Radiator Valves

When replacing radiators it is often wise, in fact sometimes necessary, to change radiator valves at the same time. Whilst the valve may not be deemed faulty or broken, it may soon need to be replaced due to its age. It makes much more sense to have the plumber switch out radiator valves at the same time as the new radiator is being installed simply to save on the labour costs. The question is, which type of radiator valve will you need?

Two Main Types of Radiator Valves

There are two main categories of radiator valves, manual and thermostatic. As the names suggest, manual radiator valves need to be adjusted by hand to control temperature whilst thermostatic valves are controlled automatically by the internal thermostat.

Type Determined by Radiator and Pipes

Both manual and thermostatic radiator valves are manufactured from a variety of metals but the traditional ‘standard’ has always been brass, chrome or nickel such as in the traditional Crosshead radiator valve . Even so, you are not limited in most cases to the type of metal you would like to use; however, the type of radiator valve may be determined by the radiator itself. As well, radiator valves are necessary on both one-pipe and two-pipe systems.

Valves for Hot Water or Steam Heating Systems

Understanding the mechanics of radiator valves can be a bit confusing but the first thing you really should understand is the difference between steam radiators and hot water radiators. Steam radiators have one pipe connecting the boiler to the radiator. In principle, the boiler heats water and steam is sent up the pipe which then connects to the radiator. Steam is forced into the radiator and as it cools, condensation drips down the same pipe back to the boiler to be heated and sent back up as steam.

Hot Water Radiator Valves

Hot water radiators have two pipes connected to the boiler, typically one on either side of the radiator. One pipe sends hot water up to the radiator which then is sent through the radiator only to come out the other side cooled. This cooled water is then sent back to the boiler and it is a continual cycle – hot in and cold out. The radiator valve is attached, obviously, to the pipe in from the boiler.

How Radiator Valves Work

Radiator valves are meant to control the temperature by allowing a certain amount of steam or hot water to be released into the radiator. In order to add heat to the room, the valve must be opened more to allow for more hot water or steam to be cycled through the radiator. If the room needs to be cooler, the valve needs to be closed proportionately. Therefore, both manual and thermostatic radiator valves operate under the same principle where an open valve provides heat and a closed valve doesn’t allow water or steam to pass.

Manual Radiator Valves

Manual valves are operated by hand and they have a handle which is gradually opened and closed as more or less heat is needed. The valve is typically covered with some form of insulation, most often porcelain, so that you don’t get burned when adjusting the heat. Also, there are two types of designs in manual valves, straight or angled. Conventional/traditional radiators usually use angled radiator valves such as the Black & Brass radiator valves and as you can see, they are made from brass and the handle is black insulated material.

Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV)

Thermostatic radiator valves are often referred to as TRV and are most often straight from the radiator as they are more commonly used with today’s designer radiators. Since today’s designer radiators have connections that come straight from the radiator, either from underneath or in the middle, a straight radiator valve is usually employed but not always. Some are angled but they all work in the same way. There is a heat sensor that automatically adjusts how much heated water is allowed to pass through the valve dependent on the temperature in the room. One of our loveliest straight thermostatic radiator valves is the Danfoss TRV.

Choosing the Correct Type

Whether you are buying a new radiator or are simply in need of a replacement valve, function is of utmost importance. Style may be important to you, and rightly so, but you need to find the correct type of valve for the radiator and heating system you have. If you are looking for a radiator valve for a towel rail, some will work and others may not. Some radiator valves will work equally well with both steam and hot water heating systems and some may not.

Pointers for Thermostatic Radiator Valves

As for TRV (thermostatic radiator valves), it is important to keep in mind that although they ‘can’ work with both types of heating systems, they are not ideal in all situations. Thermostatic radiator valves are designed to open and close in order to keep a room heated to a constant temperature throughout the day. They are energy efficient which can cut down significantly on the cost of heating your home; however, they should not be used on a radiator situated behind or too close to furniture as that will prevent them from accurately sensing the temperature in the room.

Radiator Valves for Towel Rails

Understandably, radiator valves for heated towel rails should be manual so that you can turn the heat on just prior to your shower/bath and off again once you step out and into your nice toasty warm towel. A perfect example of a manual radiator valve for a towel rail would be the Minimalist Radiator Valves manufactured by Aeon. They are available in straight or angled so they can work equally well with pips coming from either the floor or the wall for your heated towel rail.

Full Range of Radiator Valves

The Radiator Gallery has a full range of radiator valves to suit any type of radiator or towel rail on the market. You will want to find a qualified plumber to help you install both a new radiator and radiator valve as that is the one service we don’t offer. A plumber or heating system specialist will know how to bleed your radiator and install the radiator valve so as not to damage your current radiator if you are simply changing valves.

If you have any questions in regards to which type you will need, just give us a call un 0800 055 6450 and one of our knowledgeable representatives will help you chose the perfect valve for your radiator or towel rail based on the type of system you have and the location of the pipes. Most valves are delivered within three to five working days.