It is in our nature as humans to ponder something we do not understand. So it's understandable that you're curious about why there are two valves at the bottom of your towel radiator and what they do. To pique your interest, we investigated the world of towel radiators and created this brief that explains the function of these valves.
Why do you have two valves on your towel radiator?
The flow of hot water and the amount of heat emitted by your towel radiator are controlled by two valves. The first towel radiator valves controls the amount of hot water that enters the towel radiator, while the second controls the rate at which the hot water exits the radiator.
What are the two valves on your towel radiator for, and what do they do?
The two valves on your towel radiator are typically a lock-on valve and a wheel-cap valve, but in some cases, a TRV. In general, the lock valve regulates the amount of hot water that enters the radiator. By controlling the hot water inlet, the lock valve also ensures that the operation of the towel radiator does not interfere with the performance of other radiators in your home.
The wheel head valve, on the other hand, controls the amount of heat released by the towel radiator. As a result, the purpose of this valve in a towel radiator is to control the radiator's temperature. By turning the wheel valve counterclockwise, you can increase the flow of water through the radiator and thus raise its temperature. Similarly, turning it clockwise lowers the radiator's temperature.
How to Bleed a Radiator in the Absence of a Key
Bleeding a radiator without a key may appear difficult. But you're in luck because this step is straightforward! That's because there are numerous alternatives to a radiator key that work just as well.
If you have a regular, slotted-shaped bleed screw, you can open the bleeder valve with a screwdriver. Does your bleed screw have an odd hexagonal shape? Then try one of the following methods to open it:
- An Allen key
- A wrench
- Pliers
To keep things simple, we'll demonstrate this method with a screwdriver. But please, grab whatever tool you need to turn your bleed screw and a cloth, and let's get started!
- Turn off the heat. This will reduce the temperature of the water in the radiators. This should keep you from getting burned.
- Insert the screwdriver into the slotted groove using a cloth. Slowly turn it anticlockwise. Catch any water that sprays out of the valve with the cloth. As trapped air exits the radiator, you should hear a hissing sound.
- Retighten the valve with the wrench once the hissing has stopped. You've now expelled all of the trapped air. Retighten the valve as soon as possible to prevent a large amount of water from escaping the radiator.
- Restart the heating system.
- Examine the boiler's pressure gauge. If the pressure is too low, refill it.
- Allow an hour for the radiators to heat. Then, ensure that the heat is distributed evenly across them.
