What is the benefit of fitting a thermostatic radiator valve to the radiator?
The fitting of a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) to a radiator gives room temperature comfort control and can help to avoid overheating if a radiator is too large for the room. This piece of equipment provides an extra fine tuning control to central heating, by allowing individual room temperatures to be maintained by sensing room temperature and automatically adjusting the flow of hot water into the radiator. Much a designer item as a functional control; the right valve will give that perfect finishing touch for a modern or traditional scheme. Beware of shielding TRVs with drapes or furniture, as the valve will not be in a position to efficiently measure the room temperature. If trapped in a warm spot, it can cause the radiator to shut down too soon, resulting in a room temperature below the desired level. Likewise, if a TRV is in a constant cold spot, perhaps being influenced by a draught from doors, windows, airbricks etc, the room may overheat at times. Of course, in an apartment