How to Turn On Towel Rail Radiator Valves: Quick and Easy Steps
Last updated: January 2026
Those two valves at the bottom of your towel rail aren't just for show — they control how hot your radiator gets. This guide explains what each valve does and exactly how to adjust them.
⚡ Quick Answer
Turn the valve anti-clockwise (left) to open it and let hot water flow. Turn clockwise (right) to close it and reduce heat. Most towel rails have the adjustable valve on the left side.
🔧 The Two Valves Explained
Wheelhead / TRV Valve
This is the one YOU adjust. It controls how much heat your towel rail produces. Turn it to change the temperature.
- Usually on the left side
- Has a twistable cap or numbered dial
- Anti-clockwise = more heat
- Clockwise = less heat
Lockshield Valve
Don't touch this one! It's pre-set by your plumber to balance your heating system. Adjusting it can affect other radiators.
- Usually on the right side
- Has a plastic cap covering it
- Controls water flow rate
- Only adjusted during system balancing
📋 Step-by-Step: Turning On Your Towel Rail
Locate the adjustable valve
Find the valve with the twistable top (usually left side). This is your temperature control.
Turn anti-clockwise to open
Rotate the valve cap to the left. You may feel some resistance — this is normal.
Wait for heating to kick in
Your central heating must be on. Give it 10-15 minutes to warm up.
Check it's warming up
Carefully touch the towel rail. It should feel warm at the bottom first, then heat rises up.
🔄 Which Way to Turn?
Anti-Clockwise
OPEN = More Heat
Clockwise
CLOSE = Less Heat
💡 Remember: "Lefty loosey, righty tighty"
🎛️ Types of Radiator Valves
Manual Valve
From £8.99
- Simple twist to adjust
- No temperature settings
- Compact & minimal design
- Best for: Towel rails
Thermostatic (TRV)
From £24.99
- Set exact temperature
- Auto cut-off when warm
- Saves energy
- Best for: Living spaces
Corner Valve
From £19.99
- Pipes from wall
- Clean, hidden look
- Ideal for tight spaces
- Best for: Wall-mounted pipes
📐 Straight vs Angled Valves
Straight Valves
Use when your pipes come up from the floor. The valve connects in a straight line.
Angled Valves
Use when your pipes come from the wall. The valve has a 90° angle.
⚠️ Towel Rail Not Heating Up?
- Check the valve is open — turn anti-clockwise until it stops
- Check your central heating is on — the boiler must be running
- Bleed the radiator — trapped air stops heat circulation
- Check the lockshield valve — it may have been accidentally closed
- Feel the pipes — if pipes are hot but rail is cold, there's a blockage
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Should radiator valves be fully open?
For maximum heat, yes. But if the room gets too warm, turn it down slightly. TRV valves will auto-regulate once they reach the set temperature.
Why does my towel rail have two valves?
One controls the heat (adjustable), the other balances water flow across your heating system (lockshield). This ensures all radiators in your home heat evenly.
Can I turn off my towel rail in summer?
Yes! Turn the adjustable valve fully clockwise to close it. Or consider a dual fuel towel rail — use electric in summer without running your boiler.
How do I know if my valve is broken?
If the valve turns but nothing happens, the internal pin may be stuck. Try gently pressing it down and releasing. If it won't budge, the valve needs replacing.
Old Valves Looking Tired?
New valves can transform the look of your towel rail. Available in Chrome, Black, White, Anthracite and Brushed Brass. Perfect match for our chrome towel radiators.
Shop Radiator Valves →Need Help Choosing the Right Valves?
Tell us your pipe position and we'll recommend the perfect match
Shop Related Products
Find everything you need at Elegant Radiators:
🔌 Looking for an Electric Towel Rail?
If you're considering upgrading to an electric towel rail that you can control independently of your central heating, we have over 200 pre-filled models ready to install.
🔧 Need New Valves for Your Towel Rail?
We stock angled, straight, corner, and TRV valves in chrome, white, black, and anthracite. All with easy-turn handles.
Shop Towel Rail Valves →
