PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2025 Radiators & Towel Warmers Is it time for an upgrade?
Upgrading radiators can be a relatively easy way to boost a heating system’s performance. Here, Screwfi x Top Tradesperson 2024 champion Mohammed Rahman and Troy Stein, a fi nalist in this year’s Screwfi x Trade Apprentice competition, share some thoughts on the key things to consider.
Q. What options are available to customers wanting to make their homes warmer? “For customers looking to make their homes warmer, there are plenty of options depending on their needs and budget. First, you’ve got the choice of radiator types: single-panel, double-panel, or even column radiators,” says Mohammed. “Double-panel or column radiators are great for higher heat output in larger rooms, while single-panel options work well in smaller spaces. “Material is another consideration. Aluminium radiators heat up quickly and are energy-effi cient – ideal for customers who want to save on bills while staying warm. However, steel radiators retain heat longer, making them a solid choice for consistent warmth.” Troy adds: “With household
budgets tight, ensuring radiators are correctly sized is a simple way to ensure customers are using their heating systems as effi ciently as possible. For example, ensuring radiator valves are set to the correct fl ow rates will make sure the water is heated and distributed correctly. What’s more, by doing the correct radiator sizing and heat loss calculations, you may fi nd that a radiator can be downsized and still produce the heat the customer requires, which could also reduce energy bills.”
Q. How much of a consideration is the customer’s current heating system when choosing a radiator?
“You must take into
consideration what will work best with the current heating system,” says Troy. “With combi boilers, for example, you’ve got to consider the
fl ow rate and how much heat the system can handle at any given time. If you oversize the radiators, the boiler might struggle to keep up, especially in larger properties. On the other hand, with gravity-fed systems, you’re limited by the cylinder capacity and pump strength – some setups may only support three or four radiators before effi ciency drops off .
“It’s also about balancing
the radiator output with the system’s capabilities. You don’t want to install radiators that require more water than the boiler can heat effi ciently. That’s why it’s important to calculate the BTU requirements for each room and match them to the system’s performance. If the system isn’t up to scratch, you might need to recommend upgrades like a better pump or even a new boiler. “At the end of the day, it’s
Mohammed Rahman
about making sure the radiators and the heating system work together seamlessly to give the customer the best performance without compromising effi ciency.”
Q. How can plumbers use a radiator upgrade as a way to increase revenue from a job? “There are plenty of ways to increase revenue on jobs while genuinely helping customers improve energy effi ciency,” explains Mohammed. “Adding accessories like TRVs is an obvious choice. They let customers control the temperature in individual rooms, so they’re not wasting energy heating spaces they’re not using. It’s an easy upsell that adds value to the job and
Troy Stein
helps customers save on their bills.
“Upselling these extras
doesn’t just boost your earnings – it also builds trust with customers because you’re off ering solutions that genuinely improve system performance and effi ciency. However, maximising your profi t margin is always welcome so I would be shopping around and keeping an eye on promotions that suppliers are running. These deals can make a big diff erence to your bottom line.”
Find out more
For more information about Screwfi x’s range of radiators and accessories available this heating season, visit: ◼
phamnews.co.uk/925/00
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