The towel radiator is a component of bathroom furniture whose task is to heat the room. It can be powered by gas, hot water or electricity.
Often used as a synonym, a heated towel rail is instead a type of radiator designed specifically for drying and heating towels.
When it comes to heating the bathroom, radiators have become an increasingly popular and versatile solution. These devices not only add thermal comfort to your space, but also add style and functionality to your bathroom. Among the available choices, hydronic and electric radiators stand out as the most common options.
But how to make the right choice between the two?
In this guide we try to help you understand the differences between hydronic and electric towel radiators and make an informed decision.
Index:
- Hydronic towel radiators
- Electric towel radiators
- Mixed towel radiator
- How to choose the right towel radiator
Hydronic towel radiators
Hydronic towel radiator are connected directly to the central heating system of the house. They work thanks to the hot water flowing through them from the boiler.
Let us therefore make some considerations to bear in mind when choosing a hydronic radiator, distinguishing between:
Energy Efficiency: hydronic towel radiators can be energy efficient if the boiler in the house is already efficient, as they use the central heating system.
However, efficiency also depends on the central heating system and its energy management.- Installation Costs: The installation of a hydronic towel radiator may require specific planning and plumbing work, especially if there are no existing heating connections in the desired area.
- Constant Heating: Once the heating system is activated, the hydronic radiators maintain a constant temperature, providing even and continuous heat.
Electric towel radiators
Electric towel radiators, unlike hydronic radiators, do not require any hydraulic connection. They work by heating built-in electrical resistances.
So what should we consider when choosing an electric towel radiator?
Ease of Installation: The absence of the need for plumbing connections greatly simplifies the installation of electric radiators.
They can be easily mounted and connected to the existing power supply.- Independent control: Electric towel radiators often offer greater individual temperature control and can be operated separately from the central heating system.
This is useful for customising thermal comfort in specific rooms or at specific times of the day. - Operating costs: Electric towel radiators can have higher operating costs than hydronic models, as they depend on electricity to operate.
- Power of the radiator: The choice of the power of the electric radiator should also be made according to the surface area of the bathroom. Thus, if we compare the surface area of the bathroom in m² with the power of the radiator in Watts, we can schematically sum up:
- 3 m² – 390 W
- 4 m² – 520 W
- 5 m² – 650 W
- 6 m² – 780 W
- 8 m² – 1040 W
- 10 m² – 1300 W
An important aspect to take into account when choosing an electric towel radiator is the safety zones in the bathroom. As this product uses electricity to operate, it must be installed at a safe distance from water sources in the environment
Mixed towel radiator
There are also mixed radiators on the market.
These are both electric and hydronic devices. Their operation is therefore set on a case-by-case basis by the user.
Installing a mixed radiator can be especially useful in apartment buildings where the heating is centralised.
In this way it will be possible to use the device, with the help of electricity, even on autumn or spring days characterised by unseasonably cold weather.
How to choose the right towel radiator
Certainly, there can be no specific rules and indeed more than many other choices in the home, the decision between a hydronic and electric or mixed radiator depends on individual needs and specific circumstances.
However, we can try to reason about the following aspects:
- Presence of plumbing connections: If your house is already equipped with a central heating system, it may be worthwhile to opt for a hydronic towel radiator, especially if you are looking for a long-term and more energy-efficient solution.
- Flexibility and control: If you are looking for a more flexible and controllable solution, especially to heat only the bathroom without affecting the heating of the whole house, an electric towel radiator might be the best choice.
- Budget and operating costs: Also consider initial and running costs. While electric radiators may be cheaper to install, they may entail higher operating costs in the long run.
In conclusion, both hydronic and electric towel radiators offer unique advantages. The choice depends on your heating needs, personal preferences and financial considerations.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find the ideal towel radiator that fits perfectly in your bathroom and lifestyle.
You might also be interested in:
- Differences between a boiler and a water heater: Consumption comparisons
- How to install an electric water heater: Step by step guide
- Low hot water pressure: Possible causes