Bathroom Radiators Buying Guide

Looking to buy a new radiator for your bathroom? You’re in the right place. In this expert bathroom radiator buying guide, we’ll take you through your options, showing you how size, style and design can make a real difference to your interiors.

Let’s face it, a toasty bathroom is non-negotiable. Whether you’re wrapping up in a warm towel or stepping out of a steamy shower, the right bathroom radiator makes all the difference. This guide breaks down everything from picking the perfect design to boosting energy efficiency. 

 

Click on the links below to jump to a section:

• First-Time Buyers:

  • How to Choose the Right Bathroom Radiator

  • Types of Bathroom Radiators

  • Popular Radiator Brands

  • Finishes & Colours

  • Radiator Accessories

• Savvy Shoppers:

  • Radiator Valves

  • Heating System & Convector Radiators

  • BTU Calculation

  • Material Matters: Choose Wisely

  • Bathroom Radiator Placement: Key Considerations

  • Heating Elements & Energy Efficiency

  • Radiator Maintenance & Tips

  • FAQs & Final Thoughts

For First-Time Buyers

If you’re new to bathroom radiators, start here for the basics! We’ve got your back — from choosing the right size to exploring your style options. Perfect for anyone looking to make a smart choice without getting bogged down in the technical stuff. 

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Radiator

When it comes to picking the perfect radiator, it's more than just looks. Your choice needs to keep your space cosy, efficient, and on-point style-wise.

 

Room Size

Larger bathrooms need more heat, so a higher BTU radiator or multiple units might be necessary to heat the space evenly (more on that below). For smaller bathrooms, compact radiators will do the job nicely without hogging the room.

 

Pipe Location

Want a posh new look without the plumber’s bill? Stick to your existing pipes! But if your dream radiator needs a pipe shuffle, brace yourself — moving pipes will add to the cost.

 

What Type of Wall Do You Have?

• Solid Walls (masonry or brickwork): Perfect! You can mount any radiator without worrying about weight. Installation should be easy, costing between £150 and £300, depending on the pipework.
• Stud Walls: You’ll need to reinforce the wall before hanging heavier radiators (e.g. with timber battens). Extra work, sure, but worth it for the added warmth! Costs can rise to around £400, so consider opting for a lightweight radiator like aluminium.

Note: Ensure your wall has adequate support to handle the radiator's weight and prevent any future issues​.

 

Stay Toasty, Spend Less

Looking to keep your bathroom warm without heating up your expenses? Here’s how to stay cosy and stylish while saving on bathroom radiators:

• Opt for Dual Fuel Radiators
  Dual fuel radiators give you flexibility. Use your central heating in winter and switch to electric for those cooler summer days when you just need warm towels. You save on energy by not having to heat the whole house to keep your bathroom toasty!
• Choose a Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV)
  TRVs automatically adjust your radiator’s heat output based on the room's temperature. They help avoid overheating and reduce energy consumption —keeping your bathroom warm without spiking your heating bills.
• Go for Aluminium or Stainless Steel Radiators
  Aluminium radiators heat up quickly and cool down just as fast, making them ideal for efficient energy use. Stainless steel radiators retain heat longer, meaning they keep your bathroom warmer for longer, saving you energy in the long run.
• Size Matters: Match the BTU to Your Space
  Don’t overspend on an oversized radiator. Use a BTU (British Thermal Units) calculator to pick the right size for your bathroom. The correct BTU ensures efficient heating without wasting energy, and money, on an unnecessarily large radiator.
• Install a Smart Heating Element
  Smart heating elements allow you to control your radiator’s heat settings remotely, so you can switch it off when you’re not using the bathroom or schedule it to warm up before you shower. Smart tech means more precise heating and energy savings!
• Maintain Your Radiator to Save Costs
  Regular maintenance, such as bleeding radiators to remove trapped air and using corrosion inhibitors in central heating systems, will help your radiator run more efficiently and extend its lifespan. A well-maintained radiator avoids costly replacements down the line.

 

Your Style, Your Way 

Radiators come in a range of styles that can complement any bathroom aesthetic, from vintage to modern.

• Column Radiators: Classic, timeless, and ideal for bigger spaces. These give a vintage feel while packing a powerful heat punch.
• Horizontal Radiators: These are the most common type and are often installed under windows to help counteract heat loss. They come in various styles, and are great for both small and large bathrooms.
• Vertical Radiators: Space-saving beauties that look sleek and modern. Perfect for smaller bathrooms.
• Towel Radiators: Warm towels = happiness. These stylish radiators heat the room and dry towels at the same time. Ideal for small bathrooms, but you might need an extra radiator if your space is large. They’re available in straight,  curved or ladder designs. 
• Mirrored Bathroom Radiators: Two-for-one! Heat your room and check yourself out in the mirror. Great for tight spaces.
• Floor-Standing Radiators: Bold and freestanding, floor-standing radiators don’t need wall mounting. They’re ideal for bathrooms with limited wall space or unique layouts, offering flexible placement to suit your design.
• Wall-Hung Radiators: Modern and space-saving, these radiators free up floor space by mounting higher on the wall—ideal for creating an open, clutter-free look.
• Shelf Radiators: Practical and stylish, shelf radiators heat your bathroom while offering extra storage for towels or essentials. Perfect for compact or minimalist spaces.
• Designer Radiators: For those who want their radiator to be a feature in the room, designer radiators come in bold, stylish shapes, colours, and finishes. They can create a striking focal point but may have lower heat outputs compared to more traditional designs.

 

Finishes & Colours

Your radiator’s finish can make or break your bathroom’s vibe. Here are some popular picks:

• Chrome: Sleek and reflective — though with slightly lower heat output.
• White: A classic choice that fits any style.
• Anthracite & Black: Bold, matte finishes for a contemporary edge.
• Metallics: Luxury vibes with brushed nickel,  copper, brass, or bronze —perfect for a high-end or look.
• Teal: A bold, modern pop of colour.
• Yellow: Bright and cheerful, for a fun touch.
• Grey: Minimalist and versatile for any space.
• Raw Metal: Industrial chic for an edgy, unfinished feel.

And more! Pick your vibe — classic chrome, bright colours or adventurous metallics.

Radiator Accessories

Once you’ve installed your bathroom radiator, you can enhance both its look and functionality with a few clever accessories:

Radiator Covers and Cabinets

If you’ve opted for a standard panel radiator, why not transform it into a design feature? Radiator covers or cabinets can be painted or finished to match your décor, offering a sleek, custom look. They’re also practical, providing a handy shelf for extra storage or decorative items.

Bonus: Covers add a layer of safety by keeping hot radiators out of reach, making them ideal for homes with kids. You get style, functionality, and peace of mind in one!

Radiator Boosters

Looking to ramp up your radiator’s efficiency? A radiator booster is your go-to. This small electrical fan device sits on top of your radiator and works by circulating trapped warm air more effectively around the room. Not only does this help the room heat up faster, but it also improves the radiator’s overall performance, saving energy in the process.

Pro tip: Boosters can be particularly useful for rooms that seem to heat unevenly, distributing warmth where it's needed most.

Radiator Paint

Have a plain white radiator that doesn’t quite match your bathroom vibe? No problem! You can easily personalise it with radiator paint. Choose a colour that complements your bathroom's aesthetic, and for a long-lasting finish, apply a clear radiator topcoat. This prevents peeling and blistering, ensuring your radiator looks as good as it performs.

Pro tip: A fresh coat of paint can make a standard radiator feel brand-new—without the cost of a replacement!

Radiator Brands We Offer

We stock top brands to suit every style and budget. Check out some of our favourites:

 

Popular Radiator Brands

• Arezzo – Elegant, sleek, and efficient.
• Chatsworth – Timeless, vintage-inspired radiators.
• Hudson Reed – High-quality radiators with style to match.
• Milan Bathrooms – Minimalist designs for contemporary homes.
• Reina Radiators – Designer radiators that balance form and function.
• Terma – Innovative designs, premium performance with bold, modern designs.
• Victorian Plumbing – Our in-house brand offering stylish, affordable options.

Brands Disclaimer: Please note that the availability of products from these brands can vary depending on stock levels and supplier inventory. We recommend checking the product pages on our site to confirm availability before making any final decisions.

Bathroom Radiator Cost Range

Bathroom radiators come in a wide variety of styles and price points:

• Budget Radiators (£0–£100): Basic, functional models perfect for small bathrooms or tight budgets.
• Affordable Radiators (£100–£200): These radiators offer more style and heat output, making them great for mid-sized bathrooms.
• Mid-Range Radiators (£200–£500): A balance of design and functionality, with options that include stylish finishes, larger sizes, and higher BTU outputs.
• Premium Radiators (£500–£1000): High-end designer models with additional features like towel rails, smart heating, or luxury finishes.
• Luxury Radiators (£1000–£1300+): For the ultimate statement piece, these radiators offer bold aesthetics, high performance, and advanced features.

Disclaimer: Prices are estimates and may vary due to stock, promotions, and market conditions. For the latest prices and availability, check the product page before purchasing.

Savvy Shoppers

Already know the basics? Jump into the technical nitty-gritty, including radiator valves, BTU calculations, and energy efficiency tips to ensure your bathroom stays warm, stylish, and efficient.

Radiator Valves

When choosing a certain style of radiator, you'll also need a set of valves to match. 

• Angled Valves: For pipes coming from the wall or floor at a 90° angle.
• Straight Valves: For bottom-inlet radiators connected to pipes running across the floor or wall.
• H-Block Valves: For designer radiators with middle inlets (e.g. Terma).

Tip: Consider a radiator and valve pack or choose compatible valves when adding your radiator to the basket.

Heating System

Convector Radiators

If you need fast, efficient heating, convector radiators are a top choice. These radiators use fins to transfer heat quickly and effectively, making them perfect for rapid warmth. They come in several types, each offering a different level of heat output to suit your space

Type 11 Radiators

Also called single panel radiators, these consist of one metal panel and a single set of fins. They’re compact, making them best suited for smaller rooms where space is limited but some heat efficiency is still required.

Type 21 Radiators

Known as P+ radiators, these feature two metal panels with one set of fins in between. The extra panel improves heat output compared to Type 11, making these ideal for medium-sized spaces.

Type 22 Radiators

These radiators offer two panels with two sets of fins, delivering significantly higher heat output. Perfect for larger bathrooms or bigger spaces that need more warmth.

Type 33 Radiators

For maximum heat output, Type 33 radiators feature three panels and three sets of fins, making them ideal for large bathrooms or spacious areas where high heating efficiency is needed.

Pro tip: The more panels and fins a radiator has, the more heat it can provide, ensuring your room stays warm and cosy.

BTU 

Before choosing your bathroom radiator, it’s essential to calculate how much heat the room requires. Radiator heat output is measured in British Thermal Units, which indicate how much energy it takes to raise 1 pound of water by 1°F.

How to Calculate:

1. Measure the room size: Length × Width × Height in meters (or feet).

2. Consider insulation: Poorly insulated or drafty bathrooms, especially those with larger windows, will need more BTU to compensate for heat loss.

3. Window size: Bathrooms with bigger or multiple windows will lose more heat, requiring a higher BTU output.

Pro tip: Use a BTU calculator to get a precise number based on your room’s dimensions and insulation quality. 

Material Matters: 

The material of your radiator affects heat retention and longevity. Choose wisely!: 

• Mild Steel: Affordable and durable but can rust in moist environments without maintenance.
• Stainless Steel:  Resistant to rust, heats quickly, and retains heat longer—great for bathrooms.
• Aluminium: Lightweight, energy-efficient, and fully recyclable. Heats up fast but cools down quickly.
• Cast Iron: Heavy but holds heat for longer. Ideal for larger bathrooms, though it requires sturdy wall support.

Bathroom Radiator Placement: Key Considerations

Where you put your radiator makes a big difference:

• Cold Walls: Installing your radiator on the coldest wall, typically under a window, helps improve heat distribution by warming the cooler air that enters the room.
• Floor Clearance: Ensure your radiator is mounted at least 150mm above the floor to allow proper airflow. For compact or oddly shaped bathrooms, vertical radiators make great use of limited space.
•  Clearance Around Furniture: Keep furniture and large fixtures away from the radiator to allow the heat to circulate freely around the room.

Heating Elements

Electric heating elements can transform a plumbed-in radiator into a dual fuel radiator, allowing it to run independently from the central heating system. 

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of heating elements: 

• Fixed Temperature Element: This type is set at a constant 65°C and controlled via a wall switch—ideal for simple, no-fuss heating.
• Thermostatic Element: With multiple heat settings, this option gives you more control over your radiator’s temperature, making it a flexible choice.
• Low Surface Temperature Element: Running at 43°C, this element ensures the radiator’s surface is safe to touch, perfect for homes with children or elderly family members.
• Smart Element: A high-tech option, this can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. It includes multiple temperature settings and timer functionality for easy scheduling.

 

Energy Efficiency

Want to save on heating bills? Consider these:

Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat allows you to control your heating remotely to prevent energy waste.

Radiator Maintenance

To keep your bathroom radiator working efficiently and extend its lifespan, regular maintenance is key. 

Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Balancing Radiators: If some radiators in your home are warmer than others, it may be time to balance them. 
• Draining Radiators: If your radiator isn’t performing well, or if you’re carrying out major system work, it might need draining. 
• Changing a Radiator Valve: If your radiator valve is leaking or not functioning properly, you’ll need to replace it.
• Cold at Bottom, Hot at Top: If your radiator feels cold at the bottom but hot at the top, it’s likely caused by a build-up of sludge or debris blocking the water flow. 
• Rust Prevention: For central heating radiators, use a corrosion inhibitor in the system to prevent rust, especially if you have mild steel radiators. This will prolong the radiator’s life and keep it functioning efficiently.
• Annual Checks: Inspect your radiator annually for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or reduced heat output. If you notice any issues, it’s best to call in a professional to fix them before they worsen.

Keep on top of these tasks, and your radiator will keep you cosy for years to come!

Central Heating Inhibitors

This nifty chemical coats the inside of your radiators, preventing rust and sludge build-up. Less gunk means better efficiency, longer-lasting radiators, and a happy boiler that won’t break down from the strain. It’s a simple way to extend your whole heating system's life and keep things running smoothly.

Earth Bonding & Electrical Safety

If you're going electric or dual-fuel, safety is everything—especially in a bathroom, where water and electricity don’t mix. Earth bonding connects metal components (like radiators and pipes) with an earth cable to prevent shocks if anything goes wrong. Always bring in a qualified electrician to handle this step, so your bathroom stays safe and fully compliant with safety standards.

Top Tips for Buying a Bathroom Radiator

Measuring Your Radiator

If you’re replacing an old radiator with a similar one, measuring it correctly is key to ensuring a seamless fit. Here’s how to get the measurements right:

• Measure the height of the radiator.
• Measure the width.
• Measure the distance from the centre of the left pipe to the centre of the right pipe.
• Measure from the wall to the centre of the pipe.

Removing Your Radiator

Taking out a radiator can be a straightforward DIY job, but it’s important to follow a few steps to avoid water spills and damage:

• Enlist help as radiators can be heavy.
• Shut off the radiator valves before you begin.
• Drain the radiator to avoid leaks.
• Keep towels and a bucket handy to catch any residual water.

Painting a Radiator

Here’s how to paint your radiator for a fresh look:

• Turn off the radiator well in advance to ensure it’s cool.
• Sand down and clean the surface before applying any paint.
• Prime with a metal or radiator-specific primer.
• Use a radiator paint or emulsion, then finish with a clear topcoat for a durable, heat-resistant finish.

 

Final Thoughts

 

You’re just a few steps away from transforming your bathroom into a toasty retreat. Whether you’re into sleek modern vibes or timeless elegance, we’ve got the perfect radiator to match your style (and your budget).

Ready to treat yourself? Let us help you find the radiator that ticks all your boxes. At Victorian Plumbing, we’re here to make the process as easy as possible.

Frequently Asked Radiator Questions

 

1. What type of radiator is best for a bathroom?

There are three main types of radiators to consider:

• Standard Radiators: Connected to your home’s central heating. Ideal for consistent heat.
• Electric Radiators: Perfect for smaller bathrooms or homes without central heating. They operate independently, offering year-round heat.
• Dual Fuel Radiators: Ideal for year-round use. They run on central heating in winter and switch to electric mode in summer for warm towels when the heating is off.

Tip: Make sure to choose the right size radiator for your bathroom. Too big, and it’ll dominate the space; too small, and it won’t heat efficiently during the winter.

 

2. Can a towel rail heat a bathroom?

Yes, but its effectiveness depends on the size of both the towel rail and your bathroom. A full-sized towel rail can heat smaller bathrooms, but in larger bathrooms or with thick towels that constantly cover the rail, you may need an additional heat source.

 

3. Do I need a plumber to install a radiator?
Not always! For like-for-like replacements with the same pipe centres, a plumber may not be needed. However, if you’re moving the radiator to a new location, upgrading to a different size, or dealing with different pipe centres, calling a plumber is a smart idea.

Tip: Don’t forget to factor in wall strength and proper ventilation, especially with older radiators that may have rust or particles inside.

Explore expert tips, maintenance advice, and design guides in our blog posts.  For more help in making informed decisions, check out our other buying guides.