How to Remove Radiators for Decorating

Remove your radiators properly so you can decorate your home.

Every once in a while people want to do major decorating in their home. However, in many older homes there can be obstacles called radiators. Radiators are heat sources, so make sure you plan to move these during the summer months when you do not need the heat on. You do have to remember to do a few important things to remove a radiator safely without causing damage to the radiator or your home.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Adjustable wrench or spanner
• Rags
• Valve cap
• Cart

Instructions

1. Turn off your main gas line, just to be safe, if your radiators are gas heat.

2. Place a bowl underneath the valve. Turn off both the valves at the side of the radiator and the pipes that go into the floor or the wall. You should be able to use your hands for this.

3. With the wrench or spanner, twist the nut on the valve attached to the radiator to loosen it. Drain out any water that may still be in the radiator. Have some rags or towels handy in case the water makes a mess. Wipe up any drips before trying to move the radiator so you do not slip.

4. Loosen the valve completely from the radiator so you can move it. Make sure the radiator is completely detached from the valve that comes out of the floor or the wall to prevent breaking any pipes and costly home repairs.

5. Turn the radiator on its end to drain any other water that might be inside to make the radiator easier to move. Keep in mind; this water may be dirty, so be careful of any carpeting.

6. Put a valve cap on the end of the pipes coming from the floor or the wall to prevent any water from coming out during your decorating.

7. Buy or make your own small, but heavy-duty cart with wheels on the bottom of it.

8. Get a friend to help you lift the radiator onto the cart. Wheel it out of the room you are going to decorate. Wheel it back in and follow the process in reverse to reattach the radiator.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a friend to help you move cast iron radiators, as they are very heavy.

• Some newer radiators have a bleed valve. Open this to help you drain off the water, but remember to close it when you reattach the radiator.

• Be very careful when twisting the nuts to loosen the valves. Sometimes these get a little rusty and are hard to loosen. Be careful not to bend or twist any nuts or pipes, as they may not go back together again properly without complete replacement.

References

• House Professionals

Resources

• Help With DIY: Removing a Radiator