Removing a radiator... what is best method?

[Scarletpimpofnel]

I've a radiator (fed by 10mm polypipe) behind a settee. I don't want to relocate it, just remove it to use the space. There are two easy options so I don't have to raise floor boards etc, I think:

1 - Drain the system. Cut the polypipes. Put inserts in then add cap ends to both pipes. Put pipes behind an inspection hatch so that they can be inspected and connected to if the radiator is ever reinstated.

2 - DON'T drain the system and instead turn off both the regulator valve and the TRV. Undo both valves from the radiator and in place of the radiator connection fit a blanking cap to both ends. Then feed the pipes (including affixed valves!) into the wall space. Add inspection hatch so they can be inspected if necessary.

The second option is quicker imo and makes adding the radiator back in the future much easier.

Anyone see any issue with option 2 as that is my preference?

Many thanks.

[JoshSm]

Nothing obvious wrong with option 2 that I can see vs option 1?

It's more reversible and it's no worse for dead legs.

[Scarletpimpofnel]

JoshSm said:

Nothing obvious wrong with option 2 that I can see vs option 1?

It's more reversible and it's no worse for dead legs.

Thanks for that. Dead legs don't matter in a non drinking water system right?

[Panamax]

Just watch out for the very basic fact that radiators are full of all sorts of old crud at the bottom. Spill that on your carpets and you'll never get it out.

Think very carefully before you start.

[JoshSm]

Panamax said:

Just watch out for the very basic fact that radiators are full of all sorts of old crud at the bottom. Spill that on your carpets and you'll never get it out.

Think very carefully before you start.

Plumb tub(s) and plumb thumbs might help? And a tarp/old towel.

[richhead]

why not just join the two pipes somehow?

[clockworks]

richhead said:

why not just join the two pipes somehow?

I'm not a plumber, but my understanding is that radiators are generally plumbed in parallel.
Replacing a radiator with a length of pipe will effectively "short circuit" all the other radiators.

[Scarletpimpofnel]

Panamax said:

Just watch out for the very basic fact that radiators are full of all sorts of old crud at the bottom. Spill that on your carpets and you'll never get it out.

Think very carefully before you start.

Yes good point a large tub and lots of towels ready.

[nwmlarge1]

Scarletpimpofnel said:

Thanks for that. Dead legs don't matter in a non drinking water system right?

They do if the system is not correctly dosed with inhibitor.

They have the potential to develop bio material, that will find its way in to strainers and pumps within the system compromising its efficiency, not least to comment on the heat loss and latency with additional pipework.

[unzippy]

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/17tMGYSQW3k?feature...