Radiator upgrade

shiraz99

If wanted to update my radiators to larger ones in some rooms, not physically larger but a larger type, ie, from a type 11 to a 21 rad, can I reuse the existing valves? I'm only talking about the pipe valves, obviously I intend to install new radiator tails.

plumb1_2

You’ll have to alter the pipes too, as centre’s will be slightly different.
Can’t see the point of fitting new tails and using the old valves.Why?

screwdown and toolend have a offer on where you get free valves on certain rads.

Bendy_House

If the valves are pretty new, then fair do's. And, yes, you can reuse them.

With new tails, you'll just need replacement olives - cheap.

But, as plumb asks, is it really worth it? TRV heads give - what? - 10-15 years service before they tend to start failing? How old are the ones you hope to reuse?

shiraz99

The existing valves are not that old, maybe less than 10 years. I just didn't want to have to drain down the entire system or try and hot swap out the main valve body from the pipes, when I could just connect up to new tails (with new olives). I understand about the centres being a bit further out but I think there will be enough movement in the pipes to accommodate this, if not and I do have to replace the valve is there an easy way to adjust the pipe to fit?