10/06/2025
Over the jext few months we are going to post some answers to some of the common plumbing questions we get asked.
This week we are going to look at how to bleed a radiator.
✅ Why Bleed a Radiator?
Radiators can get air trapped inside, which prevents hot water from circulating properly. This leads to:
Cold spots at the top of the radiator
Bleeding the radiator releases that trapped air and restores proper heating.
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
Radiator key (or a flat-head screwdriver for modern models)
Cloth or small container (to catch water)
Gloves (optional, but water may be hot)
🔧 How to Bleed a Radiator:
Turn off the heating
Let the system cool to avoid hot water burns.
Find the bleed valve Usually at the top corner of the radiator.
Insert the radiator key
Turn anti-clockwise slowly (about a quarter-turn).
Listen for a hiss
That’s the air escaping.
Once water starts to trickle out, the radiator is bled.
Tighten the valve
Turn the key clockwise to close it.
Check boiler pressure, Bleeding can lower pressure. If it drops below the recommended level (usually 1–1.5 bar), top it up using the filling loop.
Bleed air from your radiator using a bleed key or screwdriver. DIY expert Craig Phillips provides an easy step-by-step guide with advice on making your radia...
