How to temporarily remove a radiator for decorating
Right, the question how to temporarily remove a radiator for decorating is vexing for all those who know that it’s best to paint in all those difficult spots, no matter how tricky, to do a good job.
And painting behind the radiator should not be that hard, if you follow a few simple steps.
Firstly, get together all the gear you will need. First up you will need a good screwdriver and spanner. Then get yourself a jug, large bowl and some old rags.
Now you are all set.
Now, before you start, remember that the water inside the radiator is horrible stuff. It’s black and something you don’t want to get on your best Axminster shag-pile. So, either roll it back out of harm’s way, or cover it completely with an old towel, or cloth.
Right, lets start. Shut off both valves at either end of the radiator. These should turn clockwise without too much pressure. If you can’t shift them with your hands, then try the spanner; although a word of warning. If they won’t budge, don’t try the Arnold Schwarzenegger routine, as too much pressure could buckle the pipe leading to the valve and cause a major leak, which will drain your central heating system all over your floor. It may be that the valve is a bit gunged up and some loosening fluid might be the answer. But, just take care at this stage unless you want to have to call the emergency plumber.
And don’t forget, as you close the valve (clockwise), remember the number of turns it takes to turn it off; as you will need to make the same number of turns (anti-clockwise) to turn it fully on.
Next, you need to unscrew the cap-nut that holds the valve attached to the radiator adapter. Get your jug and place it under the joint. You then can bleed the valve slowly into the jug, making sure all the water is fully drained out.
Do the same with the other valve (all the water should have gone, but keep the jug underneath in case it hasn’t), then you should be able to lift the radiator straight off its brackets and away from the wall. Beware at all times that there may be water, or sludge hanging about in the bottom of the radiator, so don’t lift it about too much, or take it anywhere where a spillage might cause problems. Have the bowl close to hand.
You might want to unscrew the brackets if you’re going to do a thorough job, but also you should make a note of the existing holes, so that you can replace them easily enough. Also, you might have to do a little remedial work, as often taking the bracket off can cause a problem with the plaster and re-drilling the holes could be tricky.
Okay, so let’s assume you’ve got the radiator off okay, you’ve decorated it, and now it’s time to re-hang it. You screw the brackets back in place, re-hang the radiator, then tighten the valve nuts on both valves, and remember to close the bleed valve.
Finally, open valves with care and check that everything has gone back in place properly. Also check for any water leaks, which might just need a readjustment of the valve. Also, make sure you bleed the radiator, as air will have entered the system.
And there you have it, a decorating job well done.
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