How to Remove a Radiator for Decorating

If you’re planning some decorating work, the removal and refitting of a radiator will probably be necessary. Plenty of designer radiators are quite heavy, especially cast iron radiators, so we’d advise enlisting the help of a friend or relative before you even begin attempting to lift your component by yourself. The following instructions will explain, as simply as possible, how to remove a radiator for decorating. Both horizontal radiators and vertical radiators follow the same principles…

Required Tools

For the safe removal of your radiator from the wall, the following tools are required:

Adjustable wrench
A pair of grips
Plastic bowl
Two towels
Radiator key

Removing your Radiator for Decorating

Step 1

Initially, switch off the radiator valves by turning them clockwise.

Step 2

When the valves have been turned off, position two towels or a plastic bowl beneath them before easing your radiator away from the wall. This will safely catch any excess water from your radiator and prevent any stains from appearing on the floor.

Step 3

Once the plastic bowl is put in place, use your grips and adjustable wrench to gently unscrew the radiator nut.

Step 4

Drain the water out of the radiator into the washing up bowl.

Step 5

Turn your radiator key anti-clockwise to open the bleed nipple, and enable the water to be drained into the bowl.

Step 6

Once the radiator has been drained, turn your radiator in an anti-clockwise direction to close the bleed nipple again, before undoing the nut on the other side of the radiator.

Step 7

Ease the radiator away from the wall and get rid of any remaining fluid. Remember, radiators can be much heavier than you might imagine, so you could require help when lifting.

Once all the excess water has been removed, use tissues to bung the outlets. From there, you can fully remove the radiator from the wall.

Step 8

After the decorating is done, you can position your radiator back onto the brackets, tighten up the valves and open them both in an anti-clockwise direction. The radiator is then ready to fill.

How to refill your Radiator

If your heating system is pressurized, you will have to open the filling loop slightly to top up the system pressure whilst the radiator is refilled.

Check the boiler’s water pressure gauge and follow the instructions for your specific boiler to top up the pressure.

That’s it! You should now be well equipped to remove your radiator for decorating or even just to replace it with a new component. Best of luck and don’t forget, professional help is always available if you need it.