What does pipe centres mean?

"Pipe centres" are the distances between the centres of pipes that connect to radiators or other plumbing fixtures. It is usually measured in millimetres or inches. This measurement is significant when installing radiators, towel warmers and other similar fixtures because it ensures that the pipes are properly aligned for connection to the radiator valves.

For example, if you're installing a towel radiator, knowing the pipe centres will assist you put the plumbing connections on the wall so that they match the radiator's inlet and outlet points.

1200mm Wide towel rail pipe center details.

How to Measure a Towel Radiator

Common Pipe Centre Sizes for Towel Radiators

To help you better understand how pipe centres relate to your towel rail choice, we’ve created dedicated collections for the most popular sizes. These make it easier to browse and select the right radiator for your existing plumbing setup without needing complicated adjustments.

Pipe Centre Examples:

• 400mm Pipe Centres: Ideal for compact bathrooms and cloakrooms where space is limited. These towel rails offer efficient heating while fitting neatly into smaller wall spaces. Browse 400mm Pipe Centres ➔

• 450mm Pipe Centres: A versatile option that balances space saving with ample hanging room. Suitable for medium sized bathrooms or en suites. See 450mm Pipe Centre Towel Rails ➔

• 500mm Pipe Centres: One of the most commonly used sizes in UK homes, offering a perfect fit for standard installations. Ideal for family bathrooms needing both performance and practicality. Explore 500mm Pipe Centres ➔

• 600mm Pipe Centres: Designed for larger bathrooms or those requiring more heating output. These towel rails provide generous hanging space and excellent heat distribution. View 600mm Pipe Centres ➔

Why Pipe Centre Compatibility Matters

Choosing a towel radiator with matching pipe centres reduces installation hassle and prevents costly alterations to your plumbing. By selecting a size that aligns with your existing pipework, you can ensure a smooth, straightforward fit saving time and money.

If you’re unsure which size you need, always measure the distance between the centre points of your current pipework. This will guide you to the correct towel rail category and help avoid common installation mistakes.