If you’ve noticed your towel radiator isn’t heating up as it should—or perhaps it’s hot at the bottom but cold at the top—there’s a good chance it’s time to bleed it. It’s not glamorous (we know), but it is one of the simplest ways to improve the efficiency of your heating system, and you really don’t need to be a plumber to get it done.
It’s also one of those jobs people tend to put off until they’re standing in a freezing bathroom, towel in hand, wondering why the radiator’s given up. So, let’s help you get ahead of that scenario with this complete guide on how to bleed a towel radiator, step by step.
Why Does a Towel Radiator Need Bleeding?
Over time, air can get trapped inside your heating system. That trapped air rises to the top of the radiator and stops hot water from circulating properly. The result? Cold spots, longer heat-up times, and a radiator that’s working harder than it should (and probably still failing to warm your towels).
Bleeding your towel radiator releases this air, letting the hot water flow freely again. It’s a small job, but it can make a big difference—not just to your comfort, but to the overall energy efficiency of your system.
What Tools Do You Need to Bleed a Towel Radiator?
You don’t need much. In fact, it’s probably all stuff you’ve got lying around:
Radiator key
This is the small square-headed key that fits the bleed valve. Most DIY stores sell them if you can’t find yours (or you might have one hiding in a kitchen drawer).
A cloth or small towel
To catch any water that escapes—because yes, a little dribble is normal.
Something to protect the floor
Optional, but a bit of kitchen roll or an old rag underneath the radiator never hurt anyone.
How to Bleed a Towel Radiator, Step by Step
Ready? Good. Let’s walk through the process.
Step 1: Turn Off the Heating
It’s tempting to do this while the heating’s on, but trust us—you don’t want hot water spraying at you. Wait until the radiator is cool to the touch.
Step 2: Locate the Bleed Valve
The bleed valve is usually at the top corner of the radiator. You’ll see a small square bit in the centre of a round nut—that’s where the radiator key fits.
Step 3: Insert the Radiator Key
Turn it anti-clockwise, slowly. You’ll hear a hissing sound—that’s the air escaping. Keep the cloth handy here. A small amount of water might follow once the air is gone.
Step 4: Close the Valve
As soon as water starts to dribble steadily from the valve, turn the key clockwise to close it. Don’t overtighten—just snug enough to stop any leaks.
Step 5: Turn the Heating Back On
Once you’ve closed the valve, turn your heating back on and check the radiator. It should now be heating evenly from top to bottom. If it’s still playing up, it might need bleeding again or there could be another issue at play.
How Often Should You Bleed a Towel Radiator?
There’s no fixed rule, but once or twice a year is usually enough for most homes. If you’re regularly finding cold spots or strange noises coming from the system, it’s a good idea to check for trapped air.
You might also want to consider whether your system is working as efficiently as it could be. There are modern, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional boilers that could drastically improve your overall setup.
Is It the Same Process for All Radiators?
Pretty much, yes. The process of how to bleed a towel radiator is almost identical to how to properly bleed a radiator—and if you’re not sure about the general process, we’ve put together a helpful guide right here on how to properly bleed a radiator.
That said, towel radiators can be slightly trickier to access depending on their location, especially in compact bathrooms. Take your time, and if in doubt, don’t be afraid to call in a professional.
Final Thoughts
Bleeding a towel radiator isn’t complicated, but it’s one of those essential little jobs that can make a world of difference to your heating system. It takes five minutes (ten, tops), and it could save you from a lot of frustration—not to mention a chilly bathroom.
Whether you’re dealing with cold spots, strange gurgling sounds, or just trying to prep your home for winter, now’s a great time to get familiar with how to bleed a towel radiator. It’s a small step towards a warmer, more efficient home—and who doesn’t want that?
And if you’re ever in doubt, just remember: our team’s always on hand to help, with decades of real-world experience (and plenty of radiator keys to spare).
