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How To Fix A Leaking Radiator Valve

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How To Fix A Leaking Radiator Valve

Radiator valves, like taps, can wear over time, become faulty and leak, dripping water onto your floor. This is a DIY repair you can do in under an hour. Watch, learn, then fix that pesky radiator valve yourself. Radiator valves, like taps, can wear over time, become faulty and leak, dripping water onto your floor. This is a DIY repair you can do in under an hour. Watch, learn, then fix that pesky radiator valve yourself.

Step 1: You Will Need

Step 2: Find The Source of the Leak

Water leaking from a radiator valve might be seeping from around the valve spindle. However, when the water runs round and drips from the valve's cap-nut, it's the nut that often appears to be the source of the leak. Dry the valve then hold a fresh piece of paper tissue against the various bits to work out exactly where the moisture is coming from.

Step 3: Tighten the Gland Nut

To stop a leak from a radiator-valve spindle, tighten the gland nut with a spanner. If the leak persists, undo the nut and wind a few turns of PTFE tape down into the spindle.

Step 4: Tighten the Cap Nut

If the cap-nut is leaking, tighten it gently with a spanner. In most cases this will stop the leak. However, if the leak persists, you will need to replace the valve. See "How To Replace A Damaged Radiator Valve" for advice on how to do this.

But if you are still not quite sure, why not ask a professional to do it for you.

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Tips & Comments
  1. archiej20

    on one of my radiators ther is a small black discharge coming from the underside of the valve. this doesn,t happen all the time but i hav strarted to notice it,what can this be?these r new radiators on a combi boiler system.

  2. divilibitz

    Had two very leaky radiators and very nearly went for a plumber. Watching this video saved me about €150.00 and my radiators are working perfect with no leaks!! Brilliant site!!