Month: March 2025

How to remove airlock from water pipes: An airlock in your water pipes can cause frustrating disruptions, leading to weak or no water flow from your taps. Fortunately, removing an airlock is often a straightforward task that you can do yourself. In this guide, we’ll explain what an airlock is, how to identify it, and the steps you can take to fix the issue quickly.

What Is an Airlock in Water Pipes?

An airlock occurs when trapped air prevents water from flowing freely through your plumbing system. This is more common in hot water pipes and can lead to inconsistent or reduced water pressure. Left unresolved, an airlock can affect your entire water supply and cause ongoing issues with your plumbing.

Signs of an Airlock in Your Pipes

If you suspect an airlock, look out for these common signs:

• No water or weak flow from taps – Particularly from the hot water side.
• Sputtering taps – Water coming out in bursts instead of a steady stream.
• Gurgling noises – Air trapped in the pipes can create bubbling or gurgling sounds.

How to Remove an Airlock from Water Pipes

Here are a few simple methods to clear an airlock from your plumbing system:

Method 1: The Hosepipe Trick

This method uses water pressure to push the trapped air out of your system.

1. Turn Off Your Taps – Ensure all taps in your home are off.
2. Attach a Hosepipe – Connect a hose between a working cold water tap and the affected hot water tap.
3. Turn On Both Taps – Open the cold tap first, then the hot tap. The cold water pressure should force the air out.
4. Keep Running for a Few Minutes – Allow the water to flow for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Turn Off the Taps – Close the hot tap first, then the cold tap. Remove the hose and test the hot tap.

Method 2: Running the Taps Alternately

1. Turn On the Affected Tap – Let it run at a trickle.
2. Turn On Another Tap – Open a tap at a lower level in your home to help push air out.
3. Alternate Opening and Closing Taps – Doing this for a few minutes may help dislodge trapped air.

Method 3: Using a Plunger

For stubborn airlocks, a plunger may help:

1. Partially Fill the Sink – This ensures a good seal.
2. Place the Plunger Over the Tap Outlet – Ensure it covers the opening completely.
3. Pump the Plunger – Repeatedly plunge to create pressure and dislodge the airlock.
4. Test the Tap – If the water flows normally, the airlock is gone.

Preventing Future Airlocks

To reduce the risk of airlocks in your plumbing:

• Regularly run taps – Especially hot water taps.
• Maintain consistent water pressure – Check for leaks or system faults.
• Ensure professional installation – Poor plumbing work can contribute to recurring airlocks.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried these methods and your taps are still not functioning correctly, it may indicate a deeper plumbing issue. JWD Heating & Plumbing has over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and resolving plumbing problems. Contact us today for expert assistance.

For more plumbing tips, visit our plumbing services page. If you suspect a more serious issue, you may also want to check out Water Regulations UK for best practices in maintaining your home’s plumbing system.

Keeping your central heating system in top condition ensures your home stays warm and energy-efficient. One common maintenance task is bleeding your boiler, but when should you do it? In this guide, we’ll explore the signs that indicate it’s time to bleed your boiler and how doing so can improve your heating system’s performance.

What Does It Mean to Bleed a Boiler?

Bleeding a boiler involves releasing trapped air from the heating system. Over time, air can accumulate in your radiators and pipes, creating air pockets that prevent hot water from circulating efficiently. This can lead to cold spots on radiators and reduced heating performance.

Signs Your Boiler Needs Bleeding

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to bleed your boiler:

• Cold Spots on Radiators – If your radiators are warm at the bottom but cold at the top, trapped air is likely preventing proper heat distribution.
• Gurgling or Banging Noises – Unusual noises from your heating system often indicate air bubbles within the pipes.
• Reduced Heating Efficiency – If your home takes longer to warm up or your heating bills are increasing, your system may not be working efficiently.
• Boiler Pressure Issues – A drop in boiler pressure can be a sign of air trapped in the system.

How to Bleed a Boiler Safely

Before attempting to bleed your boiler, ensure your heating system is switched off and cooled down. Follow these simple steps:

1. Locate the Bleed Valve – This is usually found at the top of each radiator.
2. Use a Radiator Key – Turn the valve slowly anti-clockwise until you hear a hissing sound, which indicates air escaping.
3. Catch Any Water – Once water starts to flow steadily, close the valve.
4. Check Boiler Pressure – After bleeding all necessary radiators, check the boiler pressure and top it up if needed.
5. Turn the Heating Back On – Ensure your radiators heat evenly and your system runs smoothly.

How Often Should You Bleed Your Boiler?

It’s recommended to check your radiators for cold spots at least once a year, particularly before winter. If you frequently experience air buildup, it may indicate a deeper issue within your heating system, requiring professional attention.

When to Call a Professional

While bleeding a boiler is a straightforward task, persistent heating problems may require expert assistance. JWD Heating & Plumbing has over 20 years of experience in boiler repairs and servicing. If your boiler continues to lose pressure, makes excessive noise, or fails to heat properly, our trained engineers are here to help.