Radiator maintenance is critical in December to keep your house comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the colder months. Here are some essential pointers:
1. Bleed Your Radiators
Trapped air can generate cold spots, which reduces efficiency. Using a radiator key, expel air from the valve at the top until water flows continuously. This guarantees that heat is evenly distributed throughout your home.
2. Check for Leaks
Check radiators, pipes and valves for leaks, which may indicate damaged seals or corrosion. Leaks should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid water damage and keep system pressure stable.
3. Test the Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
Ensure that TRVs are working properly to regulate the temperature in different rooms. A malfunctioning valve may make some rooms too cool while overheating others.
4. Clean Radiator Surfaces
Dust and debris on radiators can lower heat output. To clean between the panels and fins, use a moist cloth or hoover with a brush attachment.
5. Check System Pressure
If you have a combi boiler, check its pressure gauge. Low pressure may reduce heating efficiency. Fill it up to the recommended level using the filling loop.
6. Balance Your Radiators
Balancing radiators ensures they heat up evenly. To control water flow, adjust the lockshield valve on each radiator, prioritising the radiators furthest from the boiler.
7. Add Reflective Panels
Install foil or reflective panels behind radiators on external walls to transmit more heat into the room while reducing energy waste.
8. Schedule a Boiler Service
A properly maintained boiler provides constant warmth. If your system has not been maintained recently, have a Gas Safe engineer inspect it.
Regular maintenance increases the longevity of your radiators and improves heating effectiveness during the winter.
