Maintaining Home Radiators
It’s important that each year before the heating season starts that you perform routine maintenance of your radiators. This will ensure that your system operates properly and efficiently. It you have a hot-water system air can become trapped in upper sections of the radiator, which can block the circulation of hot water and drastically effecting the radiator’s ability to heat. Steam radiators can also be affected by air taped in the system, as well as faulty steam traps and improperly pitched radiators.
The following are a basic routine maintenance that you should perform annually on your radiators.
Clean or replace air vent: Dirt and debris can clog air vents making your radiator not heat up properly. To clean air vents first close the shutoff valve, which is located at the bottom of the radiator. Next, unscrew and remove the air vent. If the shutoff valves are frozen shut, then first shut off the heat and permit the system to completely cool down before removing the air vent. Once you have removed the vent, clean it by boiling it in a water and vinegar solution for approximately 25 minutes. If this does not solve the problem, then you may need to replace the vent.
The valves on hot-water radiators be opened or closed partially in order to control heat. However, steam valves have to be open or closed fully, for these systems, replacing the standard air vents with adjustable ones will allow for similar control of heat. Replacing the air vents should be performed in the off-season. Make sure that the shutoff valve is closed, then unscrew, and remove the old vent, and replace it with an adjustable one.
Correct improper pitch: Proper pitch for steam radiators is approximately 1” for every 10 feet toward the trap for a two-pipe system, or toward the inlet pipe for a one-pipe system. The pitch should be check annually with a level. If the pitch is not correct, then place shims under the legs, until the proper pitch is achieved.
Replace Steam Trap: Steam traps are located at the bottom of the radiator on, or at the outlet pipe in a two-pipe system. Because mineral deposits can damage block the trap or cause it to stick open or closed, the traps should be replaced when needed. Stream traps rarely last more than 5-10 years. To replace the steam trap, turn off the system. Unscrew the trap and remove the element. This could be attached to the cap or to the base of the trap. Make sure to reinstall the replacement according to the manufacture’s instructions.
Bleed Radiator: Hot-water radiators over time develop trapped air, which must be bled manually at least twice a season. To bleed the radiator, located the bleed valve, which is usually on the top end of the radiator. You will want to hold a container under the valve to catch the water as you open the valve. Close the valve as soon as water starts to drain.
If you discover air in the system again during mid-season, have your system professionally check out, as there could be a leak in the system.
Keeping a properly maintained radiator will keep you warm and cozy during the winter.