New homes are becoming more and more efficient, so are these traditional heat emitters still a practical choice for self builders?

Anna-MarieDeSouza investigates

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For most self builders, the quest for efficiency and sustainability stands at the forefront of their projects. So, embracing innovative technologies and eco-conscious practices is key – but is there still a place for traditional heat emitters in that picture? Radiators are a tried-and-true heating solution that have warmed houses for decades, but in the context of today’s energy-efficient and aesthetically-driven abodes, do they align with the evolving needs and aspirations of the modern homeowner?

Sustainability

In terms of radiator production, contemporary models are manufactured using sustainable techniques, often using recyclable materials, and are designed for efficient heat production and best use of surface area. “Radiators are sometimes tarred with the brush that they are old technology, but this simply isn’t true,” says Joel Newiss of Feature Radiators. “Combined with a modern and efficient heat pump or gas boiler, radiators can be incorporated into an up-to-date heating system using less energy than the previous setup to generate the same levels of warmth.” Heating technology is constantly evolving in response to the government’s legally-binding target to achieve net zero carbon emissions. Despite the recently-announced gas boiler ban delay, at the moment, heat pumps appear to be the number one choice for the future in domesticIn terms of radiator production, contemporary models are manufactured using sustainable techniques, often using recyclable materials, and are designed for efficient heat production and best use of surface area. “Radiators are sometimes tarred with the brush that they are old technology, but this simply isn’t true,” says Joel Newiss of Feature Radiators. “Combined with a modern and efficient heat pump or gas boiler, radiators can be incorporated into an up-to-date heating system using less energy than the previous setup to generate the same levels of warmth.”