Gas storage water heaters necessary in every private home, especially since if there is no boiler room nearby, you can forget about hot water. And it is very necessary, at least for a pleasant rest in the bathroom and a comfortable shower, washing dishes and cleaning the house.
Wide range of applications of gas storage water heaters
This is why storage gas water heaters are so popular among many customers and are purchased primarily for country houses and cottages. But they are also often used in city apartments in order to save on hot water supply, in office and industrial facilities and in other places.
Find gas water heaters for hot water In online stores it is not always possible, for the reason that their sales volume is not as high as, for example, other types of water heaters. However, on the website of the MirCli online store you can find quite large selection heater models to suit your taste and budget.
The devices under consideration have many advantages, but still their main advantages are ease of maintenance and operation, efficiency, which means a constant supply of hot water, and they are not high price.
These devices are stationary boilers closed type, having an atmospheric injection gas burner for liquefied natural gas, as well as ceramic heat sink rods. Water heaters allow you to stock up large number water, depending on the volume of the tank. It can be different, each model has its own, but usually its sizes vary from 10 to 200 liters.
Differences and functions
Gas storage boilers come in two types: vertical and horizontal, and they differ from each other only in the position of the tank, so you need to choose them according to your bathroom. If this does not matter, it is worth taking a vertical one, since usually with the same characteristics its cost will be lower.
Many such devices can be connected to several points at once, since their water supply allows this.
Many storage water heaters have their own protective functions that will ensure their safe use in the home. So, if the flame in the pilot burner of a gas boiler for heating water suddenly goes out, the gas supply will be automatically turned off. A multifunctional regulator allows you to regulate the pressure in the nozzle, as well as the gas flow in the burner. This regulator is also useful in that it dampens pressure fluctuations in gas network on the burner.
An ordinary everyday situation - on summer time The hot water was turned off. What to choose - a gas water heater or a boiler? This question is relevant both for apartment residents and private homeowners. The issue of interest is not so much the price (although this is also important), but rather the power, operating costs, possibility of installation and potential breakdowns. In the article we will look at both options, give the pros and cons of each, and also make a selection of the most popular models.
Types of water heaters
First, let's figure out what kind of heaters exist in principle, since a boiler or a gas water heater are far from the only ones, but they are the most popular on this list. All devices are divided into two categories according to heating method:
- storage (boilers), where water is collected in a certain tank and heated there to a certain temperature (no more than 85°);
- flow-through (columns), equipped heating elements, passing through which the water instantly heats up. Temperature in in this case does not exceed 75°.
Both types operate on both electricity and gas. In addition, there are indirect heating boilers, but if assessed by popularity among consumers, this device is at the lowest level. As a rule, they choose between two main options - a water heater or a gas water heater. These devices are quality characteristics They are more suitable for everyday needs and meet approximately the same tasks. But which one to choose - read on.
An electric boiler creates a very high current online, which is unacceptable for apartments and houses with old wiring. The same can be said about power limitations - for example, at dachas, where the maximum allowed maximum is 5 kW and single phase meter, the boiler will not work.
Gas boiler is also not the most popular product, therefore, if there is a centralized gas pipeline, it is much more convenient and expedient to use a dispenser. In private homes where it is already connected gas pipeline, it is recommended to install double-circuit boilers, where one circuit works for heating, the second, respectively, for heating water.
So, in order to compare what is better, a geyser or electric water heater, we highlight 3 main criteria:
- ease of use;
- energy price;
- complexity of installation;
- price.
Geyser - pros and cons
Since Russia is one of the largest suppliers of blue fuel in the world, for us it is the most inexpensive energy source, which is beneficial in terms of maintenance costs.
Ease of use lies in the ability to continuously supply hot water, but it is important to choose the right power of the gas burner, otherwise you risk not getting the desired temperature.
Power has 3 stages:
- 17-19 kW;
- 20-24 kW;
- 26-31 kW.
When using a unit in an apartment for one point, a power of 20-24 kW is sufficient for a family of 3-5 people. For a private home, it is more profitable to have such a unit, since it has a reduced water pressure (from 0.02 MPa) and saves gas consumption.
All modern models are equipped with winter-summer regulators, which allows you to save up to 50% on service fees.
At the price of the equipment - for 6000 rubles. You can buy a good speaker. For example, Zenden brand equipment will cost 49,600 rubles, Oazis and Zanussi - 5,600 rubles. etc.
Flaws:
- For installation, it is necessary to coordinate the project with the controlling organizations, including the gas service. On average, installation, provided gas is available, will cost up to 2,000 rubles.
- Required condition operation is the presence of a chimney and high-quality ventilation.
During operation, it is important to monitor the air flow into the apartment and the operation of ventilation. It is recommended to open the windows for ventilation. This is especially true for sealed plastic windows- V winter time they are put in micro-ventilation mode.
- The need for systematic inspection of the column and cleaning of soot. Parts made of non-ferrous metals from constant contact with flames fail and require replacement.
- Its coefficient useful action(92%) lower than that of a boiler - 99%. Efficiency in summer is different from winter. In summer, the water heater produces 6-7 l/min, in winter 4-5 l/min. In winter, when heating ice water, even operating in maximum mode, the column is not able to heat it sufficiently.
Equipment classification
The main gradation is carried out according to the method of igniting the wick:
- Automatic
They begin to function immediately after opening the water tap;
- Semi-automatic
To turn on the unit, first manually light the wick. In such devices, the flame strength should be adjusted when the water pressure changes.
It cannot be strengthened by opening a “cold” tap. If there is a sharp decrease in water pressure, you must immediately reduce the flame in the wick or turn it off completely. Otherwise, the column may burn out or even explode from overheating.
In automatic analogues, its adjustment and shutdown occurs without human intervention.
- Turbocharged
A fan (turbine) is attached to the combustion bunker to enhance air movement. It also expels exhaust air along with combustion products. With this improvement, the operation of the unit does not depend on the presence of draft in the chimney pipe.
This model appeared on the market quite recently. It operates in automatic mode, ensuring safety and reliability. To monitor the work process, sensors are placed on the body, indicating water pressure, its temperature and heat exchanger parameters. At the slightest imbalance, the unit automatically switches off instantly.
VIDEO: How to choose a geyser
Electric boiler - advantages and disadvantages
Figuring out what better boiler or a flow device, you need to understand that the work of the first one is structured in a completely different way. Its design includes a reservoir of a certain volume, into which water is collected and heated by built-in heating elements (tubular electric heaters). On average, it takes at least 2 hours to heat water, during which a temperature of 60° is reached. Such equipment is convenient in that heating is carried out automatically, even if there is no water intake.
Among the main advantages we highlight:
- simple installation that you can do yourself;
- no additional devices(chimney or ventilation);
- does not depend on water pressure;
- equipment cost.
Most models can be repaired. Subject to certain conditions, in particular, replacing the magnesium anode, the service life is at least 8 years.
Flaws:
- long time for heating - realizing that it is more profitable to immediately heat water for the whole family, you need to choose a tank according to flow rate. For example, for a family of 4 people you need a boiler with a tank volume of 80 liters or more;
- large size - a large tank is difficult to place in small apartment. As a rule, they are installed in the bathroom and the fasteners must be provided in such a way that a person does not touch it.
VIDEO: How to choose a boiler
Gas water heater
This heating device combined a column and an electric boiler. This is where all its pros and cons follow.
On the one hand, it is easy to install and holds a large supply of hot water, on the other hand, the use of natural gas imposes strict obligations for approval by licensing authorities and difficult installation. A chimney and ventilation are required for its operation.
Comparative characteristics
|
Comparison factors |
Geyser |
|
|
Large object requiring at least square meter free space |
Compact dimensions |
|
|
Difficulty in installation |
Do-it-yourself installation |
For legal installation, it is necessary to collect a package of documents and approve the project. After receiving official permission, the installation is carried out by qualified craftsmen with a certain clearance category. |
|
Installation Requirements |
Availability of proper electrical wiring and sufficient permitted power |
Availability of chimney and ventilation. Connection only via metal pipes. The wall where the equipment is mounted is covered with heat-resistant material at least 1 cm thick |
|
Warm-up time |
To obtain a comfortable temperature and volume for the whole family, it takes 3-4 hours |
Instant water heating |
|
Water temperature at several points |
Does not change - water comes out at the same temperature at all points |
When drawing water from even two points, the temperature at the latter will be significantly lower |
|
Which is more economical? |
On average, heating water consumes 3 kW of energy per hour |
Modern equipment consumes about 2.3 cubic meters liquefied gas |
|
Requires water filtration, removal lime deposits from the heating element, cleaning the tank. If there is a magnesium anode, maintenance is reduced only to its regular replacement |
Regular check for gas pressure |
As you can see, there is no clear answer as to which is more profitable and which is better: a boiler or a water heater. Both devices have both advantages and disadvantages. The main disadvantage of a storage water heater is its size, despite the fact that for connection you only need an outlet and pipe routing. U gas appliance The downside is the complexity of installation, but in the future there is a minimum of hassle and lower operating costs.
When choosing electric boiler Be sure to install a magnesium anode. It neutralizes the effects limescale on the heating element and significantly extends its service life.
What models are popular on the market
Our article would not be complete if we did not provide examples of models that are popular among users. Statistics were carried out based on data from online stores.
The absolute leader in the water heating devices market. The reservoir consists of two communicating sections, the inner part is covered with enamel with silver ions. 2 heating elements operate alternately, which saves energy consumption. Equipped with an audible error indicator and high degree protection. Cost - 8260 rub.
According to statistics, THERMEX produces the most reliable equipment in the average price category. The warranty period is also the highest - 10 years. Interior The tank is treated with anti-corrosion enamel. Equipped with an indicator panel The cost of a tank with a volume of 80 liters is 9600 rubles.
The tank is made of stainless steel and has high-quality thermal insulation. Bottom connection water. Power - 2 kW, maximum temperature heating 75°. 7 year warranty on tank, 2 years on structural elements. Cost 24,000 rubles for 100 liters.
Equipped with electronic ignition from AA batteries. Performance and heating controls are provided. The burner is made of stainless steel, the heat exchanger is copper. Operation at minimum pressure is possible. Cost 5200 rub.
The Russian manufacturer has developed equipment that optimally meets the needs - automatic ignition as soon as the pressure is sufficient, energy efficiency and the absence of a constant flame in the pilot burner. Cost 8500 rub.
Another sample Russian manufacturer with more than compact dimensions. And although its productivity is low - 9 liters per minute with a power of 17.9 kW, affordable price at 7000 rub. makes it one of the most popular on our market.
VIDEO: What to choose - boiler or geyser
To solve the water problem, many people use a gas boiler. It is a device whose main purpose is to heat water. Note that these devices are in demand by summer residents. They are also used by people whose homes do not have a centralized hot water supply system.
The entire variety of boilers that are currently offered on the market can be divided into two types:
- flow-through;
- cumulative.
Device and internal coating
There are two factors that have negative impact on the boiler design:
- hard water;
- corrosion.
To protect equipment from these factors, manufacturers use to cover it different materials. Most often used:
- stainless steel;
- titanium coating;
- glass porcelain.
The protective coating allows you to increase the service life of the gas boiler. At present most in demand Among consumers, installations with a glass porcelain coating are used. They have more low cost. However, such units have one drawback. It consists in the fact that with a sharp change temperature regime on the surface of these products cracks appear. Of course, you can use the heater in a gentle mode and not heat it to critical temperatures. However, sometimes there will still be a need to heat the water to a high temperature.
Manufacturers provide a 1-year warranty on devices that have a porcelain glass coating. For boilers coated with two other materials, it is 10 years. Both stainless steel and titanium coating have one common advantage - they provide long-term protection against corrosion processes. This is the reason for the high price of gas heaters coated with such materials.
However, they also have one drawback that you should be aware of. During boiler operation vulnerability arises at the welding site. And stainless steel, when in contact with water, gives the latter an unpleasant taste, which can be felt when brushing your teeth. But we note that in recent years There have been no such complaints from consumers using such equipment. Manufacturers, releasing modern models of heaters, strive to eliminate all the negative aspects that may arise when using them. For this they use modern technologies, and in addition they use more advanced units to create boilers.
To provide boilers with additional protection against corrosion, some companies use a magnesium anode. During the operation of the equipment, it should be replaced regularly - once every 12 months.
Types of gas boilers for heating water
Currently offered on the market several types of boilers. They will be discussed further.
Gas storage boiler
Heaters accumulative type quite popular. Many people choose them because they provide the opportunity to use a large volume of hot water. If we talk about the design of these installations, we will highlight that the main elements in them are gas burner and a tank in which water is stored. The tank has a heat-insulating layer, due to which when the heater is operating saves up to 50% fuel. When the unit is disconnected from gas, the water maintains its temperature for seven days. This is ensured precisely due to the thermal insulation layer.
Gas storage boilers are divided according to the tank capacity. If hot water is used in the kitchen and bathroom, then a boiler with a capacity of 50-80 liters will be sufficient for a family of two people. If more than three people live in the house and there is a child, and bathing occurs periodically, then in this case suitable option– installation with a tank capacity of 100 l.
To carry out technical work When using a water heater in industrial conditions, it is better to choose equipment with a tank capacity exceeding 200 liters.
Gas storage boilers, like industrial ones, have certain advantages. One of them is that they demonstrate good job on a gas stream. In addition, they retain for a long time more hot water. Their main disadvantage is that boilers of this type are quite dimensional installations. Therefore, their presence in the bathroom will spoil the appearance of this room. The limitation on the amount of hot water is another disadvantage of such a device. Most often, the installation of such equipment is carried out in basement-type rooms.
Modern models Such devices are equipped with a power regulator. With its help, the owner can easily set the heating temperature. When operating household and industrial heater The display shows how much water has been used and how much water is left. If the owner took a shower and started washing dishes, the unit will turn on automatically and begin heating the water entering the tank. cold water. When water consumption stops, the unit continues to operate until the water in the tank is heated to the set temperature. Then he switches off. This also happens automatically.
Direct heating gas boiler
Boilers of this type are known to many under another name - geyser. Units of this type are essentially a heat exchanger. They do not heat the water in advance. This process starts when the water is flowing through the pipe. The operation of the gas water heater begins when the water pressure increases at the moment the tap is opened.
The main advantage of this equipment is its compactness. You can install without any problems place behind the bath or under the sink. Heaters of this type also do not have their drawbacks. For the device to work effectively, it is necessary to ensure sufficient gas pressure in it, at least 12 mBar.
Storage boiler models have a power thermostat, using which you can set the desired outlet water temperature. Depending on the model, adjustment can be manual or automatic.
When choosing a flow-type gas boiler, you should first look at its useful power- the one that is used to heat water. A 12 kW installation produces up to 10 liters of water with a temperature of 50C per minute.
Gas boiler safety
Gas boilers, like any other equipment that uses gas for their operation, are equipped with safety sensors. Installation operation flow type possible only if there is a chimney. During its operation, it is used to remove combustion products.
Modern equipment models have special valves, and in addition to them, fuses. Thanks to them, in the event of any violations, the gas supply is immediately turned off. Fuel will not flow to the burner if the water stops flowing or carbon monoxide got into the room. If the flame goes out, the gas supply will also be stopped.
Those people who decided to purchase a gas boiler to eliminate the shortage of hot water naturally wonder which installation to choose. To answer this, you first need to decide on the type of boiler and its type. Having become familiar with the advantages of storage and flow-type gas boilers, everyone will be able to make right choice.
If we talk about the gas boiler as a whole, then it compares favorably with its electric counterpart. has certain advantages. One of the most significant - low price. However, water heating installations powered by electricity also have their advantages:
- they are safer during operation;
- when using them, a chimney is not required.
If you decide that a gas boiler is more suitable for you, then you need to choose the right manufacturer. Currently available on the market installations of the following brands:
- Ariston is a market leader in water heaters. The equipment produced by this manufacturer is reliable and has a long service life;
- Electrolux is another well-known boiler manufacturer. When choosing water heaters from this company, you should remember that service gas installation should be performed every two years;
- Termex - this company produces good models that are distinguished by their reasonable price;
- Gorenje - the company has established itself as a manufacturer of reliable gas boilers;
- Edison - this company produces boilers that are inexpensive and at the same time have a long service life;
- BAXI – inexpensive boilers good quality, standing out for their original design.
How to calculate the volume of the boiler?
To choose the right boiler with the right volume, you must remember that there should be 50 liters per person. If installation is required for a family of four, then optimal choice can be considered a boiler with a capacity of 200 liters. But we note that calculating the capacity of a gas installation is an individual matter. If the family does not waste water, then in this case there will be A tank of 50 or 120 l is enough. However, such a boiler installed in the bathroom will not allow all family members to take a bath consistently. You will have to wait some time for the water to heat up.
Gas boiler installation
The owner exposes himself to great danger when he decides to install the boiler on his own. Therefore, it is better to entrust the installation and connection of a gas water heater to professionals, and the owner should pay attention to a number of points:
- installation of a boiler can only be carried out after obtaining permission from GorGaz. This will not be a problem if the gas boiler is installed on the site of an old gas water heater;
- If you have never had a water heating device before, obtaining permission will take more time and effort. The purchased unit must comply with all existing standards. In addition, the boiler must be certified.
Gas boilers are devices that pose a certain danger when used. Therefore, you should approach the task of choosing them extremely responsibly.
If you have planned to purchase a gas water heater, but your home no chimney, then you should choose from installations equipped with a closed chamber or equipped with a turbo hood. It is prohibited to install hybrid-coaxial chimneys in enclosed spaces. Their installation is usually carried out in boiler rooms or utility rooms with an efficient ventilation system.
When choosing gas equipment for heating water, attention should also be paid to its power. It is optimal to buy a device that has a power/performance ratio of less than two units.
The most important thing when choosing gas equipment- safety. Before purchasing the selected device, you should make sure that it is has overheating protection and dry running. You also need to check that the boiler has draft and pressure sensors.
Conclusion
Gas boiler for the house - good choice for people who do not have access to hot water from centralized system water supply These devices are affordable and last a long time if they are used professional installation. Only no need to chase low prices and buy a cheap installation. Don't forget that the miser pays twice. It's better to spend a little more on a gas boiler. Then you will have the opportunity to use the device from famous manufacturer, which, with regular maintenance, will demonstrate reliable operation and will delight long term operation.
Directly heated electric boilers are safe, they cope with their tasks 100%, but they have one significant drawback - a significant consumption of expensive electricity. Therefore, more and more buyers are paying attention to larger, but less expensive to operate gas boilers and water heaters.
A gas boiler is a complex unit for heating water, operating on the principle of a heat exchanger. Structurally, at the bottom there is a gas burner with an igniter, and above it there is a metal storage tank for water. As a result of combustion gas mixture the storage device heats up and transmits thermal energy liquids.
There are 2 main types of gas water heaters - instantaneous and storage.
Flow-through boilers
That's enough powerful devices with a small volume storage tank. Inexpensive, economical and relatively compact speakers have been known since Soviet times. Modern models are easy to operate, equipped with an open or safer closed camera combustion, a full-fledged safety group (gas control, protection against overheating and dry running, and others), thermostats, resource saving systems (winter-summer modes) and other functionalities. However, not everything is so rosy.
Geysers require special conditions for installation ( dry room, the presence of a chimney to remove combustion products, etc.). Compliance with fire safety measures is mandatory.
As a rule, instantaneous water heaters operating on natural gas, are produced in a hanging configuration, that is, exclusively wall-mounted. Only a storage boiler can be floor-standing, but most often these are significant volumes - from 200 liters or more.
A gas water heater, like others, basic characteristic– power. The higher this indicator, the more intensively the unit operates, and the number of heated liters increases.
The power of the device depends on the number of kilowatts generated. The physics textbook states that to heat 1 liter of water by 1 degree it will take 4200 J. Comfortable temperature liquid for washing dishes or hands – about 40 °C. Accordingly, to obtain an optimal result, for each liter of water you will need 4200x40 = approximately 170,000 J. The power of the gas water heater indicated in the instructions is the amount of energy that the burner produces (unit of measurement - W/sec). The average value is 18 kW or 18,000 W. Thus, to obtain 1 liter warm water the gas water heater will require 170,000/18,000 = about 9 seconds. That is, for a standard mixer with a water flow rate of 6-7 liters per minute, a boiler with a capacity of up to 18 kW is sufficient.
Experience and customer reviews show that the most reliable and practical are products from branded European factories Valliant, Electrolux, Bosch, etc. It is adapted to Russian conditions(pressure of gas and water in the system, composition of the gas mixture, etc.), heat exchangers and burners are made of chrome-nickel or stainless steel, copper with special anti-corrosion coating. Safety requirements are increased, but this is justified by the service life - such a gas boiler has been successfully operated for at least 10 years.
In contrast, there are products from China and Russia. Unfortunately, in lately many Russian factories switched from production to assembly geysers from finished parts obtained from China. These devices are not reliable or durable. According to extremely negative reviews from many users, almost all such boilers quickly fail; when reaching extreme temperatures, some even begin to melt.
Another nuance is that European manufacturers have an extensive network of service centers that quickly fix any breakdowns. Chinese and Russian factories cannot boast of this.
Thus, direct-heating instantaneous water heaters are economical and easy to use, and are quite powerful - all year round provide hot water. The disadvantages are special requirements for installation, gas and water pressure in systems, which are sensitive to their quality. They need to be descaled periodically.
Direct heating gas storage boiler
The principle of operation is almost the same as the “flow-through”, but with the difference that there is a thermally insulated volumetric tank for 50-500 liters of water, which is filled with cold liquid and gradually heats up. Only after reaching the temperature set on the thermostat is it supplied to the water intake point. The storage fills up as you use it cold water and the cycle starts again. Conventionally, a direct heating storage boiler can be called a kind of thermos that keeps a significant amount of water hot for 1-2 days.
This type of boiler is available in two installation options - wall-mounted (with a capacity of up to 150 liters) and floor-mounted (with a capacity of 200 liters or more). Since the unit is quite bulky due to thermal insulation, it is recommended to install it in separate rooms.
The body of modern water heaters is made of stainless steel or powder-coated metal (enamel). The former are much more expensive, but also more durable. The internal storage is usually treated with a special anti-corrosion coating (glass ceramics, enamel, titanium coating, etc.).
The power of direct heating storage boilers depends on the power of the burner. Wall-mounted units are equipped gas installations 3.5-5 kW, floor-standing – from 6 kW and above.
Gas water heaters come with a closed or open camera combustion. In the first case, the device is equipped with a coaxial chimney; in the second, the water heaters require a conventional chimney complex.
When choosing a boiler, pay attention to the presence of an appropriate safety group: a water sensor, overheating protection, an overpressure valve, and, of course, a draft indicator in the chimney. The standard package also includes a thermostat and control unit.
To determine the volume of the water heater, you need to determine the total water consumption per day, the required heating temperature and use the formula:
V=S v (T-T 1)/(T 2 -T 1),
Where S v is the total consumption for 24 hours,
T – desired water temperature at the water intake point,
T 1 – temperature tap water(cold water supply),
T 2 – water heating temperature in the boiler.
IN separate category it is worth highlighting gas water heaters indirect heating. Although this is not an entirely correct name, it would be more correct to call them combined. If the main source of thermal energy is turned off or absent, then the unit operates as a conventional gas storage water heater. Such situations are typical for those houses where a single-circuit heating boiler is installed. They are not found on sale very often, but specialized centers offer good options.
Storage boiler indirect heating uses coolant from the heating system as a source of thermal energy. A single-circuit or double-circuit boiler is combined with the unit with a special piping. The water heated by the boiler equipment enters the water heater, passes through the heat exchanger, transfers part of the energy to the liquid reservoir and goes further into the heating system. Of course, when using indirect heating water heaters, a main unit with a power reserve of at least 30% is required.
Gas boiler with boiler (wall-mounted or floor options) is usually required in private house or to an enterprise. For apartments, such a complex is inconvenient, since it takes up too much space, and besides, the installation locations for such equipment are strictly regulated.
When purchasing a set, it is advisable to choose devices from the same company or related ones. Thus, a Valliant single-circuit and double-circuit boiler “gets along” perfectly with a direct or indirect heating boiler Buderus or Baxi, but not with Galtmet or Evan.
Since gas boilers of direct and indirect heating are complex and to some extent dangerous devices, their choice must be taken responsibly.
If there is no chimney in the apartment, then the choice should be made on devices with a closed combustion chamber and a turbo hood. Hybrid-coaxial chimneys must not be installed in enclosed spaces. They are installed, as a rule, in boiler rooms or utility rooms with intensive ventilation.
The next parameter is power. Choose an option in which the power/performance ratio is less than 2 units. This is the most economical unit for you.
And finally, required element– security system. Check the presence of gas control, protection against overheating and dry running, draft and pressure sensors. We recommend that you watch a video on how to make the right choice of a gas boiler:
Don't try to save money on gas water heaters, whether flow-through or storage. Choose devices from trusted manufacturers, because the most important thing is your safety.