What Liquid Do You Put in an Electric Towel Rail?

If you're considering an electric towel rail or already own one, a common question that comes up is what liquid should be used to fill it. The answer is not as simple as just using tap water. Understanding the right type of liquid is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your towel rail.

The Short Answer: It Depends on the Type of Towel Rail

Most electric towel rails are designed to be filled with a specific heat transfer liquid, which is a key component in their heating process. There are two main categories of these fluids:

• Pre-filled, Oil-Filled Models: Many modern electric towel rails come pre-filled with a special oil-based thermal fluid. This fluid is specifically engineered for efficient heat transfer and corrosion resistance. If you have one of these, you don't need to add any liquid yourself.
• Water-Filled Models: Some models, particularly those converted from central heating radiators, require filling. For these, you should use a specialized heating fluid or a mixture of water and an anti-corrosion inhibitor. It's important to use a fluid that is suitable for towel rails to prevent internal rust and damage.

Never use tap water alone. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can cause internal corrosion, scale buildup, and rust over time, which will significantly reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your towel rail.

Why Is the Right Liquid So Important?

The liquid inside your towel rail is what absorbs the heat from the electric heating element and distributes it evenly throughout the rails. The right fluid provides several key benefits:

• Efficient Heat Transfer: Specialized thermal fluids, like those with a glycol base, have excellent heat transfer properties. This means they heat up quickly and distribute warmth evenly across the entire surface, ensuring your towels get toasty fast.
• Corrosion Protection: The interior of your towel rail is susceptible to rust. A proper heating fluid contains anti-corrosion inhibitors that create a protective layer, preventing the metal from degrading and extending the life of your appliance.
• Frost Protection: If your towel rail is in a location where temperatures could drop below freezing, a fluid with anti-freeze properties is essential. This prevents the liquid from expanding and potentially bursting the rail, which could cause a major leak and damage.
• Lubrication: The fluid can also help lubricate the internal components of the heating element, reducing wear and tear.

Can I Just Use Distilled Water?

While distilled water is free of the minerals found in tap water, it still lacks the necessary anti-corrosion and anti-freeze agents. Using distilled water alone will not protect the internal components from rust and could lead to system failure. The best approach is to use a heating fluid specifically designed for electric towel rails.

How to Fill Your Electric Towel Rail

If you have a towel rail that needs to be filled, here's a general guide. Always check the manufacturer's instructions first, as procedures can vary.

1. Mount the Towel Rail: Securely install the towel rail on the wall. Do not connect it to the power supply yet.
2. Locate the Filling Point: There is usually a small cap or valve on the top of one of the upright rails. This is the filling point.
3. Prepare the Fluid: Use a funnel to pour the correct amount of specialized heating fluid into the rail. It's often recommended to fill the rail to about 90% capacity to leave room for expansion when the liquid heats up.
4. Bleed the Air: After filling, some air will be trapped inside. Gently tilt the rail to move the fluid around and release any air bubbles. Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve and let any remaining air escape until a little fluid comes out.
5. Seal and Install: Once the air is out, close the bleed valve and screw the cap back on securely. Now you can safely connect your towel rail to the power supply.

Maintaining Your Towel Rail Liquid

Once filled, the fluid in your electric towel rail is generally maintenance-free for many years. You should only need to top it up if you notice a drop in performance or hear gurgling sounds, which might indicate air has entered the system. For any issues, always consult a professional installer or the manufacturer's guidelines.

At FAAO, we offer a wide range of high-quality electric towel rails designed for optimal performance and safety. Our models are pre-filled with the perfect heat transfer liquid, ensuring a hassle-free and effective heating solution for your bathroom. Explore our collection to find the perfect towel warmer for your home!