The majority of radiators sold here are made from mild steel. However, over the past few decades there has been an increase on designs made from stainless and aluminium.
This latter material is especially interesting as it can help you save on energy. This is because aluminium conducts heat better than mild steel.
Aluminium radiators transfer heat more quickly than steel radiators. Aluminium radiators use less heated water from the boiler. Also, they respond faster to changes to the room heat requirements and reduce wasted heat. Because aluminium radiators have just arrived in the UK, it’s difficult to determine if there are any energy savings. Also, it will vary depending where you live. However, we have heard from some engineers who estimate that these radiators could help you save anywhere between 5-10% annually on your heating costs.
Aluminium radiators have other benefits that are more environmentally friendly. Recycled material is used to make them. This means that your next recycling project could result in an aluminium radiator. A lower water content means they can be smaller than conventional radiators. This is a benefit when you use them with low-temperature heating systems like ground source heat pumps. You do not need large radiators to compensate.
So why aren’t all radiators made out of aluminium instead? Aluminium is more rigid and flexible than steel, so radiators are made from straight profiles. This limitation means that designer radiator design is not possible with loops and bends.
The last and most important thing to remember is that when installing aluminium radiators onto a heating system it is always best not to use an inhibitor mixed system. This means that your plumber will know that you are using aluminium radiators.
Steel
Qualitative
Steel is a strong and durable metal, which is why it is so popular for radiators. Steel doesn’t rust over time, which is one advantage. This assumes the use of a good quality grade steel. Low quality steels could rust or wear. There are 150 grades of steel. When you have a product installed, it is important that you know which type of product this product is.
Efficient
Steel is very good at transferring heat, which makes it an efficient choice for radiators made of steel. Even if you turn off your central heating, steel will retain its heat much longer than other materials. You will reap the benefits for a long time afterwards. This will help you save on your energy bills.
Attractive
The beautiful steel finish can be cleaned easily with a quick wipe down after every few months.
The Cost
At this moment in time, steel radiators are not very affordable so be prepared to pay more.
Aluminium
Conductivity
Aluminium can conduct electricity very well. Aluminium can quickly respond to changes in settings, which allows you to control the comfort level of your office or home.
Efficiency
Aluminium can efficiently and quickly emit heat. If you turn on an aluminium radiator in your central heating system, you can expect your house or office to warm up very quickly. Aluminium radiators do not require much water to heat a space, which can translate into lower monthly expenses. A company can install aluminium radiators much easier due to its light weight. This could actually make installation fees less expensive.
Quality
Aluminium is noncorrosive so the quality will be maintained for many decades.
Style
Aluminium can be modified in many different ways so that you can create many different styles and colors. Aluminium is an extremely versatile material, which makes it great for radiator construction.
Different radiator materials offer both benefits and disadvantages. You have many options when it comes to steel or aluminium radiators. What a person desires from their radiator is what will determine who wins. The main factor when purchasing a radiator is its cost. However, depending on where it is installed, people may also be more concerned about the style of the unit. The radiators installed in your home or office will not only keep it warm and cozy year-round, but will also be beautiful and attractive.
Copyright – Classicalnet