Why Are My Radiators Not Working? | Gas Tech Plumbers Ltd

It’s frustrating when you switch on the heating and find that your radiators aren’t warming up properly. As Gas Safe heating engineers, we often get calls from homeowners across Burnley, Blackburn, and Lancashire about this common problem. Here are the main reasons your radiators might not be working — and what you can do about it.

1. Air Trapped in the System

🛠️ Symptoms: Radiator is cold at the top but warm at the bottom.

✅ Solution: Bleed the radiator using a bleed key to release trapped air.

📸 Suggested image: plumber bleeding a radiator with a bleed key.

2. Radiator Valves Stuck or Faulty

🛠️ Symptoms: Radiator stays completely cold even when the heating is on.

✅ Solution: Check the thermostatic radiator valve (TRV). Sometimes they stick in the off position after summer. Gently tap the valve head or call us to replace it.

📸 Suggested image: close-up of a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV).

3. Sludge or Blockages in the System

🛠️ Symptoms: Radiator is cold at the bottom but warm at the top.

✅ Solution: This is usually caused by a build-up of sludge or rust. A professional power flush may be required to clear the system.

📸 Suggested image: heating engineer performing a power flush.

4. Boiler or Pump Issues

🛠️ Symptoms: All radiators are cold, or only a few heat up.

✅ Solution: The circulation pump or boiler might not be working correctly. This requires a Gas Safe registered engineer to diagnose and repair.

📸 Suggested image: engineer inspecting a boiler.

5. Incorrect Balancing

🛠️ Symptoms: Some radiators get hot, others stay lukewarm.

✅ Solution: Radiators may need balancing so heat is evenly distributed. This involves adjusting the lockshield valves.

📸 Suggested image: plumber adjusting radiator valve with spanner.

When to Call Gas Tech Plumbers Ltd

If bleeding the radiators doesn’t solve the issue, it’s best to call in a professional. Our team at Gas Tech Plumbers Ltd can:

Diagnose heating system faults.

Carry out power flushing.

Repair or replace faulty valves.

Service and repair boilers.

📞 Call us today on 01282 914044 fast, local service across Burnley, Blackburn, and Lancashire.