1. Price
Have a price range in mind before beginning your search. While there are units available for virtually any budget, it is a good idea to know your limits. If you have 
trouble deciding on a model, consult a salesperson or the vendor.
2. Safety
Safety is a concern with all appliances. Convection radiators are ideal for families who have a home that includes children and pets. Fireplaces and traditional gas and electric radiant heaters carry a higher risk of burning someone who gets too close. Convection units are cooler to the touch.
3. The Environment
Thinking of going green? There are now more environmentally friendly choices for those going green with their appliances. Convection units emit far lower levels of pollutants than other heating appliances, as well as using less energy.
4. Room Size
Measure the rooms you wish to install heaters in before you shop. Room size will affect which appliance you buy. A small space will overheat with a unit made for heating a large area, but a large room requires a more powerful unit to warm it to a comfortable level and retain the heat. Be sure to keep in mind whether you are purchasing a heater for a large family home or for a smaller flat. Additionally, towel radiators are excellent for heating the average size bathroom.
5. Windows and Doors
Room construction – how many windows and doors are in the rooms you need to heat? While modern window construction means that they don’t lose as much heat as they did in times past, windows still allow more heat to dissipate than do solid walls because of their glass. More windows and doors mean more heat will be required to keep the room warm.
6. Type of Radiator
Think about how much heat you’ll need. You should also decide whether you want a double panel appliance or a single panel one. The former choice will be more expensive, but it will also provide you with much more heat.
7. Installation
Decide whether you will be having your units installed professionally or if you’ll be installing them yourself. If you are experienced with moderate to difficult home improvement, installation will be a snap. Just remember to pick up the tools and extra attachments you’ll need for your DIY project while shopping for your radiator.
8. Home Value
The value of your home goes up with home improvement. Having heating units installed in your home will drive up its resale value significantly, making them a great investment in your future.
9. Positioning
Keep in mind where you will be positioning your unit. Never put the appliance in a place where curtains or furniture might block it. While a convection unit does not get hot to the touch, having furniture or curtains blocking the appliance will trap the heat between the object and the wall, keeping it from sufficiently warming the room.
In the past, the appliance was almost always positioned beneath windows to offset the cold glass surfaces that leaked heat. However, with double-glazed, thermally-efficient, modern windows, this is not as much of a problem as it once was. You can place your unit wherever you want with consideration for maximum comfort and aesthetics. Energy efficiency experts recommend plating heat-resistant reflectors between the unit and the wall it sits against to help in retaining heat.
10. Convenience
And, of course, convenience. Convection units are quiet, easy to use, and easy to maintain.
Screwfix is the UK’s largest direct and online supplier of trade tools, accessories and hardware products. With over 30 years’ experience in the industry, we despatch tens of thousands of parcels every week for next day and weekend delivery to tradesmen, handymen and serious DIY enthusiasts all over the UK.
To view our range of radiators from Screwfix customers can visit the Screwfix website.