How to Clean Your Radiator

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Many old radiators are covered with lead paint, but fortunately radiators don’t get hot enough to create lead air pollution. If your radiator is shedding paint flakes, test them with a home lead-test kit before you clean.

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Make sure your radiator is off and completely cool. Clear any objects from under the radiator and vacuum the area. Place a towel below the radiator and tape a flattened cardboard box to the wall to catch debris and block water.

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Put on your dust mask (and goggles and gloves, if you have them). Using the brush attachment on your vacuum, gently remove larger dust piles, hairballs and anything else that’s easily reachable between the crevices.

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Brush the fins using a radiator brush with soft bristles to minimize disturbing the paint, in case it’s delicate or peeling. Use a smaller brush to get into crevices. Vacuum up all chips that easily flake off with your brush.

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Fill one bucket with warm water and some drops of dish soap, and another with tap water. Use a dish towel to wipe the radiator’s exterior with soapy water, reaching as far inward as you can and “flossing” each fin.

How to Clean Your Radiator

Joshua LyonReporting for Wirecutter��

Follow with a second swipe using tap water to remove any soap left behind. Wrapping the end of the towel around a capped pen can help maneuver the cloth through tricky areas. Dry thoroughly with a new dish towel.