rad valve leak from top

[theDIYkid]

Hi, I have a few rads leaking from the top valve, when taking the thermostats off there is only black rubber supporting the spindle, so I can't put tape on, my question are these cheap valves why just rubber, can anything be done or do I need better valves?
Thanks

 

[45yearsagasman]

There are very few that can be repaired when leaking past the spindle on TRV's. Without seeing them it's hard to advise further. A pic would assist, but almost sure it would be time to fit new valves. Danfoss or Draytons are a good buy.

 

[theDIYkid]

Thanks for reply, I can post a pic later tonight. I usede Draytons thermostats but they seem to go and break with water inside, are these ok from screfix?

http://www.screwfix.com/p/15mm-angled-trv-with-lockshield-white-chrome/31811

Thanks

 

[TeaTime]

Those are quite cheap and un-branded if I saw that right.

If you spend a little bit more on the TRV set, you will not have to come back to it later & the reaction times of the TRV will be quicker.

Certainly don't buy un-branded, you are just asking for trouble in the future.

 

[theDIYkid]

Thanks can you send me a link to screfix with a good one?

 

[TeaTime]

I assume you have 15mm pipework: -

http://www.screwfix.com/p/danfoss-ras-c-white-chrome-trv-lockshield-15mm-angled/49331

Have a read of some reviews but this is a fairly well rated model.

 

[theDIYkid]

Yeah 10mm is really thin if Im correct?

thanks for the info

 

[TeaTime]

10mm is 5mm smaller that 15mm

There are two types, just get the one that suits your pipe size.

 

[theDIYkid]

Yeah its standard 15mm, just a quick one, I dont normally tape the valves I just put paste on and leave the tape for the rad tails, is that best way or would you tape valve ends too?
thanks

 

[TeaTime]

If it's threaded, you will want to use some PTFE tape.

Compression fittings (olive type) would need a bit of paste.

 

[theDIYkid]

ok so anywhere there are threads tape it 5 to 6 times anywhere comp joints olives...use paste. That means the new valve will be taped both ends where threads are and paste pipe coming up from floor with olive.
Thanks

 

[TeaTime]

The compression fittings don't really need it since it seals on the olive / pipe but it's more of a best practice approach really. Just a little smear around the olive.

Hope it all goes well.

TT

 

[theDIYkid]

Thanks mate