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Posted: Friday, March 22, 2024
As a leading manufacturer of cast iron radiators, Trads understands the importance of proper care and upkeep. Maintaining cast iron radiators ensures that their aesthetic appeal remains intact, allows for efficient heat distribution and plays a role in extending their lifespan. Through routine care and attention, corrosion is prevented and heating capacity is optimised. In essence, maintenance isn't just about preserving their beauty - it's about maximising their functionality so they continue to provide warmth and comfort for generations.
Let’s start at the very beginning. Trads’ radiators are conveniently delivered to the curb outside a designated delivery address. Expect items to arrive securely packaged on a pallet, lifted off the vehicle using a tail lift and transferred onto a pallet truck. The courier will manoeuvre the pallet truck to a reachable curb spot at the delivery address, however, they are not able to traverse steps, deep gravel or rugged terrain. The buyer is responsible for moving the radiator into the property. We recommend having 3 to 4 people present, particularly for larger models.
Maintaining cast iron radiators begins with transportation as mishandling can result in damage. Before lifting, place support bars through sections of the radiator. Ensure everyone has a grip on the bars and lifts at the same time, in accordance with the health and safety guidelines provided. The most common cause of leaks is strain on the gaskets when carrying the radiator incorrectly. Proper handling during transportation safeguards the radiator and avoids damage.
Transporting a cast iron radiator carries the risk of minor scratches or damage. Should such imperfections occur, gently rub the affected area with fine sandpaper or a Scotch-Brite pad to eliminate any flakiness. Wipe the surface with a clean cloth to rid it of any debris. Use the touch-up paint supplied by Trads as part of your cast iron radiator order. Apply the touch-up paint in layers, allowing sufficient drying time between coats. Repeat the process until satisfied with the finish, ensuring the scratch is concealed and the radiator’s pristine appearance is restored.
Maintaining cast iron radiators encompasses more than just safe transportation. A deep clean should be carried out every month, with regular wipe-downs introduced as part of your weekly cleaning schedule. Abrasive solutions and harsh chemicals should be avoided as these substances can strip the paint away leading to damage and discolouration. Similarly, abrasive cleaning tools such as rough brushes should not be used as they can scratch or chip painted models.
To prevent any potential mess, place a towel underneath the radiator to catch any drips or spills that may occur during cleaning. Begin by using a suitable vacuum nozzle to extract dust and debris nestled within the inner sections of the radiator. Next, prepare a solution of warm, soapy water. Dip a sponge into the soapy water, squeezing out any excess liquid and gently wipe away any visible dirt. Thoroughly clean between each of the columns and sections, ensuring no spot is overlooked. Ensure the radiator is left completely dry to prevent water marks and potential rusting. Use a lint-free cloth to dry every surface, ensuring no moisture remains trapped within the intricate details of the radiator's design. These steps may improve the radiator's performance as accumulated dust can obstruct the release of heat, making it harder to heat the room.
The tools used for cleaning satin polished or hand-burnished radiators can be slightly more abrasive, as there is no risk of stripping paint away. Use fine wire wool or Scotch-Brite pads to gently remove surface rust without causing damage to the radiator's finish. Use a lubricant such as 3-In-1 oil or Duck Oil to facilitate the rust removal process and prevent scratching. To begin, apply a small amount of the lubricant onto the affected areas of the radiator surface. Then, gently rub the fine wire wool or scotch-brite pad in a circular motion, taking care not to apply excessive pressure. Once the rust has been removed, use a clean cloth to wipe away any residue and ensure the radiator surface is clean and dry. Next, take a clean lint-free cloth and apply 3-In-1 or Duck Oil to the entire radiator surface.
Maintaining cast iron radiators is key to their efficiency. We recommend repeating this cleaning process on a monthly basis, particularly in environments where rust buildup is more prevalent. By staying proactive with maintenance, cast iron radiators not only look their best but also continue to operate at peak performance for years to come.
Monitoring cold spots is a straightforward task when maintaining cast iron radiators. Cold areas in interior columns can result from air entering the heating system. To resolve this issue, first, turn on the heating and let the radiator warm up. Feel for cold spots along the radiator's surface by running your hand up and down each column. Once identified, turn off the heating and let the radiator cool down. Place a large towel underneath to catch any spills and use a cloth while turning the bleed nipple to catch any dirty water that may escape. Release anti-clockwise, listening for a hissing noise as air escapes. When water begins to flow, turn the screw clockwise to seal the system. Maintaining cast iron radiators in this way ensures they are operating at peak performance.
Trads has become a prominent name in cast iron radiator manufacture since its inception in 2001. Established with a vision to provide quality and craftsmanship, each model is made within our factory right here in the UK. Skilled engineers assemble and finish each radiator by hand, ensuring attention to detail and unique character. Using only the finest materials, every radiator is long-lasting, reliable and paired with a lifetime warranty. What’s more, Trads offers complimentary mainland delivery for orders exceeding £300 inc. VAT.
With a dedicated team boasting extensive industry knowledge, Trads is equipped to assist with all inquiries, from maintaining cast iron radiators to precise BTU calculations. Visit Trads’ website to discover an array of styles to suit every taste and décor preference, from classic Victorian to decorative options and sleek contemporary models. Call 0800 102 6373 or email sales@tradscastironradiators.co.uk if you require any assistance and be sure to check out our YouTube channel for more tips on maintaining cast iron radiators.
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