Bathroom Radiators

What to know before buying a bathroom radiator

Buying a bathroom radiator involves more than picking a style you like. A few practical considerations will save you time and money. 

• Panels profile: Flat panel radiators suit modern, minimal bathrooms and are easier to clean. Column radiators suit traditional or industrial-style spaces and tend to retain heat for longer after the system switches off.

• BTU output: This determines how much heat the radiator produces. Calculate your room's BTU requirement before purchasing. This will tell you how many panels you need

• Panel type: Flat panel radiators are categorised by type number. Type 11 (K1) is a single panel with one set of fins, suited to smaller spaces. Type 21 (P+) is a double-panel unit with one set of fins, offering a good balance of output and a slim profile. Type 22 (K2) has two panels with two sets of fins, suited to larger bathrooms.

• Orientation: Vertical radiators are ideal where wall width is restricted. Horizontal radiators suit spaces beneath windows or where the ceiling height is lower. 

• Valves: Radiator valves are not always included and need to match your pipe position. Angled valves for wall pipes, straight valves for floor pipes, and corner valves where the angle requires it. Match the finish to your radiator for a coordinated look. 

• IP rating: Bathroom radiators should carry a suitable IP rating for the zone they are installed in. Zone 1 (directly above the bath or shower) requires IP44 or above. Always check the product specification before installation.

What types of bathroom radiators are available?

Our radiator range splits into two main profiles, with options to suit both modern and traditional bathroom styles:

• Flat panel radiators: Smooth-fronted designer radiators available as single, double or triple panel configurations. More panels deliver higher heat output from the same footprint. 

• Column radiators: Traditional tube-style radiators with a classic or industrial look. Learn more on why column radiators are making a comeback. 

Both profiles are available in vertical and horizontal orientations. Vertical radiators are tall and narrow, they suit spaces where wall width is limited but wall height is available, such as between a door and a corner. Horizontal radiators are the traditional layout, running wide along a wall. These work well beneath windows or in bathrooms where the ceiling height is lower. 

For help choosing, read our bathroom radiators buying guide.

What is the difference between Type 21 and Type 22 radiators?

The type number refers to the panel and fin configuration of a flat panel radiator. Type 21 (P+) is a double-panel radiator with one set of convector fins between the panels. Good heat output with a slimmer profile than Type 22. Type 22 (K2) consists of two panels with two sets of fins, providing higher heat output for the same external dimensions. The best choice when maximum output is needed in a compact footprint.

Read the full breakdown in our guide on the difference between Type 21 and Type 22 radiators. 

What size radiator do I need?

Radiator sizing is based on BTU (British Thermal Unit) output relative to room volume. A single-panel radiator is suitable for smaller, well-insulated bathrooms where a secondary heat source is already present. A double-panel radiator outputs roughly twice the heat of a single panel at the same dimensions and suits most standard family bathrooms. A triple-panel radiator is suited to larger bathrooms or spaces that lose heat quickly. 

See our guides on how to increase radiator efficiency and how to balance a radiator for more advice.

How to measure a radiator

Measuring a radiator correctly ensures your replacement fits the existing brackets and pipework without additional modifications.

• Height: Measure from the bottom of the radiator body to the top, not including any feet or brackets.

• Width: Measure from the far left to the far right of the radiator body.

• Depth: Measure front to back. Single-panel radiators are the shallowest. Triple-panel radiators project further from the wall and need adequate clearance.

• Valve centres: Measure the distance between the centre of the flow pipe and the centre of the return pipe. This is the most important measurement if you are replacing a radiator without moving pipework, as the new radiator must match these centres.

• Bracket centres: Note the distance between the wall brackets so you can confirm the new radiator's hanging centres match, or plan for new fixings.

Our radiators are available in clearly specified dimensions across all listings. Small radiators measure 600mm in height and up to 700mm wide; medium radiators typically 600mm x 1000mm for horizontal models or 1800mm x 400mm for vertical models; and large radiators measure wider or provide two separate heating sources. 

What colour options are available?

Our radiator range is available in two finishes:

• White radiators: suits traditional and Scandi-style bathrooms where a clean, neutral look is preferred. Available across flat panel and column profiles in vertical and horizontal orientations.

• Anthracite grey radiators: works well in contemporary bathrooms with charcoal, slate or dark wood tones. 

How do I remove or replace a bathroom radiator?

To remove a radiator, close the valve on each side and bleed it using a bleed key until water stops running. Place towels beneath the valve connections, then slowly undo the union nuts at each valve, allowing any remaining water to drain into a bowl. Lift the radiator from its wall brackets. Replacement follows the reverse process, fitting new brackets at the correct height before reconnecting the valves. Complete your installation with matching radiator valves and heating elements available in the same finishes.

Full guidance in our bathroom radiator replacement guide. See also: how to change a radiator valve and how to fix a leaking radiator.

How do I clean a bathroom radiator?

Regular cleaning keeps your radiator looking its best. The right method depends on the profile. Flat panel radiators clean easily with a damp microfibre cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals, which can damage the finish. Column radiators require a long, thin brush or flexible cleaning tool to reach into the gaps between the tubes and remove dust buildup. For limescale around valve connections, a diluted white vinegar solution works well. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.

Read our full guide on the best ways to clean a chrome radiator.

Radiators at Royal Bathrooms

At Royal Bathrooms, you can expect a wide range of radiator styles, sizes and colours, all at competitive prices, with standard or next-day delivery when ordered before 2 pm. If you need help finding the perfect bathroom radiator or have any questions, contact us today. Our team has over 30 years of combined industry experience and is happy to help.