Cowboy radiator install - how to cowboy it :-)

[jonwestuk]

I want to install an old radiator of mine into my under-stair cupboard so that I can use the heat to dry my wet motorcycle gear. There are already Polypipe radiator feed and return pipes in the cupboard which I was planning on hooking into. The trouble is I cant really be faffed to drain and fill the system as I have way more important things to get on with and this radiator will be completely obscured from view.

So, how wrong would it be position and fit the radiator; use copper to the valves; and then when connecting it just simply turn the boiler off at the mains; turn the radiators off; and then in 2 clean actions snip the polypipe and connect it back again using a T push fit connection which would be ready connected to the radiator.

I was thinking that with a few towels there might be a minimum of mess? Has anyone tried this? Is hard using push fit connections on a filled system?

Thanks for your thoughts,

Jon

PS - I realise i am opening myself to abuse with this post, however I just want to see if this is a half way valid shortcut or an insane idea!

 

[45yearsagasman]

I've not tried that method, but why not give it a go and report back. What could possibly go wrong?

 

[jagillham]

If I read that right, you'll cut the pipe and attempt to get the push fit on whilst the water flows out?

Sounds like you'll be draining the system onto the floor to me. The pressure on my radiators when opening a valve up was like having the tap on full blast.

 

[jonwestuk]

If I read that right, you'll cut the pipe and attempt to get the push fit on whilst the water flows out?

Sounds like you'll be draining the system onto the floor to me. The pressure on my radiators when opening a valve up was like having the tap on full blast.

good insight. so maybe I will just drain the pressure then cut the pipe?

Worst case, turn the radiators off, drain some of the system and then do it. At least I wont lose too much inhibitor and filling the system will take 1/4 of the time.

 

[muggles]

Be sure to post a video of your efforts so that we can all have a giggle!

 

[mattylad]

Yes, please video this and put it on youtube.


I really hope you don't do this sort of work on your bike too

 

[Dan Robinson]

Imagine what he does to change the brakes?

 

[jagillham]

You'll save no time because you'll have litres mucky of water to clear up.

Is this cupboard ventilated anyway? I expect you going to end up with a mouldy damp cupboard and cracked leathers if not.

 

[Corgigrouch]

Bung the f&e tank or freeze the pipes.. She'll be right.

 

[bazdaman]

Is it a sealed system? Drop pressure rubble sack under pipe, cut and snatch easy! Open vented bung it. Although i think the post is a wind up

 

[ScottishGasMan]

Remember you need to fit inserts in to the plastic pipe, if you just jam it into a fitting with no inserts then the fitting is liable to pop off the pipe at a completely unexpected moment in the future flooding the place.

 

[leakydave]

Maybe if you asked it nicely the water will wait in the pipe until you have fitted the tees in place.

 

[jedi]

This sounds like a job for my scouse plumbers!

But they would use washing machine hookup valves the type that pierce the pipe as you screw them tight. Self cutting I belive there called..


http://buyplumbingonline.co.uk/products/Washing-Machine-Valve-Self-Cutting.html