Draining a radiator Help and information on all topics relating to your central heating, air conditioning and ventilation issues.

[Royce]

I'm trying to drain a radiator to remove it to decorate. I'v shut off the valves, and started to drain it. Hot water is starting to come into the radiator. The central heating is not on. Does this mean a faulty valve. Any help please.

[powerflushman]

Hi, do you have a thermostatic valve on one side or are they both similar?, also which end is getting hot, or are both sides getting hot? :D

[Royce]

It's a thermostatic valve on one side. That's where the hot water is coming in. Heat moved right along rad.

[powerflushman]

Yes you have a faulty valve, you will need to change it, either drain down the system, (safest way) flush out several times , change valve, please do not forget to put inhibitor back in.
Hope this helps.

[Royce]

Thanks for your help

[htg engineer]

with some Thermostatic rad valves, they will never turn off fully, you need the to take the head off and screw on the cap that was supplied with the valve to turn it off fully.