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Rare cases of installing new batteries are invariably accompanied by the question, which heating radiator is better? There are several selection criteria: material of manufacture, design, under which heating system the batteries are intended. Studying the characteristics of various heating devices will help you navigate a wide range of products.

Types of radiators

The choice of radiators for heating an apartment is a multifaceted issue. The monotony of cast iron batteries is a thing of the past, now the market is saturated with products from different materials which differ in design, shape and color. Of course, exclusive designer models will cost much more. But first of all, the operational characteristics of the batteries deserve attention, and only then their appearance and organic perception in the interior of the apartment.

Depending on the material of manufacture, heating radiators are divided into the following types:

  • cast iron;
  • aluminum;
  • bimetallic, where the aluminum outer part has a steel coating inside;
  • steel;
  • copper.

The material of manufacture determines the quality parameters of the batteries. Operating pressure radiators - a key criterion that is paid attention to when choosing.

Among the main indicators:

  • heat capacity;
  • heat transfer coefficient;
  • period of operation;
  • resistance to mechanical stress.

Among the entire range, as always, there are bestsellers and outsiders. The combination of quality characteristics and cost determines the popularity of one or another type of battery for heating an apartment.

The form of heating is another factor influencing the choice of material. A centralized heat supply system does not guarantee a high quality of the coolant, so it is better to refuse aluminum models in an apartment. If the room is equipped with autonomous heating, there are no restrictions on the choice of material, aluminum appliances, on the contrary, come to the fore.

The design of heating devices also matters. All radiators are conditionally divided into two large groups- sectional and panel. The first option allows you to adjust the number of sections. The second group is divided into tubular and panel heaters.

When choosing a shape, preference is given to streamlined models. Sharp corners are especially avoided if children live in the apartment. The method of connection to the general heating system is also important. There are bottom, side and universal connections. Usually, modern radiators provide the opportunity to choose any connection method.

Traditionally, heating radiators are chosen in white. But this element of the interior can be made accented if you choose a non-standard bright model. From the point of view of operation, black batteries are the most profitable, the heat transfer of which is a quarter higher than their light counterparts. But such an element in the design of an apartment is not always appropriate, so it is better to focus on your own taste.

When purchasing a heating radiator, it is advisable to pay attention to the environmental friendliness of the materials used in the production. The absence of formaldehyde on the internal elements and the surface with high-quality polymer spraying - best option for installation in an apartment.

A detailed description of each type will help you understand your choice.

Characteristics of cast iron batteries

The heating system of the old housing stock was equipped exclusively with cast-iron radiators. Therefore, a standard picture of several white sections is imprinted in the memory of every inhabitant of the apartment. Modern battery models look much more aesthetically pleasing in an apartment. But at the same time, cast iron did not change its characteristics, retaining all the advantages and disadvantages of the material.

Consider the advantages of cast-iron batteries, for which the builders of Soviet apartments loved them so much:

  • Durability. Cast iron radiators can serve for 40 years without repairing breakdowns. Batteries from other materials cannot boast of such indicators.
  • Reliability. Cast iron batteries withstand an operating pressure of 25-30 atm., When the average varies within 16 atm.
  • High heat capacity. Cast iron takes a long time to warm up and cools down slowly. The residual heat retention rate is 30%, which is 2 times more than in products made of aluminum or steel.
  • The material is resistant to corrosion processes, at a water pH of 7-9 units, the integrity of the radiators is maintained for the period declared by the manufacturer.
  • Cast iron batteries are suitable for apartments with central heating, where there is a low-quality coolant saturated with impurities.
  • Standard cast iron radiators are inexpensive and available to a wide range of consumers. The exorbitant cost is found on designer models, where the price of one battery reaches 1000 euros, and taking into account the valves, all 1250 euros.

Good performance characteristics of cast iron radiators are accompanied by a number of disadvantages:

  • big weight;
  • prolonged heating of the metal;
  • uninteresting appearance.

Comment! The large weight of cast iron radiators creates problems during transportation, during loading, unloading and installation of heating devices.

But, despite the negative aspects, the need for cast-iron batteries remains. Quality, proven for decades, used to be trusted. And the standard configuration has been replaced by new stylish models that do not spoil the interior of the apartment. Surface coating in the factory with a special protective paint eliminates the need for regular painting of radiators directly in the apartment.

The convenience of sectional models is the ability to build up radiators. Their number is determined taking into account the following factors:

  • area of ​​the apartment;
  • the number and size of window openings;
  • Number of doors;
  • climatic zone of the region.

Comparative characteristics of cast iron batteries are shown in the table below:

There are models where wall mounting is not required, the battery is equipped with stylish legs. Cast iron products are rarely chosen for apartments with autonomous heating, since the ability to quickly adjust the temperature regime is offset by the feature of the material to cool slowly.

Aluminum products

The theme of which heating radiators are better for an apartment is continued by aluminum products. Perhaps this is the only material that is not suitable for rooms with central heating. If the apartment is equipped with an autonomous system, then installing an aluminum battery would be appropriate.

The reason lies in the characteristics of the material. Aluminum is inherently thin and therefore susceptible to corrosion. Due to the poor quality of water in the heating system, after 6-7 years there is a possibility of failure of the radiator. Where there is no problem of impurities in the coolant, aluminum heating appliances will become a worthy element of the interior of the apartment.

What is useful to know if the choice fell on the installation of aluminum heating radiators in the apartment:

  • The service life, subject to filling with high-quality coolant, is 20-25 years. The pH level of water should not exceed 5-6 units.
  • The operating pressure declared by the manufacturer is 15-20 atm, although in practice the indicator is usually limited to 12 atm.
  • Conical shut-off valves are the best choice when installing aluminum heating radiators in an apartment. Attention! Copper, steel and brass fittings are not suitable for mounting aluminum products in an apartment heating system. Otherwise, there is a risk of corrosion.
  • Light weight is an undoubted advantage of aluminum batteries. Transportation, unloading and installation is not difficult. The process can be organized by one person.
  • If the radiator is connected to the central heating system, be sure to install a Mayevsky valve for manual air release.
  • Aluminum is characterized by the lowest inertia, so the batteries have a high heat output, which varies between 200-210 W per 1 section.
  • One section contains 0.4-0.45 liters of water. The usual operating temperature for radiators is in the range of 70-80°C, the maximum limit is 90°C.
  • A wide range of radiators is represented by models with a height of 25, 35 and 50 cm. If desired, you can order specimens with a height of 70 and 80 cm.

The production of aluminum radiators is carried out in two ways: extrusion and casting. The choice of technology significantly affects the quality characteristics of radiators.

Budget copies are made by extrusion. Based on recycled aluminum alloy and silicon additives. The presence of additional impurities worsens the characteristics of heating radiators. The material becomes more brittle and susceptible to corrosion damage.

Casting provides each section of the aluminum battery with perfect tightness. The working pressure of such products is higher. The smooth surface of the heater makes it easy to clean.

When conducting a comparative characteristic of the quality of heating radiators, specimens with an anodized coating are in the lead. The oxidized anode helps to increase the resistance of products to corrosion processes, so low-quality coolant does not pose a threat to them. In this case, the working pressure rises to 20-25 atm. Externally, anode heating radiators are no different from ordinary products made by casting, but their cost is incomparably higher. Evidence of special coverage is a certificate of quality and a passport. It is better to purchase such batteries for arranging heating in an apartment at proven points of sale.

Comparative characteristics of aluminum heating radiators from various manufacturers are shown in the table:

Varieties of steel radiators

Production steel radiators made from low carbon steel. Special enamel creates a good protective layer on the surface, preventing damage from aggressive mechanical and chemical impacts.

Advice! When buying, pay attention to the uniformity of applying a protective layer of paint. Poorly treated areas are susceptible to corrosion.

The choice of the consumer is offered tubular and panel models of steel radiators.

Panel

The heating device consists of two ribbed plates made by casting. There is a sealed circuit inside. The movement of the coolant goes along the contour, providing heating in the apartment. The ribbed surface of the radiator panels contributes to efficient heat transfer. The thermal conductivity of steel is equivalent to cast iron, but due to the thin walls of the batteries, warming up lasts less time.

The main characteristics of steel panel batteries:

Type 10 is characterized by maximum simplicity. But the efficiency of its heat transfer is extremely low due to the lack of a convector. The cost of the product is also low.

Steel models vary in size. Depending on the size of the apartment for heating, you can choose batteries with a height of 20 to 90 cm, a length of 40 cm to 3 m. When considering how to choose a radiator, they do not bypass the type of connection. Steel appliances have a side or bottom option.

With the numerous advantages of steel panel heating radiators, there are certain negative points:

  • It is better not to install small-sized structures in an apartment with autonomous heating. A small amount of coolant provokes frequent shutdowns of the boiler, which will increase energy consumption. With central heating, the dimensions of the batteries do not really matter.
  • If the inner surface of the radiators does not have a protective layer, there is a risk of corrosion due to damage by abrasive particles that are in a low-quality coolant.

Installing a panel radiator with a bottom connection for heating an apartment shows a photo:

Tubular

The design consists of several pipes hermetically connected to each other by welding. Unlike cast iron radiators, steel tubular models cannot be extended or removed individual sections. The operating pressure of the batteries is only 8-10 atm., Therefore, it is better to equip the heating device with a reducer that smooths out pressure drops.

Important! A significant advantage of tubular radiators compared to panel models is their greater resistance to abrasive substances and corrosion processes.

A wide range of tubular steel batteries allows you to choose a product that best matches the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe apartment, taking into account the number and size of windows. Manufacturing options:

  • the height of tubular radiators varies from 20 to 60 cm;
  • depth from 10 to 25 cm;
  • the length is selected based on the need for power of heating radiators.

Numerous advantages of steel batteries are accompanied by an acceptable cost of products. Transportation and installation is not difficult. Low requirements for the coolant allow you to install in an apartment with central heating.

To understand which radiator is better to install in your own apartment, a comparative table of models of famous brands will help:

Bimetallic specimens

Bimetallic radiators are considered a practical symbiosis of steel and aluminum heating devices. Combining the advantages of two materials, they are great for heating an apartment with central heating. The only obstacle may be the high cost of products.

A prominent representative of functional heating devices are models of the Stoup brand. The main performance characteristics of radiators:

  • working pressure reaches 100 atmospheres;
  • withstand coolant temperature up to 135оС;
  • the manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty;
  • models include batteries with the number of sections from 4 to 14, which allows you to choose the best option for an apartment of any size.

The production of radiators is carried out from steel and aluminum with the addition of silicon compounds, which improves the technical properties of heating devices. The internal structure of the structure is shown in the photo below:

Comment! In some models, the steel core is replaced by copper, which is especially valuable for autonomous heating where there is a need to add antifreeze to the system.

Advantages of bimetallic radiators for apartment heating:

  • Ribbed panels increase heat transfer efficiency.
  • The low weight facilitates the installation procedure.
  • The smooth surface is easy to clean, dust practically does not accumulate on it.
  • The inner protective layer prevents damage by abrasive particles of the coolant and prevents the development of corrosion.

The strength and reliability of bimetallic radiators is especially valuable in apartments with central heating. According to manufacturers, the service life reaches half a century. The table presents a comparative description of individual models of bimetallic radiators:

copper batteries

The high cost of copper radiators is the main reason for the low demand for such heating devices for an apartment. The technical characteristics of the products are not inferior to bimetallic and aluminum batteries. Among the undeniable advantages of copper models:

  • The efficiency exceeds that of cast-iron batteries by 5 times. Rapid heating takes place with minimal energy consumption.
  • High strength. Working pressure reaches 20-25 atmospheres. This indicator is always important for apartments with a central heating system.
  • Ideal for regions with a harsh climate, withstands coolant temperatures up to 140 ° C.
  • The copper radiator is resistant to antifreeze, so it is often chosen for autonomous heating.
  • Long period of operation. This indicator is not inferior to cast iron and bimetallic batteries.

In addition to the high price, among the negative points, the need to connect to the heating system exclusively to copper pipes is distinguished.

Conclusion

Each of the presented types of radiators has undeniable advantages and some disadvantages. Steel and aluminum heating appliances are in the lead among competitors due to their high technical characteristics combined with affordable prices. The choice of batteries is based on the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe apartment. What matters is the working pressure that the device is able to withstand and its resistance to negative impact factors.

2018-09-26

Not only the efficiency of the heating system, but also its durability depends on the choice of suitable batteries. Therefore, this step is very important, and it is given Special attention. It should also be taken into account that heating in apartment buildings is most often centralized, which means that the batteries will be subject to various hazards, such as water hammer. Which heating radiators are best for an apartment? Our detailed overview, in which we will look at commercially available radiators and find out which ones are suitable for an apartment installation.

Features of centralized heating systems

Scheme of central heating in apartment buildings.

Heating a multi-storey building requires the construction of a large boiler room, where a powerful gas boiler is installed. From here, pipes of solid thickness are sent to the house, along which the coolant moves. And the higher the multi-storey building, the higher the coolant pressure, since it needs to rise to great height and go through hundreds of radiators, overcoming high hydraulic resistance.

As for multi-storey buildings with individual apartment heating, they are much less common. This is how they build houses with a height of 3-5 floors, where it is more profitable to create several autonomous heating systems than to build and maintain a common boiler room - this requires additional funds and additional human resources to maintain boiler equipment. But the pressure in autonomous systems is much lower - the batteries will be in comparative safety.

As you can already understand, the main enemy of heating batteries in apartment buildings with a centralized heating system is high coolant pressure. Due to it, the batteries often begin to flow, or even burst completely, being subjected to the pressure of water. Subsequent repairs result not only in the replacement of the batteries themselves, but also in a full-fledged repair of an apartment (sometimes not one’s own, but a neighbor’s).

It must be remembered that the higher the building, the higher the pressure in the pipes. The highest rate is in modern houses up to 20-26 floors (and above).

Centralized heating systems are fraught with other dangers:

Water hammer instantly increases the pressure in the heating system and not all radiators can withstand it.

  • Water hammer - they occur as a result of pressure drops. If the boiler room employees open the coolant supply too abruptly, or shut it off just as abruptly, then the pipes and heating radiators in the houses will undergo a powerful blow. And many radiators, for example, aluminum ones, may not withstand such an impact and burst, flooding hot water rooms and household items;
  • The low quality of the coolant is another factor that negatively affects not only pipes, but also radiators. It often contains quite active chemical components that damage the metal. Also, fine mechanical impurities of various origins affect corrosion - they have an equally negative effect on radiators and pipes;
  • Temperature fluctuations - it cannot be said that they have a direct effect on heating equipment, but as the temperature rises, so does the pressure. Therefore, some batteries simply do not withstand and burst, as they are not designed for such temperature loads.

What batteries are better to put in the apartment

We already know what threatens radiators in centralized heating systems. These are high pressure and water hammer - the rest can be neglected (to some extent). How to choose heating radiators for an apartment and what are the requirements for them? Everything is easy and simple here, which will be described below.

Resistant to high pressure and water hammer

The best heating batteries for an apartment are those that can withstand high pressure. The higher the house, the higher the maximum possible pressure in the battery should be. You also need to remember about possible water hammer, so this figure is doubled. Considering that the pressure in the heating systems of high-rise buildings reaches 15-16 atmospheres, then the batteries must withstand a maximum pressure of up to 32 atmospheres.

Corrosion resistance

Many models of radiators are subject to corrosion. Especially dangerous is electrical corrosion, which can occur at the junction of different metals.

Far from flowing in the pipes of heating systems pure water. There are also quite aggressive components used to clean pipes and radiators from corrosion. Together with rust and scale, aggressive components eat through the metal. And if the same cast iron can still boast of resistance, then aluminum under such influence is subject to destruction. Mechanical impurities do require the use of thick-walled metal that is resistant to mechanical stress.

Design and brand

Which heating batteries are better for an apartment, and which ones are better for a house? In private houses, we are free to use any heating batteries, since there we are independently responsible for the absence of water hammer and for the quality of the coolant. Therefore, there we often use fairly cheap radiators, from which great endurance is not required (especially if an open-type heating system is installed in the house).

Concerning apartment buildings, then here you need to pay attention to the most durable batteries from leading brands. For example, it can be heating radiators from Kermi, Global or Fondital. Products from German manufacturers have the best quality, but here you need to be prepared for high costs. But such radiators can be used in heating batteries of any type - they are the most reliable and durable.

As for Chinese batteries, there is always a chance of running into trouble. For example, some manufacturers frankly "hack" by reducing the thickness of the metal. As a result, the batteries are thin and flimsy. Therefore, it is best to rely on European brands.

Modern models of antique cast iron radiators.

Battery design plays great value. Recently, thin panel and sectional radiators have become the most popular. They have an attractive appearance and good efficiency - manufacturers are doing everything possible to combine high quality assembly, excellent design and high heat dissipation. An interesting fact is that cast iron batteries have begun to appear on the market again, but now they have a rather interesting retro design.

It is cast iron batteries that can withstand almost any trouble that heating systems can create. But this comes at the cost of bulkiness and low efficiency.

High heat dissipation

Since we are talking about efficiency, when choosing radiators, you need to pay attention to heat dissipation. The higher this parameter, the warmer it will be in your apartment at the same coolant temperature. Some models of aluminum and bimetallic heating radiators have a heat output of up to 200 W and more per section. For old cast-iron batteries, this figure is about one and a half times higher, but they are more reliable and durable.

Which radiators to choose for heating an apartment

Which heating radiators are better to choose for your apartment? The choice of consumers are cast-iron radiators, steel, aluminum and bimetallic. Let's try to figure out how they differ from each other and which ones are best suited for an apartment installation.

Cast iron radiators

These are the oldest radiators on the market for heating equipment. They differ in solid dimensions, as they are made of thick cast iron. Such radiators withstand pressure drops, withstand water hammer and high temperatures. They are also able to work with aggressive coolant. Everything would be fine, but they are characterized by low heat dissipation, which makes them somewhat unsuitable for use in cold regions.

Their disadvantages also include:

  • Inconvenience in installation - high weight affects;
  • Not too attractive external data;
  • Not suitable for use in high-rise buildings (above 5-9 floors).

Otherwise, these are good radiators, hardy and strong. Recently, the market has appeared and quite modern models, with acceptable dimensions and decent appearance. And they can be mounted in low-rise buildings, where they will serve for many years.

Steel radiators

Looking at modern steel panel radiators, you immediately begin to understand that they obviously cannot withstand a lot of pressure. And this is true, because thin metal is used here, which is not distinguished by expressive durability. Steel radiators can be useful for heating small private houses or summer cottages, but they are not suitable for use in high-rise buildings.

The only exceptions are some models of steel radiators, through which relatively thick pipes pass - their endurance is somewhat higher. Often they are called tubular radiators. Today they are found in some houses with a height of 9-16 floors.

Steel radiators are characterized by high heat dissipation and heat the premises well. They are also very light and easy to install. The undoubted advantage is the small internal volume. But all these advantages become useless if you need to install these radiators in an apartment - they will still serve in low-rise buildings (the use of tubular models is required), but in high-rise buildings they will not withstand high pressure.

Aluminum radiators

Modern aluminum radiators are characterized by low weight and high heat dissipation. Yes, aluminum itself is a fairly strong metal. Radiators made of it are ready to withstand the high pressure of the coolant, but there is no resistance to water hammer here. No less negative is the lack of resistance to the effects of the coolant - aggressive impurities literally corrode such radiators, leading to ruptures and leaks.

The appearance of aluminum radiators captivates with its splendor - they are compact and neat, they are easy and pleasant to install, but the lack of resistance to water hammer and corrosion spoils everything. But they can be an excellent solution for private households.

Sometimes it is allowed to use aluminum radiators in low-rise buildings, where the coolant pressure is not as high as in high-rise buildings. They are also successfully used in apartments with individual heating.

Bimetal radiators

If you do not know which heating radiators are better to install in an apartment, then we recommend that you turn your attention to bimetallic models. Inside them we will find:

  • Steel base - it withstands pressure up to 50 atmospheres and resists corrosion well;
  • The aluminum body, not in contact with the coolant, provides simply excellent heat dissipation.

Bimetallic radiators are not afraid of water hammer and high pressure, they are easy to mount and dismantle. Also they are not afraid high temperatures They are lightweight and have a long service life thanks to their effective corrosion protection. Exactly bimetal radiators and are the best for installation in apartments, be it a small three-story building or a solid 26-story building.

Despite the many advantages, bimetallic batteries have one drawback - this is a high cost. Therefore, the cost of their acquisition will be quite significant.

Replacing batteries that have ceased to perform their functions is an important part of repairing the heating system. Therefore, their choice should be taken with all seriousness and responsibility. And in order not to make a mistake when buying and choose the option that best suits the individual characteristics of your home, you need to determine for yourself which heating radiators are best for an apartment. Moreover, the range of products of this type, presented in specialized stores, is quite wide.

Modern industry produces several types of heating batteries made of various materials and having a specific set of characteristics. These include:

Cast iron sectional radiators

Their advantages:

  • Reliability and durability. The average life of radiators is about 50 years.
  • Undemanding to the quality of the coolant. Therefore, until now they are installed in buildings with a gravitational heating system (acting on the principle of natural circulation).
  • Sufficient thermal conductivity and high inertia. They do not warm up very quickly, but retain heat well (for systems with automatic control, high inertia is a disadvantage and for this reason cast-iron radiators are not used in this case).
  • Relatively low price, averaging 2000-3500 rubles for 4-7 sections (with the exception of design options, the cost of which starts at 5000 rubles).

Read in a separate article: and his example.

Disadvantages of cast iron radiators:

  • Fragility, insufficient resistance to powerful.
  • The need for periodic touch-up.
  • Due to the roughness of the inner walls of the radiator sections, impurities can linger in them, clogging the coolant channels, which can lead to a decrease in heat transfer.
  • Large weight and large required volume of coolant.

Steel radiators

Although this type of heating batteries is also found in our country, many residents of the United States, in response to the question: “Which heating radiators are better to install in an apartment?” they will answer without the slightest hesitation: "Only steel panel." And in some ways they will be right.

The design of these heaters consists of two sheets of high-carbon steel with stamped channels designed for the movement of the coolant. To provide additional resistance to corrosion, the outer surface of the batteries is degreased and coated with a phosphate compound. The coating material is powder enamel.


Advantages of steel radiators:

  • Diverse range of sizes.
  • Good heat dissipation.
  • Ability to work with a small amount of coolant.

Flaws:

  • Low operating pressure (no more than 6-10 atm.). With a hydraulic shock with a force of 13 atm. sections may break.
  • The lack of protection of the inner walls from the effects of water, leading to the gradual destruction of devices.
  • The need to use shut-off valves on the supply and return pipelines.
  • The need to remove dust from the back of the device.
  • The operating period is on average about 10 years.

Please note: Tubular steel radiators are of better quality and reliability compared to panel ones. The range of their working pressure can be from 10 to 15 atm. In addition, they have a more effective, original design and more durable paint.


If you are thinking about which radiators to give preference to - steel tubular or panel, feel free to choose the first option.

Aluminum radiators

Another popular answer to the question: “Which radiators are better to choose for an apartment?” are, which are sectional-type structures that can be independently assembled, taking into account the characteristics and area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe heated room, in order to heat it efficiently and efficiently.

Advantages:

  • The ability of such radiators to quickly take heat from the coolant and heat the premises as quickly as possible.
  • Light weight and compact dimensions.
  • High thermal power (about 190 W).
  • Attractive and discreet design.
  • Working pressure of modern aluminum radiators: 16-20 atmospheres.
  • Low cost (the price of one section - starting from 120 rubles).

Disadvantages of aluminum radiators:

  • Rapid cooling when the system is turned off.
  • Susceptibility to corrosion and exactingness to the pH of the coolant (the maximum allowable indicator is up to 7.5 units).

Important: When using aluminum radiators, it is strictly forbidden to install copper or brass fittings together with them, which are antagonists of this metal. As a result of the resulting reaction, the batteries will begin to corrode from the inside, which will lead to their rapid deterioration.

Bimetal radiators

Heating devices of this type consist of a steel pipeline and aluminum fins. Bimetal radiators are often used in apartments connected to central heating systems.

Their advantages:

  • High heat transfer coefficient of radiators.
  • The unique margin of safety of radiators, which guarantees reliable protection against water hammer. (functional pressure in such a device is 35 atm., test - up to 52.5 atm.).
  • Inertness to the composition of the coolant.
  • Sufficiently long service life (about 20-25 years).
  • Ability to work with a small amount of coolant.

Disadvantages of bimetallic radiators:

  • Susceptibility to clogging of the collectors due to the narrow cross-section of the inter-collector tubes.
  • Sensitivity to an increase in the amount of oxygen in the composition of the coolant.
  • The rather high cost of radiators (the price of one section is about 450 rubles).

Criteria for choosing radiators

To decide which heating radiator to choose for an apartment, it is necessary to take into account a number of factors that have a direct impact on the efficiency of these devices in the future. This:

  • Functional pressure declared by the manufacturer. This indicator must necessarily exceed the working and test pressure in the system. Example: In houses of the old layout, consisting of five floors, the average operating pressure in the heating system is about 5-8 atm. However, new skyscrapers are heated under a pressure of 10-12 atm.
  • The ability of radiators to withstand water hammer. The problems that have arisen in the heating system may be indicated by clicks and buzzing in the batteries. In this case, it is better to contact the utility company to check the pressure level in the system.
  • Resistance to low quality coolant. For multi-apartment houses, it is better to use batteries with a special protective layer in their inner part. In addition, their walls must be of sufficient thickness so that the particles of sand and pebbles present in the coolants do not rub them during use.
  • Heat transfer level. This indicator will determine how quickly and efficiently the radiators used will heat the rooms.
  • Design decision. The times of ugly cast-iron "monsters" remained in the Soviet past. Modern heating radiators are distinguished by external attractiveness and ergonomics. So, when deciding which heating radiators to install at home, choosing the option that best fits into the architecture of any room is not difficult at all.
  • Life time. One of the main criteria when choosing radiators.

Calculation of power, number of sections

Before choosing a heating battery for an apartment, it is necessary to calculate how many sections should be installed in each particular room and determine the power and pressure indicator of this device. This is done as follows:

Choosing the power of the radiator

In this case, the following points must be taken into account:

  • Type of building (brick or panel).
  • The area of ​​the heated room.
  • number of windows.
  • The presence of external walls.
  • Type of glazing in the apartment (double-glazed windows or wooden windows).

According to the standard, in a room with a ceiling height of 3 m, which has one window with a wooden frame and one door, a radiator with a power of 90-125 W per 1 m 2 is usually placed.

Helpful information: To select a battery of optimal power for a room for ease of calculation, you need to multiply its area by 100 watts.

If there is one window and two external walls, this figure should be increased by 20%.

In the presence of two windows and two external walls - by 30%.

If the window is located on the north or northeast side: + 10%.

When placing a radiator in a niche: + 5%.

With a solid screen on the battery: + 15%.

Decide on the number of sections

Average power of the radiator section various kinds:

There is another option for calculating how to choose the number of sections of the heating battery so that it is comfortable in the heated room, which is considered more accurate. This calculation is also made taking into account their heat transfer. At the same time, not the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room is used as a unit of space, but its “cubic capacity”, that is, the volume air mass to be heated. Each room is calculated separately: first, the power of the heater is selected, and then the number of its sections is calculated.

Practical example:

Considering that 39-41 W of energy is needed to heat 1 m 3 of the air space of a living room, in order to heat a room with an area of ​​10 m 2, with a ceiling height of 3.0 m, 1230 W is needed.

Decryption:

  • We calculate the cubic capacity: 3 x 10 \u003d 30 m 3.
  • We determine the energy consumption: 41 x 30 \u003d 1230 watts.

Let's agree that each section of a modern heating battery produces approximately 200 W of energy. That is, to calculate the optimal number of sections, you need 1230:200 = 6.15 sections. Rounding up. It turns out that in a room with a cubic capacity of 30 m 3 you need to install a radiator with 7 sections.

Useful information: When installing a battery in a corner-type room, the heat loss coefficient (1.1-1.3) is added to the formula for calculating the number of sections, the value of which must correspond to climate zone. The result will be: 1230 1.3: 200 = 7.995. That is, a radiator of 8 sections is suitable for such a room.

Dealing with working pressure

When purchasing heating radiators, you need to take into account the indicator of their working pressure, which should be higher than the pressure of the heating system at home. This is especially important when conducting hydraulic tests, when the load on the system is particularly intense..html

Features of central and autonomous heating systems

To figure out how to choose the right heating batteries for an apartment, it is important to take into account the features of the central heating system and its differences from an autonomous heating system operating in a private house.


Aluminum

With centralized heating, heat from the coolant through the pipeline enters the apartment from an external heat source (boiler room or local thermal power plant).

The advantages of this type of heating system:

  • Low cost of installation and maintenance.
  • The ability to work on inexpensive fuel (for this purpose, coal, gas, wood waste, etc. can be used in boiler rooms).
  • The absence of harmful combustion products during the operation of the system.

Flaws:

  • The presence of chemically active impurities in the coolant, leading to corrosion of pipes and radiators.
  • The presence of small pebbles and grains of sand in the circulating fluid, contributing to the abrasion of the working elements of the battery.
  • Instability of operating temperature (it may fluctuate during the heating season).
  • Fairly high pressure.
  • The possibility of water hammer - powerful pressure surges in the system.

Benefits of an autonomous system:

  • Independence.
  • Possibility of regulation of heating.
  • Possibility of year-round provision of hot water at home (when using a double-circuit heating boiler).
  • Payment savings.
  • Low pressure in the system and the absence of water hammer.
  • Higher quality of the heat carrier in comparison with the centralized system.

Flaws:

  • Difficulty in installation.
  • Additional costs for repairs and maintenance.
  • The need for permits when installing such a system in an urban-type apartment.

Thus, the main factors based on which it is possible to answer the question of which heating radiators are best for an apartment are the price, power and reliability of these devices, as well as their compliance with the requirements in each specific case. And speaking of which manufacturer of heating radiators is the best, we recommend paying attention to well-established manufacturers such as Sira, Global (Italy), Rifar (Russia).

Therefore, for an apartment in high-rise building it is recommended to choose batteries that are able to withstand high pressure, water hammer and aggressive coolant - bimetallic radiators meet all these criteria. For houses of an old building with a small number of storeys, where the pressure is not so high, cast-iron radiators are also suitable.

And for a private house, you can consider installing aluminum batteries, since their cost is quite acceptable, heat transfer is high, the design is modern, plus, they can be used for systems with temperature control.

An important link in any heating system is a radiator, which is installed in each of the heated rooms. It is this device that is responsible for how comfortable living conditions will be created in your apartment or private house.

Unfortunately, not every sales assistant will provide you with adequate assistance in choosing, so let's understand it sequentially: how to choose the right heating battery so that it warms well, looks beautiful and does not “bite” at a price? So it is not easy to answer this question right away - it is necessary to take into account many nuances. We will tell you how to avoid common mistakes.

Comparative characteristics of heating radiators

In the heating equipment market, heating radiators are represented by products that differ from each other both structurally and in manufacturing materials. When choosing them, you can use the table of comparative characteristics of the most popular heaters. The manufacturer indicates the data for a specific model in the technical data sheet.

Comparative table of modern heating radiators

Very often, when choosing, the main criterion is price and appearance. Undoubtedly, these moments are very important. And yet, they should not be decisive. First of all, you should pay attention to compatibility with the heating system in terms of such parameters as the type of coolant. Not less than importance has corrosion resistance and radiator durability. In the end, making the right choice will save you money, time and nerves. Next, consider the features of each type.

Aluminum radiators stand out with a stylish, interesting design, and do not require special care during operation.

High heat dissipation is combined with low weight, convenient sectional design and excellent performance. When you consider that these factors are complemented by ease of installation and elegant design, it is not difficult to understand the reasons for the popularity of aluminum alloy products in the arrangement of individual heating systems.

Comparative table of aluminum heating radiators of the most popular brands

When choosing an aluminum radiator, one should not forget that such equipment puts forward higher requirements for the quality of the coolant (water). Water with a high alkali content causes corrosion of the metal, and leaking during this process chemical reactions lead to gas formation. As a result, the service life of radiators is reduced and the risk of intersections increases. For this reason, cheap Chinese-made products should be abandoned in favor of products from well-known European manufacturers.

The probability of intersectional leaks is actually reduced to zero in the design of aluminum radiators from the STOUT brand. The equipment is manufactured at the Italian plant GLOBAL, the heaters are adapted for the operating conditions in Russia. The working pressure of each radiator is 16 atmospheres, they are suitable for working with antifreeze and have a 10-year manufacturer's warranty. Modern design in the Italian tradition will fit into any interior, and the increased heat radiation area will increase comfort in the room.

According to statistics, aluminum radiators have almost the same service life as steel ones - no more than 25 years, while bimetallic batteries can be operated for 30-35 years, and cast iron products easily survive half a century.

The destruction of aluminum radiators most often occurs due to poor water quality and excess pressure in the system.

Steel radiators

Like other heating equipment with open welds, they require a stable coolant pressure. For this reason, they are most often used for installation in private houses and other buildings with autonomous heating. In this case, a closed heating circuit helps to slow down oxidative processes, moreover, it does not suffer from constant contamination of the coolant with alkali and other aggressive impurities. When using purified water and regularly monitoring the pressure, steel radiators do not require replacement for 20 years or more.

Technical characteristics of steel radiators of well-known European manufacturers

When installing steel radiators in buildings with central heating, one should be aware of the danger of water hammer and the low quality of the coolant. Sudden pressure drops and water with impurities of salts and alkalis reduce battery life by more than half. In this case, you should not count on the service life of the equipment for more than 10 years.

Such deposits in the central heating pipe indicate a strong contamination of the coolant with impurities - in this case it is better not to use steel radiators.

On sale you can find steel radiators of two types:

  • tubular,
  • panel.

The advantages of the former stem from a simple and reliable design, which resembles a ladder of parallel vertical tubes.

Tubular radiators are experiencing a second youth, being the object of attention of designers and lovers of modern trends in the interior.

Tubular radiators are more resistant to water hammer than panel radiators. Their design allows you to implement any scheme of eyeliner and arbitrary placement in space. In the range of tubular batteries, there are both monolithic and sectional models, from which you can easily assemble a battery of the required power. simple technology manufacturing is reflected in the affordable cost, and the appearance of the radiator from a variety of vertical elements provides a wide field for design research. Unpretentious at first glance, tubular radiators are not so bad in practice, if you write your opinion about it in the comments, we will discuss it with pleasure?

Flat, even surfaces of panel radiators make maintenance much easier. That is why housewives love them so much.

For the manufacture of panel radiators, steel zigzag plates are used, which are welded to each other by spot welding. The cavities formed in this case serve as channels through which the coolant circulates. To increase heat transfer, manufacturers complicate the design by assembling a radiator from three panels. reverse side Such an improvement is the weighting of the structure - the weight of multilayer steel heat exchangers approaches that of cast iron ones.

For the manufacture of a panel radiator, profiled steel plates are used, the space between which acts as a water circuit of the heat exchanger

As you can see for yourself, such advantages of panel radiators as low price and attractive appearance overshadow the disadvantages in the form of low performance. Most often, these heaters are chosen for undemanding heating systems of the budget category.

The appearance of copper radiators is suitable only for fans of industrial design, so manufacturers complete thermal appliances with decorative screens made of wood and other materials.

A pipe with a diameter of up to 28 mm is complemented by copper or aluminum fins and decorative protection made of solid wood, thermoplastics or composite materials. This option provides efficient heating of the room due to the unique heat transfer of non-ferrous metals. By the way, in terms of thermal conductivity, copper is more than 2 times ahead of aluminum, and steel and cast iron - 5-6 times. With a low inertia, a copper battery provides a quick warm-up of the room and allows the use of temperature control equipment.

In terms of its thermal conductivity, copper is second only to silver, with a significant margin ahead of other metals.

The plasticity inherent in copper, corrosion resistance and the ability to contact polluted coolant without harm make it possible to use copper batteries in apartments in high-rise buildings. It is noteworthy that after 90 hours of operation, the inner surface of the copper radiator is covered with an oxide film, which further protects the heater from interaction with aggressive substances. There is only one disadvantage of copper radiators - the cost is too high.

comparison table specifications copper and copper-aluminum radiators

Plastic radiators

At the moment, heating radiators are made entirely of plastic, a kind of know-how. Including Russian engineers in Skolkovo are also working on this type of heater. Contrary to popular belief, in terms of reliability, plastic radiators are close to metal products, and in terms of such an indicator as corrosion resistance, they are completely unmatched. Thermoplastic products have high mechanical strength, good thermal conductivity and wear resistance. Plastic radiators are not very heavy, so they are easy to transport and install.

For those who doubt the thermophysical properties of plastic, we recommend recalling the contours of water-heated floors made of cross-linked polypropylene. Its thermal conductivity is lower than that of rigid thermoplastics, and yet this does not prevent the use of plastic pipes to build reliable and efficient underfloor heating systems.

Ease of manufacture and, as a result, low cost make thermoplastic batteries an excellent proposition for those who have set themselves the task of saving money. A significant disadvantage of plastic heat exchangers is that they can only be used in systems with a stable pressure of up to 3 atm and a coolant temperature not higher than 80 ° C. For this reason, the promotion of plastic batteries in our market is difficult.

Electric radiators

In addition to the heating devices discussed above, there are others - those that do not require connection to the heating system. You probably already guessed what we are talking about.

Modern electric radiators combine high efficiency, reliability and safety.

Depending on the design, several types of heat exchangers operating from the electrical network can be distinguished:

  • oil coolers;
  • convectors;
  • infrared devices.

The design of the oil cooler most of all resembles a traditional heating battery. Mineral oil is used as a heat carrier, and heating is carried out by a tubular electric heater (TEH). The closed design contributes to the fire safety and mobility of the device, in addition, the oil heater does not burn oxygen and dust. The disadvantages include bulkiness, low efficiency and the possibility of getting burned when touching a metal surface.

Oil radiators differ from traditional radiators in mobility - if necessary, they can be easily moved from place to place

Electric convectors also use heating due to ohmic losses, only their design uses not a liquid, but an air heating element. Due to the closed design, this type of heaters have the same advantages as oil coolers. As for the design, it is optimized in such a way that the device uses convection as efficiently as possible. The disadvantages of the convector include only low mobility - most often such devices are intended for stationary use.

Simple design and heat transfer by convection contribute to the reliability and efficiency of electric convectors

Infrared radiators are the most modern type of heating equipment. Unlike any other equipment, their design is based on the principle of heat transfer by radiation.

The principle of operation of infrared radiators is borrowed from the Sun - it is not the air in the room that heats up, but reflecting objects

By heating not the air, but the surrounding objects, IR heaters are highly efficient and at the same time have the highest efficiency. Only relatively high cost can be attributed to the disadvantages of devices operating similarly to the Sun.

Unlike other radiators, infrared devices work most effectively on the ceiling - in this case, the radiation penetrates into the most remote corners of the room

How to determine the optimal size of the radiator

The dimensions of the radiator affect not only whether the heating device can heat the room to a comfortable temperature, but also the efficiency of the heating system.

When determining the size of the radiator, among other factors, the width of the window opening and the height of the window sill should be taken into account

The dimensions of the battery are directly dependent on its thermal power, so the first step is to calculate the heat loss of the room. To do this, the volume in cubic meters is multiplied by 41 W - the amount of heat required to heat 1 cubic meter. m of a structure located in the middle latitudes. 20% should be added to the desired value - this reserve will not be superfluous in the event of an extreme low temperatures. Knowing the cost of heat that will be needed to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room, you can choose a monolithic battery of the right size or calculate the number of modular radiator sections. In the latter case, the resulting figure should be divided by the power of one section.

When determining the number of sections of heating radiators, you can use a special table.

For rooms with non-standard ceilings, an oversized heating battery will be required. In this case, a table that takes into account the height of the ceilings will help determine the number of radiator sections.

The table is enlarged on click.

It must be remembered that the radiator installed under the window should cover ¾ of the length of the window opening. In this case, the glasses will not accumulate cold air, and they will not fog up.

For those who do not want to deal with the calculation of power, there is a convenient one on our website. All that is needed in this case is to enter the parameters of the room and the heat transfer of one section of the selected radiator. The program will do all the necessary calculations for you.

Summing up the comparative characteristics of various types of heating devices, we can distinguish the following main points:

  1. For a centralized open heating network, present in high-rise buildings, as many years ago, a cast-iron radiator remains the best option. It is resistant to the poor quality water circulating through our pipelines and will last for many years. "Accordion" will withstand pressure drops and water hammer, while effectively heating the air in the room. The low price of this type of heater makes it quite affordable for everyone. However, the high inertness of cast iron will not allow such a radiator to be combined with a thermostat.
  2. A good alternative to a cast-iron battery in an apartment building is a bimetallic steel-based battery with aluminum or copper. Steel has sufficient rigidity and corrosion resistance to withstand water hammer and unfavorable chemical composition of water in the central system, while aluminum or copper compensate for steel's less than outstanding heat transfer. However, the high cost does not allow us to say that it will the best option.
  3. For closed heating systems present in private homes, it is usually easier to choose batteries - there is no overpressure in the heating system, and water is being prepared before it enters the pipeline. Therefore, the optimal type of heating device for the home is aluminum. Its price is affordable, the design is good, and the heat dissipation is high. The low inertness of this will allow it to be used in conjunction with a thermoregulation system.
  4. A good alternative to aluminum batteries in conditions of autonomous heat supply is steel radiators. Having a lower heat output than aluminum, steel heating appliances have many advantages - light weight, low inertia, nice design, attractive price.
  5. Steel and aluminum batteries are produced primed on the inner plane of the heating element to prevent corrosion from the aggressive environment of the coolant. Scale and rust particles present in the coolant open systems heating, lead to mechanical destruction of the primer layer inside the devices, so manufacturers recommend using them in closed heating systems of private houses. A good option for open centralized systems can be a copper radiator, but not everyone will be pleased with its cost.
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Which heating radiator is best to choose for an apartment? This question is asked by all citizens who are dissatisfied with the standard heating system in their homes. Moreover, the reasons for dissatisfaction can be both aesthetic - the old battery disfigures the design, and practical - the radiator does not heat as well as we would like. In this article we will try to help you with the choice of an externally attractive and truly warm radiator.

Modern heating batteries for an apartment

Not sure which radiator is best? Then let's go through all the possible options. And it will take quite a bit of time, because modern manufacturers are ready to offer us only four types of "apartment" batteries:

  • Steel radiators are the simplest and cheapest type of heating device. Such a heater is assembled on the basis of a circulation circuit sewn from two sheets of far from the thickest rolled products. The coolant flows along the contour-panel and heats up the ribbed elements fixed on its surface. Moreover, these fins are very thin, so they heat up in a very short time.
  • Aluminum batteries are a more expensive heater. Instead of cheap ferrous metal, non-ferrous metal is used here, which has a higher thermal conductivity. That is, both the circulation circuit (pipe) and the plates (ribs strung on this pipe) are made of expensive aluminum here. But the high price is offset by a very high heat transfer. Such batteries squeeze more energy out of the coolant than other radiators.
  • Cast iron radiators - such a heater is made of cheap ferrous metal, but the technology for manufacturing such radiators cannot be called inexpensive. Cast iron is poured into a mold, getting a section of the future battery. And small-scale foundry production is the most expensive and, in addition, environmentally dirty metalworking technology. However, there are no complaints about the cast-iron sections themselves - they do not harm human health during the operation stage and have amazing long term service and colossal thermal inertia. Such a battery cools down more slowly than competitors.
  • Bimetallic batteries - similar heaters appeared relatively recently, when they patented the technology for building a radiator based on a steel or copper tubular circuit and aluminum heating elements (fins). Thanks to this, manufacturers were able to increase the heat transfer of the heating element, simultaneously improving all other characteristics.

Now that you are already familiar with the main types of batteries, you can choose the best option that suits you. How to do it? We will talk about this below in the text.

Steel battery - is it suitable for residents of 9-storey buildings?

When choosing a battery, try to focus not on the advantages, but on the disadvantages of a particular type of radiator. Or rather, on the balance of the pros and cons of each option. And if we look at the varieties of modern apartment heaters from this point of view, then the following picture will open before us. The steel battery is good for its low cost and huge active surface. The circulation circuits-panels sewn from sheet steel give a large radiation area and without ribbed elements. And they are also very light and do not cause difficulties during installation, since the inlet and outlet pipes can be located literally anywhere, and not just at the corners of the structure.

However, outwardly, such batteries look like boxes, which does not decorate the interior. In addition, a steel heater can withstand only 6-10 atmospheres of internal pressure, and such batteries have virtually no corrosion resistance, so they will live in an apartment for no more than 15-20 years. In addition, the steel heater cools down very quickly. Conclusion: a steel radiator is suitable when there is a budget deficit, but even in this case, only residents of 5-storey buildings can buy it. In nine-story dwellings, such a battery will burst at the first pressure surge.

Where is an aluminum radiator useful - an apartment or a private house?

Aluminum batteries are more expensive than steel panel radiators, but they have amazing heat dissipation. Therefore, a large steel panel can be replaced by a smaller aluminum structure. As a result, due to the difference in dimensions, the price of aluminum heaters can approach the cost of cheap steel batteries. In addition, aluminum does not rust on the outside, and the internal pressure in such a heating element can be raised to 12 atmospheres.

The dark side of this option is the high sensitivity of aluminum to the chemical composition of the coolant. This metal oxidizes with a jump in acidity, releasing hydrogen. And it also forms a galvanic couple with brass fittings, which also leads to corrosion, which provokes leaks and other troubles. In a word, the capricious nature of such a battery had to be paid for the high heat transfer. Conclusion: an aluminum battery is good where there is confidence in the stability of the chemical composition of the coolant and the pressure in the system. This radiator is useful, rather, in a country house, townhouse or cottage. In urban conditions, its use is not justified due to its capricious nature.

When to use a cast iron product - a long-term option

A cast iron battery can look like a work of art. cast patterns and unusual shape sections turn such a radiator into an art object that can fit into any interior style. In addition, such a heater is not afraid of acidity and corrosion. After all, the cast-iron section has very thick walls - a by-product of the foundry production technology, which will withstand 50 years of operation.

Among the disadvantages of this option, the following can be noted: cast-iron sections have high thermal inertia, so they slowly cool down and heat up, such a battery needs a very hot coolant that can warm up massive elements. In addition, the significant weight of such structures makes it necessary to equip a special system for attaching to the wall. Therefore, multi-section radiators are supplied with legs (for floor mounting). Conclusion: a cast-iron radiator is suitable for wealthy people who are going to live in a particular apartment for decades. Moreover, the maximum pressure in a cast-iron battery (10 atmospheres) does not allow placing such an element above the 5th-7th floor.

The best battery in terms of the sum of advantages and disadvantages

Bimetallic radiators can withstand 35 atmospheres, so you do not need to look at the number of storeys in your home. In addition, the non-principal issues in this case include both the quality of the coolant and its temperature. Aluminum fins can work with both warm and hot flow, and steel pipes can withstand both high acidity and an abundance of abrasive inclusions that try to scratch the circuit from the inside.

Moreover, such a heater is easy to mount in the system, since it does not need either massive wall brackets or special fittings that exclude electrochemical corrosion.

The only drawback of the bimetallic version is the high price, but it also pays off due to a very long service life. Conclusion: such a battery can be placed anywhere - both in a five-story building and in a skyscraper. Yes, it is not cheap, but its advantages cover this disadvantage. Therefore, only a bimetallic radiator can claim the title of "best battery for an apartment".

How to choose a heater by the footage of a room - simple formulas

We have already decided on the optimal type of radiator, so now it remains for us to understand how to choose heating batteries for a city apartment by the footage of the dwelling. After all, too large or too small a heater will make living conditions in an apartment simply unbearable. From the first you will be stuffy, and from the second - cold. And golden mean- this is when the room is warm enough, but not hot - it is determined very simply.

To do this, you need to follow these recommendations:

  • First, determine the footage of the room. To do this, multiply the length and width, measuring the parameters with a tape measure. If you are too lazy to mess with the calculations, find the documents for the apartment and look at the footage of the room there.
  • Next translate square meters(area units) to watts (power units). Use the proportion: 1 m 2 \u003d 100 watts. That is, for a large room of 20 squares, you need 2000 watts (20x100) or 2 kW.
  • After that, you can go to the store and ask the consultant to show you a battery with a thermal power equal to the calculated number of watts.
  • If the battery is recruited from sections, then you need to clarify the heat transfer of one section and divide this value by the desired battery power. As a result, you will get the correct number of sections. That is, if one section emits 200 watts, and we need a 2000 W battery, then to assemble such a radiator, we will have to buy 10 sections (2000/200).

Guided by these simple rules, you can buy a battery without overpaying for extra dimensions and sections.