FAQs

• A heated towel rack is single or multiple bars that heat up and are used to dry and warm towels, articles of clothing, or even spaces. They are generally mounted to a wall but can also be freestanding or floor mounted.
• Heated towel racks are also known as heated towel racks, heated towel rails, or drying racks.
• They are designed to replace standard towel bars and robe hooks by adding more functionality in drying and warming. This helps prevent the growth of mold & mildew on your towels and keeps them smelling fresher, longer.
• Additional benefits to drying towels are that they do not need to be washed as frequently, reducing laundry loads and saving on water, detergent and electricity.
• Some of our units also provide additional heat to a room.
• The most common heating technology used in the US is electric – either plug-in or hardwire installation. Another technology is hydronic, which uses hot water, is also available but much less common.

Heated towel racks have a variety of uses and applications in both residential and hospitality settings.

Residential:

Bathroom: This is the primary location where they are used. It replaces towel bars and robe hooks and warms towels before a shower or bath. After a towel has been used, it is placed back on the unit to dry the towel out. It is important to dry the towel so it does not develop that gross funky smell. This odor is the result of mold and bacteria growth on your towel.

Heated towel racks can also help keep bathrooms dry if left on for longer lengths of time by eliminating excess humidity and moisture in the bathroom. This will help to reduce the amount of mold and mildew growth and keep the bathroom more hygienic.

Laundry Room: This is a very common secondary application for heated towel racks. A heated towel rack can be used to dry out and prevent wrinkling in many garments such as denim jeans, silk blouses, and delicates, which usually cannot be put into a tumble dryer.

Mud/Wet Room: Whether you are located near an ocean, lake, river, or pool; or live in a cold climate with frequent snow every year, a heated towel rack is a great product to place in a mud/wet room. It can hang and dry bathing suits, pool towels, wet suits, and life jackets. Or in a colder climate, warm and dry ski jackets and winter coats, gloves/mittens, beanies, etc.

Pool House: Heated towel racks are perfect for pool houses to hang wet pool/beach towels, bathing suits, wet suits, and life jackets so they dry out for subsequent use.

Hospitality:

Hotels: One of the most significant expenses for hotel operations is laundry. Guests will be more likely to re-use towels multiple times, knowing they will have a dry and warm towel every time. This can yield massive savings by reducing laundry volumes, costs, and the time and labor associated with washing, drying & folding towels.

Spas: A place that is all about pampering and catering to the guests, a heated towel rack is one more thing that enhances their experience. Wrapping themselves in warm bathrobes between services and using warm towels after sauna, steam, or showering will elevate their overall experience.

The two most common heating technologies or methods found in North America are electric and hydronic models.

Electric models:

• Liquid Filled technology: These models are filled with an 80/20 water to glycol solution. A heating element heats the liquid, which in turn heats the bars. The benefits to this technology are the longevity and ease of maintenance of the product. If the unit stops working, it is either a faulty switch, wire connection, or a bad heating element. If it is a defective heating element, it can be replaced at a fraction of the cost of a new unit. Note – the larger the unit, the more liquid inside and the longer it can take to heat up – 15 to 45min. However, this can be negated with a programmable timer or leaving the unit on continuously.
• Our Jeeves & Traditional Collections use this technology.
• Dry Element technology: These models have a resistance-style wire cable that runs through all horizontal & vertical bars (note – many competitors only have horizontal bars that heat up!). The benefit is rapid heat-up time, regardless of the size – 10 to 15min. Note – heating cable cannot be repaired but is covered under the product warranty.
• Our Sirio, Quadro, Antus, Modello i, Vega, Cape,  Solo, Swivel & Radiant collections use this technology.

Hydronic models:

• Hydronic models are plumbed into a network of pipes that comprise a closed-loop hot water system. Hot water is pumped through these pipes and the heated towel rack, which causes it to warm up, though the heat output will depend on the water running through the unit.
• We do not stock hydronic models as they are less common, but we offer the Jeeves collection as a special order option: Lead time is approximately 10-16 weeks.
• Requires valve kits (Sold Separately)

• The Jeeves and Traditional collections (using the Liquid-Filled technology) will take 15 to 45 minutes to reach their maximum temperature from a cold start. This time will vary depending on the size of the unit, with larger units requiring more time.
• The Sirio, Quadro, Antus, Vega, Modello i, Cape, Radiant, Solo & Swivel collections (using dry element technology) take about 10 to 15min to reach their maximum temperature from a cold start, regardless of their size.
• Note – the ambient temperature, the size of the room, size & material of the towel, etc., will all impact how long it takes to warm or dry a towel after the rack comes to temperature. As such, Amba Products cannot give exact times for warming or drying a towel, but we generally recommend allowing at least 30 to 60min to receive the most benefit.

• Jeeves/Cape collections: External Temperature Range – 120°F – 150°F
• Traditional Collection: External Temperature Range – 130°F – 150°F
• Sirio/Quadro/Antus/Modello i/Vega Collections: External Temperature Range – 110°F – 194°F
• Radiant/Solo Collections: External Temperature Range –  120°F – 180°F
• Swivel Collection: External Temperature Range – 110°F – 160°F

• Our heated towel racks are designed and built to be left on 24hrs a day.
• Once the unit reaches its maximum operating temperature, the rack will remain at temperature. There are internal temperature limiters that prevent the units from overheating to ensure safe operating temperatures.
• For those looking to maximize the benefits while minimizing power consumption, programmable timers can be used with any of our products (see accessories section for more info).

• Across all models, the average power rating is 150 Watts, equivalent to about two incandescent light bulbs.
• Based upon the average national kWh (kilowatt-hour) rate, it will cost less than $5 per month to run a heated towel rack for 8hrs per day, seven days a week.

• Our products are very safe to use. They have all been tested and certified by either UL or ETL for sale and use in North America.
• UL & ETL are independent safety and testing organizations that test and ensure products are safe for use in North America.
• A certified electrician should install our products following local code. Most wiring in bathrooms today is already GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) equipped, an inexpensive device that helps prevent electrocution. This is a requirement for the installation of any heated towel rack.
• JEEVES & TRADITIONAL: A built-in thermostat and internal thermal cutout allows for optimal energy consumption and safety. Once the unit reaches the ideal internal operating temperature (145F – 154F), it cycles On/Off to maintain this temperature. This allows them to be left on continuously while minimizing electricity consumption, only drawing power to maintain that temperature level.
• ANTUS, QUADRO, SIRIO, MODELLO i & VEGA: Using the Touch Digital Heat Controller (sold separately) allows the user to adjust the temperature between 5 levels. This can be used to select the ideal internal temperature and minimizing energy consumption.
• CAPE, RADIANT, SOLO & SWIVEL: Integrated temperature limiters ensure these products do not overheat once they reach their ideal internal temperature level (120F – 149F depending on the collection).

• Like many hardwired appliances, there are restrictions on locations for installing an electrical device that can vary by state/county.
• We offer the optional Jeeves Wet Rated Kit for our Jeeves Collection models, and the Cape Wet Rated Kit for the Cape Collection, making both collections viable for installation in wet-rated areas. This only applies for the Hardwired configuration of the Cape Collection, not the plug-in.
• Installations should never have direct water contact, like spray from a shower.

• For best results, fold your towel in half or thirds, depending on its size, and drape it over the top bar. Ensure it hangs down evenly on either side, covering all bars in that section. This allows you to maximize the surface area contact between the towel and bars.
• We do not recommend weaving the towel through the bars because this only utilizes half of the surface area of the bars.
• It is important not to overload the unit with too many towels; please visit your model’s product page to see the recommended capacity.

JEEVES & TRADITIONAL Collections:

• • These models can take up to 45min for the unit itself to reach its operating temperature. So if your heated towel rack is not warm, it could be due to an insufficient heating time.
  • Do not use 15/30/60min timers, as they do not allow sufficient time to heat up. However, if the unit is still cool to the touch after at least 60min, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our customer service department for troubleshooting.
  • These units will heat to an internal temperature range of 145F – 159F without a towel on the unit. There is an internal security cut-off for added safety. You should be able to grab the bars without burning the skin but will want to let go as it is hot to the touch.

ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/MODELLO i/VEGA Collections:

• • If the unit is too hot, the Touch Digital Heat Controller (sold separately) allows you to adjust the heat level with 5 settings. Adjust the setting to a lower level.
  • Depending on the chosen heat level, the temperature ranges between about 95°F – 167°F without a towel on the unit.
  • If the units do not heat at all, you should contact our customer service department for troubleshooting.
    

CAPE/RADIANT/SOLO Collections:

• • These collections heat up to a top temperature of 149F without a towel on the unit. An internal temperature limiter will prevent the unit from overheating.
  • If the unit is too hot for your preference, you can connect a dimmer switch to lower the temperature.
  • DO NOT OVERLOAD units with more than two towels. This can trap the heat and prevent the units from ‘breathing,’ and can cause the bars to be extremely hot to the touch when removing the towel.
  • If the unit is cool to the touch (not heating), ensure the On/Off switch on the bottom or top of the vertical bar is in the ‘On’ position. It will illuminate when it is on and has power. If there is no light on the switch, there is most likely a wiring issue. Contact our customer service department for troubleshooting.

SWIVEL Collection:

• • These units will heat up to a top temperature of 136F. Unfortunately, it is not possible to adjust the temperature level.

• JEEVES: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, Matte Black, Oil Rubbed Bronze, & White.
• QUADRO: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, & Matte Black. Model Q2133 is available in Brushed Bronze. Additional Special Order finishes are available with 10-16 week lead times.
• SIRIO: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, Satin Brass & Brushed Bronze. Additional Special Order finishes are available with 10-16 week lead times.
• MODELLO i: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, Matte Black, & Satin Brass. Additional Special Order finishes are available with 10-16 week lead times.
• VEGA: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, Matte Black, & White. Custom finishes are available with 10-14 week lead times.
• ANTUS: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel.
• TRADITIONAL: Brushed Nickel, Polished Nickel, & Brushed Bronze.
• CAPE: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, & Matte Black.
• RADIANT: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, Matte Black (select models), Satin Brass (select models), Polished Gold (select models), & Brushed Bronze (select models).
• SOLO: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, & Matte Black.
• SWIVEL: Brushed Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, & Matte Black

• JEEVES/TRADITIONAL Collections: They do not come with an integrated On/Off switch. A separate wall switch or timer must be installed with these units. We offer a basic On/Off switch (ATW-SW) as well as a 7day/24hr programmable timer (ATW-T24), countdown timer (ATW-CDT), or a Wi-Fi-enabled Smart Switch (ATW-SS).
• You can also use any third-party timer or switch with the product.
• ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/MODELLO i/VEGA Collection: They do not come with an integrated On/Off switch. Choose between the Touch Digital Heat Controller (ATW-TDHC), or Remotely-Wired Touch Digital Heat Controller (ATW-TDHCR) to control on/off functionality and heat level.
• CAPE/RADIANT/SOLO/SWIVEL Collection: They come with an integrated On/Off switch on the unit that will illuminate when in the ‘On’ position. Separate timers can be connected for added functionality.

• JEEVES/CAPE Collections: Manufactured in South Africa, using Italian-made heating elements.
• ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/MODELLO i/VEGA Collection: Manufactured in Italy
• RADIANT/SOLO/TRADITIONAL/SWIVEL Collection: Manufactured in China

• JEEVES Collection: 10 years on the rack; 2 years on the heating element
• TRADITIONAL Collection: 3 years on the rack; 2 years on the heating element
• ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/MODELLO i/VEGA Collections: 3 years
• CAPE Collection: 3 years
• RADIANT/SOLO/SWIVEL Collections: 2 years

• All our collections, except the Traditional Collection, are made of high-quality 304 stainless steel.
• 304-grade stainless steel is a type of stainless steel commonly used in manufacturing various products, including kitchen and bathroom fixtures, appliances, and other household items. The “304” in the name refers to the steel composition containing a minimum of 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This composition gives the steel its corrosion resistance and durability.
• Our Traditional Collection is made using mild steel, allowing us to craft the beautiful finial accents at each corner of the unit and then plate it in nickel – this is much more difficult and costly with 304 stainless steel.

• Yes, it is possible to have the electrical wiring located on the left side, but only on some collections. There is a $150 upcharge for the conversion.
• JEEVES: Yes – additional 1 to 3 days to lead time
• TRADITIONAL: Yes – additional 1 to 3 days to the lead time
• RADIANT: Yes – but only for the Radiant Straight model in Polished (RWH-SP-LEFT) or Matte Black (RWH-SMB-LEFT)
• ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/VEGA: Yes – this is considered a special order with a minimum 10-16 week lead time.

• It depends on the collection and heating technology. The collections which use the liquid-filled technology cannot be mounted upside down as this could cause a safety issue.
• JEEVES/TRADITIONAL/SWIVEL Collection: No, they cannot be mounted upside down.
• ANTUS/SIRIO/QUADRO/VEGA/RADIANT Collection: Yes, they can be mounted upside down.
• SOLO Collection: These stand on the ground. We do not offer wall-mount conversion kits.

• All products come standard in 110-120 voltage. This is the standard voltage used for small appliances in North America.
• We offer 220 voltage as a special order option that would carry a 10-14 week lead time. This is only available in our Jeeves, Quadro, Sirio, Antus & Vega Collections.

• No! Most bathrooms run on a 20amp circuit and only have a few lights and a ceiling fan. This generally means there is ample capacity to add a heated towel rack to the existing circuit without overloading it.
• The average amperage across all our products is between 1-2amps with the highest drawing 4.6amps

• Our heated towel racks can be mounted onto any surface type, from drywall to tile, wallpaper, and even cabinets.
• The leg extensions that secure the rack to the wall do not heat up and thus won’t cause any harm to the surface they are mounted to.

• JEEVES/QUADRO/SIRIO/ANTUS/VEGA/MODELLO i/TRADITIONAL Collection: hardwired only.
• SOLO/ Collection: Plug-In only.
• CAPE Collection: Plug-in/Hardwire combo units that come with an outlet plug and include a hardwiring kit.
• RADIANT Collection: All models are now Plug-in/Hardwire combo units that come with an outlet plug and include a hardwiring kit.
• SWIVEL Collection: Plug-in/Hardwire combo units that come with an outlet plug and include a hardwiring kit.

• Yes! It is recommended that any heated towel rack be installed into a wood header, backing, or stud. This will provide the required support to ensure the product is safe and does not fall off the wall, especially our larger models weighing over 30lbs.
• If it is not possible to install some or all the leg extensions into wood backing, anchor/toggle/butterfly bolts can be used as an alternative.
• Note – these products are not to be used as a ladder and should not be climbed on or hung from!

• A heated towel rack typically works by warming up the towels that are hung on it rather than heating the air in the room. However, if the bathroom is small and well-insulated, the heat generated by the towel rack may be sufficient to raise the room’s overall temperature.
• The models in our ANTUS/QUADRO/SIRIO/VEGA Collections can help warm up a bathroom and provide some radiant heat. How much it can heat will depend on the unit’s size and the room it is in.
• To calculate the wattage/BTU rating needed to heat a room, you can use this BTU/wattage calculator: https://www.calculator.net/btu-calculator.html

• Our heated towel racks are designed for indoor use and are not suitable for outdoor use. Outdoor use would expose the heated towel rack to the elements, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, which can damage the unit and make it dangerous to use. Additionally, most heated towel racks not rated for outdoor use may not have weatherproofing or insulation to protect against the elements.
• Also, you need to check the local and national electrical codes to ensure that installing an electrical device like a heated towel rack outdoors is legal and safe.

• The liquid inside the JEEVES or TRADITIONAL Collection is a water/glycol solution – 80% water to 20% glycol. Glycol, similar to antifreeze, is only used to lower the freezing point as these products can sometimes sit on the courier trucks in the dead of winter for many hours. By adding glycol, we lower the freezing point to avoid this from happening.
• No! You should never have to refill or add more liquid to the model throughout the product’s life.

• It depends on the collection. If you have a model from our JEEVES or TRADITIONAL Collection, it is possible to replace the heating element.
• Here is a step-by-step video explaining how to replace the element: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ8CH1bkUvM&ab_channel=AmbaProducts
• If you have any other collection, it is not possible to replace the heating cable inside the unit. However, if the product is still under warranty, this would be covered, and we will replace the entire unit.