How do I balance my radiators for even heating?
Balancing radiators adjusts the flow to each one so heat distributes evenly throughout your home. It involves setting lockshield valves based on temperature measurements.
How Do I Balance My Radiators?
Radiator balancing ensures your heating system distributes heat evenly — radiators near the boiler don't overheat while those furthest away remain cold.
What You'll Need
- Radiator bleed key
- Lockshield valve key (or adjustable spanner)
- Digital thermometer or clip-on pipe thermometer
Step-by-Step Process
- Bleed all radiators first to remove trapped air
- Open all lockshield valves (the covered valve on each radiator) fully by turning anticlockwise
- Turn the heating on and wait until the system reaches full temperature
- Note which radiator heats up first — this one is getting too much flow
- Starting with the fastest-heating radiator, close its lockshield valve until there's approximately 12°C temperature difference between the flow and return pipes
- Repeat for each radiator in order
When Professional Balancing is Needed
If you have:
- Underfloor heating (requires specialist balancing equipment)
- Thermostatic radiator valves throughout
- A system with multiple zones
...professional balancing by a heating engineer will achieve significantly better results and is included in RARE's power flush service.
Call 020 7458 4949 for a system balance across all London postcodes.
Reviewed by RARE Plumbing London Engineering Team — Gas Safe registered engineers serving prime London since 2013.
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Central Heating London
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