How to bleed a bathroom radiator? A simple guide for everyone!

If your bathroom radiator has stopped working as it should and the bathroom is no longer cosy and warm, it might be time to bleed it. Don’t worry, it’s not a complicated job! In this article, we’ll show you how to bleed a bathroom radiator to keep things comfortable and save on your heating bills.

Why bleeding a bathroom radiator matters

Feel like your bathroom radiator isn’t heating as it should? Or maybe you can hear strange gurgling? That’s a sign it’s likely airlocked! Air trapped in the radiator stops it from working efficiently, which can significantly lower the temperature in your bathroom. What’s more, an airlocked radiator uses more energy, which means higher bills. By bleeding the radiator, you’ll stay comfortable and save money!

Preparing to bleed the radiator – what to keep in mind

Before you get started, prepare a few things:

• a key that matches the type of valve on your radiator;
• a bowl to catch the water;
• a cloth to wipe up any water that may drip onto the floor.

Remember safety first: before you begin, switch off the heating system! The water in the radiator can be very hot, so be sure to wait until it cools down to avoid burns.

How to bleed a bathroom radiator: a step-by-step guide

How do you bleed a ladder-style bathroom radiator? How do you bleed an old cast-iron radiator? The process is practically the same. Bleeding a bathroom radiator isn’t difficult, so with the right preparation you can easily do it yourself. Below you’ll find simple steps to help you get it done.

Step 1: Switch off the heating

Before you start bleeding radiators, make sure the heating system is definitely switched off. When radiators are hot, air and water can be under high pressure, making bleeding risky.

Step 2: Locate the bleed valve

Every radiator has a bleed valve — usually at the top of the radiator, on one side. It’s a small part that looks like a screw. Don’t worry, it’s easy to find!

Step 3: Open the valve

Place a bowl under the radiator at the level of the valve to catch any water that may escape. Now gently open it using the key you prepared. You’ll hear a hissing sound — that’s the air leaving the radiator. Let it escape. As soon as water starts to trickle out, close the valve. That means the radiator has been bled.

Step 4: Close the valve

Make sure the valve is tightly closed. It should be firmly shut so no water drips out.

What to do after bleeding the radiator

After bleeding the radiator, switch the heating system back on and make sure the radiator heats evenly. If you notice it still isn’t heating as it should, it’s worth checking the pressure in the heating system. That may be the issue, and it might need topping up with water. Don’t forget to empty the bowl of water and wipe the floor so it isn’t slippery and doesn’t pose a risk of slipping.

Think your radiator is still underperforming? Check: How to clean a radiator from the inside? Effective methods and practical tips.

How often should you bleed radiators?

Bleeding radiators is essential if you want to keep your heating system running perfectly. It should be done regularly, especially in the following situations:

• at the start of the heating season: it’s recommended to bleed radiators before the heating season begins, usually in autumn. Air may have entered the system during the summer downtime, so it’s worth ensuring water circulates properly throughout the system.
• when radiators are warm unevenly: if you notice one part of the radiator is warmer than another, it’s a sign there’s probably an airlock blocking the flow of heat. In this case, bleed the radiator straight away.
• when you hear gurgling or noises: air inside the radiator can cause noises, gurgling or other sounds. These are clear signs that bleeding is necessary.
• after any system upgrades: if the system has been modified, e.g. parts of the heating system were replaced or new radiators were added, this introduces air into the system that needs to be removed.

Radiators are usually bled once or twice a year, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for any signs of problems. The sooner you react, the better your chances of efficient heating and avoiding unnecessary energy use.

Summary

Bleeding radiators is a simple task that can significantly improve thermal comfort in your bathroom and lower your heating bills. It won’t take you more than a few minutes, and you’ll gain in performance and heating efficiency. Remember to check your radiators regularly and don’t delay bleeding them as soon as you notice signs of trapped air!