Thermostatic radiators valves or RTV are a useful piece of equipment for controlling the temperature. However, while researching we realized that there are so many faulty and inefficient RTVs in the market. So here we have complete seven best thermostatic radiator valves for you. If you want our opinion then we consider KES ML100 SOLID BRASS 3-Way as the number RTV among all.
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Top 7 Thermostatic Radiator Valves
1. KES ML100 SOLID BRASS – Best For Bathroom
This TRV by KES is made up of solid brass body, which is a durable metal. It has all-male connections of ½”. The cartridge is built with Shape Memory Alloy which further provides a long-lasting finish to the overall valve body. This TRV is ideal for a washroom, kitchen, bathroom, etc. As it is a mixing valve, so there are separate hot and cold water temperature requirements. The inlet hot water temperature requirement is given as 113-210¨H/45-99¡æ. Its inlet cold water temperature requirement is 34-84¨H/1-29¡æ.
This has also performed well for converting hot water into the cold. So, set the temperature you want to get, connect the sprayer from cold water sink or anything to the outlet and turn it on. Also, if you need water higher than 100¨H or 38¡æ, press the red button gently provided at the side of the temperature controller. While fitting, you need to be aware of the hose connection otherwise it will not fit properly. Also, there is a little bit of error factor while marking the temperatures. So, you are not going to get accurate temperature measurements.
- All ½” male connections.
- Solid brass body.
- Easy to install.
- Inlet cold and hot water temperature requirements.
- A little error factor in temperature measurements which is usual with every TRV.
- Need to check hose fitting for proper connection.
Bottom Line
Kes Ml100 Solid Brass 3-Way Thermostatic Mixing Valve gains 1st place in our list for sheer quality of the product. It is highly durable, and the design is clean.
2. Elgato Eve Thermo – Best For Home Automation
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If you are also stuck up with your manual TRV, try this modern-looking app-based Ever Thermo TRV by Elgato. The finishing looks are very clean and feel good. In the package, you are going to get two AA batteries, valve body and separate adapter that can fit in any type of radiator. As it is an app-based valve, you will get convenient controls with just one tap or by using Siri. There are autonomous schedules within the app to match temperature with that of your daily routine. Overall, it is the best smart TRV.
We tested the wireless capability of the valve. You get the same control as you get with the manual valves. The good part about this TRV is that you will get different orientation as per your convenience. And, the temperature is shown in that way. In the app, you will get whole lot feature like power consumption, temperature and all other kinds of data. So, this will help you to track the historical records in case of need. However, it has no local controls other than the integration of Apple’s Home Kit. So, this is a big disadvantage for non-Apple users.
- App-enabled.
- Voice control using Siri.
- Elegant look.
- Easy installation.
- User-friendly app.
- No local controls.
- Expensive.
Bottom Line
We tried to find many smart thermostatic radiator valves, but there are hardly any. Out of few we found Elgato Eve Thermo Thermostatic Radiator Valve. Though it is wireless its performance matches that of traditional high-quality TRVs.
3. Honeywell – Best For Budget Conscious Users
This TRV is presented by Honeywell with a connection of ¾”. The type is angle and exclusively made in the USA. It is designed with threaded tailpiece. The maximum temperature range is mentioned at 248°F. The maximum pressure of steam is 15 psi and water is 150 psi. It has a sturdy EDPM rubber valve disc. However, its valves have no operator included in the package. You will have to but it separately. Its valves are fitted with a packing gland assembly which you can replace easily while the system is in operation.
The only downfall is the non-availability of the valve head to control the temperature. So, you need to buy it separately according to the dimensions. All other functions are quite satisfactory.
- Sturdy body.
- Angle type with a maximum temperature range.
- Easy to connect.
- No valve head for temperature controls.
Bottom Line
There is nothing fancy about this TRV, but with trademark of Honeywell you do get the high-quality thermostatic radiator valve. The best part about it is the price. It is one of the most budget-friendly options on our list.
4. Plumb-Pak – Best With Operator
Plumb-Pak presents us with a 15mm TRV with good temperature controls. A white chrome valve head is available for controlling the water flow. It has a bi-directional valve that connects to most of the radiators. The type of valve is angled, and the sensor is liquid. It can control minimum temperature up to 6°C, and maximum temperature range is 28°C. Moreover, it is frost protected thermostat valve with up to ½ turn operation. This is fully adjustable TRV so that you can control it as per your comfort.
The good part is that it has an optional lockshield. For maximum efficiency, remove bleed the radiator to remove those air blocks. Also, there is a full shut-off setting to ensure no leaks when radiator needs removal. For extra peace of mind, you will get 2 years warranty for the product. However, we recommend contacting the manufacturer for further info about the warranty. As per our testing, we found no cons with the valve.
- Good temperature controls.
- Adjustable design.
- Quick operation.
- Optional lockshield.
- 2 years warranty.
- Operator quality could have been better.
Bottom Line
There are quite a few thermostatic radiator valves with operator. But the quality of the valves is not that good. Out of all valves with operator, the Plumb-Pak Thermostatic Radiator Valve impressed us with its performance.
5. Supaplumb – Most Durable Option
It is another 15mm TRV which is manufactured by Supaplumb. Also, there are 8mm and 10mm reducers. Its tail thread size is mentioned at ½”. This TRV can fit with any 8, 10, and 15mm pipe. It has dual flow. Along with the necessary parts, you will also get the valve cap for further protection. The good part is that the product comes with a 5-year guarantee. For additional info, you should contact the manufacturer. The cap provided also helps to prevent it from things like frost.
There are no cons in this valve as tested by our experts except the build quality. There is nothing too much wrong with the built quality. It is just that there many other TRVs with superior quality. With regards to the temperature controls, it works amazing as well as quickly. It uses a spring that expands or contracts to depend upon the temperature settings. It is made up of metal and works satisfactorily to fulfill its purpose.
- Good fittings.
- Includes valve cap.
- Easy connection.
- The operator quality could have been better.
Bottom Line
Though we felt the built quality could be better, the manufacturer offers 5 years of warranty on the product that not many other TRV manufacturers do. That is why we categorized this valve as most durable TRV.
6. Schneider Electric 07 15 220 Drayton – Best For Wiser Thermostats
If you are also having Wiser Radiator Thermostats, this TVR by Drayton may suit your purposes. It has 15mm angled type. The compression fitting is also 15mm which suits most of the radiators. It also contains a valve cap for additional protection. The body is solid and made up of brass material. But you are not going to get any valve head for temperature controls. It needs to be purchased separately.
However, one downfall is that you need to buy a temperature indicator. So, its flow difference is 11°C. The best advice is that you should not overtighten the pump ring. With this TRV, there is no need to rebalance the system. For modern technology, they have replaced the gland seal with Drayton’s unique key. Overall, while testing, we have encountered no issues with the working of TRV.
- Used with most of the radiators.
- Good temperature controls.
- Clear indications.
- No operator.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for best for Wiser Radiator Thermostats, there is no better TRV than Schneider Electric 07 15 220 Drayton Valve. The quality and design are right up there with the best.
7. Honeywell V2040DSL15 – Best For All Actuators
This is Honeywell’s TRV temperature indicator valve head. At the first look, it is a good looking with clear indications. It has a two-pipe system that modulates the flow of hot water or steam through convectors, free-standing radiators, and various other heating units with high capacity requirements. This TRV uses T100 thermostatic actuators with V110 valve bodies and T104 thermostat actuators. The maximum temperature range is mentioned at 248°F. For hot water, it supports a maximum system of 150 psi.
It has no cons as per our testing. All its functions to control the flow of water goes well. But you need to be gentle while installation so that it will not get over tight. Over tightening the plumbing parts is strictly prohibited because of protection issues. However, you will get all the installation instructions. Its temperature range of 43°-79°F.
- Clear indicator valve head.
- Supports steam and hot water radiator actuators.
- Includes valve seat disc.
- No operator is included in the package.
Bottom Line
There is one thermostatic valve that could go with all kinds of actuators, and this is Honeywell Thermostatic Radiator Valve – V2040DSL15.
Buyer’s Guide – What To Consider?
Thermostatic Radiator Valves are known to be the best temperature controllers for your radiators. As for cost-effective solutions, they are approved by the government agencies so that you can easily replace them with your manual valves. The reason behind their popularity is the user-friendliness and their quick and superb performance. With the use of a thermostatic radiator valve, you will be able to control your room temperature depending upon the water flow from the radiator and the settings done by you. Moreover, smart TVRs are a sort of gift by modern technology to give the benefit of remote controls on temperature from any area of your home. So, let’s see the considerations before buying a thermostatic radiator valve to arrive at a best and informed decision.
1. Requirements
There are many different types of radiator valves available based on various forms of radiators used by the customers. Varieties consist of angled valves, straight valves or corner TVRs. All of them have different forms of usage. Straight valves are used when pipework comes from the floor. On the other hand, angled valves are used when pipework comes from the wall. H-Block valves are used if the radiators have central or middle connections. So, you should consider your requirements first.
2. Size
Most often, TRVs are found in sizes of 8mm/10mm/15mm. These are measurements of the pipe which can be connected to a TRV. However, the standard size is usually 15mm that can be connected to most of the pipework. 10mm or 8mm are used for ‘microbore’ piping systems.
3. Efficiency of self-regulation
The main purpose of using TRVs is the self-regulation temperature in your room. It should be efficient enough to detect the temperature at its own. This can be done by checking the valve head specifications. There should be clear indications over the controller with temperature control range. It’s been given with the product specification that what limit of temperature can be controlled by a particular Thermostatic Radiator Valve. Overall, you should see for the specifications clearly as per your requirements. The aim is maximum efficiency both in cost as well as consumption.
4. Type of capsules
As you know that there is a capsule inside the valve head that contracts or expands based on the temperature changes. It mainly consists of two types, i.e. liquid and wax. Because of efficiency and quickness, liquid models are considered to be the best over wax models. The wax capsules are relatively slow to expand or contract.
5. Smart TVRs
Smart TVRs are a step ahead from normal TVRs. As they are app-based, so they will let you control the temperature from any place of your home. They are also compatible to use with other heating systems with the synchronization feature in the app. However, buying smart TVR may found to be expensive, but the accurate and remote features are worthy for the price they are charging. And, this all done with the touch of the button your smart device.
If your pocket allows and you also prefer smart solutions, then go for smart TVRs. Make sure to check their compatibility with your smart devices. Sometimes, they have just limited to Apple-based devices. Thus, it is important to make a note of this consideration. On the other hand, if you do not want to be much complex with using smart TVR, then choose the normal ones. They are also good to go for without any defects in their performance.
6. Material Quality
A solid body long lasts and gives an efficient option to the users. Most of the TVRs you will find are made up of brass or other heavy metal like aluminum. These are the best options to be considered. They will let you play safely in the market. Sometimes, you will find that the valve head, which indicates the temperature range is a somewhat plastic material. This can be possible because of the different look. In this case, also, look for material quality. If it feels cheap, ignore it.
7. Ease of connection
Thermostatic Radiator Valves consists of two parts, namely a valve body and a valve head. A valve body is the lower part that connects with the radiator whereas valve head is mainly the indicator that connects above the valve body. Thus, easy connection without the requirement of any sort of over-tightening ensures the durability of the product. So, look for the ease of connection in each case. Also, see the installation instructions carefully before any installation. It will help you out in the overall plumbing part.
FAQs
1. Thermostatic radiator valves: How do the work?
The thermostatic radiator valve regulates the flow of water into the radiator. It is installed over the valve body. It follows a simple principle of thermodynamics. When the temperature of the room changes, the valve head expands or contracts to depend on the temperature. This phenomenon changes the position of the pin in the valve. Eventually, the pin controls the flow of water into the radiator.
2. Which is the best Wax Or Liquid Model?
In the old days wax TRVs where prominent but now the liquid thermostatic radiator valves have taken over. The big reason being liquid TRVs changes the temperature more quickly compared to TRVs. If you ask us, we would advise you to go for the Liquid models.
3. Danfoss vs. Honeywell TRVs?
There was a time when the competition between Danfoss and Honeywell was stiff, but the brand of Honeywell has come long way, and if you are looking to order online, you can trust the brand of Honeywell and go with it while buying the TRVs for your home or office.
4. Are there any issues with TRVs?
If you buy good quality TRV you won’t have any issue. But even with most durable products, it depends on how you use it. The maintenance is necessary. So make sure you maintain it well after the purchase to ensure that it keeps working well.
Final Thought
While writing reviews of thermostatic valves made sure that we cover and test out all the popular and bestselling TRVs or radiator valves available and sold on the market. After that, we created a list of top performers. However, while creating the list we also kept in mind the factor that each user has different requirements. So, as to make a list of TRVs users of all kinds.
KES ML100 SOLID BRASS- Editor's Choice
Summary
Kes Ml100 Solid Brass 3-Way Thermostatic Mixing Valve gains 1st place in our list for sheer quality of the product. It is highly durable, and the design is clean.
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