How to hang Nordic Column Radiators

If you’ve recently purchased a Nordic column radiator from Trade Radiators, you’ll now want to complete the transformation of your space by installing a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired heating solution. Known for their minimalist design, high-quality finishes, and efficient heat output, Nordic radiators are designed to look great and perform even better.

If you've decided to hang it yourself, then you'll be pleased to know that installing your new radiator is a manageable DIY task if you have the right tools, preparation, and guidance.

This step-by-step guide will take you through the process in a clear, practical way, whether you’re fitting a horizontal or vertical Nordic column rad.

Table of Contents

1. Check your delivery
2. Step 1: Positioning and measuring
3. Step 2: Fixing the wall brackets
4. Step 3: Attaching the brackets to the radiator
5. Step 4: Double check the orientation
6. Step 5: Hanging the radiator
7. Step 6: Final checks and adjustments
8. Important safety tips
9. Nordic column radiators at TradeRadiators.com

Check your delivery

Before starting installation, take a few minutes to inspect your radiator and all included components.

Your product should have been delivered by the courier and arrived in perfect condition. Carefully check for any visible damage or missing parts. If you do spot any issues, please notify our team at Trade Radiators immediately.

In the box you should have:

• 1 radiator
• 2–5 wall brackets (depending on size)
• 2–5 wall ties
• 4 bushes
• 1 air vent
• 1 blanking plug
• 1 diverter

Nordic radiators are supplied with the fittings required for a standard installation, so you shouldn’t need much beyond basic tools.

Tools you'll need

• Tape measure
• Drill and suitable drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Spirit level
• Spanner

Having everything within reach will make the process smoother and help you avoid mistakes.

Step 1: Positioning and measuring

Getting your measurements right is the most important part of the installation. Poor positioning can lead to an uneven radiator or difficulty connecting pipework later.

Mark your bracket positions to determine where your brackets will go.

• Measure the width of the radiator (X)
• Subtract 200mm from this measurement
• This gives you the horizontal distance between your fixing points

Then measure vertically:

• 140mm down from the top of the radiator
• 160mm up from the bottom

These measurements indicate the centre points for your wall bracket mounting plates. Mark these positions clearly on the wall using a pencil and use a spirit level when marking to ensure everything is perfectly straight as this will save you problems later.

• Further reading: The best column radiators

Step 2: Fixing the wall brackets

Now that your measurements have been marked, the next step is to fix the wall plates securely.

• Drill holes at your marked positions using a suitable drill bit for your wall type (e.g. masonry or plasterboard).
• Insert wall plugs where necessary.
• Screw the wall plates into place.
• Use your spirit level again to ensure they are perfectly aligned.

A level installation is really important, not just for appearance, but also so that the water flows properly inside the radiator.

• Further reading: How to hang a column radiatr on plasterboard

Step 3: Attaching the brackets to the radiator

With the wall plates installed, you can now prepare the radiator itself.

It's important to make sure the radiator is standing upright and supported while you work and be aware that larger radiators may require two people due to their weight.

To install  the brackets:

• Take the larger bolts and insert them through the front plate of the bracket.
• Slot the bracket plate into the radiatorand position it between the 2nd and 3rd columns from each side
• If your radiator has more than two brackets then evenly space the additional brackets across the width

Once inserted:

• Twist the plate so it sits securely against the radiator tubes
• Hold the plate in place with a screwdriver
• Attach it to the back plate.

An important tip is to not fully tighten the brackets at this stage. Leaving a little flexibility will help when you hang and adjust the radiator later.

Step 4: Double check the orientation

Before mounting the radiator, it’s really important to confirm which end is the top.

• The top of the radiator is marked by a red bung in one of the waterways
• Make sure this is positioned at the top before you proceed
• You can also use the original polystyrene packaging as a rough guide for bracket placement

Installing your radiator the correct way up isn’t just about appearance, it directly affects performance and functionality. Radiators are designed so that the air vent sits at the highest point, allowing trapped air to escape. Being the right was up also ensures Water flows properly through the internal columns for even heat distribution

If the radiator is installed upside down, then air can become trapped inside the system, leading to cold spots. It would also make bleeding the radiator difficult or ineffective and the heat output could be reduced, making the radiator less efficient. Over time, this could place unnecessary strain on your heating system, so taking a moment to double check the orientation now can save you from having to remove and reinstall the radiator later.

• Further reading: Does it matter which side of a radiator flows and returns?

Step 5: Hanging the radiator

This is the exciting part where everything really comes together, but take your time here to ensure everything is secure and properly aligned.

1. Carefully lift the radiator into position (two people recommended for larger models)
2. Align the brackets with the wall plates
3. Hook the brackets into the grooves on the wall plates
4. Once in place, tighten the bracket screws from the front
5. Insert and secure the smaller bolts through both the wall plate and bracket

• Further reading: VIDEO - How to install a column radiator

Step 6: Final checks and adjustments

Once the radiator is mounted, take a little extra time to carry out some final checks. This step is important to ensure your radiator is safe, secure, and ready to perform efficiently.

• Fully tighten all bracket fixings
  Now that the radiator is in position, go back and tighten all screws and bolts on both the wall plates and brackets. Make sure everything is secure, but avoid overtightening as this could damage the brackets or strip the threads.
• Use a spirit level to confirm it’s straight
  Place your spirit level along the top of the radiator to check it’s perfectly horizontal (or vertical, depending on the model). Even a slight tilt can affect both the appearance and how well the radiator functions, so adjust if needed before fully securing.
• Check that all connections are secure
  Inspect all fittings, including the brackets, bolts, and any visible connection points. If you’ve already connected valves or pipework, ensure there are no loose fittings that could lead to leaks once the system is turned on.
• Ensure the radiator sits firmly against the wall
  The radiator should feel stable with no movement or wobble. If there is any instability, double-check the bracket positioning and fixings before proceeding.
• Confirm correct spacing from the wall and floor
  Proper clearance allows for good airflow, which helps the radiator heat the room efficiently. It also ensures compliance with standard installation guidelines.

Once you’re satisfied everything is level, secure, and correctly positioned, your radiator is ready for connection to your heating system. Connection to your heating system's pipework is beyond the sop of this article, but if you're not confident about doing it then please contact a professional to do it for you. Taking the time to get these final checks right will help ensure long-term performance and avoid issues later on. 

• Further reading: A complete guide to column radiator configurations

Important safety tips

Handling and installing a radiator requires care so please keep these important points in mind:

• Always carry the radiator upright, never flat like a stretcher
• Use two people for larger radiators
• Place the radiator on a protective surface when setting it down
• Avoid overtightening brackets during initial fitting
• Always read all instructions before starting installation
• Ensure freestanding radiators are properly supported
• Don't be afraid to stop and call a professional if you lose confidence in what you're doing

Taking these precautions will help prevent damage to both your radiator and your home.

Nordic column radiators at TradeRadiators.com

Nordic column radiators are quickly becoming a popular choice among homeowners and for good reason.

Inspired by Scandinavian design principles, they offer a clean, minimalist styling, high-quality steel or aluminium construction, and a variety of finishes including white, graphite grey, and raw lacquer. They’re also designed with practicality in mind.

Compared to traditional column radiators, Nordic models often feature a more compact depth, making them ideal for spaces where room is limited and they have excellent heat output across multiple column configurations. Whether you’ve chosen a vertical radiator for a hallway or a horizontal model for a living room, you’ll benefit from both form and function.

If you’ve just installed your radiator and are already thinking about upgrading other rooms, or if you’re still deciding which model is right for you, Trade Radiators offers an extensive selection of Nordic column radiators.

With over 170 sizes available across 2, 3, and 4 column options, there’s something to suit every space and heating requirement. From striking graphite finishes to understated white designs, the Nordic range makes it easy to achieve a modern look without compromising on performance.

Browse the full collection today and discover why more customers are choosing Nordic column radiators for their homes.