balancing radiators

[Mircina]

Hi Guys,
I have read quite a few posts with regards to the above. My problem is that I have no TRVs which makes it difficult for me to distinguish which end is the lockshield - both ends look the same and both have a plastic covering with + for one direction (on) and - for the other direction (off). I have the problem that one of the radiators does not work and another only gets luke warm. Done the bit where you turn the ones that are working off and leave the non-working ones on and yes they got hot but once all the rads are on they go back to not working and lukewarm. But I can not tell which end is lockshield end.
Another thing - you know the tape that is used when connecting the pipework to the radiator (white thin tape) - if there is too much could this prevent the flow of water.
Look forward sooooo to hearing from someone!
Messi

 

[kevplumb]

usually the locksheild needs a tool to operate it ie spanner
wheelhead can be operated by hand

 

[Mircina]

Thanks for the repsonse )
Both ends work with no need of a spanner - they have a white plastic thing that comes off but you can turn (could this be the wheelhead).
Would you know where I can get clear step by step instructions on how to balance the radiators?
Thanks

 

[kevplumb]

search the forum

been asked loads of times

 

[rolyatescort]

If you open both heads on a rad slightly, turn the heating on. Then every few minutes feel the 2 pipes going in and out of that rad, the pipe which gets hot first is the TRV end and the pipe that stays cold is the lockshield end.

Hope that helps.

Tony.

P.s. I know that you can get TRV's for either end of the rad but i feel this explanation fits best with descriptions of balancing.