Thermostatic Rad valve queries Featured

That's normal the head doesn't need to be more than hand tight.

You can remove the head. The head doesn't form any part of the seal

I suggest that you establish where the valve (TRV) is leaking.

Remove the head as shown in this video

Is the valve leaking from the central pin or is it leaking from one of the nuts to the pipes? Dap dry kitchen roll to the individual parts to see which part is dripping water.

The central pin can be pushed in and it should spring back.

See also someone checking the pin is moving

The threads on a compression fitting don't need PTFE tape - that's not what seals the valve. There will be an olive on the pipe and radiator tail - it's the olive that seals the valve.

should it have something / be tighter?

Good advice.

I would add.

If it is leaking around the small pin, it is probably done for.

The pin is driven by wax / oil. If the ‘container’ for that is leaking, which I admit I’ve never heard of, the valve won’t work as it should.

Compression joints, if correctly fitted, rarely leak unless the pipes move due to being unsupported. A couple of pipe clips will usually stop it happening again. On a central heating system, securing pipes is especially important as the pipes move a bit due to expansion / contraction over time.

Oh, avoid pulling the pin. Tap the valve and turn the pin. It should free up if it is stuck.

Are you sure that it not just a bit of condensation forming on the outside surface of a cold metal valve?

It sounds like the Draytek RT212 rad valve may be leaking due to a compromised seal or internal failure, possibly worsened by temperature fluctuations. Upside-down installation isn’t ideal, as it may affect operation and sealing. The valve head should be securely tightened, but it typically doesn't require PTFE tape. Since it's a sealed system, the clear liquid could be water from the heating circuit rather than contaminated water from an open system. You may need to replace the valve or its sealing components. Checking system pressure and ensuring proper installation would be advisable.