radiators

[hawk123]

anyone know the best way to balance radiators in the home also at which end of the radiator does a thermo valve go ?

[skelly]

The thermostatic valve goes on the flow pipework, i.e. the inlet to the radiator. The best way I can think of to balance the system would be to set all the thermostatic valves to their highest setting and open all the lock-shield valves on the return pipework. Then go to each radiator and close the return valve untill the flow and return temperatures are roughly the same on all the radiators. (test this by holding the pipework attached to the radiator) Eventually you will get a fairly equall flow through each rad.

[KARL]

Skelly is quite right. The only point I would add is that the process of "stopping down" on the outlet side should begin with the radiator nearest the pump (usually at the boiler), working toward the furthest away - that way you ensure you get flow throughout most evenly (pressure is lost as you go further away and you would have to go back and forth if you started elsewhere). All radiators should of course be thoroughly bled of air before starting on this. You may then decide on pump setting after balancing.

[cucumbers]

Just to add that if you go to a decent plumbers merchant and ask , they will supply you with TRV,s that go on either flow or return end of your rads.