Leaking radiators Help and information on all topics relating to your central heating, air conditioning and ventilation issues.

[Flynnski]

I am in a 1930's semi and had central heating installed professionally two years ago - I now have 3 leaking radiators, is there anything I can do myself to solve this problem? Searched the forum and answers section and no banana. TY

[htg engineer]

Where are they leaking from ?

htg

[Flynnski]

A nut at the top of the radiator, the oppposite end to the bleed valve. Same side as the thermo control, hope that makes sense. The three downstairs are all doing this. Upstairs is okay - so far. Rust coloured drips down the side where the water is leaking down. Sorry - I'm a female tecchy whizz, not a DIYer lol

[Steve the gas]

Hi,

If I am understanding you correctly, they are leaking from blanking plugs or bungs at the top of the rads ???
If so , buy some new bungs from a diy store & replace.
Do this when system is off and cold.
Let some water out of a bleed screw about a pint - then undo & replace- quickly if a system boiler (with floor protection)
If a combi top up pressure after you have replaced bungs.


Hth

[htg engineer]

Turn off both valves to each radiator, and drain abit water off. Then unscrew the nut, there'll probably be rubber o-rings, if you can - replace them, if unable to find a replacement and the o-rings are still intact - remove the o-ring, and apply a few winds of PTFE tape in the groove then refit the o-ring abit marley lubricant (or similar) if available and that should solve the problem. The PTFE tape will push the o-ring out slightly to give a better seal.


htg