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Opting for cast iron radiators offers not only a more aesthetically pleasing heating solution for your home in comparison to steel alternatives, but a radiator that has superior conductivity. This means that cast iron radiators provide significantly more heat than their steel counterparts, and continue to hold heat even once the radiator has been turned off. Therefore, selecting a cast iron radiator is both an attractive, efficient and superior heating solution for your living space.

Our bespoke cast iron radiators are made by expert craftsmen who hand assemble and paint each radiator to match your specific requirements. Read through the steps of this intricate process by reading our overview of the production of cast iron radiators.

Our environmentally conscious approach at Cast Iron Radiator Shop extends beyond longevity. Crafted for durability, our cast iron radiators outlast steel alternatives, reducing long-term raw material consumption. Not only do they boast superior heat output, but the high-quality cast iron ensures quick heating and prolonged warmth, making them more energy-efficient than standard steel radiators. Their compatibility with alternative energy sources, such as ground source pumps and solar-powered heating systems, underscores their eco-friendly design. With a lifetime guarantee, investing in our cast iron radiators ensures enduring performance and a sustainable heating solution.

Understanding British Thermal Unit (BTU) is crucial when choosing a cast iron radiator to efficiently heat your home and elevate its interior. BTU is the standard unit of energy measurement that is used to show how much heat a radiator gives off (also known as the ‘heat output’). Cast Iron Radiator Shop products are sold in sections, each with a specified BTU mentioned in the product description. For instance, if each section outputs 305 BTUs and you purchase three sections, your radiator will have a total output of 915 BTUs. We advise to select a radiator with a slightly higher BTU for added efficiency and control, as it will have more power than needed, but you have the option to turn down the heat output.

Distinguishing between BTUs and Watts is essential when selecting the right radiator from our collection. BTU represents a unit of energy, while Watt gauges the rate that energy is transfered. By providing outputs in both Watts and BTUs, we simplify the process of choosing the ideal radiator size for your needs. Despite discussions online about converting BTUs into Watts, it’s crucial to note that they are fundamentally different units. The more accurate conversion involves transforming BTUs per hour into Watts, often denoted as BTU/h.

Manual Valve: A manual valve is a basic valve that allows you to manually control the flow of hot water into your radiator. It typically has a simple on/off function, allowing you to regulate the heat output by adjusting the valve manually.

 

Thermostatic Valve: A thermostatic valve, often called a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV), is a more advanced valve that includes a built-in temperature-sensing element. This element reacts to the ambient temperature in the room, automatically adjusting the flow of hot water to maintain a set temperature. Thermostatic valves provide a degree of automation, helping to regulate the room temperature and potentially saving energy by preventing over-heating.

 

Opt for TRVs (Thermostatic Radiator Valves) for an eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solution. Unlike manual valves, TRVs align their maximum capacities with carbon footprint reduction guidelines. These valves not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also offer long-term savings, a crucial advantage considering rising heating costs. TRVs ensure rooms are heated according to your  individual needs by simply setting your desired maximum temperature, and the TRV efficiently manages your heating system and optimises energy usage, minimizing unnecessary heat waste and providing a comfortable, tailored environment.

It can be difficult determining which size cast iron radiator you need to fit your space. Thankfully, by reading this Size Guide that we have created, you will be able to work out which size radiator is best suited to the space.

When ordering a sizable cast iron radiator from the Cast Iron Radiator Shop, it might arrive in two parts for practical reasons. Firstly, large radiators may exceed the size limit for a single delivery pallet, requiring separation. Additionally, weight considerations, especially for radiators surpassing 200kgs, necessitate delivery in smaller, more manageable sections. Rest assured, we provide advance notice and include a joining tool for straightforward assembly. This approach not only ensures secure transport but also facilitates easier handling during installation in your property.

Assembling a two-part radiator is straightforward. For your convenience, Cast Iron Radiator Shop provides the necessary assembly and connecting tools on our website, with different sizes available. When ordering a radiator, our site automatically selects the correct tool, and you only pay for postage. Instructional ‘how-to’ videos and an assembly guide are accessible to walk you through the assembly process. Each section is joined using threaded inserts and expanded graphite gaskets. Potential ‘end caps‘ may require removal with a left-hand thread. Align the sections, use the connecting tool to loosely connect, then gradually tighten the top and bottom inserts for a secure and even assembly.

Measure the diameter of the radiator pipe and then use the conversion table below to work out the correct connector size.

Connector SizeOuter Diameter (mm)
1 Inch BSPT33.25 mm
1-¼ Inch BSPT41.91 mm
1-½ Inch BSPT47.80 mm
2 Inch BSPT59.61 mm

* BSPT: British Standard Pipe Thread size

Wall stays stabilise your cast iron radiator by securing it firmly in position. The number of wall stays needed is contingent upon the radiator’s size. At the Cast Iron Radiator Shop, to ensure robust and reliable support, our recommendation is:

  • 1 wall stay for radiators with 3 to 10 sections. 
  • 2 wall stays for radiators with 11 to 20 sections
  • 3 wall stays for radtiors with 20 sections or more

At the Cast Iron Radiator Shop, we proudly offer one of the largest ranges of paint and finishing options in the UK. Choose from an extensive palette of colors and shades, including options from Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Roberson Liquid Metal, and others.

If you are looking for a cast iron radiator in a specific custom colour, you can contact us directly to specify which exact shade you would like. We can offer this on the following brands: Farrow & Ball, Roberson Liquid Metal, and Little Greene.

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