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Posts Tagged ‘cast iron radiators’

Cast Iron Radiators ? Timeless Elegance for Your Home

Cast iron radiators can be the perfect choice if you are upgrading your home interiors. When you are decorating your home it can be difficult working out what to do with heating systems.

Conventional radiators are effective but they are not always the most stylish option on the market. They are often bland and purely functional in design and this can detract from interior design schemes. Traditional Cast iron radiators can offer the ideal solution. Not only do they provide a timeless elegance for your rooms but they are also very functional as well for heating systems.

Period Cast Iron Radiators

Period cast iron radiators offer quality engineering for your home. These radiators are long lasting and the dense metal makes them very durable. This means cast iron radiators will continue to provide effective service for many years. There are some antique cast iron radiators on the market that are over a hundred years old and still in perfect working order.

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If you are refurbishing your home in a period style then you can get a wide range of cast iron radiators. There are options available in Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian styles. There are also designs available that reflect period American and French design influences. This means you should be able to find the perfect cast iron radiators to match your period interior design schemes. You can buy these as new reproductions or refurbished original antiques.

Modern Cast Iron Radiators

Cast iron radiators are becoming popular again as a home heating solution. This is because they not only offer an attractive option for rooms but they are also very economic. You can heat your home cost effectively with cast iron radiators and this is good news for anyone looking to keep their fuel bills as low as possible.

- This is why many companies are now manufacturing cast iron radiators for the modern market.

- You can buy brand new cast iron radiator sets designed in a wide range of modern styles.

- These radiators are made using traditional methods and offer a similar classic look to the original designs.

- You can choose from a great selection of paint finishes for your cast iron radiators. This includes some stunning bold colours that can create a real impact on your design schemes.

Bespoke Cast Iron Radiators

If you want something a little more special then look out for bespoke cast iron radiator companies. They will be able to offer you cast iron radiators designed to your exact specifications.

Bespoke services will of course be more expensive than buying pre-made radiators ‘off the shelf’. However this is ideal if you want something totally original for your home heating systems or you have awkward spaces that cannot be heated by conventional radiators.

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Expert Advice for Buying Cast Iron Radiators

Cast iron radiators can represent a significant investment for homeowners. It is a good idea to get as much help as possible when buying cast iron radiators to make sure you are making the most of your money.

Common Pitfalls

Expert advice can help you to avoid the common pitfalls associated with buying cast iron radiators. This can include:

* Leaks – this is a major problem for anyone buying new or reclaimed cast iron radiators. In most cases you will not know you have a fault in your radiators until they are plumbed in. You need to make sure the company/seller you are buying from can offer you a guarantee. This should replace any cast iron radiators that leak with a new and fully working one. Ideally you should also use companies that can provide their own testing facilities. These use pressure tests to ensure the radiators do not leak before they go on sale.

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* Rust – cast iron radiators can be prone to rusting. This can occur when the protective finish on the radiator has been damaged. Check radiators thoroughly for rust, chips and other damage before you install them. Cast iron radiators can be repaired but this can cost money to do properly.

* Sediment – cast iron radiators can build up sediment. This means before you install your radiators you need to thoroughly flush them through. This is particularly important if you are using reclaimed antique radiators. By flushing through radiators you can avoid getting any sediment into your heating system which could cause a lot of damage.

* Incorrect Size – it is a good idea to get a plumber or heating expert to help you work out the right size radiators for your rooms. Cast iron radiators are very efficient as they retain heat extremely well. This means that even after you have turned your system off they can continue to provide heat to your rooms whilst they are slowly cooling down. It is very important to have the right size radiators otherwise you will be overheating rooms or under-heating them.

* Heating System – is your heating system appropriate for running cast iron radiators? If it isn’t then you may need a new boiler as well. This can start getting expensive so before you invest in cast iron radiators make sure you get an expert to check over your whole heating system. They will be able to advise you on whether any parts need updating before you install your new cast iron radiators.

* Modern Reproduction Radiators – reproduction cast iron radiators can be a more affordable option. However you will need to make sure you are buying them from an experienced and reliable company. Some reproduction cast iron radiators can be inferior in quality to the authentic antique versions. Make sure you use a company that has a good reputation and customer satisfaction record.

Cast Iron Radiator Options for Home Heating

Many people overlook cast iron radiator options when choosing home heating systems. They assume that these traditional radiators will be very expensive and unsuitable for the modern home.

However it can be a big mistake to exclude cast iron radiator options from your list when planning new heating systems. These traditional radiators can be surprising economic and there are many affordable choices on the market.

Original vs. Reproduction

You can buy both reclaimed cast iron radiators and also brand new reproduction designs. There are benefits to both options so it is important you look at the market overall and decide which would be most suitable for your needs.

- Reclaimed original cast iron radiator designs have a very unique and timeless appeal. They offer an elegant finish to any room and have an excellent build quality that will stand the test of time.

- You will need to be careful when buying original cast iron radiator designs though. You do need to make sure you source the radiators from a reputable seller. They will need to have been fully reconditioned and tested to make sure they are ready to be installed and used.

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- Some original cast iron radiators can be sold in poor condition. You may not realise they have been damaged though until you plumb them into your system and they start leaking. This is why it is important to buy only from trusted sellers that can provide a reclaimed quality product with a guarantee.

- Many original cast iron radiators can have interesting histories. Lots of these traditional radiators will have been reclaimed from prominent buildings. You may have radiators that were once used in a major airport, fire station, hospital or historic country home.

- Using reclaimed cast iron radiator sets is an environmentally friendly option. In most cases old radiators would just end up in land fill. Reclaiming radiators is a great way to recycle materials and also will save some wonderful classic designs from the rubbish heap.

- Reproduction cast iron radiators are made using a combination of original skills and modern techniques. They can offer a quality product that can be designed to your specification.

- You will get a manufacturers warrantee with new reproduction cast iron radiator sets. This means you will not be out-of-pocket should any of the radiators turn out to be faulty. As long as the warrantee is still valid you will be able to get a replacement free of charge.

- You do need to check that you are buying fully finished reproduction cast iron radiators though. Some of the cheaper designs may require assembly and finishing on delivery. This can push up costs and will mean you will not be able to plumb the radiators in straightaway.

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Practical Tips for Buying Cast Iron Radiator Sets

You can buy cast iron radiator sets for your home. These provide you with all the radiators you need to heat your home during the colder months. cast iron radiators are quality items and here are just a few practical tips to help make sure you make the most of your money.

1. Check radiator size before you buy

You need to remember that cast iron radiators are very heat efficient. This means if you are replacing a modern conventional radiator with a cast iron radiator then you may not need the same size. A smaller cast iron radiator could provide you with equal or even better heat output.

Make sure you check the radiator size carefully for cast iron radiators and get professional help if you are unsure. This will help you to pick the right radiator size for your home.

2. Set a reasonable budget

Cast iron radiator sets are not always the cheapest option on the market. This type of radiator requires skilled engineering and so this does push up the prices a little. However cast iron radiator sets are very durable if looked after properly. This means once they are fitted in your home they should last you a lifetime. There is very little maintenance for you to carry out and these radiators are affordable in terms of energy consumption.

Cast iron radiators can be a cost effective choice over the long term. Set yourself a reasonable budget when you are choosing cast iron radiator sets for your home to make sure you get a quality product that will last.

3. Get a warrantee

If you are buying a new or second hand cast iron radiator then make sure you get a warrantee. Cast iron radiators can be prone to leaking. This is caused by tiny cracks inside the radiator that are impossible to spot from the exterior. This means you will not be able to tell the cast iron radiator is faulty until it is plumbed in.

If you have a warrantee that covers faulty items then you should be able to get replacements. This will save you a lot of money if anything were to go wrong with your cast iron radiators once they have been installed.

4. Source restored cast iron radiators from reliable providers

Restored cast iron radiator sets can make a cost effective choice. However you need to make sure you buy second hand radiators from a company that has the facilities to restore them properly. Old cast iron radiators can contain sediment so do need to be thoroughly flushed through before use. They also need to be tested using pressure equipment to make sure there are no leaks.

By sourcing your restored cast iron radiator sets from a reliable company you can make sure they will arrive in fully working order and be clean and ready to install straight away.

Staub presents a chicken roaster, braiser, grill pan and Dutch oven, all in enameled cast iron. Check out new colors and sizes. Interview by Cooking.com at the 2007 Home & Housewares Show, Chicago.

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Chemical Treatment of Your Cast Iron Radiators

Cast iron radiators require appropriate chemical treatment for their general protection to give lifelong service without problems.

The main problem areas in cast iron radiators are firstly cold spots, these are caused by black sludge (magnetite) in the closed water system. They normally appear at the bottom of the radiator. Cold spots will eventually lead to blockages and poor circulation around the general heating system.

Secondly frequent venting, this will be noticed when the radiators are turned on for the first time in the cold season. The cast iron radiator will give a slight bad smell when ‘bleeding’ the air out. This is due to lime scale iron oxides. The problems this will cause increased emissions from the boiler, higher fuel bills and reduce efficiency of the boiler. Thirdly sticking valves are a problem caused again by lime scale causing lack of water flow into the radiator and the valve not working correctly.

All these problems are most likely caused by using no inhibitor or an inferior inhibitor within the system. Good quality chemical protectors are strongly advised, offering you long term protection against corrosion and keeping your heating system running clear of any lime scale damage.

Good quality chemical cleaners are used before the protector is diluted into the system. These cleaners will remove sludge, scaling and restore heating efficiency in existing systems. Cleaner will also reduce boiler noise and help to condition the system prior to using good quality chemical protectors.

Having your system power flushed before installing the inhibitor is recommended. This will help get rid of any excess debris and dirt in the system.

Never run your central heating system without an inhibitor. Most reputable central heating chemical companies will have a testing laboratory to test your water and advise the appropriate chemical treatment. Testing kits are sent out from the laboratory for you to fill with you central heating water and cost around £30. As a general rule of thumb if you do not wish to use a laboratory you can tell if you have enough inhibitor within your system by taking a jar with a screw lid and fill it with some water from the header tank. Put some steel or iron nails in the jar, and screw the lid tight. If the nails start to rust after 2 weeks, you do not have enough inhibitor in your system. The presence of a good quality inhibitor prevents the corrosion and rusting of your cast iron radiators from the inside and in so doing stops the production of gases that require bleeding. Inhibitor also acts as a lubricant for the pump, helping to increase its life.

Reputable suppliers of cast iron radiators such as Paladin Radiators have worked with Fernox and tested their radiators for compatibility with the chemicals required. It is advisable to take professional advice from your heating engineer or plumber before chemically treating your system and adhering to recommendations sent by cast iron radiator manufacturers for chemical treatments that are compatible.

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Cast Iron Radiators An Eco Friendly Choice

Today we are looking more and more at eco friendly options for every part of our lives. We are all encouraged to think about this wisely and take action, decreasing our individual carbon fit print wherever we can.

The choice of radiators for our home is probably an obscure way of achieving another way of decreasing our carbon foot print. There are eco friendly boiler systems on the market today that utilise natural fuels such as reconstituted wood blocks, bark chip and willow wood, yet little is known about the eco friendly radiator choice which these natural fuelled boilers will give heat to.

Cast iron radiators are tremendously efficient and are a good eco friendly choice. The revival and now wide availability of the 200 year old cast iron radiator in reproduction form has allowed us the choice for more efficiency within our homes. The old ideas are the best ideas and in the case of the cast iron radiator this is certainly true for heating efficiency. The base material, cast iron, has a very high heat capacity which means it can hold a lot of heat energy. Because air only requires a small amount of energy to increase in temperature, cast iron provides the perfect medium to continually supply heat to small and large spaces. Metals, such as steel and aluminium used for modern radiators, have lesser heat capacity and hence do not do the job so efficiently.

The nature of cast iron also provides us with a more constant and consistent heat source without the rapid hot then cold properties of steel. A cast iron radiator once switched off will lose its heat gradually which is far more comforting and efficient. Many people who enjoy cast iron radiators within their homes have noticed the gentler ambient heat which radiates from these radiators.

Cast iron radiators also can be placed on a system that utilises natural sources with no problems at all such as ground source heating, air source heating and with the new boilers which utilise natural fuels. Those who have teamed up natural heat resources to fuel their central heating systems in conjunction with cast iron radiators have found the heat from their cast iron radiators to be more constant and less drying, a gentle ambient heat working well with the natural energy being utilised.

Another way to increase efficiency and therefore be eco friendly as well as saving cost is to attach your cast iron radiators to an electrical element which will heat your radiator effectively as each electrically heated radiator is running independently to the main hot water system. If each radiator is placed on a timer switch, room spaces may be heated one by one so if you are downstairs all day the upstairs heat can be switched off thus saving energy. This control of each room heat is a good idea and with the combination of using cast iron is certainly a winning formula for eco friendly purposes.

If being eco friendly is the way forward the cast iron radiator is the way forward as a radiator choice for a secure future.

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Buying Guide to the Best Cast Iron Radiators for Sale

You can find cast iron radiators for sale in many different places. Cast iron radiators can be an expensive choice so it is important you learn as much as possible about buying these items. This will help you to make the most of your money and buy the best radiators for sale.

Buying Essentials

Buying cast iron radiators is not always simple. The quality of radiators for sale can vary dramatically. It is not always possible to tell just from looking at the radiators whether they will be any good. Cast iron radiators have a tendency to leak and you may not find this out until they have been installed. It can be expensive replacing faulty radiators so it is important you make sure you are buying quality radiators for sale in the first place.

Here is just a quick buying guide to help you out when looking at cast iron radiators for sale:

* Buy New – there are plenty of manufacturers reproducing cast iron radiators these days. This means you can buy them from new. There are several key advantages to buying new radiators for sale. In most cases you will get a guarantee or warrantee from the manufacturer. This means that if any of the radiators are found to be faulty you will get a free replacement. New products can also be made directly to your requirements. This is ideal if you have a very specific interior design plan in mind.

* Style and Design – cast iron radiators come in a wide variety of colour and design choices. The traditional radiators will be in classic black or white. If you want something a little more modern then you can also get these radiators in a choice of colours from eye-catching primary colours through to gentle pastels. This makes it easy to fit cast iron radiators into your room whatever colour scheme or interior design you have.

* Reclaimed Radiators – you can buy original cast iron radiators that have been reclaimed. These offer a very authentic look for homes and some of the radiators are even old enough to be antiques in their own right. When buying reclaimed radiators you need to make sure they are in fully working condition and have been flushed through of sediment. If you plumb radiators straight into your heating system without checking for sediment then you could cause unnecessary damage to your boiler.

* Classified Ads – you often see second hand cast iron radiators for sale in the local classified ads. Be very careful when buying radiators this way. They may be much cheaper than other options but you will have no way to be sure they are in full working order. You could end up wasting your money on radiators that you are not able to use.

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There Is So Much More To Find Out On Cast Iron Radiator

Have you ever obtained a cast iron radiator in your house? We all want to dwell in a brand new house, with new fittings, however unfortunately that’s just not possible. So, in your house you can still be utilizing a cast iron radiator, although they are now not being laid out in new buildings. In your personal safety it’s a great idea to know a couple of information about the way you cast iron radiator works and what can go wrong.

The basic design of a cast iron radiator is mainly unchanged as it was launched nearly two hundred years ago. Heated water from a supply similar to a boiler passes through tubes or fins within the radiator that is manufactured from cast iron. The forged iron fins of the radiator soak up warmth from the hot water passing by it. Cast iron is used in the radiator as it includes a high warmth retention capability, that means it’ll keep warm. So, as the hot water passes by way of the cast iron radiator it should slowly warmth up, that heat is then dissipated slowly, warming the room or other area.

When cast iron radiators were first introduced cast iron was a very common metal, though it is not so much in use in the present day, as new materials have surpassed the advantages of cast iron in areas similar to warmth retention and strength. However, if you stay in an older home your radiator will most certainly still be made of cast iron.

Cast iron radiators are preferable for many individuals as there isn’t any shifting air inside the system. Heating systems that employ using transferring air can have an effect on people who endure from allergy symptoms or skin problems negatively. For this reason many people choose cast iron radiators to fashionable designs.

The scale and quantity of fins or tubes of the cast iron radiator will decide how rapidly and effectively it may warm an area. The size of the cast iron radiator and the number of tubes is included determines the surface space of heated cast iron exposed to the area. The bigger the radiator the more floor area there’s to warmth the air around the cast iron radiator and therefore the room. That is why in larger rooms, like colleges, you will typically find a bigger cast iron radiator than you would in rooms in your home.

Since there are little or no moving components on a cast iron radiator there’s little or no that may break, or go incorrect with them, though when you have ever lived having a cast iron radiator you’ll know some might be noisy! Which means that they require little upkeep, though age can be a figuring factor and an older cast iron radiator might give you trouble.

As with anything in the house that produces heat, care have to be exercised and safety precautions taken. Though a cast iron radiator will not burn you if touched, a protracted interval of contact with the cast iron radiator fins may undoubtedly end in a burn. So, if you have kids or pets make sure they are being monitored if they’re in a room where there’s a cast iron radiator.

Choosing the Perfect Period Cast Iron Radiator for Your Home

A period cast iron radiator can add a distinctive feature to your room. Not only are these very functional pieces that can efficiently heat rooms but they also have a great aesthetic appeal. There is something very charming about a cast iron radiator that can add character to any interior design project.

Designs and Styles

If you want to include a cast iron radiator in your room design then you will have a choice of styles and colours available. Traditional period cast iron radiator will typically by in white or black. If you are buying a reclaimed cast iron radiator set for a period style home then it is best to stick to these more authentic colour options.

You can also get a number of very distinctive finishes including metal effects (such as antique gold and copper) and bold primary colours. This is ideal if you are creating a unique interior design and want something a little more special for your room heating.

Reclaimed Cast Iron Radiators

In terms of costs it can be cheaper to opt for new cast iron radiators. The reclaimed radiators are often old enough to be classed as antiques and this can push prices up. It can also be expensive renovating old radiators and making them usable again. However if you want an authentic period design then reclaimed radiators are a good choice.

Don’t get confused between reclaimed radiators and second hand ones. A reclaimed cast iron radiator will have been tidied up and pressure tested to check for leaks. You can buy reclaimed radiators from specialist providers that are ready to be plumbed straight into your system. They will have guarantee against leaking which will protect your investment.

A second hand cast iron radiator can be a very cheap option but you will have no idea whether or not it is usable until it has been plumbed into your system. These radiators will be available in car boot sales, classified ads and auctions (both online and offline). They will not have been tested by a specialist in most cases and you will be taking a real gamble on whether or not you are wasting your money.

New Cast Iron Radiators

New cast iron radiators are crafted using a mix of traditional skills and modern techniques. This creates attractive and durable radiators that will look great and last a long time. New cast iron radiators can be crafted to traditional period designs and are also available in some more modern options.

Buying a new cast iron radiator set can be expensive but you will be paying for a brand new and thoroughly tested product. New radiators will come with manufacturer’s warrantees so if they do not work for some reason you should be able to get replacements. This can save a lot of time and effort.

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Heated Towel Rails and Cast Iron Radiators Make a Perfect Bathroom

A warm towel is very desirable after a shower. Heated towel rails fulfill this with a note of bliss. There are numerous types of heated towel rails available, the most prevalent being electric towel warmers and hydraulic towel warmers.

Electric towel warmers: 
This lineage is provided with several rails and can be attached to the wall. When switched on, it heats the towel or any other piece of clothing spread over its rails. These warmers are available in multitudinous shapes, sizes as well as finishes.

Hydraulic towel warmers: 
In this variant, hot water circulates through the frame to heat the towels. It often transfers the heat to its immediate surroundings. It is considered as an element of luxury and used in large apartment complexes and hotels.

Cast iron radiators find their main application in heating systems. The air that comes in contact with the heated surface of these radiators, in turn through convection, gets heated and then circulates throughout the room/enclosed space. Hot water is used in most of the modern radiators. In order to achieve maximum efficiency, the radiators’ covers must be provided with sufficient openings.

The heat produced might reduce drastically if the valves are clogged. It is, therefore, important to bleed the valves regularly. Also, it is imperative not to allow any obstructions like curtains and furniture block the flow of heat. The heat output of cast iron radiators depends upon:

1. Ambient temperature 
2. Radiator’s surface temperature 
3. Surface area of the radiator

Some of the well known types are steam radiators and hot water radiators. Steam radiators, as the name suggests, use steam as their source of heat. Similarly, for hot water radiators, the heat source is hot water, the common factor between both being their primary function of heating the surrounding air.