How to Remove a Radiator

Removing a radiator is pretty simple but it’s important you do it right! Check out our easy guide on how to remove a radiator for step-by-step instructions.

Removing a radiator

So, why would anyone want to remove a radiator? There are a few reasons that might result in you needing to remove one or all radiators from your home. They may be old and rusty, making them susceptible to leaks and other performance issues. You may decide that you are in need of a radiator with a higher BTU output. Or this simply might be for redecorating reasons, such as wanting to paint the wall behind the radiator or you’ve upgraded your style since their installation.

Regardless of the reason, the process is pretty much the same. So let’s get going on how to remove a radiator.

Before you begin

Equipment needed:

• Radiator Key
• Adjustable wrench
• Container to catch water
• Sponge/Towel

Step 1: Turn off the heating

Before you begin removing your radiator, you must turn off the heating and allow for all of the pipes to cool down. This is an important safety step in the process and removing a radiator should not be attempted until the heating pipes are cool to the touch.

Step 2: Turn off the radiator valve

Next you need to turn off the radiator itself. Make sure that the Thermostatic Radiator Valve on your radiator is turned off by turning it all the way down to 0.

How to remove a radiator

Step 3: Turn off the pressure

Now that your radiator is off, it’s time to remove the plastic cover on your TRV. This should come off without too much force and reveal a lockshield valve. Using your wrench, turn the lockshield valve clockwise until it is closed. Remember the amount of turns it takes to close this off as it will come in handy when reconnecting the radiator.

Step 4: Drain the radiator

Grab your containers and sponge or towel for this step as it could get a little messy. Place your container under the valve you have just closed. Using your wrench loosen the but do not remove the union nut. This joins the radiator to the valve. Don’t be alarmed when water begins to drain out, this is what the containers are for! Let the radiator drain until there is no more water.

Step 5: Disconnect the radiator

Remove the union nut from the radiator completely. There should also be a second union nut located on the other side, remove this one too. Once both have been removed it’s a good idea to tilt the radiator to help any remaining water completely drain out.

Step 6: Remove the radiator

If you have quite a large radiator we recommend you have someone to help you with this next step. Lift the radiator up and away from the brackets that attach it to the wall.

How to reconnect your radiator

Step 1: Place the radiator

Take your radiator and place it onto the brackets on the wall. If you’re fitting a new radiator you might need to replace the brackets or adjust your radiator placement. Then make sure you attach and tighten your union nuts.

Step 2: Open the Valves

Using your wrench from earlier, retighten the lockshield valve and then replace the plastic cover. Next open the bleeding valve and allow the radiator to refill with water. You’ll know when it’s full once the radiator has stopped making a gurgling noise.

Step 3: Restart the Heating

All that’s left to do is open the lockshield valve. Hopefully you can remember how many turns this took to close!

Once the lockshield valve is adjusted all that’s left to do is restart the heating and check that your radiator heats up without any issues.