Type 21 vs. Type 22 Radiators: Which One Is Best for Your Home?

Type 21 vs. Type 22 Radiators: Which One Is Best for Your Home?

Ollie
| Interiors Specialist
Jan 28,2025

Adding a radiator can instantly boost the style and warmth of any room in your home, creating a cosy, inviting atmosphere.

Whether you're furnishing a kitchen, living room, or even a bathroom, you'll find a wide variety of options or radiators to choose from. One of the more popular choices is a convector radiator.

In this Bathroom Takeaway guide we will explain exactly what a convector radiator actually is and which type of radiator is better, type 21 or type 22 radiators. So let’s get into it.

What Is A Convector Radiator?

A convector radiator heats the room by way of convection.

Rather than relying solely on pipes or tubes like other radiators, which are heated with water or oil, convector radiators heat up rows of fins, which are arranged in a variety of ways.

This row of fins heats the body of air within the radiator and allows it to escape through vents, usually found at the top of the radiator itself.

What Is A Type 21 Radiator?

Type 21 convector radiators feature two panels that enclose a single layer of fins.

What does type 21 radiator mean? Well the numbering system is straightforward - the first digit represents the number of panels, while the second digit indicates the number of fin layers. So, a Type 21 radiator has 2 panels and 1 layer of fins.

The hollow panels can generate heat through electrical power or a central heating system. The convector fins lining the interior of the radiator typically feature a zigzag shape.

What Is A Type 22 Radiator?

The key distinction between Ttype 22 and Type 21 convector radiators is that 22 model feature two sets of internal convector fins.

These additional radiator fins allow Type 22 radiators to give out more heat output compared to the standard Type 21 radiators.

What Is The Difference Between Type 21 And 22 Radiators?

So now we are aware what a convector radiator is, what's better, type 21 or type 22 radiators?

The appropriate radiator type depends on the size of the room.

For a smaller room with limited heating needs, a 21 radiator is the best option. On the other hand, if you require more heating power for a larger room, a 22 radiator would be more suitable.

The two most common types of radiators are type 21 and type 22. However, if you have a very small space, a type 11 radiator may be more suitable. On the other hand if you are needing to heat a larger space, a type 33 radiator may be the better choice.

White Radiator With Temperature Valve

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Type 22 Radiator Have Same Fittings As Type 21?

Yes, the fitting sizes are the exact same, the only difference that needs to be considered is the amount of brackets to place the radiator on the wall.

What's The Difference Between Type 11, 21, And 22 Radiators?

To break down the exact differences between the type 11, 21 and 22 radiator, take a look at the table below to see how many fins and panels they have.

Radiator Type Number Of Fins Number Of Panels
Type 11 1 1
Type 21 2 1
Type 22 2 2

Ollie

Interiors Specialist

Ollie is your guru for all housing interior inspiration, top tips, and new trends. The born & raised northerner has a keen eye for modern and stylish-looking interiors and is constantly on the lookout for the newest and best looks to suit your style.