Description
These are simple 90° push‑fit valve elbows intended for domestic central‑heating pipework where you need to turn a radiator valve outlet through a right angle and join it to 10mm or 15mm copper or plastic pipe. They’re brass bodies with decorative external finishes (Chrome, Anthracite or Black) and a push‑fit interface designed to mate quickly with 15mm pipe tails or radiator valve spigots of the appropriate size.
Mechanically they do little more than re‑route the flow and provide a neat connection point between a radiator valve and the run of pipe. The push‑fit end accepts the pipe (or connects to the valve tail where that tail is a 15mm male spigot), while the opposite face takes the valve connection specified for that variant: ELB1 is 15mm male to 10mm female, ELB2 is 15mm male to 15mm female. Because the fittings are brass with a plated/finished exterior they’re intended to be both functional and visually matched to contemporary radiator valves and towel rails.
Key specifications
- ELB1: 15mm male → 10mm female
- ELB2: 15mm male → 15mm female
- Material: brass body with finished exterior
- Connection type: push‑fit
- Finishes: Chrome, Anthracite, Black
How they work and where they’re used
These elbows are primarily a finishing and routing component rather than a control valve. Fit one where a radiator valve’s outlet needs to be turned through 90° to meet the supply or return pipe that runs close to the wall or floor. The push‑fit connection speeds installation: push the pipe fully into the fitting and the internal grab and seal secure the joint without soldering or compression fittings. That makes them useful for retrofit or quick installations where access or time is limited.
ELB1 (15mm male → 10mm female) is used when the valve tail is 15mm but the pipework you want to run away from the valve is 10mm — for example some low‑flow towel rails or bespoke installations that use 10mm drop‑legs. ELB2 (15mm male → 15mm female) is the standard option where both valve tail and pipe are 15mm.
Compatibility and what to check before buying
Push‑fit fittings are forgiving but you must check three things: pipe diameter, valve tail style and the finish/pack details. These elbows are specified for 10mm and 15mm pipe sizes only — they are not suitable for 22mm or other larger diameters. If your radiator valve has a compression or brazed connection rather than a plain 15mm tail, the elbow may not mate correctly without an adapter. Equally, if the valve tail is an unusual shape or size (some designer valves use proprietary tails) confirm physical fit first.
Because the product is a push‑fit, ensure the pipe is cut square, de‑burred and pushed fully home: an incomplete engagement is the most common cause of leaks. If you’re working on a live or pressurised system, isolate and drain the section before removing or fitting fittings.
Finishes, pack sizes and practical notes
The elbows are offered in Chrome, Anthracite and Black to match modern TRVs and towel‑rail valves. Pack sizes vary by finish (chrome options are typically supplied as pairs; anthracite and black are available singly in some listings) so double‑check whether you need one or two elbows before ordering. The decorative finish is applied over the brass — as with most plated fittings it will show wear if exposed to regular mechanical abrasion, so handle and install carefully.
Advantages and limitations
- Advantages: fast push‑fit installation, neat 90° routing for tight spaces, choice of finishes to match contemporary radiators and rails.
- Limitations: limited to 10mm/15mm sizes, compatibility depends on valve tail type, finish and pack size can differ by supplier.
In short, these are straightforward, low‑risk components for tidy radiator connections on standard UK domestic systems. They suit installers or competent DIYers who need a clean, quick elbow with a decorative finish — provided the pipe sizes and valve tails match. If you require a different diameter, a compression connection, or a guarantee of compatibility with a specific designer valve, check the valve maker’s tail details or use an adapter recommended by the valve manufacturer before fitting.
