Kitchen heating solutions to consider

One of the most common and affordable kitchen heating ideas, radiators come in a variety of shapes and styles, so you’re sure to find one that suits your current décor.

If you live in an apartment or have a small kitchen with not a lot of wall space, vertical radiators can be a better use of space (unless you plan on using it to dry laundry, in which case, horizontal is better).

Sleek chrome radiators look great in modern kitchens, whereas wooden effect radiators look perfect in farmhouse style kitchens.

When heating a kitchen with a radiator, avoid having one installed by the fridge or freezer, as it will cost you more money in the long-run, with the radiator having to work harder to warm the space (and your fridge/freezer working overtime to keep your food cool!).

Whilst radiators are traditionally placed under windows, there’s still some debate as to whether or not that’s the best idea. However, as it’s generally a space that’s otherwise redundant, it’s usually the easiest place to install one – leaving other walls free for storage solutions, such as shelving or cupboards.

Looking for an alternative source of heating for your kitchen? Underfloor heating means the heat rises throughout your room, keeping your feet toasty on otherwise cold tiles, whilst avoiding the risk of any unwanted drafts.

If you have a large, open-plan kitchen, you might need to pair underfloor heating with another kitchen heating solution, such as a radiator or a fireplace. However, if you have a small kitchen, underfloor heating can be perfect on its own.

There are two main types of kitchen underfloor heating systems for you to choose from:

• Surface-mounted warm water systems: This is where insulated panels are laid on top of your kitchen floor, resulting in a slightly raised height. Warm water is transported through pipes that sit in the panels, to keep your kitchen heated for you.
• Buried warm water systems: This is where the pipes that carry the warm water are buried into the floor screed, below your tiles. For this type of heating, you’ll need to have your flooring taken off – however, it’s a more energy-efficient option than surface mounted systems.

Both types of systems have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s ultimately dependent on your needs.

Alternatively, you could opt for an electric underfloor heating system as opposed to a water-based one, but the running costs are significantly higher in the long-term.

Fireplaces and stoves look particularly great in farmhouse and country kitchens, adding to the overall rustic feel. If you have a kitchen diner, and you don’t have an existing fireplace, you could purchase a freestanding stove, to act as a focal point in your living space.

When heating a kitchen, unless your room is small, you’ll likely have to pair it with another form of heating, such as a radiator.

Choose from wood (after all, you just can’t beat sitting in front of a log fire in winter!), oil, coal, gas, electricity or LPG to keep your stove – and your kitchen – warm all year round.

The most expensive option, if your kitchen is located on the corner of your house (and you’re thinking of having a full installation!), then you could consider investing in a glass extension. Not only will it brighten up your room substantially, it will also provide you with a clever way to heat your kitchen.

Heated glass panels consist of a metal oxide coating, which allows electricity to pass through it; generating a heat source that will keep your kitchen feeling warm and cosy every day of the year, whilst preventing condensation from occurring.

There are so many kitchen heating ideas available, it can be hard choosing which one(s) to go for! If you need help transforming your kitchen into a warm and cosy haven and need some help or advice; simply book an appointment to speak to one of our experts today.