Electric vs Hydronic Heated Towel Rails
- Electric Heated Towel Rails
Electric rails are the simplest way to add warm, dry towels to your bathroom. They connect directly to mains power and can be hard-wired or plug-in. Add a timer or thermostat for more control. - Hydronic Heated Towel RailsHydronic rails connect to your hot water system and deliver consistent, even warmth. They are most efficient where hydronic heating is already installed.
How to Size Your Rail
- 1–2 towels: 400–500 mm wide rail (70–120W)
- 2–3 towels: 600–700 mm wide rail (120–160W)
- 3–4 towels: 750–800 mm wide rail (160–200W)
Choose based on towel load and room size for the best performance.
Bathroom Zones & IP Ratings
Australian standards divide bathrooms into safety zones:
- Zone 0: Inside bath or shower – not permitted
- Zone 1: Directly above bath or shower – IPX4 or higher required
- Zone 2: Up to 0.6 m beyond Zone 1 – IPX4 or higher recommended
- Outside zones: Standard rating is acceptable
All Hydrotherm rails are built to IP44+ for safe installation in most bathroom locations.
Timers & Controls
- Hard-wired models can be paired with wall switches or programmable timers
- Plug-in models are simple to install but have placement limits
- Timers reduce running costs by heating only when needed
Finishes & Lead Times
Choose from polished, brushed, or powder-coated finishes. Standard finishes are usually in stock, while custom options may add extra lead time.
