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Inga Seliverstova via www.pexels.com
Radiators are typically not the nicest thing to look at, that much is true. Admittedly, they perhaps do not seem like the most interesting thing to talk about either. However, as winter beckons once again, it is important that we use our radiators to their maximum potential.
Though they provide some much-needed heating, radiators can also bring a lot to your home in the way of style and sophistication, surprisingly. Therefore, it is important to make sure you get the best use out of it as you can in the coming months.
From style tips and even what to do if your radiator is cold at the bottom, here are a few ideas to help you get the most out of your radiator.
Quick Fixes
If your radiator is faulty, it is vital to get it fixed. Often, when they break down, many people will not try to get it repaired straight away, and they will simply confine themselves to another room for a few months or warm themselves up with a jacket instead. There is debate surrounding the use of the radiator, and whether it should be turned off in rooms we do not use, but there should not be.
There is a risk factor when it is not occasional in use in winter, because if the heat from other rooms gets into the room where the radiator is inactive, condensation will undoubtedly occur overtime. If that is also left, significant damage will be done to your home- and it’s just not nice to look at.
Always seek intricate guidance, like this guide, if there are leaks or your radiator is cold at the bottom. There is quite a lot to know from flushes to sludge management, but there is plenty of expert help on returning balance to your radiator. Consult it, and things will be put right in no time.
Shelf Use
Obviously, radiators provide warmth, but there are numerous ways to maximise just how much heat seems to come out of your radiator, beyond adjusting thermostats. For example, if you strategically place a shelf just above it, you will be helping direct the heat flow of every room in a truly mesmerising fashion.
After all, we all crowd round radiators when we are cold, and perhaps wonder why they are not doing a good enough job at warming us all up! Complaints are quite common here. That said, the introduction of this special shelf is a great life hack if you wish you would be warmed up quicker, instead of putting your hands on the radiator! Give it a try.
Remove Obstructions
It is understandable to crowd your sofas and chairs around a radiator so that the sitter gets warm. However, while you might have good intentions, you will be blocking off the heat to the rest of the room when you do this and confining it to an exceedingly small area. That is not good for others, nor will it help combat things like condensation and general comfort.
Except for the shelf previously mentioned, try to keep your radiators as unobstructed as possible. That way, the heat travels everywhere, and everyone benefits. If you have placed your sofa in front of the radiator then a grave error has been made, so do make sure to rearrange your furniture if necessary.
Style
Contrary to popular belief, there are numerous ways you can give your radiator a big lift in terms of style and aesthetics. The first way to do this is through utilising slick and swanky covers, which will make the radiator look more like a chic cupboard or cabinet that blends in seamlessly with the surroundings. Even better, these additions do not subdue the heat either.
There are many unexpected ways to heat a home, and the radiator is no exception. Once you have placed your cover on, you can decorate them to your hearts content. House plants, lamps, picture frames, and candles will all sit nicely atop it. Sprucing up your radiator will tell guests that you are creative, and that you have utilised your home space in a smart and economic way too. Overall, it can just give your home an impressive lift in mood and atmosphere!
Usage
While it is certain that you own some lovely fashionable clothes, drying them on the radiator could be bad for your health. Many people do this, but it is certainly better that you do not. In 2016, medical experts in Manchester warned that drying clothes on the radiator could help mould thrive, which will obviously put a huge dent in the aesthetics of your home. Perhaps it is time to rethink things here?
If you don’t want to see patches of grime cropping up time and again, consider drying your clothes in your airing cupboard or on a washing line on a (admittedly rare) sunnier day. These alternatives will mean your home stays clean and tidy, both physically and in terms of breathable air too. Your entire home, and even your personal health, will benefit from this change.