Radiator Removal Help

Muj · 25 Sep 2021

I have a column radiator which needs removing, all the videos showing how to remove one have a thermostatic valve on one side and a lock shield on the other, which needs to be closed.

My radiator doesn’t appear to have a lock shied. Please see pictures. How can I remove this without flooding the house?!

oldbuffer · 25 Sep 2021

1. The brass topped one in your second photo is a lock shield, and it requires an Allen key to close it.
2. Looks as if you have very little room to remove the valves from the radiator, so either:
2a. Be very careful how you remove the valve from the tails, with particular reference to not disturbing the push fit fitting behind your lock shield valve. OR
2b. Drain down and remove the pipes from the valves before removing the radiator.

RandomGrinch · 25 Sep 2021

Yes, that is a lockshield!

Use an appropriately sized Allan key to tighten it all the way; count the turns as you go to avoid disturbing the balance of the system.

Muj · 25 Sep 2021

Thank you so much guys!!! I had a feeling I’d need an Allen Key but wanted to make sure.

Thanks again

Muj · 25 Sep 2021

Update: when I turn the lockshield clockwise, it starts seeping water. Is this normal? Or is my lock shield knackered?

Which way is it to close off? Clockwise or anti clockwise?

denso13 · 25 Sep 2021

Muj said:
Which way is it to close off? Clockwise or anti clockwise?

Clockwise

Muj · 25 Sep 2021

Thanks, when I’m turning it clockwise water is coming out. I’m guessing the lockshield is knackered?

denso13 · 25 Sep 2021

Muj said:
Thanks, when I’m turning it clockwise water is coming out.

It might leak a bit when turning it but once closed it shouldn't leak.

RandomGrinch · 25 Sep 2021

As Denso says, keep going, but have a tray underneath to catch the water.
If it still leaks when fully closed, back it off to where it was and the leak should (hopefully!) stop.
In this case, the lockshield will still serve its purpose (but won't isolate the radiator).
As Oldbuffer says, those pipes won't give you a lot of wriggle room and it might be time to drain the system!

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Radiator Removal Help

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