What Are The Pros And Cons of Aluminium Radiators?
Your radiators are probably one of the first images that come to mind when you think about heating your home. Steel radiators have been commonplace in Irish homes for decades, working through a convection process that moves the heat from the water inside the radiator to the air throughout the room. However, in recent years, more and more homeowners and builders have turned to aluminium radiators instead.
From quick heating capabilities to a long lifespan, aluminium radiators stand out for a number of reasons. However, some homeowners remain unconvinced as aluminium radiators are not without their downsides. Join us as we run through both the pros and cons to help you determine whether they could be a suitable home heating solution for you.
Pros Of Aluminium Radiators
Heat Up Quickly
One of the most telling signs of a good radiator is if it gets the home to the right temperature as quickly as possible. Aluminium radiators certainly tick this box, as aluminium is a fantastic conductor of heat and therefore reaches the set temperature much faster than alternatives like steel. As a result, aluminium radiators offer the huge advantage of consistently comfortable temperatures throughout the home.
Long Lifespan
Choosing new radiators is not exactly a glamorous process, and certainly one you’ll want to avoid repeating regularly. It is therefore important that your radiators last a long time – not just to save your time and effort but also to limit any expense incurred. Fortunately, aluminium is both rust and corrosion-resistant thanks to its reactive nature. This means that aluminium radiators have a long and healthy lifespan and are the perfect choice for anybody wanting to get the most value out of their home heating investment.
Reduce Your Energy Usage
With energy bills soaring and constant bad news about the planet, it can feel like there’s not much you can do to bring things back under control. Switching to aluminium radiators, however, can make a genuine difference. Because aluminium heats up so quickly, less energy is used to get the water to the same temperature when compared to an equivalent steel radiator. As a result, your impact on the planet is reduced and you may even find yourself enjoying reduced energy bills.
Cons Of Aluminium Radiators
Initial Cost Can Be High
One of the key disadvantages of aluminium radiators can be the cost, partly due to the fact that they are less common than their steel counterparts. However, you may also need to purchase more aluminium radiators than you would steel which can increase the initial cost. This is because multiple aluminium radiators are often required to heat one room.
If cost is of concern, remember that it is important to fully weigh up short-term expenses against the possibility of a long-term gain. While you may have to commit to the initial expense, you may regain some of your investment as your bills reduce over time.
Cool Down Quickly
It is also important to note that the speed at which aluminium radiators can work also applies to the speed at which they can cool down. Of course, this can sometimes be a good thing if your heating is left on by accident or comes on in the summer months. In the winter, however, you may lose the benefit of warmth lingering in the radiators and find that you have to put the heating on more frequently to create a comfortable environment.
Despite a few downsides, aluminium radiators are an increasingly compelling option for those seeking an effective and sustainable home heating solution. If you are considering investing in aluminium radiators to meet your heating needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team here at Pipelife. We can talk you through the different options available, and help you as you make steps to transform your home with new radiators.