Gas columns for hard water. How to choose a gas column: selection guidelines and rating of the best models

I found the checks :)
  They changed the column of the year 3 years ago, chose for a long time and came to the conclusion that it is necessary to buy in specialized offices, and not in shops with household appliances. Bought - "Water heater gas BOSCH WR 13G", manufacturer JUNKERS Bosch Gruppe Germany. He was worth 10,200 rubles, but there were cheaper, depending on the functions. This ignites under the pressure of water, and there are wicks that burn all the time, as in our old columns.
  The master who installed, said that from domestic it was the best choice :) Maybe of course he says so to everyone, but we are still satisfied.

Quote: I think that many regulars of the forum have centralized hot water supply and for them the topic of gas water heater is very far ... Many in old houses during repair replaced "columns" for boilers of storage type.

We have been using the Valiant column for 10 years, at that time it was the best choice. Last year, changed some detail (eventually burns out), there was a question about replacing the column itself, but the master advised all the same replacement parts, tk. will serve another 5-6 years. Although at the moment there are some good analogs, unfortunately, I do not remember the names, firms that manufacture water heaters. In any case, the Valiant is an excellent technique, compared to Bosch, Electrolux and others, which stand with our neighbors, we do not know any troubles.

I will also write about my Vaillant (I watched how it is spelled correctly) - this part, which we exchanged 9 years after the purchase, is a heat exchanger, one of the weak points of all the speakers, so Vaillant still serves it long enough compared to others, since made of some super copper alloy. The replacement of the heat exchanger is quite expensive, last year it cost about 10-11 thousand. Yes, and our neighbors, who have Electrolux and Bosch, are periodically cleaned, that is, they call for this specialists. We also decided to call (well, than we are worse!), The master came, looked - there's nothing to clean. I do not know, it depends on what, from the column or something else (maybe neighbors are constantly washing).

I bought AEG GWH 11 ERN 4 years ago, at first I worked without failures, everything was very happy! At one point, the water pressure was lost at the outlet and as a result, the main burner flame ceased to ignite! The bottom line: either the purchase of a new gearbox (I'll immediately note the independent repair did not lead to anything only to the money spent), the official service costs 2/3 of the cost, or a new gas column (rather the second, but only this producer). By the way, The same failure did not arise from me alone, only the brand Electrolux (to which AEG belongs)!
  Conclusion: if you are willing to pay every four years for a new gas column, then the choice is good in view of the low price.

Probably everyone knows common  from ancient times the expression: "my house is my fortress". Of course, it is possible to invest in it a very different meaning. But if viewed from the domestic point of view, from the standpoint of a caring and economical master, this can be perceived as the desire for the maximum possible autonomy, for independence from public services with their unpredictable fads in the form of changes in the conditions for the provision of services, tariff increases, preventive works, repairs, accidents and the like.

It's no secret that not only the owners of private houses, but also the owners of apartments in high-rise buildings, are increasingly installing their own independent heating systems for housing and hot water supply. About heating boilers - in a separate publication, and this article will be devoted to the questions of how to choose a gas column, so as not to experience problems with providing its economy with hot water.

But even before speech will go about the problems, in fact, the choice of these devices, you need, at least briefly, to get acquainted with their basic device. This is necessary, first of all, in order to try to dispel a number of fairly common  prejudices that formed in the collective consciousness with respect to the speakers for a long time, settled there firmly and very heavily yield to "neutralization".

The arrangement of the gas column and its advantages

In order not to make mistakes with the choice of such a heating device, it is necessary at least approximately to understand its device. Although  the assortment of modern gas columns is quite large; in their work, unified principles of both internal structure and functionality are applied.

The diagram shows the approximate structure of a typical modern flow-through gas heater. Certainly, specific models from different manufacturers may have their own peculiarities, but only in questions of layout or maintenance of convenience of operation.

1 - a fume hood covered with metal walls, the volume from which gas combustion products are extracted in one way or another. Can be completely sealed or connected to the atmosphere (in conventional, chimney or stove-free columns).

2 - copper heat exchanger. A pipe system with a "jacket", which perceives the direct effect of the flame of gas burners. It is here that the heating of running water.

3 - Ignition sensor. Provides a control signal for the opening of a common gas solenoid valve only if the pilot fuse is operating.

4 - ignition wick. There may be different principles of action - this will be discussed below.

5 - gas burner, more precisely, several lines of gas burners, providing0 their uniform heating of the water in the heat exchanger.

6 - the water unit, which includes, among other things, the connection of the cold water main (item 9), the screw regulator of water flow (item 9, not all models), and the drain valve (item 10, also optional, not on all columns).

Water valve - "frog"

The main element of a water node is always the so-called "frog".

In fact - this is a working cylinder, the volume of which is divided into two parts with the help of an elastic membrane.

Both halves of the "frog" are connected by a nozzle of a certain diameter. The point is that when the water is opened through the column, due to the difference in pressure in the two parts of this "frog", the membrane bends upwards and pushes the rod, which is connected to the spring-loaded gas valve, opening it. As soon as the water flow is stopped (the water tap is closed), the pressure under the membrane drops, the valve returns to its original position, and the gas burner, respectively, immediately goes out.

11 - on this circuit - a node with microswitches (optional).

12 - the gas block with the union of a gas hose (position 13). It is here that a spring-loaded gas valve is located, connected by a rod (rod) with a water junction.

14 - in this column - the electronics unit that controls the operation of the water heater. In inexpensive simple columns may simply be absent. Pos. 8 - compartment for batteries (batteries) needed to generate a flammable impulse in the ignitor.

15 - connection to the hot water disassembly line.

16 - mechanical controller, which switches mode of operation, controls water flow and gas flow. In modern columns can be completely replaced by an electronics unit, with the transmission of control signals via push-button or touch-sensitive control panels.

17 and 18 - a cascade of sensors working column. The concrete "filling" can be different - this will be mentioned below in the article.

As already mentioned, any model can have its own distinctive features, but the basic principle of the structure all early remains the same.

The scheme of connecting the column to the pipes of the water supply system, regardless of its model, is the same for everyone - it is depicted in the figure.

So, when the water is opened on the tap of hot water, the water from the cold pipe begins to flow through the column. The pressure of the water flow opens the gas supply valve, which causes the ignition of the burners (about the ignition mechanism - just below). The energy of the combustion gas is converted into water heating - and water of the right temperature flows on the mixers from the "hot" valves.

In this - one of the main advantages of a gas column - it works exclusively at a time when hot water is required, while the rest of the time is in the "standby" mode or in the off state. The owners of the house (apartments) use hot water only when necessary, and at the same time do not depend on the boiler works.

The second main advantage is, of course, operating costs. So far, no other energy carriers can equal themselves with the cost of natural gas.

Disadvantages of the column, of course, also exist, and considerable.

• Independently it will not be possible to establish it - coordination with relevant organizations is required, drafting and approval of projects (unless, of course, the house was previously equipped with such water heaters).
• Operation column, even in its most modern version, still requires all tenants to comply with certain safety rules.
• The reserve of heated water is not created, unlike an electric or gas boiler.
• The initial installation of the column may be associated with very large-scale work to ensure the removal of combustion products or to create forced ventilation.

It should be noted that the designers of gas columns managed to solve most of the "old problems" of gas flow-through water heaters. Nevertheless, some kind of bias in a certain number of people remained to them. Therefore, in the next section of the article, let's try to examine more closely the modern columns in the light of persistent myths about their danger or inconvenience.

Video: common device of a typical gas water heating column

Modern gas columns - is it worth it to be afraid?

An interesting feature of the gas columns is that they, willingly or unwillingly, can even change the demand, and consequently the prices, in the secondary housing market. Realtors will not let you lie - very often one of the main issues in the initial consideration of proposals is to connect the house to a centralized hot water supply and, accordingly, the presence or absence of gas water heating columns.

It is characteristic that there is no unity of views on this issue. Of course, people, exhausted from childhood with old Soviet columns, with their whims, noise, unsightly appearance, with constant "pressure" from the elders about strict rules of use and the danger of their violation, and they do not want to hear about buying an apartment with gas water heaters .

However, there is also an opposite category - people who are already familiar with the inconstancy of public utilities, with inflated tariffs and payment for hot water meters (in order to wait for the first drops of hot water, it is often necessary to spill at least 3 ÷ 5 minutes of cold water, circulation in many multi-storey  houses are simply circumcised). And such experienced customers, on the contrary, will more arrange housing with a column. However, many prefer to combine both opportunities - this is the most reasonable approach.

What are the main "myths" about gas columns continue to live, scaring away potential buyers of such equipment?

1.   The column is very difficult to control, requires self-lighting with matches and constant monitoring.

Let's understand.

Well, firstly, any technique requires control, regardless of complexity. Nobody blames a gas stove with its open flame, or a mixer in the bathroom, which must also be watched so that it does not leak over time.

Secondly, lighting matches can be found only on the very "rarities" of the Soviet system. Perhaps somewhere they are still produced, however, all, without exception, modern, worthy of mentioning models are kindled differently.

- The most simple, "imperfect" modern speakers are equipped with a piezo spark. Before use, it is necessary to light the pilot fuse by pressing the appropriate button, while turning the control knob to the appropriate position. Even such a scheme is considered already "outdated", is used increasingly rarely and gives way to other principles of ignition.

- Electro-ignition is popular. At the time of water start-up, a sensor is triggered, which gives a signal to the electric scoop. At the same time, a channel of limited gas supply to the torch opens and a spark is generated to ignite it. The energy for sparking comes from either installed batteries (usually 1.5 or 3 volts), or from the mains.

- Another modern method is the "NidroPower" system. In the cold water supply pipe, a hydraulic turbine is built into the column. At a certain fluid pressure (usually about 0.3-0, 5   bar) the turbine induces an electric charge sufficient to produce a spark for ignition of the ignition torch, which  then he will give the fire to a common gas burner.

All this is read for a long time - but in fact the process of automatic ignition of the flame at the start-up of water occurs within just a few seconds.

So, in modern columns, no special human intervention (except for the preliminary opening of the gas tap) is required: let hot water - and use.

By the way, you can immediately give an answer to the possible pigs - and why do you need a pilot burner (torch), can not you immediately put the ignition on the main?

You can not! While the torch does not warm up the sensor, the solenoid valve for starting the gas does not work. The very small amount that is selected at the time of starting on the wick, no danger to people does not represent, it will easily go into the ventilation. But if suddenly the column is accidentally extinguished, the sensor has cooled down, then the flow of gas will be blocked - the electromagnetic valve closes the line completely.

2. It is widely believed that the column is a highly explosive device.

And what there can explode? If it is a question of gas, then it is not at all more dangerous in this respect than a conventional gas stove. Similarly, provided that there is no leakage, normal ventilation, explosive gas concentration can not be undertaken.

If we talk about the probability of an explosion of an overheated water volume, then the boiler in this respect is probably even more dangerous. In the same column, with its flowing principle of action, such conditions for the explosion are much smaller. Moreover, in any (even the oldest and the most imperfect) there are always at least two frontiers of "defense", o of which  the same  mentioned: the solenoid valve, which will not allow the independent ignition of the burner, and the water valve "frog", overlapping the gas in the absence of a flow of water.

3.   In something similar to the second point, the fear: there may not be an explosion, but a gas leak will lead to poisoning and a sad outcome.

To refute it is possible, giving all the same arguments that are set forth in two paragraphs above. And you can only add once again: the degrees of protection of a conventional gas stove - much less, and the likelihood of allowing a stove or oven to drain gas into the living quarters is much higher. Nevertheless, they are more afraid in this respect, for some reason, of the gas columns, although this is completely illogical.

4.   Another very persistent, but completely incomprehensible prejudice - they say, the gas column will completely ruin the interior of the kitchen.

Perhaps, only the one who imagines the image of the old, rusted ancient column with the metal pipes going to it, can not say "that way" in the imagination.

Accusing modern gas columns in a non-aesthetic way is like making similar complaints to refrigerators, microwave ovens, hoods, ovens, and the like. Gas water heaters fit perfectly into the kitchen environment, occupy very little space, and, at times, give themselves out on the general interior background only by the presence of a smoke pipe. (and even then - not always).

what still consider when selecting a column

So, we come to the common opinion: to be afraid of gas columns - there is no need, they should become reliable and safe assistants in a housekeeping. Hence, we should take a closer look at the criteria that should be taken into account when choosing this device in the shop.

Power of gas column

Under this parameter lies the ability of the gas column to heat a certain amount of water per unit time to the required temperature. In general, the diversity of these devices can be divided into three classes:

Gas columns of low power. The nominal does not exceed 19 kW, and is able to serve such a water heater only one point of consumption at a time.

The average power columns are devices with a rating of 20 to 28 kW. Usually, they are already sufficient for simultaneous water heating of the heated water in two places.

The most powerful - gas columns, which "give" 29 kW or more. Their performance is sufficient even for the adoption in one place of the bathroom with simultaneous, for example, washing dishes in the kitchen, or with simultaneous  the use of hot water in three places - quite enough for any "everyday" situation, even in a large country mansion.

They may object - kilowatts, although they are indicated in the product's passport and on the information plate on the case, yet they do not say much to the average user. To argue with this is difficult, so we will try to explain this meaning more intelligibly.

The main purpose of the column is to raise the water temperature from the initial value ( Tvx) to the necessary for domestic use ( Tn). The difference between these two values ​​(delta) and show what our water heater is capable of.

ΔТ = Тн - Твх

In itself, the "delta" is uninteresting - it is necessary to know how much water the column can heat up for such a difference in unit of time. (usually measured in liters per minute).

How to determine the right power?

You can take for the statement that for the normal functioning of the kitchen sink requires about 4 liters of heated water per minute. For taking a shower - usually 6 liters. (These values ​​are checked by practice, and by the way, they are guided by them when developing special economizer devices in the form of aerators or special fittings, which even if they do not allow to use more significant volumes, thus helping to save water).

Calculation of the required water heater can be done according to the formula:

M = ΔТ × Σv / 14.3

M is the required power,

ΔТ- the heating value (see above)

Σ v- total volume of simultaneous consumption;

14,3   - coefficient that takes into account the heat capacity of water.

Suppose that a column is selected that allows the simultaneous use of a shower and a sink in the kitchen. The total volume will be Σ v = 4 + 6 = 10 l / min.

Value   ΔТ- depends, of course, on the water temperature at the entrance. If it is assumed that the water comes from a water pipe with a temperature of the order of 10-15 ° FROM, then a 25 degree rise should be quite acceptable - the output will be about 40 ° FROM, which is enough for both showering and washing dishes.

Total we get:

M = 25 × 10 / 14.3 = 17.4 kW

It is clear that this value is the lower permissible limit. To it it is recommended to add another 15 - 20% of the reserve, and then round it up to whole values ​​in the larger side. We get 21 kW. The purchased column should have this power. Of course, all models of water heaters have their gradations, capacities, but you need to buy such that the value was not lower.

Probably, it may seem too complicated. In addition, the initial value of the temperature can be different, for example, in winter, water can have and about 5 degrees at the inlet. In order not to force readers to "suffer" with formulas, it is better to give a table in which the column power will be linked to the inlet temperature and the overall performance of the device, provided that it gives water to the mixer at 40 ° FROM:

The temperature of tap water at the column inlet	The amount of water, warmed up to +40 ° C, in dependence on the power of the column (liters per minute)
	up to 3 kW	6 kW	8 kW	12 kW	15 kW	18 kW	21 kW	24 kW	27 kW
5 ° С	1,3	2,75	3,6	5,5	6,75	8,25	9,4	10,75	12
10 ° С	1,5	3,1	4,2	6,1	7,75	9,25	10,75	12,3	13.75
15 ° С	1,75	3,6	4,75	7,25	9,0	10,75	12,75	14,3	16.2
18 ° С	2,1	4,3	5,75	5,5	10,7	12,9	15,0	17,25	19.25

Usually both the power, and ΔТare the basic values ​​of the water heater and must be specified in the technical documentation.

Number of "degrees of protection"

About the existence of safety levels, the conversation was brief, but one can once again mention the necessary and desirable degrees of protection and control over the operation of the device:

• The water flow sensor (most often - the usual "frog"): will not allow the gas valve to open if the main condition of the device operation is not met - flow.
• Thermal combustion sensor, connected by a contact wire with a solenoid valve. When cooled (damping the wick) causes a complete overlap of the gas flow to the column.
• Ionization combustion sensor - other in principle, but similar in design to the above.
• The draft sensor in the chimney. Gives a command to stop the gas supply, if for some reason the draft in the chimney is missing or reduced to dangerous limits. This will not allow you to focus on the combustion products in the room in quantities that are hazardous to human health.
• Water level sensor. It will not allow you to feed the ignitor if the pressure in the water pipe is weak. By the way, at this point you need to pay attention - if there are frequent pressure jumps in the water supply network, then you need to select a column with the appropriate level of "sensitivity".
• The sensor of water overheating - is far away in all the columns, but the option is very useful - it will not allow boiling water, and the scale in the pipes will be much less.
• Temperature sensors at the inlet and outlet - there is only in modern, "heaped" columns, in which the level of heating is controlled and adjusted, as they say "online".
• A pressure relief valve is, if for some reason, any protection level has not worked (which is very unlikely), the valve will not allow the critical exchanger to form a critical pressure.

Column Control

The overwhelming majority of modern columns of an average price category has two control elements - regulation of the passing pressure of water and the amount of gas supplied to the burner (burning rate). This is usually enough to optimally adjust the water heater to the desired operating mode.

Typical "set" controls modern column

Some models have an additional switch "winter-summer" for more economical operation, taking into account the fact that in summer and the water inlet temperature is higher, and the threshold of comfortable heating can be to a certain extent reduced.

how optional option, a digital thermometer can be placed on the panel, on which it is often possible to insert the temperature limit for the corresponding sensor.

More convenient in operation, but, of course, and much more expensive in cost, gas columns with a complex, automatic adjustment of the power indicators of the water heater. The special electronic unit evaluates the flow rate, the water and gas pressure, the preset settings made, and supports all the parameters of the column operation in such a way that the output is always the water of one, exactly the temperature set by the user.

Combustion chamber and chimney

A very important point is the type of the combustion chamber and the combustion products of the gas. Thus, the combustion chamber can be of an open and closed type.

• When the combustion chamber is open, the combustion products are diverted to the upper part of the column casing, with their further flow into the chimney. Such a scheme is inexpensive, but it will be convenient only in a private house, since for such a column a chimney will be required, and it is almost impossible to build it according to all the rules in a high-rise building.

Another type of column with open chamber is low-power, up to 10 kW water heaters, combustion products in which are generally thrown out simply into the kitchen premise. It would seem convenient, but that's why – then these columns, mildly to say, "do not praise". They are not flawed

Low-power bezdemohodnye columns - more problems than good ...

In a number of regions of Russia, they are either simply banned for installation, or they are especially demanding for the premises - minimum kitchen volumes, ventilation windows and electric fans in them, forced three-fold ventilation, the presence of a gas analyzer, and so on. In a word, it is better to refuse such a "neighborhood", although the price for such a column is not high. By the way, serious manufacturers are not engaged in such products - practically all such columns, despite quite Russian names, come from neighboring China.

Some speakers of this type have an additional protection option - the built-in work timer. So, in order not to allow dangerous concentration in the combustion products room, the operation of the water heater is limited, for example, to 15 minutes - after this time, the gas supply is simply interrupted.

• In an apartment, the best option is to have a column with a sealed, closed combustion chamber. Both the air supply and the discharge of combustion products in them are forced by means of built-in fans. Usually, a coaxial chimney is used for this, which combines both functions. Often, the columns for sale come complete with a chimney coaxial tube of the required length.

Such a chimney can be placed in an apartment of a high-rise building, leading it to the street through a wall. Of course, in this case, too, we should evaluate the possibility of placing the pipe - there are certain limitations on this. In order for the reader to "estimate" the feasibility of such a solution in advance in his specific conditions, it is possible to give the diagram and the accompanying table with admissible parameters:

Arrangement of the outgoing nozzle of the coaxial gas outlet		Minimum distance, mm
A	Directly below the opening or uncovered dormer window	300
B	Below horizontally located gutters and pipes	150
C	Below the level of the ledge	200
D	Below the protruding balconies, peaks, leveling the terrace level	200
E	From vertical downpipes	150
F	From the inner and outer corners of the building horizontally	300
G	When exiting through the wall - above the ground level, the roof of the extension or above the balcony	300
H	when adjacent to other sites or elevations of the terrain - the distance from the pipe cut is not less than	600
I	From the venting of another device in a nearby building	1200
J	From the window of a garage with an entrance to a dwelling house	1200
K	Vertically from the gas outlet of another device on the same wall	1500
L	Horizontally from the venting of another device on the same wall	300
M	Vertically from the opening door and window openings	300
N	Horizontally from the opening door and window openings	300
O	With a vertical outlet through the roof of the extension - from the adjacent capital wall no less than	300
P	When exiting through the roof - from the roof level no less than	300
R	When exiting through the roof - from the nearest window horizontally, not less than	1000
S	When exiting through the roof - from the adjacent chimney, vent or gas pipe	600

Speaker manufacturers

And this, too, is a very important aspect of choice. Alas, it's no secret that in this sphere of production there has been a lot of falsification, obvious fakes or copying of very poor quality. Often, behind the flowery names, there are frankly low-quality products. It is not excluded even the probability of acquiring such a column, which will not receive "welcome" for installation in the relevant authorities.

The best option is to deal with the local gas industry in advance - whether they have any restrictions or, conversely, recommendations for the purchase of water heaters. Very often, with such organizations, there are also their own salon-stores, which will immediately deliver the purchased column for warranty and service maintenance.

If the purchase is made on its own, it is never worth buying a used equipment would  It was an attractive offer, and how would neither convinced the seller that the column had worked for only a month, and is in excellent condition. Only new, only with a passport, corresponding to the serial number of the product, and only with a mark about the place and date of sale!

Video: gas column Electrolux NanoPlus»

Speaking about specific manufacturers, the water heaters Beretta (Italy), Vaillant or Bosch (Germany), Electrolux and Ariston of the European assembly are the absolute authority. One can not help but say kind words to the domestic manufacturer - in terms of "functional" Russian gas columns "Neva" do not lag behind foreign analogues, and they try to get to the world standards in terms of quality.

Video: sharing me the  about the gas column "Neva-Lux 6014"

Already in the next few days, annual preventive works will begin on the networks of heat and water supply. For us it means the next two weeks without hot water. Someone out of habit will use teapots and basins. And someone to act smarter and install at last at home a water heater, a gas column. If your apartment is not yet this simple and wonderful device, we will help you decide on the choice.

Before buying an imported device (most often it is not imported at all, but assembled from Chinese knots and spare parts), weigh all the pros and cons. Gas columns of Russian production are much cheaper and easier to repair, despite the fact that the quality of the imported and Russian speakers is almost the same. Replacing the heat exchanger for the imported column will cost between 7 and 9 thousand rubles, buying a new column - about 10 - 17 thousand rubles. At the same time, the average cost of the Russian column is 8-10 thousand rubles.

Russian manufacturers produce devices designed for local conditions of nominal gas pressure and its quality. The work of the water heater for the lower pressure threshold in the water supply pipes is also adjusted. The device turns on and operates smoothly at a pressure of 0.1 bar. This is a decisive moment for the operation of the gas column in places with a constant low head of water. The work of similar imported water heaters is almost impossible.

For the repair and maintenance of Russian gas columns throughout the whole of Russia, a network of authorized service centers operates. For buyers, this provides a little and a lot, namely: prompt, high-quality, inexpensive warranty and after-sales service and repair.

One of the best inexpensive gas columns in the line of small-sized water heaters: NEVA 4511

The gas column Neva 4511 - a small column, firmly holds its place among small-sized models, with a capacity of 11 liters per minute, to work for 1 - 2 points of water. On the front panel of the device there are two adjustment knobs and in the center there is a display. The left adjustment knob is responsible for changing the burner power, the right one for changing the water flow through the column. The temperature at the outlet from the gas column can be monitored by means of the readings on the display.

This unit is fully automated, ignition from battery. The minimum required flow for switching on and operating the device is only 2.5 liters per minute. Overall dimensions: height 565 mm width 290 mm depth and 221 mm depth. In the class of low-power 11-liter water heaters, this is the most compact unit.

Another of the advantages, which should be mentioned: it is a copper reliable heat exchanger. Buying this column, you can fully expect a high-quality and reliable device that will last for many years.

The best water heater in the ratio functionality - quality - price: NEVA LUX 5514

The power of this model is 14 liters per minute, it will provide hot water 2 - 3 points of draw-off simultaneously. The Neva Lux series differs from other models of this brand in that it is completed with imported units and details. This ensures high functionality of the unit at a relatively low cost.

The gas column NEVA LUX 5514 has a flame modulation system that allows to keep the set temperature of the heated water at a variable flow rate and water temperature and pressure in the gas main. The ignition is performed automatically using a battery.

Waterheater Ladogaz VPG 10A - reliable and simple model

Gas columns of the Ladogaz trade mark are perfectly adapted to the Russian realities of operation. In the devices of this trade mark, all the best domestic achievements in the production of thermal equipment plus European technological systems for safe operation and automation have been used.

Gas column Ladogaz VPG 10A is equipped with automatic ignition, has a four-level protection. The device is easy to operate, there is no ignition in the design, this feature greatly increases safety during operation.

In order to get hot water, you just need to turn the valve with water. The column automatically turns on and heats the water. If hot water is required, it is enough simply to lower the pressure of the supplied water and screw the tap with hot water. In other words, the user does not need to approach the water heater and change the heating temperature.

The operation of the gas column is controlled by an electronic unit and a microswitch, it works when water enters. It is important to note that the heat exchanger is made of a thick copper alloy plate. Also copper all parts that have contact with the aquatic environment. This increases the service life and prevents corrosion.

"In the line of water heaters of the trade mark" Ladogaz "to date, five sizes of gas columns with a capacity of 6 to 16 liters per minute are produced. Choose the model that best suits your family's needs and takes into account the water pressure in the system.

The choice of gas equipment must be approached from the point of view of safety and reliability. Buying a cheap water heater can have fatal consequences for its owner. It is necessary to familiarize yourself with the basic requirements for the maintenance of gas equipment. It is necessary to know exactly how to choose a gas column in order to purchase an ideally suitable unit manufactured by a trusted manufacturer.

The general principle of operation and the device are typical for all models of flow-through water heaters on gas. Propane enters the column through the nozzle. In the branch pipe there is a valve regulating the gas supply. The water is brought to the next branch pipe in the gas column. A regulating valve and a sensor are installed in the branch pipe. When the sensor is triggered, the gas flows through the nozzle into the burner.
  The gas ignites in the burner.

In the old Soviet models, the gas had to be set on fire manually. In modern, three ways of igniting gas are used:

1. From the piezoelectric element.
2. From the batteries.
3. From the hydrogenerator.

Piezopodzhig means pushing the button every time you use the gas column (if you consume gas economically). This is inconvenient, but more reliable than the use of automatic ignition, where the gas is ignited by a spark that is supplied by candles.

Regardless of the ignition method, an automatic type gas column starts to work when the water passes through the water block. If there are problems with the supply of a spark, then the cause, first of all, is to be found in the block (+)

The membrane in the block rises under the pressure of water and exerts pressure on the rod, which includes gas. If traction is present, then the gas burner is turned on. The water passes through the tank and heats up.

What are the elements to pay attention to?

When choosing a column, you should prefer models with a copper heat exchanger. It can be coated with solder, but should not be made of thin sheet metal. Most often tin heat exchangers are models of Chinese manufacturers. The service life of such columns does not exceed three years.

Low cost is achieved due to the cheap quality of metal, which eventually burns out. This leads to the need to purchase a new gas column.

This is how the low-quality heat exchanger looks, which is installed on cheap models of flowing water heaters. Inside, it can be seen that the metal is not made of copper and is an alloy of unknown origin

This is a quality heat exchanger that will last for more than five years. It is visually seen that it is made of copper and has a sufficient thickness. Some manufacturers cover this element with solder or other coating

Another important characteristic of the heat exchanger is the internal diameter of the tubes. The wider the tube, the less often it is necessary to clean the heat exchanger from scale and small debris from old water pipes.

Also an important detail is the water block of the column. This element must be made of metal. There are models made of plastic. Since there is a membrane and screen filter inside the unit, it is necessary to change the membrane, then frequent twisting spoils the plastic thread and leads to the need for a complete replacement of the water block.

On what parameters to navigate when choosing

Before choosing the best version of the gas column, you need to determine the amount of water that comes from the tap. It is necessary to determine how many liters per minute it follows from the tap. For this purpose, it is easiest to use a water meter if it is installed in an apartment on a pipe.

To do this, write down the readings on the meter. Next, you need to detect the time and open the tap at full power, draining the water exactly one minute. After that, close the tap and record the readings on the counter again. Then it is necessary to subtract the primary indicators from the final indicators. The resulting number will help you select the performance model you need.

If the received value is less than 10 liters, then it makes no sense to buy models with a capacity of 13-15 or more liters. If the house is older than the pipes, in which the head often falls, then a model with a lowered threshold is required, otherwise the column will turn off when the pressure of the water drops.

Regulating the supply of water and gas

By the way of monitoring the water temperature, gas columns are divided into manual and automatic. Models with a manual method of setting are cheaper than automatic.

Manual control implies the presence of two valves on the body of the gas column. Increasing the gas supply leads to more intense burning and heating of the water. If the increase in gas supply is not sufficient for optimal heating, it is possible to reduce the pressure of water entering the column.

The downside of these models is the lack of modulation of the flame in the heating pad. With simultaneous use of two water intake points, the water temperature will change. This is uncomfortable, especially if at this time a person takes a bath

Models with electronic ignition keep the temperature set by the user. This is achieved by modulating the flame in the burner, depending on the pressure of the water used. The maximum deviation from the specified temperature regime is in the range from 1 to 3 degrees Celsius.

It is very important that the heating of the water when turned on runs smoothly, without sudden jumps. If the burner first heats up strongly, and then lowers the temperature, you will have to wait for the water temperature to normalize. This increases the consumption of water.

Landmarks for the method of gas ignition

Columns that are ignited from a piezoelement are more reliable than automatic analogues. Models with a piezoelectric element allow you to manually control the flow of gas to the column, in contrast to automatic igniters. In these models, it is possible to leave the flame on the pilot burner in the normal mode.

This allows you not to re-ignite the column every time you use it. The flame is maintained in the ignition burner and ignites the main heating element when the sensor locks the water flow.

The location of the ignition button is different in the columns of different manufacturers. In some models, in addition to pressing the button, you have to move the slider

Water heaters that receive a spark from a pilot on batteries, can not be installed in rooms with high humidity. Inside the plastic case with batteries, condensation forms. Over time, metal parts damp and need a complete replacement.

The batteries themselves should be changed as needed. With constant use of the instrument, the frequency of replacement is increased. It is better to use high-quality batteries, they last for a year or more

The loudspeakers that ignite from the hydro generator are noisy. They make a small whistle that resembles the wind. In expensive models, this problem is solved by soundproofing the case. These water heaters are also included together with the opening of the hot tap. Visually, the hydrogenerator is not emitted, since it is installed in the body of the water heater.

By the method of exhaust of combustion products

Flow-through gas heaters need to vent combustion products. The safest way to remove carbon monoxide is a chimney with a pipe outlet to the street. The more powerful the model of the gas column, the wider the diameter of the chimney pipe. If the water heater is bought at the place of the failed device, then it is necessary to measure the diameter of the spent pipe so that there is no need for dismantling the old one.

In the Russian market you can find models of flow-through gas water heaters without a chimney. Their placement in a confined space is dangerous to health. It is extremely undesirable to install them in rooms without ventilation holes in the walls. In the bathroom, their installation is prohibited, since there is a risk of getting carbon monoxide poisoning. A distinctive feature of these models is low power.

By the method of oxygen supply

In budget models of gas columns there is no lower cover on the case, or there are ventilation holes on the body of the device.

The disadvantage of such a device is the partial ingress of burning waste into the apartment through these openings. In addition to carbon monoxide, propane can percolate

In expensive models, another oxygen supply device is used. It is a pipe that is removed from the column at the bottom. In addition, the column body is closed with a lower and upper cover, which prevents carbon dioxide from entering the apartment. The effect is achieved through convection.

How to determine the required power

Low-capacity water heaters (17-19 kW) are designed for systems with a small head of water and maintenance of only one point of consumption. They are installed in homes with old pipes.

There is no point in purchasing a more powerful column if the system passes less than 10 liters of water per minute. It's a waste of money

If the apartment has a good water head (10-14 liters per minute), then you can choose a gas column for two hot water points. Water heaters of average power (20-24 kW) can react poorly with a drop in pressure in the system, if it is not enough to turn on an automatic gas ignition system.

Gas columns of high power (28-31 kW) are not intended for apartments. They are used in private country houses. Some manufacturers produce modular speakers, specially designed to work as a single water heating system.

Ratings of the best columns

1. For one water supply point.
2. For two water supply points.
3. Original design.

The best columns for a single point of water supply

In this rating are models with a price of up to 20,000 rubles. All models are equipped with the function of protection against gas leakage. Also in addition there is a mode of protection against freezing, which prevents damage to the device in the long absence of heating.

Low-power unit - Mora Vega 10

The model has a small capacity and is designed for installation in an apartment. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness. The European build quality guarantees a long service life.

In the event of a breakdown, it is difficult to get parts, but they are rare. The device operates at a pressure of 0.20. The power of this model is 17.3 kW

The ignition occurs automatically from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature regime is obtained. The diameter of the chimney is 110 mm. The model is produced in the Czech Republic.

Small family equipment Bosch W 10 KB

The water heater has a small capacity and is designed for installation in an apartment. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness.

Recently, the firm reduces the cost of production, which affects the quality of the parts. The device operates at a pressure of 0.20. The power of this model is 17.4 kW

Ignition occurs automatically from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature regime is obtained. The diameter of the chimney is 110 mm. The model is made in Portugal.

Undisputed leader - Gorenje GWH 10 NNBW

This model has a small capacity and is designed for installation in an apartment. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness.

Recently, the firm reduces the cost of production, which affects the quality of the parts. The heat exchanger tubes have a small diameter, so it is necessary to install filtration at the water inlet of the column

The device operates at a pressure of 0.20. The power of this model is 20 kW. The ignition is automatic from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature mode is obtained on the screen. The diameter of the chimney is 110 mm. The model is made in Portugal.

The best speakers for two water points

All presented models are in the price category up to 25 000 rubles, and also work perfectly on natural and liquefied gas. All water heaters are protected against gas leakage. There is an automatic system that cuts off the gas supply when the device overheats.

Medium power equipment Mora Vega 13

This water heater has an average capacity and is designed for installation in apartments and private homes. Can work on LPG. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness.

The European build quality guarantees a long service life. In the event of a breakdown, it is difficult to get parts, but they are rare. The device operates at a pressure of 0.30. The power of this model is 22.60 kW (+)

The ignition occurs automatically, from the batteries, but there are variants with piezo-ignition. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature regime is obtained. The diameter of the chimney is 113 mm. The model is produced in the Czech Republic.

Budget representative - Bosch WRD 13-2G

The water heater has an average capacity and is designed for installation in apartments and private houses. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness.

Recently, the firm reduces the cost of production, which affects the quality of the parts. The model does not have a top and bottom cover. The device operates at a pressure of 0.35. The power of this model is 22.60 kW

The ignition occurs automatically, from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature regime is obtained. The diameter of the chimney is 113 mm. The model is made in Portugal.

The claimed option is Beretta Idrabagno Aqua 14i

This model has an average power and is designed for installation in apartments and private homes. The heat exchanger is made of copper, with sufficient wall thickness.

A water filter is included. The device operates at a pressure of 0.20. The power of this model is 21.80 kW (+)

The fire comes from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature regime is obtained. The diameter of the chimney is 113 mm. The model is made in Italy.

Columns with the most original design

In addition to technical characteristics, consumers often choose equipment based on appearance. Buyers are important how the device fits into the interior of the room, where it is planned to install it.

In this list, the models with the brightest and most memorable design are assembled.

Zanussi GWH 10 with interesting decor

This model has more than 10 kinds of design of the front panel, covered with a thin layer of glass. Regardless of the design, all the columns have the same technical characteristics.

The burner of the water heater is lit from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature mode is obtained on the screen. The diameter of the chimney is 110 mm. The manufacturer is in Italy, and the assembly is in China.

Oasis 20 VG / OG / EG / MG / ZG

This model has 5 kinds of front panel design. Regardless of the design, all the speakers have the same technical characteristics. The heat exchanger is made of copper, but the thickness of the walls is small.

The water heater works no more than three years and often breaks down before the end of the warranty period. The device operates at a pressure of 0.15 and manages to provide a single point of water intake. The power of this model is 20 kW

The burner of the water heater is lit from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature mode is obtained on the screen. The diameter of the chimney is -110 mm. The manufacturer is in Germany, and the assembly is in China.

Custom design Atlan 1-10 LT

This model has 15 kinds of front panel design. Regardless of the design, all the speakers have the same technical characteristics. The heat exchanger is made of copper, but the thickness of the walls is small.

The quality of the water heater is very low. The term of his service often does not exceed the guarantee. The device operates at a pressure of 0.20. The power of this model is 20 kW and cope with providing one point of water intake (+)

The burner of the water heater is lit from the batteries. Adjustment of gas supply is carried out mechanically, until the desired temperature mode is obtained on the screen. The diameter of the chimney is 110 mm. The manufacturer is in China, the assembly is in the same place.

Video help choosing a gas column

The video describes frequent breakdowns of gas water heaters:

Than independent installation of a gas column is dangerous:

After when the choice of the water heater is made, you need to order the installation in the service center of the manufacturer. Only in this case there is a guarantee for the gas column. This practice is valid for all major manufacturers. Savings on the installation lead to waste for repairs, which will have to be paid for by yourself. The column should be registered in the gas service, since once a year it should be examined by specialists.