Identifying rad valves flow and return.

pilsbury

pilsbury

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Ages ago I put in the pipework for my central heating in my extension. Measuring carefully I decided to put on the rad valves so that this particular plumbing escapade would be the only time I needed to drain the system down. All went well. Now about to put my rads on, I've noticed the fancy column ones have a sticker on each side identifying inlet and outlet. I remember reading this might be down to baffles in the rad aiding the distribution of hot water inside.

But I have a problem. I did not label the 2 valves coming out the wall. Such a long time ago now I have no idea which is flow and return. How can I find out? If a rad was attached id just feel which pipe got hot first, but clearly there is no circulation at the moment.

Ideas appreciated.
 
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yes as @just pumps says join the two an a circuit and open the valves and see which one heats up first, you must connect your column rads up the correct was round.
 
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Ok, I think linking the two sounds like the safest option..... But if I feel lucky, but in reality am unlucky with my toss of a coin, what happens if I connect the wrong way round? Will my head explode?
 
How about closing all your rads, then switch off the flow out from the boiler (using the iso valve), therefore just leaving the return open... Then fill your system using the filling loop (slowly) and whichever one water comes out from is your return
 
dilalio said:
My recent client is called Clint... I learned very quickly not to write his name in CAPITAL letters when I left him a couple of hand written notes and left them on his kitchen worktop! :eek::ROFLMAO:
Click to expand...

Never thought of that.

My neighbour 2 doors down is also called Clint. We're on good terms, so his Xmas card won't be in capitals this year. :) :)
 
pilsbury said:
Ok, I think linking the two sounds like the safest option..... But if I feel lucky, but in reality am unlucky with my toss of a coin, what happens if I connect the wrong way round? Will my head explode?
Click to expand...
No your head will be fine but the column rads wont heat up
 
All sorted..... I took my chance and just connected the rad up. A 50/50 gamble I won. Worst case scenario it would have taken 10mins to flip round with a bit of leakage.

I think I have a little issue that I’m hoping will resolve itself. One column did not get hot. Had heating on for about half hour. I’m guessing there is some air trapped. Made plenty of gargling to start with so I rebled. Hoping it will sort itself out after a couple of heating cycles.
 
pilsbury said:
I think I have a little issue that I’m hoping will resolve itself. One column did not get hot. Had heating on for about half hour. I’m guessing there is some air trapped. Made plenty of gargling to start with so I rebled. Hoping it will sort itself out after a couple of heating cycles.
Click to expand...
It didnt get hot because the flow is at the wrong end
 
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