Radiator reflector panels (also known as radiator foil) are thin sheets made of foil or other reflective material (sometimes with a thin layer of insulating material).
If you’re looking for a quick, low-cost way of saving money on your energy bills, then radiator reflector panels can be a good option.
They’re easy to install and you can buy them from many DIY stores. Here’s what you need to know about reflector panels.
What are radiator reflector panels?
How do radiator reflector panels work?
Radiator reflector panels reflect heat from the back of a radiator back into a room. This stops the heat from escaping through outside walls.
By keeping heat inside, it reduces the amount of energy needed to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. This helps lower your energy bills and reduces your carbon footprint.
Does radiator foil actually work?
Yes, radiator foil does work. It’s most effective when you fit it to radiators that are on uninsulated external walls.
You also need to get the right type of foil: aluminium kitchen foil won’t work! It’s difficult to keep in place and won’t have the insulation or special design of proper radiator panels that help them work properly.
You should buy purpose-made radiator reflector panels from a DIY store.
Are radiator reflector panels worth it?
Yes, radiator reflectors can be worth it. They’re a low-cost way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. By reflecting heat back into rooms, it helps keep your home warm and reduces the amount of energy needed to do so. This helps lower your energy bills.
They also help cut your carbon footprint by 80kg a year in Great Britain (GB) or 110kg in Northern Ireland (NI).
Is it worth putting radiator foil behind every radiator?
No, it’s not really worth adding radiator panels to internal walls.
If you have a radiator on an internal wall (eg a wall between two rooms), it’ll warm the internal wall. This heat will stay in your home.
Radiator reflectors are most beneficial on external walls as they prevent some heat from escaping your home.
How much do radiator reflector panels cost?
You can buy radiator foil panels from your local DIY store. It costs around £13 for a roll, which you can then cut to size so it fits snugly behind your radiator.
How much can radiator reflector panels save on my energy bills?
Installing radiator panels on uninsulated external walls can save £25 a year on your energy bills in GB or £20 in NI.
How do I fit radiator reflector panels?
1
Measure the size of the radiators on any external walls in your home. This will give you an idea of the area you’ll need to cover with radiator foil.
2
When you know how much you need, buy a roll of radiator reflector foil or radiator panels from your local DIY store.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to fit them. Check if the reflector material you buy includes adhesive backing that will help it stick to your wall.
If it doesn’t, you’ll need to buy some double-sided tape or a suitable adhesive. Some reflector panels also include clips that let you mount the panels to the radiator itself.
Before starting, switch off your heating or turn off the radiators you’re working on (with the thermostatic radiator valve) and let your radiators cool down.
3
If you’ve bought a roll of radiator reflector foil, cut it to size so it’ll fit behind your radiator.
If you’ve bought other types, make sure it fits. You can cut them to a size smaller than the radiator so that fit neatly behind the radiator without showing.
4
Slide the reflector panel down the back of the radiator and press it against the wall so it sticks securely.
If you’re making home improvements and your radiators are already off the wall, install the panels at this time to make things a bit easier.
Can I use radiator reflector panels if I’m renting?
Clip-on radiator reflector panels are easy to install and remove, so they’re a good option for saving money on energy bills while renting. However, it’s best to check with your landlord to get their permission before installing them.
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