How to Purge a Radiator - Plumbing Tools

How and why to bleed your radiator?

The maintenance of your heating equipment is an essential aspect to ensure longevity. Especially since keeping it in a good condition can make great energy savings. When using a radiator, air bubbles can sometimes appear in the heating system which causes loss of efficiency. A cold radiator can alert you to the presence of air in the circuit. Another possible sign may be a noise flow. A method exists to avoid any malfunction of your radiator: purge the radiator of its air. Action-bricolage offers you advice on this simple solution, accessible to all.

When do you have to purge your radiator?

It is recommended to purge the radiator at least once a year. Ideally carry out this maintenance procedure before the winter period. Of course, if it does not heat at all or if you notice a loss of efficiency of heating, it is a warning sign that you should proceed with the purge. Also be aware of noises: if the heater is whistling or making water flow noises, it is probably because it contains air.

What plumbing tools are needed to purge the radiator?

Some old radiators are equipped with a wheel that allows the purge but most modern radiators require some conventional tools. To purge your radiator, the plumbing tools you will need are:

  • Pliers, a flat head screwdriver, a pipe wrench or universal pliers according to your model.
  • A basin to recover water
  • Protective glove

Steps for purging the radiator

Step 1: Turn off the heater

To purge, you must put your radiator in summer mode and wait until all the radiators are cold. This procedure avoids the risk of burns.

Step 2: Protect yourself and the area around the radiator.

Wear gloves and put a basin under the area where you purge the radiator, especially if your floor is fragile (example: parquet).

Step 3: Evacuate the air

First, locate the trap or bleed valve, which is usually located at the top of the radiator, opposite the thermostatic valve. Take the basin to collect the water. Open the valve using the appropriate key. A whistle indicates that the air is draining. When water begins to flow, wait until the water is steady and clear before closing the valve. This indicates that there is no air. Close the bleed valve. This operation must be repeated for each radiator to ensure that there is no air in the circuit.

Step 4: Restore the pressure

After purging, open the boiler fill valve. Observe the pressure gauge until the needle indicates the recommended pressure. Once this is achieved, close the valves. Put your boiler back in the winter position. Purging a radiator is a simple operation, achievable with conventional tools. You will find on Action-bricolage all the plumbing tools needed to maintain your heaters in our section plumbing equipment.

Comments (0)

Product added to wishlist
Product added to compare.