CTC Airlock / Sludge in Radiators

Boiler runs but some radiators remain cold or only heat at the top.

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Possible Causes

Air trapped in radiators, Sludge build-up at radiator bottoms, Partially closed valves, Incorrect system balancing

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn off the boiler and allow radiators to cool before bleeding.

  • Bleed radiators: Use a radiator key to bleed air from the top vent of each radiator until water flows steadily. Protect floors with a cloth.
  • Check valves: Ensure both the thermostatic valve and lockshield valve on each radiator are open.
  • Flush affected radiators (technician): If radiators are hot at the top but cold at the bottom, they may be sludged. Remove and flush them outside or perform a system power flush.
  • Rebalance system: Adjust lockshield valves to ensure even heating across all radiators.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5
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