Installing a new designer radiator can seem like a daunting task, but it is a satisfying DIY project that can save you money and improve your home's heating efficiency. If you are replacing an old radiator with a new one of the same size, the job is surprisingly straightforward. Even if you're a DIY novice, with the right tools and a little patience, you can achieve a professional finish.
This guide from Asturias Bathrooms will walk you through every step of the process, from preparing your workspace to checking for leaks. By following these instructions, you can confidently install a new radiator, ensuring your home stays warm and your heating system runs efficiently.
Preparing for Installation
Before you begin, proper preparation is key to a smooth and safe installation. This involves gathering the right tools, understanding your heating needs, and taking essential safety precautions.
Safety First
Your safety is the top priority. Before starting any work, you must:
- Turn off the central heating system: Ensure the system is completely off. If it has been running, allow the radiators to cool down completely before proceeding to avoid the risk of burns from hot water. A good example of a central heating radiator is the Eastbrook Type 11 300mm High Gloss White Compact Panel Radiator, a compact and efficient choice for any modern home.
- Wear protective gear: Use gloves and eye protection to prevent injuries from sharp edges or splashes.
- Have towels ready: Keep old towels or rags on hand to mop up any spills and protect your flooring.
- Check behind the wall: Use a digital detector to scan the wall for hidden pipes and electrical cables before drilling.
Tools and Materials
Having the right equipment will make the job much easier. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- Adjustable spanners (x2)
- Radiator bleed key
- Container or bucket for draining
- Old towels and rags
- Spirit level
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- An electric drill and appropriate drill bits
- Wall plugs and screws
- Digital detector
- PTFE tape for sealing threads
- Optional: Radiator Corrosion Inhibitor to protect your new radiator from sludge build-up.
Calculate Your BTU Needs
To ensure your new radiator heats the room effectively, it is vital to choose one with the correct British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating. A radiator with too low a BTU output will struggle to warm the space, while one that is too powerful will waste energy. Factors like room size, window type, and insulation levels all affect the required BTU. For a detailed guide on working this out, read our blog on How to Calculate BTU.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Once you have prepared your workspace and gathered your tools, you can begin the installation.
1. Isolate and Drain the Old Radiator
First, you need to stop water from flowing into the old radiator.
- Close the valves: Turn the manual control valve clockwise until it is fully closed. On the other end, you will find the lockshield valve. Remove its plastic cap and use a spanner to turn the valve clockwise. Top tip: Count the number of turns it takes to close the lockshield valve, as you'll need to open the new one by the same amount.
- Drain the water: Place a container under the control valve to catch the water. Use one spanner to hold the valve steady and another to loosen the large nut that connects it to the radiator. Water will start to drip out. To speed up the process, use a bleed key to open the bleed valve at the top of the radiator. This allows air to enter and water to drain out more quickly. Our guide on How to Bleed a Radiator offers more detailed instructions.
- Repeat on the other side: Once the first side is drained, move your container to the lockshield valve and repeat the process.
2. Remove the Old Radiator
With the water drained, you can now remove the old unit.
- Disconnect and lift: Fully loosen the nuts connecting both valves to the radiator. Gently lift the radiator off its wall brackets. Be aware that some dirty water may still be inside, so tilt the container over to drain any remaining liquid.
- Prepare the wall: Place the old radiator on towels to protect your floor. Now is a good time to clean the wall behind the radiator. The Scudo Bravo 600 x 410mm White Horizontal Single Designer Radiator, with its single-panel design, is a great example of an easy-to-fit model for a fresh, modern look.
3. Install New Brackets and Valves
If your new radiator's brackets don't match the old ones, you will need to fit new ones.
- Position the brackets: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mark the positions for the new brackets. Use a spirit level to ensure they are perfectly straight. Before drilling, use a digital detector to check for hidden pipes or cables.
- Attach the brackets: Drill the holes, insert wall plugs, and securely screw the new brackets to the wall.
- Prepare the new valves: Unscrew the valve tails (the parts that screw into the radiator). Wrap PTFE tape around the threads of the valve tails (about 5-10 times) to create a watertight seal. Screw them tightly into the new radiator.
4. Mount the New Radiator
It's time to hang your new radiator. This is often a two-person job.
- Hang the radiator: Carefully lift the new radiator onto the wall brackets. Check that it is level and secure.
- Connect the valves: Connect the radiator valves to the valve tails you installed earlier. Tighten the nuts, but be careful not to overtighten them.
The Final Steps
Your new radiator is now in place. All that's left is to fill it with water and check your work.
1. Refill the Radiator
- Open the valves: Turn the lockshield valve anti-clockwise by the same number of turns you noted earlier. Then, fully open the manual control valve. You should hear the radiator start to fill with water.
2. Bleed the New Radiator
- Release trapped air: As the radiator fills, air will become trapped inside. Use your bleed key to open the bleed valve slightly. You will hear a hissing sound as the air escapes. Once water starts to trickle out, close the bleed valve.
3. Power Up and Check for Leaks
- Turn on the heating: Turn your central heating system back on and allow the radiator to heat up.
- Check for leaks: Carefully inspect all the joints and connections for any drips. If you find a leak, turn the system off, allow it to cool, and tighten the leaking joint slightly.
- Final check: Once you are confident there are no leaks, let the system run and enjoy the warmth from your newly installed radiator.
Enjoy Your Work
Installing a radiator yourself is a rewarding project that adds comfort and value to your home. With your new radiator installed, your room will feel warmer and look more stylish.
For ongoing efficiency, remember to bleed your radiators annually and consider using a corrosion inhibitor to maintain the health of your heating system. If you're also thinking about other heating solutions, our guide on the Five Benefits of a Heated Towel Rail offers some excellent alternatives.
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