As winter's chill sets in, many Brits are discovering their radiators aren't delivering the promised warmth, leading to cold homes and soaring energy costs. According to a leading industry expert, the problem often lies not with the boiler but with the radiator itself, and there's one critical error homeowners frequently make.
The 'Fantasy' Ratings Leaving Homes Cold
Rob Nezard, managing director of UK Radiators, has issued a stark warning about a widespread issue in the heating market. He states that some radiators are being sold with exaggerated heat output figures that look impressive on paper but fail to perform in a typical British home.
"When you buy a radiator, you expect it to keep you warm. But if the figures are exaggerated, you'll never get the heat you're paying for," Nezard explains. He compares it to purchasing an 'extra thick' jumper that turns out to be paper thin, leaving consumers out of pocket and out in the cold.
How to Spot Misleading Radiator Claims
The core of the problem, according to the expert, lies in the testing conditions used to rate a radiator's performance. For an accurate measure, you must check the Delta T (ΔT) rating.
Most UK homes with standard gas boilers operate at Delta T 50. In contrast, homes using modern heat pumps typically run at a lower temperature, measured at Delta T 30. Nezard warns that some manufacturers test their radiators at much higher Delta T levels, which inflates the heat output number but does not reflect real-world performance.
His advice is clear: always check the small print. Ensure the heat output is listed in watts and specified at Delta T 50 for boilers or Delta T 30 for heat pumps. Any product tested at a higher rating should be treated with caution, as its advertised performance is likely a fantasy.
Protect Yourself from Wasted Energy and Money
Falling for these misleading claims has direct consequences: cold rooms during winter and unnecessarily high energy bills. Money and energy are wasted, with no benefit to the homeowner.
Before making a purchase, Rob Nezard recommends asking retailers for proof of performance. A legitimate Declaration of Performance document will show the radiator has been tested under proper, realistic standards. While bold marketing claims might be appealing, a radiator with a genuine, believable rating will always outperform one with inflated numbers.
The issue has not gone unnoticed by authorities. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) is reportedly working with industry bodies to tighten regulations on how radiators are advertised. Companies found exaggerating heat output could face significant penalties from watchdogs.
By understanding these key details—checking the Delta T rating, demanding proof in watts, and seeking a Declaration of Performance—homeowners can avoid a costly trap and ensure their investment actually keeps them warm when it matters most.
