Heating Glossary

 

Some key terms and phrases to help you understand the world of radiators!

Term

Definition
A
Air Vent A device used to release trapped air from a radiator or central heating system.
Aluminium Radiator A type of radiator made from aluminium, known for its lightweight and quick heat-up properties.
Ancillary Items Additional components or accessories needed for the installation or operation of a radiator.
Automatic Bypass Valve A valve that maintains a minimum flow of water through the central heating system when radiators are turned off.
B
Balanced System A central heating system in which the flow of water is balanced, ensuring equal distribution of heat to all radiators.
Bleeding The process of releasing trapped air from a radiator using a bleed key or air vent.
BTU (British Thermal Unit) A unit of heat energy used to measure the heat output of radiators and other heating appliances.
Boiler A device that heats water for a central heating system and usually provides hot water for domestic use as well.
C
Cast Iron Radiator A traditional type of radiator made from cast iron, known for its high heat output and heat retention properties.
Central Heating System A system that distributes heat throughout a building via a network of radiators or underfloor heating.
Circulating Pump A pump that circulates heated water through a central heating system.
Column Radiator A type of radiator with vertical columns, offering a classic appearance and efficient heat output.
Combination Boiler A type of boiler that provides both central heating and hot water without the need for a separate hot water storage tank.
D
Designer Radiator A stylish and modern radiator that combines aesthetics and functionality.
Differential Pressure The difference in pressure between two points in a central heating system, which influences flow rate.
Diverter Valve A valve that directs the flow of water in a central heating system, depending on heating or hot water demand.
Double Panel Radiator A radiator with two panels and convector fins, offering increased heat output compared to single panel radiators.
E
Efficiency A measure of how effectively a radiator or heating appliance converts fuel or energy into heat.
Electric Radiator A radiator that uses electricity to heat up, often used as an alternative to gas central heating systems.
Expansion Vessel A device that absorbs excess pressure caused by the expansion of water in a central heating system.
F
Filling Loop A temporary connection used to fill and pressurise a central heating system with water.
Flow Rate The volume of water that moves through a central heating system over a given period, usually measured in litres per minute.
G
Gas Valve A device that controls the flow of gas to a boiler or heating appliance.
Gravity System An older type of central heating system that relies on gravity to circulate hot water, rather than a circulating pump.
H
Heat Exchanger A device that transfers heat from one medium to another, e.g., from a boiler's combustion chamber to the water in a central heating system.
Heat Output The amount of heat a radiator or heating appliance can produce, usually measured in BTUs or watts.
Heating Element An electrical component that converts electricity into heat, often used in electric radiators.
I
Inhibitor A chemical added to the water in a central heating system to prevent corrosion and the build-up of limescale.
Installation The process of fitting and connecting a radiator or central heating system components in a building.
J
Joule A unit of energy or work, used to measure the amount of heat energy in a central heating system.
K
Kettle Valve A valve that prevents hot water from flowing back into the cold water supply in a central heating system.
Kilowatt (kW) A unit of power equal to 1000 watts, often used to measure the heat output of boilers and heating appliances.
L
Lockshield Valve A valve used to balance the flow of water in a central heating system, usually fitted on the return side of a radiator.
M
Magnetic Filter A device that captures and removes magnetic debris from the water in a central heating system to protect the boiler.
N
Non-Return Valve A valve that allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow in a central heating system.
O
Output Rating The amount of heat a radiator or boiler can produce, usually measured in BTUs or kilowatts.
P
Pipe Centres The distance between the centres of the inlet and outlet pipes on a radiator, used for measuring and installation.
Power Flush A process that uses high-pressure water and cleaning chemicals to remove sludge and debris from a central heating system.
Pressure Relief Valve A safety device that releases excess pressure from a central heating system to prevent damage or failure.
Q
R
Radiator A heat-emitting device that uses hot water or steam to transfer heat to the surrounding space.
Radiator Valves Devices used to control the flow of water through a radiator, allowing for temperature adjustment.
Return Pipe The pipe that carries cooled water back to the boiler from the radiators in a central heating system.
S
Single Panel Radiator A radiator with one panel, offering a lower heat output compared to double panel radiators.
System Boiler A type of boiler that works with a separate hot water storage tank, providing central heating and hot water.
T
Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV) A radiator valve that automatically adjusts the flow of water based on the room's temperature.
Towel Rail Radiator A type of radiator designed to heat and dry towels, commonly found in bathrooms.
U
Underfloor Heating A heating system that uses pipes or cables embedded in the floor to provide warmth throughout a room.
V
Venting The process of releasing trapped air from a radiator or central heating system to improve efficiency.
W
Wall-mounted Radiator A radiator that is attached to a wall, saving floor space and providing an efficient heat source.
Water Hammer A loud noise caused by a sudden increase in water pressure in a central heating system, usually due to air in the system.
X
Y
Y-Strainer A type of filter installed in a central heating system to remove debris and prevent damage to the boiler and other components.
Z
Zone Valve A valve that controls the flow of water in a specific zone of a central heating system, allowing for independent temperature control.