FAQ
TL;DR: 68 % of “hot-top, cold-bottom” radiator faults trace to flow blockage [Energy Systems Catapult, 2021]. “Sludge acts like cholesterol in pipes” [Elektroda, Marcelib, post #13233659] Clean filter, free valve pin, balance return; most users regain full heat within 30 min [Elektroda, EkoGrzew, post #10473853]
Why it matters: Fixing one under-heating radiator can raise room temperature by 2–3 °C without higher boiler settings.
Quick Facts
• Recommended system pressure in closed CH loops: 1.0–2.0 bar [Viessmann, 2023]
• Typical supply-return temperature drop: 10–20 °C for plate radiators [CIBSE Guide B, 2020]
• Pump speed “3” ≈ 3 m³/h at 6 m head on common 25-60 models [Grundfos Alpha2 Data, 2022]
• Removing sludge can recover up to 15 % heat output [ADEY MagnaClean, 2022]
• Bleeding one radiator takes ≈2 min and <50 ml water [EST, 2022]
Why is my radiator hot at the top but cold at the bottom?
Flow is restricted. Sludge settles at the base, the valve pin sticks, or the return lockshield is nearly closed. All three lower water volume, so hot water stops halfway [Elektroda, saskia, #10472915; Marcelib, #13233659].
How do I know if air or sludge is the problem?
What quick test confirms poor flow?
Close every other radiator, set the pump to speed 3, and feel the suspect unit. Rapid full-body heating proves the circuit can flow once demand is isolated
[Elektroda, EkoGrzew, post #10473384]
How do I clean the oblique (slanted) filter near the pump?
Will removing the thermostatic head cause leaks?
How can I free a stuck valve pin?
What lockshield setting balances flow?
Open the supply valve fully, then open the return lockshield about 45°. Identical three-turn settings on every radiator equalise flow across risers
[Elektroda, EkoGrzew, post #10489717]
Could reversed supply and return pipes cause half-heating?
Should I drain the system after every heating season?
What additives prevent future sludge?
Flush with a cleaner such as Fernox F3, then dose inhibitor F1. Inhibitors cut iron-oxide formation by around 80 % [Fernox Data, 2022].
Why do radiators stay warm even when the pump is off?
How much energy can sludge waste?
Tests show a 5 mm sludge layer reduces radiator output by 13 % and raises boiler fuel use by 6 % [ADEY Lab Report, 2021]. "Remove sludge; stop burning cash" – heating engineer Mark Mace [Heating & Plumbing Mag, 2022].
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