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

Nobody has mentioned that having curtains closed (even if only thin ones) helps prevent the cold from flowing inwards into the room. They help direct the cold air downwards to the radiator, which is warm, that in turn produces a warm air current between the glass and curtain heating the cool air.