Radiator help.

by **markemerson** » Tue Jan 06, 2009 10:32 pm

Apologies in advance. I am totally new to DIY and don't know one end of a spanner from the other :oops:

The kitchen radiator seems to be leaking around what I guess is a valve for draining the system (?) Can this be easily fixed? Would it be costly to call in a pro and have it replaced? I'm happy to attempt it myself but the thought of making a bigger problem means I'm considering the easy option!

Thanks in advance for any advice. (click for images)

http://i371.photobucket.com/albums/oo15 ... ator01.jpg

http://i371.photobucket.com/albums/oo15 ... ator02.jpg

by **stoneyboy** » Wed Jan 07, 2009 6:46 pm

markemerson,
The washer in the drain valve has gone hard and or split. Drain down the system by fitting a hose on the leaking drain point. Once its stopped emptying you will need to remove the knurled ring and undo the square ended shaft completely, this will then give you access to the washer. Likely problems - the washer is stuck on its seating so you only get a dribble and you can't buy a replacement washer.
end

by **markemerson** » Wed Jan 07, 2009 10:13 pm

[quote="stoneyboy"]markemerson,
The washer in the drain valve has gone hard and or split. Drain down the system by fitting a hose on the leaking drain point. Once its stopped emptying you will need to remove the knurled ring and undo the square ended shaft completely, this will then give you access to the washer. Likely problems - the washer is stuck on its seating so you only get a dribble and you can't buy a replacement washer.
end[/quote]

Sorry to be thick - do I just cut off the water supply and do this? I've never attempted this sort of thing in my life. I'm guesing thats going to be sh!tloads of water :?

Thanks

by **Steve the gas** » Thu Jan 08, 2009 6:39 am

Hi,

From the tone of your post , I would get a plumber in to do this.

by **markemerson** » Thu Jan 08, 2009 4:08 pm

[quote="Steve the gas"]Hi,

From the tone of your post , I would get a plumber in to do this.[/quote]

I think you may be right. I am a complete amateur. Final question... any idea on how much the job should cost? If it is just as described above?

Thanks again.

by **chris_on_tour2002** » Thu Jan 08, 2009 7:56 pm

a day's work at the very most, assuming no real problems. in london i would expect to pay £180 - £220. less if the plumber thinks it may only take a couple of hours.

a good opportunity to flush the system through and add inhibitor. also change any worn valves.

by **nitro23456** » Fri Jan 09, 2009 8:32 pm

I presume you have tried to tighten it!!

by **markemerson** » Mon Jan 12, 2009 9:35 am

[quote="nitro23456"]I presume you have tried to tighten it!![/quote]

:) Yup. Twice now. It's a very slight drip - it wouldn't fill an egg cup in a day.

Thanks to everyone for the advice. Much appreciated.