How To Lift And Carry A Cast Iron Radiator

Many people have purchased a quantity of cast iron radiators on the internet and are surprised when 1.5 tons of metal arrive at their door requiring much strength to lift and place into position, especially when stairs are involved.

Cast Iron Radiators are much heavier than modern steel radiators and care should be taken when moving a cast iron radiator. Cast Iron Radiators are often delivered strapped onto a pallet as a pallet supports the full length of a radiator. It is advisable to have sufficient help when receiving cast iron radiators to ensure that the radiators are handled correctly into the position required.

Reputable dealer's custom build all cast iron radiators to a length depending on how many sections are required to heat individual rooms effectively. Each section is carefully put together the old fashioned way tightened by hand with a gasket between each section creating a water tight seal. Each radiator is pressure tested before delivery ensuring the radiator is water tight. A common cause of leakage from a radiator is too much strain being placed on the gaskets when a radiator is being moved incorrectly. Cast iron radiators must be carried in an upright position at all times so no strain is put on the gaskets. Carrying the radiators flat (horizontally) or dragging the radiator will put too much strain on the gaskets causing them to become weakened and thus subsequently leak. This is a problem especially if your radiator is particularly long and heavy.

Please take care when lifting cast iron radiators as cast iron is heavy, a cast iron radiator can weigh anywhere between 20kg to 400kg. Always follow the correct HSE lifting guidelines. Bend at your knees and lift with your legs and arms rather than bending over with your back. Never attempt to lift a cast iron radiator on your own or be tempted to drag the radiator across the floor surface into position for plumbing.

The best and safest way to manage carrying a cast iron radiator upright (vertically) is to use two short pieces of wood or metal bars with dimensions of 20mm x 50mm x 250mm. These pieces of wood or metal bars will make good handles when inserted between the last two sections at either end of the radiator.

A help sheet on how to carry and lift traditional radiators should be provided by reputable dealers upon ordering your radiators and this should be handed over to all those handling the delivery and installing the radiators.

If cast iron radiators are carried correctly, no leakages should occur allowing you to enjoy the benefits and beauty of owning a cast iron radiator without any stress.