Help & Advice - Cast iron radiators
Some of the Questions we are commonly asked about our cast iron radiators:
How do I know what size of radiator I require for my room?
Calculations for room heat requirements can be quite difficult, however we have a programme which can work out what your requirements are in BTU’s (British Thermal Units) or Watts. Alternatively, there are numerous programmes available for you to work out your own requirements. Once you have worked out what heat out puts you require OR size of radiator, please look at our styles & sizes to match which radiators are the most compatible or let us have your requirements to quote a competitive price for you. (If you are unsure, we would always recommend that a final check is made on this calculation by your heating installer prior to order).
What warranty do you offer?
We offer a standard 10 year warranty on all our radiators subject to standard terms & conditions outlined in our online web stores 'Customer Information' page.
Are cast iron radiators more heat efficient than modern steel radiators?
Yes, although they may take a little longer to get to full operating temperature (though on any sound heating system this time should be negligible) cast iron radiators are highly efficient, with black being the most efficient conducting colour & due to the ability of cast iron to spread and retain heat evenly for much longer periods than steel.
What paint's are safe to use on these cast iron radiators?
The primer we use is a cellulose based primer & so it is alright to use other cellulose based paints. Cast iron radiators can be painted on site using quality paint from one of the leading manufacturers.
We can now provide a SATIN BLACK TOP COAT FINISH to all our cast iron radiators upon request for an additional fee.
We keep the cost of painting our radiators with a top coat down to two charges - £45.00 + vat for radiators sized 6 - 10 ribs/sections & £65.00 + vat for radiators 10+ ribs/section & for the the Versailles style. THESE CHARGES ARE PER RADIATOR.
Matching 400ml spray cans for touch up purposes can aslo be supplied.
If you are interested in having your cast iorn radiators painted, then please call us to discuss this option
In addition, we can send your cast iron radiators direct to your designated car body/spray shops where you can choose your desired colour or you can just simply keep them in their black primer.
(We do not recommend powder coat finish as this is not successful on cast iron, as this can affect the section seal/gaskets causing them to deteriorate when put in finishing oven leading to leaks - Powder coating also invalidtaes any warranty we offer).
What size pipe work is required?
The diameter of the pipe work required to supply your cast iron radiators will be determined by the systems supply requirement, but all can be adapted by copper converters, available from most plumbers merchants, by your plumber.
Who can install cast iron radiators?
Our radiators should be installed by a qualified plumber/heating engineer. They are compatible with all modern pipe work systems & come with 15mm (1/2”) bushes / connections as standard.
Can I use your cast iron radiators with my existing heating system?
All of our cast iron radiators are compatible with normal central heating systems, and come complete with ½” British Standard fitting connections. This means you can change as many or as few radiators as you wish.
Can I use small/micro bore (10mm) or larger (22mm) pipe work?
Our radiators can be used with existing pipe work which is either narrower (10mm) or wider (22mm / ¾”). It is quite possible & simple to use small bore/micro bore pipe work. Copper Converters or Reducer fittings are freely available at little cost to enable the radiator to be fitted to smaller (10mm) or larger (22mm) pipe work. On larger radiators it may prove an issue in balancing the system, so please consult your plumber for further information.
Where should I position radiators?
This really is up to you, however, traditionally, radiators were in the coldest part of the property. This would normally be on an outside wall; however it is perfectly acceptable to position your radiator to suit your rooms’ layout taking into account windows, doors etc. For larger rooms, it may be more beneficial to have more than one radiator to give an even heat spread for the whole area.
What valves should I use for my radiator?
You can use either a Thermostatic or Manual valve set. On larger radiators, or rooms where the radiators have been oversized we would normally recommend the fitting of a TRV (Thermostatic valve) although this is not essential. Our radiators are designed to accept both valves at on the bottom or if required with the inlet valve fitted to the top right hand side & outlet (lockshield) to the opposite bottom left hand side.
What is the difference between a TRV (Thermostatic Radiator Valve) and a Manual one?
A TRV controls the room temperature, by sensing the air temperature and automatically opening and closing the flow to the radiator. A manual valve can only control the temperature of the radiator regardless of the room temperature & is usually controlled via a room or general thermostat.
How are valves fitted and cast iron radiators sealed?
It is important with cast iron radiators that no caustic plumbing compounds are used on any part of the radiator, its valves or connections (this can react with the iron, breaking down the sealing gaskets in both the radiator & any ‘O’ rings in your boiler or pumps). As the cast iron radiators are sand cast, it is advisable to flush out any small debris which may have come loose in transit. All radiator joints should be dry jointed, with PTFE tape wrapped or equivalent, around the valve threads for tightening. We would recommend the use of a thicker gas type PTFE tape on parallel threaded valves.
If you have any further questions regarding our cast iron radiators, radiator valves or other products, please feel free to contact us either by phnoe or email & we will endeavour to answer you promptly.