From time to time we all like a change of décor within our homes, and who can blame us!? If this sounds a bit like something you've got planned for the near future then why not try adding a statement of chic sophistication by introducing a designer radiator. Designer radiators are the perfect addition for providing that much needed character and a touch of flair to a dull or tired room.
Once you have purchased your new luxury designer radiator or towel rail it is time to install. It is advisable to use the services of a professional when plumbing, however changing a radiator is pretty simple as long as you follow the guidelines.
Turning off the water supply
Turn off your water supply to the existing radiator.
Turn off your central heating system and allow all pipework and radiators to cool.
Turn the manual "control" (Large head with digits) valve to the "OFF" position - (at the opposite end of the radiator you will find the "lock shield" valve)
Remove the protective top cap from the "lock shield" valve and use a wrench to turn the top piece clockwise as far as possible (Don't forget to count the number of turns required, as this must be reversed once you replace the radiator).
Step 3 - Draining the old radiator
Place a large bowl or bucket underneath the manual "control" valve.
Grip the valve with a wrench and hold it steady whilst using another wrench to gently loosen the nut on the valve that connects to the radiator
Next you will need to vent the radiator of air to break any vacuum that may be inside and allow the water to flow from the control valve. Do this by using the air bleed cap on the top edge of the radiator.
Use a towel or old cloths/rags to catch any drips from the bleed valve.
Continue to drain all of the fluid from the radiator out of the control entry until the flow stops.
Rehanging the radiator/Hanging your new radiator
Fit the hanging brackets to the wall according to the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
Now that you’re ready to hang the radiator, wrap a piece of PTFE tape (also known as thread seal) about 15cm long around the valve threads.
When fitting a new radiator or towel rail that is the same width as the previous remember to fit the valves first according to the manufacturer’s directions before fitting the product onto the wall. Then open the valves to fill the radiator from the central heating system.
Lift the radiator/towel rail onto the wall brackets and tighten the fittings - You may need help to lift the radiator.
Open the manual control or thermostatic valve fully and then open the bleed valve at the top/rear of the radiator - Water will now fill the radiator.
Once the water has stopped filling (a gurgling sound will cease), open the lock shield valve by the same number of turns you needed to close it.
Double check all joints are water tight and tighten if necessary, now turn on your central heating system and re-check once more.
If you plan to replace your old radiator with an updated design or sized radiator/ towel rail, the pipework may not connect up exactly.
In this case you will need to drain your central heating system so that pipes directly under the floor can be replaced or adjusted to fit onto the new radiator.
Unless you are experienced in this type of DIY we would suggest that you call a fully qualified plumber to fit the new radiator or towel rail for you.
Author Resource:-
Terry Metcalfe writes on behalf of Trade Radiators specialists in designer radiators, cast iron radiators, electric radiators and central heating radiators.
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