To bleed a radiator, you'll need a radiator bleed key, a towel or rag, and a container to catch any water that may escape.
Here's a step-by-step overview:
- Turn off the heating and let the radiator cool down to prevent hot water or steam from escaping and causing injury.
- Locate the bleed valve , typically at the top corner of the radiator, often on the side opposite the thermostat.
- Place a towel and a container beneath the valve to catch any water or air that escapes.
- Insert the bleed key into the valve and gently turn it anti-clockwise about a quarter turn.
- You will hear a hissing sound as trapped air escapes. Continue until water starts to drip from the valve, indicating that all air has been released.
- Close the valve by turning the key clockwise without over-tightening.
After bleeding, it’s also recommended to check the water pressure in your central heating system and top it up if necessary, as air can affect system efficiency. Re-start your heating and check if the radiator heats evenly.
