span> <div class="stock-yes">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="description">500mm wide and 800mm high rectangular tubed chrome plated ladder style designer towel radiator with 274 Watt - 934 BTU/h @ Delta 50.</div> <div class="prices" style="height: 19px;"><span class="price only-price">£209.99 inc. VAT</span></div> <div class="add-info"> <div class="buttons"> <div class="quick-view-button"><a title="Quick View">Quick View</a></div> <div class="ajax-cart-button-wrapper qty-enabled" data-productid="772" data-isproductpage="false"><input class="productQuantityTextBox" type="text" value="1" data-quantityproductid="772" /> <button class="button-2 product-box-add-to-cart-button nopAjaxCartProductListAddToCartButton" type="button" data-productid="772"> Add to Basket </button></div> <button class="button-2 add-to-wishlist-button" title="Add to pre-sale quote" type="button">Add to pre-sale quote</button> <button class="button-2 add-to-compare-list-button" title="Add to compare list" type="button">Add to compare list</button></div> <a class="item-box-overlay" title="Show details for EMRENO Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 500mm Wide 800mm High" href="/emreno-500-800mm-chrome-designer-towel-radiator"> </a></div> <div class="attribute-squares-wrapper">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="item-box"> <div class="product-item hover-variant-one sevenspikes-ajaxcart" data-productid="884"> <div class="ribbon-wrapper"> <div class="picture"><a title="Show details for WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High" href="/wave-1200mm-wide-635mm-high-chrome-designer-towel-radiator"> <img title="Show details for WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004334_wave-chrome-designer-towel-radiator-1200mm-wide-635mm-high_300.jpeg" alt="Picture of WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High" data-lazyloadsrc="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004334_wave-chrome-designer-towel-radiator-1200mm-wide-635mm-high_300.jpeg" /> </a></div> </div> <div class="details"> <div class="details-top"> <h2 class="product-title" style="height: 36px;"><a href="/wave-1200mm-wide-635mm-high-chrome-designer-towel-radiator">WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High</a></h2> </div> <div class="sku"><span style="font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: 600;">Product Code:</span> WV1260C</div> <div class="stock"> <div class="stock-availability">Availability</div> <span style="color: #65c3a7 !important;">20 in stock</span> <div class="stock-yes">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="description">1200mm wide and 635mm high horizontal wavy-shaped chrome designer towel radiator with 331 Watt - 1128 BTU/h @ Delta 50.</div> <div class="prices" style="height: 19px;"><span class="price only-price">£239.99 inc. VAT</span></div> <div class="add-info"> <div class="buttons"> <div class="quick-view-button"><a title="Quick View">Quick View</a></div> <div class="ajax-cart-button-wrapper qty-enabled" data-productid="884" data-isproductpage="false"><input class="productQuantityTextBox" type="text" value="1" data-quantityproductid="884" /> <button class="button-2 product-box-add-to-cart-button nopAjaxCartProductListAddToCartButton" type="button" data-productid="884"> Add to Basket </button></div> <button class="button-2 add-to-wishlist-button" title="Add to pre-sale quote" type="button">Add to pre-sale quote</button> <button class="button-2 add-to-compare-list-button" title="Add to compare list" type="button">Add to compare list</button></div> <a class="item-box-overlay" title="Show details for WAVE Chrome Designer Towel Radiator - 1200mm Wide 635mm High" href="/wave-1200mm-wide-635mm-high-chrome-designer-towel-radiator"> </a></div> <div class="attribute-squares-wrapper">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="item-box"> <div class="product-item hover-variant-one sevenspikes-ajaxcart" data-productid="944"> <div class="ribbon-wrapper"> <div class="picture"><a title="Show details for SONAVA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" href="/sonava-600mm-wide-1200mm-high-rectangular-tube-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator"> <img title="Show details for SONAVA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004320_sonava-designer-anthracite-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high_300.jpeg" alt="Picture of SONAVA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" data-lazyloadsrc="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004320_sonava-designer-anthracite-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high_300.jpeg" /> </a></div> </div> <div class="details"> <div class="details-top"> <h2 class="product-title" style="height: 36px;"><a href="/sonava-600mm-wide-1200mm-high-rectangular-tube-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator">SONAVA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High</a></h2> </div> <div class="sku"><span style="font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: 600;">Product Code:</span> SNV6012A</div> <div class="stock"> <div class="stock-availability">Availability</div> <span style="color: #65c3a7 !important;">11 in stock</span> <div class="stock-yes">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="description">600mm wide and 1200mm high rectangular horizontal tubed on round vertical tubes designer anthracite towel radiator with 746 Watt - 2544 BTU/h @ Delta 50.</div> <div class="prices" style="height: 19px;"><span class="price actual-price">£200.00 inc. VAT</span> <span class="price old-price">£249.99 inc. VAT</span></div> <div class="add-info"> <div class="buttons"> <div class="quick-view-button"><a title="Quick View">Quick View</a></div> <div class="ajax-cart-button-wrapper qty-enabled" data-productid="944" data-isproductpage="false"><input class="productQuantityTextBox" type="text" value="1" data-quantityproductid="944" /> <button class="button-2 product-box-add-to-cart-button nopAjaxCartProductListAddToCartButton" type="button" data-productid="944"> Add to Basket </button></div> <button class="button-2 add-to-wishlist-button" title="Add to pre-sale quote" type="button">Add to pre-sale quote</button> <button class="button-2 add-to-compare-list-button" title="Add to compare list" type="button">Add to compare list</button></div> <a class="item-box-overlay" title="Show details for SONAVA Designer Anthracite Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" href="/sonava-600mm-wide-1200mm-high-rectangular-tube-anthracite-designer-towel-radiator"> </a></div> <div class="attribute-squares-wrapper">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="item-box"> <div class="product-item hover-variant-one sevenspikes-ajaxcart" data-productid="1979"> <div class="picture"><a title="Show details for DIVERI Anthracite Bathroom Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" href="/diveri-anthracite-bathroom-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high"> <img title="Show details for DIVERI Anthracite Bathroom Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004279_diveri-anthracite-bathroom-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high_300.jpeg" alt="Picture of DIVERI Anthracite Bathroom Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" data-lazyloadsrc="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/images/thumbs/0004279_diveri-anthracite-bathroom-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high_300.jpeg" /> </a></div> <div class="details"> <div class="details-top"> <h2 class="product-title" style="height: 36px;"><a href="/diveri-anthracite-bathroom-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high">DIVERI Anthracite Bathroom Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High</a></h2> </div> <div class="sku"><span style="font-size: 0.9em; font-weight: 600;">Product Code:</span> DVR6012A</div> <div class="stock"> <div class="stock-availability">Availability</div> <span style="color: #65c3a7 !important;">11 in stock</span> <div class="stock-yes">&nbsp;</div> </div> <div class="description">600mm wide and 1200mm high anthracite designer towel radiator with 520 Watt - 1774 BTU/h @ Delta 50.</div> <div class="prices" style="height: 19px;"><span class="price only-price">£219.99 inc. VAT</span></div> <div class="add-info"> <div class="buttons"> <div class="quick-view-button"><a title="Quick View">Quick View</a></div> <div class="ajax-cart-button-wrapper qty-enabled" data-productid="1979" data-isproductpage="false"><input class="productQuantityTextBox" type="text" value="1" data-quantityproductid="1979" /> <button class="button-2 product-box-add-to-cart-button nopAjaxCartProductListAddToCartButton" type="button" data-productid="1979"> Add to Basket </button></div> <button class="button-2 add-to-wishlist-button" title="Add to pre-sale quote" type="button">Add to pre-sale quote</button> <button class="button-2 add-to-compare-list-button" title="Add to compare list" type="button">Add to compare list</button></div> <a class="item-box-overlay" title="Show details for DIVERI Anthracite Bathroom Towel Radiator - 600mm Wide 1200mm High" href="/diveri-anthracite-bathroom-towel-radiator-600mm-wide-1200mm-high"> </a></div> <div class="attribute-squares-wrapper">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">What is PTFE Tape?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">PTFE tape is a polytetrafluoroethylene film made into a tape. It makes an excellent lubricant and can be used to tighten the seal on a pipe, which is why it is so useful in plumbing situations. Most plumbers use PTFE tape on metal-to-metal screw thread joints. Rather than risking ruining the thread on the joint by tightening it up too much, putting some PTFE tape on before you tighten the nut gives you a much better seal whilst protecting the thread.</p> <p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Thread Seal PTFE Tape " src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/ptfe-thread-seal-tape.jpg" alt="PTFE Tape" width="320" height="320" /></p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</h2> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">What is PTFE Tape Used For?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">You can use PTFE tape anywhere there is a compression joint between two sections of pipe. Compression joints on brand new pipe work should be fine without PTFE tape, but older pipework is more likely to weep when things are moved around, i.e. you are changing a radiator over. This is why PTFE tape is commonly used when fitting taps and radiators. Use of PTFE tape, plus a thin coat of plumber's jointing compound, will ensure a nice tight seal and prevent leaks.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</h2> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">How to Use PTFE Tape?</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There is a right way and a wrong way to use PTFE tape. The right way is to wrap it clockwise around the thread of the joint. The easiest way to remember which way to wind the tape is to hold the pipe in your left hand and apply the tape with your right hand. Wrap the tape over the thread/tap or whatever else you are using it for, and unroll the tape away from your body. If you are left handed, do it the opposite way so that you hold the joint with your right hand and unwrap the tape towards your body. This means the tape will tighten in the right direction and not unravel when you tighten the nut. Wrapping PTFE tape three times around the joint is enough—any more than that and you risk overloading the thread with tape.</p> <table style="width: 100%; height: 411px;" border="0" cellspacing="5" cellpadding="3" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="width: 50%;"> <h2>&nbsp;</h2> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">How to Apply PTFE Tape?<br /><br /></span></h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ZmDib-Ms67k" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <table style="width: 100%;" border="0" cellspacing="5" cellpadding="3" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <h2>&nbsp;</h2> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Consequences of None or Not Enough PFTE Tape<br /><br /></span></h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0VqKvpASz3w" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</h2> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Unusual Uses for PTFE Tape</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Although PTFE tape is normally used in plumbing situations, it can be used elsewhere. One unusual use for PTFE tape is in piercings. Because the tape is inert and won't cause a reaction in the body, some people use it to stretch piercings. Wrapping tape around the plug will force the hole to enlarge.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">PTFE tape is readily available from all good DIY stores. PTFE tape is inexpensive, but something that is definitely worth keeping in your toolbox for when you do some plumbing work or fit <strong><a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/dual-fuel-use-towel-radiators">dual fuel heated towel rails</a></strong>.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:22 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/five-simple-ways-to-give-a-kitchen-a-makeover Five Simple Ways to Give a Kitchen a Makeover <p style="text-align: justify;">Everyone knows that a brand new fitted kitchen can really add value to a property and in an ideal world we would all be having new kitchens fitted this weekend. Sadly new fitted kitchens cost a proverbial arm and leg and unless you have recently come into a nice lottery win, you are probably thinking more along the lines of putting up with what you currently have. But fear not because there are a few simple things you can do to give your battered old kitchen a new lease of life!</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Revamp the Cabinets</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Unless the underlying carcases are falling apart, there is a lot you can do to improve the appearance of tired looking kitchen cabinets. Solid wood doors can be sanded down, stained or painted with eggshell gloss, which will completely change the look of your kitchen. Or you could have new door fronts fitted&mdash;there are plenty of companies that offer replacement kitchen cabinet doors to fit cupboards of all different shapes and sizes. Even changing the door handles will make a difference, so give it a go.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/cabinets.jpg" width="650" height="250" alt="Cabinets" title="Revamp the Cabinets" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Credits to <a href="http://www.women24.com/HomeAndAway/Decor/Two-tone-decor-20110310" title="Women24" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Women24</a></p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">New Worktops and Sink</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Kitchen worktops usually show signs of wear and tear after a few years. Scratches, burn marks, scuffs and stains all add up to make a kitchen look less than attractive. However, worktops are relatively inexpensive to replace (unless you have a hankering for new granite worktops) and if you change the sink and taps over at the same time, it will feel like you have a brand new kitchen.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Different Tiles</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Tiles can make the difference between a stylish kitchen and an old fashioned one. Are your tiles circa 1975? Do they have cute little pictures of onions and apples on them? If so you are in desperate need of a kitchen makeover. Start removing your tiles immediately and then go shopping for some nice new ones. Plain coloured square tiles look great and are not too expensive. Or if you are comfortable spending more money, opt for a glass or metal splash back for a more modern feel. Either way it will be a vast improvement on what you have already.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/kitchentiles.jpg" width="720" height="456" alt="Kitchen" title="Old Kitchen Tiles" /></p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Shabby Chic Style</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Refurbishing a table and chairs or kitchen dresser is a great way to add some style to a dining kitchen. Shabby chic is all the rage right now, so if you have an old pine dresser or table and chairs, sand them down and paint them cream or white to give them an antique feel. For a more distressed look, use several different layers of paint in pale shades and sand the item down to reveal the underlying colour. Once you are happy with the paint finish, wax or polish the piece to complete the shabby chic look.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Lick of Paint</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If painting the furniture is a step too far, even giving the walls a fresh coat of paint will make a huge difference. Go for a bold colour and accessorise with a new kettle and other bits and pieces. Get rid of that greasy old window blind and buy a smart new fabric or wooden Venetian blind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes there just isn&rsquo;t enough money in the pot to do everything you want, in which case you need to be selective about the things you can afford to do. Perhaps you need to replace an old rusty radiator. If so, look at <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-towel-radiators" title="Designer chrome towel rails"><strong>designer chrome towel rails</strong></a> and <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators" title="Vertical Radiators"><strong>vertical radiators</strong></a> as these will give a nice modern slant to the room, and in conjunction with a new worktop and sink, it will feel as if you have a brand new kitchen. But if money is really tight, just buy some new tea towels and paint the wall a different colour. It isn&rsquo;t ideal, but it is better than nothing.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:21 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/the-dos-and-donts-of-adding-an-en-suite-bathroom The Dos and Don'ts of Adding an En Suite Bathroom <p style="text-align: justify;">Once upon a time, a bathroom was the least important room in a home. In fact it wasn't until fairly recently that many homes had the luxury of indoor bathrooms at all.&nbsp; In our grandparent's day, having a bath meant placing a metal tub in front of the fire and filling it with hot water. Everyone had to share the bath and the last person in was extremely unlucky. And as for the toilet, well as long as you didn't mind a trek outdoors and were not afraid of the dark and a few spiders, you were fine.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Thankfully times have changed and all modern homes come fully equipped with a bathroom large or small. Unfortunately, in a larger home, many families soon discover that having just one bathroom is simply not enough and everyone is forced to queue up in the morning just to have a shower.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Adding an en suite to the master bedroom can make life a lot easier, but only if the job is done properly. So what are the dos and don'ts of building an en suite and what pitfalls should you try and avoid?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Do Plan the Space Carefully</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">En suites are usually on the small side because you are 'borrowing' space from either the master bedroom or an adjacent room/cupboard. Because of this, you need to plan everything down to the tiniest detail. For example, say you want a large walk in shower, think about whether it will fit in the space and leave you enough room for everything else. If you are forced to work with very little space, look at space-saving sinks, bi-folding shower doors and space saving <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk" title="heated towel rails"><strong>heated towel rails</strong></a> for small bathrooms.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Do Ensure there is Adequate Ventilation</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ventilation is always important in a bathroom of any description, but if the proposed en suite is internal, ventilation is even more important. Make sure that any extractor fan you install is sufficient for the space or you could end up with mould, mildew and all kinds of damp problems.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don't Sacrifice a Bedroom</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Whilst an en suite can add value to a property, it won't add value if you are building an en suite at the expense of a bedroom. Bedrooms sell houses and if you lose a bedroom any increase in value gained from a new en suite will be wiped out by the loss of a bedroom. You should also be careful of sacrificing excessive space in a bedroom. En suites are always a desirable selling feature, but not when the bedroom floor space has been slashed in half in the process and you can no longer reach the wardrobe without climbing over the bed.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Don't Use Dark Colours</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most en suites are very small and compact. This means that you need to be careful when planning the d&eacute;cor and choosing tiles, floor coverings and other decorative features. Black tiles and a dark floor might look sexy in a large, spacious bathroom, but in a tiny, windowless en suite you will probably feel as if you have been entombed every time you use the toilet. For best results, stick to white sanitary ware and light colours everywhere else. And don't forget to make sure you have adequate lighting.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Adding an en suite to the master bedroom can easily add between &pound;10,000 and &pound;20,000 to a property, but only if the conversion is done to a high standard. If you decide to do the work yourself, make sure you are proficient in all the necessary skills. And finally, make sure your boiler can cope with additions to the heating circuit.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:20 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/conservatories-vs-extensions-which-one-is-best-for-your-home Conservatories Vs Extensions - Which One is Best for Your Home? <p style="text-align: justify;">Once kids come along it won't be long before your home begins to feel cramped. You will long for somewhere out of the way to store baby and toddler detritus, and as the kids grow older, an extra room can be a place for them to play computer games and do homework. One answer to the perennial problem of space (or lack thereof) is to move to a larger property, but this is an expensive solution and there is no guarantee you will find a larger house within your budget. You may also be reluctant to move when your current home is near the kids' school and other important amenities. Extending the downstairs is one way of adding extra living space, but should you go for a conservatory or splash out on a full-blown extension?</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Cost</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">There is a cost difference between a conservatory and an extension. Generally speaking, a conservatory will be the cheaper option although this does depend on what specification you go for. However, conservatories are more expensive than they used to be because they now have to be better insulated, so if you go for a top quality installation, you could end up paying more than you would for a small single storey extension with a window and door.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Longevity</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Extensions are built to last, so as long as the builder does a good job, it should last as long as the rest of the house. Conservatories are different. Most of them start to look a bit scruffy after a few years and after 20 years you will probably need a new one.&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Heating</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">The biggest disadvantage of conservatories is that they are too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter, even with blinds fitted. It is possible to enjoy use of a conservatory all year round, but you need to install an effective form of heating and avoid building it in a south facing location. Underfloor heating and <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/vertical-radiators" title="Vertical Radiators"><strong>Adige vertical radiators</strong></a> will help, as will a wood burner, but you will almost certainly get more use out of a brick built extension.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Adding Value</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Conservatories and extensions both add value to a home, but how big a price tag will depend on a multitude of factors. A large bespoke conservatory in keeping with the style of the home will be a major selling point, as will a well thought out extension, but if the workmanship is shoddy or the structure has seen better days, you won't gain anything when you come to sell. The same applies if you have sacrificed most of your garden in the process.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Light</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">One area where a conservatory trumps an extension hands down is light. By their very nature a conservatory allows lots of natural light into the space. You won't have the same effect with an extension because building regulations restrict the number of windows and doors you can have.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Views</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Another area where conservatories win is the view. Acres of glass in a conservatory means you can enjoy full panoramic views of your garden, whereas even with French windows or a patio door in an extension, the effect is not the same. Of course if your garden is a weed infested doggy toilet then you probably won't be too concerned about enjoying the vista, in which case an extension could be a better bet.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ultimately, whether you go for a conservatory or have an extension built will come down to personal preference. There is no right or wrong and if you don't plan on staying in the property for more than five years, you don't need to worry about the structure falling down. But whatever you decide upon, make sure you obtain several quotes and always use a reputable contractor.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:19 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/help-my-boiler-isnt-working Help! My Boiler Isn't Working! <p style="text-align: justify;">There are very few things more annoying in life than a broken down central heating boiler. Boilers invariably break down at the most inconvenient time&mdash;typically when the temperature outside is below zero and your bank account is running on empty. But before you call out a heating engineer, there are a few things you should check.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">No Fuel</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Mains gas boilers don&rsquo;t run out of fuel because the gas supply is continuous (unless you have been cut off for any reason), but if you have an oil or LPG boiler, check that you still have fuel in the tank.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Water Pressure is Too Low</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">If the water pressure inside the boiler falls below a certain level, the boiler will stop working. This can happen for many reasons, but recent plumbing work is a common cause of low water pressure. For example, if you have <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-remove-a-radiator-for-decorating-purposes" title="Remove a towel radiator"><strong>removed a radiator</strong></a> from the system or you had a leak, you should always top up the water pressure inside the boiler. A failure to do so will cause the boiler to lock out. A noisy boiler is an early warning sign of low water pressure, so be alert.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Boiler Lock-Out</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Is the boiler lock out light on? If in doubt about what you are looking at, check the manual, but if the lock out light is on, press the reset button to get the boiler going again. All being well the boiler should resume normal service without any problem, but if it keeps locking out you need to call a heating engineer to identify what the underlying problem is.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Pilot Light</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Gas boilers have a pilot light, so check whether this is lit. If it isn&rsquo;t, try re-lighting it.&nbsp; Sometimes a strong draft can blow the pilot light out, but should the problem recur, you have a more serious problem to contend with.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Check the Power</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">It may sound obvious, but is there any power to the boiler? Check to see if there are lights on and if there is no sign of life, try replacing the main fuse.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Dodgy Thermostat</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">The room thermostat is supposed to tell the boiler when to come on. If your boiler has failed to fire up even though it would normally be on at this time, check the thermostat control panel. If it is a wireless unit, try replacing the batteries, and if all else fails, press the re-set button.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Frozen Condensate Pipe</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">This is a problem associated with exceptionally cold weather. A condensate pipe removes waste water from the boiler, usually into an outside drain. Unfortunately, condensate pipes are prone to freezing when the temperature drops too low. When the pipe freezes it creates a blockage and water backs up inside the boiler, triggering a lock down. The condensate pipe will need to be thawed out, but this must be done very carefully. Use warm water or a heat pad to gently thaw out the pipe, and if in doubt, call a qualified heating engineer.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Call the Engineer</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Boilers are tricky things and there are many things that can go wrong with them. Once you have checked all the obvious things and the boiler still isn&rsquo;t working, it is time to call out an engineer. Hopefully you have a maintenance contract and the visit won&rsquo;t cost you a thing, but if you don&rsquo;t, make sure you know exactly what the call-out charge is so you don&rsquo;t have any nasty surprises later.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">Regular Servicing</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">One way to prevent boiler breakdowns is to have an annual service. Regular servicing will help to prevent minor problems from snowballing into major issues, as well as make sure your boiler is safe to use.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:18 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/can-a-wet-room-add-value-to-your-home Can a Wet Room Add Value to Your Home? <p>Wet rooms are becoming increasingly popular in modern <st1:country-region>UK</st1:country-region> homes, although they have been common on the continent for many years. The beauty of a wet room is that it is uncluttered and streamlined, which for many people is their idea of a perfect bathroom. But although you may love the idea of replacing your Victoriana bathroom with an ultra stylish wet room, will it add value or would you be better spending your money on a <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/traditional-heated-towel-rails" title="Traditional Heated Towel Rails"><strong>traditional bathroom</strong></a> instead?</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">How do Wet Rooms Work?</span></h2> <p>Wet rooms don&rsquo;t have shower screens&mdash;the entire room is one giant shower and instead of a conventional shower tray, the gradient of the floor is altered to allow water to drain away. For obvious reasons the room has to be completely waterproof, so the floor and walls need to be clad in waterproof materials&mdash;a waterproof membrane would normally be used before the wall is tiled. Of course you wouldn&rsquo;t just have a shower in a wet room; it is normal to have a sink and toilet installed, too. You would also need to include some form of heating. Underfloor heating is a popular choice, but central heating <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/designer-towel-radiators" title="Designer Towel Radiators"><strong>designer towel radiators</strong></a> are another option.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Will a Wet Room Add Value?</span></h2> <p>Installing a wet room will definitely give your home the extra &lsquo;wow&rsquo; factor when the time comes to sell. It will also add value as long as the wet room is properly installed. However, this is only the case if you add a wet room as an en suite or second shower room. Replacing the main family bathroom with a super modern wet room could seriously backfire on you if you later choose to sell your property. Most buyers want at least one traditional bathroom in a home, particularly if they have children, so think twice before getting rid of the bath.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Advantages of a Wet Room</span></h2> <ul> <li>Easy to clean &ndash; There are far fewer surfaces in a wet room, which makes the job of cleaning it a lot easier.</li> <li>Mobility &ndash; Wet rooms are perfect for people with mobility issues. Wheelchair users or anyone who struggles to step into a shower cubicle or bath will find a wet room less of a challenge, although you will need to install non-slip flooring.</li> <li>Perfect for small or odd-shaped rooms &ndash; Baths take up a lot of room, so if you are building a small en suite or your bathroom in a non-standard shape, a wet room will be a space saver.</li> </ul> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Disadvantages of a Wet Room</span></h2> <ul> <li>Leaks - The biggest problem with a wet room is that if there are any deficiencies in the installation, you are in big trouble. Even the smallest of leaks can cause major damage, so if you have a wet room that isn&rsquo;t 100% waterproof, it won&rsquo;t be long before the adjacent walls and rooms below are showing signs of water damage. For this reason alone, make sure you hire a reputable and experienced contractor to carry out the work should you decide to have a wet room installed.</li> <li>Water, water everywhere &ndash; The problem with a wet room is that it can be difficult to keep things dry.</li> </ul> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Other Considerations when Planning a Wet Room</span></h2> <p>Think very carefully about what goes where when planning a wet room. It is all very well having the toilet near the shower area, but what happens when your toilet roll turns into a pile of mush every time someone has a shower? Mushy toilet roll won&rsquo;t be able to do the job for which it was intended, so you better factor in a bidet, or things could get a tad messy.</p> <p>Visit our <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/blog" title="Our blog">blog</a> for more practical advice and tips on bathroom remodelling and heated towel rails.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:17 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-remove-a-radiator-for-decorating-purposes How to Remove a Radiator for Decorating Purposes <p>Radiators can be a pain when the time comes to redecorate a room. Painting behind the radiator is not too difficult, but if the wall has been papered and you want to remove the old paper to either paint or repaper, the radiator is likely to be very much in the way. Most <a href="/designer-towel-radiators" title="Designer towel radiators"><strong>designer towel radiators</strong></a> have simple and easy to remove wall fixing brackets. Removing these will make your life a lot easier and if you are reasonably skilled on the DIY front, there is no reason why you shouldn&rsquo;t be able to do the job yourself.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">The Right Tools for the Job</span></h2> <ul> <li>Dust sheet to protect the floor</li> <li>Adjustable spanner</li> <li>Radiator key</li> <li>Screwdrivers</li> <li>Adjustable wrench</li> </ul> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Steps for Removing a Radiator</span></h2> <ol> <li>A radiator has two valves and both need to be sorted before it can be removed. First, make sure you turn the on/off valve (or <a href="/thermostatic-radiator-valves" title="Thermostatic valves">thermostatic valve</a> if you have one) into the &lsquo;off&rsquo; position. Next, using an adjustable wrench, remove the cap from the other &lsquo;lockshield&rsquo; valve at the opposite end of the radiator and turn it clockwise to close off the water supply.</li> <li>To disconnect the on/off valve from the radiator inlet pipe, use an adjustable wrench to hold the valve on the vertical pipe whilst using another wrench to loosen the nut on the valve that connects the radiator to the pipe. You will need to place a bowl under the valve to collect liquid. Using a radiator key, open up the &lsquo;bleed&rsquo; valve to break the air lock and release the water from inside the radiator.</li> <li>Use the same technique to release the radiator from the lockshield valve. Once the radiator has been disconnected from both valves and any remaining water has been drained, it can be lifted from the wall brackets. Don&rsquo;t forget to close the bleed valve at the top of the radiator.</li> <li>Place the radiator on dust sheets or old towels to protect the floor just in case any more dirty water leaks out.</li> </ol> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Decorating Behind the Radiator</span></h2> <p>Once the radiator has been removed, you are free to remove old wallpaper and paint the wall. You may wish to remove the <a href="/radiator-accessories" title="designer radiator wall brackets">wall brackets</a>. However, if you do remove them, make sure you replace them in exactly the same place (unless you are moving the radiator to a new location).</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Replacing the Radiator</span></h2> <p>Radiators are heavy, so you might need an assistant to help you lift the radiator back into position on its wall brackets. In order to prevent any annoying leaks, before connecting the valves back up again, wrap some plumber&rsquo;s tape (PTFE tape) around the radiator adapter screw heads. Once the radiator is in place, tighten up the nuts holding the valves at each end. Be careful not to over-tighten them as this can lead to leaks. Open the on/off valve and bleed valve, then wait for the radiator to fill up with water. Next, open the lockshield valve at the other end and make sure both joints are not leaking. If they are, tighten them up slightly. Lastly, turn the central heating back on and make sure everything is working correctly before topping up the water pressure in the boiler again (if necessary).</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:16 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/keep-heating-bills-under-control-by-making-your-home-more-energy-efficient Keep Heating Bills Under Control by Making Your Home More Energy Efficient <p>Heating bills are a significant drain on most people’s household budgets. Of course it is possible to live without <a title="central heating designer towel rails" href="/central-heating-towel-rails">central heating</a>, but it isn’t easy, especially during the cold winter months. If you have young children or elderly relatives living in your home, the cold can even be dangerous, so instead of trying to save money by switching the heating off, make your home more <strong>energy efficient</strong> instead.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Loft Insulation</span></h2> <p>Heat rises, so if you have zero or insufficient loft insulation in place, a large percentage of heat generated by your central heating will disappear through the roof of your home. This is great if you are comfortable heating the neighbourhood, but not so great if you want to save money on your heating bill. To improve things, check how much loft insulation you have. The Energy Saving Trust recommends a minimum of 270mm mineral wool loft insulation, so if you have less, top it up.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Cavity Wall Insulation</span></h2> <p>Homes also lose a lot of heat through un-insulated walls. New homes typically have <a title="Cavity Wall" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavity_wall_insulation" target="_blank">cavity walls</a> whereas older homes are more likely to have solid walls. But either way, it is possible to insulate the walls and reduce heat loss, so make sure you check the status of your walls.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Fix Draughty Windows and Doors</span></h2> <p>Doors and windows are another primary area of heat loss in the home. New double-glazed windows are very energy efficient, but if you have older timber windows, they are probably draughty and not very energy efficient. Replacing old windows with nice new ones is the ideal solution, but sadly this is a costly route to take. A cheaper option is to fit plastic film over your windows and repair any holes or gaps around the edge of the frames. In the case of ill-fitting doors, fit draught excluder strips around the edges and along the bottom, or install a heavy curtain to block draughts.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Regular Boiler Service</span></h2> <p>Ideally a boiler should be serviced every year, particularly if it is an older one. Regular servicing will help to ensure your boiler is running efficiently and reduce the likelihood of parts wearing out. If your boiler is very old, you will be able to save money by installing a new energy efficient one. You may even be eligible for a grant to do this.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Bleed Radiators</span></h2> <p>Over time air and gases can build up inside radiator circuits. These manifest as cold spots in certain radiators, so no matter how high you turn up your heating, the affected room never feels particularly hot. The best way to prevent this from happening is to <a title="Bleed your heated towel rails" href="/the-dos-and-donts-of-bleeding-a-radiator">bleed your radiators</a>. Try and do this once per year.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Turn Down the Thermostat a Degree</span></h2> <p>Turning down the room thermostat a notch will make a big difference to your heating bills. Setting the thermostat to a balmy 26 degrees may make your home feel like sunny Spain, but instead of lounging around in a t-shirt and shorts whilst complaining about the price of gas, try putting a few more layers on and setting the room thermostat to 19 degrees instead. Your bank account will thank you.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:15 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-add-value-to-your-home-with-a-new-bathroom How to Add Value to Your Home with a New Bathroom <p>Bathrooms, like kitchens, are an expensive room to renovate. Although painting the walls and changing the floor won't cost too much cash, installing a new bathroom suite or power shower is likely to be expensive, even if you do the work yourself. So is such as major bathroom makeover really worth the expense and will it add sufficient value to your home to warrant the expense?</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">5 Signs Your Bathroom Needs Help</span></h2> <ul> <li><strong>It leaks</strong> &ndash; Water dripping down the walls into the room below is not a good sign</li> <li><strong>Mould and mildew</strong> &ndash; Are your tiles, shower curtain and ceiling black with nasty fungal infections? If so, don't expect buyers to fall over themselves to put an offer in any time soon</li> <li><strong>Hideous colour schemes</strong> &ndash; Avocado or chocolate coloured three-piece bathroom suites may have been the height of fashion in 1970, but they are not terribly attractive these days</li> <li><strong>Cracked appliances</strong> &ndash; Sinks and baths are not immune to damage, so replacing cracked sinks and baths is always sensible if you are planning on selling your property</li> <li><strong>Poor layout</strong> &ndash; If it is a struggle to move between the sink and the toilet without falling headfirst into the bath, you can bet your life potential buyers will not be impressed</li> </ul> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">DIY vs. Professional Installation</span></h2> <p>DIY is obviously the cheaper option for a new bathroom installation, but do not go down this route unless you are certain you can do an exemplary job. Bathrooms are the last place you want to have problems in as water leaks can cause a huge amount of damage. A professional installation will be completed a lot faster and as long as you choose a reputable contractor, you will be protected. You may also be given a guarantee for the work, which is a useful selling point.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Bathroom Options</span></h2> <p>Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes&mdash;large, small, modern and traditional. However, before you go too mad and opt for gold-plated taps and marble tiles, think very carefully about overall style of your property. After all, there is little point in spending a fortune on a lavish Victorian-style bathroom in a two-bed semi detached starter home as buyers are more likely to want a modern suite with clean lines and simple features. Be careful about installing anything too quirky. Just because you love it, it doesn't mean potential buyers will. And remember, if you opt for an off-the-wall design, it could put off the majority of people who come to view.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">Bathrooms on the Cheap</span></h2> <p>It is perfectly possible to modernise an old, tired bathroom without spending an absolute fortune. New wall tiles, a smart new <a href="/5-step-buyers-guide" title="Heated towel rails"><strong>heated towel rail</strong></a> and a new floor will go a long way towards improving a bathroom when the time comes to sell. But if your suite is outdated or damaged, look around for a smart new modern suite. There are plenty of bargains to be had if you spend some time comparing prices. Even the labour costs don't have to be exorbitant. As long as you ask for quotes from a number of reputable bathroom installers before you make a final decision, you shouldn&rsquo;t end up paying over the odds.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:14 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/the-dos-and-donts-of-bleeding-a-radiator The Dos and Don’ts of Bleeding a Radiator <p>Radiators are extremely common and the majority of UK homes have a central heating system featuring radiators in every room. When radiators are working efficiently, as soon as the central heating comes on they begin to heat up until every part of the radiator is hot. Unfortunately, over time gas and air pockets can develop inside radiators, which reduce their efficiency. This also applies to <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/5-step-buyers-guide" title="Heated Towel Rails"><strong>heated towel rails</strong></a> as they also operate the same way as conventional radiators. So if your radiators are not performing properly, here is a simple guide to bleeding a radiator.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">How to Tell if a Radiator Needs Bleeding</span></h2> <p>When a radiator is piping hot from top to bottom, it is working efficiently. If, however, your radiators are hot at the bottom and cooler at the top, they probably have air and gas trapped inside them. Thankfully you don&rsquo;t need to call in a plumber as bleeding radiators is a simple DIY task anyone can do.</p> <p>In order to bleed a radiator, you need to open up the bleed valve, but before you do this, make sure you know which radiators in the system are affected. Since air normally rises, it is more common for upstairs radiators to require bleeding. The simplest way to check is to turn the central heating on and leave it until every radiator in the house is hot. Next, check each radiator for cold spots, but be careful not to burn your fingers in the process.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">How to Bleed a Radiator</span></h2> <ul> <li>Turn the central heating off and wait for the radiators to cool down</li> <li>Check what type of valve your radiators have &ndash; older radiators need a radiator key whereas new ones can be bled using a flat-head screwdriver</li> <li>Place a cloth under the valve to catch liquid</li> <li>Turn the valve anti-clockwise &ndash; if you hear a hissing sound, air is escaping</li> <li>As soon as liquid begins to leak out, close the valve up again</li> <li>Check the water pressure in your boiler and if necessary, top it back up</li> <li>Turn the central heating back on and check the affected radiators to ensure they are now working properly</li> </ul> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">How Often Should I Bleed My Radiators?</span></h2> <p>Radiators should be checked once a year. In most cases this will be sufficient to ensure they are working at their most efficient, but if you have had plumbing work done, it is a good idea to check them once work has been completed as air can get into the system, particularly when radiators have been removed from the central heating circuit.</p> <p>If you notice that air is getting into the radiator system more frequently, have your central heating checked out by a qualified engineer because there is a problem that needs fixing.</p> <h2><span style="color: #008000;">What Not to Do</span></h2> <p>Always use a cloth to protect the area beneath the radiator valve&mdash;water inside a radiator is usually very dirty and will almost certainly stain your floor if it is allowed to squirt out everywhere.&nbsp; Finally, don&rsquo;t forget to tighten up the valve once you have let any air out. Leaking radiators can cause a lot of damage to flooring.</p> <p><img src="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/Images/uploaded/blog-images/bleed-a-radiator.jpg" width="447" height="339" alt="Bleeding a radiator" title="Stop and close the bleed valve as soon as water starts to come out" /></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:13 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/5-simple-ways-to-give-your-bathroom-a-makeover 5 Simple Ways to give Your Bathroom a Makeover <p style="text-align: justify;">The average family bathroom suffers an awful lot of wear and tear. Teenagers spend hours in front of the mirror primping and inspecting their complexion or taking a long shower, and dad probably locks himself in there daily with a newspaper in hand. Either way, it doesn't take long for a bathroom to start looking a bit tired and worn around the edges. But fear not because there are lots of ways to give a bathroom a makeover&mdash;and you don't even need to spend a fortune doing so!</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">1. New Shower Screen</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Shower curtains are fine if you are shopping on a budget, but if you really want to make an impression, have a smart glass shower screen fitted. Shower screens can be bought for many different types of shower bath, including the p-shaped varieties. Glass screens look a lot nicer than a plastic or fabric curtain and are less susceptible to mould and mildew in poorly ventilated bathrooms. They are also easier to keep clean.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">2. Replace the Tiles</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Nothing dates a bathroom like old-fashioned tiles. Take a good look at yours and decide which era they are from. If they happen to be fairly neutral, you should be ok, but if your tiles are bold, brash and reminiscent of an Austin Power's movie, consider replacing them with some new ones. Plain white tiles are always a good buy, particularly if you are unfortunate enough to be blessed with a coloured suite. But if you want some extra zing, look at stone tiles or mosaic tiles instead.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">3. Heated Towel Rail</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Old-fashioned radiators serve a purpose, but they don't always look very stylish. One way to correct this is to replace your old, rusty radiator with a smart new <a href="/chrome-curved-towel-radiators" title="Chrome Heated Towel Rails">chrome heated towel rail</a>. They come in a multitude of different sizes, so no matter how small and compact your bathroom is, you should be able to find one to suit. You don't even need a plumber to do the job if you are reasonably skilled in DIY techniques&mdash;removing and replacing a radiator is well within the capabilities of a competent DIY enthusiast.&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">4. Window Blind</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Unless your bathroom is an internal one, it will have a window. One way of giving a bathroom a makeover is to replace the old window covering with something a bit more stylish. Blinds are a good choice for a bathroom because they are less fussy than curtains. Wooden Venetian blinds look great, especially if you are going for a minimalist look, but if you want to add an injection of colour, look at fabric roller blinds instead. Choose an accent colour and buy matching accessories. It won't cost a fortune and your bathroom will look vastly improved.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;">5. De-Clutter the Space</span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">A cluttered bathroom looks messy and is difficult to clean. If this sounds like your bathroom, give it a makeover by adding some stylish storage solutions. A good way of adding extra storage is to install a shelving unit or build a cupboard around your sink unit. It's amazing what a difference it will make if you can place all your lotions and potions out of site.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:12 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/bathroom-renovation-heated-towel-rails Bathroom Renovation - Heated Towel Rails <p style="text-align: justify;">What could be more irritating than walking into your bathroom to find a damp towel in a heap on the floor? It is an age old problem that many householders face, and while not a life threatening one by any means; it is simply one of the most annoying ones.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">So what is the answer to this age old problem? Pack the offending towel user out of the door? I would suggest this is probably a little extreme; perhaps a better solution could be that of a heated towel rail.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once a feature only found in the hotel industry, heated towel rails have become increasingly popular throughout the housing industry. They offer the room a feel of luxury while offering the user a great and practical way to heat the room and dry towels in use. It is a simple process for home owners to go through to have a towel rail fitted.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are planning on having a heated towel rail fitted there are a few points to consider first.</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>This size of your bathroom will dictate the size of rail you need to install</li> <li>Finding a reputable installer is vital to ensuring you get a great finished product</li> <li>You should consider the distance between the pipe centres for both radiators before purchasing</li> <li>You can have a heated towel radiator fitted to your existing heating system or you can choose an electric wall mounted option</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you are renovating your bathroom, it is a great idea to choose a heated towel rail. They not only keep the room warm but also enable you to dry those pesky damp towels, if you have a large family it really can be a blessing.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">There are a few options for you to consider when choosing your towel rail. If you have a central heating system you can opt for a radiator towel rail that is connected to the system, it uses hot water that heats the rails.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you don’t have central heating you can go for the electric heater. This will be heated using a heating cartridge or heating cable. There is a third option for those of you who feel that you want to conserve energy throughout the year. Despite the fact you have central heating you may not want to have this on in the summer months, you can however opt for a rail that also runs from the electric supply. You simply switch between the functions to suit your needs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">At <a href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/">www.towelradiator.co.uk</a> we recommend that you use a reputable plumber or electrician to fit your towel rail for you. We have a vast selection of rails for you to choose from on our website, with easy to use filter options and categories to help you find your perfect radiator rail. For expert advice from our dedicated team, call us on 02036435897. Our experts are friendly and more than happy to help you with any aspect of our service.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:11 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/bathroom-designs Bathroom Designs <p style="text-align: justify;">One room that is often overlooked when planning the interior design of a home is the bathroom. Bathroom designs are just as important for look and functionality as the design of a living room or dining room. It should be both a room one can be proud of and relax in while attending to their showers and personal grooming needs. There are some factors to keep in mind when planning the design of a bathroom, but if those factors are kept in mind the bathroom should become a small haven within the home.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Form and function are important but they can still be beautiful. There is no need to sacrifice the look one is going for in order to achieve the function they need. There are so many options for sinks, bathtubs,&nbsp;<a href="/5-step-buyers-guide"><strong>heated towel rails</strong></a>&nbsp;and the other important parts of &nbsp;bathroom designs that one should be able to find just the right look with just the right function if they are willing to search for it. The options might be limited by space or budget but even with those constraints, the bathroom can still be made beautiful, warm and functional.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Colour is an important part of the bathroom design. Do not just choose one&nbsp;colour&nbsp;but try to choose complimentary&nbsp;colours&nbsp;that can be brought in to the design concept as accents with things like linens, shower curtains, and perhaps even art that is up on the walls. There are many companies that offer&nbsp;colourful&nbsp;counters, tiles, and other fixtures if a person wants to have some extra pop here and there. There are increasingly more options when it comes to bathroom design features that a person might wish to explore when planning the look and feel of their bathroom design.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Interior design is not just about the main rooms of a house. It is as important to have a bathroom design that one can be proud of and relax when taking that much needed shower or bath. It can contribute to a more polished look and feel within the entire home and can simply help a person be that much more proud of their property when it is done correctly. The bathroom is growing increasingly popular as the room that is frequently&nbsp;remodelled&nbsp;or redecorated in a home. Create a plan, hire the proper professionals including one that specializes in interior design if one is not comfortable doing it themselves, and then have fun with it.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Find more&nbsp;useful information on;<br /><a title="Adige Blog" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/blog">https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/blog</a></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:10 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/replacing-bathroom-radiators Replacing Bathroom Radiators <p style="text-align: justify;">While it still feels like December/January, we have gone past the Easter break and well into Spring 2013. Soon it will start to feel warmer &ndash; At least we all hope so - and many will take advantage of this warm weather by renovating their homes. Most of these renovations will also involve their bathrooms and perhaps replacing old&nbsp;<a href="/designer-bathroom-radiators"><strong>bathroom radiators</strong></a>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During the preparation period for a spring home renovation, most&nbsp;home-owners&nbsp;and especially women take forever looking for the perfect wall paper, paint, color and other features to use or implement. With an ever-growing number of designer radiators and&nbsp;<a href="/5-step-buyers-guide"><strong>heated towel rails</strong></a>&nbsp;on the market, it also takes a lot longer to select a new bathroom radiator. At the end some actually do give up this search during this preparation &amp; research period. In fact many never bother to change the radiator at all. Depending on the model and type, they may well get a lick of paint but that is pretty much the only change or improvement on bathroom radiators.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">It is however possible to buy a modern looking,&nbsp;<a href="/designer-towel-radiators"><strong>designer towel radiator</strong></a>&nbsp;to replace your old and tired radiator. There are many variations to select from but it is not a daunting task. You will very likely need to re-arrange your pipe work to accommodate the new modern bathroom radiator. This can be done by a qualified plumber who is able to cut or extend your existing pipe work.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most radiators on sale in the UK are made from steel, stainless steel or brass. While the first two are a more common material, last one is relatively rare. Finish on these products range from chrome, white, anthracite or other colors all of which actually look aesthetically pleasing. Whether you install your new radiator in your bathroom, lounge, kitchen or hallway, they will simply look great and improve your home.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With so many high street &amp; online shops, range and availability, costs are relatively low nowadays compared to last decade. Prices start from as little as &pound;70 going up to &pound;200 or &pound;300. If however, you have a bigger budget or wish to get something really to strike out, then you have the top end options where the price range starts from &pound;300 or &pound;400 and goes up to &pound;1000&rsquo;s</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">If you can get yourself a designer towel radiator or a heated towel rail to replace your old, outdated and tired bathroom radiator, it could form part of the d&eacute;cor that graces your bathroom in an affordable way.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:9 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/is-a-designer-towel-radiator-an-ideal-investment Is a Designer Towel Radiator an Ideal Investment ? <p style="text-align: justify;">If you wish to add value to your property, have a moisture free bathroom and to heat up in style, it's a good investment to make. Not only you will have storage to place your towels, but your bathroom's temperature will be adequately managed. Some&nbsp;<strong>designer towel radiators</strong>&nbsp;are now used as the centre piece of the bathroom like a feature wall.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Homeowners are always looking to add a new feature to their bathrooms. Already, there are many components, objects and furniture in the bathroom like the shower and/or bathtub, sinks and toilets, clothes baskets, bath mats, cabinets and towel rails.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Although not too common in smaller bathrooms,&nbsp;<a href="/designer-towel-radiators"><strong>designer towel radiators</strong></a>&nbsp;are now a necessity in the average bathroom around the country. They're a handy tool which holds towels. It's incredibly convenient for a homeowner to have a built-in towel rail in their bathroom. All the family's towels are all in one place, so they don't need to worry about&nbsp;travelling&nbsp;to their closets to grab their own towel for bathing.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">What is more important is that a bathroom without sufficient heating and the changing temperatures can also affect the entire environment in a negative way, causing mold, mildew and other unsavory things to affect the bathroom.&nbsp;<strong>Heated towel rails</strong>&nbsp;are a solution to this problem. By having one of these installed, it helps to reduce the amount of moisture, humidity and mildew found in bathrooms. Heated towel rails are an inexpensive investment to make when considering ways to reduce moisture in the bathroom.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most towel warmers or designer towel radiators are relatively inexpensive, though you're likely to find several on the market in a variety of different prices and types. In fact, the two main types of towel warmers are electric and central heating heated towel rails.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="/electric-towel-rails"><strong>Electric towel rails</strong></a>&nbsp;have lower energy consumption rates, making them rather energy efficient since they consume the same power as your standard light bulb. Central heating type towel warmer uses the hot water heated by the boiler, mainly by running said water through the warmer's rails. Today's electric towel rails also include safety features like safety thermal fuses and automatic shut-off devices.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Towel rails can be wall mounted, floor mounted and free standing&mdash;not to mention, they come in a variety of different size, shape and styles which will fit to any bathroom&rsquo;s design.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:7 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/dual-fuel-towel-radiator-usage-tips Dual Fuel Towel Radiator Usage Tips <p style="text-align: justify;">Just like any other electrical equipment, using your&nbsp;<a title="Heating Elements" href="/heating-elements"><strong>heating element</strong></a>&nbsp;also requires your attention. First and most important issue is to get it installed by a qualified and competent installer. No offence to anyone but not all qualified are competent and not all competent are qualified! So, a little homework to find the right person to the job is very important.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Few weeks ago we have covered the correct way of using a&nbsp;<a title="How to Use a Dual Fuel Towel Radiator" href="/how-to-use-a-dual-fuel-towel-radiator"><strong>dual fuel towel radiator</strong></a>. Now let&rsquo;s look at the consequences of not following the correct procedure described in our previous article. Following &ldquo;ifs&rdquo; will give you an idea and help you understand those important steps.</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li>If you do not isolate the radiator, heated water will escape to other parts of the central heating system through valves and pipes.</li> <li>If you do not loosen either the bleed or return valve, radiator will build pressure and in some cases this may lead to a leak, which may even result in a welded joint on the radiator to burst.</li> <li>If the radiator is not isolated, the poor element will end up trying very hard to heat the whole central heating system and eventually fail fairly quickly.</li> </ul> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">And here are a few tips on dual fuel use:</p> <ul> <li style="text-align: justify;">Never use a&nbsp;<a title="Thermostatic Radiator Valves" href="/thermostatic-radiator-valves"><strong>thermostatic valve</strong></a>&nbsp;(TRV) on dual fuel heated towel rails. Unlike standard valves, TRV&rsquo;s have either liquid, gas or wax filled sensors. It is those sensors that control the water flow.&nbsp; With a standard valve, you can get a complete seal once it is completely shut. However you may not get a complete seal with TRV&rsquo;s hence the heated water inside the radiator may escape.</li> <li style="text-align: justify;">Always use an electric element with same or similar wattage as per your&nbsp;<a title="Towel Radiator" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk"><strong>towel radiator</strong></a>.</li> <li style="text-align: justify;">It is recommended to use a standard, non-thermostatic electric elements or thermostatic heating elements which are based on &ldquo;water temperature&rdquo; only.</li> <li style="text-align: justify;">Never use a thermostatic heating element based on &ldquo;ambiance temperature&rdquo; (room temperature). As the element should be used in summer months only, your room temperature will likely be over 20 Celsius degree. Hence a room temperature controlled thermostatic element may never come on to heat the water inside the radiator.</li> </ul> urn:store:1:blog:post:6 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-use-a-dual-fuel-towel-radiator How to Use a Dual Fuel Towel Radiator ? <p style="text-align: justify;">Have you ever looked at those &ldquo;popular items&rdquo; list on most online heated towel rail suppliers? It is no surprise that one very small item called&nbsp;<em><strong>&ldquo;T pipe&rdquo;</strong></em>&nbsp;also known as&nbsp;<em><strong>&ldquo;Dual Fuel Adaptor&rdquo;</strong></em>&nbsp;is almost always on those most popular lists. This tiny little adaptor will enable you to use your&nbsp;<a title="Towel Radiator" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk"><strong>towel radiator</strong></a>&nbsp;as dual fuel meaning that it can be part of your central heating and can be used as electric only during summer months.</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;"><strong>What is the correct way of using a dual fuel heated towel rail?</strong></span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most people are generally under the impression that they can simply switch from central heating use to electric use without any hassle. Some even believe that both heat sources can be used simultaneously. Unfortunately this is not the case. Sole purpose of having a dual fuel towel radiator is to be able to have warm towels during summer months only, in which the central heating system is generally turned off. The correct way of using a dual fuel radiator would be to use central heating option during the winter and use the electric option only during the summer. You should also follow the correct procedure when switching from one to the other.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Come April or May, you may wish to turn off your central heating and switch your towel radiator from a plumbed radiator to an electric use. Doing so will still kill the chill in your bathroom and let you have warm towels after a bath or shower.&nbsp; By following the steps below, you can take advantage of your dual fuel radiator and protect your central heating, towel radiator and, most importantly, your electric heating element which is installed inside the towel radiator.</p> <ol style="text-align: justify;"> <li>Before you switch usage, you must isolate the bathroom radiator from the rest of your central heating system by turning both inlet (flow) and outlet (return) valves completely off.</li> <li>After you shut both valves, you will either need to loosen the bleed valve or the return valve slightly. The trick here is to be very gentle and loosen either of those very slightly. Loosening one of these will reduce the risk of pressure building inside the towel radiator as the electric element heats the water.</li> <li>Once the radiator is isolated, you can safely turn on your heating element.</li> <li>At the end of summer, you will simply follow the above steps backwards. You will turn off your heating element, tighten your bleed or return valve, and turn both inlet and outlet valves full on.</li> </ol> <p style="text-align: justify;">It is strongly recommended to follow the steps above to avoid damaging your electric heating element, towel radiator and your central heating system as whole.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ref:&nbsp;<a title="Tee Pipe - Dual Fuel Adaptor" href="/tee-pipe-dual-fuel-adaptor-in-chrome">Dual Fuel Adaptor</a></p> urn:store:1:blog:post:5 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/how-to-install-a-towel-radiator-as-electric-use-only How to Install a Towel Radiator as Electric Use Only ? <p style="text-align: justify;">Most properties in the UK have central heating systems in place and more and more home owners are replacing their standard panel radiators in their bathrooms with towel radiators. If you already have a central heating in place and have an existing radiator in your bathroom, it is quite a straight forward job to replace these radiators with a brand new shiny, polished and an eye catching towel radiator.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">But what if you live in a flat? What if your property does not have gas supply? What if you do not have a central heating system in you home? Why do you have to stick with a fan assisted, noisy and most of all, not very functional and efficient electric heaters? Well you don’t! You can easily convert a towel radiator to an&nbsp;<em><strong>“Electric Only Towel Radiator”</strong></em>&nbsp;or as we call it,&nbsp;<em><strong>“Electric Use Only”</strong></em>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Most towel radiators and heated towel rails are originally designed and manufactured to be part of a central heating system. However, most of them can be converted to electric use too. To do so, instead of buying a pair of valves, you will simply need to purchase an electric heating element and a blanking plug. Installation of those is also quite straight forward. In fact, it is probably easier as there is no pipe work involved.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;</p> <h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #008000;"><strong>So how do you convert a towel radiator to an electric use only?</strong></span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Assuming you have the following parts and the required tools,</p> <ul style="text-align: justify;"> <li><a title="Towel Radiator" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk">Towel Radiator</a></li> <li><a title="Electric Heating Elements" href="/heating-elements">Electric Heating Element</a></li> <li><a title="Blanking Plug" href="/12-inch-blanking-plug-in-chrome">Blanking Plug</a></li> </ul> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="1"> <li>First, you will need to insert the electric element into the radiator from one of the bottom entry points. This can be either the left or the right side but the usual practice is to insert and install it to the right hand side of the radiator as you look at it.</li> </ol> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="2"> <li>You will then insert and screw the blanking plug into the other entry point at the bottom of the radiator.<br /><em><strong>Tip:&nbsp;</strong></em>Please note that you will need to use PTFE tape or similar on both threads!</li> </ol> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once you have both entry points used and sealed, you are left with one more entry point on top of the radiator which will be sealed with bleed valve, also known as air-went.</p> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="3"> <li>Next, you will need to fill the radiator with water from the top entry point.<br /><em><strong>Tip:</strong></em>&nbsp;As you fill the radiator, shake and tip the radiator to the left and right. This will enable water to flow through all the horizontal bars. You will also need to leave a gap of an inch or two on top of the radiator.</li> </ol> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="4"> <li>After you complete the steps above by sealing the bottom ends, filling the radiator with water leaving a little gap on the top, you will then hang the radiator using the wall brackets supplied with the towel radiator and wire the electric element to a fused spur.</li> </ol> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="5"> <li>Once ready, you will need to turn the electric element on and wait for a while for the water inside the radiator to get as hot as possible.&nbsp; If you have followed the steps above, you will find that the top entry point is still not sealed. By leaving this open to air, you will let water expand freely without causing any pressure inside the radiator. You now gather why you needed to leave a &nbsp;gap on top the radiator on step 3. By doing so, you will avoid water spillage.</li> </ol> <ol style="text-align: justify;" start="6"> <li>Last stage will be to seal the top entry point using the bleed valve supplied. But you should only do this when water inside the radiator has reached its hottest possible level , again using a PTFE tape or similar.</li> </ol> <p style="text-align: justify;">There you have converted a central heated towel radiator to an electric only towel radiator, or electric only use for your bathroom.</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:4 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/towel-radiator-heat-outputs Towel Radiator Heat Outputs <p style="text-align: justify;">With our&nbsp;<a title="Why do same size towel radiators gives out different heat (BTU's)?" href="/why-do-same-size-towel-radiators-give-out-different-heat-btu">previous blog</a>&nbsp;posted earlier this week, we have covered the difference between Delta50 and Delta60. However there are a few more points to consider when comparing two towel radiators.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Actual surface space of the towel radiator is also very important and this will also contribute towards radiator heat outputs. Say we have two of the most standard sized towel radiators which are 500mm in&nbsp;width&nbsp;and 1150mm in height and we have two suppliers with&nbsp;exact same size radiator. Both supplier A and supplier B is advertising their products at Delta60&nbsp;and yet when we compare the two radiators there is still a&nbsp;difference. When you are faced with this difference in heat outputs, you will need to check;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">a. Total number of horizontal bars/rails<br />b. Thickness of the vertical and horizontal rails.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Both of these above will&nbsp;contribute to the overall surface space of a radiator. Naturally,&nbsp;greater&nbsp;the surface space, higher the heat output. While 1st radiator from supplier A has a total number of 18 horizontal bars, 2nd radiator from supplier B may have 22 horizontal bars. In this instance, 1st radiator will have wider gaps to hang your towels which may be a useful thing but as there are fewer bars, there will be less surface space, hence less heat. However, on the 2nd radiator, gaps may be shorter but as there are more bars, it will have a greater surface space, hence more heat. Alternatively both of the same size radiators may have a total number of 20 horizontal bars but the diameter of the bars on the 1st towel radiator may be 19mm where the diameter of the bars 0n the 2nd towel radiator may be 22mm. Again, this will mean that the second radiator would have more surface space; hence it will give out more heat compared to other towel radiator.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In a nutshell:<br />More Surface Space = More Heat</p> urn:store:1:blog:post:3 https://www.towelradiator.co.uk/why-do-same-size-towel-radiators-give-out-different-heat-btu Why Do Same Size Towel Radiators Give Out Different Heat – BTU <p style="text-align: justify;">So you are looking to buy a new towel radiator and you have done your homework. Know&nbsp;exactly what size radiator you need and you have used our&nbsp;BTU Calculator&nbsp;to find out your heat requirements but the search is still on simply because you are&nbsp;confused!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You have seen a few heated towel rails from various online or high street retailers but you are puzzled with fact that same or very similar size radiators gives out different heat. You are&nbsp;asking&nbsp;yourself&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>&ldquo;How come these two same/similar size radiators gives out different heat?&rdquo;&nbsp;</strong>While your search for the perfect towel&nbsp;radiator may be still on,&nbsp;&nbsp;you have at least come to the right place to get your answer for the question above.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A simple one word answer to your question would be&nbsp;<em><strong>Delta&nbsp;</strong>(a.k.a. Delta T)<strong>.&nbsp;</strong></em>The heat output of a radiator depends on three temperatures; Flow (water entering the radiator), Return (water exiting the radiator) and Room/Ambiance temperature.&nbsp;To ensure that a sensible and accurate comparisons can be made between different products,&nbsp;all radiators are tested in controlled laboratory&nbsp;environment&nbsp;as per BS EN442 standards. From 1st July 1997 all radiators manufactured in the EU must comply with BS EN442 standards and all radiators must be tested using the following temperatures;</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Flow = 75℃ &nbsp;<span>(Water Temperature)</span><br />Return = 65℃&nbsp;<span>(Water Temperature)</span><br />Room/Ambiance&nbsp;= 20℃</p> <table border="1" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="5"> <tbody> <tr> <td> <div align="center"><strong>Flow ℃</strong></div> </td> <td> <div align="center"><strong>Return ℃</strong></div> </td> <td> <div align="center"><strong>MWT ℃</strong></div> </td> <td> <div align="center"><strong>Room Temp ℃</strong></div> </td> <td> <div align="center"><strong>Delta T</strong></div> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <div align="center">75</div> </td> <td> <div align="center">65</div> </td> <td> <div align="center">70</div> </td> <td> <div align="center">20</div> </td> <td> <div align="center">50</div> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p style="text-align: justify;">So the calculation would be;<br />75 + 65 = 140<br />140 / 2 = 70 (mean&nbsp;average&nbsp;water&nbsp;temperature)<br />70 &ndash; 20 = 50 (Delta50)</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Once we know the heat output of a radiator in Delta50 we can easily convert it to Delta60 by multiplying this figure with &ldquo;1.264&Prime;. Now lets explain where the differences is coming from.&nbsp;If a&nbsp;<strong><a title="towel radiator" href="https://www.towelradiator.co.uk">towel radiator</a></strong>&nbsp;is advertised as 1000 BTU&rsquo;s in Delta50, it can also be advertised as 1264 BTU&rsquo;s in Delta60. Radiator is the same and the heat output is fixed but&nbsp;different suppliers may display their towel radiator&rsquo;s BTUs in&nbsp;different Delta T figures and this is why you may see same or similar size radiators have&nbsp;discrepancies in their heat outputs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You may now ask yourself; If whole of Europe is using Delta50 and all radiators are tested to Delta50 standards, why here in the UK &nbsp;we are still using Delta60? Prior to July 1997 BS 3528 was used which was based on Delta60 and most plumbers and heat engineers here in the UK are still using Delta60.</p>