Radiator leak

HoolyNI

Hello all, am after some advice.

Have developed a leak from the lock valve on a towel rail.

Turned water off to the radiator and attempted to drain it via the leaky valve but judging by the pressure of the water coming out it seems still connected to the mains.

Do I need to switch the mains off and drain the whole system or is there a simpler/quicker way?

The valve itself seems to be the cartridge type found in modern taps, can it be replaced separately or does the whole housing need replaced?

Have loosened it as far as I dare and wrapped some ptfe tape round the threads but still leaks so am guessing it needs replaced.

nofoollikeold

1. You won't be able to change a valve without draining down below the level of the valve to be changed unless you really know what you are doing. If you do know, then:
1a. If Combi boiler release system pressure and change one valve at a time. You'll get some water out but not much as its a sealed system.
1b. If not a sealed system (small header tank in loft) you could try "bunging" the expansion pipe and the CH feed.
1c. Or freeze the flow and return pipes to the radiator.

HoolyNI

I fiddled about a bit more and got the leak stopped then noticed a drip on the other side, so its seems just the act of turning the handle makes the things leak....have managed to find settings on both valves that stops the leaks and lets the radiator heat up so will leave well alone.