A heated towel rail is a multifunctional bathroom accessory. It serves not only for drying towels, but also serves as a heater. A stylish model of modern design decorates the room and divides it into zones.
The devices differ in design, technical characteristics, and installation method. Let's look in detail at how to choose an electric heated towel rail for the bathroom and what parameters you should pay attention to.
The article is supplemented with information about the best manufacturers, whose products are in demand and have won positive customer reviews.
A heated towel rail is an indispensable bathroom appliance.
An electric heated towel rail is a simple design made of a curved pipe and a heating element connected to a power source. Connection features depend on the design of the model. The device itself is attached to the wall or installed on the floor.
Most often, devices are purchased for bathrooms, but sometimes they are also appropriate in kitchens. The devices perform the functions of a towel dryer and warm up the air. Bathrooms are usually small, so such a modest radiator is enough to create a comfortable temperature.
The shiny surfaces of the heated towel rail harmonize with chrome and nickel-plated sanitary fixtures, and also visually expand the space: the bathroom seems larger and brighter
Regular heating of the bathroom prevents condensation and dampness. Thanks to this, the fungus multiplies less, which can completely ruin the finishing materials in a short time and even cause respiratory diseases among the residents of the house. Preventing the formation of black mold is easier than fighting it later.
A good heated towel rail is essential for any bathroom, especially in a home with small children. The main thing is to take into account all the features of the room and choose a device of suitable design and power.
For spacious bathrooms, it is better to choose powerful models equipped with additional measuring and control devices - timers and thermostats.
How to choose power
The power of an electric heated towel rail is indicated in technical documents as a certain number of watts.
The choice of indicator depends on further operating conditions. If you only plan to dry towels on it, then you can pay attention to low-power models - 25-40 W is enough.
If the dryer will also be used for heating, then the power is calculated using the following formula: 140 W * per 1 sq. m.
Keep in mind that this is the power that allows you to heat the air to 20-22 degrees. Thus, the required power of the device depends on the size of the bathroom. For example, to heat a bathroom of 5 square meters. m you will need a heated towel rail with a power of 700 W (140 * 5 = 700).
Note: a structure hung with things will give off less heat. Therefore, the temperature in the room may be lower than expected.
Advantages of electric coils
The list of arguments in favor of purchasing an electrical appliance includes:
- Economical. The devices consume a minimum of electricity, but their power is enough to warm up the bathroom. The disadvantages include the fact that heated towel rails still consume electricity.
- No leaks. Water models are subject to corrosion and sooner or later begin to leak. Nothing like this can happen with dry-type electrical devices.
- Wide design potential. Electric models are very diverse. There are stylish designer models that can become the main decoration of the bathroom.
- Independence from pressure in communication systems. The efficiency of water heated towel rails largely depends on the pressure in the water supply system; sometimes they perform their functions worse due to air pockets. Electric models do not have these disadvantages.
- Minimum emergency shutdown time. Power outages are a common occurrence in many areas, and this is a negative. However, there is a plus: if they happen, it is for a short time. Interruptions in hot water occur less frequently, but can last for weeks until repair or maintenance measures are completed.
Another significant advantage is the ability to easily change location. Moving a water device to another place is a labor-intensive task, because... the device is connected to the hot water supply or heating system.
To move an electric heated towel rail, simply rearrange the fastenings. It takes just minutes.
Designer models of electric heated towel rails create an atmosphere of warmth and special comfort, thanks to which you can completely relax and unwind in the bathroom
Electric heated towel rails are demanding in terms of installation location and power supply. Many breakdowns are associated precisely with non-compliance with the rules of connection and operation. You will be able to identify and fix a number of problems yourself.
Energy U chrome G2K 540×400
Main characteristics:
- Material: stainless steel;
- Power - 24 W;
- Maximum heating temperature - 60°C;
- Possibility of rotation - 180°;
- Dimensions - 54x40x9.9 cm.
Design and material of manufacture. This compact model consists of a vertical axis fixed along the wall and two U-shaped sections rotating relative to it. It is made of stainless steel, which guarantees long service life and resistance to mechanical stress. External surfaces are chrome plated for greater aesthetics. With dimensions of 54x40 cm, the product weighs only 1.3 kg, which simplifies installation. The heating element is a double insulated heating cable. Protection of live parts corresponds to class IP44.
Parameters and connection. The device is intended exclusively for drying things, so its power does not exceed 24 W. It is possible to connect in an open and closed way. The on/off switch is equipped with internal lighting, which is convenient in low light conditions.
Types of electric heated towel rails
There are “wet” and “dry” designs. In models of the first type, heating is carried out by a coolant (water, antifreeze or oil), which is heated by a heating element. According to the principle of operation, they are similar to electric heaters.
Differences in operating principle
Each type of coolant has its own advantages and disadvantages. Oil retains heat the longest after the power is turned off, but the maximum possible temperature of an oil heated towel rail is 70°C. The water warms up to 85°C, but cools down faster. Antifreeze has high thermal conductivity.
The advantages of “wet” appliances include the ability to retain heat after being disconnected from the network. The downside is that it consumes more electricity than “dry” heated towel rails. Another disadvantage is the shorter service life of heating elements, since they wear out faster in liquid.
Models with a “dry” heating element are more durable than their “wet” counterparts. On average, they last 3-5 years longer, although this largely depends on the quality of materials and assembly of the devices.
Devices of this type consume a minimum of electricity, and the range of models is more diverse, which expands the design possibilities of premises owners.
The type of coolant used in combined heated towel rails practically does not matter, because... Heating and cooling times are rarely critical
Execution form of different models
There are heated towel rails of various configurations, and designer models sometimes simply amaze with their elaborate design. But despite all the diversity, there are two traditional forms - snake and ladder.
Owners of devices have long been convinced that, despite their simplicity, both types of devices are practical. Which form should you prefer? Experts advise choosing a ladder.
There are several reasons for this:
- It is more convenient to place things to dry on the rungs of the heated towel rail-ladder: they do not slide off.
- Long items dry out faster because... heating is carried out along their entire length.
- The heating area of such a device is larger, which means the room will warm up better.
Snake-shaped heated towel rails have their advantages. They are cheaper because... Fewer materials are required to make them. In addition, such models are more compact and require less space for installation, which is important when there is a shortage of free space.
In many cases, it makes sense to buy a heated towel rail with sliding elements. When folded, it resembles a ladder, but the side parts can be moved to the sides and several things can be hung on them. Models with shelves are also convenient.
The final decision should be made after comparing prices, models and choosing a location for installation.
Snake-shaped models are beautiful, but towels can slide off smooth rounded surfaces, so they should be hung by hanging them by the pipes of the device
Wall and floor heated towel rails
Typically, wall-mounted heated towel rails are installed in bathrooms, and for tight spaces this is the only correct solution, because... allows you to save space. But if the space allows, you can choose a floor-standing model, which has its own important advantages.
Floor-standing electric models appeared on the market relatively recently, but have already attracted the interest of many buyers. They are designs that combine the advantages of both heated towel rails and heaters. The devices are reliably protected from dampness and effectively heat the premises.
To install floor-standing models, you do not need to drill into the walls to mount the fasteners: you just need to place them in a convenient place and plug them into a power outlet. The devices are equipped with stable legs, so they do not tip over. If necessary, the heated towel rail can be easily moved to another location.
For more reliable fixation, floor heated towel rails can be additionally attached to the walls; for this purpose, the manufacturer provides special brackets
Which material should you prefer?
For the manufacture of electric heated towel rails, ferrous, stainless steel and non-ferrous metals are used. The cheapest models are made of black steel.
On the outside, the devices are almost no different from stainless steel products, and the internal surfaces of the tubes are coated with an anti-corrosion compound. Despite the treatment, black steel deteriorates quite quickly, and this is a big disadvantage.
Stainless steel models are universal and suitable for almost any bathroom. Painted heated towel rails are cheaper than chrome ones, but they also lose their presentable appearance faster. When purchasing a stainless steel device, you should take into account the “capriciousness” of their threaded connections. It is better to have such a heated towel rail installed by a specialist.
Designer models are often made of aluminum, copper or brass. Brass heated towel rails are extremely beautiful, have good heat transfer properties, but are rarely durable.
Copper models are almost flawless, but they are several times more expensive than devices made from other materials.
Chrome heated towel rails are more expensive than devices with a polymer colored coating. They last longer because the protective and decorative shell of painted models is easier to damage, creating conditions for the appearance of a rust spot.
ENERGY I chrome G5
Main characteristics:
- Material: stainless steel;
- Power - 47 W;
- Maximum heating temperature - 60°C; Possibility of rotation - 180°;
- Dimensions - 55x64x99 cm.
Design and material of manufacture. The model of the famous British brand is a vertical stand 640 mm high with five horizontal bars 555 mm long rotating on it, each of which can occupy an independent position from the others. This allows you to save space or achieve better ventilation of drying items in different situations.
All parts are made of stainless steel and coated with chrome on the outside. The heating element is a heating cable laid inside the tubes. The degree of protection against dust and moisture corresponds to IP44. The product weighs only 1.9 kg and is attached to the wall with four dowels.
Parameters and connection. The heated towel rail consumes 47 W of electrical energy. Connection is possible in open and closed ways. The power switch is located at the lower end of the vertical stand and has a light indication.
Toggle switch ENERGY I chrome G5.
Guidelines for wise choice
The list of characteristics that you should focus on when choosing a heated towel rail includes:
- Design and installation method . Typically, bathrooms are not large in size, and a large number of plumbing fixtures and furniture have to be placed in them, so design is an important selection criterion. Even before purchasing a device, you should think about where it will be installed and how it will fit into the interior of the room.
- Power. It is necessary to calculate this figure so that for each square meter of the bathroom there is 150-200 W of power. When installing less powerful models, the room will be damp, and a device that is too powerful is more expensive and wastes energy.
- Method of connecting the device to the network. Heated towel rails are connected in open and hidden ways. When the connection is open, the wires from the appliance to the electrical outlet run along the surface of the wall. When hidden, they are disguised under the finishing. The first connection method is much simpler, and the second is safer.
- Economical. The power consumption of different types of appliances can vary significantly. Heating elements with a power of 100-2000 W are installed in heated towel rails. Powerful devices are often equipped with sensors and automation that turns them off when the set temperature is reached. This allows you to use energy resources more economically.
- Heating element type. Typically, the power of devices with “dry” and “wet” heating elements is the same, and the difference is only in the speed of heating and cooling. Most often, these are not fundamental indicators, but they are worth taking into account.
- Additional functions. Some models have timers, thermostats and other useful features.
We recommend paying attention to models with additional functions. Usually their cost is higher than that of “simple” heated towel rails, but such expenses pay off.
For example, people who shower before starting work often set a timer half an hour before waking up so that the bathroom is warmed up to a comfortable temperature in advance.
Timers and thermostats are not useless elements that manufacturers add to increase the cost of products, but truly convenient devices
A thermostat in a heated towel rail can be very useful for families with small children. The device maintains a constant temperature, so you can wash or bathe your baby at any time in a warm bathroom and dry it with a dry towel, while energy consumption is extremely efficient.
Thermostats not only maintain the set temperature, but also perform a protective function: they prevent overheating of the device, which is especially important for models with a heating cable
Margaroli Vento 500 530x630 box
Main characteristics:
- Material: brass;
- Power - 100 W;
- Maximum heating temperature - 70°C;
- Possibility of rotation - 180°;
- Dimensions - 53x63x14.5 cm.
Design and material of manufacture. This wet heated towel rail is made of brass tube with a diameter of 25 mm. It consists of a vertical stand mounted on the wall and a rotating M-shaped section capable of rotating 180 degrees. Weighing 5.2 kg, it occupies a space of 53x63x14.5 cm. The product is sold with an external coating of white, bronze, gold and other colors, which simplifies the choice of model for any interior. The heating element is located at the bottom of the housing. There is an on/off button.
Margaroli Vento 500 530x630 box in the interior.
Parameters and connection. The device is designed for a hidden connection to a 220 volt AC network. A power consumption of 100 W is enough to heat the circulating coolant to a temperature of 70°C. There is an automatic shut-off to prevent overheating.
The best Russian and foreign manufacturers
The heated towel rail market is diverse: you can find models of any quality, design, price, so you should pay special attention to the brand and reputation of the manufacturer. Let's consider which electric heated towel rails our compatriots consider the best.
The Italian company Margaroli produces models with power from 100 to 300 W. All of them are distinguished by a thoughtful design and increased comfort in operation.
Best manufacturers:
- Kermi. Kermi heated towel rails are truly German quality and Swiss reliability. The Kermi brand has been known on the market for more than half a century and is already considered legendary. The main advantage of this brand’s equipment is its reasonable price-quality ratio. Heated towel rails are made of good steel, mainly in the shape of a ladder. They are durable, reliable, and stylistically neutral.
- Arbonia. Designer radiators and heated towel rails from the Swiss company Arbonia are an expensive pleasure, but the quality and appearance of the products are beyond praise. Models are made of steel. Antifreeze is used as a coolant for combined heated towel rails. It is possible to manually adjust the heating temperature.
- Margaroli . Italian appliances from the Margaroli brand are not affordable for everyone. Heated towel rails of this brand are made of high-quality expensive materials and equipped with automatic equipment. There are devices made of brass. Distinctive features of Margaroli equipment are exquisite design and durability. The manufacturer is so confident in the quality of the product that it provides a 15-year guarantee.
- Energy . Energy Group is one of the leaders in the European heating equipment market. The manufacturer produces durable, high-quality devices. Any design: the range includes flat, three-dimensional, rotary models of various configurations. The Energy U G3K heated towel rail is especially popular because... combines good technical characteristics and reasonable price.
- "Sunerja". The Russian company produces elite models of heated towel rails, which are in demand not only in the domestic but also in the European market. The models are varied in design, made of stainless steel with a durable shiny coating. The warranty for Sunerge products is 5 years.
- "Dvin". The Russian company has produced more than 30 series of heated towel rails made of polished stainless steel. Most of the models are made in the form of a ladder. The manufacturer provides a 1 year warranty on its products.
- "Nika". Electric heated towel rails of the Nika brand have been known on the market for more than 10 years. Buyers value branded products for their good quality and stylish design. The company does not produce rotating models, but there are many interesting heated towel rails with shelves. The warranty on this company's products is 5 years.
- Terminus. The main advantage of heated towel rails of the Russian brand Terminus is a wide selection of models. Among them there are both budget and expensive ones. The heated towel rails are made of 2 mm thick steel. The models are distinguished by high performance characteristics and stylish design. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty.
- "Leader-Steel". Many buyers prefer products. The heated towel rails are made of stainless steel, the heating temperature can be adjusted from 30 to 70 degrees. In case of overheating or hypothermia, the devices turn off automatically. The manufacturer provides a 5-year warranty.
- Terma . The Polish company Terma has been known on the market for more than a quarter of a century. During this time, it gained popularity among our compatriots.
Terma heated towel rails are made of high quality steel and equipped with thermostats.
A number of manufacturers produce, in addition to electric, water and combined models.
Terminus brand models are made in Russia: the manufacturer uses high-quality imported materials, in particular Italian stainless steel
Tera Victoria 500x800 E
Main characteristics:
- Material: stainless steel;
- Power - 105 W;
- Maximum heating temperature - 50°C;
- Possibility of rotation - no;
- Dimensions - 80x50 cm.
Design and material of manufacture. This domestic electric “dry” type heated towel rail has the appearance of a modified ladder with five rungs slightly protruding outward. It is made of durable stainless steel pipes with a chrome-plated outer surface. For rigid mounting to the wall, 4 brackets are used. The product weighs almost 7 kg and occupies an area of 500x800 mm.
Parameters and connection. The device consumes electricity in the amount of 105 W. It is designed for open connection using a standard power cable and plug. There is an on/off button.
Official energy consumption ratio
Energy consumption coefficient is the ratio of the entire period of operation of the device to the time of its active heating, when maximum energy is consumed. This indicator is close to the concept of efficiency. The better the device retains and longer releases the heat obtained by heating with electricity, the less energy it consumes and the lower the coefficient.
For household heated towel rails, this figure ranges from 0.4 (24 minutes of energy consumption) to 0.16 (10 minutes). It is influenced by the design of the appliance, as well as how much laundry is dried and how wet it is.
If the device is also used to heat the room, then the value also depends on the proportion of the equipment’s power to the air exchange of the ventilation system.
Installation features
Compared to water models, electric ones can be installed anywhere - they do not require connection to hot water pipes. The only thing is that it is important that the wiring is of appropriate quality. During the installation process, you must adhere to the following requirements:
- When choosing a location, you need to make sure that the device does not get wet. To do this, the heated towel rail is installed at a distance of at least 60 cm from the bathtub or washbasin;
- the minimum distances should be maintained: to the floor - 20 cm, to the wall - 30 cm, from furniture - 75 cm;
- Installation under an outlet is prohibited.
Connection type
There are two possible connection methods:
- Open;
- Hidden.
If you are not planning a large-scale renovation in the bathroom, then the first method is suitable for you, in which the cable is taken out and plugged into an outlet. Moreover, it can be located both in the bathroom and outside it by exiting the cable through a hole drilled in the wall.
For the second method, you need a special electric heated towel rail with a hidden connection. It is convenient because you do not need to constantly plug and unplug from the socket, the absence of which reduces the risk of getting an electric shock. And if the cable is three-core, then the device will additionally protect you from electric shock by grounding. Such a device does not spoil the design of the bathroom.
Low power models
Many manufacturers offer heated towel rails with low energy consumption. This is achieved not due to the low power of the device, but due to the high level of energy saving. A low-power device does not always help save money. Low-power heated towel rails are only suitable for small bathrooms that have basic heating.
To ensure that the equipment does not constantly work at the limit of its capabilities, it must be purchased with a power reserve. Popular manufacturers of heated towel rails with low energy consumption: Sunerzha, Terminus, Arbonia, Devon, etc.
A modern heated towel rail does its job well and looks beautiful, so it fits seamlessly into the design. After installing such a device, you can forget about the dampness and unpleasant smell that often occur in the bathroom.
Reviews
In general, electric heated towel rails receive positive reviews from users. An important point is the ease of installation of such a device. Thanks to its mobility, it can be installed in any area of the bathroom.
Users note that a hanging shelf or towel rings will be a nice addition to an electric heated towel rail. Add-ons may be included in the package, but in some cases they have to be purchased separately.
Some complain that they are faced with the problem of installing an outlet for connecting a heated towel rail.
When installing an outlet, be sure to comply with all fire safety requirements. Electrical cables must be hidden in a box. The socket must have a sealed housing that does not allow moisture to pass through. A protective cover must be installed on the socket.
Those who chose the floor option do not regret their purchase either. Such a device can be easily moved and connected in the hallway - and dry shoes and outerwear.
As you can see, a modern electric heated towel rail has many advantages and will be a useful addition to your bathroom.
Tips for reducing energy costs
To reduce energy costs as much as possible, you need to purchase equipment that has energy-saving components.
Installing a thermostat
Many models have a temperature sensor and regulator installed at once. They are installed only on liquid models with heating elements. Cable heated towel rails do not have a thermostat, because... their maximum heating temperature is +60°C.
Using models with a timer
It is convenient when such a device is additionally equipped with a timer. With its help, you set the time to turn on the device, and it will automatically turn on and off. This allows additional energy savings.
