How to Bleed Baseboard Radiators

Hot water heat that comes through radiators near the floor need to be bled occasionally. This is true for both standing and baseboard radiators. Bleeding radiators will ensure that water flows correctly through the system. It should be done every couple of months as a maintenance task or if the radiators do not seem to be working properly.

Things You'll Need

• Straight-edge screwdriver or radiator key

Instructions

1. Locate the valve. The valve is typically near the piping that enters the floor. On a baseboard radiator, the valve may be behind the small door on the end of the unit. On a standing radiator, the valve typically sits on top on the end of the unit.

2. Determine what type of tool you will need. Typically it will be either a straight-edge screwdriver or a radiator key.

3. Starting with the radiator farthest away from the boiler system, place the container under the spout to catch the water. The space between the radiator and floor will dictate the size of the container.

4. Turn the valve slowly. Leave the valve open until only air (no water) is being released. Remember, your job is to get the air out of the system, not to drain a large amount of water.

5. Tighten the valve. Repeat the process at the next nearest radiator.

6. Return to the first radiator that you bled. Turn the valve open. If only water comes out, you have competed the task. If air comes out, return to the start of the process and repeat.

Tips & Warnings

• If the space between the radiator and floor is small, a piece of fish tank hose will do as the container. If you do not have a radiator key, most hardware stores carry them. While it is an expense, trying this task without it will leave you frustrated.

• Once in use, a radiator will produce very hot water when bled.

References

• Bleed Radiators