Heating radiators for a private home - types and classes, selection rules, prices. Heating radiators for an apartment – ​​which ones are better? How to find out which heating radiators are worth

One of the important links of any heating system is the radiator, installed in the heated room. This device is responsible for comfortable living conditions in an apartment or 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.

Radiator compatibility with heating system

The modern market offers a huge range of radiators for sale, including:

• aluminum;
• cast iron;
• bimetallic;
• copper.

It is important to decide which battery will fit best into a particular heating system. It is important to take into account technical parameters, including:

• heat transfer;
• permissible coolant temperature;
• inertia;
• pressure.

For reference

When purchasing, consumers pay attention to the durability, cost and appearance of the heating device. It is important to consider which system the battery will be installed into. If we are talking about an apartment building, then the system is open, while individual houses are heated using closed systems. If the radiator performance does not correspond to the characteristics of the heating system, the device may fail as it will wear out quickly.

Selecting a battery based on 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 withstand operating conditions. If we are talking about a centralized heating system, then it will be characterized by:

• poor quality coolant;
• fluctuations in temperature and pressure.

The design temperature for an open single-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 started after the end of the summer period. Such conditions lead to conditions that some heating devices are not designed for. Before choosing heating radiators for an apartment, it is important to find out what pressure and coolant temperature the device is designed for.

Selection by heat transfer

Another important factor is heat transfer. This characteristic affects the efficiency of air heating and depends on the material of construction. By choosing a steel device, 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 only on this parameter.

What the reviews say

If you are at a crossroads and don’t know which radiator to choose for an apartment with a central heating system, first of all pay attention to what others say in their reviews about these systems.

For example, many are sure that when purchasing steel radiators, they acquire devices that are characterized by insignificant thickness and weight. These batteries are efficient and economical, have good heat dissipation and a small volume of water. According to consumers, they are inexpensive, but they let us down when it comes to 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 W, 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 cannot cope with high pressure. Its average value is 16 atmospheres, but if a water hammer occurs, even a new aluminum radiator will fail.

If you have no idea how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment, then listen to the advice of those property owners who claim that it is worth paying attention to bimetallic models. This development is one of the latest in the field of heating devices. Aluminum and steel or copper are used in production. Such devices are ready to last 40 years or more. For a heating system installed in an apartment building, such devices are ideally suited. They can withstand 130 °C, and the operating pressure is stated at 50 atmospheres.

Having installed 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 your apartment, then it’s worth purchasing bimetallic ones - they are lightweight, easy to install, transport and carry. However, not every consumer can, unfortunately, afford to buy such an expensive device. If you are offered something similar at an affordable price, you should not trust it, because the market is flooded with fakes. If you purchase a bimetallic product, you should pay attention to models from trusted brands, including:

• Rifar.
• Sira.
• Global.

Cast iron radiators for apartments

Such heating radiators are ready to last more than 50 years. Some manufacturers urge you to forget about such batteries, but in vain. After all, such devices will behave properly when in contact with dirty water. 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. This is why cast iron is perfect for an apartment heating system.

Such products retain heat for quite a long time; the residual heat retention rate 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 a radial method of heat distribution. 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 advantage. The heat transfer of such devices is quite high. During pressure drops that occur during central heating operation, cast iron behaves quite adequately. However, the material is not always able to withstand high-power water hammer - in this case, the fragility of the walls may fail.

The determining factor for choice is sometimes the cost, which is much lower in the case of the described models. However, cast iron radiators are heavy during installation. It is worth mentioning that the weight is due to the impressive thickness of the walls, 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 choosing a radiator for an apartment

In conclusion, we can conclude what to choose for the 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 appliances to choose from.

You can decide what to buy by assessing your budget, as well as the characteristics of the models. However, there are a few tips you can use. If you still don’t know which heating radiator is best to choose for your apartment, you should evaluate how old the house you live in is. If we are talking about “Khrushchev” buildings, 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 cast iron batteries were previously installed in the apartment, then you can choose either of the two options. However, those who are going to replace a battery made of another metal should purchase bimetallic models.

Choosing a battery for a private home

One of the important advantages of the heating system of a private house is low pressure, which is beneficial for radiators. Water hammer is practically excluded here, and if the technical conditions of water balance are met, 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. In terms of price, tubular radiators are more expensive than sectional and panel radiators. In terms of characteristics, they are approximately equal, and the premium is due to the sophisticated appearance.

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 characterized by low oxidation 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 very attractive design, the need for washing, and the requirement 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 home

Aluminum radiators are quite common among consumers who live in private homes. The popularity of such devices is expressed in their 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, batteries have a fairly impressive thermal power, which can cause temperature changes in the room. Such devices are well suited for heating a private home. They will last a long time and will provide good heat transfer if the equipment is operated under special conditions.

Features of choosing bimetallic radiators

Quite often, modern consumers wonder 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.

Radiators with a steel frame are of higher quality. Their hot water does not come into contact with the aluminum alloy, which eliminates corrosion. Such products 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 for your apartment. As for the frame recommendation, 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 die-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 are:

• higher heat transfer;
• smaller internal volume of one section;
• low price;
• less weight.

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 from the point of view of the year of manufacture. You can find used batteries on sale. They are cheaper, but sometimes require cleaning, which entails additional costs.

Instead of a conclusion: which company to prefer?

If you are concerned about the question of which company to choose heating radiators for your apartment, then you should pay attention, as already mentioned, to such suppliers as Rifar, Global, Sira.

One Rifar section will cost the consumer 400 rubles. As for Italian brands, batteries produced by them 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, construction and design. Now you know which radiators to choose for heating your apartment. The reviews that we provided in the article should have helped you learn more about the heating devices existing on the market.

Content

When developing a project for an autonomous heating system for a private home, it is necessary to decide on the choice of batteries. The efficiency and economy of the heating system and the level of comfort in the living quarters of a country house or country cottage directly depend on their parameters. To determine which heating radiators are best suited for a private home, it is necessary to compare their performance, reliability and cost.

Radiator heating in a private house

When choosing a heating system for a summer house or home, you need to take into account installation costs, ease of use and efficiency. Water heating is equally suitable for brick, block, frame and wooden houses. This option is cheaper to use compared to installing electrical heating equipment and is more efficient than a conventional stove, the fuel for which is coal or wood.

Radiator heating in the house

A radiator heating system for a country house or cottage has an advantage over water underfloor heating, since installing pipelines and radiators is easier and faster than laying a circuit and installing a screed.

Autonomous heating differs from central heating:

• low working pressure;
• no risk of water hammer;
• the ability to regulate the temperature of the coolant, set the permissible maximum;
• the ability to adjust the acid balance of the coolant;
• efficiency.

At the design stage of an autonomous system, it is necessary to decide which heating radiators and pipes to use for installation. Its functionality, efficiency and durability depend on this.

Types of heating batteries

To choose radiators with the best performance for heating a private home, you need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of heating batteries that the market offers. Each type of heating device should be considered based on the properties of the material and design features.

Types of heating radiators

Radiators vary:

• by material of manufacture (steel, aluminum, cast iron, bimetallic);
• by design (sectional and solid):
• according to the principle of heat transfer (radiating thermal energy, convection and combined).

Steel

Among heating radiators for private homes, steel models are in steady demand. Their list of advantages includes:

• relatively light weight, which simplifies installation;
• fast heating and cooling – allows you to flexibly regulate the room temperature when using a thermostat, saving fuel;
• quite long service life;
• a wide selection of models with different functionality and appearance.

Kermi steel radiator in the interior

The disadvantages of steel heating devices include:

• tendency to corrosion - such batteries are designed for installation in a closed heating system, since the free penetration of air into the coolant accelerates the process of destruction of the metal;
• tendency to become overgrown due to the rough inner surface - regular flushing of the system is required;
• restrictions on the characteristics of the coolant - the addition of alkaline reagents should be avoided.

To understand which steel heating device to choose, we will consider each type in detail. Manufacturers offer sectional, tubular, panel and convector steel heating devices.

Sectional

The battery consists of individual units, the number of which can be changed. This is a serious advantage of heating devices of this type. If the thermal calculation is performed incorrectly and the radiator power is not enough, additional sections are added. If the house has been insulated and the need for powerful radiators has disappeared, it is enough to remove the extra sections to reduce energy consumption. The advantages of sectional models also include a stylish design that will fit into any interior. The disadvantage is the large number of joints, which increases the risk of battery depressurization.

Sectional heating radiator in the interior

Tubular

They have an original appearance and are convenient for drying things. Reliable and durable due to the absence of joints - the radiator is a one-piece structure. At the same time, it is important to choose the right heating device in terms of power, since it will not be possible to adjust this parameter.
Steel tubular radiator

Panel

Panel-type heating radiators are characterized by a stylish, laconic design. Unlike tubular and sectional batteries, panel models equipped with convective fins warm up the air in the room faster - the formation of a flow of heated air is added to thermal radiation. The ability to create a thermal curtain makes panel radiators popular for installation in rooms with a large glass area. Panel radiators, like tubular ones, are solid. Models of this type can not only be mounted on the wall, but also installed on the floor.
Panel radiator Rozma

Convector

Water convectors consist of steel pipes on which numerous metal plates are mounted, mounted on an edge. The top of the heating device is covered with a stylish metal casing. There are models built into the floor. The gaps between the plates contribute to the formation of a flow of heated air. It is recommended to install convector radiators along panoramic glazing, in a winter garden, in a room with high ceilings. Due to natural convection, the room warms up faster than thermal radiation. When deciding which radiators are better, you should note that a system with water convectors requires a smaller volume of coolant compared to using other types of radiators. The disadvantages of convector radiators include their high cost. In addition, during operation of such a battery, air currents constantly raise dust, which enters the human respiratory system.
Floor convector

Cast iron

When considering different types of radiators, one cannot ignore the classic option - cast iron batteries. To this day, working copies installed before the revolution have been preserved in old houses. In Soviet-built houses, mass-produced cast iron radiators are used.

The advantages include durability and corrosion resistance, high heat transfer, and the ability to install additional sections. The list of disadvantages includes a tendency to overgrow - over time, the heat transfer of such batteries decreases, as the free space inside the case narrows. Unlike modern heating appliances, cast iron radiators require regular painting. Disadvantages also include heavy weight, which makes transportation and installation difficult.

Before choosing a cast iron battery for a private home, you need to pay attention to its high thermal inertia. It heats up and cools down slowly, which makes it impossible to quickly regulate the microclimate in the room.

Today, in private homes, cast iron radiators are installed if they want to emphasize their individual image. Manufacturers offer original floor models, decorated with artistic castings, which will perfectly complement the interior in a classic style.

Variety of cast iron decorative radiators

Aluminum

When deciding which heating devices are best for a private home, pay attention to aluminum models. Such radiators are in growing demand among private developers due to their light weight and ease of installation, attractive appearance, and the ability to add and remove sections. The cost of the product depends on the manufacturer. Domestic products are as affordable as possible; this is a budget country option. In a country house, it is better to install imported products; they are more reliable, but also more expensive.

Aluminum radiators:

• may leak due to the presence of threaded connections;
• aluminum is picky about the acidity of the coolant - using a liquid with unsuitable parameters damages heating devices;
• due to increased heat transfer, they can poorly warm the lower part of the room - the heated air quickly goes up and the floor remains cold.

But despite this, it is wise to choose an aluminum radiator for a private home - the metal quickly heats up and cools down, making it possible to quickly change the heating level of the room in accordance with weather conditions and microclimate requirements. In this regard, aluminum batteries are the most practical.

Aluminum radiator in the interior

Bimetallic

Such heating devices combine the advantages of steel and aluminum models. The inner surface of a durable iron alloy is undemanding to the characteristics of the coolant and ensures the structural strength of the battery. The external aluminum casing is characterized by good heat transfer, due to which the radiator effectively warms the room.

The bimetallic radiator is designed for high operating and pressure testing, which makes it the optimal choice for installation in an apartment connected to a central heating network.

Considering the high cost of high-quality bimetallic models, in private homes it is better to use a budget option for heating, designed to work in an autonomous system.

Bimetallic radiator in the interior

Principles for calculating battery power

To choose heating radiators for a country or private house, you need to perform calculations based on the fact that to heat one square meter. m of living space requires approximately 95–125 kW. To warm up a room with average parameters (one window, one door, ceiling height up to 3 meters), it is necessary to heat the coolant to 70 °C.

If actual parameters differ from those indicated, adjustments must be made. For example, with a ceiling height of more than 3 meters, it is necessary to increase the calculated power of the batteries as many times as the actual height exceeds the conditional one. For low ceilings, recalculation is carried out in the opposite direction.

A decrease in coolant temperature for every 10 °C relative to the specified average level forces a corresponding increase in the design power of heating devices by 15–20%. If the room is corner and has two windows, the average calculated power of the batteries is increased by 1.5 times.

The heat transfer of radiators largely depends on their connection diagram. The average calculation is based on the fact that the heated coolant is supplied to the upper side inlet, and the return is connected to the lower inlet diagonally. Other connection options are less efficient and reduce the heat dissipation of batteries by 5–10%.

Note! The number of sections for radiator models of this type should not exceed 10 pieces - further expansion will not help increase power, since the coolant will not be able to fully warm up such a battery.

Comparison of thermal power of different types of batteries

Calculating radiator parameters

Particular care should be taken when choosing panel and tubular batteries. Manufacturers include in their product line models of the same power, but with different geometric parameters. When choosing, take into account the features of the installation location - the height from the floor to the window sill, the length of the wall in an elongated room, etc.

Homeowners choosing heating devices and wanting to purchase the best options at a reasonable price opt for steel or aluminum models. The cost of the most reliable, imported bimetallic radiator is prohibitively high, and cast iron batteries have many serious disadvantages. According to statistics, those who are thinking about which radiators to choose for a private home or country house choose aluminum sectional or steel panel models based on the ratio of price and practicality.

Video with tips for choosing heating radiators:

When organizing a major renovation of a house or apartment, the list of activities of which includes the replacement or modernization of the heating system, the owner will inevitably face the problem of which heating radiators are best to choose in order to increase the comfort of living and at the same time not lose with the interior design.

Previously, such a question was usually not raised in principle - in addition to cast iron batteries of a single model, inefficient, poorly made steel convectors were only sometimes installed in new houses. Today the situation is different - radiators can differ significantly in material of manufacture, characteristics, and external design. Naturally, you want to install in your apartment the best of those that the budget allocated for renovation allows.

However, when choosing these devices, you need to take into account that not all of them may be suitable for the existing heating system. Having different performance characteristics designed for a certain load and coolant, batteries can either disappoint the buyer with their low efficiency, or even simply not fit the technical parameters.

In addition, in order to achieve proper heating efficiency, it is necessary to correctly calculate and install the required number of sections in the radiators. Just do it V in all conditions and making sure to adhere to installation rules, you can get the desired result.

Currently, the most common types of heating batteries are: The following types of radiators are produced:

— steel, panel and tubular;

— cast iron, having both modern and retro design;

— aluminum and aluminum anodized;

- bimetallic.

To make the right choice, you need to understand in more detail the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each type. To begin with, here are a few “dry” numbers, which, nevertheless, can already give an initial idea. Some parameters of various types of batteries are in the table:

	TS	Chg	Al	BM	AA
Maximum pressure, (atmospheres)
- working	6-10	6-9	10-20	35	15-40
- crimping	9 -15	12-15	15-30	57	25-75
- destruction	18-25	20-25	30-50	75	100
Limitation on pH (hydrogen value)	6,5-9	6,5-9	7-8	6,5-9	6,5-9
Susceptibility to corrosion when exposed to:
- oxygen	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
- stray currents	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
- electrolytic pairs	weak	No	Yes	weak	No
Section power at h=500 mm; Dt=70 ° , W	85	110	175-199	199	216,3
Warranty, years	1	10	3-10	3-10	30

Abbreviations in the table:

TS– tubular steel;

Chg– cast iron;

Al– regular aluminum;

AA– aluminum anodized;

BM– bimetallic.

Well, now - about each of the types in more detail.

Steel radiators

They may differ both in their design and in their design solutions. They can be made in the form of panels or a certain number of vertical pipes interconnected into one common battery.

Panel steel radiators

Each panel of such a radiator is made of two metal sheets, which are given the desired shape by stamping and joined by welding. Then, in most of the models, the panels are equipped with convector heat exchangers, which contribute to the rapid heating of the air and the creation of a thermal upward flow. After combining all the elements into a single structure, it is painted using a special technology.

In order for this type of radiator to serve for a long time, the coloring must be uniform - you need to pay special attention to this parameter when purchasing.

Prices for panel heating radiators Lideya

panel heating radiators Lideya

Panel radiators are designed for a coolant temperature of 85 ÷ 95 degrees, and for standard operating pressure in a central heating system (up to 10 atmospheres).

Structure of a panel radiator type “22”

Similar batteries have your own classification, which is predetermined by the number of panels and the presence of convector plate heat exchangers between them. Each type is expressed by a specific two-digit number:

• Type 10 consists of only one panel;
• Type 11 is one panel equipped with one convector;
• 21 type - has two panels and one convector located between them;
• Type 22 - consists of two panels and two convectors;
• Type 33 - has three convectors, which are located between three panels.

There may be significant differences between models And by overall dimensions. It is clear that the more panels, the thicker the assembled structure itself, usually from 50 to 155 mm. The length of such a battery can vary from 400 to 3000 mm, and height - usually, ranging from 200 to 900 mm.

Panel batteries are produced with side and bottom connections - the choice for this parameter is made depending on the passage of the heating system pipes and the preferences of the owners.

The advantages of panel batteries include the following:

• Easy to install. The battery has a one-piece design, so it does not need to be assembled from several elements. The panel is hung on brackets fixed to the wall, and the pipes are connected to the heating circuit pipes.
• Due to the small mass of the steel sheet, the panel warms up almost immediately after starting the heating. This promotes good heat transfer both from the surface directed into the room and in the plate heat exchanger, which makes it possible to obtain the desired air temperature in the room quickly enough.
• Compact size and neat appearance allow the panels to fit into any interior.
• The operation of panel batteries in an autonomous heating system allows you to save on fuel, since a relatively small amount of coolant is used to fill the circuit.

The negative features of the panels include the following factors:

• Metal panels do not have an anti-corrosion coating on their inner surface, which is in direct contact with the coolant, which can lead to fairly rapid rusting, leaks, and failure. This is especially typical for central systems, where the coolant is drained in the summer, opening up “wide opportunities” for corrosion processes. And the quality of the coolant also does not always contribute to the duration of trouble-free operation of the devices.
• If batteries are installed in a central heating system, then it will not be possible to avoid water hammer, which the panels may not withstand. Therefore, it will also be necessary to install a reducer that equalizes the pressure and takes the blow.

To get more detailed information about the manufacturing process, characteristics and operating nuances, you should follow the recommended link to a special page on the portal.

Tubular batteries

Tubular steel batteries consist of stacked sections that are welded together. The efficiency of this design will be at the proper level if the required number of sections are installed in the battery, with a total thermal power corresponding to the area of ​​the room.

Tubular radiators can have a very wide variety of different design solutions, and this is one of the criteria that directly influences the choice of this particular type of battery. In addition, tubular batteries can be equipped with a special bracket for drying towels, which is very convenient, for example, for the kitchen, or a top panel that can serve as a seat or shelf for drying shoes.

They are produced in different sizes, the height varies from 200 to 2000 mm, and the thickness, as a rule, from 100 to 250 mm. The ordered length can be any, depending on the heating needs.

These elements of the heating system can withstand pressure from 8 to 15 atmospheres. To avoid damage to batteries due to water hammer, if they are installed in a central heating system, they, like panel ones, will require the installation of a gearbox.

The wall thickness of steel tubular radiators is only 1 ÷ 1.5 mm, so they warm up very quickly and release heat into the room. But this same factor can also be attributed to design flaws, since thin steel is easily susceptible to mechanical damage.

Unlike the panel type, the tubes of these batteries are internally coated with polymer protective films, which protect them from exposure to the aggressive coolant environment, and as a result, from the occurrence of corrosion, which significantly extends their service life.

The advantages of tubular steel batteries include a variety of design solutions in shape and color, the provision of radiators with additional elements, and an original, neat appearance.

This type of battery has only two serious disadvantages, but they can have a much more significant impact on the home heating system than the already mentioned advantages:

• Low heat transfer, which will lead to high energy costs. The batteries heat up quickly, but also cool down quickly, so the boiler will turn off for a very short period of time. The absence of an additional heat exchanger, other than the surface of the pipes themselves, makes the area of ​​active heat transfer very small. This ultimately suggests that tubular batteries are unprofitable to install in an autonomous heating system.
• At the same time, welded connecting seams can be considered a weak point of such batteries - there have been cases of leaks appearing on them after water hammer. The conclusion is quite the opposite - tubular batteries without a gearbox can only be installed in a system with autonomous heating.

In a word, there are a lot of contradictions, and you need to think very carefully before purchasing such heating batteries.

Cast iron radiators

Although today a large number of batteries are produced from modern materials, cast iron elements of the heating system have not been forgotten. They can be found in stores in a transformed form, decorated for modern interiors or for strict “classics”. In some cases, such radiators even play the role of a decorative element and are able to set the tone for the entire design of the room.

In addition, modern cast iron batteries do not require periodic painting, as was the case with old “Soviet” models. They go on sale with a treated and painted surface, which only needs to be wiped or dusted occasionally.

Modern radiators can have different sizes, so they can be selected to suit any size room area. In addition, if old batteries had to be hung on brackets driven into the walls, today you can purchase options that have massive legs on which they are installed and secured to the floor in a specific place for them.

Prices for cast iron heating radiators Konner

cast iron heating radiators Konner

Unlike all other types of batteries, cast iron ones have an important advantage - they will function equally effectively in both autonomous and central heating systems. The main thing is that all connections of sections and pipes are made correctly and reliably - then the cast iron elements will not be afraid of either water hammer or corrosion.

Despite the emergence of new battery options, cast iron continue to be popular due to their excellent heat capacity- ability to retain heat for a long time. They have thick and massive walls that take a long time to warm up, but, having gained temperature and warmed up, when the heat flow along the circuit is turned off, they remain hot for a much longer period than radiators made from other materials. This is due to the properties of cast iron - it is not without reason that it is widely used for the manufacture of heating stoves and or individual components for them.

In specialized stores you can find both domestic and imported versions of cast iron radiators. Countries such as Germany and Turkey, Spain and England, the Czech Republic and Italy are presenting their products - in many respects they compare favorably with those manufactured at domestic enterprises.

• Imported radiators have high-quality smooth or decorated with relief casting surfaces.
• An important functional feature is the high thermal output, even with small dimensions. For comparison, you can take the volume of a traditional domestic battery, which is 1.3 liters, while a Czech-made radiator has a volume of only 0.8 liters, with the same heat transfer. Thus, the foreign version will be more compact and will save a decent amount on coolant and on boiler operation.
• In addition, unlike domestic ones, imported batteries have a perfectly smooth internal surface, which prevents the formation of scale on the walls and significantly reduces the hydraulic resistance to coolant circulation.
• Since any cast iron radiators are resistant to corrosion, they can be used in open heating systems, where a large amount of dissolved air enters the coolant.
• All cast iron batteries have fairly thick walls, which increases their resistance to possible abrasive wear.
• Unlike domestic ones, imported radiators are supplied to stores already painted and do not require periodic renewal of the coating, which will save not only money, but also the time of homeowners.

However, all foreign-made products have a price much higher than the cost of domestic batteries.

The disadvantages of all cast iron batteries include their heavy weight, so they can be hung on all walls or partitions. And the process of mounting it on the wall is somewhat more complicated than with other radiators.

Aluminum batteries

Aluminum batteries are only suitable for installation in an autonomous heating system, since they are quite demanding on the quality of the coolant. This type of radiator is quite popular among owners of private houses due to its affordable price, good performance and modern appearance.

Manufacturers set in the passport the minimum service life for aluminum batteries at 10 ÷ 25 years, but they may well last for a longer time. The duration of their “life” will directly depend on the quality of the coolant, the correct installation and operation of the heating device.

Prices for aluminum radiators

Sectional aluminum radiator

This one is designed for a pressure in the system of up to 15 atmospheres, a coolant temperature of 90 ÷ 100 degrees, and the heat transfer of the section can reach up to 200 ÷ 210 W. At the same time, the capacity of each radiator section is only 450 ml, and the weight is 1.0 ÷ 1.5 kg. The individual sections are fastened together into a single battery using a threaded axial connection.

The standard distances between the upper and lower axles are 200, 350 or 500 mm, but it happens that non-standard options are also manufactured with an interaxle distance of 800 or even more millimeters.

Aluminum radiators, just like all other heating devices, have their advantages and disadvantages.

TO benefits Their qualities include the following:

— high level of heat transfer;

- light weight;

— relative ease of installation;

— convenient and wide range of sizes;

— neat, aesthetic appearance;

— as a rule, it is equipped with a thermostat, which allows you to set the desired temperature.

From shortcomings The following are worth mentioning:

— possible risk of gas formation, which can provoke “ airing" and blockage of the heating circuit;

— the possibility of leakage at the connections of individual sections;

— the main concentration of heat is on the fins of the elements.

— susceptibility of some types of aluminum radiators to corrosion processes.

Some problems that can occur with aluminum batteries can be avoided. For example, in order for possible gas formation to paralyze the operation of the system, it is necessary to cut into a common autonomous circuit or install an air vent on each battery. And in the case of an autonomous system, it is generally better to use one that is well adapted to aluminum (this is described in detail in the corresponding publication of the portal).

Aluminum battery sections are made from aluminum alloy using silicon additives, but different models may also differ in the way they are made manufacturing - casting and extrusion.

• The first method involves manufacturing each section separately by pouring the alloy into special molds under high pressure. The silicon present in the alloy gives special strength to the walls of the radiators, and the manufacturing method fully guarantees the tightness of the container.

Batteries made by this method are able to withstand operating pressure in the system reaching up to 16 atmospheres. During testing, the coolant is supplied to this type of battery under a pressure of 25 atmospheres, that is, when characterizing its products, the manufacturer gives a safety margin of one and a half.

Using this technology, sections of various shapes are made, but traditional ones still remain those that have a flat, smooth outer surface - it is optimal for better heat transfer.

• Another method of making sections is the extrusion method. Using this technology, the melt is pressed through forming nozzles - the desired profile of the workpiece is obtained. This is followed by cutting the profile into individual parts.

Then the finished sections are assembled into a single structure. Batteries made in this way have a lower cost, but during operation they cannot be increased or made smaller - the design is non-removable. The quality of such radiators is also lower, since the joints of the sections (with seals or even with special glue) under unfavorable circumstances may leak and cannot be repaired.

Aluminum batteries with anodic oxidation

There is another type of aluminum batteries. They are made from metal that has a high degree of purification, and also undergo a stage of anodic oxidation - which is why the term “anodized aluminum” is often used. With this special treatment, aluminum slightly changes its structure, and if conventional aluminum radiators are susceptible to oxygen corrosion, then anodized sections withstand this influence with dignity. In such structures, batteries are assembled using couplings that are secured to the outside of the sections.

Anodized sections for radiators are made by casting, and in appearance they are almost no different from conventional aluminum batteries. Therefore, when purchasing them in a store, you must carefully study the passport, which should be attached to such products.

The internal surfaces of this type of radiator are absolutely smooth, so there are no obstacles to the circulation of coolant. Their upper limit of operating pressure is much higher than that of conventional aluminum ones, and ranges from 45 to 75 atmospheres.

Naturally, due to their outstanding technical characteristics, the cost is also significantly higher. But still, in order for aluminum batteries to last as long as possible, it is worth choosing radiators of this particular type.

Bimetallic batteries

In terms of reliability, bimetallic radiators are, perhaps, second only to cast iron ones. They are produced according to a combined principle, from two metal alloys - the inner part is made of a stainless steel alloy, and the outer part is made of aluminum coated with a layer of enamel.

Bimetallic batteries also consist of sections that are connected via a threaded connection. At the same time, their exceptional reliability is based on the fact that the outer aluminum casing does not come into any contact with the coolant, but serves only as an effective heat exchanger (thanks to the highest thermal conductivity of this metal) and somewhat of a decorative element. And water or antifreeze circulates through channels made of a steel alloy, which is more resistant to pressure loads and oxygen corrosion. Thanks to this, such batteries can easily withstand pressure surges of up to 35 ÷ 40 atmospheres.

These qualities of bimetallic batteries make it possible to install them, without any restrictions, both in the central heating system of high-rise buildings and in the autonomous heating system of a private house. The only thing is that in the second case it would be desirable for them to create the necessary pressure, otherwise they will not function at full strength, losing a number of their advantages. This means that natural circulation will not work here, and it is necessary to install a circulation pump in the autonomous system.

Bimetallic batteries are quite expensive - their price is, in any case, much higher than that of steel or conventional aluminum ones, but this is fully justified by their high reliability and long service life. In fact, high cost can be called the only drawback, while they have much more advantages:

• The high thermal conductivity of the outer aluminum “shell” makes it possible to quickly heat the room.
• The corrosion resistance already mentioned above.
• Compactness and aesthetic appearance, thanks to which the radiators will fit perfectly into any interior style.
• Bimetallic batteries do not require special care or periodic painting, as they are covered with a two-layer hardened polymer coating.
• Ability to withstand high temperatures and increased operating pressure, thanks to the internal steel casing.
• Relatively light weight, easy installation, which can be carried out without the help of specialists.

The appearance of bimetallic radiator options is somewhat similar to aluminum batteries, but the difference in price is quite significant. When purchasing, sometimes it is even impossible to distinguish between two adjacent types of radiators, so it is better to purchase them in specialized stores or from trusted suppliers. Be sure to require technical documentation.

Prices for popular heating radiators

When choosing, you should not save, because by buying cheap, low-quality products, you can doom yourself to another, completely unplanned and unwanted repair in two or three years. Installation by the owner of radiators that are unsuitable for the existing heating system can ruin not only the flooring in his own apartment, but also lead to serious problems with flooded neighbors below. So, saving on little things can lead to significant costs later.

Therefore, when purchasing any product, it is necessary to study not only the passport with the specified technical characteristics, but also the certification of the product with the manufacturer’s warranty obligations. This is important to do in order to avoid buying fakes, which are very similar to the “brand” sample in appearance, but still remain of low quality.

To “consolidate the material”, it is suggested to watch a video lesson that will help answer the question: “Which heating radiators are better?”

And one moment. It is important not only to decide on the type of radiators - the total thermal power must correspond to the parameters of the room where they are installed. To carry out such calculations, we suggest using a special calculator located below.

And centralized heating systems have fundamental differences that are taken into account when choosing equipment. The operating mode of autonomous heating of a private house allows you to select radiators based on the maximum heat transfer coefficient, materials with the best characteristics, high quality and the best price. The operating conditions of heating equipment in apartments are very different - here reliability and load resistance are in the foreground. Let's figure out which heating radiators are best installed in an apartment, where and how to buy them, and what users say in reviews about this equipment.

There are two fundamentally different types of home heating: centralized (open) and autonomous (closed). In the first case, steam or hot water from a boiler house or thermal power plant is supplied through pipes to apartments in multi-storey buildings. The second option is a separate heating system for a private house or cottage, including its own boiler, heat supply pipelines, radiators and pumps.

When determining which heating radiators are best for an apartment, we proceed from the operating conditions of radiators in such systems:

1. temperature from 100°C;
2. pressure up to 10 atm;
3. sudden pressure surges and hydraulic shocks when flushing systems and restarting.

When choosing a radiator, the consumer must know the load limits for the model in question.

Cast iron radiators

Resistant to high pressure and water hammer. There are models that can cope with heavy loads, but do not meet aesthetic needs. Such samples include cast iron batteries, known to us since Soviet times. A good example of modern cast iron radiators can be considered retro-style batteries that fit perfectly into the interior.

The advantages of cast iron radiators include:

1. operating pressure 6 – 10 atm, peak loads 18 or more atm;
2. installation with different types of pipes;
3. long service life;
4. high heat output (100 – 200 W);
5. quick size change if necessary;
6. minimal corrosion.

Disadvantages of cast iron radiators:

1. heavy weight;
2. fragility;
3. slow heating and cooling, inability to control temperature.

Bimetallic radiators

Steel and aluminum are used to produce such batteries. The inner surface of such radiators, which plays the role of coolant, is steel.

Advantages of bimetallic radiators:

1. working pressure more than 35 atm;
2. anti-corrosion resistance;
3. fast heating and cooling, lack of inertia;
4. modern attractive design;
5. light weight;
6. easy set of the required number of sections.

The disadvantage is the high cost.

A comparison of the two options does not reveal the superiority of any of them. Cast iron batteries cost 250 - 400 rubles per section in a conventional version and 1,500 - 6,000 rubles in a “retro” version. Prices for bimetallic radiators are 400 - 1500 rubles per section, imported ones are more expensive. Externally, bimetallic batteries look more attractive: they are more compact, more modern, and easy to clean. Based on the cost, we consider bimetallic radiators to be more preferable for apartments.

The photo shows bimetallic radiators for an apartment

Which heating radiators are best to choose for a private home?

Autonomous heating systems for private housing are distinguished by other operating conditions: low pressure and the absence of water hammer in the networks. The choice of radiators in this case is based on maximum heat transfer, price and quality. Any of the existing radiators is suitable for heating a private home. Let's briefly look at the types of such equipment in order to choose which radiators are best for heating a private home.

Tubular and panel radiators made of steel

Such radiators are compact and visually attractive.

Advantages of steel radiators:

1. high efficiency;
2. resistance to corrosion with properly prepared water;
3. long service life;
4. compactness and light weight;
5. low price.

Flaws:

1. not very good design;
2. the need for periodic washing;
3. the need for constant filling to prevent corrosion.

Aluminum radiators

They feature a modern design and excellent heat dissipation. Imported models are much more expensive than Russian ones, but we recommend buying them.

Special operating requirements:

• Careful control of the acidity of the coolant - aluminum quickly corrodes if this condition is not met.
• Due to the high thermal power, uneven heat distribution in the room is possible. Before purchasing radiators, accurate calculations are required.

Overall, very good radiators for heating a home. If the operating instructions are followed, they will last quite a long time. The price of aluminum radiators is relatively low.

Bimetallic radiators

Combined radiators made of steel (internal part) and aluminum fins. Such radiators are treated with a primer against corrosion. They can withstand pressures of up to 20-35 atm and are unpretentious to the composition of circulating water.

The main disadvantage is the high cost. There are no water hammers or high pressure with autonomous heating, and the use of expensive radiators is not advisable.

Cast iron radiators

The high thermal inertia of these radiators reduces the cost of heating a home. Cast iron batteries are resistant to corrosion. They are priced higher than aluminum and steel ones, but much lower than bimetallic ones.

The disadvantages of cast iron batteries are fragility and heavy weight.

When choosing which heating batteries are best for a private home, you need to consider two groups - steel or aluminum batteries. Aluminum ones are more interesting - they are lighter, more economical and give off more heat.

The photo shows ideal aluminum radiators for a country house

Which bimetallic heating radiators are better?

The choice of bimetallic batteries is large - the models are different in design, characteristics, design and cost. By comparing the characteristics of different radiators, we will determine which bimetallic heating radiators are better.

Bimetallic and semi-bimetallic radiators

Bimetallic radiators have aluminum only at the top. They are made from steel and then filled with aluminum under pressure. The coolant is in contact with the steel. There are models whose interior is made of copper. Such radiators are used with coolant to which antifreeze is added.

The interior of semi-bimetallic batteries consists of two metals: steel and aluminum. The best models of such radiators are produced by Sira, Rifar, Gordi. They are not cheap, but the quality is excellent.

Bimetallic radiators, sectional and monolithic

Monolithic radiators are distinguished by a solid steel or copper collector, onto which an aluminum “jacket” is placed. This design is called monolithic. Radiators of this type are more reliable than sectional ones, the weak point of which is the joints between sections. Characteristics of monolithic radiators:

• service life up to 40 years (2 times longer than sectional ones);
• operating pressure up to 100 bar (3 times more than sectional ones);
• thermal power per section 100-200 W (equal to sectional).

The cost of monolithic radiators is approximately 20% higher than sectional ones, and it is impossible to change the size by adding or removing sections. A large selection of models allows you to choose the right radiator.

Manufacturers of bimetallic radiators

Imported radiators are represented on the Russian market by Italian, South Korean, and Polish companies.

Italian radiators

Represented by equipment from Sira, Global Style and Radena. Cost 700 – 1500 rubles per section, service life from 20 years. Main characteristics:

• section thermal power 120 – 185 watts;
• maximum water temperature – 110°C;
• operating pressure up to 35 bar.

South Korean radiators

MARS batteries with a copper core costing from 400 rubles with the following characteristics:

• section thermal power 167 watts;
• maximum water temperature – 130°C;
• operating pressure up to 20 bar.

Polish radiators

The REGULUS-system equipment with a copper core is well known in Russia.

Characteristics:

• operating pressure – 15 bar;
• maximum water temperature – 110°C.

Russian radiators

The most famous batteries are from the manufacturer Rifar, costing 500 - 900 rubles per section.

Characteristics:

• section thermal power 100 – 200 watts;
• maximum water temperature – 135°C;
• operating pressure up to 20 bar.

Chinese radiators

They are characterized by low cost, modest design and low quality. If the budget does not allow you to buy high-quality equipment, then you can get by with cheap “Chinese” ones. Of course, you cannot count on high performance.

In my opinion, the RIFAR MONOLIT radiator is considered the best Russian product. Characteristics: section thermal power 134 – 196 watts; maximum water temperature – 135 °C; operating pressure up to 100 bar.

The photo shows a RIFAR brand radiator

Which aluminum radiators are better?

Aluminum radiators are produced by Russian and foreign companies in a wide range. Among the main manufacturers:

Rifar, Russia

The best Russian company. Prices are higher than the Russian average - an average of 580 rubles per section. Main characteristics:

• working pressure up to 20 atm (maximum 30 atm);
• maximum coolant temperature 135°C;
• 10 year warranty, 25 year service life.

Royal Termo, Russia

Co-production with Italians. Available models:

1. Thermo revolution;
2. Thermo Dream Liner;
3. Thermo Indigo.

Characteristics:

• working pressure – up to 20 atm;
• thermal power 170 – 185 watts.

Radiators are manufactured using patented technologies.

VitaTerm, Russia

Aluminum alloys with magnesium, lithium and titanium are used for production.

Characteristics:

• thermal power 140 – 184 W;
• operating pressure 16 atm (test pressure 24 atm).

Global, Italy

The well-known Italian manufacturer offers radiators of excellent quality and elegant design. A section of such a radiator costs about 400 rubles. One of the best offers on the market, considering the price and quality.

SMART, China

Budget option for aluminum radiators. The design is simple, universal, good quality. The cost of the section is about 300 rubles.

Choosing an aluminum radiator is not difficult - there are many offers in different technical and price categories. If you choose from domestic equipment, then Rifar radiators will be a worthy purchase; among imported ones, we recommend the Italian Global. Of course, the proposals are very general - the buyer should base his choice on his own capabilities and needs.

The photo shows a Global brand radiator

Which heating radiators are better - aluminum or bimetallic?

Let's start with the comparison of bimetallic and aluminum radiators with the design and characteristics of the batteries.

1. Aluminum radiators consist of separate sections that are connected by nipples. Gaskets are installed between the sections. The fins on the inside increase the heat transfer area.

2. Bimetallic radiators consist of a steel core and an aluminum body with fins.

Comparative characteristics:

• In terms of heat transfer, aluminum is much preferable - within 10 minutes after switching on the room is warm.
• Aluminum radiators have a lower operating pressure (up to 20 atm) than bimetallic ones (up to 40 atm), i.e. they can only be installed in autonomous heating systems of private houses.
• Aluminum radiators are more sensitive to the quality of the coolant. When the pH rises above 8, aluminum batteries will quickly fail.
• The maximum temperature for bimetallic batteries (130°C) is higher than for aluminum batteries (110°C).
• The service life of bimetallic batteries is 15-20 years, aluminum - 10 years.
• The cost of bimetallic radiators is 20–35% higher than aluminum ones.

When choosing radiators, you need to take into account the conditions in which they will have to work. For autonomous heating of a private house, aluminum batteries are more suitable, for an apartment in a high-rise building - bimetallic ones.

Installation and installation of heating radiators

The high cost of installing heating radiators in an apartment or private house often forces owners to carry out this work themselves. The cost of heating installation work depends on the total volume, number of installation elements, selected connection diagram, type and model of radiators, etc.

To install heating radiators yourself, you must:

1. become familiar with connection methods;
2. know the connection rules;
3. correctly calculate and accurately measure the location of radiators;
4. have the necessary tools for installation.

The heating battery is installed to ensure maximum heating efficiency. The greatest heat loss is through windows, so placing radiators under the windows creates a thermal curtain, preventing heat from escaping.

The installation of heating radiators must be done strictly at right angles in the horizontal and vertical planes - incorrect placement leads to air accumulation and rapid corrosion of the radiator.

Distances that must be ensured during installation for normal heat exchange and warm air circulation:

• from the top grille of the battery to the window sill - 5-10 cm;
• from the bottom edge of the battery to the floor – 8-12 cm;
• from the radiator to the wall – 2-5 cm;
• When installing reflective thermal insulation on a wall, you should purchase longer retaining hooks.

Calculation of the number of radiator sections

When purchasing radiators, find out how to calculate the required number of sections. It is better to assemble the sections in the store when purchasing batteries. Remember a simple rule: one section is used to heat 2 square meters of area with a ceiling height of 2.7 m. Make roundings upward.

To install radiators you will need the following tools:

1. pliers;
2. screwdriver;
3. hammer drill;
4. pipe wrench;
5. construction level;
6. tape measure, pencil.

Replacing the battery is done in the following order:

1. the old battery is dismantled;
2. markings are made for attaching a new one;
3. brackets and battery canopy are installed;
4. assembly kit is assembled;
5. a valve, a valve under the thermal head and a Mayevsky valve are installed;
6. heating pipes are connected.

Particularly common is the installation of heating radiators with a bottom connection, in which hot water is introduced into the bottom of the radiator and discharged from the bottom of the other side. Such radiators are more attractive in appearance, fit perfectly into the interior and allow you to hide the pipework under the floor.

Thermostats for heating radiators

To regulate the heat supply during the heating season, we recommend installing a thermostat on each radiator. Installing a thermostat on a heating radiator is described in detail on websites on the Internet. More complex programmable thermostats will automatically turn radiators on and off to maintain the desired temperature. You can install thermostats on each battery with two-pipe heating, which is typical for a private house. With a single-pipe system (in apartment buildings), to install a thermostat, a bypass is installed in front of the radiator - a pipe perpendicular between the supply and the “return”. The diameter of the bypass pipe is always smaller than the diameter of the distribution pipes.

If the radiators are covered with thick curtains to the floor, the circulation of warm air is disrupted and only the window is heated. The window sill covering the top of the battery also interferes with normal air circulation. The efficiency of the heating radiator is reduced by 20%.

Heating radiator connection diagrams

Basic radiator connection diagrams:

1. Lateral one-way connection

The most commonly used and provides maximum heat transfer. The inlet pipe is connected to the upper branch pipe, the outlet pipe to the lower one.

2. Bottom connection

It is used if heating pipes are hidden under the floor or baseboard. Aesthetically the most successful way. The supply and return pipes from below go vertically to the floor.

3. Diagonal connection

This is done with a large number of sections (more than 12). The supply pipe is connected to the upper pipe on one side, and the return pipe is discharged from the opposite side through the lower pipe. The Mayevsky valve on radiators serves to remove excess air. The connection is inconvenient because when replacing or repairing a radiator, you need to turn off the entire heating system

4. Parallel connection

With this connection, the coolant is supplied through a heat pipe that is built into the heating system. The withdrawal also occurs. Inlet and outlet valves allow you to replace the radiator without shutting down the system as a whole. The disadvantage of this scheme is that at low pressure the radiator heats up poorly.

conclusions

1. When choosing radiators for a private house or apartment in a high-rise building, you should take into account the operating conditions typical for autonomous or centralized heat supply. Cast iron or bimetallic radiators are suitable for an apartment; aluminum or cast iron are suitable for a private house. For the rest, you need to be guided by specific conditions: interior requirements, financial capabilities, equipment cost, manufacturer reliability, etc.
2. We recommend checking the calculation of the required number of radiator sections for a specific room by receiving the seller’s recommendations upon purchase.
3. During installation, it is necessary to maintain all the necessary distances of the radiator from the floor, walls, etc., as well as the horizontal position of its position in different planes. A thermostat installed on radiators helps you save money - you can turn off unnecessary radiators or set an automatic temperature maintenance mode.

But the right choice can be made if you have an idea about each individual material. Only in this case can we say that you are now really making the right purchase. What are the features of each specific material?

Central heating system

Before you come to the question of how to choose heating radiators for an apartment, it is worth understanding that a lot depends on the heating system itself. Today, most apartment buildings are served by a central heating system. Its arrangement has many advantages and, at the same time, disadvantages. If in your room the radiators for heating are connected to a single central system, then new units must be selected taking into account the peculiarities of their structure.

What is a central heating system?

In fact, this is a central heating unit, the main task of which is to generate heat. This heat will be transferred through the main lines to the apartments and then returned back. The circulation itself will be carried out in a closed circle due to the functioning of the pumps. Depending on the amount of equipment placed, the operation of such a central system can be excellent. However, pumps can create a load that is equal to 15 working atmospheres. This means that when choosing a heating unit, you need to pay attention not only to the technical characteristics of the system, but also to the parameters of the unit itself. There are all kinds of heating batteries in the apartment on the market; finding the right one is not difficult.

The variety of the market can often confuse buyers, and they choose the wrong model that could fully satisfy their requirements. In order to avoid this, you need to have an idea of ​​the materials and structural features of each model. There is a high probability that after studying the nuances, you will be able to qualitatively change your choice in the completely opposite direction.

Carefully read the instructions and data sheet. It must indicate the maximum permissible pressure.

The central heating system itself operates using different pressures. And its differences will create corresponding water hammer, which will negatively affect the efficiency of heat transfer and the service life. At the same time, the water temperature will not be enviably constant. You may experience the batteries alternating between cold and hot. Thus, utility workers are trying to speed up heating in order to reach the average monthly norm.

In addition, changes in pressure and temperature negatively affect the condition of radiators. Do not forget that any central heating system does not exclude the absence of accidents. Sometimes it will be necessary to technically drain the water. That is why the radiator must withstand various operating conditions.

First of all, you should pay attention to the quality of the coolant. Most of the models that are presented on the modern market are produced in the European Union. The water quality standard in these countries is higher than in Russia, so materials can quickly deteriorate when interacting with low-quality water. Considering that the Russian heating system contains a large amount of dirty water with stones, debris, lime, and rust, the materials will quickly wear out. The inner shell becomes thinner, which reduces its service life.

An advantage is the fact that the manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty on its products. Considering the above, you can be sure that the radiator in this case will serve you for at least 20 years.

The most efficient heating radiators are definitely not made of aluminum.

The declared figure may not withstand the pressure inside the radiator, because European devices are designed only for 12 atmospheres. This may result in cracks and breakages.

However, if you decide to purchase aluminum batteries at any cost, then you need to purchase a special conical tip for the coolant. It will allow you to increase the coolant pressure in this system.

Shut-off valves

But at the same time, aluminum radiators have strict requirements regarding the quality of the coolant. They can function efficiently only if the indicator is equal to 6 units. However, domestic coolants cannot boast of such figures.

Aluminum structures are very fragile, so it is quite possible for one person to install them. However, in this case, you need to take into account some features. For example, when connecting a battery to a heating system, you should never use copper, brass or other fittings. Unfortunately, when interacting with other types of metal, corrosion formations can appear on aluminum. The structures will be secured using the coupling threaded connection method.

Coupling threaded connection

Remember that your central heating system contains large amounts of oxygen. Keep in mind that when oxygen reacts with aluminum, it gradually transforms into the state of hydrogen gas. This becomes the main reason for the terrible, incomprehensible sounds that often come from batteries. This is the result of the formation of air pockets.

Unfortunately, air locks are very dangerous and can paralyze the operation of the system. Therefore, your radiator must have a special tap that will allow it to function as an air regulator.

Mayevsky crane

Aluminum also has low inertness. This will provide the highest heat transfer compared to other materials. The heat dissipation is approximately 200 W, taking into account the distribution into just one section of 6 parts. The volume of each section can be about 400 ml of water. The aluminum battery is designed for temperatures up to 120 degrees. The maximum mark in gentle conditions reaches 90 degrees Celsius.

The distance between the top and bottom of the device is approximately 350 / 500 mm. However, if your apartment allows it, you can order devices with non-standard sizes from the manufacturer.

Non-standard sizes of aluminum radiators

Aluminum radiators retain heat well. Modern batteries made from this material have performed well in urban environments. Therefore, you can choose for yourself an effective device that will regulate optimal temperatures.

Aluminum batteries can be expanded by adding additional sections. But this must be done within reasonable limits, otherwise you will lose all the heat.

Aluminum batteries have a smooth surface

Another way to speed up heat transfer is to manufacture each section separately. A special metal alloy is prepared for this in order to find good tightness for each individual section. Production tests made it possible to create a pressure of 25 atmospheres, which may indicate a large margin of safety for a particular product.

In order to increase heat transfer, you need to choose radiators with a smooth surface, which at the same time provides better care for the devices.

At the same time, additional impurities will be released into the radiator, which helps to increase the reliability of the material and increase protection against corrosion.

Extrusion technology

Extrusion technology involves squeezing out a product section from a material. Special clamps are used for this. The sections are then connected to form the finished structure. While operating a finished unit, reducing or increasing its size, you will feel the difference.

Positive aspects of buying an aluminum battery.

1. Weightless.
2. Ideal for any style.
3. Cheap.
4. You can install it yourself

Disadvantages of the product.

1. They break due to water hammer.
2. They do not tolerate impurities in water.
3. A large amount of air inside.
4. They break down quickly.
5. There are high demands on the coolant.
6. Working pressure is more than 12 atmospheres.

Also pay attention to devices with anode coating. They are made from a high-quality alloy of silicon and aluminum compounds. And the device itself is covered with an anode.

Anodic coating of aluminum radiators

Thanks to this production, aluminum changes its structure and its resistance to corrosion increases. Such a battery can withstand various water hammers and poor quality water.

All produced sections will be assembled into a common structure, and reliable seals will be used.

The internal surface of such radiators is very smooth and can withstand pressure of 25 atmospheres.

But when purchasing anode batteries, you need to be especially careful. In appearance, they are practically no different from aluminum radiators. However, the chemical composition of such batteries is different, and ordinary aluminum is often sold under the guise of anode products.

Steel batteries

What types of batteries are there for heating an apartment? Steel batteries differ from each other not only in their appearance, but also due to their design.

For example, two types of such batteries are known.

Steel radiator

They can be tubular, the most common type, or they can be panel.

Let's consider each individual type in order to understand the main nuances when purchasing.

Panel View

Basically, such radiators consist of ribbed plates. They are produced by adopting non-ferrous casting. Inside there is a special sealed tank, which is carefully sealed. It ends with a coolant, which
increases heat transfer.

Hot air stays in the room much longer.

But at the same time there are many other nuances in such batteries.

Panel steel radiator

The ribbed shape will provide the greatest heat transfer efficiency. Consider the air circulation that occurs indoors. Steel has good thermal conductivity, just like cast iron. In order to have time to warm up a cold room, you will need 2 times less money and time, since it warms up faster than cast iron. Such good performance is achieved for a reason, but through thermal radiation.

The steel battery is designed for a working pressure of 11 atmospheres.

It is suitable for central heating system.
After the buyer has assembled the panel, the entire structure must be coated with a special protective paint. This provides reliable protection against chemical or technical damage.

The radiator is designed to withstand temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius. However, when severe cold occurs, it can withstand temperatures of 110 degrees Celsius.

Convection ensures high performance

It is also encouraging to know that water quality can remain mediocre. Such radiators are absolutely insensitive to impurities in water, and function completely calmly for a long time, even if the water is heavily polluted.

Steel is susceptible to corrosion, but its threshold is 9.5 units.

Important! Steel radiators do not need to be left without water for a long time.

Unfortunately, upon contact with air masses they will be subject to corrosion.

Steel radiators are classified into several types. Basically, belonging to one type or another depends on the number of panels.
Type 10 is rightfully considered one of the most accessible and effective.
However, the absence of a convector has a positive effect on the heat transfer of such panels.

At the same time, depending on their design, radiators vary greatly in size. For example, the length of the product varies from 400 mm to 500 mm. And the height varies from 200 to 900 millimeters. This discrepancy in parameters will allow you to choose the ideal model specifically for your room, both for a standard room and for a non-standard one.

At the same time, when choosing such a product, you need to pay attention to the type of fastening. It can be lateral and bottom. The type of connection directly depends on the pipe layout.

The heating circuit also plays an important role. If there is a bottom connection, then at the same time the efficiency of heat transfer decreases, however, the pipes are well disguised and do not spoil the appearance of the room. They can be hidden under the floor covering.

Steel radiator design

Let's look at the advantages of steel radiators.

1. Reasonable price.
2. Fast heating.
3. Ease of fastening.

Now let's look at the disadvantages that also exist.

The disadvantages of such batteries are the price. They also manifest themselves when they are used in rooms with autonomous heating. Large structures allow large amounts of water to pass through them. This means that the heat exchanger will turn on very often to maintain the temperature regime. Unfortunately, this greatly affects energy consumption and economical use. If the apartment has a central heating system, then such moments do not occur.

Feedback on purchasing a steel battery:

My name is Marina. My husband and I built a house that needed heating. At first we wanted to save money and buy aluminum batteries. But they turned out to be not the most effective. Then the choice fell on steel. We were attracted by the price and reviews on the Internet. We were very pleased. The quality is excellent. Plus, the house is warmed up in minutes.

Also, the internal surface of the steel structure will be made of a special protective coating. As a result, there will be an increased risk of mechanical damage due to interaction with abrasive substances in water. Therefore, if there are impurities in your central heating system, then such a steel structure, unfortunately, will not serve you for very long.

Pipes can be hidden under the floor

At the same time, the steel structure will not withstand water hammer, which often occurs during the operation of a central heating system.

If you notice that the system often encounters shocks, it is better to opt for cast iron batteries.

How to understand that water hammer often occurs in the heating system? To do this you need to listen to the sounds. If you hear murmurs, clicks and crackles, this means that water hammer still occurs.

Tubular radiators

Comparing tubular and panel radiators, you can see that they also consist of a number of separate sections. The sections are made in the form of a fraction. By welding, these are glued very tightly together.

You can purchase tubular batteries in ready-made, assembled form. However, it will be possible to increase them by replacing sections if it is necessary to remove the failed part.

In order for the batteries to provide heat to the premises, you will need to try to calculate the power of your unit before purchasing. This should be done based on the number of pipes, as well as the area of ​​the room.

Tubular steel radiator

Continuity of pipe connections is a disadvantage and at the same time an advantage. On the one hand, there is no possibility of increasing battery power. On the other hand, the absence of connections will eliminate the possibility of leaks during accidents. This will affect the lifespan of the product.

Taking into account the low operating pressure found in tubular batteries, it is better to equip the design with gearboxes. They will allow you to avoid severe shocks due to temperature changes.

If we compare floor and panel structures with tubular models, we can understand that the latter are highly resistant to corrosion. However, the whole point is actually in the protective coating, which is made of polymer materials. This protective coating is applied to the inside of the unit.

The reducer helps smooth out pressure drops

A wide variety of tubular batteries allows you to select units for any type of premises. You can select them according to size, parameters, appearance. Their length will directly depend on the power.

It is worth highlighting a variety of design solutions that will allow you to choose the optimal model. There are floor, corner, wall, horizontal and vertical models. Some can even be located in the very center of the room. This option will allow you to quickly warm up the room and visually divide it into two zones at once.

Tubular radiator design

Let's look at the pros and cons of these options. Pros:

• Light weight and thickness.
• Simplified installation.
• Corrosion resistance.
• Fairly affordable price.
• The room warms up very quickly.
• Variety of sizes and various design solutions.
• The quality of the coolant does not affect the performance of the battery.

The downside is the high sensitivity to various water hammers.

In addition, a slightly reduced heat transfer should be noted.

The tubular steel radiator can be given any shape

We conclude that for multi-storey buildings with a central heating system, experts do not recommend choosing such radiators.

Bimetallic radiators

This radiator was considered something unusual just a few years ago. Today, these models combine the advantages of both cast iron and aluminum structures. This radiator is ideal for installation in rooms where there is central heating. The biggest disadvantage of such structures is their relatively high cost.

Radiators STOUT

Thanks to the optimization that was achieved thanks to high power, as well as thanks to the logistics scheme, the material allows us to maintain affordable prices for all such radiators. It is the market leader.

Heating devices were developed for the Russian market with the purpose of operation in every region of the country. At the same time, radiators can withstand pressure up to 50 atmospheres. They work very effectively with temperatures up to 135 degrees Celsius. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty.

Each buyer is free to choose the number of sections for himself - from 4 to 14.

Bimetallic radiator design

In order to produce radiators from metal material, two metals are used at once. It is an alloy of steel and aluminum. In order to improve technical properties, manufacturers can add silicon - it increases durability.

Bimetallic radiators were previously used only in industrial premises. For some reason, there was previously an opinion that these heaters are harmful to human health. But it turned out that this is not at all the case. In fact, bimetal copes well with its tasks, and numerous studies have confirmed that units made from it are not at all dangerous.

Let's get acquainted with the design of a bimetal radiator.

In fact, it consists of two components. This is a core made of steel. It is through it that your coolant circulates. The core has a very important function. It accumulates energy and transfers it to another part of the device, which is made of aluminum. This heat exchanger distributes heat in the apartment.

The aluminum casing does not come into contact with the liquid, which is often at very high temperatures. This is a task inherent in alloy steel. In this case, the outer part is covered with paint, which has a protective coating. All this together gives the design a modern and stylish look.

Such products combine strength and high heat transfer. Therefore, manufacturers are trying to produce very highly efficient devices that will quickly warm up the room. In this case, there is no need to be afraid that a pressure drop will occur.

As for the operation of the steel core, it can withstand operating pressure that reaches 40 atmospheres. In factory conditions, bimetallic radiators are necessarily tested for strength; if the device does not pass this test, it is removed from production.

Bimetallic radiator with copper core

In general, bimetallic devices can withstand pressure of 50 atmospheres.

Some models of bimetallic radiators are made not of steel, but of special copper. This is an excellent solution for autonomous heating systems. The fact is that antifreeze is sometimes added to the coolant. This means that the steel product will quickly deteriorate. But copper can withstand this.

The outer radiator panel itself looks like a ribbed structure, and this directly affects the efficiency of heat transfer.

It is also worth noting that this design is very light in weight. Therefore, installation will not take much effort and, accordingly, time.

The inside of the structure must be covered with a specialized layer for protection. For this purpose, polymers are used to protect the radiator from various mechanical influences and the influence of abrasive substances. Unfortunately, these substances are directly contained in the water that is supplied to modern radiators.

Sectional model of a bimetallic radiator

Standard sizes of bimetallic radiators are available for sale. Their center distance varies from 20 to 80 mm. When calculating the required number of sections, it is imperative to focus on this parameter.

Also, batteries made of bimetal can be divided into two more types. These are monolithic and sectional. Monolithic structures are much more expensive, but the price is determined by technical features. The operating efficiency of such devices is much higher. They have no joints or various connections. This allows you to prevent leaks and various ruptures. At the same time, reliability increases. The nuance of such a product is that it has a solid core that cannot be cut.

Let's consider the pros and cons of such products.

1. The positive aspects include resistance to high pressure.
2. Resistant to water hammer.
3. Various design solutions.
4. Stylish appearance.
5. Simplified installation.
6. The heat transfer coefficient is much higher compared to other materials.
7. Minimum quality requirements.
8. The service life can reach 50 years.

Despite all these advantages, the only disadvantage of these radiators lies in the high cost. However, if you purchase a radiator for a long service life, then this cost will be conditional.

Bimetallic products are very expensive. This is, of course, an unpleasant moment. But just imagine that you are solving the indoor heating problem for yourself forever. We think it's worth it.

If you want to install bimetallic batteries in rooms where there is an individual heating system, where the pressure does not exceed 10 atmospheres, and the operating temperature will be regulated manually, then purchasing a bimetallic radiator will become an unprecedented luxury. But if we are talking about apartments with central heating, then this is an ideal option.

Important! Keep in mind that before purchasing it is important to understand the difference between aluminum and bimetallic radiators. The fact is that the appearance of these radiators is very similar to each other, and there is a high risk of confusion. And unscrupulous sellers often, in pursuit of profit, pass off one type of radiator after another.

To do this, you will have to look inside and also read the technical documentation that is issued specifically for this type of product.

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