UK households are being urged to carry out a quick and easy radiator maintenance step before turning on central heating for winter. The Radiator Company advises opening Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) to their maximum setting now, while temperatures are still mild, to prevent valves from seizing after months of disuse.
Why check TRVs before winter
Radiators have likely been off for several months, and TRVs may have become stuck in the closed position. Turning them to the maximum open setting before switching heating back on prevents the internal pin mechanism from sticking, a common issue that can leave rooms cold when warmth is needed most.
The Radiator Company stated: "Now is the perfect time to check that your home's heating is in good working order, so you're not caught short when the temperature drops." They added that basic maintenance tasks carried out sooner rather than later ensure the heating system is efficient, safe, and ready for colder weather.
How to set TRVs correctly
To perform the step, locate the TRVs on radiators, usually on the bottom left or bottom right-hand side. Many TRVs have numbers from zero to five; turn them until the number five is visible, indicating the maximum setting. The heating does not need to be on for this task.
If the TRVs turn easily, the internal mechanism is working and not stuck. If turning them proves difficult, The Radiator Company recommends contacting a plumber to fix the issue before winter arrives. Keeping TRVs fully open during the off-season ensures they remain free-moving and responsive, extending the life and reliability of radiator controls.
