Trusted Radiator Repair in Bradford

Wrap at least five turns of PTFE tape around the threaded tails of the valves and screw them into the radiator. Make sure the PTFE tape stays on the thread rather than just running along it as you tighten. If it does run, undo the valve and roughen the thread slightly with a hacksaw blade then re-tape the thread. Some of our valves have parallel threads which means that they never tighten against a stop like traditional valves so more PTFE than usual is required we recommend the use of gas type PTFE which is much thicker than the standard. The advantage of parallel threads is that they fit the same depth on all radiators so giving pipe centres is more accurate and also the threads are completely hidden inside the end of the radiator.

We endeavour to ensure all pipe centres are correct, however manufacturing tolerances must be considered; therefore we strongly recommend that pipe work is not altered or adjusted until your new radiator or towel rail is delivered. We will not accept any responsibility for claims resulting from incorrect pipe centres.

This can be easily achieved on most traditional open vented systems, however it can be more complex for sealed systems. An open vented system has a feed and expansion tank, with a ball valve and overflow located at high level in the property. A sealed system should have a pressure gauge located in or near the boiler. For open vented systems switch the heating system totally off and allow it to cool. Close the radiator valves at each side of the radiator, making a note of how many turns each valve is open. Place a receptacle under one radiator connection (not the valve to pipe connection) and loosen it until water slowly drains. Some radiator valves have an integral drain point that makes this task easier. Once the water has drained from the radiator, loosen the other radiator connection and remove it. To refit, replace the radiator, re-attach the radiator valves and open the valves to their previous settings. The air vent at the top of the radiator will need to be opened until the radiator is full of water.

In modern homes, radiator positioning is less important however please feel free to ask for advice. In traditional homes, most radiators are best placed in the coldest part of the room - usually found under a window. Large spaces are more effectively heated with 2 or more, smaller radiators rather than one large one. A rule of the thumb often used in the trade is to have one radiator every four metres (about 15 feet) or so in the room. An alternative could be two tall thin radiators either side of the window or a long low radiator along the wall.

Aluminium radiators are installed in exactly the same way as steel or cast iron ones, as with all central heating systems a suitable quality and quantity of inhibitor must be used to avoid corrosion. Mixed metal inhibitors are now easily available from most plumbers merchants. Your installer will know all about this.