Radiators work by filling with warm water from the boiler. It’s a pretty simple mechanism with minimal moving parts, which is why heating systems tend to be reliable for years on end.
However, radiators are still prone to issues and might show signs of wear and tear after years of operation. Newly installed systems can also have teething issues.
One commonly reported issue is a radiator that makes dripping noises. So, why do radiators make dripping noises, and how do you fix them?
Why do radiators make dripping sounds?
Radiators work via the heating and cooling of water, so dripping and gushing sounds aren’t uncommon, especially when you first switch your heating system on in autumn or winter.
Dripping noises are usually caused by air bubbles in the system.
Air bubbles can occur when the system is filled with water or when the system has been recently refilled. This can cause a gurgling noise as the air bubbles try to escape the radiator. To get rid of the air bubbles, you need to bleed your radiator.
This involves turning off the heating, locating the bleed valve on the side of the radiator, opening it and allowing air to escape. Once all of the air has escaped, close the valve and turn the heating back on.
Read a full guide to bleeding radiators here.
Faulty radiators
Faulty radiators can also cause dripping noises. This is usually caused by a cracked or broken seal or a faulty valve. Pressure issues caused by dodgy valves might cause hissing sounds and other strange noises.
Condensation
In some cases, the dripping noise may simply be caused by condensation on the outside of the radiator.
This occurs when the hot water inside the radiator cools down and causes water droplets to form on the outside of the radiator. This is pretty uncommon in the UK.
Pump set too high
The pump might be set too high if you’ve recently installed a new system or pump. The excessive pressure may cause hissing noises or other problems that might manifest as drips.
Pinhole leaks
Pinhole leaks can cause hissing, spitting or dripping noises. These leaks can be difficult to detect and are often caused by limescale hotspots and internal corrosion.
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You might find a damp patch or drip near your radiator. Depending on the severity of the leak and the age of the radiator, you may need to patch and fill the hole or replace the entire radiator.
If many radiators are affected, a power flush or a complete overhaul of the central heating system may be necessary.
How to fix a radiator making dripping noise?
Radiator dripping noises can be an incredibly annoying problem, especially during the winter months when radiators are used more frequently.
First, it is important to identify the source of the dripping noise. Some drips are caused by a physical blockage in the radiator, such as a build-up of sediment or rust.
Others are caused by air in the radiator. This is particularly true for taller radiators, like heated towel radiators.
1: Bleed the radiator
The first port of call is to bleed the radiator. Many radiator issues are fixed by bleeding.
To bleed a radiator, allow the heating system to cool and locate the bleed valve. Grab a mug or towel to catch any excess water. Insert a bleed key into the bleed valve and gently release any excess air. Be careful not to release too much water.
2: Fix leaks
If your radiator is still making a dripping noise, it could be caused by a leaking valve. First, check the valves for dampness. A seal might have eroded, the thread busted, or something else.
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You can also feel the outside and inside of the radiator to detect any water or dampness.
If you detect a pinhole leak, it’s pretty easy to fix. Switch off the heating before repairing and isolate the radiator if necessary.
Then, use a repair patch to patch the leak up. You can also use epoxy leak sealant.
3: Check the valves
Valves may leak if they become clogged or loose or if the seals inside them wear and break. If your valves are visibly wet and dripping, then shut off the radiator and disassemble them. Again, check for any worn seals.
4: Examine the radiator
Examine the radiator for any signs of blockage and use a mild detergent and brush to loosen and remove any sediment or rust. If you detect a leak, you can patch it or use epoxy to seal it.
Dripping noises are probably nothing to worry about
If your radiators seem fine and you’ve bled them, and they’re working properly, then a dripping noise is probably nothing to worry about. After all, radiators work via water which is pumped through them.
In most cases, drips are caused by excess air, sludge or small leaks. They’re much more common in older systems, which tend to be noisier. On the other hand, if your system is relatively modern, the drip is probably more irritating - as you probably feel that your system should be silent!
The only exception is a very obvious or loud dripping noise, which almost definitely indicates a leak. Water can damage other parts of the home and may cause havoc if it comes into contact with electrical components.
Get it checked if you’re unsure
If your dripping noise is seriously irritating and you can’t seem to identify the source, give us a call.
The vast majority of dripping issues are easy to fix. However, it’s definitely worth getting them checked out if the noise is loud or persistent, as this usually indicates a leak. While leaks aren’t immediately damaging, that water has to go somewhere, and it could ruin parts of your home.
Call us if you’re experiencing a persistent dripping noise inside your radiator or plumbing.
