Ladder Towel Radiators & Heated Towel Rails

In today’s market, heated towel rails are no longer just functional they can be items of beauty as well mimicking the style of the room you are creating be it traditional or contemporary.

We've always been big fans of the ladder heated towel rails, match form and function. These can be categorized into the following:

1. Standard Heated Towel Rails

Standard Heated Towel Rails are designed to be plumbed into the original ‘wet’ central heating system like any other kind of regular radiator.

These radiators have the advantage of being the most cost effective however a slight disadvantage, particularly for towel drying is that they will only heat up when the central heating is on, which is usually during the winter.

2. Electric Towel Rails

Electric-only heated towel rails are not connected to the central heating system, they are filled with heating solution and heated via an electric element.

The element is connected via a fused spur which will switch the towel rail on and off. Electric towel rails are ideal if you do not have a central heating system in place or to work in conjunction with underfloor heating.

3. Dual Fuel Towel Rails

The Dual Fuel option provides the best of both worlds. They can be used as any other heater when the central heating is on, and when during the summer, the internal electrical element allows the drying of towels without having to switch the whole central heating system on.

This type of rail connects to your ‘wet’ central heating system and also to a fused spur also. From a functionality & economic standpoint these are the best option and the most popular one. Almost all of the heated towel rails we offer are available as a Dual Fuel option.

How to Specify a Ladder Heated Towel Rail for you Bathroom or Kitchen

Firstly, consideration needs giving to the size of the room in question. We have a dedicated Heating Calculator to help you choose, however a general rule of thumb is approximately 340btu’s / 100watts per square meter of floor space, this should give ample heat to both dry towels and heat the room.

Where Should I Mount my Heated Towel Rail?

Aesthetics and space limitations can often dictate this, should you be able to though it is recommended the Heated Towel Rail should be placed on the coldest wall of your bathroom.

This will often be the external wall of the room, usually with a window. Placement here will tend to ensure a good repetition of the heat throughout the room, which will gain in efficiency.

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Heated Towel Rail?

There can be lots of factors that can affect this, such as which type of heating source you choose be it standard, electric or dual fuel, the power and placement of the rail and the desired room temperature and heating cycle of the rail. We do however have some advice that may help you to reduce your bills:

It is always recommended to fit a thermostatic valve on your non-electric rail, as this will help you maintain the right temperature in your room.

With electric and dual fuel options we recommend getting the smart thermostatic element which allows the option of the 2-hour cycle, at various temperatures. This control will ensure effective use of the element.

How Do I Care for my Heated Towel Rail?

Regardless of the finish of the rail, be it chrome, stainless steel or a painted finish, it is recommended to never use aerosols, corrosive or hazardous products on or around the towel rail.

The best practice is for the towel rail to be cleaned using warm water and a soft cloth.