Steel heating radiators: an overview of technical specifications and selection tips

Calculation of the required amount of heat for heating

For an approximate value of the required amount of heat for an apartment, you need to take into account:

• connection type;
• type of instalation.

Connection types can be as follows:

• lateral;
• diagonal;
• bottom.

Lateral connection is the most used in a city apartment.Diagonal - the most optimal if you want to get the maximum amount of heat. So the coolant will be distributed evenly, filling the entire internal space of the battery.

Decorative partitions for zoning the space in the room

Choosing cast iron bathtubs

Wall hung toilet bowl with installation - which one is better to choose:

Popular radiator models

Radiator Kermi FKO 10 0304

• has a side connection;
• dimensions 300×400×46 (height, length, depth);
• has a power of 179 W;
• ground coated surface;
• equipped with side steel screens and a top cover.

The scope of delivery includes: ventilation covers, plugs, holders, spacers, fasteners. Fastening is carried out by means of four fastening plates on the rear wall of the heater. If the installation length exceeds 1800 mm, then there are 6 mounting plates. It is possible to align both horizontally and vertically. Operating pressure 10 bar, maximum 13 bar.

Panel radiators manufactured by DE'LONGHI (Italy) brand "Plattella"

Designed for use in the heating system of buildings for almost any purpose. They have high energy efficiency, have a glossy surface and high quality workmanship. Available in two types: with side and bottom connection. They have the following technical characteristics:

• the panel sheet has a thickness of 1.25 mm;
• connecting dimensions of radiators with side connection - half an inch, with bottom connection - ¾ inch;
• height from 300 to 900 mm;
• the length of the heater can be from 400 to 3000 mm;
• withstands a working pressure of 8.7 bar;
• maximum coolant temperature 110C
• warranty period - 10 years.

The price of the radiator includes an installation kit.

Correction factors

Despite the same values ​​in the data sheet, the actual heat output of the radiators may differ depending on the operating conditions. Considering that the above formulas are accurate only for houses with average statistics of insulation and for areas with a temperate climate, under other conditions it is necessary to make adjustments to the calculations.

To do this, the value obtained during the calculations is additionally multiplied by a coefficient:

• corner and north rooms - 1.3;
• regions with extreme frosts (Far North) - 1.6;
• screen or box - add another 25%, niche - 7%;
• for each window in the room, the total heat output for the room increases by 100 W, for each door - 200 W;
• cottage - 1.5;

Which heating radiators are better to buy

Before buying, you should determine the thermal output of the battery for each room. The required indicator depends on the characteristics of a particular room, including the size, number of external walls, house construction materials and window features.

With good insulation, one section with a power of about 120 watts is usually enough to heat an area of ​​​​1.5-2 m².

An equally important characteristic of batteries is the operating pressure. The recommended indicator should be at least 1.5 times higher than the value noted in the heating system

In standard five-story apartment buildings, the central heating pressure is about 6-8 atmospheres.

The battery package should include all the elements necessary for installation: plugs, fittings, taps, sealants and fasteners. Missing will have to be purchased separately.

Radiators made of metals that are not resistant to corrosion (steel, cast iron) require special treatment both inside and out. The decorative coating of the batteries must also meet the requirements of heat resistance - otherwise it will quickly turn yellow, or even crack.

Aluminum radiators

Aluminum batteries have many advantages. They do not require constant care. The low weight of the batteries will significantly reduce the cost of transportation. More resistant to water hammer than cast iron. The high passage of the coolant does not allow such a radiator to be contaminated from the inside. This is due to the flow area, less than or equal to the inner diameter of the riser.

You may hear a common myth that such batteries have low heat dissipation due to the small section. It's a lie. The cross section is compensated by the area of ​​the radiator fins. Such a battery also has disadvantages - often they cannot withstand high pressure surges. Also, alloys are often used in the manufacture of aluminum batteries, which greatly increases their destructibility.

Incorrect connection will oxidize the inside of the battery. Also, the coolant in Russia contains a lot of impurities, which will lead to corrosion, which significantly reduces the service life. Therefore, you should not install them yourself.

The best bimetal radiators with non-standard distance between the axes

Such models can have an extremely intricate design, which affects the center distance, heat transfer parameters and supply options.

TIANRUN Rondo 150 – durable and reliable heating device

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

93%
buyers recommend this product

See review

This compact floor model withstands pressures up to 25 bar at temperature coolant up to 135°С. This strength is achieved through the use of a solid steel frame. The absence of leakage between sections is guaranteed by high-strength forged steel nipples and special silicone gaskets.

Despite the extremely compact dimensions with an interaxal distance of only 150 mm, the radiator has a good thermal power (95 W at a coolant temperature of 70°C).

Advantages:

• High strength and reliability
• Good technical and operational characteristics.
• Sophisticated geometry of the body ribs.
• Light weight.

Flaws:

Floor bracket not included.

Tianrun Rondo is a good solution for heating rooms with a large glass area.

SIRA Gladiator 200 - compact battery

4.7

★★★★★
editorial score

82%
buyers recommend this product

The wall-mounted bimetallic radiator with a classic lateral inlet received a design focused on safety during operation. The main feature of this model is its small dimensions - as a result of the center distance reduced to 20 cm.

Despite its compactness, the bimetallic radiator has a very good operating pressure (35 bar) and perfectly tolerates temperatures up to 110 ° C. However, the dimensions affected the modest heat transfer - only 92 W per section.

Advantages:

• Reliability.
• Compactness.
• Light weight.
• High working pressure.
• Elegant design.

Flaws:

Average heat dissipation.

SIRA Gladiator is a very suitable model for heating small spaces.

Rating of heating radiators for an apartment

Battery replacement is ideally done once and for all life, or at least for 20 years. If you want the devices to serve for a long time, carefully approach the choice of the manufacturer.The reliability of the device, the quality of its work will largely depend on this. Regardless of how much a heating radiator in an apartment costs, be sure to ask the manufacturer for certificates confirming the originality of the heat exchangers.

Particularly noteworthy are the products of the Italian brand Global, Sira. Models are not cheap, but the quality justifies the price. The devices have a classic look, made of bimetal or aluminum. The advantage lies in the cost-effectiveness and high heat transfer of the installations. The following brands also received good customer reviews:

• Kermi - excellent German quality and conciseness of forms;
• Arbonia - an original design that will allow these appliances to become a decoration of the room;
• Smart - inexpensive branded China is quite worthy of attention;
• Rifar is a domestic manufacturer that deserves attention.

The best steel heating radiators

Such models are characterized by simple design and low inertia. They heat up and cool down quickly, which guarantees significant energy savings when used in stand-alone systems with connected regulators.

Elsen ERK 22

5

★★★★★
editorial score

97%
buyers recommend this product

Elsen batteries have an abrasion-resistant protective coating that reduces the chance of minor scratches and corrosion. Phosphated inner surface maintains high quality for a long time.

The special design of the mounts allows you to connect radiators both on the right and on the left side. The kit includes mounting templates and all the necessary elements for self-installation.

Advantages:

• strength and resistance to corrosive wear;
• multilayer coating;
• convenience and variability of connection;
• attractive design;
• excellent kit.

Flaws:

high price.

Elsen ERK 22 radiators are connected to the central heating system. A modern solution for use in a residential or office space - especially in cramped conditions.

Axis Valve 22

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

96%
buyers recommend this product

These radiators have a reinforced construction with additional convective surfaces. The thickness of the steel sheet increased to 1.2 mm guarantees resistance to pressure up to 20 atmospheres. The high thermal conductivity of the metal and the small volume of the carrier in the batteries reduce the inertia to a minimum.

Batteries can be equipped with regulators for convenient control and adjustment of the temperature regime in the room. The decorative grille and side covers provide an attractive look to the equipment and can be easily removed if necessary.

Advantages:

• impact resistance;
• protective covering;
• stylish design;
• good heat dissipation;
• respond quickly to changes in temperature.

Flaws:

complex installation.

The Axis Ventil series is designed for use in closed water heating systems. An excellent choice for industrial, administrative, public buildings, as well as private houses.

Buderus Logatrend K-Profile

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

94%
buyers recommend this product

The radiators presented in the Logatrend K-Profil series can be connected both from below and from the side. This ensures the convenience of their installation in any room and on different floors of the building.

In the manufacture of batteries, the method of roller welding is used, which increases the reliability of the equipment. Multi-layer protective coating protects the metal from mechanical damage and corrosion.

Attractive and modern design allows the models to fit perfectly into any interior. The package includes plugs, mounting adapters and air vents.

Advantages:

• convenient connection;
• interesting design;
• rich equipment;
• durability and corrosion resistance.

Flaws:

heavy.

Buderus Logatrend K-Profil are not afraid to work in high pressure conditions. Designed for heating commercial premises connected to central heating systems.

Arbonia 2057

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

89%
buyers recommend this product

Arbonia batteries are compact and thin. This design makes it possible to save space during installation and place more sections in the selected location. Glossy coating protects radiators from corrosion.

Batteries can be equipped with thermostats for more comfortable use in regions with frequently changing climates. Mounting is carried out on the wall using special brackets.

Advantages:

• strong and durable;
• not afraid of corrosion;
• compactness and low weight.

Flaws:

no mounting kit.

Arbonia 2057 are recommended for installation in small residential areas.

Kermi FKO 12

4.7

★★★★★
editorial score

86%
buyers recommend this product

The smoothness of these radiators is achieved by iron phosphate treatment followed by priming and powder coating. The presence of a convector grill increases heat transfer and gives the batteries a modern look. Reinforced design is not afraid of sharp blows, while maintaining tightness.

The package, along with each radiator of the series, includes plugs, an air vent and a set of wall mounts for self-assembly.

Advantages:

• extended equipment;
• convenient installation;
• high heat transfer;
• long service life.

Flaws:

thin layer of paint.

Kermi FKO 12 can work with any heat carrier and is connected to systems with one or two pipes.

Steel heating radiators

Panel steel radiators

Such radiators are also called convectors, they have a high efficiency - up to 75%. Inside the radiators there is one or more steel heating panels and convector fins.

The device of a steel panel radiator.

Panel radiators are the most budgetary solution for your own home and, therefore, are the most common in autonomous heating systems. Depending on the number of heating panels and convection fins, the following types of water heating radiators of panel design are distinguished: 10, 11, 20, 21, 22, 30, 33.

Manufacturers: These are mainly European countries - Germany (Buderus and Kermi), Czech Republic (Korado), Italy (DeLonghi), Finland (PURMO). Their prices are not high, so Russian manufacturers are not very strongly represented in this market.

+ Pros:

• Inertia is low, heat transfer is excellent.
• The volume of the coolant is small, energy consumption is small.
• These radiators are environmentally friendly and harmless, so they can be used in hospitals, schools and kindergartens.
• Extremely low price.

- Minuses:

• If water is drained from the heating system, then when oxygen comes into contact with the walls of the radiator, corrosion begins to form.
• Water hammer is dangerous for steel radiators. Therefore, they cannot be used in multi-storey buildings.
• Due to convection, drafts and fine dust may be raised.

Tubular steel radiators

The design of the radiator is a structure made of steel pipes through which hot water passes.The production of such devices is more expensive than panel ones, and therefore their price is higher.

There are many design options - this is a real feast for the designer's imagination.

Manufacturers:

Of the European producing countries, Germany (Kermi, Charleston, Zehnder Charleston, Arbonia) and Italy (Israp Tesi) can be mentioned. Domestic devices manufactured by the KZTO plant (Kimry) are distinguished by a working pressure of up to 15 bar. And the models "RS" and "Harmony" are also protected from corrosion by a polymer coating.

Pros and cons: These radiators, like panel radiators, have advantages and disadvantages inherent in steel products. However, in terms of pressure, they have better indicators (this is a plus), and their price is significantly higher (this is a minus).

Main characteristics:

• Pressure (working) - an average of 6-10 bar (for panel radiators) and 8-15 bar (for tubular radiators).
• Thermal power (total) - 1200-1600 watts.
• Hot water temperature (maximum) - 110-120 degrees.
• pH of water - 8.3-9.5.

Varieties and selection criteria

Panel-type radiators are equipped with both convective and hygienic fins, assuming the absence of convective plates. Hygienic batteries are distinguished by the fact that they can be easily cleaned from dust. They are produced without decorative grilles, so this design is characterized by easy access to the internal structure of the product. Such models are installed mainly in hospitals and other types of premises with high hygienic requirements.

Depending on the type of front panel, the devices are available with a corrugated, smooth and flat surface. Products with a flat surface may have vertical or horizontal grooves.Thus, the outer case of the device is assembled from standard and decorative panels.

Metal radiators are best connected to an autonomous heating system. If they are embedded in a centralized system, then the service life of the devices will be halved.

In order for the device to reliably serve for a long time, experts recommend taking into account the following nuances when choosing it:

• Working indicators. The pressure in the heating system must not exceed 10 bar. Some manufacturers produce products that can maintain a pressing pressure of 13 bar, but the water temperature in this case is no more than + 110C.
• Thermal power. For each type of radiators, it is installed individually.
• Connection method. Typically, devices are mounted either from below or from the side, so the choice is determined both by the personal preferences of users and by the characteristics of the heating system.
• Availability of additional features. Most modern models are equipped with a thermostatic valve, which allows you to effectively maintain a certain temperature in the room. In addition, the design can be supplemented with thermostats that simplify heating control.

How to choose a bimetallic heater

When buying a device, it is important to consider a number of nuances. Going to the store, you need to know exactly how much power the radiator should give out, what dimensions it should have, and to what conditions it should be adapted.

Therefore, we will help you figure out which bimetallic radiator is best for your home.

Calculation of the number of sections

Such a calculation is made based on the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room and the energy efficiency of the section of a particular device. It is believed that for every 10 m2 of space, ideally, there should be 1 kW of power.To calculate, you need to divide the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe entire room by 10, and then divide the result by the power of one section. Then the whole value must be increased by 10% and rounded up to a whole number. This is how heat losses associated with external factors are taken into account. The result is the optimal number of radiator segments for a particular room.

Sectional bimetallic radiator can be adapted to a specific room

If, due to some features of the area or the house, the sectional heater does not provide the required temperature level, additional segments can be added to it. With a monolithic radiator, this will not work.

What to Consider

There are a few things to consider in order to understand what kind of radiator better in a specific case:

It is better when the size of the heater is maximum, because in this case the energy efficiency of the device is the highest.

But it is important that the distance to the floor is at least 12 cm, and to the windowsill - at least 10 cm.

Ideally positioned bimetal heating radiator

• Capacity is one of the most important parameters. The larger it is, the better the radiator heats. Therefore, for devices with a small volume of sections, the highest quality coolant without impurities is required.
• More suitable for apartments monolithic radiators, because they are able to withstand sudden pressure surges, while at the same time, cheaper sectional models can be used for autonomous heating systems.

Video description

An interesting video clip on how to choose a bimetallic radiator for an apartment:

Briefly about the main

Bimetallic radiators are superior to semi-bimetallic models in terms of durability and unpretentiousness, and they are also more affordable.

Bimetal radiators are more durable than aluminum ones, but they are more expensive and take up more space.

According to the structure, there are two types of bimetal radiators: sectional and monolithic.

Most Popular Models bimetal radiators is a Global Style Plus 500, Rifar Monolit 500, Sira RS Bimetal and Royal Thermo Revolution Bimetall 500.

In order to choose the right bimetallic radiator, it is worth considering its capacity, dimensions, and it is also necessary to calculate the number of sections for a particular room.

TOP 4 aluminum heating radiators

Aluminum batteries have the highest thermal conductivity and rapid heating due to thin walls. They are recommended for heating a private house: they are simple, economical, there is no need to overpay (closed autonomous system). But aluminum is sensitive to water quality, subject to corrosion, therefore it is not used in systems where a long stay without water is provided (for example, draining the coolant for the summer in apartments of multi-storey buildings).

ROMMER Al Optima 500x12

All aluminum radiators provide lateral connection (1 inch). The center distance is standard - 500 mm. One section of the radiator weighs 0.81 kg and holds 0.28 liters of water. This type, unlike the others presented in the rating, will require a minimum of coolant in the system, so heating occurs much faster. Withstands temperatures up to 110 °C. Wall thickness of vertical manifold - 1.8 mm. Treated with anti-corrosion coating. The power of one section is 155 watts. Heat dissipation - 133.4 W at a temperature of 70 ° C. Designed for a pressure of 12 bar (maximum pressure testing - 24 bar).

Advantages:

1. It's easy to set.
2. Laconic design.
3. Lungs.
4. Reliable.
5. Inexpensive.

Flaw:

1. The material is fragile.During transportation, it can be crushed (there are isolated cases).

ROMMER Al Optima 500 for 3500 rubles for 12 sections is the most economical option, with a discreet design and a normal degree of reliability. Provides good heat dissipation, although less than Rifar Alum 500. 86% of users recommend these batteries for purchase.

Rifar Alum 500x10

It has a much larger weight - 1.45 kg. The volume in one section is almost the same - 0.27 liters. The upper part has rounded petals that enhance convection. Withstands much higher pressure - 20 bar (up to 30 when pressing). Designed for any temperature up to 135 °C. Heat dissipation is quite high - 183 watts. 10 sections are needed to heat an area of ​​​​about 18 square meters. m.

Advantages:

1. Nice view.
2. High heat dissipation.
3. Heat up the room quickly.
4. Convenient easy installation.
5. Reliable, high quality.

Flaw:

1. High price.

Rifar Alum 500 for 6 thousand rubles (10 sections) provides an optimal level of heat transfer. This type of radiators has excellent characteristics, but also a little overpriced. A model with a small number of reviews, but they are all positive.

Royal Thermo Revolution 500x10

Weigh less than Rifar Alum 500 - 1.2 kg. The ribs are also made somewhat "wavy", which improves the appearance. Differ in large volume. One section holds 0.37 liters. Withstands the same pressure in the system. The limit temperature is 110 °C. Heat dissipation is also high - 181 watts. The power of one section is 171 watts.

Advantages:

1. Design.
2. High heat dissipation.
3. Good paint quality (does not peel off like cheap models).
4. They warm up well.

Flaws:

1. There are isolated cases of a small marriage: the back wall is poorly painted, a drop of paint on the thread.
2. Expensive.

The price of Royal Thermo Revolution 500 is 6250 rubles for 10 sections. Despite the larger amount of coolant in the system, radiators provide fast heating. High heat dissipation. 92% of buyers are satisfied with the reliability, quality of materials and painting.

Global ISEO 500x10

Model in a laconic design with subtle petals. One section weighs a little more than the Rifar Alum at 1.31 kg. It is distinguished by the largest volume of coolant in one section - 0.44 l. Designed for a pressure of 16 bar (24 bar - crimping pressure). Maintains temperature of the heat carrier up to 110 °C. The heat output of one section is less - 115 watts. The power is higher - 181 watts.

Advantages:

1. Appearance.
2. Normal heat dissipation.
3. They heat great.
4. Good quality coverage.

Flaw:

High price.

The cost of Global ISEO 500 x10 is 6500 rubles. In terms of heat transfer, it loses to all aluminum radiators in the rating. It has a very large amount of coolant in the system for this segment. But 91% of buyers are satisfied with the purchase and recommend it for purchase.

The best tubular steel radiators

The production of tubular radiators is more expensive, so the equipment itself is somewhat more expensive than panel counterparts.

And although such batteries also “sink” a little in terms of heat transfer, they are able to withstand more pressure in the system, which makes them suitable for multi-storey buildings with central heating.

In addition, tubular radiators are available in a larger range of designs, can be compact and large in size (for example, up to 1.5 m high), and are also able to withstand higher coolant temperatures, on average 95-120 degrees.

Arbonia 3057 No. 69

5.0

★★★★★
editorial score

100%
buyers recommend this product

Steel batteries from Arbonia are classic tube radiators with a bottom connection. This saves installation space and allows them to be connected to pipes laid in floors.

Radiators have a three-pipe design, therefore they are characterized by high heat transfer. They already come with a built-in thermostatic valve that allows you to adjust and maintain the optimum temperature in the room.

Advantages:

• Discreet design;
• Bottom connection;
• High thermal power;
• Three-pipe design;
• Temperature controller.

Flaws:

High price.

Arbonia tubular radiators will look organically in rooms with classic and modern design.

KZTO RS

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

92%
buyers recommend this product

See review

A series of tubular radiators RS from KZTO is a steel equipment of increased thermal power, resistant to high pressure.

Batteries withstand up to 25 bar for a short time (working value 15 bar), which makes them suitable for installation in multi-storey buildings. Radiators meet the requirements for installation in buildings with high sanitary and hygienic standards.

KZTO RS devices have an unusual design. They not only effectively heat the room, but also are able to decorate the interior. The collection includes equipment with side and bottom connections, with wall or leg mounting, with ½" and ¾" connections.

Advantages:

• Variety of models;
• Attractive design;
• High working pressure;
• Compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards;
• High work efficiency.

Flaws:

There is no thermostat.

KZTO RS radiators are suitable for installation in any heating systems with copper, steel, plastic and polyethylene pipes.

IRSAP Tesi 30365

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

90%
buyers recommend this product

Elegant steel radiators Tesi 30365 from IRSAP are made in a classic design for them and can suit a variety of interiors.

The main advantage of the equipment is the use of laser welding of the constituent elements, which ensures maximum tightness. The absence of rough welds prevents the accumulation of contaminants inside, which means that the radiators will last a long time.

Batteries are designed for side connection. They are able to withstand system pressures up to 10 bar. Having compact dimensions, radiators have surprisingly good heat dissipation.

Advantages:

• Laser welding of seams;
• Compact dimensions;
• High heat dissipation;
• Elegant design;
• Durability.

Flaws:

No thermostat.

Steel radiators Tesi 30365 from IRSAP are suitable for private and low-rise buildings with low and medium water pressure in the system.

Thermal power comparison

If you carefully studied the previous section, you should understand that heat transfer is greatly influenced by air and coolant temperatures, and these parameters do not depend much on the radiator itself. But there is a third factor - the heat exchange surface area, here the design and shape of the product plays a big role. It will not be possible to clearly compare a steel panel heater with a cast-iron battery, their surfaces are too different.

It is difficult to compare heat transfer between flat panels and ribbed surfaces of complex configuration.

The fourth factor affecting heat transfer is the material from which the heater is made. Compare for yourself: 5 sections aluminum radiator GLOBAL VOX with a height of 600 mm will give 635 W at DT = 50 ° C. Cast iron retro battery DIANA (GURATEC) for 5 sections of the same height will transfer only 530 W into the room under similar conditions (Δt = 50 °C). These data are published on the official websites of manufacturers.

You can try to compare aluminum with a steel panel radiator, taking the nearest standard size that is suitable in size. The length of the battery of 5 GLOBAL aluminum sections with a height of 600 mm will be approximately 400 mm, which corresponds to the KERMI 600 x 400 steel panel.

The table shows the thermal performance of 1 section of aluminum and bimetal, depending on the size and temperature difference Δt

Even if we take a three-row steel panel (type 30), we get 572 W at Δt = 50 ° C versus 635 W for 5-section aluminum. Also note that the GLOBAL VOX radiator is much thinner, the depth of the device is 95 mm, and the KERMI panels are almost 160 mm. That is, the high heat transfer of aluminum sections allows you to reduce the dimensions of the heater.

In an individual heating system of a private house, batteries of the same power, made of different metals, will work differently. Therefore, the comparison is quite predictable:

1. Bimetallic and aluminum products quickly warm up and cool down. Giving more heat over a period of time, they cool the water returned to the system more.
2. Steel panel radiators occupy a middle position, as they transfer heat not so intensively.But they are cheaper and easier to install.
3. The most inert and expensive are cast iron heaters, they are characterized by a long warm-up and cool-down, which causes a slight delay in the automatic regulation of the coolant flow by thermostatic heads.

The conclusion is simple: it does not matter what material the radiator is made of. The main thing is to choose the right battery for power and design that will suit the user.

In general, for comparison, it does not hurt to get acquainted with all the nuances of the operation of a particular device, as well as where it is better to install which one.

Results

The heat transfer of radiators depends on the material from which it is made, the shape of the section or panel, on the presence and number of additional fins that improve convection. Also of great importance are the method of connection and installation.

More recently, all houses were heated with the help of the usual cast-iron radiators. Today the situation has changed and they have been replaced by aluminum, steel and bimetallic heating radiators, i.e. there was a choice.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each type, try to determine which one is best suited for an apartment or a country house and calculate heating radiators.