Oil filled radiator buying guide

Thermal fluid technology in a space heater

Oil filled radiators are portable electric radiators that function using thermal fluid technology. They feature a metal body, which is usually made of cast iron, and contain a heating element that is held within a special heat transfer fluid. The fluid usually consists of a type of oil which is where these radiators get their name.

Most oil filled radiators are equipped with castors for easy movement; this is a particularly useful feature as they can be quite heavy. Unlike central heating radiators, these devices are mains-powered and are therefore really easy to set up – simply plug them into a power outlet and you're good to go!

The heat transfer fluid contained within the radiator stores heat and releases it gradually meaning that the radiator will continue to release heat even after it is switched off.

Traditional design for a greater heating surface

Oil filled radiators feature a distinctive design. They are equipped with a number of curved columns (known as fins) alongside cavities which provide a larger surface area. This increased surface area allows more air to come into contact with the radiator for optimal thermal transfer and heating power.

Oil filled radiators work by both convection and radiation to release a fairly gentle form of heating which provides a very comfortable ambient temperature.

Additional heating devices

While they do generate a pleasant heat, oil filled radiators are quite energy-intensive. As such, it is generally recommended that you use them space heaters rather than a sole heating source.

For example, these radiators can be used in small rooms such as offices, spare rooms and bathrooms. They are also ideal for occasional use alongside your main heating system – for example, when the weather is particularly cold.

Portable radiators

Most models feature a carry handle and wheels making them excellent portable heating devices.

Radiator size and heating surface

Oil filled radiators are designed to be portable and can be moved from one room to another as required. These compact devices don’t take up a lot of room and can therefore be a great alternative to larger radiator system.

Nonetheless, the greater the surface area, the more heat the radiator will release regardless of the power rating of the device. Basically, the larger the radiator, the more contact it has with the ambient air and the more efficient the device will be. As such, larger radiators will always perform better in more spacious rooms.

However, manufacturers are now trying to get around this issue by offering compact radiators with high power ratings of up to 2500 W. These models are designed to easily heat up large rooms despite their modest size, but do use up a lot of energy.

Power rating

In order to choose the right wattage, you can follow a simple formula based on the size of the room or rooms you want to heat:

• 100 W / m² or 0.4 kW / m3 (for well-insulated homes).

• 60 W / m² or 0.24 kW / m3 (for very well-insulated homes).

• Wheels: As these radiators have been designed to be moved around, there’s no need to set up a fixed position for your radiator – simply select a model equipped with castors!

• Carrying handle: allows for easy handling; this is especially important as these radiators can be quite heavy.

• Tilt protection: a safety features that limits the risk of your radiator falling over.

• Adjustable heating power: some models offer you the option to adjust the heating power.

• Overheat protection: a safety feature that ensures your radiator automatically switches off if it gets too hot.

• Screen display: very useful for changing modes and settings with ease.

• Control lock: child safety device.

• Programming: several programming options (depending on model).

• Electric thermostat: provides more precision than electromechanical devices.

• Humidity control: allows you to adjust the level of moisture in the air (convection heating does tend to dry the air slightly).

• Cable tidy: very useful for discreetly winding up your power cables.

• Extension cable: a longer cable will make life easier!

• Timer: especially useful for night time use, timers can be used to switch off your radiator at set times (can also be replaced by a programmer).

• Design: the traditional shape of oil filled radiators remains more or less unchanged. However, some manufacturers now offer more streamlined designs with various modern colour and material options.

Quality commitment

Oil filled radiators are sturdy devices. That is why most radiators come with a fairly long warranty as standard. A long warranty period serves as a guarantee of a reliable product but technology is immune to failure. It's important to watch out for any changes to your system and to act accordingly.

Maintenance

Oil filled radiators require next to no upkeep as the heat transfer oil is concealed within a sealed system. However, if you notice any signs of leakage you must turn off the radiator immediately and contact your manufacturer so as not to take any risks (for example, a rise in pressure). That being said, this is an extremely rare occurrence.

Once a month, you should dust your radiator in order keep your radiator running efficiently as dust may lead to energy loss and unpleasant odours.

Prices

Oil filled radiators are very reasonably priced and feature among the most inexpensive heating devices on the market with prices starting from just £25. These radiators are very cost-effective meaning you can look for a model with specific features to suit your needs. Setting out your own requirements before investing will help you make the right choice.

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