Inflated heat outputs on product packaging are defrauding resellers, installers and consumers, the Manufacturers’ Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC) has warned.

MARC members are concerned that false claims risk damaging faith in the industry and eroding trust and confidence in manufacturers and the industry as a whole.

John Colling, chairman of MARC said: “In the modern climate where efficiency is one of the strongest selling points a manufacturer can have, output is the key driving force in the market. However, without honesty the efforts mean nothing and the consumer is left with a bitter taste, which reflects badly throughout the supply chain, right back to the manufacturer which made the false claim.

“Unfortunately, many consumers fail to differentiate between manufacturers or models of radiators, convectors or towel rails, for example, and so the contamination spreads through product groups and the industry.”

From this summer, all towel warmers will have to feature a CE mark, which indicates they have been tested to EN442 by one of only eight authorised notified bodies. However, it is feared that some elements of the supply chain may choose not to conform.

Mr Colling said: “We need to preserve the confidence in our products, that has built up over decades. We cannot afford to allow products entering the supply chain to contaminate that trust with false claims.

“Earlier this year, we warned that this might be the case, and have seen no evidence of any change in the way some businesses are operating and it is now vital that a zero tolerance approach is taken when people are made aware of such false claims.”