What Is A Radiator Bleed Key?

Posted: Friday, August 26, 2022

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A radiator bleed key is a small tool which is used, as the name suggests, to bleed your radiators. This simple and quick task will ensure that your heating system is performing efficiently and effectively. Read on to learn more.

What Does Bleeding A Radiator Mean?

Bleeding a radiator describes the process of releasing trapped air from your heating system. There are three ways that this gets inside:

• When your radiators are initially filled with water some air may get trapped inside. Minimise this by using experienced and skilled installers, find companies that we endorse here* or on HETAS.
• Leaks in your heating system, boiler or radiator. Providing that these are minimal they are not too problematic, but they may mean that you need to check to see if your radiator needs bleeding more frequently.
• The changing temperature results in the expansion and contraction of metal elements, this can force tiny air bubbles into the heating system or radiator.

The easiest way to get rid of this air is by using a radiator bleed key.

*Whilst we endorse these companies we cannot guarantee their work and accept no liability.

Do I Need To Bleed My Radiators?

You may not need to bleed your radiators right now, but it is very likely that you will at some point. It is easy to work out when this will need doing as you will notice that your heating is not working efficiently because the top of the radiator will remain cold when the heating is switched on.

The trapped air prevents the water from circulating, this means that only the bottom of your radiator will be warming up properly. Without heat coming from the entirety of the surface area, it will take much longer to heat a room as the BTU (British Thermal Unit) output will be too low, read more about this here. 

If you find that your home is not being heated properly we advise you to check whether your radiators need bleeding. Visit this blog to learn how to do this.

Why Own A Radiator Bleed Key?

Much like a screwdriver or spanner, a radiator bleed key should be something that you keep in your toolbox or in a designated kitchen drawer. Unless you have significant leaks in your heating system you will not need to use it often, however, it is best to have one on hand for when you do find yourself needing to bleed your radiator.

If you are without a radiator bleed key you can also use a flat-head screwdriver, however, this risks damaging the finish and if you slip you may injure yourself.

Do You Have Questions About Your Radiator Bleed Key?

If you have any questions or queries please contact our helpful staff on 01400 263320. You can also learn more about us and our products by following us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and TikTok.

If you find yourself having to bleed your radiators frequently it may be time to upgrade! Our easy-to-use website allows you to design the perfect model for any space, and choose from our 10,000 different colour and finish options. Alternatively, you can choose from our ready-made collection.