Removing a radiator typically involves safely disconnecting it from your central heating system after draining the water.
Here are the steps on how to remove a radiator, based on common practices and the provided reference:
Steps to Remove a Radiator
Removing a radiator requires careful preparation and execution to avoid leaks and damage. Always ensure the heating system is off and has cooled down completely before starting.
- Step 1: Switch off the heating and wait for the radiator to cool down. This is crucial for safety to prevent burns and manage system pressure. Allow sufficient time for all hot water to cool.
- Step 2: Separate the radiator from the rest of the system. This usually involves turning off the valves connecting the radiator to the pipes. Most radiators have a thermostatic valve on one side and a lockshield valve on the other.
- Step 3: Drain & bleed the radiator. Before disconnecting, the water inside the radiator needs to be drained out. You can do this by opening the bleed valve slightly while the drain valve at the bottom (or the valve body itself) is opened over a container to catch the water. This releases pressure and allows the water to escape. Be prepared for dirty water and use old towels or sheets to protect flooring.
- Step 4: Loosen and remove the union nuts. Once the radiator is drained, use an adjustable spanner or wrench to carefully loosen the large union nuts connecting the radiator tails to the valve bodies. There will be one on each side. Have containers ready for any residual water.
- Step 5: Remove the radiator. With the nuts disconnected and the radiator drained, it can now be lifted off its wall brackets. Radiators can be heavy, especially larger ones, so it's advisable to have a second person assist with lifting and carrying.
- Step 6: Remove the wall brackets (optional). If you do not plan to reinstall a radiator in the same location, you may choose to unscrew and remove the wall mounting brackets.
Tools You Might Need
Removing a radiator requires a few basic tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Spanner | Loosening and tightening union nuts. |
| Radiator Bleed Key | Opening the radiator bleed valve. |
| Buckets/Containers | Catching drained water. |
| Towels/Dust Sheets | Protecting flooring and surfaces from water. |
| Screwdriver/Drill | For removing optional wall brackets. |
| PTFE Tape | For sealing threads if reinstalling/modifying. |
For a more detailed guide and additional context, you can refer to resources like the PlumbNation blog on removing a radiator.
Remember to consult a qualified plumber if you are unsure at any stage of the process or if your system is complex.
