What is the cost of a new radiator?
Buying a new radiator isn’t just about replacing an old one. It’s also an opportunity to improve your home’s heating efficiency, enhance your interior style, and even save on energy bills. But with so many different types of radiators available, it can be difficult to know where to start, especially when it comes to cost.
The price of a new radiator can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, material, and style. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of different types of radiators, highlight the key factors that influence price, and help you find the right option for your home.
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly vertical radiator or a stunning designer statement piece, this guide will give you a clear idea of what to expect when purchasing a new radiator.
Table of Contents
How to choose the right radiator
Before going straight to prices, it’s important to make sure you're choosing the right radiator for your home. A radiator isn’t just about looks, it also needs to provide the right level of heat output to keep your room warm and comfortable. Here are the key things to consider:
Size and dimensions
If you’re replacing an old radiator, you might want to choose a new one that fits in the same space to avoid making adjustments to pipework. However, if you're redesigning a room or looking to improve efficiency, you might consider a different shape or size.
BTU output
The heat output of a radiator is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The larger the room, the higher the BTU output required to maintain a comfortable temperature. Use the Trade Radiators Heating Calculator to determine the ideal BTU rating for your space.
Style and design
Radiators come in a huge range of styles, from sleek vertical models to classic column radiators. Choosing a style that complements your home can make a big difference to the overall look of a room. Below, we’ll explore the different options and how much you can expect to pay.
Ease of maintenance
At some point in its life, a radiator will need maintenance, whether it's by you or a professional. Choosing a radiator that's easy to bleed and keep clean will ensure that your new radiator continues to heat your home efficiently for years to come. Fortunately, most modern radiators make these jobs easy, but it's worth keeping in mind for when you make your final decision.
How much will a new radiator cost?
The cost of a radiator depends on several factors, including size, material, and design. Below is a general price guide for different types of radiators. Please note, these costs are for the radiator only. For installation costs, make sure you read Replacing A Radiator: A Complete Guide
Radiator Type | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Vertical | £100 - £500 |
Column | £100 - £300 |
Designer | £100 - £500+ |
Cast Iron | £200 - £800 |
Bay Window | £250 - £1000+ |
Towel | £50 - £300+ |
Electric | £100 - £500+ |
At Trade Radiators, we make it even easier to calculate the cost of your new radiator by offering free shipping on all orders to mainland Great Britain. Your radiator will be delivered quickly and securely via a trusted courier, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition and ready for installation.
- Further reading: What To Do When You Receive Your Trade Radiators Delivery
Vertical radiators
Estimated cost: £100 - £500
Vertical radiators are an excellent choice for homes where wall space is limited. Their tall, slim design allows them to be installed in narrow areas such as kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms without taking up valuable horizontal space. This makes them a practical solution for heating while also adding a stylish touch to your décor.
One of the key benefits of vertical radiators is their ability to deliver high heat output while remaining unobtrusive. They are designed to fit neatly into spaces that might otherwise go unused, offering both efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Available in a wide variety of finishes, from clean white panels to bold colours like anthracite or metallic tones, they can be chosen to complement or contrast with your existing interior style.
Beyond their practicality, vertical radiators offer a modern, space-saving alternative to traditional horizontal models. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and contemporary or a more classic design, the extensive range at Trade Radiators ensures you’ll find the perfect option to suit your home.
- Further reading: The Best Vertical Radiators
The best designer radiators for longevity
Column radiators
Estimated cost: £100 - £300
Column radiators are a timeless choice that blends style with practicality. Their distinctive vertical columns provide an even distribution of heat, ensuring rooms stay warm and comfortable. Originally a staple of Victorian and Edwardian homes, these radiators have seen a resurgence in popularity due to their ability to suit both classic and contemporary interiors.
One of the reasons for their appeal is their excellent heat output. The multi-column design allows for efficient circulation of hot water, ensuring steady and consistent warmth throughout a room. Available in both horizontal and vertical orientations, column radiators can be adapted to different spaces, making them a versatile heating solution.
Durability is another key advantage, with many models crafted from high-quality steel or cast iron. This ensures longevity and continued efficiency, making them a worthwhile investment for any home. Whether you’re restoring a period property or adding character to a modern space, column radiators offer a stylish and effective way to heat your home.
- Further reading: The Best Column Radiators
Designer radiators
Estimated cost: £100 - £500+
A designer radiator does more than just heat a room, it enhances its overall aesthetic. With homeowners becoming increasingly conscious of interior design, radiators have evolved from purely functional items to stylish statement pieces. Whether you want a sleek, modern look or something bold and eye-catching, there are designer radiator options to suit every taste.
One of the biggest advantages of designer radiators is their versatility. Available in a range of shapes, sizes, and finishes, they allow you to personalise your space while still providing efficient heating. From matte black and polished chrome to more unconventional finishes, these radiators can complement or contrast with your existing décor.
Unlike traditional radiators, which were often concealed or downplayed, designer models are intended to be seen. Whether you opt for a slimline vertical radiator to save space or a sculptural horizontal design as a focal point, these radiators combine function and style seamlessly.
- Further reading: The Best Designer Radiators
Cast iron radiators
Estimated cost: £200 - £800
Cast iron radiators are renowned for their ability to retain heat long after the central heating has been switched off. This makes them an energy-efficient choice, providing a steady, comforting warmth that lingers. Their durability and classic appearance make them particularly well-suited to traditional and period properties.
One of the biggest advantages of cast iron radiators is their longevity. Built to last, they often outlive modern steel alternatives while maintaining their efficiency. Many models come with rust-resistant finishes, ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come.
If you own a home with period features, a cast iron radiator will blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Their intricate, ornate designs complement original fireplaces, sash windows, and wooden flooring, adding an extra touch of authenticity. However, they’re not just for older homes as modern variations provide the same level of efficiency while offering a more contemporary aesthetic.
- Further reading: The Best Cast Iron Radiators
Bay window radiators
Estimated cost: £250 - £1000+
Heating a room with a bay window can be challenging, but a well-placed radiator ensures the space remains warm and comfortable. Bay windows, often found in Victorian and Edwardian homes, are beautiful architectural features but can allow cold air to enter, particularly in winter. Installing a radiator beneath a bay window is an effective way to combat this.
By positioning a radiator here, you create a thermal barrier that prevents draughts and distributes warmth evenly throughout the room. This setup also helps to reduce condensation on the windows, which can otherwise lead to damp and mould issues.
Beyond practicality, bay window radiators make excellent use of an awkward space that might otherwise be left empty. Instead of struggling to position furniture around the bay, fitting a radiator there allows you to free up more central walls for sofas, shelving, or other furnishings. Trade Radiators also offers assistance in measuring your bay window and creating a template to ensure the radiator is the perfect fit for your space.
- Further reading: The Best Bay Window Radiators
Towel radiators
Estimated cost: £50 - £300+
A towel radiator is a must-have addition to any bathroom, offering both warmth and practicality. These radiators not only heat the room efficiently but also ensure your towels remain dry and fresh, reducing damp and mildew build-up.
Once considered a luxury, towel radiators are now a common feature in homes, enhancing comfort and convenience. With a variety of finishes available, including chrome, matte black, and stainless steel, you can choose a design that matches your existing bathroom décor. Some models even come with dual fuel options, allowing them to operate independently of your central heating system during warmer months.
Space efficiency is another major advantage. Slim, vertical designs work well in compact bathrooms, while wider models provide ample space for larger families. Whether you need a small, discreet radiator or a larger feature piece, towel radiators offer a stylish and functional heating solution.
- Further reading: The Best Towel Radiators
Electric radiators
Estimated cost: £100 - £500+
Electric radiators provide a flexible heating solution, ideal for spaces without existing central heating or where additional warmth is needed. They are particularly useful in home offices, conservatories, extensions, and rental properties, as they don’t require connection to a gas boiler or pipework.
One of their key benefits is ease of installation. Unlike traditional radiators, which require plumbing work, electric radiators simply need a power source. This makes them a convenient choice for homeowners looking for a quick and hassle-free heating option.
Style doesn’t have to be sacrificed when choosing an electric radiator. Many models feature sleek, modern designs in a variety of finishes, allowing them to integrate seamlessly into your décor. When selecting an electric radiator, it’s essential to consider the wattage, as this determines the level of heat output required for your space. Trade Radiators clearly displays the wattage of each model, making it easy to find the right option for your needs.
- Further reading: The Best Electric Radiators
Customer submitted radiator photos
Seeing real-life examples can help you choose the perfect radiator for your home. Below are images from satisfied Trade Radiators customers who have shared their installations.
Choosing a new radiator is an investment in your home’s comfort and style. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a designer statement piece, Trade Radiators offers a wide range of radiators to suit all budgets and requirements.
If you’re ready to upgrade your heating, browse our full collection today and find the perfect radiator for your home.