If your radiators are making strange noises or feel cold at the top even when your heating is on, they likely need bleeding. This simple maintenance task removes trapped air, helping your heating system run more efficiently, reducing energy bills, and keeping your home more comfortable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to bleed your radiators safely and effectively.
How to Bleed a Radiator: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before starting, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Radiator key: Available at most hardware shops or online
- Bucket or bowl: To catch any water that escapes
- Cloth or towel: To protect your floor and walls
- Gloves: Optional, but useful for handling hot or dirty parts
Step 2: Turn Off Your Heating
Switch off your central heating system and allow the radiators to cool completely. This usually takes around 1–2 hours. Bleeding a radiator while the system is hot can cause burns from hot water or steam, so patience is key.
Step 3: Locate the Bleed Valve
The bleed valve is typically found at the top corner of the radiator. It looks like a small square within a round fitting. Position your bucket underneath the valve and have your cloth ready to catch any drips.
Step 4: Open the Valve Slowly
Insert the radiator key into the bleed valve and turn it anti-clockwise slowly—just a quarter to half a turn. You should hear a hissing sound as trapped air escapes. When water starts to come out steadily, the air has been fully released. Close the valve by turning the key clockwise, but avoid overtightening.
Step 5: Repeat on Other Radiators
Repeat the process on each radiator in your home, starting with the ground floor and working your way up if you have a multi-storey property. Even radiators that don’t feel cool might still contain air, so it’s a good opportunity to give your whole system a refresh.
Step 6: Check System Pressure
Once all radiators have been bled, check the water pressure on your boiler. Most systems should read between 1.0 and 1.5 bar when cold. If the pressure is too low, you’ll need to top it up—consult your boiler manual for guidance if needed.
Step 7: Turn Heating Back On and Check Results
Switch your heating back on and allow your radiators to warm up. Check that they’re heating evenly and that the previous cold spots are gone. If all is well, you’ve completed the job successfully.
Need Help with Radiator or Heating Issues in Walthamstow, Leytonstone or Woodford?
If you're unsure about bleeding your radiators or are still experiencing heating issues, Beales Services is here to help. We provide trusted heating support and maintenance throughout Walthamstow, Leytonstone and Woodford. Call us today on 0203 488 0883 or 07921 705246, or email hello@bealesservices.co.uk to book a service.
