Heated towel rails are a stylish and practical addition to any bathroom, offering warm, dry towels year-round. But if you’re considering installing one, you may be wondering: are heated towel rails safe? The short answer is yes—when used correctly, heated towel rails are perfectly safe. Let’s explore their safety features, potential concerns, and best practices for safe use.
Understanding How Heated Towel Rails Work
Heated towel rails function similarly to radiators but are designed to gently warm and dry towels. They can be powered by electricity or connected to a central heating system. Modern models are built with safety in mind, incorporating advanced heating technology to prevent overheating.
Things to Look for in a Heated Towel Rail for Safety
- Safe Surface Temperature
Unlike traditional radiators, heated towel rails are designed to maintain a safe and consistent temperature. A good heated towel warmer will warm towels effectively without becoming excessively hot, making them safe for households with children and pets. - Thermostats and Timers
A good heated towel rails should feature built-in thermostats to regulate temperature and prevent overheating. Timers allow you to control heating schedules, improving safety and energy efficiency. - IP-44 Rating for Moisture Resistance
When choosing a heated towel rails, ensure it has an IP-44 rating. IP stands for Ingress Protection and specifies that a product is protected against intrusions of solid and liquid particles. For example, IP44 is protected from solid particles that are over 1 millimetre and against water splashing from any angle. Perfect protection for a heated towel rail. - Electric Liquid-Free Internal Heat Mat
Unlike traditional liquid-filled towel rails, a modern liquid-free internal heat mat eliminates any risk of leaks or corrosion, and ensures long-term durability. This feature also allows for easy replacement if needed. - Durable Powder-Coated Finish
A strong, powder-coated finish prevents pigment transfer and eliminates mess, ensuring a clean, low-maintenance design that enhances bathroom aesthetics.
Eskimo Vertical Heated Towel Rails: Safety Guaranteed in Australia
Here’s some good news. Purchase one of Eskimo Heat's revolutionary Gordon or Loop heated towel rails and you’re not only guaranteed luxury but also assured of safety. Here’s why:
- All models have an IP-44 rating
- They comply with Australian Standards electrical safety AS/NZS 60334.2.43:2005.
- They are hardwired for a secure and permanent installation. Having a unit that can be hardwired ensures wires are hidden inside the wall, making for not just a cleaner look, but a safer unit all round.
- The Gordon has been designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United Kingdom to exacting standards.
- Our heated towel rail is designed to operate at a constant 43 degrees Celsius, which is a lower surface temperature than many competitors. When covered, the temperature rises slightly to improve drying efficiency but quickly returns to its lower level when a towel or bath mat is removed.
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Gordon’s relatively low temperature ensures your fabrics remain safe, preventing scorching or burning. You can even use it to dry clothing—though care should be taken with delicate items.
Potential Safety Concerns and How to Avoid Them
While heated towel rails are generally safe, improper installation or misuse can lead to potential hazards. Here are some things to consider:
- Proper Installation
Ensure your heated towel rail is installed by a professional, especially if it’s an electric model. Incorrect wiring or poor placement can lead to electrical hazards. - Avoid Covering the Rail Completely
While heated towel rails are designed to dry towels, completely covering them with thick fabrics like (e.g. doona covers) for extended periods may cause excessive heat buildup. -
Use the Correct IP-Rated Model
If you’re installing an electric heated towel rail in a bathroom, ensure it has the appropriate IP-44 rating for moisture resistance and safety.
Some common frequently asked questions
Are Heated Towel Rails Safe for Continuous Use?
Yes, many models are designed to run continuously and consume minimal electricity. However, using a timer to turn it off when not needed can help save energy and reduce wear.
Do heated towel rails use a lot of electricity?
No, most modern heated towel rails are energy-efficient. Models like the Gordon operate at a constant, low energy consumption level, making them cost-effective for daily use.
Can a heated towel rail be installed in any bathroom?
Yes, but it’s essential to choose an IP-44 rated model to ensure moisture resistance. Professional installation is also recommended for optimal safety and performance.
How long does it take for a heated towel rail to warm up?
Most heated towel rails reach their optimal temperature within 15 to 30 minutes. Models with thermostats and timers allow for better control of heating times.
Are heated towel warmers safe for children and pets?
Yes, heated towel warmers are designed with low surface temperatures, preventing burns and making them safe for households with children and pets.
Can I use a heated towel warmer to dry clothes?
Yes, but discretion should be used with delicate fabrics. Gordon towel rails operate at 43 degrees Celsius, which is gentle enough to dry towels and some clothing items without causing damage.
Can heated towel rails catch fire?
Some people worry that an electric heated towel rail can catch fire, but again we can allay those fears. Providing you purchase a heated towel rail that complies with Australian Standards and you have your rail correctly installed by a licensed electrician (in the case of hard-wired models) you’ll never have an issue with fire.
What about the towels? Can they catch fire?
Again, the answer is definitely not. While the heat generated is enough to dry and warm towels, the total heat output is limited by the amount of power, which is generally around 200 Watts. This ensures the heated towel rail can never get hotter than its maximum temperature.
Conclusion
When it comes to safety, efficiency, and reliability, Eskimo Heat vertical heated towel rails stand out as the best choice in Australia. Our models, including the revolutionary Gordon, are designed with the highest safety standards, offering IP-44 water resistance, liquid-free heat technology, and a constant, safe surface temperature.
Unlike traditional towel rails, our products are engineered to provide superior drying performance while ensuring energy efficiency and durability. The powder-coated finish keeps your bathroom clean and mess-free, while our low and stable temperature control prevents overheating or scorching fabrics.
With Gordon and Loop, you get a hardwired, leak-proof, and Australian safety-compliant heated towel rail that has been meticulously designed and manufactured in the UK. Whether you want to enjoy luxury, efficiency, or peace of mind, Eskimo Heat delivers the ultimate heated towel rail experience.
