If your radiator looks like this:
Chances are, it emits a lot less heat than you think!
Thankfully, cleaning the fins with a radiator brush is very easy.
You can get a radiator brush at most DIY stores and online for only a few pounds, or make your own from an old wire hanger.
Dust settles inside your radiators easily which can be tricky to remove without the right equipment.
(Blocked Convection System due to built-up dust between fins)
This results in blocking the convection system therefore it is wise to give it a little cleaning every now and then.
Here is our simple guide to how to clean your radiator:
Step 1 – Turn Off Central Heating
Not only a cold radiator is safer, it is also easier to clean.
Step 2 – Get the Right Equipment
While you wait for your radiator(s) to cool down, gather some equipment:
- Radiator Brush or a Long Stick
- Vacuum Cleaner
- Towels or Dust Sheet
Step 3 – Remove Top (if there’s any)
Modern radiators come with a grill on top. Removing this can make it easier to brush between the fins. Some companies like Rotarad manufactures their radiators with valves that allows you to simply pull the radiator down (making the back of the radiator more accessable).
Step 4 – Use a Vacuum Cleaner
Andrew Collinge, a heating product expert at Best Heating, recommends cleaning around and underneath the radiator with a vacuum cleaner first as much as possible.
With the right attachments, you may be able to reach between the fins as well.
Step 5 – Use the Radiator Brush
Place a long towel or dust sheet underneath your radiator to protect your carpet and floor. Push your radiator brush (or alternative item), from top towards the bottom between the fins to remove all dust and dirt until it’s clear.
Repeat this step on all fins. You can wear a facemask during this step to avoid inhaling dust.
Step 6 – Finish
Remove your towel or dust sheet from the floor and vacuum any excessive dust. Put the grill back on the top (if there was any) and wipe down the radiator with some soapy water and a sponge. Make sure you dry the radiator with a microfibre cloth to avoid the build-up of rust.
(Radiator Convection System after cleaning radiator)
Spending some time on this increases the efficiency of your radiators and could result in savings on your heating bills overtime.
If your radiator feels cold at some parts, consider “bleeding” it to keep your heating in good working order. Make sure there is also plenty of space between furniture and radiator to allow the circulation of warm air to continue. Note, curtains could also steal the emitted heat!
Energy prices are on the rise, the more efficient your radiators the less you pay and the warmer your home gets! Cleaning between radiator fins is a simple task and can avoid the increase of your heating bills!
To find out more advice on how and which energy provider to use, we suggest www.ofgem.gov.uk who are Great Britain’s independent energy regulator.
If you want to compare your energy prices, check these comparison sites:
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