How and how to remove paint from a radiator - means for removing old paint before painting a radiator

Over time, the paint on the heating battery swells and cracks due to exposure to high temperatures.

To restore the original appearance, it is necessary to remove the old paintwork, then reapply it.

This process requires time and a certain skill. We will tell you in this article how to remove old paint from a cast iron or aluminum radiator at home.

Preparing the radiator for painting

Before you start applying paint to the heating radiator, its surface must first be prepared for painting.
The preparation process may take longer than the painting itself, but will result in a better quality paint job. Old, cracked paint and rust must be removed using a wire brush, coarse sandpaper or special solutions that soften the paint and weaken its connection to the surface of the battery. Removing old paint and rust creates a rougher surface that allows the new paint to bond better to the radiator surface.

Brushing disc brush.

Using manual mechanical cleaning tools (wire brush, sandpaper) is a long and labor-intensive process that can be sped up using a power tool. The most suitable tool in this case is a grinder with a special grinding wheel or brush. However, when using an angle grinder, you need to know when to stop and not overdo it, because

high rotation speeds allow you to quickly remove paint and rust, after which you can inadvertently begin to erase the surface of the radiator itself (if you use a cleaning wheel), which of course should not be done

The use of solvents to remove paint (so-called strippers) is the fastest way to remove old paint, but at the same time the most “harmful”.

Important! Special solvents for paint removal pose a danger to human health. Therefore, when using them, good ventilation of the room and the use of personal protective equipment (goggles, gloves, respirator or mask) are mandatory. Acrylic enamel “Rainbow” for metal and heating radiators

Acrylic enamel “Rainbow” for metal and heating radiators.

There are 2 main types of washes:

• In liquid form;
• In aerosol form.

Liquid-based removers are applied with a brush (this is their main drawback: the difficulty of applying to the internal parts of the radiator), after 10-15 minutes. the paint will soften and can be removed with a spatula or wire brush. After this, use a sponge to wash the surface to be treated with soap and water.

The solution with liquid is in a high-strength container, so it is prohibited to pour it into another container. A 6-section cast iron radiator requires about 0.5 liters. washes.

An aerosol-based cleaner is sprayed onto the surface of the radiator from a can. The advantage of the aerosol is that it can be applied to the most inaccessible parts of the heating device. As a rule, aerosol removers are universal means and are suitable for removing any type of paint for a heating radiator, regardless of the basis on which they are made.

Before spraying, you must carefully cover all nearby furnishings, the floor and the wall behind the radiator. 15-40 minutes after applying the aerosol, the paint softens and is easy to remove with any available means (spatula, metal brush, etc.).

Waterproof enamel for radiators VGT super white. Weight: 0.5 kg, enough for 5 m².

Advice! As an anti-corrosion agent, you can additionally use corrosion inhibitors, which slow down or completely stop the corrosion process of metal products. High-quality inhibitors are able to penetrate the radiator metal even through thick layers of corrosion. This allows you to reach the most remote areas of the heating device (blockages in the connections).

Removing paint by heating it

During heat treatment of the radiator, harmful substances are released, so for work you will need personal protective equipment (respirator, rubber gloves, goggles), in addition to this, it is better to carry out work outside, at least in a well-ventilated area.

To work, you will need a hair dryer, a wire brush and a spatula. Using a construction hair dryer, the surface of the radiator is heated until the old paint begins to swell. At this point you can begin to remove it. The disadvantages of the thermal method of removing paint include the fact that high temperatures can damage the intersection gaskets of the radiator.

Aerosol for radiators. White semi-gloss. 1 cylinder for 8 sections. With smell. Drying time 2 hours.

The right choice of coloring composition

Before you clean the batteries from paint, you need to go to a building materials store and buy a new paint composition there.

To paint heating appliances, it is necessary to choose heat-resistant paints, the basis for which can be:

1. Acrylic . Water-based compositions, which include acrylic polymer, remain as bright and odorless for a long time. They can be given any shade you like by adding the appropriate pigment to the base enamel. Acrylic paint intended for application to the surface of batteries is designed for heating temperatures not exceeding 80 ºС.
2. Alcides . The basis for such coloring compositions are organic solvents. The result is coatings that are stronger than acrylic ones. If you need to paint the radiator white or light color, it is better not to use alkyd enamel, since the surface of the devices will quickly turn yellow. Alkyd-based compositions can be used to paint batteries, but only in dark shades.
3. Heat-resistant varnish . Aluminum or bronze powder is added to it.
4. Silicone resin.

In order to give old cast iron radiators a more aesthetic appearance, two-component compositions are used. In them, heat-resistant varnish is mixed with powder, the color of which can be matched to silver, gold or bronze. Their cost is low, but at the same time they are well applied to devices and are durable.

Silicone coatings have similar properties, but such enamels are expensive. The process of applying them is simple, since they are sold in aerosol cans. Silicone-based compounds are sold in a wide range of colors.

When choosing a coating, first of all, take into account its thermal resistance.

Painting aluminum radiators

The need to paint aluminum heating devices occurs very rarely, but it is important to know and understand how to properly paint an aluminum radiator. The fact is that radiator painting is carried out by professional craftsmen at one of the production stages, and special powder paint is used.

It is almost impossible to achieve such a high-quality result at home. In addition, home dyeing may void the manufacturer's warranty.

However, during transportation or during installation of aluminum heating devices, small cracks or chips may appear, due to which the appearance of the radiator loses its attractiveness. In this case, it is recommended to use auto enamel. This paint composition dries quite quickly; at a surface temperature of 130 degrees, one layer of paint dries in 20 minutes. When working with car enamel, it is recommended to use personal protective equipment, and the windows should be open. To obtain a high-quality result when deciding how to properly paint a battery, the sprayer is kept at a distance of about 30 cm from the surface to be treated. It is not recommended to keep the stream in one place, as smudges may form.

Reasons and need for cleaning

Why is it necessary to make efforts to clean heating devices? Like any objects in a residential area, heating radiators become dirty, not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Dust accumulates on the surface of appliances, which can negatively affect the well-being of residents. In addition to dust, such devices often have greasy contaminants that are difficult to remove.

It is necessary to thoroughly rinse heating batteries if:

• the battery heats up unevenly - one part differs in temperature from the other even to the touch;
• the apartment warm-up time has increased compared to previous seasons;
• radiators are cooler than the thermal mains;
• For residents of private houses, a characteristic sign of the need for flushing is the fact of an increase in energy resources for heating, provided that heat transfer is reduced or maintained at the same level.

Contamination of heating batteries occurs due to changes in the quality of the liquid. This fact contributes to the settling of mechanical particles moving together with the coolant. After the end of the season, the water is drained, and corrosion often begins to develop inside the pipe. When the heating season resumes, under the pressure of hot water, corrosive particles begin to move and settle in the radiator. Over time, debris builds up, which can lead to blockages and poor performance. Thus, lack of cleaning can lead to a decrease in the heat output of the batteries while maintaining the same costs.

Paint for cast iron radiators

If you decide to cover MS-140 cast iron radiators with glossy paint, then on their surface you will be able to see all the roughness, which, due to the shine, will become even more pronounced. Matte paint will make the batteries look more grey. It may seem like there is no way out, but the problem can be solved.

There are several options for solving this problem:

• Choose multi-colored acrylic enamel for radiators. The fact is that white color looks organic only on light or completely white surfaces. But in all other cases, designers advise painting radiators in a shade close to the color of the walls. Therefore, for cast iron radiators you can freely use matte enamel without fear that it will turn gray and lose color. Hammer paint with a textured pattern performed well - after painting, defects on the surface are invisible.
• Of course, there are times when the only solution is white paint for heating radiators. However, be prepared for the fact that radiators will require repainting after about 2-3 years.
• Alternatively, defects in the surface of radiators can be pre-leveled with putty - polyester for cars or epoxy. Before puttying, the surface is degreased and primed. Then the radiator is sanded, dust removed with a dry cloth and painted. With this approach, both glossy and semi-gloss shades of paint will look equally beautiful. However, be prepared for a lot of hard work. Although the end result will please you.

Thanks to the presented options, you can more freely approach the choice of suitable paint for heating radiators.

Mechanical removal of old coating

The mechanical method of cleaning a heating structure from the old finish is considered the most labor-intensive, but also effective. Any hand or power tool will help. The most convenient one is an angle grinder, or grinder in other words. Instead of a disk, a wire brush is attached to it - a brush. You can replace the grinder with a screwdriver, drill or other strongly rotating tool. You will have to make an effort to carry out manual mechanical processing and get rid of dust, because there will be a lot of it, but after a couple of hours there will be no trace left of the old coating.

It is not always necessary to completely remove old paint from the heating system; sometimes it is enough to remove obvious “rags” with a spatula and sand them with sandpaper. It is impossible to achieve ideal smoothness of cast iron batteries; to do this, the surface must be well primed. Therefore, before choosing a cleaning method, you need to decide whether it will be carried out completely or partially.

Chemical solutions

This method is more advanced. If this method is used correctly, there will be no more questions about how old paint is removed. It is aimed at ensuring that any type of paint softens and is easily removed using construction spatulas, brushes, and scrapers.

In addition, you can prepare chemical reagents yourself or buy them at specialized construction stores. The range of these products is quite wide (alkaline or organic type), but it is necessary to take into account the texture and age of the paint that needs to be removed.

The advantages of this method are the low use of physical force, ease of use, very fast response and for all surfaces and types of paint.

There are probably too many disadvantages, but if you carefully use the instructions for using the reagent, correctly use means that protect against certain influences, and work in a well-ventilated area, the result will pleasantly surprise you!

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So, if you have purchased a chemical reagent, carefully read the instructions for use, wear gloves, a respirator, safety glasses, a suit that covers exposed areas of the body, allow the room to be constantly ventilated, or do the work outside.

Now, evenly, using a brush (a roller is also suitable), apply the solution and leave for the required amount of time. After softening the layer to be removed, remove the surface using spatulas, brushes or scrapers. If some of the paint remains, repeat the procedure again.

For example, if the surface (floor) allows, you can moisten it with plain water and generously cover it with soda ash, cover it with damp rags, maintain the humidity of the surface being treated for 24 hours, and then the swollen paint will be easily removed with a spatula.

Very often, inventive people use a mixture of three parts quicklime and one part soda ash diluted in water until thick. It is enough to apply this mixture for twelve hours and then, in the same way, with a spatula, remove the softened paint.

Some people also try using a liquid glass solution. It is bought ready-made, applied to the surface to be treated, allowed to dry completely, and, thanks to the properties of this substance, the hardened liquid glass eventually separates along with the surface on which it was applied.

Security measures

Removing paint from a cast iron radiator is always associated with the interaction of harmful substances and the human respiratory system. To protect yourself from inhaling dust and particles of material, you must always work in a respirator or gauze bandage.

The use of chemicals may cause harm if droplets of the material come into contact with clothing or clothing. Gloves and a full suit will help prevent such consequences. Eyes are protected with special construction glasses. They will also protect against solid particles of the flying coating. After the cleaning procedure, the room is well ventilated, surfaces are wiped of dust, and the floor is vacuumed.

Removing old paint from a battery is not at all difficult if you have even a minimum of information and no skills. Having studied the technology a little and what means exist for this, you can clean the devices in one day and start transforming them.

How to remove old paint from radiators and completely remove any remaining coating?

Peeling paint on heating radiators significantly spoils the aesthetic appearance of both the heating system itself and the entire room. In addition, when carrying out painting work, before applying new enamel to the battery, the old one must be removed. Before removing paint from batteries, they must be thoroughly cleaned of dust. At the next stage, the radiators must be primed, and then, carefully, evenly apply new enamel to their surface in an even layer.

Most people (more than 40%) use radiators made of cast iron as their heating system. As a rule, they act as the main element of decor in a room, emphasizing the antique interior and design of the room. However, in some cases, replacing or removing cast iron radiators is not possible due to the nature of the heating system, which does not allow for its updating.

Before painting batteries and applying a new layer of paint to their surface, the previous layer must be properly removed. To do this you will need to acquire tools such as:

1. Metal brush.
2. Coarse sandpaper.
3. Sanding attachments.
4. An electric drill or angle grinder (angle grinder), preferably with a wheel diameter of no more than 150 mm.

Don't forget about safety precautions. When carrying out work to remove paint and varnish from the surface of radiators, it is recommended to use protective, durable glasses, rubberized gloves, and a respirator. To quickly remove enamel, as an alternative to metal brushes and sandpaper, you can use special chemicals.

It is preferable to remove paint and varnish material from removed radiators outdoors. However, this is not always possible. Regardless of the chosen cleaning method, mechanical or chemical, during work it is necessary to use rubberized or thick fabric gloves, a respirator, and safety glasses.

Enamel removal work must be carried out with the heating system turned off. Mechanical cleaning involves the use of abrasive agents, such as sandpaper. Liquid remover can be used for removal in hard-to-reach areas of the radiator, such as on the fins. However, it is not recommended to use the remover at the joints of battery sections where there are gaskets made of rubber.

How to remove old paint from a radiator? There are many proven methods that can effectively remove the outdated layer of paint from heating system radiators. The most effective and most common of them are the following methods:

1. mechanical;
2. chemical;
3. thermal.

Peeling paint on a radiator only spoils the look of the room and needs to be removed. Before removing the old paint from the battery, it is cleaned of dust, and then primed and coated with new enamel.

More than 40% of the population still have old cast iron radiators at home. They can serve as an element of interior design, in which some “old-fashioned” is provided, or they can be in the room due to the impossibility of updating the heating system.

Before starting the main task, the work surface must be cleaned of dust and debris. This is done using a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth. Provided that the old coating has a presentable appearance and is not peeling off, you can save time by using sandpaper and applying new enamel. But this is done only as a last resort, because in addition to aesthetics, the multi-layer coating takes away heat.

With a variety of tips on removing old paint from batteries, there are only a few that are effective and truly helpful:

• chemical remover;
• heat treatment;
• mechanical removal of old finishes.

Preparatory activities

It is preferable to remove old enamel before starting renovations in the room, after preliminary preparatory work has been carried out on the walls and floor.

Before starting the enamel cleaning procedure, it is recommended to prepare the following tools:

• metal brush;
• coarse sandpaper;
• metal spatula;
• electric drill, grinding machine equipped with a wheel diameter of 150 mm;
• vacuum cleaner;
• a simple rag.

Before removing the paint surface from the product, it is recommended to stock up on safety glasses, rubberized gloves, and a respirator.

If there is a need to clean old enamel after renovation work has been carried out in the room,
you will need film or high-strength paper to isolate the workplace from dust and dirt .
It is better to remove enamel from removed heating batteries outdoors. Removal of old paint is carried out only after turning off the heating system.

How to remove?

Today, there are many ways to easily remove old paint from heating radiators.

The most effective ones include the following:

• chemical;
• mechanical;
• thermal.

Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this regard, before starting the procedure, you should familiarize yourself with all the methods.

Chemical removers

Using this method, old enamel is removed by exposure to a chemical composition. In hardware stores you can purchase a specialized composition and remover. It is available in the form of a spray and gel.

Gel

The most common type is gel washes. They consist of components whose action is aimed at destroying the facing layer.

After exposure to the gel, the process of peeling off the old layer of the paint surface occurs. As a result, the paint softens, becomes thin, peels off and is easily removed with a spatula. For work, it is better to use a gel remover that does not flow off a vertical surface.

When cleaning the old coating with a chemical composition in the form of a gel, it is difficult to treat the inside of the heating battery

The wash application procedure is carried out with care. The composition must be in a special container made of material characterized by increased strength

Instructions for cleaning a heating radiator using a chemical gel:

The chemical is applied to the product using a brush from the factory container. The battery is processed using broad strokes. The composition is applied to the radiator for 5-15 minutes. Contact time depends on the condition of the surface and the aggressiveness of the remover. The old coating layer is removed with a metal spatula or brush

It is important to ensure that the composition does not dry out. The heating battery is washed with soapy water and dried.

If everything is done in accordance with the instructions for use, there will be no traces of old paint left on the product.

The cleaning procedure must be carried out with care. To avoid harm to health from chemicals, you should use safety glasses, gloves, and a respirator.

Aerosol

Aerosol removers are suitable for removing any paint coating and do not harm the product. This type of product must be used taking into account the following safety rules:

• cleaning is carried out in a well-ventilated area;
• flooring and furniture should be protected from aerosol;
• work is carried out in rubber gloves, sealed goggles, and a respirator.

Instructions for removing old paint from heating radiators using an aerosol:

1. Spray the product with an aerosol. One can is designed to treat a cast iron battery.
2. After 15-30 minutes, the old paint swells.
3. Further processing is carried out with a spatula.

It may not be possible to completely remove the old paint after the procedure. In this case, the treatment should be repeated after 2 hours.

The video will tell you how to remove old paint from a battery using a remover:

Mechanical method

The mechanical method is the most difficult, but does not require any money.

To work you will need the following set of tools:

• to eliminate large swellings, it is better to use a drill with a metal brush;
• You can use a grinder with a brush, a drill with an attachment, or a grinder with an abrasive wheel.

After processing, a small amount of paintwork remains. It can be easily removed with coarse sandpaper, a sharp spatula, a metal sponge, or a file.

How to remove thermally?

You can remove old paint from a cast iron battery using a thermal method. To carry out this procedure, you need to prepare the following set of devices:

• blowtorch or hair dryer;
• metal brush;
• putty knife;
• rags.

Before using a construction hairdryer, it is necessary to protect the walls with cardboard from thermal effects.

Before heat treatment, it is recommended to remove the heating batteries.

Instructions for removing paintwork:

1. Heat the surface to be treated until the old paint begins to peel off.
2. While the coating has not cooled down, it should be removed with a spatula and a damp cloth.
3. If a trace of paint remains on the radiator, the procedure should be repeated.

Please note that working with a blowtorch should be carried out outdoors.

General recommendations

Removing paint from a heating battery in any way is made easier by the following general tips:

1. 
   The chemical remover must be kept in its original container throughout all work.

2. Rubber joints should not be treated with chemical compounds.
3. Mechanical processing should be carried out in conditions of good air circulation.
4. Before carrying out mechanical treatment, it is forbidden to apply a remover.
5. If the product is covered with three or more layers of paint, then the chemical method is not advisable. It is better to use a mechanical or thermal method to remove the coating.
6. When using chemical compounds, protection with a respirator, fabric and rubber gloves, and sealed goggles is required. The room should be well ventilated.

It is better to remove old coating in a hard-to-reach place using a wooden strip with medium-grain sandpaper. This will allow you to process the transverse ribs of the heating battery.

How to paint

How to paint radiators? The instructions depend on how much time you are willing to spend on painting and generally bringing the radiators to normal condition.

Easy way

The surface of the battery is prepared in two stages: first, the paint layers are heated with a hair dryer or gas torch and removed with a hard spatula; then the surface is cleaned with a wire brush.

The photo shows an attachment for a drill, which can simplify the work even more.

• Dust and rust residues are removed with a damp cloth.
• Then the paint, diluted to the state of rich milk, is applied in two thin layers, allowing each of them to dry completely (usually for at least a day).

There are few subtleties here, and, from the author’s point of view, their importance is exaggerated

• Do not try to paint the radiator in one go if the paint layer is visible. It is better to spend a day drying and apply another layer, otherwise you will encounter sagging and uneven coloring. However, if this does happen, it’s not a disaster; it’s enough to selectively clean the surface area again and apply another THIN layer on top.
• Is it possible to paint hot radiators? Advice based on personal experience: yes. But put VERY little paint on the brush at a time, QUICKLY rub it in as thin a layer as possible and ventilate the room well.

In this case, you will not be poisoned by quickly evaporating paint thinner, and you will not paint the radiator with untidy streaks (paint dries very quickly on a hot surface).

The right way

How to paint a heating radiator, completely returning it to the appearance of a new one, removing all the stains between the sections and the flaws of previous paintings?

The painting itself is done in the same way as in the previous case - with a brush, in two thin layers.

But the preparation of the radiator will be different:

• After dropping the risers, remove the radiator and drain the remaining water from it.
• Unscrew all the plugs - blind and straight. Remove the flushers.
• Burn the radiator for at least an hour over a regular fire in the yard. Annealing with a hairdryer or blowtorch will be tedious and ineffective.
• Disassemble the cooled radiator into separate sections using a radiator wrench: after annealing, this is easy to do.

Sections 1 are connected by nipples with oppositely directed threads: right 2 and left 3. To understand which way to turn the radiator key 4, just study the threads on the edge of the section after unscrewing the plug.

• Tap each section with a mallet. At the same time, the rust that has accumulated over many years will spill out of it, cleaning the channels inside.
• Clean sections with a wire brush. After annealing, the procedure will be quick and easy.
• Reassemble the radiator using regular rubber gaskets. They are easy to cut from an old car inner tube. The outer size is slightly smaller than the end of each section. In this case, the compressed gasket will not protrude beyond the edges.
• Mount, press by simply filling the riser and paint. You have a radiator that is free of contaminants and in factory-new condition, with the highest possible heat output and impeccable appearance.

The battery is not just painted: it will heat up no worse than a new one.

Best answers

Vyzhevsky E.A:

file sandpaper grinder

Jill:

There is a special construction hairdryer for removing paint. Or a liquid, it’s really very caustic

m:

It’s better to change them right away, there will be fewer problems

injenere:

Using a spatula and then a knife. It is not necessary to hammer to the metal. The main thing is that the surface is level

Inevitability:

Hardware stores (or construction stores) sell metal brushes; for batteries, it is better to take ones with long “hair.” the sound will be unpleasant, but the effect is obvious.

Mikhail Alekseev:

In household goods they sell remover of old paint - it's acid-based. It's a very caustic thing. Effect - 100% current You must be very careful, following the instructions and without children in the room where this cleaning is performed

Sergey:

liquid to remove old paint, but it is better to wear gloves—-

Paint for radiators. Criterias of choice.

All coloring compositions used for painting heating system elements differ in their physical and technical parameters from conventional paints and must fulfill certain requirements:

1. One of the main requirements is the absence of harmful chemical fumes under the influence of elevated temperatures. Each package must indicate the standards to which the paint corresponds. From Russian manufacturers - the norms of the current GOST. From imported manufacturers - European standards. In the absence of this marking, it is better to refuse to purchase the product in order to avoid harmful consequences.
2. The heat resistance of the purchased product must be more than 80 degrees. Otherwise, the paint will begin to crack and peel off.
3. If possible, you should purchase a quick-drying compound to speed up the painting process.
4. The paint must be corrosion resistant. This will increase the service life of the entire radiator.
5. Some types of paints have an unpleasant odor until they dry completely. This should be taken into account when painting residential areas. It is best to use these types of paints in rooms that can be well ventilated.
6. The paint must be moisture resistant for wet cleaning of the radiator.
7. High heat transfer for unhindered battery operation.

Heat treatment

Old paint can be removed by exposing it to high temperatures, but this is unlikely to be done with a hair dryer. Practice shows that this method is not as effective as in theory, and a hair dryer can remove already cracked enamel and only in its most damaged places. In our case, it is better to use a blowtorch, which will heat the paintwork in a matter of minutes, almost to the point of boiling.

Advice

It is highly not recommended to carry out such processing indoors. Paint heated to critical temperatures releases toxic substances and an unpleasant odor. Working with fire in the house requires maximum compliance with fire safety rules.

It is more convenient to carry out this procedure with an assistant, since the paint must be removed while still hot, and working with a lamp and a spatula at the same time is inconvenient. The surface is heated until the paint peels off. The old coating is cleaned off with a wire brush.

We recommend: What to do if a pipe bursts and there is a flood in the apartment?

How to clean cast iron and other radiators?

Cast iron radiators are the most unpretentious in choosing a method for removing old paint. For work, you can use all types of processing.

The joints of the heating battery sections are connected using rubber gaskets, which should not be cleaned with chemicals. Otherwise, the rubber will be damaged, causing the battery to leak.

Old enamel is removed from an aluminum product using special neutral removers. They are applied for 15 minutes. Then the coating is easily removed with a spatula. It is not recommended to use mechanical processing for aluminum radiators to prevent scratches.

Removing the coating from bimetal requires care, since the product consists of aluminum and steel parts. To prevent deterioration in appearance, it is preferable to use chemical removers and avoid serious mechanical impact

Recommendations for removing paint by any method

1. All cleaning and painting procedures are carried out after turning off the heating. Doing a wash on a hot radiator is not only pointless, but also dangerous, especially when working with chemical solutions.
2. The liquid remover must be kept in its original container throughout its entire use. If, however, another container was used, then it will be unsuitable for further use in everyday life.
3. At the junction of battery sections there are rubber gaskets that are best not treated with solvents. If they are damaged, the radiator will begin to leak.
4. Mechanical cleaning is the dustiest, and if it is carried out indoors, it is necessary to ensure maximum air circulation by opening windows and closing doorways leading to other rooms.
5. Before removing old paint mechanically, it is highly recommended not to apply strippers.

Heating radiator painting

Now we have reached the main stage - direct coloring. Here it is advisable to adhere to the following rule: it is better to apply two thin layers of paint than one thick one.

It is unlikely that you will be able to get an ideal surface the first time, and if you apply a thick layer of paint, the effect will be the opposite: thick and unsightly smudges will form on the battery.

A brush with a curved handle allows you to reach the most difficult to reach areas of the battery

General dyeing technology

For painting, purchase at least two brushes: one regular, the other for hard-to-reach places with a long curved handle. With its help it is convenient to apply paint to the back walls and internal surfaces of the battery. Before working, fluff the bristles so that loosely attached hairs fall out.

First, the upper parts inside the battery are painted, then the lower ones. After this, proceed to the outer surface. It is also painted from top to bottom. If you start from the bottom, drops will fall onto the painted surface. The second coat of paint is applied only after the previous one has completely dried.

How long this will take depends on the paint; this parameter is usually indicated on the label. If the first layer turns out to be uneven, then when it dries, sand the surface, removing all unevenness and smudges.

Painting the battery should start from the top to avoid getting the paint on the painted areas (click to enlarge)

The nuances of painting aluminum radiators

All previous tips related to painting cast iron, copper and steel batteries. How to paint an aluminum heating radiator? But first, it’s better to answer the question: is it worth doing this at all?

Modern aluminum appliances are professionally painted in the factory with special powder paint. Home painting will not be able to provide a high-quality smooth finish.

In addition, if the radiator is still under warranty, then after painting at home, the manufacturer’s warranty obligations are terminated.

But most likely, it will hardly occur to anyone to paint a new radiator. If the device was damaged as a result of transportation or installation, chips and cracks appeared on it, which greatly spoil the appearance, you can use auto enamel.

It should be taken into account that car enamel paints most effectively and dries quickly only on hot batteries. Drying time at 130°C is 20 minutes, and at 20°C – up to two days. You need to work in a respirator and with open windows; you should spray at a distance of 20-30 cm from the surface. Do not keep the stream in one place for a long time, otherwise smudges will appear.

You can also remove chips and dents from an aluminum radiator using automotive putty. Pre-degrease the surface and treat it with a primer. Then apply the putty of the desired shade with a brush.

If you decide to completely repaint the battery, then it is not necessary to remove the old paint. Degrease and prime the surface and apply two layers of alkyd or water-based paint using a spray gun.

An alternative option for decorating a heating radiator is installing a decorative screen.

Mechanical method

This method of cleaning radiators from old paint is the easiest and most effective. The essence of this method is to remove the enamel. To carry out the work you will need a spatula. Embossed cast iron batteries are easiest to clean using special tools. For example, put a wire brush on your electric drill. Of course, you will have to clean the batteries in a respirator and safety glasses. The procedure is dusty and quite labor-intensive; dust is generated during the cleaning process. But you will finish the job in a few hours.

Before you begin the cleaning process, open windows and seal openings that lead to adjacent rooms to prevent dust from spreading throughout the room. Warn your neighbors, because the procedure is noisy.

How to prepare the solution

The binder composition for laying a brick stove is made as follows:

• You need to pour clay into a specially prepared container and fill it with a small amount of water. To ensure that it soaks well, leave the container for 12-48 hours in a dry and clean place, occasionally stirring the resulting composition;
• after this, you can add sand and thoroughly mix the solution until the required consistency is obtained;
• if you intend to add salt or cement, add them at the same time as the sand to get a homogeneous mass.

To make sure that the mortar for laying bricks is sufficiently plastic, you can proceed as follows:

• we make a flagellum 20 centimeters long and 1.5 centimeters thick from the finished mixture;
• we connect it into a ring using a wooden blank 5 cm thick;
• We observe the flagellum - if there are no cracks on its surface, sand should be added, otherwise clay. If the composition stretches evenly, and only a few small cracks appear on the bend, you can begin making masonry.

Date: September 25, 2022

Paints come in different colors

Painting of radiators and pipes begins with the selection of substances with which to paint the metal. If the photo shows an amazingly beautiful painting of radiators, this does not mean at all that the artist managed to achieve this effect after the first layer of paint. Painting batteries is a rather complex process consisting of several stages. There are various means of painting heating radiators on the modern market. Before answering the question of how to paint a battery or studying the process of painting a battery captured on video, you need to figure out what kind of paint can be used to do all this. The easiest option for selecting paint is to purchase it at a special shopping center that sells radiators and heating pipes.

Paint for heating devices.

Specialist consultants will tell you what type of paint is suitable for painting the heating radiator. Cast iron radiators and other heating system elements are painted with abrasion-resistant paints. Batteries should only be painted with paints that are resistant to aggressive environments. In the video showing how to paint radiators, you rarely see the can of paint itself. And this is an important point for those who decide to paint the batteries themselves. Battery paint must be heat-resistant. The absence of toxicity of dyes is one of the most important points. The batteries heat up, and if the paint applied to them is toxic, this directly threatens the life and health of people in the building.

Acrylic

There are two types of paints for heating batteries. Acrylic enamels are based on organic solvents. If you paint heating radiators with them, you won’t have to worry about the appearance of the heating system for a long time, since acrylic enamels have the ability to retain their shine and aesthetic appearance for a long time. They are an attractive option for those who prefer a variety of colors when painting heating radiators. However, acrylic enamels have a significant drawback: an unpleasant odor that remains even after painting the radiators is finished. Moreover, when the radiators heat up, the unpleasant odor returns and causes discomfort.

Spray paint.

Water-dispersed

When deciding what to paint radiators with, experts usually recommend water-dispersed paints. They do not have a specific smell. Heating radiators painted with them look aesthetically pleasing. Water-dispersed paints have a wide range of colors. If you don’t know what to paint batteries with, it’s better to choose them right away

In order not to make a mistake when purchasing, you need to pay attention to the cans in which the paint is sold. They must have special markings indicating that the paint is suitable for painting heating radiators and pipelines. It is possible to paint radiators with oil paint, but it is practically not used for these purposes.

It is possible to paint radiators with oil paint, but it is practically not used for these purposes.

Requirements for paintwork

Before you go to the store for a coloring mixture, you need to study the requirements for such compositions:

1. No deformation when heated. The coloring mixture must be kept unchanged on the heat exchanger at temperatures above 80 degrees.
2. High adhesion rate. It is necessary to choose a mixture with good adhesion to metal surfaces.
3. Wear resistance - the decorative coating should not wear off due to physical impact (friction of drying things, contact with furniture, curtains).
4. Color fastness. When exposed to environmental factors and prolonged use, decorative coatings lose color. You should choose the most durable composition.

You should not choose a coating that emits harmful fumes when heated.

Nuances when painting radiators

To obtain the desired result, a number of nuances should be taken into account:

• It is better to start work before the start of the heating season, since hot parts cannot be painted. In addition, this will allow you to remove the heating element without any problems. The situation is more complicated in old houses, where the water supply is centralized and there are no shut-off taps. In winter, it is impossible to turn off radiators from the general system.
• If you intend to remove the batteries, it is better to wash them immediately. Especially if the heating element is cast iron.
• When removing old paint, you cannot use a thermal method that involves using a gas torch or blowtorch.

You can remove old paint from a battery using a special remover or mechanically using a power tool and sandpaper.
Such simple tips will help you avoid problems in the future.

The importance of preparation

As in any serious matter related to repairs, the main attention should first be paid to proper preparation for this process. Otherwise, the result may turn out much worse than expected.

Timing

The preparatory procedures last even longer than the painting itself.

If this is not possible, then you need to at least turn off the hot water. You can contact the housing office specialists for help. When the batteries have cooled down noticeably, it's time to start working.

Cleaning

Before applying paint, all surfaces should be cleaned of dust and accumulated grease. Radiators are no exception. To eliminate dust, you can:

• Use dry cleaning. To do this, you need a hand-held vacuum cleaner or a regular brush/rag/sponge.
• Use wet cleaning with water and a sponge.

Fat accumulated on the battery must also be cleaned. To get rid of it, just use regular dishwashing detergent and a sponge. After the battery has been washed, you need to leave it to dry.

Removing peeling paint

There are several ways to clean a radiator from paint that has peeled off and peeled off over time.

Brush

It is quite possible to remove old paint using a metal scraper. But this is a very labor-intensive process and will take a long time. Of course, if there is no alternative, this method will be quite useful.

Bulgarian

A grinder with a special attachment (in the form of a metal brush) will greatly simplify and speed up the process of cleaning the old layer.

Expert opinion

Grebnev Vadim Savelievich

Heating system installer

When using an angle grinder, you need to control the operation at high speeds. It is very easy to damage the surface of the radiator along with the paint layer.

Removing all coating is not optional. It will be enough to get rid of the cracked areas.

Chemicals

Using special chemical compounds, it is very easy to wash off the old paint from the radiator.

There are several types of such solvents:

• Gels and pastes.
  Such compositions must be applied directly to the battery using a brush (with natural bristles). Then you need to leave them on the radiator for the required time. For different products, it can vary from several minutes to several hours. To make the effect even better, you can cover the battery with the chemical composition with a polyethylene film. When the paint softens, all you need to do is remove it from the battery using a spatula or brush.
• Sprays and aerosols. Such substances are very convenient to apply to the battery, even to the most inaccessible areas. After a few minutes to an hour, they begin to actively act and soften the paint. After that, you can simply remove it with a brush.

Padding

Once the old paint has been successfully removed from the surface, the radiator should be primed well. This process is used to remove minor imperfections, scratches and cracks. It is better to treat batteries made of steel or copper with sandpaper, and cast iron with a regular metal brush. Then the battery needs to be degreased again and proceed to the primer itself.

The composition for the primer must combine the following characteristics:

• Designed for metal surfaces.
• Protect from rust.

Be compatible with paint.