Leaking Radiator Valve

bob young

LOOKS LIKE A STEAM SYSTEM,MIKE. NO DRAINING . SOMETIMES YA GET LUCKY !!

Confused_6

Leaking Radiator Valve

I am homeowner who has just discovered that one of my radiator valves has a slight leak (see attached pictures). The radiator is located on the second floor of my home. I was not sure what to do and thought I would ask the experts at Heating Help for some assistance.

Also, is there a way to clean the valve so that it looks better than it does?

Thank you.

Mike T., Swampeast MO

Often all you have to do is slightly tighten the packing nut (the small nut right below the handle). Since everything is brass and brass is quite soft, don't apply too much torque or you'll strip the threads. Best to use the proper size wrench instead of any adjustable wrench.

If this doesn't work, you'll have to replace the packing (underneath the packing nut). Unfortunately this requires draining the system at least to a level below the affected valve(s).

Timco

If it is hot water, I would turn off the leaking valve and loosen the packing nut, and try wrapping some string packing around the stem, then tighten the nut back down. This should work without draining...

Tim

bob young

re-pack

TO repack any valve ,do so with valve in open position

Confused_6

I would like to thank you all for the information. It is a hot water system. I'll try to tighten the packing nut a little. If that does not solve the problem, then I'll loosen the nut and try to wrap some string around the stem.

Again, thanks for your suggestions.

Mike T., Swampeast MO

Just keep a good hold on the packing nut and if you get a significant leak as you near the end of the threads, I'd suggest re-tightening and draining. If it's especially loose, the packing can go flying and you'll have a gigantic mess on your hands... Have some thirsty towels/rags handy whatever you do. Believe you said the rad was on the 2nd floor. That's good as you only have to drain the system partially--much easier than a complete drain/refill.