Radiator drain valve dripping at spout

[WSB]

Think the seal on my radiator drain valve has gone as its started dripping from the valve spout.
Want to unscrew the whole inner section to ensure all seals are replaced. Pretty sure I can get from screwfix.

Looks like a simple job but don't fancy draining the system down to fix. Sounds more like a summer job.

Just wondered if there's any tips on doing this without needing to drain.?

The valve is under the downstairs hallway rad and am guessing that whipping the old inner section out quick and replacing would get very messy considering the pressure?

As it's a slow drip was also thinking of just bunging the spout somehow till I can do properly in the summer.

Just after some hints and tips.

Thanks

 

[blup]

What heating system do you have?

 

[WSB]

What heating system do you have?

Old baxi Bermuda boiler.

 

[blup]

I bunged the header tank cold supply and the feed into the expansion tank to create a vacuum when I changed a rad, maybe that would work but there is still a fair amount of water.

 

[WSB]

I bunged the header tank cold supply and the feed into the expansion tank to create a vacuum when I changed a rad, maybe that would work but there is still a fair amount of water.

Sounds a bit risky for me.

 

[WSB]

Was thinking about somehow bunging the spout where the drip is coming from and leaving the main fix job till the summer.
Blocked section of short hosepipe jubilee clipped in place.
With the spout bunged though, I guess there is the possibility that the leak could then come from the other part of the valve where the turning section is?
Worth a go though I suppose.

 

[blup]

You could maybe pack out the leaking bit with CT1 or similar

 

[opps]

CT1 will possibly work. It will cure even when in contact with wet surfaces. However, you only need to (ultimately) replace the rubber washer. Using CT1 will require you replace the hole drain off.

I would suggest wrapping a plastic bag under the fitting until you are ready to deal with it.

It looks like it is only weaping slightly.

 

[WSB]

Thanks all, not sure I want to pack any sealant in the spout though as will need that clear for when I eventually drain the system.
Will try attachimg a small section of hose jubilee clipped to the pipe. Then seal the other end of the hose somehow.

 

[gas112]

Have you tried tightening it up ?

 

[WSB]

Have you tried tightening it up ?

Decided not to in the end as called my heating engineer to arrange a future appointment for him to fix properly.
He advised against tightening as can cause the seal to break up and make it worse.
He also advised against bunging thr spout as can cause leakage at the screw part.
So managing the leak for now till he comes round to fix.
He said he can do without draining the system by bunging the small header tank.

 

[ChrisJP]

You could use a couple of pipe freezing kits to make ice bungs each side of the drain valve. These typically give you around 30 mins working time before they start to melt. I have successfully changed radiator valves using these.

 

[dilalio]

Unwind it from socket Tee and screw a new one in.

MT Cock Type A

• Heavy pattern• Glanded, brass• Made in accordance with BS 2879/80

www.toolstation.com

 

[ChrisJP]

Unwind it from socket Tee and screw a new one in.

MT Cock Type A

• Heavy pattern• Glanded, brass• Made in accordance with BS 2879/80

www.toolstation.com

Yes, that's what the OP wants to do. His issue is how to do it without draining down the CH system.

 

[dilalio]

Just snatch it.
Towels below.
Replacement ready with ptfe