Home automation - To replace radiators or not?

[gmc1]

I've been looking into home automation and have my eyes on the Evohome system. This controls your radiators TRV's. Unfortunately none of my radiators have TRV's - they are all fitted with these types of valves:

http://www.screwfix.com/p/angled-radiator-valve-drain-off-15mm-x/70408

So first I would need to replace these with TRV's - correct?

Next question is are these radiators old? Should I be replacing them with newer units which are more energy efficient? Will there be any benefit? I've already checked my boiler and its A rated. So fairly new.

I've attached a pic of the radiator. If you look at the pic there is the screwfix type value on the right (I'll call V1) and a different value on the left. (I'll call V2)

Some of the rooms have V1 on both ends, some rooms have V1 and V2, and then other rooms have V2 on both ends.

Quite a mix and match!

Any advise would be appreciated.

 

[shambolic]

First question is are your radiators drop fed ( pipes coming down inside walls to them?)
If so then they need drain valves to drain each leg.

 

[simond]

Best change the trvs for Honeywell.

We fit 100+ evohomes a year and we always fit the most compatible valves for the best battery life and reliability.

If you like your rads, keep them.

 

[gmc1]

All of the radiators have pipes coming in from the floor.

 

[gmc1]

Best change the trvs for Honeywell.

We fit 100+ evohomes a year and we always fit the most compatible valves for the best battery life and reliability.

If you like your rads, keep them.

Thanks. So I can just replace the current values with TRV's and I'm good to go?

 

[shambolic]

The picture don't show drain off valves just Normal lock shield valves.
These can be replaced by TRVs

 

[shambolic]

Your link stated drain off valves that's why I asked.
It's not straight forward as you will need to get same size 8mm 15mm etc and also change the tails in the rads too, but it can be done.

 

[gmc1]

Your link stated drain off valves that's why I asked.
It's not straight forward as you will need to get same size 8mm 15mm etc and also change the tails in the rads too, but it can be done.

I've updated the original post with a another pic. One or two of the radiators have these types of values.

 

[shambolic]

Second pick is a drain valve and pipe looks to be coming down.
Fit TRV on other side unless this has drain valve as well (you could get away with only one for draining purposes).

 

[gmc1]

Second pick is a drain valve and pipe looks to be coming down.
Fit TRV on other side unless this has drain valve as well (you could get away with only one for draining purposes).

Thanks. Yes - you are correct. The pipe is coming down and there is a U bend at the bottom. Had a look at all the other rads and this is the only one with the pipe coming down.

 

[shambolic]

So do the rest you need to have one without to ensure flow through system when TRVs shut down unless you fit an autobypass.
Ideally the rad in the room with the room stat without a TRV.

 

[simond]

If you fit Evohome you'll need an auto bypass unless your boiler has a suitable internal one.

PS: Sack the decorator

 

[gmc1]

Evohome looks like the best option. Will look into a auto bypass.

Decorator should be shot - only just purchased this house and now finding out all the issues.

 

[muggles]

I'm not a fan of Evohome so I'll keep my head down on that, but to answer your question about changing the radiators - don't bother, it won't save you any money

 

[gmc1]

Thanks for the info.

Do tell - what's the issue with them?