Managers of residential homes are increasingly faced with tough decisions to make sure their expenditure levels are directed in the most economical and effective areas. Mark Derbyshire explains the opportunities that exist to review the efficiency and running costs of the whole heating system.
Improving weather and warmer temperatures at this time of year mean there is a better opportunity to assess central heating systems within residential homes. This presents care home managers with the opportunity to organise a thorough assessment of their heating system and carry out any necessary upgrades before the colder temperatures return later in the year. While these checks will undoubtedly focus on examining the boiler or renewable appliance, it is actually vital to assess the entire heating system, including the radiators.

The radiator is recognised as the most traditional form of heat emitter and is present in the vast majority of UK properties.

Radiator sizing must be 'fit-for-purpose' for residential homes' needs, both when it is installed and in the years that follow.

Even though the radiators may have originally been correctly sized and fitted, subsequent property renovation, increased insulation levels and the addition of double glazing may mean they no longer sized to meet the heating requirements.

Such sizing discrepancies can have a serious impact on efficiency. If radiators are too small then, regardless of the quality and efficiency of the new boiler or renewable source, residents will find that their room is too cold in winter. Too large, and there could be problems with overheating and money being wasted on unnecessary fuel expenses.

When upgrading heating systems it is therefore vital to consider the quality of the heat emitters as well as ensuring that each has been correctly sized.

Ultimately, any investment in heating upgrades must deliver long-term benefits and radiators have the flexibility to meet these demands. Radiators have always been a popular heating choice because they are cost-effective, efficient and easy to maintain.

They also have a strong future, particularly given their ability to integrate with modern renewable solutions as well as established high efficiency condensing boiler solutions.

The important thing to take into account when radiator sizing is the flow temperatures in the system, which vary depending on the heating technology used.

In summary, the key to achieving optimum heating efficiency is to take the time to evaluate the system as a whole and not to look at elements such as the boiler or renewable in isolation.

By taking this wider view it's possible to ensure that residents enjoy the maximum in room comfort while fuel savings start making a genuine difference to the bottom line. With more than 50 years of heating industry experience, Heatline is ready with advice and support for those planning a heating system upgrade and is committed to providing the tools and products needed to deliver affordable, fuel-efficient long-term heating solutions.

Heat loss calculator simplifies rad sizing

Heatline claims to have made often complex radiator sizing calculations easier by developing a heat loss calculator. This software takes a range of data into account - including the size of walls, type of building materials used and the position of windows and doors - before providing detailed results about the heat loss for the room as well as giving the correct size of radiator needed to ensure a comfortable environment. A 'lite' version has also been produced to give property owners an initial indication of heating requirements - both are available from www.heatline.co.uk

• Mark Derbyshire is Heatline's commercial director