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Radiator thermostats needs new batteries every 2 months - is that normal?

dwibbo
dwibbo ✭
in General Questions & Topics

I installed 8 new radiator Thermostats at the end of Sept 24 and within a month one of them was asking for new batteries which I didn't think too much of at the time as I thought the provided batteries were just poor quality so I replaced with duracells.

Now I'm getting the same low battery needs replacing again so within a couple of months of putting the new duracells in.

The other thermostats are all fine and haven't needed any battery replacements.

Is there a fault on the thermostats asking for new batteries so regularly?

What would a normal timescale be for battery replacements?

Answers

  • wateroakley
    wateroakley Volunteer Moderator

    @dwibbo Hello. The eneloop rechargeable batteries in our V3+ TRVs typically last 6-24 months, depending on location. We tend to ignore battery warnings and wait till the device goes off-line. The original GP alkaline batteries also last quite well.

    One TRV (of 24) ate batteries every week or two. We found a steady 10mA current draw. Fresh eneloops would last a week and the TRV eventually failed.

    If you have a TRV that goes off-line quickly, with a flat battery, probably best to request a replacement under warranty from the supplier.

  • dwibbo
    dwibbo ✭

    @wateroakley . Thanks for your reply.

    Ive been onto Tado support who advise to not use Duracell (last batteries Ive used) , Amazon or Ikea Alkaline batteries and not to use the eneloop rechargeable as they can see voltage spikes at their end. Im assuming there would be spikes when the valve opens or shuts ?

    They suggest taking batteries out and letting the capacitors discharge for 30 minutes but it all seems a bit like a work around and avoiding suggesting there's a fault with the TRV.

    I've replaced the batteries again so will see how it goes for a couple of months and if the batteries discharge so quickly again then I will take it up regarding getting a warranty replacement. Only boiugfht at end of Sept24.

  • policywonk
    policywonk ✭✭✭
    edited February 13
    We've used alkaline manganese batteries, without a problem other that the Tados report they are almost dead when they aren't. We have used rechargeable batteries without problems.

    If they are registering spikes it would suggest that there is a reactive part failing in the circuit - most electronics specialists would know that especially in digital step motor circuits.

    Some of our rads are close to doors and these go through batteries faster, usually once every 2-3 months, so those have rechargeable batteries. The rest can last upto 8 months.

    My view: if these are under warranty have them replaced. Print this thread and take it to the retailer.

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