Cast iron radiators are the top-of-the-line option for heating a traditional and period styled home.
Cast iron radiators offer unparalleled quality and stylish craftsmanship. But are cast iron radiators good? In this blog the bathroom takeaway team has come together to create an easy read guide on how efficient cast iron radiators actually are.
So let’s firstly find out are cast iron radiators worth it and are cast iron radiators any good?
Are Cast Iron Radiators More Efficient Than Other Options?
So are cast iron radiators efficient in terms of heating your home and are cast iron radiators better than any other radiator?
Yes, while cast iron radiators are efficient, to be truthful they are not the most efficient on the radiator market.
The award for most efficient usually goes to electric radiators due to their ultra-modern performance.
If you are still questioning, are cast iron radiators good in general? You’ll be pleased to know cast iron is one of the most robust and hard-wearing radiator materials on the market.
If well maintained, cast iron rads can last decades all the while providing a great quality performance for your home.
How Are Cast Iron Radiators Made?
Cast iron radiators consist of multiple, individually cast iron sections.
Each section is moulded into a specific design and patterned style. The sections are then connected by slotting or welding them together using radiator gaskets as connectors.
These radiators come in a wide variety of finishes, sizes, and shapes to suit any décor, with some designs featuring ornate patterns etched into each column.
Get The Maximum Efficiency For Your Radiator
Are Cast Iron Radiators Energy Efficient? Yes they can be! But to avoid asking yourself, are cast iron radiators more expensive to run and are they efficient? We recommend using our BTU calculator.
A BTU Calculator is a comprehensive tool that accounts for important factors like room size, heating needs, and window type to determine the ideal radiator power for your space to ensure your cast iron radiators efficiency is at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Cast Iron Radiators Take To Heat Up?
While cast iron radiators may require more time to heat up compared to radiators made from other materials, There is no specific time you can put on it. Once heated, cast iron radiators will stay warm for extended periods even after the central heating system is turned off.
Can You Paint Cast Iron Radiators?
Yes, you absolutely can paint a cast iron radiator, If you want to learn how to paint a radiator, take a read of our guide.
How Long Do Cast Iron Radiators Last?
If looked after correctly, cast iron radiators can last for decades long. This is due to their high quality material.
How Do Cast Iron Radiators Work?
Cast iron radiators, with their distinctive finned design, are a long-standing heating solution. These devices function within either steam systems connected to a boiler or hot water systems supplied by a water heater.
How Hot Do Cast Iron Radiators Get?
Cast iron radiators can reach temperatures between 150-190°F (65-88°C), depending on the radiator size and boiler setting.
This heat is distributed more evenly and over a longer duration compared to steel or aluminium radiators.
Do Cast Iron Radiators Give Out More Heat?
If you are concerned about how efficient cast iron radiators are then it’s key to mention The heat output of a radiator is not determined by the material it's made of, but rather by the temperature setting of the heating system.
Regardless of whether the radiator is made of cast iron, steel, or aluminium, if the system is set to 20°C, that will be the maximum heat output. Technically speaking, the type of radiator material does not affect the amount of heat it produces.
How Heavy Is A Cast Iron Radiator?
This can vary depending on the amount of column and sizing of the radiator itself but typically you can expect them to weigh anywhere between 15kg -20kg for wall mounted radiators and for floor mounted they can range anywhere between 25kg and 30kg.
Can Cast Iron Radiators Be Repaired?
If your radiator is damaged and needs repairing it’s always worth checking your warranty with your provider but yes, there are professionals who can repair them if need be.
Do Cast Iron Radiators Rust?
Over time, radiators can develop rust. To prevent this, apply a rust inhibitor specifically designed for cast iron radiators, following the manufacturer's instructions.
If you want to know how, take a look at our guide for how to put inhibitor in your central heating system.
