heated towel rail

If you’re warming to the idea of a heated towel rail, check out these stylish options

Keep your bath sheets nice and toasty

Even if you are lucky enough to have underfloor heating, no bathroom should be without a heated towel rail. Not only will you ensure there’s always a fresh supply of toasty, warm towels to hand, but they also help reduce condensation, too.

Which design should I choose?

Heated towel rails are split into modern, traditional and designer categories. Choose a style that complements your sanitaryware and brassware. ‘Designer’ towel rails are statement pieces that make an impact wherever they are installed.

What materials/ finishes are best?

Solid stainless steel will withstand higher levels of condensation than mild steel or painted designs. But, as long as your bathroom is sufficiently vented (with an extractor fan), any towel rail sold for bathroom use should be fine. Look for guarantees – 10 years is good. A white towel warmer gives out slightly more heat than a chrome version of the same size.

How are they installed?

Heated towel rails can be powered in three ways: via your central heating, electric only or dual-fuel. The former plumbs into your mains central heating system and works in the same way as conventional radiators. Electric-only can prove a good retro-fit option and is also popular in homes with underfloor heating. Dual-fuel works via central heating in winter but the addition of an electric heating element provides dry towels during the summer months.

What heat output do I need?

For just warming towels, around 150 watts should be adequate. If it will be your bathroom’s only heat source, it is worth using an online BTU (British Thermal Unit) calculator to determine your heat output needs, according to the room’s volume and insulation levels (just Google ‘BTU calculator’).

Are there any extra costs I should know about?

You will need a pair of radiator valves to control the heat output. They are usually sold separately and are either angled or straight, depending on whether your towel rail is wall-hung or floor-mounted. If you are replacing an existing towel rail with a bigger model your plumber’s bill will also be higher. The same size, or smaller, can usually be connected to the existing valves so is a quicker job.