With winter in full swing across the UK, experts are warning about one commonly overlooked radiator issue that reduces heating efficiency and wastes energy
Winter is in full swing across the UK, marking the official start of radiator season. As the mercury drops outside, we’re cranking up the heat indoors.
But a few common winter heating blunders can hamper your trusty radiator’s efficiency, waste energy and put undue stress on your boiler. The end result? A hefty dent in your pocket.
Many of these errors are easily made, as they’re part of our daily routines and often go unnoticed. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand how your heating system operates and realise that small but significant changes can cut down on energy consumption while keeping your home just as cosy.
In fact, there’s one widespread radiator problem that we’re all prone to ignoring – and it can cost us dearly. Thankfully, a respected kitchen expert has shed light on how to effortlessly rectify this frequently occurring issue, reports the Express.
Say goodbye to cold spots on radiators
Kitchen and bathroom specialist Plumbworld warns against disregarding cold spots on radiators.
While they may seem harmless, these chilly patches usually indicate trapped air or sludge accumulation. If not addressed, they can diminish the heating efficiency of radiators and place unnecessary pressure on boilers.
The straightforward solution is to bleed your radiators. This easy DIY task typically only requires a radiator key, which costs just a few quid.
Persistent cold spots might suggest the need for a professional system flush.
How to bleed a radiator
According to British Gas’s simple step-by-step guide on bleeding radiators, all you need is:
- Radiator bleed key (or flat head screwdriver for more modern radiators)
- Cloth/old towel
- Container
The first step in the process is to switch on the heating and give the radiators around your home a good feel – be careful not to burn yourself. Things to look out for: cold patches and strange gurgling sounds.
Next, switch off the heating and start bleeding the affected radiators. It’s crucial to keep the container and old towel handy as you work your way around the heating devices.
Once the heating has been switched off, locate the radiator valve and use the radiator key or screwdriver to open the valve. Remember to turn it anti-clockwise.
For tricky valves, use the cloth to give yourself a better grip.
Open the valve slightly, just until you hear the hissing sound, which means the trapped air is escaping. Once the sound stops, water will begin streaming out, which you can catch in the container.
After the water or sludge has been released, re-tighten the radiator valve and clean up any excess.
