With most of us having made the decision to turn off the heating, it's the perfect time to clean your radiators. Being devoid of heat makes them easier to touch, and allows you to get into every nook and cranny without risk.
But with different types of radiators needing certain methods to keep them spick and span, what are the best ways to clean radiators and are there any tips or tricks use, or even more importantly avoid?
We asked some experts for their help and here's what they advise for making sure your heat emitters are clean, fresh and ready for use again in autumn.
Why you should clean your radiators
Although it's easy to forget your radiators when the temperature rises, it's important to understand why a quick dust or wipe on a regular basis isn't enough. Cleaning radiators isn't just about aesthetics, it's about performance too.
"Dust buildup doesn’t just affect how clean your home looks," says Georgina Shepherd, cleaning expert at Housekeep, "it can reduce radiator efficiency too because airflow gets restricted."
Nick Duggan, director of The Radiator Centre agrees. "Spring and summer are the perfect time to give your radiators a little TLC. It doesn't need to take long, and a few simple habits can make a real difference to how well they perform when you need them again in autumn."
Georgina is a home cleaning expert at Housekeep. She's interviewed thousands of the UK’s best cleaners and tradespeople, along the way learning the top tricks of the trade.
Nick has over 20 years of experience in central heating and radiators, leading the team at one of the UK's largest independent suppliers.
How to clean the outside of your radiators
In terms of the tools you'll need, Georgina Shepherd suggests you make sure you have the following to hand before you start.
- A microfibre cloth which collects dust without scratching surfaces
- A vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment
- A soft brush and warm soapy water – flexible water bottle brushes can also work surprisingly well in narrow spaces
Shop for radiator cleaning items
Soft and washable, these microfibre cloths are a key component of your radiator cleaning kit
This 80cm long radiator brush is handy for getting inside your panel radiators and removing dust
This silicone bucket is collapsible and perfect for filling with mild detergent and water to clean your radiators
Cleaning the outside of your radiators
"For most standard steel panel radiators, a wipe down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent is all you need for the exterior," says Nick Duggan. "Don’t forget in between the fins too, that's where dust really accumulates and quietly reduces efficiency. A long, slim radiator brush is brilliant for getting into those tight gaps," he adds.
"Although flat panel radiators are easier to wipe down, don't forget that dust still gathers around the back and wall edges," notes Georgina Shepherd.
"Cast-iron radiators deserve slightly more attention," continues Nick. "Dust loves to settle in the crevices because of their depth and ornate detailing. A soft brush attachment on a vacuum works well here, and it's also a good time to inspect the paint or enamel finish," he adds.
"A soft paintbrush is also surprisingly useful for getting into grooves and corners of cast-iron radiators," suggests Georgina. "Vacuum first, then wipe down afterwards, but do remember it’s worth keeping moisture to a minimum because older finishes can be more delicate," she warns.
Column radiators, like cast-iron radiators can also require a little more TLC say our experts. "This type of radiator often collects dust between the gaps and around the back, which people often miss," says Georgina. A flexible duster such as the one in this 7 piece duster set from Amazon can also be beneficial.
Or, if you don't have one to hand and can't buy one soon enough, Georgina suggests the following trick. "Wrap a microfibre cloth around a ruler or thin stick (even kitchen tongs) and secure it with an elastic band to help reach those awkward spots."
And finally, take extra care if you have designer or aluminium radiators advises Nick.
"Always check the manufacturer's guidance before using any cleaning products," he says. "Many have specialist coatings or finishes that can be damaged by anything too harsh. A soft, dry or lightly damp cloth is usually the safest approach."
Cleaning the inside of your radiators
First things first. When it comes to cleaning the very inside of your radiators, this is not a DIY job warns Nick Duggan.
"To clean the inside of a radiator you will need to get a professional plumber in to power flush your heating system. This will remove any debris that might have built up and should leave you with a more efficient heating system."
However, with panel radiators, some homeowners may take to using a social media trick of using a hairdryer to blow out the dust and debris from inside the vents. But, is this safe to do?
Nick Duggan says no. "On the hairdryer tip, it's not something we'd generally recommend. While blowing out dust sounds sensible in theory, you risk pushing debris into valves and thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) mechanisms, which can cause TRV problems down the line. A vacuum with a brush attachment is far more controlled and just as effective."
Georgina Shepherd says to "vacuum around the top vents first, then use a radiator brush or long flexible duster inside and vacuum up anything that falls out underneath."
While the hairdryer trick is something she has known people use, she notes that it, "can get messy quickly, so it’s worth having the vacuum ready first before you start."
Additional tips for cleaning radiators
Cleaning your radiators needn't be a complicated task, but there are some additional tips that can help ensure you don't cause any problems that could lead to extra expense.
"If the radiator has a matt or textured coating, avoid anything too abrasive, or cleaning products with harsh chemicals as it can mark or damage the surface," says Georgina Shepherd.
"Most radiators are ‘powder-coated’ to give a durable finish so most marks should wash off with ease," continues Nick Duggan. "For more stubborn stains, try some cream cleaner applied to a small area of the dirt or mark using a soft cloth."
In terms of the rest of the radiator parts, "one thing homeowners often overlook is the TRVs," says Nick. "Over summer, the pin inside can seize if it's left in the same position for months.
"Simply turn each TRV dial gently from its lowest to its highest setting and back a couple of times," he suggests. "It only takes a moment and can save you from a non-heating radiator come October.
"Finally, it's worth doing a quick visual check of any visible pipework around the radiator base for signs of corrosion or residue from old radiator leaks," says Nick. "Small issues are far easier to address in the warmer months than when you're desperate for the heating to work."
For more advice on heating your home, check out your guide to the best radiators you can use, and when it comes to installing radiators, make sure you know the height they should be from the floor.
