Vertical Radiator Installation Cost

There’s no denying that radiators are a key part of keeping a home warm, cosy and comfortable, and there’s a wide range to choose from. Recently, homeowners have started to step away from standard models and are more interested in a stylish, space-saving alternative - vertical radiators.

Vertical radiators can be useful in compact homes or rooms with limited wall space. They can also add a modern touch to living rooms, kitchens, hallways and bedrooms.

We’ve taken a look at the costs involved in installing a vertical radiator, the different types available, and the key things to think about when you’re planning to have one installed.

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How Much is Vertical Radiator Installation?

The average installation cost for a vertical radiator is between £200 and £300, though this can vary depending on things like the radiator size, style, and how complicated the installation is.

If you're looking to buy a small vertical radiator, you can get one for around £100 to £200. Go for a large one, and you could be looking at a price as high as £575.

A straightforward replacement in the same position will usually be the cheapest option, as the installer may be able to reuse the existing pipework. Removing an old radiator typically costs around £50 to £100. If the radiator needs to be fitted elsewhere, you may need to move the radiator, which costs around £250 on average.

Installing a vertical radiator in a different position will usually cost more, as the pipes may need to be extended or rerouted. The size and weight of the radiator, the wall type and the amount of preparation required can also affect the total price.

What type of vertical radiator are you looking to have installed?

Single or double panel

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Column radiator

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Flat panel or mirrored

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Towel radiator

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Larger rooms may need a radiator with a higher British thermal unit (BTU) output. Vertical radiators can have a lower heat output than horizontal radiators of a similar width, so it’s important to choose the correct size for the room.

Understanding exactly how much it's all going to cost and how it can vary depending on your specific situation will help you budget properly and get some accurate quotes.

Vertical Radiator Prices

Labour Costs and Timescales for Vertical Radiator Installation

Plumbers and heating engineers typically charge between £40 and £80 per hour to install a vertical radiator. However, more complex jobs may be quoted at a fixed price rather than an hourly rate. A straightforward replacement in the same position normally takes around 2 to 4 hours.

A same-position replacement is usually quicker because the existing pipework can often be reused. Labour costs will be higher if the radiator is being moved, fitted in a new position or installed on a wall that needs additional support.

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Vertical Radiator Supply Costs

You can expect to pay between £100 and £575 for a new vertical radiator, depending on the size and material. There are a lot of vertical radiators to choose from, including single-panel and double-panel designs, aluminium and steel radiators, and designer styles.

You can expect to pay more for taller, heavier or custom radiators. For example, a cheap, single-panel vertical radiator in steel costs around £100. But a much larger, designer radiator in chrome can cost up to £1,700.

There are several types of vertical radiator to choose from, ranging from affordable single-panel models to heavier column radiators and premium designer styles. The best option will depend on your budget, available wall space and the amount of heat needed in the room.

Single Panel vs. Double Panel

Single-panel vertical radiators are slimmer and more affordable, but double-panel designs offer better heat output and efficiency, though they do tend to cost more.

Column Radiators

Column radiators offer a classic, traditional appearance and strong heat distribution, but their heavier and more intricate design makes them more expensive and harder to install.

Flat Panel or Mirrored

Flat panel radiators and mirrored radiators suit modern homes and can double as a decorative feature, but they usually cost more due to their premium finishes.

Towel Radiators

Towel radiators provide both heating and towel warming in bathrooms, which adds convenience. But they can be more expensive than standard radiators.

Additional Costs of Vertical Radiator Installation

As well as the price of the radiator and labour, you’ll also need to factor in a handful of other costs.

Pipework Changes

If the existing pipe layout doesn’t align with the new radiator’s inlet positions, modifications may be needed, which adds time and increases the cost. With the cost of moving a radiator coming in at an average of £275, and pipework averaging between £350 and £700, this quickly adds up.

Radiator Valves and Thermostats

If the existing radiator valves are worn, incompatible or need to be repositioned, they may need to be replaced during the installation. Upgrading to a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) can also improve temperature control, with a new TRV costing between £8 and £33.

Wall Brackets and Repairs

Heavy vertical radiators may need stronger brackets, specialist fixings or additional wall support. If the brackets need to be repositioned, or the old radiator leaves damage behind, you may also need to budget for extra labour, plastering, filling or repainting.

Power Flushing

A power flush is a type of central heating system cleaning that removes sludge, rust and debris, helping a new radiator heat properly. The average cost of a power flush is around £400.

Radiator Removal and Disposal

Removing an old radiator usually costs between £50 and £100. The price will depend on the radiator’s size and weight, whether the pipework needs to be capped, and whether disposal is included in the quote.

Cost Factors for Vertical Radiator Installation

• Location in the home — Installing a radiator upstairs or in tight hallways can take longer due to poor access and limited space, increasing labour time and cost.
• Wall type — Solid brick or masonry walls are usually easier to secure heavy radiators to, but plasterboard or stud walls often require specialist fixings or reinforcement.
• Radiator size and weight — Larger, heavier and double-panel radiators can take more time and labour to install compared to single panel options.
• Type of installation — A same-position replacement is generally cheaper than fitting a radiator in a new location.
• Regional labour rates — Labour rates vary across the UK and are generally higher in London and the South East than in other regions.

Alternative Types of Radiators

If you’re not sold on vertical radiators, you can choose from one of the other popular types of radiators, each of which has pros and cons.

• Horizontal radiators — These are generally cheaper and easier to source than vertical models, but they take up more wall space.
• Electric radiators — Electric radiators don't require pipework, making installation simpler and often quicker, but they can cost more to run.
• Underfloor heating — Underfloor heating provides an even, hidden heat source that’s ideal for open-plan spaces and contemporary interiors, but installation is usually more expensive and disruptive.
• Infrared panels — Infrared heating panels are slim, energy-efficient and can heat rooms quickly. However, they are less widely available and can cost more upfront.
• Cast iron radiators — Cast iron radiators retain heat well and suit period properties, but they are also heavy and can be more expensive to buy and install.

Hiring Contractors Checklist for Vertical Radiator Installation

When you’re hiring a contractor to install a vertical radiator, it’s important to be thorough to ensure a safe and professional job. Some questions you could consider asking beforehand include:

• Have you received more than one quote? Try to obtain at least 3 quotes so you can compare labour costs, timescales and what is included in the price.
• Are they experienced with vertical radiators? Vertical radiators can be heavier than standard models and may need different brackets, fixings or pipework, so look for someone who has completed similar installations.
• Will the existing pipework need to be changed? Confirm whether the pipes can be reused or whether they need to be extended, rerouted or repositioned, as this can increase the cost.
• Is the installer suitably qualified? A plumber or heating engineer should carry out the installation, while any work involving the boiler or gas system should be completed by a Gas Safe-registered engineer.
• Do they have public liability insurance? This provides protection if the radiator, pipework, flooring or walls are damaged during the installation.
• Is removal and disposal included? Check whether the quote includes draining and removing the old radiator, taking it away and dealing with any waste.
• Are wall repairs included in the quote? Removing or repositioning a radiator can leave holes, marks or damaged plaster, so confirm whether filling, plastering or repainting is included.

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