covers

alanm

I was wondering if radiator covers made from wood (with metal grate opening in the front only) hurt dispersing the heat? I have covers where the top is wood, the back is open, and the front has a metal grate . Should I remove them? should I do anything to them to make them better? I just want to make sure I am not hindering the heat (it is a one pipe steam system). Thanks

ChrisJ

They most likely greatly reduce output.
There are designs which act similar to a convector and create a draft through the radiator which increase output but it's not a simple box with an open front and back.

I also feel all covers reduce the amount of radiation the radiator provides regardless of whether or not overall heat output is increased. I prefer radiation over convection my self.

Steamhead

Check this out- it pays to wander off the Wall:

https://heatinghelp.com/heating-museum/radiator-enclosures/

ChrisJ

Steamhead said:

Check this out- it pays to wander off the Wall:

https://heatinghelp.com/heating-museum/radiator-enclosures/

I have been considering doing something along the "deduct 10%" design for my son's room to increase the radiators output.

vaporvac

@ChrisJ , I retrofitted a couple of my original covers and the difference was immediate. I can still close the tops in summer. I'd also suggest some relflective behind the rad and painting them in a matte colour.

ChrisJ

vaporvac said:

@ChrisJ , I retrofitted a couple of my original covers and the difference was immediate. I can still close the tops in summer. I'd also suggest some relflective behind the rad and painting them in a matte colour.

My dreams, are to paint all of the radiators flat black.

I had also looked into buying glass mirrors to put behind them. Sadly, cost shut that idea down real fast.

Abracadabra

I've wondered how much the "deduct X %" would be by adding a fan to the radiator to try and get more output.

bob_46

You might find this interesting

JimmyNJ

My covers fall into the "classic radiator cover" example. Has anyone had any experience with creating holes in the top lid? I'm sure a screwdriver would work but I was wondering if there is a way to "nicely" make hole punches in the sheet metal (taking the lid off and making the holes). Need to keep wife happy but wouldn't mind increasing efficiency

LarryK

A step drill might be a good choice.