How to bleed a radiator (removing air) : tips and tricks

This article will inform you of the possible plumbing problems that may arise while bleeding a radiator in your central heating system, some of the preventive measures you can take to avoid your radiator spilling water during the venting, and some of the best plumbing tools to use for the job.

Bleeding a radiator in an open vented system

If the top of your radiator is not as hot as the bottom when the heating is turned on, it is often an indication that there is some air inside your system that has gotten trapped.

Air inside radiator:

Air in a radiator will rise to the top forming a pocket of air and stopping the hot water from getting to it, when there is too much air inside your system it will prevent it from heating properly.

Bleed the air from the radiator:

Bleeding your home radiator system will release the trapped air inside of your system. To let that air out, first you need to turn of your heating system. Next you will need a radiator key and some old rags or something to wipe up any water that the radiator might spill. (Radiator keys are readily available at your local DIY Store.) Keeping the rag in one hand gently turn the radiator key to loosen the valve on your radiator. Wait till your hear hissing sound which is an indication the air is coming out. Soon the hissing sound will stop and water will drip out, quickly close the valve and wipe up any spilled water with your cloth.

USA Plumbing Tip:

Radiators should not need frequent bleeding. If yours does, then air is getting in and this should be looked at and sorted by a professional heating engineer.

External References

• Air in water central heating systems (DIYData.com)
• How to bleed a radiator (DYILife,com)