Choose towel radiator valves in this order: check how the pipes meet the rail, measure the connections, then decide whether you want manual or thermostatic control. Check the fittings and clearances before choosing chrome or matt black.

Match the valve shape to your pipes

A straight valve connects pipes and radiator tappings that line up. An angled valve turns the connection through 90 degrees. For a ladder rail with downward-facing connections, pipes coming straight up from the floor often suit straight valves, while pipes coming out of the wall often suit angled valves. Use the actual fitting drawing to confirm. Our straight or angled valves guide shows what to look for.

Measure the connections and leave space for the valves

Pipe centres are measured between the centres of the two connections. Overall width measures the outside edges of the rail. Record both, along with the pipe direction and distance from the finished wall. A like-for-like width can still have different pipe centres. Measure with the skirting, tiles and furniture in place, and leave room to reach the valve head and tighten the union. Check the exact rail and valve drawings rather than relying on a general rule.

Choose manual or thermostatic control

A manual valve lets you set the opening yourself. A thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) responds to the air temperature around the valve head and adjusts hot-water flow. Keep the sensor clear of towels so it can read the surrounding air. Valve shape and control type are separate decisions. Compare manual versus thermostatic towel radiator valves before choosing.

Check what comes in the box

Look for the product’s list of supplied brackets, fixings, air vent and blanking plug. Check whether the chosen option includes a valve pair and what type is supplied. Ask your installer to confirm the pipe size, radiator connection thread and whether any reducer is required. Pipe covers and collars conceal exposed pipework or wall openings. They do not connect pipes or correct misalignment.

Make a short list before you order

  1. Photograph both existing pipe ends and the space around them.
  2. Record the pipe centres, pipe diameter and rail model.
  3. Confirm valve shape, control type and clearance with your installer.
  4. Check the wall construction, supplied fittings and chosen finish.

Browse radiator valves and radiator accessories once you have confirmed the connections. If you are changing the rail as well, compare narrow towel radiators and wide towel radiators using the model drawings.

Frequently asked questions

Do electric-only towel rails need radiator valves?

An electric-only rail does not connect to the central heating pipework. For dual fuel, confirm the approved element, valves and fittings as a complete arrangement with the manufacturer and installer.

Can I reuse my existing radiator valves?

Ask the installer to check the condition, connection size, alignment and clearance. Matching the finish or nominal rail width is not enough to confirm a fit.

Read the supporting guides

Source

Danfoss explains how a thermostatic radiator valve works