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How to Bleed a Radiator: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your radiators are cold at the top but hot at the bottom, chances are they need bleeding. It's one of the most common heating issues we see around Yeovil — and the good news is, you can usually fix it yourself in under 10 minutes.
What You'll Need
- Radiator key (or a flathead screwdriver, depending on the valve)
- A cloth or small bowl to catch water
- A towel under the radiator (just in case!)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Turn Off Your Heating
Always switch your heating off before starting — bleeding a radiator while the system is on could lead to burns or water spraying out under pressure.
2. Find the Bleed Valve
This is usually at the top corner of the radiator. You'll see a small square-shaped pin — that's where the key goes.
3. Turn the Key Slowly
Insert the radiator key and turn it anti-clockwise. You should hear a hiss — that's the air escaping. Hold a cloth or bowl under the valve to catch any drips.
4. Wait Until Water Starts to Flow
As soon as water starts trickling out steadily (without any air), turn the key back clockwise to close the valve.
5. Check Your Boiler Pressure
Bleeding radiators can lower the pressure in your heating system. If it drops too far, you may need to top it up using the filling loop on your boiler.
When to Call a Plumber
If you've bled your radiators and they're still not heating up evenly — or the boiler pressure keeps dropping — there could be a deeper issue like:
- Blocked pipework
- A failing pump
- Sludge build-up in the system
In these cases, it's best to call a professional plumber for a thorough inspection.
Pro Tip
Bleeding your radiators once or twice a year (especially before winter hits) can save you money on heating bills and keep your home feeling cosy all season long.
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