With winter upon us and energy costs skyrocketing, we’re all looking for ways to save money. Heating our homes during the colder months can be a significant drain on our wallets, but there are simple tricks that can make a big difference. One such trick, shared by TikToker _greengal (Shannen), involves bleeding your radiators.
Shannen, known for her energy-saving tips, explains that bleeding your radiators can dramatically improve their heating efficiency, leading to substantial savings on your energy bills. This simple task, which takes only a few minutes, can significantly reduce your energy consumption and keep your home warmer.
But how do you know if your radiators need bleeding? There are several telltale signs:
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Radiators are not heating up fully:
If you turn your heating on and notice that your radiators aren’t getting hot all the way up, it’s a clear indication that air is trapped inside, hindering the flow of hot water.*
Radiators are making gurgling noises:
A gurgling sound coming from your radiators is another indication that there’s air trapped inside. This air can prevent the hot water from circulating effectively, leading to inefficient heating.Bleeding your radiators is a straightforward process:
1.
Turn off the heating:
Ensure that your heating system is completely off before you begin. This is crucial to prevent hot water from spurting out and causing scalding.2.
Locate the bleed valve:
Most radiators have a bleed valve located at the top. This valve is usually a small, square-shaped keyhole with a small screw inside.3.
Use a radiator bleed key:
You can purchase a radiator bleed key from most hardware stores for a few pounds. Attach the key to the bleed valve and turn it counterclockwise until you hear a hiss. This will release the trapped air.4.
Wait for water to appear:
As you continue to turn the key, you’ll notice water start to drip out. This means the air has been expelled, and you can stop turning the key.5.
Tighten the bleed valve:
Once the water appears, tighten the bleed valve by turning the key clockwise until it’s secure.6.
Repeat for all radiators:
Bleed each radiator in your home one by one, ensuring you follow the same steps for each.By following these steps, you can ensure your radiators are functioning optimally and maximizing their heating efficiency. This can result in substantial savings on your energy bills, particularly during the colder months. In fact, experts suggest that bleeding your radiators can save you up to £1,000 per year.
Shannen’s TikTok video, which has been viewed over 4,000 times, has inspired many viewers to give this simple yet effective trick a try. Comments from viewers highlight the importance of the task and the potential savings it can bring.
Don’t delay, get your radiators bled today and start saving money on your heating costs! It’s a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to keep your home warm and cozy throughout the winter months.
