What Does a Dual-Fuel T-Piece Do on a Towel Radiator?
Quick answer
A T-piece adds a branch at one radiator port so the electric element and a radiator valve can connect at that end of a compatible towel rail.
Start at the radiator port
The radiator connection is the point the fitting shares. The heating element usually needs a clear path into the rail from below in this layout. The side branch gives the central heating valve its own connection. The second radiator connection remains part of the approved water circuit.
When to buy a separate T-piece
A standalone T-piece may suit an approved setup where you already have a suitable element and valve, or where you need a compatible replacement. Some dual-fuel packages include the fitting. Other radiator designs provide a dedicated element port or use a different arrangement, so check the model drawing before adding parts.
What to tell your installer
Send the exact model of the rail, element, valve and T-piece. Ask which radiator port is intended for the element, how the valve should approach the side branch and which sealing method each joint requires.
See the dual-fuel T-piece buying guide for the other fit checks and both finishes.