If you’re always thinking of your next move, whether it be upsizing, downsizing or relocating, you may be wondering what to do with your radiator. A beautiful designer radiator isn’t as cheap as the more ‘standard’ models, so we understand that you may not want to invest in something you’d only benefit from for a couple of years.

But what if you could take your radiator with you when you go? That would then make the investment worthwhile. In this blog, we discuss the ins and outs of moving a radiator from one location to another.

Understanding the Need for Moving a Radiator

If you’ve just invested in a radiator or are thinking about investing in one, you will be interested in the movability of it. This is a huge influencing factor if you are planning to move house in the future. Besides moving house, you might be repainting or redecorating that might require you to move your radiator out of the way of your project or to a totally new location.

And even if you aren’t remodelling, renovating or relocating right now, it’s nice to know that you can take your radiator with you wherever you go!

Radiator placement plays a huge part in your room’s aesthetics and functionality. As you might already know, picking the right spot for your radiator is vital as it greatly impacts your home’s warmth and energy efficiency. So, when the time comes to move it, you will need to do so carefully and ensure you have a good new spot.

The Process of Moving a Radiator

Can you move a radiator?

When it comes to electric radiators, moving them is as simple as disconnecting them and choosing a new spot. As a separate, standalone object, they are easy to install and easy to remove. Effective and efficient, with individual thermostat controls, designer electric radiators provide a stunning focal point to your room that you really won’t want to leave behind when you move. On the other hand, cast iron radiators are more difficult to move and require careful attention and the right expertise.

How do I move a radiator?

If you don’t have an electric radiator and are thinking of moving your radiator yourself, this is not a problem as long as you know what you’re doing – making a mistake when relocating a radiator can become quite serious, from damaged pipework to flooding. Keep in mind that you will require the assistance of a licensed plumber to handle any new and existing pipework involved.

There are a few steps you can take to move your radiator safely and carefully from one wall to another.

You will need:

  • Two adjustable wrenches
  • A notepad and pencil
  • A container
  • Towels
  • Your radiator key
  • A ruler
  • A drill

Turn off the heating and valves

Wait for the system to cool down and turn the thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) off and use a wrench to twist the lockshield valve clockwise to close it. Take note of how many times you turn the lockshield valve to close it as this will help you restore your radiator’s original pressure once refitted.

Measure the radiator and its new location

You will need to know how much space is needed on the new wall so measure the radiator in its current position before removal. Remember to also measure the new spot to ensure you have enough space for it. Check with a plumber that your chosen spot is equipped with the necessary pipework too.

Drain the radiator

It’s important to drain your radiator to get rid of any water, however, it’s not necessary to drain the whole heating system when moving it. You can isolate and drain that particular radiator to make your job easier.

  • Place a container over a towel underneath one of the valves before undoing the nut joining the radiator and the valve – use your wrenches for this.
  • Open the bleed valve with your radiator key to drain more water before closing it. Then repeat the process of loosening the nut joining the valve and radiator to drain the radiator.
  • Now loosen the nuts on both sides, disconnecting the radiator from the valves and carefully lift it off its brackets – you might need another person to assist with this.
  • Tilt the radiator to drain any remaining water into the container. You may also want to clean any sludge (dirt and rust build-up) out of your radiator.

Capping the pipework

After emptying the radiator, you can keep the valve inlets in tissue paper and cap off the valve outlets which are no longer in use. Enlist the help of a professional plumber to do this.

Move your radiator

You’re now ready to fit the radiator onto the new wall. Carefully lift and lower your radiator onto the wall brackets, ensuring they align with the ones on the back of your radiator. Again, get your plumber to execute the pipework. Once the radiator is secured and all drain and bleed points are tightly shut, you can start refilling your radiator.

Refill the radiator

First open the TRV and lockshield valve until water begins to spit out – make sure your bleed valve is closed. Once the radiator has been refilled, you can reconnect the boiler’s electricity supply, turn on your central heating and test the new radiator.

If your boiler is able to reach the correct pressure, you can give yourself a pat on the back! If you experience any problems, get your gas engineer to take a look.

If in doubt, seek the advice of a qualified plumber before undertaking any work.

Evaluating the Costs

The cost of moving a radiator will depend largely on where the new location is, the size and the type of radiator. If new pipework and additional installation work is needed, this will add to the cost. You also need to consider the cost of any repair work for the old location of the radiator, such as plastering and painting.

If you don’t want to go through the hassle of moving your existing radiator or if it’s become less efficient with time, you can also consider replacing it altogether when you move house.

To get accurate prices and quotes, speak to your local plumbers for a cost breakdown.

Contact us for advice on moving your radiator

It’s essential to make a careful evaluation before deciding to move your radiator. Ensure that you weigh your options – to replace or relocate the radiator – and settle on the one that suits your budget, circumstances etc.

If you need more guidance, check out our Advice Centre or feel free to get in touch with the experts at The Radiator Centre.