Is your radiator leaking or making strange noises? Maybe you’ve noticed signs of rust? In this case, get an expert to look at it as soon as possible.
These days, radiator heaters are in most homes. Yet, most homeowners rarely do any maintenance work. Some people don’t check on their radiators for years, or even decades.
When used wrongly or kept in bad shape, these common items can be dangerous. Your children or pets could get badly burned, or your house could catch fire.
The good news is that most accidents are mostly preventable. You only need to follow a few simple rules to keep your radiator safe. Here are five important things to consider.
5. Check the radiator's air vent or bleeding valve
Before turning on your radiators, check the bleed valve or air vent. It should be totally tightened.
Don’t try to use this part to change the heat. If you do want to change the temperature directly on the radiator, use the thermostatic valve.
4. Don't make direct contact with the furniture
Don’t put the couch, armchair, or other furniture in front of the radiator. If you do that, the heat won’t move around properly. Also, your furniture may get too hot, which could cause burns or start a fire.
Instead, think about using wood or metal radiator covers. These accessories are stylish and go with any room. Also, you can choose from hundreds of styles and sizes.
3. Let it Bleed
Depending on where you live, you may not use the radiator heater all year. Most people only use it during the cold winter months.
Before you start using the radiator again after a long break, you need to bleed it. Here is how to do that.
2. Be careful with freestanding electric radiators with plugs
Electric models have more risks than central heating radiators. They can get hot to the touch and can easily start a fire if they are not handled correctly.
To stay safe, put them on a flat, non-flammable surface. Always turn them off when leaving the house. Do not hang clothes or shoes over the heating unit, and do not use an extension cord.
1. Regular maintenance is required
No matter what type of radiators you have, have them checked every year when you have your boiler serviced.
Even if your radiators look fine, they may still need attention. A professional can take a look to see if there are any signs of damage and fix it before it’s too late.
Make radiator safety a top priority
These heating devices have made our lives better. After all, they let us stay cozy and warm when it’s cold outside. Since they get used and worn down, they need regular maintenance.
Make radiator safety a priority in your home. Show your children how to use them safely.
Check out our blog for other safety tips about radiators. From how-to guides to practical advice, we have you covered!
