Dowsing Radiator
H. J. Dowsing
Category
Historic Services / Heating and ventilation
Date
1910 - 1961
Materials
Brass, Glass
Measurements
750 x 590 x 280 mm
Order this imageCollection
Wightwick Manor, West Midlands
NT 1291013
Summary
The Dowsing Radiant Heat Company produced some of the earliest electric heaters, using long cylindrical bulbs. These are some of the first products to look recognisably like an electric heater and often had a copper backing to help radiate the heat into the room. Herbert John Dowsing (c.1859-1931) can be credited with introducing domestic electric heating to the UK. Dowsing was also a prolific engineer in many other fields, particularly the automotive industry. He’s perhaps best known for fitting an Arnold motorcar with the world’s first self-starter – a dynamotor coupled to the flywheel to assist in starting the engine. Dowsing Radiator with 4 sausage lamps with carbon filaments mounted in front of brass fluted reflector. Housed in brass fan shaped surround with raised feet and back plate. Two switches on the front together with patent badge. Electric cord and two pin plug.
Makers and roles
H. J. Dowsing, maker