Traditional Radiators

By Author: Edward Hall
Total Articles: 93
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Central heating has been with us for a while now - several thousand years actually. However modern central heating has roots in the mid-nineteenth century when a chilly Russian businessman called Franz San Galli decided enough was enough and invented the instantly recognisable, and now very traditional, radiator. Cast iron was the most practical and efficient for San Galli's design, and so the central heating as we know it, was born.

The history of the radiator has been varied, and like all traditional designs, it has fallen in and out of favour. The material with which we construct radiators has changed over time and yet, like so often happens, it turns out the old way really is the best. Traditional radiators made from cast iron have certain qualities that make them superior to the modern aluminium or steel versions. Cast iron by its very nature does not create ‘heat-spikes' but has a more consistent heating and cooling temperature. Steel will heat very quickly, creating a burst of heat, but will cool just as quickly. Once at the required temperature the cast iron traditional radiator will maintain that ...
... level of heat for a much longer period and require less energy to do so. Today, we are more than ever conscious of our heating bills and the effect that our energy consumption is having on the environment. It is for this reason that traditional radiators, perhaps surprisingly, have a lot to offer even the most modern homes.

Cast iron traditional radiators may have a bit of a reputation when it comes to size. Certainly that is true of many of the original models, however modern design means that traditional radiators are manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes. Constructed in sections each radiator can be designed to be as large or as small as you like, fitting into the tiniest of spaces and still creating an attractive feature.

Traditional radiators now come in a variety of styles and designs. Whether you have a contemporary or period home, there are numerous different options when buying traditional radiators. Available in a wide variety of colours from the bold and modern primary colours to simple stylish and classic finishes the options are only limited by your imagination. Good manufacturers and suppliers of traditional radiators will work with you to create the look you are aiming to achieve. Modern techniques mean that traditional radiators may have been with us since the 19th century, but they are easily adaptable to 21st century style.

When purchasing traditional radiators you'll find such a range of choice and suppliers that its worth considering a few tips. A good supplier will help you from the start to gauge the heating requirements for your home. The correct capacity heater is crucial, whether you choose traditional radiators or modern versions. Suppliers that help to estimate this for you are usually serious about getting things right! Established firms will also be able to supply ‘off-the-peg' models, but will be equally happy to supply custom built radiators. The fact that traditional cast iron radiators can be manufactured in just about any shape and size is part of their flexibility and a key part in their continued popularity. Whatever your choice, traditional radiators offer a touch of class to complete the look of your home.

Edward Hall after 25 years in the plumbing and heating industry now writes and imparts his knowledge on the many varied radiators for sale on the market today. He has a great deal of experience on the subject matter and especially in the arena of cast iron radiators and reproduction cast iron radiators.