How radiator valves work with Nest thermostats

Google Nest thermostats, namely Nest Learning Thermostat (all generations) and Nest Thermostat E, work alongside your existing radiator valves to help you stay comfortable and save energy. Nest thermostats are compatible with various radiator valve types, including Smart thermostatic radiator valves (Smart TRVs).

Your Nest thermostat controls whether the hot water flows to your radiator, and your radiator valve controls the pressure. Once you adjust your radiator valves to your preference, you can use your Nest thermostat to control the temperature so you don’t have to adjust your valves often. Note that when your radiator valve is closed, hot water doesn’t flow through your radiator.

Radiator valve basics

Tune the valves during installation

When you install your Nest thermostat, it’s recommended that you or a professional sets the valves in each room for even heating. Most manufacturers have recommended settings which you can use as a guide. You can also try different settings to find out what’s right for you.

Set your Nest thermostat to a comfortable temperature on a cold day. Check which rooms are too cold or warm. Turn the radiator valves up or down, as needed. You may need to wait a few hours for the temperature to stabilize.
If some rooms are still too cold and the valves are open all the way, turn the thermostat up. Turn the valves down in warmer rooms to even out heating between different rooms.
Make sure the valve on the radiator closest to the Nest thermostat is open. If it’s closed, your thermostat can’t sense the temperature change and your boiler might run inefficiently.
To save energy, turn radiator valves down in rooms that are rarely used, like guest rooms or storage rooms.

How radiator valves work with Nest thermostats

Radiator valve basics

Tune the valves during installation

Manual radiator valves

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)

Electronic programmable radiator valves

Smart thermostatic radiator valves (Smart TRVs)

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