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Conservatory Radiator Size Calculator

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The Conservatory Radiator Size Calculator helps you determine the appropriate radiator size needed to maintain a comfortable temperature in a conservatory. It calculates the total heat requirement based on factors such as heat loss through walls, windows, and the roof, as well as ventilation losses. By selecting the correct radiator size, users can ensure efficient heating and energy savings.

Formula of Conservatory Radiator Size Calculator

Step 1: Determine the Heat Loss from the Conservatory

Heat loss through the conservatory’s structure is calculated as:
Heat Loss (Q) = U × A × ΔT

Where:

  • Q is the heat loss in watts (W).
  • U is the U-value of the materials (W/m²·K).
  • A is the total surface area (m²) of walls, windows, and the roof.
  • ΔT is the temperature difference between the inside and outside (°C or K).
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Step 2: Adjust for Ventilation Heat Loss

If significant air exchange occurs, include ventilation heat loss:
Additional Heat Loss = Volume × Air Change Rate × ΔT × 0.33

Where:

  • Volume is the conservatory’s volume in cubic meters (length × width × height).
  • Air Change Rate is the rate of air exchange per hour (commonly 0.5 to 1.0).
  • 0.33 is a constant for the specific heat capacity of air.

Step 3: Total Heat Requirement

Add conduction and ventilation losses to find the total heat required:
Total Heat Requirement (Q_total) = Heat Loss + Ventilation Heat Loss

Step 4: Select the Radiator

Radiators are rated based on their heat output (in watts). Choose a radiator with an output equal to or slightly greater than QtotalQ_{\text{total}}Qtotal​:
Radiator Output (W) = Q_total

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Step 5: Adjust for Efficiency Factors

Increase the radiator output by 10–15% if placed under windows or in areas with obstructed airflow:
Required Radiator Output = Radiator Output × Adjustment Factor

General Table of Heat Loss and Radiator Outputs

Surface TypeU-Value (W/m²·K)Area (m²)ΔT (°C)Heat Loss (W)
Single-glazed glass5.810201,160
Double-glazed glass2.81020560
Insulated roof0.25152075
Brick wall1.51220360

Example of Conservatory Radiator Size Calculator

Scenario

A conservatory has the following specifications:

  • Double-glazed windows: 15 m²
  • Brick walls: 10 m²
  • Insulated roof: 20 m²
  • Indoor temperature: 22°C
  • Outdoor temperature: 5°C
  • Volume: 60 m³
  • Air Change Rate: 0.5 per hour

Solution

Step 1: Calculate heat loss for each section:

  • Windows: Q = 2.8 × 15 × (22 – 5) = 714 W
  • Walls: Q = 1.5 × 10 × (22 – 5) = 255 W
  • Roof: Q = 0.25 × 20 × (22 – 5) = 85 W
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Total conduction heat loss: 714 + 255 + 85 = 1,054 W

Step 2: Calculate ventilation heat loss:
Additional Heat Loss = 60 × 0.5 × (22 – 5) × 0.33 = 168.3 W

Step 3: Total heat requirement:
Q_total = 1,054 + 168.3 = 1,222.3 W

Step 4: Select the radiator:
Choose a radiator with a heat output of at least 1,222.3 W.

Step 5: Adjust for efficiency factors:
If the radiator is under a window, increase the output by 10%:
Required Radiator Output = 1,222.3 × 1.1 ≈ 1,344.53 W

Result

A radiator with an output of at least 1,350 W is recommended.

Most Common FAQs

What is a radiator size calculator used for?

It estimates the appropriate radiator size to maintain desired temperatures in a conservatory by accounting for heat loss and ventilation factors.

How does placement affect radiator efficiency?

Placement under windows or in areas with obstructed airflow reduces efficiency, requiring a 10–15% increase in radiator output.

Can this calculator be used for other rooms?

Yes, the principles apply to any room where heat loss and ventilation need to be calculated for radiator sizing.

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