DESIGNER RADIATOR

Glass radiators

Heated glass radiators are the latest line in fashionable designer radiators. Some of these radiators have a mirrored effect, but most of the larger versions have clear or tinted glass and for this reason they provide an almost invisible and unobtrusive means of providing heat.

Glass radiators work by incorporating heater elements into the glass in a similar way to those found in car windshields (windscreens).

The use of this technology is safe and energy efficient and points the way to how radiators and home heaters may look in the not too distant future.

Applications and construction

Most glass radiators are intended for use in a bathroom and for this reason many have stainless steel fittings and some even include a towel rail within the design. Sizes and shapes vary and some specialist manufacturers will even make them to order.

The glass used for this kind of heating unit is toughened safety glass and the fine gauge heating elements within the glass are not obviously visible.

Available glass colors include clear, opaque, patterned and numerous tints. The glass will generally be a minimum of 10mm in thickness and typically 13mm to 15 mm.

Because this type of radiator uses electricity it requires a mains electicity supply connection point and operates using a temperature controlled thermostat. Most radiators of this type have a plug, but they can be hard wired.

Fixings vary depending upon radiator model and situation, but attachment to a wall or connection to legs fixed to a floor make these heaters versatile and design adaptive.

At the moment the glass radiator is limited in its heating output by the technology of the "invisible" heating elements, however these heating units are becoming increasingly popular and their heat output is increasing as their price decreases.

The advantages of glass radiators include - their stylish appearance and the almost immediate production of heat once the unit is switched on. The downside is the limitation of heat produced which is not yet comparable with a conventional heater.