Knowing whether you have a problem with your radiators (or something else in your plumbing system) isn’t always obvious. After all, you’re not an expert.
Fortunately, this guide is here to help. It looks through some of the things to look out for that indicate you might have a problem.
Here’s what you need to know:
High Energy Bills
One issue plumbers often encounter on emergency call-outs is higher energy bills. Customers tell them that the amount they’re spending on gas has gone up in recent months.
Usually, this occurs because the heating is on for a long time, but the radiators won’t warm up. Sometimes, it can be 45 minutes before they become warm to the touch (if at all).
This usually happens if there are air pockets in the radiator. Water can travel throughout the unit’s entire volume, preventing it from heating the surrounding material.
You can also have issues lower down on the pipes due to blockages. These prevent water from getting through at all (usually because of a sort of gunky rust buildup).
Radiator Leaks
Another issue you may encounter is radiator leaks. Water can spew out of them, preventing you from turning on the heating.
Leaks usually happen because of rust or corrosion. Water damage eats away at the metal from the inside, eventually making it out to the point where leaks start to occur.
Water can also sometimes pool around the panels and connections, which is another problem.
If you notice this, you usually need to replace the pipework. There are some treatments to fix it from the inside, but by the time you have physical leaks, it often means the structure has integrity issues.
Strange Noises
Strange noises are also a feature of radiators with problems. When they make sounds (that are opposite from usual), that often indicates a serious problem.
Gurgling is the most common sound. Air gets trapped inside.
Usually, you can fix this by opening the air release valve on the radiator and letting some of the air out. (If you do this, make sure you repressurize your boiler so it keeps providing the required energy.)
You also sometimes notice banging or knocking. These issues are more serious and usually mean you have a water hammer (often resulting from trapped air). Calling a plumber is probably your best bet in a situation like this.
Some Radiators Only Heat Up
Lastly, if some of your radiators heat up but others don’t, you usually have a problem with your thermostatic radiator valve. If these are closed, the radiator won’t heat up at all, and water will simply travel elsewhere in the system.
To fix this, rotate the valve (using the marked external handle) and see if that makes a difference after fifteen minutes. You should notice the radiator heating up in around 15 minutes.
If the radiator is cold at the bottom and warm at the top, it could indicate sludge buildup. To clear this, you’ll need to get a professional to flush the system.
