Bleeding a radiator is the process of releasing trapped air from the heating system, allowing hot water to flow freely and evenly throughout the system, maximizing its performance. Over time, air can accumulate inside the heating system, causing pockets of trapped air within the radiators. This trapped air prevents hot water from circulating effectively, leading to cold spots and reduced heating efficiency. Bleeding radiators is how you get rid of the air pockets that stop hot water circulating around your central heating system efficiently.
Here are the steps to bleed a radiator:
- Turn off the heating system and wait for the radiators to cool down.
- Locate the bleed valve on the radiator. It is usually located at the top of the radiator, on one of the corners.
- Place a cloth or a container under the bleed valve to catch any water that may come out.
- Insert the bleed key into the valve and turn it anti-clockwise. You should hear a hissing sound as the trapped air escapes.
- Once water starts to come out of the valve, turn the key clockwise to close the valve.
- Check the pressure gauge on your boiler to ensure that the pressure is between 1.0 to 1.5 bars. If its less than 1.0 bar, you may need to re-pressurize your central heating system.
It is important to note that bleeding your radiators is not the same as draining or flushing your central heating system. You should bleed your radiators if they are taking longer than usual to heat up, or if you notice cold spots at the top of the radiator. If you are bleeding more than one radiator, start with the one furthest away from your boiler. If you are unsure about how to bleed your radiators safely, you can refer to online guides or seek professional help.
