As the temperature drops in winter, there’s nothing worse than realising your radiators aren’t heating up when you need them most. If your radiators are only lukewarm or not working at all, it can leave your home feeling chilly and uncomfortable.
Luckily, many common radiator issues have simple fixes. In this post, we’ll explore why your radiators might not be working properly and how to get them back in action.
Common Reasons Why Radiators Stop Heating Up
Trapped Air in the System
One of the most common causes of radiators not heating up is trapped air. When air gets into your central heating system, it can prevent hot water from circulating properly, leading to cold spots in your radiators. This issue is often noticeable when the bottom of the radiator is warm, but the top remains cold.
Sludge or Debris Build-up
Over time, sludge or rust particles can accumulate inside radiators, particularly in older systems. This build-up blocks the flow of hot water, causing your radiators to heat unevenly or not at all. You may notice that one radiator is cold while others in the house are working just fine.
Thermostat or Valve Issues
Sometimes, the problem lies with the thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) or the lock-shield valve. If the valve is stuck or not set correctly, it can restrict the flow of hot water into the radiator, causing it to stay cold. A faulty thermostat could also be the culprit, preventing the heating system from functioning efficiently.
How to Fix Radiator Problems
- Bleed Your Radiators
If trapped air is the issue, bleeding your radiators is a quick and easy solution. Using a radiator key, you can release the trapped air until water begins to flow out. This allows the hot water to circulate properly, heating the entire radiator evenly. If you’re unsure how to bleed a radiator, our plumbing services in Fife can help. - Power Flushing
For radiators clogged with sludge or debris, a power flush may be necessary. This process involves flushing your central heating system with a special cleaning solution to remove any blockages and improve the efficiency of your radiators. Power flushing can extend the lifespan of your heating system and improve your home’s overall comfort. - Check or Replace Valves
If the issue is with a stuck valve, adjusting or replacing it should solve the problem. For more complex thermostat or valve issues, it’s best to contact a professional plumber in Fife. We can inspect your system and ensure everything is set up for optimal heating performance.
Don’t Suffer Through the Cold: Call a Plumber in Fife
If your radiators aren’t heating up as they should, don’t wait until the cold becomes unbearable. Our team of skilled plumbers in Fife is ready to help with all your heating system needs. From bleeding radiators and replacing valves to performing full power flushes, we’ll get your system back up and running in no time.
We provide expert plumbing services across Fife and can ensure your radiators and heating system are working efficiently, so you can stay warm and cosy all winter long. Just give us a call to see how we can help.
