There is one easy job you can do to make sure your radiators are working at full capacity – and it will take less than five minutes
As temperatures drop, ensuring that your radiators are fully functional becomes crucial to keep your home warm and cosy. John Lawless, a home heating expert at Best Heating, stresses the importance of proper radiator maintenance as winter sets in not just for comfort but also to avoid soaring energy bills due to inefficient heating.
He explained: “Keeping radiators clean may seem like an obvious way to ensure they operate properly, but many people overlook the different components of a radiator and where to clean to guarantee good performance.”
He added that cleaning isn’t limited to visible areas; internal parts matter too: “We’re not just talking about the surface of the radiator or the bit you and your visitors can see we’re talking about in-between panels and even INSIDE the radiator itself.”
Blocked by dust, hair, and debris, radiators can struggle to emit heat, making them less effective and increasing energy consumption. John reveals that while reaching every part of a radiator for cleaning might be challenging, there’s a clever and quick trick involving a household item: “There are a few tricks you can use to get this dust out from between the fins of the radiator, but our personal favourite is the hairdryer hack.”
Firstly, lay an old sheet, towel or blanket beneath the radiator to catch any dust that’s expelled, saving you from having to vacuum afterwards, reports the Express. Next, aim the nozzle of your hairdryer down the gap between the radiator and the wall. Turn on the hairdryer at its highest setting, which should effectively dislodge any accumulated dust within the radiator.
Afterwards, simply gather up your towel, sheet or blanket and give it a good shake outdoors to dispose of the dust. Your radiator should then be more efficient at warming your home. Dirty radiators are often the main reason for inefficiency, but if cleaning doesn’t improve things, consider bleeding your radiator to remove any excess water.
Also, make sure your sofa, curtains or other items aren’t obstructing your radiator, as this can also hinder its performance. Investing a little time in these simple tasks can ensure your home remains snug during the chilly, stormy weather prevalent at this time of year.