Historically central heating was a cumbersome affair. For most of us over fifty, we only came into contact with central heating in schools, churches or public buildings of some kind. The wet system was popular where water was pumped round the building through extensive piping networks and into radiators, one or two of which sat in each room or lined the walls of large buildings. Radiators used at this time were large, rather unsightly and often heavily painted which made them smell when the heat was turned up in cold weather.

As far as domestic heating was concerned, it was normally only well off Victorian families living in large houses that could afford to have central heating installed. As boilers were large and the system also needed large hot water cylinders, it usually had a designated room in the house. These systems were often difficult to manage and potentially dangerous. When fired up, any problems with valves could mean an explosion which potentially would not just destroy the existing house but also others on the street as well, thus required plenty of maintenance. Systems were also noisy as air often got trapped in the pipes. However, when working well, they kept houses nice and warm.

The innovation of the gas boiler, piped gas and micro gauge piping has meant that heating has become a much safer, more streamlined affair and the radiators themselves become part of a room’s décor.

Outlets such as Boundary Bathrooms are able to incorporate Bristan taps, showers and baths, as well as their range of designer radiators to create the ultimate bathroom experience.