Coverting Twin Entry Valves on Microbore to Normal Valves

[DavidGee]

Following on from a recent comment please can you let me have your thoughts on the following

I am looking to replace twin entry radiator valves with normal valves at each end of the radiator.

To do this

Can I use the existing radiator?

Would the change in pipework only involve running a new length of pipe from the existing pipe to the end of the radiator?

Could this pipe be run behind the radiator to hide it?

Would any pipework need to be accessed under the floor to undertake this work ... both pipes come above the floorline

Picture below may help

https://www.flickr.com/photos/26126737@N02/16121648809/

Thanks you in anticipation

 

[jtsplumbing]

1. yes
2. yes
3. yes
4. No but would look better if it ran under floor

 

[DavidGee]

Thank you so much for the response, it's really appreciated, I have recently had the floor laid so I am trying to avoid touching them if possible, a length of pipe (especially if partly hidden by the radiator and painted white) should not be too obtrusive

 

[jtsplumbing]

Looking at the photo, now may be a good time to replace some of the radiators the small ones are quite cheep, and would give more heat due to the convector fins at the rear, most new radiators also have side panels & top grill so look quite nice, just a thought as you will need to drain system to alter pipework.

 

[DavidGee]

Yes, I would certainly look into new radiators, it would also save having to flush the old ones out. Are there any makes that I should look for / avoid?

Just on that point a previous comment seemed to suggest that the existing twin entry valve was connected to a pipe that ran the length of the bottom of the radiator. Given this would the radiators have to be adapted to take normal valves at each end?

Thanks again for your help

 

[Paulplumb]

Be careful when you cut the old nut and olive off of the the piece of pipe you are extending. It's a pain in the bum if it drops in the floor :smiley2:

 

[jtsplumbing]

Yes, I would certainly look into new radiators, it would also save having to flush the old ones out. Are there any makes that I should look for / avoid?

Just on that point a previous comment seemed to suggest that the existing twin entry valve was connected to a pipe that ran the length of the bottom of the radiator. Given this would the radiators have to be adapted to take normal valves at each end?

Thanks again for your help

1. Most good rads come with a warranty, shop around local Plumbers outlets if you are getting someone in to do job ask them.

2. some you had to run pipe inside so water would go around rad, Not required if valve at each end

 

[DavidGee]

Many thanks for the advice re:the radiators

 

[DavidGee]

Thank you, given the task I will probably get a qualified engineer to carry out the work on my behalf

D