Effect of old rads for new.

[Slim69]

I have a cold house. I can't afford to replace the windows, I've had cavity wall insulation done and I've done the loft myself. In my front downstairs room, as an example, there are two rads. They're quite old and one os 500mm wide th eother is 750 mm wide but they just don't heat the room enough.

So, simple question: how much difference would a high output double rad make, considering the windows are still original casements?

 

[dcawkwell]

If you supply enough heat you can get the room to any temperature
you like.

Double glazing is cheap. Measure the windows and do it yourself.
tot difficult. I did about 9 windows for about £2000-£2500 a few years ago.

Thick curtains will help failing new windows.

 

[Slim69]

I'm going to replace the windows at the back of the house myself as they're straightforward casement type. But the big windows at the front are 10 foot bays and I've heard plenty of awful stories about people trying to change them and then finding out the originals were providing structural support. Our neighbour had his replaced top and bottom a few years ago and they cost around 5K.

 

[Slim69]

Further - what's the overall effect of a rad cover with a fretworked frontage? does it reduce the output or net-effect noticeably?

 

[Agile]

Those who fit them like builders swear that they make no effect!

But builders do swear a lot!

My view is that they probably reduce output at least 30% but I have never seen any scientific tests done on them!

You could do that for us if you have the equipment!

Tony

 

[Slim69]

I'll do a before and after - how long it takes to toast bread. Results should be in next year.