Q: We are looking to install a new heating system into a Georgian farmhouse and would like to know whether we would be better installing tubular steel column radiators or traditional cast iron radiators.

A: Cast iron radiators cost no more to run than modern steel or aluminium radiators. Cast iron is a very efficient material at emitting heat, thus you have items like le creuset cast iron pans. Cast iron holds it’s heat extremly well, which means that the radiators stay warm for longer.

Q: We are refurbishing our bathroom and wish to place a heated towel rail in the new bathroom. Our plumber has advised that the heated towel warmer would be connected to the heating system, this would mean when we turn the system off in the summer that the towel rail will not work. What can we do ?

A: It is possible for us to supply towel warmers with an electric heating element in them. The Electrad system is a unique system available to us, that enables independent heating of towel rails and radiators via the properties electrical system.

Q: We have just purchased some cast iron radiators and they have a slightly uneven texture to the surface. What can we do about this.

A: Casting of iron is an imperfect processs. It is possible with some cast iron radiators that you will get minor imperfections in the surface finish. When radiators are painted this will reduce and over the years every additional coat of paint applied will provide a smoother more equal finish.

Q: Please can you advise whether we will require 1/2″ or 3/4″ BSP connections for our new cast iron radiator.

A: All of our cast iron radiators are availbale as standard with a 1/2″ BSP (15mm) connection. We are though also able to supply many of our radiators and valves with 3/4″ BSP connections. Due to the size proportions of some radiators and valves 3/4″ connections may be more suitable.

Q: My builder has calculated out our heating requirement in each room of our house in BTU’s. Can you tell me what BTU’s stand for, and is this different to KW.

A: BTU stand’s for British Thermal Units. This was the old (Imperial) measurement for heat in connection with plumbing. Although BTU’s is a term still commonly used within the heating and plumbing, the industry is now going over to KW’s Kilowatts.