How do you clean the radiator if it's dirty? The most popular cleaning methods on the Internet revealed
With the arrival of the winter heating season, the issue of radiator cleaning has become a hot topic on the Internet recently. According to big data statistics, in the past 10 days, the search volume related to "radiator cleaning" has increased by 320% month-on-month, becoming one of the most watched issues in the home furnishing category. This article will systematically compile for you the latest and most practical radiator cleaning strategies on the Internet.
1. The necessity of cleaning the radiator

Radiators that have not been cleaned for a long time will cause three major hidden dangers:
| Question type | Specific performance | degree of harm |
|---|---|---|
| dust accumulation | Internal dust accumulation reaches 0.5-2mm | ★★★ |
| bacterial growth | Mold exceeds the standard by 3-8 times | ★★★★ |
| Thermal efficiency decreases | Heating efficiency reduced by 15%-30% | ★★★ |
2. Evaluation of popular cleaning methods across the Internet
We have sorted out the 5 methods with the highest number of likes on Douyin, Xiaohongshu, Zhihu and other platforms:
| method name | Tool preparation | Operating time | Performance score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam cleaning method | Steam mop + slim brush | 40 minutes | 9.2 points |
| Magnetic cloth wiping method | Strong magnet + microfiber cloth | 25 minutes | 8.5 points |
| Air conditioner cleaning agent method | Foam cleaner + crevice brush | 30 minutes | 8.8 points |
| Vacuum cleaner modification method | Flat nozzle + toothbrush | 35 minutes | 8.0 points |
| Professional deep cleaning | Disassembly tools + high-pressure water gun | 2 hours | 9.5 points |
3. Step-by-step detailed cleaning guide
1.Preparation:
• Turn off the heating system and allow to cool down completely
• Prepare rubber gloves and a mask
• Lay anti-fouling mats on the floor
2.Surface cleaning:
Use a microfiber cloth with a mild detergent and wipe from top to bottom. Note:
| Material type | Recommended cleaning agents | Taboo |
|---|---|---|
| cast iron radiator | Weakly alkaline solution | Steel ball |
| Steel radiator | Neutral detergent | Strong acid cleaner |
| Copper aluminum composite | White vinegar solution (1:5) | Scratched by hard object |
3.Deep gap cleaning:
• Use a toothbrush to clean the gaps between the heat sinks
• Stubborn stains can be scraped off with a soft cloth wrapped in an old bank card
• Finally, blow dry with cold air from a hair dryer
4. Notes that are hotly discussed across the Internet
1. Douyin popular warning:
• It is absolutely prohibited to spray water for cleaning during heating
• Electric radiators need to be completely powered off for operation
2. Little Red Book Master’s suggestion:
• Monthly maintenance with electrostatic duster
• Dust filter can be attached behind the radiator
3. Zhihu professional reminder:
• Cast iron radiators require anti-rust treatment
• Observe closely for leaks 48 hours after cleaning
5. Annual cleaning time planning
| Cleaning type | best time | Frequency | Tools required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily dust removal | Every Wednesday/Sunday | 2 times/week | Electrostatic dust duster |
| medium clean | Before November 1 | 1 time/season | Neutral detergent |
| deep cleaning | After March 15 | 1 time/year | Professional tool set |
Through the above system cleaning methods, not only can the heating efficiency be improved, but the service life of the radiator can also be extended. It is recommended to bookmark this article and clean it regularly to keep your home radiator in the best condition!
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