The radiator valve controls how much hot water flows into and out of the radiator. Controlling this water flow changes how much heat the heater can make. The thermostat is only one way to control the overall temperature of a central heating system. The valves’ main job is managing the radiators’ temperature and requires a radiator hose to let water through the heating system.
1. General Applications For Radiator Valve
Standard radiator valves help control the amount of hot water that flows within a radiator to generate heat levels on a room-per-room basis. The valves ensure that the output of heat in a room is controlled. A thermostat will control the overall temperature in the house, while a radiator valve will ensure that a specific room is receiving heat. In other words, all rooms will be heated except those with completely off valves, this can save you on energy costs.
2. Normal Radiator Valve As Manufacturing Types
Various designs and finishes are available for the valves that control the water flow into radiators. Radiator valves, in whatever form they take, are necessary to conveniently cut off the central heating circuit’s flow into the towel radiator. Old stone structures and traditional systems still employ the wildly popular microbore radiator valve, formerly one of several entry valves.A more efficient central heating circuit and two-pipe systems were created due to radiators’ extensive use of radiators as heating sources. You may use the valves already on your radiator with a new one, but if you’re going to be making any changes to the pipes or the radiator itself, you might have to get new ones.
1) Manual Radiator Valve
To maintain the flow of steam or hot water via a manual radiator valve, one must turn a lever or knob. They are unresponsive to variations in temperature since they lack automated sensors and thermostats. They provide some degree of temperature control, but you’ll have to fiddle with the knobs to keep the room at a pleasant temperature.
To control the room’s heat, most manual valves have a simple dial that can be turned from completely open to completely closed.
2) Thermostatic Radiator Valve
Because of its effectiveness in lowering heating costs and energy consumption, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) have lately experienced an enormous increase in popularity. Automatically adjusting the valve’s opening according to the ambient temperature is a built-in temperature-sensing device in TRVs. Completely automated TRVs, unlike their manual counterparts, can regulate hot water supply to keep a room at a constant temperature. Because of this, they are much more energy-efficient than manual valves.
3. What Are the Components of a Manual Radiator Valve?
A sealing material, often made from PTFE or graphite, is wrapped around the spindle on both sides to prevent leakage between the valve body and the spindle. The spindle and packing inside the valve body are held in place by the retaining nut or bonnet. It is often produced from materials designed to survive for a long time, such as brass or stainless steel, to ensure an ideal fit.
1) Valve Body
In addition to housing the valve mechanism, the primary component links the system to the radiator and the plumbing. It is usually crafted from stainless steel, brass, or bronze materials for longevity and corrosion resistance.
2) Spindle or Stem
The stem in a thermostatic valve is integral to its ability to regulate temperature. It is connected to a thermal element (like a wax thermostatic element) that expands or contracts in response to temperature changes.
3) Handle or knob
The valve may be manually adjusted using the user interface. To complement any design, handles are available in various styles and materials, including plastic, metal, and wooden finishes.
4) Gaskets and O-rings
Its primary functions are to ensure a tight seal between the valve components and to avoid leaks. Common materials used to make them include heat- and wear-resistant rubber or silicone.
4. Manufacturing Components of Thermostatic Radiator Valve
Controlling the amount of hot water that flows through radiators is the primary function of both thermostatic and manual radiator valves.
1) Thermostatic head
Head signifies the valve’s knob for adjusting the temperature. This head allows for easy adjustment of the valve’s degree. This head may also include temperature sensors in some versions. Within the plastic valve, the head is where you’ll find the liquid sensor. Verify the connection points before installing the valve head.
2) Valve mechanisms
TRV and manual radiator valve mechanisms are developed differently. The mechanism that permits TRVs to react to changes in temperature is more sophisticated than that of manual valves, which are operated manually.
3) Stem
Some TRVs have a spindle that transfers motion from the thermostatic head to the valve mechanism. Typically, a temperature-responsive component is unnecessary for the spindle to be operated directly by hand in manual valves.
4) Knob
To manually change the water flow, one may use a wheel or knob on a manual radiator valve. Because TRVs automatically adjust the water flow based on the ambient temperature, they do not need this component. Radiator valves share common replacement parts: gaskets, packing, O-rings, and retaining nuts or bonnets.
5. Size Guide About The Thermostatic Radiator Valve
Central heating system upgrades and installations include several considerations, including the radiator valve. The good news is that most British houses have relatively simple valve size requirements. The radiator valves are 15mm, which is the width of the connection. Copper pipes in homes are typically 15 mm in diameter.
However, there are instances when the 15mm rule does not apply, and we have included an in-depth guide to all the possible sizes of radiator valves below.
1) 15 mm Valves
A 15mm valve should be fine for radiators in most homes since it is the average pipe size in the UK. However, you should double-check because there is a spectrum of sizes.
2) 22 mm Valves
You may need to install larger pipes in a bathroom, as they enable a greater flow of water from the hot water tank, which is useful when a radiator’s location needs a higher water pressure.
3) 10mm Valves
While 10mm pipes throughout a home are uncommon, these valves might be required to connect a single radiator to your current heating system.
4) 8 mm Valves
Microbore pipes, popular for homes constructed in the middle to late 20th century, use 8mm valves and are, unfortunately, more prone to obstructions and pipe kinks.
6. How to Check in Thermostatic Radiator Valve While Choosing?
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are designed to control the water flow in the radiator according to the ambient temperature. For them to operate efficiently and safely, they are designed to operate within a certain temperature and pressure range.
TRVs may come in various finishes like plastic, chrome, brass, nickel, etc. Aesthetics may be a consideration in selecting the design and coating. Certain valves can handle both directions of flow, but others are directional. This will affect the mounting of the valve on the radiator.
There are TRVs available with fixed heads and with heads that can be changed. The thermostat mechanism itself is in the head. TRVs are available in straight, angled, and corner versions to suit a range of radiator and pipe layouts. It is necessary to ascertain the size of the existing valve or pipe connection when choosing a TRV size. If you are unsure of the size, consult a heating engineer or the manufacturer of the valve.
7. Standard Working Pressure and Temperature Requirements for Thermostatic Radiator Valves
TRVs are such that they modulate the water flow through the radiator according to ambient temperature. In a bid to make them work effectively and safely, they are manufactured to operate within particular ranges of pressure and temperature.
1) Standard Temperature Range
The standard working temperature of a straight thermostatic radiator valve ranges from 0 to 28°C. Some models function between -10 °C to 30 °C. Depending on the system type and the user’s requirement, the valve can be adjusted to various levels. The minimum acceptable temperature, however, which is commonly agreed is 15 degrees. The degree of the valve can be changed by the user based on his or her requirement or special medical conditions.
It is easy to adjust the valves The minimum flow is adjusted using the base screw of the valve. The adjustment makes it sensitive to temperature change sooner. You can adjust the amount with the valve settings, between 1 and 5. The sensor has an adjustable dial that you could use to set the temperature. Though the majority of TRVs do possess an approximate minimum operating temperature of around 0°C (32°F), one must always keep in mind that they are not intended to handle freezing. Pipe insulation or antifreeze solutions are among the alternatives should freezing become anticipated.
2) Pressure Range for TRVs
Home thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) are generally made to operate between a pressure range of 10 bar (145 psi) to 16 bar (232 psi). The pressure in a standard home central heating system would typically be between 1.5 bar (21.75 psi) and 3 bar (43.5 psi).
3) Maximum Pressure
The TRV pressure working capacity varies. While there are a few high-capacity TRVs with a capacity to operate at pressures of 20 bar (290 psi), they are generally not sold in the open market but are available for specific commercial applications.
Different TRV brands and designs can have different pressure and temperature recommendations. It is essential to read the manufacturer’s specifications for the radiator valve carefully to guarantee that any modification or installation is done correctly. Select a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) that can regulate the exact working conditions of the heating system, particularly when operating outside its normal range.
8. Non-Settable and Pre-set Radiator Valve
A Pre-set Thermostatic Radiator Valve or PRTV is a special Thermostatic Radiator Valve or TRV with the added facility of pre-setting the amount of water flow through the radiator to the maximum level.
The only function of a non-setting radiator valve is to open and close the valve. The importance of good hydraulics, i.e., the most favorable flow behavior of heating water in a heating system, has gained greater importance during the past decades due to the growing need for energy conservation. Presettable radiator valves, i.e., valves with more than opening and closing functions, play their role here. Hydraulic balancing can be achieved with preset radiator valves.
We can pre-set the exact amount of water for every radiator using the Pre-setting key to pre-set the valves. The flow area in the valve cross-section is decreased to do this. This ensures that the radiators are always supplied with hot water, or not too much.
9. Pre-set Radiator Valves With Differential Pressure Control
Pre-setting radiator valves with internal differential pressure control is superior to traditional radiator valves. Internal differential pressure control under partial load operation enhances hydraulic balancing of the heating system even further.
Because hydraulic balancing volumetric flow rate calculations are usually done for the full system load situation, the hydraulics may not always work at their best under the partial system load scenario. Due to the varying volumetric flow rates, the heating system experiences various pressure conditions during part-load and full-load operations. To prevent radiators from overheating, PRTVs control and restrict the water flow. Heating costs might go down as a consequence of substantial energy savings. The central heating system may last longer with PRTVs installed because they maintain a balanced flow and avoid overheating.
PRTVs can help to achieve an evenly balanced heating system. The first time the radiators in the house heat up evenly when the system is balanced, and there are no cold spots. Ease of use is evident while installing the PRTVs; it is easy for plumbing engineers and heating engineers to accomplish the job of doing it quickly and efficiently. Easy living is achieved through PRTVs as they keep the temperature constant and at your desired level.
PRTVs offer many benefits, and correctly installing and adjusting them is essential. The pre-setting should be based on the requirements of the specific radiator and room size. It’s also important to check them periodically to ensure they function correctly, especially before the colder months start.
10. Why Choose Thermostat Radiator Valve
Here’s why choosing thermostatic radiator valves can make a significant difference in both comfort and efficiency.
1) Preventing overheating
One of the primary ways to stop rooms getting over-hot is by installing radiator valves, particularly thermostatic ones. The valve will start to close, cutting down the hot water supply as soon as the optimum temperature is achieved.
2) Balancing the system
The hot water can be more evenly distributed through the use of radiator valves when there are many radiators on the system. You can ensure heat is distributed correctly throughout your home by adjusting the valves.
3) Controls the temperature
You can also control the temperature in certain rooms or sections of your house using radiator valves. You can control the amount of heat being released into the room by changing the valve that provides a flow of hot water to the radiator.
4) Conservation of energy
By allowing you to regulate the temperature to satisfy requirements, radiator valves help with energy efficiency. To lower the quantity of heat supplied to an empty room or to one that is getting a lot of sun, you can partially shut the valve, for instance.
5) Comfort and customization
The ability to regulate the temperature in every room personally increases the warmth of your home. The heat can be regulated to suit the needs of every individual, and it becomes more inviting.
6) Zoning
Room size, insulation, and occupancy are some of the elements that determine the level of warmth a room needs. You can regulate the level of heat in every room separately using radiator valves, allowing you to create heating zones.
11. How Do Radiator Valves Work?
There are two main types: manual radiator valves and thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). Each works differently to manage the flow of hot water into the radiator, either through user adjustment or automatic temperature sensing.
1) Manual Radiator Valves Working
Why do it manually when technically you can? Two devices that are technologically attempting to do the same thing could have their ways conflict. Grey radiator with manual radiator valve It means that if you possess a room that has both thermostat control for the primary boiler (most often a little box attached to the wall or the mantle, which can be adjusted) and a radiator valve, then a thermostatic radiator valve in such a situation will cause conflict and confrontation between the two technologies.
2) Thermostatic Radiator Valves Working
Why do it manually when technically you can? Two devices that are technologically attempting to do the same thing could have their ways conflict. Grey radiator with manual radiator valve It means that if you possess a room that has both thermostat control for the primary boiler (most often a little box attached to the wall or the mantle, which can be adjusted) and a radiator valve, then a thermostatic radiator valve in such a situation will cause conflict and confrontation between the two technologies.
12. What do The Numbers On Radiator Valves Mean
Numbers or marks on the valves of radiators indicate the heat the radiator gives out. These numbers typically range from 1 to 6. Turning the valve to 3 will approximate a normal temperature of around 20°C. Therefore, every positive or negative number is equal to one degree. So a 2 is around 16°C, and a four is around 24°C. Because of the imprecision of room temperature, this numbering system is employed instead of precise temperatures.
13. Factors to Consider While Ordering Thermostatic Radiator Valves
The head of a radiator valve is a vital component of every thermostatic valve. Functionally, aesthetically, and structurally, they vary. Most likely, the decisive one is the functionality of the component.
1) Material
Reliability refers to products that constitute a thermostatic radiator valve. Besides, don’t forget the material of the cranium. Perhaps an aesthetically pleasing model.
2) Quality
Distributors and wholesalers need to check the quality of the thermostatic radiator valves. Operation with strong and well-constructed valves will reduce customer displeasure and product returns.
3) Extent Of Regulation
The majority of standard thermostatic radiator valves have a similar degree of regulation. Observe the symbols displayed on the cranium. In addition, the visual aspect of the markings is also relevant.
4) Capability Of Flow
Radiator thermostatic valves vary in their flow capacity. This is normally not considered while making a new element purchase, particularly for inexperienced users of the same appliance.
14. Other Types of Radiator Valves
Here are some other types of radiator valves for your reference:
1) Smart Radiator Valves
With a smart thermostat that’s WiFi-enabled, you can remotely operate your heating system from any smartphone or tablet. If your smart thermostat is TRV-compatible, you can integrate all your smart home devices and operate them from your smartphone, wherever you are.
2) Angled Radiator Valves
These are necessary if pipes must be bent at an angle, often 90 degrees, to reach the radiator. Since most towel rail plumbing is arriving from floor level, bottom radiator valve intakes on bathroom radiators are a frequent occurrence. One of the most typical sorts of radiator valves used for home heat today is the angled valve.
3) Straight Radiator Valves
These are used when there is a linear run from the intake to the radiator through pipes. There needs to be a linear valve if the route from the radiator, the pipe, and the valve is linear.
4) Corner Radiator Valves
An ideal location for a corner radiator valve would be where the radiator pipes exit the wall. A corner valve may do the same thing as an angled radiator valve. Still, it’s a little more delicate and sometimes smaller.
5) Thermostat Radiator Valve
- 1/2 inch,3/4 inch,1 inch
- CW602N, DR brass
- Brass body
- Thermo Actuator header with EU approved
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are a crucial component of modern heating systems, and they serve the purpose of regulating the temperature of a room by regulating the flow of hot water through radiators.
6) Straight Radiator Valve
- Radiator valve with 1/2″-1″
- 2-year warranty with the actuator
- Brass body with sandblasted with nickel plated
- Hot water and cold water are available
(1) Connection type
TRVs can have compression or push-fit fittings and threading. Which should be suitable for pipework and radiator for proper installation.
(2) Sensor
The sensor of a TRV is a gas-filled or liquid-filled unit that responds to the surrounding temperature and makes an adjustment to the valve accordingly.
7) Brass Vertical Manual Radiator Valve
- 3/8 inch,1/2 inch,3/4 inch
- Advanced chrome-plated finish
- Cartridge Pre-setting
- 100% water leakage test
(1) Pipe size
Usually measured in inches or millimeters. Standard pipe sizes are 15mm (1/2 inch) and 22mm (3/4 inch) diameter.
(2) Thread size
Thread size is the joining of the TRV to the radiator. It is normally described in British Standard Pipe (BSP) threads, the most commonly used being 1/2″ BSP.
(3) Certification
The European EN 215 standard.
15. Radiator Valve Manufacturer-Guide
This guide covers everything you need to know about working with radiator valve manufacturers, including how to install TRVs, set them up correctly, and how these products are prepared for international markets.
1) How To Install a TRV?
You can fit most modern thermostatic valves to your radiator flow or return pipe; they are bidirectional. We recommend you fit the TRV to the flow pipe, which is responsible for delivering water to your input valve. Wondering why? If you pass water through a non-bidirectional thermostatic valve you have fitted to the return pipe, you would then find it making an extremely loud, vibrating noise. A one radiator and a room thermostat are enough to regulate the temperature of a two-bedroom flat.
Drain The Radiator, Turn Off The Inlet Valve, and Install The TRV Tail
You will be dealing with a lot of water if you do not drain the radiator before removing the old valves. And what’s more, the dirty water has been lingering in the radiator for quite some time now.
On one of the four radiator locations, screw in the valve tail. This one does not, however, typically feature a smooth surface for a simple tool to find purchase. Therefore, a radiator key is typically needed to screw in the valve tail.
Tailpiece generally has a square or hexagonal socket where this key will be screwed in. A black rubber ring is a seal when supplied with a tail. The seal can be installed as easily as tightening the nut to have the seal compressed and form a waterproof seal. PTFE tape or pipe sealing cable can be used without a rubber seal.
2) Attach the TRV to the Radiator
Fitting a Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV) onto a radiator is a job that the average person with DIY experience can generally do, but it’s worth doing the right way to ensure it works correctly and safely. Below is a general guide to assist you:
You can get straight and angled (90-degree) TRVs. Depending on where your pipes are, choose the one that will be the best for your installation.
The rad valve will have a male and female end. You need to install the male thread onto the tailpiece of the radiator and the female thread onto the hot water supply. Make sure that the hot water supply is installed with a male thread and is PTFE taped before installing the TRV into position. Verify that the TRV head is in the right position before tightening. The appearance of a rad valve gets better when it is placed horizontally or vertically in the correct manner. Mortally secure the nut on the male end of the TRV. This does not need a seal to be applied. A compression fitting wherein metal components are compressed together to produce a seal is utilized by this component.
3) Set Up The TRV And Link The Water Radiator
The new TRV replacement will not always be a fit for the existing valve insert. Since they substitute the insert in every new TRV, you may be forced to take out the old one. Loosen the component by inserting a basic hex tool through the hole and using an adjustable spanner. Next, wrap the replacement insert in PTFE, insert it into the radiator, and secure it. You may utilize the original nut and olive, but if you prefer to substitute them, you can obtain the nut using a nut grinder and the olive using a grip.
To seal the new olive correctly, wrap it in a small amount of PTFE. Replace the fitting and tighten the bottom joint. After double-checking that everything is tight, take off the plastic valve cap. Test it by pushing it up and down. Fit and level the TRV head unit. The TRV should now be working.
4) How do We Export the Radiator Valves?
Radiator valves are safely packaged for shipping after passing the quality control examinations. They are wrapped in bubble wrap or foam and then packed in strong boxes or crates to prevent damage during transportation.
The radiator valves are prepared and distributed to wholesalers, distributors, or customers based on the distribution channel of choice for the producer. To deliver their products safely and in time, producers collaborate with reliable logistics providers.
The dedication of the company to its clients is evidenced in its after-sales care, including continuous technical support, product training, and customer support. Such services ensure they maintain the radiator valves in perfect working condition for as long as the customer needs them, keeping them satisfied and allowing them to form partnerships
16. Recognizing High-Quality Radiator Valves
It’s hard to acquire good radiator valves because, outwardly, substandard valves may appear just as good as high-grade valves. The exterior covering of most products hides the difference between which are better; however, the valve in the interior tells you whether it can or not.
If hot water is entering and exiting the radiator, the ideal radiator valve would be made from a high brass content. Brass radiator valves have a higher-than-average resistance to erosion issues caused by wear and tear over the long term, and this is just one of many reasons that the metal is in such high demand. Another is that brass is softer than most of the other types of copper and zinc.
However, brass valves also become damaged by a process that removes the zinc component without disturbing the copper structure, thereby rendering the valves useless. The manufacturing cost is a primary factor in the explanation of why some radiator valves are defective while others are functional.
It is of the utmost importance to producers that radiator valves present the part, regardless of how useful they are. There is a simple way to determine whether your radiator valve is of good quality or not.
By British and European standards, Standard radiator valve weights range from 750g to 1000g, depending on the type. The reason why cheaper types would be around 500g or less is that they will tend to leak in the future and cause issues. So, as a standard, it is sensible to request the valves’ weight when you buy new radiator valves.
17. The Common Pitfalls While Purchasing a Radiator Valve
During mass purchasing of radiator valves, there are certain particular issues that the purchasers are required to face. Understanding these traps is necessary to make the correct decision and to invest wisely. The following information is what you should know:
- The actuator head gets stuck
- No test pneumatique
- No test hydraulique
- No test fonctionnel
- No air leakage test
18. What Are Bi-Directional Radiator Valves
A valve used in heating systems to control the supply of steam or hot water is called a bi-directional radiator valve. On/off valves provide a lower level of control in comparison to these valves, allowing for more precise control of temperature and energy efficiency. These types of valves allow for a higher level of control. According to the need for temperature, bi-directional radiator valves can be exchanged to allow for either rise or fall of flow. Because of this, these work best in rooms with big doors or windows and need a steadier temperature during the day.
Pressure release buttons and check valves built into valves are other protection features built into the valves themselves. Therefore, this ensures that any excess pressure is permitted to be discharged before damaging the system. Notice that bi-directional radiator valves are not appropriate to fit on all heating systems. This is a vital point to remember. On sealed systems with components that are compatible with one another, they can be fitted. In addition, it is essential to do routine maintenance to ensure the correct operation of your house and to guarantee the safety of everyone who lives there.
19. How to Change A Radiator Valve
To successfully change your radiator valves and minimize mess, here’s a handy checklist of what you’ll need before changing a radiator valve.
1) Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before going further, acquire some old sheets, towels, and whatever else you have to drape over any potential spills. Your water drained from the radiator may not be sanitary, spoiler warning!
2) Step 2: Disconnect the Water and Heat Source
Wait until the radiators are fully cooled before turning off the heat and water. Here, also ensure that the thermostat is turned off and there are no heat programs, since they could disrupt valve replacement.
3) Step 3: Drain Your Heating System
Although it seems difficult, this is simple. Your only tricky part is locating the drain cock in your property; once you have located it, you can then connect the hose and hold it in place with the jubilee clip. Open the drain cock, then disconnect the hose outside and let the water drain to its maximum capacity.
4) Step 4: Remove Your Old Valve
Remove the old valve from the radiator, and use the wrench to grip its body and the spanner to take it off. You may need to remove the valve adapter if you are going to replace it.
5) Step 5: Place Your New Valve
After you’ve cleaned the pipe and valve, replace it with the new one and screw it back onto the radiator. Secure the water pipe using the plumber’s tape to prevent leaks further. While tightly fastening the valve to the pipe, be careful not to over-tighten it.
6) Step 6: Turn Your Water And Heating Back On And Refill Your System
While this step may appear obvious, remember that you would prefer the pressure gauge to reduce back to 1.5 before refilling your boiler system.
7) Step 7: Bleed your Radiator
Make sure your efforts do not go in vain; this is necessary before releasing any gas that may have been trapped in the radiator. A step-by-step explanation of bleeding radiators is given. After bleeding the radiator, you may have to top up the pressurized system.
20. Why Choose Plumberstar?
Plumberstar is a radiator valve manufacturer with excellent experience in producing bespoke valve and pipe fitting solutions for domestic use. We boast our wonderful variety of heating goods, including radiator valves, which are vital parts in top-quality heating systems. Our radiator valves are made to effectively control the supply of water into the radiators to ensure a continually warm and cozy interior in your home throughout the year. It is hard to choose a suitable radiator valve. We have meticulously curated a collection of the most exceptional items to address this concern.