Switching On My Radiators!

[Scarlett]

The heating came on today, and there are a couple of radiators that I want to keep switched off. However, the little plastic cap that goes on the metal valve thing is missing. Is there any way I can buy one of these, and which end of the radiator does it go on?!

[bhg481]

Conventionally the variable tap goes on the inlet to the radiator and the fixed one, used for balancing the system, goes on the ouput. It only really matters if you have TRVs which have the direction of flow marked on them. If the top is missing from the valve you can turn it with a spanner.

[Buenchico]

Is this what you're referring to?
https://www.screwfix.com/p/universal-radiator-valve-cap-white/35656

[Scarlett]

That’s the thingy Buen!
Hope it’ll fit. Thanks bhg- I’m very simple terms, which end of the radiator do I use it on?

[johnk]

The end that gets warm first, the inlet.

[bhg481]

The bit that Buenchico pointed you to is just a cover and is used on the fixed valve. It is designed to stop you meddling with it and, other than that, is purely ornamental.
The valve you need to use to turn off the radiator normally has a bigger, more grippy cap than that, with a slot inside it which engages with the top of the valve enabling you to turn the valve with it. If neither of your valves has a cap on it, do as johnk suggests and find which one gets warm first as the heating starts up and fiddle with the other one.

[Scarlett]

Thank you. I now have some lovely ornamental valves arriving courtesy of Amazon today!!

[tiggerblue10]

I had the valve caps with the numbers fitted a couple of years ago so I can adjust the temperature of the radiators.

[ToraToraTora]

if you need to actually turn the valve you nee one of these
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-x-Replacement-White-Lockshield-Radiator-Valve-Wheel-Head-Handle-Cap-Only/254259703621?hash=item3b330f2f45:g:1QUAAOSw58Bc~miD