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First impressions count; your hallway is the gateway to your home. It’s the first space you and your guests step into and the last one you leave. Whether you’re coming in from the cold or welcoming friends and family, a warm, well-heated hallway sets the tone for the rest of the house.
Despite its importance, the hallway is often overlooked when it comes to home heating. It’s not an area we tend to linger in, yet when left cold or draughty, it can affect comfort levels throughout the house. If you’ve ever shivered while taking your coat off or felt a sudden chill when passing through, you’ll know how much difference proper hallway heating can make.
Why heating a hallway can be tricky
Hallways are unique when it comes to heating – and not always in a good way. Several challenges can make keeping them warm a bit of a balancing act:
Temperature fluctuations
Hallways often connect multiple rooms and may be near front or back doors, causing frequent heat loss through open doors and foot traffic. If your front door opens directly into the hallway, cold air can rush in and disrupt any warm airflow.
Lack of insulation
Many hallways have limited external insulation and may feature hard flooring (like tiles or wood) that retains less heat. Most hallways include staircases or landings, so the heat may rise before it has a chance to warm the space effectively.
Space and aesthetic constraints
Hallways are usually narrow, with limited wall space, especially when factoring in doors, windows, staircases and coat hooks. This means traditional radiators may not fit or may simply get in the way. The heating option for a hallway needs to be compact, safe and stylish.
Best heating options for hallways
When it comes to hallway heating, the key is choosing a solution that’s both space-savvy and effective. Here are some of the most popular – and practical – heating options available.
Vertical radiators
Ideal for narrow walls and limited space, vertical radiators are a stylish option that doesn’t compromise on heat output. Mounted tall rather than wide, they fit beautifully into slim spots beside doorways or at the base of stairs, making the most of unused vertical space.
Modern vertical radiators are available in a range of colours and finishes, from contemporary anthracite to classic white. We offer vertical radiators in various heights and BTU ratings to suit any hallway, large or small.
Electric radiators
If extending your central heating system into the hallway isn’t feasible, electric radiators offer a convenient, energy-efficient alternative. They’re easy to install, require no pipework and can be operated independently of your main heating system.
This makes electric radiators ideal for secondary heating zones like hallways, especially in older homes or apartments. Opt for a model with smart controls, timers or built-in thermostats for even greater energy control.
Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
Already have a radiator in the hallway? Adding a thermostatic radiator valve can give you better temperature control. TRVs allow you to set the radiator to a lower temperature than other rooms, preventing the hallway from becoming a heat trap while still staying cosy. This is particularly useful if your hallway doesn’t need to be as warm as your living room or bedrooms, but you still want to avoid that icy corridor chill.
Underfloor heating
Special mention goes to underfloor heating, which can be an elegant solution in hallways with limited wall space. It distributes heat evenly and keeps floors warm underfoot – especially welcome on cold mornings.
What size radiator do you need for a hallway?
It’s not just about looks – getting the right size radiator for your hallway is essential for efficiency and comfort.
Understanding BTUs
Radiator size is measured in BTUs – British Thermal Units – which indicate how much heat a radiator can emit. The higher the BTU, the more warmth it provides. Hallways typically require fewer BTUs than larger living areas, but you still need enough output to counteract draughts and temperature drops.
To find the right BTU for your hallway, consider:
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The size of the space (length × width × height)
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Number of external doors or windows
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Insulation quality
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Flooring type (tile or stone tends to feel cooler)
Use a BTU calculator to determine the correct output for your hallway and avoid over- or under-sizing.
Design considerations
Just because your hallway radiator is functional doesn’t mean it has to be dull. With the right design, your heating solution can enhance the look and feel of your entranceway.
Style that blends in (or stands out)
Choose a radiator that complements your hallway’s interior. For minimalist or Scandi- inspired spaces, a sleek white or feather grey radiator may be just the ticket. For a more dramatic effect, go bold with matt black or anthracite finishes. Panel shape also plays a role: flat panel radiators look modern and understated, while oval tube designs add soft curves to sharper spaces.
Smart use of colour and finish
Lighter finishes can make narrow hallways feel more open, while darker shades create depth and contrast against pale walls. Consider satin, matt or gloss finishes depending on the surrounding décor. A stylish radiator can become a design feature in its own right.
Energy efficiency tips
It’s easy to overlook hallway heating when trying to cut energy bills, but a few smart tweaks can keep things comfortable without wasting energy.
Use smart controls or timers
With electric radiators or smart thermostats, you can schedule your hallway heating to come on only when needed – such as early mornings or before guests arrive. There’s no point heating an empty corridor all day, so timing and zoning can really pay off. Some electric models even allow for app control, letting you adjust heating remotely for ultimate convenience and energy savings.
Zone your heating
If your hallway has its own radiator, consider treating it as a separate heating zone. Whether you use TRVs or independent electric radiators, setting the hallway to a slightly lower temperature than living areas can reduce overall energy use while still keeping the space warm enough. Don’t forget to draught-proof your front door and consider adding a heavy curtain or door seal to stop heat escaping.
Create a warmer welcome today
Your hallway might not be a room in the traditional sense, but it still plays a key role in your home's comfort, warmth and style. With the right heating solution, whether that’s a space- saving vertical radiator, energy-efficient electric model or stylish designer option, you can make a cold corridor a thing of the past. If you’re ready to upgrade your hallway heating, shop our full range of designer radiators, electric radiators and vertical radiators today.