The Grande Products
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does The Grande have such a large wall projection compared to other towel rails?
The Grande utilizes a unique deep set frame design where the horizontal bars are set back from the vertical collectors or mounted in a specific box configuration. This results in a wall projection of between 177mm and 192mm depending on your bracket adjustment. This is technically significant because it is nearly double the depth of a standard ladder rail. You must check that this deep projection does not interfere with the swing radius of your bathroom door or encroach on standing space near a toilet or basin.
What are the specific structural wall requirements for installing The Grande?
Due to its substantial size and mild steel construction The Grande is a heavy unit even before it is filled with water weighing approximately 20kg empty. Once filled with water the static load increases significantly. You must not install this radiator on plasterboard alone using standard toggle fixings. It is critical to anchor the brackets into solid masonry or structural timber studs. If fitting to a stud partition wall you may need to open the wall to add horizontal timber noggins to support the bracket locations securely.
How does the chrome finish affect the BTU output of The Grande 1800x500mm model?
There is a major technical difference in heat output between the finishes on this model. The Textured Anthracite and White versions output approximately 4185 BTUs while the Chrome version outputs roughly 2757 BTUs. This is because chrome plating acts as a thermal insulator and radiates less heat than powder coated surfaces. If The Grande is intended to be the primary heat source for a large bathroom you should calculate your room heat loss carefully as the Chrome model provides roughly 35 percent less heat than the painted options.
What are the correct pipe centers for roughing in plumbing for The Grande?
For The Grande 1800x500mm the pipe centers are based on the collector width. Since the connections are on the bottom uprights the pipe centers are typically the radiator width (500mm) minus the valve variance if internal or plus the valve variance if external. However many installers find that because of the unique deep frame measuring from the wall is just as critical. The pipe centers from the wall are approximately 67mm to 82mm. It is strongly advised to have the unit on site before first fix plumbing to accommodate the specific valve geometry.
Can The Grande be converted to a dual fuel system for summer heating?
Yes The Grande is compatible with dual fuel installations. To achieve this you must install a T-piece on one of the bottom inlets which allows both the central heating valve and an electric heating element to enter the radiator. Because The Grande has a high liquid volume you must ensure the electric element has a sufficient wattage rating (typically 600W to 800W depending on the model) to effectively heat the volume of water in the rail during summer use.
Does The Grande require a specific type of valve due to its mounting position?
The Grande has standard 1/2 inch BSP bottom connections. The choice of valve depends on your pipework direction. Since the radiator projects significantly from the wall (up to 192mm) pipes coming from the floor (Straight Valves) are often easier to align than pipes coming from the wall (Angled/Corner Valves) which would require precise depth planning. However if using wall pipes Corner Valves are technically superior as they tuck the valve head inwards preventing it from protruding further into the room than the already deep radiator.
How do I bleed air from The Grande given its height of 1800mm?
As with all tall vertical radiators air will naturally accumulate at the highest point of the system. The Grande is supplied with a bleed valve which must be fitted to the top threaded opening. When commissioning the system you should turn off the heating pump and allow the water to settle before opening the bleed screw. Because of the 1800mm height you may need to top up the system pressure (on a sealed system) more frequently during the initial weeks of operation as the large volume of air is gradually displaced by water.
Is the mild steel construction of The Grande susceptible to corrosion in wet rooms?
The Grande is manufactured from mild steel which is durable but can corrode if the coating is compromised. The Anthracite and White models feature a robust powder coating that effectively seals the metal against moisture. The Chrome model relies on the plating integrity. In a wet room environment or high humidity bathroom it is vital to ensure that the external surface is not scratched and that the room has adequate ventilation. Internal corrosion is prevented by adding a chemical inhibitor to your central heating fluid which is a mandatory step for validating the warranty.
What is the water content of The Grande and does it affect heat up times?
The Grande has a relatively high water content compared to aluminium radiators due to its large mild steel tubes. This means it has a higher thermal mass so it will take longer to heat up from cold than a lightweight aluminium alternative. However the technical benefit is that it retains heat for a longer period after the boiler cycles off. You should program your heating timer to come on 20 to 30 minutes earlier than required to ensure the rail is fully up to temperature when you need it.
Why is the 500mm width fixed across the range?
The 500mm width is engineered to fit standard UK bathroom joist and wall layouts while maintaining the vertical aesthetic. This width ensures that the towel rail is wide enough to hold a folded bath sheet without bunching which promotes better drying. The vertical height of 1800mm is used to generate the necessary surface area for heat output compensating for the relatively narrow footprint. This makes it an ideal problem solving product for bathrooms with limited horizontal wall space but ample ceiling height.