Decommissioning A Radiator?

atkinsd91

Hello,

I have a radiator which I'd rather not have where it is. I've just moved into a new build property (1 bed flat) and it's an open plan lounge and kitchen. My question is, what impact would removing the radiator have, aside from the flat taking slightly longer to warm up?

Would I be correct in assuming the following?

Having 3 radiators in the room would all take 3 multiplied by X amount of energy and run for Y amount of time to get to the temperature. Having 2 radiators in the room would take 2 multiplied by X amount of energy (still consuming the same amount) and run for (Y + y) amount of time (however much longer 'y' might be) to get to the temperature, and therefore no impact on the amount of energy consumed and thus no or little impact on my heating bill?

So essentially 3 radiators would use more energy as there's 3 of them, but run for shorter. 2 radiators would use less energy (as there's 1 radiator less being used) but run for longer... making essentially little difference?

Owain_Moneysaver

Up to a point. To heat your flat you have to add heat via radiators faster than heat is lost through the building fabric. If your radiators are too small your flat will never get warm!

Also, modern condensing boilers work most efficiently into a large radiator load (even though many of them modulate to suit the load). So a smaller radiator load may mean your boiler operates less efficiently.

Can you change some of the other radiators from single to double or double finned rads to make up the difference?

atkinsd91

Many thanks for the reply. I may very well look into that!

If it's of any help also I have a Potterton Promax Ultra Combi Condensing Combination Boiler.

I_have_spoken

YOu should work out (or getting a heating expert) to work out the BTUs "British Thermal Units" needed to heat the space considering other factors such as windows.

2 rads might do it if they can produce sufficient BTUs but bear in mind rads under windows also reduce the perceived effect of draughts from cold air falling away from the glass.

If the rad is in the way, consider alternatives such as radiant skirting boards

Owain_Moneysaver

Or, as this is the 21st century, work in kW instead of BTU

scd3scd4

Yep get double rads or up the size in length or height.


Maybe also be a good idea to check the remaining two are working well. No air or sludge.


How about turning the one off and seeing how the other two manage.

southcoastrgi

If it's a new build they will be sized for the room therefore #2

societys_child

My question is, what impact would removing the radiator have, aside from the flat taking slightly longer to warm up?

Why not just turn it off and see?

I_have_spoken

>Or, as this is the 21st century, work in kW instead of BTU<

BTU's after Brexit

bris

I'm with the turning it of suggestion, it's a no brainer really.


You will however find that it will cause a cold spot that can affect the whole room. The room won't take longer to heat up it might never heat up due to the heat loss. Any decent installers put the radiators where they are needed so it's not there for looks.

atkinsd91

Because my main concern is energy usage... and that could take a while to test but just 'turning it off'.