The range of 240V heated towel rails is extensive, with many different sizes, styles, and colours available. 240V units allow you to connect directly to the mains power without the need for a transformer. Wiring can be concealed (hardwired by an electrician to a timer or wall switch) or exposed (plugin to a power point). The exposed option also allows the rail to be easily retro fitted.
Useful Tips for Heated Rails
- Warm and dry towels, swimsuits, or delicate clothing that you don’t want to put in the tumble dryer or sun
- Warm clothing on a winter morning
- Safe to be left running continuously, though it’s preferable to have the ability to control when the rail is on/off to save energy
- Rails are energy efficient as they are designed to run on the lowest wattage possible without compromising fast response heating times and comfort
- Make sure to consult your electrician to make sure your chosen position is suitable for the heated towel rail you have selected**
- Stainless steel is:
- Durable and hardwearing
- Easy to clean
- Rust resistant
- Hygienic (does not collect bacteria or algae build up)
- Surface scratches can be polished out
** Refer to this link for installation information
Difference Between a Dry Electric Element and Liquid Filled
|
Dry Electric Element |
Liquid Filled |
Heating Method |
An electric element runs through the rails and heats the air inside the bars. |
The rails are supplied pre-filled with anti-corrosion fluid and sealed. The liquid inside the bars is heated by an electric element. As the element heats, the liquid particles begin to move around and heat the entire rail. |
Heating Time |
Quick response time. About 5 minutes to warm. Reaches optimum temperature in about 30 minutes. |
About 30 minutes to warm. Reaches optimum temperature in about 60 minutes. |
Heating Temperature |
Heats to around 35 degrees. When a towel is placed over the bars the towel insulates the rail and absorbs the heat, meaning that beneath the towel the temperature will rise to between 50 – 55 degrees. Folded towels insulate the rail and capture more heat meaning a folded towel will dry quicker than one draped over the rail in a single layer. |
The entire rail heats to about 55 degrees. As the element is heating the water and not the air, covering the rail with a towel will not cause it to get any hotter. |
Pros and Cons |
Cost effective. Better suited to the Australian climate. No need to worry about plumbing or about filling the rails. If the element fails, then the entire unit needs to be replaced. |
Adds warmth to the room. More complex design so more expensive. If the element fails, it can be removed and replaced with a new element. The entire unit does not need to be replaced. |
Cleaning Instructions
Our heated towel rails are corrosion resistance and therefore don’t need any extra protection to keep in good condition. You will need to keep your towel rail clean, and take care when doing so, to keep it in the best possible condition.
Simply wipe the rail with a damp cloth and then dry it thoroughly with a drying cloth or towel to prevent water drops from leaving marks. For best results, use deionised water to clean or rinse the surface. Deionised water is usually available from supermarkets for use in irons and steam cleaners.
Chloride-free glass cleaner can also be used to remove watermarks, and a cleaning solvent such as methylated spirits can be used for any stubborn greasy stains that can’t be removed with soapy water.
Avoid using scouring pads, wire wool or anything with the ability to scratch the surface of your towel rail, including scouring powders. Cleansers containing chloride and hydrochloric acid, e.g. toilet cleaners, should not be used. If you spill bleach on your towel rail, rinse it off immediately with plenty of clean water.