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So, you're in the market for a heating element. But you might still be wondering what exactly it is and what exactly it does. Let’s explain.

A heating element is a small component that allows you to warm up your radiator or towel rail through electrical means. This means you can turn your radiator into a fully electric or dual fuel set-up, allowing you to reduce energy usage and costs as well as creating a comfortable environment throughout your home.

Why choose a dual fuel radiator?

Dual fuel radiators can operate through your central heating system as well as independently. This offers numerous benefits. For instance, with a dual fuel towel rail in your bathroom, you can heat the bathroom on days when you don't want to activate the entire central heating system. This allows you to enjoy a warmer bathroom without the need to heat the whole house. Not only does it make for a more comfortable experience but reduces energy costs too.

It’s worth noting that if you opt for a dual fuel set-up then a dual fuel T-piece is also required.

How do electric heating elements work?

Electric heating elements operate by channelling electricity from your home's mains supply through a filament. Once installed inside your radiator, this filament quickly heats up, consequently warming the water inside the radiator.

The simplicity of electric heating elements is their best feature. They are straightforward to use; simply turn them on and they function just like any other heater.

Will electric be more expensive?

In terms of your heating, electric isn’t more expensive when it comes down to turning on your full central heating system using gas versus simply turning on one single radiator powered by an electric element. When you consider the low cost of purchasing and installing an electric heating element into your probably already existing radiator, it really is a no-brainer in terms of the benefits it will bring you.

Types of heating elements

Now you just have to choose which type of heating element to go for.

• Standard electric heating element: Standard or ‘single heat’ elements simply heat up the radiator when you need it and will continue to heat for as long as it is powered.

• Thermostatic heating element: These have more advanced controls including heat settings, allowing you to choose a temperature to heat to, often in increments. The key feature of a thermostatic heating element is its ability to automatically regulate the temperature. When the desired temperature is reached, the thermostat cuts off or reduces power to the heating element, and it will restore power when the temperature drops below the set point.

What size of heating element do I need?

To select the appropriate heating element, consider the wattage needed to heat your space effectively. You can use our BTU calculator in the same way you would when looking for a central heating radiator to determine the correct wattage based on room size. This will confirm how powerful your heating element must be in order to heat your room effectively.

Heating element accessories

To finish off the installation of your heating element we offer element covers in a range of colours, from brushed brass to matt black, anthracite and chrome, meaning you can cover the element in style and match to your current radiator or towel rail for a coordinated look.