To bleed a vertical radiator, you need to release trapped air, ensuring it heats up efficiently. Based on the reference material, here's a simple breakdown of how to bleed a radiator, which applies to both horizontal and vertical types:
Steps to Bleed a Radiator
Here's how to bleed your vertical radiator effectively:
- Preparation:
- Gather your tools: You'll need a radiator key, a cloth or rag, and a container or bowl to catch water.
- Make sure the heating is switched off and the radiator is cool. This prevents hot water from spraying out.
- Locate the Bleed Valve:
- The bleed valve is usually located at the top of the radiator, on one side. It often looks like a small square or hexagonal nut.
- Open the Bleed Valve:
- Place the container underneath the bleed valve to collect any water that might come out.
- Insert the radiator key into the bleed valve.
- Slowly turn the key counterclockwise. You should hear a hissing sound as trapped air escapes.
- Bleeding Air & Water:
- Keep the valve open until water starts to come out in a steady stream and not in an air hissing spurts.
- According to the provided reference, "Air is bleeding water means finished don't need to do anything" This indicates when water starts flowing steadily, all the air has been released.
- Close the Valve:
- Tighten the bleed valve by turning the key clockwise.
- Do not over-tighten it, as you can damage the valve.
- Check and Repeat:
- Check the pressure of your boiler and make sure it's correct.
- Repeat for all other radiators in the house if needed.
Understanding the Bleeding Process
- Why Bleed? Trapped air prevents hot water from circulating properly, making the radiator cold or only partially hot.
- When to Bleed? Radiators often need bleeding if they are cold at the top, making gurgling or hissing sounds.
- After Bleeding: Your radiators should now be heating up evenly. If you find the radiator is still not working, you may need to call a professional.
- Important Note As mentioned in the reference, "Just make sure they've all got water." which implies that bleeding should be done on all radiators until water starts coming out.
