Can you reuse radiator valves?
If you are replacing the old radiator with a new one, but are planning to reuse the valves, you will need to remove the tail pieces from the old radiator by turning them anti-clockwise with an adjustable spanner.
Do all valves fit all radiators?
You’ll probably need a set of 15mm valves for your radiator, but if you’re unsure then measure the diameter of your copper pipes to double check. The connection between your valve and the radiator is standard across all moderns radiators and valves.
Are radiator valves universal?
With a large variety of radiators currently available on the market in varying shapes, styles and sizes, not every valve is universally suitable to all radiators.
Can you swap radiator valves?
Since radiator valves play a significant part in how well central heating radiators operate, and as most of them are visibly on show in our homes, changing your radiator valves is a great way to improve the performance, efficiency and overall look of your heating system.
Can you reuse radiator valve tails?
If it’s like the pic above then you can take the tail out of the old radiator and reuse it (usually an internal hex to undo) and so keep the valve. TRVs all seem to use 1/2” nuts and lockshields are either 1/2” or 3/4”. You do quite often see one of each on a radiator.
Can I fit a new radiator myself?
Changing your radiators is a pretty straight-forward job that can be done in just a couple of hours if you know what you are doing. The easiest way to do it is to replace your radiator like-for-like; meaning finding one that is the exact same size as your old one.
What valves do I need for a new radiator?
Side connections with pipes coming up from the floor = you need “angled” valves. Underside connections with pipes coming up from the floor = you need “straight” valves. Side connections with pipes coming out of the wall = you may choose between “angled” or “corner” valves.
How do I know what radiator valve I need?
Find The Radiator Inlets
The inlets are where your valves will connect the radiator to the pipework. Therefore, it’s important to look at where and how they will connect as this will determine which shape valve you need. Most radiators have valve inlets at the bottom of the radiator on each side.
What size are old radiator valves?
15mm valves are the only size you’re likely to encounter, since 15mm copper pipes are the most common. There are also other sizes, from 8mm to 28mm, and there are accompanying adapters.
How do you replace a radiator valve without draining?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Of the big valve nuts so if you've got the large nut that will fit on once again you can just fit a hose pipe on there open the valve and run the system out and it's all empty.
How often should radiator valves be replaced?
You should replace your thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), or at least upgrade the TRV heads, if they are 10 or more years old. TRVs can decline in terms of performance and accuracy over time. To learn more about what TRVs are and why they may be beneficial, check out our guide to Thermostatic Radiator Valves.
How do old radiator valves work?
Radiator valves work by regulating the level of hot water passing through the radiators in your central heating system. The valve acts as the control in varying degrees depending on the valve you use. In the most basic sense, hot water flows through a pipe and meets your radiator.
Are all radiator keys the same?
Although most radiator bleed valves are similar, they’re not all identical, so radiator bleed key sizes and shapes do vary. Most hardware stores offer several types of radiator bleed keys so unless you have a very specialist model of radiator fitted, you should be able to find a compatible key fairly easily.
What is the thread size on a radiator valve?
1/2 inch BSP
Radiators usually have a 1/2 inch BSP female threaded connection for the valve (see BSPT link at bottom of page for more info on plumbing thread sizes).
What is the difference between a lockshield and radiator valve?
The Lockshield valve restricts hot water flow to radiators to help balance the entire system as a whole. Other radiator valves can be used to help adjust the temperature of a radiator to help heat or cool a room.
Are both radiator valves the same?
Generally, there are two different style radiator valves (that are adjustable by the user) available. These are manual valves and Thermostatic Radiator Valves (also known as TRVs). Manual valves are quite simple devices that you can think of like a tap in your home.
Do you need a lockshield valve?
A lockshield valve helps to balance out that radiator and ensure the whole system is in sync, with all radiators heating at the same rate. It is therefore every bit as important a valve as without the system being balanced, there is often little point adjusting an individual temperature valve.
Do I need both valves open on a radiator?
You should open both of the valves on all of your system’s radiator when you are starting the radiator balancing process. You will most likely need to use pliers to open the lockshield valve.
How many valves do I need for a radiator?
So you could turn the radiator valves all the way down in rooms you’re not using so that the radiators don’t heat up. Not only is this an easy way to your bit for the planet, you’ll also be saving money on your heating bills. Each radiator in your home needs a pair of radiator valves.
What are the two valves for on a radiator?
Each radiator will have two valves. One will control the amount of hot water that enters the radiator and the other will balance the system by controlling how much heat comes out of your radiator.
