Design radiators for decoration
One of the most widespread ways to condition the home in winter and achieve that desired temperature, is to use radiators. In the past, they were simply considered basic heating elements whose styles and shapes for sale were limited.
Although many of us continue to opt for the traditional radiator shape, in truth, the sale and purchase market has changed a lot. Not only to improve the efficiency of the devices to high levels, also, the designer radiators with new shapes and aesthetics that adapt perfectly to any home decoration.
Today, we have to see how heating can also bring a touch of style to the home and for this, we have asked a colleague who works in heating materials how to choose the best models of decorative radiators from a perspective of coherence without losing style. or the design we need for the house.
What options do we have to buy a decorative radiator
The wide range of decorative radiators It offers us a unique opportunity to decorate any space in the house, adding character and sophistication to the air conditioning, but we have to know what purchase options the market offers us.
Without losing sight of the heating functionality and its energy efficiency, three main elements are those that will define the final design option that we choose: Material, color and shape.
1.- Materials for radiators
The material that they are manufactured is important, and although we are not going to go into technical aspects of which ones are more efficient or less, we must know the options that the market offers us for a modern radiator.
According to system modern heating in housing, we have: for a water radiator as an electric radiator (including radiant panels) …
The radiator models using materials such as slate, oxide finish, copper, limestone, glass, etc. This type of stylish heaters, are integrated in a subtle, modern and elegant way in the decoration. Suitable for all environments and decorative styles; Industrial, modern, classic, minimalist, etc.
Those made of aluminum or steel, although normally they are less aesthetic as designer radiatorYes, they are more functional and due to the competition that exists in the market, the acquisition prices are cheaper.
A designer heater in cast iron to provide an exceptional character to homes and more, in those spaces that combine classic with modern decoration.
Although its prices in recent years have skyrocketed, we must not forget its durability and functionality. Many experts consider them essential in high-end heating installations.
Radiator material tips:
- The power of the radiator is independent of the type and material from which it is made. Always consult your needs with the professional of the store.
- If you place an insulating or reflective material behind each radiator (especially on exterior walls), you will promote better use of the heat it emits. Keep that in mind!
- The choice of material, apart from aesthetics, also focuses on the durability, resistance and thermal inertia that you have. modern heaters.
- Take into account the weight; radiator - size - material, if they are placed in an interior partition.
- Aesthetically, radiators that have a rough or toned surface (examples of slate or marble) look better on smooth walls.
2.- Colors for designer radiators
The modern stylish radiators They can be presented in many colors, although we are used to a range of gray or ivory (especially water radiators) if we look in a little more detail, we will have them in many colors; red, black, blue, etc.
As we see in the following image, the fan is impressive and aesthetically perfect for any decoration …
There are also some manufacturers that give users the ability to customize it with paint of any color. It is an option to consider if our needs are very specific.
some manufacturers allow custom radiators according to the color we need, getting decorative radiators that fit perfectly
In the field of electric decorative radiator, the visual aesthetics goes further. There is no longer only variation in colors, we can also acquire them with impressive images, with reliefs or that are a mirror, to give a few examples.
Tips for choosing radiator color:
- A neutral color does not condition the elements of the room so much. If a powerful color is chosen, it will give a greater prominence. Be careful with the chosen tones!
- Remember that each color conveys effects from an emotional perspective.
- Light and color go hand in hand. Be careful because the tonality that you can see in the store, is not the same as at home with natural light.
- If the color of the radiator is very different from that of the wall, we will have a feeling of less depth. For small rooms, it is better to use radiators with colors similar to those of the wall where they are fitted.
In radiant panels, by using other materials such as glass in their manufacture, more diverse aesthetic options can be configured. The calls box radiators they are a perfect example. In addition to being a radiant panel with a very thin design, the frame profiles can change in thickness and color.
If you want to have a totally "hidden" heating in your home, you can read our article on underfloor heating and its advantages.
3.- Shapes of modern radiators
Another option that we can choose, according to our aesthetic needs, is the shape of the radiator. Although traditionally we find them divided with modules - vertical or horizontal elements, their shapes can be very varied, in fact, they are so varied that it has surprised us.
We have square, vertical rectangular format, horizontal, oval, relief, narrow design radiators, others look like works of art, with shapes of objects, etc. And so, all the ways you can imagine.
The decorated heating panels that use boilers (They work with natural gas, diesel, etc.) have liquid to heat the house (water, oil, etc.) with coarser and thicker shapes.
Radiant panels that work with electricity are usually much thinner, with straight and extra-flat lines and with much more delicate and beautiful shapes.
Of all the rooms in the house, the bathroom is where imagination is most wasted from the perspective of heating and decoration. Here, the designer towel radiator is the king in shapes and finishes, which we can also consult extensive information from the article on towel warmers and water towel radiators.
Radiator shape choice tips:
- In advance and before buying it, you must know where you will locate the heater. Obviously this will condition its shape, but you must bear in mind that, in order to work in optimal conditions, it will need a separation space of 10 - 12 cm so that it can heat properly (It is necessary to take advantage of the currents and generate a good
distribution of heat in the house).
- The best location - usually - is under the windows, to favor the correct diffusion of warm air throughout the room.
- In rooms with high ceilings it is better to use horizontal radiators, we will have less feeling of altitude, and vice versa, for rooms with low ceilings, the ideal is a design vertical radiator.
- Some designers have used vertical designer radiators to separate rooms.
- Be careful in choosing the shape. We must always seek harmony in decoration. If it is a very strident piece, you will need other objects or furniture that provide a balance.
- Remember that in the bathroom area; In the shower, bathtub or sink, there must be a distance of 1 meter to the heated towel rail - heated towel rail or any appliance that uses electricity.
What number of radiators and size do I need?
Now that we know what characteristics modern radiators should have Depending on the style of interior design that we have at home, it is time to go to the store, but first we have to know some information to make a correct purchase.
To size coherently, it is normal to place a radiator in each room and its size depends on its surface (In large dining rooms, you may still need two or three designer radiators for living room - dining room)
- For water radiators: Each element that divides the radiator is usually said to be for 1 - 1.5 square meters. For example, if we have a 12-10 m2 room, a 7-8 element radiator would be enough.
- For electric emitters and radiators: Calculate between 80 and 100 watts per square meter of the room to be heated. For example, for a room that is 12 square meters, you will need a 1200 watt emitter of power. (You can see more information from this article on thermal emitters)
As other factors also act that will determine the heater we need, you should know:
- Type of enclosures you have (If the walls are thick or thin, if they face the exterior or interior of the house and the quality of the windows).
- The climate zone in which you live to see the thermal needs. You can get an idea with the following map …
- Surface and height of each room that you want to heat. Remember to take action! And the height is important.
With all these basic data, a good expert can help you choose the best option. Always remember to look at the energy label that all the appliances for sale have (the greener and higher (A ++) the better it will optimize the heat, the more energy savings at home and the less money you will spend on electricity or fuel whatever)
Although design matters, we cannot lose sight of the function they perform, heating a room. Always verify their energy efficiency with the corresponding energy label and ask at the store, they are the ones who can best advise you.
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