Turning on a towel warmer depends on the type of towel warmer you have, but generally involves adjusting a valve or switch. Here's a breakdown:
Types of Towel Warmers & How to Operate Them
There are typically two main types of towel warmers: hydronic (connected to your central heating system) and electric. The operation differs for each.
1. Hydronic Towel Warmers (Connected to Central Heating)
These towel warmers function like small radiators. Turning them on involves using the valves attached.
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Manual Valves:
- These have a simple on/off function with variable temperature control.
- To turn on (and increase heat), turn the valve handle anti-clockwise.
- To turn off (and decrease heat), turn the valve handle clockwise.
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Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs):
- These valves allow you to set a specific temperature.
- Turn the valve to your desired temperature setting. Higher numbers generally correspond to higher temperatures.
- If the room temperature is already above the setting on the TRV, the towel warmer may not turn on fully.
- Turning the TRV to its highest setting will essentially function like a manual valve, providing maximum heat.
2. Electric Towel Warmers
These towel warmers are powered by electricity and usually have a simple on/off switch or control panel.
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On/Off Switch:
- Simply flip the switch to the "On" position. A light may illuminate to indicate it's operating.
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Control Panel:
- Some electric towel warmers have a control panel with buttons or a digital display.
- Look for a power button or an "On/Off" button.
- Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific operating details, as functions like timers or temperature settings may be available.
Troubleshooting
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Hydronic towel warmer not heating up?
- Ensure your central heating system is turned on.
- Check that both valves (if two are present) are open. Sometimes one valve might be an isolation valve that needs to be open for water to flow.
- Bleed the radiator to remove any trapped air.
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Electric towel warmer not working?
- Make sure it's plugged in properly.
- Check the circuit breaker.
- Consult the manufacturer's troubleshooting guide.
