Match what you notice
- Water first appears on the valve itself
- A numbered thermostatic head controls the valve underneath it. A capped valve at the other end is often a lockshield. If the first drip is under a head or cap, tell us which side it is and whether the leak changes as the radiator warms.
- Water beads at a nut or pipe connection
- The joint to the copper pipe and the joint to the radiator are separate. Water can run along either one before it drops. A photo of the first wet point helps us distinguish the connection from the valve body.
- The top corner is wet
- The small bleed screw or the fitting that holds it can leak. Water from the top can run down the side and collect beside a valve. Mention if the radiator was bled recently. Leave the screw and fittings in place.
- Water starts on the panel or along a seam
- Corrosion can cause a small hole in the radiator body. Check from a safe position whether water seems to start on the metal itself or track down from a fitting. A confirmed leak through the panel usually calls for replacement.
What to do if water keeps escaping
Switching the heating off helps the radiator cool. Water can still escape from the system. Keep away from hot water or wet electrics. Leave the valves, bleed screw and nuts in place if you are unsure what they do, and call with your postcode.
What to send before a visit
If it is safe, send one photo of the whole radiator and another of the first wet point. Tell us if the leak is constant, if the radiator was recently moved or bled, and whether water is reaching the floor or the room below.
What AquaFix can check
We can check the valve body, both connections, the bleed fitting and the radiator itself. Before replacing a fitting or panel, we check how the water side can be isolated, whether it needs draining, and which part fits.
Read about a radiator that stays cold
Further reading
- Drayton technical guidance on radiator valve connections
- Stelrad guidance on radiator care and corrosion (PDF)
- Stelrad example of bleed valve leaks on cast iron radiators (PDF)