How to Extend Your Radiator Pipes with Radiator Extension Tails

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Have you ever faced the challenge of connecting a new radiator to your existing pipework, only to find that the pipes don’t quite reach? Fear not! Radiator extension tails are here to save the day. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about extending your radiator pipes and achieving a perfect fit every time.

Short Summary

• Radiator extension tails provide a secure and durable connection for radiators to pipework, with customizable length options.
• Identifying the need involves assessing pipe widths, heights and compatibility with microbore pipes.
• High quality radiator extension tails can be found from reliable brands such as Reina, Stelrad or Jaga. Additional accessories like pipe sleeves and brackets enhance the performance of the system.

Understanding Radiator Extension Tails

Radiator extension tails are a simple yet ingenious solution for those situations where your radiator connection just doesn’t quite meet your pipework. Whether you’re installing a new radiator or updating your existing pipework, these handy extensions can save you time and effort by eliminating the need for costly pipe modifications.

But what exactly are radiator extension tails, and when might you need to use them? Let’s dive deeper into their functionality and common use cases.

Function of Radiator Extension Tails

In essence, a radiator extension tail serves as a connector between your radiator and its valves, which are necessary for controlling the water flow in the heating device. These tails come in various sizes and are designed to accommodate different pipe widths and heights, ensuring a secure fit regardless of your specific pipe layout.

Radiator extension tails are typically constructed of brass with a chrome finish, offering both durability and a sleek appearance.

Common Situations Requiring Radiator Extension Tails

There are several scenarios where radiator extension tails might be necessary. For example, if your radiator and pipes are too far apart, or if your pipework features non-standard widths or heights, an extension tail can bridge the gap and create a secure connection.

Moreover, they can be especially useful when dealing with microbore pipes, which are commonly found in modern homes. To determine the need for radiator extension tails in your home, it’s crucial to evaluate the pipe dimensions and compatibility with your heating system.

Identifying the Need for Radiator Extension Tails

Before diving into the world of radiator extension tails, it’s essential to first identify whether or not you actually need them. Assessing pipe widths and heights, as well as compatibility with microbore pipes, will help you determine if an extension tail is the right solution for your radiator connection woes.

Assessing Pipe Widths and Heights

To ensure a proper fit and avoid any leaks or damage to your pipes, it’s crucial to accurately measure the widths and heights of your existing pipework. This can be done using a ruler or measuring tape, taking care to measure the circumference of the pipe and the height from the floor to the top of the pipe.

By evaluating these dimensions, you can not only choose the correct size radiator extension tail, but also determine the appropriate size radiator for your space.

Compatibility with Microbore Pipes

When considering radiator extension tails, it’s also vital to verify their compatibility with microbore pipes, which are smaller diameter pipes (usually 8mm or 10mm) used in central heating systems. To ascertain compatibility, measure the diameter of your existing pipes and compare it to the diameter of the radiator extension tails.

If the diameter of your pipes is larger than that of the extension tails, they may not be compatible, and you may need to replace your existing pipes with microbore pipes to utilize the extension tails.

Materials and Finishes of Radiator Extension Tails

Now that we’ve established the need for radiator extension tails and their compatibility with your pipework, it’s time to explore the materials and finishes available. Radiator extension tails are predominantly constructed of brass, featuring a chrome finish that not only provides durability but also adds a touch of elegance to your heating system.

With a variety of sizes and customizable lengths at your disposal, you can be sure to find the perfect extension tail to suit your specific needs.

Brass Construction

Brass construction is highly regarded for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and rust. This makes it an ideal material for radiator extension tails, as they will provide long-lasting protection against the elements and withstand the high temperatures commonly associated with heating systems.

Furthermore, brass is relatively easy to work with, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications, including seamless brass, seamless copper, and seamless stainless steel construction types, each with their own merits and drawbacks.

Chrome Finish

A chrome finish is a type of metal plating that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of an object but also offers numerous functional benefits. It can improve the object’s corrosion resistance, minimize friction, deter galling, and even play a vital role in the production of stainless steel.

To ensure the longevity of your chrome finish, it’s important to clean the surface regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent, while avoiding abrasive cleaners or polishes that can cause damage. Additionally, be mindful not to expose the chrome finish to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as this can compromise its durability.

Choosing the Right Size Radiator Extension Tail

Selecting the correct size radiator extension tail is crucial for a successful installation. With standard sizes ranging from 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm, as well as customizable length options, there’s plenty of flexibility to find the perfect fit for your specific needs.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the compatibility of the extension tail with your radiator valves and any required reducers.

Standard Sizes

The standard sizes for radiator extension tails include 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm, catering to a wide range of pipe configurations. The most common connection size for radiators is 1/2 inch BSP, making these extension tails suitable for the majority of installations.

By choosing the appropriate size for your specific needs, you can ensure a secure and leak-free connection between your radiator and pipework.

Customizable Length Options

If the standard sizes don’t quite meet your requirements, radiator extension tails can also be sourced in customizable lengths, ranging from 10mm to 40mm. When selecting the appropriate size for your installation, consider factors such as the size of your radiator pipes and the available space for installation.

Installing Radiator Extension Tails and Valves

With a clear understanding of radiator extension tails and their compatibility with your pipework, it’s time to tackle the installation process.

This step-by-step procedure, which may require the use of valves or reducers for compatibility, will ensure a secure and leak-free connection between your radiator and pipework.

Step-by-Step Installation Process

The installation process for radiator extension tails involves fitting a compression elbow joint to the telescopic extending tail on the radiator inlet, cutting a length of pipe to run from the new elbow to the valve, and affixing the valve.

After securely fastening the radiator tail extension to the corresponding rad tails, it’s essential to create a watertight seal with materials such as PTFE tape and a silicone-based jointing compound. By following this process, you can ensure a successful and secure installation of your radiator extension tails.

Valve Compatibility and Reducers

Radiator extension tails are compatible with any standard radiator or valve featuring a 15mm compression nut. However, depending on the specifics of your installation, you may need to utilize adapters or reducers to accommodate various pipe fittings.

By selecting the appropriate components, you can ensure a seamless connection between your radiator, extension tails, and existing pipework.

Top Brands for Radiator Extension Tails

When it comes to radiator extension tails, it’s important to choose a reliable brand that offers high-quality products. Although we were unable to locate any information regarding a brand called “West” that manufactures radiator extension tails, other notable brands in the industry include Reina, Stelrad, and Jaga.

By choosing a reputable brand, you can ensure the longevity and performance of your radiator extension tails.

Brand Overview: West

Unfortunately, we were unable to locate any information regarding a brand named “West” that produces radiator extension tails. It is possible that the brand is not widely known or does not exist.

Nevertheless, there are other reputable brands available that can provide high-quality radiator extension tails for your installation needs.

Other Notable Brands

While we couldn’t find any information on other notable brands for radiator extension tails, it’s always a good idea to do your own research and consult with professionals in the industry to find the best products for your specific needs.

By investing in a reputable brand, you can ensure the durability and performance of your radiator extension tails and enjoy a worry-free installation.

Additional Radiator Accessories

To complete your radiator installation, you may also wish to invest in additional accessories such as pipe sleeves and radiator brackets. These handy add-ons not only enhance the overall aesthetics of your heating system, but also provide practical benefits that can improve the functionality and performance of your radiator.

For example, pipe sleeves can help to reduce the amount of noise generated by the radiator, while radiator brackets can help to ensure that the radiator is securely mounted in place. Additionally, these accessories can help.

Pipe Sleeves

Radiator pipe sleeves, also known as pipe covers or collars, are accessories used to aesthetically conceal plumbing and provide a polished look to radiator pipes extending from the floor or through the walls. These sleeves can be tailored to size and come in a range of lengths, ensuring a perfect fit for any radiator pipe.

To install pipe sleeves, simply cut them to the appropriate size and slide them over your radiator pipes, ensuring a secure and visually pleasing fit.

Radiator Brackets

Radiator brackets serve as the mounting components for your radiator, attaching to the rear of the radiator and securing it to the wall. Available in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes, these brackets provide a reliable and stable method of suspending your radiator, preventing it from becoming loose or falling off.

To install radiator brackets, simply affix them to the wall and hang your radiator on the brackets, ensuring the appropriate screws and wall plugs are used for a secure installation.

Summary

In conclusion, radiator extension tails offer a simple and effective solution for connecting your radiator to your existing pipework when standard connections fall short. By understanding the functionality, compatibility, and installation process of these handy extensions, you can ensure a secure and leak-free connection for your heating system. With a wide range of sizes, materials, and finishes available, as well as reputable brands and additional accessories, you can confidently tackle your radiator extension tail project and enjoy a warm and comfortable home.