Description
Flow Regulating Valve (FRV) – Proper radiator balancing without the faff
Balancing a heating system shouldn’t feel like guesswork — but with old-school lockshields, it usually does. Slow, fiddly, inconsistent, and never quite “right.” The Flow Regulating Valve (FRV) fixes all that. It gives you fast, accurate, repeatable radiator balancing with a clear visual indicator, so you know exactly what’s going on inside the system.
If you want even heat, better efficiency, and fewer call-backs, this is the bit of kit that gets you there.
Why installers rate the FRV
The FRV replaces the lockshield and gives you proper flow control on every radiator. No more quarter-turns, no more guessing, no more “that’ll do.” Just set the flow rate, check the indicator, and move on.
- No more roasting hot rooms next to freezing cold ones
- Better comfort across the whole property
- Lower return temps for boilers (proper condensing)
- Improved heat pump performance
- Happier customers and fewer headaches
Perfect for modern heating systems
Heat pumps demand accurate flow rates — and the FRV delivers. It’s ideal for:
- Open-loop systems
- Weather-compensated setups
- Low-temperature heating
- Mixed systems with TRVs
And if you’re still on gas, the FRV helps the boiler run more efficiently by cooling the return. Simple win.
Key Features
- Adjustable flow range: 0–5 l/min
- Works as an isolating valve when fully closed
- 10 bar pressure rating
- Low pressure drop (similar to or lower than a standard lockshield)
- Clear visual indicator for flow rate and water quality
- 15mm compression fitting
- Extra silicone O-ring for a reliable radiator seal
How to fit & balance with the FRV
- Fit the FRV on the radiator return (uni-directional)
- Replace every lockshield with an FRV for proper system balancing
- Keep or add a TRV on the flow side if needed
- Use the flow chart on the box to set the correct rate
- Start with rads closest to the heat source and work outward
- Recheck, readjust (if required), fit the caps, and the job’s done
Why Choose the FRV?
- Installer-friendly: quick to fit, easy to set, no messing about
- Accurate balancing: repeatable results every time
- Heat pump ready: perfect for low-temp systems
- Better efficiency: helps boilers condense properly
- Clear visuals: instantly see what the system is doing
- Reliable build: solid components, leak-resistant seal
FAQ
Do I need an FRV on every radiator?
Yes. To properly balance the system, each radiator needs its own FRV. Mixing FRVs and old lockshields defeats the purpose.
Can I keep my TRVs?
Absolutely. The FRV replaces the lockshield only. TRVs stay on the flow side if you want room-by-room control.
Does it work with heat pumps?
Yes — in fact, heat pumps benefit the most. Accurate flow control is essential for low-temperature systems.
Will it help a gas boiler run more efficiently?
Yes. By lowering return temperatures, the boiler can condense properly, improving efficiency.
Is the FRV directional?
Yes. It must be installed on the radiator return for correct operation.
How do I know the flow rate is set correctly?
Use the chart on the box to calculate the correct flow rate, then confirm it visually using the built-in indicator.
