One of the most common issues when radiators are working is that they only heat up partially. The heat output is lower than expected, and the room does not reach the desired temperature. Let’s explore the reasons for this inconvenience and how to fix the problem.
When do radiators heat up partially?
It can happen that radiators are warm only on one side.
- Sometimes, the lower part heats up while the upper part remains cold.
- In other cases, the radiator is hot at the top, and the rest is cold.
In the first scenario, there’s no need to worry. This means that the set temperature has been reached, and the heating system is receiving less energy from the heat generator, such as a boiler or heat pump.
The opposite situation, something is obstructing the normal flow of water. The main causes include:
- the presence of air bubbles;
- the accumulation of dirt.
It will be necessary to intervene and resolve the issue as soon as possible to eliminate the discomfort.
Why is my radiator only getting warm at the top?
The formation of air bubbles inside the radiator significantly impacts its efficiency. These bubbles act as obstacles to the flow of hot water, preventing the heating system from fulfilling its purpose: making the home environment comfortable.
To fix this issue, the radiator needs to be bled. Through a simple procedure, by opening the bleed valve, a small amount of water is released, allowing the air bubbles to escape. This restores the radiator's proper functioning.
However, bleeding alone may not be enough, as uneven heating can also be caused by dirt accumulated over time. Residues and sediments hinder the even distribution of hot water. This results in the formation of sludge, which, due to its density, tends to settle at the bottom.
Unlike bleeding, deep cleaning requires the intervention of a specialised technician. The radiator needs to be thoroughly cleaned using a chemical washing process. Additionally, it should be taken outside to facilitate the cleaning process and avoid soiling the floor and surrounding walls with the removed dirt.
Why is my radiator cold at the bottom?
There are two other potential reasons why a radiator may only heat up at the top:
- the system pressure;
- the circulation pump.
The correct pressure values for a boiler are between 1 and 1.5 bar. These values are indicated on the pressure gauge, which is installed on the front panel of the heat generator for easy visibility.
- If the pressure is too low, the water may not circulate properly within the system.
- In this case, the water refill valve should be opened and closed again once the pressure returns to the correct range.
As for the circulation pump (or, alternatively, the three-way valve), this component is responsible for pushing hot water through the system. To prevent breakdowns or potential damage, it is essential to perform regular maintenance on the heat generator.
Why do radiators turn on by themselves?
Another issue related to radiator operation is when they turn on by themselves, without any user intervention. The cause of this unusual situation may be linked to the thermostat.
The thermostat is the device used to schedule the heating system's operation according to specific time slots or a set temperature.
A programming error can cause the radiators to activate unexpectedly. The settings can be checked and properly adjusted from the control panel to ensure the thermostat operates as intended.
However, it is possible that the thermostat is defective and incorrectly detects the indoor temperature, causing the radiators to turn on when not needed.
Technological advancements have led to the production of highly advanced and smart thermostats, ensuring constant monitoring of the heating system. This is made possible through home automation tools integrated into these devices, allowing users to interact with them directly, even remotely.
Smart thermostats notify users of any anomalies. Their programming can be adjusted in real time with a single click, preventing radiators from operating unnecessarily, such as when all occupants are away. This helps avoid energy waste and reduces the impact on utility bills.
