Understanding Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
People are only just realizing the potential of thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and how they can help reduce your gas bill. These handy add-ons at the end of your radiator allow you to limit or turn off the flow of hot water, which in turn reduces the amount of gas needed to heat your central heating system.
Decoding the Numbers
Contrary to popular belief, the numbers on a thermostatic radiator valve do not indicate the radiator temperature. Nicholas Auckland, a heating expert from Trade Radiators, explains that the numbers on the valve actually refer to the temperature in the room, not the radiator itself. The purpose of a TRV is to detect the temperature in the room and adjust the flow of hot water into the radiator accordingly.
How to Use Your TRV During Winter
Nicholas Auckland shares his tips on how to optimize your TRV usage during the colder months. He suggests setting your TRV to 2 or 3 and leaving it at that for consistent heating. It's important not to increase the TRV setting to 5 if the radiator is excessively hot, as this can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Additionally, if you're away for an extended period during winter, set your TRVs to the * icon to save energy.
Maximizing Savings and Energy Efficiency
Setting your TRV to 5 and constantly letting hot water flow into the radiator until the room reaches 30°C is unnecessary and wasteful. Auckland advises determining a desired room temperature and adjusting the TRV number accordingly to achieve optimal energy efficiency. It's also important to avoid frequently adjusting TRV settings, as this diminishes their money-saving capabilities.
By understanding the numbers on your radiator knob and using your TRV effectively, you can significantly reduce your gas bill and save energy during the winter months.
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