Understanding the heat distribution benefits and limitations of radiator heating can help you decide if they’re the right fit for your space. This comes up time and time again as homeowners remodel and take original radiators and other heating methods into consideration. Take the time to learn how radiators work. We're challenging six common myths about radiator efficiency and energy efficiency in your home to help you make a confident decision.
Are Radiators a Good or Bad Source for Heating Your Home?
Radiators can be effective, and homeowners that like them best appreciate their steady, ambient warmth.
- Traditional cast iron radiators and other hot water radiators distribute heat well. They're often energy-efficient and deliver consistent warmth, even though they may heat spaces more slowly than forced-air systems.
- Electric radiators offer flexibility in placement and use but tend to have higher operating costs due to energy usage. Maintenance needs also vary, with water-based radiators requiring more regular upkeep.
There are a lot of myths surrounding radiators and baseboard heaters, and they can be quick to frustrate a homeowner who hasn't used them before and prefers to feel hot air flow. While they're reliable heat source, they're not perfect.
Myth #1: Turning the thermostat up to max will heat the room more quickly
“This is false. Turning the thermostat up will not heat the room more quickly," shares Andy Kerr, founder of BOXT. "The thermostat in your heating system controls the desired temperature in the room, not the rate at which the room heats up. When you increase the thermostat setting, it simply tells the heating system to maintain a higher target temperature. In situations like this, it's advisable to consider the installation of a programmable thermostat. You can even opt for a smart thermostat system that allows you to control it remotely through your phone.”
Turning up the thermostat won’t make your room heat up any faster, and this is quick to frustrate anyone who has only lived with central heating. Thermostats are designed to reach and maintain a comfortable temperature, not to accelerate heating.
Myth #2: It's cheaper if I keep the heat on low all day
“This is a myth. The most efficient way to conserve energy and, consequently, save money on heating costs in the long term, is to have your heating active only when necessary," notes Kerr. "The key consideration is the total energy required to warm your property. Energy constantly escapes from the building (the extent of which depends on the quality of your insulation). If you keep the heating running all day, you're losing energy continuously. Therefore, it's wiser to heat your home solely when the need arises.”
Myth #3: Leaving the hot water timer on all day will save money
“Switching your boiler on only when hot water is needed is not only more cost-effective but also energy-efficient," notes Kerr. "If you keep your hot water running continuously, your central boiler will continuously heat it even when not required"
“Instead, use a timer to heat your water for an hour or two daily, just before your usual usage time. Additionally, remember to schedule an annual gas boiler service to maintain peak efficiency. Checking your boiler thermostat is also worthwhile as setting it to maximum can significantly inflate your heating bills. To strike a favorable balance between warmth and efficiency, consider setting it to 65 degrees.”
Myth #4: Radiators should be painted black
“The straightforward answer is no," shares Kerr. "There's a misconception that painting radiators black or any other dark color will enhance their heat radiation efficiency. Dark surfaces, like black, tend to absorb heat and energy, while white surfaces reflect heat."
Instead of painting your light colored radiator, use a thermostatic radiator valves to control room temperatures individually and consider reflective panels behind radiators to reduce heat loss through the walls.
Myth #5: Turning on the light switch uses energy, so they should just be left on
Leaving lights on to save energy is a misconception. “This is an extremely common energy-saving myth but it’s simply not accurate," notes Kerr. "The most effective approach has always been to turn off the lights when leaving a room. Modifying your lighting habits can have a tangible impact on your carbon footprint. To further reduce energy consumption, consider switching to LED light bulbs when you need to replace a burnt-out bulb. LED bulbs boast the highest energy efficiency ratings, which not only lower your energy bills but also contribute to a more eco-friendly planet.”
Myth #6: Most heat is lost through the windows
“This is entirely inaccurate. Uninsulated walls can account for as much as 35% of heat loss, while windows contribute to only 10% of heat loss," shares Kerr. Focusing on insulating exterior walls can help retain heat in the entire house far more effectively than focusing solely on windows.
