Drying out Flow and return pipes.

[iangrice]

Good Morning,

I am replacing a radiator and need to shorten the pipework but dont want bulky compression fitting elbows by the skirting (solid floor). What is the best way to dry the pipe to guarantee that it will by dry enough to accept a yorkshire elbow?

Responses will be greatly appreciated.

 

[ChrisR]

A vacuum cleaner. One which can suck and handle the water is best, but you CAN do it on "blow" but it does make a hell of a spray of water out of the open end(s) - all of them including the vent in the loft!

Careful using heat as it's easy to overheat the pipe(when the water evaporates) and oxidise it so it won't solder.

 

[brumylad]

cut the pipe and blow into the ends using narrow plastic tube to force out as much water as possible. alow to drain for an hour or so

 

[ArtfulBodger]

A vacuum cleaner. One which can suck

How do you make the seal around the open pipe? I've just bought a little wet 'n' dry dewalt and was wondering how you would do this - use a rag etc?

 

[Bahco]

Its a right pain when theres still water coming out

I've used bread, pushing it up the pipe 8 inches or so.

Not had any callbacks .

 

[ChrisR]

How do you make the seal around the open pipe?

A plastic bag wrapped loosely round the gap seals very well. It gets sucked part way in.

I wouldn't dream of using bread on a combi system!