Control Valve and Motor

The control valve is fitted to central heating systems to give greater control to the homeowner, so they can get more from their system in efficiency and monetary savings. However if they have worn or develop a fault they can affect the systems reliability and need to be dealt with straightaway. South Bank Plumbers supply and fit new control valves. If you are going to attempt this yourself make sure you are confident or experienced, otherwise you may cause more problems.


Firstly: Make sure that you buy the correct unit by taking the old ones details to compare.

From the consumer unit or fuse box remove the fuse or switch off the MCB (breaker) for the relevant circuit for the central heating controls.

Take the cover of the box and disconnect the wiring for the valve, making a note of the terminals used, to make reconnecting easier.

The valve will be wired to an adjacent junction box. Once you are happy that the valve is isolated, remove the valve by simply cutting through the pipe on each side. When you fit the new valve, bridge the gap with short sections of pipe, complete with joints at each end. Spring the assembly into place and connect the joints to the old pipe, then tighten the valve cap nuts. Connect the valve’s cable to the junction box, then insert the fuse or switch on the MCB. A South Bank Plumber can fit all motor driven valves.


Replace a Motor:

There may be a problem just with the electric motor that operates the valve. This can be replaced without draining the system.

Firstly isolate the electrical supply to the whole system to be sure as motor driven valves have a permanent live supply. Remove the top cover and loosen and remove the single screw that secures the motor in place. Open the valve, using the manual lever, and take out the motor. Cut the connectors off the two motor wires. Fit the new motor, then let the operating lever spring back to its closed position. Refit the motor retaining screw, then, strip back and connect the wires, using the new connectors. Re-fit the cover, power up the system and test the operation of the valve.