When is it time to bleed your central heating system?

When air is trapped in your radiator pipes, output reduces considerably. You’ll soon notice that your house isn't getting hot enough. In that case, it's high-time to bleed your heaters. We will tell you when you need to take action.

You’ll need to bleed your radiator if...

• it’s making strange noises

  If your radiators make bubbling or ticking noises, it's usually a sign that you have air in the pipes. Aside from the fact that it can be annoying, these air bubbles can also lead to the pipes oxidising. You need to take action!

• it doesn't get hot enough

  If the heating is not providing (adequate) heat, it could be time to bleed the system. The lower section usually gets warm but the top section stays cool or lukewarm. This problem could also be due to a separate heating element, while everything else is working perfectly well.

Time for action

Radiators can end up with air in the pipes in any season. However, it’s a good idea to bleed the system at the beginning of the heating season so that you’re ready for the winter.

Quick solution

Bleeding the radiators is a very simple process. Follow the steps below and you’ll have it done in no time:

1. Put all radiators on their highest setting.

2. Wait a short while and then switch the central heating system off.

3. Let the radiators cool down.

4. Work through the radiators, one by one, starting with the radiator that is closest to the boiler.

5. Close the radiator valve and open the bleed valve. Place a container under the bleed valve and let the air out. A little moisture will usually come out too.

6. Close the valve once all the air has escaped. Do this for all radiators.

7. Then check to ensure the water pressure in the central heating boiler is at the right level.

Do you have questions about how our radiators work? Don’t hesitate to contact a specialist in your area!