Allocator and Thermostatic Radiator Valves – The Perfect Tandem for Heat Savings and Fair Billing
Rising Heating Costs Call for Smarter Solutions
With heating costs continuing to rise across Latvia and much of Europe, residents in multi-apartment buildings are seeking smarter ways to reduce their energy bills while maintaining comfort. One of the most effective and proven combinations is the use of thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) together with heat cost allocators.
When used together, these two devices give residents control over their indoor climate and ensure transparent billing based on actual heat consumption.
What Is a Thermostatic Radiator Valve and How Does It Work?
A thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) is a device mounted directly on a radiator. Its function is simple but powerful — it regulates the flow of hot water into the radiator based on the room's temperature.
For example, if a room gets warmer from direct sunlight or multiple electronic devices, the valve automatically reduces the radiator’s heat output to avoid overheating.
Key Benefits of Thermostatic Radiator Valves:
- Individual temperature control in each room
- Lower energy consumption without sacrificing comfort
- Automatic adjustment, no manual radiator turning needed
- Quick installation, typically without major renovations
However, while TRVs help reduce energy use, they do not track how much heat each apartment actually consumes — and this is where allocators come in.
What Is a Heat Cost Allocator and Why Is It Important?
A heat cost allocator is a small electronic device installed on each radiator. Unlike flow meters, it doesn't measure water flow but instead calculates heat usage by detecting temperature differences and the duration of radiator activity.
Why Allocators Matter:
- Accurate billing: Residents pay only for the heat they use
- Fair distribution of heating costs in shared buildings
- Eliminates disputes over average-based charges
- Data is transmitted automatically to building managers or utilities
Allocators complete the system — while TRVs optimize heating output, products ensure accurate and fair cost allocation.
Why the TRV + Allocator Combo Is the Ideal Solution
These two devices are designed to work together:
- Thermostatic radiator valves reduce unnecessary heating by limiting radiator flow based on room temperature
- Allocators monitor and record how much heat each radiator emits
The Result?
- More control over your heating
- Lower monthly bills
- Transparent and fair billing for everyone in the building
Typical Savings: 15–30% Per Heating Season
Real-Life Example: Before and After Installation
Before (no TRVs or allocators):
- Monthly heating bill: ~€100
- Charges are based on apartment size, regardless of actual usage
After installing TRVs + Allocators:
- Monthly bill drops to €78–€82
- You only pay for the heat your household actually consumes
These savings not only help residents manage costs better but also encourage responsible energy use throughout the building.
The EED 2027 Directive: Why It Matters
According to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), from 2027, all multi-apartment buildings must have remote, consumption-based heat metering systems.
These products together fully comply with the regulation, making them a smart investment today.
By acting now, you can:
- Avoid rushed or expensive last-minute installations
- Begin saving money immediately
- Ensure your building stays compliant with EU regulations
5 Reasons to Install TRVs and Allocators Now
- Lower heating bills starting this season
- Transparent billing based on actual usage
- Full compliance with upcoming EU energy directives
- Easy installation with no need for major renovations
- Free savings calculation available from SANO Group
Ready for smarter building management?
Get in touch with us today and receive:
- A personalized offer tailored to your needs
- A technical assessment to ensure the best fit
- A detailed demonstration of the solution in action.