How to deflate an old heater
As winter approaches, many families begin to use heating systems. Old-fashioned heating systems are still used by many households due to their simple structure and easy maintenance. However, old-fashioned radiators are prone to air blockage during use, causing the radiator to not heat up. This article will explain in detail how to deflate an old heater and help you solve the problem of the heater not getting hot.
1. The necessity of deflating old-fashioned heaters

During operation of older heating systems, a small amount of air will be dissolved in the water. Over time, air can build up in the radiator, creating an air blockage. Air blockage will hinder the flow of hot water, causing the radiator to be partially or completely unheated. Therefore, regular air bleeding is an important step to ensure the normal operation of the heating system.
| Problem phenomenon | Possible reasons | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The upper part of the radiator is hot, but the lower part is not. | Air blockage | Deflate |
| The radiator is not hot at all | Air blockage or valve closed | Check valve and deflate |
| There is a sound of water flowing from the radiator | air accumulation | Deflate |
2. Steps to deflate old-fashioned heaters
Before deflating, please prepare the following tools: slotted screwdriver, towel or container (for collecting water).
| steps | Operating Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Turn off the heating system | Make sure the heating system is turned off to avoid hot water splashing. |
| 2. Find the bleed valve | The purge valve is usually located in the upper right or left corner of the radiator and is a small screw hole. |
| 3. Place a water container | Place a towel or container under the purge valve to prevent water from flowing to the ground. |
| 4. Slowly unscrew the air release valve | Use a flat-blade screwdriver to slowly unscrew the air release valve counterclockwise. A "hissing" sound indicates that the air is being discharged. |
| 5. Wait for the water flow to stabilize | When the air is exhausted, water will flow out. After the water flow stabilizes, tighten the air release valve clockwise. |
| 6. Check the radiator | Turn the heating system back on and check whether the radiator heats evenly. |
3. Precautions for deflating
1. Be careful when deflating to avoid burns from hot water.
2. If the radiator is still not hot after deflating, there may be other problems and it is recommended to contact professional maintenance personnel.
3. Check the heating system regularly to avoid frequent air blockage problems.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
| question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What should I do if the air release valve cannot be opened? | You can try soaking it in lubricating oil, or ask a professional to handle it. |
| Is the radiator still not hot after deflating? | It may be that the heating pipe is blocked or the water pump is faulty and requires further inspection. |
| How often does it need to be deflated? | It is generally recommended to deflate 1-2 times per heating season, depending on usage. |
5. Summary
Bleeding an old-fashioned heater is a simple and effective way to solve the problem of a heater that isn't hot. Through the introduction of this article, you should have mastered the specific steps and precautions for deflating. Regular maintenance of the heating system can ensure the heating effect in winter and improve the comfort of life. If you encounter difficulties during operation, it is recommended to contact professional maintenance personnel for processing.
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