Removing air from a radiator, often called "bleeding," is a straightforward process that helps ensure your heating system works efficiently. The reference video How to bleed a radiator - YouTube provides an overview of this process and emphasizes the importance of checking your system type. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove air from a radiator:
Understanding Your System
Before starting, it's crucial to identify whether you have a gravity-fed system or a combination boiler ("combi boiler"). As the video highlights, if you have a combi boiler, make sure you know how to repressurize the system after bleeding.
Steps to Bleed a Radiator
- Gather Your Tools: You'll need a radiator key (available at most hardware stores) and an old cloth or rag to catch any water that may come out.
- Turn Off the Heating: Ensure your heating system is off before you begin.
- Locate the Bleed Valve: This is usually a small valve located at the top corner of the radiator. It usually has a square indent.
- Insert the Radiator Key: Place the key into the square indent of the bleed valve.
- Open the Bleed Valve: Slowly turn the key counterclockwise. You should hear a hissing sound as the air escapes.
- Wait for Water: Keep the key turned until water starts to come out instead of air. Have the cloth or rag ready to catch any water.
- Close the Bleed Valve: As soon as the water flow is steady, quickly turn the key clockwise to close the valve. Don’t overtighten it.
- Repeat for Other Radiators: If you have more than one radiator, repeat this process for each of them, starting with the ones closest to the boiler and moving outwards.
- Check Your Boiler Pressure: If you have a combi boiler, check the pressure gauge. If it has dropped, you'll need to repressurize it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Turn the Heating System On: Once all radiators are bled, turn your heating system back on and check if the radiators are heating up properly.
Important Considerations
- Safety: Be cautious when opening the bleed valve, as the water may be hot.
- System Type: Knowing your system type is crucial, especially for combi boilers which require repressurization post-bleeding.
- Regular Bleeding: It's good practice to bleed your radiators at least once a year, ideally at the beginning of the heating season, or any time they are cold at the top but warm at the bottom.
- Professional Help: If you’re unsure about any part of this process or if you continue to have issues, consider seeking help from a qualified plumber.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove air from your radiators, improving their efficiency and ensuring a warmer home.
