Strange radiator question

[khana]

Just started to use the radiators in the flat I rent and the living room has 4, 2 small ones and 2 large ones.

The smaller ones are working fine but the larger ones are cold. Whats odd is that they are behind wooden radiator covers which are stuck to the wall, so I cant access the controls (if there are any) and there is some odd wire coming out of the side of the 2 radiators which are attached to a small white box with not controls but a battery inside it.

Can anyone explain what they are or how to put the radiators on ?

[buildersmate]

Are these electric storage rads or water-filled? Is isn't clear from what you say.

[khana]

Sorry, they are water filled ones.

[gasman]

From you're description they sound like remote stats fitted to rads when you cannot gain access to the control valve. If they are then apart from changing the battery then there is not much you can do without taking off the radiator cover and checking / servicing the valves and making sure they have not seized which is quite common on this type of control.

[benjiesmum]

As you are renting your flat then it is up to the landlord to get them working - assuming you have entered into a contract with him or her. You shouldn't have to make sure your radiators are in working condition. It sounds as though the system may need bleeding but get him to do it - or contact the agent.