5 Signs that You are Buying a High Quality Cast Iron Radiator

Cast iron radiators have seen a wonderful revival of late as more people are seeking to bring a touch of elegance into their home that also captures an authentic vintage look.

When considering purchasing a cast iron radiator, it is important to be able to sort a high quality contender from an inferior pretender. The following guide will help make the task of discernment a much simpler and straightforward one to achieve.

·         Weight

Perhaps the most telling sign that a cast iron radiator is of high quality is whether it is actually constructed of genuine iron, rather some other type of composite metal. Cast iron radiators are so effective because they have significant mass that when fully heated, continues to emit warmth long after they have been switched off.

A general rule of thumb is that a heavier radiator is likely to be constructed of very dense metal that will outperform those heaters made of a lesser substance. For cast iron radiators, heavier is definitely better. Always check with the manufacturer to confirm exactly what the radiator is made from and choose iron every time.

·         Thickness of Steel

As previously stated, mass conducts heat in a more efficient manner, so it is important that the metal used in the radiator is quite thick so it will retain its heat. Thinner materials lose stored heat much more rapidly than thicker materials. A very simple test is to tap or knock on the metal of the radiator and see if it feels strong and sturdy. It should feel more like tapping a brick wall rather than a tin can!

·         Length of Warrantee

Unsurprisingly, the length of warrantee offered by the cast iron radiator’s manufacturer is an excellent indication as to how well the heater is made. It also demonstrates the confidence that the product has generated as returns often reflect a combination of design flaws, previous returns and expected failure rates.

No manufacturer feels comfortable making products that may harm their good reputation or be subject to a recall, so a long extended warrantee speaks volumes about the quality of the heater in question. Expect a reliable cast iron radiator to be covered for at least 10 years or more from the date of installation.

·         Overall Finish

An excellent cast iron radiator will be matched by an equally high quality finish. It should look durable, thick and well covered as opposed to thin and spotty. As these heaters generate fairly intense heat it is important that any paintwork be up to the task of repeated heating and cooling for many years.

Many radiators are also available with the option of intricate patinas and scroll work on their surfaces. These not only make a wonderful statement in any room, but also indicate the level of skill and attention to detail crafted into the radiator by the manufacturer.

·         Meets Required Standards

Lastly, high quality radiators will tick all the right boxes as far as quality assurance and compliance with the rigid safety standards imposed by current legislation. Such standards vary around the world, so it is important to check that any cast iron radiator sold in the UK meets local standards and have never faced a safety recall.

Comparing high quality cast iron radiators need not be a complicated process, especially when armed with the right information that highlights those aspects that distinguish the very best from the barely acceptable. This preparatory research will help ensure your choice in radiators continues to serve you properly, well into the future.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog UK http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2016/09/5-signs-that-you-are-buying-high.html