Are you thinking of upgrading your radiators, or changing the color that your walls are? If yes, you’ll have to get your old radiators taken away.
To ensure you are removing the appliance correctly, check out our step-by-step guide for removing an appliance safely and properly.
How to Remove a Radiator Yourself
Central heating systems are complex and removal is something that most people are hesitant to tackle themselves.
Most often, the primary reason for removing a radiator would be to permit repainting walls or wallpapering. The removal of the radiator permits you to change the color of your walls or to add wallpaper more easily.
It might seem like a difficult job, but we’re here to help you put your thoughts at ease, as removing the radiator is a simple job. Follow this step-by-step instruction for removing an unintentionally damaged or defective radiator:
Step 1
First, you’ll need to switch off the heating for the radiator in order to disengage its connection to the main system. After that then allow for the cooling of water.
You shouldn’t handle hot water from a radiator or risk spilling boiling water that could result in severe burns. In order to do this, you’ll have to shut off the valves for radiators. The method for closing valves is dependent on the kind of radiator that you have.
Step 2
The typical radiator would include two valves at each end. You must determine the valve accurately and then separate the flow from the radiator.
Here are a few of the most popular valves:
Turn Valve:
For closing this process, you’ll have to rotate your wheels in a clockwise direction (to the left) until you come to the point of complete stop.
Thermostatic Valve:
It is evident that this valve is marked with numerical values on the edges. To turn this kind of valve off, adjust it until the number is close to zero.
Lockshield Valve:
If you own this kind of valve, you’ll notice that when you attempt to turn it the cap won’t spin. Just pull the cap off. Certain valves feature a screw located at the top. You can utilize a Phillips screwdriver to remove the cap from the top.
The cap serves to cover the valve beneath. To shut it off, you’ll need pliers. Secure on the head of the valve using your pliers and turn it until the valve comes to an abrupt stop.
Step 3
If you’re looking for a drain valve for your radiator typically, it’s situated on a pipe, or valve. It is not uncommon that heating systems to not include a drain valve, as well as for it to stop working and be ineffective. There is no need to be concerned, it’s just a matter of ensuring that you shut off your water source.
If you own a combi boiler, there’s no need to be concerned. If you do have water tanks, you’ll need to disable your stop-clock. Make sure you are aware that doing it will shut off your home’s water supply completely.
Step 4
It is important to clean the area prior to taking off a radiator. To be extra careful about the flooring’s protection We recommend that you lay a protective sheet under the radiator’s surface.
Then, you should take two large bowls, and place them directly under the pipes connecting them. This will help to collect the water.
Step 5
Once the water has gone away, it is necessary to remove the union nuts that connect the valve to the radiator. For this to be done, make use of a spanner of the appropriate size to turn the valve steady and then start to twist the union nuts.
After this has been completed and the pressure is released, you might see small amounts of water escaping when the pressure decreases. You’ll need to let the water run out of your radiator. Use the bowls to hold the excess. It is also suggested to have towels on your hands for any spray of water.
Step 6
It is now possible to remove the radiator out of the wall brackets. It is important to be cautious as there may be water in the room.
Depending on the dimensions of the radiator, you might have to get someone else to help you through this process. Turn the radiator upside down and empty the remaining water into an empty bucket.
Step 7
At this moment we recommend that you complete any decorating immediately. If you’d like to take your brackets off, you should consider taking them on the wall. Allow it to air dry over the proper period of time specified by the manufacturer.
Tools to Remove a Radiator
To take off an unintentionally damaged or defective radiator it is essential to have the right tools that allow you to remove it safely and correctly.
We suggest collecting the following information:
- A radiator spanner of the right size
- Two large bowls
- A bucket
- Pliers
We recommend using sheets of protection, or a lot of towels beneath the radiator, because there is a chance of water sprinkling that is difficult to keep from. The sheet beneath will offer additional protection for the floor.
Safety Equipment to Remove a Radiator
When you are moving the radiator, you need to make sure you are doing it as securely as you can. You’re dealing with an item that is flooded with water, and it connects directly to the boiler.
We suggest the following:
- We suggest that you wear some of your old clothes, as water sprays can be extremely slippery.
- You might also take into consideration wearing gloves made of latex or any other personal protection equipment that you believe is suitable.
- If you are lifting the radiator off the wall, you’ll require a person to help you, as radiators can be very heavy.
- Be sure to create an open path in the room. If you are removing the radiator, you will need a space to place the radiator in.
It is crucial when you turn off the central heating system and water supply to let the water cool. You do not want to handle the hot radiator and risk spilling hot water, since this could cause burns and possibly scalding.
How to Prepare for Remove a Radiator
Before beginning the task you are working on, it is crucial to set up the space. This will ensure that the job is completed as quickly and effectively as it can be.
- It is necessary to cover the flooring under the radiator. As you loosen the nuts, as well as when draining the radiator, there will be a spray of water that is inevitable.
- The water won’t be pleasant to look at therefore, make sure to wear appropriate clothing that you won’t like getting stained.
- It is also necessary to put large bowls or buckets under every valve. One on the left and another just to the right in front of the radiator. They are used to hold the excess water.
