Draining problem pipework

[shifty]

When trying to change a radiator I was unable to get all the water out from the pipe work, as the lowest drain point is slightly higher than the flow and return pipes feeding the radiator. Pipes are also bedded into a concrete floor so they can’t be changed. I have tried blowing the water out but with no success. Any ideas/tips/tricks on how to remove this water so I can use solder fittings don’t want to use compression or push fit if I can help it.

 

[Softus]

Either (a) find the run of pipes below a suspended floor, and cut them there to drain them, or (b) use a wet vac to suck out the water.

In the case of (a), use the opportunity to install a drain off at the lowest point.

 

[brumylad]

short length of thin plastic tube run to a point bellow pipe level, suck hard; syphon.

Or introduce tube far into pipe and blow hard.