Best 10 Thermostatic Radiator Valves

Do you want to adjust the temperatures in your home conveniently? All radiators get a helping hand from the thermostatic valve. Without this piece of essential radiator technology, modulating temperatures across rooms would be impossible. 

It's handy because we feel temperature differently, and one person will want their room cool while the other prefers a toasty atmosphere. This problem is easy to solve with a thermostatic valve. Also known as TRVs, these appliances control individual rooms heating, thus avoiding overheating commonly experienced when using manual valves. 

TRVs are not built the same. There's a large variety of valve styles, shapes, and sizes. You'll want to choose the best thermostatic radiator valve for a warm and inviting space to save you money by improving the performance of your heating system. That's why we've created this guide to help you make the best choice. Keep reading below to learn more!

What Are Thermostatic Valves?

A TRV controls the flow of water into a radiator depending on the setting. This appliance allows the radiator to heat up to the preset point or stops the flow of hot water into the radiator to cool it down. 

Unlike manual radiator valves, a thermostatic valve is self-regulating. It can control water flow into each radiator independently, which allows you to create heating zones throughout the home. 

Typically, a TRV comes with a dial on top, which you can turn from 1-5. The number on the valve reacts to the room temperature, not the radiator's internal temperature. Thus, allowing a specific amount of water to enter the radiator. 

Why Should You Invest in Thermostatic Radiator Valves?

There are many advantages to owning a thermostatic valve. You won’t even have to hire a professional to set them up; you can change the radiator valve on your own! Let’s look at the most obvious benefits of purchasing a thermostatic valve.

1. They Save Money on Bills.

TRVs aim towards efficiency in costs and energy consumption. Their capability to constantly change and adjust the inward flow of heat means that your central heating system is working at an optimal level, saving you money. 

2. They Allow Different Temperatures in Different Rooms. 

The beauty of a TRV is that it can control the temperature of every room, saving you from adjusting a room when it gets too cold or too hot. It's especially the case if you have a centralised boiler and a single thermostat, meaning you are always heating rooms that are not occupied. With the help of a TRV with heating controls, it cuts the overall cost of your heating. 

3. They Are Energy Efficient.

That simple tweak will go a long way in making your heating energy efficient when you set a limit on your radiator’s heat. It goes hand-in-hand with our common goal of reducing our carbon footprint. So, not only will your heating controls work with improved performance, but you’ll also be saving money and the environment. 

4. They Provide Optimal Central Heating.

With a TRV, you'll never endure the discomfort of an excessively chilly or hot room. These valves will open and close depending on the ambient temperature, which means that they keep the living space temperature exactly how you like it, whether you are in the room or not. 

What Types Of Thermostatic Valves Are Available?

As we said, thermostatic valves are not built the same. They vary in size, style, and shape. Let's help you understand the different types available before you make a pick.

• Straight Radiator Valves

The first choice concerns the position of your piping. Straight TRVs are for pipework that connects horizontally from the floor. You will know this because the pipes are at the same angle as your radiator. The pipes run from the wall directly into your radiator or straight from the flooring. 

Straight radiator valves are a beginner’s choice. They are easy to install, and they don't see much wear because of the lack of bends.

• Angled Radiator Valves 

These radiator valves are the most standard. These valves have a bi-directional body that connects to the pipes, usually at a 90-degree angle, hence the name. If your pipework runs from the wall or the floor but bends to find the radiator's inlet, you will need an angled radiator valve. 

If your piping requires an angled radiator valve, you might also want to look into lockshield valves, which are also considered angled valves. A plastic cap covers them to restrict the level of water that flows into the return pipework. 

Lockshield valves cause radiators to heat up simultaneously while preventing accidental alterations. They are excellent if you are bringing a new radiator to a home with kids. The most significant advantage of angled radiator valves is that they can fit pipes that connect at awkward angles.  

• Corner TRVs

Also known as flat front valves, corner TRVs double as decorative appliances. They run straight from the radiator at a 90-degree angle, but they don't protrude from the bottom. This feature makes them aesthetically pleasing and reduces the risk of injury if you come into contact with the valve. 

Corner valves also take up very little space since they can run straight from the floor. Add a radiator cover over your radiator and add some style to its functionality.

• Smart Radiator Valves

Smart heating is the latest trend. You will want to invest in a smart radiator valve instead of the ordinary automatic models for a smart home. You can control room by room heating on your phone. These devices work alongside a smart thermostat like the Tado, whereby you can access your home's heating and cooling system over cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. 

You can opt for an excellent smart radiator valve like the Drayton Wiser for seamless heat control in every room. Such a device also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.

• Designer Radiator Valves 

If you have a fancy radiator that looks nothing like standard radiators, you may want to splash on a designer radiator valve to match your elegant model. Here, you'll want to be choosy in terms of finish so that you don't end up with a valve that looks out of place.

A good place to start for stunning valves is Honeywell, where you can find classic and vintage valves for the traditional property. 

What To Look For When Buying Thermostatic Valves

Are you starting to get a little overwhelmed with the options available? Do you need more guidance on the top features to consider? We’ve added a list of the most important things to look for so that you can make the best purchase possible for your needs. 

1. Material & Finish

After identifying the type of TRV you need, it's time to go over the available materials. It's best that you go for valves that match your existing piping and radiator. If you have a vintage stainless steel radiator, you'll want brass valves or a chrome finish that matches stainless steel. 

Likewise, if you have copper pipework, you wouldn't want white plastic valves. You'll like to colour-coordinate with other appliances. Apart from brass and plastic, you can find steel, cast-iron, and EPDM rubber options.  As for the finish, there are different varieties, including anthracite, silver, white and black. 

2. Size 

TRVs come in 15mm, 10mm, and 8mm sizes. This is a measure of the pipe that the particular valve will go into. 15mm is the standard size as it fits most pipework. However, if you find that you've bought a valve that does not fit your piping, you can always use an adapter and a connector to make the valve fit. 

3. Wax Vs. Liquid Capsules

There are two forms of TRVs available - wax and liquid. The key operating function of a thermostatic valve is that it is self-regulating. This function is enabled by the element in the thermostatic radiator valve head because it changes as the space temperature changes, making the TRV head expand. It adjusts a pin in the valve to open and close, which maintains the room at the preset temperature. 

Although the liquid element is the newest development and was thought of as more responsive until recently, plumbers keen on maximising efficiency have observed that wax is more accurate in influencing the efficiency of a valve. 

4. Price

The price of a thermostatic valve for your rads depends on the brand and functionality. Standard TRVs cost £10-£30, including installation. You can have a plumber install it, and it requires minimal maintenance. Or, you can even try your hands out and assemble it alone with the included guide.

And if you're looking to install a smart TRV to be part of your smart heating system, you can expect to pay a little more. In particular, £40-£100. Such models offer an LCD temperature display and a smart thermostat for programmable heating. 

Can You Use Thermostatic Valves In Any Radiator?

Yes. The purpose of a TRV is to adjust the temperature output of your radiator. As such, all you need to do is choose a TRV that matches the pipework, and you have a simple tool to decrease bills while improving the thermal comfort of your home. 

You can still use radiator valves on towel rails if they use hot water, but some are less effective with heated towel rails. 

Conclusion 

In summary, the main challenge when choosing the best thermostatic radiator valve is finding a model that works with the design of your plumbing. After you nail the ideal type, you're on your way to zoning your home, achieving temperature control, and getting a handle on your energy consumption. 

Say goodbye to keeping an eye on your heating bill by choosing one of our top performers highlighted in this buying guide. We are optimistic that you now have a better understanding of these products so that you can improve your home’s central heating system. Are you ready to enjoy comfortable temperatures in all rooms?