How to restore a radiator

Whether you’re looking to restore a traditional cast iron radiator, or you simply want to revive a tired-looking radiator, this guide looks at the techniques that can revive both types.

Cast iron radiators of the Victorian era add a wonderful period feel to any style of space, bringing a touch of old-world charm to your home. However, whether you’ve been lucky enough to inherit a cast iron radiator or you’ve picked up a reclaimed one, it’s likely that your traditional radiator is going to need a bit of TLC. But don’t worry, with a little restoration work, your antique radiator will be back to its old self in no time.

Follow the simple steps below if you want to have a go at restoring your radiator yourself.

If you’re worried you’re not going to do a good job then make your life easier and find a professional. Enter your postcode below and find recommended radiator experts near you.

How to refurbish a radiator

If you’re refurbishing a cast iron radiator before it’s installed into your home, make sure you have access to an outdoor area where there is a hose. If you don’t, then washing it down will be difficult and terribly messy.

4 steps for restoring a cast iron radiator

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Wire or hard-bristled brush
• Light sandpaper
• Dryer vent brush
• TSP solution
• Hose or jet washer

Step one

The first thing to do is remove any layers of existing paint that make your radiator look unattractive, and possibly from working effectively. If not concerned about getting all the way down to the metal and just want to remove the paint that is flaking off, use a wire or hard-bristled brush to remove any large flakes.

Important: Depending on how old it is, the paint on your radiator could include lead, which can be harmful, particularly to children and pregnant women. If you’re unsure it’s important to get advice from a professional who will be able to advise on the best course of action.

Step two

Once you’ve brushed off all the flaking paint it’s time to sand the radiator. Using light sandpaper give it a light sanding manually. However, if you want to strip the radiator right back, you may have to consider getting it sandblasted by a professional if you really want to remove all the paint. Use our search tool to find an experienced tradesperson who can help.

Step three

Once sanded down, the radiator needs a good clean. Get hold of some dryer vent brushes for this next part. These brushes have been designed with a flexible coil for easy access to hard-to-reach vents, and they are also great for getting in between the fins of a radiator and clearing dust and dirt out of the inside.

When dust-free, give the radiator a wipe down with a TSP solution (trisodium phosphate). This cleaning agent is a great degrease and helps to de-gloss the surface to prepare it for painting.

Step four

Finally, to rinse off the cleaner successfully, use a hose with a jet setting or a power washer, then leave to dry overnight.

This is when you need that outdoor space – it’s going to be messy!

4 Steps for restoring a modern style radiator

Similar to restoring an old cast iron radiator, a modern design also needs to be sanded down and cleaned. However, it’s more likely a modern radiator will already be in situ. If this is the case, follow these steps:

You’ll need:

• A dust sheet to protect the floor
• Higher and lower grade sandpaper Sandpaper
• Radiator primer
• Radiator paint
• Paintbrushes

Step one

Ensure the radiator is turned off and stone-cold before doing anything. If it’s still a little warm, the paint won’t stick to the radiator properly. Make sure it’s off and won’t come back on until the paint is dry.

Top tip: If you’re going to paint pipework around the radiator as well, it’s a good idea to place a bit of cardboard between the pipes and the wall so you don’t get paint on it.

If this sounds too fiddly for you and you are worried you might mess it up, speak to a local painter and decorator who can help.

Step two

Give it a good clean.

Wipe it down with a damp cloth, warm water, and washing up liquid to degrease it. Then dry it thoroughly before giving it a sand all over. Use both higher and lower grade sandpaper to get rid of any loose debris on the surface. Make sure to pay close attention to rough edges and dust marks.

Step three 

Dust the radiator thoroughly ready for painting. A good tip is to use a vacuum to ensure all the dust and loose debris is completely removed.

Step four

Apply a metal primer or a specialist radiator primer first before adding your new paint finish. It’s so important to add the right primer, particularly over any bare or rusty spots, to ensure a solid base for the paint to cling to.

Most common mistakes at this point: If the radiator isn’t prepped with the correct primer, the paint won’t stick to the surface and it will start to peel off as soon as the radiator gets warm. It’s also important to allow the primer to dry fully before painting.

How to treat a rusty radiator

It’s not uncommon to see rusty spots on your chrome heated towel rail or radiator.

This is because many radiators and heated towel rails are manufactured using mild steel and then finished with chrome plating over the top to give a shiny and protective finish. Over time, this chrome plating can develop rust spots on the surface.

Fortunately, as long as the rust is just on the surface and hasn’t penetrated the steel below, you can remove the rust easily with non-chemical remedies. Here’s how:

1. Add white vinegar onto a cloth and rub it onto the chromework. Due to the acidic nature of the vinegar, it will eat into the rust and get rid of it.
2. Rub some dampened strips of aluminium foil onto the rusty spots. The aluminium when rubbed against it causes a chemical reaction that removes the rust, while water acts as a lubricant between the foil and the chrome, facilitating the aluminium oxide that actually removes the rust.
3. If you see brown streaks developing after you’ve used vinegar or foil, simply use a microfibre cloth to buff away any traces of rust and give the towel rail or radiator a gleaming new look. You can also use a bit of baby oil or car wax to give the chrome extra shine.

How to paint a radiator where rusty

Before painting a rusty radiator, the rust must be removed by either sanding it down or following the natural remedies above. Once all the rust has been removed, or at least the flaky bits, you can add a specific radiator primer to protect it.

Top tip: It may be worth using an anti-corrosive primer as this will prevent the rust from getting worse over time. If unsure, speak to a decorator who can advise you.

Common mistakes at this stage: A standard paintbrush isn’t going to cut it if you got lots of gaps and angles to paint.

To apply the coat of primer you may have to invest in an angled radiator brush if you have an unusually shaped radiator. If you’ve decided to use a metal primer spray, make sure you have the surrounding surfaces protected as this could get very messy.

Ensure you keep the nozzle about 6 to 8 inches away from the radiator’s surface to avoid spraying too heavily and causing drips.

For more hints and tips, read our comprehensive guide on painting a radiator. 

FAQS

Is a radiator expensive to replace?

If your radiator is beyond repair and you want to know how much it costs to remove and replace a radiator, find out more by reading our detailed cost guide.

Can you recondition a radiator?

Yes it is possible to recondition an old cast iron radiator to get it working again. The process involves using high-pressure water with chemicals to remove microscopic particles of rust and calcite from old steel pipe work. Reconditioning typically starts at around £120.

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