Leaking radiator can cause concern

For those that live in residential blocks, issues such as a leaking radiator can cause concern. www.leaseholdersupport.co.uk suggests ways to tackle the problem. Modern radiators are made of pressed steel and are used to emit heat from hot water which is pumped around a building to heat it. The principle of radiators is that they should be sized to have an adequate surface area to supply heat to the room in which they are installed. Although radiators are an efficient way of heating a room, common problems may arise from a radiator heating system: High pressure on the pressure gauge. If the pressure is too high it is advised to let off water at the boiler or bleed the radiator. Low pressure on the pressure gauge. If the pressure is too low, introduce new water and fill up the system at the boiler. Green residue around pipes or rusting on radiators. Rusting is a common problem, especially for older aging radiators. Rusting occurs as a result of a chemical reaction between the leaking water and air.

Visible leaks

The most common leakage point is at a radiator inlet pipe, perhaps a compression joint is not tight enough or the thread thread on the valve may have worn. Air and knocking noises. When air builds up in the system, the radiator will need to be bleed to remove this. Who is responsible for fixing the leak? If you are unsure of who's responsibility it is to fix a leaking a radiator then the question to ask yourself is where is the radiator located? If the radiator is located a communal area then it is the responsibility of the Freeholder or Management Company to repair and maintain it. If the lessee has their own boiler then the central heating system and radiators are the responsibility of the lessee to repair and maintain. If the radiator is connected to a communal heating system, then the repair and maintenance of it is the responsibility of the Freeholder or Management Company with all lessees contributing towards repairs via the service charge. The obligations of the parties are set out within the covenants of the lease, a covenant being a promise to do or not to do something.

Is the radiator new and is there rust present?

If the radiator is new, the chances are that is covered by at least a five year guarantee. If the heating system is not maintained correctly and air forms in the system, rust may form which prevents efficient operation. Urgency of action required: A large leak on a radiator system will stop once the radiators and heating system have emptied themselves of water and will empty gradually by gravity action, with the speed dependent on the size of the hole. This is not the same as a mains water intake leak which should be treated as a priority as (a) it will not stop and (b) it will only get worse. Consider if the system is communal as the effects of gravity drainage will be increased by the size of the building (height) and number of flats.

Turn off the inlet into the system to ensure that whilst a leak is ongoing, the system is not filling up with new water. Most combination boiler systems will have a filing loop under the boiler which can either be disconnected or the tap to it, turned off. Turn off radiators at the valve to try and contain the water within them rather than leaving them to totally drain down. A small leak such as a dripping radiator is not an emergency and should wait to be dealt with during working hours. For leaks at valves, wrap a rag or towel around the leaking valve or put a bowl under the leaking radiator.

Identifying the Source of the Leak: Troubleshooting Radiator Issues

When dealing with a leaking radiator, the first step is to accurately identify the source of the leak. Is it coming from a valve, a pipe joint, or somewhere else on the radiator? For minor leaks, especially those at joints, tightening the valve or joint may resolve the issue. It’s essential to inspect all connections thoroughly. If the leak is from the body of the radiator itself, there may be an issue with corrosion or wear-and-tear. In such cases, the radiator may need to be replaced entirely. Always check for any visible green residue or rust, as these are indicators of ongoing damage caused by leaks. If the problem is beyond a minor fix, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber or heating engineer.

When to Call a Professional: Knowing When DIY Isn’t Enough

While small leaks and air buildup in a radiator can often be resolved by DIY solutions such as bleeding the radiator or tightening valves, there are situations where calling in a professional is essential. If you notice that the leak is significant, especially if it involves the main heating pipes or the radiator’s internal components, it’s time to seek expert help. Additionally, if the leak is persistent or you notice corrosion or water damage around the area, this could be a sign of a larger underlying problem that needs to be addressed. For communal heating systems, involving the freeholder or property management company for a professional repair may be necessary.

At Ringley Group, we understand the importance of keeping both private and communal heating systems in good working order. As part of our property management services, we ensure that all maintenance, including heating systems, is monitored and properly addressed. If you are a leaseholder, it’s essential to stay on top of any issues that may affect your living space and act quickly to prevent damage.

Preventive Maintenance: Prolonging the Life of Your Heating System

To avoid future radiator leaks and issues, preventive maintenance is key. Ensure that your radiator system is regularly inspected for any signs of corrosion, wear, or blockages. Additionally, maintaining the correct water pressure in your heating system is critical. It’s recommended that the pressure gauge be checked periodically, and the system should be properly bled if air builds up. If your radiator is old or showing significant signs of rust, consider replacing it before it leads to a leak. For communal systems, regular checks should be part of the management’s maintenance program, ensuring that any issues are caught early.

At Ringley, we believe in proactive management. Our team helps both landlords and tenants ensure the longevity of their properties by addressing potential heating and maintenance concerns before they escalate. Through consistent monitoring and clear communication, we provide peace of mind to all parties involved. Keeping on top of radiator issues ensures a comfortable living environment and saves on costly repairs down the line.