As humorous as it may appear radiator positioning can be somewhat a contentious subject, since there are fundamentally two theories under contention for the most advantageous fitting location within the home. Essentially it boils down to concluding whether or not it is best practice to place your wall mounted electric radiator beneath your windows or an alternative wall space? It might sound an insignificant decision although this may be strongly influenced upon your properties specification. Both outlooks are equally reputable but which should I take into consideration?

Positioning radiators directly under windows

Upon seeking advice from builders or architects most will assure you that placing radiators directly under windows is a must. Why you may ask? Traditional theory suggests that by fitting radiators under windows is the most desirable location in order to maintain a rooms temperature. If you can visualise cold air progressing through the window and into the room this creates an uneven mix of temperature since the cold air will not be heated until it reaches the nearest radiator producing an even greater emphasis on the cooling and arming convection cycle. As we know hot air rises, which means that by placing radiators underneath windows it fabricates a barrier preventing additional heat loss escaping from the windows.

A further benefit to placing radiators beneath the windows in your precious wall space! Remember that radiator positioning does indeed have some influence in the layout of your furniture. The small space beneath a window is usually too small for any significant application and therefore by utilising this space the remaining wall spaced is available for greater furniture arrangements. This is even more crucial within small rooms where space is at a premium meaning that radiators can be free from sitting behind essential furniture such as sofas which would ordinarily soak up the majority of heat. In theory placing radiators beneath windows is a traditional concept that is both a  tested and proven method in maintaining a rooms temperature so why would any other solution be parallel?

Flexibility with high grade insulation

There are some experts who testify that since modern insulation has evolved into a high calibre it is no longer necessary to position radiators beneath windows. In years gone by it was frowned upon if radiators were not positioned directly beneath windows, at that time the majority of windows were single glazed creating a nuisance with cold air sneaking in. Nevertheless technology has moved on meaning that nearly all modern properties posses either double or triple glazed windows and complemented by a supreme high grade insulation in contrast to older properties.

Owing to a higher quality of insulation many believe that radiator location is less important on that condition that they are positioned appropriately ie. not tucked away behind furniture commonly sofas etc. Radiator aesthetics have developed since this finding which is great as there is now such a broad range of heating products to suit a whole range of spaces that suit your property. Vertical radiators have come to be an attractive proposition on the account that they can be fitted in spaces previously identified as unusable. This is is particularly appealing in homes which are tight on space which allows for greater freedom in arranging furniture. Wall mounted electric radiators have boomed in popularity over recent years owing to their quick and accommodating installation which only requires power from an everyday electric plug socket. Consequently rather than paying for extensive plumbing bills to alter or extend pipework along with all the mess and chaos that it entails many property owners are instead opting to install electric heating systems to work with their room layout.

Which practice is best for my property?

It simply boils down to the quality of your insulation. If your property posses double glazing and cavity wall / loft installation then you shouldn’t worry too much about being strategic in placing your radiators as they will operate just as effectively. Thats right you have freedom to position your radiators either by doors or in an alcove it will make very little difference to the minute quantity of cold air entering the room.

On the flip side if you inhibit an older property with poor insulation i.e. more specifically single glazed windows installing your radiator directly beneath windows would be the most beneficial locations to position your radiators. Fitting radiators to external walls are more commonly favoured in older properties since it creates more of a barrier against condensation and cold temperatures entering the room. It may not be your first choice but positioning your radiators beneath windows in older properties is tried and tested. 

Perhaps your considering equipping your property with the latest eco electric radiators then be res assure that they have the facility for a DIY fitting in less than 15 minutes. There are zero costly installation bills or mess and fuss in altering pipework, meaning that your electric radiator can be plugged in and heating your room to cosy temperatures within minutes.