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Choosing the right radiator valves can be confusing, as each home and heating system is distinct. There are various sizes, styles and materials for radiator valves, and the valves required will vary based on your radiator's specifications and your home's layout, particularly concerning the position of pipes in relation to valve connections.

In this helpful buying guide, we will go through all things radiator valves, so you’re fully equipped with all the information you need to make the correct purchase for your radiator.

What do radiator valves do?

Radiator valves regulate your radiator's temperature by controlling the flow of hot water into the pipes.

Our range of radiator valves enhance both interior aesthetics and energy efficiency. These small yet impactful components offer a stylish accent to your home while also playing a crucial role in energy conservation and cost reduction.

Every radiator needs two valves to operate, one on the inlet pipe and one on the outlet pipe. These two valves are called the wheelhead and lockshield respectively and act like taps, controlling the rate at which the water circulates through each radiator. The wheelhead valve adjusts the flow of water into the radiator and is used to control the temperature of the radiator. The lockshield valve controls the water flowing out of the radiator and helps ensure an even flow of hot water throughout the system.

When new radiators are fitted, the system must be balanced, with the valves of each radiator set according to its position in the system. This process ensures that all the radiators heat up at the same rate when the heating comes on, improving the efficiency of the system.

Choosing the right radiator valve

When selecting radiators, either for a new property or as a replacement, radiator valves are sometimes given little or no attention. However, the valves have an essential role to play, and choosing incorrect or poor-quality products will affect the performance of the heating system. Radiator valves control the operation of each radiator in a home. They are as important to the performance of the heating system as the radiators themselves.

Two primary factors determine the suitable valve: the type of pipe system in your home and the connection points on the radiator.

Which valve to use

There are two primary categories of radiator valves: thermostatic and manual.

Thermostatic radiator valves

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) connect to your hot water system and regulate water flow into the radiator to maintain your desired room temperature. These valves function similarly to a room thermostat. You set your preferred temperature, and the TRV system adjusts the water flow accordingly. If the room temperature exceeds the set point, the system stops the hot water flow to the radiator.

The main advantage of a TRV system is that it prevents your room from becoming uncomfortably warm. These are also beneficial if you are looking to be more energy efficient as their maximum heating capacity is designed to be in line with carbon footprint reduction guidelines for energy efficiency, making them particularly good for use with towel rails or radiators that have a high heat output. This means that while they may be more expensive to install, they will help to save you money on a long-term basis.

Manual radiator valves

Manual radiator valves operate differently from TRVs, yet they still provide full control over your central heating and radiators. You simply adjust the valve manually to regulate the heat.

These valves are compatible with nearly all radiator types, including copper pipes, cast iron radiators, towel rails, and more.

With manual valves, you can easily and quickly control the amount of hot water flowing through your pipes and the heat emitted from the radiator. Manual valves let you turn your water supply on and off as needed, much like a tap, allowing you to efficiently manage room temperature. When the room has reached an adequate temperature, you can turn the radiator off. They are ideal if your temperature preferences change frequently or if you live in an older house with regular temperature changes.

Types of radiator valves

There are a range of radiator valve options to suit your home and radiator - angled, straight or corner. Depending on where your pipework originates - whether from the floor, the wall, or elsewhere - there will be various valve types to suit your needs. They also come in a wide range of different finishes to complement the radiator or towel rail and the overall aesthetic of the room.

Angled radiator valves

Angled radiator valves are the most common type in the UK. They connect your radiator to your central heating pipes at an angle, typically around 90 degrees. These valves are ideal for pipes coming from awkward angles, ensuring an ample water supply with minimal hassle. One end of the valve connects to the radiator, and the other end connects to the pipe that supplies the hot water.

They are most effective when your pipework comes up from the floor and the radiator connector is on the side, but can also be used when the pipe comes out from the wall and bends upwards, still connecting to the side of the radiator.

Angled valves can also be used where pipework emerges from the wall and the radiator has a connection on the base, however the valve will likely protrude in front of the radiator, so we would recommend corner valves in this case.

Angled valves are becoming increasingly popular due to their neat appearance and reduced visible pipework.

Straight radiator valves

Straight radiator valves are named for their design, as the water flows directly through them without being directed or diverted at an angle. These valves have no bends or curves and connect horizontally or vertically. If your pipework runs along the wall or floor and directly into the radiator with a bottom inlet, straight radiator valves are the best choice.

Straight radiator valves are not used with side inlet radiators.

They are favoured for their simplicity, direct water flow and uncluttered looking aesthetic appeal.

Corner radiator valves

Corner radiator valves are primarily chosen for their decorative appeal. Their design allows pipes to run directly from the wall to a connection on the side of the radiator, eliminating the need for plumbing components that stick out or occupy wall space. They provide a 90-degree horizontal connection and connect the radiator to the pipework in a corner configuration.

They are best suited to fit radiators in tight or awkward spaces, such as close to the corner of a room.

What size of radiator valve do I need?

When talking about the ‘size’ of your radiator valve, this doesn’t mean how big it looks, but the size of the fittings. It's important to take accurate measurements to ensure you select valves that are compatible with your pipe sizes and other plumbing components. 15mm pipes are the most common in the UK and the only size you are likely to encounter, but there are other sizes available.

Radiator valve extras

There are many extras and accessories you can purchase along with your radiator valves to keep your radiator looking and functioning at its best:

• Bleed valve - A bleed valve, also known as a radiator bleed valve or air bleed valve, is a small valve used to release trapped air from a radiator or heating system. Trapped air can prevent the radiator from heating efficiently, so bleeding the radiator is an important maintenance task to ensure optimal performance of the heating system.
• Blanking plug - A blanking plug, also known as a blanking cap or blind plug, is a device used to seal off or close the end of a pipe, tube, or fitting. It is typically used in plumbing, heating, and other fluid handling systems to temporarily or permanently block the flow of fluids or gases. Bleed valves and blanking plugs tend to be sold as a pair and are available in anthracite, white or matt black.
  

  

• Pipe sleeves - Pipe sleeves are a great addition to complete the look of a radiator. They cover the copper pipes leading into the valve to provide a more complete easy on the eye look and come in a variety of colours and finishes to match your chosen radiator or towel rail.
  

  

• Electrical element - An electric element allows a radiator to be used independently (on/off) without the need to be connected to your central heating system. This means you can turn on your electric radiator without the need of warming the whole house. Depending on the size of radiator you must select the correct heating element wattage for the element to heat and work correctly.
  150 Watt – 800/1000mm
  300 Watt – 1200mm
  600 Watt – 1500/1800mm
  Element covers are available in a range of colours and finishes to seamlessly complete the look.
  

  

• Towel rail and robe hooks – Compatible with a selection of radiators, these allow you to add extra hanging space to your radiator or towel rail, meaning you can hang and warm towels easily.
• Radiator brackets - Our Boone Horizontal Radiator Brackets are a must if you plan on changing the orientation of your radiator. You’ll need these brackets if you want to hang a vertical radiator horizontally and it is worth nothing that these are only compatible with our Boone or Hudson radiator range. A horizontal radiator will help to create a designer look in the comfort of your own home.

Shop radiator valves at Designer Heating

We offer a diverse selection of stylish radiator valves designed to complement a wide array of radiators. Whether you prefer traditional elegance or modern styles, you'll find exactly what you need at Designer Heating.

Radiator valves FAQs

1. How do I know what type of radiator valve to use?
   The choice depends on the layout of your pipework, the space available, and your preference for manual or automatic temperature control.
2. What is the difference between manual and thermostatic radiator valves?
   A manual valve requires manual adjustment to control water flow, while a TRV automatically adjusts the flow based on the room temperature.
3. Can I install a radiator valve myself?
   Yes, with the proper tools and instructions, but it is often recommended to hire a professional to ensure correct installation and avoid leaks.
4. What should I do if my radiator valve is leaking?
   Tighten the valve if possible or replace it if tightening doesn’t stop the leak. Consult a professional if you are unsure.
5. What is a lockshield valve?
   Lockshield valves help to balance your central heating and control the amount of water flowing back into the pipes. These are supplied with your valve purchase as when you buy a pair of valves, one of them will always be a lockshield.
6. How do I bleed a radiator with a bleed valve?
   Turn off the heating, locate the bleed valve at the top of the radiator, use a bleed key to turn the valve counterclockwise, release air until water starts to flow, and then close the valve.