Is Your Radiator Cold at the Bottom? Here’s How to Fix It.

If you’ve noticed that your radiator is cold at the bottom, don’t worry—it’s often due to a build-up of sludge or a blockage. While this can lead to bigger issues like leaks if left untreated, you can easily address it yourself. Here’s a simple guide to get your radiators back to full working order!

How to check if your radiator isn’t working properly:

1. Ensure your heating is on and set to a reasonable temperature (not too high).
2. Check the thermostat and turn it up to ensure it’s on.
3. Feel your radiators—look for any cold spots at the top or bottom.

If the radiator is cold at the bottom, your room may feel unusually chilly, even with the thermostat set high. Here’s how to fix it:

Step-by-step guide to fix your radiator:

1. Switch off your heating
   Safety first! Turn off your heating and allow the radiator to cool down.
2. Lay sheets underneath the radiator
   Protect your floors or carpets by laying down a sheet. Some water may leak during the process, but don’t worry—it’s completely normal.
3. Turn off any radiator valves
   Ensure all radiator valves are tightly closed to prevent any leaks.
4. Bleed & drain the radiator
   Watch this quick video to see how to safely bleed and drain your radiator.
5. Switch your heating back on
   After bleeding the radiator, turn your central heating back on via the boiler.
6. Check the results
   Feel around your radiator again. Your heating should now be working without any cold spots.