As a severe cold spell grips the UK, bringing predictions of temperatures plummeting to a bitter -9°C, households are being urged to crank up their heating. However, many may not be receiving the full benefit from their radiators due to a common and easily solvable issue.
The Simple Test for Maximum Heat
Energy supplier British Gas is highlighting a straightforward check that can ensure your radiators are working at their absolute best during the coming dark nights and freezing weather. The company points out that cold patches on a radiator are a typical problem most UK residents encounter every few years.
On its official website, British Gas advises: "Check your radiators are heating to the top." If they are not, the likely culprit is trapped air preventing hot water from circulating properly. The solution is to learn how to bleed a radiator.
While it might sound like a medieval practice, bleeding a radiator simply involves releasing the trapped air from the top of the unit. British Gas explains that this can be done by using a radiator bleed key, which costs around £1 from any DIY shop, to open a small valve located at the top.
How to Bleed Your Radiators Safely
The process is simple: use the key to open the valve until you hear a hissing sound as the air escapes. As soon as you see a drip of water, you should close the valve again. British Gas does not specify a particular brand, and these keys are widely available from retailers such as Screwfix, B&Q, and Amazon for as little as 98p.
It is crucial to take precautions to protect your home during this task. Always place a small container, bowl, or tray directly under the bleed valve to catch any leaking water. For added surface protection, lay an old towel or cloth on the floor beneath it. If any water splashes onto the floor, wipe it up immediately to prevent staining or water damage, especially on absorbent surfaces like carpet, laminate, or hardwood.
An essential safety note: always ensure your heating is turned off and the radiators are cool to the touch before you begin bleeding them. This prevents the risk of burns from hot water. If you are uncertain about doing this yourself, it is advisable to consult a qualified professional. On average, hiring an expert to bleed your radiators may cost around £100.
Other Common Heating Issues and Winter Tips
If you discover cold spots specifically along the bottom of your radiator, this may indicate a different problem: sludge buildup. Over time, sludge can accumulate and create blockages within the radiator's internal channels, similarly preventing heat from distributing effectively.
Beyond radiator maintenance, British Gas suggests other cost-effective methods to keep your home warm this winter. One key recommendation is draught-proofing your home. This doesn't have to be expensive; simply identify areas where cold air is entering and warm air is escaping.
Common sources of draughts include:
- Cracks in walls and ceilings
- Letterboxes and keyholes on front doors
- Gaps under and around internal doors
- Less obvious spots like the loft hatch or chimney breast
Another inexpensive suggestion is pipe lagging. This involves insulating hot water pipes with foam tubes to prevent them from freezing. The lagging materials can be purchased from any DIY store and are typically designed to be fitted in seconds without the need for any tools.
