TRV replacement

[SamSnort]

Most of my radiators are old and they each have two pipes into the TRV rather than one; as most of the B&Q/Homebase-type replacement TRVs only seem to cater for single pipe inputs to them....

(i) can mine be converted to accommodate single pipe input ;
(ii) if so, where can I get these and what are they called ?
(iii) What problems can be associated wit these, especially if they are very old ?

Thanks

 

[45yearsagasman]

Are you sure that the original valves were thermostatic and not just twin entry valves?

 

[SamSnort]

Not sure actually, how would I know the difference ?

 

[SamSnort]

Actually I looked again and it does appear to be twin valve. Does that change the problem/solution quite substantially ?

 

[mickyg]

You've got twin entry valves. The only realistic solution is to extend one of the pipes to the other end of the rad and have a valve at each end.
You may find some new twin entry valves, but not with trv on them, think they're called maxitwin. If you replace the rad, you can get an european made radiator which will often have the flow and return together and the TRV at the top, but you may have to import the trvs, as they're not standard in uk.

 

[SamSnort]

Thanks very much for your help, I'll see if I can get a maxitwin or two for the houe and take it from there as I have already just today replaced the radiator which is how the problem has come to my attention.

Cheers

 

[twgas]

You will more than likely need to fit a valve at each end. New rads usually have a knuckle type connection and you can't get the spreader tube in them.