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Replacing Radiators with Smaller/Slimline Ones


During the colder months, we rely on our radiators working effectively to keep our homes warm. Replacing your radiators might be to increase the quality/efficiency of your heating system, or it might be for aesthetic reasons. 

Replacing your radiators with slimline ones is usually ideal for areas where a bulkier radiator is not suitable, but smaller ones can still provide sufficient heating output. Usually, this is in smaller or tighter rooms, or in areas where you plan on having a lot of furniture.

Can you replace a radiator with a smaller one?

You can replace a radiator with a smaller one, but you first need to consider the heat output that room needs. We’d recommend that a professional heating expert assesses your space first, so they can advise as to whether a smaller radiator would be appropriate.

Equally, replacing a radiator with a smaller one may require adjustments to your pipework, which must be carried out by an expert.




Will having a smaller radiator make a significant difference?

Having a smaller radiator definitely can make a significant difference to the central heating in an area, but this is dependent on a number of factors:

  • Size of room - In a larger room, downsizing to a smaller radiator is likely to make a much bigger difference. On the other hand, a smaller room which already has more than enough heating output would be appropriate for a downsize.

  • Quality of existing heating system - If your entire house is adequately heated already, then downsizing is less likely to cause any major difference. Equally, if the quality of your existing radiator (to be replaced) is poor, downsizing with a newer model might actually increase the quality of your heating system.
  • Quality of new radiator - Smaller doesn’t always mean worse. You could be upgrading a bigger but low quality radiator, to a smaller but higher quality one. In this case, the heating output might remain the same, or even increase. 


The process of replacing a radiator with a smaller/slimline one


The process of replacing a radiator with a smaller one should be carried out by heating experts, and this is the rough process our professionals would follow:

  • Work out the right size radiator - Make sure you choose a radiator that is big enough for the room.
  • Isolate and drain radiator - Turning off the central heating and allowing the radiator to cool down, isolate the radiator using the valves at each end. Then drain the water, and collect the liquid in a container.
  • Remove radiator - Unscrew and disconnect old radiator from wall brackets.
  • Install new radiator - First install the new bracket, then attach the new, smaller radiator, ensuring it lines up perfectly with the valves.
  • Test and begin use - Turn your central heating back on, and test that the radiator is working properly.

The benefits of switching to a smaller radiator

Here are some of the primary benefits of switching to a smaller radiator:

  • Saving space - Particularly for rooms with little space, downsizing can allow more room for furniture and actually make a room feel larger.
  • Increased heating efficiency - For spaces where a large radiator was not necessary, you might find that a smaller radiator still emits enough heat, without using as much water and possibly reducing heating costs. 
  • Aesthetic benefits - A slimline radiator may better match the aesthetic of your living space, being better suited in terms of size and look. This is perfect for more contemporary interior designs.
  • Reduced heat gradient - Using smaller radiators for low-temperature heating systems can create a more comfortable heat distribution by lowering the temperature difference within a room.


Slimline radiator options

A good option for a high quality slimline radiator is the DQ Cassius Column Style radiator. This option is an ideal choice for somebody looking for a vertical radiator with high quality heating output. It’s made from mild steel which is very durable and affordable, and it’s a more modern radiator which matches a contemporary aesthetic.  

Another top choice for a smaller radiator is the Lux Heat Flat White Radiator which is known for its sleek and stylish look and efficient heat output. Suitable for smaller spaces, we’d recommend this cost-effective heating choice.

Finally, check out the Hudson Reed Vertical Designer Compact Radiator for a four-panel design which integrates perfectly with any interior design. This radiator integrates with any central heating system and is a great option if you want to downsize/convert to a vertical radiator to add extra space to any room.

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