Measuring your radiator or heated towel rail correctly is important to ensure you get the correct size when replacing it. In this guide we will outline everything you need to know to correctly measure your radiator & ensure your new one fits perfectly.
How To Measure A Radiator:
- Measure the height
- Measure the width
- Measure the pipe centres
- Measure the wall to pipe centres
These 4 steps outline the main measurements you need to take when calculating the size of your radiator. Here we'll take you through some extra details and tips to help you on your way.
Measuring Radiator Height
Radiator height can be easily measured by taking your tape measure from the lowest point of your radiator to the highest.
Measuring Radiator Width
Calculating the width of your current radiator is as simple as taking your tape measure across the furthest point on each side of your radiator.
Measuring Pipe Centres
Radiator pipe centres is a measure of the distance between the two pipe inlets on your radiator. It is measured from the centre of one of the pipes to the centre of the other.
To measure your pipe centres, take a tape measure from the centre of the left hand pipe inlet to the centre of the right hand pipe inlet. When shopping on Only Radiators, you'll see pipe centre measurements on the product page to help make choosing a radiator to match your current one easy.
Measuring Wall To Pipe Centres
Wall to pipe centres is an indication of how far away from the wall the pipe inlets for your radiator are at the point they enter the radiator valves.
To measure pipe centres you'll need to measure from the centre of the pipe inlet to the wall. This figure will help you determine how far away from the wall your pipework is and is useful if you don't want to alter any plumbing when replacing a radiator.
Other Helpful Measurements
Wall Distance
Wall distance is the gap between your radiator and the wall. This can help you work out how much space there will be behind your radiator when it's mounted.
To measure wall distance simply measure from the back of your radiator to the wall.
Wall To Face
Wall to face is a measurement of how far into the room your radiator will protrude. It is measured from the furthest point at the front of your radiator to the wall.
Although this isn't necessarily vital for replacing your radiator like for like, it's helpful if you are short on space and need a slimline radiator.
Calculating BTU
When measuring up to install a new radiator, ensuring your radiator has the heat output required for the room is important. Calculating your BTU (British Thermal Units) will ensure the radiator you install has the correct heat output to efficiently heat your room.
To calculate your BTU you'll need to measure the length, width and height of the room and put in a few other details about your home. You can then use our calculator to get your BTU figure which you'll find on all our radiator product pages.
Replacing A Radiator Using Your Measurements
Using your BTU and other measurement figures, you should now be able to replace your radiator without altering any of the pipework.
Although using the same radiator measurements may seem restricting, Only Radiators stock a great variety of radiators in a whole host of different materials & colours. This will allow you to keep the same size whilst still improving the heat output or style of your radiator.
