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Radiators FAQ's Back
 
How do I know what size of radiator I require for my room.
Calculations for room heat requirements are quite complex, however we have designed an online room heat requirement calculator called “Heatscale” you will find this via our website home page. This will enable you to estimate the output required and select the model and size required. (We would always recommend that a final check is made on this calculation by your heating installer prior to order).
 
Is it true cast iron radiators are more efficient than modern steel radiators.
Yes, cast iron radiators are highly efficient, due to the ability of cast iron to spread and retain heat evenly for much longer periods than steel.
 
What paint can I use on cast iron radiators.
Most modern oil or cellulose based paints can be used on cast iron radiators. Cast iron radiators can be painted on site using a quality paint from one of the leading manufacturers.

In addition radiators can be sprayed on site or sent direct to sprayshops.

 
Can I buy my radiators pre-painted.
Using our Radicol system, we are able to provide our radiators powder coated or spray paint finished using a range of 36 standard colours and many more special and metallic finishes.
 
What diameter pipework do I need.
The diameter of the pipework required to supply your cast iron radiators will be determined by the systems supply requirement, but from experience most connections are made by ½” 15mm or ¾” 22mm but all can be adapted by copper converters, available from most plumbers merchants.
 
Who can install cast iron radiators ?
Our radiators can be installed by a plumber or any competent DIY person. They are compatible with all modern pipe work systems, with both 15mm (1/2”) and 22mm (3/4”) pipe connections available as standard.
 
Are cast iron radiators from Tuscan Foundry compatible with my heating system ?
All of our cast iron radiators are compatible with normal central heating systems, and come complete with British Standard fitting connections. On an existing system, you can replace any modern steel radiator with one of our cast iron models as both cast iron and steel radiators can run on the same system. (you only have to replace the ones you want).
 
Can I use small/micro bore pipe work ?
It is quite possible to use small bore/micro bore pipe work, however on larger radiators (those in excess of 3000 Watts) it may prove a problem in balancing the system, please consult your plumber for further information.


Where should I position radiators ?
Radiators are most efficient when positioned in the coldest part of the property. This would normally be on an outside wall, however it is perfectly acceptable to position your radiator to suit your rooms layout and furnishing arrangements. If you have a heat output requiring a radiator larger than you have space for, you may wish to place more than one radiator into the room, this will enable a more even spread of the heat.
 
What valves should I use for my radiator ?

Radiators require a handwheel valve and a lockshield valve, the valves are normally positioned at the base of the radiator with the handwheel valve on the right hand side. However on many older installations it would be common for the handwheel valve to be placed on the top right hand and the lockshield valve to be placed on the bottom right hand (we can still offer this as an option). On larger radiators, or rooms where the radiators have been oversized we would normally recommend the fitting of a TRV (Thermostatic valve) although this is not essential.

 
What is the difference between a TRV (Thermostatic Radiator Valve) and a manual one ?

A TRV controls the room temperature, by sensing the air temperature and automatically opening and closing the flow to the radiator. A manual valve can only control the temperature of the radiator regardless of the room temperature.

 
How are valves fitted and cast iron radiators sealed ?
It is important with cast iron radiators that no plumbing compounds are used on any part of the radiator, its valves or connections (this can react with the iron, breaking down the sealing washers). All radiator joints should be dry jointed, with PTFE tape wrapped around the valve threads for tightening (normally around 5 turns of tape). We would recommend the use of a thicker gas type PTFE tape on parallel threaded valves.
 
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Our products are used by RIBA in their architect specification system.

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