power washing of central heating

[jjaammeess]

HI one of my radiators heats up very slowly.I have bled it and this has not worked.I have turned off all the other radiators and it still does nor work.The internet seems to suggest power washing.How would i know i really need it as it is expensive.Answers appreciated. James

[The Builder]

Screw down the valves at each end of the rad, James. Undo the nuts that hold them onto the rad. Black gunge will come out, so put down a good thickness of old cloths to soak it up. As soon as the rad is free, very quickly lift the rad and turn it upside down to stop it emptying completely.
Take outside and give it a good seeing to with a high pressure hose if possible. An ordinary hose will do it.......... just take a bit longer.

[jjaammeess]

hi The Builder
Many thanks.I will have to wait to daylight.As well as that could it be an air blockage.James

[The Builder]

Not if you've bled it James :o)

[Dodger666]

Not being as experienced as you probably are, Builder, I always valve off and drain the radiator via the valve gland nut into a shallow bowl and bucket before removing it from the wall. I dread to think the mess it could make if I tried to take it off the wall full of water.

[jjaammeess]

Hi Builder and Dodger
I managed to take the radiator off.Will clean it tomorrow using a pressure washer.If I do the same for all the rest of the radiators will that be the same as getting a plumber to power wash it (cost 360 pounds). I have had a new boiler fitted last week so I assume the boiler will not need cleaned.Many thanks for your help James