Wall Mounting an Electric Radiator: DIY vs Hardwired

Last updated: June 2023

Modern electric radiators are lauded for their versatility when it comes to installation. Compared to extending a central heating system, fitting electric radiators is a breeze and won’t cost you a penny to install depending on what type of setup you choose. Some people opt to have their radiator act as a freestanding unit that they can move from room to room, whereas others prefer to wall mount their heaters for a permanent heating solution. Wall mounting is by far the most popular choice of the two but there’s a further consideration that needs to be made: do you wall mount your radiator DIY or go for a hardwired finish?

Should I Choose DIY Installation?

One of the draws of DIY installation is the speed at which you can get your heating system up and running. Forget about extending pipework or costly callouts – if you’re a dab hand at DIY, you can install an electric radiator in no time at all. When speed is essential, DIY installation is the clear choice. You might be refurbishing a bedroom for a tenant and need it ready by a strict deadline, or perhaps you’re getting the spare room ready for guests. By fitting your own wall mounted electric radiators, you can get these spaces ready in no time and at zero cost to yourself.

What are the drawbacks?

  • If you’re planning on refurbishing an entire property with electric radiators, be aware that adding too many electric radiators into your system yourself risks overloading the ring main, tripping your electrics in the process.
  • Opting for DIY fitting will always mean you’re using up a plug socket that would otherwise be kept free. Not necessarily an issue in larger rooms with more sockets, but in smaller rooms it could be an issue.
  • The appearance of loose cables can look untidy.

The verdict:

In a nutshell, DIY installation is quick, cheap and gives you more freedom.

Should I Choose a Hardwired Fitting?

Hardwiring your radiator gets rid of those unsightly cables, giving you the cleanest look. The wire does need to be placed somewhere though - and to make the best decision as to its location, it’s best to check which side the control panel sits. The product can then be placed in the optimal location so that the wire is neatly located adjacently. The wire can even be run through the wall by your electrician to reach the fused spur, minimising the amount of visible wire. As long as the fused spur itself is visible, accessible, and not too close to the radiator—your electrician will be able to advise—you'll have yourself one safe, aesthetically-pleasing radiator installation.

What are the drawbacks?

  • It’s harder to move your heaters once they’ve been installed and will require hiring a contractor to wire them into the mains.
  • Needless to say, hardwiring takes time and money, but it’s still substantially quicker and more convenient than having to extend pipework in a plumbed system.

The verdict:

For the most discreet fitting, and for larger installations, hardwiring your wall mounted electric heaters comes highly recommended.

Tips for Installing Wall Mounted Electric Radiators

No matter which type of wall-mounted installation you go for, there’s a few things to consider before you get started:

Have you chosen a suitable mounting location?

Think twice, install once. Before you decide where to wall mount your electric radiator, you should make sure that you choose a wall that will be able to bear the weight of the appliance. This might not be an issue for lighter radiators like the RC Wave but heavier oil-filled models may not be suitable for installation on stud walls. Also make sure that the power lead will be able to reach a plug socket before you undertake DIY installation! This is a surprisingly easy mistake to make so always double check the plug will reach its intended socket before commencing.

What’s in the wall?

It’s easy to get swept up in the enthusiasm of getting your new electric radiator fitted, but before you start drilling holes all over the show, be sure that you’re not going to accidentally drill into any hidden water pipes or wiring. Installation should be easy and stress-free, so take care not to make more work for yourself by rupturing the pipes in your central heating.

Are you installing in a bathroom?

Be aware that DIY installation is not an option in bathrooms, because all bathroom electrical appliances need to be hardwired by a professional electrician for safety. Broadly speaking, we don’t recommend installing electric radiators in bathrooms because many types can’t be used for towel drying and pose a hazard if covered up. However, if you do decide to go down this route, always ensure the product you choose has an appropriate IP rating for its intended location.

Wall Mounted Electric Radiators: Our Favourites

Ecostrad iQ Ceramic

For a solid all-rounder, look no further than our bestselling iQ Ceramic. As the name suggests, this one’s a ceramic electric radiator - so it’s packed with ceramic stone inside. This stone is able to lock in heat, delivering a gentle heat supply even after the unit’s been switched off.

Don’t be tricked into thinking it’s heavy, though - the iQ Ceramic is ideal for DIY installation, and can be installed quickly and simply using the templates, fixtures and fittings included in the box. A plug-in electric radiator with a whole host of smart features, the iQ Ceramic makes a welcome addition to a variety of spaces.

Haverland RC Wave

The RC Wave is an ultra-slim electric radiator, with the lightest model coming in at just 5kg. It’s perfect for DIY wall mounting, and can even be used on stud walls - the true test of a lightweight heater! All that’s required to install the RC Wave is attach the brackets to the wall and slot the unit on top.

Affordability and functionality combine with the RC Wave - with in-built daily and weekly scheduling, open window detection and comfort and eco modes, the RC Wave may be petite, but it certainly packs a punch.

Using the bestselling Ecostrad iQ Ceramic as an example, check out our video for everything you need to know about installing electric radiators.

Our Wall Mounted Electric Radiators

Whatever installation you plump for, you’ll never be waiting long to enjoy the quick and efficient heat of a wall mounted electric radiator. Look at our previous blog posts for further information on DIY installation or view our informative step-by-step video to get a better idea of what’s involved. We’re also on hand if you’d rather have your electric radiators hardwired. Give our team a call and we can help you get in touch with a qualified NICEIC electrician in your local area if you don’t already have someone in mind.

Key learnings

  • Wall-mounting an electric radiator has many benefits - it’s straightforward, quick and totally free.
  • Hardwiring can give a more streamlined look, though. It’s the best option if you’re kitting a whole home out with electric radiators, and the only option for bathroom installation.
  • When wall mounting, make sure to check with an electrician whether the wall can bear the heater’s weight beforehand if you’re unsure.
  • Check you’re not drilling into any pipework before wall mounting an electric radiator with an electrical detector or by contacting a qualified electrician.

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