Vertical Radiators

Bleeding a vertical radiator is essential for ensuring it operates at peak efficiency. If your radiator is cold at the top and warm at the bottom, it's likely air is trapped inside. To bleed it, you'll need a radiator key. Turn off your boiler (ensure it is cool), locate the bleed valve at the top of the radiator, and slowly turn the key anti-clockwise until you hear the hiss of escaping air. You may also be able to use a flat head screwdriver for this one.

Once water starts to drip, tighten the valve. This simple process can improve your radiator's performance significantly. You should notice the radiator heating up more and quicker once the trapped air gets released.

The bleed valve on a vertical radiator is typically located at the top, on one of the sides. It’s a small valve that you can turn with a radiator key to release trapped air, which is crucial for maintaining radiator efficiency.

Vertical radiators can work just as efficiently as horizontal radiators when properly installed and sized for the space. They offer the advantage of fitting into spaces where a traditional horizontal radiator wouldn't, making them a versatile option for heating your home.

Whether vertical radiators are better than horizontal ones depends on the context of their use. In spaces where wall length is limited, vertical radiators are superior in fitting into the available space. They also tend to have a more modern appearance, which might be preferable in contemporary interiors.

Yes, vertical radiators are highly efficient, and their efficiency can be quantified using BTU (British Thermal Units), which measures heat output. The BTU rating of a radiator is crucial because it tells you exactly how much heat the radiator can emit, allowing you to choose a model that matches your room’s heating requirements accurately. Vertical radiators come in various BTU ratings to cater to different space sizes and insulation levels.

The efficiency of a vertical radiator, whether single or double panel, also depends on its design and material. Aluminium radiators, for example, heat up quickly and are excellent for reactive heating, making them energy-efficient choices for rooms used intermittently. In contrast, cast iron radiators take longer to heat up but retain heat for a longer period, offering sustained warmth.

Single panel vertical radiators have one layer of heating panels, making them sleek and suitable for spaces where a lower heat output is sufficient. On the other hand, double panel vertical radiators feature two layers of panels, significantly increasing the heat output without requiring more wall space. This makes them ideal for larger rooms or areas with higher heating demands.