Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Turn the radiator valves
• Method 2 of 2: Remove the lock shield valve
• Warnings
• Necessities
• Remove a lock shield valve

A radiator uses water and steam to heat your home, but if you want to keep it cooler or do maintenance, you'll have to turn it off. Radiators, whether in 1-pipe or 2-pipe systems, can be easily switched off with just a few simple tools.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Turn the radiator valves

1. Find the thermostatic valve, which is often on the left side of the radiator. Usually the thermostatic tap is at the bottom. If not, it's probably on the top left. See if you see a rotary knob with numbers on it, because this is what a thermostatic valve looks like.
   • While some radiators only have an on / off switch, a radiator with a thermostat allows you to control the amount of heat it radiates.
   • If your radiator doesn't have a thermostat or has a single pipe system, you can skip this step.
2. Turn the valve cock clockwise until it stops. Turn by hand until the arrow on the dial points to zero. Now you know for sure that it is off and cannot turn on by itself.
3. Find the second valve on the right side of the radiator. This valve is also usually located near the floor, but on the right side. There should be a plastic screw cap on the valve.
   • If you don't have a thermostatic valve, all you have to do is turn this valve.
4. Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. As soon as both valves are closed, the radiator is completely switched off and can cool down.
   • Let the radiator cool for at least an hour before touching it.

Method 2 of 2: Remove the lock shield valve

1. Remove the screw from the valve cap, if there is one. Look on the right side of your radiator near the floor to find the valve. Use a screwdriver and turn the screw counterclockwise until it is loose. Put the screw in a safe place so you don't lose it.
   • Not all lock shield valves have a screw.
   • Check the valve beforehand to determine if you need a flat-head or Phillips screwdriver.
2. Remove the cap from the valve. Lock shield valves have caps that do not regulate when you try to turn them. Remove the cap to access the actual valve underneath. When the screw is removed, take the cap off the valve and set it aside so you don't lose it.
   • If your valve cap had a screw, keep it with the cap.
3. Turn the valve clockwise using sturdy pliers. Grasp the top of the metal valve with the pliers and turn the valve clockwise. Keep turning the valve until it stops. When it is all the way to the right, the radiator is off.
   • The metal valve may be hot, so do not touch it with your bare hands.

Warnings

• Do not touch the valve metal with your bare hands as it can be hot.

Necessities

Remove a lock shield valve

• Screwdriver
• Tang