Hot Water Radiators

If your heating system is made up of hot water radiators, it is important to occasionally get rid of air that may have become trapped in the radiator. The air will keep the radiator from filling properly. On the top of the radiator is a port called a "bleeding valve." The port might be opened with a switch, a special key, a wrench or a screwdriver.

1. Have a cup ready to catch the overflow.
2. Protect yourself so that if the overflow splashes out of the radiator, you won't be scalded.
3. Open the valve and let the air escape until water comes out.
4. Close the valve.

If you have a hot water radiator system, you will have a boiler somewhere, most likely in the basement. When the boiler is getting heavy use, drain it of sediment once a month. Regular draining will improve the boiler's efficiency and extend its life.

There is a drain valve near the bottom.

1. If the drain valve does not open easily, you may have difficulty re-closing it. Better to ask for professional help.
2. Be ready with a large bucket for holding at couple of quarts.
3. Be able to protect yourself from any hot water splashing out.
4. Open the drain valve and drain a couple of quarts into the bucket or until the water runs clear.
5. If the water looks dark, it's gone too long without draining.