Leaky radiator connection
I’m a third generation apartment dweller who finally has a house in Brooklyn. I’m trying to teach myself to do simple fixes. (Well, at least what I think are simple.) So here’s the latest. The radiator is one room is leaking from where is connects to the pipe providing steam. I’ve put plumber’s tape, but…
I’m a third generation apartment dweller who finally has a house in Brooklyn. I’m trying to teach myself to do simple fixes. (Well, at least what I think are simple.) So here’s the latest. The radiator is one room is leaking from where is connects to the pipe providing steam. I’ve put plumber’s tape, but then it still leaks out of the back of the connection. (on the side of the bolt nearer the radiator.) Is there any advice on how to connect this so it won’t leak. The radiator itself is not leaking. Thanks.
If your putting plumbers tape(teflon tape) on the union face(smooth round part) then you’ll be putting tape on it for ever. You will probably have to replace the valve. Especially if it’s very old. Dem old pipes are more stubborn than my 90 year old mother. Unless you have the right tools and are mechanically inclined then I suggest you call a Heating contractor. Sometimes the valves are easy to remove. Most times they’re a real pain in the keester to remove. Yeah yeah, you don’t want to pay someone cuz contractors cost what your mortgage payment is, but a good reputable contractor will treat you fairly and when your boiler craps out in the middle of a cold cold night you’ll be glad you had them repair your radiator. You’ll get them to your home faster because your a past customer. And don’t forget to tip the guy that comes to your house…These guys remember the folks that took care of them.
I just installed a new radiator. (Yeah me!) The valve is easy to replace but you’ll need a special tool. Any good hardware store has it and can tell you how to use it.
Does “the what” read the forums? Go nuts with “the special tool” man…
The threads have to be lined up well and the weight of the radiator should not be adding any preasure to the connection. Watch out so you don’t strip the threads, it should be tight but handle it with care. Remember to have the radiator tip a little so water will drain back to the system. If you did all of the above and it leaks, replace the valve and the connection. Good luck, these things take practice.
Radiator valves eventually start to leak. You may need to get a new valve. If the plumbers tape does not work, it may need a new valve. There are different valves-I think they go by #. Check with your local hardware store. They are not too expensive.