4 Risky Radiator ‘Hacks’ To Avoid

Date Published: 18/11/2024

In the modern age of the internet, social media, and DIY ‘hacks’, it is crucial to distinguish between helpful advice and potentially harmful ‘tricks and tips’, especially regarding heating systems. Our energy experts at Your NRG have delved into different viral hacks and revealed how they can cause more damage than good.

1. Cleaning a radiator with boiling water

A viral hack that’s currently making the rounds is the suggestion to clean your with boiling water for radiator cleaning. Not only is this hack ineffective but it’s also hazardous as it can cause various problems such as paint damage, electrical hazards (if the radiator is near a plug socket), and deterioration of flooring. If you need to clean your radiator, it is best to practice safer and more efficient cleaning methods, such as vacuuming, wiping your radiator with a damp sponge, or using a radiator brush. 

2. Bleeding a radiator without turning it off

To ensure your radiators are functioning properly and to their full potential, undertaking maintenance checks such as bleeding your radiators is vital. However, when doing so, you must keep safety precautions in mind to prevent an accident. Attempting to bleed a radiator without turning off your heating system can result in nasty burns from hot water spray, to prevent this, always ensure your heating is turned off before carrying out any maintenance tasks. 

3. Putting tin foil behind a radiator

A popular ‘tip’ is to place tin foil behind your radiators. At first glance, this may seem like a cost-effective and appealing way to enhance heat emission, however, it is crucial to understand its limitations. Radiators primarily emit convection heat, whereby heat is moved around because hot air rises, whereas cold air sinks. Due to how radiators work, the reflective properties of tin foil have a minimal effect on circulating heat in your home. Not only this but thin aluminium foil can degrade over time, further limiting its efficiency. We recommend focusing on more practical heating solutions rather than relying on novelties to optimise your radiators. 

4. DIY radiator covers

Another potentially dangerous heating ‘hack’ is the use of DIY radiator covers. Radiator covers can seem a nifty and aesthetic way to improve your radiators’ efficiency and boost their heat flow. Although DIY and wooden radiator covers may seem like a cost-effective solution, if they’re not made properly, they can reduce the efficiency of your heating system. This is because the covers obstruct heat, which confuses thermostats, and compromises the overall effectiveness of your heating system - making it work harder than it actually needs to.

Expert Advice

When it comes to energy-saving tips, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction to ensure the safety of your household and the efficiency of your heating setup. While innovative and creative measures may seem attractive on the internet, they’re not always safe or practical. Instead, we advise focusing on practical solutions and strategies advocated by professionals, such as optimising your household’s insulation and investing in energy-efficient appliances. This enhances your household’s energy efficiency and savings without compromising safety.

Maintenance

The key to ensuring the efficiency and longevity of your heating system is regular maintenance. While online hacks may promise quick and innovative solutions, it is important to prioritise tried-and-tested maintenance practices. Performing simple and routine maintenance tasks, such as annually bleeding your radiators and keeping them clean can significantly enhance the efficiency of your heating system. By ensuring optimal heat distribution from your radiators, you can significantly reduce your household energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable environment.  

Don’t risk your comfort and safety with unreliable radiator ‘hacks’. Trust Your NRG for high-quality heating oil that heats your home for less. Get a quote today and take a step towards efficient home heating - with no ‘hacks’ needed!