This guide will show you how to change a radiator valve. This guide will help you replace an old valve with a thermostatic one or repair a damaged radiator valve. It is easy to follow in just 10 steps.
Let's get started.
What is the purpose of a radiator valve?
What does a valve do?
Radiator valves control the temperature of your radiator. Radiator valves regulate the temperature of your radiator by controlling the flow of water (traditional radiator valve) and the radiator's temperature (thermostatically valve).
What does it mean?
The traditional radiator valve functions in the same way as a tap. The radiator will heat the more water you let in. The radiator will get cooler the more water it receives, the further you close the valve.
Thermostatic valves have more sophisticated sensors and can measure the temperature inside the radiator. The thermostat can be set to a temperature, and the sensor will ensure that the water doesn’t rise or fall below that temperature. The valve can be opened or closed to let more or less water in the radiator when it reaches or falls below the desired temperature.
What tools do I need to replace a radiator?
It is essential to have the right tools before replacing a radiator valve. These tools are essential:
- Towel
- Washing Up Bowl
- Hose
- Hex key
- The plumber's wrench
- Adjustable spanner
10 Steps for Replacing a Radiator Valve
Step 1: Turn off your electrical and water supply
Before starting anything, make sure that all water and electrical connections are off. Turn off the water supply at the stopcock and the electrical at the fuse box. Turn off all thermostats and inform everyone that you are working on radiators.
Step 2 - Drain off excess water
The drain-off should be located closest to the radiator you wish to work on. You must drain the water below the radiator. Then, you will want to:
1. Attach the hose to the drain off
2. To prevent water from dripping onto the carpet, place a towel underneath the hose
3. Bring the hose outdoors
Open the drain with an adjustable spanner. The water will start to drain outside.
3. Open All Radiator Air Bleeds
The next step is to open all radiator air leaks in your house. This is done to prevent water from entering the system. It also helps drain excess water. And most importantly, it stops the radiator system from pulling a vacuum. This means that the system will hold water higher up and only let it go when the valve is removed.
4. Allow the system to drain for 15 minutes
The system should then be allowed to drain for at least 10 to 15 minutes. You can now remove the old radiator valve by making a quick brew.
5. Take out the old radiator valve
Grab a pair of gloves and place them on the radiator valve's body. Push down to loosen the nut nearest to the radiator. Before you remove the nut completely, loosen the opposite nut underneath the radiator valve. You should be able to loosen both nuts by hand. The radiator valve should pop off.
You might find some water left in the valve. Be prepared with a towel and a dishtowel to clean it up.
6. Install the New Valve
You can now reverse the process and replace the valve. You can push the valve on and then tighten the nuts.
Step 7. Close All The Radiator Air Bleeds
Once the valve has been installed, you will need to close all radiator air bleeds in your home. It would help if you did not leave any open - double or triple-check them all. If an air leak is left open, your radiator may flood once it is filled.
Step 8. Shut the Drain Off
Now, drain off the water and turn it off. Remove the hose from the and clean up any excess water. Double and triple-check that the drain has been completely closed.
Step 9. Open Up the Water Supply
You will now need to open your water supply and go to your stopcock. Next, you will need to walk around your home and open each radiator. Please wait until it warms up. This is called bleeding the system. This guide provides more information about bleeding a radiator.
Step 10. Inspect the Valve for Leaks
Next, you will need to check the valve for leaks. You might have to repeat the process if you find leaks.
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