HOW TO FIT A RADIATOR CABINET – If you don’t like the looks of the radiators in your home you can buy and fit radiator cabinets, or sometimes referred to as covers. These come in ‘Flat Packs’, are easy to assemble and fit. In this guide we show you how to do it with easy to follow, step-by-step, instructions.
Step 1
Before you buy a radiator cabinet, that you can assemble, and fit you need to know the measurements of your radiator.
Step 2
Measure from the floor to the top of the radiator and then add 25mm to allow for heat/air circulation.
Step 3
Measure the length of the radiator from valve to valve and add 25mm on both ends to allow for heat/air circulation. When measuring the length ensure that you have sufficient space so that once the cabinet is fitted it does not interfere with furniture and electrical sockets.
Step 4
Measure the width of the radiator from the wall to the front edge and add 25mm to allow for heat/air circulation.
Step 5
You are now ready to buy a radiator cabinet that will fit the dimensions you have above.
Step 6
Unpack the assembly parts of your radiator cabinet and check that you have all the parts and fixings listed on the assembly instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Step 7
Follow the assembly instructions to build your radiator cabinet.
Step 8
Most radiator cabinets can be left free-standing and this simply involves sliding the completely assembled cabinet over the radiator.
Step 9
If you want to secure the radiator cabinet to the wall then follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Wall brackets will be included in the packaging.
Step 10
If fixing to the wall using the brackets, determine the type of wall you are fixing to, either a Plasterboard Wall or Masonry Wall. You can find this out by gently rapping the wall with your knuckles. If the wall sounds hollow, then it’s a Plasterboard Wall. If it is a Plasterboard wall then it is better if you use the correct fixings such as Anchor Screws.
Step 11
Remember to use a multipurpose detector around the areas where you will be drilling holes. This will ensure that you don’t drill into any electrical wiring cables or water pipes hidden behind the wall.
Step 12
Use appropriate raw plugs for the wall brackets. If in doubt ask at your local DIY Store for advice on raw plugs.
Step 13
Note that the wall brackets are designed to allow you to easily remove and replace the cabinet at any time, so that you have access to the radiator valves when needed.
