How to move a radiator

During home renovations, it’s quite common to find that the current position of your radiator simply won’t work with your new home layout. Luckily, you can learn how to move a radiator yourself.

However, if you’re moving your radiator to a completely new location, you’ll usually need new pipework fitting. If this is the case, hiring a plumber to install the pipework is the best and safest option to prevent any accidents or damage to your home.

If you’re still feeling this is a job you can tackle, then let’s get started. First things first, make sure you properly scope out the new location for your radiator. Make sure there’s room for the pipes as well as the radiator itself. Positioning a radiator under a window can be a great choice to reduce any drafts coming into your home.

How to move a radiator

Use the following steps to successfully move your radiator:

1. Switch off your boiler, plus the lockshield valve and the control valve at the sides of your radiator.
2. Make sure your radiator has completely cooled down before continuing.
3. Carefully open the bleed valve and check if any water seeps out. If it does, you’ll need to close the water valves properly. Please note, if the valves are closed completely, you can drain the radiator.
4. Lift your radiator up from its risers. Use a wrench to keep the control valve still while unscrewing the nut.
5. Catch the water with a bucket as it drains out of the radiator, then do the same with the lockshield valve.
6. Once the radiator is drained, close the valves to prevent any drips as you relocate it.
7. Next, take your radiator off of the wall brackets. We’d recommend asking a friend to help with this as radiators are very heavy.
8. You’ll now need a plumber to install new pipes in your radiator’s new location and to cap off the old pipes.
9. Use plumber’s tape to wrap the adapter screw threads in a clockwise direction.
10. Then, fit the brackets to the wall and lift your radiator into position.
11. Use your wrench to retighten the nuts below your radiator valves.
12. You can then turn the lockshield valve until it’s completely open.
13. Do the same with the control valve.
14. Finally, slowly open the radiator bleed valve to let any air out of the system and finish by switching your boiler back on.

If you’re at all unsure during any of these steps, we highly recommend you hire a professional.

How to move a radiator a few inches

Some remodelling projects will require you to just slightly move your radiator rather than choosing an entirely new location. Wondering how to move a radiator a few inches? It’s surprisingly not that complicated.

You’ll still need to ask a plumber to relocate your pipework, although this will likely be less time consuming and complex than adding entirely new pipework. Apart from this, just use the step-by-step guidance in our ‘how to move a radiator’ section.

How to move a radiator without draining the system

Relocating a radiator can be a challenging job but it’s possible to learn how to move a radiator without draining the system. This can be a real time saver and make the process simpler overall.

Use the below steps to move your radiator:

1. Close the valves on either side of the radiator.
2. Completely drain the radiator by unscrewing the nut below the valve and letting the water flow out.
3. Remove the valve and the radiator from its wall brackets.
4. Tip the radiator to the side and let any remaining water drain out.
5. Once you have new pipework fitted in the radiator’s new location, you can attach the radiator onto the new wall and open the valves again.
6. Remember to open the bleed valve and allow any excess air to escape from the radiator.

How to move a radiator to another wall

Knowing how to move a radiator to another wall and how to move a radiator downstairs are skills that’ll come in handy throughout your life if you’re big on DIY. During home improvements or layout changes you may need to relocate a radiator so here are our top tips:

• Never forget to turn off your boiler and allow the water in your radiators to cool before you start work.
• Always have a bucket with plenty of capacity at hand.
• Put down old towels to protect your flooring.
• Move any obstacles out of the way as these may be a hindrance when carrying your radiator.
• Ask a friend to help you move the radiator to save your back.
• Make sure to bleed the radiator once it’s in its new position for maximum efficiency.
• Taking accurate measurements in your radiator’s new location is essential to ensure the pipework and brackets are correctly lined up.

How to move a radiator with a combi boiler

Whether you’re learning how to move a radiator with a combi boiler or a conventional boiler makes little difference if you isolate the radiator. This means you won’t need to drain the system and the type of boiler you have won’t impact your job.

How to replace a radiator

Replacing an old radiator can help improve the efficiency of your central heating system and new radiators are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. You also may choose to replace your current radiators with a style that better fits your interior design scheme. Either way, you’ll need to know how to replace a radiator.

Luckily, our guide on how to replace a radiator covers everything you need to know. Including step-by-step guides as well as a variety of tips and guidance to help you do a great job every time.

Calling in the professionals

Moving a radiator can be very complex, especially if you have no DIY experience. In addition, any mistakes with pipework can cause leaks that may damage your home. If you’re unsure whether this is the right job for you, why not call in a professional? Our trusted members pass thorough background checks to ensure you receive excellent service.

To find a tradesperson today, use our free search feature to connect with a variety of professionals who come with your neighbours’ stamp of approval.

How much does it cost for a professional to remove a radiator?

For best results, we recommend hiring a professional. The average cost to move a central heating radiator is only £275. For more prices and considerations, read our cost to move a radiator guide.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to have a radiator removed and replaced, the average cost is £300. Check out our guide on the cost to remove and replace a radiator for further prices and tips.

Which tradesperson should I hire for the job?

Finding the right tradesperson to move your radiator is important to guarantee the job is done professionally and efficiently. We’d advise you contact a plumbing and heating company.

FAQs

How easy is it to move a radiator?

This will depend on your age, physical ability and where you plan to move your radiator. For example, if you struggle with lifting, a radiator may be too heavy for you to manage. Add in moving a radiator upstairs and this job becomes very difficult. Another tricky part of the process is pipework. That’s why we’d always recommend hiring a plumber to do this for you.

Can I move a radiator myself?

When it comes to taking on this job yourself, you’ll need to consider your capabilities. If you have experience with pipework, you may be able to do the entire job yourself but never attempt this unless you’re confident in your skills. You may also need an extra pair of hands for lifting the radiator.