Radiators were traditionally placed under windows to counter the cold down-draught from single glazing. With modern double glazing that matters far less, so many people move radiators to free a window wall for a kitchen run, a desk or a bed, or to make space for fitted wardrobes. The radiator can go almost anywhere on an inside or outside wall, as long as the pipes can reach it and the wall can take the fixings.
The cost and mess depend on the distance and route. Moving a radiator a short way along the same wall may only need short pipe extensions, while moving it to the opposite side of the room usually means lifting floorboards or running pipe across the floor void. The old pipe tails are capped or removed below the floor and the holes in the wall and floor are filled, ready for decorating.
What is included
- Agreeing the new position and checking the wall can take the fixings
- Draining down the system
- Removing the radiator and capping or removing the old tails
- Extending or rerouting flow and return pipework
- Refitting the radiator, or a new one, with new valves if wanted
- Filling fixing holes and pipe holes ready for decoration
- Refilling, adding inhibitor, bleeding and balancing
Who it is for
- Kitchen refits where units need the radiator wall
- Bathroom refits moving to a towel rail or new layout
- Fitted wardrobes, shelving or media walls
- Bedrooms where the radiator stops the bed going where you want
- Homes changing from under-window to inside-wall layouts
How much does it cost?
As a guide, moving a radiator usually costs £200 to £500, rising where pipes run across a concrete floor, through walls or a long distance. Combining it with other heating work in the same visit saves on draining and refilling. See our full cost guide.