Top tips for maintaining your radiators
The vast majority of homes in the UK benefit from central heating which means that even in winter, the temperature will remain pleasant, providing the householders with comfortable surroundings. Ensuring radiators are kept in peak condition is essential so that the heating system carries on efficiently through those harsh winter months.
There are a number of steps that people can take to maximise radiator performance. It’s important to keep them clean and dust free, and that includes the convector fins. Accumulated dust can act as an insulator, keeping the heat in the radiator. It’s essential that the air can move freely around a radiator for it to heat the home efficiently.
Move furniture away from the radiator to optimise heat
Moving furniture away from the radiators will allow the heat to circulate around the room and heat it effectively. This is especially important in winter, when maximum heat is required.
Radiators are available in a range of styles, and incorporating column radiators into your home is a novel way of creating a traditional feel to blend in with decor. If your question is can you get column radiators in different colours, then the answer is yes. They come in a wide variety of colours and styles to suit your home.
Bleed the radiators, but turn the heat off
Air which enters a central heating system can stop it from working efficiently. Householders will notice this issue if the top of the radiator is cooler than the bottom, despite the heat being switched on. If this is the case, the air has accumulated at the top and requires release. DIY Doctor offers more advice on bleeding, and draining, your radiators: https://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/bleedrads.htm.
The heating should always be turned off before bleeding radiators. The process means that water can escape, so it’s recommended that you place towels underneath to protect carpets. A radiator key is required and as you turn it anti-clockwise, a hissing noise will be heard as air escapes. Water will begin to be emitted and that is the signal to tighten it.
A professional can carry out these services if required. Householders should check for leaks regularly and if there is any water escaping, again it’s advisable to consult a skilled tradesman to examine the system and check for underlying issues. These can easily be rectified.
