Radiator Identification/ Questions

mojito

Hi there,

just have a couple questions about this radiator system. Both pipes come out of the same side with nothing on the other side. (see attached picture). is it a one pipe or two pipe system, and is it safe to shut one of these radiators off while others in the same building are running?

thanks.

bburd

This is a two pipe system.

Yes, it is safe to shut individual radiators off.

Is this a steam or hot water system? Is there an air vent of any kind on the radiator? Probably on the other end.

mojito

it does have a small sort of set screw/ valve on the top/side of the fins (same end as the pipes) which releases air when unscrewed?

bburd

That type of vent is generally used on hot water rather than steam systems.

Jamie Hall

That is almost certainly a hot water system, and yes you can shut the valve off. It looks as though it hasn't been used for a while, though, so when you shut it off you may well find two things: first, it won't shut off tight and second, it will probably leak around the valve stem. Just so you know...