In today's evolving HVAC industry, the efficiency of heating systems is paramount. Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs) are essential components in ensuring optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Danfoss, a leader in innovative heating solutions, provides a diverse range of Commercial TRVs tailored to meet the needs of installers in the UK.
Understanding TRV Options
Danfoss TRVs are engineered for both single and two pipe systems, offering flexibility and adaptability for various installation scenarios. These valves ensure efficient heat distribution and system balance, whether addressing low flow or high flow requirements and also incorporate a replaceable gland-seal assembly, facilitating maintenance without special tools or system drainage.
Single Pipe Systems
Single pipe systems connect radiators to a single loop of pipework, utilising natural convection for water circulation. Although less common today, they are prevalent in industrial buildings, factories, and schools. Danfoss's RA-G thermostatic valves are designed for these systems, featuring high capacity, low resistance valve cones that deliver large capacities at low proportional offsets.
Two Pipe Systems
Two pipe systems consist of separate flow and return pipes, maintaining consistent water temperature across radiators. This setup allows for lower material costs and uniform radiator sizing. Danfoss offers RA-N and RA-FN valves for these systems. RA-FN valves are conventional uni-directional valves for pumped circulation, requiring system balancing through lockshield valves on radiator returns. RA-N valves, on the other hand, feature integrated pre-setting, enabling precise flow rate adjustment to match radiator heat output requirements. This pre-setting is more accurate than conventional lockshield valves, which serve primarily for isolation during radiator removal.
Automatic Balancing and Energy Efficiency
Automatic balancing provides immediate benefits under full and partial load conditions, offering a fast payback time as a one-off investment. Eliminating pressure fluctuations is crucial for successful balancing, reducing user complaints about over or under-heating, noise, and excessive energy costs. Optimised system conditions enhance temperature control, stabilising room temperatures and improving precision. Pressure-independent TRVs and modern sensors are vital in achieving these benefits, ensuring efficient and comfortable heating system operation.
Addressing Inefficient Heating Systems
A significant portion of commercial properties in the UK have low energy efficiency ratings. According to Property Inspect, approximately 60% of commercial properties have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below, indicating poor energy efficiency. Space heating accounts for a substantial portion of energy consumption in non-domestic buildings, representing 49% of the total, with non-electrical sources contributing 78% of the heat. Additionally, a report on off-gas grid non-domestic buildings revealed that approximately 17% of the building stock is off the gas grid in England and Wales. Transitioning from gas boilers to more efficient heat pumps is a significant step towards reducing energy consumption, but it doesn't always necessitate a complete system overhaul. Upgrading existing radiators with pressure-independent TRVs and modern sensors can significantly enhance performance and energy efficiency, aligning with sustainability goals and reducing environmental impact.
Valve Angles and Installation Versatility
Installers can select from various valve angles, including vertical, horizontal, and side angle options, allowing seamless integration into different heating system designs and enhancing installation efficiency.
Conclusion
By focusing on upgrading radiator components rather than replacing the entire system, commercial buildings can achieve substantial energy savings and lower operational costs. This approach streamlines the transition to heat pumps and supports sustainability goals by minimising the environmental impact of heating systems. Danfoss Commercial TRVs offer a wealth of options and features that can significantly enhance heating system efficiency and performance. By exploring these innovative solutions, installers can ensure customer satisfaction and contribute to sustainable energy use.
Check out the Danfoss Commercial TRV range in our digital catalogue HERE
Danfoss is an Industrial Associate of CIPHE, to see the full list of Industrial Associates check out the directory HERE