by ericmark »
Thu Jan 14, 2010 3:08 am
Most radiators have two taps. One is designed for the user to control or is a TRV and the other sets maximum flow and is called "lock shield valve" not a clue why it has that name I am not a Plumber.
Years ago we would use lock shield valve to set temperature in each room then the other tap with control knob with turn radiator on and off. Both taps are same but knob on one to turn on and off with and just cap on other.
Now with TRV fitted the lock shield valve is set to give a temperature drop of around 10 degs between incoming and outgoing water. This stops the boiler from turning down too early and ensures there is pressure (so flow) on all radiators. This is only really needed when heating up. Once house is hot the TRV takes over and lock shield valve setting does not matter.
The use of condensating boilers has completely changed the way the system is controlled and all radiators should have TRV fitted as the way the boiler controls is to measure the temperature of returning water and once it returns hot then it shuts down.
So in summer it starts up and all radiators are switched off by TRV so bypass valve opens and hot water is returned straight away so anti cycle software then increases time before it tries again.
However if a radiator is still open then it will take too long for hot water to return so anti cycle software will not do it's job.
Not all boilers are the same of course.