Design issue with Smart TRV Connection Nut

ctkennedy
The metal nut that screws onto existing valve body adaptors is retained by plastic segmented lugs, which are part of the actuator base moulding. I’ve now have 5 smart TRV’s that have been rendered useless as the tops of the lugs break away through time. This causes the actuator to stop working properly as when it pushes on the valve stem, it simply pushes itself away from the valve body. This needs to be redesigned and a retrofit kit supplied to convert existing TRV’s!
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Commentaires

4 commentaires

Date Votes
  • Comment author
    david
    • Modifié

    I'm beginning to have this problem too!

    2
  • Comment author
    ctkennedy

    That is exactly the problem! Maybe Netatmo might take notice if others post their problems. I see TRV’s being advertised on eBay for spares with this same issue, so we’re not alone….

    1
  • Comment author
    david

     

    Further dismantling shows that the problem is not confined to the retaining lugs.  Parts of the battery tube and one of the posts retaining the motor mounting screw has also broken away.  These are all areas where the plastic is under most stress when the valve is closing or shut and it is likely to happen more frequently as the population of Netatmo valves ages.  

    A solution would be to offer the plastic moulding as a spare part.  It is five minute task to replace it given good instructions.  The only tricky part is removing the display panel which is held with a self adhesive, but done carefully it is possible to remove and re-fix it without damage.  

    It is a pity that something  that is otherwise  beautifully designed should be let down by a poor material selection.  I used to recommend these valves to everyone now I am unable to recommend them to anyone.  I have 12 of these valves and must start the process of finding alternatives to replace them.

    Netatmo must be aware of the problem.

    1
  • Comment author
    stephen.w.dunn

    I have had the same problem - Must have gone through about 6 of the Valves so far,  with the broken retaining tabs.  To their credit Netatmo did replace a couple after an email exchange. I now have another where the tabs have broken off in the last couple of days. My original email to Netatmo suggested that it was an issue with the plastic used,. and a possible reaction to the heat from the radiator and the plastic simply not being suitable. No response to that comment. I agree that a spare case part would save these ending up in landfill or a better design as I do like them. Please Netatmo what do you think? Will have to keep my eye on Ebay for these as spare parts.

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