What taps are needed for heating radiators. Shut-off valve for the radiator. Features of ball, valve valves with a thermostat.
A modern heating radiator is enough functional device. Pipes of central or autonomous heating systems are connected to the battery using threads or fittings. At first glance, it may seem that the heat exchanger is self-sufficient and there is no need to equip it with any other technical elements. But in case of unforeseen circumstances, a tap for heating radiators, as well as various valves, can help. Let's look at the types of battery taps that are used today, explore their capabilities, functionality. We will also learn how to install them.
Purpose of valves
They can function quite normally without the need to install additional devices. The premises will be heated in any case. But there are many situations where the absence stopcocks and other similar equipment greatly affects the usability. For example, one of the situations is primitive accidents when the radiator is leaking. To eliminate such an annoying problem, it is necessary to turn off the entire riser, entrance high-rise building, and in especially serious situations - even a whole residential area. Also, shut-off valves for heating allow you to adjust the performance of heating batteries. In the best case, when installing heat exchangers, they are completed with simple ball valves. Most often there are three. One is designed to be installed on the coolant supply, the second - on the outlet, and the third is mounted on the bypass. Additionally, a control valve is placed on the supply. It can regulate the pressure of the coolant. The heating battery itself is equipped with a Mayevsky crane to facilitate air bleeding. Such a scheme is not a redundant option, although four devices are used here. As a set, they allow you to solve a lot of useful tasks.
Functionality
A tap for heating radiators will be extremely useful when it is necessary to dismantle the battery to clean it from blockages without draining the coolant. Radiators are also removed to eliminate leaks. Cranes such as Mayevsky allow you to get rid of air jams that have formed in the system. Often air is formed in the upper parts of the heat exchangers.
There is a fundamentally different shut-off valve - these are taps for heating radiators with a thermostat. They are equipped with the help of which the heating of the heating batteries is regulated. Such a complex allows you to reliably protect the heat exchanger and the heating system from any breakdowns, and allows you to control the efficiency of supplying heat to the premises. Devices stop valves are much cheaper than any repairs due to radiator leaks.
Differences from the usual
A familiar crane can perform a variety of functions, depending on what design the product is and what its principle of operation is. Also, the functionality depends on the materials from which this or that device is made. Naturally, any faucets, or rather, shut-off and control valves for heating appliances, are slightly different from traditional faucets that are found in every bathroom or kitchen. Shut-off valves must meet certain basic performance requirements. So, the maximum temperature of the coolant can be no more than 200 degrees. Pressure - from 16 to 40 atm. Taps and other similar elements must be resistant to corrosion and mechanical wear.
For work in heating systems, special models of valves and valves are made. For those who want to save money and want to install ordinary devices in the system, designed to work with cold water, it must be said that this approach is fundamentally wrong. Devices designed for less aggressive conditions may simply not withstand the loads and quickly fail.
Types of valves for heating systems
The normal and efficient operation of any heating systems largely depends on whether the locking elements are correctly selected. There are several types of cranes that are suitable for solving various problems.
materials
For the production of valves, brass, steel, cast iron and plastic are most often used. For domestic heating systems, a brass faucet is most preferable. The cost of such an element is higher than a steel product. But its characteristics cannot be compared in efficiency with any other materials. The temperature range and working pressure that the material can withstand is not comparable to plastic. Unlike steel and cast iron products, a brass faucet is not subject to corrosion. This is a big plus.
Connection type
All locking devices for heating systems, regardless of type and type, are equipped with an American connection. This method of connection allows you to install and remove batteries without changing the design of the entire system. Often, when arranging individual heating systems, a ½-inch tap is used for heating radiators. You can rarely find devices with a ¾ inch connection type.
ball valve
Such an element is called because of its structure. The locking mechanism, which is located inside the device, has the shape of a ball with a hole. The principle of operation of such a device is simple. It lies in the fact that with one turn of the handle, you can stop the flow of coolant through the pipes of the system.
This can be very useful if accidents occur (for example, a water pipe break). The ball element allows you to quickly and easily shut off the flow hot water. If a screw tap for heating radiators were used for the same purpose, then it would take much longer to shut off the water supply. In addition to ball mechanisms, there are also their analogues on sale. Here the locking part can have a conical or cylindrical shape. However, according to performance characteristics it is ball products that are most effective. Tapered devices are inferior at least in that they are subject to higher wear.
If you cut the device, then inside you can see a ball of metal and a gasket, which ensures tightness when the tap is closed. Recently, polymeric Ball Valves. They can be installed on any type of radiators. There are also metal products for sale. Often used brass or brass alloys.
Ball valves for heating radiators have only two working positions - hence their name. This is a shutoff valve. On the market, you can also find taps with three possible positions. They are also suitable for working with radiators. Their peculiarity is that there are three positions. The coolant flow itself can be directed in two directions. The cost of ball valves is low. The elements have a simple design, their installation also does not require special skills and equipment.
About the choice of ball valves
As for the selection of this locking device, it is necessary to take into account the overall dimensions of the device, the type of metal or alloy. The material is very important, since when connecting the element to the radiator, no galvanic pairs should be formed.
When choosing, it is necessary to pay attention to the dimensions of the hole in the locking part. There are full bore valves, standard and non-full bore. In full bore, the size of the inner hole fully corresponds to the inner size of the pipe. Due to this, after mounting the device in the open state, it will not reduce the volume of coolant that enters the radiator.
The diameter of the obturator hole in standard valves is 20% smaller than the internal dimensions of the pipe. During the operation of such models, the heat transfer of the radiator is reduced by 10-15%. Partial bore ones have a very small hole in the shut-off ball - the coolant flow rate is halved.
Stop valve
This category of equipment is suitable for connecting radiators in a two-pipe system. Due to the design, these valves allow you to quickly shut off the coolant flow to the radiator, while not requiring a complete shutdown heating system. Shut-off valves are also very convenient for draining water from the heat exchanger. As for the expediency of acquiring and installing this particular solution, then with technical side there is not much difference between such a valve and a ball valve. If the simplest thermostat is installed on the pipe that supplies the coolant, then both options will work in exactly the same way. However, they differ in design. ball valve can only be opened or closed.
And the valve allows you to control the flow of hot water in the system. Also, the device does not have a valve for turning. Price shut-off valve slightly higher than the ball.
Mayevsky cranes
Heating systems are closed loop in which the coolant constantly circulates. If an air lock appears in it, then the heat transfer of the system is significantly reduced. And that's the best thing that can happen. In such situations, there are risks of freezing the system. To eliminate such plugs in heating systems, a Mayevsky crane is used. The price of the device starts from 100 rubles. This is an inexpensive, but at the same time necessary and very effective device.
If you turn the valve on the tap all the way, you can hear how air comes out, if any. After the entire plug comes out, the mechanism can be closed. Air is released from a hole with a diameter of 2 mm. This hole is located in a plastic gasket or in a brass body. On sale there is a simple or automatic Mayevsky crane.
The price for automatic solutions is higher and starts from 350 rubles. But such devices are much more convenient.
Control valves
These products belong to the group of shut-off and control devices. However, they rarely completely block the coolant flow. Therefore, if such a valve is installed in the system, then a ball valve is still needed.
Control valves for heating radiators are devices that change the amount of coolant that passes through the heat exchanger. So you can change the modes of heating the air in the premises.
The principle of operation of the device is quite simple. The flow of hot water is regulated by a cone. The latter rises or falls due to the rotation of the handle. There are valves of this kind with a direct or side connection type. As for the materials, these are bronze and brass. Nickel-plated fittings from these materials can also be found on sale. There are also stainless steel appliances. But this is a rarity due to the high price.
What you need to know about control valves?
By installing such a valve on the battery, you can significantly reduce the amount of coolant passing through the heat exchanger.
Even when fully open for heating, the throughput will be hardly more than half. Install such equipment if the room is too hot. as one of options- You can find a device with more bandwidth. The disadvantage of such cranes is due to the small throughput diameter such devices often become clogged.
Mounting Features
On radiators, they are most often installed on reverse system. The valves are mounted on one or more batteries if the sum of the heat transfer indicators is more than 50% of the total value. The remaining devices are equipped with a valve on the supply pipe and a ball valve.
"American" is always equipped with one or two. This installation method is much simpler than a coupling connection. For polypropylene pipes metal ball valves are mounted using special couplings. Threads must be sealed. Mayevsky cranes are often equipped with a sealant. Therefore, additional sealing is not needed.
So, we found out the types and differences of valves.
It would seem that what is easier is to select and install taps for heating radiators in a private house or apartment. But the assortment of radiator fittings presented in the distribution network is unexpectedly wide, which confuses the average layman who is not versed in issues of water heating. Hence the purpose of this article is to help people figure out which taps should be put on batteries and why they serve in various types of heating systems.
Each heater is a separate element of the system that needs adjustment and periodic maintenance. If, however, to control the flow of coolant through the batteries, depending on the need for heat, then it is possible to achieve good results in terms of energy savings. That is, radiator valves and taps for heating are designed to solve such problems:
- Complete isolation of the heating device from the system.
- Restriction of the coolant flow through the battery.
- Change in coolant flow depending on external conditions.
- Bleeding air from the radiator and piping network.
There are many situations in which it is difficult to do without disconnecting the battery. For example, a properly functioning centralized heating in the middle of spring, when it is already warm outside, and the apartment is just hot. Another case is the need to remove the heater in order to replace, flush or repair. In the absence of shut-off valves, it becomes problematic to carry out any action with the radiator.
Valves put on batteries in retro style
The restriction of the flowing coolant is carried out in order to balance individual heating in a private house or apartment. No matter what type of heating system you have, without balancing with valves, the first batteries will always receive more water than the last ones. To limit the coolant flow at the beginning of the network and thereby equalize all the devices with each other is the task of the control radiator fittings.
Automatic control of the flow of the incoming coolant is a way to save energy used to heat the house. If each faucet on the heating battery maintains the set air temperature in the room, controlling the flow of water through the radiator, then in general the system will consume only the required amount of heat, no more. And that's a big savings.
Well, the problem of air release when filling the system or during operation is also solved by special air valves installed on all modern radiators. Below is a list of varieties of shut-off and control valves, listed in the same order as the tasks it solves:
- Semi-turn ball valves in straight and angle versions. They are made of brass, bronze or polypropylene with a metal insert.
- Balancing valves for radiators - straight and angled.
- Adjusting valves with thermal heads (thermostatic valves).
- Drain valves - automatic and manual.
For reference. Some home craftsmen use to join heating appliances three-way mixing valves. But such a solution is unreasonably expensive and rarely used in practice.
Now we should consider in detail which taps are best placed on radiators in various conditions and circumstances. Some options are clearly shown in the video:
Installation of ball valves on batteries
A conventional ball valve is only designed to switch to 2 positions: "open" and "closed". It is impossible to regulate the flow of coolant through the radiator with it, only to block it. The figure below shows simple circuit connection of the heater with this type of fittings:
The proposed scheme is the best option unregulated connection of the radiator to the central heating risers in the apartment. You still don’t have to balance it, and it’s pointless to install a thermostatic valve because of the poor quality of the coolant. Instead of a ball valve at the outlet, the installation of a so-called shut-off valve is also practiced, its difference is only in appearance.
Depending on the layout of the appliances and heating pipes, you can choose a corner valve for the radiator with or without a decorative coating. Also, when choosing a product, it is recommended to pay attention to the working pressure indicated on the body of the product or in its passport. It must correspond to the pressure in the heating network of an apartment building.
Advice. Choose for radiator mounting good faucets from thick-walled brass and connection with a union nut - American. It will allow you to quickly disconnect the eyeliners without rotating the elements. On a single-pipe riser, be sure to install a bypass with a slight offset to the side of the main pipe.
balancing valve
The valve for adjusting heating differs in design from a conventional ball valve in that it can smoothly close the flow area in a few turns. Moreover, after balancing, the position of the valve can be fixed so that no one accidentally violates the settings. This type of control valves is placed at the outlet of the radiator, as shown in the diagram:
Shown here is the connection to a two-pipe horizontal system, the most common in private houses and apartments with individual heating. By the way, the principle of mounting fittings with a single-pipe scheme remains the same. An ordinary ball valve is placed on the supply line, and an adjusting valve is placed on the return line. In the case when a system with vertical risers takes place in a two-story house, the installation diagram of the associated fittings looks like this:
The principle of product selection is the same as in the previous section. Direct or angular execution is accepted depending on the layout of equipment and pipelines, it is also important to use American women during assembly. Pay special attention to the quality of the casting and the thickness of the brass walls of the reinforcement. If you have networks of polypropylene pipes laid, do not rush to buy PPR taps, it is better to install adapters and reliable metal products.
Advice. Balancing valves are placed on all radiators, except for the very last one, located at the dead end of the branch. On the connections to it, it is enough to put simple ball valves.
Use of valves with thermal heads
These are the best taps that can only be put on radiators in the heating system of a private house. Adjusted to a certain air temperature, the thermal head acts on the valve stem, forcing it to open or close its flow area. Thus, there is an automatic quantitative regulation of the coolant passing through the heater.
The thermostatic valve is installed on the supply line to the battery, and a balancing valve is placed on the return line. It is a mistake to assume that the system will be automatically balanced by thermal heads; valves are needed in any case. The installation of ordinary ball valves instead of them is allowed for centralized heating or in systems with a passing movement of the coolant (Tichelmann loop). But it is unacceptable to regulate the coolant flow using a ball valve, and it will not work.
Advice. Most models of thermal valves have a mode of mechanical blocking of the flow section. If you got products without such a mode, then to service the battery you will have to install an additional cutter, as shown in the diagram:
Air faucets and radiator set
Almost all modern radiators provide for the possibility of installing Mayevsky manual cranes for air release. Some manufacturers even complete their products with them. Optionally, instead of a manual air vent, you can put an automatic one, but in practice it does not look very presentable.
AT recent times more and more popular is the laying of heating mains below the floor level and the use of radiators with a bottom connection. Then a small gap remains between the battery and the floor, where it is not always possible to place any fittings. In this case, there is a special connection headset with built-in taps, shown in the picture (left):
On the right is a headset for the lower connection of a conventional radiator with side plugs, it also has valves plus the possibility of attaching a thermal head. Such solutions look very aesthetically pleasing, but will require maximum financial costs. More information about the headset is shown in the video:
Conclusion
Which taps to install for heating radiators depends on the specific conditions in each individual case. When no regulation is needed, it is enough to connect the heaters through a simple shut-off valve, it will only work to turn off the device. Balancing or automatic temperature control in the house will require the installation of appropriate valves.
- Heading:
The heating system is an important and necessary design in absolutely any building. It can be created in many ways, using excellent technologies. However, the most popular is water heating, for the formation of which not only a high-quality and durable pipeline is needed, but also various additional elements. These include taps for heating radiators, valves and other items. It is important to choose the right crane, which will have optimal parameters and properties.
Purpose and parameters
The tap on the battery is important element, thanks to which the heating and plumbing systems operate efficiently and smoothly.
During system breakdowns, it ensures that the system is blocked for optimal repair work. It is best to initially purchase special taps with a thermostat, with the help of which the heat transfer of the batteries can be adjusted.
Most often, a special Mayevsky crane is mounted, and it is installed on radiators. It is used to bleed air.
Correctly installed system with all the necessary elements will allow:
- if necessary, it will be possible to turn off just one broken radiator for repair work without the need to block the entire circuit;
- products with a thermostat make it possible to adjust the temperature in the radiator, so if necessary, it can increase or decrease;
- Mayevsky's tap will allow you to drain water from radiators or bleed air;
- the entire system will be effectively protected from various breakdowns and problems, as well as dangerous hydraulic shocks;
- due to the possibility of regulation, savings in heating costs are provided.
What requirements must the elements meet?
Designed for battery it is necessary to consider what requirements they must meet. These include:
- operating temperature should be up to 200 degrees;
- resistance to various mechanical influences;
- resistance to corrosion process;
- installation of taps on radiators should be standard;
- ability to withstand high pressure, which can be even 40 bar.
As a rule, their special types, intended for the heating system, are highly resistant. It is not allowed to install ordinary taps or valves for such a network, which are used for cold water supply.
The main types of elements
Initially, all types can be divided into:
- normal, for standard mounting;
- angular, for bottom connection.
It is necessary to choose a specific connection depending on how the pipes of the system should be distributed during the installation of the heating system.
The crane for the battery can be represented by the following types:
- valves;
- dampers and valves.
All these elements belong to cranes, however, they have their own specific features and parameters.
Maevsky crane parameters
Mayevsky crane - this is a special device for plumbing purposes, which belongs to the locking type. It is also called an air valve. Mayevsky cranes are currently produced in several varieties, so you can always choose a product that will ideally fit a specific installation method or other parameters. The main parameters of this product include:
Other types
Another type of taps are valves that provide regulation of water pressure. You need to choose this element very carefully, since it must be suitable for a specific communication system according to the marking. The fact is that the water in the pipeline should circulate only in one direction.
For or other pipes of the heating system, you need to purchase a valve equipped with a conical valve. It is open, so it passes a lot of water, so the heat transfer of the structure will be high. If necessary, when the room becomes excessively hot, the heat output can be reduced and the hot water flow can be reduced, so you can regulate the water yourself.
The control valve is used in autonomous heating , however, they do not have a temperature sensor and a special scale. Also, the valve can be equipped with a thermal head or thermostat.
How to choose
It is important to know which taps to put on heating radiators. To do this, you need to know their main characteristics in order to determine what is best to cope with certain operating conditions and impact factors.
A valve designed for installation on a radiator is most often presented in a ball type, due to which the regulation of the flow rate of the coolant and its temperature is ensured. Also, it is due to this element that the radiator is connected to pipes, which can be made of different materials.
The installation can be carried out in different parts of the battery, which include the riser or the top, and can also be mounted on the bypass. It is precisely such areas where air accumulates that occurs so that, if necessary, it can be bled off.
When choosing an element that will be best suited for a particular heating system, the following features must be considered:
- what is the diameter of the pipes for which the crane is purchased, and it is important to remember that not only millimeters, but also inches can be used on the instructions for the product;
- at what operating pressure the product will be operated;
- what type of connection will be used to attach the tap, since individual elements may have a thread;
- what is the purpose of the reinforcement itself;
- where should it be installed;
- what parameters and characteristics the working environment has;
- valve inlet and outlet properties directly in a particular radiator.
Cranes themselves may have certain characteristics that you need to know about without fail in order to purchase a suitable item. These include:
- the Mayevsky crane is considered the most popular choice because it has a wide application, affordable cost and excellent efficiency;
- a cone valve is considered an excellent choice due to the fact that it can be installed in an intermediate position, however, this element is important to regularly return to its original position, so you need to constantly check its condition;
- a thermostat equipped with automation is considered an effective and reliable element, but its cost is considered quite high.
During the selection, you should pay attention to the following parts of the cranes:
- What locking mechanism is equipped with a crane. Temperature controllers are equipped with two mechanisms at once, since one is a valve, and the other is presented in the form of a valve with a special stem. The second option is considered the most optimal, since with its use the adjustment will be smooth and efficient. The required temperature is manually set, for which a restrictive ring is used. However, there may be thermostats with electronic mechanisms, but their cost will be higher. The Mayevsky crane in this regard has many disadvantages. This is due to low traffic and the need to use a specialized key to use the crane.
- Crane body. Optimal are products, the body of which is made of steel or bronze. However, brass designs are the most popular, as they have an acceptable cost. You can also often find taps made of silumin, which is considered an analogue of brass. However, such options are considered unsuitable, since this material is considered too soft. Polymer products are reliable, but they are usually produced in too large sizes, so for their installation it is necessary to cut too much section of the pipeline. Also considered durable are taps in which gaskets are installed not from rubber, but from suitable polymers.
Thus, there are quite a few varieties of taps that are installed on the radiators of the heating system. They differ in the ability to regulate the temperature, installation method, various additional elements and parameters. The choice must be thoughtful and careful, because it is important for the envelope system to choose the best option that will have a low cost, excellent efficiency and long service life.
It is important to decide whether the installation of the product will be carried out on your own, because in the case of a positive decision, it is important to determine whether the installation process is simple and accessible to everyone. This process in any case will require the purchase of specialized tools that you need to be able to use.
Connecting heating devices using properly selected shut-off and control valves improves the functionality of the heating system and makes operation more convenient. The faucet for the heating radiator must be made of high quality materials and properly installed.
Radiator faucet
The valves for heating radiators are divided into shut-off valves (shut off the flow of coolant) and control valves (designed to control the flow rate). Valves are only shut-off valves, control valves are valves and gates. But in everyday life, taps mean all types of shut-off and control valves.
Functional purpose
Why complete the radiator with taps? Their installation when connecting heating devices makes it possible:
- completely turn off the radiators if for some reason the room does not temporarily need to be heated;
- shut off the coolant supply for flushing or revision of individual radiators without draining the coolant from the entire system;
- regulate in manual or automatic mode the intensity of the heat transfer of the batteries, maintaining a comfortable temperature regime in room;
- delete air locks from radiators, increasing system efficiency and reducing the risk of metal corrosion.
Types of taps for batteries
For battery installation:
- shut-off valves for radiators (half-turn ball valves);
- air bleed valves (manual Mayevsky crane, automatic air vents);
- balancing valves for radiators;
- control valves equipped with thermal heads (thermostatic valves);
- taps for draining the coolant.
To decide which taps to put on heating radiators, you need to understand the principles of operation and the purpose of each device.
Mayevsky crane
This is a manual air valve for a heating radiator that allows you to remove air locks from the batteries. Instead of a Mayevsky mechanical faucet, an automatic air vent is allowed, but these products do not look so aesthetically pleasing.
The Mayevsky crane consists of a polymer body, into which a washer with a thread in a through cone-shaped hole is soldered. From the outside, a cone of appropriate dimensions, also equipped with a thread, is screwed into the washer. To screw in and unscrew the cone, there is a recess for a screwdriver or a special key, which is included in the product package.
Schematic representation of the Mayevsky crane
Also on the case there is a plastic washer with a hole through which air is bled. To do this, insert a screwdriver or wrench into the recess and turn the cone one turn. When water begins to flow from the hole, the shut-off cone is screwed back all the way.
Important! It is recommended to install a valve with a recess for a screwdriver, as the key may be lost. In no case should the locking cone be completely unscrewed - the pressure in the system will not allow it to be installed back.
Ball valves: types and parameters
When installing each radiator, it is advisable to put two ball valves or a ball valve for the supply and an adjusting valve for the return. Ball valves are shut-off valves that allow shutting off the coolant flow and dismantling radiators without draining the coolant from the entire system.
Ball valve device
The key element of the device is a steel ball with a hole for the passage of the coolant. The ball is fixed on the rod, and when the handle is turned 90 degrees, it turns around and completely blocks the flow of the medium.
Ball valves vary:
- according to the body material (brass, silumin, polypropylene);
- by design (straight and angular);
- in terms of throughput (for full bore, the hole in the ball practically coincides with the diameter of the pipe, for standard ones it is 70-80% of this indicator).
Considering which valves are best placed on radiators, preference should be given to full-bore ones, since they do not reduce the throughput of the system and do not reduce the heat transfer of heating devices.
Valves with thermal heads
The thermostatic valve for the heating radiator makes it possible to control the temperature in the room. Depending on the model, the setting of the thermal head to a certain temperature is performed manually or the operation of the valve is flexibly controlled by an automatic device. Under the influence of the thermal head, the valve stem is displaced, changing its flow area.
Valve with thermal head
If the installed thermal valve does not have the function of blocking the flow of coolant, it is additionally required to install a shut-off valve in order to fully service the battery.
Flushing taps
The flush cock on the radiator is designed to drain the coolant during the flushing of the system. The design of the welded flushing valve includes a metal body, a rubber gasket and a long stem. To open such a tap, a gas key or pliers is used.
Flush tap
This device has a significant drawback - the rubber gasket is easily destroyed during the operation of the crane, which leads to an emergency. Instead of a welded flusher, it is recommended to put a radiator plug or an adapter with a plug valve on the radiator.
balancing valve
Balancing valve for heating makes it possible to adjust the temperature mode of operation heating circuits. If the radiator is not equipped with a thermostatic valve, a mechanical adjustment valve is used, in which the diameter of the passage section is manually set, based on the pressure readings in the pipeline in the sections before and after the valve.
balancing valve
In systems where the temperature of the batteries is controlled by means of thermostatic valves, an automatic control valve is responsible for balancing the pressure. The balancing control valve is mounted on the return pipe.
The right choice of control valves
Control valves for heating radiators are selected depending on the type of heating system and the requirements for its functionality. The radiator regulator can operate in manual or automatic mode. The principle of changing the heating of heating devices depends on the design of the device, which are divided into cone and valve.
When choosing a valve for a heating battery, pay attention to the body material (steel, brass, a combination of these metals), the quality of the seals used - the reliability and durability of products depend on this.
Types and models
There are the following types of valves that allow you to control the flow of coolant:
- Tapered mechanical. The simplest and cheapest option, the flow area of the device changes when the rod is moved, for which it is necessary to manually adjust its position. It is recommended to use in conjunction with a thermometer. The weak point is the rubber gasket, which is prone to wear.
- Semi-automatic direct acting thermostats. The position of the rod changes under the influence of a temperature-sensitive element, when the temperature of the coolant reaches set parameters. The value is set manually.
- Automatic thermostats. The rod is moved by servos, which are driven by the controller, which received a signal from the temperature sensor. Depending on the choice of the consumer, the device reacts to the heating temperature of the coolant or air in the room.
When calculating the heating system, it should be taken into account that the installation of taps on radiators reduces the throughput of the system. You should choose the appropriate pipe diameter or find valves with a maximum throughput.
Popular brands
A good control valve is a guarantee of durability and reliability of the heating system. It is preferable to use products of reputable brands, which include:
- Itap (Italy);
- Oventrop (Germany);
- Danfoss (Denmark);
- Luxor (Italy);
- Valtec (Italy and Russia, joint production).
Cases of cheap shut-off and control valves are made of silumin - this alloy is characterized by increased brittleness, such products are not recommended for use. The high-quality case is made of steel or brass, bronze.
Leading manufacturers use silicone seals instead of rubber gaskets. Unlike rubber, which loses its elasticity due to high temperatures and crumbles under mechanical stress, silicone gaskets do not lose their functional properties throughout the entire period of operation.
Crane installation
The installation scheme depends on the type of shut-off and control valves chosen.
Faucet installation process
The most common mounting options are::
- AT single pipe system the central heating system between the radiator and the bypass put 2 ball valves - on the incoming and outgoing pipe. This makes it possible to leave it filled when the coolant is drained from the system during the network repair period, to turn off or dismantle the battery for painting, cleaning, replacement.
- In an autonomous two-pipe system, a thermostatic valve is placed on the supply pipe, and a balancing valve on the return pipe, which will be responsible for maintaining normal working pressure.
- In a self-contained one-pipe system, a ball valve can be installed on the supply pipe, and a control valve can be installed on the return pipe. If the valve has the function of cutting off the coolant flow, a second ball valve for the heating battery is not required.
Installation of ball valves
Ball valves, which are installed on the heating radiator, have two working positions: "open" and "closed". It is forbidden to partially block the flow of the coolant using this type of fitting. As a result of improper operation, the device may fail and begin to leak.
The device can have a straight or angled version - the choice depends on the layout of the system. If the installation of regulators is not provided between the shut-off valves and the radiator, the ball valve can be installed directly on the heater using a squeegee - a special additional part.
Before installation, make sure that the parameters of the device (operating pressure, maximum permissible medium temperature) correspond to the characteristics of the heating system. The flow direction is indicated on the valve body - installation is carried out in accordance with the label.
Conclusion
Understanding what better faucets for heating radiators, you can choose shut-off and control valves with optimal parameters for autonomous system in my house. The choice is influenced by specific conditions of use, system requirements, financial capabilities.
If regulation of heating devices is not required, it is sufficient to install shut-off valves. Balancing a system with a constant temperature of the heat carrier requires the installation of appropriate valves or simple mechanical valves in order to adjust the flow to different areas contour. If you want to provide an individual temperature regime for each of the rooms, you can not do without thermostatic valves - semi-automatic or automatic. Investments in appropriate control valves will pay off in the future due to energy savings.
- Conclusion
AT modern systems for heating private houses or apartments, shut-off and control valves are almost always installed on the connections to radiators. Previously, batteries were usually connected directly to risers and this fact did not upset anyone. However, since then, priorities have changed, and every homeowner has become aware of the need to save energy. Why install taps for heating radiators, how the installation of fittings is connected with savings, and which products are better to choose for this purpose, will be described in our material.
What are radiator taps for?
For a general understanding, let's clarify the terminology a bit. In our common people, cranes are called any plumbing device where there is a handle for manual control of the water flow. In fact, it is technically correct to call a valve a stop valve, but not a control valve. That is, it is intended only to block the flow of liquid, and there are other devices to regulate its amount - valves and valves. And all these products are used for batteries.
Shut-off and control valves are placed on the supply pipelines to heating devices in order to:
- disconnecting the battery during periods of the year when it is still not too cold outside or for other reasons;
- shutting off water for inspection and flushing of the device without emptying the entire pipeline network;
- manual or automatic control of the coolant flow, adjusting its amount depending on the temperature in the room.
The first item on the list illustrates well how the installation of taps on batteries is related to energy saving. The situation when the district heating system is included in the warm period is not uncommon. It is still quite warm outside, and the radiators are already glowing with heat, the house is stuffy. In the presence of a crane, the problem is solved with one turn of the handle. And when a heat energy meter is installed on the entrance or the whole house, then with the same movement you block the flow Money from the family budget to the account of the heat supply organization.
The same thing happens in a private house equipped with an individual heat source. Taps allow you to turn off part of the radiators in living rooms or temporarily used technical rooms, for example, in a garage. No less important for savings is the periodic flushing of heating appliances. After all, what is happening: a battery polluted from the inside gives off less heat to the room, which means that return pipeline a heat carrier with a higher temperature leaves.
This coolant will go to heat the housing of your neighbors, and in your apartment there will be a lack of heat. When it comes to a private house, the water returns to the boiler and there are no losses. But it gets cooler in the rooms and to get the right amount of heat you will have to raise the temperature of the heating system, increasing the fuel consumption of the heat generator. The process of pollution is insidious, as it takes some time and becomes noticeable only during the increase in the cost of heating the building.
The use of manual control valves or automatic valves with thermal heads makes it possible to save energy during heating period by maintaining the required air temperature in the premises. Manual valves for radiators allow you to adjust the coolant flow when setting up the system so that it does not go beyond the calculated one. Valves with thermal heads control the fluid flow automatically, reducing or increasing the flow area depending on the air temperature in the room.
Types of taps for heating appliances
At the moment, there are the following types of faucets for radiators:
- ball full bore straight and angled brass;
- ball full bore polypropylene;
- control valves;
- thermostatic valves with manual and automatic control with a thermal head.
The most common type locking devices- These are ball valves made of brass or polypropylene. The main element in them is a steel ball with a selection of the appropriate diameter for the passage of water. It is attached to a rod, by rotation of which the coolant is shut off. When the valve is in the open position, the sample in the ball is combined with the internal passage of the product, in the closed position it rotates 90º relative to it. The direction of flow does not change.
For reference. Some well-known manufacturers offer shut-off valves, in which a drain valve is mounted to empty the radiator or pipeline section.
The manual valve on the battery is a design where the liquid changes the direction of its flow twice, passing through the working section of the seat. To reduce the amount of passing coolant, this section is partially blocked by a cone or washer with a rubber gasket (in old valves) attached to the stem. The thermostatic valve has a similar design, only the stem with the cone does not rotate along the thread, but is simply pressed. Pressing is carried out by a thermal head or a plastic handle for manual control.
All listed devices are available in corner version. Such an angled radiator valve simplifies the lateral connection of the heater to lines passing above or below the floor. The principle of its operation is similar to direct products.
Installation of taps on radiators
- in district heating systems;
- in private houses and apartments with an individual heat source;
- in apartment buildings equipped with an individual boiler room.
To begin with, we note that any valve or tap for a heating battery can only reduce or block the flow area of the pipe, and not increase it. Accordingly, regulation by any means is to reduce the amount of thermal energy supplied to the battery. In the case when it is not enough initially, there can be no talk of any regulation, only about blocking the flow.
With centralized heating of buildings, the quality of the heat carrier leaves much to be desired. Therefore, it is recommended to put good brass taps here. It makes no sense to install valves and valves with thermal heads, since after a couple of years their working part may become clogged and control of the coolant will become impossible.
In centralized networks, pressure drops and water hammer often occur during seasonal start-up. The ball valve used in this case must be designed for a pressure of at least 16 bar. According to the material, it is necessary to choose a product of excellent quality, since in the warm season it is customary to empty the system, which increases the corrosion of metals.
For private homes, where there are all the possibilities for energy saving, valves with thermal heads are the best option. They are installed on the supply pipeline, and on the return - a conventional ball valve. You can also use polypropylene products, but they often do not harmonize with the interior, then they are hidden behind a decorative screen.
Within the same room, it is not necessary to mount thermostats on each battery. The rule is this: valves are placed on one or more heaters, whose total heat transfer exceeds 50% of the total. The remaining radiators are equipped with supply valves and return ball valves.
What kind of fittings for radiators is better to install in apartment buildings with individual boiler rooms, determines only project documentation. As a rule, this type of heat supply is used in new buildings or after the reconstruction of the entire heating scheme. It should include all necessary fittings. The maximum that you can afford is to put high-quality brass taps on the connections.
To simplify further disassembly and removal of the battery, when installing shutoff valves, you must use such a well-known connection as an American. There are many faucets on the market that come with it. And the last thing: for the convenience of emptying the radiator on the return connection, it is recommended to install fittings with a built-in drain fitting.
Conclusion
Installing a faucet on a radiator is, in principle, easy. But in order not to redo this work annually, or even during heating season, you must initially choose the right product for the operating conditions. When making a choice, do not forget to compare the working pressure of taps and valves with the parameters of your heating system.