How to choose a stainless steel heated towel rail for a bathtub?
A heated towel rail is an important element of comfort for the bathroom. It is convenient to hang wet towels to dry on it (hence the name). In addition, a properly selected and mounted device helps create a comfortable microclimate in the bathroom. At the same time, the scope of this device is not at all limited to the bathroom. It is mounted in the basement, in the hallways, kitchens and even bedrooms. The device efficiently drains air and prevents the development of mold. Let's talk about how to choose a heated towel rail for a water bath made of stainless steel, and not only. We hope that our tips will help you navigate the sea of purchase offers.
to contents ↑Where to begin?
Before you go shopping, try to answer these questions:
- How much money are you willing to part with for the sake of buying?
- Which model do you want to buy - simple, functional or designer?
- Which option is preferable for you - an electric or water device?
- Mobile or fixed towel warmer - which is better for you?
- What design can organically fit into the interior of the bathroom?
Currently, the market offers a variety of models - from budget to super-expensive design. It all depends on your taste and financial capabilities.
to contents ↑Electric VS Water
Both options have their pros and cons, both are quite effective.
Electric
Among their main features are the following:
- As a rule, these devices are not characterized by excessive energy consumption. The power of many of them can be compared with a conventional light bulb.
- Inside the device is a mineral oil or a heating element for dry heating.
- Most devices are equipped with on and off buttons, so you can not turn on the device every time in an outlet.
- When installing an electrical appliance, wiring can be hidden.
Important! Powerful models can be used as an independent source of heating for a small room. For more spacious rooms, it is advisable to combine a heated towel rail with other heating devices.
Electric devices are convenient in such cases:
- You are doing major repairs in a house or apartment, but do not want to make an insert into the water supply system.
- You want to have an additional heated towel rail, in addition to water. This solution is relevant for apartment buildings, where there is an acute problem with seasonal shutdowns of hot water.
- There is a need for a heated towel rail not only for the bathroom. It is most convenient in this case to choose a portable, mobile model.
How to choose a water heated towel rail for the bathroom?
These devices use hot water that passes through the device. The connection system can be of two types:
- Open - to a common hot water system.
- Closed - to an autonomous heating system.
Important! The use of a water device helps to save electricity, but there are significant difficulties with installation if this does not occur at the stage of building a house or overhaul.A significant drawback of this option is that when the heating is turned off, the device will not function.
Technical points
When choosing, you need to pay attention to such nuances:
- The value of the maximum pressure for which the device is designed.
- If you have to connect to an autonomous heating system with low pressure, then there will be no problems with the choice.
- As for connecting to a centralized heating system, most of the heated towel rails of imported production will not work.
Important! The pressure in the heating systems of apartment buildings is from 8 to 10 atm. (in old houses - 5-7 atm.). The thickness of the walls of the pipe in heated towel rails is only 1-1.25 mm. Such devices are designed for low pressure. In the best case, the device will last up to 2 years. Then you have to change it or make repairs to the neighbors below.
Base material
The first thing you need to pay attention to is the material of the device:
- Stainless steel. Despite the big name, the option is not reliable enough. An exception to this rule is radiators with walls 2–2.5 mm thick. Naturally, they cost much more than basic models. If you are thinking how to choose a stainless steel water heated towel rail, then pay attention to such models.
- Brass, copper. Of all the possible options, these materials have high heat dissipation. If the inside of the pipes is galvanized, they can be connected to a centralized DHW system.
- Black steel. Corrosion-resistant coating makes the heated towel rail resistant to aggressive aquatic environments. Connection to a central hot water system is possible.
Design
In addition to the classic design, there are designs of the original form, which make it possible to seamlessly connect to hot water pipes. These are dual-circuit models. They are distinguished by some complexity of installation, but they do not occupy efficiency. Devices are equipped with protection against corrosion, water pressure and high temperatures.
In addition, it is necessary to take into account the type of pipe supply and the distance between the pipes. Types of supply:
- Lower.
- Lateral (right or left).
As a rule, the distance between the pipes is 0.5 m. However, there are exceptions.
Important! Before buying, be sure to make sure that the device’s passport specifies the ability to connect to a hot water system.
Mounting method
Another important point to consider when choosing is the installation method.
Important! It is advisable to entrust this to a qualified plumber or electrician, at least in order to maintain the right to warranty service.
Useful Tips:
- The simplest installation option, available even for non-professionals, is an electric model with a plug. The connection principle is the same as with any electrical appliance.
- With the installation of portable heated towel rails, no questions arise. Without exception, all portable devices are electric. It is enough to just install the device in the right place and plug the plug into the outlet.
- Installation of water heated towel rails is carried out on the floor or wall. The wall-mounted version is the most ergonomic. The device can simultaneously play the role of a bracket for placing towels. If only part of the wall is tiled, you can find a device for wall mounting with a level difference.
What form of water heated towel rail to choose for the bathroom? Design and dimensions
The list of styles in which the devices are made is huge - from classics to the most modern version. Of considerable importance is the external coating. The most common options are chrome and brass. There are more refined types of design - the effects of brushed nickel, antique gold or bronze. Most importantly, the device is fully consistent with the interior design. Consider the basic, most popular, styles.
Suite
These devices are suitable for classic interiors.Strict design, excellent build quality and solid materials - these are the main characteristics of products of this class. Their cost is quite high.
Retro
Items in retro style most often have a coating of brass or bronze. They are also distinguished by the "antique" design. Such an unusual device looks great next to a freestanding bathtub on bronze legs-paws. It is very beautiful if the door handles, lamps and other interior elements are designed in the same style and color scheme.
Eco
Eco-style is distinguished by the simplicity of forms and pastel-pastel colors. This is a great option for a simple interior. There is no emphasis on the heated towel rail. This is just one of the design details, and nothing more.
to contents ↑Model Overview
Here is a brief overview of the most successful water and electric models in different price segments.
Sunerzha Elegia (Eleg-el)
Stainless steel electric model. Chrome plated. The model is made in the form of a volume ladder, there are several color variations. Cost from 250 to 375 at. e.
Galant M-3
Water type device. Made in the form of a short flight of stairs, equipped with a small shelf on top. Possible top or side connection. Coating - chrome, mirror. The cost of 100-150. e.
Fashion M
Water device with a pipe diameter of 25 mm. Production material - stainless steel. The price is 50-60 y. e.
Terminus Europe
Stainless steel water heated towel rail with alternate (left and right) jumpers. Cost - about 250 at. e.
Energy U-G3
Electric model with three 180-degree sections. The device is equipped with a light indicator. Cost - about 200 at. e.
Terminus Niagara
The device is designed for connection to a centralized hot water system. Consists of 6 sections arranged in a cascade. Cost - about 200 at. e.
Tiffany World TW800GVS Bronze
Premium water heated towel rail. It is possible to connect to a domestic hot water system or central heating. The model is made of brass with a coating imitating bronze. Control valves are styled antique.
to contents ↑Stock footage
We hope that the information will be useful to you, and you can make a successful purchase for a house or apartment.
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