How To Heat A Conservatory

Are you considering using a radiator to heat your conservatory, but not sure if it’s the right choice? Using radiators to heat a conservatory can be an effective and efficient way to keep the space warm, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons before making a decision.

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of using radiators to heat a conservatory, as well as important factors to consider when choosing a radiator for your space.

Why is my conservatory cold?

There are a number of factors which play into the cold effect that is seen in conservatories – some of which are out of your control such as the exposure to sun (i.e. North vs. South facing) whilst others can be improved such as insulation and heating:

• Large glass panels: The high amount of glazing in a conservatory can allow a lot of heat to escape, making it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Variable temperatures: The temperature in a conservatory can fluctuate based on the time of day, the weather outside, and other factors such as the position of the sun. This can make it harder to maintain a consistent temperature compared to other rooms in the house.
• Poor insulation: Insufficient insulation or sealing of draughts can make it harder to keep a conservatory warm and comfortable.
• Glazing: The type of glazing used in a conservatory can impact its temperature. Some types of glazing are better at retaining heat than others.
• Lack of heating: If a conservatory does not have a heating system or the heating system is not powerful enough, it may be difficult to keep the space warm and comfortable.

What are the challenges with conservatory heating?

There are several issues that may arise when heating a conservatory, including:

1. Limited wall space – Conservatories often have limited wall space for radiators or other heating systems, which can make it challenging to install traditional heating systems.
2. Planning permission – If you are considering extending the central heating system from the rest of the house into the conservatory, you may need to obtain planning permission and adhere to building regulations.
3. Energy efficiency of electric heaters – Electric heaters can be convenient for heating a conservatory, but they can be expensive to run if they are not energy-efficient. It is important to choose an energy-efficient electric heater in order to save money on energy costs and reduce the carbon footprint.
4. Heat loss due to large glass panels – Conservatories are typically made up of large glass panels, which can allow a lot of heat to escape and make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature. This can be a challenge when heating a conservatory, and may require the use of specialized heating systems or additional insulation to reduce heat loss.

What are some common heating solutions for a conservatory?

1. Central heating with standard radiators

This involves extending the central heating system from the rest of the house into the conservatory, and installing standard radiators to heat the space. This is an efficient and cost-effective solution, but may not be practical if the conservatory has limited wall space for radiators or if it is not possible to extend the plumbing (due to planning permission or building regulations).

2. Electric radiators

Electric radiators are a convenient option for heating a conservatory because they do not require plumbing and can be plugged into a standard outlet. They are quick to heat up and have their own heat settings, but can consume a lot of electricity and may not be suitable for very large conservatories.

3. Infrared heating

Infrared heaters work by transmitting light into the conservatory, which warms the air and surfaces in the space. They are powered by gas or electricity, and are a convenient option for quickly warming a cold room. However, they can become very hot if left on for too long, and may emit an intense light that some people find uncomfortable.

4. Trench heating

Trench heating involves installing a long, narrow radiator along the base of a wall in the conservatory. It is an effective way to heat the space, but can take a long time to warm up and may not be suitable for very small conservatories.

5. Fan heaters

Fan heaters are portable, electric heaters that work by blowing hot air into the room. They are a quick and convenient way to heat a conservatory, but may not be as efficient as other options and may not be suitable for larger spaces.

6. Underfloor heating

Underfloor heating involves installing pipes or electric cables beneath the floor of the conservatory, which heat the space from the ground up. It is an efficient and effective way to heat the space, but can be expensive to install and may not be practical if the conservatory has a raised floor.

FAQ’s

In Conclusion…

In conclusion, using radiators to heat a conservatory can be an effective and efficient way to keep the space warm. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons and understand the factors that can impact the performance of a radiator in a conservatory.

Factors such as the size and location of the conservatory, the type of glazing used, and the amount of insulation present can all affect the heating efficiency of a radiator. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges that can arise when heating a conservatory, such as limited wall space, the need for planning permission and building regulations, and the energy efficiency of electric radiators.

By considering these factors and choosing the right radiator for your space, you can effectively heat your conservatory and enjoy it all year round.