How to Replace a Radiator

Refer to our guide “How to Remove a Radiator” to help you complete this part of the task.

The new radiator brackets will need to be repositioned for the new radiator. They will need to allow the bottom union to meet the valve and the copper pipe coming from the floor below. If the new radiator is longer than the old radiator, one of the feed pipes must be re-plumbed by lifting the floor boards and repositioning the pipe to meet the union at the other end of the radiator.

Measure from the floor to the centre of the feed pipe that mates with the bottom of the radiator.

Lay the new radiator flat on the ground and ensure the inlet port is in line with the feed pipe. Lay the brackets into place on the back of the radiator. Measure between the bottom of the bracket and the centre of the inlet port at the bottom of the radiator. Add this length to the measurement taken in step 3, and this will equal the required height that the bracket needs to be fitted at on the wall.

Fit the bleed valve into the top of one end of the radiator. You may choose which side of the radiator to position this bleed valve. The other end of the radiator must be fitted with a blanking cap.

If you have removed the fittings from the old radiator to reuse them, simply wrap a short piece of plumbers’ tape around the threads of the fitting before screwing them into the new radiator.

Measure the distance between the bracket receivers on the back of the radiator. After mounting the first bracket to the wall, measure out this distance to give you the position for the second bracket. Lay a spirit level from the top of the first bracket across to the top of the position of the second bracket. Mark and fix the second bracket to the wall.

Fit plastic anti-vibration inserts onto the brackets to reduce the noises that can otherwise come from radiators.

Mount the new radiator onto the brackets, reconnect the feed pipes and tighten the instantor nuts. Turn on the central heating. Open the bleed valve completely with the key to purge any air and ensure the radiator circulation is operating correctly.