Experts at Trads Cast Iron Radiators have revealed that a hairdryer, a common bedroom item, can effectively clean radiators and help reduce heating bills this winter. Dust and debris that accumulate on radiators trap heat, preventing rooms from warming efficiently and leading to higher energy costs.
Why Radiators Need Regular Cleaning
Radiators build up dirt and grime once they are switched back on, as warm air rises and cooler air sinks, pulling dust particles from the room towards the radiator. This muck gets burnt onto the heated surface and becomes increasingly difficult to remove unless radiators are wiped down at least once a month, according to the Express.
Keeping radiators clean is vital because dust and debris trap heat inside, stopping them from warming a room effectively, which results in a colder home and higher energy bills.
The Hairdryer Method Explained
The experts at Trads Cast Iron Radiators explained: "Yes, you can use a hairdryer to get the dust out from the inside and down the back of the radiator. It's also useful with column radiators, such as our cast-iron models."
They added: "This will help you as part of a larger cleaning method, as you will have a lot of the leftover dust on the top, in between the columns and behind your radiator. The hairdryer will blow the dust into the air or onto the floor, so have your vacuum cleaner ready, too."
Using a hairdryer is one of the most efficient ways to shift debris lodged between the fins or other hard-to-reach areas. However, the hot setting should be avoided, as it can cause dust to rise into the air and spread throughout the room, creating more mess that may settle back onto the radiator.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
To clean a radiator with a hairdryer, you will need a hairdryer, a vacuum cleaner, a long brush or duster, a bucket of warm soapy water with washing-up liquid, an old towel or sheet, and a sponge and cloth.
First, turn off the heating, as a warm radiator can draw dust towards it and be dangerous to touch. Wipe down the surface with a damp sponge and vacuum underneath to remove surface dust.
Lay a towel beneath the radiator and use a duster to clean the back and grooves, including between the columns. Set the hairdryer to a cool or low heat setting and blow leftover dust off the back, directing the nozzle at the top air vents to push dust downwards onto the towel.
Finally, wipe down the radiator with a drop of washing-up liquid in water, clean surrounding walls where dust may cling, and dry the radiator completely with a cloth before switching it back on to prevent rusting. A fully cleaned radiator will allow the home to heat up far more rapidly.
