How to Move a Radiator

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Renovating or remodeling an older home often requires you to move a radiator out of the way of your project or to a new location. Not only are radiators heavy, but they also have attachment mechanisms that must be disconnected gently and precisely to prevent future problems. Before you take on this task, it is important to learn how to move a radiator properly so you do not damage it or yourself.

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Taking It Out

PDF download Download Article
  1. Measure your radiator, and decide on a new location. Remember, you must account for the pipes, as well, so you should find a space where they have room to go under the floor or in the wall. Also, many times, radiators are placed in front of windows because they help warm up cold drafts coming in from outside.
    • If you're unsure how much space you'll need, consult with the plumber who will do the piping work.
    • You can also look at the positioning of your old radiator system to get an idea of how much space pipes will take up.
  2. If you can, extending the old pipes will be the easiest bet. If you can't do that, you'll have to think about how much space new pipes will take up in the new spot.
    • Once again, it's best to consult with the plumber if you're unsure.
    Advertisement
  3. This valve is the one you use to adjust the temperature. It's often on the bottom right of the radiator, where the radiator meets the pipes.Turn the valve off by rotating it clockwise until it stops. [1]
    • Use a dust cover if necessary. Some thermostatic valves don't have an off switch. You need a little cap to fit over them in place of the thermostatic device. You can find one at the hardware store if you don't have one.
  4. The lockshield valve will have a plastic cover on top, and it's often on the bottom left of the radiator. Take the cover off. Use a spanner/wrench to turn the valve clockwise, counting turns as you go. You count turns so that you can open the valve the same amount when you move the radiator somewhere else. [2]
  5. Once you turn it off, let the radiator cool for a bit. You don't want the water in the heater to be too hot to work with.
  6. Open the bleed valve a little bit to see if water comes out. You will need a radiator key to turn it. If water leaks out, water is still going through the radiator. Make sure the valves are closed as much of possible. If they are, you'll need to drain the radiator.
  7. You'll need two plumber's wrenches. You are pulling the radiator up from its risers at the bottom. Have something to catch the water ready. Hold the manual control valve with one wrench, while you use the other to unscrew the nut that holds them together.
    • Water will drain out as you loosen it, so be ready. [3]
    • Do the same with the other valve, the lockshield valve. [4]
  8. Now you can move the radiator off the supports. However, be aware more water will drain. In addition, radiators can be very heavy, so have someone to help you if possible. [5] You may also have to lift it off of wall brackets. [6]
  9. Before moving the radiator, close the bleed valve. You don't want any random dirty water dripping across your home if any is left inside. [7]
    • Tilt the radiator to make sure you get all the water out, which will come out the other valves. [8]
    • Make sure to put something under the radiator, as it's likely not clean. [9] In fact, it's best to turn it upside-down so you don't drip sludge on the floor.
  10. Unless you're extremely confident in home improvement, it's best to have a plumber do the next part. You need to have pipes put in the new position. They can be extended from the old position, or you can have new ones put in, which of course will be more expensive.
    11. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Putting It in Its New Position

PDF download Download Article
  1. Once again, radiators are very heavy. Many are made of cast iron. It's best to have a dolly and someone to help you move it where you want it to go.
  2. Wrap plumber's tape around the adapter screw threads. Go clockwise around the threads. Tear off any extra, and flatten down the end. [10]
  3. In the new position, set your radiator into place. The valve lines need to line up with the valves on the radiator. Also, make sure you get it back on its wall brackets. [11]
  4. Just as you loosened the nuts under the valves, it's now time to tighten them. Use a plumber's wrench to hold a valve, and turn the nut with another plumber's wrench until it's tightened. [12]
  5. Turn the lockshield valve counter-clockwise. Remember to do it the same amount of turns to open it as you you used to close it before. [13]
  6. Again, turn counter-clockwise. Doing so will open the valve, releasing water or steam into your radiator. [14]
  7. Open the bleed valve momentarily to let out any trapped air. Once the radiator has filled up again, you can close the valve again. [15]
  8. Make sure none of the valves are leaking. If the are, turn them off and tighten the nuts some more. [16]
    9. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I make my radiator hotter?
    Community Answer
    Save money on heating by winter proofing your radiator. It's time to turn up the heat in your home, but if your radiators aren't working properly it could mean cash out the window. Check if the radiator is working properly. Bleed your radiator. Massage the radiator valve. Contact an expert.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 1
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • When learning how to move a radiator, keep in mind that you might need to replace pipes and connections. Because radiators are often very old, disconnecting them can result in damage to these items, which should be expected due to their age.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • If your radiator is connected to a central system, be sure to turn it off first.
        Thanks
        Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
      • Do not hesitate to ask for professional help from a plumber or heating specialist for expert advise before attempting to move a radiator.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 2
      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      • Radiator
      • Pipe wrenches
      • Spanners
      • Bolt cutters (if needed)
      • Screwdriver (if needed)
      • Moving dolly or cart

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Use a Radiator
      How to
      Turn a Radiator Off
      How to
      Bleed a Radiator
      How to
      Defrost a Heat Pump
      How to
      Hang a Radiator
      How to
      Unclog a Radiator
      How to
      Fix a Radiator
      How to
      Take a Radiator Off the Wall
      How to
      Build a Radiator Cover
      How to
      Remove a Radiator for Decorating
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      2. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      3. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      4. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      5. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      6. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator
      7. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator
      8. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator
      9. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator
      1. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator
      2. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      3. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      4. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      5. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      6. ↑ http://www.helpwithdiy.com/plumbing/removing_a_radiator.html
      7. ↑ http://www.homebase.co.uk/en/static/how-to-replace-a-radiator

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before moving a radiator, have a plumber extend the old pipes or rework the pipes in the location you plan to move the radiator to. You’ll also need to set up the supporting brackets in the new location and drain the water in your radiator before attempting to move it. Afterwards, get someone to help you move the radiator to the new location, then open the lockshield and manual control valves to release water into the radiator. Keep in mind that this is a general description, so make sure to consult your plumber for more detailed information. To learn more, like how to locate the lockshield and manual control valves on your radiator, read on.

      Did this summary help you?
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 119,730 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Joe Wilson

        Feb 16, 2018

        "I wanted to know if the system needed drained to move a radiator, so was pleased to read that it did not."
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement