Moving a radiator might sound like one of those jobs best left to the professionals – and in some cases, we’d agree. But if you’re confident with a spanner and you’re happy getting your hands a bit grubby, it’s definitely possible to tackle this yourself. That said, it's not something to rush. Get it wrong and you could end up with leaks, damage to your flooring, or a freezing cold living room in the middle of winter (not ideal).

So, whether you’re rearranging a room, making space for built-in furniture, or just fancying a bit of a change, here's our guide on how to move a radiator safely and with minimal fuss.

Why Would You Want to Move a Radiator?

There are all sorts of reasons you might want to reposition a radiator. Maybe you're installing patio doors and the existing radiator is right in the way. Maybe it's simply never been in the right spot since the day it was put in. Whatever the reason, relocating a radiator can make a big difference to the comfort and layout of your room. Heat distribution, for one, can be vastly improved.

But we’ll be honest: it’s not as simple as picking it up and moving it to the other wall. There are pipes to consider, flooring to lift, and water systems to drain. Still with us? Good.

Can You Move a Radiator Yourself?

In many cases, yes – especially if you're only moving it a short distance and you're comfortable working with basic plumbing. But there are caveats. If you're dealing with an older heating system, or planning a significant move (say, from one side of the house to the other), then it might be worth calling in a professional.

Still, for many homeowners, this is a totally manageable DIY job. It just takes patience, a good plan, and the right tools. And maybe a bit of moral support.

What Tools and Materials Will You Need?

You're going to need:

A Few Essentials

A radiator bleed key, spanners (preferably adjustable), pipe cutter, PTFE tape, radiator valves (if replacing), and a bucket or two. Maybe an old towel or two as well. Water and carpets don’t mix, as it turns out.

Optional But Handy

A pipe bending tool, pipe connectors, and new copper or plastic pipework depending on the job. Some people also like to have a second pair of hands around for support when lifting heavy radiators. We wouldn’t blame you.

Step 1: Turn Off Your Heating and Isolate the Radiator

Seems obvious, but it’s worth saying anyway. Make sure the heating system is off and the radiator has cooled down fully. Then close both the manual and lockshield valves (the valves at either end of the radiator). Turn them clockwise until they’re fully shut. This will isolate the radiator from the rest of the system.

Step 2: Drain the Radiator

Place a bucket under the valve and slowly loosen the nut connecting the valve to the radiator. Water will start to trickle out (or pour out, depending on your luck). Bleed the radiator using your key to speed up the process. Let all the water drain out before moving on.

Step 3: Remove the Radiator From the Wall

Once the radiator is empty, fully disconnect it from the valves and lift it clear of the wall brackets. Radiators are heavier than they look, so be prepared. Store it somewhere safe while you sort the pipework.

Step 4: Lift the Floorboards and Adjust the Pipework

This bit takes a bit more time. You’ll need to lift the floorboards to access and reroute the pipework to the new radiator position. Cut and extend the pipes using connectors or solder joints as necessary. Try to keep bends smooth to maintain good water flow.

Tip: if you're going for a more substantial move, consider using flexible push-fit pipes. They're often easier to work with, particularly in tight spaces.

Step 5: Mount the Radiator in Its New Position

Fit new wall brackets where you want the radiator to go (use a spirit level to get it perfectly horizontal). Connect the radiator to the new pipework and valves. Use PTFE tape on threaded joints to ensure a good seal. Once everything is tight, double-check your connections.

Step 6: Refill and Bleed the Radiator

Time to turn the water back on and refill the system. Open the valves on your radiator and bleed it again using your key until water starts to emerge. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge on your boiler and top up the system as needed.

You may need to bleed other radiators in the house too. Air has a habit of sneaking into places you didn’t invite it.

Step 7: Test for Leaks and Finish Up

Turn your heating back on and check for leaks around the new connections. If everything's dry and the radiator is heating up as it should, you’re good to go. Pat yourself on the back.

Still deciding on a new model for your home? Feel free to view our double panel radiator selection for reliable and efficient options.

Final Thoughts

Moving a radiator isn’t the sort of job you want to rush through on a rainy afternoon. But with careful planning and the right tools, it’s absolutely something a confident DIYer can do.

If in doubt, or if you're ever unsure about the compatibility of pipework or your heating system, we always recommend checking with a qualified heating engineer. Better to ask than to mop up a puddle that didn’t need to happen.

And if you do need a new radiator while you're at it, you know where to find us. Our team is always happy to help – both online and over the phone.