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

It’s actually the opposite. You’re right that heat is lost through the window, and transversely cold air comes in through the window and creates a cold pocket in the room. The radiator under the window heats up that air pocket, which heat rises and carries it it the ceiling and spreads out through the room.