A thermostatic valve, also known as a thermostatic head, is a device used to regulate the flow of hot water through a radiator, allowing control of the room temperature.
It is a component of a heating system that reacts automatically to drops or rises in ambient temperature.
How does a thermostatic head work? Below you will find some key information about the functioning and benefits of using these devices.
How does the thermostat in a radiator work?
The thermostatic head contains a sensitive element with high thermal expansion, which increases or decreases in volume in response to changes in ambient temperature. The most commonly used materials in this element are:
- Bimetal - a plate consisting of two different metals that expand at different rates when heated. Temperature changes cause the bimetal to bend, which can directly open or close an electric circuit or act on a relay mechanism.
- Expanding substances - in some radiator valves, a liquid is used that expands when the temperature rises. During expansion, the medium moves a piston that regulates the water flow through the radiator.
Relay / Mechanism responsible for temperature regulation
Upon reaching a certain temperature, the already mentioned sensitive element activates a relay or another mechanism that opens or closes an electric circuit. In heating systems, this helps control the operation of heat pumps, gas boilers, or electric heaters, turning the heating on or off depending on the set temperature.
User settings
The thermostat allows the user to set the desired temperature. When the room temperature reaches the level set on the thermostat, the switching mechanism turns off the heating to maintain thermal comfort without unnecessary energy consumption.
Return to normal operation
When the room temperature falls below the set value, the sensitive element reacts and reactivates the heating system to keep the warmth at a constant level.
Why is it worth installing a thermostatic head? Benefits of using a thermostatic head
Electronic thermostatic heads bring numerous benefits both economically and functionally. Their use significantly improves living comfort, energy efficiency, and environmental protection. Here are some of the main benefits resulting from using thermostatic heads.
1. Energy saving
One of the main advantages of thermostatic heads is the significant reduction in energy consumption. With the ability to precisely set the temperature in individual rooms (in newer models, remote control with a mobile app is possible), the heating system operates only when necessary, minimizing unnecessary heat losses and reducing heating costs. Users can adjust the temperature and, for example, lower it in less frequently used living spaces, further contributing to overall energy savings.
2. Ease of use
Thermostatic heads allow automatic temperature regulation, ensuring a constant and even warmth level in the rooms. Users can adjust the settings according to their preferences, increasing comfort and allowing the maintenance of optimal temperature without the need for continuous regulation.
3. Reduction of carbon dioxide emissions
By optimizing energy consumption, thermostatic heads contribute to reducing CO2 emissions into the atmosphere. This is especially important in the context of global efforts to protect the environment and combat climate change.
4. Ease of installation and operation
Thermostatic heads are generally simple to install. Their operation is intuitive, making them accessible to users of varying technical proficiency.
5. Heating control
Thermostatic heads allow for individual temperature control in different rooms, which is particularly useful in multi-room buildings. This enables better energy management and heating adjustment to specific user needs.
How does a radiator thermostatic head work - summary
The thermostatic head in a radiator is a key element of the heating system, which guarantees not only comfort and ease of use but also contributes to significant energy savings and reduction of negative environmental impact.
It operates by responding to changes in room temperature, automatically regulating the flow of hot water through the radiator. By using a temperature-sensitive element, the thermostatic head can control the radiator's operation, adjusting its efficiency to current needs.
The practicality of thermostatic heads is evident not only in their functionality but also in their extremely easy installation.
Investing in high-quality thermostatic heads pays off quickly by reducing heating costs and increasing the overall energy efficiency of the building.