Central Heating Systems

Radiator Leak Repair

A leaking radiator can quickly stain floors, damage décor, and drop your heating pressure. Radiator leak repair focuses on finding the exact source of the drip and putting it right, so your system runs reliably again with no ongoing seepage.

More information

What radiator leak repair covers

Radiator leaks often come from a small fitting or seal rather than the radiator body. The aim is to stop the leak properly, not just patch it, then confirm the system is sound.

  • Locate the leak point (valve, tail, bleed vent, union, pipe joint, or radiator panel)
  • Isolate the radiator or section of pipework where possible
  • Repair or replace failing parts (washers, olives, valve internals, tails, bleed vents)
  • Reseal threaded joints and unions correctly
  • Refill, vent (bleed) and re-pressurise sealed systems
  • Check for further seepage and confirm stable pressure

When this service is most useful

This is ideal if you have water around a radiator, staining on the wall, or repeated pressure loss on a combi or sealed heating system. It is also a good fit when a valve will not fully shut, a lockshield is weeping, or a bleed vent drips after bleeding.

If the radiator itself is heavily corroded, bulging, or leaking from the panel seams, repair may not be cost-effective. In those cases, the next step is usually radiator replacement.

How the repair is carried out

The work starts with a visual inspection and moisture checks to confirm the true source, as drips can track along pipework. The radiator is then isolated where possible, or the system is partially drained if components need removing.

Once the faulty fitting is repaired or replaced, joints are remade and tightened to the correct level. The system is then refilled, vented, and brought back up to operating pressure, followed by checks while hot and cold to confirm the leak has stopped.

After the repair: keeping the system reliable

You will be advised on what caused the leak and what to watch for next, such as recurring pressure drops or valve stiffness. Where relevant, the radiator can be checked for proper heat distribution and balanced operation, helping prevent strain on valves and joints over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a radiator to leak?
Common causes include worn valve seals, loose unions, failed olives on compression joints, or a leaking bleed vent. Corrosion can also create pinholes in older radiators.
Can a radiator leak be fixed without draining the whole heating system?
Often, yes. Many leaks can be repaired by isolating the radiator and draining only that section, though some faults require partial draining of the system to remake joints properly.
Is a leaking radiator an emergency?
A steady drip can quickly become a bigger leak and may damage flooring or electrics nearby. If you cannot stop it by isolating the radiator valves, it should be treated as urgent.
How long does radiator leak repair take?
Minor leaks at valves or joints are often resolved in a single visit. Timing depends on access, whether parts need replacing, and whether the system needs draining and repressurising.
Will fixing the leak help with low boiler pressure?
If the leak is causing pressure loss, repairing it should stop the pressure dropping. The system will then be refilled and checked to confirm the pressure remains stable.

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