How to fix a cold radiator

June 21, 2016

by admin

If your radiator is refusing to heat up properly, it may be tricky to identify the source of the problem. However, it should be possible to get your central heating back on track without breaking the bank. Follow the steps below to help identify the cause of your cold radiator.

Ensure that your heating is switched on

This may sound ridiculous, but even if your boiler is switched on your heating may not be. Check the control panel and the thermostat to ensure that the problem isn’t the boiler itself. If it is, you will need to call for professional help and get your boiler repaired or replaced.

Is only one radiator cold?

If all your other radiators are working, the problem is likely to be isolated to this one radiator and it may be possible to repair it yourself.

• Part-warmth. If part of the radiator is warm but it is cold at the top, you may need to bleed the radiator to get rid of any excess air in the system. The bottom may be full of hot water, but it is unable to reach the top of the radiator because the air bubble is blocking it.
• Warmth in the top half. If the bottom half of your radiator is cold but the top half is warm, it will be more difficult to fix the problem. It is likely sludge at the bottom is preventing it from heating up properly. If this is the case, you may need to powerflush your central heating system.
• Cold throughout. If your whole radiator is cold, check that the thermostatic radiator valve and the second valve on the other side are open, and that the pins within the thermostatic valve are moving properly. You will need to remove the top of the valve to see whether the pin moves up and down freely. A simple tap may be enough to get it back on track.

Get professional help

If one or more of your radiators is still refusing to cooperate, you will need to call in the experts. The technical team at DHS are here to help. We are one of the top plumbing and heating companies in Bristol so get in touch if you are experiencing any issues with the central heating in your home.

Call DHS today on 0117 924 7200, email us, or request a call back.

About the Author

DHS have been helping people with their boilers, heating and plumbing for over 40 years and are one of the South West's most reliable and trusted firms.