Living outside the city has many advantages, but to provide comfortable living conditions, you need to make a lot of effort. One of the most important points is the selection and installation of the heating system. It should not only work efficiently, but also save the family budget. And for this, you should purchase the best option for a heating battery.
What factors should be considered when choosing a radiator
In any hardware store there is a huge assortment of heating equipment. For this reason, before going to the building supermarket, determine the following parameters, on which the amount of heat required for the room will depend:
- Thermal losses of the building (taking into account: decomposition of the building material (refers to wood), ceiling height, number of windows and doors, glass thickness, etc.).
- Required temperature.
- The thermal power of the device is determined by the following formula: S * h*41:42, where S is the area of the room; h is the height of the room; 41 - minimum power per 1 cubic meter S; 42 - nominal thermal conductivity of one section according to the passport.
- The heating radiator, as a rule, is located under the window, therefore its maximum size is determined by the following measurements (in cm): from the floor 7-12, from the walls - 3-5, to the windowsill - 10-15.
It is also important to note for yourself:
- weight (the complexity of installation depends on it);
- appearance (affects the aesthetics of the interior);
- value for money (is the determining factor).
Which heating batteries are better: types and characteristics
All heating radiators differ in design and class of material used.
According to the shape and texture, there are many options, it all depends on your taste preferences. Whether they are wide or narrow, plain or colored, backlit or with designer painting - it's up to you. The main thing is that they function according to the declared characteristics.
Regarding the method of operation and the type of material used, batteries are divided into 4 classes:
- cast iron;
- aluminum;
- steel;
- bimetallic.
To understand which heating radiators to choose for a private house, you need to consider their options in more detail.
Cast iron
For more than 100 years, cast iron heating technology has been very popular. This is justified by the number of positive qualities of cast iron batteries:
- Significant heat dissipation (they heat up to 130 degrees and remain hot for 5-6 hours).
- Durability (service life can be 50 years or more).
- High level of strength (external mechanical damage, as well as high pressure inside the system will not damage the structure).
- Corrosion resistance under sudden temperature changes and constant influence of condensate.
- Unpretentiousness to the quality of the coolant (filters at the inlet to the heating system are not required).
- Availability (low cost).
However, such systems, due to their shortcomings, are gradually being replaced by other, more advanced ones.
Cast iron heating radiators are larger than other models, which makes them difficult to transport, install and maintain. They also have other disadvantages in operation:
- Low thermal conductivity. For good heat transfer, it is necessary that the temperature of the coolant be 70-80 degrees. (Justified by the massiveness and porous surface of the metal).
- They require systematic care (periodic painting and cleaning).
- Bulky (take up a lot of space). They do not fit into the interior of the housing, although original fences or partitions can be used to improve their appearance. There are also special design solutions from French and German manufacturers that will look good with a certain style of interior. These batteries look very nice, but their cost is high.
- Require good fastening to the wall due to the large weight.
Cast iron batteries are produced in China (KONNER and Tokio) and Russia (MS-140).
Aluminum
Aluminum is distinguished by significant thermal conductivity, therefore, products made from it are very productive.
Advantages:
- Ease.
- Compactness.
- Powerful working pressure (12-18 atmospheres).
- Ease of operation (sections are easy to remove / install).
- Significant heat transfer due to the shape of the sections.
- Increased heat transfer. Due to the volumetric cross-sectional area of the intercollector tubes, the heat agent circulates faster and gives off heat to the metal.
- Variety of sizes.
- Acceptable price.
- Attractive appearance.
Along with the advantages of aluminum radiators, there are also disadvantages:
- Increased susceptibility to pressure drop and composition of the heating agent (quality filtration and pressure gauges are required to control filling pressure).
- Instability to chemical factors (corrosion), so pay attention to the presence of a protective polymer film (coating) on the surface of the product.
- Rapid wear (10-15 years of operation).
According to the layout of the sections, there are three categories of aluminum radiators: solid, arranged sectional and combined. But which heating radiator is better:
- One-piece is distinguished by strength and plasticity;
- Arranged sectional panels (typesetting) make it possible to replace failed plates;
- Combined - combines both functions, but also costs more. Similar systems are manufactured by companies: Condor, RIFAR, Global, Ferroli.
Steel
They are divided into three subgroups according to the structure of the internal system.
Panel
Rectangular radiators, consisting of two welded panels with grooves, recesses, dining channels, in which the carrier circulates. Such a heating battery is quite light and compact, allowing you to dial the required temperature in a short period of time. Another name is convectors, since heat is supplied by convection (75%).
Their disadvantages include:
- low working pressure;
- shock sensitivity;
- susceptibility to corrosion.
Manufacturers produce radiators with top and bottom connections, which allows you to lay heating in the floor. Manufacturing companies: Buderus, Lideya, Corado.
Steel sectional
Similar to cast iron, but have significant positive differences.
- Strength provided by welded joints.
- Internal pressure of 16 atmospheres.
- Durability (up to half a century).
Although they are not available to a wide range of consumers, due to their considerable cost.
Tubular
It is worth noting their high price right away, because they stand out for their perfect design and effective functionality. Tubular radiators make it possible to implement your own design ideas in a heated room. Produced by foreign companies: Delonghi, Zehnder, Arbonia.
Bimetallic
According to the external features, they do not differ from aluminum ones. Their internal part is made of stainless steel or copper. This greatly increases their safety, service life and reliability.
Despite their cost, they have long and confidently been leaders in the heat engineering market. Therefore, we can say with confidence: which bimetallic heating radiators will last better and longer in your cottage - compensate for the money costs with the quality of work.
Based on the above, it can be noted that both subspecies are suitable for use in private homes. Now we will conduct a comparative analysis of a number of features and find out which of them should still be preferred.
Heat volume
An aluminum heating radiator (its section) provides 200 watts of energy. One part is released in the form of radiation, and the second is converted. Within 10 minutes after switching on, the air in the room begins to warm up, which makes it possible to save a lot.
Bimetallic heat transfer occurs differently: the steel core slightly slows down its spread. In principle, this indicator may differ depending on the model. Otherwise, there are no significant differences.
Heat carrier temperature
Bimetal is able to maintain water temperatures up to 130 degrees, but aluminum is only up to 110.
Life time
Bimetallic radiators combine the properties of two metals, therefore, their service life is longer (15-20 years) compared to their competitors (about 10 years).
Mounting
Both radiators are light in weight, the steel mount is mounted on screws and ordinary plastic dowels. With the help of a set of keys and shaped tools, the installation and replacement of components is carried out.
Aluminum or bimetallic batteries, which is better in terms of service life
In our country, the composition of water includes many chemical impurities, and since aluminum tends to react with various substances, this is highly undesirable for it, since rust will simply eat its walls. For normal operation, the pH should not exceed 8 units.
Bimetallic radiators are better protected by a special coating from the effects of a too active heat agent - they are not so susceptible to rust. However, there are cases when hydrogen enters the liquid, then the components begin to rot very rapidly.
Manufacturers are constantly improving their products. And answering the question which bimetallic radiators are better, it is necessary to highlight the brands Polywarm, Teplopribor, Royal Thermo Vittoria, Sira. One of the most famous manufacturers is Kermi, Germany.
Outcome
Warmth in the house creates a cozy atmosphere. To always feel comfortable in your home, you need to correctly calculate the number of radiators and choose them.
When buying heaters for a private house according to the recommendations of experts, you can easily choose exactly those heating batteries that are best suited for you and satisfy individual needs.
The choice of heating batteries is a serious undertaking, on which not only the efficiency of heating residential premises depends, but also the operational life of the heating communication as a whole. In multi-apartment buildings, the risk of water hammer is higher than in private houses, due to the connection to a centralized heating network. Therefore, the article will consider in detail the question of which heating radiators are best for an apartment.
The coolant is supplied to the apartments by connecting to a centralized heating network (DSP). The movement of the coolant in such systems is forced. The supply of liquid to each apartment is carried out by special pumps, which are part of the DSP. The pressure pumped by the pumps averages 16 atmospheres.
Helpful information! When choosing a heating radiator, it is first of all recommended to pay attention to how often pressure surges occur in communication. In order for the battery to be able to withstand water hammer, its material must have a sufficient margin of safety.
A fairly common phenomenon that centralized communications are subject to is a violation of conservation. As a rule, this happens during the summer period. However, not all batteries are able to withstand the water hammer that occurs during such a depressurization in the system.
Individual elements of the DSP wear out over time, which leads to a deterioration in the quality of the coolant and the ingress of various foreign impurities into it. They can be technical impurities, particles of rust, dirt and various sedimentary elements. The presence of the former in the working medium negatively affects its thermal output during circulation through the DSP. The rest contribute to the narrowing of the lumen of pipes and radiators, which also reduces the efficiency of heating residential premises.
When replacing a heating device in an apartment, check the compatibility of the materials from which the batteries and connecting elements (fittings) are made. The incompatibility of metals leads to their oxidation, which often causes accidents in the DSP.
Which radiator to choose: types of heating batteries
To date, you can find a variety of batteries for installation in apartments. All of them are divided into types according to several criteria. First of all, all heating radiators are classified according to the material from which they are made:
- cast iron;
- steel;
- aluminum;
- bimetallic;
- copper.
And also, depending on the design, they can be:
- sectional;
- panel.
Each of the above types of heating devices is suitable for operation in certain conditions. It is also worth saying that there are highly specialized models that are used to perform one function. This type includes floor-type convectors used in rooms that have a large glazing area. Their use eliminates the possibility of fogging windows.
On the market you can also find another type of convectors - plinth. They are installed in special metal boxes that replace classic skirting boards. The main advantage of such heaters is that they do not violate the overall interior of the room.
Today you can find a variety of batteries, in terms of design. The range of modern heating radiators is incredibly wide and diverse. The disadvantage of batteries made in a unique design is their price. Therefore, such heating devices are not in high demand.
Characteristics of cast iron batteries for an apartment
Not so long ago, cast iron heaters were the most popular and were used almost everywhere. But today, these bulky structures, covered with enamel paint, have faded into the background. With the development of production technologies, more efficient and wear-resistant steel radiators, as well as appliances made of other materials, appeared.
Note! Cast iron material has a high coefficient of thermal conductivity. And also it is worth saying that it heats up for a long time, but at the same time it cools down just as long.
Cast iron batteries are able to withstand quite a lot of pressure (up to 30 atmospheres), which exceeds the standard DSP by 2 times. Thus, devices made of this material are highly resistant to water hammer in the system.
Among the advantages of cast iron radiator batteries, one can also highlight the fact that they are compatible with pipes and fittings made of other materials. This allows you to save money, since when replacing the battery there is no need to replace the associated communications.
And also products made of cast iron are distinguished by their resistance to destructive corrosive effects. They are unpretentious regarding the quality of the working environment that moves through them. Long-term interaction of the inner surface of the battery, made of cast iron, with water leads to the formation of a dark precipitate, which has an antioxidant property. Therefore, with normal use of such radiators, they can last for more than a dozen years.
Modern radiators made of this material are covered with a special protective enamel at the production stage. Unlike older cast iron batteries, new models do not require annual painting and are also easy to clean, as they have a smooth, glossy surface. Among other things, cast iron heaters do not accumulate gases, so they do not need to release excess air.
In Soviet times, such radiators were manufactured in large quantities and had standard sizes. Today, the range of these devices offers customers almost unlimited options for cast iron products that differ in shape, design and color. A wide range allows you to increase the operational area of such radiators.
Western companies engaged in the production of cast-iron radiators produce special design lines of heating appliances. Such batteries are made in a fashionable retro style and are equipped with various ornaments. Of course, the cost of such products is an order of magnitude higher than conventional cast iron ones, but their quality and presentable appearance are beyond doubt.
Cast iron structures are selected, depending on the dimensions of the room. If necessary, the number of sections can be increased or decreased, which is very convenient. Consider what factors affect the choice of the number of sections:
- area of the room;
- window size;
- Number of doors;
- features of the climatic region.
Cast iron structures also differ in terms of filling volume. For example, in domestic radiators it is 1.3, and in foreign ones - 0.8 liters. The cost of the latter is approximately 2-3 times higher. Brackets are used to install radiators in an apartment made of cast iron. It is also worth noting that some models are attached directly to the floor.
Why it is better to refuse to buy cast iron: an overview of the shortcomings
As mentioned above, cast iron radiators are no longer as popular as they used to be. This is due to their shortcomings. The main disadvantage of these products is their large weight, due to which their storage, transportation and installation are accompanied by certain difficulties.
Note! For fixing a standard cast-iron structure, it is necessary to use bulky fixing elements - brackets.
It is also worth mentioning that, in terms of design, standard cast iron products are not very presentable. They are categorically not suitable for rooms made in a modern style. Another disadvantage of cast iron heating batteries is low inertia. With such a battery, it will not be possible to carry out operational regulation of the temperature regime in the room, and for autonomous heating systems this property is especially important.
Cast iron structures do not differ in strength characteristics and are especially susceptible to mechanical stress (impact). It is because of the above properties that these products are not in great demand in the modern market for heating equipment.
Varieties of steel radiators for an apartment
Steel radiators are one of the most popular today. They are distinguished by a mass of positive qualities, and are also quite presentable and fit almost any room design.
There are three main varieties of these products, which differ from each other in their design:
- panel;
- tubular;
- lamellar.
Each of these types is suitable for certain conditions and has its own advantages and disadvantages. In order to answer the question of which heating radiator is better to choose for an apartment, it is necessary to consider the features of both panel and tubular, as well as convector structures.
Which heating radiators are best for an apartment: steel panel batteries
The panel construction includes two steel sheets. By stamping, they are given the necessary shape. After that, the resulting blanks are joined by welding, which makes it possible to obtain a hollow panel. If necessary, it is supplemented by convectors, thanks to which the air moves in a vertical direction. This allows you to perform a kind of "barrier" that protects the room from the cold emanating from the window.
After assembling such a radiator, it is painted. The protective coating is a very important element of the design, as it protects it from corrosion, makes it more presentable, and also helps to care for it. When choosing a new steel battery, special attention must be paid to how evenly the paint layer is applied to the panel. It should not contain gaps, cracks or chips.
Steel structures are able to withstand temperatures of the working environment up to 95 ºC. They are designed for the standard pressure that is created inside the DSP, namely: 16 atmospheres.
Helpful information! Steel batteries of this type may have a different number of convector elements and panels.
The length of such radiators ranges from 40 cm to 3 m. The minimum height of such a design is 20 cm, and the maximum is 90. Some companies are engaged in the production of steel heaters of this type on order, which also expands their product range, and, accordingly, the operational sphere.
Related article:
Description of the principle of operation, comparison of heaters. Review of types, firms and prices of convector heaters.
Depending on where the heater will be docked with the pipe, there are two main options for steel devices:
- with bottom connection;
- with side connection.
When choosing a steel radiator, you need to pay attention to the location of the heating pipes in your apartment. Based on this, the necessary design is selected, with the desired connection option.
Advantages and disadvantages of steel panel radiators
In order to answer the question of how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment, you need to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of steel panel structures. Such models are the most common today. To begin with, consider the positive qualities of these heaters.
The first and, perhaps, the most important advantage of the panel structure is the ease of its installation. Installation in the heating circuit is carried out according to the instructions quite quickly. If necessary, you can do it yourself. In addition, the design of the radiator eliminates the need for assembly, as it is one-piece, which also saves time.
Panel radiators are characterized by high inertia, so they warm up very quickly. Thanks to this, they are easy to adjust to the desired temperature. And also such steel structures have a rather large area, which contributes to the rapid and efficient heating of the room.
Steel batteries in the form of panels are compact in size and have an attractive, modern appearance. Such models are most suitable for apartments equipped with an autonomous heating system. This is due to the fact that a minimum amount of coolant is required to fill them.
Like any other product, steel panel batteries have their drawbacks. The main one is that they are not designed for strong water hammer. They are reliable only at normal pressure indicators in the DSP. However, this problem can be dealt with. When installing a panel structure in an apartment, it is recommended to use a special device - a gearbox. This device allows you to reduce the level of load on the panel during water hammer.
The inner walls of such radiators, as a rule, are not equipped with a special protective coating against corrosion. It follows from this that their shelf life will depend on how high-quality coolant circulates through them.
Tubular (sectional) steel batteries
Unlike the previous type of steel radiators, these batteries include several sections. The fixation of these elements among themselves is carried out by welding. Such products do not require assembly, which is undoubtedly their plus.
Note! How to choose a tubular battery? Before buying a tubular heater, a mandatory item is the selection of the required power. This indicator is calculated taking into account the total area of \u200b\u200bthe room that the sectional model will heat.
Sectional heaters are used in systems whose pressure ranges from 8 to 10 atmospheres. As a rule, this is not enough for apartment buildings heated by DSP. Therefore, experts recommend, when using such models, to purchase a gearbox that is able to protect the tubular battery from water hammer.
The standard wall thickness of sectional gearboxes is 1-1.5 mm, so they are characterized by a high coefficient of inertia. But the small wall thickness is also a disadvantage of such products, since they differ in rather weak strength characteristics.
Tubular-type structures are distinguished by good resistance to a contaminated coolant medium. Unlike panel models, their inner surface is equipped with a special protective layer of polymer material at the production stage. As a result, they are resistant to corrosion and have a longer service life.
These devices are available in various sizes. The width depends on the area of the room and the number of sections. The height can vary from 0.2 to 2.5 m, and the depth - from 10 to 25 cm.
Sectional products have two main disadvantages:
- low heat transfer coefficient;
- the presence of welds that are unstable to hydraulic shocks.
Thus, sectional batteries are a good option for installation in autonomous heating communications. However, they are not entirely suitable for use in DSP conditions, as they are susceptible to water hammer.
Selection of tubular batteries, depending on their design
Many apartment owners are interested in the question of which heating radiator to choose, depending on the design. Tubular batteries made of steel (and not only) are a common solution for installation in an apartment. The range of such devices is distinguished by a variety of design solutions. Depending on the location of the sectional radiator, you can purchase a wall or floor product.
Mount such devices at different points of the dwelling. For example, the most common option is to install a tubular battery under the window, however, if desired, the location can be anything. Often they are used for mounting in the center of the room (vertical version). In this case, the height of the battery corresponds to the height of the ceiling.
Helpful information! Some sectional radiators include special wooden panels that are mounted on top of the appliance and act as a work surface. Such a shelf can be adapted to a variety of needs, but most often it is used to dry shoes.
The presence of a wide range of shapes, a variety of colors and the presence of additional structural elements significantly expand the operational area of such steel products.
Lamellar heating radiatorssteel (convectors)
The working medium in a lamellar radiator moves through straight or curved steel pipes. Plates made of the same material are attached to them. The purpose of these elements is to increase the thermal output of the structure.
Plate batteries are resistant to hydraulic shocks. And it is also worth saying that the steel rods located inside the structure are heated to fairly high temperatures. However, they are covered by a protective casing, the temperature of which is not more than 40 °C.
Such designs are great for use in rooms with high ceilings. This is due to the fact that the heated air is steadily moving upward and can rise to a fairly significant height. If necessary, you can independently adjust the temperature regime in which such a heater will operate.
Plate batteries are able to withstand standard pressure in the DSP (16 atmospheres). And the maximum pressure indicator for them is 24 atmospheres. It follows from this that convector structures are suitable for use in apartment buildings. The price of a battery for heating this type is on average 6-9 thousand rubles.
Such heaters also have some disadvantages. For example, the vertical orientation of the movement of heated air is not only the positive, but also the negative side of the lamellar product. This is due to the fact that the heating of the room is uneven.
The convector plates are very quickly contaminated with dust, which affects the heat transfer coefficient. Cleaning these elements is a rather difficult undertaking. It is also worth noting that such devices do not differ in aesthetics and are not suitable for every interior. Such batteries are most suitable for installation in rooms that have high ceilings. They are often installed in corridors, swimming pools, etc.
Which radiators are best for an apartment: an overview of aluminum models
Designs made of aluminum are distinguished by their appearance, as they have a stylish design. However, such products are not the best option for installation in apartments with DSP. This is due to the fact that the aluminum structure has rather thin walls that are unstable to the harmful effects of corrosion. Given the low quality of the coolant, such a battery can fail after 5 years of operation.
Helpful information! For apartments that are heated by autonomous heating communications, an aluminum radiator can be a good option. A high coefficient of thermal conductivity, as well as a presentable appearance are the main advantages of such products, due to which the demand for them remains good.
Aluminum models are designed for operation in systems with a pressure of 15-20 atmospheres. However, the thin-walled construction used in DSP cannot boast of resistance to water hammer. Given this fact, it is worth saying that a radiator for this type of house is best suited for installation in autonomous heating conditions.
Experts advise not to use such batteries if the pressure in the communication exceeds 12 atmospheres. As for the quality of the coolant, aluminum structures function best at a Ph value of 5-6 units, which is a rarity in domestic DSPs.
Such heaters are lightweight, so they are easy to store, transport and install. It is important to remember that the installation of such a battery requires not only care, but also the selection of fittings from a compatible material. Otherwise, areas affected by corrosion are formed at the docking points. Consider the materials that categorically cannot be used when mounting an aluminum battery:
- steel;
- brass;
- copper.
An ideal option for installing an aluminum radiator is a plastic heating circuit. In this case, the occurrence of corrosion is excluded, and the heating structure itself is simple for repair or dismantling.
Today you can find a wide selection of aluminum products. They differ in size, color and design. The height of such products ranges from 25 to 50 cm, however, if necessary, you can order a non-standard model (70-80 cm).
Experts note that such batteries have excellent compatibility with temperature control equipment. When installing an aluminum structure, it is recommended to select a thermostat in advance. And they also have a glossy surface, so in case of contamination it will not be difficult to clean such a radiator. How to choose an aluminum heating battery, depending on the brand?
If we talk about companies that produce aluminum radiators, then the most popular among consumers is ROYAL THERMO. Products from this brand are of good quality and reasonable cost. Such radiators are specially adapted for use in the CIS countries. They are characterized by good corrosion resistance and long service life (over 10 years).
Anodized aluminum batteries - ideal for an apartment
Aluminum heaters can be made with a special anti-corrosion coating called anodic. For the production of such batteries, a high-quality aluminum alloy is used, which undergoes preliminary cleaning, and a layer of oxidized anode is applied to the surface.
The technological process of manufacturing such products is quite complicated. During it, the structure of aluminum undergoes changes several times, which is a kind of hardening. Thus, the final product is characterized by increased resistance to corrosive effects and can be used in DSP conditions.
Such radiators are made by casting. After that, the resulting sections are assembled into a single structure. One of the main advantages of such products is that, if necessary, it is possible to repair the heating radiator in the apartment. Replacing a section that has been damaged is quite simple due to the design of the heater.
Helpful information! If necessary, additional sections can be added to the anode battery.
The inner walls of such models are smooth, which contributes to heat transfer. The coolant moves without any difficulty along the aluminum structure. The working pressure of anode products is 20-25 atmospheres, which is much higher than necessary in an apartment building with a DSP.
When purchasing such a heating device, experts advise to be careful. This is due to the fact that the anode products look no different from conventional cast radiators. Therefore, before buying a particular model of this type, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the documents for it. Checking the passport and quality certificate allows you to avoid problems when buying an anode radiator.
Bimetallic heating radiators: which are better for an apartment?
Bimetallic batteries are the most popular in the modern market of heating equipment. They have many positive qualities, among which it is worth noting the versatility. From the name it becomes clear that two metals are used in the production of such heating devices. Combined manufacturing can significantly improve the performance of these products.
The outer part of the bimetallic structure is usually made of aluminum. This allows you to achieve high rates of heat output and increase heating efficiency. In turn, the internal channels necessary for the circulation of the coolant are made of high quality steel, which is resistant to corrosion.
Separately, it should be said that the outer part, made of aluminum, is additionally supplied with a layer of enamel, which gives such radiators a presentable appearance. Bimetallic batteries have a sectional design. Docking of individual elements is carried out by means of couplings, which are supplied with sealing rings.
The long service life of bimetallic heaters is determined by their structure. The aluminum shell does not come into contact with the working medium and acts as a kind of "case" for internal steel channels through which the coolant moves.
The steel part of the bimetallic radiator is highly resistant to the loads in the system. Such products are able to function at very high pressures (35-40 atmospheres). This makes them ideal for installation in apartments heated by DSP.
And also such radiators have a small mass, which simplifies their installation in the apartment. Of the minuses of such products, perhaps only one can be noted - a rather high cost. However, their quality characteristics and shelf life fully justify the price.
If we talk about choosing the best bimetallic heating radiator for an apartment, then you need to pay attention to several popular models. Among them: SIRA RS BIMETAL 500, GLOBAL STYLE PLUS 500, and RIFAR MONOLIT 500. Each of these models has proven itself well in an apartment building with a central heating circuit.
Which heating batteries are better for an apartment: pricesand features of copper batteries
Batteries made of this material occupy the smallest segment in the heating appliance market. Their low popularity is primarily due to the fact that they are quite expensive. However, they are distinguished by high technical characteristics and in this they can compete even with bimetallic products.
Such batteries are produced from high-quality copper material that does not have impurities that can reduce the efficiency of the device. Such radiators have a number of positive qualities, although they are rarely used when replacing radiators in an apartment. The main advantage of such products, of course, can be called high efficiency, which is 4-5 times higher than that of cast iron models.
Another advantage of heaters made of this material is a high coefficient of inertia. They are able to quickly warm up, which contributes to efficient heat transfer. And also copper structures are distinguished by high strength characteristics and resistance to hydraulic shocks. They are able to function in systems with a pressure of 20-25 atmospheres, which exceeds the standard indicators in the DSP.
Helpful information! If the coolant is not water, but antifreeze, then the use of copper radiators is the only solution.
It is also worth noting that such heaters do not need to be painted, as they have high anti-corrosion qualities. The service life of copper products exceeds 10 years. They have a presentable appearance and thanks to this they can become an adornment of any interior, especially decorated in a classic style.
It is important to remember that for such batteries it is necessary to select fittings from the same material in order to exclude the possibility of an oxidation reaction.
Vertical heating radiators for an apartmentfrom different materials
Vertical radiators have several advantages over appliances that are mounted in a standard way. They are lightweight, versatile and easy to install. Tall batteries are a great solution if there is not enough free wall space to install a conventional device. Vertical models are made from different materials:
Cast iron. High heaters made of this material are quite unpretentious. For them, the quality of the coolant does not matter. They are distinguished by a good heat transfer coefficient, as well as resistance to hydraulic shocks. They are located in the middle price segment. Of the minuses of such high batteries, one can note - a large mass, which makes their installation difficult.
Steel. Experts recommend using panel steel structures in apartments. The wall thickness of such batteries ranges from 1 to 1.5 mm. The outer walls of such products are equipped with a protective layer of enamel, which also gives them aesthetics. High steel radiators are susceptible to water hammer and are most often used in private houses equipped with an autonomous heating circuit.
High heaters are distinguished by their efficiency and aesthetics. You can buy a vertical heating radiator for an apartment in any specialized store or place an order via the Internet. When buying steel devices, it is recommended to pay special attention to whether they have a protective anti-corrosion layer.
Aluminum. High aluminum batteries are low temperature. They provide space heating due to their dimensions. The temperature of the working medium in such radiators ranges from 60 to 70 °C. They are able to provide a standard temperature in the room (from 20 to 24 ° C). Aluminum vertical radiators are lightweight and have the ability to add sections. Such products are most often used in autonomous heating circuits.
Bimetallic. They are distinguished by high quality and efficiency due to the use of two metal shells (aluminum and steel). Best suited for use in multi-family residential buildings.
Whatbuy a heating batteryfor an apartment: the main selection criteria
Before buying a heater for an apartment, you need to pay attention to a few key points. There are certain criteria, the study of which will allow you to answer the question of how to choose a radiator. Heating batteries must meet all the necessary technical specifications, have a passport and instructions.
Consider the main factors by which it is necessary to select a battery for an apartment.
Operating pressure. The operating pressure must be indicated in the documentation for the heater. Experts recommend purchasing batteries with a certain margin. The operating pressure of the battery must exceed the same indicator in the central heating circuit by approximately 1.5 times. This will allow you to play it safe, since pressure surges often occur in the DSP.
Note! In five-story old-style buildings, the pressure in the heating circuit is about 6-8, and in modern high-rise buildings - 10-15 atmospheres.
Resistant to hydraulic shocks. This factor has a direct impact on the operational life of heating equipment. If a gearbox is not installed in front of the radiator, then hydraulic shocks will act on the structure with full force. When choosing a battery, it is recommended to take into account the specifics of the heating circuit in your home.
Number of sections. If, when choosing a heater, there were difficulties in determining the required number of sections, then it is recommended to pay attention to models that can be “built up” if necessary.
Power. This indicator is perhaps the most important. Not all heaters are able to maintain the required temperature in a residential area. This is especially problematic in the northern regions, where temperatures can drop as much as 40°C below zero. In such situations, experts advise choosing models that can withstand high coolant temperatures (up to 130 ° C).
The temperature in the heating radiator in the apartment must comply with the necessary standards and provide a suitable microclimate in the room. To date, it has been established that a temperature of +18 ° C is considered the norm for a dwelling. For corner rooms, the walls of which are in direct contact with the street, this figure is increased by 2 °C. Therefore, when choosing a heater, it is necessary to calculate its power, taking into account specific operational features.
The composition of the coolant. You should also not forget that the battery life is also affected by the characteristics of the working environment circulating through it. High quality coolant is a rarity. As a rule, it includes various harmful (for radiator walls) impurities. Thus, it is necessary to select a structure with thick walls or a protective coating.
Radiator design. This factor is completely individual and depends on the preferences of the owners of the apartment, as well as the features of the interior.
Ease of installation. Such a criterion is not among the necessary ones. However, if you decide to install the heating structure yourself, then you should select products that are lightweight. And also to study the options for fasteners and the features of connecting a particular model to the heating circuit.
Which heating batteries are best for an apartment: professional advice
So what kind of heating radiators is better to put in an apartment? Experts recommend that you consult with a plumber before purchasing a heater. In any case, you will need to find out the features of the DSP and coolant, including:
- pressure in the heating circuit;
- Ph working environment;
- Heat carrier temperature.
After receiving all the necessary information regarding the heating circuit, it is recommended to inquire about the jumps occurring in the system. This information will help you choose the right radiator for your needs.
Helpful information! For residential buildings that have more than 12 floors, a bimetallic battery would be an excellent option. Also in this case, cast iron models can be used. If the working pressure index does not exceed 14 atmospheres, and the Ph index is in the range from 5 to 8, then not only cast iron and bimetal, but also aluminum and steel can be used.
If the acidity index exceeds the permissible level (> 8.5), then the use of steel and aluminum structures is categorically not recommended. In such an environment, only bimetallic heating structures can function normally. They are also suitable for DSPs, the pressure in which exceeds 20 atmospheres.
Rating of heating radiators for an apartmentbimetal
Among bimetallic radiators, as mentioned above, there are three main models. Consider their characteristics:
SIRA RS BIMETAL 500. This model has several main advantages, which include: high heat transfer coefficient, as well as good sound insulation qualities. These products are made in Italy. They are able to provide heating for a room up to 40 m².
The number of sections for such batteries varies from 4 to 12. Also, bimetallic radiators of this model are of high quality painting and aesthetics. Of the minuses, one can note increased sensitivity to the working environment.
GLOBAL STYLE PLUS 500. Bimetal heater from an Italian manufacturer, characterized by high build quality. The service life of such products is 25 years, as reported by the manufacturer. Another advantage of such a radiator is resistance to hydraulic shocks. A model of this type is capable of withstanding pressures up to 35 atmospheres. The maximum temperature indicator of the coolant for this heater is 110 °C.
The main disadvantage of such batteries is the enamel coating, which is of uncertain quality. And it is also worth saying that the price of this type of heating battery is higher than that of other representatives.
RIFAR MONOLIT 500. The most popular bimetallic radiator, which is highly resistant to water hammer and has a working pressure of as much as 100 atmospheres. The Rifar company is located in Russia and specializes in the production of heating appliances adapted to domestic conditions of use.
Such a model may have a different number of sections. The maximum heat transfer rate of such a battery reaches 2744 watts, which is quite enough to maintain the required microclimate in a room with an area of 27 m². The maximum temperature of the working environment that such a battery can withstand is 135 °C. Of the minuses of this radiator, weak sound insulation can be distinguished.
Which heating radiators are best for an apartment: pricesand characteristics of aluminum models
In turn, aluminum heating structures have many varieties. Consider those of them that are most popular among buyers:
TERMAL RAP-500. The company that produces this model of radiators is located in Russia. Products of this type are designed to work in rather difficult conditions. The maximum working pressure for the RAP-500 model is 24 atmospheres, which exceeds the standard values in the DSP.
Note! When buying an aluminum heating device, it is imperative to pay attention to its operating pressure. This indicator is indicated in the relevant documentation attached to the radiator.
The aluminum battery of this model is resistant to hydraulic surges, therefore it is popular among buyers in Russia. The maximum temperature of the working environment that the RAP-500 radiator from the TERMAL brand can withstand is 130 ° C.
RIFAR ALUM 500. Such aluminum batteries, as in the previous case, are produced by a Russian company. They are able to function in severe temperature conditions (up to 135 ° C). The maximum area that a model of this type can heat is 25.6 m².
The aluminum model from this manufacturer can withstand pressures up to 20 atmospheres and is resistant to minor hydraulic shocks in the DSP. Its service life can reach 25 years under normal use. The main disadvantage of this model is a low-quality protective coating.
ROYAL THERMO REVOLUTION 500. Aluminum radiator from the Italian brand "ROYAL THERMO" differs in that it has the best heat transfer coefficient among similar designs. The maximum power of such a heating device can reach 3982 watts.
The installation of such an aluminum radiator allows you to provide the necessary temperature conditions for rooms with an area of up to 40 m². This model is suitable for use in DSPs, the working pressure of which does not exceed 20 atmospheres. Thus, we can conclude which heating radiator is best for an apartment. The price and photo of such a battery can be easily specified on the Internet.
Of the minuses of this heating equipment, one can single out the fact that they are quite demanding on the quality of the working environment. The approximate cost of the above devices ranges from 2500 to 5000 rubles. There are also more expensive options, the price of which can reach 12,000 rubles. and even higher. These include vertical aluminum heating devices.
Steel and cast iron radiators: which are better for an apartment?
Steel radiators are affordable, however, they are not very popular in the heating equipment market. Consider the models that have proven themselves best in an apartment building with DSP:
PURMO COMPACT 22 500. Finnish heating equipment has always been famous for its versatility. The steel radiator of this series is no exception. This model has a convenient wall mount, as well as a high maximum power (5572 watts). The area that this battery is capable of heating reaches 50 m².
Among other things, this type of steel structure is lightweight and is the most convenient of all for self-installation in an apartment. It can be used in heating circuits with a pressure not exceeding 10 atmospheres, which is a rather tangible disadvantage.
KERMI FTV (FKV) 22 500. This model allows you to answer the question of which battery is better to install in an apartment with large rooms. It is a product of the German company KERMI. The main advantage of this type of steel radiator is that it has a high heat transfer coefficient. The panel design contributes to the heating of the living space. The power of such a device can reach 5790 watts.
Helpful information! The area that this battery can heat is 57.9 m². Therefore, it is perfect for installation in large rooms.
A steel radiator of this type is suitable for use in heating systems with a coolant temperature not higher than 110°C. Of the minuses of such a model, one can note a small indicator of working pressure (10 atmospheres) and the low quality of the enamel coating.
Cast iron models have many disadvantages, but are still used in apartments. Among the whole variety of models from this material, one can be distinguished, which has many positive reviews, namely: STI NOVA 500.
This radiator is the most popular among consumers. It is a product of an Italian company and has good heat dissipation. Such a battery is perfect for small rooms (no more than 20 m²). The maximum coolant temperature that this type of structure can withstand is 150°C. Of the minuses, one can single out a large mass and a considerable coolant consumption.
How to calculate the power of radiators and the number of sections?
The radiator must provide a normal temperature in the room. To do this, it is necessary to calculate the number of sections before purchasing it. Let's look at some rules that will help you perform the appropriate calculation.
First of all, when calculating the power and number of sections of the heater, it is necessary to focus on its dimensions. It is important to remember that the width of the battery should not be more than 70% of the window opening. To ensure normal heat transfer, the product is installed taking into account the center line of the window. The temperature norm of the heating radiator in the apartment affects the heating of the living space, so you should take the location of the device seriously.
The distance from the working surface (wall) to the heating structure should not be lower than 3 and higher than 5 cm. And it is also worth considering the distance from the floor to the battery. It should not exceed 12 cm. In turn, the recommended distance to the windowsill is 5 cm.
Often, to increase the efficiency of the device, the wall is covered with foil materials. Consider what parameters will be required to correctly calculate the power of the radiator:
- room dimensions;
- number of windows and doors;
- the material from which the building is made;
- location of the apartment.
Among other things, it is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the heating circuit.
Heating battery pricesfrom different brands
Today, the range of heating equipment is wider than ever. But from the many different models, the most popular ones can be distinguished, which differ in adaptability to domestic operational features. An important factor when choosing a heating device is its cost. The price of batteries for heating should correspond to their quality.
Bimetallic devices are considered to be the most adapted to domestic conditions. Their cost depends on the company, as well as on technical parameters. The price of the most popular bimetal heater RIFAR MONOLIT 500 is about 5500 rubles. Thus, for 5-6 thousand rubles. you can buy a good battery for your apartment.
Note! The average cost of replacing a heating radiator in an apartment is 2000-3500 rubles. The total amount depends on the type of heating device and its installation features.
Aluminum radiators are less expensive. You can buy a device of this type for only 2500-4500 rubles. In turn, steel and cast iron models are the most expensive. For example, the most popular STI NOVA 500 cast iron battery costs about 7,500 rubles. The price of the most popular steel appliances ranges from 6-7 thousand rubles.
When choosing a heating device for an apartment, it is necessary to take into account many nuances. But first of all, it is desirable to determine the financial capabilities and features of the DSP in your home. If necessary, you can seek advice from a specialist who will help you choose an effective device.
Heating radiators are usually used as heating devices in apartments and private houses, and the first question that arises when installing heating systems is which batteries are better to install in an apartment? The answer to this question depends on many factors, and in order to thoroughly understand it, it is necessary to consider the features of the device and the operating conditions of all types of radiators currently on the market.
To date, there are four most popular types of radiators:
- cast iron;
- aluminum;
- steel;
- Bimetallic.
Based on the difference in shape and material, each type of radiator has its own characteristics, and it is they that determine their use.
Cast iron radiators
The familiar bulky cast-iron batteries, painted with paint, are a thing of the past. To replace them, modern varieties of cast iron radiators appear in stores, which have not only an attractive appearance, but also reliability, proven for decades.
Features of cast iron radiators:
- Working pressure from 6 to 10 atm., test - up to 18 atm.;
- Can work in systems with any pipes;
- Can be used for a long time in central heating systems with a pH value of 7-9;
- The partitioned structure allows you to select the required number of sections, and in the case of reconstruction, add or remove them.
Cast iron radiators have a number of advantages. They are little susceptible to corrosion - as a result of the primary interaction with water, a black insoluble precipitate forms on their inner surface, which prevents the penetration of oxygen dissolved in water to the metal. The destruction of cast-iron pipes from the inside, with proper operation, is extremely slow. Outside, the radiators are covered with resistant paint and are reliably protected from destruction. Cast iron radiators have extremely low gas formation, they do not boil, do not require constant air bleeding.
One of the main disadvantages of cast iron batteries is their heavy weight, which makes them difficult to install. The disadvantages of cast-iron radiators can also be attributed to inertia - cast iron heats up slowly and cools slowly, so it is impossible to quickly control the air temperature in a room with cast-iron radiators.
Steel radiators
Steel radiators have the form of a ribbed plate, inside of which there is a hermetically welded circuit filled with a coolant. The large area of the radiators and the ribbed surface shape provide good heat dissipation and convection conditions for warm air. The material - steel, has almost the same thermal conductivity as cast iron, but the wall thickness of steel batteries is less, so they warm up faster. Steel radiators are designed for operating pressures from 6 to 10 atm.
Advantages of steel radiators:
- The shape and appearance allow you to successfully fit steel radiators into any modern interior;
- Steel radiators, like cast iron ones, with proper water treatment in central heating systems serve 15-25 years;
- Can be used in systems with any pipes. Both in one-pipe and in two-pipe;
- They are low cost and easy to install.
Before installing steel radiators, it is necessary to produce - a closed circuit does not allow to build them up and change the thermal characteristics.
Under pressurized conditions, steel panel radiators may lose their tightness. Therefore, you should not use them in houses with more than 5 floors - the system in them is designed for a pressure of more than 6-8 atmospheres.
Aluminum radiators
Aluminum radiators have a neat, compact and modern appearance, they are also sold in the form of stacked sections, so you can choose the optimal number of them, determined by calculation. The height of aluminum radiators can also be different, so they can be placed in convenient places in the room. The working pressure of aluminum radiators is from 6 to 12 atm., Test - up to 25 atm.
The advantages of aluminum radiators are obvious:
- Have a modern look
- Heat dissipation is high compared to other radiators and can reach 200W per section;
- Aluminum radiators are much lighter than other types of batteries, due to this they are easy to mount;
- You can choose the required number of sections;
- On the outside, they are protected by a polymer coating that protects the radiators from damage.
The main disadvantage of aluminum radiators is that they can only be used for a long time in closed systems with strict pH control of the coolant. Do not use pipes and fittings made of other metals. Aluminum is an extremely active metal, and when interacting with copper and brass, it forms a galvanic couple, which can cause electrochemical corrosion and the appearance of surface currents. Therefore, to implement coolant supply systems for aluminum radiators, it is better to use plastic pipes, and ground the radiators themselves.
In addition, when in contact with fresh, oxygenated water, aluminum reacts, the product of which is hydrogen gas. Gas bubbles entering the system cause unpleasant sounds. Because of this feature, when installing aluminum radiators, it is imperative to provide a gas exhaust system and install a Mayevsky crane.
Based on these features, we can conclude: aluminum radiators, despite the low price and excellent heat dissipation, are better not to install in city apartments with centralized heating. If it is impossible to control the quality of the coolant, one cannot be sure of their long service life.
Bimetal radiators
As the name implies, these radiators are made of two metals - steel and aluminum, while using the advantages of both of these metals. The internal circuit that conducts the coolant in bimetallic radiators is made of steel, which allows them to be used in systems with any pressure and with various types of pipes and fittings. The outer plates, which transfer heat into the space of the room, are made of aluminum and, due to its high thermal conductivity, perfectly heat the room.
Advantages of bimetallic radiators:
- High working pressure - up to 35 atm.;
- Resistance to corrosion at any quality of the coolant;
- Low inertia - radiators quickly heat up, cool down just as quickly, and by controlling the supply of coolant, you can quickly reduce or increase the temperature in the room;
- Attractive appearance;
- Light weight, easy installation;
- Sectioned design, allowing you to select the desired number of ribs.
The disadvantages include, perhaps, the higher price of bimetallic radiators. What is soon compensated by their reliability and long service life. It should also be noted that when installing bimetallic radiators, it is imperative to observe the distances to the wall, floor and window sill - it must be at least 4 cm.
Summing up, we can say: for installation in an apartment with central heating, it is better to choose cast-iron or bimetallic radiators, and for low-rise buildings - also steel. Aluminum radiators are best used in closed systems connected to a heating boiler, that is, where it is possible to check the quality of the coolant.
When restoring a heating system or installing a new one, a natural question arises - which radiators to choose so that they are not only efficient and heat the home well, but also fit perfectly into the interior. Despite the fact that the appearance of heating elements is important, first of all, you should pay attention to the technical characteristics, such as operating pressure, temperature limit, as well as the material from which the batteries are made. However, which heating radiators for an apartment is better to choose among all the variety on the heating systems market? Let's try to understand the main criteria for choosing heaters.
Read in the article:
Which is better to choose a heating radiator for an apartment
The water coming from the centralized water supply to the heating system goes a long way, carrying various chemical and mechanical impurities, which slowly but surely lead to the destruction of pipes and heating elements. Not the last role in the failure of the radiator is played by frequent water hammer, which causes the devices to burst and leak, pouring hot water all around. Therefore, before choosing heating radiators for an apartment, you need to study the main criteria that high-quality and efficient heating devices must meet.
What you should pay attention to first of all is the metal from which the radiator is made, in particular, its physical and chemical parameters. The battery must withstand a pressure that is 1.5 times greater than what is created in the heating circuit. For example, in Soviet houses this figure does not exceed 5-8 atm., While in the heating circuit of modern high-rise buildings it is 12-15 atm.
The market offers a huge selection of radiators of any color, configuration and materials. Also, the metal from which the heating battery is made must be resistant to sudden pressure surges in the system, to the so-called "water hammer". For your information, if it is noticed that clicks and rumble are heard in the pipes, then it is better to contact the public utilities, since this is a sure sign that not everything is in order with the pressure and it is better to immediately prevent the possibility of an accident.
Before choosing a heating battery-radiator, it should be borne in mind that the water in our plumbing is full of various chemical compounds and mechanical particles, so the metal used for the production of heating devices must be able to withstand corrosion and other damage.
An indicator of efficiency is heat transfer. Accordingly, if you want the room to be warm in winter, you must choose heating radiators that have a high heat output.
Terms of operation. Everything is clear here, because the larger it is, the less often you will have to change the heating batteries, which means that there is an opportunity to save significant money and effort.
The design of the radiator is very important, because the heater must harmoniously fit into the interior of the room. A huge range of heating appliances on the market allows you to purchase batteries for every taste and budget, but at the same time makes it difficult to choose.
So, before choosing heating batteries for an apartment, you need to weigh all the pros and cons, and only then make a purchase and proceed with their installation.
The main types of heating radiators for an apartment
As we have already understood, the choice of radiators is not an easy task, and in order to make your task easier, you first need to learn a little about the types of heating batteries in the apartments of modern houses.
Advantages and disadvantages of cast iron radiators
Nondescript and massive cast-iron radiators are familiar to the older generation since the existence of the USSR. Modern cast iron radiators look neater and more elegant. Like everything in this world, a cast iron radiator, the price of which varies depending on the model and manufacturer, has its advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages should include:
- long service life, which is over 50 years;
- resistance to corrosion;
- undemanding to the purity of the coolant;
- long-term preservation of heat, in cases of shutdown of the heating system;
- acceptable cost.
The disadvantages are that cast-iron batteries heat up for a long time, are heavy, hard to install and practically not protected from water hammer.
General technical characteristics of cast-iron heating radiators MS-140-500
The standard section has a volume of 4 liters and a weight of 7.5 kg. The heating area is 0.23 m 2 . Heating occurs due to convection currents (no more than 20%), and the rest is due to radiation. That is why cast iron batteries are mounted under the windows.
Heating radiators made of steel
Steel heating radiators are available in two versions - panel and tubular. Schematically, panel batteries look like two steel panels, 1.2 mm thick, having stamped channels for the coolant and welded together. For greater efficiency of the radiator, 2-3 panels are connected in parallel to each other. As a result, such a steel three-panel battery, the size of a cast-iron counterpart, weighs almost the same, but with a thickness of 160 mm. even exceeds it. Having decided to buy steel heating radiators for your apartment, you need to take into account that the indicators of panel batteries, in terms of heat transfer, are no better than models made of cast iron.
Among the positive aspects of panel radiators, it is worth noting:
- Efficiency up to 77%;
- high heat transfer;
- environmental Safety;
- low cost.
The disadvantages, the owners of steel panel heating radiators, include:
- susceptibility to corrosion;
- inexpediency of installation in high-rise buildings due to the high risk of water hammer;
- the convection inherent in this type of battery contributes to the formation of drafts.
The consumer's interest in tubular steel heating radiators is more caused by a variety of forms, which allows this heating device to fit into almost any interior. Tubular batteries are stronger than panel ones due to 1.5 mm wall thickness and can withstand up to 16 atm. For this reason, steel radiators are installed only in houses with autonomous heating.
The advantages of this type of battery are:
- high working pressure;
- greater efficiency compared to panel counterparts;
- corrosion protection.
In principle, when comparing panel and tubular radiators, it is worth noting that their strengths and weaknesses are almost the same. However, having the ability to withstand higher operating pressures, tubular steel radiators are much more expensive than panel counterparts.
Aluminum radiators
Heating radiators are also produced in two modifications - cast and extrusion. This nuance must be taken into account when deciding which aluminum radiator to choose for your apartment.
Sections of cast batteries are made individually from an aluminum-silicon alloy (silumin). Sewing takes place at elevated pressure, which makes it possible to obtain sections of various shapes that can withstand 6-16 atm. For strength, the walls of the battery are made thick, and for the free circulation of the coolant, expanded channels for water are created. Cast sections can be combined into a single battery
Elements of extruded aluminum batteries are made separately by extrusion and then joined together. This method is cheap, but in such a radiator you cannot remove or add a section.
Structurally, aluminum batteries are more perfect than their cast-iron counterparts. The aluminum section has a depth of 110 mm. against 140, the heating area is 0.4 m 2, and the volume is 0.5 l. Heat transfer by convection and radiation is approximately the same - almost 50% each. When adding new sections, the heating area increases to 0.5 m 2, which increases the share of the convection component to 60%. The heat transfer indicators of an aluminum heating radiator are in the table presented after the types of batteries.
Positive characteristics of aluminum heating radiators:
The disadvantages are:
- short service life;
- susceptibility to corrosion;
- vulnerability to water hammer;
- tendency to leak.
And we will complete the list of advantages and disadvantages with a rating of an aluminum heating radiator.
| A photo | Manufacturer | Model and dimensions of 1 element (W/H/D), mm. | Heat output of 1 battery cell, W | Approximate cost of 1 section, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal (Russia) | Standard Plus 500 (79/531/72) | 198 | From 460 | |
| Oasis (Russia) | Al 500/80 (79/531/72) | 170 | From 480 | |
| Sira | ALICE ROYAL 95/500 (80/580/95) | 190 | From 580 | |
| Global | ISEO 500 (80/582/80) | 180 | From 800 | |
| Royal Thermo | Indigo 500 (80/591/100) | 185 | From 670 |
Bimetallic batteries: pros and cons
The design of these heaters successfully combines the strength of steel and the thermal conductivity of aluminum. Bimetallic radiators are able to withstand pressure up to 35 atm., and well resist water hammer. When deciding which bimetallic or other material heating batteries are best for an apartment, it should be taken into account that radiators made of two materials can be connected to the heating system in several ways to ensure maximum efficiency.
In the image below, it is visible in a section that clearly shows the device of this heater.
The advantages of bimetallic batteries include the following:
- high level of heat transfer;
- resistance to hydraulic shocks;
- for normal operation, a small amount of coolant is required;
- ease of installation;
- attractive appearance.
Among the few disadvantages:
- lower heat transfer compared to aluminum counterparts;
- high price.
The above heat transfer table of a bimetallic heating radiator and batteries made of other materials will help determine the choice of the desired design.
Related article:
Technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, connection methods, criteria for the right choice, an overview of companies, do-it-yourself installation nuances - read in the publication.
In principle, we have dealt with the types and brief characteristics of heating radiators, and now it is worth familiarizing yourself with the basic calculations of the required number of sections, heat transfer and other characteristics.
How to calculate the required number of radiator sections
When reconstructing or creating a new heating system, in order not to suffer from the cold in a poorly heated room, you first need to make some calculations that will allow you to select and install effective heating devices. To select the necessary heating devices, as we have already found out, you need to know the material from which they are made, their resistance to corrosion, the heat transfer of a heating radiator, the table was given above, the number of sections and much more. The required number of heating radiators is calculated in two ways - by the volume of the room or by its area. It is also necessary to take into account the expected pressure in the central heating battery.
Basic calculations for determining the number of sections and thermal power
Area calculation
It is believed that in order to compensate for the heat losses of the building and create a comfortable temperature regime for a person, it is required to provide a thermal power within 100 W / m 2. You can use a calculator to determine the required number of heating radiator sections or make simpler calculations using the formula
N = S × 100 / Pc, where
- N - the number of heating elements of the battery;
- S - the area of the room;
- PC – thermal power of one element of the heating structure (data are indicated in the technical data sheet of the battery).
Volume calculation
To make a more accurate calculation of the number of sections of the heating radiator, they resort to calculating the volume of the room that will be heated. Moreover, for a brick house, the power of the heating system should be 34 W / m 2, and for a panel house - 41 W / m 2. Calculations are made using almost the same formula as above, but slightly modified:
N = S × h × 34(41) / Pc , where
- h - ceiling height.
Of course, when deciding to purchase a one-piece non-separable battery, there is no need to divide by the thermal power of 1 radiator element in calculations. Then the value obtained will mean the total power of the heating battery, which is required for a particular room.
It is immediately worth noting that these formulas will be true only for standard average conditions. For this reason, when making calculations by volume or area, it is necessary to take into account the correction factors determined by the minimum winter temperature prevailing in the region of residence, the location of the room, the degree of wall insulation, the number and type of windows, and the location of the doors. Even the layout of the installation and the location of the radiators can play a big role in calculating the heat output of the battery.
It is quite difficult to list all this in one article, and therefore it is best to use a special calculator.
Calculator for calculating the required heat output of heating radiators
One of the important parts of any heating system is a radiator installed in a heated room. This device is responsible for comfortable living conditions in an apartment or a private house. Therefore, many consumers are wondering how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment. When solving this problem, it is necessary to take into account many nuances.
Compatibility of the radiator with the heating system
The modern market offers a huge range of radiators for sale, among them:
- aluminum;
- cast iron;
- bimetallic;
- copper.
It is important to decide which battery will fit better into a particular heating system. Here it is important to take into account the technical parameters, among which:
- heat transfer;
- permissible coolant temperature;
- inertia;
- pressure.
For reference
When buying, consumers pay attention to the durability, cost and appearance of the heating device. It is important to consider in which system the battery will be installed. If we are talking about an apartment building, then the system is open, while individual houses are heated using closed systems. If the performance of the radiator does not correspond to the characteristics of the heating system, then the device may fail, as it will wear out quickly.
Battery selection according to technical parameters
If you are faced with the question of how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment, then remember: you should take into account the operational and technical characteristics of the device. Not every battery will be able to endure working conditions. If we are talking about a centralized heating system, then it will be characterized by:
- poor quality of the coolant;
- fluctuations in temperature and pressure.
The design temperature for an open one-pipe system in high-rise buildings is 105 °C, while the pressure is 10 atmospheres. These parameters sometimes turn out to be larger, which is especially true when the system is launched after the end of the summer period. Such conditions lead to which some heating devices are not designed. Before choosing heating radiators for an apartment, it is important to find out what pressure, as well as the temperature of the coolant, the device is designed for.
Heat dissipation selection
Another important factor is heat dissipation. This characteristic affects the efficiency of air heating and depends on the material of construction. Choosing a steel appliance, you can get less heat transfer compared to aluminum batteries. As for copper, it is superior to cast iron in this matter. However, you should not rely solely on this parameter.
What the reviews say
If you are at a crossroads and do not know which radiator to choose for an apartment with a central heating system, pay attention first of all to what others say in their reviews of these systems.
So, for example, many are sure that when purchasing steel radiators, they acquire devices that differ in insignificant thickness and weight. These batteries are efficient and economical, have good heat dissipation and a small amount of water. According to consumers, they are inexpensive, but they “let us down” in terms of pressure. Steel radiators will be able to withstand only 8 atmospheres, which means they are not suitable for apartments.
Aluminum batteries look attractive, they have a thermal power of 190 watts, which pleases consumers. As buyers emphasize, hot water with harmful impurities and high acidity can eat batteries from the inside, since aluminum is too active. In addition, this material will not cope with high pressure. Its average indicator is 16 atmospheres, but if a water hammer occurs, then even a new aluminum radiator will fail.
If you have no idea how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment, then heed the advice of those property owners who say that you should pay attention to bimetallic models. This development is one of the latest in the field of heating devices. In the manufacture of used aluminum and steel or copper. Such devices are ready to serve 40 years or more. For a heating system that is installed in an apartment building, such devices are the best fit. They are able to withstand 130 ° C, and the working pressure is declared at the level of 50 atmospheres.
By installing such devices, you can no longer be afraid of water hammer. Internal and external anti-corrosion primer makes the units durable and resistant to destruction. If you still can’t decide which radiators to choose for heating an apartment, then you should buy bimetallic ones - they are light in weight, provide easy installation, transportation and carrying. However, not every consumer can afford, unfortunately, to buy such an expensive device. If you are offered something similar at an affordable cost, you should not trust it, because the market is flooded with fakes. If you purchase a bimetallic product, then you should pay attention to the models of trusted brands, including:
- Rifar.
- Sira.
- Global.
Cast iron radiators for an apartment
Such heating radiators are ready to serve more than 50 years. Some manufacturers urge to forget about such batteries, but in vain. After all, such devices in contact with dirty water will behave properly. This metal is chemically passive, it is not afraid of high acidity and the presence of chemical additives in the coolant. In addition, the abrasive will not be able to damage thick walls. That is why cast iron is perfect for an apartment heating system.
Such products keep heat for quite a long time, the residual number of its preservation is 30%. If we compare cast iron batteries with other radiators according to this criterion, then the former win. If you are wondering which radiators to choose for heating an apartment, then perhaps you should really pay special attention to cast iron ones, because they work on the principle of the radiant heat distribution method. It is much more efficient than convection.
Cast iron does not rust when the batteries need to be drained in the summer. This feature is a significant plus. The heat transfer of such devices is quite large. With pressure drops that occur during the operation of central heating, cast iron behaves quite adequately. However, the material is not always able to withstand high power hydraulic shocks - in this case, the fragility of the walls can fail.
The determining factor for the choice is sometimes the cost, which is much lower in the case of the described models. However, during installation, cast-iron radiators are heavy. It is worth mentioning that the weight is due to the impressive wall thickness, which provides the necessary strength to the products. If you install cast-iron radiators once, you can forget about replacing them for many years.
Conclusions regarding the choice of a radiator for an apartment
In conclusion, we can conclude on whether to choose for an apartment. As practice shows, aluminum and steel models are not able to withstand the tests that accompany operation in the conditions of domestic heating systems. Such batteries are not able to withstand pressure and temperature changes. There are only cast-iron and bimetallic devices to choose from.
What to buy - you can decide by evaluating the budget, as well as the characteristics of the models. However, there are a few tips you can use. If you still do not know which heating radiator is best for an apartment, then you should evaluate how old the house you live in is. If we are talking about "Khrushchev", then it is best to use cast iron products. For residents of high-rise buildings, where the pressure is higher, it is recommended to purchase bimetallic radiators. If earlier cast iron batteries were installed in the apartment, then the choice can be stopped on any of the two options. However, those who are going to replace the battery from another metal should purchase bimetallic models.
Choosing a battery for a private house
One of the important advantages of the heating system of a private house is low pressure, which is favorable for radiators. Water hammers are practically excluded here, and subject to the technical conditions of the water balance, the list of battery selection becomes quite extensive.
The cheapest radiators are sectional and They have fairly good heat transfer characteristics, fit perfectly into the interior and are compact. For the price, tubular radiators are more expensive than sectional and panel ones. According to the characteristics, they are approximately equal, and the extra charge is due to the sophisticated look.
Convenient for drying things, which is important for families with children. Now you know how to choose the right heating radiator for your apartment. But if you live in a house, then you should pay special attention to steel radiators, which are distinguished by low oxidization from low-quality water, as well as light weight and convenient dimensions. The service life of such devices is quite long. But steel radiators also have disadvantages. They are expressed in a not too attractive design, the need for flushing, as well as the requirements for constant fullness. The last recommendation is due to the fact that the inner walls will rust in the absence of water, and this can “kill” the radiator within just a few years.
Aluminum radiators for a private house
Aluminum radiators are quite common among consumers who live in private homes. The popularity of such devices is expressed in high thermal power and modern design. The price depends on the manufacturer. The cheapest models are products of Russian suppliers. But it should be remembered that aluminum radiators are sensitive to fluid parameters. In addition, the batteries have a rather impressive thermal power, which can cause temperature differences in the room. For heating a private house, such devices are well suited. They will last a long time and will provide good heat dissipation if the equipment is operated under special conditions.
Features of the choice of bimetallic radiators
Quite often, modern consumers are wondering how to choose the right bimetallic heating radiators for an apartment. Such devices are presented for sale in two varieties. The first is made on the basis of a steel frame, while the second has channels reinforced with steel.
Higher quality are radiators with a steel frame. They do not have hot water in contact with the aluminum alloy, which eliminates corrosion. These items will not leak. When choosing a specific model, it is important to pay attention to its cost and weight. The heavier the battery, the more expensive it will be. If you are looking for an answer to the question of how to choose bimetallic heating radiators for an apartment, then you should pay attention to the operating conditions. For an apartment in a multi-storey building with a central heating system, a radiator based on a steel frame is better suited. Now you know which bimetallic heating radiators to choose in an apartment. As for the recommendation on the frame, it is especially relevant for a heating system with old pipes.
How to choose an aluminum radiator
A higher cost will have to be paid for a cast aluminum radiator. All connections in this case are made by welding in an inert gas environment. The advantages of such devices are tightness, reliability and the possibility of modification. If you are faced with the question of how to choose an aluminum heating radiator for an apartment, then you should also pay attention to extrusion models. They cost less. Among their advantages should be highlighted:
- higher heat transfer;
- smaller internal volume of one section;
- low price;
- less mass.
How to choose a cast iron radiator
Not all modern consumers know how to choose cast-iron heating radiators for an apartment. Imported models are more durable and practical compared to domestically produced options. However, the cost of the latter is much lower. You can also compare these in terms of the year of manufacture. On sale you can find used batteries. They are cheaper, but sometimes they require cleaning, which entails additional costs.
Instead of a conclusion: which firm to prefer
If you are concerned about the question of which company to choose heating radiators for an apartment, then you should pay attention, as already mentioned, to suppliers such as Rifar, Global, Sira.
One section Rifar will cost the consumer 400 rubles. As for Italian brands, their batteries will be more expensive - here you will have to pay 500 rubles. You can decide on the spot, because companies produce sections with different thermal power, design and design. Now you know which radiators to choose for heating an apartment. The reviews that we cited in the article were supposed to help you learn more about heating devices on the market.
