Replacing a leaking thermostatic radiator valve - where do I start?

[AVR2]

Just discovered a leaking radiator valve that's usually hidden behind some furniture. I don't have any DIY experience with central heating beyond bleeding radiators - how involved a job is this?

 

[terryplumb]

Although a radiator valve can be swapped without draining the system ,it would be safer for somebody with little or no experience to drain the heating system.

 

[AVR2]

Although a radiator valve can be swapped without draining the system ,it would be safer for somebody with little or no experience to drain the heating system.

Why is that, out of interest? I've now watched some YT videos about how to do it without draining the entire system and it doesn't look too scary. Then again, draining and refilling the system doesn't look scary either now that I've watched relevant videos (we have a combi boiler).

 

[HERTS P&D]

Why is that, out of interest? I've now watched some YT videos about how to do it without draining the entire system and it doesn't look too scary.

Go for it!

But please film it and post it on here! - (what could go wrong?)



Andy

 

[AVR2]

Well that's what I was asking really, wasn't it? What *can* go wrong? I'm genuinely interested to know why it's not recommended to do the job without draining the entire system. Can you go into specifics?

 

[CountryFan]

You could soak the area of work and or floor below. Since you’ve stated a combi, that is a lot easier to do than conventional setup.

 

[ChrisJP]

I would use a pipe freezing kit on the pipe below the valve. That will give you about 30 minutes to change the valve with no need to drain the system and no chance of soaking the floor.

 

[CountryFan]

I would use a pipe freezing kit on the pipe below the valve.

No need on a combi setup

 

[HERTS P&D]

Drain it all down , flush it through a few times, replace the trv, fill and bleed to make sure no leaks, part drain and supply new inhibitor.

Andy