3 DIY Methods for Radiator Repair Suffolk County Homeowners Need to Know
When it comes to owning your own home, whether you are a first-time homeowner, or you’ve been owning multiple residential properties – one thing that’s important to understand is that there is a lot of work in terms of maintenance and upkeep. No matter where in the county you live, it takes a lot to run a house, but many would say it’s even more difficult in the suburbs of New York City such as parts of Suffolk County in Long Island. One of the main aspects of maintenance that needs to be addressed quite often has got to be the plumbing and heating system(s) – especially in a place like Suffolk County where temperatures can go from the triple digits in the summer to the low single digits in the dead of winter. Keeping you and your loved ones warm during those winter months is absolutely vital, that’s why when it comes to things like radiator repair Suffolk County residents need to stay 100% on top of things. Plus, other areas of the heating system such as the boiler or Thermostat Repair Long Island in the winter isn’t the easiest place to live, so you definitely want to address these things in the summer and make absolutely sure they work by the fall. According to the team of experts at Elite Plumbing & HVAC, known for the best master plumber Suffolk County has to offer, while the vast majority of work will certainly require the help of a professional, like a boiler or thermostat repair Long Island residents will definitely need help with, but in many cases, there are some minor repairs and upgrades that can be done on your own – even when it comes to your radiators. Here are four fairly easy to do, at-home jobs that can help save you time and money on your heating repairs this fall.
· Installing a New Handle
While it might sound simple, in some instances installing a new handle can be as complicated as a thermostat repair Long Island residents will want to pay as close attention as possible, considering that this is one of the most common repairs jobs for radiators in the event the handle is cracked or loose. If this is the case, its important to remove the top screw and pull off the old handle. If the stem’s threads are in good shape, buy a replacement handle that has the same size screw. If the stem is damaged, buy a “fits-all” handle, which clamps onto the stem with a set screw.
· Installing an Adjustable Air Vent
This is one of the more confusing installations for a heating system, not because it is difficult but because many simply don’t know what it is. According to the team at Elite, home of the best master plumber Suffolk County has to offer, it is generally the object hanging off the side that lets out steam and makes a noise similar to a tea kettle at times. A steam radiator valve must be turned either all the way on or all the way off. To adjust the heat, an adjustable air vent is used. Turn down the thermostat and use pliers to unscrew the old air vent. Buy a compatible adjustable unit. Wrap the threads with pipe-thread tape and screw the new unit in place.
· Adjusting the Bleeder Valve
Towards the side of your radiator you might see something known as a bleeder valve and bleeder key, that you might turn and water can be let out from it. If a hot water radiator is not heating enough, air may be trapped inside. Turn the thermostat up and wait for the radiator to get warm. Hold a cup under the bleeder valve and open it with a bleeder key, long-nose pliers, or screwdriver. Spluttering water or hissing air may come out. Once water flows in a steady stream, tighten the valve.
For more information on plumbing, heating or radiator repair Suffolk County experts at Elite Plumbing & HVAC are here to help – contact us for more information.
