A designer radiator is a long-term addition to a room, so it is worth taking a little time to get the choice right. This guide walks through the decisions in the order that makes them easiest: how much heat you need, where it will go, what it is made of, how it connects, and what to buy with it.
1. Start with the heat output
A radiator that looks perfect but cannot heat the room will disappoint. Work out the output you need first, in watts or BTU/h, then shortlist radiators that meet it. Our radiator size guide explains how heat output works and how to estimate the figure for a room.
2. Choose the shape for the wall
Once you know the output, the shape follows from the space you have.
- Vertical radiators use height instead of width. They suit narrow walls, alcoves, hallways and rooms where floor space is limited. Browse vertical radiators.
- Horizontal radiators are wide and low, and are a natural fit under a window or along a long wall. Browse horizontal radiators.
- Designer and flat panel styles are chosen as much for how they look as for how they heat. See designer radiators and flat panel radiators.
- Mirror radiators combine a wall mirror with a radiator in a single piece. See mirror radiators.
3. Think about the material
The material affects how quickly a radiator responds, how it is made and what it needs from your heating system. Aluminium radiators warm up and cool down quickly. Stainless steel is resilient and easy to keep looking good. Steel is common and comes in a wide range of forms. Our radiator material guide compares them, and you can browse aluminium radiators and stainless steel radiators.
4. Pick a finish that suits the room
A radiator is a visible part of the room, so the finish matters. Many customers start with white, black or anthracite because they sit comfortably in most interiors:
- White radiators blend into painted walls.
- Black radiators add a defined line.
- Anthracite radiators are a softer alternative to black.
- Chrome radiators are reflective and work well in bright, modern rooms.
5. Check how the radiator connects
Connections are where most ordering mistakes happen. Before you buy, check:
- Pipe centres: the distance between the two pipe connections. If you are replacing a radiator, measure the existing one from centre to centre. This tells you whether the new radiator will fit the existing pipework without changes.
- Connection position: some radiators connect at the bottom, some at the side. Check the specification for the model and size you want.
- Heating system: confirm the radiator is suitable for your system, whether it is a conventional boiler, a heat pump, or an electric arrangement.
6. Plan the valves and accessories
Valves control how the radiator is used and are part of the finished look. Check whether the radiator you choose includes valves, since this varies by product. Our radiator valves and radiator accessories collections are a good place to look for matching finishes. A thermostatic radiator valve lets each room keep its own temperature.
7. Measure, then measure again
Write down the dimensions of the wall space and compare them with the product's width, height and depth. Allow room for pipes, valves, skirting boards, curtains and any furniture that will sit nearby.
A short checklist
- The output meets the room's heat requirement.
- The shape fits the wall space.
- The material suits your system and the way you use the room.
- The finish suits the interior.
- The pipe centres and connection position match, or you have planned the pipework change.
- You have the right valves.
Need help deciding?
If you would like a second pair of eyes before you order, call us on +44 7729 799515 (Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:00) or email info@poshrads.co.uk. Tell us the room, the wall space and the heating system, and we can help you narrow down the options.