radiator valve change

[ste b]

I am thinking about changing all the valves on my radiators (combi system) and wondering what probs may arise,draining down not a problem,the only problem i thinking about is will i be able to swap valves with-out re-newing any pipework? the pipeing is 10mm but i am not sure if it plastic coated copper or just plastic,and if when i take off old valves will new valve fit straight onto new valves without any work on the pipework.

 

[PlumbBobBob]

i would say that was plastic pipe and it looks like new valves would be a straight swap. just makes sure the rad side connection is the same size as the old ones

 

[kay-jay]

should be alright mate. good practice to change the rad valve tails. if you are upgrading to trv's remember don't put one in the room which has room stat

 

[ste b]

Excellent,is there two different side connection sizes steveb? and am i right in saying if its plastic pipe they have a collet or insert in the end of the pipe,if so does this have to be re-newed?

 

[kay-jay]

yes pipe inserts will need to be used. regarding the connections if you replace the rad valve tails as well as the valve (they come with the valve anyway) as is good practice it doesn't matter which size they are because they will obviously match the valve you have bought

 

[PlumbBobBob]

agree +1 with kay jay

 

[ste b]

Cheers guys,think i will invest in some new valves now and maybe post some more pics with step by step instructions of how i done it..........pretty straight forward then really.......................ohh yeah,are the inserts all plastic? or can you get copper ones?

 

[kay-jay]

either plastic or metal will do try to identify which brand of pipe it is if you can as you should where possible match the brand. some inserts are loose/tight when in the wrong pipe. something to bear in mind, oh and avoid the superseal ones with o-rings if its speedfit

 

[Frelon]

Now that is what I call a real DIY installation!!