Thermostatic Radiator Valves

Thermostatic Radiator Valves

A thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) is a self-regulating valve installed in a hot water (or steam) heating system radiator that regulates a room's temperature by altering the hot water's flow.

There are several manufacturers for TRVs including, but not limited to,Johnson controls, Honeywell, Siemens, Danfoss, Belimo, Asahi America etc.



TRVs can be a good alternative for zoning systems with mini-splits in homes for room-to-room temperature control as they are cheaper and easy to install (given automatic dampers with duct systems are rarely installed in residential homes).

There two broad types of TRVs:


  1. Non-smart TRV

Have setpoints say 1 to 5. Setting the TRV to “4” or “5 means that the radiator will turn on much more frequently than a setting of “1” or “2”. Picture below for T104A1040 – with integrated sensor.




There are some other ways to control a non-smart TRV using a remote setpoint and a sensor with actuator connected to the radiator valve. The control point is set on a wall or the enclosure shell of the heating unit with adequate access.




Here is a sample non-smart TRV T100B1035 – with remote setpoint and internal sensor, actuator connected to valve. 

Other options include controls such as the Honeywell’s HR90 digital TRV. This can fit directly on most currently manufactured Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRV's) with a M30 x 1.5mm thread.




  1. Smart TRVs

A smart valve can track the exact temperature of a room, and only hot water to pass into the radiator when a pre-defined temperature is hit.

This connects with, for example a smart hub, for control via phone or PC applications.

Contact our HVAC Control Engineering team for assistance with custom HVAC control solutions or learn more here.



    • Related Articles

    • Common Gree Air Conditioner Error Codes

      Air conditioners display error codes which inform the user on the system problems thus acting as a guide for diagnosis and troubleshooting. E0: Indicates a problem with the air conditioner wiring or low inrush current in the outlet E1: Indicates ...
    • Building Management: Variable Air Volume (VAV) and Control

      Variable air volume (VAV) includes an assembly of valves and dampers in a single enclosure usually installed in a HVAC duct or overhead pipes. VAV box/terminal is part of HVAC system for regulating airflow to a room/zone in response to a signaling ...
    • Fan Coil Units and Controllers

      Fan coil unit (FCU) uses a fan and a coil/s to heat or cool a room. Air fed to the FCU can be from the AHU’s duct work (when used with chillers) or directly from the room (without duct work). The FCU is usually found in HVAC systems of residential, ...
    • Smart Water Leak Detectors

      Liquid damage as a result of leaks can cause serious damage over time if not prevented early enough. Damage can be in the form of equipment failure or damage to the building. Leak sensors are devices that work to provide a visual condition or alarm ...
    • HVAC Zoning System (Why You Need It for Your Home)

      HVAC zoning allows each room/ zone to have the ideal temperature controlled by its own thermostat. Zoned HVAC systems regulate the temperatures for increased efficiency and comfort. Dampers are mounted inside the ducts redirecting and regulating the ...