Modern radiators for central heating. Which heating radiator is best for a private home? Heating calculation and equipment selection

Anyone who is dissatisfied with the heating in their own home has a reasonable question: how will replacing the batteries affect the temperature? If you live in an old housing stock, then replacing heating appliances can radically change the situation. You just need to decide correctly for the apartment and by what criteria you should select them. This will be discussed in our material.

Is it worth giving up central heating and which radiator is better to choose for heating an apartment?

Before we talk about how to choose radiators for heating an apartment, let's look at the main point: which is better, central or heating?

This is not an idle question. These systems have different operating modes and specific operating conditions. The type of heating devices depends on the choice you make.

Previously there were no options. Apartment buildings have always had centralized heating. In modern new buildings, almost all developers offer an individual system that works or.

Let's compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two systems:

Now that you have an idea of ​​the weak points of both heating systems, you can think about how to choose heating batteries for your apartment.

There is a practice-tested list of basic criteria for heating radiators. How to choose devices:

1. Pay attention to the operating pressure indicated by the manufacturer in the product technical data sheet. Compare it with the performance of your centralized or autonomous system. For information: in a standard five-story building the average pressure is 6-8 atmospheres, in houses with 9-12 floors - up to 15 atmospheres.
2. It is important to select devices that are resistant to possible water hammer. A harbinger of an accident can be humming and noise in pipes.
3. The radiator material must be resistant to chemical attack, rust and mechanical damage.
4. The heating device model should be selected according to the maximum coefficient. It is indicated in the technical documentation.
5. Radiators differ in their service life. If you don’t want to spend extra money on replacing batteries, choose those. Which have a maximum warranty period.
6. And the last but not least important factor is appearance. Select devices according to your size of window openings and arrangement.

Types of heating radiators for apartments and their features

Each type of heating radiator in an apartment has its own characteristics. They differ in material, design specifics and permitted pressure.

Table of main parameters:

These four main types of radiators are most in demand in apartment buildings. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Cast iron: weighty and durable

Cast iron batteries are at least one hundred and fifty years old, and rare exhibits can be used for their intended purpose today.

Advantages of cast iron radiators:

Cast iron models also have their disadvantages, which you should be aware of before making a choice:

Opponents of cast iron batteries may argue that they are not the most aesthetically pleasing device. And by the way, they will be completely wrong, look at what masterpieces modern manufacturers offer; can they really be compared with primitive radiators made of aluminum and steel?

Steel: attractive, but unreliable

Now you can buy steel heating radiators in almost every household appliance store. Until recently, they were new to most buyers and when they appeared on the shelves they began to enjoy wild popularity. This is understandable: such batteries look weightless and neat, unlike the old cast-iron monsters that were in Soviet apartments.

The main advantages of steel batteries:

Steel batteries cannot be expanded like cast iron ones. And this is not the only drawback of such devices:

Considering all the listed disadvantages, we can conclude that steel radiators are not suitable for central heating systems. They can only be used for autonomous heating in an apartment or private house with a couple of floors.

Aluminum: a heating revolution

Weightless aluminum batteries have excellent performance. They appeared relatively recently, in the sixties of the last century, and over the years they have proven themselves well. Before you decide which aluminum radiator to choose, study the characteristics of models from different manufacturers. They may differ in the level of heat transfer.

Average heat transfer rates of aluminum radiators, table:

Returning to the issue of using different types of batteries in apartments with autonomous and central heating, it should be noted that aluminum heating radiators do not occupy the last place in the rating. They have their advantages:

At the same time, there is also a fly in the ointment in this ointment, which will not allow the use of aluminum appliances for central heating systems. So, the disadvantages:

There is only one conclusion from all this information: aluminum is an excellent material, but it is only suitable for an autonomous heating system. It is not suitable for the central one.

Bimetallic batteries: a compromise option

Such radiators are called bimetallic because of their special design, consisting of tubular steel and aluminum. Combining these two metals makes it possible to create devices that rival the strength and reliability of cast iron. This invention is already more than 60 years old, this time is quite enough to determine the operational features of the device. Main heat transfer characteristics of bimetallic heating radiators, table:

– these are monolithic panels without welded joints. And since there is no welding, there will be no leakage.

Advantages of bimetallic radiators:

It would seem that this is a simple answer to the question of which heating batteries are better for an apartment: bimetallic ones. Everything about them is wonderful, but there are a couple of significant drawbacks:

Thus, bimetallic devices are excellent for central heating systems. They are an example of modern technology and high efficiency.

Related article:

From the publication you will learn the scope of application of devices, their design, varieties, selection criteria, how to correctly calculate the number of sections, manufacturers and models, installation secrets.

How to determine the number of radiators for an apartment

To calculate the number of sections of heating radiators, you will need to know two basic quantities:

• heat loss of the room (depending on the region, building materials used and the size of windows and doors);
• power of one radiator section (indicated in the technical characteristics of the product).

For your information! The radiator data sheet usually indicates the maximum heat output of the device.

The easiest way is to calculate the number of battery sections by. To do this, you need to multiply the height, width and length of the room. The resulting value is the area. To determine the amount of heat for heating a room, you need to multiply the result obtained by the regional norm. For central Russia this is 80 W, for the north - 150, and for the south - 60.

But this will only be an approximate calculation, without taking into account the material of the walls. The resulting heat demand should be divided by the heat output of one section of the battery. As a result, you will receive the required number of sections. For the calculation, a table of heat transfer from heating radiators with average values ​​is useful:

You can take an even simpler route. Just take into account that one cast iron section heats 1.5 square meters, aluminum - 2, bimetallic - 1.8. If you have a room, say, 15 square meters, then draw a conclusion: you will need 10 sections of a cast-iron appliance, 8 of aluminum and bimetallic.

But remember, these are just approximate calculations.

Important! When choosing radiators, be sure to take into account the pressure level in the central heating radiators.

What are the best batteries for heating an apartment: prices and a dozen top manufacturers

The domestic market offers a wide range of modern heating batteries for apartments from a variety of manufacturers. We have selected for you the top three manufacturers in each segment. So, the rating of heating radiators for an apartment:

Aluminum radiators:

• Global Radiators is an Italian company that occupies a leading position in Europe in sales of aluminum heating appliances. Global Radiatori products are adapted to Russian operating conditions and have a warranty of up to 10 years. The cost of radiators is from 480 rubles per section

• Sira Industry- another Italian manufacturer that was at the forefront of the production of aluminum radiators. This company offers customers a wide range of models and budget models that are affordable to most buyers. Price per section – from 450 rubles

• Nami– the products of this Hungarian company are particularly resistant to adverse operating conditions, and this is important for us. Nami devices are coated on the inside with a special compound that protects the metal from corrosion and chemical reactions. Section price – from 299 rubles

Bimetallic radiators:

• Radena– and again Italy tops the list of the best. In addition to the fact that batteries from this manufacturer are suitable for Russian operating conditions, they are distinguished by an elegant external design suitable for any interior. Section price – from 548 rubles

• Rifar– domestic products are famous for their excellent heat dissipation and the possibility of bottom connection of pipes. This connection looks much neater. The batteries will last at least a quarter of a century, and the cost of one section starts from 500 rubles

• Oasis– the combination of German quality and affordable prices makes the products of this company very popular in Russia. The batteries can withstand pressure of 30 atmospheres, so they can be installed in houses with central heating. Section price – from 1000 rubles

Cast iron radiators:

• Conner– the Russian company offers extremely reliable batteries created using the latest technologies. The decent quality of the products is confirmed by numerous international awards. The company's designers offer models for every taste. Section price – from 790 rubles

• Guratec– the retro design of these German radiators will appeal to lovers of antiquity. These are real masterpieces that will decorate your apartment and serve faithfully for decades. Section price – from 6000 rubles

• Demir Dokum– the Turkish manufacturer has extensive experience in the manufacture of such products. It offers six product lines for different interiors. The appearance and quality of the radiators are worthy of the highest praise. Section price – from 1250 rubles

Steel radiators:

• Buderus– the oldest German company has more than 250 years of history. Today it also produces steel batteries with a stylish design and excellent performance characteristics. Section price – from 1100 rubles

• Kermi– another German manufacturer with extensive experience. Batteries are produced only in Germany using the latest equipment. All products meet strict European quality standards. Section price – from 1050 rubles

• Korado– a young Czech company quickly climbed to the podium thanks to the high quality of its products. The company's designers offer customers a rich range of colors and exquisite appearance of heating devices. Section price – from 1030 rubles

It’s up to you to decide which heating radiators are best installed in your apartment, but if you choose products from one of the listed companies, you definitely won’t go wrong.

Results

Choosing suitable radiators is not as simple a task as it seems at first glance. The type of heating system, technical characteristics of the products and the requirements of the premises should be taken into account.

The choice of heating batteries is a serious undertaking, on which not only the efficiency of heating residential premises depends, but also the operational life of the heating system as a whole. In multi-apartment buildings, the risk of water hammer is higher than in private houses, which is due to their connection to a centralized heating network. Therefore, the article will examine in detail the question of which heating radiators are best for an apartment.

The supply of coolant to the apartments is carried out through connection to a centralized heating network (DSN). The movement of coolant in such systems occurs in a forced manner. Liquid is supplied to each apartment using special pumps that are part of the DSP. The pressure pumped by the pumps averages 16 atmospheres.

Helpful information! When choosing a heating radiator, it is first recommended to pay attention to how often pressure surges occur in the communications. In order for the battery to withstand water hammer, its material must have a sufficient margin of strength.

A fairly common phenomenon that affects centralized communications is a violation of conservation. As a rule, this happens in the summer. However, not all batteries are able to withstand the water hammer that occurs during such depressurization in the system.

Individual elements of the DSP wear out greatly over time, which entails a deterioration in the quality of the coolant and the ingress of various foreign impurities into it. These can include technical impurities, particles of rust, dirt and various sedimentary elements. The presence of the former in the working environment negatively affects its thermal output during circulation through the DSP. The rest contribute to the narrowing of the clearance of pipes and radiators, which also reduces the efficiency of heating residential premises.

When replacing a heating device in an apartment, you should check the compatibility of the materials from which the batteries and connecting elements (fittings) are made. The incompatibility of metals leads to their oxidation, which often becomes the cause of emergency situations in the central heating plant.

Which radiator to choose: types of heating batteries

Today you can find a variety of batteries for installation in apartments. All of them are divided into types according to several criteria. First of all, all heating radiators are classified according to the material from which they are made:

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

And also, depending on the design, they can be:

• sectional;
• panel.

Each of the above types of heating devices is suitable for use in certain conditions. It is also worth saying that there are highly specialized models that are used to perform one function. This type includes floor-mounted convectors used in rooms that have a large glass area. Their use eliminates the possibility of windows fogging up.

You can also find another type of convectors on the market – baseboard ones. They are installed in special metal boxes that replace classic skirting boards. The main advantage of such heating devices is that they do not disturb the overall interior of the room.

Today you can find a variety of batteries in terms of design. The range of modern heating radiators is incredibly wide and varied. The disadvantage of batteries made in a unique design is their price. Therefore, such heating devices are not in high demand.

Characteristics of cast iron batteries for an apartment

Not so long ago, cast iron heating appliances were the most popular and were used almost everywhere. But today these bulky structures covered with enamel paint have faded into the background. With the development of production technologies, more efficient and wear-resistant steel radiators, as well as devices made of other materials, have appeared.

Note! Cast iron material has a high thermal conductivity coefficient. It’s also worth saying that it takes a long time to heat up, but at the same time it also takes a long time to cool down.

Cast iron batteries can withstand quite high pressure (up to 30 atmospheres), which exceeds standard DSP indicators by 2 times. Thus, devices made from this material are highly resistant to water hammer in the system.

Among the advantages of cast iron radiator batteries, one can also highlight the fact that they are compatible with pipes and fittings made of other materials. This allows you to save money, since when replacing the battery there is no need to replace associated communications.

And also products made of cast iron are distinguished by their resistance to destructive corrosive influences. They are unpretentious regarding the quality of the work environment that moves through them. Long-term interaction of the inner surface of a battery made of cast iron with water leads to the formation of a dark sediment, which has an antioxidant property. Therefore, with normal use of such radiators, they can last for decades.

Modern radiators made of this material are coated with a special protective enamel at the production stage. Unlike old cast iron batteries, new models do not require annual painting, and are also easy to clean, as they have a smooth, glossy surface. Among other things, cast iron heating devices do not accumulate gases, so they do not need to bleed off excess air.

During the Soviet era, such radiators were manufactured in large quantities and had standard sizes. Today, the model range of these devices offers customers virtually unlimited options for cast iron products, which differ in shape, design and color. A wide range allows you to increase the operational area of ​​​​such radiators.

Western companies engaged in the production of cast iron radiators produce special designer lines of heating devices. Such batteries are made in a fashionable retro style and are equipped with various ornaments. Of course, the cost of such products is an order of magnitude higher than conventional cast iron ones, but their quality and presentable appearance are beyond doubt.

Cast iron structures are selected depending on the size of the room. If necessary, the number of sections can be increased or decreased, which is very convenient. Let's consider what factors influence the choice of the number of sections:

• room area;
• window size;
• Number of doors;
• features of the climatic region.

Cast iron structures also differ in filling volume. For example, in domestic radiators it is 1.3, and in foreign ones - 0.8 liters. The cost of the latter is approximately 2-3 times higher. Brackets are used to install radiators in an apartment made of cast iron. It is also worth noting that some models are attached directly to the floor.

Why it is better to refuse to buy cast iron: a review of the disadvantages

As mentioned above, cast iron radiators are no longer as popular as they used to be. This is due to their shortcomings. The main disadvantage of these products is their heavy weight, due to which their storage, transportation and installation are accompanied by certain difficulties.

Note! To fasten a standard cast-iron structure, it is necessary to use bulky fastening elements - brackets.

It is also worth mentioning that, from a design point of view, standard cast iron products are not very presentable. They are absolutely not suitable for rooms designed in a modern style. Another disadvantage of heating batteries made of cast iron is low inertia. With such a battery it will not be possible to quickly regulate the temperature in the room, and for autonomous heating systems this property is especially important.

Cast iron structures do not differ in strength characteristics and are especially susceptible to mechanical stress (shocks). It is precisely because of the above properties that these products are not in great demand in the modern heating equipment market.

Types of steel heating radiators for apartments

Steel radiators are one of the most popular today. They are distinguished by a lot of positive qualities, and are also quite presentable and fit almost any room design.

There are three main types of these products, which differ from each other in their design:

• panel;
• tubular;
• lamellar.

Each of these types fits certain conditions and has its own advantages and disadvantages. In order to answer the question of which heating radiator is best to choose for an apartment, it is necessary to consider the features of both panel and tubular, as well as convector structures.

Which heating radiators are best for an apartment?: steel panel batteries

The panel structure includes two steel sheets. By stamping they are given the required shape. After this, the resulting blanks are joined by welding, which makes it possible to obtain a hollow panel. If necessary, it is supplemented with convectors, thanks to which the air moves in a vertical direction. This allows you to create a kind of “barrier” that protects the room from the cold emanating from the window.

After assembling such a radiator, it is painted. The protective coating is a very important element of the structure, as it protects it from corrosion, makes it more presentable, and also facilitates its care. When choosing a new steel battery, you need to pay special attention to how evenly the paint layer is applied to the panel. It must not contain gaps, cracks or chips.

Steel structures can withstand operating environment temperatures up to 95 ºC. They are designed for the standard pressure that is created inside the DSP, namely 16 atmospheres.

Helpful information! Steel batteries of this type can have a different number of convector elements and panels.

The length of such radiators ranges from 40 cm to 3 m. The minimum height of such a design is 20 cm, and the maximum is 90. Some companies are engaged in the production of steel heating devices of this type to order, which also expands their model range, and, accordingly, operational sphere.

Related article:

Description of the operating principle, comparison of heaters. Review of types, companies and prices of convector heaters.

Depending on where the heating device will be connected to the pipe, there are two main options for steel devices:

• with bottom connection;
• with side connection.

When choosing a steel radiator, you need to pay attention to the location of the heating pipes in your apartment. Based on this, the necessary design with the desired connection option is selected.

Advantages and disadvantages of steel panel radiators

In order to answer the question of how to choose a heating radiator for an apartment, you need to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of steel panel structures. Such models are the most common today. First, let's look at the positive qualities of these heating devices.

The first and, perhaps, the most important advantage of the panel structure is the ease of its installation. Installation into the heating circuit is done according to the instructions quite quickly. If necessary, you can do it yourself. In addition, the design of the radiator eliminates the need for assembly, as it is one-piece, which also saves time.

Panel radiators are highly inert, so they warm up very quickly. Thanks to this, they are easy to adjust to the required temperature. And also such steel structures have a fairly large area, which contributes to quick and efficient heating of the room.

Steel batteries in the form of panels are compact in size and have an attractive, modern appearance. Such models are most suitable for apartments equipped with an autonomous heating system. This is due to the fact that a minimum amount of coolant is required to fill them.

Like any other product, steel panel batteries have their drawbacks. The main one is that they are not designed to withstand strong hydraulic shocks. They are reliable only at normal pressure levels in the central heating system. However, this problem can be overcome. When installing a panel structure in an apartment, it is recommended to use a special device - a gearbox. This device allows you to reduce the level of load on the panel during water hammer.

The internal walls of such radiators, as a rule, are not equipped with a special protective coating against corrosion. It follows from this that their shelf life will depend on how high-quality the coolant circulates through them.

Tubular (sectional) steel batteries

Unlike the previous type of steel radiators, these batteries include several sections. These elements are fixed to each other by welding. Such products do not require assembly, which is undoubtedly their advantage.

Note! How to choose a tubular type battery? Before purchasing a tubular heating device, an obligatory item is the selection of the required power. This indicator is calculated taking into account the total area of ​​the room that the sectional model will heat.

Sectional heating devices are used in systems whose pressure ranges from 8 to 10 atmospheres. As a rule, this is not enough for apartment buildings heated by DSP. Therefore, experts recommend that when using such models, purchase a gearbox that can protect the tubular battery from water hammer.

The standard wall thickness of sectional gearboxes is 1-1.5 mm, so they have a high inertia coefficient. But the small thickness of the walls is also a disadvantage of such products, since they are characterized by rather weak strength characteristics.

Tubular-type structures are characterized by good resistance to contaminated coolant environments. Unlike panel models, their internal surface is equipped at the production stage with a special protective layer made of polymer material. Thanks to this, they are resistant to corrosion and have a longer service life.

Such devices are available in different sizes. The width depends on the area of ​​the room and the number of sections. The height can vary from 0.2 to 2.5 m, and the depth from 10 to 25 cm.

Sectional products have two main disadvantages:

• low heat transfer coefficient;
• the presence of welds that are unstable to hydraulic shocks.

Thus, sectional batteries are a good option for installation in autonomous heating systems. However, they are not entirely suitable for use in DSP conditions, as they are susceptible to water hammer.

Selection of tubular batteries, depending on their design

Many apartment owners are interested in the question of which heating radiator to choose, depending on the design. Tubular batteries made of steel (and not only) are a common solution for installation in apartments. The range of such devices is distinguished by a variety of design solutions. Depending on the location of the sectional radiator, you can purchase a wall-mounted or floor-mounted product.

Such devices are installed at different points in the living space. For example, the most common option is to install a tubular battery under the window, however, if desired, the location can be any. They are often used for installation in the center of the room (vertical version). In this case, the height of the battery corresponds to the height of the ceiling.

Helpful information! Some sectional radiators include special wooden panels that are mounted on the top of the device and act as a working surface. Such a shelf can be adapted for a variety of needs, but most often it is used for drying shoes.

The presence of a wide range of shapes, a variety of colors and the presence of additional structural elements significantly expand the operational range of such steel products.

Plate heating radiatorsmade of steel (convectors)

The working medium in a plate radiator moves through straight or curved steel pipes. Plates made of the same material are attached to them. The purpose of these elements is to increase the thermal output of the structure.

Plate batteries are resistant to hydraulic shocks. It is also worth saying that the steel rods located inside the structure heat up to fairly high temperatures. However, they are covered by a protective casing, the temperature of which is no more than 40 °C.

Such designs are great for use in rooms with high ceilings. This is due to the fact that heated air moves steadily upward and can rise to a fairly significant height. If necessary, you can independently adjust the temperature regime in which such a heating device will operate.

Plate batteries are able to withstand standard pressure in the central heating system (16 atmospheres). And the maximum pressure for them is 24 atmospheres. It follows from this that convector structures are suitable for use in apartment buildings. The price of a heating battery of this type averages 6-9 thousand rubles.

Such heating devices also have some disadvantages. For example, the vertical orientation of the movement of heated air is not only a positive, but also a negative side of a plate product. This is due to the fact that the room is heated unevenly.

The convector plates become contaminated with dust very quickly, which affects the heat transfer coefficient. Cleaning these elements is quite difficult. It is also worth noting that such devices are not aesthetically pleasing and are not suitable for every interior. Such batteries are most suitable for installation in rooms with high ceilings. They are often installed in corridors, swimming pools, etc.

Which radiators are best for an apartment: review of aluminum models

Structures made of aluminum are distinguished by their appearance, as they have a stylish design. However, such products are not the best option for installation in apartments with DSP. This is due to the fact that the aluminum structure has rather thin walls that are not resistant to the destructive effects of corrosion. Given the low quality of the coolant, such a battery may fail after only 5 years of operation.

Helpful information! For apartments that are heated by an autonomous heating system, an aluminum radiator can be a good option. A high thermal conductivity coefficient, as well as a presentable appearance, are the main advantages of such products, thanks to which the demand for them remains good.

Aluminum models are designed for operation in systems with a pressure of 15-20 atmospheres. However, the thin-walled structure used in the DSP cannot boast resistance to water hammer. Considering this fact, it is worth saying that a radiator for a house of this type is best suited for installation in autonomous heating conditions.

Experts advise not to use such batteries if the pressure in the communication exceeds 12 atmospheres. As for the quality of the coolant, aluminum structures function best with a Ph value of 5-6 units, which is rare in domestic DSPs.

Such heating devices are lightweight and therefore easy to store, transport and install. It is important to remember that installing such a battery requires not only care, but also the selection of fittings from a compatible material. Otherwise, corrosion-affected areas will form at the joints. Let's consider materials that absolutely cannot be used when installing an aluminum battery:

• steel;

• brass;
• copper.

The ideal option for installing an aluminum radiator is a heating circuit made of plastic. In this case, the occurrence of corrosion is eliminated, and the heating structure itself is easy to repair or dismantle.

Today you can find a wide selection of aluminum products. They differ in size, color and design. The height of such products ranges from 25 to 50 cm, however, if necessary, you can order a non-standard model (70-80 cm).

Experts note that such batteries have excellent compatibility with temperature control equipment. When installing an aluminum structure, it is recommended to select a thermostat in advance. They also have a glossy surface, so in case of contamination it will not be difficult to clean such a radiator. How to choose an aluminum heating battery, depending on the brand?

If we talk about companies that produce aluminum radiators, the most popular among consumers is ROYAL THERMO. Products from this brand are of good quality and reasonable price. Such radiators are adapted specifically for use in the CIS countries. They are characterized by good corrosion resistance and a long service life (above 10 years).

Aluminum batteries with anode coating - ideal for apartments

Heating devices made of aluminum can be made with a special anti-corrosion coating called anode. To produce such batteries, a high-quality aluminum alloy is used, which is pre-cleaned, and a layer of oxidized anode is applied to the surface.

The technological process for manufacturing such products is quite complex. During it, the structure of aluminum undergoes changes several times, which is a kind of hardening. Thus, the final product is characterized by increased resistance to corrosive influences and can be used in DSP conditions.

Such radiators are manufactured by casting. After which, the resulting sections are assembled into a single structure. One of the main advantages of such products is that, if necessary, you can repair the heating radiator in the apartment. Replacing a section that has been damaged is quite simple due to the design of the heating device.

Helpful information! If necessary, additional sections can be added to the anode battery.

The inner walls of such models are smooth, which promotes heat transfer. The coolant moves through the aluminum structure without any difficulty. The working pressure of anode products is 20-25 atmospheres, which is significantly higher than what is needed in an apartment building with a central heating system.

When purchasing such a heating device, experts advise you to be careful. This is due to the fact that anode products are no different in appearance from conventional cast radiators. Therefore, before buying this or that model of this type, it is recommended that you read the documents for it. Checking the passport and quality certificate allows you to avoid problems when purchasing an anode radiator.

Bimetallic heating radiators: which ones are better for an apartment?

Bimetallic batteries are the most popular in the modern heating equipment market. They have many positive qualities, among which versatility is worth noting. From the name it becomes clear that two metals are used in the production of such heating devices. Combined manufacturing can significantly improve the performance characteristics of these products.

The outer part of the bimetallic structure is usually made of aluminum. This allows you to achieve high thermal output and increase heating efficiency. In turn, the internal channels necessary for coolant circulation are made of high quality steel, which is resistant to corrosion.

It is worth mentioning separately that the outer part, made of aluminum, is additionally equipped with a layer of enamel, which gives such radiators a presentable appearance. Bimetallic batteries have a sectional design. The joining of individual elements is carried out using couplings, which are equipped with sealing rings.

The long service life of bimetallic heating devices is determined by their structure. The aluminum shell does not come into contact with the working environment and acts as a kind of “case” for the internal steel channels through which the coolant moves.

The steel part of the bimetallic radiator is highly resistant to system loads. Such products are capable of functioning at very high pressures (35-40 atmospheres). This makes them ideal for installation in apartments that are heated by DSP.

Also, such radiators are lightweight, which simplifies their installation in an apartment. Of the disadvantages of such products, perhaps only one can be noted - the rather high cost. However, their quality characteristics and shelf life fully justify the price.

If we talk about choosing the best bimetallic heating radiator for an apartment, then you need to pay attention to several popular models. Among them: SIRA RS BIMETAL 500, GLOBAL STYLE PLUS 500, and RIFAR MONOLIT 500. Each of these models has proven itself in operation in an apartment building with a central heating circuit.

Which heating batteries are better for an apartment: pricesand features of copper batteries

Batteries made of this material occupy the smallest segment in the heating market. Their low popularity is due primarily to the fact that they are quite expensive. However, they are distinguished by high technical characteristics and in this they can compete even with bimetallic products.

Such batteries are made from high-quality copper material, which does not have foreign impurities that can reduce the efficiency of the device. Such radiators have a number of positive qualities, although they are rarely used when replacing radiators in an apartment. The main advantage of such products, of course, can be called high efficiency, which is 4-5 times higher than that of cast iron models.

Another advantage of heating devices made of this material is their high inertia coefficient. They are able to heat up quickly, which contributes to effective heat transfer. Copper structures are also characterized by high strength characteristics and resistance to hydraulic shocks. They are capable of operating in systems with a pressure of 20-25 atmospheres, which exceeds standard values ​​in a central heating system.

Helpful information! If the coolant is not water, but antifreeze, then the use of copper radiators is the only solution.

It is also worth noting that such heating devices do not need to be painted, as they have high anti-corrosion properties. The service life of copper products exceeds 10 years. They have a presentable appearance and thanks to this they can decorate any interior, especially those decorated in a classic style.

It is important to remember that for such batteries it is necessary to select fittings from the same material to eliminate the possibility of an oxidation reaction.

Vertical heating radiators for apartmentsfrom different materials

Vertical radiators have several advantages over devices that are mounted in a standard way. They are lightweight, versatile and easy to install. Tall batteries are an excellent solution if there is not enough free wall space to install a conventional device. Vertical models are made from different materials:

Cast iron. Tall heating devices made of this material are quite unpretentious. For them, the quality of the coolant does not matter. They are distinguished by a good heat transfer coefficient, as well as resistance to hydraulic shocks. They are located in the middle price segment. One of the disadvantages of such tall batteries is their large mass, which makes their installation difficult.

Steel. Experts recommend using panel steel structures in apartments. The wall thickness of such batteries ranges from 1 to 1.5 mm. The outer walls of such products are equipped with a protective layer of enamel, which also gives them aesthetics. Tall steel radiators are susceptible to water hammer and are most often used in private homes equipped with an autonomous heating circuit.

Tall heating devices are distinguished by their efficiency and aesthetics. You can buy a vertical heating radiator for an apartment in any specialized store or place an order online. When purchasing steel devices, it is recommended to pay special attention to whether they have a protective anti-corrosion layer.

Aluminum. High temperature aluminum batteries are low temperature. They provide heating of the room due to their dimensions. The temperature of the working environment in such radiators ranges from 60 to 70 °C. They are able to provide standard temperature conditions in the room (from 20 to 24 ° C). Aluminum vertical heating devices are lightweight and also have the ability to add sections. Such products are most often used in autonomous heating circuits.

Bimetallic. They are distinguished by high quality and efficiency due to the use of two metal shells (aluminum and steel). Best suited for use in multi-apartment residential buildings.

Whichbuy a heating batteryfor an apartment: main selection criteria

Before purchasing a heating device for an apartment, you need to pay attention to several key points. There are certain criteria, the study of which will answer the question of how to choose a radiator. Heating batteries must meet all necessary technical specifications, have a passport and instructions.

Let's consider the main factors by which it is necessary to select a battery for an apartment.

Operating pressure. The documentation for the heating device must indicate the operating pressure. Experts recommend purchasing batteries with a certain reserve. The operating pressure of the battery should exceed the same figure in the central heating circuit by approximately 1.5 times. This will allow you to play it safe, since pressure surges often occur in the DSP.

Note! In old-style five-story buildings, the pressure in the heating circuit is about 6-8, and in modern high-rise buildings it is 10-15 atmospheres.

Resistance to hydraulic shocks. This factor has a direct impact on the service life of heating equipment. If a gearbox is not installed in front of the radiator, then water hammer will affect the structure with full force. When choosing a battery, it is recommended to take into account the specific operation of the heating circuit in your home.

Number of sections. If, when choosing a heating device, difficulties arise in determining the required number of sections, then it is recommended to pay attention to models that can be “expanded” if necessary.

Power. This indicator is perhaps the most important. Not all heating devices are capable of maintaining the required temperature in a living room. This is especially problematic in northern regions, where temperatures can drop 40°C below zero. In such situations, experts advise choosing models that can withstand high coolant temperatures (up to 130°C).

The temperature in the heating radiator in the apartment must meet the necessary standards and provide a suitable microclimate in the room. Today it has been established that the norm for a living space is +18 °C. For corner rooms, the walls of which are in direct contact with the street, this figure is increased by 2 °C. Therefore, when choosing a heating device, it is necessary to calculate its power taking into account specific operational features.

Coolant composition. We should also not forget that the battery life is also influenced by the characteristics of the working environment circulating through it. High quality coolant is very rare. As a rule, it includes various harmful (for radiator walls) impurities. Thus, it is necessary to select a structure with thick walls or a protective coating.

Radiator design. This factor is completely individual and depends on the preferences of the apartment owners, as well as the features of the interior.

Easy to install. Such a criterion is not necessary. However, if you decide to install the heating structure yourself, then you should select products that are light in weight. And also study the fastening options and features of connecting a particular model to the heating circuit.

Which heating batteries are better for an apartment?: advice from professionals

So which heating radiators are best to install in an apartment? Experts recommend consulting with a plumber before purchasing a heating device. In any case, you will need to know the features of the DSP and coolant, including:

• heating circuit pressure;
• Ph working environment;
• Coolant temperature.

After receiving all the necessary information regarding the heating circuit, it is recommended to inquire about the surges occurring in the system. This data will help you choose the radiator that suits your parameters.

Helpful information! For residential buildings that have more than 12 floors, installing a bimetallic battery would be an excellent option. Also in this case, cast iron models can be used. If the operating pressure does not exceed 14 atmospheres, and the Ph value is in the range from 5 to 8, then you can use not only cast iron and bimetal, but also aluminum and steel.

If the acidity level exceeds the permissible level (>8.5), then the use of steel and aluminum structures is strictly not recommended. In such an environment, only bimetallic heating structures can function normally. They are also suitable for DSPs where the pressure exceeds 20 atmospheres.

Rating of heating radiators for apartmentsbimetal

Among bimetallic radiators, as mentioned above, three main models can be distinguished. Let's look at their characteristics:

SIRA RS BIMETAL 500. This model has several main advantages, which include: high heat transfer coefficient, as well as good sound insulation qualities. Similar products are made in Italy. They are capable of heating a room up to 40 m².

The number of sections of such batteries varies from 4 to 12. Also, the bimetallic radiators of this model are distinguished by high quality painting and aesthetics. One of the disadvantages is increased sensitivity to the work environment.

GLOBAL STYLE PLUS 500. Bimetallic heating device from an Italian manufacturer, characterized by high build quality. The service life of such products is 25 years, as reported by the manufacturer. Another advantage of such a radiator is its resistance to water hammer. A model of this type can withstand pressure up to 35 atmospheres. The maximum coolant temperature for this heating device is 110 °C.

The main disadvantage of such batteries is the enamel coating, which is of uncertain quality. It is also worth saying that the price of a heating battery of this type is higher than that of other representatives.

RIFAR MONOLIT 500. The most popular bimetallic radiator, which is highly resistant to hydraulic shock and has a working pressure of as much as 100 atmospheres. The Rifar company is located in Russia and specializes in the production of heating devices adapted to domestic conditions of use.

A similar model may have a different number of sections. The maximum heat transfer rate of such a battery reaches 2744 Watts, which is quite enough to maintain the necessary microclimate in a room with an area of ​​27 m². The maximum operating temperature that such a battery can withstand is 135 °C. One of the disadvantages of this radiator is poor sound insulation.

Which heating radiators are best for an apartment: pricesand characteristics of aluminum models

In turn, aluminum heating structures have many varieties. Let's consider those that are most popular among buyers:

THERMAL RAP-500. The company producing this model of radiators is located in Russia. Products of this type are designed to work in rather difficult conditions. The maximum operating pressure for the RAP-500 model is 24 atmospheres, which exceeds the standard values ​​in the DSP.

Note! When purchasing an aluminum heating device, you must pay attention to its operating pressure. This indicator is indicated in the relevant documentation supplied with the radiator.

The aluminum battery of this model is resistant to hydraulic surges, therefore it is popular among buyers in Russia. The maximum temperature of the working environment that the RAP-500 radiator from the THERMAL brand can withstand is 130 °C.

RIFAR ALUM 500. Such aluminum batteries, as in the previous case, are produced by a Russian company. They are able to function in severe temperature conditions (up to 135 °C). The maximum area that a model of this type can heat is 25.6 m².

The aluminum model from this manufacturer can withstand pressures of up to 20 atmospheres and is resistant to minor hydraulic shocks in the central heating system. Its service life can reach 25 years under normal use. The main disadvantage of this model is the low-quality protective coating.

ROYAL THERMO REVOLUTION 500. The aluminum radiator from the Italian brand “ROYAL THERMO” is distinguished by the fact that it has the best heat transfer coefficient among similar designs. The maximum power of such a heating device can reach 3982 Watts.

Installation of such an aluminum radiator allows you to provide the necessary temperature conditions for rooms whose area reaches 40 m². This model is suitable for use in DSPs whose operating pressure does not exceed 20 atmospheres. Thus, we can conclude which heating radiator is better for an apartment. The price and photo of such a battery can be easily checked on the Internet.

One of the disadvantages of this heating equipment is that they are quite demanding on the quality of the working environment. The approximate cost of the above devices ranges from 2500 to 5000 rubles. There are also more expensive options, the price of which can reach 12,000 rubles. and even higher. These include vertical aluminum heating devices.

Steel and cast iron radiators: which are better for an apartment?

Steel radiators are affordable, however, they are not very popular in the heating equipment market. Let's look at the models that have proven themselves best in an apartment building with a DSP:

PURMO COMPACT 22 500. Finnish heating equipment has always been famous for its versatility. The steel radiator of this series is no exception. This model has convenient wall mounting, as well as high maximum power (5572 watts). The area that this battery can heat reaches 50 m².

Among other things, a steel structure of this type is lightweight and is the most convenient of all for self-installation in an apartment. It can be used in heating circuits with a pressure of no higher than 10 atmospheres, which is a rather noticeable disadvantage.

KERMI FTV (FKV) 22 500. This model allows you to answer the question of which battery is best to install in an apartment with large rooms. It is a product of the German company KERMI. The main advantage of this type of steel radiator is that it has a high heat transfer coefficient. The panel design helps to heat the living space. The power of such a device can reach 5790 watts.

Helpful information! The area that this battery can heat is 57.9 m². Therefore, it is ideal for installation in large rooms.

A steel radiator of this type is suitable for use in heating systems with a coolant temperature not higher than 110°C. Among the disadvantages of this model are the low operating pressure (10 atmospheres) and the low quality of the enamel coating.

Cast iron models have many disadvantages, but are still used in apartments. Among the variety of models made from this material, we can highlight one that has many positive reviews, namely: STI NOVA 500.

This radiator is the most popular among consumers. It is a product of an Italian company and has good heat dissipation. This battery is perfect for small rooms (no more than 20 m²). The maximum coolant temperature that a structure of this type can withstand is 150°C. The disadvantages include large mass and considerable coolant consumption.

How to calculate the power of radiators and the number of sections?

The radiator must ensure normal temperature conditions in the room. To do this, it is necessary to calculate the number of sections before purchasing it. Let's look at some rules that will help you perform the corresponding calculation.

First of all, when calculating the power and number of sections of a heating device, you need to focus on its dimensions. It is important to remember that the width of the battery should not be more than 70% of the window opening. To ensure normal heat transfer, the product is installed taking into account the center line of the window. The temperature level of the heating radiator in the apartment affects the heating of the living space, so you should take the location of the device seriously.

The distance from the working surface (wall) to the heating structure should not be lower than 3 and higher than 5 cm. It is also worth considering the distance from the floor to the radiator. It should not exceed 12 cm. In turn, the recommended distance to the windowsill is 5 cm.

Often, to increase the efficiency of the device, the wall is covered with foil materials. Let's consider what parameters are required to correctly calculate the radiator power:

• room dimensions;
• number of windows and doors;

• the material from which the building is made;
• location of the apartment.

Among other things, it is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the heating circuit.

Heating battery pricesfrom different brands

Today the range of heating equipment is wider than ever. But from the many different models, the most popular can be identified, which are distinguished by their adaptability to domestic operational features. An important factor when choosing a heating device is its cost. The price of heating batteries must correspond to their quality.

Bimetallic devices are rightfully considered the most adapted to domestic conditions. Their cost depends on the company, as well as on technical parameters. The price of the most popular bimetallic heating device RIFAR MONOLIT 500 is about 5,500 rubles. Thus, for 5-6 thousand rubles. You can buy a good battery for your apartment.

Note! The average cost of replacing a heating radiator in an apartment is 2000-3500 rubles. The total amount depends on the type of heating device and its installation features.

Aluminum radiators are less expensive. You can purchase a device of this type for only 2500-4500 rubles. In turn, steel and cast iron models are the most expensive. For example, the most popular cast iron battery, STI NOVA 500, costs about 7,500 rubles. The price of the most popular steel appliances ranges from 6-7 thousand rubles.

When choosing a heating device for an apartment, you need to take into account many nuances. But first of all, it is advisable to decide on the financial capabilities and features of the DSP in your home. If necessary, you can seek advice from a specialist who will help you choose an effective device.

Replacing batteries that have stopped performing their functions is an important part of repairing a heating system. Therefore, their choice should be taken with all seriousness and responsibility. And in order not to make a mistake in your purchase 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 your 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:

Sectional cast iron radiators

Their advantages:

• Reliability and durability. The average lifespan of radiators is about 50 years.
• Undemanding to the quality of the coolant. Therefore, they are still installed in buildings with a gravity heating system (operating 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, on average 2000-3500 rubles for 4-7 sections (with the exception of designer options, the cost of which starts from 5000 rubles).

Read in a separate article: and its fitting.

Disadvantages of cast iron radiators:

• Fragility, insufficient resistance to powerful ones.
• The need for periodic touch-up.
• Due to the roughness of the inner walls of radiator sections, impurities can be retained in them, clogging the coolant flow 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 radiator is also found in our country, many residents of the United States answer the question: “Which heating radiators are best to install in an apartment?” They will answer without the slightest hesitation: “Only steel panels.” And in some ways they will be right.

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

Advantages of steel radiators:

• Various size range.
• Good heat dissipation.
• Ability to work with small volumes of coolant.

Flaws:

• Low operating pressure (no more than 6-10 atm.). With a water hammer of 13 atm. their sections may rupture.
• Lack of protection of the internal walls from exposure to water, leading to gradual destruction of the 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. Their operating pressure range can be from 10 to 15 atm. In addition, they have a more impressive, original design and more durable paint.

Aluminum radiators

Another popular answer to the question: “Which heating batteries are best to choose for an apartment?” are sectional structures that can be assembled independently, taking into account the characteristics and area of ​​the heated room in order to warm it up effectively and efficiently.

Advantages:

• The ability of such radiators to quickly take heat from the coolant and heat the room 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 (price of one section - starting from 120 rubles).

Disadvantages of aluminum radiators:

• Fast cooling when the system is turned off.
• Susceptibility to corrosion and demanding pH of the coolant (maximum permissible value is up to 7.5 units).

Important: When using aluminum radiators, it is strictly forbidden to install fittings made of copper or brass, 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.

Bimetallic 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.
• A unique safety margin for radiators guarantees reliable protection against water hammer. (the functional pressure in such a device is 35 atm, the test pressure is up to 52.5 atm).
• Inertness to the coolant composition.
• Quite a long service life (about 20-25 years).
• Ability to work with small volumes of coolant.

Disadvantages of bimetallic radiators:

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

Radiator selection criteria

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 performance of these devices in the future. This:

• Functional pressure declared by the manufacturer. This indicator must necessarily exceed the operating and test pressure in the system. Example: In old-style houses consisting of five floors, the average operating pressure in the heating system is about 5-8 atm. However, new high-rise buildings are heated under pressure of 10-12 atm.
• Ability of radiators to withstand water hammer. Problems in the heating system may be indicated by clicking and humming noises in the radiators. In this case, it is better to contact your utility service to check the pressure level in the system.
• Resistance to low quality coolant. For apartment buildings, it is better to use batteries with a special protective layer in their inner part. In addition, their walls must be thick enough so that sand particles and pebbles present in the coolant 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 solution. The times of ugly cast iron “monsters” are a thing of the Soviet past. Modern heating radiators are distinguished by their visual appeal 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 radiator for an apartment, you need to calculate how many sections should be installed in each specific room and determine the power and pressure rating of this device. This is done as follows:

Selecting radiator power

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

• Type of building (brick or panels).
• The area of ​​the heated room.
• Number of windows.
• Presence of external walls.
• Type of glazing in the apartment (double glazing or wooden windows).

According to the standard, in a room with a ceiling height of 3 m, having one window with a wooden frame and one door, a radiator with a power of 90-125 W per 1 m2 is usually installed.

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

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

If there are two windows and two external walls - by 30%.

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

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

If there is a continuous screen on the battery: + 15%.

Deciding on the number of sections

Average power of a radiator section of various types:

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

Practical example:

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

Explanation:

• We calculate the cubic capacity: 3 x 10 = 30 m3.
• We determine energy consumption: 41 x 30 = 1230 W.

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. Round 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, a 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 the climatic zone. The result will be: 1230·1.3:200=7.995. That is, for such a room a radiator of 8 sections is suitable.

Understanding working pressure

When purchasing heating radiators, you need to take into account their operating 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 especially 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 design features of the central heating system and its differences from the autonomous heating system operating in a private house.

With centralized heating, heat from the coolant is supplied through a pipeline to the apartment from an external heat source (boiler house or local thermal power plant).

Advantages of this type of heating system:

• Low cost of installation and maintenance.
• Ability to operate on inexpensive fuel (in boiler houses, coal, gas, wood waste, etc. can be used for this purpose).
• No harmful combustion products during system operation.

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, which contribute to abrasion of the working elements of the battery.
• Instability of operating temperature (it may fluctuate during the heating season).
• Quite high pressure.
• The possibility of water hammer occurring - powerful pressure surges in the system.

Advantages of an autonomous system:

• Independence.
• Possibility of adjusting heating.
• Possibility of year-round provision of hot water to the house (when using a double-circuit heating boiler).
• Savings in payment.
• Low pressure in the system and absence of water hammer.
• Higher quality coolant compared to a centralized system.

Flaws:

• Difficult to install.
• Additional costs for repairs and maintenance.
• The need to have permits when installing such a system in an urban apartment.

Thus, the main factors based on which we can 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 about 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 a multi-storey building, it is recommended to choose batteries that can withstand high pressure, water hammer and aggressive coolant - bimetallic radiators meet all these criteria. For old houses with a small number of floors, where the pressure is not so high, cast iron radiators are also suitable.

And for a private home, you can consider the option of installing aluminum batteries, since their cost is quite reasonable, 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 the 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 consultant will provide you with adequate assistance in choosing, so let’s figure it out one by one: how to choose the right heating battery so that it heats well, looks beautiful and doesn’t “bite” at the price? So it’s not easy to answer this question right away - you need to take into account many nuances. We will tell you how to avoid basic mistakes.

Comparative characteristics of heating radiators

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

Comparative table of modern heating radiators

Very often, when choosing, the main criteria are price and appearance. Undoubtedly, these points 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 parameters such as the type of coolant. Equally important is the corrosion resistance and durability of the radiator. Ultimately, making the right choice will save you money, time and stress. Next, we will consider the features of each type.

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

High heat transfer is combined with low weight, convenient sectional design and excellent performance. If we consider that these factors are complemented by ease of installation and elegant design, then it is not difficult to understand the reasons for the popularity of products made of aluminum alloys when arranging 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 places higher demands on the quality of the coolant (water). Water with a high alkaline content causes metal corrosion, and the chemical reactions that occur during this process lead to gas formation. As a result, the service life of radiators is reduced and the risk of intersections increases. For this reason, you should abandon cheap Chinese-made products in favor of products from well-known European manufacturers.

The likelihood of intersectional leaks is virtually reduced to zero in the design of aluminum radiators from the STOUT brand. The equipment is produced at the Italian GLOBAL plant, heating devices are adapted for 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 warranty from the manufacturer. Modern design in Italian traditions will fit into any interior, and the increased heat radiation area will increase indoor comfort.

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

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

Steel radiators

Like other heating equipment with open welds, they require stable coolant pressure. For this reason, they are most often used for installation in private homes and other buildings with autonomous heating. In this case, the closed heating circuit helps slow down oxidative processes, and also 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 from famous European manufacturers

When installing steel radiators in buildings with central heating, you should be aware of the danger of water hammer and low quality coolant. Sudden pressure changes and water containing salts and alkali reduce the battery life by more than half. In this case, you should not expect the equipment to last more than 10 years.

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

You can find two types of steel radiators on sale:

• 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 for the implementation of any wiring scheme and arbitrary placement in space. The range of tubular batteries includes both monolithic and sectional models, from which you can easily assemble a battery of the required power. The simple manufacturing technology is reflected in the affordable cost, and the appearance of the radiator from many 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’ll be happy to discuss?

The flat, smooth surfaces of panel radiators make maintenance much easier. That's why housewives love them so much

To manufacture panel radiators, steel zigzag plates are used, which are spot welded to each other. 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. The downside of this improvement is that the structure becomes heavier - the weight of multilayer steel heat exchangers approaches that of cast iron.

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

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

The appearance of copper radiators is suitable only for fans of industrial design, which is why manufacturers complete heating devices 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. Possessing low inertia, a copper battery provides quick heating of the room and allows the use of temperature control equipment.

In terms of its thermal conductivity, copper is second only to silver, far ahead of other metals

The inherent ductility of copper, corrosion resistance and the ability to come into contact with contaminated coolant without harm allows the use of copper batteries in apartments of 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. Copper radiators have only one drawback - they are too expensive.

Comparative table of technical characteristics of copper and copper-aluminum radiators

Plastic radiators

At the moment, heating radiators are made entirely of plastic, a kind of know-how. 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 corrosion resistance, they have no equal. Products made from thermoplastics 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 that you remember the contours of water-heated floors made of cross-linked polypropylene. Its thermal conductivity is lower than that of rigid thermoplastics, and, nevertheless, this does not prevent the use of plastic pipes to build reliable and efficient underfloor heating systems.

Simplicity of manufacture and, as a result, low cost make thermoplastic batteries an excellent offer 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 that we are talking about.

Modern electric radiators combine high efficiency, reliability and safety.

Depending on the design, there are several types of heat exchangers operating from the electrical network:

• oil radiators;
• convectors;
• infrared devices.

The design of the oil radiator most closely resembles a traditional heating battery. Mineral oil is used as a coolant, and heating is carried out by a tubular electric heater (TEH). The closed design contributes to fire safety and mobility of the device, and 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 heating batteries in their 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 an air heating element rather than a liquid one. Thanks to their closed design, heaters of this type have the same advantages as oil radiators. As for the design, it is optimized so that the device uses convection as efficiently as possible. The only disadvantage of a convector is 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 is heated, but reflective objects

By heating not the air, but the surrounding objects, IR heaters are highly efficient and at the same time have the highest efficiency. The only disadvantages of devices that operate similarly to the Sun are their relatively high cost.

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 radiator size

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 heating radiator, among other factors, you should take into account the width of the window opening and the height of the window sill

The size of the battery is directly related to 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 building located in mid-latitudes. You should add 20% to the desired value - this reserve will not be superfluous when extremely low temperatures occur. Knowing the heat costs that will be needed to maintain a comfortable temperature in the room, you can choose a monolithic battery of the required size or calculate the number of sections of a modular radiator. 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, a larger heating battery will be required. In this case, a table that takes into account the height of the ceilings will help you determine the number of radiator sections.

The table enlarges when clicked.

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

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

To summarize the comparative characteristics of various types of heating devices, we can highlight 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 that circulates through our pipelines and will last for many years. The “accordion” will withstand pressure drops and water hammer, while effectively heating the air in the room. The low price of this type of heating device makes it quite affordable for everyone. However, the high inertness of cast iron will not allow combining such a radiator with a thermostat.
2. A good alternative to a cast iron battery in apartment buildings is a bimetallic battery based on steel with aluminum or copper. Steel has sufficient rigidity and corrosion resistance to withstand water hammer and the unfavorable chemical composition of water in the central system, and aluminum or copper compensate for the less than outstanding heat transfer of steel. However, the high cost does not allow us to say that this will be the best option.
3. For closed heating systems found in private homes, choosing batteries is usually easier - there is no overpressure in the heating system, and the water is treated before it enters the pipeline. Therefore, the optimal type of heating device for a 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 lower heat transfer than aluminum, steel heating devices have many advantages - low weight, low inertia, nice design, attractive price.
5. Steel and aluminum batteries are produced primed along the inner plane of the heating element to prevent corrosion from the aggressive coolant environment. Scale and rust particles present in the coolant of open heating systems lead to mechanical destruction of the primer layer inside the devices, so manufacturers recommend using them in closed heating systems of private houses. A copper radiator can be a good option for open centralized systems, but not everyone will be happy with its cost.