With every radiator comes a BTU rating, whether that be a traditional column radiator, a bathroom towel radiator or a classic type 11, type 21 or type 22 radiator. This is because all radiators are designed to output a specific amount of heat, so the size of your room, radiator placement and amount/size of windows in your room are all factors (along with many others) you might not realise you need to consider before you purchase a new radiator. So you ask - what does BTU stand for and what does it really mean for you?
What does BTU stand For?
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. This is a measure of heat, which is a form of energy. 1 BTU is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In home heating, BTUs tell you how much heat a radiator can produce per hour.
Why do I need to know the BTU of a radiator?
You need to know the BTU your radiator needs to ensure that your room heats properly. If the BTU is too low, the room will never fully warm up which can result in heating being left on longer and higher energy bills. If the BTU is too high, the room will heat up too quickly, this means your boiler will keep switching on and off which can be very inefficient, as well as the fact that you've likely paid more money for a bigger radiator than you needed.
Does the BTU of a radiator affect cost?
Generally speaking, radiators with a higher BTU output tend to be more expensive, but there's a lot more to it than just the number you see. Higher BTU radiators have more panels or columns, as well as a larger surface area that produces more heat and a more efficient design, which all equals to more materials used and results in a higher cost to make them. But it isn't always the BTU that affects the price, design and style have an impact as well as the manufacturer and quality. If you're shopping for a vertical, designer or column radiator, you'll probably find it has a higher price point even at the same BTU as others. Premium brands or finishes, for example anthracite or brushed metal, can also add extra to the cost.
What are things I need to consider when choosing the most efficient BTU for my radiator?
There are multiple things you need to consider when it comes to what will work for you and your space, the best part is that choosing a new radiator is more customisable than you might realise. When choosing the right BTU, you need to consider the rooms heat demand.
Here are the key things that affect it:
1. Room size
The size of your room is one of the most important factors to consider, a bigger room equals more air to heat and a bigger BTU needed. You'll need to measure the rooms length, width and how tall your ceilings are.
2. Windows & doors
A key thing to remember is that heat escapes through glass, if the room you intend to install your radiator in has large windows or patio doors then a higher BTU output will be required. If your windows are only single glazed this will increase the overall heat loss in your room, as well as what way your room faces - for example a north facing room will often need more heat because the sun won't be facing it for as long as other facing rooms.
3. Level of insulation
A well insulated home will often require a lower BTU output, whereas poorer insulation and older homes will require more. Take into consideration things like: wall and floor insulation, loft insulation and double vs single glazing. Heat rises, meaning if you have a well insulated loft then the chances are your home will hold heat more efficiently.
4. Room type
Different rooms will need different temperatures based on your preferences. Bedrooms often require a lower BTU as it is recommended that keeping your bedroom cooler equals improved sleep quality, however you might prefer to keep your living room nice and toasty.
5. How many external walls there are
The more outside walls your room has will cause more heat loss. For example, a corner room with 2 external walls will need more BTU than a room surrounded by other rooms.
6. Radiator type
Bear in mind that not all radiators output heat the same way. A double panel (Type 22) radiator provide a higher BTU, single panel will have a lower BTU and other designer radiators such as column radiators can vary a lot, it is always best to check the manufacturers guide or product description. You can more often times than not find the BTU output of a radiator in the product description of all our styles and sizes of radiators we sell.
How to measure BTU output needed?
Lets be honest, no body wants to have to do maths when they're buying a radiator, that's why we have our very own BTU calculator to make things simple. You'll still need to do some work such as taking measurements, figuring out the level insulation, what way your room faces and how many exterior walls and windows your room has, but once its done its done. You can then simply take the BTU number that is calculated, go and check out the radiator you like the look of, check the products description and look for a section that reads 'BTU' and the number along side it, then finally you can check if the BTU matches your needs. If not then don't worry, all our radiators come in a variety of sizes which will equal a different BTU, meaning you can have a look at which size matches your BTU best and buy accordingly. Buying stylish radiators you love the style of doesn't mean you should have to compromise on heat output and efficiency.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO OUR BTU CALCULATOR.
Still unsure?
If you're still not confident before you commit to your purchase, feel free to contact us here or call us on 01524 841087 Mon-Fri 8-5 and we will help in any way we can. Alternatively we would also recommend consulting with your plumber for any recommendations they might have for you.