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?
If bleeding releases only water, not air, yet the bottom stays cold, sludge or a stuck valve is to blame [Elektroda, wojtik4444, post #10472702] Air faults disappear immediately after venting.
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?
- Isolate pump with the two red-handle valves.
- Unscrew the filter plug; catch dripping water.
- Remove and rinse the mesh; reinstall.
[Elektroda, EkoGrzew, post #10473771]
Will removing the thermostatic head cause leaks?
No. Unscrew the plastic head set to “5”. Only the head comes off; water stays behind the valve body [Elektroda, EkoGrzew, post #10473544]
How can I free a stuck valve pin?
Grip the exposed pin with pliers, push in and pull out several times. Movement of about 2 mm restores spring action [Elektroda, wojtik4444, post #10473575]
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?
Yes. If the hotter pipe is on the outer connection, flow bypasses the radiator core, leaving one side cold [Elektroda, szymonjasiu, post #10476921]
Should I drain the system after every heating season?
No. Draining introduces oxygen, accelerating corrosion. "We never drain the water from the installation" [Elektroda, 12gucio, post #10481754]
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?
The timer lets the pump charge radiators, then shuts off. Heat stored in water radiates, so units feel warm until they cool [Elektroda, claddagh ring, #10472792].
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].