Danielle Robinson, central heating category manager at Toolstation, recommended three “important” radiator checks.
This includes checking for cold spots as well as checking that the valves can be altered.
The expert said: “Make sure it’s hot at the top and bottom when turned on.
“Air in the radiator can prevent the distribution of hot water making a radiator less effective at heating a room.
“Also make sure the thermostatic valves can be opened and closed.
“If the heating has not been used in a while, these can become stuck in place.” Lastly, Britons should also check for any build-up in their radiators.
Make sure to regularly clean behind them to remove any dust and debris as any large build-ups of dust can mean the radiator has to work harder.
If the radiator is cold at the top, it could need bleeding, according to the expert.
Danielle explained: “Bleeding a radiator is necessary when it doesn’t get warm to the top or if it makes noises when the heating is turned on.
“This is because trapped air makes the radiators less effective, and bleeding them lets this air out so the warm water can circulate properly.
“It is recommended to bleed your radiators at least once a year, usually before winter starts.
“However, if you notice that your radiator is not warming up properly or is making noises, you should bleed it straight away.”
To bleed a radiator, make sure you have a radiator key to hand as well as a cloth to protect the floor and wall from water drips.
Before starting, ensure the heating is turned off and the radiators are fully cooled. Locate the radiator bleed valve which is usually located at the top corner of the radiator.
The expert added: “Open the valve. Slowly turn the key anti-clockwise to open the valve and release any trapped air.
“Next, close the valve. Once the hissing stops and water begins to escape, turn the key clockwise to close the valve. Check the heating finally. Check your radiator to make sure it fully heats up.”
