Electric Towel Radiators

There are a number of considerations to make when choosing an electric towel rail, particularly if you are deciding between a heated towel rail and a more traditional bathroom radiator. If you’re wondering about the efficiency of electric towel rails and whether they are even capable of heating a bathroom, take a look at our frequently asked questions.

 

How do electric towel rails work?

An electric towel rail fits to your existing mains supply and works like any other electric heater - just turn it on by the flick of a switch as-and-when you need to. Some electric towel radiators also include a thermostat, meaning that you can control the heat output.

 

What are the benefits of electric towel radiators?

Electric towel radiators offer several useful benefits for your bathroom. They can work separately from your main heating system, so you can warm your towels without heating the whole house, saving energy and giving you more control. These radiators keep towels warm and dry, ensuring you have a comfortable and hygienic experience. The heat helps towels dry quickly, preventing bacteria and mould. Electric towel rails also save space in your bathroom with slim, modern designs that reduce clutter.

 

Are electric towel rails expensive to run?

In contrast to a heated towel rail connected to your central heating system, electric towel rails can be more expensive to run. This is because of the power needed for the heated element of the radiator. However, you also only need to turn it on when you need it, meaning that in some ways they are more cost-effective than other heating options.

 

Do electric heated towel rails cause damp?

No, electric towel rails do not cause damp. In fact, they can help prevent it. When left on, these heated towel rails dry towels quickly, reduce moisture in the air and warm up the room. This helps to minimise steam and moisture, which can otherwise lead to dampness, mould and mildew.

 

Will an electric towel rail heat my bathroom?

A towel rail gives out less heat than a traditional radiator, but this doesn't mean that it can’t be used to heat your bathroom. If you have a small space - such as a cloakroom bathroom or smaller ensuite - then an electric towel rail may be perfectly capable of heating the room. It essentially comes down to ensuring that the electric towel rail is the right size for your bathroom.

 

How long does an electric towel radiator take to dry a towel?

An electric towel radiator typically takes around 2 or 3 hours to dry a towel, depending on factors like how damp the towel is, the room temperature and how many towels are on the rail. To save energy, you can use a timer to control when the radiator is on, turning it on a few hours before you need the towels and off once they're dry.