If you’re looking to beat the chill this winter, a replacement radiator can be a fantastic way to do it. Recent innovations and technological breakthroughs have led to better performing radiators that are able to operate more efficiently than ever before. This means there is no better time to invest in a new one to replace your old model. With the squeeze of the cost-of-living crisis still gripping the country, a new radiator could actually help to bring down your heating bills, with superior heat distribution that requires less overall energy.

But one of the most off-putting factors of a new radiator is the hassle of getting it installed, not to mention removing your older model. Many turn to experts, and this is a surefire way of ensuring the process runs more smoothly. However, it can raise the price of what is already an expensive endeavour, which means a lot of homeowners simply decide not to purchase a new radiator at all until their old one breaks completely. However, it doesn’t have to be that way – with the right preparation and care, many homeowners will have what it takes to replace a radiator themselves.

But just how do you replace a radiator? We’ve put this guide together to take you through the steps. 

Remember, however, that it is important to follow each step carefully in order to ensure proper, safe, and secure installation. 

As mentioned, new radiators are designed with more efficient modern technology that allows for superior heat distribution. The radiators can heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature in the room. With additional radiators, you can expand this effective performance throughout the home. Modern radiators can also come with advanced features such as thermostatic valves which allow you more precise control over your heating system.

The space efficiency of radiators has also improved in recent years, and they are often designed specifically to be more compact and able to be installed in smaller areas. This can free up valuable space in rooms big and small. Meanwhile, a new radiator is likely to provide you with a notable aesthetic upgrade, as many have been specifically picked out to complement your room’s décor. This can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of your space.

Replacing your radiator may save you money in the long run beyond your energy bills, too. This is because a newer model is likely to require considerably less maintenance than their predecessors. They also have longer lifespans and are designed with safety in mind. They often have features like child locks or protective covers to prevent accidents. Older radiators, especially those made of cast iron, may be prone to corrosion. Newer models often use materials and coatings that are more resistant to rust and corrosion.

In order to replace your radiator, you’re going to need a few key tools. These will be used throughout the process, so be sure to have them all to hand before making a start. You don’t want to begin your project only to have to abandon it on account of lacking the correct equipment. Most of the tools you will need are standard DIY tools, while others are more specialised for the role. You may need to purchase these tools before beginning.

• Radiator
• Radiator brackets
• Wrench set
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Spirit level
• Radiator valves (if not included)
• Adjustable pliers
• Bleed key
• Copper or plastic pipes and fittings (if not already in place)
• Pipe wrench or adjustable spanner
• Pipe cutter or hacksaw
• Pipe thread sealant or PTFE tape
• Sandpaper

1. Prepare the space underneath your old radiator, with floors protected with a dustsheet and old towels in place near the pipework to catch any drips and spills.

2. Switch off the central heating – this is incredibly important for safety, and it is crucial that you have turned the heat off completely and allowed it to cool before beginning your work.

3. Drain your old radiator. The best way to do this is to attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator and allow the water to flow into a container such as a bucket.

4. Remove the old radiator by disconnecting the pipes using a pipe wrench. You will need to prepare for at least some water to come out. Use an adjustable wrench on any unions in order to disconnect them.

5. Carefully remove the old radiator from its brackets, and then remove these old brackets.

6. Next, install your newer brackets onto the wall, using a spirit level to make sure they’re level and mark the positions for the holes in which the brackets will be inserted. Drill holes for the brackets and secure them.

7. If your radiator didn’t come with valves, install them on the opposite side of the brackets. Make sure they’re tightly fitted and use PTFE tape or thread sealant to prevent leaks.

8. Next, you’ll want to measure your pipes and then cut them to the appropriate length.

   a.  If you’re cutting copper pipes, pipe cutters will be required. Meanwhile, a hacksaw should suffice for plastic pipework.

9. After cutting the pipes, you’ll want to use a deburring tool or sandpaper to remove any rough edges that could look unsightly, cause damage, or negatively affect the performance of the radiator.

10. Connect one end of each pipe to the radiator using a wrench. Ensure that they are secure before using clips or pipe clips to secure the pipes to the wall. Keeping them neat and tidy will ensure a smoother installation process.

11. Next, you’ll want to bleed the radiator by opening the bleed valve located at the top of the radiator. You will need a bleed key. Ensure that any and all air is released.

12. Turn on the central heating system and check for any leaks. If you find any, tighten the connections of the pipework.

13. Next, you will need to inspect all connections for leaks. If you find any, turn off the heating system and fix the issue before proceeding.

14. Once you are sure that everything is secure and there are no leaks, turn on the heating and check if the radiator gets hot.

And there you have it – a newly-fitted radiator to replace your old one! Your fitting process will hopefully have been completed without a problem, but what if this wasn’t the case? There are a number of problems that may have occurred, though the majority can be avoided with the correct planning. However, even the most prepared DIY enthusiast can run into unexpected problems, and the severity of the issue will determine your next steps.

If the problem is minor, and you can retrace the steps above in order to work out where you went wrong, then you can simply do that. On the other hand, if the problem has damaged your radiator, your wall, or your pipework, you may want to call in a professional instead of trying to fix the issue yourself. There are plenty to choose from, and replacing a radiator is a fairly straightforward task that may well be completed in one day if the installer has prior experience.

For more DIY tips and tricks, check out our ideas and inspiration pages, which include our radiator buying guide and how radiators work.  Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and all other major social media platforms for more updates, deals, and guides!

Enjoy your new radiator!