There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and we at Ironworks Radiators are passionate about making sure our customers are well informed about their heating. We have collected a list of some of the most common radiator myths we get asked and have provided explanations debunking these myths below.

MYTH #1: “Radiators are ugly and outdated technology.”

While everyone is entitled to their own aesthetic preferences, a lot of people are shocked when they are shown the different radiator styles that are available. If you don’t fancy the straight lines of the classic column radiator, a radiator with scrolled tips or decorative embossing can add class and character to an otherwise dull room. In regard to the claim that radiators are outdated technology – there is a reason why they have remained a staple in the heating market for so long. Radiators have proven themselves to be the ultimate choice for reliable home heating. Cast iron radiators in particular have stood the test of time, many lasting over a hundred years and still providing even, consistent heat for several generations of families. There isn’t much out there nowadays that you can purchase once and not have to replace for decades!

MYTH #2: “Radiators are a burn hazard – it is unsafe to own a radiator if you have children or pets.”

This is a common myth perpetuated by those who are only familiar with steam and electric radiators. Although steam and electric radiators are hot to the touch, hydronic radiators carry no risk of burning anyone. The heat it emits is cozy and safe. In fact, if you own a cat, expect to see it claim the top of your radiator as its new favorite spot to snooze!

MYTH #3: “Radiators are a fire hazard.”

Again, this myth is only true when we are looking at leaning furniture against steam or electric radiators. It is completely safe to butt up your furniture against a hydronic radiator – it will not catch on fire. The only reason we don’t recommend putting particularly bulky furniture in front of your hydronic radiator is because it will disrupt the radiator’s ability to distribute heat efficiently throughout the room.

MYTH #4: “Radiators are expensive.”

There are budget-friendly options if you are wanting to add radiators to your home. Depending on the style, material and size of radiator you’re looking for, it is not always necessary to break the bank in order to bring quality heat into your space. Explore your options and decide what is right for you (or call us if you need some help figuring out what you need). Additionally, it is worth keeping in mind that radiators are an investment. Although sometimes the up-front cost can be intimidating, you are saving money in the long run by investing in a quality heating system that will last you decades and require very little yearly maintenance.

MYTH #5: “Forced air heats better and is more efficient than radiators.”

Forced air can heat up a cold room quickly, but not for very long and not without some unpleasant side effects. Radiators provide steady, consistent heat without blowing dust and allergens into the air every hour. Forced air is also known to dry out your skin and cause irritation if you struggle with dry eyes. Other reasons in favor of radiators over forced air systems include how much quieter radiators are compared to forced air, as well as how little cleaning and maintenance are needed to preserve their efficiency.

MYTH #6: “I don’t need a radiator if I have in-floor heating.”

In-floor heating is an excellent supplemental source of heat for a room, but it does not always replace the need for a radiator entirely. In warmer climates you can probably get away with no radiator, but if you live in a colder climate where temperatures can drop way below freezing, in-floor heating may not be powerful enough to keep the room comfortable. If you live in a climate with frigid winters, you’d be wise to combine both in-floor heating and a radiator to ensure you stay warm all season. Have you fallen for any of these myths? Let us know what myth surprised you most, or if there are any other myths we missed mentioning!