How to clean a radiator from the inside? Effective methods and practical tips

Did you know that a dirty radiator can reduce heating efficiency by up to 20%? Regular cleaning not only improves the look of your interior, it also helps maintain the right temperature at home while using less energy. In this article, you’ll find practical tips on how to clean your radiator on the inside and remove dust, depending on the model you have. Find out which tools and products to use to remove stubborn grime and prevent it from building up again!

The radiator as a key element of your home heating system

Radiators play a fundamental role in maintaining a comfortable temperature at home. Their efficiency determines how quickly and evenly a room warms up. Dirt and dust accumulating on them, as well as internal contamination, can be a serious issue that disrupts heat flow and puts strain on the system. Knowing how to remove dust from a radiator is therefore extremely important to keep your radiators working efficiently and without issues. How should you go about it?

How to prepare for cleaning a radiator?

It’s best to clean your radiators before the heating season starts, but don’t forget to wash them regularly during the season as well. How should you prepare?

1. Turn off the heating. Make sure the heating system is off and the radiator is cool so you don’t burn yourself.
2. Gather the right tools and materials. You’ll need:
   • a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle
   • a radiator brush or a long brush with a flexible handle
   • compressed air (optional)
   • a bowl of warm water with a mild detergent
   • cloths or paper towels
   • an old towel or newspaper to protect the floor
   • tools for unscrewing the radiator
3. Protect the work area. Lay an old towel, newspaper, or plastic sheeting under the radiator to protect the floor from dirt, dust, and any water escaping from a loosened radiator.
4. Get yourself ready. Put on gloves to protect your hands from dirt and detergents. Make sure you’re wearing clothes that are easy to wash or that you don’t mind getting dirty.
5. Clear access to the radiator. Remove any items around the radiator to give yourself easy access to its interior. Move furniture away if it’s too close.
6. Ensure ventilation. Open a window or make sure the room is well-ventilated, especially if you plan to use compressed air or detergents.
7. Prepare water and detergents. Bring a bowl of warm water with a few drops of mild detergent or soap to wash the inside of the radiator. Don’t overdo the amount to avoid excessive wetting.
8. Check the lighting. Make sure you have good light that lets you see inside the radiator. If needed, use a torch or a portable lamp.

How to clean a radiator on the inside?

Cleaning a radiator from the inside is important to ensure it works efficiently and, in turn, to rein in high heating bills caused by an inefficient unit. How do you do it?

1. Turn off the heating. Before you begin, make sure the heating is off and the radiator is cool.
2. Protect the floor. Place a basin and an old towel or newspaper under the radiator to catch any water, dust, and dirt that may come out during cleaning.
3. Close the water valve and drain the radiator. Locate the bleed valve at the top of the radiator. Use a radiator bleed key or a screwdriver to open it slowly. This will release air and help the water drain faster. If the radiator has a drain screw (at the bottom), loosen it slowly with a spanner or pliers. Water will start to flow from the radiator, so make sure your container is positioned correctly.
4. Vacuuming. Use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle or a dedicated radiator brush to remove dust from between the radiator fins. Slide the nozzle between the fins and move it up and down.
5. Compressed air. If the vacuum isn’t enough, use a can of compressed air to blow debris out of hard-to-reach areas. The compressed air will help dislodge fine dust particles.
6. Use a brush. You can use a long radiator-cleaning brush (available in homeware shops) to reach crevices inside the radiator. For narrow spaces, a brush with a long, flexible handle works well.
7. Washing with water and detergent. Prepare a solution of water with a little mild detergent. Dip a brush or cloth into the solution, wring it out well, and wipe the inside of the radiator. Avoid over-wetting so you don’t soak the radiator’s internal components.
8. Tighten the valves. Once you’ve finished cleaning, tighten all connections carefully. Check the valves to make sure there are no leaks. If everything looks good, reopen the water supply to the radiator.

These steps will help you clean your radiator thoroughly from the inside and keep it in good condition, which will translate into better heating efficiency and cleaner air in the room. Good luck! And if this is just one step in your bathroom care routine, be sure to check out our effective methods for cleaning bathroom fittings: see the guide.