eli5: Why are radiators in houses often situated under a window- surely this is the worst place and the easiest way to lose all the heat?

Question

eli5: Why are radiators in houses often situated under a window- surely this is the worst place and the easiest way to lose all the heat?

In: 2851

Answer 1

The heat is going to be lost no matter what. Placing the radiator near the window helps to counteract the cold draft from the window and thus causes the whole room to have a more level temperature. Placing the radiator far away from the window will make for a warm side near it and a cold side away from it. If the radiator is set to a normal temperature limit, like 68F/20C then the side of the room near the window could be a few degrees lower.