Which radiators are better for heating? Heating radiators: how to choose the warmest. Comparison of heating batteries

Not only the efficiency of the heating system, but also its durability depends on the choice of suitable batteries. Therefore, this step is very important and special attention is given to it. You also need to take into account that heating in apartment buildings is most often centralized, which means that the batteries will be exposed to various dangers, for example, water hammer. Which heating radiators are best for an apartment? Our detailed review will tell you about this, in which we will look at the radiators available on sale and find out which of them are suitable for apartment installation.

Features of centralized heating systems

Scheme of central heating in apartment buildings.

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

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

As you may already understand, the main enemy of heating batteries in apartment buildings with a centralized heating system is high coolant pressure. Due to this, batteries often begin to leak, or even burst, when exposed to pressure from water. Subsequent repairs result not only in replacing the batteries themselves, but also in a complete renovation of the apartment (sometimes not your own, but the neighbor’s).

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

Centralized heating systems also pose other dangers:

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

• Water hammer - they occur as a result of pressure changes. If boiler room employees open the coolant supply too abruptly, or shut it off just as abruptly, then the pipes and heating radiators in the houses will suffer a powerful blow. And many radiators, for example, aluminum ones, may not withstand such exposure and burst, flooding rooms and household items with hot water;
• Low quality coolant is another factor that negatively affects not only pipes, but also radiators. It often contains quite active chemical components that spoil the metal. Corrosion is also affected by fine mechanical impurities of various origins - they have no less negative effects on radiators and pipes;
• Temperature changes - it cannot be said that they have a direct effect on heating equipment, but as the temperature rises, the pressure also increases. Therefore, some batteries simply cannot stand it and burst, since they are not designed for such temperature loads.

Which batteries are best to install in an apartment?

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

Resistant to high pressure and water hammer

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

Corrosion resistance

Many radiator models are susceptible to corrosion. Electrical corrosion, which can occur at the junction of different metals, is especially dangerous.

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

Design and brand

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

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

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

Modern models of cast iron radiators, made in an antique style.

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

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

High heat dissipation

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

Which radiators to choose for heating an apartment

Which heating radiators are best to choose for your apartment? Consumers can choose from cast iron, steel, aluminum and bimetallic radiators. Let's try to figure out how they differ from each other and which of them are best suited for apartment installation.

Cast iron radiators

These are the oldest radiators on the heating equipment market. They are distinguished by their solid dimensions, as they are made of thick cast iron. Such radiators can withstand pressure changes, resist water hammer and high temperatures. They are also capable of working with aggressive coolant. Everything would be fine, but they are characterized by low heat transfer, which makes them somewhat unsuitable for use in cold regions.

Their disadvantages also include:

• Inconvenient to install due to high weight;
• Not very attractive external data;
• Not suitable for use in high-rise buildings (above 5-9 floors).

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

Steel radiators

Looking at modern steel panel radiators, you immediately begin to understand that they clearly cannot withstand high pressure. And this is true, because thin metal is used here, which is not particularly durable. Steel radiators can be useful for heating small private houses or country estates, but they are not suitable for use in high-rise buildings.

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

Steel radiators have high heat transfer and heat rooms well. They are also very light and do not pose any difficulties during installation. An undoubted advantage is the small internal volume. But all these advantages become useless if you need to install these radiators in an apartment - in low-rise buildings they will still serve (the use of tubular models is required), but in high-rise buildings they will not withstand high pressure.

Aluminum radiators

Modern aluminum radiators are lightweight and have high heat output. And aluminum itself is a fairly strong metal. Radiators made from it are ready to withstand high coolant pressure, but there is no resistance to water hammer. An equally disadvantage is the lack of resistance to the effects of coolant - aggressive impurities literally corrode such radiators, leading to ruptures and leaks.

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

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

Bimetallic radiators

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

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

Bimetallic radiators are not afraid of water hammer and high pressure; they are easy to install and dismantle. They are also resistant to high temperatures and are lightweight, and thanks to the presence of effective corrosion protection, they can boast a long service life. Exactly bimetallic radiators are the best for installation in apartments, be it a small three-story building or a solid 26-story building.

Despite many advantages, bimetallic batteries have one disadvantage - their high cost. Therefore, the costs of purchasing them will be quite significant.

The duration of the heating season in our latitudes is close to 2/3 of the year. The indicator depends on the region, but on average it is about 250 days. For us, all issues related to the efficiency of the heating system are extremely important, which largely depends on the correct choice of its devices.

Let's look at which heating radiators are better and what the different types are. The article presented for consideration describes in detail the criteria for selecting heating devices. For independent home DIYers, we have provided tips from experienced plumbers.

Regardless of the complexity of the heating system, the main task is to maintain the set temperature in the house or apartment. The heating radiator plays a key role in this, carrying out heat exchange between the air in the room and the coolant.

Uniform heating, efficient heat transfer, microclimate maintenance, stable operation - these are the basic requirements for a heating battery.

In residential premises, single, panel or sectional twin radiators are installed that do not emit toxins when heated

The main parameters influencing the choice of a specific model:

• System operating pressure. Depends on whether the device is connected to an autonomous or centralized network. It is arranged on a gravity or forced principle. On average it varies from 3 to 10 bar or in a similar atmosphere range.
• Thermal power. A characteristic required to calculate the thermal power required to heat a room. It is also needed for selecting individual components of sectional batteries. Approximately 1 kW is required to process 10 m².
• Modularity. The quality inherent in prefabricated radiators, which makes it possible to assemble and disassemble the device to suit individual requirements.
• Speed ​​of reaction to tº. More precisely, the ability to respond to changes in coolant temperature. period of time for cooling and warming up.
• Possibility of equipping with automation. Devices that monitor weather conditions and independently eliminate air jams.

The devices now available for sale ensure free circulation throughout the system. They are characterized by corrosion resistance and attractive appearance.

Sectional radiators differ in the shape and size of the sections, ensuring the supply of the required amount of thermal energy

The thermal efficiency of a radiator depends on the energy dissipation surface area. A flat metal convector has a much smaller area compared to a sectional aluminum convector of the same geometric size. Because the latter radiates heat over the entire area of ​​the fins.

Types of modern heating radiators

During Soviet times, the question of which heating battery is better to choose was never asked for a simple reason. The industry produced only two types of them - steel and cast iron. We live in a fortunate time of diversity, technological and environmental excellence.

The global and domestic industry offers a fairly wide range to choose from. There are several signs according to which it is advisable to separate heating radiators.

Radiators can be divided according to materials of manufacture:

• steel panel convectors;
• cast iron batteries;
• aluminum radiators;
• bimetallic radiators.

By design features:

• sectional;
• panel.

Each of these types is best suited for its operating conditions, and therefore has its own nuances. A separate type of heating radiators is highly specialized. These are devices designed to solve one task, often to the detriment of overall functionality.

Image gallery

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Useful tips from experts will help you understand the choice of heating device:

The best choice of heating radiator can be considered the one that achieves the greatest comfort and coziness. The radiator can be invisible or, on the contrary, be part of the overall design. But the most important thing is reliability and no hassle.

You can tell us about how you chose a radiator to replace old batteries in an apartment or to furnish a new home in the block below. Please write comments, ask questions, share useful tips and photos on the topic of the article. We are interested in your opinion.

When you are going to buy heating radiators, you need to prepare in advance. The desire to purchase devices is not enough. You need to study the technical characteristics and parameters of radiators to find out which heating radiators are best - specifically for your heating system.

You can compare completely identical battery models in appearance, but in terms of heat transfer and power, they can differ noticeably. Here everything will depend on the material of the radiator and its design features, the internal capacity of the batteries, and the method of connecting them. That is why, when you choose which heating batteries are best, you need to prepare and have some knowledge.

What are the requirements for installing radiators?

If you believe standard calculations, the consumption is 90-125 W per 1 sq.m of room that is heated. In this case, the presence in the room of a window, a door, a ceiling height of no more than 3 meters, and a coolant temperature of 70 degrees Celsius are also taken into account.

If such standards are violated, for example, the ceiling height is higher, then the power of the radiators should be increased by the same amount. And if you have double-glazed windows, then they have low heat transfer; accordingly, as reviews show, the power can be reduced by 10 percent.

If the coolant temperature drops, this will require increasing the power of the batteries, or the number of sections can be increased. Every time the temperature drops by 10 degrees, this is compensated by increasing power by 15-18%.

When calculations are made, no matter what the best heating radiators are, it is imperative to take into account the design features of your heating system. And if the coolant is supplied through the lower hole, and the return flow is through the upper, then in this case each radiator will not provide up to 10 percent of its power. If the coolant is supplied only from one side, then installing more than 10 sections will be pointless - after all, the last sections will heat rather weakly.

Comparison of heating batteries

First of all, we note that answering the question of which heating batteries are better is quite difficult without having special knowledge. Note the panel steel radiators. Such heating devices are highly efficient - their operating pressure is 9 atmospheres, they can withstand 13 atmospheres of pressure testing. As the rating of heating radiators shows, they are in great demand when an individual heating system is installed and when multi-storey buildings have their own heating point.

Such high-quality heating radiators are made from steel sheets with special recesses for the passage of coolant, and in order to increase the heat transfer of the devices, protruding ribs are welded to the back side, which will further increase the convection air flow. Radiators are made of low-carbon steel, which has increased corrosion resistance. They are coated with powder enamel.

The next type we will consider is cast iron radiators. Of course, this option will not answer the question of what are the best heating radiators.

Cast iron batteries are a classic that Soviet consumers previously used for lack of anything else.

These are really high-quality products, the main advantage of which is cast iron. This material has excellent thermal conductivity and is resistant to any coolant. The proportion of radiation flux includes 70% heat and 30% convective - this will warm the lower and upper zones of the room. It is worth noting that the service life of a cast iron radiator can be up to 50 years. Today, such radiators can be bought relatively cheaply; there are different models on the market, as can be seen in the photo.

Cast iron radiators

At a superficial comparison, aluminum radiators will seem lighter and more elegant to you. But then you will find out that these best heating batteries also have improved heat dissipation. Such radiators are produced by casting or extrusion. Each section has collectors, as well as a connecting vertical channel, ribs to accelerate air flow and remove heat from the plane, which is why the heat in the room will be optimally distributed.

Such radiators are assembled with steel nipples, and special gaskets made of waterproof material are placed between the sections. There are fins on the front surface, this forms a continuous surface, as well as air outlet windows on top. The thermal power of such radiators must be selected by selecting the required number of sections, as well as their height. You can simply assemble a radiator with the desired height and length to fit well into the architectural features of your room.

As for the disadvantages of this type of battery, these are high requirements for the chemical parameters of water. In addition, it contains heat exchangers, brass and copper fittings, connecting pipes made of steel - all this increases the corrosion process. And the more copper there is, the stronger this process will be. To mitigate this drawback, manufacturers use alloys that will protect the batteries from the inside.

As experts note, bimetallic radiators are the most efficient heating batteries.

Steel channels that conduct coolant will ensure the strength of the entire structure. They are also covered with aluminum fins, so water only comes into contact with the metal. There are several different versions of such batteries. They can be made by covering a steel frame with aluminum - this way, water will only come into contact with the steel. Vertical channels can also be reinforced with steel so that their thickness can withstand high pressure.

The best bimetallic heating batteries can withstand high pressure and long-term load, they are resistant to water hammer and have a high level of heat transfer. The working pressure is 35 atmospheres, and the pressure test is almost 52. And due to the fact that the capacity of the bimetallic sections will be less than that of aluminum, this has a positive effect on thermal inertia. As the test shows, heating radiators are the most efficient and reliable in multi-storey buildings. After assembly, these best heating radiators are painted with powder enamel, and to cure they are heated and kept at 180 degrees Celsius. With a maximum coolant temperature of 110 degrees, this will be enough.

We suggest studying a comparison of heating radiators; the table (Table 1) will show all the strongest and weakest points of different types of radiators.

After all, the question of which heating radiators are better may be relevant for quite a long time, and only a specialist who is familiar with your heating system can answer it fully correctly.

More details about the choice of bimetallic heating radiators in the material -

Some consider centralized heating in apartment buildings a relic of the Soviet era, while others consider it an undoubted blessing of civilization. But we all continue to use this heating method.

The main element of such a system is heating radiators for the apartment, which are located under the window in the living rooms of high-rise buildings. Their types and features will be discussed in our article. We will also briefly look at the main advantages and disadvantages of cast iron, aluminum, steel and bimetallic radiators.

Water heated to 95 °C is usually used as a coolant in centralized heating systems. Moreover, it is not purified distilled, but technical grade with dissolved salts and additives.

As a result, the material from which the battery in the apartment is made must easily withstand the effects of temperature changes, moisture, and impurities contained in the coolant for a long time.

To last for many years, an apartment heating battery must:

• withstand operating pressure up to 9 atm (ideally up to 12–15 atm);
• made of metals resistant to chemical and electrochemical corrosion;
• have high heat transfer.

The pressure in apartment radiators fluctuates around 4–7 atm. Much here depends on the number of floors of an apartment building, the temperature outside the window and the operating conditions of the heating network. But during pressure testing, the pressure can briefly rise to 15 atm and higher.

All heating radiators are made of metals (aluminum or iron) - only they are able to withstand the workloads generated in heating systems

Also, the heating device in question must be easy to install, have a presentable appearance and low cost. But, most importantly, it must have excellent heat transfer characteristics.

The main task of the radiator – give the room the heat that came through the water pipes. The more effectively he does this, the better it is for the owner of the apartment.

There are two main criteria for classifying heating batteries:

1. Material of manufacture.
2. Design.

All other parameters are technical characteristics of a specific radiator model.

Features of different designs

The functionality of heating radiators is influenced not only by the material from which they are made, but also by their design.

So, the batteries are structurally:

• sectional(block);
• columnar(tubular);
• panel.

The first two options are a set of several elements assembled into a single heater, and the third is a monolithic block.

Sectional water heating devices include the now widely used aluminum radiators. A classic example of a columnar analogue is an old cast-iron battery.

Option #2 - practical steel

Steel batteries are practical and come in two types - tubular or panel. The first are a direct analogue of the cast iron appliances described above. They have similar heat output and weight, but a more presentable appearance.

The latter are made of two steel sheets welded together and forming a thin layer-cavity inside for water circulation.

This option has higher heat transfer rates, so they are often connected together in several pieces. As a result, the total heat transfer area increases sharply.

Option #3 - durable aluminum

Aluminum radiators are the most common in the household heating market today. This is due to their low cost, durability and light weight, as well as extreme ease of installation.

Among the advantages of aluminum radiators it is worth highlighting:

• high heat transfer rates;
• light weight of the heating device;
• modern design;
• affordable price;
• possibility of completing with a thermostat;
• service life of 30 years;
• no predisposition to paint peeling.

The main disadvantage of an aluminum heater is its demands on the coolant characteristics. The slightest solid suspensions during water circulation begin to scratch the protective coating inside. As a result, aluminum remains unprotected and gradually begins to corrode.

These batteries were originally created to replace old cast iron ones. They were immediately designed taking into account the features of the centralized heat supply existing in Russia.

It’s not for nothing that they are called universal radiators, which can be installed without problems in almost any apartment.

The advantages of a bimetal radiator are as follows:

1. Reliability - operating pressure around 35 atm.
2. Undemanding to the chemical composition of the coolant.
3. High corrosion resistance.
4. Compact and modern appearance of the device.
5. Light weight.

The main and only significant disadvantage of this device is its high price.. They are the most expensive among all analogues. However, these costs will certainly be covered by a long service life and the absence of leaks with floods.

Bimetallic radiators are especially relevant in homes where there are frequent changes in water pressure in the heating system.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

To make it easier for you to figure out which radiator is better, we have made a selection of videos analyzing the various nuances of these devices.

The following video will help you understand the types of radiators and determine which ones are best suited for specific operating conditions:

When choosing which battery to install in your apartment, you must first of all focus on the parameters of the central heating system.

In an old house, it is often possible to install only cast iron radiators. Aluminum options are ideal for new buildings and five-story panel buildings. And reliable bimetallic analogues are universal devices that are suitable in almost any situation, but cost a lot.

Which batteries do you personally consider the best and which ones are installed in the heating circuit of your house/apartment? Share your impressions of using them, add unique photos of your radiators and useful recommendations for beginners.

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

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

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

Heating radiators - which ones are better?

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

Panel version, photo:

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

Tubular batteries, photo:

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

Advantages of steel structures:

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

The disadvantages include:

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

Aluminum radiators

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

Aluminum batteries, photo:

Bimetallic heating radiators

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

Bimetallic version, photo:

Cast iron radiators

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

Examples of modern cast iron batteries, photos:

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

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

What heating radiators are good?

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

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

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