search.noResults

search.searching

saml.title
dataCollection.invalidEmail
note.createNoteMessage

search.noResults

search.searching

orderForm.title

orderForm.productCode
orderForm.description
orderForm.quantity
orderForm.itemPrice
orderForm.price
orderForm.totalPrice
orderForm.deliveryDetails.billingAddress
orderForm.deliveryDetails.deliveryAddress
orderForm.noItems
Zehnder Group UK – Does colour really make a


difference when it comes to radiators? Words by Nigel Coston, technical director at Zehnder Group UK


W


hilst it might seem an odd question, upon reflection do we


give colour and finish enough consideration when recommending or choosing a radiator? Many don’t realise that the colour and finish of a


radiator plays a significant role in both aesthetics and performance. From interior designers to homeowners, many overlook how this choice can not only influence the look of a room but also the efficiency of the radiator itself. Let’s start with a shiny metallic surface, like


chrome or polished stainless steel. This finish effectively kills the radiant output of a radiator by as much as 15-50%. For instance, a 1200 x 600 ladder type towel typically produces 670W, but in


chrome this drops to 489W, a reduction of 27%. Metallic finishes excel in conductive heat but fall short in radiant heat output, which is vital for effective warmth. Despite this drawback, finishes like chrome remain popular, particularly in bathrooms, because they match other fittings such as taps and showers, however, by choosing a finish such as Brushed Brass or Bronze in a PVD coating, radiators still match fittings and retain durability, with the benefit that the heat output will not be as significantly reduced. Matt black also provides optimum radiant


performance whilst convection remains unaffected. However, the current rise in the number of black and anthracite finished radiators is not driven by performance, but by design trends - so once again, the finish of the radiator is driven by style rather than performance. White radiators continue to be the most


popular choice due to practicality and cost. White is seen as neutral and can sit happily in most interior schemes, often becoming invisible. Furthermore, white radiators can be produced in high volumes and consequently easily stocked. While the thermal performance difference between black and white finishes at standard operating temperatures is in the order of 1% or


less – white remains the most cost-effective and versatile solution. Radiator finishes do more than affect heat


output, however. They can influence how a space feels and even affect our mood! ‘Warm’ colours such as red, orange and yellow, which are often associated with summer, sun and fire, can give a suggestion of heat and cosiness even when a radiator is not working, and this psychology is often useful when helping occupants feel comfortable even when system temperatures are reduced. Even warm tones of traditionally ‘cold’ colours


can imply snugness in a room. Leaving a radiator in the ‘as-manufactured’ condition with just a clear lacquer for corrosion protection, for example, creates a more stark, architectural feel whilst also maintaining thermal performance. Choosing the right radiator colour and finish is


about balancing style, function, and comfort. So, whether drawn to the sleekness of black, the subtlety of white, or the warmth of a bold colour, there’s always a perfect radiator for every room.


u+44 (0) 1276 605800 uwww.zehnder-radiators.co.uk


BKU DECEMBER 2024 15


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40