Radiator leaking?

[velosam]

The radiator in the kitchen is around 20 years old.  It seems to have sprung a leak somewhere in the middle and on the bottom.

Is this basically a new radiator?  Would anyone have an idea of the approximate cost?  Can I get this patched up or am I best replacing?

I am surprised it’s leaking after such a short life!

[Torslanda]

If you're sure that the leak isn't from the pipe connections and the water running to the lowest point then yes you have a split/corroded seam or porous steel.

If there's a lack of corrosion inhibitor in the system then 20 years is no surprise.

[velosam]

Ok thanks.  It’s in the middle somewhere and definitely not at the valves!

Thanks t

[Canardly]

You could try a CH leak sealant as a temp fix as plumbers/heating engineers will be busy next week (unless you are lucky), but not a high level of confidence. Sounds like a new rad.

[velosam]

I think I am surprised as I have never heard of a rad leaking.  I have just managed to get the radiator disconnected and there is a fair bit of sludge in it.  At least it was in the kitchen and not on the upstairs bedroom!

If I buy exactly the same size but a similar design are the fittings likely to be in the same place?

[Canardly]

Obviously you can see if you can go straight replacement if the rad is a metric size, Screwfix stock Barlo rads. Adjustable exentions are available for the valves if the size is a little different. Dont forget to replace the olives and gently does it. You will need some PTFE tape for the fittings. The wall brackets may differ.

e.g

https://www.screwfix.com/p/tesla-15mm-x-15mm-telescopic-trv-extension-piece-25-50mm/3628r

[velosam]

Thanks. I can find the same size 750 x 1600 but it’s not exactly the same design hence the question

[Gattopardo]

Replace the rad.

Easy to do.  Excuseto run a cleaner through then an inhibitor.

[velosam]

Never having done a change before - it’s going to be interesting I guess!

[Gattopardo]

Not hard, where abouts are you again?

[velosam]

N W London

So radiator arrived and I naively assumed it would all go smoothly but no, it turns out I need something called radiator tails.

The tails seem as expensive as the valves, so I think I will buy the valves (fit the tails for now) and then the valves, if and when I drain the system.  I realise I maybe making a mountain out of a molehill, but every day seems to be a school day at the moment!!