Thermal head for a heating radiator - operating principle, different types of devices, how to choose and install

The thermostatic head for heating radiators belongs to the control valves of a water heating system. Experts call it a radiator valve or a thermostatic valve. The device appeared in Russia relatively recently, and was immediately included in the appropriate regulatory framework as a legitimate element of a water heating system.

The thermostat is designed to regulate the heating level of one heating radiator or a chain of series-connected batteries. With its help, you can set an individual temperature regime in one of the rooms of your house or apartment. The versatility of the device lies in the fact that it is compatible with any radiator models.

Types of elements

Only the upper replaceable part of the device is called a thermal head. It can be manual, mechanical or electronic. Most serious manufacturers of this type of equipment make the valve body fully compatible with all types of thermoelements.

So, if the radiator has a built-in thermostatic valve, then any type of head can be installed on it. The most reliable is a mechanical part equipped with a thermostat.

There are also models protected from vandalism. Systems with remote sensors are available. Such solutions are purchased and installed if current conditions do not allow temperature control on the radiator itself. For example, the battery is installed behind a closet or chest of drawers. The cost of such models starts from 40 euros.

Manual thermostats are the same radiator control valves. The operating principle is the same here.

Thermal head selection

At the stage of choosing a thermostat, you should pay attention to such a characteristic as filling, which can be liquid or gas-filled. If liquid is used, the device's capabilities allow it to inform the actuator how much the temperature has changed. But a liquid device has a serious disadvantage : it exhibits increased inertia, which is what distinguishes it from gas-filled devices. The use of the latter does not allow achieving a high-precision response from the actuator, but they will all do it much faster.

Even before deciding on the brand and model of equipment, you need to decide exactly how their measuring unit will be installed.
For example, about thermal heads for Danfoss radiators, it can be noted that they provide several design options: with a remote or built-in sensor , and there are also models that allow you to control the operation of the thermostatic element from a distance using a special remote control.
Most often on radiators you can find thermal heads with a built-in sensor . Just by the name of this category of devices you can understand exactly how the operating element is placed. When installing heating radiators that are equipped with thermoelements of this type, it is important to remember that:

1. If vertical placement is more suitable for an element, then you should consider purchasing other devices. The fact is that when using a built-in temperature sensor, slight inaccuracies in operation will be observed, the cause of which is increased heating created by outgoing convection currents.
2. For a sensor of this type, only horizontal placement is acceptable.

It is worth thinking about installing thermostatic elements with remote control only when the layout of heating devices does not allow the owner to reach them. Among the considered category of devices, consumers quite often install Danfoss RA 5068 or RA 5074 models.

Thermal valve for heating radiator classification

Now let's talk about the lower part of the thermostat - the valve (valve). First of all, you need to know that the industry produces control devices for different systems. And you only need to use devices for your system.

Devices for two-pipe systems have at least twice the hydraulic resistance than for single-pipe systems. This was done on purpose, since balancing in this case occurs due to the pressure drop across the valves. That is why devices with a small flow area are installed. By placing such a device in a one-pipe system. you will probably be cold. Therefore, be careful.

There are thermal valves for radiators in one-pipe and two-pipe systems. And you cannot use devices for a two-pipe system in a one-pipe system.

Sometimes modifications for single-pipe systems are positioned as devices for natural circulation systems. They have reduced hydraulic resistance and can be used in single-tubes.

In a one-pipe system, install thermostats with a flow capacity of at least 3 (Kvs=3 and higher).

Depending on the method of pipe installation, radiator temperature regulators are either angular or straight (through). There are also axial models. In this case, they are chosen depending on the type of connection of the heating device. If the pipe approaches from the side, it is more convenient to install a straight valve, if from below - one of the corner ones.

According to the type of connection, thermostatic valves for radiators are straight and angular

Thermal valves also differ in the material from which they are made. Metals that have good corrosion resistance are used. Some of them also have an additional protective coating applied (usually nickel or chrome plating). So, thermostatic valves are made from:

• bronze, nickel-plated and chrome-plated;
• brass, nickel plated;
• stainless steel

It is clear that stainless steel is better, but such valves cost a lot and are rarely found on sale.

FAQ

What happens if you install regulators of reduced resistance on the 2nd tube? What could this mean other than overspending?

You want to put an expensive model where you can get it cheaper. This is not advisable. In general, nothing will explode and nothing will fall off. This may result in incorrect operation of the regulator.

Is it possible to regulate the heating of the battery with a ball valve to shut them off?

The ball valve has only 2 positions: open and closed. It is impossible to regulate the heating by setting it to half position. The faucet will quickly fail due to the accumulation of salt and pieces of rust and will stop turning.

From an economic point of view, installing thermostats is especially advisable in private houses with autonomous heating. In apartments with a centralized coolant supply, the use of these devices will help improve the microclimate, achieving a comfortable mode without radically blocking the radiators and systematic ventilation.

Thermostatic heads

There are three types of thermostatic elements for heating thermostats - manual, mechanical and electronic. They all perform the same functions, but in different ways, provide different levels of comfort, and have different capabilities.

Manual thermostatic heads work like a regular faucet - you turn the regulator in one direction or another, allowing more or less coolant to flow through. The cheapest and most reliable, but not the most convenient devices. To change the heat transfer, you must manually turn the valve.

Manual thermal head - the simplest and most reliable option

These devices are quite inexpensive, they can be installed at the inlet and outlet of a heating radiator instead of ball valves. Any of them can be adjusted.

Mechanical

A more complex device that maintains the set temperature automatically. The basis of this type of thermostatic head is a bellows. This is a small elastic cylinder that is filled with a temperature agent. A temperature agent is a gas or liquid that has a high coefficient of expansion - when heated, it greatly increases in volume.

Thermostat device for a heating radiator with a mechanical thermostatic head

The bellows supports the rod, which blocks the flow area of ​​the valve. Until the substance in the bellows heats up, the rod is raised. As the temperature rises, the cylinder begins to increase in size (gas or liquid expands), it puts pressure on the rod, which increasingly blocks the flow area. Less and less coolant passes through the radiator, and it gradually cools down. The substance in the bellows also cools down, due to which the cylinder decreases in size, the rod rises, more coolant passes through the radiator, and it begins to warm up a little. Then the cycle repeats.

Gas or liquid

With such a device, the room temperature is fairly maintained at exactly +- 1°C, but in general the delta depends on how inert the substance in the bellows is. It can be filled with some kind of gas or liquid. Gases react faster to temperature changes, but are technologically more difficult to produce.

Liquid or gas bellows - not much difference

Liquids change volumes a little more slowly, but are easier to produce. In general, the difference in the accuracy of temperature maintenance is about half a degree, which is almost impossible to notice. As a result, most of the presented thermostats for heating radiators are equipped with thermal heads with liquid bellows.

With remote sensor

The mechanical thermostatic head should be installed so that it faces the room. This way the temperature is measured more accurately. Since they are quite large in size, this installation method is not always possible. For these cases, you can install a thermostat for the heating radiator with a remote sensor. The temperature sensor is connected to the head using a capillary tube. You can place it at any point where you prefer to measure air temperature.

With remote sensor

All changes in heat transfer from the radiator will occur depending on the air temperature in the room. The only disadvantage of this solution is the high cost of such models. But the temperature is maintained more accurately.

Electronic

The electronic thermostat for a heating radiator is even larger in size. The thermostatic element is even larger. In addition to the electronic filling, it also contains two batteries.

Electronic thermostats on batteries are large in size

In this case, the movement of the rod in the valve is controlled by a microprocessor. These models have a fairly large set of additional functions. For example, the ability to set the room temperature by the hour. How can this be used? Doctors have long proven that it is better to sleep in a cool room. Therefore, at night you can program the temperature lower, and in the morning, when it’s time to wake up, you can set it higher. Comfortable.

The disadvantage of these models is their large size, the need to monitor battery discharge (enough for several years of operation) and high price.

What is a thermal head

So, you have decided to qualitatively modernize the heating system in your apartment or private house. We bought new tubular radiators to replace the old ones, all the necessary components, etc. Well, what about the fact that the new system would also be energy efficient and help save heating costs? Interesting? Then we can advise you to buy a thermostat for the heating radiator.

The thermal head for a heating radiator is a compact cylindrical device that controls the temperature of the radiator automatically. And this allows you to use thermal energy more economically and create the most comfortable conditions at any time of the day. By the way, with this effective solution you can easily save up to 25% on heating your apartment or house.

The advantages of automatic temperature control are obvious. Firstly, you can create comfortable conditions in the room at any time by simply setting the regulator to the desired level. Secondly, this makes it possible to achieve more efficient heat distribution in the house, for example, to obtain different heat output from heating radiators in rooms. Thanks to such fine tuning, the overall level of comfort is increased. Without any special effort!

Types of thermal agent

Most often, liquid and gas are used in its role. Because of this, the following types of thermal heads are distinguished:

The first type of regulators are cheaper and simpler. For this reason, they are represented by a very large number of models. However, they manage the battery more slowly.

The gas regulator for the heating battery has less inertia, due to which it is able to react quickly enough to changes in room temperature.

In practice, the difference between the two types of reactions is very small

Therefore, when choosing, it is better to focus on the quality of performance. It depends on the manufacturer

Almost all types of thermostats are capable of setting the temperature, the range of which is +6...+28 °C. Of course, there are options designed to set other temperature levels. However, as the temperature range increases, the price rises.

Common Mistakes

Correct installation requires attentiveness from the master at every stage of work in order to avoid mistakes. The most common problem is the vertical position of the head. This leads to the fact that the room stops heating, since the thermostat itself heats up from the incoming air.

Often the wrong installation location is chosen. You cannot install the regulator at a point where the air temperature is very different from the average in the room. Due to the wrong choice of installation location, the use of a thermal head loses its meaning.

Types of heads by design

Thermostatic devices are distinguished by type of design. They are selected depending on the characteristics of the pipeline of a particular heating system and the method of installation to the radiator.

It is also necessary to take into account the peculiarities of the head installation. This node was always located horizontally. In this position the device will be more effective. The head will be better washed by air currents.

There are devices on sale that stand alone without radiator valves or together with them. The Danfoss thermostatic valve, for example, has exactly this arrangement. But the company produces completely different systems. Instead of a scale, this product has a special diagram on it, according to which you can make precise adjustments.

But the use of such equipment is not always advisable. In this case, instead of automatic solutions, you can use other types of valves. The difference here is that the adjustment is carried out not automatically, but in manual mode. Adjustable valves and thermal heads are installed on the supply line. It is recommended to install simpler fittings at the return outlet from the battery.

Advantages and disadvantages of thermostats

Installation of the thermostat is very simple. We recommend using the installation diagrams presented in this review.

Definitely, the temperature sensor has more advantages:

1. Easy to install and operate. You can install a mechanical device without outside help and special skills, with a minimum of tools. Control of mechanical and car models is simple: the temperature is set by turning a wheel or pressing a button.
2. Install a thermostat together with a gas meter and this will significantly reduce your utility costs. According to estimates, for an average apartment, installing a thermostat and meter can provide up to 20% savings on energy consumption .
3. Advanced models allow you to program the boiler’s operation for an hour, a day and even a month. The temperature is set depending on the activity of the owners of the house.
4. The system does not require operating costs.

Thermostatic heads

– cylindrical devices, inside of which there is a working substance that reacts to changes in air temperature. When the temperature changes, the volume of the working substance changes, resulting in the valve closing. Typically, thermostatic heads regulate the temperature in the range from -6 to +30 degrees.

Thermal heads can have different working substances (liquid, gas, etc.). Heimeier has a very large range of liquid thermostatic heads. Their main advantage is an increased level of accuracy, silent operation, simplicity and ease of use.

Gas condensate thermal heads are more sensitive to temperature changes and respond faster to changes in the room.

Most models of thermal heads are equipped with built-in or remote sensors, which are respectively located in the body of the thermostatic head or outside (the connection to the sensor is made using a thin metal tube).

It should be remembered that installation of thermal heads with a built-in sensor is not so simple. In order for a thermostatic head of this type to work with maximum efficiency, the following conditions must be met: the depth of the radiator is not less than 16 cm, the width of the window sill is not more than 22 cm and the distance from the window sill to the radiator is not more than 10 cm. In cases where these requirements are not possible to perform, it is recommended to use thermal heads with a remote sensor, which can be located at a distance of 2 to 8 meters from the thermal head.

Brief overview of popular brands

The right decision when purchasing a thermal head would be to focus on reputable manufacturers. An unfamiliar trademark with an unknown history is a big risk of wasting money.

You can safely purchase products from manufacturers such as Dunfoss, Oventrop, Caleffi, Salus and other well-known companies.

Place #1 – Danfoss

The Danfoss concern has been producing thermal heads for over 60 years. This is a Danish manufacturer; under its license, products are also produced in Russia.

The range of equipment for automation of heating systems at the Danfos concern is rich and meets advanced technologies. You can control the operation and configure the thermal heads remotely using a smartphone.

The most frequently asked question is the RTS Everis thermal head. This is a bellows product filled with liquid. By direct fixation it interfaces with proprietary thermal valves. Others require an adapter.

Test of existing types of brand thermal heads in the following video:

Place #2 – Oventrop brand

Oventrop thermal heads from the Uni line are in great demand among consumers. They are equipped with a liquid bellows. They are connected to the thermal valve using a union nut. The temperature can be set between +7 – +28 °C.

There is a possibility of complete closure. The heads are designed for a maximum temperature in the system of +100 - +120 °C - these are the characteristics indicated by the manufacturer in the accompanying documentation.

Oventrop Uni heads are compatible with other sanitary products from this company. They can be connected without an adapter to other devices with a built-in valve and appropriate threads

They are installed on thermostatic valves with a suitable connection. On the heads of many series there is a special mark for people with low vision and a vandal-proof casing.

Place #3 – Thermo company

Consumers highly appreciated the products of the Swiss company Thermo, in particular the Royal Thermo RTE 50.30 model. It has a wide adjustment range - from +6 to +28 °C, and a low hysteresis value - 0.55 degrees. There is also a zero position.

For correct operation, the coolant must have a temperature no higher than 100 °C. The connection to the valve is a union nut.

Thermo thermal heads are distinguished by their reliability and build quality. Offers include models with a remote sensor

Place #4 – manufacturer Caleffi

The Italian manufacturer Caleffi supplies a wide range of radiator thermal heads. The Caleffi 210000 model is programmable. It is equipped with a digital LCD temperature indicator. In addition to the temperature value, it shows the time, date, and the set daily program.

When purchasing equipment for heating systems, be sure to ask the seller for accompanying documents, a warranty from the manufacturer and instructions for the product

When programming for a week, you can set 3 temperature levels: “Comfort”, “Economy”, “Anti-freeze”. This head is installed in tandem with Keleffi valves.

Place #5 – Salus company

The German company Salus also enjoys a well-deserved reputation. For example, the Salus PH 60 model is an electronic head with non-volatile memory and the ability to set the temperature for a week. Temperature range: +5 – +40 °C.

Power is supplied from 2 AA elements. The display has the function of backlighting and displaying temperature parameters, as well as the charge level of the elements.

A new development - a wireless mini thermal head powered by batteries. You can control the device via a computer or smartphone by first downloading the Smart Home application.

Technical innovations never cease to delight users - wireless thermal heads allow the owner to create a comfortable indoor microclimate, while being on the other side of the city or another country. And all this becomes possible if you integrate the device into the heating system of a smart home or download a proprietary application.

Installing a thermostat on a radiator

Radiator thermostats are installed mainly on the supply before entering the heating device. Each of the valves allows coolant to flow in one direction. An arrow on the body shows where the flow should move. The coolant should flow exactly there. If connected incorrectly, the device will not work. Another question is that you can install a thermostat both at the inlet and outlet, but respecting the direction of flow. And in both cases they work the same.

Options for connecting and installing control valves. But to be able to repair the radiator without stopping the system, you need to install a ball valve before the regulator (click on the picture to enlarge its size)

It is worth paying attention to the manufacturer's recommendations regarding installation height. Most models should be at a height of 40-60 cm from the floor

They are calibrated to temperatures at this level. But not everywhere the supply is top. Radiators often have a bottom connection. Then, in addition to the type of system (one-pipe or two-pipe), select the installation height. If such a model is not found, you can set the temperature on the thermal head to a lower temperature. If you install the recommended one, it will be too hot, since the air below, near the floor, is cooler, and the model is configured to maintain the temperature measured at the height of the upper edge of the radiator. The second option is to configure the device yourself. The procedure is usually described in the passport, and the most common sequence of actions is described below. And the third option is to install a thermostat with a remote sensor on the battery. Then it makes absolutely no difference at what height the thermal head is located. The main thing is the location of the sensor. But such models are much more expensive. If this is critical, it is better to adjust the regulator.

Please note that the thermostatic head must be turned horizontally (looking into the room). If it is welded upward, then it is constantly in the flow of hot air that comes from the pipe

Therefore, the substance in the bellows is almost always heated, and the radiator is turned off. The result is that the room is cold.

For the device to work correctly, you need to install it “head” into the room

The situation is a little better if the battery is installed in a niche, covered with a screen or curtain. The thermoelement is also “hot”, but not so much. Here you can go two ways: either set a higher temperature on the regulator, or use a remote sensor. Models with remote thermal controllers, of course, are not cheap, but you can choose the control point at your discretion.

What else you need to remember: when installing in a single-pipe system, a bypass is required. Moreover, it is unregulated. Then, when the supply to the radiator is closed, the riser will not be blocked, and you will not receive “hello” from your neighbors.

Thermal valves also differ in the type of connection: some have union nuts, some have crimp nuts. Accordingly, they are connected to one or another type of pipe. Typically, the specification or description of the product will indicate the type of connection, as well as what pipes it can be used with.

What are the criteria for choosing a thermal head?

Thermostatic devices are produced by many manufacturers.

To make the right choice, you need to be guided by the following criteria:

1. Thermal valve to which the head will be attached . Since the connection can be clip or threaded, you need to pay attention to this point. If the manufacturer is the same, there will be no problems.
2. View of the threaded connection on the head itself . It can be in the form of a nut with curtains or simply round. In the first case, during installation you need an additional tool to crimp the connection. In the second, everything is much simpler.
3. The presence of a “skirt” . The head looks better with it, because... it covers the work area.
4. Material of manufacture . The cheapest are thermal heads in a plastic case. Expensive models have a metal body.
5. Plastic quality . Some manufacturers, in order to reduce the cost of their products, use the cheapest type of plastic. The strength of the structure suffers from this, and over time the plastic turns yellow and loses its aesthetic appearance.
6. Work item type . The choice will have to be made between liquid, gas, electronic and paraffin.
7. Smooth rotation . The handle should rotate smoothly. This is a sign of good quality. Any cracking, squeaking or jamming indicates a not entirely high-quality product.
8. Graduation and scale length . For most models it is in the range of +5 – +30 °C. If the graduation scale is located around the entire perimeter of the head, it can quickly wear out.
9. Availability of anti-vandal casing . It protects against unauthorized access to settings.
10. Design . Since thermal heads are mainly located in plain sight, their appearance and color scheme are important.

It is not necessary to purchase a ready-made kit consisting of a thermal valve and a thermal head. These devices can be purchased separately.

The gas-filled bellows is not too sensitive to external heat sources. This is a definite plus, but its cost is much higher than that of a liquid bellows

A thermal head equipped with automation benefits a lot, but it is not always effective. There is no point in mounting it on cast iron radiators. This material is very heat-intensive, and since the mass of the battery is large, it has great inertia. Only a manual type of head can work correctly here.

Features of the thermal valve

It was mentioned earlier that it is universal, that is, any type of thermal head can be installed on it. However, despite this, it has two varieties. They depend on which heating system the tap is to be used in. single-pipe or double-pipe.

The types of thermal valves should not be neglected, since installing a valve in a one-pipe system for a two-pipe system. The radiator will not warm up well. The reason for this is that the shut-off valves for a 2-pipe system have high hydraulic resistance. In fact, it is twice the value of valves for a 1-pipe system. To achieve such resistance, manufacturers make a small flow area. It also allows you to reduce the pressure on the valves and balance the pressure in the system. Because of this, under conditions of low pressure (typical of a 1-pipe system), little coolant flows through the tap.

For 1-pipe systems, those valves are suitable whose flow capacity is equal to or greater than 3.

Mounting an electronic thermostat on a battery is very simple. To do this, perform the following steps:

1. Shut off the riser and drain the water.
2. A piece of pipe is cut off from the radiator. Its length must match the length of the thermostatic valve. In essence, the pipe is cut in one place.
3. Dismantle the part of the pipe that remains in the radiator. These steps are not performed if the heating system is just being created or if there is a tap with the same dimensions as the required valve.
4. Unscrew the fitting with the American connection from the thermal valve.
5. The fitting is fixed in the radiator, and the base of the valve is fixed on the pipe.
6. Apply the tap to the fitting in the radiator and tighten the American one. The valve should be positioned so that the stem “looks” to the side.
7. Fix the electronic or mechanical thermal head.

The installation features are as follows:

• The thermostat is usually placed on the inlet pipe. In this case, the arrow on it must coincide with the direction of movement of the coolant;
• The electronic device must always be kept horizontal. It is prohibited to place the thermal head above the pipe. This is because the heat from the pipe will heat up the cylinder and cause unnecessary shutdown of the radiator. The consequence is a cold room;
• Most electronic and mechanical regulators are configured for installation at a height of 40-60 cm. If you place them at a height of 10-15 cm (bottom connection of the battery), the room will be too warm. The problem with the bottom connection can be solved by reconfiguring the thermostat, using a remote sensor, or purchasing a specially designed regulator;
• If the heating system is single-pipe, then the inlet and outlet pipes must be properly connected with an additional pipe. That is, it is necessary to create a bypass.

Installation of the device

The equipment installation process is simple, but if you don’t want to carry it out yourself, you can always turn to professionals.

Correct position of the device

Instructions:

• Disconnect the battery from the system. To do this, close the ball valve or shut-off valve. Then drain the water from the battery and vent the radiator.
• Remove the adapter. Before doing this, lay a lot of rags on the floor to absorb the liquid. Secure the valve body with an adjustable wrench, and use the second to remove the nut from the adapter pipe. Next, remove the adapter from the device body.

Installation location

• Installing the adapter. Screw on the union nut and collar. In this case, first clean the thread and wrap it with locking tape. You should wrap it clockwise, doing it 3-5 times, then smooth the tape. Assemble the adapter, heatsink and corner nuts together.
• Mount the new collar. Install the collar and blind nut on the pipe. All actions are performed with a screwdriver.
• Installation of thermostat. Secure the device in the directions of the arrows. Tighten the nut between the regulator and the valve, fixing it with an adjustable wrench. At the same time, tighten the nut. Do all actions carefully. After installation, make sure the fastening is secure.
• Fill the battery with water.

Fixing the thermostat

How to properly install a thermal head on a battery

Intermediate positions when adjusting the water flow can lead to rapid wear of the locking mechanism and its leakage.

A cone valve is a more suitable candidate, since this valve does not need to be fully opened/closed.

Important. The valve must be returned to its original position after a while.

Adjustment is carried out manually.

Adjustment of batteries using an automatic regulator, otherwise known as a thermostat, is carried out according to several schemes, depending on the type of heating system.

Thermostats for single-pipe heating systems

The principle of such adjustment

They are installed only if there is a connecting part between the pipes (bypass), which ensures constant movement of water in the battery to the radiator from the coolant.

Read more about the purpose and design of the bypass here: https://kvarremontnik.ru/bajjpas-dlya-otopleniya/

For any type of heating system, the thermostat is installed in front of the radiator/battery, strictly in a horizontal position. This compensates for the heating of the pipe and thermostat.

When installing a control valve, you need to take into account the direction of movement of the heat flow: with vertical pipelines, the movement is installed along them. Arrows on the valve indicate the direction of movement of the coolant.

When installing the regulator on a two-pipe system, the general requirements are met:

1. installation takes place at the site of the jumper (plug) between the batteries and the coolant supply pipe;
2. connection is made with the heating system turned off and the water drained from the system;
3. The thermostat must be installed strictly horizontally.

Special conditions for installing a thermostat

Example of a thermostat

The thermostat operates on the principle that when a certain temperature is reached, the gas inside the regulator expands, shutting off or reducing the supply of hot water.

Therefore, special installation conditions are required so that the heating radiators are adjusted correctly:

1. The thermostat should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
2. It should not be covered by curtains or radiator screens.
3. The air in the room must be ventilated, especially around the device itself.

In addition, its operation is influenced by the temperature outside the room and sources of cold and heat.

Advice. First of all, it is better to install thermostats in rooms with strong temperature fluctuations (kitchens, living rooms), as well as in the upper floors of private houses.

Read more about thermostats and working with them. And here is detailed material about the installation of equipment.

Home comfort

Installation and selection tips

• You must be careful when installing the sensor, as its design also includes fragile parts.
• Use the manufacturer's instructions.
• The valve is installed in the hole in the radiator cap.
• Position the thermostat horizontally.
• The valve must be installed in accordance with the directions of the arrows.
• Before purchasing, you should decide on the type of design.

Electronic thermostat

• If you cannot or do not want to install a thermostat yourself, contact a professional.
• You should first set up the device in a closed room with tightly locked windows and doors.

Temperature adjustment

Thus, a thermostat is a very useful and necessary thing that allows you to regulate the air temperature in the room and also save money. It is ineffective to use the device only on cast iron batteries; in all other cases it will quickly pay for itself.

Correct installation of the electronic version

To make it easier for you to install the thermostat yourself, we suggest watching the following video.

Type of thermostatic elements

The thermal head for the radiator is the upper, replaceable part of the device. It can be of several types:

To give you an idea of ​​the prices: European manufacturers sell mechanical thermal heads from 15 euros to 25 euros; there are anti-vandal models, they cost from 40 euros. There are devices with a remote sensor. They are installed if conditions do not allow regulating the temperature on the radiator (for example, it is installed behind a cabinet, closed in a niche, etc.). Here the length of the capillary tube that connects the sensor to the thermostat plays a big role. Prices in this segment range from 40-50 euros.

This is what a manual device for adjusting the temperature of radiators looks like in section

A manual thermostat is the same control valve for a radiator. And the principle of operation is the same: rotate the knob, change the amount of coolant passing through. The only difference is that if you wish, you can simply remove this thermoelement and install a mechanical or electronic one. There is no need to unscrew or change the housing. They are universal. Heads for manual adjustment have a low price - from 4 euros.

Electronic thermal heads are the most expensive options, but they are also the most massive: the case has space for two batteries. They differ in that they have more opportunities. In addition to maintaining a stable temperature throughout the entire time, you can program the temperature by day of the week or time of day. For example, after 9 a.m. all household members leave and appear only after 6 p.m. It turns out that there is no need to spend money on maintaining high temperatures during the daytime. Electronic thermoelements make it possible to set a lower temperature during this period on all days, except weekends. Set it to at least 6-8 o C, and by evening you can heat the air again to a comfortable 20 degrees. With these devices it is possible to save on heating without reducing the level of comfort.

Electronic models have much wider functionality

Thermal heads are also divided according to the type of temperature agent (the substance that is in the bellows). They are:

A gas thermostat is considered less inertial; they say it reacts faster to temperature changes. But the difference is not so big as to give preference to one particular type. The main thing is the quality, not the type of temperature agent. Liquid thermostats are no less quality. Moreover, they are easier to manufacture, therefore they are produced in a wider range.

When choosing a thermocouple, you need to pay attention to the temperature range that the device can support. Usually it is from +6 o C to +26-28 o C

But there may be differences. The wider the range, the higher the price. The dimensions and design, as well as the connection method, also change.

Features of setting up the Danfoss electronic thermal head

adjusting the valve and thermostat of the thermal battery

By default, the thermostat is set to the energy saving program P 1. You can select the program that best suits your family's lifestyle:

1. P 0 – constant temperature 210 C around the clock.

1. R 1 – energy saving, in which every night from 22-30 to 6 am the temperature is maintained at 170 C.

1. R 2 - an extended energy-saving program, which raises temperatures up to 170 C every night from 22-30 to 6 am and on weekdays from 8 am to 16 pm.

1. You can create your own settings in the energy saving program. To do this, press the middle button of the program menu and select the desired one. Using the arrow keys, you can set energy saving periods for weekends, weekdays, all days of the week, or one day.

1. Once the settings have been selected, they are confirmed by pressing the bottom key.

How does a thermal valve work?

The thermal head is necessary to regulate the temperature of the radiator.

The very first versions of thermostats that were installed on heating radiators were created in 1943 by DANFOSS. Several decades later, such devices have undergone many changes, as a result of which they have become more accurate. Their design consists of several parts: a valve and a thermal head. Moreover, they are connected by a special locking mechanism. The purpose of the thermal head itself is to measure and analyze temperature and influence it through the use of a valve mechanism for this purpose, which opens and closes the flow of water into the radiator.

This control method is also called quantitative due to the fact that the device changes the temperature by changing the amount of coolant that passes through the heating radiator. There is also another method, which is called qualitative. Its principle is to change the temperature of the water directly in the system itself. The mixing unit, which is usually installed in the boiler room, is responsible for this.

Inside such an element there is a bellows, which is filled with a heat-sensitive medium.

In this case, the latter can be of several types:

• liquid;
• gas-filled.

It is worth noting that liquid options are easier to manufacture, but their performance is lower than that of gas ones. The essence of their work is as follows: as the temperature rises, the substance inside expands according to the laws of physics, due to which the bellows stretches. Further, the latter reduces the size of the valve cross-section by moving a special cone. Ultimately, coolant consumption is reduced. When the air in the room cools, the process occurs in reverse.

We save heat: who benefits from batteries with a thermostat?

Smart thermostats will lower the temperature while you are at work and “warm up the temperature” before you return. What can you do with batteries to get additional savings?

Why are “regulated” batteries needed?

Anyone who has been to Europe has seen this “fantasy” with their own eyes: each battery has a temperature controller and a counter for gigacalories “eaten.” It's really convenient. If the room is hot, you simply “screw on” the battery and save on heat. If it’s cold, on the contrary, I set it up in Tashkent in the nursery. I flew away to spend the winter in warmer climes - I turned off all the batteries and didn’t pay a penny for heat. What about us? Does it make sense to invest in heat regulators and meters? Who will they help save?

Temperature regulators: how they work

The battery temperature depends not only on the temperature of the coolant, but also on its speed. The more hot water rushes through your radiator in a second, the hotter it will become.

Just this speed can be changed using regulators, letting less coolant into the radiator. What kind of radiator regulators can you find on the market?

Ball valve

. A simple device that makes it possible to shut off the flow of coolant. This is a crude manual control, locking mechanism that will help reduce the temperature in the room.

Example: HLV ball valve made of brass with a nominal pressure of 10 bar for smooth water supply to the radiator. Has 2 positions: open and closed. There is a connection for a thermal head. Price – from 132 UAH.

Thermostats.

Can be manual or automatic. Consists of a thermostatic head and valve. The difference in control - automatic or manual - depends on the thermal head.

Regular is the most common option. The required temperature is set manually. Such thermal heads can be equipped with a remote, external temperature sensor. These subtypes are used in special cases when it is inappropriate to install the sensor close to the battery - for example, there is another heat source nearby.

Example: Thermal head VT.3000.0.0 allows you to adjust the air temperature from +6.5 to 27.5 degrees. It is attached to the valve using a union nut and screwed onto the thread. Price – from 125 UAH.

Example: FADO TG11 thermal head with remote sensor. Allows you to move the sensor to a more convenient location for temperature measurements. Screws onto the radiator valve. Price – from 560 UAH.

Programmable thermal head. It is enough to set the desired temperature once and the thermostat will then do all the work for you. You can program the temperature. For example, after you leave for work it decreases, and when you return home it is warm again. This way you can save up to 50% of heat. Moreover, you can control it using a smartphone.

Such regulators require power supply: from a battery or from the mains.

Example: The Danfoss Eco thermal head allows you to control the battery temperature programmatically. With its help, parameters can be set via a smartphone using Bluetooth technology. Price – from 1734 UAH.

Pros of thermostats:

• Temperature adjustment: from +5 to +27 degrees.
• Comfort. The adjustment accuracy is up to +1 degree.
• Together with heat meters they provide significant savings.
• Electronic models can become part of the “smart home” system.

Thermostats: when is it beneficial?

Purchasing smart devices for your batteries will not always pay off. After all, for a two-room apartment you need to purchase at least 3-4 devices. When is this appropriate?

• You have a large cottage and use 1-2 rooms. To prevent it from getting too hot on all three floors, turn up the temperature in unused rooms.
• You have a heat meter in your apartment. It makes sense to turn up the heating and save money.
• You live in a multi-storey building with a heat meter and it is warm. The facade of the entire building or your apartment is insulated. Sometimes you open all the doors and windows because it’s hot.

When “the game is not worth the candle”:

• It’s already cold in your apartment: there’s no point in reducing the temperature.
• All rooms in your house are approximately equally warm. You regulate the microclimate by increasing or decreasing the temperature of the coolant.

Nuances of use

The topic of heat regulation is quite extensive and there are many pitfalls in it. Let us highlight some of the features of using thermal heads and taps.

• The thermostat does not affect the coolant temperature. If the batteries barely heat, the smartest thermostat will not be able to heat the water in the battery and do you well.
• If you are changing batteries, you may want to immediately consider purchasing a thermostat. Many manufacturers offer them “paired” with a radiator.
• Do not hide an electronic thermostat with a sensor behind heavy curtains. The sensor will read the temperature near itself, and it will be higher than the average in the room. That is, the readings will be incorrect. If you don’t want to give up your favorite curtains, choose a thermal head with a remote sensor.
• If there are several radiators in the room, there is no point in installing a thermostat on each one. It is enough to install it on 1-2 radiators to reduce the temperature if necessary.
• Do you have cast iron batteries? Please note that they take a long time to cool down and heat up slowly. Fine adjustments by automation will not help them. If you want automation, get rid of your cast iron. Choose: aluminum, steel, bimetal.
• Call a specialist to install the radiator valve. After all, the process is labor-intensive: you need to drain the water from the radiator, cut in a piece of pipeline to install the valve there.
• It’s easy to install the thermal head yourself: the main thing is to choose a model with a suitable thread. Insert into slots and snap into place.

It is convenient to select and compare thermostats for radiators at Price.ua.

Source: https://media.price.ua/lifehacks/ekonomim_teplo_komu_vygodny_batarei_s_termoreguljatorom.html

Danfoss

This company is the inventor of the described equipment. For more than 60 years, the products of this manufacturer have represented the best quality, high reliability and range. This technique helps to save a lot of money.

Among the popular products we can highlight the thermostatic valve RA-N. It is designed for two-pipe systems and has a built-in function for pre-setting the flow rate. The device is manufactured in a durable cast bronze case and is maximally protected from corrosion.

As you can see, these solutions are an excellent option when you need to save on heating or when the apartment or house is very hot. These devices can make life more comfortable.

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Review of recommended models

It is necessary to select a thermostat for a specific heating system, taking into account the conditions of its operation. But there are brands and models that are recommended by experts and many users.

Techem HKR

Techem HKR

Like all Techem brand products, the device is of unsurpassed quality. Experts emphasize the reliability of the design and long service life. This model is a serious, multifunctional unit with many modes and a bright display.

Powered by 2 Mignon batteries. Quick temperature adjustment saves energy costs. The operating mode can be programmed to suit your own needs. Apart from the high price, no disadvantages were found with the thermostat.

Valtec corner 1⁄2

Valtec corner 1⁄2

In this model, the thermostat is an angle valve, which allows you to automatically control the coolant flow with an accuracy of 1 degree. The requirement from the manufacturer is installation in a system with a maximum temperature of 110 degrees and a pressure of up to 10 atmospheres. Polusgon facilitates installation without interfering with the pipeline.

Advantages:

• compactness;
• easy installation;
• maintainability;
• Service life up to 30 years;
• low price.

Flaws:

• if the water pressure is above 10 bar, it can leak and flood the room;
• There are defective devices.

Danfoss Eco

The Danfoss EcoTM electronic programmable thermostatic element is used with thermostat valves with clip and threaded connections. The device has two sensors, which ensures the most accurate temperature control. The thermoelement reaction is only 3 minutes.

Advantages:

• 
  possibility of programming and control via Danfoss EcoTM App on a smartphone via Bluetooth;

• the presence of adapters, making the thermocouple suitable for almost all existing valves;
• the presence of a function to turn off the device when there is a sharp drop in room temperature, which allows you to save energy when ventilating;
• the presence of an adaptive learning function, thanks to which the thermostat determines when to start heating the rooms in order to achieve the required temperature by a certain time;
• the presence of a valve testing function, thanks to which the thermostat fully opens the valve weekly and then returns it to its previous position to prevent the stem from sticking.

Oras Stabila

Oras Stabila

Finnish-made thermostatic valve with pre-adjustment. Designed for two-pipe systems with forced circulation. Consists of a control valve and a thermostatic head. The valve fits into the line in front of the radiator, and the head is installed on it.

Principle of operation

Thermostatic valves are basically a cylinder filled with a heating agent (this plumbing element is called a bellows). Liquid or gases can be used as a thermal reagent. But nothing will do for this. The volume of coolant should depend on the temperature. There are also devices with solid components. However, they are not popular due to their long reaction time.

During the heating process, the working substance begins to increase in volume, thereby stretching the cylinder. The latter begins to put pressure on the piston, which in turn sets the shut-off cone on the valve in motion.

The cone completely or partially blocks the flow of the heat agent, causing the working substance in the thermostatic head to begin to cool. During the cooling process, the volume of the substance decreases, and as a result, the elastic element raises the locking cone. The coolant will again flow into the heating radiator, and the head will heat up again.

Thus, thermostatic valves help to precisely control the temperature with high accuracy (up to one degree Celsius).

Manual temperature controllers for radiators

This type of regulator is the simplest and is a valve mechanism with a rotatable cover, which, when rotated, leads to the raising or lowering of the valve and thereby reducing or increasing the fluid supply.

Therefore, without human manipulation, manual temperature controllers for radiators will not work. When the temperature decreases or increases, it needs to be adjusted. But such a regulator has a universal valve, which, if desired, can be replaced with an automatic one.

How to choose

When choosing a thermal valve, you need to take into account all the available features of the heating system

Based on the characteristics of the heating system, as well as the conditions of its installation, various combinations of valves and thermal heads can be used to control the temperature.

So, for example, for use in single-pipe systems it is worth using valves with a higher throughput.

The same applies to those two-pipe systems in which water circulation is carried out by gravity, that is, naturally, without forced mechanisms. In cases where a two-pipe system is used where there is a circulation pump, it is recommended to choose those types of valves where it is possible to adjust the throughput.

After selecting the valve, you need to select the thermal head.

The most common options that can be purchased today are:

• having an internal thermoelement;
• electronic (which can be programmed);
• having an external temperature sensor;
• anti-vandal;
• having an external regulator.

Most often, classic thermostats with an internal sensor version are installed in cases where their axis will be in a horizontal position.

Please note: the thermostat cannot be installed vertically, as the heat emanating from the housing piping will greatly affect the bellows, causing the entire device to function incorrectly.

In cases where it is not possible to install the head horizontally, it is best to install an additional remote temperature sensor with a special capillary tube.

In addition to vertical installation options, there are also other reasons to purchase a remote version of the sensor:

• if heating radiators with a temperature regulator located on them will be located behind the curtains;
• when there is any other heat source next to the installed thermal head;
• if the location of the battery is under a large window sill.

Very often, in rooms where interior requirements are increased, batteries are covered with decorative screens. Due to this, the internal thermostat will only register the temperature that is inside this casing. In this case, access to the thermal head adjustments will be blocked. Therefore, in such cases, it is recommended to opt for a remote controller with a temperature sensor.

It’s worth knowing: if you haven’t purchased heating radiators yet, you can buy Kermi models with built-in temperature sensors.

If we talk about electronic thermostats with a display, then they come in several types; the first have a built-in control unit, and the second have a removable control unit. The latter have the peculiarity of being able to be disconnected from the thermal head, while it will continue to operate in the same mode. The purpose of such models is to regulate the temperature in different modes at different times of the day. This makes it possible to reduce the heat level during the day, and at night, when everyone in the house is sleeping, to raise it to the desired level. Due to this, it is possible to significantly save energy.

If there are small children in the family who always want to touch and twirl everything, it is recommended to install anti-vandal thermostats. This will protect the device settings from unauthorized intervention. The same situation applies to options installed in various public buildings, from kindergartens to hospitals.

How to install a thermostat

Table 1. Set of materials and accessories for installation

You may also need a flathead screwdriver and pipe tools if you need to shorten them to make the thermostat insert.

Now let's take a step-by-step look at how an electronic thermostat is installed on a radiator.

Step 1 - Installing Batteries

We unpack the thermostat, remove the battery compartment cover and install AA batteries, which can come with the device or be sold separately. Close the lid and check the serviceability of the device by test switching on. If everything blinks and he shows signs of life, then you can move on to further actions. Some models do not require turning on - they start automatically.

Installing batteries

Step 2 - Setting the Time

Next, you need to set the time, which will allow the device to operate based on the time of day. Setting up does not take much time, no different from setting up the most ordinary clock - we use the arrows and the “OK” button.

Setting the time

Next comes setting the date. It is not entirely clear why this is implemented, but perhaps for some this function will replace the calendar.

At the end of the settings, a flashing checkmark appears on the display - you need to press the “OK” button again to confirm the entered settings.

The device is ready for use

If you did everything correctly, you will see a flashing capital letter “M” on the screen, as shown in the photo. Now you can proceed to preparing the pipeline to include a thermostat.

Step 3 - removing the old thermostat

If you previously had a thermostat installed in your system, it must be removed. We first turn off the water supply tap to avoid leakage. The device is removed using a hexagon, which you need to unscrew a small lock.

Removing the old thermostat

Advice! You have the opportunity to combine the head of the new thermostat with the old valves, so as not to completely replace a still working device. To do this, you will need an appropriate adapter, which can be purchased separately.

Assortment of adapters for valves
Step 4 - installation of the RA adapter

Install the adapter onto the valve base. It is also secured using a hex socket wrench. The adapter has an external thread onto which you need to screw the thermostat head and tighten it well.

RA Adapter Installation

Step 5 - Setup

The letter “M” will flash on your screen again. Press the middle button and hold it until the function menu opens (3 sec). We press the middle button again, and an indicator of the current temperature setting will appear in front of us - using the up/down buttons we set the desired value.

If you do not change anything, the preinstalled programs will automatically launch. For example, the model from the photo will automatically cool the air at night to 17 degrees - P1. The P2 program will do the same during working hours, when it is assumed that no one is at home.

Settings

Somehow everything just worked out according to our instructions. Perhaps this is an ideal case where valve installation or replacement was not required. This type of work can be done by anyone, without any training or skills. But this is not always the case. More often you will have to do this.

Step 1 - drain the water from the radiator

We start by draining all the water from the radiator. You may have to wait a while after turning off the tap until the coolant cools down to avoid getting burned. To drain, you need to unscrew the nut or plug at the top and bottom of the radiator. Place a bucket underneath and wait until the flow stops.

Draining water from the radiator

Step 2 - removing the old adapter

Next, the old adapter or tap is removed. We use wrenches for this. Cover the floor with rags, as residual water will still flow from the system. To avoid damaging the pipes, the adapter body must be secured with a gas wrench or wrench.

Removing the old adapter

Step 3 - installation of a new adapter

We seal the threaded connections in a convenient way - you need to make at least 6 turns with fum tape. We first screw the new adapter onto the pipe, and then attach it to the heating radiator.

Installing a new adapter

The further procedure is already familiar to you - we screw in the thermostat head and perform its step-by-step adjustment. If you are using a mechanical device, this process will take you a long time. To speed things up, we recommend doing this.

1. First, open the taps and bleed all the air from the radiator. As soon as the coolant current is restored, the battery will begin to heat up.
2. Close all windows and doors in the room to avoid errors in heat loss through them.
3. We open the valve fully and place a thermometer in the room to see if the scale corresponds to the air temperature.
4. As soon as the temperature rise stops, turn the regulator lever in the opposite direction, to the minimum position.
5. We wait until the thermometer drops to the level you need, start opening the regulator again until you hear water running through the pipes. Stop rotating and leave the device. Re-measure the air temperature after a few hours and make final adjustments if necessary. Now the device will maintain the desired heating in the room.

Adjusting the mechanical thermostat

Setting up the thermostat

To properly set the temperature controller, you need to reduce the heat loss in the room to the minimum possible. The thermometer should be located where there will be a constant temperature. After this, we scroll the head of the thermal regulator to the left all the way, opening the valve, as a result of which maximum heat transfer is achieved. As soon as the temperature increases by 5-6 degrees, the valve closes by turning the head in the opposite direction

After reaching the desired temperature level, we begin to carefully open the valve. The adjustment ends when the noise of water in the regulator becomes audible and rapid heating of the valve becomes noticeable.

It is best to entrust the installation of thermostats to heating radiators to professionals who will carry out the connection according to the manufacturer's instructions. Properly installed equipment will create an optimal temperature regime in the room and ensure rational consumption of thermal energy, which will have a positive impact on the family’s financial expenses.

When is a thermal head needed and when is it not needed?

Thermal head is a device with an air temperature sensor that is installed on the radiator. It allows you to save on heating, and significant amounts.

The thermal head allows you to turn off the radiator when the room is already warm enough - and the desired temperature can be set directly on its body. The principle of its operation is quite simple: the thermostatic insert compares the set temperature on the thermal head with the actual temperature in the room, and pushes the rod in the desired direction. The rod, in turn, slightly opens or closes the flow through the thermostatic valve on the radiator supply, regulating its thermal power.

Currently, there are a large number of thermal heads on the market with a variety of connections (threaded, clip-on), with varying adjustment accuracy. They can be made of plastic of different colors, chrome-plated, or in a designer case.

There are even digital thermal heads with a screen! The cost of thermal heads ranges from 500 to 4000 rubles, while it allows you to save up to 30% on monthly heating payments. Moreover, they allow you to set different temperatures in different rooms - after all, all people feel “comfort” differently. It would seem that you can install them always and everywhere... but no.

There are situations when thermal heads are not needed. For example, in the case where you plan to heat a large and open space with a large number of radiators, you can get by with one wall thermostat. This is the only thermostat in the heating system that will compare the actual air temperature with the required one and regulate the operation of the heating system. In this case, it will not shut off the supply to one or more radiators, but will control the boiler.