3 Quick Ways To Prep Your Radiator For Winter Usage

Hot water heating seems like a quaint relic of the past, especially with the vast majority of homes reliant on modern gas and electric forced-air furnaces. However, there are still plenty of homes that rely on radiators for consistent, reliable heat. Now that winter's just around the corner, now is a good time to get your heating system ready to keep your home warm in the face of chilly temperatures.

Chances are you haven't started your hot water radiators since last winter, so there's plenty you'll need to do to bring your heating system back online. Here are a few tips that can make that process a bit easier.

1. Check for Leaks and Corrosion

Before you start using your hot water radiators in earnest, check each radiator for any signs of leaks, especially at joints, welds, fittings, and other areas where leaks can occur. Also, be on the lookout for rust and corrosion buildup, especially when dealing with older radiators. In addition to causing leaks, severe rust and corrosion buildup can also clog boiler pipes and rob your radiator of its heating efficiency.

2. Test All Safety Features

Both hot water and steam radiators feature relief valves to prevent pressure buildup and prevent serious injuries. It's always a good idea to carefully inspect these safety valves prior to restarting your radiators. Always test the valves to ensure they work properly. If there's any rust buildup or any signs of damage or wear present, have your seasoned HVAC technician replace the valve before you attempt to use your system.

You should also practice commonsense safety precautions whenever you're operating a hot water radiator. That includes keeping furniture and curtains away from the radiator. If you have small children present, consider investing in a safety gate to prevent accidental contact with the radiator.

3. Bleed Your Radiator

Air can get trapped inside the radiator during long periods of inactivity. Previously draining the radiator of all its water can also introduce air into the system. Either way, air pockets can prevent heat from traveling through the radiator effectively, resulting in symptoms ranging from cold spots to a water hammer. Bleeding the radiator will help purge trapped air from the system.

To bleed the radiator, bring the system up to temperature and make sure the water temperature is at its minimal setting to prevent serious burns. Locate the bleed valve at the top of the radiator, but make sure water is flowing through the radiator before opening the valve with a flathead screwdriver or radiator key. Open the vent and allow the trapped air to evacuate from the system until a steady stream of water appears from the vent.

For more information, contact your local heating services.