1. Introduction
The ME168 Smart Radiator Thermostat is a programmable radiator valve controller designed for independent control of heating radiators. It allows for precise room temperature management through customizable programming settings, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency in your smart home.
2. Package Contents
Before you begin, please ensure all items are present in your package:
- 1 x Radiator Valve (ME168 Smart Radiator Thermostat)
- 1 x Bag of Accessories (various valve adapters)
- 1 x User Manual (this document)
Note: Batteries are not included due to shipping regulations. Please prepare 2x 1.5V AA Alkaline Batteries.
3. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | ME168 |
| Brand Name | Rti-Tek |
| Working APP | Smart Life/Tuya Smart |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Alice |
| Wireless Protocol | Zigbee 3.0 |
| Frequency | 2.4GHz |
| Power Supply | 2* 1.5V AA Alkaline Batteries (not included) |
| Battery Life | Approximately Half a Year |
| Temperature Setting Range | 5℃-35℃ |
| Temperature Display Range | 0℃-60℃ |
| Constant Temperature Tolerance | ±1℃ |
| Temperature Sensor | NTC |
| Connection | M30x1.5mm & M28x1.5mm |
| MAX Travel | 6mm |
| Working Temperature | -10℃- 40℃ |
| Working Environment | Indoor |
| Anti-Froze Function | Yes |
| Programmable | Yes |
| Child Lock Function | Yes |
| Certification | CE, RoHS |
4. Setup
4.1. Battery Installation
- Gently press down on the bottom cover of the TRV and unscrew it to the right to open the battery compartment.
- Insert two 1.5V AA Alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the bottom cover by screwing it back into place.
4.2. Valve Installation
The ME168 TRV comes with 6 different types of valve adapters to ensure compatibility with most radiator valve interfaces. Identify the correct adapter for your radiator valve before installation.
- Ensure your radiator valve is in the fully open position (usually by turning it counter-clockwise until it stops).
- If your existing valve connection does not match the TRV directly, select the appropriate adapter from the accessory bag and install it onto your radiator valve.
- Align the TRV with the adapter or the radiator valve's threaded interface.
- Rotate and tighten the controller's copper ring onto the radiator valve or adapter until secure.
- Once installed, the TRV display will show the current temperature.
4.3. App Installation & Network Configuration
The ME168 TRV requires a Zigbee gateway (sold separately) to connect to your smart home network and the Smart Life/Tuya Smart app.
- Download the App: Scan the QR code below or search for "Smart Life" or "Tuya Smart" in your mobile app store (iOS/Android) and install the application.
- Gateway Provisioning: Ensure your Zigbee gateway is powered on and in network configuration mode (refer to your gateway's manual for specific instructions). Typically, a green and red light flashing indicates it's ready for pairing.
- Controller Network Configuration:
- Turn the TRV knob to the "OF" state (off).
- Press and hold the button on the TRV for 5 seconds. The WiFi icon on the screen will start flashing, indicating it has entered network configuration mode.
- Once the WiFi icon stops flashing, the connection is successful.
- App Connection:
- Ensure your phone's WiFi is connected to a 2.4GHz network and Bluetooth is enabled.
- Open the Smart Life/Tuya Smart app.
- Follow the in-app instructions to add a new device. Select your Zigbee gateway, then search for nearby devices.
- Once the "Smart Radiator Thermostat" is discovered and added, click "Done".
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Basic Device Operation
- Power On/Off: Turn the knob to switch the device on or off. Turning the knob until the screen displays "OF" will shut it down. To power on, simply rotate the knob to display a temperature.
- Temperature Adjustment: In the power-on state, rotate the knob to adjust the set temperature.
- Mode Switching: Short press the button to switch between programming mode and manual mode.
- WiFi Configuration (from shutdown): In the shutdown state ("OF" displayed), press and hold the button for 5 seconds to enter WiFi network configuration mode.
5.2. Smart Features (via App)
- APP Remote Control: Download the Smart Life/Tuya Smart app to control the radiator thermostat valve from anywhere, anytime.
- Hand-Free Voice Control: Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Alice. Use simple voice commands to control the TRV.
- Programmable Weekly Schedule & Time Period: Set a 7-day programmable weekly schedule with up to 4 time periods per day via the app.
- Family Share Function: Share control of the TRV with family members through the app.
- Linkage Function: Integrate the TRV with other smart appliances in your home to create smart scenes like 'Leave Home Mode', 'Back Home Mode', 'Dinner Mode', or 'Sleeping Mode'.
- Child Lock Function: Activate the child lock function to prevent accidental changes or misoperation by children. When activated, the screen displays "LC". Repeat the activation operation to unlock.
- Group-Control Function: Group multiple TRVs in different rooms to control them simultaneously for specific scenarios.
5.3. Voice Control Examples
Amazon Alexa:
- Query Temperature: "Alexa, what is the temperature of [device name]?"
- Power Switch: "Alexa, turn on [device name]" / "Alexa, turn off [device name]"
- Temperature Mode: "Alexa, turn off the heat." / "Alexa, set [device name] to automatic." / "Alexa, what mode is my [device name] set to?"
- Set Temperature: "Alexa, make it warmer in here." / "Alexa, make it cooler in here." / "Alexa, what is the target temperature of the [device name]?" / "Alexa, set [device name] to twenty."
Google Assistant:
- Power Switch: "OK Google, turn on [device name]." / "OK Google, turn off [device name]."
- Query Temperature: "OK Google, what is the current device temperature?"
- Set Temperature: "OK Google, set the [device name] to 22 degrees."
6. Maintenance
6.1. Anti-Scale Function
To prevent the valve from becoming blocked due to silting-up, especially if the heat sink is not fully opened or used for a long time, the controller automatically activates an anti-scale function. Every two weeks, the valve will fully open for 30 seconds. During this time, the screen will display "Ad" before returning to its normal working state. This ensures the continuous normal operation of your heat sink.
6.2. Low Battery Warning
When the battery voltage is too low, the alarm symbol "🔋" will be displayed on the screen to remind you to replace the batteries promptly.
7. Troubleshooting (FAQ)
7.1. Common Questions & Answers
- Q: Can I use my own hub to connect with the valve?
A: No, this radiator thermostat requires a Zigbee gateway (sold separately) to connect to your smart home network. It cannot directly connect to a smartphone without a gateway. - Q: Can this thermostat be set to Fahrenheit display?
A: No, it can only be displayed in Celsius. - Q: Can I program the schedule myself?
A: Yes, the thermostat is fully programmable. You can freely set your schedule via the Smart Life/Tuya Smart app. - Q: Can I control the thermostat if I am not at home?
A: Yes, after successfully connecting it to your Zigbee gateway and the Smart Life/Tuya Smart app, you can control your device remotely from anywhere using your smartphone. - Q: Does this thermostat have a screen lock to prevent guests or kids from tampering with the settings?
A: Yes, it features a child lock function that prevents any changes or misoperation. Activate it by long-pressing the button on the device. - Q: Is the battery included?
A: No, due to delivery limitations, batteries are not included. Please use 2x 1.5V AA Alkaline batteries. - Q: How does the thermostat radiator valve control the temperature in the room?
A: The TRV adjusts the water flow through the heat sink by changing the valve's opening and closing degree. This is based on the collected ambient temperature and the target temperature you set, effectively regulating the room temperature. - Q: What temperature is displayed on the screen of the TRV? Is it the set temperature or the ambient temperature?
A: The temperature displayed on the screen of the TRV refers to the temperature set by the user. The ambient temperature can be viewed in the mobile app after connecting the TRV. - Q: How to set the temperature and view the indoor ambient temperature?
A: You can set the temperature in two ways: (1) Manually by rotating the knob on the TRV, or (2) Using the mobile app. To view the indoor ambient temperature, you must check it through the mobile app after the TRV is connected. - Q: When adjusting the temperature in the mobile app for the first time, sometimes it takes a few seconds for the TRV to respond. Is this normal?
A: Yes, this is normal. When the app connects, it re-checks data (time/temperature, etc.) each time. It will enter operable mode after this process is complete. If there's an abnormality, you might need to wait for more than 60 seconds.
8. User Tips
- For optimal performance and battery life, use high-quality alkaline batteries.
- Regularly check the battery level via the device display or the app to avoid unexpected shutdowns.
- Familiarize yourself with the app's scheduling features to maximize energy savings and comfort.
- If you experience connectivity issues, ensure your Zigbee gateway is online and within range of the TRV.
- Utilize the child lock function in households with children to prevent unintended temperature changes.
9. Warranty & Support
This product comes with a 2-year warranty. For any issues or support, please contact your seller or refer to the official product documentation.
A detailed user manual in PDF format is available for download. You can find it by searching for "ME168 Smart Radiator Thermostat User Manual PDF" online or by visiting the product support page on the seller's website. The direct link provided by the seller is: User manual (PDF)