Bleeding a radiator is the process of removing air from the radiator.
Air can get trapped in the radiator for a number of reasons, such as when the radiator is not properly installed or when there is a leak in the system. When air is trapped in the radiator, it can prevent the radiator from heating properly.
To bleed a radiator, you will need a radiator key or a screwdriver, a cloth, and a bowl.
- Turn off your central heating system.
- Locate the bleed valve on the radiator. It is usually a small, square valve located at the top of the radiator.
- Place the cloth under the bleed valve to catch any water that may leak out.
- Insert the radiator key or a screwdriver into the bleed valve and turn it counter clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. This is the air escaping from the radiator.
- Continue turning the bleed valve until only water comes out.
- Tighten the bleed valve by turning it clockwise.
- Turn on your central heating system and check to see if the radiator is now heating properly.
- Top up the water pressure on the system via the filling link if required.
If you still have problems with your radiator, you may need to call a local plumber.
Additional tips for bleeding a radiator:
- Make sure the radiator is cool before you start.
- Do not overtighten the bleed valve.
- If the radiator is still not heating properly, you may need to add more water to the system.
- If you have a large radiator, you may need to bleed it multiple times to remove all of the air
Additional information about bleeding a radiator:
- Why do radiators need to be bled?
Radiators need to be bled to remove air that can get trapped in the system. Air can cause the radiator to not heat properly, and it can also damage the radiator over time.
- How often should radiators be bled?
Radiators should be bled on a regular basis, typically once a year. However, if you notice that your radiator is not heating properly, you may need to bleed it more often.
- What are the signs that a radiator needs to be bled?
There are a few signs that a radiator needs to be bled. These signs include:
- The radiator is not heating properly.
- There are cold spots on the radiator.
- There is water leaking from the radiator.
- The radiator is making a hissing sound.
If you notice any of these signs, you may need to bleed your radiator.
Additional tips for bleeding a radiator:
- Make sure the radiator is cool before you start.
- Do not overtighten the bleed valve.
- If the radiator is still not heating properly, you may need to add more water to the system.
- If you have a large radiator, you may need to bleed it multiple times to remove all of the air.
Top up the water pressure on the system via the filling link if required.
By following these tips, you can bleed your radiator and get your heating system back up and running.
Related Articles
- How To Fix A Leaking Radiator
- Looking to Buy a Radiator?
- How Does a Thermostatic Radiator Valve Work?
- Use a Central Heating Power Flush for your Blocked Radiators
- What is a Zone Valve in a Central Heating System?
