Traditional Heated Towel Rails: A Buyer's Guide

Traditional Heated Towel Rails: A Buyer's Guide

When purchasing a traditional heated towel rail, there are many factors to consider - from size and power needs to design and style. With so many choices on the market, it can be difficult for even the most experienced buyers to choose a model that will meet their requirements. At ShowerstoYou, we've created this comprehensive buyer's guide on traditional towel rails to simplify this process.

In our guide, we'll discuss all the essential details you need to know when considering buying one of these fixtures, including what materials they're made of and what type of installation is required. So whether you're a new homeowner wanting a timeless addition or an experienced designer looking for something special for your next project, our Traditional Heated Towel Rails Buyer's Guide has everything you need!

What is a Traditional Heated Towel Rail?

Traditional heated towel rails have been a staple in bathrooms for decades, providing a luxurious experience that's hard to beat. These functional accessories not only keep your towels warm and cosy, but they also add a touch of elegance to your space. The magnificence of a heated towel rail lies in its simplicity - they're easy to install and use, requiring nothing more than a power source. They are made from various materials, including aluminium and stainless steel. These appliances are built to last, ensuring you always have warm towels after a shower. Add a traditional heated towel rail to your bathroom and experience the comfort and luxury that it brings.

Want to know more about Heated Towel Rails? Check our buyer's guide for more information.

Traditional Heated Towel Rails vs Modern Towel Rails

Traditional heated towel rails are typically designed with a classic Victorian-era aesthetic. They often feature ornate details and intricate designs and are made from brass or cast iron materials. These heated towel rails are still popular today, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom décor.

In contrast, modern heated towel rails feature simpler, more minimalist designs, often made from stainless steel or chrome. They are usually more streamlined in appearance and can be fitted with additional features such as timers and thermostats for increased energy efficiency and convenience.

While traditional heated towel rails are ideal for period homes, modern designs are better suited to contemporary and minimalist bathrooms. However, both styles are available in a range of finishes and sizes to suit any bathroom décor, and regardless of the type you choose, a heated towel rail is an excellent way to add comfort and luxury to your bathroom experience and effortlessly blends with traditional bathroom furniture.

What are the benefits of Traditional Heated Towel Rails?

There are several benefits to choosing a traditional heated towel rail for your bathroom. Here are some of the main advantages:

Classic design: Traditional heated towel rails feature a timeless, classic design that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom décor. They are often made from high-quality materials such as brass or cast iron, which gives them a sturdy and durable construction.

Enhanced functionality: Besides keeping your towels warm and dry, traditional heated towel rails are also designed to provide gentle heat to your bathroom, helping to support the space cosy and comfortable even during colder months.

Easy installation: Traditional heated towel rails are relatively easy to install and can be fitted to any existing plumbing system without additional wiring or electrical work.

Low maintenance: Because they are made from high-quality materials, traditional heated towel rails require minimal maintenance and are built to last for many years.

Versatility: Traditional heated towel rails are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, making them a versatile choice that can be customised to suit any bathroom décor.

Overall, a traditional heated towel rail is an excellent investment that can provide functional and aesthetic benefits to your bathroom space.

Can I install a Traditional Heated Towel Rail myself?

Installing a traditional heated towel rail is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with basic plumbing and DIY skills. Here are the general steps you'll need to follow:

Choose your location: Decide where to install your traditional heated towel rail. Make sure that the location is accessible and that there is enough space to install it without it interfering with any other bathroom fixtures.

Turn off the water supply: Before beginning the installation, turn off the water supply to the bathroom and ensure all pipes are drained to prevent leaks or damage.

Install the brackets: Position the brackets for the towel rail on the wall and secure them into place using screws. Please ensure they are level and properly aligned so the towel rail will sit evenly.

Connect the valves: Attach the radiator valves to the towel rail using the provided fittings. These valves will allow you to control the water flow to the towel rail, so ensure they are installed in the correct orientation.

Connect the pipes: Connect the pipework to the towel rail and valves using compression fittings, ensuring they are tight enough to prevent leaks.

Fill and test: Once everything is connected, turn on the water supply to the bathroom and fill the system with water. Check for leaks or damage, and ensure the towel rail is heating up properly.

Finishing touches: Once the rail is installed and functioning correctly, finish off any remaining work, such as sealing gaps around the brackets or painting any exposed pipework to complete the installation. Overall, installing a traditional heated towel rail is a relatively simple process. Still, if you need more experience with plumbing or DIY work, it's always best to consult a professional plumber or installer. We also have a complete breakdown of how to install a radiator available.

Why is Bathroom Heating essential?

Bathroom heating is essential for several reasons:

Comfort: A warm bathroom can make your daily routine more comfortable and enjoyable, especially during colder months. No one likes stepping out of a warm shower or bath into a cold room.

Health: Bathrooms are often damp and humid environments that can promote the growth of mould and mildew. Keeping your bathroom warm can minimise these issues and promote healthier air quality.

Efficiency: A heated bathroom can serve as a buffer zone between the cold outdoors and the rest of your home, helping to reduce heat loss and improve overall energy efficiency.

Protection: Bathroom heating can help to prevent frozen pipes, which can cause significant damage to your plumbing system and result in costly repairs.

Convenience: A warm bathroom can make getting ready in the morning easier, as you can step out of the shower or bath without feeling chilled. It can also make it more pleasant to use the bathroom at night, as you won't have to deal with a cold room when you're half asleep.

Bathroom heating creates a comfortable, healthy, and efficient home environment.

How much are Traditional Heated Towel Rails to run?

The cost to run a traditional heated towel rail will depend on several factors, including the appliance's size and wattage, the electricity cost in your area, and how often you use it. However, traditional heated towel rails are generally not considered expensive, as they typically have low-wattage heating elements that consume relatively little energy.

On average, you can expect a traditional heated towel rail to consume between 100 and 150 watts of power when used. It's worth noting that while traditionally-inspired heated towel rails may not be expensive to run, they consume some energy, so it's crucial to ensure that you use them efficiently by switching them off when they are not needed and using them only when necessary. This will help to reduce your overall energy consumption and keep your utility bills low.

How much are Traditional Heated Towel Rails to buy?

The cost of a traditional heated towel rail can vary depending on several factors, including the size, design, and material used to make the rail. On ShowerstoYou, our traditional designs range from £250 - £550. It's worth noting that the installation cost is not usually included in the purchase price of a heated towel rail, so you will need to factor in the cost of installation or installation materials if you plan to do it yourself. If you're not confident in your DIY skills, you may hire a professional plumber to install the towel rail, adding cost to the overall price.

Are Traditional Heated Towel Rails as Efficient as Modern Heated Towel Rails?

Traditional and modern heated towel rails serve the same purpose of warming and drying towels but differ in efficiency.

Modern heated towel rails are generally more energy-efficient than traditional models. They typically use low-wattage heating elements and advanced technology such as timers and thermostats to provide efficient and precise heating. This means they can warm up quickly and use less energy, reducing utility bills and environmental impact.

On the other hand, traditional heated towel rails tend to be less energy-efficient, as they rely on higher-wattage heating elements and may have fewer features to help regulate their temperature or control their energy usage. However, some traditional models may still be relatively efficient compared to older or outdated models, and they may be a good choice if you're looking for a classic or vintage aesthetic for your bathroom.

Ultimately, the efficiency of a heated towel rail will depend on several factors, including its size, wattage, design, and features. It's essential to consider these factors when choosing a towel rail and to look for models with high energy efficiency ratings and low running costs.

What is the difference between a Traditional Heated Towel Rail and a Traditional Bathroom Radiator?

A traditional heated towel rail and a traditional bathroom radiator are similar in that they provide warmth to a bathroom, but there are some differences between them. The primary function of a heated towel rail is to warm and dry towels, while a traditional bathroom radiator is to heat the entire room.

Heated towel rails tend to be smaller than traditional radiators, as they are designed to fit in relatively small spaces and provide targeted heating for towels. If you're looking for a way to keep your towels warm and dry while adding a stylish touch to your bathroom, a traditional heated towel rail is an excellent choice. However, a bathroom radiator may be better if you need more widespread heating for your entire bathroom space.

The Burlington Radiator Collection blends radiator and heated towel elements into a sleek design.

Why should I buy a Traditional Heated Towel Rail from ShowerstoYou?

As a reputable online retailer specialising in bathroom products, ShowerstoYou offers a wide selection of high-quality and stylish towel rails designed to add warmth and comfort to your bathroom. Our team of knowledgeable representatives can help you find the perfect towel rail to suit your needs, and they'll be there to answer any questions or concerns you may have before and after your purchase. Contact us today via email (info@showerstoyou.co.uk), phone (01472 242159) or our contact form.