As a heating and ventilation expert with years of experience in the industry, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question about whether radiators can be placed under windows.

**Placing Radiators Under Windows: The Benefits and Considerations**

Radiators are a common heating solution in many homes. They provide a reliable and efficient way to heat a room. One of the key considerations when installing radiators is their placement within the room. There is a particular interest in placing radiators under windows, and this practice is quite common for several reasons.

1. Utilizing Convection Currents
The primary reason for placing radiators under windows is to take advantage of the natural convection currents that occur in a room. When a radiator heats the air, it creates a warm air current that rises. By positioning the radiator under a window, this warm air can rise and fill the room, counteracting the cold air that naturally falls from the window.

2. Reducing Drafts
Windows are often the source of cold drafts in a room. Cold air from outside enters through the window and tends to settle near the floor. When a radiator is placed under the window, it warms this cold air as it enters, reducing the draft and making the room feel warmer. This also helps in maintaining a more even temperature throughout the room.

3. Space Efficiency
Another advantage of placing radiators under windows is the efficient use of space. Windows are typically located along the walls, and placing radiators here can free up other areas of the room for furniture or other uses. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller rooms where space is at a premium.

4. Aesthetic Considerations
From an aesthetic standpoint, radiators can be designed to blend in with the window area, becoming part of the overall design of the room. There are many modern radiator designs that can complement the look of the windows and the rest of the room.

5. Even Heat Distribution
Placing radiators under windows also aids in achieving an even distribution of heat. The warm air rises and spreads across the ceiling, then gradually descends, ensuring that all areas of the room receive a consistent level of warmth.

6. Energy Efficiency
By strategically placing radiators under windows, you can also improve the energy efficiency of your heating system. The warm air is directed upwards, which means less energy is wasted on heating the cold air that comes in through the window.

Potential Drawbacks

While there are many benefits to placing radiators under windows, there are also some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Window Size and Type
The size and type of the window can affect the effectiveness of a radiator placed underneath it. Larger windows may require more heat to counteract the cold air entering the room.

2. Insulation
The insulation of the window and the surrounding wall is crucial. If the insulation is poor, the heat from the radiator may not be sufficient to warm the room effectively.

3. Radiator Size and Output
The size and output of the radiator must be appropriate for the room. If the radiator is too small, it may not provide enough heat to counteract the cold drafts from the window.

4. Installation Considerations
Installing radiators under windows may require additional considerations, such as ensuring that the radiator does not obstruct the window's operation or the view outside.

Conclusion

In conclusion, placing radiators under windows can be a highly effective strategy for heating a room. It leverages natural convection currents to warm the room efficiently and evenly. However, it's important to consider factors such as window size, insulation, radiator size, and installation logistics to ensure that the heating solution is both effective and practical.

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Why are radiators placed under windows? ... By placing the radiator under the window this floor draught is directed upwards thanks to convection from the rising hot air, making the room feel warmer and providing a more even distribution of heat. Any draught current around the room will thus be warm air, not cold air.May 16, 2014read more >>