Our Guide To How Do Thermostatic Radiator Valves Work?

If you have thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and want to know how to makes the most of them – or you’re considering switching over – here’s our guide to how thermostatic radiator valves work….

How Do Thermostatic Radiator Valves Work?

TRVS – Thermostatic radiator valves – are an inexpensive way to separately control the temperature of each room. The main benefit is that they automatically give you temperature control within the room so you can heat it more efficiently.

What is a radiator valve

Thermostatic radiator valves are found on the side of radiators. They look like a cylindrical dial with numbers 0-6. You change temperature by twisting them.

A TRV has two parts; a thermostatic valve head (the bit with the dial) and a valve body, which is fixed onto the pipe coming into the radiator.

How do thermostatic radiator valves work?

The valve adjusts the flow of water into your radiator from your boiler. As the radiator heats, a capsule within the valve head expands, moving a pin in the valve body that closes it, so it receives less hot water. As the radiator then cools, the capsule contracts again, pulling the pin back out of the valve body, so hot water can enter the radiator again.

Why are thermostatic radiator valves a good idea?

TRVs simply help you save energy – and therefore money. This energy saving potential is the main draw. If you set up your TRVs correctly, you can control the temperature in each individual room and save money by avoiding overheating.

Do the numbers on the valve refer to the radiator’s temperature?

No. Numbers on thermostatic valve are indicative of the temperature in the room, not the radiator.

Which number means which temperature?

• 0 = Off
• * = 7°C
• 1 = 10°C
• 2 = 15°C
• 3 = 20°C
• 4 = 25°C
• 5 = 30°C

L&W Heating and Plumbing

If you need to call on a Gas Safe registered plumber call L&W Heating and Plumbing experts Warrington on:-

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