Heated towel rails have become a popular bathroom upgrade in recent years, blending luxury, practicality, and improved hygiene.
However, when selecting the right model, homeowners often face a key decision: plug-in or hardwired installation?
Choosing the right option involves more than just convenience - it requires considering the aesthetics, long-term value, and unique needs of your home.
So in this Bathroom Takeaway guide our team is going to detail the pro’s and con’s of both options and answer key questions on whether heated towel rails have to be hard-wired, and can heated towel rails be plugged in? So let’s get into this!
Plugged In Towel Rails
Plug- in heated towel rails for bathrooms are actually easy to install.
The unit simply plugs into a power outlet, similar to any other household appliance. All you need is a power outlet in the desired location in your bathroom.
When you have a chosen power source you can then securely mount the towel rail to the wall using the appropriate fixings for the wall type. This ensures the towel rail remains firmly in place.
The functionality of these models is similar to their hard-wired counterparts, and they are typically cheaper and simpler to install.
However, the cost of heated towel rails can vary significantly depending on the model and features, such as an electric heating element that maintains constant warmth. It's important to consider several key drawbacks as well which we will mention below!
While plug-in heated towel rails offer convenience, their visible power cables can make them less aesthetically appealing than hard-wired models.
The power cord typically extends from the bottom or side of the unit and can remain visible when plugged into an outlet.
Although this does not impact the functionality of the heated towel rail, it results in a less sleek and clean appearance compared to hard-wired options.
Hard Wired Towel Rails
A hard wired heated towel rail offers a sleek, modern look by removing the element of cables in the bathroom.
These towel rails can be installed in virtually any location within the bathroom, as they do not require a power outlet installed in a designated "safe area."
The hidden cabling allows them to be safely installed near wet zones like showers or bathtubs but we would always suggest double checking with your plumber to ensure it’s okay.
While hard-wired heated towel rails typically cost more than plug-in models, the added expense is due to the more complex installation process, which requires a qualified electrician.
Plugged In Vs Hardwired Heated Towel Rail, What Is Better?
So now we know what a hard wire towel radiator and plugged in radiators is, let’s take a look at the key pro’s and con’s of both to help you make up your mind.
Plug In Towel Radiator Pro’s
- Easy installation
- Cost effective
- Flexibility to move it about easier
Plug In Towel Radiator Con’s
- Wiring can be visually unappealing
- Poorer heating output
- May take longer to warm your room adequately
What are the key advantages and disadvantages of having a hardwired heated towel rail then?
Hard Wired Towel Radiator Pros
- Clean and seamless look
- Higher heat capacity
- Good as a long term solution
Hard Wired Towel Radiator Cons
- More expensive
- Complex installation
In summary, if you are looking for a short term solution for your home, which is both cost effective and delivers relatively strong heat for your bathroom and towels. Then a plug in towel radiator is more of a better option.
For a longer term investment, a hard wired option would be more suitable for your home.
FAQ’s
Do Heated Towel Rails Have To Be Plugged In?
Some way or another yes they need to be plugged into the heating system or an electric powered socket.
Heated towel rails do come in two main types: plug-in models and hard-wired models, each with distinct installation requirements.
Are Heated Towel Rails Hard Wired?
Electric heated towel rails are versatile, as they can be either hardwired directly to the mains power or plugged into a standard power outlet.
These units are typically straightforward and fast to install.
Once turned on, the heated towel rail will warm up relatively quickly, providing a convenient way to keep towels toasty.
Is It Possible To Do Heated Towel Rail Concealed Wiring?
Yes, it all depends on the area in which it is fitted and if concealing it can be accommodated.
