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Hi, we’re Looking to replace an old double panel 1500x300 with a 1400x600 radiator as the current one isn’t working well.
As it will be newer, and larger I’m not sure if a single will now be enough or if we go for a double panel rad - the plumber is saying double but because it’s easier for him to fit I think as existing is double. It’s a loft room (4mx3m - low ceiling) with pretty poor insulation (it gets pretty cold).
Anyone know about these things? 🙂
why wouldn't you go double? can always turn it down
that said, its worth understanding why "its not working well". if its getting as hot as other rads in the house, across the whole surface of the rad, and its not heating the room enough, then a bigger one will help. If its not heating fully and evenly across the surface then there will likely be a much cheaper option
Have a look here for the power output of radiators of various type and size
Compare your old size with proposed and look at different types. Higher values = hotter.
Type numbering works as follows: first digit is number of panels, second digit is number of convectors (folded fins that help heat conduction). So type 11 is 1 panel 1 convector. 21 2 panels 1 convector etc.
As above, it’s all well and good having a radiator that can output more heat when supplied with plentiful hot water, but if the problem lies elsewhere (poor hot water supply to the rad, indicated by a cool rad) then a bigger rad will not help.
Also, if insulation is poor, improve it. I understand this will be more expensive (in the short term) than a bigger rad.
T22 double panel , double convector will output the most However , if your loft room is like mine , Basically no insulation , just plasterboards and a void then felt tiles , You will be wasting alot of the extra output as extra losses to the sky.
It will help , for sure You could go bigger and TRV it down or trim with the LS valve.
But Any insulation will be a better long term solution. Velux windows in mine are always a cold area and I put polystyrene infill panels in winter.
Not alot to loose by fitting a big rad , I have a bnib 600 x 1200 T22 knocking about at work if your a PO postcode
Cheers, think maybe a double then (needs to be 1400 wide but thanks!) and hope the plumber can make sure it gets the supply it needs. Another reason for considering a single is that the room isn’t all that wide, however there’s only about 4cm between single and double it seems.
Double is no easier or harder to secure than a single. Basically some L brackets that the radiator hooks onto. So your plumber isn't trying to pull a fast one to make life easier for him/her.
Unless for a very small room or where space is really tight I'd always go for type22 amazing how much extra heat you get out when replacing existing radiators type11 radiators.
Before concluding the rad is the problem Presumably you’ve bled it for any air and then balanced the radiator locksheilds for each of the rads in your house so it gets enough flow.
If anything double is harder for the plumber as it is heavier than a single!