There are two types of radiator valve available to buy: - Thermostatic and Manual.
Both Thermostatic and manual valves are sold in pairs - you will receive a valve and a lockshield.
The Control Valve is the larger of the two items and the lockshield is the smaller item.
By convention looking from within the room at your radiator:
The control valve (which is adjustable by the home owner) is fitted on the right hand side (inlet)
The lock shield (which is set up by the plumber who installs the radiator and is then left in this position) is fitted on the left hand side (outlet)
Thermostatic Radiator Valves
These valves give the optimum of control; they are designed to turn off the radiator once the room temperature has been met.
The wheel handle can be turned which adjusts the room temperature setting.
Manual Radiator Valves
These valves give the more traditional look to your radiators.
These valves allow you to adjust the radiator temperature by easily turning the valve.
The following notes are to be read before fitting your valves
When screwing the valve tail into the bush - turn it finger tight then using a spanner turn it till there is only moderate resistance.
Using a 4” (100mm) spanner it is difficult to over tighten.
It is easy to over tighten and crack the bush with an 8” spanner.
A thread sealant must be applied to the valve tail threads to get a water tight seal.
Sealants are available from your plumbers, PTFE tape is an acceptable alternative.
It should not normally be necessary to unscrew the bushes, but if for any reason you do, retighten them gently, enough only to create a good seal.
18” Stilsons should not be used!
The torque from an 8” adjustable spanner is more than enough to create a good seal.