We find where it is leaking, stop it, then repair or replace what has failed.
Limit the water first
Put a towel and a bowl under the drip. If you can do it easily, close the valves at both ends of the radiator. Keep water away from sockets and electrical items. If the leak is more than a drip and you cannot stop it, turn off your stop tap and see emergency plumber.
Where radiator leaks come from
Most leaks come from one of four places:
The valve spindle. A drip at the valve handle or head is often a worn seal inside the valve.
The joint between valve and radiator. A loose or worn nut and seal can weep slowly.
The bleed valve. A small drip here is usually a simple fix.
The radiator body. Rust can eat pinholes through the metal. That normally means the radiator needs replacing.
What we do
We work out which of those it is, then fix the cause. Sometimes that means re-making a joint. Sometimes it means a new valve. If the body of the radiator has failed, we will explain why and talk you through radiator replacement. Where we have the part with us we aim to finish in one visit. If a part has to be ordered, we will tell you what is needed and when we can come back.
Slow leaks still matter
A slow leak under a radiator can soak floorboards, carpet or a ceiling below before you notice it. If you see a stain, a damp patch or a musty smell near a radiator, do not leave it for months. A small repair now is usually much easier than repairing the damage later. Other pipe leaks are covered on leaking pipe repair.
If the heating itself is the problem
If the heating has stopped working, or several radiators are cold, that is a fault in the system rather than in one radiator. See boiler repairs, and new boilers if an old system is past a sensible repair. Everyday leaks, taps and toilets are on our main plumbing repairs page.
Getting it looked at
We do not list prices because every leak and every house is different. Tell us which radiator, where it is leaking from and your postcode, and send a photo if you can. Call 01709 456402 or ring the mobile 07401 429080, or use the contact page. We are a local Rotherham team, based on Moorgate Road.
FAQ
Is a leaking radiator an emergency?
A slow drip you can catch in a bowl can usually wait for a booked visit. A heavy leak, or water reaching a ceiling, cannot. Turn off your stop tap and call us.
Can the leak be repaired, or does the radiator need replacing?
It depends where it is coming from. Valves and joints can often be repaired. A radiator that has rusted through normally has to be replaced.
Should I leave the heating on?
If it is more than a slow drip, switch the heating off and call us. Then it is not pushing more water out while you wait.
For the boiler side of what we do, see boiler servicing.