MARC is the organisation that represents manufacturers of radiators and convectors. Here are our top tips for keeping our radiators happy:

1. Get them checked over during your boiler or heat pump’s annual service. If the system water is healthy and there’s a system filter installed (also cleaned during the service), there shouldn’t be any cold spots and the radiators will work efficiently.
2. When replacing radiators make sure the correct heat loss calculations are carried out so the correct size of radiator is installed to provide a comfortable heat output, and will also futureproof the heating system if a heat pump is added later on.
3. Make sure the heating system is correctly balanced to ensure the flow of hot water is evenly distributed across all the heat emitters, improving efficiency.
4. Bleed out any air that has got into the system. If there are cold spots at the top of the radiators, wait until the system is cool, then expel the air using a radiator key. We recommend consulting the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Radiators need room around them to heat the air. Blocking with furniture (or wet clothes!) should be avoided wherever possible.
6. Where fitted, check thermostatic radiator valves are working and set correctly.

Remember that your professional heating engineer can provide that expert advice and for more information check out our consumer radiator guide.