How do I repaint an old radiator?

Question

Is it possible to clean, sand and repaint this old radiator? We have about 12 of them throughout the house. This one is the worst. It lives in our main bathroom. I'm pretty good at painting and basic DIY, but I'm not sure if this project should be left to the pros...? The other radiators just need to be cleaned. Any tips or tricks on how I clean the inside of them would be greatly appreciated. The serviceman said the tops can't be removed for cleaning...help...

SimoneLeah · Answer

Great advice Jacob! Thanks so much for taking the time to respond. I'll definitely get advice before proceeding.

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @SimoneLeah,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Unfortunately, I think this one is best left to the professionals because you are dealing with what appears to be a gas fed radiator. Anytime maintenance is being done to gas fixtures, there are risks involved which require specific risk mitigation strategies, which likely includes isolating the radiator from the rest of the system. I am not sufficiently knowledgeable about this type of radiator to know what is required, but I'd say it's best to err on the side of caution.

My advice would be to contact your service person for their advice as they are likely the best placed to answer your questions.

As long as the radiator is isolated from the rest of the system, I imagine cleaning the surface with a cloth and a surface cleaner would be step one and then either blowing out the radiator or using a brushed attachment for a vacuum cleaner like this Long Flexi Crevice Tool With Radiator Brush 32 & 35 mm would be the way to go.

For the paint, a high temp paint such as this White Knight 300g Hi Temp Gloss White Spray Paint would likely be the best option.

Unfortunately, I think you need to err on the side of caution and at least speak with a professional who specialises with radiators. If they give you the thumbs up that it is safe to proceed, you can proceed, but unfortunately, I am not qualified to make this determination.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob