Heating expert shares products to ‘never’ use when cleaning radiators or risk explosion


Cleaning radiators is extremely important for them to work correctly and spring is an ideal time to do so.

However, it is important to carefully select which products to clean them with as they could “explode”.

1. Abrasive materials

Jess Steele, heating technology expert at online designer radiator specialists BestHeating, said: “Cleaning the radiators should be a regular job to help cleanliness, allergies, and heating bills. 

“When cleaning the exterior of your radiator be careful using abrasive materials like Brillo pads which may scratch and damage the surface, and even remove paint. 

“If you notice stubborn stains on your radiatorleave a spray solution on for a few minutes longer than normal and wipe it away with a cloth or a sponge.”

2. Antibacterial products

One of the products to “never” use when cleaning radiators is antibacterial products, especially aerosols as they pose a “huge fire risk”.

Jess noted: “To effectively clean the radiators without danger I would recommend firstly ensuring that your radiator has been turned off for at least two hours, which is much more easily done during spring or summer as they aren’t in use. 

“Then use a hair dryer to remove any dust build-up and to push any remaining dirt trapped inside place a towel underneath your radiator and use a long thin cleaning brush to get between the fins.”

3. Bleach

Before cleaning any radiator in the home, make sure to double-check all products for any corrosive chemicals that could damage the radiator.

A common one such as bleach can be extremely damaging if used to clean the radiator and may even shorten its lifespan.

Jess said: “I would suggest avoiding using bleach at all costs as the harsh chemicals can deteriorate the quality of the metal over time and for those with coloured radiators using full-strength bleach could permanently damage the paint and fade the colour. 

“For a streak-free finish on metal surfaces, try diluting white vinegar with water before buffing it onto your radiator.”

For the best results and to prevent damage to your radiators when cleaning them, BestHeating recommended using a hairdryer and a simple mix of warm water and gentle washing-up liquid. 

The expert added “Turn your radiators off and leave them for a couple of hours, blow out any excess dust with your hairdryer and then mix water and washing up liquid and use that to clean off the surface of the radiator

“It’ll catch any drips in a bowl beneath the appliance and hey presto clean radiators without the risk of danger or damage”.



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