Radiator Buying Guide

Hydronic radiators are not everyday purchases, but when they're needed, it is typically an urgent requirement, whether for a new boiler heating system in a home or a mid-winter replacement. 

While many are familiar with the bulky cast-iron radiators found in older homes, more stylish flat-panel radiators have become available in recent years. 

What is a Radiator? 

Radiators use hot water from a central boiler to heat individual rooms. As hot water enters the radiator through piping, it flows through a winding tube inside before exiting to the next unit. The tubing is surrounded by small convector fins to increase surface area for maximum heat transfer. 

Different types of radiators transfer heat to a room in different ways. Traditional cast iron radiators use radiation, meaning the heat from the water is transferred to objects in the room, including occupants. 

Flat panel radiators, also called convector radiators, primarily use convection, the heating of air. As air flows into the radiator from the bottom, it heats up and rises into the room. The rising hot air displaces cold room air, which sinks to the bottom and is also drawn into the radiator. The cycle continues until the room's air reaches the desired temperature. 

Why Choose Flat Panel Radiators? 

With an elegant design, flat panel radiators offer a sleek, modern look and blend well into any room. They can even be painted to match room colors. This attractive design has made flat panel radiators popular in Europe for years, and they are now gaining popularity in the U.S. 

Lightweight panel radiators are a perfect alternative for replacing bulky, dated cast iron radiators and are well-suited for both low- and high-temperature systems. 

What is the Difference Between Single and Double Panel Radiators? 

The difference between single- and double-panel radiators lies in the number of panels each contains. As the names imply, single panels have only a front panel, while double panels have both a front and a back panel. 

Double-panel radiators can provide more heat faster because they have additional surface area for convective heat transfer. They work best in larger rooms or areas with higher heating needs. Single-panel radiators work well in smaller rooms, hallways, and bathrooms. 

Sizing a Radiator 

When replacing existing baseboard radiators, choosing the right size is fairly simple. In other cases, selecting the correct size is vital to avoid complications and save time. 

Mounting the Radiator 

Each radiator comes with two clamp-style mounting brackets. These are anchored to the wall, and the radiator is then inserted into place. 

The radiator is reversible for left-handed applications. In addition to the standard bottom connections, the unit can be installed with same-end connections or opposite-end connections. 

Selecting Radiator Fittings 

Proper fittings are required to connect a radiator to a heating system. The tables below outline the different connections needed depending on whether PEX or copper tubing is used. 

1/2" x 3/4" Radiator Adapter

For use when connecting an Ecostyle radiator or replacement on a Pensotti or Buderus. 

PEX Tubing Fittings 

• 3/8" PEX 
• 1/2" PEX 
• 1/2" PEX-AL-PEX 
• 5/8" PEX 
• 3/4" PEX 

Copper Tubing Fittings 

• 1/2" Copper Sweat 
• 1/2" Copper NPT 
• 1/2" Copper Compression 

Valve Options for Radiators 

If a radiator is installed without valves, fittings are needed to connect the unit directly to the pipes. For series-loop applications, using a by-pass valve allows for the shutoff of water to an individual radiator: 

• 1/2" Straight By-Pass Valve: For use when your pipes exit the floor. 
• 1/2" Angle By-Pass Valve: For use when your pipes exit the wall. 

For all other applications, such as monoflow, reverse-return, or home run, using an isolation valve allows for the shutoff of water to an individual radiator: 

• 1/2" Straight Isolation Valve: For use when your pipes exit the floor. 
• 1/2" Angle Isolation Valve: For use when your pipes exit the wall. 

Advanced Temperature Control for Ecostyle Radiators 

Each radiator comes with a manual knob to regulate water flow and heat output. A thermostatic control head can be added for advanced temperature control, which regulates water flow based on room temperature. 

There are also options for different sensor locations: 

• Built-in Sensor: Measures the temperature near the radiator. 
• Remote Sensor: Measures temperature elsewhere in the room. 
• Remote Wall Sensor: Measures temperature and allows control from elsewhere in the room.