Frequently Asked Questions on
Cast Iron Radiators

American made cast iron radiators have an unbeatable life cycle.
They have been around since 1840 and will last as long as we will take care of them. Over time, clogs and debris build up and joints deteriorate but it does not affect the cast iron of the radiator. The restoration including inner cleaning and new joints will keep them alive for an extended period of time.

It can vary from 4-8 weeks, but it generally goes according to our order book.

Slight paint odor possible on first use.

The cast iron is more efficient as it is a better emitter than steel. Also, the cast iron radiator contains a larger quantity of liquid allowing it to be an excellent heat accumulator.

The heat loss calculation is important as it ensures that a room is being adequately heated. The radiator needs to be sized accordingly so it has the right capacity to keep a room at the desired temperature.

We do not use the sand blasting process as the sand damages the cast iron. We use a shot peening process, which hammers the cast iron instead. This allows it to preserve the patina of the cast iron. The patina is a natural process that occurs over time, it hardens the cast iron offering a natural protection.

We believe in the recycling of the cast iron radiator, many American made radiators are on the market. Also, the quality of the cast iron from the American made radiator is unbeatable and allows us to propose a long-lasting product.

The reflector panel increases the efficiency of the cast iron radiator by diminishing the heat loss through the walls. The aluminum reflector reflects the heat back in the room. We recommend the use of aluminum panels where the insulation is weak.

ECORAD does not offer this service. Radiators must be connected by the plumber of your choice.

The clear coat finish is transparent, so it takes on the patina of the iron. Each radiator is unique and two radiators of the same model could have a different hue, depending on the alloy melt.

The dull black color, charcoal as ECORAD calls it,  is the best option for an energy efficient cast iron radiator. This color is the best heat emitter.

The radiator is a permanent installation and is not meant to move, so it needs to be hardwired. As per your local electrical code, the electrician will use the required wire as per the voltage of your radiator.

Copper low density elements specially designed for the size of the radiator.

The electrified cast iron radiator has a thermal cut-off that ensures overheating protection. The power of the electrical element respects the radiator capacity and the amount of liquid inside is also controlled.

There is a cast iron junction box attached to the bottom of the electrified cast iron radiator. The power line connects to the element terminals inside that junction box.

The electric cast iron radiator must be installed by a qualified electrician. Ecorad does not do installation.

Electric radiators are filled with a specific quantity of water and antifreeze. The radiator is sealed at the factory and there is no need to add liquid over time.

The junction box is installed at the bottom of the radiator, as the electric element must be in the liquid to work. The radiator is identical on both sides, so you can decide upon installation to have the junction box on the right or left side.

• Offers a transition from central heating management to flexible multi-zone management.
• Allows the demand on the power grid to be scheduled around peak hours and rates as needed to reduce consumption.
• Easily integrates into modern home management equipment
• Applicable to virtually all vintage cast iron radiators
•  Eliminates boilers and obsolete piping subject to recurring maintenance costs.

A DIY option is not possible. We don’t sell the electric element as it represents a risk if not used properly. It must be used in accordance with the UL certified electrification process in a UL inspected installation.

The electric cast iron radiator needs to be hardwired and controlled by an electronic thermostat or management system. A qualified electrician is required to connect the electric cast iron radiator according to local electrical code.

We recommend any electronic thermostat made by well known companies. It is also compatible with wifi management applications.

No, the radiator is sealed at the factory.

Each installation is different, but it is possible. The electrician will determine the best way possible.

The cost varies according to the size of the unit. The average cost for a complete restoration in and out of a cast iron radiator is 900$.

• Preserves the aesthetic value and the heritage of the heating system already in place.
• Allows an optimal integration to the central water or steam heating system of the building being restored.
• Optimizes the current system by possible addition, replacement or resizing of radiators.
• Limits restoration costs by reusing original radiators.
• Tangibly and measurably reduces energy consumption.
• Provides complete peace of mind by reducing the risk of damage associated with aging equipment and by offering an eco-friendly solution.

On a hot water radiator the sections need to connect at the top so the water flows through the whole radiator,  while specially designed steam radiators don’t have sections connecting at the top.

You can find radiators that were used on a steam system with sections connecting at the top, but to use them on a hot water system, you will need to plug the hole of the steam trap and make a new one at the top for the bleeder valve. Also, we suggest getting it restored to avoid leaks as inner joints of steam radiators get worn faster.

Hot water and steam cast iron radiators are not installed the same way. Both need to be installed by a plumber, pipe diameter, inlet/outlet diameter and location on the radiator are important.

ECORAD does not offer this service. Radiators connected to a central hot water or steam system must be disconnected by the plumber of your choice. The hardware you want to keep must be removed prior to sending us the radiators, as they are stripped upon arrival.