A Guide to Dual Fuel Towel Radiators - Part 2

Part 2 — Buying Guide

How to choose the right dual fuel radiator

Think of a dual fuel radiator like a standard radiator you’ll use more often or independently (e.g., bathrooms or occasional rooms). If you feel every room needs dual fuel, stick with central heating—dual fuel works best where targeted heat is useful.

Key factors to compare:

• Size
• Shape
• Colour/finish
• Functionality (electric element, controls)
• Brand
• Price
• Accessories (valves, sleeves, controls)

Start by sizing the electric element correctly.

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How to size a dual fuel element

If you’re converting an existing radiator to dual fuel, match the element’s wattage (W) to the radiator’s typical output.

• If you know the BTU, convert to watts: W ≈ BTU ÷ 3.41
• Or use: W ≈ BTU × 0.293071

1000 BTU ≈ 293 W
1500 BTU ≈ 440 W

Not sure of BTU? Use the heating calculator, then select an element that meets or slightly exceeds the required watts.

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Dual fuel radiator sizes

Buying a dual fuel radiator: the built‑in element is matched by the manufacturer—just choose the right radiator size/output.

Buying an element: match wattage to your output needs, and ensure the element length fits the radiator’s entry column depth.

Shop Heated Towel Rail Sizes

Should you just buy an electric radiator?

Electric radiators and electric towel rails are great for independent heating. If you already have central heating and need year‑round whole‑room heat, a traditional or dual fuel option is usually better.

Choosing a colour or finish

With the element hidden inside, pick the look you want:

• Popular finishes: Anthracite, Black, Brass, Chrome, Copper, Nickel, Pewter, Satin, Silver, White

Browse radiators by colour; many ranges offer custom colour finishes. For thermostatic elements or Wi‑Fi valves, choose a finish that matches valves/pipes for a cohesive look.

• Common valve finishes: Anthracite, Black, Chrome, Silver, White

View Heated Towel Rail Finishes

Functionality: where dual fuel makes sense

• Location: bathrooms, cloakrooms, spare rooms, conservatories
• Use: how often you’ll prefer electric vs central heating
• Room setup: other radiators present, target temperature
• Wiring: fused spur or socket access near the valve/entry

Dual fuel should be practical: easy to switch on locally when you don’t want the whole system running.

Brands to consider

• Pisa: sophisticated towel rails; ideal for bathrooms. Shop Pisa
• Lazzarini: contemporary designs (e.g., anthracite). Shop Lazzarini
• Trade Direct: comprehensive UK range of dual fuel rails/radiators. Shop Trade Direct

View Heated Towel Rail Brands

Tools & accessories

Finish and function:

• Smart heating controls for room‑by‑room scheduling
• Automatic air vents to self‑bleed trapped air
• Pipe sleeves to tidy exposed pipework

See all radiator accessories.

View Heating Accessories

Buying dual fuel radiators with Trade Radiators

Get the right product at the right price:

• Free & fast delivery
• Finance options available
• Top‑rated customer service
• Competitive pricing

Most items ship in 1–2 days; adapted items may take an extra day. You’ll receive delivery and tracking by email.

Need help? Contact us or use the live chat.

Advice & how‑to guides

Dual fuel can feel confusing at first—our guides answer common questions:

• How to fit, change, and use dual fuel radiators
• What to do about leaks
• Common mistakes and problems

Explore the DIY & Troubleshooting section for articles and videos.

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How to fit a dual fuel radiator

Fit like a standard radiator (pipe and mount). Ensure a fused spur or socket near the valve/entry for the element.

Tips:

• Keep clear of floors/walls to avoid contact hotspots
• Avoid placing sockets directly above the radiator
• Don’t install near curtains
• Keep cables tidy—no wrapping around the radiator

How to change a dual fuel radiator

Remove like a standard radiator; ensure the plug is removed or the fused spur is off at the consumer unit before disconnecting.

How to use a dual fuel radiator

The T‑piece at the entry splits water and the electric element. Select one source at a time (central heating or electric). Always double‑check the valve position before powering the element.

What to do if a dual fuel radiator leaks

Two common causes:

1. Valves closed too tight: isolate for electric, but leave a small relief via bleed/return to avoid pressure build‑up.
2. Faulty radiator/component: if leaking persists (even when off), call a professional and keep heating off.

The biggest mistake dual fuel users make

Running the element without isolating the radiator. The element heats water, which then circulates through the system—wasting energy and risking pressure issues. Always isolate for electric mode, leaving slight relief at the bleed/return.

Common dual fuel problems

Quick fixes:

Electric won’t turn on	Check valve is set to electric (not central heating)
Radiator isn’t hot	Raise thermostat; ensure valve is open
Radiator too hot / noisy on electric	Don’t fully close the bleed; allow pressure relief
Cold on central heating	Ensure it’s not still set to electric

If unsure, contact a qualified tradesperson.

Get dual fuel advice & order online

Need help choosing? Get in touch and we’ll match products to your room and output needs.

Recommended next reads:

• What is dual fuel heating and how does it work?
• Video: How to install a dual fuel heated towel rail
• How do electric heated towel rails work?
• What heating system should I choose?
• How efficient are electric radiators?

Explore the full dual fuel and electric range at TradeRadiators.com.