3 Types of Radiator Valves Explained – Manual, TRVs and Smart

Radiator valves have entirely changed the game of home heating by giving you more control over heating output and maximum comfort level. However, finding the right radiator valves isn’t as easy as it seems as there are plenty of options available in the market these days.

If we put it in simple words, radiator valves are designed to control the temperature of your radiators. The valve controls the amount of water entering your radiator and the lockshield can help balance the system. In this guide, we will walk you through the working mechanism, types, and styles of radiator valves.

How Does the Radiator Valve Work?

When you switch on the central heating, your boiler comes into action. It heats the water uniformly and then transfers it to radiators around your home. The purpose of the radiator valve is to send a certain amount of hot water into each radiator within controlled settings. 

Each radiator in your home requires radiator valves. They can help control the hot water entering the radiator and the other balances the system by controlling how much heat it produces.

Types of Radiator Valves

Are you planning to upgrade your central heating system? Let’s find out the best types of radiator valves.

1. Manual Radiator Valves

A manual radiator valve is used commonly. You need to turn the valve, adjust the hot water entering the radiator, and ensure how much heat is produced. You can turn them up or down depending on whether you want your room to be cooler or warmer. They are easy to use and are likely to be more compact than thermostatic valves. 

One drawback is you need to actively monitor them and turn them off when required, otherwise, you will end up wasting ample money and energy.

2. Thermostatic Radiator Valves

A Thermostatic Radiator Valve ( TRV ) can give you better control over the temperature of your home because it allows you to set the valve to the desired temperature. TRV includes liquid or wax, which can detect the temperature in the room. When you reach the desired temperature, the thermostatic radiator valve will turn off the flow of hot water. Therefore, these valves can manage themselves as needed so you don’t end up wasting unnecessary time, money, and energy.

To get the best results, make sure your heating system works effectively. This will ensure the flow of hot water is uniformly distributed around your home so radiators heat up at the same rate.

3. Smart Radiator Valves

A smart thermostat is connected to Wi-Fi, which allows you to manage the heating through the app from any smart device. Make sure the smart thermostat is compatible with smart TRVs, so you can control TRVs from your app anywhere, anytime. 

Straight, Angled, Corner, or H-Block – What to Buy?

Whether you go for manual, thermostatic, or smart radiator valves before you buy you need to understand if you need straight, angled, corner, or H-block valves. Radiator valves should be compatible with the position of inlets and connect with hot water pipes. 

Most radiators have bottom opposite end connections. As pipework is likely to come out of the wall, angled valves are required to attach the pipe to the radiator. If a radiator requires to be connected to pipework coming out of the floor and the radiator has inlets at the back, straight valves can be a viable option.

Corner valves are ideal for homes having limited space. They are installed inwards, parallel to the wall, and can be a little tricky to install. On the other hand, H-block valves are ideal for radiators with middle connections and can be easy to install or replace.

Conclusion:

Thermostatic radiator valves are widely appreciated for their advanced technology, reliability, and foolproof set-up. With endless possibilities of smart home systems and IoT, you can now manage your TRVs using a smart device. 

However, the decision on the right radiator valve will be influenced by existing pipework and radiator. But the style comes down to your preference and lifestyle needs.

If you’re buying a new home or renovating your home, consider installing a central heating system and cheap LED bathroom mirrors to bring an appealing and functional addition to your space.

About the Author:

A leading supplier of plumbing and heating products, including radiators, thermostatic radiator valves, bathroom mirrors, pipes, solar panel systems, underfloor heating systems, pumps and valves, and much more. The company aims to limit the use of fossil fuels, reduce carbon emissions, and deliver energy-efficient products.