Column radiators
Column Radiators: Heritage Design, Serious Heat
Column radiators are usually chosen for one simple reason: you need more heat than a standard flat panel can comfortably deliver. Often, it's an older British home with high ceilings, large windows, or rooms that lose warmth faster than you'd like. These units offer that classic, timeless shape which feels right in period interiors without the heavy weight and slow response of traditional cast iron.
The performance benefit is clear. Multiple vertical columns create a much larger surface area, meaning more heat output within the same wall width. A 4-column radiator produces significantly higher BTU levels than a flat panel, making it better suited to draughty hallways or large dining spaces. Once warm, they hold heat longer, keeping rooms comfortable long after the heating clicks off.
We provide over 200 RAL colours as standard, with no surcharge. While most suppliers treat colour as a premium upgrade for traditional radiators, we don't believe in charging extra just for a better match. These radiators fit properly, perform consistently, and age well—something most traditional heating struggles to deliver over time.
What is a column radiator?
A column radiator is made up of a series of vertical columns joined together, rather than flat panels. This design creates a larger surface area, which helps it give off strong, steady heat.
Do column radiators give off more heat than normal radiators?
Often, yes. Because they have more surface area, column radiators can deliver higher heat output than many standard panel radiators of a similar width, especially in larger rooms.
Are column radiators old fashioned?
They’re based on a traditional design, but they’re far from outdated. Modern column radiators are popular in both period and contemporary homes, and many UK buyers choose them for their character and visual impact.
Are column radiators expensive to run?
No. Running costs come down to heat output and how the radiator is used, not the style itself. A column radiator with the same output as a panel radiator will cost roughly the same to run.
Do column radiators take longer to heat up?
They can take a little longer to warm up because they hold more water, but they also stay warm for longer once they’re hot. Many people find this helps rooms feel comfortably warm for longer periods.
Are column radiators suitable for modern homes?
Yes, they are. Many modern interiors use column radiators as a design feature, particularly in open-plan spaces, hallways and living rooms.
Are column radiators good for low-temperature heating systems?
Yes. Their larger surface area makes them well suited to low-temperature systems, such as heat pumps, where bigger radiators are needed to deliver enough warmth.
Are column radiators heavy?
They can be. Column radiators are generally heavier than flat panel radiators, so wall strength and proper fixings are important. Your installer will normally check this as part of the installation.