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A radiator, a device also known as a battery, is an essential part of the heating system of any home or apartment. This device is present in every room and heats it. Everyone would like the chosen battery to work well for a long time and be pleasing to the eye. However, there are a huge number of models that differ in material, appearance, price, manufacturer, etc. To make it easier for you to navigate this diversity, below we will tell you which heating radiator is better to choose.
First, you need to understand which material will be preferable. There are several main types of radiators on the market now:
Cast iron
Batteries made of cast iron are the cheapest. In addition, they last much longer than others and do not rust. But a number of disadvantages do not allow us to definitely choose this material: heavy weight, low heat transfer, and the need to regularly repaint the batteries.
Steel
If you are thinking about how to choose heating radiators for a private home, then take a closer look at this type. They fit well into the interior of the rooms, perform the heating function well and are slightly more expensive than cast iron ones. It is only worth remembering that such batteries are vulnerable to water hammer and oxygen.
Copper
A copper battery is a single large-diameter pipe (up to 3 cm), which does not contain any other metals. The pipe is complemented by copper ribs and a wooden screen, providing visual appeal. Copper radiators conduct heat better than others, which is due to natural properties metal They heat up within a couple of minutes thanks to a small number water in the housing and low inertia. This is why many people prefer copper batteries, since a home heating system with them will not require such a huge amount of water as, say, with cast iron ones.
Copper is also one of the most resistant metals, because it is not afraid of low water temperatures, corrosion, aggressive external influences, etc. Accordingly, when asked about which heating radiators to choose for an apartment located in a high-rise building, we can confidently say that copper ones are 100% suitable. A significant advantage is also that the copper device itself protects itself from damage to the coolant, because an oxide layer forms inside it after some time of operation.
Aluminum
Batteries made from a metal such as aluminum are among the most popular. Among the advantages of this type are light weight, sufficient strength, and excellent design. Due to the fact that the radiator consists of sections, it is possible to select the optimal number of sections necessary to heat a room of a given size. Such a device can be chosen for installation in an apartment, as well as in a house with an autonomous heating system. Manufacturers produce aluminum radiators designed specifically for each of the two main systems existing in our country. One type is able to withstand high atmospheric loads, while the other, on the contrary, operates at low pressure. But there are also disadvantages: it is aluminum radiators that require more care during operation. However, servicing these radiators is easily possible using a special valve (or Mayevsky tap).
Bimetallic
This is the name given to radiators consisting of a steel pipe and coated with aluminum. The combination of the properties of these two metals provides greater durability to water pressure and quality. Accordingly, this type is also possible to choose for both apartments and houses. The problem is high difficulty such a design, which affects the manufacturing process and, as a consequence, the price of the device.
Criterion No. 1. Type of heating system
This factor is paramount when choosing a battery, because different levels of water pressure in two heating systems lead to the need to choose different types devices. In Russia there are centralized and autonomous heating systems. What is the difference?
IN centralized system The water pressure is quite high and at the same time inconsistent. This is due to the fact that all batteries are connected to one pipe and are turned on one after another. When heating starts centrifugal pump turns on abruptly, which can lead to water hammer and damage to certain materials. In general, a centralized system does not spare the devices connected to it. The coolant in it is hard water, which damages metals. In addition, during periods of no heating, metals are subject to corrosion. To decide which heating radiator is best to choose for an apartment, first of all you need to look at the pressure level at which this or that type of device will function. To heat apartment buildings, you need a radiator operating at a pressure of up to 10 atmospheres. It must also be resistant to water hammer and the negative chemical effects of water.
The best choice for a central heating system would be:
The battery is made of cast iron, since it can withstand pressure up to 15 bar, is resistant to pressure surges and does not rust.
Steel radiators are most often used for heating private houses. This is facilitated by the temperature and pressure indicators to which they are adapted. They can withstand pressures of up to 10 atmospheres and coolant temperatures of up to 110 degrees.
Of course, over time the figures may increase slightly. You can find out about this in the passport of the specific heating device you want to choose.
You can also install a steel panel-type radiator in an apartment building or other premises that are connected to a centralized heating system.
The heating devices we are talking about are made from high-quality sheet steel, which ensures greater stability. Inside, the design provides a number of recesses and channels for proper water circulation. Steel plates are used to provide additional air movement.
Also, to choose a heating radiator for a room, you need to know what types exist.
According to the type of connection, steel batteries are divided into two groups:
Batteries with bottom connection. They are called universal. In addition to such batteries, various thermal heads and valves are made that help adjust the radiator to specific room conditions.
Radiators with side connections.
Based on their power, they can also be divided into groups:
10 – the first digit indicates the number of panels (in in this case– 1), and the second – on the fins. This radiator consists only of a heating panel, that is, it has neither a convector nor a grille. Such batteries can be chosen for a nursery or other similar room. They are characterized by the absence of convection and dust accumulation.
11 – has one panel, but in addition to it there is also ribbing on the back side. Thanks to this, this device heats up somewhat faster. At the same time, convection appears, and dust accumulates on the radiator faster.
20 – a device with two rows of panels, without a convector. The air exits through the grille. Due to the presence of a second panel, the power of such a radiator is much superior to previous types.
21 – a battery with two panels and fins between them. The top of such a device is usually covered with a casing.
22 – the design of such a battery consists of two steel panels, each of which has a separate convector, as well as a casing on the outside. Is the most popular model.
30 – radiator with three internal panels without convectors. There is a grill on top.
33 – radiator with the highest power rating due to three steel panels. The fins are also triple. The top of the radiator is covered with a casing.
All heating batteries discussed above are of the convector type. This means that they heat not only due to the temperature of the radiator itself, but also due to air circulation, which also distributes heat in the room. This greatly increases the efficiency of heating devices compared to those in which heating is not supported by convection.
In addition, the design of these radiators provides for the presence of holes through which air is sucked from the room and released back already heated.
It is better to choose a steel heating device for a private house with an autonomous system. When connected to a central system, it will receive a load for which it is not designed, which will lead to a reduction in the expected service life by almost half.
It is also worth remembering that panel-type models are not intended for use in heating systems that do not have pumps and operate only by natural circulation coolant. There is a high probability that in this system the battery will not produce required quantity heat.
What do you need to consider to choose a quality steel radiator?
Firstly, check whether this model has certificates of quality and compliance. This will protect you from purchasing a fake, which in the future will show very low quality of heating the room.
Secondly, inspect the device for damage to integrity, cracks, etc. The seams should be smooth and the valves should be easy to turn.
Most of us have been accustomed to cast iron heating radiators since childhood. They were installed in most Russian apartments back in the days of the Soviet Union. Then the decision to install cast iron batteries on a mass scale was the only correct one, since this material combines high power and an affordable price with a fairly long service life. Cast iron heats apartments without failure for several decades. Also, many owners of private houses preferred to choose this material, proven over the years.
To this day, cast iron heating appliances remain one of the most popular. Even on the Internet, the question “which heating radiator to choose?” forums often recommend this. It can be assembled from several sections using nipples with gaskets to obtain the required size. Cast iron batteries can withstand pressure up to 10 atmospheres. More modern models with pressure testing they have an increased pressure threshold - up to 20 atmospheres. Also, cast iron heating radiators can withstand water temperatures of up to 130 degrees. Thus, they get along well with traditional central heating systems. The main advantage of cast iron is also its low price, especially compared to the most modern materials.
Of course, cast iron batteries also have disadvantages. First of all, this is the heaviest weight among all types of radiators. Because of this, difficulties arise with the installation of devices. Outwardly everything cast iron radiators also do not look very aesthetically pleasing. However, this can be corrected by using gratings, but they will require additional space. Therefore, owners of small apartments prefer compact batteries with their own design. Another disadvantage is the possibility of defective cast radiator construction, which in the future will lead to coolant leaks. We can say that low cost cast iron battery is rarely a factor that can outweigh the significant advantages of devices made from other materials. After all, these advantages relate to the quality of heating, appearance and reliability of the design.
In general, any heating device that is made of two types of metal can be called bimetallic. For example, there are batteries made of copper coated with aluminum. Manufacturers are prompted to choose one or another combination of metals by the desire to combine their properties.
Although this is true, it is still customary to call a certain group of devices bimetallic, which are made of steel and coated with aluminum on the outside. It is this combination that is considered the most successful for the manufacture of a heating device.
What distinguishes these two metals?
The combination of steel and aluminum in the manufacture of a heating battery gives a combination of two remarkable properties:
Maximum internal strength;
Good thermal conductivity and uniform heating of the entire radiator.
Of course, this manufacturing method is more complicated and more expensive than if only one metal is used for the entire structure. Thus, one section of a bimetallic radiator can cost up to 700 rubles.
How to choose bimetallic heating radiators for an apartment?
There are now several large manufacturers of such devices on the market. The variety often confronts buyers with the difficult task of choosing which bimetallic radiators to choose. As a rule, the percentage of defects among products from different manufacturers is equally small and is easily detected upon inspection.
There are two main factors to consider:
Center-to-center distance of the liner.
Number of sections.
The center-to-center distance for bimetallic heating radiators can vary from 2.5 to 5 cm. Which model should you give preference to?
Let's think logically, based on the properties that distinguish models with smaller or larger interaxial liner distances.
If you need to decide which bimetallic heating radiators to choose to quickly replace an old cast-iron battery, then take a similar one with a distance of 5 cm.
If you want to replace the battery with a more compact one and are willing to spend money on adapting your connection, then choose any model with a small center distance. But do not forget that similar heating requires a larger number of such sections.
Aluminum batteries produced with the addition of silicon to the base metal. This allows us to make them much more durable and resistant to external influences. In order to inner surface, in contact with water, does not rust, it is often coated with polymer. The thickness of such a coating reaches 50 microns.
In general, models of heating batteries can differ radically from each other in size, design and other properties. The following classifications will help you decide which aluminum heating radiator to choose:
In general:
Panel, consisting of two plates welded together;
Tubular, the body of which consists of tubes;
Cast, manufactured by one-piece casting;
Extrusion, the design of which includes three elements bolted together. When assembling such models, it is important to take care of the tightness of the joints, for which special silicone gaskets are used.
By dimensions:
Radiators standard size 40 by 58 cm.
Low, the height of which can be up to 15 cm. Such heating devices will come in handy if there is no room in the room for standard ones. In this case, you can compensate for the level of heat transfer by increasing the width. The minimum height of a low radiator is 2 cm. Such models are also called plinth models.
Tall. In this case, on the contrary, the small width is compensated by an increase in height to several meters. Such heating batteries are suitable for rooms with high ceilings. There they will not take up much living space and will warm the air well. Companies produce models of this type in various design solutions, including, for example, towel holders. This makes them a beautiful and useful addition to a room's design.
If you want to choose such a radiator, the included thermostatic valve may be an additional advantage. A thermostat is attached to such a valve, which allows you to change the temperature in the apartment by adjusting the heating strength.
To choose an aluminum device, you can focus on several objective criteria:
Manufacturer. Which heating radiator manufacturer should you choose? It could be a European, Russian or Chinese company. Often pushes to choose the latter low price(about 50% lower than European prices). European models are preferred by wealthy people who are accustomed to focusing on quality. However, Russian manufacturers do not always lag behind foreign ones.
Dimensions. As we have already said, aluminum radiators can be up to 5 cm high. Such (standard) radiators can be chosen for ordinary apartment. They fit easily into their dimensions and provide sufficient heat. Devices with a smaller height are made for apartments with non-standard windows, under which a regular radiator simply will not fit.
Heat dissipation. Each radiator model may have a different heat transfer level than the standard. If we talk about devices standard height, then German radiators have the highest heat transfer. Next come Chinese and Russian manufacturers.
Price. Depending on which company you choose for an apartment heating radiator, what its heat output and size will be, you can end up with a completely different cost.
Here are a few useful tips, how to determine the quality of a particular model by appearance and other understandable factors:
First- pay attention to how much the radiator weighs. Divide its weight by the number of sections. Each of them must weigh at least 1 kg. Lower weight (for Chinese companies it can drop to 650 g per section) a priori means low quality. Experts recommend avoiding such devices.
Second– try to bend the radiator fins with your hands. If you select high-quality model, then the shape will never change under such a weak influence. Accordingly, the quality of the material, which bends easily, leaves much to be desired. Such batteries are also not worth taking if you do not want to face the problem of constant leakage.
AQUALINK® radiators can operate both with autonomous and centralized heating systems. Aluminum batteries, like bimetallic ones, have a number of features that adapt them to the specifics of Russian heating systems. The undoubted advantages of this brand also include high heat transfer and low inertia. The combination of these qualities ensures that the AQUALINK® battery will quickly heat the room to the desired temperature. The number of sections can vary from 4 to 12, so that you can choose the size of the radiator for any room. If you are still not sure which company to choose a heating radiator for your apartment, then take a closer look at AQUALINK®, a brand that, among other things, has a quality certificate in the GOST R system.
The last thing I would like to say is that now you can easily choose a radiator on the Internet. On the manufacturers' websites you can inspect the models, get acquainted with their characteristics and order delivery of the selected radiator directly to your home. A good online heating equipment store has online consultants who will help you make your choice and provide certificates of conformity. The SantekhStandard company will help you decide on the choice of equipment and place an order. You just need to contact us by phone:
Updated: 11/18/2018 18:13:24
Expert: Boris Mendel
*Review of the best sites according to the editors. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.
In almost every modern house or the apartment has a heating system. The radiator plays one of the key roles in it. It is this heating device that is responsible for heat exchange in the rooms. Today, the market offers a wide range of radiators that differ in material, shape, efficiency and price. The most popular on domestic market steel, aluminum and bimetallic products are used. Each of them has its own strengths and weaknesses. To choose the most suitable steel option, you should listen to the recommendations of experts.
Our review includes 9 of the best steel heating radiators. All of them have received approval from the expert community and Russian consumers.
|
Radiator type |
Advantages |
Flaws |
|
Steel |
Stylish design Reliability |
Low resistance to water hammer Tendency to rust |
|
Aluminum |
Light weight High strength Modern look Economical |
High price Requires constant care during operation |
|
Bimetallic |
High pressure resistance Quick warm-up Versatility |
High price Heavy weight |
In production panel radiators They are quite simple, and therefore their price is affordable. The steel sheet is stamped and then welded. The result is a single or multi-panel structure. Experts liked several modern models.
A good budget solution when designing a heating system for a private home would be to use Kermi FKO 22 500 600 steel batteries. The German manufacturer managed to achieve good energy efficiency from the steel model. The heat transfer rate is stated at 1158 W. Therefore, one element is capable of heating from 5 to 38 square meters. m of house area. The device is designed for maximum temperature 110°C and operating pressure up to 13 bar. The battery capacity is 3.24 liters and has a thickness of 100 mm. The radiator is made of high-quality steel with a thickness of 1.25 mm. Experts gave the model first place in our rating.
Users praise German batteries for their high-quality manufacturing, elegant appearance and ease of installation. The disadvantages of the model include the high price.
The excellent design of the ELSEN ERK 11 600 radiator attracts the attention of buyers. The English device is made in different countries, so the price may fluctuate. The production operates a multi-stage quality control system. All operations are performed automatically, minimizing the impact human factor. To manufacture the heating battery, high-quality steel with a thickness of 1.25 mm is used; the finished product can withstand pressure up to 16 atm. Experts note serious anti-corrosion preparation. It includes operations such as phosphating, priming and painting. Considering its affordability, the model deserves second place in the ranking.
They often compare on forums steel radiators ELSEN with reference Kermi. But only original products deserve praise.
Finnish steel radiators Purmo Compact 21s 500 are designed for various types of heating systems. Both metal and polymer pipelines can be connected to them. The model is designed for a maximum temperature of 110°C, it is tested at a pressure of 13 atmospheres. Experts note a high heat transfer rate, which reaches 3468 W. The largest modification of the device holds 16.5 liters of coolant, which can be water or antifreeze. The radiator has side connection It is convenient to mount the device on the wall thanks to the adjustable holders.
A worthy competitor to the leaders in the rating is the steel radiator with bottom connection Buderus Logatrend VK-Profil 22 500. The affordable price of the heating device is successfully combined with high heat output (up to 5478 W). This allows you to heat rooms measuring 54.6 square meters. m. Experts highlight resistance to high coolant temperatures (up to 120°C); in this component it has no equal. Structurally, the battery has two panels, the total thickness is 100 mm. In this case, you will have to fill 18.9 liters of water or antifreeze into one radiator; this is not the most economical option.
Users have mixed opinions regarding corrosion resistance. Some homeowners with good water treatment have no problems, others complain about increased wear and tear.
Another steel radiator with a bottom connection made it into our rating. The model from the Netherlands Stelrad Novello 21 500 boasts a heat output of 3459 W. The product is designed for a coolant temperature of 110°C, the testing pressure should not exceed 13 bar. The capacity of one radiator is 16.89 liters. The battery has a two-panel design, and its thickness is 77 mm. The device is equipped with an adjusting valve that simplifies the adjustment of thermal power. On back wall The batteries have mounting lugs for installation.
In general, the model is made with high quality, it looks stylish, but there are a number of shortcomings. The disadvantages include the high price, large radiator volume, and installation difficulties.
Tubular steel radiators are a system of several vertical sections. They connect to each other at the top and bottom points of contact. Tubular batteries are characterized by high heat transfer and high cost. Experts have identified several worthy devices.
For many manufacturers, tubular radiators Zehnder Charleston 2180 1792 are the standard. Therefore, on the domestic market you can find many copies that are cheaper, but in many respects worse than the sample. The German manufacturer boasts a glorious history; the first tubular steel radiator was patented in 1930 by the company's founder, Jacob Zehnder. Constant development allows the brand to remain a leader. The device has a domestic hygiene certificate obtained from the Novosibirsk Research Institute. The anti-corrosion coating will not emit harmful compounds, so the radiator is recommended for use in children's institutions.
Installers and users in reviews praise the German battery for its excellent quality and unique style. Only the high price becomes a deterrent to purchase.
The Finnish manufacturer offers its customers the opportunity to choose colors. Tubular steel Radiator Purmo Delta Laserline 218 is supplied with a mounting kit with 4 mounting points. Heating devices are supplied for sale with both bottom and side connection options. Experts note the possibility of installing a radiator both front and rear. Laser welding affects the ideal smoothness and evenness of the seams. When viewed from the side, the shape of the outer pipes resembles the letter D, which is reflected in the designation of the series. This configuration was not chosen for aesthetic reasons. Heating of the room occurs faster.
Both experts and users note the high quality of Finnish devices. If they are inferior in some way to the leader of the rating, it is only at a higher price.
IN wide range power, the user can choose the Dia Norm Delta Standart 3057 radiator. The devices are supplied to the retail chain in a variety of designs, with bottom or side connections. For example, the 8-section version with side trim has a power of 512 W, and for its 30-section counterpart this figure reaches 2820 W. In modern manufacturing, the radiator is not inferior to the leaders in the rating. The battery is made of steel 1.25 mm thick. The elements are welded using laser equipment, and the coating is applied by electrostatic spraying.
The quality of German products is at high level, this is confirmed by users in reviews. Difficulties arise only with independent connection. The model takes 3rd place in the ranking.
Another representative of the glorious German family came to the attention of the expert community. The sections of the Zehnder Charleston 3057 566 model are tubular in shape and connected at the manifold part by welding. With a radiator height of 570 mm, the width of the 10-section structure is 460 mm. The manufacturer took a particularly careful approach to protecting the steel product from corrosion. The five-stage technology includes cleaning, priming, powder coating in electrostatics, drying and antistatic treatment.
The issue of choosing a suitable radiator for heating a house or apartment plays an important role. After all, safety, the possibility of saving on energy resources, compliance with interior design, warmth, and therefore a feeling of comfort in the home depend on this. To answer the question for central heating, you first need to establish the technical characteristics and operating features of each type of modern battery.
Choosing a heating radiator must take into account many factors.
When purchasing a radiator, the following aspects are important:
Also choice heating radiators is largely determined by the system in which they will be installed - central or autonomous.
Centralized system used in apartment buildings, has the following features:
The choice of radiator is also directly influenced by the technical characteristics of the heating system, which are determined by:
The main types of radiators have the following characteristics:
Also, do not forget about such nuances as the presence of a thermostat, pipe diameter, window width.
Cast iron radiators. The leading type of radiator in terms of popularity for several decades. Only the appearance has changed significantly - there are models that are real designer samples (their cost is appropriate). Good for use in residential and industrial multi-storey buildings.
Advantages:
Flaws:
Aluminum radiators. Currently very popular among Russians. They consist of sections, the number of which depends on the area of the heated room. Exactly this type characterized by the highest degree of heating, achieved due to the high thermal conductivity of the metal itself and an increase in the thermal conductivity area, thanks to a developed finning system. Based on their design, there are sectional and solid models.
For centralized heating systems, aluminum radiators are not recommended for use. Because in the presence of oxygen in the coolant, this metal oxidizes, and “airing” of the sections occurs due to the release of hydrogen. To avoid this, the device requires regular maintenance and air pumping.
Advantages:
Flaws:
Steel radiators. A common type in low-rise private construction. For central heating not the best option, because the:
Advantages:
Flaws:
Bimetallic radiators. They combine the advantages of the two previous types of radiators due to a special design - an aluminum shell and a steel core. They are used for any type of heating, but have proven themselves especially well in high-rise buildings with central heating.
Advantages:
Flaws:
So, it is not possible to give a definite answer to the question of which heating radiators are better for central heating, since each specific situation is individual and the choice depends on the characteristics of living conditions and the price range. But in general, expert opinions boil down to the following:
Reading time ≈ 8 minutes
If you want to determine which heating battery is best for an apartment, then first of all you should not discount the difference in the source of coolant, that is, perhaps both centralized and autonomous. For the effect of heating the room, there is practically no difference here, but the pressure in the circuit differs, therefore, the source material from which the device is made must be of appropriate strength. But when choosing a radiator made of any metal or alloy, there are also some nuances that will have to be taken into account.
Pressure difference in the system with centralized heating
In order to select heating radiators for an apartment in a multi-storey building, you will have to take into account the possible operating and pressure testing pressure in the system. First of all, you should consider the load on the circuits when connecting to centralized boiler houses or CHP plants. In this case, we are not interested in static (gauge) or dynamic pressure - we will leave that to the designers.
The pressure in the system is influenced by the following factors:
Taking into account all the factors listed above, the working pressure can be:
To identify defects and prevent breakthroughs from water hammer during startup, a pressure test is used that exceeds the working pressure by 0.5-1.5 times, that is, such a test involves a load of up to 15 atmospheres, which not every radiator can withstand.
In autonomous heating systems, this issue is most often not even considered, since there the pressure does not exceed 1-3 atmospheres, and when this threshold rises, the boiler is triggered safety valve. There are, of course, some brands of boilers where the heat exchanger is capable of withstanding up to 7 atmospheres, but this is the safety margin of the unit, and not the need of the circuit, so the valve will operate at 4 atmospheres or before reaching this mark.
All heating devices can be divided not only by the original material of manufacture, but also by their design. They are mainly divided into four types:
Heating radiators - which ones are better?
Let's consider a number of options, taking into account starting materials. That is, the choice of heating devices depends on these parameters; they may or may not be suitable simply due to technical or aesthetic characteristics.
Aluminum radiators different sizes and power
There is a lot of talk about aluminum radiators as some kind of know-how or just some kind of super-structure that can provide the maximum heat transfer and energy savings for the boiler. In fact, this is far from true, and more precisely, it is not true at all. The only truth here is that aluminum has very good heat dissipation and... Yes, that's all! It is heat transfer that lies in the artificially created excitement around aluminum; in addition, this metal has more critical disadvantages.
Firstly, this is a low resistance to pressure and, in order not to go into calculations, let’s say that they are suitable exclusively for autonomous heating, where the operating pressure does not exceed 2-3 atmospheres. In addition, aluminum itself is a rather “delicate” metal and water with its salts and alkalis will destroy it. Consequently, the use of aluminum depends entirely on the quality of the coolant, which is only possible in the private sector or.
To be more precise, you have to add drugs like antifreeze to the water (more on this separately). Not a single centralized boiler house in the world has yet provided the proper conditions for aluminum radiators!
Copper heaters made according to the “buleryan” principle
It would be wrong to remain silent about copper heaters made on the convector principle or “buleryan” - these are perhaps the most the best devices, based on the principle of heat transfer, although they are used extremely rarely. Of course, this is not so surprising, since copper is the most expensive of the non-ferrous metals (precious ones are not taken into account). Here, plate radiators and those made according to the “buleryan” principle behave best, although I did not mention them in the “Selection of radiators” header, but this is not so important.
Note. Most often, such devices are made in the form of plate structures - they are much cheaper, but less effective. The Buleryan system has the highest heat transfer of all possible at the moment!
Of course, copper is stronger than aluminum and can be used in high-rise buildings, it is very effective, beautiful and convenient, but... too expensive. Firstly, if you need to find out which heating battery is best for an apartment, then first of all you are interested in heat transfer and pressure resistance, that is, service life. Secondly, you will ask how much it costs and the second question will most often be fatal... You will politely refuse and buy another heating device, especially since they are more suitable for autonomous heating.
Cast iron radiators are known to all people
Finally, we came to such familiar and familiar cast-iron radiators that are familiar to any tenant of an apartment in a multi-storey building, but I want to warn you - do not consider them “suck” - this is not just a delusion, but basic technical illiteracy. First of all, cast iron is one of the metals that is least susceptible to corrosion, and this is very convenient in high-rise buildings, since there is no fear of rusting when draining the coolant. In addition, cast iron itself is a weak heat-conducting material, that is, it takes a long time to heat up, but it takes a long time to cool down. It was this factor that became the decisive argument when choosing heaters for the apartments of Soviet citizens!
But that’s not all - cast iron can withstand operating pressure up to 16 MPa (maximum pressure testing or water hammer), and also maintain temperature (this has already been mentioned, but it’s not superfluous). Some people may not be happy with the appearance of a cast iron battery, but do not forget that this is one of the most effective for central heating systems! For autonomous structures, cast iron is unacceptable due to the duration of heating of the sections.
Panel type steel radiators
First of all, we can mention that the technical characteristics of steel heating devices are no worse (and even better) than those of cast iron radiators, but the problem is that ordinary black steel is susceptible to corrosion. There is no point in understanding the characteristics of materials - this is not the topic, it’s just steel battery It won’t last long, although it doesn’t care about any pressure changes. Such devices can be of any configuration listed in the “Selection of radiators” section.
Note. From personal practice. A steel radiator of 6 sections leaked in the 5th year of operation. The rib on the bottom rusted; I first repaired it with dry welding, and at the end of the heating season I simply removed it and threw it away.
Bimetal radiators of different sizes
Now let's talk about the best household appliances heating - about which can withstand the most high pressure and temperatures in the heating circuit and at the same time have the highest operational life. So, the walls of such a device are made of two metals - steel and aluminum, therefore, one element is responsible for the maximum strength of the heater (steel), and the other for the maximum heat transfer efficiency (aluminum). Such a tandem can be called the most successful option of all devices for centralized or autonomous heating systems of radiator circuits.
Features of choosing radiators
Perhaps you will not dispute the question of which heating radiators are better for an apartment if the answer suggests itself - bimetallic ones. But don’t rush into buying and first understand the classification of such devices - research is never superfluous!
Every owner wants his apartment to be warm, cozy and comfortable. Among the many offers, we often begin to doubt and get lost in choosing, so we will tell you about which heating batteries are best for an apartment in this publication.
If you go to the store and start studying the assortment of heating radiators, even a whole day will not be enough, because the models differ not only in the number of sections and dimensions, but also:
It is also worth considering the country in which the radiators are manufactured. This, as well as brand recognition, often influences the cost of products. For an apartment, it is important to choose the highest quality model with the longest possible service life, without overpaying just for the brand name.
On a note! Heating devices are manufactured in accordance with GOST 31311-2005. Cast iron radiators are subject to standard number 8690 from 1994.
Prices for cast iron radiators can vary greatly. New elite-class and designer products are much more expensive than classic models.
When choosing such a device, you should consider:
- heavy weight of both floor and hanging products;
- complexity of installation. It will be difficult or impossible to cope alone;
- the need to tighten connections before installation;
- the need to install a multi-section radiator, since the room is heated mainly by radiation, and convection accounts for no more than 25%;
- impossibility hidden installation radiators and pipelines;
- difficulty in cleaning and painting.
Advice! In order for the radiator to work properly and at full capacity, it must be repaired every few years. The sediment from the coolant settling in the sections reduces the heat transfer level of the device.
The best floor-mounted sectional cast iron radiators for an apartment.
Model Heat dissipation Center distance, mm Maximum operating temperature, °C Weight of one section, kg Estimated cost of one section (as of 2019), rub. ΔT = 60°C heat transfer 120 W. 300 110 9,44 8 / 10,5 From 8 662 ΔT =60°C heat transfer 118 W. ΔT =70°C heat transfer 144 W.
400 110 8,2 10 / 15 From 4 260 ΔT =60°C heat transfer 163 W. 500 110 11 8 / 15 From 3 520 Important! Don’t forget to consider the type and diameter of the connection when choosing a radiator for your apartment.
The best wall-mounted sectional cast iron radiators for an apartment.
Model Heat dissipation Center distance and dimensions, mm Connection type Weight of one section, kg Working and testing pressure, bar Estimated cost (as of 2019), rub. ΔT =70°C heat transfer 87.5 W. 500 Lateral 4,9 12 / 18 7 sections from 7 378 ΔT =60°C heat transfer 53.9 W. 500 Bottom side 4 18 / 27 1 section from 1,497 ΔT =60°C heat transfer 146.9 W. 500 Lateral 5,5 10 / 15 1 section from 2 360 Do not know, how to change the heating battery in an apartment? Start by studying the theory to avoid mistakes during installation. Check out. Do not forget that replacement of radiators during the heating season is carried out only after obtaining the appropriate permission.
Steel
Steel heating radiators are not the best option for installation in an apartment because:
- react negatively to coolant drainage;
- have a small operating pressure - up to 6 atmospheres;
- vulnerable to water hammer;
- incompatible with some polypropylene pipes.
Despite significant shortcomings, steel radiators are presented in a large assortment with a good price-quality ratio. Such devices can be equipped with a thermostat, hidden installation is possible.
Steel heating radiators are best installed in high-rise buildings with autonomous heating or private houses.
Aluminum
Radiators of convective-radiation type, designed for operating pressure up to 9 atmospheres. They quickly warm up rooms and can be equipped with a thermostat. Such heating batteries are much lighter than cast iron ones, but at the same time they have high heat transfer.
However, these advantages are offset by one significant drawback. Aluminum radiators are too sensitive to chemical composition water. And in city apartments it is very difficult to control the quality of the coolant.
In addition, aluminum is a soft metal; pressure drops in the system (water hammer), which often occur in multi-story buildings, significantly reduce the service life of the device and lead to breakdowns.
It is better to install aluminum radiators in private homes, provided that non-freezing liquid is not used as the coolant, and the system will provide for automatic air release (or a gas/air release valve must be installed on each radiator).
Combination of metals
Namely, a combination of steel or copper pipes inside and aluminum panels outside. Such radiators are called bimetallic. Products made of steel and aluminum are lightweight, durable, highly efficient, and operate for more than 20 years without maintenance.
Bimetallic radiators are produced by the companies Santekhprom (Russia), Royal Thermo (Russia) and Global (Italy).
Which bimetallic radiators are best for an apartment?
You can always choose an option to suit your taste, color, budget, and we offer a table to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of popular models.
Brand Model Section weight, kg 115 185 2,3 110 185 2,2 110 171 1,85 110 171 1,87 110 188 1,94 In addition, many positive feedback assembled the Profi Bm 500 model from the Russian brand Rommer.
The radiator manifold is completely steel. The design was developed by leading Russian engineers in accordance with GOST. The sections have an injury-proof design without sharp corners and edges. Decorative coating applied in two stages (cataphoresis method). Each section weighs one and a half kilograms and holds 180 ml of water. The heat transfer of one section at ∆T = 70°C is 143.3 W. And the price of one section is less than five hundred rubles.
One more thing worth paying attention to Russian brand- Halsen The company produces sectional radiators using injection molding and provides a twenty-year warranty on its products. Model BS 500 with ten sections weighs only 17 kg, product dimensions are 80 x 96 x 56.8 cm. The thermal power of one section is 183 W. The device is compatible with plastic, steel and copper pipes, is resistant to water hammer, and the tightness is not compromised upon contact with aggressive liquids. All Halsen products comply with GOST 31311-2005.
There are also semi-bimetallic radiators. That is, only the “core” pipes are made of steel. All other radiator elements are aluminum. Due to this combination, heat transfer is slightly improved (compared to the previous option) and the price is reduced.
Semi-metallic radiators are produced under the brands Rifar (Russia), Gordi (China), Sira (Italy).
Brand Model Maximum coolant temperature, °C Heat transfer at ∆T = 70°C, W Section weight, kg Rifar 135 138 / 196 1,45 /2,1 Gordi 135 170 1,9 Sira 110 145 / 201 1,48 / 1,92 Radiators made of aluminum and steel can be sectional or solid.
The characteristics of bimetallic radiators made of steel and aluminum must be within the following limits:
- heat transfer 170-190 W at ΔT =70°C;
- working pressure of at least 16 atmospheres. In a centralized heating system, a pressure of about 10 atmospheres is maintained. With a sharp increase in pressure, the radiator should not burst;
- center distance 200, 300, 350, 500 or 800 mm. This parameter is selected according to the existing heating pipe layout in the apartment;
- The maximum withstand temperature is 90°C. Typically, the coolant temperature in apartment buildings is 5-10°C lower than this indicator.
Video - How to choose a bimetallic radiator?
Electric radiators
They are usually not used in apartments as the main source of heat, except for short periods of the year, when the radiators are already or still cold, and outside the window the thermometer suddenly quickly crept down. To avoid wrapping yourself in 5 blankets and going to bed with the oven open (this is very, very unsafe!), you just need to plug in an oil radiator or convector.
Oil heaters
- Installation type: floor only.
- The number of instrument sections is from 3 to 14.
- Radiator power up to 3000 W.
- The height of radiators is usually in the range of 50-80 cm, width up to half a meter.
- Oil radiators weigh a lot - up to 30 kg. It is better not to purchase models that are too light.
- Additional options: fan, humidifier, heated towel rail, tip-over sensor, automatic switch-on function and protection of the room from freezing.
Calculator for calculating the number of sections for a heating radiator
