Page last updated on 22nd April 2026
Radiator reflector panels – do they work, and can they save you money?
With everyone thinking more about energy at the moment, we’ve put together some helpful tips to help you save energy around the home. In this guide, we’ll explore radiator reflector panels, explaining what they are, how they work, and give you an insight into the process of fitting radiator reflector panels in your home
We’ve also teamed up with Energy Saving Trust to show you that installing radiator reflector panels could save you money and reduce your energy consumption over time.
What are radiator panels with reflectors?
Curious about reflective panels behind radiators? You might have seen them before without even realising it. Radiator reflector panels are made with reflective material, like foil. They are placed behind your radiator to reduce heat loss through the outer wall. Instead, this heat is reflected back into the room the radiator is installed in.
Radiator reflector panels: do they work?
According to Energy Saving Trust, installing reflective radiator panels could save you money on your heating bills and reduce energy consumption in your household. By reducing heat loss, radiator reflector panels can improve heating efficiency, while keeping you and your household warm and comfortable.
These panels are lightweight and can be installed yourself (but check with your landlord first if you don’t own your property). It is recommended that radiator reflector panels are only being placed only uninsulated external walls. There’s not much benefit in installing these on insulated walls or internal walls that divide two heated rooms.
If you’re not sure if your walls have been insulated, try checking your Energy Performance Certificate.
How to fit reflective radiator panels
If you’re on the lookout for low-cost energy saving tips, fitting radiator reflector panels could help make your home more energy efficient. Fortunately, most modern reflector panels can be installed even by those with little DIY experience. Here’s how to fit reflective radiator panels:
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Get your equipment
We recommend you read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen radiator reflector panels before installing. While the installation process may vary from brand to brand, it is likely that you will need the following tools:
- Radiator reflector panels – There are a wide variety of sizes and types of reflective radiator panels out there, such as foil panels for behind radiators. Some may be more expensive than others. Do your research and select the panel that works best for your situation.
- Scissors – Depending on the type of panel you buy, you might need to cut them to size.
- Tape measure – To measure your radiator and check that the panel will fit.
- Double-sided tape or adhesive pads – You may need something to stick the panel to the wall behind your radiator, if this does not come with your chosen panels.
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Measure your radiator
Next, measure how tall and wide your radiator is. You’ll need to purchase enough reflective panel to cover the wall area behind the radiator. If the panel is visible behind the radiator, use scissors to cut it to size to avoid it sticking out.
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Attach tape
If necessary, apply double-sided tape or adhesive pads to each corner of the panel to keep it from unsticking from the wall. Make sure to follow the instructions that come with your chosen radiator reflector panels.
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Stick your reflector radiator panel to the wall
Carefully slide your reflector panel behind the radiator, pressing it against the wall so that it sticks. If the gap is too small, you can use a ruler or piece of cardboard to help position the panel.
If you’re still having trouble, there are a lot of handy videos out there that can show you how to fit radiator reflector panels once you’ve bought them. But always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you are installing them correctly.
Help and advice for those worried about the rising costs of energy?
Yes, if you are worried about the cost of energy and being able to pay your energy bills, we have information on the support and help which may be available.
Find out more about the support available from the government including energy saving tips on the GOV.UK website.
Remember, by combining our smart energy tips you could save even more on your energy bills. Try reducing your boiler flow temperature or turning down your thermostat.
How much could I pay to run household appliances?
The appliance energy calculator below will show how the price cap change could affect the cost of using everyday household appliances. Simply update the drop-down buttons with your estimated usage to see the costs.
The energy calculator below will show how the price cap change could affect the cost of using everyday household appliances. Simply update the drop-down buttons with your estimated usage to see the costs.
The calculator below will show a cost estimate for the current price cap (April-June 2026), and compare that to the previous price cap (January-March 2026), and the price cap before that (October-December 2025). So, you can see how your energy bills might have changed over time.
Please note: The electricity used by domestic appliances can vary depending on make and model, so we’ve used average power ratings. We have also used the price cap figures for a standard variable rate, so this calculator doesn't take into consideration any fixed tariffs or additional costs.
This calculator was last updated on 01/04/2026.
How will the price cap increase affect my bills?
£39
Cost per month
Based on the current energy price cap
−£5
Compared to the previous price cap
(Jan-Mar 2026)
−£2
Compared to the price cap before the previous
(Oct-Dec 2025)
Our energy saving tips are courtesy of Nesta and Energy Saving Trust
It’s important that you use the energy you need to keep warm, safe and healthy at home. For more information on how to safely implement these tips within your home visit Nesta and Energy Saving Trust.
Remember, by combining our smart energy tips you could save even more. Some of these tips include:
