Which batteries are better for gas heating at home? The best heating radiators Aluminum radiators in a private house

When the question of which heating radiators is best to choose for a private home appears on the agenda, there are many who nostalgically recall Soviet cast-iron “accordions” - although bulky, they are hot and warm the room well. Indeed, at one time such batteries worked “excellently,” but now they are deteriorating and are considered obsolete. They have already been replaced by new, more efficient, convenient and cost-effective models.

But the main problem is that there are many diametrically opposed opinions regarding new radiators. And in practice it’s the same: you go to neighbors who have installed modern radiators at home - some are warm, while others are cold. At the same time, both places have almost identical heating batteries - that is, which of them is better for a private home does not always depend on the specific model. In our article we will try to figure out which heating radiators are best for a private home.

Warmth in the house does not always depend on the quality of the selected radiators Source kp.md

Features of heating networks in a private house

Unlike multi-apartment buildings, an autonomous heating system is installed in a private house, that is, it does not depend on the central boiler room, which means that the pressure in the network and the temperature of the coolant will be completely different. Therefore, when choosing a radiator for a private home, you need to consider the following points:

• In private houses, the pressure on the coolant, and with it on the tanks and radiator pipes, is much less than in multi-storey buildings. Thus, the batteries do not experience overload, so you can choose any, including thin-walled models.

There is a horror story among residents of apartment buildings about pipes bursting due to water hammer due to sudden pressure surges in the water supply. In fact, there can be no water hammer even in apartment buildings, not to mention heating systems in cottages. But in private homes, especially those in which people do not live all the time, another problem may arise - freezing of water in the pipes. It is in this case that the batteries may simply burst if you forget to drain the water from the system before leaving.

Even cast iron batteries cannot always withstand system freezing Source ir-leasing.ru

• In a private house, the length of the pipeline from the heat source (boiler, stove) to the radiator is very short compared to multi-story buildings. Therefore, heat loss is minimal, and the coolant is more heated. Conclusion: in a private house there should be radiators that can withstand high-temperature coolant.
• A little liquid is needed to fill the heating system, so you can add antifreeze or ethyl alcohol to it. This protects pipes and radiators so that they do not freeze if the boiler is turned off for a long time.

Adding antifreeze to the heating system Source homediz.info

• When choosing heating radiators, which ones are best for a private home should be determined based on the size of the heated area. In cottages there is a lot of space, and therefore energy consumption for heating is also large. It is advisable to install batteries that will warm up your home at a minimum cost.

Guided by these simple rules, you can buy the optimally suitable model.

Classes of heating radiators and their types and features

The principle of operation of a radiator is to transfer heat to the surrounding space from the coolant fluid circulating in this heating device.

The autonomous heating system (AHS) consists of:

• boiler;
• pipelines;
• thermal elements.

Autonomous heating system Source gidroguru.com

The table shows the main types of thermal appliances:

In addition, heating devices are divided into the following classes; let’s consider a unique rating of heating radiators from this side:

Sectional

They consist of heating sections that are connected to each other. The more sections, the more heat they will transfer to the surrounding space. To prevent the room from overheating, special thermostats are installed on the radiators to regulate the temperature.

Thermostatic tap for temperature control Source drive2.ru

Standard cast iron radiators are also sectional: heat from them is transferred in the form of infrared radiation, evenly distributed throughout the room - top, bottom and middle. Such batteries have large dimensions and thick walls, which accumulate enough heat so that it is emitted in the infrared spectrum. It is this method of heating that is considered optimal for human health, although it must be borne in mind that part of the heating also occurs through convection.

Thanks to the thick walls, such batteries have high thermal inertia - therefore, after turning off the AOS, the radiators remain hot for a long time. Cast iron is not very susceptible to corrosion and is not afraid of harmful impurities in the coolant - the service life of such devices reaches 50 years. One of the disadvantages is the heavy weight.

Aluminum radiators have good heat transfer (1/2 radiation + 1/2 convection) and quickly warm up the room. Compared to cast iron, they are more lightweight, and in general, the ability to transfer heat into the room is several times higher than that of cast iron and steel.

Sectional radiator Source isu.org.ua

An additional advantage of modern models is the ability to regulate the temperature using a valve with a thermal head. The metal surface is coated with a protective coating, which increases its service life. The cost of aluminum radiators is low, and therefore the prices are more affordable.

Aluminum radiators cannot withstand high overloads, so they are not used in central heating systems (CHS). They break due to pressure surges, the presence of rust or sand particles in the coolant. Chemical additives are not allowed in liquids.

Bimetallic heating radiators consist of external aluminum plates and steel pipes located inside the sections. They are valued for their reliability and durability, but are not cheap. Equally well suited for centralized and autonomous heating systems.

Radiators are also produced that have only steel-reinforced vertical pipes. These are no longer completely bimetallic devices; they are less corrosion resistant. Among their advantages, it is worth noting their high thermal conductivity, which is higher than that of real bimetallic radiators.

Tubular

Steel tubular heating devices give off heat well, are economical in terms of energy consumption, and heat up quickly. Their disadvantage is that they are sensitive to oxidative processes. If the coolant fluid does not fill the steel radiator reservoirs, it will begin to corrode. Another weakness of a steel radiator is its hypersensitivity to water quality. Even if the water is considered good by usual standards and can be drunk, it is recommended to install filters to minimize the formation of scale.

A steel tubular radiator can be placed in a narrow niche Source bouw.ru

The sizes of steel tubular radiators are from 30 cm to 3 m. The number of rows of tubes is 1–9. They are considered very reliable - the permissible operating pressure for devices from a number of Russian manufacturers reaches 15 atm. Radiator reservoirs are designed to hold a large volume of liquid, so they quickly reach the required temperature levels when you need to increase or decrease power. The method of heat transfer is radiation and convection.

Steel radiators are also used as heated towel rails, which, in addition to drying clothes, provide additional heating in bathrooms

Steel tubular radiator bench Source krovati-i-divany.ru

Floor radiators-benches with support legs are steel tubular heating devices with a seat in the form of a wooden board on top. They are connected to the heating system in the same way as conventional radiators. They can also serve as the main heating device in rooms such as the kitchen, bathroom, hallway.

Panel

These steel radiators are a rectangular panel that acts as a heating device. The panel consists of 2 ribbed sheets welded to each other; plates with a U-shaped relief are placed inside.

Steel panel radiator Source 999.md

Operating pressure is 6–8 atm, high sensitivity to pressure changes, therefore they are used only in autonomous heating systems for residential and commercial premises. Such radiators can consist of 1, 2, 3 heating plates. React quickly to temperature changes. The main method of heat transfer is convection. The choice of sizes of such devices is wide enough so that they can be selected for a room of any size.

Sectional panel radiator Source it.decorexpro.com

Internal structure of panel radiators with 1, 2, 3 heating plates Source deal.by

Ceiling thermal panels consist of steel plates to which pipes intended for coolant are welded. Their use is advisable in rooms with high ceilings from 3 to 20 m. Heat transfer is carried out by radiation.

Ceiling panels Source waterinpanel.com

Lamellar

Plate heating devices consist of horizontally arranged pipes to which metal plates are welded, thereby increasing the surface area for heat transfer. Heat transferrs can additionally be covered with protective covers. The advantage of such radiators is their reliability - they can be used for centralized and autonomous heating. The main method of heat transfer is convective, so the space is heated unevenly: it is much warmer on top. Mainly used for offices, corridors, garages and utility rooms, but there are also models for residential premises.

Modern plate batteries Source otoplenie-gid.ru

Rules for the location of batteries in the house

In order for the system to work properly, installation rules must be strictly followed. Although the installation technology is not complicated, it has its own nuances, so the work must be carried out by specialists.

Important! If radiators are not installed correctly, they are not covered by the warranty.

In order to avoid heat loss and uneven heating of the room, when installing devices it is necessary to observe indentations and choose the correct location:

• The most suitable option for the battery is considered to be a place under the window, i.e. where the heat loss is the most significant. The radiator width must be at least 70% of the window width. Mounted clearly in the middle.

Correct battery placement Source koffkindom.ru

• Leave at least 10 cm from the battery to the windowsill, as well as to the floor. The optimal distance between the floor and the radiator is 12 cm. It is not recommended to leave more than 15 cm.
• The battery is fixed at a distance of 5 cm from the wall.
• You can stick heat-reflecting material behind the radiator - then some of the heat will not go into the wall, but will return to the room.
• If the radiator is planned to be placed not under the window sill, but on the wall, then the distance between them should be at least 20 mm.

Video description

For more information about installing batteries in a private home, watch the video:

Calculation of the number of sections

It is not necessary to look for the most expensive heating devices to make the room comfortable. The main thing is to correctly calculate the number of sections. If the rooms are standard, then this greatly simplifies the calculations.

Often they resort to calculations based on the volume of space because they are simple, but at the same time give fairly accurate results.

1. 1 m³ requires 41 W of power. If good double-glazed windows are installed and heat loss is minimal, then the indicator drops to 34 W.
2. Room volume (m³) = area (m²) × height (m).
3. Required heating power for the entire room (W) = room volume (m³) × 41 W (or 34 W).
4. In the technical data sheets of devices, manufacturers indicate the heat transfer of one section.
5. The total power (the value calculated in point 3) must be divided by the heat transfer of one section. The resulting number is the number of sections.

For example, the required thermal power is 2890 W, and the heat output of one section is 170 W. Then for this room you need to purchase 17 sections.

In a non-standard room, calculations are made using a more complex formula Source rmnt.mirtesen.ru

If the room is non-standard, the calculations become more complicated. To calculate the total power, the features of double-glazed windows (double or triple), thermal insulation parameters of walls, the ratio of window sizes to floors, ceiling heights and other parameters are taken into account. Designers calculate all this using specialized software.

Which radiators to choose for a wooden house

Heating a wooden house (we are talking primarily about log houses) indeed has its own characteristics, since the thermal conductivity of wood is low and depends on its species. In addition, it is necessary to ensure maximum fire safety. But in general, the issue of providing heat, as well as safety, rests primarily on the correct installation of the heating system, the choice of boiler and the number of radiators. There are no restrictions on the type of radiators: steel, cast iron, bimetallic, aluminum - all of them can be used in a wooden frame.

Any type of radiator is suitable for a wooden house Source pinterest.com

Which heating batteries to choose for a private home and cottage

It is not difficult to select batteries for a private home, because the autonomous heating system operates without significant overloads, which a centralized system experiences. Here you can connect any radiators, focusing on the required power, quality, efficiency, and cost of the device.

Many owners of private houses prefer aluminum radiators. They are cheaper than cast iron, more economical to operate and have higher heat transfer rates, and the sensitivity of aluminum devices to water hammer in an autonomous heating system can be neglected.

If you want to choose batteries based on the brand name, then you can take into account the unspoken rating of aluminum heating radiators for a private home. The top positions here belong to the brands Calidor, Global, Rifar, STI, which are well suited for operation in Russian climatic conditions.

Modern radiators will provide a comfortable atmosphere in the room even in the coldest weather Source nehomesdeaf.org

Steel radiators are no less common, which is not surprising, because they are reliable, affordable, can warm up quickly and have good heat dissipation. Here, in the ranking of steel heating radiators for a private home, the leading places are occupied by Kermi, Purmo, Zehnder, Sunerzha.

Among the worthy brands producing bimetallic radiators are the Russian Rifar and the Italian Global. Those who decide to purchase cast iron heaters should pay attention to Konner (Russia), Guratec (Germany), Retro Style (Russia).

As a result, all radiators are universal, which means posing the question of which heating radiators are best for a private house with a gas boiler is not entirely correct, because when choosing, they are mainly guided by the required power, the features of the room and the possibilities of the budget.

Video description

To see the differences between radiators, watch the video:

Radiator prices

The cost of heating devices varies significantly depending on the following factors:

• brand and country of origin;
• material and production technology;
• design.

Italian, German, Finnish, and Czech batteries are more expensive than Russian ones, but in terms of their technical and operational characteristics, products from domestic manufacturers are not much inferior and even superior to many foreign analogues.

Buying heating radiators for a private home is quite expensive. But if you make the right calculations and select cost-effective devices, then costs can be significantly reduced.

The average cost of aluminum radiators per section is in the range of 1227–8200 rubles, bimetallic devices – 3000–11900 rubles. The cheapest of them can be purchased at a price of 1100 rubles. The range of prices for steel radiators is also quite wide: from 830 to 60,000 rubles. Steel models costing from 3,500 to 26,000 rubles are popular. Inexpensive cast iron batteries can be purchased for 500–1000 rubles. Cast iron appliances are in demand for RUR 3,000–8,000.

Retro-style batteries can be found from 8,000 rubles.

Cast iron batteries in retro style Source gidroguru.com

If batteries are needed for an entire house, then even inexpensive devices cost a pretty penny. In addition, costs will be added for related products: valves, thermostat heads, brackets and other parts.

Conclusion

Correct installation of the heating system in general and any of its components in particular requires specialized knowledge, without which it is difficult not only to install, but even to select all the components. As a result, you need to turn this question to professionals - experienced craftsmen will make accurate calculations and take into account not only the footage, but also other features of the room, and will tell you which heating is best for a private home in your case. They dismantle the old batteries, quickly and, most importantly, correctly, install new ones. They will check the operation of the heating system and provide technical and warranty documentation.

One of the main components of a home heating system is a radiator - a heating battery, as we used to call it. Let's consider radiators for heating - which ones are better for a private home, what are they made of?

Living in a private home has many advantages; at the same time, a lot of worries and efforts fall on our shoulders; we strive to ensure that everything is equipped competently and efficiently. An autonomous heating system in a private house is one of the main aspects responsible for comfortable living. You will not be dependent on a centralized system; you will always be able to heat your home, regardless of the heating schedule (as happens in urban residential buildings). You can calculate and install your own heating system according to your wishes and, of course, each of us strives to ensure that everything in this matter is done reliably, for many years to come.

The correct choice of equipment is important both for the budget and for subsequent comfortable operation. Today the construction market offers a wide range of modern heating equipment. When choosing radiators, you should consider options with a favorable price ratio and maximum heat transfer rate. Judging objectively, any batteries can be suitable for a home heating system, but there are still certain nuances.

Heating radiators - which ones are better?

What are modern batteries like? If we consider the so-called steel options, then there are panel or tubular models. Despite the fact that they are considered the most budget-friendly, they are characterized by good heat transfer and relative compactness. Panel models consist of two metal plates connected to each other by welding. Due to their area, such radiators are able to provide a lot of heat.

Panel version, photo:

Tubular options will cost you a little more than their panel counterparts; they have a quite laconic appearance, somewhat reminiscent of ancient cast-iron batteries. They can come in a variety of designs, shapes and sizes.

Tubular batteries, photo:

Some models of steel radiators have an internal polymer coating that prevents corrosion processes.

Advantages of steel structures:

• reasonable price along with high efficiency;
• do not oxidize due to poor quality water;
• long service life
• light weight
• convenient sizes.

The disadvantages include:

• rough appearance (panel version);
• require flushing every 3-4 years (to avoid slagging of the system);
• need to be constantly filled with water (to avoid activation of corrosion processes).

Aluminum radiators

Due to their light weight, they can be mounted even on thin walls and partitions. They have an aesthetically pleasing modern design and are characterized by high heat transfer. Disadvantages - short service life (15-17 years), susceptibility to corrosion, leaks can form at the joints of sections. According to the specifics of connecting sections, aluminum batteries can be assembled, solid and combined. One-piece models are more reliable, they do not have joints through which water can leak over time. The assembled radiators allow you to replace sections that have become unusable. Combined models have the qualities of the first two analogues.

Aluminum batteries, photo:

Bimetallic heating radiators

They are considered the most “advanced” and improved. These batteries combine the qualities of different types of metal - heat transfer from aluminum, resistance to rust (inside they are made of copper or high quality steel). The bimetallic radiator has a layer of anti-corrosion coating both inside and outside (in more expensive models). The declared service life of such batteries is 40 years. They have a higher price compared to all other types of radiators, but the monetary costs are offset by quality and high performance.

Bimetallic version, photo:

Cast iron radiators

The most durable, reliable and time-tested. The first cast iron batteries appeared more than 100 years ago. Their appearance is known to everyone, despite the fact that the service life of this radiator is 50 years, they can still be found in many homes. Such batteries cool down slowly and retain heat longer (compared to, for example, an aluminum counterpart) - this factor allows you to reduce gas costs.

Examples of modern cast iron batteries, photos:

A cast iron heating radiator is highly resistant to corrosion processes and has thick walls. Despite the fact that the internal volume of the sections is quite large and requires a large amount of water to fill, this feature makes it possible to provide heat to a large area of ​​the room. Such batteries are heavy and require appropriate powerful brackets for mounting. Over the years, their appearance has not changed much, but today you can find improved versions of modern cast iron radiators on sale. The outer surface of such structures has an improved design that is suitable for a certain interior style (classic, retro).

In terms of price, these radiators are more expensive than aluminum models, but cheaper than bimetallic ones.

What heating radiators are good?

After conducting a small comparative analysis of the proposed models for a private home, we can draw conclusions:

• If you want a reliable, economical option, then choose a high-quality aluminum battery from a well-established manufacturer. They are aesthetically pleasing, lightweight, and will work perfectly in a home autonomous heating system.
• If the issue of price does not bother you, then choose sectional bimetallic radiators - they are good in all aspects.
• Reliable, solid cast iron options will keep your home warm for a long time, and they are also very convenient for drying things during the cold season.

To the question - which heating radiators are best for a private home, the answer will be this: in each individual case you need to calculate your capabilities and take into account the requirements of your individual heating system. It is necessary not only to calculate the correct number of radiators, but also to provide high-quality thermal insulation of the entire house. If your home is poorly insulated, not a single radiator will help in the fight against the cold.

The performance and durability of the entire heating system depends on the correct choice of heating radiator. There is no single correct answer to the question “Which heating radiators are best for a private home?” Looking ahead, we note that for a private house, unlike an apartment, you can use any type of radiators you like. But for each specific type of radiator, it is necessary to take into account its characteristic operating features.

Premises and frequency of operation

Unlike an apartment with a central heating system, a private house has an autonomous or closed heating system. In practice this has its advantages:

• full control over system management,
• individual selection of coolant for the heating system,

as well as its disadvantages:

• the design and maintenance of the entire heating system falls on the shoulders of the home owner.

The most common mistake that owners of private houses make is completely trusting builders in matters of organizing a heating system. Unfortunately, not all of them have the highest level of competence, and often builders have only superficial knowledge about heating.

The design and installation of a heating system should be carried out by special engineering companies that are professionals in this matter and are aware of current trends in the market.

If you decide to delve into the essence of the matter yourself, this article will tell you how to choose heating radiators for a private home.

A little about the coolant in radiators

There are two types of coolant for radiators: water and antifreeze. By water, as a rule, we mean distilled water, purified from various impurities. Antifreeze coolant also differs in composition: based on glycerin, ethylene glycol and propylene glycol.

If you rarely live in your house, do not visit it in winter and turn off the electricity, then you cannot use water as a coolant. Otherwise, at the very first frost, your radiators and the entire heating system will fail with very sad consequences. Therefore it is necessary to use antifreeze.

If you plan to live in the house permanently and you do not have critical power outages, then use distilled water: this will ensure the maximum service life of any radiators. There is no need to drain the water during the entire service life of the radiators.

Progress does not stand still and manufacturers of heating equipment today have taken care of those who want to use water, but do not live in the house permanently. It is enough to install a GSM device that allows you to control the heating remotely via SMS commands or an application on your phone. This is already in the field of smart home technology. There are simple devices that inform you that the system is defrosting, and there are advanced ones that allow you to directly change the temperature, pressure and other parameters of the system. True, in the event of a power outage, you will still have to drop everything and quickly go to the house to start the generator and connect the heating system to it until the electricity comes back on.

Types of heating radiators for a private home: advantages and disadvantages of each type

Now you can go directly to the heart of the issue and figure out which heating radiators to choose for a private home?

The following types of radiators are available on the modern market:

1. Bimetallic sectional
2. Aluminum sectional
3. Steel panel
4. Cast iron
5. Steel tubular

Bimetallic (sectional) radiators for a private house

Bimetallic radiators consist of two types of metal. The internal surfaces in contact with the coolant are made of steel. External surfaces are made of aluminum. Let us highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of bimetal radiators.

Advantages of bimetallic radiators

• High operating and burst pressure(24 and 36 atm, respectively)
• Versatility in use— suitable for any heating systems with different types of coolant.
• Long service life— 25-35 years

Disadvantages of bimetallic radiators

• Higher cost compared to panel steel and aluminum radiators
• Designed for small areas- the largest radiator heats 25-30 m2 (for comparison, the most powerful panel radiator heats 130 m2.)

Bimetallic radiator in a private house

Bimetallic radiator in an apartment

In general, bimetallic radiators are the most versatile of all others. If you find it difficult to choose radiators for your heating system, then you can buy bimetallic radiators without looking.

The design of bimetallic radiators is considered more modern. But this is difficult to consider as an advantage, since much depends on the interior and personal preferences of the home owner.

The indicated disadvantages of bimetallic radiators are especially critical in large areas. One radiator of 14 sections, 500 mm high, is capable of heating a maximum of 25-30 m2, depending on the manufacturer. Accordingly, for large areas you will have to fork out for additional radiators. We do not recommend twisting more sections. 14 is the maximum at which a bimetallic radiator will work effectively.

Conclusion. Bimetal radiators cope well with water hammer and are more resistant to corrosion than any other radiators. They are more durable than aluminum and steel radiators, but they are more expensive.

Aluminum (sectional) radiators for a private house

An aluminum radiator often looks similar to a bimetallic one, but consists entirely of aluminum. Hence it has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's identify the main ones.

Advantages of aluminum radiators

• High heat dissipation
• A light weight— aluminum is the lightest metal used for the production of radiators, which simplifies transportation, unloading and installation
• Low cost- comparable in price to panel steel

Disadvantages of aluminum radiators

• Aluminum is sensitive to the composition of the coolant- water with an alkali content greater than PH-8 or antifreeze with high acidity causes corrosion and destruction of aluminum
• Incompatibility with copper boiler room- copper pipes and shut-off valves are unacceptable in a heating system with aluminum radiators

Aluminum radiator in a private house

Aluminum radiator in an apartment

It is worth noting that aluminum radiators vary greatly in quality depending on the manufacturer. High-quality ones are distinguished by smoother internal and external surfaces, better welding and, accordingly, a longer service life.

When using distilled water as a coolant, the service life of aluminum radiators increases significantly.

The weakest point of aluminum radiators is the welds and joints; this is where the destruction of the metal begins. When using antifreeze, we highly recommend using rubber gaskets and seals of the highest quality. Antifreeze, due to its increased fluidity, often causes leaks at joints and a violation of the tightness of the system. And the entry of oxygen into the system is one of the main causes of corrosion of radiators made of any metal.

Conclusion. Aluminum radiators are cheaper and lighter than bimetallic ones, but have an equally attractive design. But you need to carefully select aluminum radiators for your heating system and home, taking into account the materials of the boiler room and the composition of the coolant.

Steel panel radiators for a private home

Steel panel radiators consist of steel sheets 1.2-2 millimeters thick, welded together, which entails characteristic advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of steel panel radiators

• High heat dissipation- warms up the room as quickly as possible
• Lowest cost- cheaper than any other radiators
• Large list of standard sizes— you can choose 1 radiator for an area of ​​up to 130 m2
• Lateral connection— as a basic option for any size radiator

Disadvantages of steel panel radiators

• Can't withstand water hammer— maximum burst pressure 16 atm
• It is not recommended to drain the coolant- for a long time (this applies to any radiators, but steel panel radiators have thinner walls, so they will rust faster from oxidation)

There is a misconception that in private houses with a closed heating system, there are no water hammers. This is wrong. If the water supply/shut-off is carried out via a ball valve, and you open/close it abruptly, then a sharp pressure surge is formed in the system, which leads to water hammer. A steel radiator can easily break due to this. One way to prevent water hammer is to use screw valves - they close smoothly.

Otherwise, steel panel radiators in a private home can last quite a long time (up to 20 years).

Let us also note the advantage of a wide range of batteries with bottom connection. If, according to the design of your house, the heating system pipes are laid in the floor and are connected to the radiator from below, then with a high degree of probability steel panel products are suitable for you. After all, sectional radiators with a bottom connection are much more expensive than those with a side connection.

If you do not have high design requirements, and price matters, then steel panel radiators will be the best choice for your private home.

Conclusion. Steel radiators have the lowest cost and a large range of standard sizes compared to all other radiators. More than others, they are susceptible to failure due to water hammer and prolonged drainage of the coolant.

Cast iron radiators for a private house

Cast iron radiators are used quite rarely today, however, they find their consumers, as they have their advantages.

Advantages of cast iron radiators

• Long service life(in the absence of sudden temperature changes)
• Long-term heating inertia- heat well and retain heat for a long time when the heating is turned off
• Insensitive to coolants with aggressive chemical composition

Disadvantages of cast iron radiators

• Higher cost— the cost of the section is more expensive than bimetal
• Very heavy- up to 50 kg or even more per battery
• Sensitive to sudden changes coolant temperature
• Temperature is poorly regulated— inability to use thermostatic heads
• Heat dissipation gets worse over time— the porous surface of cast iron inside and outside contributes to the overgrowth of the radiator, up to the failure of individual sections
• More coolant required- compared to aluminum, bimetallic and steel panel radiators

Old cast iron radiator

New cast iron radiator

Cast iron is a very hard metal, but quite fragile - it cannot withstand sudden changes in temperature, so it is necessary to properly design and configure the heating system.

As a rule, cast iron radiators are painted brown or another dark color. There is a reason for this - cast iron oxidizes and dry rust appears during operation. This is natural for cast iron and does not adversely affect the radiator. But if you decide to buy a white cast-iron radiator (usually made in China), then keep in mind that over time your battery will begin to turn yellow and you will have to tint it.

A large capacity of cast iron products will require much more coolant, and therefore the purchase of a larger boiler and the additional cost of paying for the electricity required to heat the coolant.

In general, cast iron radiators are quite a suitable option for the private sector, if you are not afraid of the weight, which reaches 50 kg for one battery of 7 sections. This imposes certain inconveniences during transportation and installation. And you will also need to make reinforced fastenings for such radiators.

Conclusion. Cast iron radiators are the most popular type of radiators in the past; today they are used extremely rarely, since they are inferior in all respects to one of the modern types: aluminum, steel, bimetallic. From a design point of view, they fit well into loft-style interiors.

Steel tubular radiators for a private home

Steel tubular radiators consist entirely of steel and, unlike thin sheets of steel in panel radiators, have a decent weight.

Advantages of steel tubular radiators

• Modern and stylish appearance
• Large number of sizes, shapes and colors

Disadvantages of steel tubular radiators

• Can't withstand water hammer— working pressure — 10 atm, burst pressure — 16 atm, the same as for steel panels
• Highest cost among all other types of radiators considered

For all their exclusivity and high cost, tubular steel radiators are not distinguished by durability and good performance characteristics. This type of battery cannot cope with sudden changes in coolant temperature or water hammer.

The main application of these radiators is as an effective design element. Interior professionals will be pleased with the abundance of shapes, orientations and sizes. For example, you can install a long accordion of up to 40 sections, without loss of thermal power. And in a narrow opening you can install a vertical steel tubular battery 1.8 meters in height.

Conclusion. Steel tubular radiators are most often used in expensive interiors when there is sufficient budget to implement a suitable heating system.

Results of choosing heating radiators for a private home

We looked at the main types of radiators, which are quite widely represented in Russia today.

If, when buying radiators, you are not completely sure what materials and components the boiler room will be made of, then do not buy aluminum radiators.

If you want to save as much as possible on the purchase of radiators, then choose steel panel ones. At the same time, install screw valves in the boiler room and try to drain the coolant less often.

Bimetallic ones are without a doubt the best radiators for heating a private home, in terms of versatility and durability.

Cast iron radiators can last as long as bimetallic ones, but will require high-quality design and implementation of the heating system.

Steel tubular radiators require careful design of the heating system.

We hope our article has described in sufficient detail all heating radiators for a country house and now you know which ones are best for you.

Comparative table of characteristics of different types of radiators for a private home

In this article we will look at what types of heating radiators there are for an apartment. How to choose a device? What technical parameters should I rely on? Let's figure out which heating radiators are best for a country house. Let's find out the differences between aluminum, bimetallic, cast iron and steel heating radiators, which ones best suit individual requirements?

NEED TO KNOW! The choice depends on the coolant components. In DSPs, the coolant is often of low quality. When in contact with liquid, aluminum is corrosive, so it is not suitable for an apartment building.

About the features of centralized and autonomous heating systems. What should you pay attention to?

Residents of multi-storey apartments and private houses (dachas, cottages) use different heating systems (OS). Each has features, advantages, and disadvantages. Keep in mind: each OS needs to select heatsinks differently. An unsuccessful purchase of equipment will lead to low heat transfer, short service life, and rapid damage.

Water hammer(hydraulic hammer) - a sharp surge in pressure in a water-filled system. The reason for this is a rapid change in the speed of water flow. Consequences of water hammer: the appearance of longitudinal cracks in the pipeline.

Depending on whether you live in an apartment building or a private one, heating can be:

• Central (DSP). Heat is supplied to several buildings and apartments from a single source (boiler room). The pipeline distributes the coolant, supplying it to consumers. After heat is removed, the carrier returns to the source (heat generator).
• Autonomous system useful when serving residents of a private home. It is also used in cottages and dachas: they are not connected to the DSP. To heat the coolant, a boiler or boiler is installed. Next is the control unit, piping system, batteries. The advantage of autonomous control is the setting function based on needs: adjusting the heating temperature, automatically maintaining the specified settings. Disadvantage: high price of battery, installation work, difficult maintenance.

What types of batteries are there for an apartment or private house?

Material is the main criterion by which equipment is selected. Affects heat transfer, pressure, cost, service life, strength, reliability.

According to the material:

• Bimetal. Undemanding to coolant, designed for long-term use. Expensive.
• Cast iron. The residual heat retention rate is 30% (for other varieties - 15%). Slowly heat up, slowly lose temperature. Reliable, resistant to corrosion.
• Aluminum. They heat up quickly and lose temperature quickly. Useful in autonomous systems. Characterized by high thermal power and reasonable price.
• Steel. They are compact, have good heat transfer, are durable, and are slightly oxidized by low-quality coolant.

By installation type:

• Wall-mounted. The most common radiators in apartments, cottages, dachas, and private houses. Wall mounted.
• Skirting. They are mounted in metal boxes, taking up space instead of a standard baseboard. They take up almost no room space. Inconspicuous, they will not stand out from the decor of the room.
• In-floor. Water convectors save space: they are built below floor level.

Heating radiators – which ones are best for an apartment?

When choosing a battery for installation in an apartment, pay attention to main technical parameters:

• Heat dissipation characterizes how efficiently the device copes with heating the room. When selecting, take into account heat loss (they are affected by the thickness of the walls, the size of window and door openings), and the volume of the room. In sectional models, the power is indicated per section. Calculating the number of fins will accurately determine the required level of heat transfer. The thermal power of one section is on average 0.15–0.2 kW.
• Operating pressure It is important that the equipment can work in your system. The pressure depends on the material. Incorrectly selected pressure will cause damage due to water hammer.

• Material or coating that can protect against wear and leaks. Thick walls and primers extend service life. The ability to connect a battery to work with aggressive coolant will expand the scope of operation.
• Design heating equipment. Consider how the heating equipment will fit into its surroundings. Due to the choice of models, the device can be selected to suit different design styles and colors.
• Weight It’s worth considering immediately before purchasing: whether you can transport the unit to your home, fix it on the wall, and connect it without causing damage. The most massive cast iron batteries, lighter aluminum (weight of one segment - up to 2 kg), steel (about 2.5 kg).

Options for choosing radiators for a country house

Unlike the central heating system of apartment buildings, the autonomous heating system of private homes is much less demanding on pressure. Due to this, it becomes possible to purchase equipment designed for low pressure. Models with thin walls are suitable: for example, aluminum.

NEED TO KNOW! Inexperienced cottage owners are faced with freezing of liquid in pipes. This leads to the appearance of chips on the body: it bursts. To avoid this, drain the water.

Due to the smaller distance between the heat source and the battery, heat loss in autonomous heating systems is small. Equipment in a private home must be adapted to high-temperature coolants.

Cast iron heating radiators – which are better? Advantages and disadvantages

Cast iron is a strong, reliable material, heavy and durable. Cast iron heating equipment is used in apartments, private houses, cottages, and dachas. The material requires a long time to heat up, which will cause discomfort at the beginning of the heating season. But this works in the opposite direction - when disconnected, the batteries remain warm for some time.

Advantages of cast iron models:

• Long cooling time. The thick body retains heat - the heating season will end later than its neighbors.
• Reliability and durability. In old houses there are cast iron batteries that are 50 or more years old.
• Resistant to corrosion. The material is undemanding in terms of quality and type of coolant.

Flaws:

• Heavy weight. Difficult to deliver and install.
• The price is higher than steel and aluminum.
• Long heating time. It will take time to warm up.

Bimetallic heating radiators – which ones are better? Advantages and disadvantages

The peculiarity of bimetal devices is that they consist of two materials. Aluminum shell, steel core. Strong, durable. They are resistant to corrosion and water hammer, easy to install, and have high heat transfer. Due to the relatively high price and ability to withstand high pressure, they are installed in apartment buildings. Which bimetallic heating radiators are best for an apartment - brands Halsen, Radena, Bilit.

Advantages of bimetallic equipment:

• High resistance to corrosion: steel components protect against harmful influences.
• High heat transfer due to the aluminum surface. Aluminum is characterized by rapid heating.
• Long service life. On average, bimetallic devices last 25 years.

Flaw one is the high price compared to aluminum, steel, and cast iron.

Aluminum heating radiators – which are better? Advantages and disadvantages

Suitable for private houses, cottages with autonomous operating system: not designed for high pressure due to the fragility of aluminum. They are inexpensive. They heat up quickly and cool down just as quickly. The service life is about 15 years.

Which radiators are better: aluminum or bimetallic?

Aluminum appliances characterized by a low price. Suitable for installation in private houses, cottages, dachas. With high thermal power, prices are relatively low (if you look at Russian manufacturers - Halsen, Royal Thermo, Radena), the design will fit into the environment.

The advantages of aluminum models include a relatively low price (there are expensive options and analogues on the market for those who want to save money), and a high heat transfer rate. Disadvantages: demanding on the acidity of the liquid (possible destruction of the walls due to the susceptibility of the material).

Bimetallic batteries made of two materials: steel on the inside, aluminum on the outside. Designed for a service life of approximately 40 years, reliable, expensive compared to other varieties. Unpretentious (no special requirements for water). The inside and outside are coated with a primer to prevent corrosion.

Bimetallic ones are suitable when a durable unit is required. The only drawback is that the price will not suit everyone.

Sectional or steel – which is better?

Sectional heating batteries are installed in several blocks: they are connected into a single structure. This is convenient and practical: it will allow you to control the efficiency of heating the room. Difficult to install: leaks are possible due to improper connection. Install such heating equipment in private homes with an autonomous operating system. This is safe because sectional models are less protected from water hammer.

Dimensions steel (panel) units are known in advance (check the technical specifications or contact the seller). When choosing, focus on the parameters of the apartment or private house (volume of free space, length and depth of niches). The price of panel units is higher. The pipes of most models have a primer that prevents corrosion from low-quality coolant. The coating increases the service life. Installed in apartment buildings (riser system).

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