How to choose an aluminum radiator

In recent years, old and such familiar cast-iron batteries have become completely irrelevant. Modern technology and design preferences suggest new solutions. Aluminum radiators are in vogue. They are great for multi-story high-rise and low-rise cottages. And if the decision to install the battery is made of aluminum, it is necessary to figure out how to choose an aluminum radiator, because they differ in appearance, in size, in characteristics, and in the composition of the alloys.

Although all radiators are called aluminum, they are not made of pure metal, but - for greater strength - of alloys with silicon. This increases resistance to corrosion and possible pressure. The inner coating must be additionally treated with a corrosion-resistant coating.

What's the Difference?

Differences begin with a visual inspection. So, radiators can be:

• Panel. Rectangular plates are welded to each other in pairs.
• Tubular. The radiator consists of tubes.
• Cast. It is made with the help of one-piece, solid casting.
• Extrusion. Sections are fastened to each other with nipples, while all the joints are carefully sealed with silicone (in some cases, paronite) gasket material.

Section manufacturing technology

The next criterion is the method of making sections. But for the average consumer, this detail is of decisive importance. It is also not important to have problem (butt) places. Much more important will be the choice of a reliable manufacturer. The radiator must be made by a proven, well-proven company.

Dimensions

An important parameter will be the size, which happens:

• Standard 40? 58 cm.
• Low. Height from 15 cm and below. This is offset by an increase in width. A radiator up to 4 cm is called "plinth"
• High There are "giants" up to 3 m. Suitable for small rooms with high ceilings. Sometimes they are supplemented with some other functions, for example, holders for tacks and towels.

Choosing a connection method

Considering different types of radiators you should definitely pay attention to the connection method:

• Upper. It is used for low and standard radiators.
• Lower. It is considered the easiest to install, suitable for any design solution. In special cases, water pipes can be hidden under the baseboards.
• Diagonal. Let's say right away that it is not suitable for a standard high-rise building, but it is the ideal solution for rational heating in a cottage.
• Side. The heating system at the same time must be one-pipe. But it is important to remember that such radiators greatly reduce heat transfer.

As an additional equipment, a thermostatic valve is installed on the battery, on which, in turn, the thermostat is placed. It allows you to keep the required temperature in the room.

additional characteristics

1. Pressure. One of the main indicators of the quality of modern radiators. The maximum rate of 25 atmospheres and up to 30 at pressure testing. At the same time tubular structures are much stronger than panel ones. The shape of the internal cavity also matters - reinforced rectangular much stronger than the standard elliptical.
2. Volume Compared to other radiators, aluminum ones require a smaller amount of coolant. This is important for low-rise cottages.
3. Temperature. Aluminum radiators withstand up to 130 ° C. To maintain a comfortable temperature in the room is more than enough.
4. Heat transfer. At the moment, it is aluminum radiators that can most quickly heat a cooled room.
5. Power. It is necessary to calculate it in each room separately.
6. The term of active service is up to 20 years.

Any devices (including heating) and materials have their advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits

The positive aspects when installing aluminum radiators include: their lightness, fast and efficient heat transfer, a small amount of water, which allows to save on heating boilers. Additional installation of the thermostat allows complete control over temperature and saving heat energy. Among other advantages - low affordable cost, ease of installation, aesthetics. For particularly picky consumers there is the possibility of developing special design models, made according to individual sketches, they can easily fit into even the most creative interior.

disadvantages

When purchasing aluminum radiators, it is necessary to take into account possible shortcomings. Namely: due to some chemical reaction processes, gas formation is possible, which, in turn, leads to rupture of the battery. Therefore, when purchasing and installing it is necessary to ensure the availability of automatic air valves. It is also necessary to remember that aluminum is an active element, which means that corrosion may appear over time, therefore it is necessary to strictly observe the service life and replace the sections in time.

Video

This video describes how to choose the right radiator:

Watch a video about an illiterately mounted aluminum radiator. Thanks to this information you will be able to avoid many mistakes during installation: