Which taps are best to choose for heating radiators?

To carry out adjustment, maintenance or repair of heating systems, various pipeline fittings are used. Today, ball valves for heating have become especially popular as the simplest and most reliable devices for shutting off the coolant. On the modern market they are presented in a wide range, which sometimes makes it difficult to choose the right product. The purpose of this article is to help you figure out which ball valves are worth buying for heating installation in a private house or apartment.

Why are there taps on radiators?

Each heating device is a separate element of the system that requires adjustment and periodic maintenance. If you control the coolant flow through the batteries depending on the heat demand, you can achieve good results in terms of energy savings. That is, radiator valves and heating taps are designed to solve the following problems:

1. Complete isolation of the heating device from the system.
2. Restriction of coolant flow through the battery.
3. Change in coolant flow depending on external conditions.
4. Bleeding air from the radiator and piping network.

There are many situations in which it is difficult to do without disconnecting the battery. For example, properly working central heating in the middle of spring, when it’s already warm outside, but it’s just hot in the apartment. Another case is the need to remove a heating device for the purpose of replacement, flushing or repair. In the absence of shut-off valves, carrying out any action with the radiator becomes problematic.

Valves are also installed on batteries in retro style

Restriction of the flowing coolant is carried out in order to balance individual heating in a private house or apartment. No matter what type of heating system you have, without balancing with valves, the first radiators will always receive more water than the last ones. Limiting the coolant flow at the beginning of the network and thereby balancing all devices with each other is the task of the control radiator fittings.

Automatic control of the flow of incoming coolant is a way to save energy used to heat the house. If each tap on the heating radiator maintains the set air temperature in the room by controlling the flow of water through the radiator, then in general the system will consume only the required amount of heat, no more. And this is a considerable saving.

Well, the problem of air release when filling the system or during operation is also solved by special air valves installed on all modern radiators. Below is a list of types of shut-off and control valves, listed in the same order as the tasks they solve:

1. Half-turn ball valves in straight and angle versions. Made from brass, bronze or polypropylene with a metal insert.
2. Balancing valves for radiators – straight and angular.
3. Regulating valves with thermal heads (thermostatic valves).
4. Air drain valves – automatic and manual.

For reference. Some home craftsmen use three-way mixing valves to connect heating appliances. But such a solution is unreasonably expensive and is rarely used in practice.

Now we should consider in detail which taps are best installed on radiators in various conditions and circumstances. Some options are clearly shown in the video:

Recommendations for choosing a ball valve

Now that we have figured out what this or that type of ball valve is intended for, we can begin to select it. It should be remembered that this type of fittings is not used to regulate the amount of water, but only performs shut-off functions. The exception is devices with servo drives. It is better to make a specific selection of a tap knowing the operating parameters of the coolant. If there is no such information, then it is enough to know that for systems of private houses, fittings in a coupling design with a working pressure of up to 10 Bar and a temperature of up to 120 ºC are quite sufficient.

If we are talking about centralized networks, then for heating it is better to use ball valves with a working pressure of up to 16 Bar and higher. When selecting fittings for central heating, you need to be careful and provide a decent pressure margin. The reason is unpredictable parameter jumps due to water hammer.

Separately, we will give a warning about counterfeits, which fill all plumbing markets. The Chinese cheap faucet is made of silumin, it is very fragile and often cannot withstand even tightening with a wrench. In addition, the material is susceptible to electrochemical corrosion, which destroys it within a couple of years. At the same time, it has become very difficult to recognize a fake. The only recommendation on this topic: buy fittings from trusted people or in trusted stores, even if you choose a small tap for heating radiators.

Installation of ball valves on batteries

A conventional ball valve is designed only to switch to 2 positions: “open” and “closed”. It cannot be used to regulate the flow of coolant through the radiator, only shut it off. The figure below shows a simple connection diagram for a heating device with this type of fittings:

The proposed scheme is the best option for an unregulated connection of a radiator to the central heating risers in an apartment. You won’t have to balance it anyway, and installing a thermostatic valve is pointless due to the poor quality of the coolant. Instead of a ball valve at the outlet, it is also practiced to install a so-called shut-off valve; its difference is only in appearance.

Depending on the layout of appliances and heating pipes, you can choose an angle valve for a radiator with or without a decorative coating. Also, when choosing a product, it is recommended to pay attention to the operating pressure indicated on the product body or in its passport. It must correspond to the pressure in the heating network of the apartment building.

Advice. For installation on the radiator, choose good taps made of thick-walled brass and a connection with an American union nut. It will allow you to quickly disconnect the connections without rotating the elements. On a single-pipe riser, do not forget to install the bypass with a slight offset away from the main pipe.

Ball valve design

It is impossible to select high-quality fittings without understanding its design, especially since the design of a ball valve is very simple. The body of the product is made of special plumbing brass (grade LS 59–1 or foreign CW 617 N) by hot stamping from two blanks. The latter are made by casting and then pressed together. The body is then machined and nickel-plated.

Inside the case there is a ball made of polished stainless steel, with a channel for water flow. Seats and washers made of fluoroplastic (as an option - made of Teflon) are used as sealing elements and at the same time as sliding bearings. A rotating rod is attached to the ball, which extends out through a hole with an O-ring. A handle in the form of a lever or “butterfly” is installed at the end of the rod. The diagram below shows a cross-section of a ball valve:

The product body according to the type of connection is produced in two versions: coupling and flange. The coupling design assumes the presence of external or internal pipe threads for mating with other elements of the system. In the second case, the valve body is equipped with flanges that are bolted to the mating part. Flanged fittings are always more expensive than those with threads.

Many people mistakenly believe that valves are made on flanges when their diameter is too large to be threaded. In fact, high-pressure valves are equipped with flanges, since such a connection is more reliable than a threaded one. In this case, the passage diameter of the product can be small.

Balancing valve

The design of a valve for regulating heating differs from a conventional ball valve in that it can smoothly close the flow area in a few turns. Moreover, after balancing, the position of the valve can be fixed so that no one accidentally violates the settings. This type of control valves is installed at the outlet of the radiator, as shown in the diagram:

Shown here is the connection to a two-pipe horizontal system, most common in private houses and apartments with individual heating. By the way, the principle of installing fittings with a single-pipe scheme remains the same. A regular ball valve is installed on the supply line, and an adjustment valve is installed on the return line. In the case when a two-story house has a system with vertical risers, the installation diagram of the accompanying fittings looks like this:

The principle of product selection is the same as in the previous section. Straight or angular design is accepted depending on the layout of the equipment and pipelines; it is also important to use American ones during assembly. Pay special attention to the quality of casting and the thickness of the brass walls of the fittings. If you have networks made of polypropylene pipes, do not rush to buy PPR taps; it is better to install adapters and reliable metal products.

Advice. Balancing valves are installed on all radiators, except for the very last one, located at the dead end of the branch. It is enough to install simple ball valves on the connections to it.

Best Plumbing Ball Valves Manufacturers for 2022

To buy a device that will last a long time, sometimes it is not enough to just go to the store and buy the first model you come across. First, you should study all the ratings and reviews. This review was compiled on the basis of expert opinions in the field of installation of shut-off equipment, as well as direct users who have already used ball valves from leading companies in their experience.

R.M.

The Chinese company for the manufacture of locking mechanisms RM has confidently conquered the Russian market. Ball valves, which have a budget price, undergo strict control at all stages of production. In particular, this is an electronic check to identify defects and compliance with specifications. For the manufacture of parts, only high-quality raw materials are used that meet all GOST requirements. Thanks to these measures, RM products last a long time and practically do not break.

The advantage of ball valves and fittings from Chinese manufacturers is that they easily fit different types of plumbing systems, so buyers do not have to search for compatible parts for a long time. Thanks to the nickel coating of the brass faucet, repeatedly turning off the water has virtually no effect on its condition. Many consumers are attracted to the model because, in order to turn off or open the water, you need to turn the tap 180 degrees.

ball valve RM

Advantages:

• budget cost;
• the product is not subject to corrosion;
• there are models with flange connections, which are often used for production purposes;
• the company produces ball valves without threads (they are excellent for welding).

Flaws:

• short service life compared to other manufacturers;
• a small number of models that can be used in everyday life;
• A number of propylene devices are characterized by a tendency to mechanical failure.

Oventrop

Ball valves from the manufacturer Oventop are often classified as a separate group among locking mechanisms. They are in stable demand on the Russian market. This can be explained by the fact that there are usually no complaints about the quality of German products. Oventop products can meet the highest demands.

Devices from a German manufacturer are distinguished from other companies by the fact that the manufacturing is based on a unique technology for applying a layer of nickel, which makes the faucet body especially resistant to various damages. Thanks to this, Oventop taps last a long time, are characterized by reliable mechanisms and can withstand water pressure up to 25 Bar. High-quality seals also contribute to perfect tightness and do not reduce the amplitude of changes in water pressure. The positive characteristics of German ball valves include double-sided threads, a long operating time of up to 50 thousand cycles and comfort for the consumer.

Oventrop ball valve

Advantages:

• There are models with an extended flywheel;
• it is easy to understand what position the lever is in;
• zero probability of defects allows customers to be confident that they will not have to return products;
• short housing, thanks to which you can install the equipment in hard-to-reach places.

Flaws:

:

• too small number of turns complicates the process of connecting pipes;
• When the faucet is left in a half-open state for a long time, dirt accumulates on its ball and the parts lose their tightness.

Gekon

This company has long established itself as one of the best manufacturers of shut-off valves. Gekon factories are based in Russia and Italy, and joint production allows us to produce goods that meet the highest quality standards.

The enterprises are distinguished by their own research laboratory and high-tech equipment. Thanks to this, the quality of ball valves is constantly improving and always meets the needs of consumers. The Gekon product range is characterized by a wide range of different shut-off mechanisms, among which you can find ball valves for water supply systems. They have a low price, making them incredibly popular among Russian consumers.

Ball valves from the Russian-Italian manufacturer are attractive due to their high compatibility with pipes of different diameters. They are also perfect for any heating system. If products from Gekon were used when installing the water supply system, you can be sure that it will last a long time without requiring repairs. Each model has individual packaging. The warranty period for ball valves from Gekon is also impressive; it is 5 years.

ball valve Gekon

Advantages:

• you can find different models, both with internal and external threads;
• chrome coating helps resist corrosion and has an attractive appearance;
• there are devices with classic pipes, as well as with “American” ones;
• widespread use in the production of European technologies.

Flaws:

• high price;
• only one color of levers - red;
• Quality may vary depending on location of manufacture.

Itap

The Italian company Itap is known for its products in the plumbing market. Ball valves produced by it can withstand increased water pressure and have an increased level of corrosion resistance. All taps and pipeline fittings are made of brass, pressed at elevated temperatures - over 700°C. This guarantees the exceptional strength of all parts and the preservation of all characteristic qualities over a long service life. The main part is the shut-off ball made of chrome-plated brass, the O-rings are made of Teflon. Teflon seals absolutely eliminate leakage and ensure reliable fixation.

Ball valves produced by Itap are able to withstand temperature fluctuations in the range from minus 20 to 150 degrees and are not afraid of the effects of most chemical compounds. The manufacturer's product range includes ball valves of various modifications, depending on the application. Itap is superior to many similar companies in some respects:

Ball valve Itap

Advantages:

• since 1995, the company's products have been awarded an international quality mark;
• The company's plumbing products are sold in more than 100 countries;
• production automation completely eliminates the possibility of defects;
• The company's catalog contains spare parts and components for all types of devices: household and industrial.

Flaws:

• the levers are painted only red; All products have a small selection of diameters for connecting pipes.

Stout

The Stout company has many years of experience in the production of plumbing equipment. Its products meet the highest consumer requirements, while having affordable prices. Any heating or plumbing system, even of increased complexity, can be assembled using a variety of taps, fittings and other components of Stout. All products intended for the installation of water heating systems are in accordance with Russian standards and have international certificates.

All ball valves and components have a high level of strength and are made of special types of food-grade brass, which guarantees the safety of drinking water consumption. The shut-off devices can withstand a water pressure of 50 bar and have a guaranteed period of flawless operation of up to 50 years.

ball valve Stout

Advantages:

• swing arms are available in black and red;
• the product catalog contains full bore models;
• a wide range of spare parts is offered;
• all handles have devices that allow you to seal devices;
• There are angular and straight designs.

Flaws:

• coupling taps have too small levers;
• The quality of the product may vary depending on the manufacturer, since the product is also produced outside of Italy.

Bugatti

The Italian company Bugatti has been producing pipeline, shut-off and control valves for more than ten years and presents a wide selection of plumbing equipment. For consumers, a well-known manufacturer offers components for installing not only water supply systems, but also heating and gas supply systems. All of the company's products are reliable and safe to use, they have been tested repeatedly, and their designs are constantly being improved. The product can withstand increased water pressure and water hammer.

In order not to fall for the tricks of scammers and accidentally buy a fake, you need to carefully examine the faucet insert - on branded products it is polished and shines like a mirror. Each part of this manufacturer has a company logo and the name of the country of manufacture. The increased demand for all Bugatti products is due to the combination of high quality and price, and the ability to resist corrosion.

ball valve Bugatti

Advantages:

• comfortable wide handles;
• full bore models;
• presence of the manufacturer's name on all products;
• reliable connection of parts.

Flaws:

• too high cost;
• There are too many fake products.

Honeywell

One of the most popular and sought-after manufacturers of plumbing products is Honeywell. Founded back in 1904, today the company has a wide selection of water filters, shut-off valves, and climate systems. The automatic equipment produced by this company is successful in creating heating and water supply systems not only in domestic but also in large-scale industrial projects. Branded plumbing equipment is adapted to various climatic conditions and is reliable and durable. Honeywell products are also successfully sold on the Russian market.

For high-quality and long-term operation of plumbing and heating systems, you should purchase taps, fittings and other components only from reliable and trusted manufacturers who have been working in the plumbing market for a long time. This will protect you from leaks, flooding and other troubles. Automatic water supply through the plumbing system is ensured by an electric ball valve from this manufacturer. All manufactured parts and finished products have a quality guarantee and are protected from water leakage and its consequences.

Ball valve Honeywell

Advantages:

• ball valves are made of pure brass;
• sealing parts are made of high-quality materials;
• the ability to use devices over a wide temperature range; the country of origin is the USA.

Flaws:

• limited set of diameters;
• All products have only external threads.

FIV

The Italian manufacturer FIV, which produces water taps directly in Italy, rightfully ranks among the most reliable. Defects in production are practically eliminated, thanks to the complete automation and modernization of all production lines. All the company's products are of very high quality. The company has its own research laboratory, which allows it to constantly improve existing models and release new products with improved consumer characteristics.

All components for the water supply system, including ball valves, are made from high quality German brass with a low zinc content. This makes the products reliable and safe to use and guarantees a long service life. The Chinese manufacturer often does not provide such guarantees. The originality of the product can be verified by a special branded engraving.

ball valve FIV

Advantages:

• taps are available with external and internal threads;
• levers are painted in two colors;
• the walls have additional thickening;
• The country version of the ball valve has a curved cast gib.

Flaws:

• The range includes only manual devices;
• models with “American” have a high cost.

FAR

Another Italian manufacturer that is popular in the plumbing market. Its range includes a huge selection of components for a wide variety of heating and plumbing systems. The FAR company strictly adheres to all technological processes and exercises control over the testing of finished products. All company products comply with international requirements and have appropriate certificates.

Plumbing parts and ball valves are made from special brass alloys that have passed an independent examination for compliance with USA - NSF 61. All products have a guaranteed long service life. With a variety of fastening and connecting options, water ball valves can be easily combined with standard pipes. The FAR catalog contains faucet models with built-in filters or thermometers, ideal for any heating systems.

ball valve FAR

Advantages:

• quality control is carried out at all stages of production;
• there are basic and premium fittings for plumbing systems;
• having our own laboratory for creating new models;
• certificates confirming product quality.

Flaws:

• high price of all products;
• inconvenient short levers.

Using valves with thermal heads

These are the best taps that can be installed on radiators in the heating system of a private home. Tuned to a certain air temperature, the thermal head acts on the valve stem, forcing it to open or close its flow area. In this way, automatic quantitative regulation of the coolant passing through the heating device occurs.

The thermostatic valve is installed on the supply line to the battery, and a balancing valve is installed on the return line. It is a mistake to assume that the system will be automatically balanced by thermal heads; valves are needed in any case. Installation of conventional ball valves instead of them is allowed for centralized heating or in systems with associated coolant movement (Tichelman loop). But it is unacceptable to regulate the coolant flow using a ball valve, and it will not work.

Advice. Most models of thermal valves have a mechanical blocking mode for the flow area. If you received products without such a mode, then to service the battery you will have to install an additional cut-off device, as shown in the diagram:

Air valves and radiator fittings

Almost all modern radiators provide the possibility of installing Mayevsky manual valves for air discharge. Some manufacturers even complete their products with them. If desired, instead of a manual air vent, you can install an automatic one, but in practice it does not look very presentable.

Recently, laying heating lines below floor level and using radiators with bottom connections has become increasingly popular. Then there remains a small gap between the battery and the floor, where it is not always possible to place any fittings. For this case, there is a special connection headset with built-in taps, shown in the picture (left):

On the right is a headset for the bottom connection of a conventional radiator with side plugs; it also has valves plus the ability to connect a thermal head. Such solutions look very aesthetically pleasing, but will require maximum financial costs. More information about the headset is shown in the video: