A TRV, or Thermostatic Radiator Valve, is a type of radiator valve that is often fitted to radiators in central heating systems. Here is everything you need to know:
1. Function: The primary function of a Thermostatic Radiator Valve (TRV) is to regulate the temperature of a room by adjusting the flow of hot water to the radiator. It does this by sensing ambient air temperature around the valve.
2. Components: The TRV typically consists of two main parts:
The Head: This contains a temperature-sensitive element (usually a wax or liquid) that expands or contracts as the surrounding temperature changes.
The Valve Body: This is the part connected to the radiator and the pipework. The expanding or contracting element in the head operates a pin in the valve body to open or close the valve. It is quite simple really, but really good to have fitted to your radiators.
3. Operation: You can set a TRV to a desired room temperature, typically marked from 1 (coolest) to 5 (warmest) or sometimes even more detailed with actual temperature figures. When the room temperature exceeds the set level, the valve will begin to close, reducing the flow of hot water into the radiator and thus reducing the room’s heating. When the room temperature falls below the set level, the valve will open, allowing more hot water into the radiator and increasing the heat output.
4. Benefits:
Energy Efficiency: By regulating the temperature in individual rooms, you can avoid overheating spaces that aren’t in use, saving money on your energy bills.
Comfort: Allows individual rooms to be set at different temperatures based on preference and usage.
Cost-effective: Installing TRVs is a relatively inexpensive way to gain better control over your heating system and as we stated previously, which can lead to reduced heating bills.
5. Limitations: TRVs should not be fitted on radiators in rooms with a wall thermostat. This is because the wall thermostat should control the boiler’s operation, ensuring that the room it’s in reaches the desired temperature ( normally your hallway). If a TRV were to restrict the flow of hot water to the radiator in this room, it might cause the boiler to overwork, making your energy bills higher and your home too warm.
When using TRVs, it’s also essential to ensure that they are not obstructed (for instance, by furniture or curtains), as this can prevent them from accurately sensing the room’s temperature. If you have wooden radiator covers in your home, check your radiators don’t have TRV’s installed, because if they do, it could mean your room is not heating as efficiently as it should be.