How would you bleed this radiator?

[dementedpixie]

Anyone have any idea how to bleed this radiator as it doesnt have a valve I'm familiar with? It is also dripping from the bottom of the valve so does that suggest the whole thing needs tightened? If so, what would you suggest to do that with?

Alan key?

Does a small Alan fit? Or try a socket.

It's for my sister. I suggested Allen key but its the wrong shape

Take photo to hardware shop and ask? I would imagine you would get better responses from independent but a chain might have someone who knows. Our local chains tend to be very understaffed.

Alternatively, I think there are plumber's forums online but I can't remember the name I'm afraid.

You don't need a plumber's forum, you just need @pigletjohn to come along.

A butterfly radiator bleed key is worth a try...

Do they not have a wee square inner bit ?

On that type you may be able to rotate the plastic part in an unscrewing direction. The water is supposed to come out of the little spigot. I think it must be broken because there should be a square shaft that the key (as shown) fits. Luckily they are quite easy to take out and screw a new one in. It is done with a spanner (older types needed a huge radiator key). They are available at low cost. Buy a few. You have to turn the radiator valves at BOTH ends tightly shut before removing. If water squirts out, the valves are not shut.

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-2-MANUAL-RADIATOR-AIR-VENT-BLEED-PLUG-VALVE/230768633245?hash=item35bae1e59d:g:vycAAOxyHIlTY1TT

it may be listed as a radiator (bleed) vent or nipple

Don't get the old type.

it's possible that it is designed to be unscrewed on that knurled ring. I haven't seen that type before. I'd just fit a new one as above.

also here, but you are paying for the plain plug that goes on the other end as well, which you don't need.

www.screwfix.com/p/radiator-vent-blanking-plug-nickel-2-pack/40972

This is true Soup as has been shown above.

So you think the inner square bit has broken off? It's not dripping out the spigot, its dripping from the bottom where the staining is. I'll tell her the whole air vent bit probably needs replacing

if it's dripping from the main plug, it has probably not been screwed in tightly; or the rubber sealing ring has been damaged or misplaced. You can just make it out in my ebay link. Any rust, dirt or paint lumps on the seating should be cleaned off before fitting new. A nylon pan scourer should do, and wipe off with a rag.

Husband (bathroom fitter) says shut rad off at both ends, remove the whole leaky vent (some water will come out) and get a new normal one from plumbers merchant or DIY store.