Sloshing and Gurgling Radiator

mattdunne101

Hi all, I've been having issues with the radiator in our bedroom since last winter. I've had a plumber come and take a look but he can't seem to figure out what is causing the issue.

Basically when the heat comes on the radiator in our bedroom sounds like its bubbling and gurgling near the valve. Once the radiator seems to fill with steam then there's this heavy sloshing sounds that pulsates for 10 minutes or so at decreasing intervals. Eventually it will stop but this entire ordeal goes on for maybe 20-30 minutes.

We have a one pipe steam system. The house is from the 50s. I've detached the radiator and tilted it and about a 1/4 cup of water came out. When the plumbers came I told them this and they added more pitch to the unit. Would love some help with this one. Thank you in advance.

ethicalpaul

A photo of your radiator and especially the valve would be great. If very much water was collecting in the radiator that does speak to a pitch problem (the radiator must pitch toward the pipe side assuming this is a one-pipe radiator).

How was the pitch before and after they re-pitched it? Lay a level on the top and see.

Jamie Hall

Also -- make sure that the inlet valve to the radiator is fully open.