Plumbing Tools
※ Download: Radiator key
If you only want to do one job, say bleed a radiator, and leave more complicated jobs to others, just buy one dedicated key, in this case a bleed key. While using a key is obviously recommended, it is not something that you will be hopeless without. Turn the screw counter-clockwise to open the valve.
The result is a high heating bill and a colder house. Step 2 — Try a Screwdriver You may be able to use a slotted screwdriver to get the job done.
Plumbing Tools - An annual bleeding plus a bleeding after any repairs or modifications to your heating system is usually plenty.
What are the different types of radiator key? You need to choose the right radiator key for the job you are doing. Bleed key A bleed key is for removing unwanted air from a radiator. Four-way key Four-way keys are used for turning some kinds of radiator drain cocks or valves small, square headed taps on and off when draining a radiator or the entire system. Many can also be used on some types of outside tap and gas, water and electricity utility cabinets. Three-legged key Three-legged keys also turn some kinds of drain valves and taps on and off. Double-ended key Double-ended radiator keys are for fitting and removing radiator valve tails and square section blanking plugs and bleed plugs. Hex or Allen key Allen or hex keys are also used on radiator valve tails and plugs. Radiator spanner and air release key A radiator spanner and air release key is for fitting and removing valve tails and bleeding radiators. Universal key Universal radiator keys are usually used on valve tails, blanking plugs and bleed plugs, but may have profiles shapes to fit other parts as well. Stepped ratchet key A stepped ratchet radiator key is for fitting and removing valve tails. Radiator tail socket Radiator tail sockets are a quick way of fitting and removing valve tails. Radiator valve spanner A radiator valve spanner helps avoid bending pipework when the manual, thermostatic or lockshield radiator valve is tightened or removed. No key will do every job You can save money by buying a key that does several jobs, but none of them will do every job on radiator fittings. A universal key, like this one, may do jobs on radiator valve tails and plugs, but it might not adjust bleed valves. If you only want to do one job, say bleed a radiator, and leave more complicated jobs to others, just buy one dedicated key, in this case a bleed key. See the description of each key to find out what they do.
Once there is no more gas, liquid will come out and the valve will need to radiator key closed quickly. For connecting your piping or repairing leaks, look for brass fittings, copper fittings, iron and galvanized fittings, or cost-effective plastic fittings. Find a radiator key that's the correct size for your valve or, alternatively, search your tool chest for a small wrench or other tool that's the right size to turn the valve. You should hear a hissing sound as air escapes from your radiator. It is not something that you should do without radiator key trying other methods, as it can be very dangerous and harmful to your radiator if not done properly. The nut prevents you from substituting a hex wrench or screwdriver for the missing key, but you can usually fit the jaws of a pair of needle-nose radiator key into the orifice to grab the nut and turn the plug. Congratulations, now you know just how simple bleeding radiators can be. Double-ended key Double-ended radiator keys are for fitting and removing radiator valve tails and square section blanking plugs and bleed plugs. To ensure all excess air has been drained from your heating system, it's best to bleed all of your radiators, even if you've only been having problems with one. Bleed key A bleed key is for removing unwanted air from a radiator. When a steady stream of water not a sputtering mixture of air and water droplets squirts through the bleed valve, you've released all of the air trapped in your radiator. You will want to keep your screws maintained and in good condition for the next time that you need to bleed out your radiator without a key, so avoid using pliers at all.
