Radiator valves explained
By Tom Drake | 4th November 2024 | 4 min read
With so many types of radiator valves to choose from, finding the right style for your plumbing system can feel overwhelming. This guide covers everything you need to know to select the perfect radiator valves for your home.
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What are radiator valves?
Radiator valves control the flow of water into and out of a radiator. Each radiator in a system will have two valves, a control valve and a lockshield valve.
Control valves
Control valves are fitted to the inlet pipe of a radiator. As they are fitted to the inlet pipe, they are used to adjust the temperature of a radiator by controlling the flow of hot water into it. There are two main types of control valve: thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and manual radiator valves.
Thermostatic radiator valves
Thermostatic radiator valves, also known as TRVs, are a popular choice when installing new radiators or replacing old ones.
TRVs feature a twistable cap with numbers on the front to denote higher or lower temperatures. Once you set the temperature, the TRV will automatically adjust the flow of water into the radiator to maintain that temperature.
If a room is too cold, the TRV will allow more hot water into the radiator to increase the temperature. When the room reaches the desired temperature or becomes too hot, the TRV will restrict the flow of water into the radiator to lower the temperature. This can help each room in your home maintain a stable temperature without manual adjustments.
Manual radiator valves
Compared to thermostatic radiator valves, manual radiator valves are much simpler.
Manual radiator valves can be turned clockwise or anticlockwise to manually control the volume of water entering a radiator. Manual radiator valves can’t automatically adjust to changes in the temperature of a room. Instead, the flow of water into your radiator will stay the same once you set the valve, and only your main thermostat will impact the temperature.
Smart radiator valves
Smart radiator valves will give you even more control of your heating system. These radiator valves work in the same way as a standard TRV. However, they offer extra features such as more precise temperature control, scheduling, connection to smart assistants and control through an app. If you want to truly optimise your heating system, take a look at our smart radiator valve range.
Lockshield valves
Lockshield valves control the flow of water leaving a radiator. They ensure that each radiator in a system receives an adequate amount of hot water relative to the other radiators in the system. Lockshield valves are adjusted when you need to balance your system to make sure all the radiators heat up at the same rate.
Many radiator valves will be sold in pairs, with a control valve and matching lockshield valve.
Radiator valve shapes
Radiator pipework can be configured in various ways, which influences how valves connect to a radiator. To accommodate these differences, radiator valves come in a variety of shapes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your specific radiator and pipework combination
Angled radiator valves
Angled radiator valves are used when the pipes into a radiator need to turn 90 degrees. The most common use for angled radiator valves is when the pipes come up from the floor into a radiator which has inlets on the side.
Corner radiator valves
Corner valves are commonly used when the pipework for a radiator comes out of the wall and needs to turn 90 degrees to enter inlets on the side or bottom of a radiator. Although an angled valve could be used in these cases, the valve head would protrude out of the side of the radiator.
Straight radiator valves
Straight radiator valves are used when the pipework runs in a straight line into the radiator. This is usually when the inlets on a radiator are on the bottom and the pipes run upwards from the floor.
Match the colour of your radiator
If you’re aiming for a timeless look that complements any room, matching your radiator valves to the colour of your radiator is an excellent choice.
For a sleek, modern style, consider pairing matte black valves with a black radiator for a cohesive, bold statement. For a more subtle finish, opt for anthracite accents on chrome valves paired with an anthracite radiator. Matching valves and radiators not only creates a unified look, but also brings an extra level of attention to detail, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space.
Stylish chrome
If you’re looking to add a sleek, modern accent to your radiator, opt for chrome. Chrome is a fantastically versatile finish that looks great in both modern and traditional spaces. This makes chrome radiator valves a great option if you want to install the same valves across your home.
Luxurious gold
If it’s a luxurious, high-end look you’re after, you can’t go wrong with gold radiator valves. Bringing a touch of classy style to what is often an unassuming fixture, gold is another finish that will work in traditional and contemporary homes.
Copper
If a sleek style doesn’t suit your taste, try a rustic copper finish. This radiator valve option pairs beautifully with natural home decor like wood panelling and stone-effect tiles.
Classic white
If you’re unsure which valves to choose, white is always a safe option. White radiator valves have a neutral tone that complements almost any radiator finish. They can blend seamlessly with a white radiator or create a striking contrast with a black radiator.
