With the chill of winter approaching, it’s important to take control of your heating to avoid any unnecessary spikes in your energy expenses. Many individuals instinctively adjust their radiator knobs as the temperatures drop, not fully grasping the significance of those small digits on the dial.
What you’re actually twiddling with is a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV), and understanding its function could be quite the financial trick for those eager to cut down on their heating bills. Admittedly, not all radiators are fitted with one, but for the lucky ones that are, this valve can significantly alter how much hot water gushes into your radiator, potentially tempering a hefty bill.
Nathan Martin-Nicholls from In House Plumbing and Heating frequently sees bemused customers trying to make sense of these numbers on their dials. A common error among homeowners is to associate those figures directly with heat output from the radiator itself, but that’s simply not the case.
Nathan clarified to The Sun, stating: “The numbers actually relate to the temperature in the room, not the temperature of the radiator.”
A TRV essentially measures the ambient room temperature and adjusts the flow of hot water into the radiator based on this. It intelligently detects if a room requires more warmth, prompting an increase in hot water circulation, and likewise, when a room has achieved a cozy temperature, it will reduce the flow to maintain a steady warmth, reports the Express.
The figures on the TRV should generally match the room’s temperature. For instance:
0 = 0C (off)
✱ = 7C (typically represented by a snowflake symbol or full stop)
1 = 10C
2 = 15C
3 = 20C
4 = 25C
5 = 30C
Nathan emphasised that the main benefit of TRVs is their ability to help Brits reduce heating costs when used correctly.
British Gas estimates that households could save up to £75 per year if they have TRVs installed. If you already have a room thermostat, there’s no need for a thermostatic radiator valve.