A: Oh, Lee, I actually cringe when I hear questions like this! I know your intentions are good, but just by your question I can tell that you have no idea what you may be getting yourself into.

First, only licensed heating professionals should ever shut down and work on any type of residential or commercial heating systems. Second, that an old heating system is usually rusted into place. I have rarely seen old radiators, piping and valves come apart or go back together without encountering major problems.

Your old system may be steam or forced hot water; either way, the system needs to be looked at by a professional to determine its condition and to see what may be possible. They may tell you that since your heating system is so old, sooner or later you may be completely removing it, so it may not make sense to do any work on the radiators at all.

Many people with old radiators have hired companies to make custom screened metal box-type radiator covers that meet local codes. This does give the old radiator a new look without messing around with the system.

Check with your local building inspector to see what is possible, and it may warm your heart to learn that sometimes it's easier just to cover up your problems!