As temperatures fall, ensuring your heating system works properly becomes essential. If your home isn't achieving the warmth it should, you may need to give your radiators a proper clean.
Radiators often gather dirt when they're in operation. Warm air rises while cooler air sinks, and this constant movement pulls any dust particles in a room towards the radiator. This debris then becomes burnt onto the hot surface and proves difficult to remove unless you're cleaning your radiators at least once a month. It's vital to keep radiators clean because particles will trap heat inside your radiator, stopping it from effectively heating a room, leading to a colder home and higher energy bills.
Simple cleaning method
However, the experts at Trads Cast Iron Radiators have disclosed that removing particles can be surprisingly simple, needing just one item you likely already have in your bedroom.
They 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."
"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 hair dryer on a radiator is among the most effective ways to remove any debris lodged between the fins or other hard-to-reach areas. Just make sure you steer clear of the hot setting when using your hair dryer on a radiator, as it can cause dust to rise into the air and spread throughout the room, creating additional mess that will probably settle back on the radiator afterwards.
Step-by-step guide
You will need a hair dryer, vacuum cleaner, a long brush (such as a duster), a bucket of soapy water (warm water and washing up liquid), an old towel or sheet, and a sponge and cloth.
First, make sure to turn off your heating. A hot radiator will draw dust towards it and can be dangerous to touch. Then simply wipe the radiator's surface with a damp sponge and vacuum underneath the radiator to clear any of the outer dust.
Next, position a towel beneath the radiator. Take a duster and try to clean as much of the radiator's back as possible, making sure to reach into the grooves. Attempt to also get between the columns to shift the dust. Set your hair dryer to a cool or low heat setting and blow any leftover dust off the radiator's back.
Make sure to direct the nozzle at the top air vents to blow the dust downwards, and it should land on the towel. Finally, wipe down the radiator. Mix some washing-up liquid in a bucket of water and clean the radiator's surface. Remember to also clean any surrounding walls as dust can cling to them too.
Dry the radiator with a cloth and ensure it is completely dry before turning it back on to prevent any potential rust. Your radiator should now be completely clean, meaning your home will heat up far more efficiently and in a fraction of the time.
