Over time, it is normal for radiators to develop cold spots. Cold spots in your radiator prevent them from functioning fully. There are many different reasons that the radiators in your home could have cold spots. There are some solutions you can do yourself at home to help but other times it would be wise to gain advice from your local heating engineers.
BCU Plumbing serves the Dartford, Medway and Gravesend areas. Our heating and gas engineers are always on hand to advise and carry out any required work. Just contact us today on 07712172171.
Why do my radiators have cold spots?
Radiator valve
A stuck valve is a common cause for cold spots in radiators. TVRs or Thermostatic Radiator Valves are used on water-based radiators to control the temperature. This valve should change the flow of hot water to a radiator. Valves can get stuck or break while they have been switched off over the summer months, causing cold spots in a radiator. If you think a stuck valve is a reason behind your cold radiator, one of our heating engineers will be able to help.
Blocked pipes
Radiator pipes can become blocked with limescale or sludge. The build-up of limescale, rust and sludge can result in a blockage which can mean the hot water is unable to circulate the radiator properly. This can cause the bottom of your radiator to become cold. If this is the case, a power flush is required. If a gas engineer does not carry out a power flush, further damage to your heating system is inevitable, which is likely to be more expensive.
Airlock
An airlock can occur in a radiator, causing circulation problems and, therefore cold spots. An airlock is when surplus water vapour becomes stuck, meaning the water cannot enter your radiator to heat it. An airlock is quite identifiable, and you may notice:
- Spluttering coming from your taps.
- Gurgling noises in the pipes.
- Cold spots at the top of the radiator, but it is warm elsewhere.
Is your radiator balanced efficiently?
When your gas or heating engineer instals the radiators in your home, they must be balanced correctly to ensure they perform efficiently and heat up evenly. Ensuring your radiators are always well-balanced will mean a better-performing heating system. If the water is not evenly spread, cold spots will occur.
Air trapped inside the radiator
If there is trapped air inside of your radiator, it can be easily resolved by bleeding your radiator to ensure there are no more cold spots. Air can become trapped inside your radiator for a few reasons:
-The pump has been installed above the supply tank.
- Leaks.
- A build-up of sludge or rust in the pipework can mean an increase of hydrogen in the heating system.
Corrosion
Rust and debris can occur due to interior radiator components eroding over time. This accumulation may prevent hot water from flowing freely, leading to uneven heating and chilly patches.
This problem can be avoided with routine maintenance and the application of corrosion inhibitors, but if it does happen, a licenced plumber may need to flush and clean the radiator in order to get it working again. Speak to an expert gas engineer in Gravesend and the surrounding areas by giving us a call. We’d be happy to help!
Incorrect Radiator Sizes
Your radiators' dimensions should match the space they are intended to heat. A radiator that is too tiny for the area may find it difficult to evenly disperse the heat, leaving cold areas.
Conversely, a large radiator may cause overheating and wasteful energy use. It's crucial to speak with a heating professional to make sure the radiators in each room are the right size.
Boiler Output Issues
Cold spots can occasionally be caused by an inadequately sized or broken boiler, which is unable to provide enough hot water to heat all of the radiators in your house.
Uneven heating may result from certain radiators receiving less hot water if your boiler is having trouble keeping up with demand. This issue can be resolved and constant warmth throughout your house can be ensured by upgrading to a more efficient and appropriately sized boiler.
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Get in touch with a heating engineer
If you are having issues with cold spots on your radiators we are here to help. We have heating and gas engineers are available throughout Gravesend, Medway and Dartford areas today. We offer many different heating services including power flushing. For friendly help and advice, please contact us on 07712172171 or request a quote by emailing us at bcuplumbing@hotmail.com.
