How to Fix Banging Radiator Pipes

Adjust the radiator's level to eliminate unpleasant banging while in use.

That clanking, rattling noise in your steam radiator's pipes is caused by hot water improperly traveling through the pipes after the radiator is heated. The banging sound is a common occurrence for older radiators, as radiators usually sit on top of hardwood floors that expand due to the radiator's moisture. The radiator's area warps over time and results in an unlevel radiator, causing the water to audibly flow through the pipes from the radiator.

Things You'll Need

• 2 to 3 shims

Instructions

1. Turn the radiator's valve all the way to the left or right to open the radiator completely. A partially opened valve increases the likelihood of the radiator's banging noise, as steam emits from the radiator's opening and can cause water leaks.

2. Wait for the radiator to cool down completely. Lift one side of the radiator and slide a shim directly underneath the radiator's leg. A shim is a thin wedge that balances an unlevel radiator. Place a leveling device on top of the radiator to determine which side of the radiator is unbalanced. The leveling device moves its liquid to the center when balanced, or to the left or right if either side is unbalanced.

3. Turn the radiator's valve completely to the left or right to close the valve after use. The radiator's valve tightens and is immovable when it is completely closed, and keeps banging from occurring as the radiator cools.

References

• U.S. Department of Energy: Heat Distribution Systems
• Apartment Therapy: Steam Hammer Season: Noisy Radiators & Pipes