how to bleed a radiator

To bleed a radiator, follow these essential steps:

1. Turn off your heating system and let the radiator cool down to avoid burns.
2. Place a towel and a jug or container underneath the bleed valve on the radiator to catch any water.
3. Locate the bleed valve, usually at the top corner of the radiator.
4. Use a radiator bleed key (or flat-head screwdriver for some models) to slowly turn the valve anti-clockwise about a quarter turn.
5. You will hear a hissing noise as trapped air escapes. Once water starts to come out steadily, close the valve by turning it clockwise.
6. Repeat this process for all radiators that need bleeding.
7. Turn your heating back on and check that radiators are heating evenly.

Bleeding removes trapped air that causes cold spots and inefficient heating in radiators. It is usually done once a year before winter or if radiators show signs like cold tops or gurgling sounds. You only need simple tools including a bleed key, a towel, and a container. Make sure to check your boiler pressure afterward, as it may need topping up after bleeding the radiators.