Removing A Cast Iron Radiator Prior To Redecorating

By Author: Edward Hall
Total Articles: 93
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Cast iron radiators are very heavy and if possible try and redecorate with the radiator in situ as removing it completely from its position will entail draining down the whole central heating system and carefully removing the radiator to avoid leaks occurring due to the weight stress on the joints when moved.

There are several useful brushes of various sizes available from all main DIY stores to help decorate behind a radiator and many professional decorators are used to such tasks and can make a very good job around and behind the radiator. Wall papering can be awkward but not insurmountable by a professional. However if it is deemed necessary to remove the radiator from the system the following points may be useful.

Once you have drained down the whole central heating system turn off both valves, fully clockwise. ( remember to use the dust cap if available to protect your valve) It is always best not to use a lot of force when turning the valves as this may damage their mechanism. Open the bleed valve one or two turns and ensure that you have an old towel or cloth along with a water tight container in place under ...
... the valves to catch any excess water draining from the radiator. Keep draining off the excess water from the radiator as much as you can. The iron oxide commonly found in central heating water turns the water black and sludgy and it is very difficult to remove once a carpet has been stained with this substance, so please take care when draining the water.

Cast iron radiators are very heavy and it is advisable to have at least 2 strong individuals to remove the radiator, especially if you are working in a confined space around furniture etc. Once the valves have been capped off carefully lift the cast iron radiator up and away from its wall brackets. Once the radiator has been removed beware of further sludge and rust deposits which may leak out. It is a good idea to twist some kitchen roll into each open end of the radiator to absorb any excess water.

When ready to return the radiator onto the system, following redecorating, place the radiator onto the brackets very carefully and open both valves whilst carefully checking for leaks. If there are no signs of leaks, bleed the radiator of all air, tighten the bleed valve and recheck for leaks over the first few hours of turning the system back on. If your system is a combi mains pressurised boiler you will need to use the combi filling loop valves to ensure bringing the system pressure back up as some boilers will not fire up if the pressure is too low.

When removing a cast iron radiator from its position on the central heating system and reinstalling it afterwards it is always best to employ a qualified plumber or heating engineer or to at least adhere to professional advice to save problems occurring once the radiator is reinstalled.

Edward Hall after 25 years in the plumbing and heating industry now writes and imparts his knowledge on the many varied radiators for sale on the market today. He has a great deal of experience on the subject matter and especially in the arena of cast iron radiators and reproduction cast iron radiators.