If you live in an older home with a radiator that is no longer heating, you will need to know about the different types of radiators in order to figure out how to fix it. The radiator is an older method to heat homes, and though less efficient than other forms of heating, some people still prefer the look of an old-fashioned radiator to floor vents or baseboard heat.
Radiators function through the circulation of a heat source through metal coils in a unit that is placed somewhere in the room. Heat “radiates” from the metal unit and, as air circulates in the room, the air is gradually heated. There are two basic types of radiators.
Steam Radiators: These radiators are the oldest type. They operate through a single pipe from the boiler — usually located in the basement or another room in the home — that heats water to the point of steam. The steam circulates through the metal coils and, as it cools, condenses back into water and is returned through the pipe to the boiler.
Water Radiators: These radiators came after the steam models and operated on the same principle as their elder counterparts. Instead of water being heated in the boiler to the extent of steam, the water is simply heated and circulated through one pipe, around the coils and out a second pipe back to the boiler.
The easiest way to differentiate between the different types of radiators is through the number of pipes connected to the unit. If your unit is exceptionally ornate, it is likely a steam unit. Older Victorian-era radiators were given an artistic flare with the rationale that, if you needed to have a large mass of metal in the room, it might as well look good.
When Your Radiator Acts Up…
Fixing such a unit might turn complicated due to their age and rarity. The best thing to do is to call a professional. TalkLocal can connect you with a local repair person quickly. The best part is, our service is completely free and very convenient.
