Installing or replacing radiators often involves more than simply removing and reconnecting fittings. In many cases, the heating system needs to be drained, refilled, and bled properly to remove trapped air. The time required can vary depending on whether the system is pressurised or uses a cold-water expansion tank, and how easily the system can be isolated.
Below is a general guide to labour costs for radiator installation and replacement.
Radiator Replacement
Replacing an existing radiator with a new one in the same position usually requires draining part or all of the heating system before reconnecting and refilling it.
Typical labour cost: £160 — £300
Time: around 2–4 hours
New Radiator Installation
Installing a radiator where pipework needs adjusting or repositioning will normally take longer, particularly if the heating system needs to be drained and refilled fully.
Typical labour cost: £250 — £480
Time: around 3–5 hours
Radiator Valve Replacement
Replacing radiator valves, including thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), may still require draining part of the system depending on the installation.
Typical labour cost: £200 — £260
Time: around 1 hour
Radiator Removal
Removing a radiator during decorating or renovation work usually involves draining the heating system before safely disconnecting the unit.
Typical labour cost: £120 — £180
Time: around 1–2 hours
Electric Towel Radiator Installation
Installing an electric towel radiator usually involves mounting the unit securely to the wall and connecting it to an existing electrical supply or fused spur. The time required depends on access to wiring and whether a suitable connection point is already available.
Typical labour cost: £120 — £220
Time: around 1–2 hours
When costs can vary
Radiator work can take longer depending on the heating system and access to pipework. Additional time may be required if:
the heating system needs fully draining and refilling
airlocks need clearing after refilling
corrosion inhibitor or treatment chemicals need adding
valves are seized or difficult to remove
pipework needs adjusting
a pipe freezing kit is required to avoid draining the full system
the system uses a cold-water expansion tank instead of a pressurised setup
All prices shown are labour-only estimates intended as a general guide. The final cost is confirmed after seeing the job and checking the existing installation.
