Radiators not functioning

Question

Hello, I have two rads that are not working at their best in my dining room . We have bled them but for some reason  they are not reaching heat completely ie always cold at the bottom on both. 
Thank you.

Karl · Answer

Could be sludge within the radiators. Or may be balancing issue

Elliot · Answer

Shut off the other radiators near it to push the heat through to the twos radiators, if that’s doesn’t work you’ll need to flush the system out in order to get rid of all the metal and black water in the system.

Lee · Answer

Means theey are partially blocked at bottom and would need flushed through

Saroosh · Answer

When radiators aren't heating up fully, especially at the bottom, it often indicates trapped air or a buildup of sludge preventing proper water circulation. Bleeding the radiators helps release trapped air, but in cases where the issue persists, a few steps might help:

Power Flushing: Consider power flushing your central heating system. This involves flushing water and cleaning agents through the system at high pressure to dislodge and remove sludge and debris that could be blocking the flow of hot water to the radiators.

Check the Water Pressure: Ensure the system's water pressure is at the correct level. Low pressure can affect the effectiveness of the radiators.

Thermostat and Pump Check: Check if the thermostatic radiator valves are set correctly. Also, ensure the central heating pump is working efficiently to circulate hot water around the system.

Radiator Sludge: Sometimes, a buildup of sludge or debris within the radiator itself can restrict proper heating. You might consider removing the affected radiators and power flushing them individually or using a chemical cleaner specifically designed to remove sludge.

Balancing the System: It's possible that the system isn't balanced, meaning some radiators receive more heat than others. Balancing involves adjusting the flow of water to each radiator to ensure an even distribution of heat throughout the house.

Professional Inspection: If these DIY steps don't resolve the issue, it might be best to consult a professional heating engineer or plumber. They can conduct a thorough assessment of your heating system, identify the root cause, and perform the necessary repairs or maintenance.

Remember, when dealing with heating systems, especially if disassembling or working with pipes, it's crucial to take appropriate safety precautions and, if necessary, seek the expertise of a qualified professional to ensure the work is done safely and effectively.

Saqib · Answer

Hi Elizabeth, sounds like they need balancing, or maybe sludge stuck in them. But I'd say it's more towards the balancing, best to get a heating engineer or plumber to come and quote.  Hope that helps 😊

Pete · Answer

Please make sure your boiler is not running when you bleed the radiators as this will suck air in not out when you bleed make sure you have a good flow of water coming out of the radiators 
thanks
Oil Burner Service Engineer

Kevin · Answer

Hello if the heat is passing through the radiator and the valves at both sides are hot but the bottom is cold the radiator is most likely full of sludge. Radiators will usually be hotter at the top than at the bottom unless they have been on for a long time, especially if they are older you will have a noticeable difference top and bottom. You can try turning all the other radiators off to allow all the heat and power to go through the under performing radiator if this doesn't help a system clean may be required

Aaron · Answer

Hi.  It’s sounds like you have magnetite. Because magnetite is heavier than water, it tends to settle in the pipes and radiators and builds up over time, eventually restricting water flow or blocking waterways altogether.

So you have a few of options.

#1. Powerflush your system

#2 not so favourable, drain the system and then take each one off and rinse through one at a time but this will take a long time and it’s not always the best option.

#3. Buy new radiators.

Stephen · Answer

Hi most probably has sludge in the radiators if the valves are ok and possibly the pump may be faulty

Dawid · Answer

Powerflush the system and this will help 100% before you flush lave cleaning liquid in the system to run for couple of days and flush it.

Radiators not functioning

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