Radiator covers often reduce a radiator's efficiency. True or False?

Question

Radiator covers often reduce a radiator's efficiency. True or False?

Answer 1

I agree with Dan, once the unit as hot the heat would warm the room. In fact if there is an insulated reflector against the wall it may increase efficiency by stopping some heat lose from a cold outside wall. As most radiators sit on the outside walls of a room.

Answer 2

It's possible, but unlikely.

When I had standing radiators, the covers were built with a insulated reflector against the wall and had plenty of openings for the heat to come out.

It may take the heat a bit longer initially to get into the room with a cover as the cover has to be heated first, but once warm, heat rises into the room.

Answer 3

No, but if they are built inproperly then yes