Radiator covers by size

Radiator covers by size

If you already know your radiator's measurements, shopping by size is the fastest way to find a cover that fits. Stock covers come in width bands, from small units for a compact hallway radiator to large covers for a long living-room one, so you can narrow the choice in seconds. The trick is to measure first and add a little clearance, so the cover sits over the radiator with room for the heat to escape rather than squeezing against it.

Shop by size

Covers are grouped by width into three broad bands, with the top shelf adding depth and height on top of the radiator:

  • Small. For compact radiators in hallways, cloakrooms and small bedrooms.
  • Standard. The most common band, suiting typical radiators in living rooms and bedrooms.
  • Large. For long or tall radiators, often in living rooms, dining rooms and bigger spaces.

Browse small radiator covers for compact spaces, or large radiator covers for a long radiator (linking when live). Each product lists its exact dimensions, so check them against your measurements.

Which size for your radiator?

Choosing the right size comes down to three measurements and a little breathing room. Measure the radiator's width, its height (including the valves, which often sit below it) and its depth from the wall. Then choose a cover a little larger than the radiator on each side, so it fits over the top without touching it and leaves a gap for air to flow. A cover that is too tight traps heat and can sit awkwardly; one with sensible clearance looks better and keeps your warmth.

For exactly how to take those measurements, including pipes and valves, see how to measure for a radiator cover

One point catches people out: measure to the outside of the valves, not just the radiator body. The valves and pipe tails usually add width at each end and height below, and the cover has to clear them as well as the radiator itself. Measure the full span including the valves, then choose a size that comfortably covers it. If the valves push you just over a size band, that is often the moment to consider made-to-measure rather than squeezing into a cover that will not quite sit right.

Measurement Why it matters
Width The main size band; allow clearance each side
Height (incl. valves) The cover must clear the top and the valves below
Depth from wall The cover sits proud of the radiator, not against it

When to go made-to-measure

Stock sizes cover most radiators, but not all. If your dimensions fall awkwardly between bands, your radiator is an unusual shape, or there are pipes, a valve or skirting in the way, a stock cover will fight the space. That is the point to switch to made-to-measure, where the cover is built to your exact sizes and around the obstacles. There is no prize for forcing a stock size to fit; a made-to-measure cover is the cleaner answer for an awkward spot.

See made-to-measure radiator covers for awkward spaces and non-standard radiators

Size FAQs

What sizes do radiator covers come in?

Stock covers come in small, standard and large width bands, measured in millimetres, with the top shelf adding depth and height. Measure your radiator and add a little clearance so the cover does not touch it. Each product lists its exact dimensions.

What size radiator cover do I need?

Measure the radiator's width, height (including the valves) and depth, then choose a stock size a little larger for clearance and airflow. If your dimensions fall between sizes or there are pipes in the way, go made-to-measure

How much bigger than the radiator should the cover be?

A little larger on each side and above, so the cover fits over the radiator without touching it and leaves a gap for air to circulate. The exact allowance varies by product, so check each cover's internal dimensions against your radiator before buying.

Do bigger covers lose more heat?

Not if they are well designed. Size matters less than airflow: a large cover with a vented top, a bottom gap and a grille front keeps heat moving just as well as a small one. A tight, sealed cover of any size is what traps heat.

Should I measure the radiator or the wall space?

Both. Measure the radiator including its valves so the cover clears it, and measure the wall space so the cover fits the spot without fouling a door, window or skirting. The cover needs to be larger than the radiator but small enough to suit the wall, so the two measurements together point you to the right size.

Shop by size to find a cover that fits fast, or read how to measure for a radiator cover if you are unsure Free UK delivery and 365-day returns. Big brands, small prices.