FAQ's
- What is the difference between central heating, dual-fuel & electric towel rails?
Central heating, dual-fuel, & electric refer to the different ways towel rails are powered. Central heating towel rails connect directly to your home's central heating system. These warm-ups when the central heating is on. Electric towel rails work independently, while a dual-fuel combines both systems, allowing it to run through the central heating & switch to electricity when the main heating isn't in use.
The electric towel warmers available at QS Supplies have a built-in element, so they don't rely on hot water from your central heating system. Unlike a dual-fuel, these are connected to your home's electrical supply. They operate independently and give you complete control over how much heat they emit. They also use less energy, which can help you save on energy costs.
If you're considering installing an electric towel rail for energy efficiency reasons, there are a few things to consider. While these towel warmers are energy efficient, the costs depend on the wattage of the specific model you choose. How long have you had it on? How frequently do you use it? The temperature you set it to & your local electricity rates.
When choosing a towel rail for your bathroom, consider your décor and your approach to energy efficiency. Choose one that harmonises with your existing décor and offers the most convenience in terms of fuel efficiency.
At some times of year, the days are warm enough not to warrant turning on your central heating. However, the mornings or evenings might be chilly enough for you to want warm towels. This would make an electric or dual-fuel a good option.
- What does BTU stand for?
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. The BTU helps determine how much heat a towel warmer can emit. The bigger your bathroom, the higher the BTU towel rail will need. A higher BTU unit is recommended if your bathroom is also cold & damp.
We recommend using our BTU calculator to work out the ideal BTU when shopping for a towel rail. You'll need to enter the following information into the BTU calculator:
- The bathroom's length, width & height.
- The number of windows in the bathroom.
- Whether the windows are double-glazed, single-glazed, or unglazed.
- Whether the bathroom walls are insulated.
- Whether there is another room above the bathroom.
After entering this information, the calculator will determine the BTU needed to heat your bathroom. You can then use the BTU to choose one from the options available.
- Are heated towel warmers safe to use?
Are heated towel warmers safe to use?Yes, the heated rails at QS Supplies are safe when installed and used correctly. They are designed to operate at regulated temperatures. Most models come with built-in safety features such as thermostats & overheating protection. If your towel rail doesn't include these features, we suggest that you turn it off when not in use or install a timer. While you can install a towel rail yourself with the right tools & skills, we recommend asking a professional to do the installation.
As with any heated appliance, it's essential to follow the installation guidelines. Keep it clear of flammable materials and do not hang wet clothes, which could cause overheating or imbalances in temperature.
- Are heated towel warmers at QS Supplies available in different colours?
Yes, towel warmers are available in various colours, including black, white, chrome, bronze, blue, grey, copper & gold. This ensures a colour to suit every bathroom style, whether traditional or contemporary.
We don't recommend painting a towel radiator, as this can damage the coating, reduce its efficiency and void the warranty. If you have your heart set on a specific colour, contact our friendly staff for your preferred colour.
- What are towel warmers made from?
The towel warmers we stock at QS Supplies are made from durable and long-lasting materials. Select from aluminium, brass, stainless steel, mild steel & steel. These materials are rust-resistant and are available in various finishes. Finishes available at our online store include brushed, matte, polished and sparkling chrome. The wide variety ensures an option to suit every design taste and preference.
No matter the material & finish, keeping your towel warmer looking good is easy. The important thing to remember is to turn off the heating and let the warmer cool down completely before giving it a good wipe with a damp cloth and buffing it with a clean, dry cloth.