energy usage

Science-Backed Performance: Horizontal vs Vertical Heated Towel Rails in 2024

Science-Backed Performance: Horizontal vs Vertical Heated Towel Rails in 2024

At Eskimo Heat, our commitment to designing and manufacturing luxury vertical heated towel rails is grounded in extensive research and practical performance. You might ask, why should you opt for a vertical heated towel rail instead of a traditional horizontal one? This blog explores the scientifically supported advantages of vertical towel rails, backed by our own internal studies.

Optimised Airflow for Efficient Drying

One of the compelling reasons to choose vertical heated towel rails is their ability to optimise airflow. Research indicates that when towels are hung vertically, they allow for better air circulation around them, reducing the formation of humid air pockets that are often seen with horizontal rails. Enhanced airflow not only promotes faster drying but also helps mitigate the development of damp, musty odours typical in poorly ventilated spaces.

Our comprehensive studies underscore the superior performance of our Gordon vertical heated towel rail compared to a popular conventional horizontal model.

Test Program 1: Power Efficiency
In our first test, we fitted the ladder rail with its recommended heating element of 350 watts, while the Gordon was equipped with a 200-watt element. The goal was to determine how quickly each rail could dry a towel to a standard atmospheric humidity level, indicating that the towel is considered dry. The results were striking: the ladder rail took 84 minutes to reach this dryness level, while the Gordon only required 57 minutes. This means the Gordon effectively dries towels 43% faster while using significantly less energy. Over the course of a year, choosing the Gordon over the ladder rail could save you approximately $215 on energy costs—benefiting both your wallet and the environment!

Test Program 2: Equal Energy Consumption
In our second test, we fitted the ladder rail with a 200-watt heating element, matching the energy consumption of the Gordon. We aimed to see how the two rails performed under equal power conditions. Under these circumstances, the ladder rail took nearly three times longer to dry the towel compared to the Gordon. Despite occupying less than half the space and boasting a sleek design that looks 72.4 times better (according to our team’s enthusiasm!), the Gordon proved to be over twice as effective at drying towels.

Loop heated towel rail

Pictured: Loop Heated Towel Rail by Eskimo Heat


Enhanced Energy Efficiency

The quicker drying capability of vertical heated towel rails translates to reduced operating time, leading to lower energy consumption. The Gordon model only needs to be turned on approximately one hour before use to warm your towels and requires between one to three hours of operation after use to dry them effectively depending on how wet the towels are. For added convenience, it can be linked to an automatic timer switch that pairs with your mobile phone, allowing you to conserve even more power without manual adjustments. Additionally, the Gordon is crafted from aluminium, a superior heat conductor compared to steel, enabling it to heat up and cool down towels much more quickly. 

Vertical heated towel rails also excel in optimising space utilisation. Their design allows for the hanging of more towels compared to horizontal models, making them especially beneficial in bathrooms of varying sizes. Whether you have a compact en-suite or a spacious family bathroom, a vertical towel rail integrates seamlessly into your design while providing ample towel storage.

Beyond functionality

Beyond functionality, vertical heated towel rails offer aesthetic benefits. Our Gordon model not only outperforms its horizontal counterparts but also features a sleek, modern design that enhances the overall look of any bathroom. It serves not just as a functional item, but as a luxurious statement piece.

In summary, the scientific advantages of vertical heated towel rails are clear. From improved airflow and faster drying times to enhanced energy efficiency and space-saving designs, these rails represent a superior choice over horizontal options. If you’re looking to elevate your bathroom experience with a blend of luxury and practicality, consider choosing a vertical heated towel rail from Eskimo Heat. Your towels—and your energy bills—will appreciate the difference.

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