Isolator valves!!!!thermostic valves

[bigb1970]

Is it okay to put isolator valves (the type you use a screwdriver to shut of)on radistor pipes so i can shut of a part of a heating system.(combi)
Also if i fit thermostic valves to a rad what side do i put valve on ?flow or return or doesnt it matter

 

[Mike Jackson]

You can use isolating valves but use good quality as the cheap ones may leak after a while. Modern TRVs are two way so can go on either pipe.

Mike

 

[bigb1970]

i know isolator valves are directional (the type you use with a screwdriver to turn on and of)but are gate valves(stopl cock) directional also??

 

[Mike Jackson]

Gate valves aren't directional.

Mike

 

[bigb1970]

Cheers ...What happens if an isolator is fitted the wrong way?does it cause the valve to let by??? sorry for the questions just wondered.?

 

[Mike Jackson]

It can push the seal out of it's seating to partially block the valve.

Mike

 

[bigb1970]

because i cant tell what pipe is flow or return ?could i use gate valves to shut of rad circuit as id like the rest of system to still work while i do pipe work?cheers for help

 

[Mike Jackson]

I'd be inclined to use lever valves as they are more compact and when you've finished you can take the lever off.

Mike

 

[feltham]

personly if i was to isolate half the system off i use lever valves as they are full bore and dont ristrict the flow . but look a they do look a bit horrid so try and hide them up as best you can .
most TRV rad valves are reverable now but i always try and put them on the flow unless that is close to a wall or something that will interfer with the operation of of the TRV.

 

[bigb1970]

Thanks for the help,are there different types of lever valves or are they all the same??Sorry but dont want to fit the wrong type..

 

[Mike Jackson]

Full Bore Lever Ball Valve 15mm - NoLinkingToThis, Where the Trade Buys

 

[bigb1970]

Thanks i will have to get them from local plumbase...Thanks for the help Mike..

 

[bigb1970]

Quick question ?If im soldering 15mm pipe can the heat damage the lever valve if its close?or the trv?Only just thought of it?

 

[feltham]

not sure about lever valvei as havent soldered near them befor but can heat can damage the trv, just remove the valve befor soldering or at least take off the head so its in the open possition when soldering

 

[bigb1970]

Cheers ive always soldered near standard rad valves and isolator valves with no apparent problem...

 

[feltham]

do you make sure the valve is open befor soldering ?

 

[bigb1970]

Not always but i will now....Cheers for help..Trouble is other side of lever valve is live with water and in the of position..

 

[Mike Jackson]

If there's water the other side of the valve it should keep it cool enough to avoid damaging the seals.

Mike