If you’re preparing to commence with some renovation or decorating work, it’s likely that you’ll need to remove and re-install a radiator.
A lot of radiators are reasonably heavy, so it is well worth asking a friend or relative to assist with the process.
Follow our simple step-by-step guide for a detailed insight into how to remove a convector radiator for decorating.
By removing your radiator before decorating, you can enjoy a faultlessly professional finish within your newly renovated space.
Furthermore, it offers a great chance to further insulate your home. You can do so by fitting a radiator insulation kit that can help you save up to 30% of heat that would alternatively be lost through the wall.
You can find these sort of kits in most hardware stores, and they’re also readily available online. They provide an excellent means to add warmth to a space and reduce energy bills.
We’d strongly recommend enlisting a helping hand to remove a radiator.
For the safe removal of your radiator from the wall, the following tools will be required…
- An adjustable wrench
- A radiator key
- A pair of grips
- A washing up bowl
- Two towels
Simply follow these step-by-step instructions and you can achieve a nice and newly decorated wall in quick fashion.
Initially, you need to switch off your radiator valves by turning them in a clockwise direction.
When the valves are turned off, put a pair of towels or a washing up bowl beneath them before removing the radiator from the wall. In doing so, you’ll catch excess water safely from the radiator, and prevent stains from forming on the floor.
Once the washing up bowl is in position, use your grips and adjustable wrench to gently unscrew the radiator nut.
Drain the water out of the radiator into the washing up bowl.
Turn the radiator key anti-clockwise to open the bleed nipple. Then drain the final drops of water into the bowl.
Once the radiator has been completely drained, you can close the bleed nipple back up by turning it clockwise. Then, move to the opposite side of the radiator to unscrew the other nut.
Gently detach the radiator from the wall, getting rid of any remaining fluid. Keep in mind that many radiators are heavy, so you might need help when lifting.
Once the excess water has been removed, use tissue to clog the outlets. You can then completely remove the radiator from the wall.
When you’ve taken the radiator off the wall, you can do your decorating work. Then, position the radiator back on the brackets when your decorating work is completed.
From there, tighten your radiator valves and open them both anti-clockwise. Then the radiator is ready to be filled.
If your heating system is pressurized, you will have to open the filling loop slightly to top up the system pressure while the radiator is re-filled.
Check the boiler’s water pressure gauge and follow the user instructions for your specific model to top up the pressure. For open-vented systems, water will be automatically replaced into the radiator as the valves are re-opened.
And there you go! You now have everything you need to be able to remove a convector radiator for decorating or to be replaced with a different model. Best of luck and don’t forget – if all else fails you can seek the help of professionals.
All the best for a safe radiator removal and enjoy your newly decorated space!