Radiator enclosure

Cambello

Hello,

We are remodeling our 3rd floor walk up attic and built a set of shelves around the radiator. I also built a window seat above the radiator (at my wife’s request) and I’m wondering if I have reduced the heating capacity of the rad? The front of the radiator is fully open but I’m wondering if I should put a grill (or even drill holes) in the seat to allow for greater heat distribution?

I’ve attached photos showing the configuration and as always, appreciate your help.

Thanks,

Jeff

Big Ed_4

On this site in the search box on main page enter radiator covers..

STEVEusaPA

I would call that a window sill, as no one but a cat will sit on that in the winter.
Yes you’re reducing output, but it may be oversized anyway. Something reflective in the back and a grill in the top to allow convection, would be a little better.
Hopefully the wood you used is stable as you have it right against the radiator, and the vent.

Cambello

Thank You for the comments. So - something reflective like some kind of foil insulation? Also, this is more a guest room so it will not be in regular use.

You’re correct that it is more of a window sill than a seat. I’m thinking of just drilling holes in a grid pattern to allow the heat to ‘escape’ it being trapped in this little chamber- might this help?

Thank You,

Jeff

Big Ed_4

Erin Holohan Haskell

These may help:
https://heatinghelp.com/systems-help-center/radiator-covers/
and
https://heatinghelp.com/systems-help-center/radiators-overheating-heres-how-to-cut-radiator-heat-output/

Gsmith

if you can add a piece of sheet metal (perhaps aluminum sheet) behind the radiator and bent forward and under the shelf, as in the middle top illustration above, that will help convection of the heated air.

HVACNUT

> @Cambello said:
>
> You’re correct that it is more of a window sill than a seat. I’m thinking of just drilling holes in a grid pattern to allow the heat to ‘escape’ it being trapped in this little chamber- might this help?
>
> Thank You,
>
> Jeff


Drill holes?
If you dont want elaborate but still nice, make a simple design pattern, not just a grid. Use different size bits. Keep the holes to the outer thirds. I don't want to get swampy if I sit there.

SteamingatMohawk

Consider adding a small fan, forced convection is better than natural convection.

pecmsg

Simple brass front. Possibly a grate on top

SteamingatMohawk

search "muffin fan" on Amazon. Just make sure you choose a quiet one (low decibels). There's one for under $20 that's 23 CFM and 28 db. I know absolutely nothing about it and don't get any kickback, just like to search for stuff.

Big Ed_4

Thanks Erin , I could not figure how to share the link , only the photo..

Cambello

Thanks for all the great comments. And I like the idea of both the sheet metal and more creative holes to be drilled instead of a grid.

Erin Holohan Haskell

Big Ed_4 said:

Thanks Erin , I could not figure how to share the link , only the photo..

@Big Ed_4, you can copy the url and paste it into the comment box. More tips here: https://heatinghelp.com/forum-user-manual

ethicalpaul

Nothing to see here