How do you fix a leaking union joint?

If the union is leaking from either solder joint, disconnect the union and heat the leaking joint to melt the solder. Slip the union off, spread new flux and re-solder it. If the union is joining copper and galvanized steel pipes, it should be a dielectric union.

Which way do you tighten a union nut radiator?

Grip the valve with a pair of water pump pliers. This will prevent you from breaking the copper pipe. Tighten in a clockwise direction. Feel with your fingers to make sure there are no more leaks.

How do you tighten a union joint?

Tighten each of the pipes to the couplings using the pipe wrench. Screw the union’s end nut, with the larger central nut attached, by hand onto one pipe end. Tighten it in place with a crescent wrench. Screw the union’s other end nut onto the other pipe end, again tightening it with the wrench.

Can you seal a leaking radiator?

You’ll need to drain the radiator and then clean the the surface around the holes so that the epoxy bonds to the rad. Apply the epoxy to the holes according to the manufacturer’s instructions and allow to dry thoroughly. Once dry, you can then refill the radiator and the leak should hopefully have stopped.

What causes a radiator to leak from the bottom?

If you see the radiator leaking from the bottom, that is often the result of the water pump. Debris can also clog the water pump and prevent the smooth flow of coolant through it, building up pressure inside the pump and causing a breach.

Do radiators leak when they need bleeding?

Bleed valves are very common sources for leaks and relatively easy to put right. They tend to come about because the spindle-packing inside the little bit of radiator kit that’s the valve has got damaged or may have worn out.

Why are my radiator valves leaking?

A leaking valve normally occurs when the spindle packing contained within the valve starts to wear out or becomes damaged. This type of leak will normally occur when the valve is in a ‘mid-open’ position – the leak will normally stop when you fully close the valve.

Do you use PTFE tape on radiator tails?

Use jointing compound too If you are installing a new central heating component (like a radiator or a radiator valve) then it’s advisable to use PTFE tape AND some silicone-based jointing compound, to make the joint completely watertight.

Do you tape a union?

not on the union threads, you would only use teflon tape on the connecting pipe threads if its a threaded union. It’s a union that’s glued to pvc pipes on both sides.

How tight should union fittings be?

Someone here recommended pipe dope for the threaded fittings and that works well. Double clamp any hose/nipple connections you may have. Unions shouldn’t have to be tightened more than hand tight if your o-rings are seated properly. Anything with an o-ring seals pretty well hand tight if it’s working right.

Is JB Weld good for radiator?

VERSATILE & DEPENDABLE: Great for radiators, washer fluid tanks, storage tanks, water tanks, plastics, composites, PVC and more. Professionals, mechanics and avid DIYers know J-B gets the job done.

Are there any problems with the radiator on a steam boiler?

Radiators for steam boiler heating systems can be prone to behavioral problems. Fortunately, many of these problems are quite easy to fix, with no need to call a heating system technician. On single-pipe steam systems, many of the problems can be traced to the air vent fitting.

How do you fix a leaking air valve on a radiator?

Usually, you can simply rotate the valve clockwise to the vertical position (it’s threaded into the radiator). Inspect the air valve to check for obstructions caused by mineral deposits or other debris. Try to clean the valve with vinegar. If you can’t blow air through the valve after cleaning, replace the valve.

How do I know if I have a one-pipe steam radiator?

If you see only one pipe attached to your radiators, you can be assured you have a one-pipe steam system. In one-pipe systems, you should find an air vent fitting on one end of the radiator. This air vent is often the source of problems in a steam radiator.

How do steam radiators work?

Steam systems can be one-pipe or two-pipe systems. In two-pipe systems, each room radiator will have two pipes attached to it, one at each end. One pipe delivers gaseous steam to the radiator, while the other carries condensed water back to the boiler.