Electric boilers are divided into three groups: TEN, induction and electrode (ion). The latter do not use traditional heating elements, and the energy source is water (coolant) ions that quickly move between the anode and cathode. Direct heating of the liquid is an exceptional advantage of the technology, and positive reviews from specialists about electrode boilers are stimulating the growth of their popularity.
- Smooth increase in power consumption, reducing the load on the electrical network.
- Accelerated heating of water.
- Quiet operation.
- Flexibility to adjust parameters.
- Extended service life.
- Significant heating areas.
- High efficiency.
- Safety in case of coolant disappearance from the system.
Operating principles and design features
When alternating current passes through water, its molecules break up into positive and negative ions, tending to the electrodes of opposite polarity. Moving between the anode and cathode, the particles overcome the ohmic resistance of the liquid, heating it. As the temperature rises, the density of the solution decreases, and the power consumed by the boiler gradually increases. A certain concentration of salts must always be present in the coolant, creating the required specific density, otherwise an arc breakdown effect will occur. Therefore, some table salt should be added to soft water. Since the boilers are powered by alternating voltage, the phenomenon of electrolysis does not occur, and scale does not form in the system.
The design of the electrode boiler is simple. Its body is a solid steel pipe covered with an insulating layer of polyamide. On the outer part there is an inlet and outlet pipe for liquid, as well as terminals for connecting phases, zero and grounding. One or more electrodes are mounted inside the boiler, secured with polyamide nuts. The classic electrode boiler is a cylinder, about 32 cm wide, 60 cm high and weighing about 12 kg. The most budget-friendly are industrial systems used in premises with an area of up to 120 m². Three-phase boilers have the highest productivity, capable of heating a volume of up to 1600 m³. Devices with a power of 9 kW already require connection to a 3-phase network.
Owners' opinions
“Almost all the reviews about the Galan Ochag 3 kW electric boiler pointed to its low energy consumption, high-quality control unit and low price, so I installed it in my apartment (area 45 m²). I’m happy with the result, but I recommend using it in conjunction with a Grundfos 25-40 coolant circulation pump.”
Grigory Tuchemsky, Kyiv.
“I installed an Obriy-15 boiler at the dacha (220 m²). I liked the reviews about high-quality control units. Installed equipment with a heat exchanger. The water began to heat up faster, and electricity bills dropped by about 45%. If you turn it on only at night (at a reduced rate), the savings will become more noticeable.”
Nikolay Yareskin, Rostov-on-Don.
“My wife and I decided to modernize the heating system and installed a Luch boiler. We have 2 floors (area 150 m²), so I settled on a power of 15 kW. I filled it with coolant, added salt according to the instructions and reviews from the owners, and checked it with a current clamp. In cold weather (-25 ºС) the device consumed up to 1300 kW, and the rest of the time - much less. True, in some rooms we turned down the radiators.”
Fedor Rybnikov, Penza.
“I replaced the gas Vissmann 12, which I had been using for five years, with a Galan Geyser-9 boiler. In severe winters, I used up a significant amount of gas, and positive reviews about Galan boilers on the company’s website promised savings of up to 30%. The walls of the house are 50 cm, insulated. The area is 95 m², the ceiling height on the first floor is 2.8 m, on the second - 2.5 m. I prepare the coolant myself. The boiler paid back all investments in half a year. Average consumption per month is 1400 kW.”
Victor Zelinsky, Khmelnitsky.
“I installed an ION-6 boiler in my house (area 60 m², ceilings 2.7 m), and I found a lot of good reviews about its performance. Thanks to the built-in climate control, it turns on 4 times a day for about 40 minutes. The rooms are maintained at +23 ºС (outside -2 ºС). In a month, it burns up from 300 to 350 kW. Very satisfied".
Mikhail Shubin, Yaroslavl.
Selection criteria and application features
The quality of heating operation is determined by compensation of heat losses in the room. In this case, the electrode boiler must produce enough liquid at the required temperature. An intelligent control device, analyzing the efficiency of the system and knowing the heat transfer coefficient of the radiators, changes the operating modes, regulating the heating of the coolant. According to reviews and advice from experts, you should choose a boiler based on the following parameters:
- To heat 1 m³ of volume, at least 30 W of heating equipment is reserved.
- Its power cannot be lower than the total thermal indicators of all radiator panels (sections).
- For 1 kW it is necessary to provide no more than 12 liters of circulating water.
Experts know what is good about a heating boiler: it can be easily integrated into ready-made systems. True, before this it is necessary to carry out a number of preventive measures: flush the fluid flow channels and ensure its reliable filtration.
Popular models
The boiler market is mainly represented by the Galan, EOU, ION and Obriy brands. The budget Galan line includes single-phase devices of the Ochag family (from 2 to 6 kW), three-phase Geyser and Vulcan (20–50). With their help, you can heat rooms with a volume from 80 to 1650 m³. The company has developed a proprietary coolant, Potok, which has earned positive reviews from users and prevents the appearance of corrosion and scale in the system. An objective review of electrode heating boilers from the Galan company confirms that their strengths are low energy consumption, low sensitivity to voltage surges, the presence of a temperature control sensor included in the delivery package, and a low price, which varies from 4,500 to 8,700 rubles.
Flow-type EOU boilers are designed for heating premises with an area of up to 2400 m². Single-phase ones have power ratings from 2 to 12 kW, and three-phase ones - from 6 to 120. The technical characteristics of EOU electrode heating boilers indicate their high performance, and experts in reviews draw attention to the ability to work in closed systems without circular pumps. Additional features are three-stage power adjustment and the presence of up to 9 electrodes. The cost of EOU models ranges from 4,500 to 46,000 rubles.
ION electrode boilers are designed to heat small areas up to 750 m². High-end systems use switchable power levels. Single-phase (2–12 kW) cost from 5,500 to 7,000 rubles, and three-phase (up to 36 kW) - from 9,000 to 12,000. The Obriy line is represented by boilers with one or three electrodes with the ability to step-by-step power adjustment 12/24/36 kW, capable of heating areas from 40 to 750 m². The former are powered by 220 V, and the latter by 380 V. The coolant is water with the addition of caustic soda. The price of equipment ranges from 17,500 to 45,000 rubles.
Advantages and disadvantages
Analyzing customer reviews of ion-type electric boilers, we can conclude that their advantages are:
- High reliability (there are no heating elements that can burn out).
- In boilers, a “dry running” mode is impossible (the coolant is one of the links in the chain and the flow of current stops when water disappears from the circuit).
- Soft requirements for the quality of the electrical network.
- Low sensitivity to voltage changes.
- Small dimensions of boilers in comparison with other types of devices of the same power.
- Weak inertness, allowing you to quickly heat the coolant to the required temperature.
- Easy to manufacture and low cost.
Weaknesses include:
- Wear of electrodes caused by the use of alternating voltage and requiring their periodic replacement (once every 4 heating seasons).
- The dependence of the boiler power on the concentration of salts in the water, forcing special solutions to be poured into the system.
- The use in some models of a circular pump that regulates the flow rate of the coolant.
- High requirements for electrical safety of electrode boilers and the impossibility of using RCDs.
- The need for constant monitoring of the load current.
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In this article: the electrode boiler is the brainchild of defense enterprises; how does an ion boiler work? is it possible to heat water without a heat source; we lower the ohmic resistance - add salt to the water; pros and cons of ion boilers; electrode boiler device; how to properly install an electrode boiler; which heating devices can be used in a circuit with an ion boiler and which cannot; manufacturers and prices; Finally, there are the nuances of installing ion boilers.
How many ways do you know to heat a house using electricity? Most often, a boiler with a water heating element comes to mind - having high resistance, the nichrome thread inside such a heating element heats up, transferring heat to the tube filler, then to the metal shell and, finally, to the water. Why not simplify the task and heat the coolant, bypassing the intermediary, because you can do this using primitive electrodes from two razor blades, attaching wires to them and connecting them to the power supply? It was from this logic that the creators of the first models of ion (electrode) boilers, originally developed for the needs of the USSR Navy, proceeded.
History and principle of operation of the ion (electrode) boiler
This type of heating boiler was created in the middle of the last century by enterprises of the defense complex for the needs of the USSR submarine fleet, in particular for heating the compartments of submarines with diesel engines. The electrode boiler fully complied with the conditions of the order of the submariners - it had extremely small dimensions for conventional heating boilers, did not require exhaust, did not create noise during operation, and effectively heated the coolant, for which ordinary sea water was most suitable.
By the 90s, orders for the defense industry had sharply decreased in volume, and at the same time, the military fleet’s needs for ion boilers were reduced to zero. The first “civilian” version of the electrode boiler was created by engineers A.P. Ilyin and D.N. Kunkov, who received the corresponding patent for their invention in 1995.
The operating principle of an ion boiler is based on the direct interaction of the coolant occupying the space between the anode and the cathode with an electric current. The passage of electric current through the coolant causes a chaotic movement of positive and negative ions: the first move towards the negatively charged electrode; the second - to the positively charged. The constant movement of ions in a medium that resists this movement causes rapid heating of the coolant, which is especially facilitated by the change in roles of the electrodes - every second their polarity changes 50 times, i.e. Each of the electrodes will be the anode 25 times and the cathode 25 times within one second, since they are connected to an alternating current source with a frequency of 50 Hz. It should be noted that it is precisely such a frequent change of charge at the electrodes that does not allow water to decompose into oxygen and hydrogen - electrolysis requires a constant electric current. As the temperature in the boiler increases, the pressure increases, causing coolant to circulate through the heating circuit.
Thus, the electrodes installed in the container of the ion boiler do not directly participate in heating the water and do not heat up themselves - positively and negatively charged ions, split from water molecules under the influence of electric current, are responsible for increasing the water temperature.
An important condition for the effective operation of an ion boiler is the presence of an ohmic resistance of water at a level of no more than 3000 Ohms at 15°C, for which this coolant must contain a certain amount of salts - initially, electrode boilers were created for sea water. That is, if you pour distilled water into the heating system and try to heat it using an ion boiler, there will be no heating, since such water is completely free of salts, which means there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes.
Characteristics of ion (electrode) boilers
Possessing the positive characteristics inherent in electric boilers, this type of boiler also has a number of its own. I will note all the advantages:
- high efficiency, close to 100% (however, any electric heater has an efficiency of at least 96%);
- extremely small dimensions with high power compared to any other boilers;
- no chimney required;
- is able to independently increase the pressure in the heating circuit;
- unlike boilers with heating elements, there is absolutely no danger of an accident if the level of coolant in the boiler tank is insufficient - a lack of coolant will only lead to the cessation of operation of the boiler, since there will be no electrical circuit between the electrodes;
- extremely low inertia allows you to effectively control temperature conditions during boiler operation using automation, as a result, the least energy-consuming operation of the heating system is achieved - the temperature in the heated rooms will always be at the level set by the automatic controller;
- voltage drops in the electrical network do not harm the ion boiler - only its power changes, the operation does not stop;
- installation of several ion boilers simultaneously is allowed as an additional source of thermal energy;
- There is absolutely no negative impact on the environment.
Disadvantages of an electrode boiler:
- consumes only alternating current, with direct current electrolysis of water will occur;
- high demands on the electrolytic characteristics of the coolant; when they change, the quality of work (heat generation) decreases sharply. It is necessary to control the electrical conductivity of the coolant;
- requires mandatory grounding (just like any heating device with a water heating element). At the same time, the risks of electric shock in the event of an insulation breakdown are higher than with heating element water heaters;
- the heating temperature of the coolant should not exceed 75°C, otherwise the energy consumption of the boiler will seriously increase;
- scale formation on the electrodes reduces the boiler’s power because it prevents ionization of the coolant;
- high requirements for the quality characteristics of heating devices;
- the need to equip the heating system with a circulation pump;
- wear of the electrodes caused by alternating voltage, requiring their periodic replacement;
- in an air-filled heating circuit containing a coolant-electrolyte, corrosion processes will accelerate many times over;
- in a single-circuit system, the use of heated water for domestic needs is unacceptable;
- commissioning work requires the involvement of specialists - it is almost impossible to independently reduce the ohmic resistance of water while increasing its conductivity to the optimal level;
- The electrical conductivity of the coolant changes during operation; it is necessary to control it, which means having the appropriate knowledge and equipment.
Design and installation of an electrode boiler
It has a fairly simple design, in which special attention is paid to protection against electrical leakage: a seamless steel pipe as a body, covered with an electrically insulating layer of polyamide; coolant inlet and outlet pipes; housing power supply and grounding terminals; electrode made of a special alloy (three-phase boilers are equipped with three electrodes), insulated with polyamide nuts; additional insulation with rubber gaskets at the connectors.
Externally, a household ion boiler has a cylindrical shape, its diameter usually does not exceed 320 mm, length - 600 mm, and weight - 12 kg. The lowest power is 2 kW (for heating rooms of about 80 m 3), the maximum is 50 kW (for heating rooms of about 1600 m 3). Single-phase boilers have a power from 2 to 6 kW, three-phase - from 9 to 50 kW. The energy consumption of the boiler reaches the nominal level (power declared by the manufacturer in kilowatts) when the temperature inside it reaches 75°C - at lower temperatures the energy consumption is lower, since the current conductivity is lower in a colder coolant. It should be noted that a temperature of 75°C is optimal for ion boilers, since when a higher temperature develops, the energy consumption of the boilers will exceed that stated in the data sheet.
The electrode boiler comes complete with an automatic control system (controller), which includes an electronic thermostat, automatic protection against power surges and a starter unit. Some controller models allow both direct control and remote control via GSM channels. It is the controller that provides the energy savings claimed by the manufacturers of ion boilers - unlike heating water using heating elements, electrode heating allows you to change the temperature of the coolant in a shorter time, because has low inertia.
In an open heating system with natural circulation of coolant, the latter moves up through the pipes due to thermal expansion and pressure in the ion boiler, enters the radiators and cools, then returns through the return pipeline to the boiler, where it heats up and repeats the cycle again. The closed heating system is additionally equipped with an expansion tank and a circulation pump, which is necessary at the initial stage of heating the coolant.
When installing an electrode boiler, it is a mandatory requirement that the heating circuit at its highest point be equipped with a safety group - an automatic air vent, a pressure gauge, and a blast (non-return safety) valve. In open-type systems, control or shut-off valves should be installed only after the expansion tank, i.e. The section of the pipeline between the boiler outlet and the expansion tank must not contain any shut-off valves! In closed-type systems, shut-off valves are installed on a section of the pipeline after the expansion tank and before entering the boiler. If, immediately after leaving the boiler, a safety group is installed, then the shut-off valves can be installed before the expansion tank - in this case, the expansion tank must be installed in the return section.
Ion boilers of any model are installed in the heating system strictly vertically, with their own fastening to the wall. The first 1200 mm of piping for the coolant supply to the boiler is made of a non-galvanized metal pipe, then the use of metal-plastic pipes is allowed.
Reliable grounding of the ion boiler is mandatory, since in case of current leakage this problem cannot be solved with the help of an RCD. The grounding copper wire must have a cross-section of 4 to 6 mm, its resistance should not be more than 4 Ohms - the conductor is connected to the neutral terminal located in the lower part of the boiler body. Grounding must comply with the requirements of the PUE.
Ideally, the electrode boiler will be installed in a new heating system, previously washed with clean water. When inserting a boiler into an existing circuit, it must be thoroughly washed with water with special agents added to it - their list and proportions are described in the technical data sheet for the boiler; each manufacturer insists on the use of certain inhibitors. If this condition is not met, salt deposits (scale) will prevent precise adjustment of the ohmic resistance of the coolant.
When choosing heating radiators for a system with an ion boiler, pay close attention to their coolant consumption in liters - you need to find out how many liters one radiator consumes, then calculate the total displacement based on the required number of radiators. It should be noted that particularly capacious heating devices are not suitable, because... such a heating system will consume more than 10 liters of coolant per kilowatt of installed boiler power, which will force it to work non-stop, and this is not profitable in terms of energy costs. Ideally, the total displacement of the heating system should be about 8 liters per kilowatt of power.
Based on the material of manufacture, bimetallic and aluminum radiators are most suitable for heating systems with an electrode boiler. When choosing aluminum heating devices, an important criterion is the origin of the aluminum - whether it is primary (that is, obtained from natural materials - bauxite, alunite, nepheline, etc.) or secondary, melted from recycled materials. The problem is that cheaper radiators made from recycled aluminum are made of an alloy with a high content of impurities, which increase the ohmic resistance of the coolant.
In open heating systems, it would be correct to install heating devices made of aluminum with an internal polymer coating that reduces corrosion; in closed systems such radiators will not be needed - corrosion processes are activated in the presence of air in the coolant volume, i.e. the salt content in it does not cause corrosion.
Cast iron radiators for heating systems with heating of coolant from an electrode boiler are least suitable, since they are heavily contaminated from the inside and dirt particles will affect the current conductivity. In addition, cast iron radiators consume a significant amount of coolant, which can exceed the installed capacity of a given ion boiler model - more powerful models will be required. Manufacturers of electrode boilers allow the use of cast iron radiators subject to the following conditions: they are manufactured according to European standards (i.e. in Turkey or Czechoslovakia); On the return line, before entering the boiler, sedimentation tanks (sludge traps) and coarse filters are installed in the pipeline.
Ion boiler - prices and manufacturers
In Russia and the CIS countries, electrode boilers from the following manufacturers are presented - the Russian JSC Firm Galan (brand of the same name), the Latvian LLC Stafor EKO (brand of the same name) and the Ukrainian SPD-FO Goncharenko O.A. (brand "EOU" (energy-saving heating installation)).
The cost of an electrode boiler depends on its power - a 2 kW boiler will cost the buyer 3,000 rubles on average. It should be taken into account that the set of necessary automation is usually sold separately - its cost will be about 6,500 rubles, i.e. twice as expensive as the boiler itself.
The warranty period for an electrode boiler, depending on the manufacturer, ranges from one to 2 years. The average service life of such boilers is about 10 years, provided that the operational requirements for the coolant are met and the electrodes are replaced in a timely manner (approximately every 2-4 years).
In conclusion
When creating a heating system based on heating the coolant from an electrode boiler, the following nuances must be observed:
- The boiler's energy consumption is significantly higher if installed in a previously used heating circuit. It is better to install an ion boiler in a circuit created specifically for it;
- when using antifreeze as a coolant, special attention should be paid to detachable connections, since its fluidity is higher than that of water;
- all pipes forming the heating circuit should be wrapped in a layer of thermal insulation - this measure will make it easier for the boiler to reach optimal operating conditions;
- if groups of heating radiators are located at different levels (floors) of the building, then it will be more effective, although less economically profitable, to install independent ion boilers of the required power for each group.
Ion (electrode) boilers are not suitable for heating systems such as “warm floor” or “warm baseboard”, since the temperature of the coolant circulating in them should not exceed 45 ° C - the boiler will not be able to reach the required operating temperature.
Rustam Abdyuzhanov, rmnt.ru
The rapid rise in energy prices, the availability of new technologies in the heating market and the trend to use environmentally friendly heating sources are fueling consumer interest in alternative heating options. Among them, we can highlight an ion heating boiler, which works with the most accessible energy carrier - electric current.
There has long been an opinion among property owners that heating using electric energy is a rather risky undertaking that can result in exorbitant operating costs. To be fair, it is worth noting that this opinion applies to electric boilers with an integrated heating element. The appearance of ion boilers on the market has made it possible to dispel the myth about the high cost of electric heating at home. The unique design of the electrode heating boiler guarantees rational and economical consumption of resources.
In addition to the obvious advantage of efficiency, the electrode heating boiler also has a number of other positive qualities, including:
Operating principle of the device
Boilers with heating elements often suffered from breakdowns due to imperfect design and the use of short-lived heating elements. Criticism towards the design of heating element boilers is completely justified - these devices can overheat and create emergency situations on the circuit. Safe and efficient ion boilers with the highest possible efficiency are completely free of these disadvantages.
In ion-type boilers, a block of electrodes is used instead of a heating element.
Heating of the coolant occurs due to the action of ions that move between the electrodes. When the boiler is started, the coolant ionization process occurs, during which the molecules are divided into positive and negative ions. Next, the ions move to the electrodes with the corresponding charge. During the movement of ions, heat is released, which is transferred to the coolant.
Due to this, electrode heating boilers have the highest efficiency index. They provide reliable heating of the circuit with minimal heat loss. For example, the popular ION electric boiler allows you to save up to 30% of electricity compared to a traditional heating element heater.
Coolant for ion boilers
Installing an electrode boiler will not take much time from the owner. Compact anode heating boilers do not require connections to a gas exhaust system, do not require the construction of a special concrete pad and take up a minimum amount of usable space in the house. The only nuance that may puzzle the owner is the issue of compatibility of the electrode boiler with a specific coolant.
Ordinary water is not suitable for filling the system, so the owner will need time to purchase and prepare the necessary composition. You can read more about liquid for heating boilers. It is worth choosing antifreeze in accordance with the recommendations provided by the device manufacturer.
Antifreeze must have the following properties:
As you can see, purchased ion heating boilers, reviews of which you should definitely read before deciding to install the device, will only work correctly with a certain type of antifreeze. A properly selected coolant does not leave sediment and hard salt deposits on the internal components of the circuit and boiler, preserves the original properties of the heat exchange surfaces and contributes to the efficient and economical operation of the entire heating system.
Electric ion (electrode) boilers are designed to operate in autonomous heating systems. The fundamental difference between the devices and models with heating elements is a special type of heater, which is a block of electrodes. Innovative types of automation have made it possible to improve traditional heating devices and create modern electrode boilers on their basis. Reviews from experienced users and the opinions of independent experts will help us take a closer look at the technical characteristics, varieties and prices of the most famous models.
Operating principle of electrode boilers
Heating of the coolant in the heating system occurs due to the splitting of water molecules. The differently charged ions resulting from this process actively move, rushing towards the positive and negative electrodes, releasing a large amount of energy. As a result, it turns out that an electric electrode boiler increases the temperature of the liquid without the use of heating elements.
The heating process is accompanied by a decrease in the electrical resistance of the conductor. This can lead to a dangerous situation - electric arc breakdown. To prevent this undesirable phenomenon, a certain amount of table salt should be added to the coolant. The size of the proportions is always indicated in the boiler passport. The increase in power in the electrode units occurs simultaneously with heating of the coolant. The increase in current is directly proportional to the decrease in electrical resistance.
Features of use in everyday life
Ion boilers can be integrated into existing heating systems. But before doing this, it is necessary to take a number of preventive actions to prevent rapid wear of the device. A prerequisite must be flushing the system and filtering the coolant.
As practice shows, it is possible to connect electrode heating boilers in combination with other types of heating devices (solid fuel or gas devices). If necessary, several ion units can be connected in parallel to the system.
Advantages of electrode heating devices
The operation of an autonomous heat source allows you to control not only the microclimate and thermoregulation in the house, but also heat costs. At the same time, electrode boilers have a number of obvious advantages compared to heating elements and induction devices.
Efficiency
All water that enters the electric electrode boiler is heated almost instantly and in full. Due to the absence of uncontrolled inertia of heating the coolant, the design achieves a very high level of efficiency - up to 98%.
Durability
Constant contact of the electrodes with the coolant liquid does not lead to the formation of a layer of scale. And, accordingly, rapid failure of the heater. This is due to the fact that in the design of the device there is a constant change in polarity - alternating movement of ions in different directions at a speed of 50 times per second.
Compactness
The principle of electrode heating of liquid makes it possible to reduce the volume of the heat generator several times compared to heating elements of similar power. Small size and light weight of the equipment are very advantageous features that characterize electrode boilers. Reviews from experienced users confirm the ease of use of household appliances, ease of installation and the possibility of their location in any room.
Automation of control
The presence of a digital adjustment unit on the external panel of the devices allows you to intelligently regulate the intensity of the boiler operation. Operation in a given mode helps save up to 40% of electrical energy in the house.
Fire safety
In case of depressurization of the system or water leakage, there is no fear of electric shock. Without coolant, there will be no current movement, so the boiler simply stops working.
Silence
The absence of sound vibrations ensures quiet operation.
Ecological perfection
The operating principle of an electrode boiler implies the complete absence of combustion products or other types of waste. There is also no need for a reserve of fuel resources.
Negative aspects in the operation of ion heat generators
As most users emphasize in their reviews, for all their attractiveness, electrode electric heating boilers have certain disadvantages in design and operation:
- the need to use only prepared water with specified resistivity parameters creates difficulties in achieving compliance with standards;
- the impossibility of using alternative types of coolants - antifreeze, distilled water or oil;
- for normal operation of the boiler, it is necessary to ensure constant circulation of the coolant in the system, otherwise, when the speed of movement decreases, the water may boil, and if the flow increases, starting the boiler will be impossible;
- Stainless steel electrodes can work for a long time without failures, but gradually they still dissolve in water, so it is very important to monitor their condition and replace them in a timely manner.
In addition, the high cost of electrical energy can also be considered a significant drawback. However, if in your area of residence it is not possible to organize a gas or solid fuel heating circuit, then an electrode heating system can become the only reliable source of heat in the house.
What ensures the efficiency and reliability of ion heating devices?
In any case, electrode boilers for a private home are a profitable purchase. High efficiency in their work consists of a combination of several indicators:
- reduced heating inertia;
- uniform increase in temperature of the entire coolant volume;
- construction of a two-pipe closed type system;
- use of automation to control the temperature of the coolant and ambient air in the room;
- simple design using innovative materials;
- high efficiency of the boiler.
What other savings occur in the operation of electrical appliances?
Regular maintenance and technical work are services that electrode boilers practically do not need. User reviews also note the lower cost of ion units compared to other types of electric heating.
Electrode boilers "Galan" are worthy representatives of domestic heating engineering
Among the large number of ionic electrical units produced in the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus, devices assembled according to military equipment standards stand out. Practical implementation is based on conversion developments of industrial enterprises producing for naval vessels.
Structurally, the Galan brand electrode heating boiler for a home is a cylindrical body made of rolled pipe with a diameter of 6 cm and a length of 31 cm. Inside there are concentric tubular electrodes through which current is supplied to the coolant. Well-heated water is intensively distributed through pipes and radiators using forced circulation. Once the optimal fluid flow rate has been reached, the pump can be turned off.
Advantages of ion devices:
Electrode boilers "Galan" are capable of independently adjusting to power consumption and turning off if the specified temperature parameters are exceeded. Automatic protection is also triggered in the event of a short circuit, overheating of the supply wires or a coolant leak.
For the harsh climatic conditions of Western Siberia, the best choice of individual heating is the Galan electrode boiler. The price of the device is significantly affordable - in comparison with other types of electrical analogues - and does not exceed 20 thousand rubles.
Several years ago, a special coolant was developed specifically for Galan boiler models - Potok antifreeze. The distinctive qualities of the innovative liquid are that it is enriched with additives that prevent the formation of scale on the walls of the heat generator. For ordinary water, a mixture has been developed for flushing the system, which successfully dissolves rust, scale and protects internal surfaces from possible corrosion.
The younger brother of the ion boiler
The Galan family of electrical units includes several types of heating devices. These include the electrode boiler "Ochag". It has the smallest dimensions compared to other models. The weight of the device is only five hundred grams. The coolant volume in the system is 70 liters. At the same time, the “baby” is capable of developing a power of up to 5 kW, which allows you to effectively heat a room with a volume of up to two hundred cubic meters.
The Geyser and Vulcan devices with operating power from 9 to 50 kW are known on the market. The basis for their development was also the Galan electrode boiler. The price of the units, depending on the power, is in the range of 3,500-14,000 rubles, which cannot but be attractive to potential buyers.
What is an EOU electrode boiler?
A flow-type installation differs from similar electrode devices in its increased level of reliability and durability. Excellent EOU performance is achieved thanks to the main material - thick-walled pipes. For the production of electrodes, more reliable material is also used, which allows creating a heat flow inside the boiler at an increased speed. The large diameter of the rods also improves the performance of the heating device.
Unlike other types of ion heat generators, the EOU electrode boiler has a wide range of models, which arouses additional interest among buyers. It is noteworthy that the units can operate in closed heating systems without using a circulation pump. The ionization chamber is small in size, so the coolant is rapidly heated and, accordingly, the pressure increases to two atmospheres.
The temperature sensor connected to the relay provides a certain operating mode for which the electrode boilers are configured. Reviews from experienced owners confirm that the active operation time of the EOU boiler is only from two to nine hours a day. Without a doubt, such indicators are among the undoubted advantages of the heating device.
Do-it-yourself production of an electric ion heat generator
Having basic skills in repair and electrical work, as well as having studied the thermal heating circuit, it is quite possible to make an electrode boiler yourself. The price of such an installation will be significantly different when compared with a factory unit. In addition, this work will be an invaluable experience.
First of all, you need to decide how the electrode boiler circuit will be included in the overall system. Several options are usually considered:
- single-phase connection;
- three-phase connection;
- parallel ligament;
- integration of automatic control and adjustment units.
You can also make an electrode boiler with your own hands, and then use it for hot water supply or underfloor heating.
Materials that will be needed for work:
- stainless steel pipe 250 mm long and 80-100 mm in diameter;
- welder;
- electrodes;
- neutral wire and ground terminals;
- insulators for electrodes and terminals;
- metal tee and coupling.
Before you start creating an electrode device, you should understand several important points:
- the boiler body must be grounded;
- Only the neutral wire comes out of the network to the outer pipe;
- the phase must be supplied exclusively to the electrode.
Installation work
The main stages of constructing an ion boiler.
1. A scheme of operation of the heating network is planned. There is a choice:
- single-circuit - intended only for heating;
- double-circuit - provides heating and water heating for household needs.
2. Installation and grounding of the electrode boiler successfully neutralizes static electricity.
3. Selection and installation of heating radiators, the material of which interacts normally with water.
4. Construction of automatic adjustment devices.
Technological process
The steel pipe serves as the base of the boiler. A block of electrodes is placed in its middle using a tee. On the other side of the pipe, a coupling is attached, which serves as a connection to the pipe.
An insulating layer must be placed between the tee and the electrodes. Its role is thermal protection and sealing of the housing. For this purpose, heat-resistant plastic is used, at the ends of which there must be a thread connecting to the electrode and tee.
A screw is welded on the outside of the boiler to which the zero terminal and grounding will be attached. For greater reliability, it is recommended to attach one or two more bolts. The appearance of the resulting structure looks unattractive. To hide it from view, you can decorate it with decorative trim that has electrical protection properties. In addition, the facade covering will limit unwanted access to the device.
Thus, you can easily assemble an electrode boiler with your own hands. All that remains is to insert the resulting device into the heating system, fill it with water and turn on the heating.
Let's summarize
Having understood in detail the structure and operating principle of electrode boilers, several important conclusions can be drawn.
The ability to economically achieve high power levels and quickly heat large volumes of water has a great impact on the overall dimensions of heat generators. Compact devices with minimal weight can be easily installed anywhere in the house.
If there is a need to heat a large room (500 square meters or more), it is quite possible to create a circuit for connecting several electrode boilers. Another positive point should be noted - when installing ion electric heating, permission and control from the boiler inspectorate are not required.
Of all the heating devices existing today, the electrode boiler seems to be the most acceptable solution. Simple and economical equipment can give warmth to our home and heat hot water for domestic needs.
Electrode-type boilers, which are gaining popularity, are a conversion product. In the navy they were installed (and are still installed) on ships and submarines. Back in the days of the Soviet Union, there were two factories that produced these electric boilers.
One plant in Ukraine, one in Russia. Both countries now issue them to the public. The Russian electrode boiler is called “Galan”, the Ukrainian one is “Obriy”. Today, other companies producing boilers of this type have appeared on the market. For example, the “Ion” and “Luch” models.
Principle of operation
The operation of an electrode boiler is based on purely physical laws. The coolant in it is heated not due to some heating element, but due to the breakdown of water molecules into differently charged ions.
Two electrodes are installed in the container where the coolant is located, and the electric current supply is turned on. Water molecules under the influence of a current with a frequency of 50 Hz (this is the number of vibrations per second) are divided into positive and negative ions. It is during the separation process that thermal energy is obtained. Each ion with its own charge moves towards a specific electrode.
The surprising thing is that heating is instantaneous due to the high resistance of the water. Plus, in such a system there is no electrolysis process, which contributes to the formation of scale on the metal walls of the heating boiler. This means that an electrode boiler is an almost always running unit.
The design of the device is quite simple. Firstly, this is a device of small overall dimensions.
Secondly, the boiler is a pipe that simply cuts into the pipe junction system by means of a threaded connection using American fittings. Thirdly, electrodes are inserted from one of the ends of the device. The coolant enters through the side pipe, and exits through the free end.
The dimensions of the unit depend on its power. For example, a single-phase Galan boiler is 30 cm long (diameter 6 cm), a three-phase boiler is 40 cm. For a small private house, the first option is suitable. If the house is large enough, multi-story, then it is better to install a three-phase device.
Coolant requirements
Unfortunately, simple tap water cannot be used as a coolant in a system where an electrode boiler is installed. In order for ionization of the coolant to occur, a certain salt content in it is necessary.
Therefore, manufacturers recommend pouring antifreeze into the heating system of a private home or adding special inhibitors to the water. The Galan company produces special solutions called “Potok”, which can be added to water or used as a coolant.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any electric unit for heating a private home, an electrode device has both its positive and negative sides.
pros
The positive side is the high efficiency - 98% with small dimensions. At the same time, due to the ionization of the coolant, energy consumption is saved. If we compare, for example, with heating element heating boilers, electrode boilers consume 40% less electricity.
Voltage drops are a natural state of Russian electrical networks in countryside villages. So, energy-saving electrode-type heating boilers do not respond to these changes. In addition, there is no need to coordinate the installation and connection of the boiler with the boiler inspection.
Minuses
The negative aspects of using an electrode heater include the impossibility of using it in a heating system where steel pipes and cast iron radiators are installed. In the first case, there is a high probability of scale formation on the walls.
In the second, there is a large volume of coolant, which the electrode boiler may not warm up. Here we add the filling of antifreeze and inhibitors, as well as the high cost of electricity.
Characteristics
To understand the characteristics of the electrode boiler, it is necessary to consider domestic models of the Galan device. The company today offers four modifications:
- "Hearth";
- "Standard";
- "Geyser";
- "Volcano".
For private houses
The “Ochag” and “Standard” models are for private homes. Their power is 2, 3, 5, 6 kW. Accordingly, with their help you can heat houses with a volume of: 80, 120, 180, 200 m³.
These devices operate from an alternating current network of 220 volts. For connection, it is recommended to use a cable with a cross section of 4-6 mm².
For large buildings
“Geyser” and “Vulcan” can be used for heating large buildings: residential and non-residential. The power of these devices is: Geyser - 9, 15 kW, Vulcan - 25, 36, 50 kW. Both models are three-phase analogues.
Non-freezing liquids such as “Tosol” and “Arctic” are not intended for electrode boilers.
Control and management
All models are equipped with temperature sensors and temperature settings. The electronic control unit is installed next to the boiler, usually on the wall.
Controversial issues
There is a misconception that electrode-type heating devices are divided into cathode and anode. The thing is that the cathode and anode can only be present when exposed to direct current. Electrode boilers use alternating current.
One could call electrode heating units operating on a single-phase circuit cathode, because two tubular rods are installed inside the boiler. One is supplied with electric current, the second is the zero phase. In this case, the movement of electric current (negatively charged particles, that is, electrodes) occurs from the first rod to the second.
But it would be more correct to call the boilers ionic. It's all about the principle of obtaining thermal energy. This has already been discussed above.
The smaller the volume of coolant in the heating system of a private house, the more efficiently the electrode-type boiler operates. Therefore, it is recommended to use bimetallic or aluminum radiators and contour wiring made of polyethylene pipes to construct the heating system.
Please note that it is best to create your own new heating for an electrode heating unit. It is not worth embedding it into an old one, where another type of heating device was used.
Thermal insulation and connection
Experts recommend thermal insulation of all circuits. The connection is best done with a separate cable from the distribution panel with the installation of a separate machine. An RCD (residual current device) cannot be installed in the electrical connection circuit.
The installation must be grounded, as is the case with other models of electric heating units.
Increasing heating efficiency
If the power of one boiler is not enough to heat a large house, then several devices can be installed in a single system. They can be connected to each other in parallel or in series.
And one last thing. Heating boilers of this type are installed only in a closed system where a circulation pump is installed. The latter provides additional coolant resistance, which affects the quality of heat generation.
