The Russian market for heating appliances is huge, and it is difficult for a simple layman to understand all the technical characteristics when choosing the right battery. The editors of the YaNashla website bring to your attention a rating of the best heating radiators for an apartment and a private house in 2020. We will tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of the top 10 thermal systems.
The following characteristics must be taken into account:
- Type of material of manufacture;
- heat transfer;
- connection methods;
- maximum working pressure.
Now there are 4 types of materials.
Steel radiators
This type of thermal systems has good heat dissipation, they are easy to install and last a long time, as they are simple in their design.
But steel ones are highly susceptible to corrosion, do not withstand the pressure of the central heating system, and the paint quickly peels off them.
Cast iron radiators
Cast iron is resistant to all types of corrosion, including at high temperatures. He doesn't care about high blood pressure either. It warms up the room well, is easy to install and lasts a long time. The service life of cast iron appliances is at least 50 years.
But with the help of such systems, the room warms up for a very long time, and after turning off, it cools down for another hour. They may not withstand sharp water hammer, causing the battery to crack, and even burst. And also the disadvantage of cast-iron systems lies in their bulkiness and uniformity. The design has not changed for many decades. You can order them with original patterns and drawings, but then the price will be much higher.
Aluminum radiators
Aluminum systems weigh little, look aesthetically pleasing and are cheap. High heat transfer is the main advantage of this type of device. In addition, they have a small thermal inertia, which makes it possible to quickly heat the room. The pressure at which the batteries work quietly is 10-16 atmospheres. These parameters make aluminum heating systems the most suitable for living quarters.
The main disadvantage of aluminum is its high reactivity. To avoid interaction with the environment, an oxide film is required, which forms a barrier.
And also the poor quality of the water passing through the system can lead to corrosion. The device must be equipped with an air vent valve so that air can be removed from the upper manifold.
Bimetal radiators
The service life of such batteries is from 20 to 50 years. This durability is due to the combination of the two metals steel and aluminum. The steel core increases strength, as it is not afraid of high pressure and sudden hydraulic shocks. The outer aluminum coating quickly spreads heat.
The main disadvantage of bimetallic batteries is their high price. There are more budget options, but they are not protected from corrosion and are prone to rust.
Each specific model has its own special characteristics. And choosing only by the type of material is not entirely correct. We present to your attention a selection of the 10 most optimal options for thermal systems for an apartment and a private house in 2020.
The best heating radiators for 2020
10th place. Heating radiator Royal Thermo PianoForte Bianco Traffico
Can be used in residential areas. It is also possible to use any type of coolant: antifreeze, oil, steam or water.
The device has horizontal and vertical steel internal channels through which the coolant flows without contact with the outer aluminum shell. In order for the heat transfer to be maximum, it is necessary to install the device with a distance of 10 cm from the floor and from the window sill, and from the wall it must be 3 cm away.
A Russian-made bimetallic device has the following characteristics:
Royal Thermo Piano Forte Bianco Traffico
Advantages:
- Produced according to Italian technologies;
- Aesthetic appearance;
- Made from environmentally friendly materials;
- Saves coolant;
- Ability to adjust the temperature in each room separately;
- Possibility during installation, you can remove or add sections;
- Both plastic pipes and metal pipes can be connected to the battery.
Disadvantages:
- Cool down quickly;
- If the temperature of the coolant is low, then the heat transfer drops sharply;
- High price compared to analogues.
Prices vary from 5,000 to 26,000 thousand rubles, depending on the modification.
9th place. Heating Radiator Royal Thermo BiLiner Noir Sable
At the heart of this instrument is the latest ABSOLUTBIMETALL all-steel manifold. This saves the system from sudden water hammer and chemically aggressive coolants, such as, for example, antifreeze.
Bimetal batteries made in Italy with increased power using POWERSHIFT technology. Batteries have a 25 year warranty.
Ultra-resistant 7-stage NANO painting TECNOFIRMA
Available in black, gray and white. But it is the black version that is especially popular because of its combination with an unusual elegant shape.
Main characteristics:
Heating Radiator Royal Thermo BiLiner Noir Sable
Advantages:
- Appearance;
- Colour;
- Italian quality;
- Ease of installation;
- Light weight;
- The price matches the quality.
Disadvantages:
- Official site service;
- The stated warranty period does not match the actual one;
- Rust in freshly purchased batteries.
Average price: 10,000 rubles.
8th place. Heating radiator Buderus Logatrend K-Profil 22
The pleasant design of Russian heating appliances, in addition to the aesthetic function, brings safety with it. The edges of the design are rounded, which saves from accidental injuries. Therefore, they are approved for installation in children's and medical institutions.
The steel structure is coated with durable stoving paint that does not contain harmful substances and does not require additional painting.
Main characteristics:
Heating radiator Buderus Logatrend K-Profil 22
Advantages:
- Russian steel with German quality;
- Democratic price;
- High-quality coloring;
- Color stability.
Disadvantages:
- Too big and heavy;
- Fragile caps holding the upper grille and upper bracket latches;
- No brackets included.
Prices: from 3000 to 7000 rubles.
7th place. Heating radiator Rifar Monolit
Russian radiators Rifar Monolit RifarMonolit work with any type of coolant in the most severe operating conditions. The maximum withstand working pressure is up to 100 atm, and the coolant temperature is up to 135 degrees. And also the manufacturer claims that the service life reaches 50 years. You can install these systems yourself, without specialists.
Main characteristics
| type | wall |
| connection | lateral |
| material | biometallic |
| view | sectional |
| heat transfer | 1960 W |
| heated volume | 19.6 cubic meters |
| 135 °С | |
| operating pressure | 100 atm |
| crimping | 150 atm |
| volume | 2.1 l |
| number of sections | 10 |
| height | 577 mm |
| thickness | 100 mm |
Heating radiator Rifar Monolit
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Russian production;
- Technology "Partial bimetal using spot welding".
Disadvantages:
- Not strong enough;
- Not fully bimetallic;
- Low heat dissipation;
- Weak carving.
Prices reach up to 13160 rubles.
6th place. Heating radiator Royal Thermo Revolution Bimetall
RoyalThermo batteries can be used in all heating systems, they are not afraid of water hammer and aggressive chemical coolants.
It is completely made of bimetal, thanks to additional ribs on the collector, it has the maximum heat transfer for this type of material. The collector from high-strength steel.
The thermal system is covered with an environmentally friendly alloy without phosphates and heavy metals.
Main characteristics:
| Heat dissipation | 1230 W |
| Operating pressure | 30 atm |
| Crimping | 45 atm |
| destructive | more than 100 atm. |
| Coolant volume | 0.2 liters |
| center distance | 500 mm |
| Max. thermal power | 1.92 kW |
| The weight | 21.84 kg |
| Dimensions | 0.564x0.08x0.971 m |
| Manufacturer's Warranty | 15 years |
Heating radiator Royal Thermo Revolution Bimetall
Advantages:
- High heat dissipation, quickly heats the room;
- Resistance to aggressive coolants and pressure drops;
- You can choose the type of installation. There are wall and floor.
Disadvantages:
- Only an even number of sections can be set. 4 to 14;
- If the temperature of the coolant is low, then the heat transfer drops sharply.
Cost: from 6900 to 8200 rubles.
5th place. Heating radiator STI Nova
The modern cast iron radiator incorporates the advantages of cast iron material and the attractive appearance of modern systems. STI thermal systems are not afraid of corrosion. And from this, the service life is greatly increased. They are designed specifically for Russian frosts.
Outside, the system is covered with a heat-resistant white polymer substance. Inside it is made according to the principle of the MS-140 cast-iron radiator, it has all its advantages.
Main characteristics
| type | wall |
| connection | lateral |
| material | cast iron |
| heat transfer | 1200 W |
| maximum operating temperature | 150 °С |
| operating pressure | up to 12 bar |
| crimping | 18 bar |
| volume | 5.2 l |
| center distance | 500 mm |
| height | 580 mm |
| thickness | 85 mm |
Heating radiator STI Nova
Advantages:
- Resistant to water hammer and high working pressure;
- Pleasant appearance, the coating does not turn yellow with age;
- The manufacturer claims a very high service life - up to 50 years.
Disadvantages:
- Not all models fit Russian homes;
- Uneconomical hot water with autonomous heating.
Cost: up to 15300 rubles.
4th place. Heating radiator Axis Classic 22
Steel radiators with side connection are used for installation in private houses and apartments. They are operated at a working pressure of more than 9 bar and a coolant temperature of 120 degrees.
The outer coating is environmentally friendly and does not emit hydrogen, as aluminum appliances do. Heating systems are made of low carbon quality steel. Suitable for copper, polypropylene and steel pipes.
Installation is carried out using brackets with dowels included in the kit. Thermal systems are made in Russia on the Italian equipment. Manufacturers declared a service life of 10 years from the date of sale.
Main characteristics:
Heating radiator Axis Classic 22
Advantages:
- The system combines the capabilities of a convector and a battery;
- Heats up the room quickly
- A variety of models in size, color and design;
- Relatively low price.
Disadvantages:
- Not designed for high pressure;
- Will not withstand strong external shocks;
- Steel is highly susceptible to corrosion.
Prices range from 3000 to 7000 rubles.
3rd place. Heating radiator Sira RS Bimetal
Sira bimetal heating systems have received a new rounded design, which has increased heat dissipation. The batteries have a wall thickness of 1.25 mm. Unlike all other brands of bimetallic structures, which have a maximum thickness of 1.2 mm.
Manufacturers give a guarantee that nothing will happen to the outer surface of the device for 25 years.
Main characteristics:
Heating radiator Sira RS Bimetal
Advantages:
- High quality;
- Stylish design without sharp corners;
- Economical use of hot water;
- Corrosion resistance;
- No welds to prevent leaks.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Uncomfortable sizes;
- They cool down quickly because they contain aluminum.
Prices: from 5300 to 38000 rubles.
2nd place. Heating radiator Rifar Base
RIFAR Base bimetal radiators are made taking into account the specifics of Russian heating systems.
Inside they are treated with a special protective layer, and outside with powder paint to prevent all types of corrosion and other damage.
Main characteristics:
| type | wall |
| connection | lateral |
| material | bimetallic |
| heat transfer | 2040 W |
| heated volume | 20.3 cu. m |
| maximum operating temperature | 135 °С |
| operating pressure | 20 atm |
| crimping | 30 atm |
| number of sections | 10 |
| internetwork distance | 500 mm |
| dimensions | 100x800x570mm |
| the weight | 19.2 kg |
Heating radiator Rifar Base
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Large model range;
- They work with different coolant, any hardness and chemical composition.
Disadvantages:
- Corrosion after prolonged contact with oxygenated water;
- The stated working pressure is too high.
Prices from 5000 to 7000 rubles.
1 place. Heating radiator Global Style Plus
Global aluminum radiators have a high heat dissipation due to the increased surface that radiates heat. They are made according to European standards, based on the results of tests carried out at the Italian Polytechnic Institute. Durable and have a large margin of safety. Easy installation, helps to increase or decrease the sections of the device directly on the installation site.
Main characteristics:
Heating radiator Global Style Plus
Advantages:
- High quality of all components;
- Resistance to poor quality coolant;
- Reliable protection against possible leaks;
- Unique two-stage painting that increases the quality of the coating.
Disadvantages:
- Cannot be used in centralized heating systems, although corrosion protection is present;
- High price, you can find cheaper analogues with similar quality.
However, it is these radiators that for a long time, according to many buyers, hold 1st place in the heating systems market.
Price: from 7000 to 14000 rubles. Average cost: 10,000 rubles.
Conclusion
When buying heating systems, not only the price is taken into account, but also the specific factors of the space itself, which the battery will heat, otherwise a mistake in the choice is inevitable. Each company has its own advantages and disadvantages, the selection is extremely individual. If you have experience using the radiators described in the rating or you know a better model, tell us about it in the comments.
Every owner wants his apartment to be warm, cozy and comfortable. Among the many proposals, we often begin to doubt and get lost in the choice, so we will tell you about the best heating batteries for an apartment in this publication.
If you go to the store and start studying the range of heating radiators, a whole day will not be enough, because the models differ not only in the number of sections and dimensions, but also:
- connection type and mounting depth;
- quantity and quality of water contained in the device;
- thermal power;
- the quality of the decorative coating.
It is worth considering the country in which the radiators are produced. This, as well as brand awareness, often affects the cost of products. For an apartment, it is important to choose the highest quality model with the longest possible service life, while not overpaying just for the brand name.
On a note! Heating appliances are manufactured in accordance with GOST 31311-2005. Cast iron radiators are covered by standard number 8690 of 1994.
Prices for cast iron radiators can be very different. Brand new products of the elite class, designer ones are much more expensive than classic models.
When choosing such a device, it is worth considering:
- high weight of both floor and hanging products;
- laborious installation. It will be difficult or impossible to cope alone;
- the need to pull connections before installation;
- the need to install a multi-section radiator, since the space is heated mainly by radiation, and no more than 25% is allocated to convection;
- the impossibility of hidden installation of radiators and pipelines;
- the difficulty of cleaning and staining.
Advice! In order for the radiator to work properly and at full capacity, it is necessary to produce it every few years. The precipitate from the coolant, settling in the sections, reduces the level of heat transfer of the device.
The best floor sectional cast iron radiators for an apartment.
Model Heat dissipation Center distance, mm Maximum operating temperature, °С Weight of one section, kg Estimated cost of one section (according to data for 2019), rub. ΔT = 60°C heat output 120 W. 300 110 9,44 8 / 10,5 From 8 662 ΔT=60°C heat output 118 W. ΔT=70°C heat output 144 W.
400 110 8,2 10 / 15 From 4 260 ΔT=60°C heat output 163 W. 500 110 11 8 / 15 From 3 520 Important! Do not forget to consider the type and diameter of the connection when choosing a radiator for an apartment.
The best wall-mounted sectional cast-iron radiators for an apartment.
Model Heat dissipation Center distance and dimensions, mm Connection type Weight of one section, kg Working and crimping pressure, bar Estimated cost (as of 2019), RUB ΔT \u003d 70 ° С heat transfer 87.5 W. 500 Lateral 4,9 12 / 18 7 sections from 7 378 ΔT \u003d 60 ° С heat transfer 53.9 W. 500 Lower side 4 18 / 27 1 section from 1 497 ΔT \u003d 60 ° С heat transfer 146.9 W. 500 Lateral 5,5 10 / 15 1 section from 2 360 Do not know, how to change the heating battery in the apartment? Start by learning the theory to avoid mistakes during installation. Check out . Do not forget that the replacement of radiators during the heating season is carried out only after obtaining the appropriate permit.
Steel
Steel heating radiators are not the best option for installation in an apartment, because:
- negatively react to the drain of the coolant;
- have a small indicator of working pressure - up to 6 atmospheres;
- vulnerable to water hammer;
- not compatible with some polypropylene pipes.
Despite significant shortcomings, steel radiators are presented in a large assortment with a good price-quality ratio. Such devices can be equipped with a thermostat, hidden installation is possible.
Steel radiators are best installed in high-rise buildings with autonomous heating or private houses.
Aluminum
Radiators of convective-radiation type, designed for operating pressure up to 9 atmospheres. Quickly warm rooms, can be equipped with a thermostat. Such radiators are much lighter than cast iron ones, but at the same time they are distinguished by high heat transfer.
However, these advantages are offset by one significant drawback. Aluminum radiators are too sensitive to water chemistry. And in city apartments it is very difficult to control the quality of the coolant.
In addition, aluminum is a soft metal, pressure drops in the system (water hammer), which often occur in multi-storey buildings, significantly reduce the life of the device and lead to breakdowns.
It is better to install aluminum radiators in private houses, provided that antifreeze liquid is not used as a coolant, and automatic air release is provided in the system (or a gas / air release valve must be installed on each radiator).
combination of metals
Namely, a combination of steel or copper pipes inside and aluminum panels outside. Such radiators are called bimetallic. Products made of steel and aluminum are light, strong, highly efficient, operate for more than 20 years without maintenance.
Bimetallic radiators are produced by Santekhprom (Russia), Royal Thermo (Russia) and Global (Italy).
Which bimetallic radiators are best for an apartment?
You can always choose an option to your taste, color, wallet, and to get acquainted with the characteristics of popular models, we offer a table.
Brand Model Section weight, kg 115 185 2,3 110 185 2,2 110 171 1,85 110 171 1,87 110 188 1,94 In addition, a lot of positive feedback was collected by the Profi Bm 500 model from the Russian brand Rommer.
The radiator manifold is completely steel. The design was developed by leading Russian engineers in accordance with GOST. Sections have safety design without sharp corners and edges. The decorative coating is applied in two stages (cataphoresis method). Each section weighs one and a half kilograms and holds 180 ml of water. The heat output of one section at ∆T = 70°C is 143.3 W. And the price of one section is less than five hundred rubles.
It is worth paying attention to another Russian brand - Halsen. The company produces sectional radiators by injection molding and provides a twenty-year warranty on its products. The BS 500 model with ten sections weighs only 17 kg, product dimensions are 80 x 96 x 56.8 cm. The thermal power of one section is 183 watts. The device is compatible with plastic, steel and copper pipes; All Halsen products comply with GOST 31311-2005.
There are also semi-bimetallic radiators. That is, only “core” pipes are made of steel. All other elements of the radiator are aluminum. Due to this combination, heat transfer is slightly improved (compared to the previous version) and the price is reduced.
Semi-metal radiators produced under the brands Rifar (Russia), Gordi (China), Sira (Italy).
Brand Model Heat carrier temperature maximum, °C Heat transfer at ∆T = 70°C, W Section weight, kg Rifar 135 138 / 196 1,45 /2,1 Gordi 135 170 1,9 Sira 110 145 / 201 1,48 / 1,92 Radiators made of aluminum and steel can be sectional or solid.
The characteristics of bimetallic radiators made of steel and aluminum should be within the following limits:
- heat transfer 170-190 W at ΔT = 70°С;
- working pressure not less than 16 atmospheres. In a centralized heating system, a pressure of about 10 atmospheres is maintained. With a sharp increase in pressure, the radiator should not burst;
- center distance 200, 300, 350, 500 or 800 mm. This parameter is selected for the existing heating pipe layout in the apartment;
- the maximum withstand temperature is 90°C. Typically, the temperature of the coolant in apartment buildings is lower than this indicator by 5-10 ° C.
Video - How to choose a bimetallic radiator?
Electric radiators
Usually they are not used in apartments as the main source of heat, except for short periods of the year, when the batteries are already or still cold, and outside the window the thermometer suddenly crept down rapidly. In order not to wrap yourself in 5 blankets and not go to bed with the oven open (this is very, very unsafe!), Just plug an oil cooler or convector into the outlet.
Oil heaters
- Type of installation only floor.
- The number of instrument sections is from 3 to 14.
- Radiator power up to 3000 W.
- The height of the radiators is usually within 50-80 cm, the width is up to half a meter.
- Oil coolers weigh a lot - up to 30 kg. Too light models are better not to buy.
- Additional options: fan, air humidifier, heated towel rail, tipping sensor, automatic switch-on and frost protection function.
Calculator for calculating the number of sections for a heating radiator
In our educational program for you, we tried to cover in as much detail as possible one of the fundamental issues in the design of water heating systems. What are the radiators, what are their fundamental differences and what type is right for you, what to look for when buying.
Fundamentals of thermal physics
To understand how one or another type of radiator will behave in a particular heating system, you need to understand a number of aspects of the operation of liquid heating. In particular, the chain of heat conversion from the heat source to the direct air in the room is important.
Heat transfer is the faster, the higher the contact area of two bodies with different temperatures and the greater the difference between these temperatures. Therefore, the optimal option is considered when water of extremely low temperature enters the boiler heat exchanger, so most of the heat from the combustion products will be literally “absorbed” into the coolant.
In reality, this approach is used only in those systems where the power of the heating unit is not regulated, as is the case with solid fuel boilers. Most modern heating equipment has a fairly flexible automation system, which allows you to quickly reach a balanced mode of operation. The boiler in this case gives off exactly as much energy as the radiators of the system can dissipate.
This is the main misconception of novice designers: it is most obvious that the radiator should heat the air, although in fact its main task is to cool the coolant. The rate of heat transfer can be easily adjusted by forced convection and its local adjustment. Therefore, when choosing and calculating the number of heating radiators, the main task is to compensate for heat losses in the premises, and not to fight over balancing the heat exchange circuit.
Convection component of the structure
The high efficiency of modern radiators is due to the first factor affecting the rate of heat transfer - the surface area. Numerous fins made of heat-conducting material provide very fast cooling of the coolant, the effect is enhanced by the high speed of the air flow passing through the radiator.
The undisputed leader in this regard are bimetallic and aluminum radiators. In addition to numerous channels for air flow, they have a bend in the upper part of the ribs, which allows you to effectively redirect the air flow to the center of the room and loop it. Therefore, this type of radiators is installed mainly under windows with wide window sills or inside technological niches.
Panel steel radiators have a slightly less effective convection ability. From one to three ribbed panels provide high-quality heat transfer, but the heated air is directed mainly vertically. Cast iron radiators have the lowest heat transfer. Among old-style batteries, sections with oblique internal inserts are characterized by the best indicators in this regard; modern cast-iron radiators are slightly superior to them. But, as you'll see later, cast iron has other advantages.
Materials and their thermal capacity
Let us consider in more detail the variant of the system operation at average values of the coolant temperature, when it does not have time to cool down to the air level in the room. In this case, both the upper and lower parts of the radiator will have a small temperature difference, and the boiler will only slightly heat the coolant.
The massiveness of cast-iron radiators allows operation in this mode. Heated to 50-60 ºС, they manage to give off enough heat to the room air and at the same time provide stable heating without noticeable drops. This is the main difference from the mode of operation of aluminum radiators: they operate in a cyclic mode, either heating the premises at maximum power, or quickly cooling down.
Cast iron and steel radiators have another interesting feature: they transfer heat not only by convection, but also by direct radiation. However, to heat such a mass of metal, it takes time, sometimes quite a long time. Cast-iron radiators are inferior to other types in terms of the speed of reaching the regime and the amount of heat given off per unit of time. It is advantageous to install them in a private house with good insulation, but when connected to a centralized heating system from cast iron, there will be no tangible benefit. Given the fact that in apartments the number of sections and the space for their installation are very limited, it is better to give preference to steel or metal.
Design pressure, internal coating
An additional limitation when choosing heating radiators is always the quality of the coolant and the technical parameters of the system. Aluminum ones are not suitable for replacing old radiators in an apartment, they are simply not designed for pressures above 6-8 atm. As a replacement, at least bimetallic ones are suitable, but it is better to give preference to steel ones. They can be safely called the most unpretentious among other varieties.
The quality of water or other coolant also greatly limits the use of aluminum radiators. It must be ensured that the water does not contain high concentrations of dissolved ions. It is also important to exclude any manifestation of electrical emission, which is possible when grounding / grounding to metal elements of the heating water supply. Under such conditions, aluminum corrodes extremely quickly, which is accompanied by pronounced gas formation and airing of the system.
Cast iron batteries are not at all sensitive to aggressive substances, and rather wide flow channels allow a significant content of mechanical impurities. Steel radiators can be somewhat susceptible to the deposition of undissolved particles on the inner walls, so the water for them must be filtered and softened.
Displacement, conventional thermal power
The heat transfer and the potential ability to regulate the flow locally depend on how much volume passes through the radiator per unit of time. For cast-iron radiators, a slightly larger pipeline capacity is required than for steel and aluminum ones. And this means a deliberate overestimation of the boiler power and the size of the expansion tank.
A large displacement and power reserve up to a certain point remain a reasonable investment. In this mode, the heating system consumes the operating life much more slowly, there is a slight increase in the efficiency of the heating unit, and a high intrinsic heat capacity smooths out temperature changes. However, it is not worth it to increase the internal volume of the system indefinitely, at least because of the undesirable inertia of the system, besides, the ultimate task is to heat the air in the room, and not the water in the pipes.
The modern method of calculating the heating system implies the reverse order of calculations. First, it is determined how many radiators need to be installed to replenish heat losses, and then a heating boiler is selected for a certain total power. At the same time, the calculation in each room should be carried out using a redundancy factor from 1.1 to 1.5, depending on climatic conditions, insulation features and density of radiators.
Note that power dissipation values are entirely relative. So the manufacturer indicates how much heat the radiator is able to dissipate in principle, as if it were connected to an ideal heating system. In fact, operating modes always differ from ideal ones and therefore special corrections should be taken, noting the actual temperature level from the design one. The indicated values of the heated area also take into account the convection capacity of the radiators.
dimensions
When choosing radiators, it is also necessary to take into account the installation conditions: will it be possible to fit a heat exchanger with the required dissipation power into the available space. For convenience, here you can introduce the concept of energy density: it will be the highest for aluminum radiators, then there is bimetal, then steel, and cast-iron batteries turn out to be the least profitable. Evaluating the possibility of placing a certain type of radiators is quite simple, since they are well standardized.
The simplest task is with bimetallic and aluminum radiators. They are assembled from sections, each of which has a set indicator of power dissipation, displacement and heated area. The standard section width is 80 mm, the height can vary from 13.5 to 117.5 cm in increments of about 10 cm. There are six types of section depth depending on the number of flow channels (columns). Between the dimensions of the section, its thermal and convection efficiency there is a directly proportional relationship.
Steel radiators, in addition to dimensions, have an additional two-digit marking. The first is the number of diffuser panels, the second is the number of heat exchange coils. Depending on this, the depth of the radiator changes: from 47 to 155 mm. Steel radiators are not assembled from sections, and therefore their length is determined individually for each product in the range from 40 cm to 3 meters. The height of steel radiators can be either 300mm or 500mm with rare exceptions.
Cast iron radiators in terms of dimensions have the least clear standardization. Some manufacturers adhere to the dimensions generally accepted for aluminum and bimetallic radiators, some products correspond to the dimensions of sections of old cast-iron batteries: 90x580 mm with a depth of 90 or 140 mm.
I am often asked the question: which heating radiator is better for a private house? And for an apartment? And why? I decided to give answers in the form of an article, for sure someone is now looking for answers to these questions.
By design, radiators are divided into:
- sectional and block made of cast iron, aluminum, steel, bimetallic;
- columnar steel, aluminum or other non-ferrous metals;
- steel panel.
Design water heating radiators
Now design radiators are popular, I have seen really beautiful radiators. A good collection of radiators from the Russian manufacturer Varmann.
Abstract Radiator Design
Another beautiful radiator from Varmann.
Within the framework of this article, I will not consider in detail the design of radiators. Just know that such radiators not only exist, but are also gaining popularity. At least, I meet such radiators more and more often.
Types of sectional radiators
Sectional radiators are aluminum, cast iron, bimetallic and steel.
Aluminum sectional radiators consist of sections made entirely of aluminium. The main advantage is not high cost.
Cast-iron radiators are not only Soviet ones, and everyone is familiar with the MS-140, but they are also quite nice. KONNER cast iron radiators look good, we installed these radiators several times with.
Cast iron radiators work well in gravity (gravitational) heating systems, if the heat source is a solid fuel boiler, then such radiators protect the boiler from boiling.
Bimetal radiators are made of aluminum, but the inner tube part is made of stainless steel. The main advantage is high resistance to pressure.
Steel tubular radiators are not common to me. I would classify them as design radiators, not every customer agrees to install them.
Types of steel panel radiators
Each steel panel radiator has a type designation, for example: 22 500*1000. The last digits 500 and 1000 mean height and width radiator in millimeters.
Type 22 is probably the most common type of radiator. There are several types of fins:
- 10 Type - smooth panel
- 11 Type - panel with fins
- 20 Type - two smooth panels
- 21 Type - one smooth panel and one with fins
- 22 Type - two panels with fins
- 30 Type - three smooth panels
- 33 Type - three panels with fins
Different types of radiators are made in order to have different power with the same overall dimensions.
Panel radiators can be of different heights, the most common are 300 and 500 mm. The most common type is 22.
Is aluminum or bimetal radiator better?
The bimetal radiator is made of two metals: aluminum and stainless steel. Stainless steel core is harder and stronger than aluminum + no chemical reaction with other metals.
If you have aluminum radiators tied with copper pipes - expect trouble, the radiators will clog over time and stop heating. Even during a chemical reaction, hydrogen is released, it will not break the radiator, but the heat exchanger on the boiler is easy.
Attention!
Copper reacts with aluminum and zinc. In heating systems, it is better not to combine these metals.If you want details with tedious formulas, read an article in the magazine S.O.K.
Cheap sectional radiators
I strongly advise against buying cheap sectional radiators, their service life is less than 10 years.
Do not forget that in steel panel radiators, as a rule, fasteners, Mayevsky taps, plugs, come with the radiator, and in sectional radiators, as a rule, all this needs to be bought separately.
Which heating radiators are best for a private house
For a private house, steel panel radiators are best suited. They have optimal price quality better heat dissipation than other radiators.
My top 5 steel panel radiators for a private house:
- PURMO
- KERMI
- VOGEL & NOOT
- BUDERUS
- WIESSMANN
- PRADO
- LIDEA
- CALOREE
I am from the Krasnodar Territory, so you may not have any brands of radiator manufacturers, and for sure there are other brands that are no less worthy. Of all the brands of radiators that I have worked with, these are the ones I like the most.
Which heating radiators are best for an apartment
For apartments, bimetallic radiators are best suited. But, if the operating parameters of the heating system are below 5 bar, the heating system is not connected directly to the heating networks, but through a heat exchanger, the developer and the management company did not indicate which radiators to install, then aluminum, steel or cast iron radiators can be installed.
A bunch of restrictions, the benefit is dubious, the risks of flooding the neighbors, so I think that it is best to install bimetallic radiators in apartments, which, in principle, are indicated by the developer in 99% of cases.
My top sectional radiators:
- RIFAR
- GLOBAL
- MONLAN
I repeat, I am from the Krasnodar Territory, so you may not have any brands of radiator manufacturers, and for sure there are other brands that are no less worthy. Of all the brands of radiators that I have worked with, these are the ones I like the most.
Put reliable radiators in apartments, in case of leakage, there will be sad consequences. In a private house, during a heating leak, part of the laminate may swell, but in an apartment, when you flood your neighbors, you can shake it up for a large amount.
Read also:Don't save on radiators! And check what your builders put in your apartment. Are you sure you trust them? They will install cheap heating devices, and if there is a leak, you will pay your neighbors.
False information written by radiator manufacturers
Many manufacturers overestimate the performance of their radiators. Basically it's heat dissipation. A striking example is the Lammin ECO AL500-80 radiator.
They claim that the heat output is 190 watts from each section, but in fact 128 watts. Almost half overestimated heat transfer.
We all know that heating is heat loss compensation. Relatively speaking, we have a room with an area of 20 m², in which we need to install a radiator of some capacity. Some of you, and perhaps your unfortunate heating installers, have heard that 1 radiator section should be installed per 2 m². Someone has heard the figure of 100 W per 1 m², so they are guided by it.
Let's imagine two scenarios for the development of events, one with unfortunate installers, the second with normal installers, like us.
Unfortunate heating installer
Option 1. A room of 20 m², so you need 20/2=10. I'll install 10 sections, everything will be fine, this eccentric thought.
Option 2. A room with an area of 20 m², heat loss of 100 W per 1 m², which means 20 * 1000 = 2000 W. The power of one section of the Lammin ECO radiator is 190 W. To find out the number of sections, you need to divide the number of heat losses by the section power, 2000/190 \u003d 10.5. If rounded up, then you need to install 11 sections.
Normal heating installers
We consider heat losses in the program. It turns out that the heat loss of the room is 2700 watts. We select a radiator based on many parameters, such as: appearance, dimensions of the room, and of course we are guided by the results of testing radiators.
Conclusion
The unfortunate installer installed a radiator for 10 or 11 sections, let it be the maximum: 11 sections. We consider: 11 sections * 128 W (actual heat dissipation) = 1,408 W. But in reality, you need to compensate for 2,700 watts. Of course, when it gets cold outside, it will be cold in this room. In fact, you need to add 10 more sections.
So it turns out that here the installer did not count, here the manufacturer deceived, and you, my dear Customer, will freeze.
The radiator is an important part of the home heating system. Its thermal conductivity and aesthetics affect the appearance of the room and comfort. Price is also an important factor. This is especially true for apartments. We will try to tell you in this article how to make the right choice of a heating radiator for an apartment.
Heating system and radiator compatibility
There is a wide range of heating radiators on the market:
- steel;
- aluminum;
- cast iron;
- Copper;
- bimetallic devices.
The choice of a particular radiator depends on various parameters of the entire heating system. The allowable temperature, pressure in the system and the composition of the coolant are taken into account, as well as heat transfer and inertness, which must correspond to the indicators of the heating system of an apartment building.
Popular life hacks for home and summer cottages on the portal https://build-experts.ru, building tricks and recommendations from experienced foremen.
Important! Heating radiators for open systems of apartment buildings differ from those designed for closed heating systems of private (individual) houses. If the radiator does not match your heating system, not only rapid wear is possible, but also a complete failure of the radiator.
How to choose a radiator?
First of all, when buying a battery, you should pay attention to its technical and operational characteristics, and only then to the cost or appearance.
Regardless of the country of manufacture, it must be clearly understood that not every battery can withstand the operating conditions of our heating networks: fluctuations in pressure and temperature, poor quality of water supplied to the pipes (coolant) and others. For example, in high-rise buildings for a single-pipe open heating system, the design temperature is 105 ° C, and the pressure is 10 atmospheres. But, despite this, the limits of these parameters can go off scale, and heating radiators of foreign manufacturers that do not have the necessary margin of safety may simply not withstand a water hammer.
Note! Before buying a radiator, it is necessary to take into account the allowable temperature and pressure of the coolant in the heating system. These data are indicated in the passport of the heating device.
The heat transfer of the heating battery is also important. The efficiency of air heating depends on this indicator, which is also determined by the design of the radiator. For example, the heat transfer of aluminum is higher than that of steel, and copper gives off heat better than cast iron. However, relying only on these technical parameters is also not entirely correct. It is necessary to comprehensively evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages of each element of the heating system before buying the best heating radiators for the apartment in which you live.
Heating radiator options
Consider the most common types of heating batteries on the market
Cast iron radiators
Cast iron batteries have been used in domestic heating systems for over a hundred years. They have shown excellent resistance to corrosion, are sufficiently durable, have good heat dissipation and are able to withstand pressure and temperature drops in the system. Almost ideal option for operation in the territory of the countries of the former USSR.
Cast iron radiators are able to retain heat for a long time, even after an emergency shutdown of the system. These batteries withstand both poor water quality in the system and water hammer. They are not affected by rust or air pockets, compared to appliances made from other materials. All these advantages make cast-iron radiators an ideal option for a heating battery for an apartment.
The disadvantages of cast-iron radiators include high inertia, unsightly design and bulkiness. The inertia makes these batteries unsuitable for heating systems with thermoregulation.
The exception is modern models in retro style, with monograms, patinated, painted to look like copper, bronze or brass, which fit perfectly into the interior, being both a heating device and an art object.
Aluminum radiators
Sectional radiators made of aluminum are very popular today. Light weight, aesthetic appearance, high heat dissipation, these batteries are good for arranging heating systems in apartments and houses.
Thanks to the sections, you can dial any length of the radiator, and ease of installation is another indisputable plus. This type of batteries is not inertial, which makes it possible to install them in systems with temperature controllers. In addition, a large amount of coolant (water) is not required.
A significant disadvantage of aluminum batteries, experts consider susceptibility to corrosion at an increased concentration of alkali in water, as well as a tendency to form air bubbles inside the structure and the risk of leakage between sections.
Steel radiators
In the heating systems of houses and offices, you can often find batteries made of steel. They may look different:
- Type-setting panel from separate sections;
- One-piece rectangular construction;
- tubular construction.
The advantages of steel batteries are in an affordable price, inertia, attractive appearance, excellent heat dissipation and corrosion resistance.
However, steel batteries are not capable of withstanding water hammer in excess of 25 atmospheres, which makes them unacceptable for use in high-rise apartment buildings. In addition, steel is quite sensitive to the presence of oxygen in the coolant.
The optimal pressure for the normal operation of steel batteries ranges from 6 to 16 atmospheres and depends on the thickness of the steel and the design of the device. The operating temperature must not exceed 110°C. Heat transfer is carried out by convection and radiation through the walls of the device and the grate located in the upper part of the radiator.
Bimetallic radiators
Bimetal radiator consists of aluminum fins and steel piping. This type of battery is optimally suited for operation with our city district heating networks. In this design, hot water circulates through seamless steel pipes, welded together by a method that prevents corrosion and destruction of the metal. And aluminum, in turn, due to its high thermal conductivity, perfectly transfers heat from the core to the room.
The radiator is able to withstand pressure in the system up to 40-50 atmospheres. Modern designs have a fairly attractive appearance. Thus, in a bimetallic radiator, the properties of steel and aluminum are combined in the best way as heating devices.
Among the advantages, one can also point out that bimetallic batteries contribute to the turbulent distribution of air masses (with eddies). Thus, there is no local overheating of the air, the formation of a positive ionization field in the heater zone. Bimetallic heaters can serve for about 20 years and come to the retail network already painted, which simplifies their maintenance.
The disadvantages of bimetallic heating devices include their rather high cost, as well as the tendency to accumulate slag deposits along the inner walls over time and sensitivity to the presence of oxygen in the coolant. They also distinguish the resistance that occurs at the interface between the two metals, which reduces the efficiency of heat transfer as a whole.
Copper radiators
Copper heating radiators are made of seamless copper pipe. The design consists of a pipe with a diameter of about 28 mm, complemented by copper fins and a wooden casing. The efficiency of air heating is achieved due to the high thermal conductivity of copper, which is 2 times higher than that of aluminum and 5-6 times higher than that of steel and cast iron. Copper has a low inertia and can be used in systems equipped with thermostats.
Despite the fact that copper batteries require less coolant, they heat up in 3 minutes. In this case, there is no need to drive large masses of hot water through copper batteries (for example, as is the case with cast iron appliances).
The advantages of copper are undeniable:
- Corrosion resistance;
- Plastic;
- It is not subject to wear when exposed to an aggressive environment;
- Plastic;
- High efficiency at low coolant temperature;
- Suitable for installation in apartments of multi-storey buildings.
Interesting! After the first 90 hours of operation of copper radiators, an oxide layer forms on the inner surface, which subsequently protects the battery from mechanical and chemical damage from poor quality hot water.
Almost the only drawback is the high price of copper heating appliances.
Calculation of the power of heating radiators for an apartment
For a normal microclimate in a living room, the heating radiator should not overlap 70-75% of the width of the window opening. Then the cold air from the window and the warm air from the battery mix freely and move around the room, without fogging the windows. Therefore, instead of 5-6 powerful sections, it is better to put 8-10 sections with less power, but occupying the required area under the window.
To find out the required power of the radiator, it is necessary to multiply the area of \u200b\u200bthe room by 100 watts. If a:
- If the room has 1 window or outside door and 2 outside walls, then the battery power is increased by 20%;
- 2 windows and 2 external walls - by 30%;
- The window faces north or northeast - by 10%;
- Battery in a niche - by 5%;
- The radiator is closed by a panel with slots - by 15%.
