How much does it cost to replace a radiator in the UK?
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A like-for-like radiator replacement (same size, same position) costs £150–£350 including supply and labour. The radiator unit itself costs £40–£150 for a standard steel panel radiator; a plumber typically charges £80–£150 for the swap.
Adding a radiator to a new location costs more: £300–£600 is typical, depending on how far the pipework needs to run and whether floorboards need lifting. Access is the biggest variable — a straightforward run under floorboards costs less than chasing into walls.
Designer and column radiators cost significantly more to supply — £200–£800+ for the unit — but fitting cost is similar. Make sure the new radiator is correctly sized for the room using a BTU calculation based on room volume, insulation, and window area.
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are usually included in a replacement — budget £15–£30 per valve if buying separately. If your system uses older manual valves, this is a good time to upgrade to TRVs for better temperature control.
If your radiators are old and the system has not been flushed recently, adding inhibitor after the replacement protects the new radiator from corrosion. A small amount of Fernox F1 or similar costs around £10.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I replace a radiator myself?
A like-for-like swap is possible as a DIY job if you are comfortable isolating valves and draining the system section. However, if you are not confident, the risk of a slow leak damaging floors and ceilings is significant. A plumber can do this job in an hour.