Hanging a Radiator: A Complete Guide

Whether you’re replacing an old radiator or fitting a brand-new one, getting it securely mounted on the wall is one of the most important parts of the job. Hanging a radiator correctly ensures it works efficiently, looks good, and stays safely in place. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, from understanding why proper fitting matters to avoiding common pitfalls, so you can achieve a professional result.

Table of Contents

1. Why hang a radiator properly?
2. How to hang a radiator yourself
• Step 1 - Planning and preparation
• Step 2 - Marking bracket positions
• Step 3 - Fixing the brackets and hanging the radiator
• Step 4 - Connecting valves
• Step 5 - Filling, bleeding and testing
• Common mistakes to avoid
3. How to hang a radiator on a plasterboard wall
4. Getting a professional to hang your radiator
5. Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
6. Massive selection of radiators at TradeRadiators.com

Why hang a radiator properly?

Hanging a radiator might seem straightforward, but the way you mount it has a direct impact on heat performance, safety, and aesthetics. Here’s why it matters.

Optimal heating performance

Radiators need adequate airflow around them to distribute heat evenly. Mounting the unit at the correct height and distance from walls or skirting boards allows warm air to circulate efficiently, ensuring the room heats up faster and more evenly.

• Further reading: Where Should I Be Putting My Radiator?

Safety and stability

Radiators filled with water can be surprisingly heavy. Properly securing the brackets and ensuring they’re fixed to a solid surface prevents wobbling, leaning, or, in the worst case, the radiator coming loose. This is especially important in homes with children or pets.

Longevity of your radiator and wall

Incorrect hanging can put strain on both the radiator and the wall fixings, leading to warping, cracked plaster, or leaks over time. A well-mounted radiator will remain secure and in good condition for years.

A neat, professional finish

The right position and alignment can transform the look of a room. Straight, level radiators with evenly spaced brackets give a more polished appearance and complement your décor.

How to hang a radiator yourself

Tools you'll need

• Spirit level
• Tape measure
• Drill and appropriate wall drill bits
• Wall plugs (suitable for your wall type)
• Screws
• Pencil for marking
• Radiator brackets (usually supplied with your radiator)
• Protective dust sheet
• Adjustable spanner
• PTFE tape (if connecting valves)

The video below shows James the professional plumber going through the full process of hanging a radiator. Though he's actually installing it in a pub, the steps he takes are exactly the same as you would need to do in your own home. This video is useful for demonstrating the steps involved in hanging a radiator yourself or helping you make the decision for getting in a professional to take care of it for you.

• Further reading: Choosing The Right Type of Radiator

Step 1 - Preparation and positioning

Before you start drilling or lifting a single tool, it’s worth taking time in preparing your workspace and deciding exactly where the new radiator will go. Getting this stage right will make the rest of the process much smoother.

• Measure your space carefully
  Take precise measurements of the area where the radiator will be installed, including the height, width, and depth available. Remember to account for skirting boards, window sills, and furniture. A radiator that’s too large may not fit neatly, while a rad that’s too small won’t heat the room effectively.
• Check pipework and valve positions
  Identify where the existing pipework is located, or where new pipes will need to be run. The position of the valves will dictate the radiator’s placement, so ensure they align with your chosen model. If the pipework needs to be adjusted, consider whether this is within your DIY skill set or if a plumber should handle it.
• Consider heat output and efficiency
  Use our BTU Heating Calculator to work out the correct heat output for the size and type of room. Placing the radiator under a window can help combat cold draughts, but avoid locations where large furniture will block heat flow.
• Prepare the working area
  Clear the surrounding space so you have easy access to the wall and pipework. Lay down dust sheets or old towels to protect flooring, and have all your tools and fittings organised and within reach. This will prevent unnecessary delays once installation begins.

Step 2 - Marking bracket positions

Positioning your brackets accurately is really important in ensuring your radiator hangs level and securely. Even a small miscalculation here can cause alignment issues later on.

• Use the manufacturer’s template or measure manually
  Many radiators come with a paper or cardboard template showing bracket locations. If not, measure the exact distance between bracket fixing points on the back of the radiator. Transfer these measurements to the wall using a tape measure.
• Account for pipe alignment
  Double-check that your bracket marks will position the radiator so the valve inlets align perfectly with the pipework. A slight mismatch can make connecting valves awkward or require extra adjustment.
• Mark your drill points clearly
  Use a sharp pencil or fine marker to pinpoint where each screw hole will go. This will prevent any confusion when you start drilling.
• Use a spirit level
  Ensure your bracket marks are perfectly level horizontally and vertically. An uneven radiator is not only unattractive but can also cause operational issues with water flow.

Step 3 - Fixing the brackets and hanging the radiator

With your marks in place, you can secure the brackets to the wall and position the radiator. Proper fixing is essential to support the weight of a filled radiator.

• Select the right fixings
  The weight of a radiator varies by size and material, so use wall plugs and screws appropriate for your wall type (solid, stud, or plasterboard). For heavier cast iron radiators, additional support or floor-mounted feet may be needed.
• Drill pilot holes
  Use a drill bit that matches the size of your wall plugs and drill straight into your marked points. For tiled surfaces, use a tile drill bit and proceed slowly to avoid cracking.
• Attach the brackets securely
  Insert the wall plugs, then fix the brackets in place using the screws provided. Tighten firmly but avoid over-tightening, which could damage the plugs or wall.
• Hang the radiator carefully
  Lift the radiator onto the brackets, ensuring it clicks or rests securely in position. Check that it’s level before moving on.

Step 4 - Connecting valves

The valves are your link between the radiator and the central heating system, so getting a watertight connection is crucial.

• Identify valve types
  Determine whether you’re fitting angled, straight, or corner valves, depending on your pipe layout. Make sure they are compatible with your radiator’s inlet size.
• Apply PTFE tape to threads
  Wrap PTFE tape clockwise around the male threads of the valve tails to help create a tight, leak-free seal.
• Tighten connections gradually
  Use an adjustable spanner to tighten nuts evenly. Avoid over-tightening, as this can damage threads or crack fittings.
• Check for correct orientation
  Ensure the manual or thermostatic valve heads are positioned conveniently for operation, and that pipes align neatly with no strain on the joints.

Step 5 - Filling, bleeding and testing

Once the radiator is in place and connected, you can fill it with water, remove trapped air, and check for leaks.

• Open the valves slowly
  Turn on both the flow and return valves to allow water to enter the radiator gradually. Filling too quickly can cause pressure surges or splashing.
• Bleed the radiator
  Use a radiator key to open the bleed valve at the top until water flows steadily. This releases trapped air, helping the radiator heat evenly.
• Check for leaks
  Inspect all joints, connections, and around the valve tails. If you spot drips, close the valves, drain slightly, and retighten the fitting.
• Test the heating system
  Turn the central heating on and allow the radiator to reach full temperature. Check for even heat distribution and re-bleed if any cold spots remain.

Common mistakes to avoid

Not draining the system fully

Failing to properly drain your central heating system before starting work can lead to messy leaks and water damage. Even a small amount of water left in the pipes can spill when you disconnect the old radiator or cut into the system. Always isolate the radiator valves, drain it completely, and if needed, open the bleed valve to let air in so water flows out more easily.

• Further reading: How to Drain a Central Heating System

Incorrect bracket positioning

If your brackets are misaligned or at the wrong height, the radiator may hang unevenly, creating strain on the fittings and affecting heat output. Even being a few millimetres off can cause problems with valve alignment. Use a spirit level for both horizontal and vertical checks, and measure twice before drilling.

Overtightening fittings

It’s tempting to tighten nuts and joints as much as possible to prevent leaks, but overtightening can actually damage threads, crush washers, or crack valve housings. This can lead to slow leaks or even sudden failures once the system is under pressure. Aim for firm but not excessive tightening. Making them hand-tight, plus a gentle turn with a spanner, is usually enough.

Forgetting to bleed the system

Air trapped in the radiator will stop hot water circulating properly, leading to cold spots and reduced efficiency. Always bleed the radiator after filling the system, and recheck the pressure at the boiler afterwards. Skipping this step means you may not realise the heating isn’t performing optimally until your home feels colder than it should.

• Further reading: How to Bleed a Radiator - A Complete Guide

Not checking for leaks immediately

Some leaks only become visible once the system is fully up to temperature. After installation, run the heating and carefully inspect all connections, including valve joints, bleed points, and pipe fittings, while it’s hot and under pressure. Early detection prevents bigger issues later.

• Further reading: How to Fix a Leak in Your Radiator or Copper Pipes

Using the wrong type of wall fixing

A radiator full of water is surprisingly heavy, and if you use wall plugs or screws unsuitable for your wall type, the brackets may loosen or pull away over time. Masonry, plasterboard, and stud walls each require different fixings, so always choose the correct type for the wall construction.

Failing to flush the system

If your central heating water is full of sludge or debris, connecting a new radiator without flushing can reduce its lifespan and heating performance. Power flushing or at least adding inhibitor chemicals before fitting a new radiator is a worthwhile step.

• Further reading: How to Flush Sludge Out of Your Radiator

Not allowing for expansion

Metal expands as it heats. If the radiator or pipework is installed too rigidly without some movement allowance, expansion can cause creaks, groans, and even minor damage over time. Ensure brackets and valve connections have enough tolerance for thermal movement.

How to hang a radiator on a plasterboard wall

Hanging a radiator on a plasterboard (also know as 'drywall') wall can be trickier than on solid brick or blockwork because plasterboard isn’t as strong. If you try to fix heavy brackets directly into it without the right preparation or fittings, the weight of the radiator can pull the fixings out over time, especially once the radiator is filled with water. This is why it’s essential to use the correct wall anchors, reinforcement, and fixing techniques to make sure the radiator stays securely in place.

Even smaller radiators can weigh a surprising amount once filled, and larger designs, like tall vertical models or classic columns,  can put significant strain on the wall. In the video below, James the professional plumber walks you through the specific steps and materials needed to mount a radiator safely to plasterboard, so you can avoid the common pitfalls that lead to wobbly brackets or, worse, a damaged wall.

Why plasterboard is different

Plasterboard won’t take heavy loads unless you use the right fixings. The trick is to use robust anchors/toggle plugs or specialist expanding fixings and to make sure the top brackets carry the weight while the bottom clips merely locate the radiator.

Before you start

• Use a piece of 12mm plasterboard to practise if you can, the video uses a 4×2 stud mock-up.
• Gather fixings: large expanding plugs or toggle anchors for the top brackets, smaller plugs for the bottom, pilot drill bits, an impact driver, spirit level, pencil and Allen key.
• Further reading: Fitting a Radiator: A Complete Guide

1. Find and mark the centres

Place the radiator roughly where it will sit. Use a spirit level to draw a straight centre line. Measure the distance between the radiator’s mounting centres (the columns) and divide that measurement by two to find the midpoint marks. Always mark with pencil so you can rub the marks away later.

2. Decide radiator height

Decide how high you want the bottom edge from the floor (common is around 150–200mm). Measure from the floor up to determine the position of the bottom and top brackets, and mark these with a level to ensure everything is horizontal.

3. Drill pilot holes and choose fixings

Always start with a small pilot hole in plasterboard. Then step up to the drill size required for your chosen plug. For heavy rads use robust expanding or toggle anchors, which spread or flip out behind the board to give a secure grip. For the bottom locating clips you can use smaller plugs; the top bracket fixings must be the beefiest.

4. Fit plugs and mount brackets (don’t fully tighten yet)

Insert the plugs, tap home, and screw the bracket screws in, but don’t fully tighten as the bottom fittings need a little movement later to clip onto the radiator. For expanding anchors, assemble as per the manufacturer and tighten until they lock behind the plasterboard.

5. Attach the radiator clamps

Many column radiators use two-part clamp fittings that clip around the columns and screw together. Fit these to the radiator columns and loosely secure with the Allen screw. They’re adjustable up and down, which helps correct small marking errors later.

6. Hang the radiator

Pop the small bottom clips onto the radiator first, then offer the rad up and slide the bottom clips onto the bracket track. Lift, hook the top into place, then let the radiator drop so it sits on the top brackets. Slide the bottom clips down and lock everything in place.

7. Fit grommets and decorative shrouds

Fit rubber grommets around the brackets before final tightening as they stop annoying clicking and vibration. Finish by tightening locking screws and attaching the decorative fascia to hide the fixings.

8. Final checks

Make sure the radiator is level, there’s no side-to-side play, and all screws are secure. If the radiator is large, always use two people to lift and position it. And no, don’t stand on it to prove how strong the fittings are, As James the plumber says, “don’t try this at home, folks.”

Top tips from the demo

• Use pencil for layout marks so you can tidy up afterwards.
• If you made a small measuring error, the clamp fittings are adjustable and they’re forgiving.
• For very heavy radiators, prefer specialist toggle anchors or screw into timber noggins where possible.
• If you’re unsure about fixings or wall construction, stop and ask a pro.

Getting a professional to hang your radiator

While hanging a radiator on the wall is something many confident DIYers can tackle, especially if the pipework is already in place and you’re simply replacing like-for-like, there are times when calling in a Gas Safe Registered engineer (for central heating radiators) or a qualified electrician (for electric radiators) is the more practical choice.

If you’re not fully confident working with plumbing or heating systems, or if your job involves new pipework, relocating the radiator, or integrating it into an existing central heating circuit, it’s wise to hire a qualified plumber or heating engineer. A professional will ensure the brackets are fixed securely to the wall, the pipework is correctly aligned, and the system is refilled and bled without causing damage or introducing leaks.

More complex jobs, like installing multiple radiators, working in older properties, or dealing with tricky wall materials, require experience and the right tools. A seasoned professional will not only manage the technical installation but may also offer better bracket positioning or mounting solutions you hadn’t considered. If your central heating system hasn’t been serviced in years, they can also check whether your boiler is capable of handling the additional demand from new radiators.

Here’s a rough guide to labour costs for professional radiator hanging and installation, courtesy of Checkatrade:

These are average labour costs and don’t include the radiator itself. Prices can vary depending on your location. For example, London rates are typically higher than those in smaller towns or rural areas.

For electric radiators, always use a qualified electrician. These must be wired according to legal safety regulations and should never be attempted as a DIY job.

Some tradespeople will supply and fit a radiator of their choice, which may be fine if your priority is simply a functional heat source. However, if you have a specific style, finish, or brand in mind, it’s often best to source it yourself and then hire a professional purely for the installation.

Whichever route you take, use our Heating Calculator to input your room’s dimensions before buying. That way, you’ll know the exact heat output (BTU rating) your radiator needs to comfortably warm the space, and you can make sure the one you choose is both stylish and effective.

• Further reading: What is the Cost of a New Radiator?

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Massive selection of radiators at TradeRadiators.com

If you’d like to pick a radiator that truly reflects your taste, rather than simply going with whatever your installer suggests, then take a look at the wide and varied collection at Trade Radiators.

As the UK’s largest independent supplier of radiators, heated towel rails, and electric heating products, Trade Radiators is known for its combination of quality, great value, and an unmatched choice of styles. Whether you’re after a statement-making designer radiator, a space-saving vertical option, or finishing touches like valves and accessories, you’ll find something to suit every space and budget.

With competitive prices, free delivery to mainland UK, and many models available for next working day dispatch, upgrading your heating has never been more straightforward. Discover the right radiator for your home, exactly when you need it, exclusively from Trade Radiators.

For extra ideas, we’ve also shared some fantastic customer photos showcasing their new radiators in situ. They’re a great way to see how different styles can transform your own living space.