The Difference Between 2-Column vs 3-Column Radiators
When deciding on the right radiators for your home, column radiators are a fantastic choice. Not only do they look good with their rustic design and traditional feel, they offer excellent heat output and can be paired with all the bells and whistles to make your home heating more eco-friendly such as TRVs. But what’s the difference between 2 and 3-column radiators besides the number of columns? Let’s explore together.
How Do Column Radiators Work?
Just like other central heating radiators, column radiators have hot water flowing through them which heats up the columns and the air surrounding them. As the air heats up it rises and is replaced by cool air underneath that creates a convection current and spreads heat across a room. A general rule of thumb is that the more columns there are, the better the heat output due to a larger surface area from the extra columns.
The Physical Differences
Column radiators look like traditional style radiators and are constructed from individual 2, 3, 4 or 6 column sections welded together at the top and bottom. Sometimes described as ‘cast-iron style’ radiators (without the bulk), column radiators offer the same character and charm of a real cast-iron but with a more efficient steel body. Each section of these timeless radiators is made up of either 2 rows (2 column), 3 rows (3 column), 4 rows (4 column) or 6 rows (6 column) that fill with hot water and convect heat out into the room. The more columns, the higher the heat output. There are a number of physical differences between 2-column and 3-column radiators beyond just having more columns. 3-column radiators have a deeper projection so are ideal for large spaces whereas 2-column radiators will fit small rooms and narrow hallways much better.
A larger radiator such as a 3-column radiator will offer a higher heat output compared to a 2-column radiator of the same height and width. The radiators with more columns will be heavier than the ones with less columns and you may want to purchase some radiator feet for peace of mind - although these aren't a requirement. Column radiators are available in a range of different sizes with horizontal and vertical alignments possible so you can find the perfect fit for your home no matter the size of your space.
The Heat Differences
Perfect for spaces with high ceilings and smaller homes alike, column radiators have the power to heat a range of different rooms in your home. They’re versatile and ideal for almost every room - from hallways to kitchens to living rooms and more - and can be used throughout the home to keep the style consistent. 2-column radiators will be better suited to smaller spaces such as bedrooms and bathrooms that need a less-powerful, more efficient use of space for the heating requirement. 3-column radiators on the other hand will have a greater heat output thanks to the larger surface area of the extra columns so are ideal for large rooms and open-plan living spaces that need a lot of heat energy. Here at UK Radiators we know that finding a radiator of the right height and width, as well as the right heat output for the room, can sometimes be a struggle. Part of the beauty of column radiators is the flexibility that the design offers. If you're limited on space - say under a window - but need a high heat output and a 2 column isn't giving you quite enough, then check out the 3 column version to get that extra heat from the growth in depth. If that's not enough you may even have the option to look at 4 or 6 columns to achieve the required heat output while keeping the height and width the same. Alternatively, maybe your concern is projection and width (you don't want your radiator to stick out too far into the room and you're limited in wall space) - go for a 2 column vertical radiator.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the difference between 2 and 3-column radiators a little better. Find your perfect 2-column radiators and 3-column radiators from our wide selection and complete your home decor with a timeless flourish. Need a bit more heat output? Check out our range of 4-column radiators and 6-column radiators too!
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A larger radiator such as a 3-column radiator will offer a higher heat output compared to a 2-column radiator of the same height and width. The radiators with more columns will be heavier than the ones with less columns and you may want to purchase some radiator feet for peace of mind - although these aren't a requirement. Column radiators are available in a range of different sizes with horizontal and vertical alignments possible so you can find the perfect fit for your home no matter the size of your space.
3-column radiators on the other hand will have a greater heat output thanks to the larger surface area of the extra columns so are ideal for large rooms and open-plan living spaces that need a lot of heat energy. Here at UK Radiators we know that finding a radiator of the right height and width, as well as the right heat output for the room, can sometimes be a struggle. Part of the beauty of column radiators is the flexibility that the design offers. If you're limited on space - say under a window - but need a high heat output and a 2 column isn't giving you quite enough, then check out the 3 column version to get that extra heat from the growth in depth. If that's not enough you may even have the option to look at 4 or 6 columns to achieve the required heat output while keeping the height and width the same. Alternatively, maybe your concern is projection and width (you don't want your radiator to stick out too far into the room and you're limited in wall space) - go for a 2 column vertical radiator. 
We hope this guide has helped you understand the difference between 2 and 3-column radiators a little better. Find your perfect 2-column radiators and 3-column radiators from our wide selection and complete your home decor with a timeless flourish. Need a bit more heat output? Check out our range of 4-column radiators and 6-column radiators too!
