Heated bathroom towel radiators and rails can be heated by three different methods: direct from the domestic central heating system, dual fuel and electric only.
Central Heating System
At present, the majority of heated bathroom towel radiators and rails are heated direct from the domestic central heating system, where the towel rail replaces a standard panel radiator in the circuit. It provides heat to the room and keeps towels warm as long as the central heating is switched on.
Electric Only
The great advantage of an Electric Towel Rail is that it is a stand-alone unit which needs no plumbing. Our electric only towel rails are filled with a special fluid, and are supplied with a standard or thermostatic electric element, ready for immediate installation. Standard electric elements are self regulating, maintaining the temperature of the fluid inside the towel rail between two points, pre-set by the manufacturer of the element. Thermostatic electric elements give greater control over the heat output of the towel rail. As well as being self regulating, thermostatic elements have plus and minus control buttons that allow heat adjustment across five temperature settings.
Dual Fuel
A dual fuel bathroom towel rail is heated from your central heating system, but also has an electric element installed. This is especially useful in the summer months when you don’t use your central heating system much, if at all. You simply switch to the electric element (standard or thermostatic, as for an electric only rail) and enjoy warm, dry bathroom towels when you step out of the bath or shower. Keeping the bathroom gently heated also reduces moisture levels and inhibits the growth of mould.
Used in this way, a dual fuel towel rail is more economical and environmentally friendly, helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
Electrical Safety
Dual fuel and electric towel rails require a power supply (often a fused spur). You should discuss the location of the electrical connection point with a fully qualified installer to ensure you meet current building and safety regulations.
