Comfort in the room largely depends on the heating system. It doesn't matter what material they're made from batteriesinstalled in your home. In any case, the system must be periodically flush, bleed or repair in case of malfunctions. Installing taps on radiators will help simplify this task. Installation of this locking device will not cause difficulties even for an inexperienced person. Finding the right faucet is much more difficult. Not many people know that there are several varieties of this device.
Choosing a faucet for a heating radiator
Deciding that the stopcock needs to be replaced, the person goes to the store. The range of these devices is quite wide, and you should not unconditionally trust the words of the seller when choosing a product. It is necessary to have at least minimal knowledge in the field of plumbing in order to choose the best option.
When choosing valves for radiators, the following points must be taken into account: the locking device must be reliable, but at the same time convenient to use.
Consider the features of all cranes that are commercially available:
mechanical valve
This is a classic locking mechanism, made in the form of a "lamb" on the thread. The principle of operation of this device is quite simple: when the “lamb” rotates, the locking mechanism is lowered. When the rod reaches its lowest position, the water supply to the coolant stops. Of the advantages, one can note the simplicity of design and the low cost of the product. The disadvantages include the rapid wear of the components. Professional plumbers do not recommend installing such taps in residential areas. They often leak, if the valve is not used for a long time, the stem may jam. In addition, during an accident, it will not be possible to quickly turn off the water supply.
ball valve
This is the most common locking mechanism today. It is these products that are installed in most apartments and private houses. Inside the device is a ball mechanism, which is driven by a handle mounted on top. The installed ball has a through hole. When the handle is turned, the hole falls along or across the pipe, blocking or opening the water. The advantages include ease of installation and operation. Among the shortcomings, one can note the fact that being in an intermediate position, the crane often fails.
Mayevsky crane
In fact, this is a threaded plug designed to bleed air from a heating radiator. It is a very robust design that is easy to install. In order to close or open such a valve, a stem is provided that rotates with a special key. Please note that in some devices the stem does not have a lock, so it turns out completely. It is unrealistic to insert it into place under the pressure of hot water.
Flush tap
Steel plug, which is installed in radiators. To open this locking mechanism, ordinary pliers are used.
Throttle valve with thermostat
Quite a complex design with automatic adjustment of the water supply. Simple and reliable in operation, but expensive model.
Crane installation
Installing a locking device in heating radiators is a fairly simple procedure. To install absolutely any crane, you will need a wrench or adjustable wrench that is suitable in size. Any heating radiator has four openings. On each of them it is necessary to install a stopper. To do this, you can purchase a set of plugs for strapping radiators. Three plugs must be through, taps and a device for air release are installed on them. The fourth hole is closed with a plug.
The most common radiator piping scheme is as follows:
- A tap for water supply is installed in the upper part of the battery, and a “return” is placed on the same side below. Opposite the inlet, a valve is installed to release air, for example, the Mayevsky system. The bottom hole is closed with a blind stopper.
- Regardless of which tap you choose, it is inserted into the plug and tightened with a wrench. It is necessary to tighten the valve to the end, but without applying excessive force. The fact is that almost all locking devices are made in a brass case. If you overtighten such a device, you can strip the threads or damage the case. For greater tightness, linen thread is wound between the threads.
- The other side of the locking mechanism is connected to the heating system. If the pipes in the apartment are metal, then a threaded connection is used. If metal-plastic pipes are laid around the apartment, then an adapter coupling is needed. After completion of installation, it is necessary to conduct a test water supply to the system.
Helpful Hints
- If all actions are performed correctly, the crane should last at least 20 years. Long service life largely depends on the quality of the valves. The best option is products made of brass. This material is practically not subject to corrosion and has a presentable appearance. Unfortunately, there are many fakes on the market, they are of low quality and attractive price. Therefore, when choosing valves, pay attention not to the appearance and cost, but to the product labeling.
- Savings can subsequently translate into additional replacement costs. The recommended pressure and temperature parameters should be at least 1.6 MPa and 150 degrees.
Remember that by installing the crane yourself, you automatically assume full responsibility for the quality of installation. If the tap breaks and the whole house is left without heating, the claims of the residents and compensation for damage will fall entirely on your shoulders. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this work to professionals. - It is strictly forbidden to install valves that block the flow of water throughout the riser.
Before installation, it is recommended to seek advice from the housing office, obtain permission and document the work performed.
