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

Consider that a window is where most of the cold air in the room comes from. The heat of the radiator cancels the cold draft and gently heats the room like a blanket.

Many stores in the U.S. have powerful heaters just inside the entrance, as this is where most of the heat is lost to the outside. A single small heater where it matters most means more even heat and less strain on the central heating.

Heating the window also prevents condensation, which can damage the wood around the windows and cause further drafts.