Many old homes were heated with cast iron radiators before the invention of forced air heating systems that many of us know today.  Cast iron radiators relied upon the heated water from a boiler that would circulate through the "coils" of the radiator, heating the air around them and thus the room they were in.

Cast iron was a popular choice for these radiators that often were bland in design.  However, the designs became more popular and stylish as more people were using them and demanded something with more visual appeal to them.

Those old radiators that many people remember as clanging and banging around when the water would begin to circulate are gaining in popularity again as a way to heat your home for less.  Along with radiant floor heating systems, heated water radiators are an environmentally and financially viable option.  The old cast iron radiators are even capable of working with modern boilers and radiators to add a stylish look to your home.

One of the benefits of using a cast iron radiator for heating your home is that they don't produce moving air currents.  Some people with severe allergies require a limited amount of airflow in their home in order to prevent stirring up allergens and dust.  Along with radiant floor heating systems, cast iron radiators and more modern radiators work well to provide heat to your home.

Another benefit of using cast iron radiators in your home is that they work with modern heating systems.  If you have radiant floor heating or a boiler, you can tap into that heated water to use the radiator as a means to provide additional heat to your home.

Most radiators were situated in areas that had the chance of allowing the coldest air into the room.  That is why most radiators sat underneath windows or close to them.  The more modern radiant heaters are much smaller and more compact, some even fitting into the walls so that they appear to be molding.

If you are a fan of old homes or restoring old things, the benefit of finding, restoring and using cast iron radiators is another item of interest.  Many old radiators were destroyed or turned in for scrap.  Finding and restoring old cast iron radiators is a growing business.  If you are able to find old radiators or are restoring an old home with them, cherish them and have them restored or fixed instead of pitching them out with the garbage.