Thermostatic Radiator Valves

Thermostatic radiator valves are self-regulating devices, which are fixed to radiators of hot water heating systems. These valves also function as air vent valves with steam radiators. While a manual valve allows only two options namely, on and off, thermostatic radiator valves or TRVs can be turned to the desired level, thus regulating the heat output.
A TRV does not fix the radiator temperature, but turns it off when it senses that the room or surrounding has reached the temperature preset on its dial. The radiator temperature depends on the radiator design and the boiler. The valve has a sensor to control its opening, while the sensor consists of a sensing substance in an actuator, which is responsible for adjusting the valve opening, with regard to the room temperature. The actuator spindle and the valve spindle are connected for the purpose. The sensor is usually made of plastic, and the sensing substance may be liquid, gas or wax.
These valves are suitable for highly-used rooms such as kitchens, living rooms and bed rooms. This is because the temperature changes correspond to weather changes throughout the year. On cold winter days, they can be set to give the maximum output, while on warmer days they can be set to maintain a favorable temperature. The entire process is self-contained without the incorporation of sophisticated electronic controls. It is important to note that the valve does not function properly if placed in a confined space or if it is obstructed by furniture or curtains. This happens because, it functions by sensing the surrounding air temperature, and hence requires to be exposed to air that circulates in the room.
It enables the user to maintain varying temperatures in different parts of a house or building, instead of wasting energy by heating unoccupied areas. Therefore, it is highly beneficial in saving energy, as it offers flexible utility features. It is possible to set the valve pertaining to each room to a temperature that best fits the room. They usually have up to six preset temperatures, which are indicated by lines or numbers on a dial. When the set temperature is reached, the valve shuts off the hot water flow to the radiator. However, other radiators on the heating system will get hot till their respective temperatures are reached, as the valve does not turn off the boiler.
Today, these valves have a wide market, and serve as efficient energy savers. Further, they eliminate carbon emissions for heating installations. They are suitable for all types of radiator systems, convectors or even towel dryers. Sensors can be customized to suit particular applications. Replacing a manual heating system with a TRV tends to save the environment of carbon emission hazards.
Owing to the use of competitive technology, thermostatic radiator valves have a good potential for more implementation in the future. They are often made of brass or bronze, though the style varies from valves with antique appearance for customary cast iron radiators to the latest ones that complement modern homes.