A heated towel rail helps quickly get rid of excess moisture in the bathroom and dry wet items. New models of “dryers” not only cope well with the shortcomings of the microclimate, but also decorate the interior. However, the attractiveness of the design simply must be combined with functionality, don’t you agree?
We are happy to share useful information on how to choose the best equipment for arranging a bathroom with you. This article presents information collected during the actual preparation for purchasing the device. It addresses all the questions that a buyer might have.
We offer you a detailed description of the characteristics that you need to pay attention to before purchasing. Here is an overview of products from leading manufacturers in the segment. The selection criteria are justified by compelling arguments, the information is confirmed by photos and video recommendations.
Requirements for water pipes
The bathroom is the most humid place in a house or apartment, so it is necessary to provide additional heating to the room. A heated towel rail helps quickly dry towels or linen, prevents mold and prevents the floor and wall finishes from becoming damp.
In addition, modern models are a stylish decoration for the bathroom interior, since progressive designers are constantly working on the appearance of the devices.
A chrome-plated heated towel rail in the shape of a ladder is an ideal version of a water design with a traditional arrangement of elements, convenient for drying wet things. Installed in a free area on the wall
The standard version of a water heated towel rail looks like a curved pipe in the middle of which hot water circulates. If the water supply stops circulating, the product will no longer function.
When choosing a water heated towel rail, first of all you need to take into account the pressure level in the pipes. According to current building codes and GOST requirements, the water pressure in the water intake fittings is more than 6 atm.
When choosing a towel dryer connected to a centralized hot water system or to water heating, you should find out what pressure the device can withstand
The water pressure in the pipes of apartment buildings can be 2.5-7.5 Atm. The indicator depends on the location of construction, the quality of communications and the number of floors in the building. In private houses, the pressure in the pipes is usually 2-3 Atm. Therefore, before purchasing, you should find out the indicators of the water supply system and add several positions for water hammer to the obtained value.
The efficiency of a water heated towel rail depends on the area of the pipe. The original ladder-shaped design has the ability to release the maximum amount of heat and easily withstands water hammer.
When choosing a dryer, you need to pay special attention to the diameter of the pipes. In some cases, a special adapter is required for installation and connection of a heating device.
The larger the total area of the pipes from which the water heated towel rail is made, the greater its heat transfer. If you are not satisfied with devices made from thick pipes, it is better to take a device with thin but frequently spaced elements
Shrinking
- To install a water device, a connection to the heating or hot water system is required. But if the heating is turned off in the summer, the water heated towel rail will not work either. Therefore, most often it is connected to the hot water circuit. It is better to time the installation to coincide with the renovation, since you will have to install pipes to the device, and for greater aesthetics they are hidden in the wall under a layer of plaster. Then the tiles are laid, and a heated towel rail is already attached to it.
- When choosing a device, you should pay attention not only to its dimensions, but also to the shape and type of connection. Diagonal connection is usually found in “ladder” type models. The vertical or lateral method of piping is usually used for U- or M-shaped products.
- The number of jumpers will be important - the more there are, the more things you can hang. If you only need a heated towel rail as a hanger for one or two towels, a model with 2 to 3 bars is suitable. If you are going to dry clothes on it after washing, it is better to give preference to an H-shaped model with 8 - 10 jumpers.
Basic criteria for choosing a water model
Bathroom renovation involves replacing outdated plumbing equipment, including a heated towel rail connected to the hot water supply (DHW) or heating system. When choosing a heating device, you should evaluate not only the external attractiveness of the product, but also the strength of the material.
Not every model of heated towel rail can withstand regular changes in operating pressure that occur in the centralized heating system of apartment buildings.
It is worth considering that peak pressure values in pipes can reach 10 Atm. Therefore, it is important to know what technical characteristics and features of the heating device you should pay attention to first.
Correct installation of the water heated towel rail is important. In most cases, the installation of the structure is carried out before finishing work begins in the bathroom.
This significantly saves money and time spent on installation work. Many installation problems are easier to solve using modern electric models.
In most cases, water dryers are installed in bathrooms with a connection to the heating pipeline or to the hot water supply system
Appearance of heated towel rails
Based on their shape, water-type heated towel rails can be divided into several different types. Standard models include heating devices that look like a curved pipe. Outwardly, they may resemble the letter “P” or “M”.
In recent years, modern models of heating structures of unusual sizes and shapes have been gaining popularity. To decorate modern interiors, consumers more often consider progressive design models, for example, in the form of a zigzag or ladder, presented by manufacturers in different modifications.
Heated towel rails in the shape of the letter “M” and “P” are characterized by heat transfer of up to 500 W. Laconic models are useful in bathtubs with limited space
It is recommended to select a drying device in which the number of hangers will correspond to the number of people living in the house. In this case, the distance between the hangers should be sufficient.
Modernized models are available to consumers, which may have additional functionality such as shelves. Today, designer types of dryers, which can have original shapes, are gaining popularity. In this case, a practical device will become a stylish decoration for the bathroom, add a bright and unique touch to the interior or emphasize a certain style.
A modernized heated towel rail in the form of a ladder will not only fulfill its direct functions, but will also stylishly decorate the bathroom
Thus, the modern market offers a large selection of models of water heated towel rails of various shapes:
- ladder;
- zigzag;
- U-shaped;
- M-shaped;
- U-shaped;
- teardrop-shaped;
- double-circuit.
In addition to standard models of water heaters for the bathroom, consumers are offered exclusive designer models. They feature an intricate, unique design.
Advanced heating appliances are the best option for modern design. The wave-shaped heated towel rail is ideal for a modern bathroom interior
Shelves or special hooks are sometimes added to designs of the original shape. External attractiveness and practicality are reflected in the cost of the heated towel rail.
Priority material of manufacture
When choosing a water-type heating device, you should focus not only on the technical characteristics and shape of the product. It is also important what material it is made of. In the production process of water heated towel rails, the following materials are used:
- stainless steel;
- black steel;
- non-ferrous metals (brass, copper, aluminum).
There are chrome-plated, polished and painted water heated towel rails. If the owner of a house or apartment decides to change the heating device in the bathroom, he is interested in what material is best to choose a heating device for drying towels and linen.
To make the right choice, let’s analyze the features and characteristics of water structures made of different materials.
Devices made of ordinary steel. Steel is an alloy of iron with carbon and other elements. The technical characteristics and properties of steel depend on additional components.
Reliable heated towel rails made of durable black steel are practically no different from designs made of ordinary stainless steel. Steel radiators conduct heat well and are coated on the outside with a special layer that protects it from corrosion.
Water heating devices made from iron are considered the most budget-friendly option and are ideal for consumers who want to save money. The disadvantage of models of this type is the relatively short service life of the product.
If you do not have a significant amount of funds when carrying out repairs, then an iron unit is the best option.
Heated towel rails made of steel with a protective and decorative powder coating are in high demand due to the low cost of the products and universal design, suitable for bathrooms of various styles.
A heated towel rail made of iron and its alloys is suitable for country houses that have an autonomous heating system. The fact is that in an apartment, a radiator made of this material rusts faster and becomes clogged with impurities and salts that settle daily on the inner walls of the pipe.
This significantly reduces the service life of the device, so experts do not recommend connecting a steel water device to a centralized heating system.
Stainless steel heated towel rails. Bathroom heating devices made of stainless steel are reliable units that will serve the owner for a long time.
The main advantages of stainless steel heated towel rails include their ability to withstand high pressure and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel models have excellent thermal conductivity.
The disadvantages of such heated towel rails include the high cost of the products. They are several times more expensive than steel and copper structures. On the modern market you can find a budget analogue of a radiator - a heated towel rail painted to resemble stainless steel.
The disadvantage of the product is that if the operating rules are violated, it quickly loses its attractive appearance.
Stainless steel water heaters for drying towels and linen are more expensive than conventional steel alloy products, but they will last much longer
Regardless of the quality of the water, a stainless steel water radiator will last for a long time. There are chrome-plated, polished and painted stainless steel water heated towel rails. To ensure that a steel radiator will delight you with its attractive appearance for a long time, choose chrome-plated models from a domestic or imported manufacturer.
Brass and copper devices. Heated towel rails made from brass pipes are the “golden mean” between two types of steel radiators.
The material has an attractive golden color, which is given to it by its constituent components. Brass includes an alloy of copper and zinc, often with additions of iron, aluminum, tin and other elements. This is the most common copper alloy, characterized by ductility.
The service life of an aesthetic heated towel rail made of brass or copper is 5-10 years, but with gentle use it increases noticeably
Water heated towel rails made of brass or copper are not susceptible to corrosion and are slightly more expensive than similar products made of stainless steel.
The maximum permissible pressure that a similar brass or copper radiator can withstand is 6 bar. Due to this feature, they are excellent for installation in private houses, in which the water pressure usually does not exceed 3-4 atmospheres.
What to look for when choosing a heated towel rail?
In order not to regret choosing a water heated towel rail model, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:
- operating pressure - must be higher than in other pipes in the house (safety margin);
- maximum temperature - must be higher than in other pipes in the house (safety margin);
- dimensions of the device - you need to measure the wall on which you plan to mount it;
- maximum power - the higher the power, the faster the towels will dry;
- the quality of insulation is a primary safety issue;
- security parameter - each model has its own class, for example, IP-44;
- the shape of the heated towel rail - if the device is made of a ladder, then things will dry faster;
- number of additional shelves - allows you to dry the maximum number of things at a time;
- the presence of a technical passport and certificate of conformity is another safety issue that should be taken into account.
Keep in mind! These are the main parameters that you should pay attention to first.
Also, do not forget about the design and cost of a water heated towel rail. Now let’s look at the top best models of this device.
Water heated towel rail TERMINUS Foxtrot-Liana 700×532 stainless steel
"Foxtrot-Liana" is one of the best heated towel rails with a side connection.
In its manufacture, AISI 304L steel is used, which is reinforced with nickel and chromium.
Thanks to this, the device is highly resistant to high humidity and other aggressive factors in the bathroom.
This means that “Liana” will last as long as possible without repair or replacement.
The wall thickness of this water heated towel rail exceeds 3 millimeters, which once again indicates high reliability, including resistance to pressure changes.
The connection is made through a 1-inch male external thread, and the kit includes all the necessary fasteners.
Specifications:
- dimensions: 700x532 (there are other sizes of this model);
- center distance: 0.5 m;
- power: 305 Watt;
- working pressure: 9 bar;
- shape: MP-shaped;
- number of crossbars – 9 pcs;
- heating area – 3 square meters.
Advantages
- high reliability;
- quite large sizes;
- convenient lateral connection to a closed system;
- modern design.
Flaws
- no additional shelves;
- relatively small heating area.
Water heated towel rail TERMINUS Foxtrot 500×532 chrome
This model of water heated towel rail is very similar to the previous one, it’s not for nothing that it was made by the same manufacturer.
However, Foxtrot is much smaller in size. For example, there are only 6 sections, whereas on the previous model there were 9.
But there are two additional shelves: one on top, and the second on the bottom.
In terms of power, Foxtrot is also inferior to its previous competitor by as much as 100 watts. But such a small heated towel rail does not require much power.
But this model is lighter in weight by as much as 2 kilograms, which means it will be easier to attach.
And it costs an order of magnitude less - an excellent option for a small bathroom.
Specifications:
- dimensions: 500x532;
- center distance: 0.5 m;
- power: 200 Watt;
- shape: MP-shaped;
- number of crossbars – 6 pcs;
- heating area – 1.5-2 square meters.
Advantages
- high reliability;
- modern design;
- there are additional shelves;
- light weight;
- relatively low price.
Flaws
- low power;
- small heating area - not suitable for large bathrooms;
- a small number of crossbars.
Water heated towel rail Dvin D with shelf 50×40
“Dvin D” is a small heated towel rail with a side connection, which is equipped with two additional shelves.
The product is made of AISI304 steel, and the thickness of the pipes is 2 millimeters.
From this we can conclude that “Dvin D” is a fairly reliable, compact and at the same time convenient model of heated towel rail.
It is important to note that this model recently passed one difficult test - it was subjected to a pressure of 40 atmospheres. And the device successfully withstood it.
However, the operating instructions still indicate that the operating pressure should not exceed 24 atmospheres.
However, this test shows the high reliability of this water heated towel rail.
Specifications:
- dimensions: 500x400;
- center distance: 0.5 m;
- power: 200 Watt;
- working pressure – up to 24 atmospheres;
- shape: M-shaped;
- number of crossbars – 7 pcs;
Advantages
- compact dimensions;
- high reliability;
- despite its compact size, there is a sufficient number of crossbars;
- there are additional shelves;
- Easy installation with side connection.
Flaws
- the shelves do not heat up, so you cannot dry anything on them;
- No fittings included;
- not the most comfortable shape.
Connection options for dryers
When choosing a water heated towel rail, you need to consider the way the structure is connected. There are 3 main connection types:
- Lateral. Suitable for vertically elongated devices. This is the most universal method, suitable for standard snakes, systems with “recessed” pipes and for individual ladder models.
- Bottom connection. Requires Mayevsky taps and normal hot water pressure. Suitable for large models, often used in ladders.
- Diagonal. This connection method ensures efficient water circulation and requires additional pipe laying. Suitable for large structures, stairs and their modifications.
One of the most popular types is a heating device with a side connection. Such models are in demand due to the features of the device and the ease of connecting the unit to the water supply network. When purchasing a side heated towel rail, you must take into account that some models are not suitable for standard domestic systems.
The model with a side connection is distinguished by its aesthetics due to the hidden communication system. The coolant pipe is hidden in the wall
The generally accepted diameter of risers in apartment buildings is 1 or 1.4 inches. According to foreign standards, the connecting dimensions are 3/4 or 1.5 inches. If you purchased a heated towel rail with these dimensions, you must additionally purchase a special adapter with which you can perform installation work.
Design and size of heated towel rails
For a bathroom of any style, you can choose a water heated towel rail that will harmoniously fit into the surrounding interior. A large selection of devices allows you to choose the appropriate product option for classic, ultra-modern and other style trends.
A significant role when choosing an attention-grabbing device for drying towels is given to the outer coating of the product. Many modern manufacturers prefer to use materials that are popular today - chrome and polished brass - to cover a water heated towel rail.
If desired, to create an exclusive interior, you can select designer radiator models with the effect of aged gold, bronze, matte nickel and others. The main condition is that the selected heated towel rail matches the style of the bathroom.
A heated towel rail made in retro style will become an accent element of the interior. Copper and brass go well with natural materials: wood, stone, brick
Water radiators for drying may include additional elements. These are shelves for storing bath accessories, hooks for linen and bathrobes, etc. Decide in advance whether there is a need for such additions, since each additional function increases the final cost of the device.
You need to pay attention not only to the design of the heating device, but also to the size of the product. It is important how many towels can be dried on the radiator at the same time and whether the bulky design will not spoil the aesthetics of the room.
A large heated towel rail (with a large total length of tubes, long or wide) additionally performs the function of effective heating of the room
Please note that heated towel rails with a large surface area heat up faster and dry laundry and towels. If your plans are not only to dry towels, but also to heat the bathroom, pay attention to larger radiator designs.
Materials
Heated towel rails are produced from durable stainless steel of different grades. The AISI 304 brand, as well as its analogues, is most often used. There is no plaque deposited on the walls of steel dryers. Models made of stainless steel have a mirror or glossy surface, less often painted.
Plumbing stores sell galvanized steel fixtures. They have a limited service life. These heated towel rails have a painted or chrome-plated surface. They are not suitable for use in conditions of high humidity, typical of bathrooms.
Copper models are quite expensive, but at the same time they are susceptible to the aggressive influence of moisture. They are usually used in vintage interiors.
Ceramic models are made from high-quality ceramics with good heat transfer properties. More often they are used as an element of prestige and luxury.
Aluminum heated towel rails are inferior to their copper and ceramic counterparts in terms of heat transfer coefficient, but surpass them in the number of design ideas.
Additional equipment functions
Modern electric heated towel rails are energy-efficient devices that are beneficial to leave on at all times. This is due to the fact that heating an initially cold radiator will require a temperature significantly higher than that required to maintain the heat of an already heated device.
Manufacturers, taking into account the wishes of all consumers, have developed models of drying devices equipped with shut-off switches and timers. Progressive models allow you to achieve the set temperature without outside intervention
The presence of a timer allows you to set a program for turning on the water heated towel rail before taking a shower or bath. This will keep the towel warm when you need it.
Switches and timers can be built-in or act as a convenient separate option. Some models are equipped with a thermostat to maintain the required temperature of the device according to your wishes.
You will learn about the rules and wiring diagrams for electrical “drying” by reading the popular article on our website.
Manufacturer choice: domestic or imported?
Both heated towel rails from domestic manufacturers and foreign analogues are in great demand in the modern radiator market. Of the imported models, Italian, German and Finnish brands deserve special attention.
Consumers are offered a variety of models of heating devices, from traditional budget units to non-standard premium devices
When choosing a heated towel rail, you should take into account the fact that products from European manufacturers are mainly designed for connecting a radiator to a heating system. Products from domestic manufacturers are usually focused on connecting the structure to a centralized hot water supply system.
European manufacturers do not take into account the quality of water circulating through drainpipes and use thin-walled steel as a material. However, the internal walls of the radiator usually do not have an anti-corrosion coating.
For hot water supply, water is used, which contains mechanical suspensions, salts and chemical impurities. These elements contribute to corrosion, and suspensions settle on the walls of the device, reducing the internal diameter of the pipe. This especially negatively affects the bends of the product.
The water coming from the water supply does not contain oxygen, and the coolant from the boiler is enriched with it, which is why many choose domestically produced heated towel rails, which are adapted to the conditions of our communications.
Domestic water heated towel rail Sunerzha Epatage - high quality at an affordable price. Pressure - up to 25 atmospheres, cost - 12,500 rubles
The high rating and popularity of stainless steel water heated towel rails has led to the appearance of many counterfeits.
Low quality metal is sensitive to various impurities and quickly loses its performance properties and becomes unusable. To insure against low-quality products, you must give preference to proven and reliable manufacturers.
In addition to well-known world brands, there are companies on the market with budget options for heated towel rails that strictly monitor the quality of their products.
Warranty
The manufacturer is responsible for the condition of the product to the buyer. The manufacturer undertakes warranty obligations for a certain period, which is strictly specified. He is responsible for the quality of the device itself, its components, and additional parts.
The average warranty period for a heated towel rail is 3-5 years; for components – 1 year. If components for which the warranty period is indicated separately from the device have been replaced, then the new spare parts are provided with a warranty for the same period.
Important characteristics of water modifications
If you want to buy the most economical and relatively inexpensive model, it is better to opt for standard M-shaped or U-shaped products. They are great for decorating a small bathroom.
To install such a water structure, you do not need to install or change pipes. To dry towels, just connect it to the pipeline.
In order to dry a significant amount of towels and linen, as well as to heat the room, choose models with fairly wide pipes. It is desirable that they be made of anti-corrosion and wear-resistant stainless steel.
When purchasing a heated towel rail, be sure to check how the device is connected. Models that look similar in appearance to a regular radiator can be connected exclusively to the heating system.
When choosing the optimal model of a water heated towel rail, you should pay special attention to ensuring that it does not succumb to corrosion and can withstand sudden pressure changes and various types of water hammer.
Before paying for the selected product, carefully inspect it for dents, chips in the coating, if any, scratches. Examine the quality of welds and connections
If you have no idea about the installation features of these products, it is recommended to use the services of professionals. This will save you from having to carry out repeated repairs in case of unsuccessful installation of the structure.
To purchase a high-quality and durable water heated towel rail, pay attention to the coating of the product, the design of the welds and the threads on the ends. It wouldn’t hurt to check the availability of appropriate certificates for the products you purchase. In addition to the warranty card, the kit must contain a hygiene card with the name of the manufacturer.
How to detect a defective or fake model
It has long been known that any popular plumbing fixtures are counterfeited by unscrupulous companies. In order not to purchase such a low-quality model, similar to a well-known brand, attention is focused on some details of the device:
- The quality of welds, their visibility on the surface;
- Operability of shut-off valves - Mayevsky tap;
- Quality of polishing material on the surface of the structure;
- The quality of manufacture of the fastening elements of the model;
- Quality and quantity of rubber gaskets;
- The thread pitch is clear and not broken.
The easiest way to find out which brand the device is from is to get a quality certificate from the seller.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The video will clearly introduce the main aspects of the choice:
We tried to give you a general idea about water heated towel rails that will help you choose the optimal model. Taking into account the material of manufacture, the degree of resistance of the product to corrosion processes, technical characteristics and features of the devices, you will be able to choose the optimal model of heated towel rail.
Would you like to tell us how you chose a heated towel rail for your own bathroom? Did you have any questions while reading the article? Do you want to provide interesting information? Please leave comments in the block below.
