The best radiators to heat your home as temperatures fall

white column radiator
(Image credit: Getty)

There are several considerations when choosing the best radiators for your home. While this is definitely a design choice, there's more to looking for new radiators than just selecting those products that are going to look great with the rest of your interior scheme.

One of the most important factors to consider is, of course, efficiency but with so manytypes of radiatorout there, opting for the best design for you can be tricky. When buying new radiators, one of the main things you'll need to look at is heat output to ensure you get a model best suited to your room of choice.

Whether you are self building and choosing radiators as part of your new heating system; renovating an old property with out-of-date heat sources; or you just fancy swapping your current models for something that will better suit your interior scheme, we're here to help.

We've collated the very best radiators available right now so you can ensure you are choosing the right product at the best possible price.

Best deals on radiators this Christmas and New Year

You can trust Homebuilding & Renovating. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and materials in order to help you choose the best for your home and garden.Find out more about how we test.

£149 NOW £65 (SAVE £84) at B&Q

If your bathroom has no existing central heating plumbing this electric heated towel warmer is an easy addition. And with a whopping £84 off, there's no better time to snap one up. It comes with a blower to push warm air around a cold bathroom and has an in-built safety cut out.

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Blyss Kita 1500W Towel Warmer 560mm x 1,030mm £149

Blyss Kita 1500W Towel Warmer 560mm x 1,030mm£149NOW £65 (SAVE £84) at B&Q

If your bathroom has no existing central heating plumbing this electric heated towel warmer is an easy addition. And with a whopping £84 off, there's no better time to snap one up. It comes with a blower to push warm air around a cold bathroom and has an in-built safety cut out.

£116.99, NOW £109.99 (SAVE 9%) at Amazon

This steel column radiator in Anthracite is perfect for a traditional look in a renovation. It has anti-corrosion internal coating and a 10-year guarantee, and brackets and fittings are included. 

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Traditional 2 Column Radiator, 600x605mm £116.99

Traditional 2 Column Radiator, 600x605mm
£116.99, NOW £109.99 (SAVE 9%) at Amazon

This steel column radiator in Anthracite is perfect for a traditional look in a renovation. It has anti-corrosion internal coating and a 10-year guarantee, and brackets and fittings are included.

£63 NOW £57 (SAVE 6%) at B&Q

This single panel steel radiator in white now has £6 off as well as £9 off its matching 600 x 700mm double-panel model for £85. Both have guarantees for 15 years and have fixings included.

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Kudox Single Panel Radiator, 900mm x 600mm £63

Kudox Single Panel Radiator, 900mm x 600mm
£63NOW £57 (SAVE 6%) at B&Q

This single panel steel radiator in white now has £6 off as well as £9 off itsmatching 600 x 700mm double-panel model for £85. Both have guarantees for 15 years and have fixings included.

WAS £459.95 NOW £413.96

If looking for a statement radiator for your project, this metallic copper Milano Windsor triple column radiator now has £45.99 off it's low height model over at bestheating.com (also available in metallic gold). It has a 20-year guarantee on it's 1.5mm thick steel design. It also comes with all its fixings. You can also find deals on its regular height 600mm x 1010mm model in the same colour as well as deals on other sizes and colours.

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£269.00 NOW £100.86 (SAVE 63%) at Wayfair

Wayfair are offering a massive saving of 63% on this stylish classic column radiator in their early Black Friday sale. This powder coated, traditional column radiator would slot seamlessly into most interiors but would do particular justice to classic schemes. It comes complete with wall brackets and can be matched with other sizes in the range.

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£139.97 NOW £69.97 (SAVE 50%) at Better Bathrooms

Ideal for bathrooms, with its slim, space-saving design, this eye-catching mirrored single panel radiator might be on the compact size, but it still manages to give off 1198 BTU — making it perfect for small to medium rooms. It comes complete with wall brackets and can be easily cleaned without affecting the high-shine finish. 

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£529.95 NOW £423.96 (SAVE 20%) at BestHeating

Perfect for anyone after a contemporary style radiator, this model actually has a lot more going for it than just good looks. It has been converted for electric use and, unlike many standard electric radiators that rely on a constant flow of water, this radiator has been pre-filled with a specially developed glycol solution which makes it less likely to leak. It also includes two 800W heating elements which can be individually adjusted with the controls, or controlled via your mobile device and the Terma Blueline heating app.

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The best radiators for heating your home

white column radiator

(Image credit: Amazon UK)

1. Milano Windsor Traditional Cast Iron Style Double Column Horizontal Radiator

Classic good-looks, without the weight

Specifications

Size: 300mm x 605mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU rating: 1561
Weight: 9.6kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Classic yet modern design
+
Lightweight
+
Part of a matching range

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive compared to panel radiators

Part of the Windsor range of classic-style radiators from Milano, the horizontal model is perfect for anyone looking to replicate the look of a traditional cast iron radiator without the weight or price tag usually associated with column radiators.

The 1.5mm thick premium quality steel construction means heat is efficiently distributed through the columns and into your room, while the white powder coated finish will fit in with both traditional and classic contemporary interior schemes alike.

Another bonus of this radiator is that it can be combined with other models from the range for a nice cohesive look — including the tall vertical design, which would work well in awkward spaces.


NRG Modern Vertical Radiator

(Image credit: Amazon)

2. NRG Modern Vertical Radiator

Contemporary, stylish and durable

Specifications

Size: 1800 x 354mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 4699-6888
Weight: 27kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Durable construction
+
高温输出
+
Contemporary and elegant

Reasons to avoid

-
Takes a while to heat up

This stylish radiator from NRG boasts a contemporary style which enables it to fit with modern and minimalist home designs.

Not only is it eye-catching, but it's efficient too. Made from 1.5mm premium mild steel and featuring a high quality white finish, it's extremely durable. It's no surprise therefore that this model comes with a 15-year manufacturer's guarantee.

Given its 1800 x 354mm size (multiple size options are available), you certainly get bang for your buck, and it makes for a suitable option if you're planning a renovation or conversion on a budget. Brackets and fixings are included, but valves are not.


Milano Aruba

(Image credit: Amazon)

3. Milano Aruba

The best radiator for smaller rooms

Specifications

Size: 400 x 415mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 1638
Weight: 5.68kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
20-year guarantee
+
Impressive heat output for size
+
Contemporary design

Reasons to avoid

-
成本超过一些紧凑拉德

The Milano Aruba comes in a variety of sizes, but we particularly love the 400 x 415mm radiator, which is smart, compact and has an impressive heat output.

Despite its dinky dimensions it generates an impressive heat output of 1638, making it ideal for small spaces, awkwardly-shaped rooms or for sneaking in underneath window cills.

Whilst it might cost a little more than some of the other compact radiators, it also offers a smart, contemporary appearance which makes up for the extra cost.

Made from extra thick low carbon steel, the manufacturers are so confident of its durability that they offer a 20-year guarantee.


Elegant Modern Vertical Column Designer Radiator

(Image credit: Elegant)

4. Elegant Modern Vertical Column Designer Radiator

A great heat output with a striking design

Specifications

Size: 1600 x 480mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU Rating: 6500-7000
Weight: 38.09kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Handy in spaces with limited wall space
+
Plenty of sizes and colour options

Reasons to avoid

-
Some buyers found fitting a little tricky

As the name suggests, this vertical radiator really is an elegant way to heat a room.

It's an ideal radiator for awkward spaces, which would look particularly stylish in a kitchen or hallway, both rooms in which wall space is often at a premium. It comes in single or double formats.

This is another radiator with a really high BTU; it's very efficient. Do ensure you get help lifting this one though as it's a little heavier than some in the line up, and its height and width could make it tricky to carry for one person.

It comes with wall brackets, a plug and a vent, but valves need to be bought separately.


Henrad 110960 Type 11 SC 1003 Compact Radiator

(Image credit: Henrad)

5. Henrad 110960 Type 11 SC 1003 Compact Radiator

Plain, but lightweight and budget-friendly

Specifications

Size: 600 x 300mm
BTU Rating: 1003
Weight: 5.91kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Perfect for small spaces
+
Lightweight
+
Inexpensive

Reasons to avoid

-
Plain design

Whilst this compact radiator from Henrad might not be shortlisted for its eye-catching good looks, there is certainly nothing wrong with it. In fact, many people will be drawn to its ability to simply sit, unnoticed within an interior scheme.

This is a great little radiator for small spaces as it takes up very little room. It is lightweight too, meaning even fairly non-substantial walls will hold it easily.

In short, this is the ideal radiator for anyone on a budget, whether replacing old radiators as part of a heating system upgrade or building from scratch.


Warme设计r Panel Heater

(Image credit: Warme)

6.Warme设计r Panel Heater

Electric wall heater with a wow factor

Specifications

Size: 470 x 820mm
BTU Rating: Operates at a 2KW output. One Wärme heater can heat a 22 metre square room
Weight: 9.3kg
Valves included?: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
Does not need to be plumbed in
+
Fitted in minutes
+
Futuristic design

Reasons to avoid

-
Programming can be complicated
-
More expensive to run than traditional rads

Proving that electric radiators are anything but boring, the Wärme Designer Electric Wall Heater Low Energy Panel Heater Radiator will definitely make a statement in your home — it can even be used in bathrooms thanks to its waterproof casing.

As well as looking pretty space age, its ability to heat the house is not to be sniffed at either. One heater can heat a 22 square metre room, whilst built-in heat sensors avoid overheating.

The heater features a digital thermostat too, allowing you to choose between an 'instant heat' mode or to programme it to work to a weekly cycle.

Another benefit of this one is how easy it is to install — it is simply mounted on the wall brackets that are included and plugged in. You will need to ensure there is an electrical socket within reach and ensure there is a minimum of 30cm clearance space above and below the unit.


grey flat panel radiator

(Image credit: Amazon UK)

7. Horizontal Flat Panel Radiator

Competitively-priced contemporary design

Specifications

Size: 600x408mm (multiple sizes available)
BTU rating: Various depending on size chosen
Weight: 8.3kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Slimline
+
Modern design
+
Easy to fit

Reasons to avoid

-
Larger sizes reported as heavy

Crisp and modern in form and available in a huge range of sizes and configurations, this smart flat panel radiator comes with all the brackets and fittings needed for installation and has a pleasing matt grey finish.

On the downside, the radiators are rather on the heavy side compared to some of the other models here, despite being made from 1.5mm premium mild steel, although this will obviously depend on the size you opt for — something to consider if you are planning on a DIY installation job.


black vertical radiator

(Image credit: Amazon UK)

8. NRG 1800x408mm Vertical Flat Panel Designer Radiator

Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms

Specifications

Size: 1800x408mm
BTU rating: 2706-3264
Weight: ‎21kg
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Perfect for awkward spaces
+
Contemporary good looks
+
Simple installation

Reasons to avoid

-
Eye-catching so not for those wanting their radiators to be subtle

Perfect for those looking to minimise the amount of wall space taken up by their radiator or working with awkward spaces — kitchens and bathrooms would really benefit from this design.

Super sleek and contemporary in its form, the matt anthracite finish shown here would make a really modern statement at the same time as being subtle enough to blend in with a range of interior styles.

The radiator is made from low carbon steel and is praised for its ease of installation.

On the downside, it is perhaps not one for those trying to stick to a tight budget.


chrome designer towel warmer

(Image credit: John Lewis & Partners)

9. John Lewis Lyme 1460/275 Central Heated Towel Rail

Sturdy, modern and simple stainless steel design

Specifications

Size: From 1460 x 275mm (other sizes available)
BTU rating: From 2154
Weight: Depends on model size
Valves included?: No

Reasons to buy

+
Striking stainless steel design
+
Rust, flake and corrosion-resistant so suitable for bathrooms
+
良好的尺寸和热输出范围

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive

This is a really beautiful design that would suit classic and contemporary rooms equally as well.

Although it is billed as towel warmer – and it would certainly up the style stakes of any bathroom or cloakroom – it could work just as well for those afterkitchen radiator ideas.

There is a large choice of sizes in the Lyme range, all with varying heat outputs and the fact that this model is made from 100% stainless steel means it won't rust, corrode or flake making it perfect for steamy, humid environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.

On the downside, this is most certainly not one for those with an eye on the bank balance.

Choosing the right radiators for your home

Design and budget are foremost factors, but in order to choose the best radiator for your room, you will need to determine the heat requirements of the space.

Room sizes, window dimensions and even the materials used in the walls will all be used to calculate the required outputs of the radiators you will need to heat the room properly.

What is a BTU Rating?

You will notice that radiators have a 'BTU rating'. BTUs are ‘British Thermal Units’ and this is the unit in which radiator efficiency is measured.

A heating engineer or plumbershould be able to work this out for you, or you could use an online BTU calculator.

Our handy guide to to help youfind a plumberfor your project is a must-read.

Electric vs plumbed-in radiators: Which is best?

Before you begin your search, decide whether you will need electric radiators or those that are plumbed in.

Electric radiatorsuse mains electricity. Some are designed to be plugged into a socket, while others will need to be fitted by an electrician. You might also see infrared electric radiators for sale. These are good for small spaces as they have a high heat output with a slim profile.

Plumbed-in radiatorsare connected to your boiler and use hot water as their heat source. They’re controlled as part of the central heating system.

Better Bathrooms —deals available on bathroom and kitchen radiators

Wayfair —brilliant bargains on designer radiators

BestHeating —savings on Milano and Lazzarini radiators and towel rails

Natasha Brinsmead

Natasha is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Editor and has been a member of the team for over two decades. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she has written for a number of homes titles. She has renovated a terrace and is at the end of the DIY renovation and extension of her Edwardian cottage. She is now looking for her next project.