Replacing a large radiator with a smaller one

1978

We're looking at replacing a large radiator with a much smaller one.

The large radiator runs almost the length of the wall (less some units on one side). We're wanting to free up the wall space so that the fridge freezer can be against the wall where the radiator currently is.

I suppose the simple question is... can the larger radiator be replaced with a smaller one without changing the pipework below floor level? i.e. can the existing pipework be extended to run pretty much along the top of the skirt to connect to the new smaller radiator?
So the smaller radiator will be at least the width of a fridge freezer less in length.
Hope that makes sense!

Eventually, when funds allow, the kitchen and garage will undergo a major overhaul, but this is a short term fix to free up some much needed space.

Thanks as ever.

jayyar66

In a word . . . 'Yes'
But bear in mind 2 things. Firstly, the pipework will look awful and possibly prevent a fridge/freezer being pushed tight up against the skirting. And secondly, although more importantly, you may well end up with a cold room! HTH.

Jonesya

Extending pipework shouldn't be a problem, the main issue will be that a smaller radiator may give out less heat (depending on number of panels, convectors etc), so you need to check the heat requirement for the room, otherwise you could end up with a cold room.

I had the same issue in my kitchen and went for a vertical column radiator, it looks nice, same heat output in less width. Other option is you can get fan heaters that fit into the plinth of a kitchen unit and are plumbed into the central heating system, so economical to run.