Home Improvement

How to clean your radiators for better looks and performance

Small problems can lead to bigger, much more expensive problems in the home. That is why radiator cleaning is important, preventing problems such as corrosion or damp from getting out of control and causing bigger issues that could prove costly to put right.

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A dusty issue

Radiators get dusty very quickly because there are so many nooks and crannies, not least of which is the associated pipework. Fortunately, cleaning them doesn’t have to be too much of a chore, needing little more than a few basic tools and some cleaning products that almost everyone will have at home.

Why should you clean radiators?

Dirty radiators may not perform effectively. So, just as you would get your boiler repaired in Cheltenham to ensure optimum output, you need to clean your radiators to keep them in tip-top condition.

While you would probably call in experts to get your boiler repaired in Cheltenham, fortunately, radiator cleaning doesn’t have to be as complicated. That said, when considering system maintenance, remember that gas and boiler safety is the preserve of the professionals.

In addition to the outside, older radiators may also need a system flush to remove sludge and corrosion particles from your central heating system. This can lead to cold spots in your home and higher-than-necessary heating costs and is readily addressed with a system power flush from a professional.

Cleaning a radiator

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You will need a vacuum, a long cleaning brush, hot water, a sponge, washing up liquid, a dust sheet or old towel. If you don’t have a long brush, use your normal broom and tie or tape a cloth on the opposite end to the head. You may also need a kitchen or bathroom cleaner.

Start off by turning your heating off and removing any marks and stains with a cleaner. Vacuum under and around the radiator, using your hose extension. Use the brush to clean down the back and between any convector fins, trying to remove as much dust as you possibly can.

Use hot soapy water made from washing up liquid and a sponge to wipe down the radiator again, along with any pipes or valves. You may also find that pet hairs and dust are attracted to your walls around your radiators and so you may need to give these a wipe down too.