Why Should You Clean Radiators
Believe it or not!
Dust and other mysterious debris e.g. Pet Dander etc. can quite easily find a home especially behind the back of your radiator, which goes unnoticed – which should not really be there!!
The dust that is accumulated on and around the wall behind the radiator is something that we never consider for health implications when the dust is disturbed and distributed back into the air that we breathe.
It is recommended that you get into the habit of thoroughly cleaning your radiators at least once a year- through more can never hurt! This way you’ll keep on top of the accumulation of dust and dirt that has built up in time.
Why Do Our Radiators Accumulate Dust?
The reason why dust accumulates behind your radiator is a result of the heat convection process which causes recirculation of the cold air, which is drawn in from underneath the radiator and transferring into warm air being distributed into the upper parts of the room containing contaminated dust particles.
This raises exposure levels in the air you breathe which can increase the risk of allergic reactions not easily associated with poor indoor air quality issues.
During this process and over a period of time radiators can accumulate reservoirs of dust!
“Home Fever” is a term used by ALLERGY UK which describes out of season hay fever symptoms. Allergy UK suggests it's triggered by allergens, such as the dust mite, moulds, cleaning products and pets that are present in the home or office.
SO - Why should you clean your Radiators?
Central heating radiators create ideal conditions for dust mites, mould spores and microbiological infections to flourish, creating higher levels of allergens that are then circulated via heat convection which ultimately create poorer indoor air quality for us, especially within the winter months.
The dust mite is the most common cause of allergy symptoms in the UK. It is one of the most potent triggers of allergy reactions and a common trigger for rhinitis, asthma and eczema. Allergy symptoms include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing and wheezing.
The dust mite is found in almost every human habitat, but it is invisible to the human eye. Its nests are made in bedding, curtains, carpets, soft furnishings and soft toys, and can be present in the home all year round and It is the dust mite faeces that is present in the dust that lurks behind the radiator!
Did you know?
In hygiene conscious environments, cleanliness is not an option, it’s a requirement and NHS guidelines state that hospital Radiators LST’s (Low surface temperature) should be cleaned at least one a week.
The back of the radiators are warm, dark spaces, therefore becoming the ideal place for bacteria to grow and thrive.
In schools and hospitals, there can be serious implications of high bacteria presence as vulnerable children and service users may not be able to combat infections in the same way a healthy immune system will
Conclusion
The method of deep cleaning behind the back of the radiator has been proven to manage allergens plus the infection control of the so-called superbug MRSA and C. difficile within the health care sector.
The approach would benefit all types of sectors residential homes, commercial buildings, schools, care homes, and clinics etc. with the ongoing management of the allergen causing “Home Fever” and the spread of harmful bacteria
By being able to access your radiators for deep cleaning at least once a year before you switch your heating back on in the Autumn season will improve the quality of air occupants breathe in which can reduce the symptoms of dust allergies.
Installing a Rotarad conversion kit enables new and existing radiators to be rotated down to floor level allowing full access for cleaning and for decorating!
Once fitted there is no need to drain down or remove the radiator.