Radiating benefits

New radiator design fittings are set to change the way heating systems are installed in homes.

The patented fittings, called Easi-Rad, will enable a radiator to be leaned away from the wall for cleaning and decorating without the need for draining or disconnection.

The fittings' inventor, Trevor Wilson of Woodbastwick in Norfolk, is currently working with Norfolk engineering company Ladbrook to bring the new design into commercial production.

Key to the Easi-Rad design are a pair of specially developed connectors that connect the radiator to the pipework but allow the radiator to swivel without any risk of leakage.

The radiator is then held against the wall with two support brackets that have child-proof catches. Initially the connectors and support brackets will be shipped as a kit via plumber’s suppliers and builder’s suppliers, but Wilson anticipates that in future years radiators may be sold with his design as a standard.

The Easi-Rad kit has been designed so that it will fit all existing radiators without alteration to any pipe work.

Wilson also expects the Easi-Rad solution to benefit organisations that need to maintain a high standard of decor within their premises or regular re-decoration. He feels sure that the time saved in not having to drain and remove radiators will offer many organisations considerable commercial benefits over the longer term.

'A similar benefit might apply to builders putting up new houses,' said Wilson. 'The Easi-Rad solution means that the plumber can install the heating systems and not have to return to remove radiators for the decorators. The decorators can simply lay the radiator forward and paint behind them. Easi-Rad could easily save five hours labour on every new house.'

Mike Blowers, managing director of Ladbrook, said: 'It's a fantastic product with a huge potential. We are very pleased to be involved on the production side of things. The Easi-Rad product is a carefully thought-out design that I think will be around for a long time to come.'