Things to Check Before Turning the Heating Back On

Before switching your central heating on for the winter, make sure:

Radiators are warm from top to bottom
If the top is cold, it could be trapped air — bleeding may solve it. If the bottom is cold, sludge might be blocking the system.

There are no visible leaks
Check radiator valves and joints for any signs of dripping or dampness.

Pressure is stable
The boiler’s pressure should sit between 1 and 2 bars when cold. If it’s too low or too high, your heating might not work efficiently.

No unusual noises
Gurgling, banging, or whistling sounds often signal air in the system or water flow issues.

🔧 How to Fix Minor Radiator Problems

1. Bleeding a Radiator

If your radiator feels cold at the top, you may need to bleed it:

• Turn off your heating system.
• Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve slowly.
• Wait until the air stops hissing and the water begins to flow.
• Tighten the valve and wipe away excess water.
• Check the boiler pressure and top it up if necessary.

Bleeding your radiator once or twice a year helps keep your system running efficiently.

2. Balancing Radiators

If some radiators are much warmer than others, balancing might help. This involves adjusting each radiator’s valve to ensure even heat distribution across your home. While not difficult, it can be time-consuming and may require expert advice.

3. Fixing Noisy Radiators

Noises like banging or tapping usually mean trapped air or loose pipes. Bleeding may solve air issues, while pipe clips or insulation can stop movement noises.

🔁 When to Replace a Radiator

While most issues are easy to fix, some problems require replacing the radiator entirely:

• Severe rust or corrosion
• Persistent cold spots despite power flushing
• Frequent leaks or pressure loss
• Outdated models that don’t heat efficiently