How to Release Air From a Radiator

Bleeding air out of a radiator is not a difficult task.

Radiators are a simple form of radiant heating; hot water heats the radiator, and the heat extends into the air around the radiator. If air is not getting into a radiator properly, the valves must be opened, allowing the water to push the air out. Be sure the radiator is off and cool before opening the valves.

Things You'll Need

• Radiator-bleeding key

Instructions

1. Turn off the central heat. There should be warm water, but not hot water inside of the system. A hot radiator or the water inside can burn you while you are bleeding out the air.

2. Press a radiator bleed key into the bleed valve. The valve will be at the top left, right or back of the radiator. Wrap a piece of cloth around the key. When it is open, and water begins to leak out, the cloth will prevent it from dripping onto the floor.

3. Turn the bleed key between a half and full rotation counterclockwise. When air can be heard escaping from the radiator, it's time to stop turning the key. Let the air bleed out until water begins to leak. Close the bleed valve by turning the key back as far as you originally opened it.

References

• DIY Data: Bleeding Central Heating Systems
• DIY Not: Problems Associated With Radiators