Designing an adapted bathroom is all about creating the safest possible environment for the user, without compromising on either comfort or style.
In terms of comfort, heating is an essential element, particularly for someone of limited mobility or a vulnerable elderly person.
To meet that need, independent living solutions provider AKW offers a portfolio of heating products that is designed to complement the finished bathroom with a product that offers complete safety. The AKW iCare low surface temperature range offers a choice of electric towel rails, radiators or an easy-to-install underfloor heating pack.
The touch-safe towel rails and low surface temperature (LST) radiators are designed to maintain an external temperature at no higher than 43° to meet the NHS Safe Surface Temperature Guidelines. There are two radiator types available, one electric, the other a wet central heating radiator.
The iCare towel rail is available in elegant luxury chrome or white finishes with a choice of curved or straight models. Quick and easy to install and economical to maintain, they can be used with a timer and have a 10-year warranty, with a two-year warranty on the fixed heat element.
With a choice of three power outputs from 750 to 1500W, the iCare electric LST radiator has a digital adjustable thermometer for precise temperature control with a choice of three modes to suit the environment and deliver an economical performance. The slimline, easy-to-clean control panel has a digital display for the clock, selected temperature and weekly programming information.
The iCare wet central heating LST radiator is easy to fit, both in new installations and as a replacement for a conventional panel radiator. Available in various sizes, it has a strong hinged single piece cover for trouble-free access and is finished in a long-lasting bright white anti-bacterial finish. It is manufactured and tested to BSEN442 and carries a 10-year warranty.
The AKW iCare range also includes a range of accessories for added safety and user convenience. Included is the tamperproof LST thermostatic radiator valve (TRV), which can be added to provide maximum peace of mind. This has a temperature range of 6°C to 28°C and comes with a maintenance-free remote sensor. For users with limited hand mobility and offering easy access, AKW offers the option of an easy-grip TRV or an easy-grip remote TRV with a flexible mounting option that enables it to be fitted at any height. Finally, an LST radiator bottom plinth is also available to prevent anything being inserted into the bottom of the radiator.
Underfloor heating is an option that offers increased all-round heating comfort, particularly for the elderly or less mobile. For anyone suffering any form of circulatory problem, a cold bathroom or kitchen floor will be uncomfortable, even painful. Underfloor heating can create a consistently warm environment, independent of the central heating serving the rest of the property. This is particularly important in the bathroom, which with underfloor heating can be kept warm, even when the rest of the heating is turned down.
The AKW iCare underfloor heating kits comes complete with a correctly sized heating mat, digital clock thermostat, floor sensor and plastic pipe for its mounting, a multi-meter and installation manual and control card – everything that is needed in one box. For installations where safety is of particular concern, the system can also be fitted under slip-resistant altro flooring.
Stuart Reynolds of AKW says: “The AKW iCare range is centred around creating a safe environment but, as always with AKW ranges, we have placed a strong emphasis on offering reliability and an easy installation for the installer, as well as a safe bathroom for the client. The iCare range is incredibly versatile and suitable for a wide range of installations. The low surface temperature radiators are designed to eliminate any risk of an elderly or vulnerable person accidently burning themselves which makes them equally appealing to families with young children who want extra peace of mind.
“For the installer, the addition of the LST range provides them with the added convenience of a having all their adaptations requirements available from one supplier.”
