How to Replace a Radiator

Many homes feature a central heating system in order to supply heat and hot water and in order to supply the heat, radiators are used. On occasion, you may need to remove or replace such items.

This can be done fairly easily and in order to do so, read on below to find out how.

Why Replace a Radiator?

There are several reasons you might consider replacing a radiator. Firstly, if you’ve removed it for redecorating or wall repairs, such as fixing damaged plaster or masonry.

Radiators can also become inefficient or damaged over time, with rust and debris causing blockages. If cleaning doesn’t help, replacement may be necessary.

In damp environments like kitchens or bathrooms, radiators can rust externally, leading to unsightly appearance and potential leaks.

Lastly, you might opt for a replacement to upgrade to a more stylish or better-suited radiator for your interior design preferences.

Considerations Before Removing a Radiator

Before diving into removing valves and such, consider these factors, especially if you’re replacing with a new radiator.

For a like-for-like swap, ensure you get the same size and type, particularly focusing on pipe centres — the space between the valves on each end must be the same.

If opting for a different size or design, like a vertical radiator, be prepared to adjust pipework layout by moving valve positions closer or further apart. You may need a plumber’s help to do this.

Replacing with a taller radiator of the same width shouldn’t be an issue, but ensure the wall can support the added weight and you will also need to refill the system with more water.

Notably, if the new radiator matches the size and dimensions of the old one, you can do the job without draining the system.

Can I Remove a Radiator Myself?

Yes, you can remove a radiator yourself, even with minimal plumbing experience. Basic DIY skills and common sense should be more than sufficient and also the time and care to do it properly.

The only challenge arises when replacing with a different-sized radiator, requiring adjustments to the pipework layout. If you lack the expertise to handle this, it may lead to leaks, pressure loss, an inefficient heating system, and also the potential for water damage.

Should I Turn my Heating off Before Removing a Radiator?

Yes, absolutely, you should always turn your heating system off and allow it to fully cool down before you go and remove any radiators from the system.

Once the system has cooled down fully, you can then go ahead and turn off the valves either side, loosen one and drain all the water out and then remove it.

Are You Removing the Radiator for Decorating or for Replacement?

If you’re removing the radiator for decorating, simply move it aside during the process and reinstall it afterward.

For replacement with a radiator of the same size and style, you can reuse the old valves, bleed valve, and blanking nut. Alternatively, consider replacing all radiator valves, as they are relatively inexpensive.

If your radiators don’t have thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), consider installing them during the replacement. TRVs can help reduce heating costs. Learn more about fitting them in our project on thermostatic radiator valves.

Tools and Products Needed for Removing a Radiator

To successfully remove a radiator from your heating system (and replace it if you are doing this also) you will need the following tools and products:

• Chosen replacement radiator (should be exactly the same size if replacing like-for-like)
• 2 adjustable spanners or Stilson wrenches
• flat edge screwdriver or radiator bleed key
• Selection of jugs
• Shallow tray
• Plastic sheets (if you have them)
• Plenty of old rags/towels
• PTFE tape
• New valves (if needed)
• Radiator bleed valve and blanking plug
• Radiator spanner (if replacing bleed valves etc.)
• New radiator brackets (if installing new radiator)
• Drill/driver
• Selection of drill bits (if fitting new brackets)
• Screws and wall plugs (for new brackets)
• Tape measure
• Spirit level

Removing an old Radiator

The first step of this process is removing the radiator from its current position, this is a fairly straight forward job

Note: The water and sludge that comes out of a radiator is extremely dirty and will absolutely ruin any carpets or similar surfaces, so any such areas should be protected fully with towels and plastic sheets if possible.

• Step 1 – Turn off Heating: Firstly, turn off the heating system and allow it to fully cool down
• Step 2 – Lay down Rags/Towels: Lay out old rags or towels all over the floor to protect against water spillage
• Step 3 – Loosen Bleed Valve: Using a flat screwdriver or radiator bleed key, loosen the bleed valve and allow any air to escape and then tighten again
• Step 4 – Drain water, Loosen Valve: Place a tray under the first valve and loosen it from the radiator using an adjustable spanner
• Step 5 – Loosen Second Valve: Place a tray under the second valve and loosen it using an adjustable spanner and drain out any water
• Step 6 – Remove valves: Undo both valves and separate them from the radiator
• Step 7 – Remove Radiator: Using a second pair of hands, each get an end and hold your palm over the valve outlet and then lift off brackets and take outside
• Step 8 – Drain out: Once outside, drain any remaining water and flush through with a high pressure hose to remove any sludge or debris

For more details and a full explanation of this process, we have a very easy to follow project on exactly how to do this job so please refer to our removing a radiator project for full instructions.

Replacing the Radiator With the Same Radiator or one the Same Size

Once completed any work that is required, you can then simply refit your radiator in place using the following steps:

Step 1: Emptying the Old Radiator / Preparing the New One

If reinstalling the old radiator, ensure it’s drained of water and flush out any sediment or sludge with a hose. Position it upright with the open valve facing downward over a bucket or tray if possible.

For a new radiator, use an adjustable spanner and a specialist radiator spanner to unscrew the valve adapters from the bottom of the old radiator.

Clean the threads with wire wool, wrap PTFE tape around them four or five times for a secure joint, and screw the adapters into the new radiator.

If installing new valve adapters, repeat the process with the new parts.

Step 2: Removing and Installing Blanking Plugs and Bleed Screws

Use a bleeding key to loosen the bleed valve(s) at the top of the old radiator, then use a radiator spanner to remove both blanking plugs. Clean the threads with wire wool, apply PTFE tape, and screw them into the new radiator.

Step 3: Mount the Radiator and Reattach Valves

Ensure the new radiator fits onto the existing brackets or replace them if needed. Hang the radiator on the brackets and position it correctly.

Reconnect the valves to the adapters. Ensure the valve fits flush and straight to avoid damaging the threads. Finger-tighten the nut first, then tighten with a spanner after both sides are screwed in to allow for adjustment. Be cautious not to over-tighten and damage the threads.

Hold the valves steady while tightening to prevent them from turning and potentially damaging the attached copper pipes tails.

Step 4: Fill and Bleed the System

Open the valves, fill the radiator, and bleed it to remove any air from the system. If you have a combi boiler, check and adjust the pressure as needed. You might also need to top up the system using the filling loop.

For more details on filling a heating system with a filling loop, refer to our combi boilers project.

Replacing with a Different Radiator

If you are replacing your radiator with one of a different style or size, you will probably need to drain the whole system so that the pipework can then be adjusted.

As we have mentioned, unless you are familiar with adjusting and joining pipework then this is best left to a professional plumber. You will need to be confident in soldering pipes to do this job yourself.

Step 1: Drain Your Central Heating System and Remove the Radiator

Begin by draining your heating system. The method varies depending on your system type. Refer to our central heating draining guide for detailed instructions.

Once drained, remove the radiator. Follow the steps above or consult our guide to removing a radiator for more detailed instructions.

Step 2: Install New Brackets

Start by removing the old brackets from the wall. Lay your new radiator face down on the floor. Slide one bracket into position on the back of the radiator and measure its placement.

Transfer your measurements onto the wall, leaving a clearance of 100-125mm (4-5″) between the radiator bottom and the floor. Hold the bracket against the wall, mark the drill holes, and drill them, ensuring they are level vertically and horizontally with each other using a spirit level. Secure the bracket in place.

Once in place, double-check the fit by hanging the radiator on the brackets.

Step 3: Secure Valves and Adapters

If not already fitted, screw in the top valves (usually bleed valves and/or blanking plugs) and bottom valve adapters into the radiator. Before screwing them in, wrap a few layers of PTFE tape around the threads for a secure seal. Use an adjustable spanner or radiator spanner to tighten the joints securely.

Step 4: Accessing the Pipework

To access the existing pipework, lift the nearest floorboard to reveal pipes if they are underneath. If the floor is made of screed or concrete, you may find a boxed pipe run that can be opened. If not, you may need to dig up the floor or adjust the pipework above ground.

If the pipes run through the wall, you might need to adjust the pipe length along the wall.

Step 5: Plan Your New Pipe Routes

Determine where your new pipes should run and cut the old pipes as needed, using a pipe cutter. Prepare the new pipe route by cleaning the pipe and joints with medium-grit sandpaper or wire wool, and apply flux.

If the new pinwork will be under floor boards you may be able to use plastic push fit pipework which is much easier to use than copper pipes. Find out all you need to know about push fit pipework in our project.

Step 6: Solder the Pipes

If you are using push fit pipework then you can skip this step and move on to step 7 below.

Protect nearby pipes, wooden floorboards, and joists with a heat-proof soldering mat when using a blow torch. Utilise Yorkshire fittings with pre-soldered joints for ease of use.

Refer to our project on soldering pipe joints for detailed instructions. Once everything is properly prepared, solder the joints.

Step 7: Secure Pipes with Pipe Clips

After connecting your pipes to the existing pipework, ensure they are adequately supported using pipe clips.

It’s crucial to support the pipes properly to prevent strain on joints, which could lead to leaks over time.

When running pipes under floorboards, utilise existing notches in joists whenever possible to avoid weakening them with new notches.

Step 8: Install the Radiator and Connect Valves

Hang the new radiator on the wall brackets, wrap PFTE tape around the valve threads and attach the valves. Finger-tighten them first, then use an adjustable spanner to tighten them securely, but not overly tight as this can cause leaks.

After connecting all valves, refill the heating system if necessary. Turn on the heating system and inspect all new joints for leaks (repair if any present) before replacing any floorboards or boxing.

if you are needing to replace a radiator after it has been removed for redecoration or simply to replace with a brand new one, can certainly be done on a DIY basis if you have a little common sense and DIY knowledge which can save you time and money on the costs of a professional plumber.