Towel Radiator Replacement in Warsaw — Removal and New Unit Installation

An old towel radiator that drips at the joints, barely heats or simply looks dated after a bathroom renovation — replacing it solves all three problems. But you cannot just unscrew the old one and bolt on the new: the riser needs to be shut off, the old unit carefully removed, pipes and threads inspected, and the new radiator connected with the correct centre-to-centre distance and leak-free joints. In buildings on Praga, flats on Wola, new blocks on Ursynow — every property has its own pipe layout. If you would rather not risk flooding your neighbours during the swap, call a professional.

How much does replacement cost

The cost depends on the type of old and new radiator, the condition of pipes and threaded connections, whether the pipework needs modifying and how difficult the old unit is to remove. If the old radiator is welded to the pipes or the pipes are buried in the wall, the job takes longer. If the new unit’s centre-to-centre distance differs from the old, adaptors or pipe modifications are needed. Current prices for all bathroom work are in the table below. Removal and brackets are included in the replacement price; the new radiator and fittings are supplied by the client.

How the replacement works

1. Inspection: we assess the old unit’s connection type (threaded or welded), pipe condition and the new radiator’s centre-to-centre distance.
2. Shutting off the water: we close the isolation valves. If there are none, we shut down the riser (coordinated with building management).
3. Draining: we empty the radiator and feed pipes.
4. Removing the old unit: we undo the connections and lift it off the brackets. If welded, we cut it free with an angle grinder.
5. Pipe check: we inspect the threads and pipes for corrosion. If threads are damaged we recut them or fit press fittings.
6. Fitting the new radiator: we mount brackets (re-drilling if necessary), hang the unit, connect the pipe tails and tighten every joint with proper sealing.
7. Testing: we open the water, bleed the air through the bleed valve and check every connection for leaks.

Common mistakes during replacement

• Not checking the centre-to-centre distance before buying — the new unit does not match the existing pipe outlets.
• Reusing old valves and fittings — they are already worn and start dripping within weeks.
• Not shutting the riser fully — water gushes out when the connections are undone.
• Using sealant paste instead of PTFE tape or hemp on threaded joints — it loses its seal over time.
• No bleed valve on the new radiator — an air lock prevents circulation.
• Mounting on old brackets that do not fit — the unit hangs unevenly, stressing the joints.
• Cutting the old radiator off and leaving pipe stubs too short for re-threading.

Important: replacing a hydronic towel radiator means working on a pressurised heating or hot-water system. A poorly sealed joint leaks the moment the water is turned on. If you lack plumbing experience, call a professional.

What to prepare before the visit

• Buy the new radiator — measure the old unit’s centre-to-centre distance (between pipe-tail centres).
• Confirm the connection type: side, bottom or diagonal — the new one must connect the same way or adaptors will be needed.
• Buy isolation valves, a bleed valve and union connectors — the technician will advise if you are unsure.
• Arrange riser shutdown with building management if there are no isolation valves.
• Prepare a basin and cloths — residual water will spill when the old unit is disconnected.
• Clear the area around the radiator — access to pipes and brackets is needed.
• If the wall is tiled and new brackets miss the old holes, new drilling will be required.
• Check the pipe material (steel, copper, polypropylene) — this affects the connection method.

A real case from Warsaw

We were called to a flat on Praga Poludnie. The bathroom had an old steel coil radiator — rusted, one joint dripping, green streaks on the pipes. The owners had bought a new chrome ladder-style radiator, but the centre-to-centre distance was 5 cm different. We shut down the riser and drained the system. The old coil was welded in place, so we cut it off with an angle grinder. We re-threaded the pipe stubs and fitted eccentric connectors to bridge the 5 cm difference. Isolation valves and unions were installed, the new radiator was hung and connected. Water on, air bled — the unit heated within a minute and every joint was dry. The work took about 3 hours, including coordinating the riser shutdown.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fit a radiator with a different centre-to-centre distance?
Yes, using eccentric connectors or by modifying the feed pipes. It takes longer but is technically straightforward.

Does the riser have to be shut off?
If there are isolation valves on the feed pipes, closing them is enough. If not, the riser must be shut down, usually via building management.

Should valves and fittings be replaced at the same time?
Yes. Old fittings are usually the same age as the radiator. Saving money on them is a direct route to a leak a few months later.

What about the old screw holes in the tiles?
If the new brackets line up with the old holes — perfect. If not, the old holes are filled and new ones drilled.

How long does replacement take?
A like-for-like swap with matching centres — 2–3 hours. If pipe modifications or weld cutting are needed — 3–5 hours.

Can I switch from hydronic to electric?
Yes. The old pipe connections are capped and the water supply closed off. The electric unit mounts on the wall and plugs into a socket. It is simpler and quicker if you do not need water-based heating.

Book the replacement

We replace towel radiators across Warsaw — we remove the old unit, prepare the pipes and fit the new one with a full leak check. We work with hydronic, electric and dual-fuel models. Brackets included. Get in touch and we will come and swap it out.