Calculate Radiator Output Accurately
17. 3. 2025

Correct Radiator Output Calculation
Selecting the correct radiator output is a key requirement for creating a comfortable environment in your home. However, to calculate radiator output accurately, you need to consider many technical aspects, making it a complex task best handled by a qualified expert. If a radiator is undersized, it won’t sufficiently heat the room, resulting in thermal discomfort. On the other hand, oversized heating elements represent an unnecessary financial burden and occupy more space than needed. Proper dimensioning ensures not only pleasant warmth but also economical and spatial efficiency.
Why Is Accurate Output Calculation Important?
Correct sizing of heating elements requires consideration of many technical parameters and building-specific characteristics, such as:
- Exact heat loss of the building
- Type of heating system
- Temperature gradients
- Thermal properties of construction materials
- Ventilation method
- Thermal bridges
- Climatic conditions of the given location
Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting a qualified heating designer or HVAC company. For basic orientation, however, we can offer the following information.
Basic Factors Influencing Radiator Output
Each room has its own heating requirements. You need to consider whether it’s a corner room or centrally located, as well as the number and size of openings to the exterior. The room’s function also plays a role—for example, living rooms and other occupied spaces are typically designed for 20 °C, while bathrooms require a design temperature of 24 °C. If you're wondering what size radiator for room you need, the following estimations can help.
Indicative Values for Quick Estimation
To get a general idea of the required output, you can use the following indicative values:
- Modern house with high-quality insulation: 60–70 W/m²
- Standard insulation: 90–100 W/m²
- Older buildings without insulation: 120–150 W/m²
These are only indicative values. For a precise system design, we recommend consulting a professional.
Using the Online Radiator Output Calculator
For initial orientation, we offer an online heat loss calculator. After entering the basic parameters of your room, this tool will give you a good starting point to understand what wattage radiator you need.
KORADO Radiator Types and Their Outputs
KORADO offers a wide range of panel radiators with varying output characteristics:
- Single-panel radiators for smaller rooms
- Double-panel radiators for standard living spaces
- Triple-panel radiators for spaces with high heat loss
Optimizing Radiator Output
To achieve maximum heating efficiency, we recommend:
- Placing the radiator ideally under the full width of the window
- Performing regular maintenance and cleaning
- Bleeding the heating system regularly
- Setting the thermostatic valve correctly
- Using a thermostatic head
Final Recommendations
An incorrectly designed heating system can result in:
- Unnecessarily high operating costs
- Inefficient use of heating elements
- Thermal discomfort in rooms
That’s why investing in a professional heating system design is an important step when building or renovating your heating system. Although our calculator can provide a basic estimate, for an accurate heating plan we always recommend consulting a qualified specialist.
Need help choosing KORADO radiators? Use our calculators or contact a heating designer or technician.