How do I remove the small radiator (steam heat) from my bathroom?

Question

I have a small radiator in my very very very tiny apartment bathroom. I've been here for years and never used it but would like to move a small cabinet into the bathroom. My landlord wouldn't mind me removing it but won't have it done for me.

The question is how the heck do I do it? What tools do I need, has anyone done this before? Please give me some tips or direct me to some good info on this! THANKS!!!

Answer 1

There are one pipe, and two pipe type radiators. the fitting for each have half unions on the hand valve (entering) and or the radiator trap (on the leaving side). Some Radiators are cabinet type copper /aluminum fin coils. but all are piped with old iron pipes and fitting up to the brass hand valve entering and the trap leaving the radiator. You have already been advised to be careful of the old pipes which might break when moved. Using Adjustable thin pipe wrenches the half union of the hand valve and the half union of the trap can be loosened and the radiator lifted out. then the Hand valve removed by using two wrenches one to back up and hold the pipe that will be left the other to turn the hand valve. Same procedure for the trap. Then before steam or heat season a pipe cap (the size of the pipe threads) needs to be screwed on the pipe end that is left exposed. Take the hand valve to the hardware store to match the size and ask for a  black pipe cap that size for the two nipples left standing. Is probably 1/2 inch on a small radiator.

But and experienced steam fitter or plumber will tell you... its a tuff job to unscrew those fittings and back up the fitting when working with old piping.

Good luck

Answer 2

The radiator probably has been there for years, so the fittings are rusty and can break easily, you could get in a bad mess an have to replace pipes, tear out floors, ceilings. Call a plumber and see if he would do it. Take his advice.

Answer 3

radiators are free standing.

You will need an adjustable wrench to take off the fitting at the top and and the fitting on the bottom.  They are also heavy and you may need someone to help you lug it outside.  Also be prepared to catch some water.