“Radiator valves are devices used to control the flow of hot water or steam into a radiator in a heating system. They play a crucial role in regulating the temperature of a room by allowing you to adjust the amount of heat that enters the radiator. There are two main types of radiator valves: thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and manual radiator valves.
Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs): These valves are equipped with a temperature-sensitive element that automatically adjusts the flow of hot water into the radiator based on the room temperature. TRVs are designed to maintain a set temperature in the room and are typically marked with numerical settings ranging from 1 to 5 (or sometimes in degrees Celsius). They can be set to a specific temperature, and once that temperature is reached, the valve will start to close, reducing the flow of hot water into the radiator. Conversely, if the room temperature drops, the valve will open again to allow more heat in.
Manual Radiator Valves: Manual valves are operated by hand and come in two main types:
Lockshield Valve: This is usually located on the opposite side of the radiator from the thermostatic valve. It is used to balance the system by adjusting the flow of water through the radiator.
Wheelhead Valve: This is a simple manual valve that allows you to control the heat output by manually turning the valve on or off. It doesn’t have the automatic temperature control feature like a TRV.
Radiator valves are an essential component of central heating systems, as they enable users to customize the heating in each room according to their preferences and the specific requirements of the space. By adjusting the flow of hot water, you can control the temperature and energy consumption in individual rooms, leading to more efficient heating and potentially lower energy bills.
Properly maintaining and using radiator valves can contribute to an evenly heated home while optimizing energy usage. However, it’s important to note that if you have a room with a thermostat, it’s recommended to avoid using a TRV on that radiator, as it can lead to conflicting temperature control and inefficiencies. Instead, let the main thermostat regulate the overall temperature while using manual valves on other radiators.”