How To Bleed Your Radiator
A radiator that is cold at the top means there is air in the system and you will need to bleed the radiator. As part of your Tenancy agreement, you are required to undertake minor repairs and maintenance to the property and this includes bleeding your radiator so that it returns to its normal working condition.
As a tenant, you may think that bleeding a radiator seems like too big a task but in fact, it will take no more than a few minutes of your time. Of course, you can call a contractor to do it but this will likely cost £80 upwards.
Besides, learning how to bleed your radiator is a useful skill. Below is a video and a guide that demonstrates how straightforward the process is.
Bleeding Out Your Radiator
Turn Off Central Heating
First, turn off your central heating at the main heater. This will help prevent any more air from entering the system.
Place a Rag Underneath Radiator Bleed Valve
Put a rag underneath the radiator bleed valve to catch any water that may drip when you open the radiator bleed valve.
Open Radiator Bleed Valve
Put the radiator key into the bleed valve and give it a quarter of a turn anti-clockwise. Air will start to bleed out of the small drip hole at the base of the valve followed by dripping water. Continue to let it bleed until the water runs smoothly.
Turn Off Valve Once Water Runs Smoothly
Once the water runs smooth, turn off the valve by turning it clockwise until it is tight. Remove the key and dispose of it properly.
An Important Note: But if your radiator is cold at the bottom that means there is sludge buildup. If this is the case, you have no other choice except to call a contractor to help you remove the sludge.
It is important to know how to check if your radiator is cold so that you can take appropriate measures depending on what is causing the problem. If the bottom of the radiator is cold, please contact us on 01522503717 and we will be able to send out a contractor. It's always better to err on the side of caution and have someone take a look at your radiator and clean the sludge out. However, do be very sure because if it is found that it falls under your responsibility as a tenant then you will be charged for the work.
Reminder That You May Be Charged - Where our contractor has arranged a time with you to attend and you postpone, cancel, or don't show up or where it is your fault for the appointment not proceeding you will be responsible for paying the call-out charge for the contractor and potentially any restocking fee for parts. Where the fault, issue or damage, is put down to your or other tenants, permitted occupiers, or guests' actions, you will be responsible for paying for the repair. These terms are already part of your Tenancy Agreement.