Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
The radiator market will need to change to ensure it stays ahead of the rapid modernisation of the sector, with renewable energy and sustainable heating technologies, alongside new requirements being introduced to contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
That’s according to James Auckland, director at Trade Radiators, who says that the company is doing everything it can to make sure it offers what is in demand right now, while keeping a constant eye on what comes next.
He says: “With an increase in renewables, we need to make sure our radiators are equipped to handle the new energy sources and upcoming technologies.
“Trade Radiators has had a range of electric radiators for some years now and we also have introduced infrared radiators to tackle the growing demand for electric alternatives to traditional radiators. We also see more homes opting for solar and geothermal energy. It’s an interesting challenge that we’re looking forward to tackling and perfecting. Radiators can work symbiotically with solar energy, underfloor heating, or work as standalone.”
Energy-efficient radiators are going to be more important than ever with remote or flexible working schedules, James Auckland continues: “With many people working from home, it really helps cut costs and of course it’s great for the environment. “Radiators are using materials that heat up quicker – for example, aluminium radiators use less power and heat up homes much faster.”
He adds: “A lot of our newest radiators are made from recycled materials too, with models like the Italian Ruvo mixing sustainability with 100% recycled aluminium, without compromising on style.
“Radiators don’t just have to be that clunky white thing in the corner of the room, we can help integrate the radiator into a room, make it a true statement piece, something that works with the overall look that customers are seeking so they don’t have to choose between aesthetic and performance.
“There’s so much we can do, shapes, sizes, colour – we have radiators that will look great in the most traditional of cabins all the way to super modern art home design.”
While eco-friendly radiators which work seamlessly with renewable energy sources are of huge importance, the company is also seeking to make sure that its radiators fit seamlessly into all homes.
Fellow director Nicholas Auckland also points out that renewable energies aside, there are ways to minimise the waste of energy, and says: “Of course, heating doesn’t have to be wasteful. On and off just won’t cut it anymore, the 21st century requires flexible heaters with easy to use operation that gets customers the right amount of heat for the right amount of time. I firmly believe that new technologies can help us be more energy-efficient, which is a necessary step in reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
“The future isn’t just about making our radiators more sustainable and environmentally friendly, consumers are also being increasingly aware of radiators’ potential in terms of interior design and that’s still a big part of their criteria when making a purchase.”
The heating industry currently has to balance performance and aesthetics, and the next five or 10 years present many challenges, which will, in turn, create endless possibilities with the integration of sleek, efficient radiators that offer more than just function.
