How To Bleed Vertical Radiators: Step-by-Step Guide
Vertical radiators are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their sleek design and space-saving abilities. However, when air gets trapped inside these radiators, they can become less efficient and struggle to heat your home properly. One common issue with vertical radiators is the need for bleeding. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to bleed your vertical radiators and ensure optimal heating efficiency.
Why Do Vertical Radiators Need Bleeding?
Vertical radiators, like any other type of radiator, require bleeding to remove trapped air within the system. When air accumulates within the radiator, it forms air pockets that prevent hot water from evenly circulating, reducing the radiator’s heating performance. Bleeding your vertical radiators is crucial for achieving maximum heat output and ensuring an even distribution of warmth throughout your home.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin bleeding your vertical radiators, make sure you have the following tools ready:
– A radiator key or bleed key: This handy tool is specifically designed to fit into the bleed valve of your radiator, allowing you to release trapped air.
– A towel or cloth: To catch any water that might spill during the bleeding process.
Step 2: Turn off the Heating System
Before bleeding your vertical radiators, ensure that you turn off the heating system. This step is crucial as it prevents hot water from flowing through the system while you’re bleeding the radiators, minimizing the risk of burns or scalds.
Step 3: Locate the Bleed Valve
Find the bleed valve on your vertical radiator. It is usually located at the top or at one of the sides of the unit. The bleed valve can be recognized as a small square-shaped knob or a hexagonal screw.
Step 4: Prepare for Bleeding
Place a towel or cloth underneath the bleed valve to catch any water that may spill. This will help protect your floor or carpet from getting wet. Insert the radiator key or bleed key into the bleed valve and position it so that it can easily be turned.
Step 5: Open the Bleed Valve
Using your radiator key or bleed key, slowly turn the bleed valve in an anticlockwise direction. Be cautious and turn the valve gently as too much force may damage the valve. As you turn the valve, you will hear a hissing sound. This indicates that trapped air is being released from the radiator.
Step 6: Release Air and Water
As you continue to turn the valve, you will notice water starting to flow out of the bleed valve. This is normal and expected, as the air trapped in the radiator escapes together with some water. Allow the air to escape until you see a steady flow of water without any air bubbles. Once there is a continuous flow of water, it is time to move to the next step.
Step 7: Close the Bleed Valve
Once the steady flow of water is achieved, close the bleed valve by turning it clockwise using the radiator key or bleed key. Be careful while tightening, as over-tightening can damage the valve or strip the threads. Use gentle pressure to make sure the valve is securely closed.
Step 8: Check Pressure and Repeat if Necessary
After bleeding one vertical radiator, check the pressure gauge on your boiler or heating system to ensure it is at the recommended pressure level. If the pressure is too low, you may need to add water to the system. Repeat the bleeding process for any other vertical radiators in your home, starting from Step 2.
In Conclusion
Bleeding your vertical radiators is a relatively simple process that can greatly improve the heating efficiency of your home. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that air pockets are removed from your vertical radiators, allowing hot water to circulate freely and evenly throughout the system. Regularly bleeding your vertical radiators will help maintain their optimal performance and keep your home comfortably warm during the colder months.