Tips for New Tradesmen: Radiator valves
If you’re fitting radiators for your customers, then it’s important to understand the ins and outs of radiator valves, which are an essential component of both radiators and heated towel rails. With this in mind, we’ve subsequently compiled a handy guide to give an overview of these essential items, so you can answer any questions your customers might have.
Radiator valves are essential components of radiators and heated towel rails.
What are radiator valves?
Simply put, radiator valves are small components which control water flow through the radiator pipework, ensuring that the radiators heat up properly and the rooms are sufficiently warmed. However, one size does not fit all, so it’s important to match valves properly to the size and shape of the radiator in question.
NB Radiator valve inlets are generally located at the bottom of heated towel rails, although their precise position may differ depending on the type of radiator or towel rail your customer has. Traditional double and single-panel radiators, meanwhile, tend to have side inlets which, although located at the bottom of the radiator, need to be accessed from the side. (These will require angled radiator valves).
Some more contemporary radiators may also have middle connection valve inlets, which are again located at the bottom of the radiator but this time, in the centre.
For radiators with pipework that comes up from the floor, the inlets are likely to be at the back (these will require straight radiator valves).
Different types of radiator valves include:
- Angled valves: The most common type of valve, angled radiator valves should be used if pipework comes up from the floor or out of the wall. They connect at a right angle to the radiator and have a neat look, which appeals to many customers.
- Straight valves: These valves are as stated – straight without any diversions to the water flow via bends or angles. They should be used with radiators where the pipework emerges up from the floor or if it runs straight along the wall.
- H-block valves: Suitable for using with middle connection radiators, these have a double connection (the H-shape) and save space at either side of the radiator. They’re very easy to install, which makes them a popular choice with customers.
- Corner valves: More aesthetically pleasing than angled radiator valves, which tend to stick out at the bottom of the radiator, corner valves don’t protrude and are therefore also sometimes referred to as ‘flat front valves.’ The top of the valve faces inwards which gives a more minimal look, although this can also make these valves trickier to adjust.
There are also different versions of the above types of valves, in terms of how they operate.
- Manual valves: These allow you to adjust the valves by hand to control heat output and are available in both straight and angled designs. When the radiator reaches the desired temperature, you can then turn the valves off. It should be noted that these valves don’t provide automatic control over heating, as they need that manual intervention to turn the heating on and off.
- Thermostatic valves: These are a more energy-efficient type of valve as they let you turn a dial to set the heating at a certain level, giving you more control over heat output. This can help save your customers money as they can regulate room temperature – the valve will measure the heat output in the room and then adjust this by reducing water flow to the radiator, so it doesn’t get too warm.
- Lockshield valves: These are generally covered with a plastic cap and control the water flow from the radiator back to the pipes, balancing it so there’s even distribution of water within the system. This makes the heating more efficient and means all radiators in the house should heat up at the same rate.
Choosing the right size of valves
When selecting valve sizes, you need to consider the width of the connections along with pipework length in mm, which is usually 15mm in the UK (although you might sometimes encounter sizes ranging between 8mm – 28mm). It’s therefore important to check sizing before purchasing any radiator valves for your customers.
NBAdaptors and connectors can also be purchased.
Radiator valves at Tradeshack
We have a range of radiator valves available for our trade customers, including various styles and finishes – such as polished chrome, white and matt black. Whether your customers want more traditional styles or prefer a contemporary aesthetic, there’s something to suit everyone and we’re always happy to advise you on our range.
With great-value prices for our trade customers available across all of our products, we also guarantee cost-effectiveness alongside exceptional quality, whatever you purchase.
Contact Tradeshack for all your trade bathroom needs. Alternatively, email our team at info@bathshack.com or give us a call on (028) 9077 0188.
