Selecting the appropriate antifreeze for your residential heating system is an important choice that affects its lifespan and effectiveness. It can be difficult to choose the option that best suits your needs when there are so many on the market. We’ll examine the various kinds of antifreeze for heating systems in this guide to assist you in selecting the best option for optimum performance.
First and foremost, it’s critical to comprehend antifreeze’s function in your heating system. A liquid substance called coolant or antifreeze is used to keep the pipes and other parts of your system from freezing and corroding. It makes sure that the water running through the system doesn’t freeze in the winter, which could cause expensive damages and heating system interruptions. Antifreeze also has corrosion-inhibiting agents that shield metal surfaces from rust, prolonging the life of your equipment.
When choosing antifreeze, composition is one of the most important factors to take into account. A highly efficient coolant with superior heat transfer qualities, ethylene glycol is frequently found in traditional antifreeze formulations. Ethylene glycol, however, is toxic and needs to be handled and disposed of carefully. Recent years have seen a rise in the use of substitutes like propylene glycol since they are non-toxic and safer for both people and animals.
The amount of antifreeze in your system should also be taken into account. The suggested concentration varies based on your particular heating system’s requirements as well as climate. An excessive concentration of antifreeze can decrease heat transfer efficiency and possibly cause system damage, while an insufficient amount may not offer sufficient protection against freeze-thawing. The best concentration for your system should be determined by consulting an expert and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions.
When selecting antifreeze, compatibility with the parts of your heating system is also crucial. Different materials react differently to different formulations of antifreeze, including copper, aluminum, and different types of plastic. The integrity of your system may be jeopardized by corrosion, leaks, and other problems brought on by using an incompatible coolant. To avoid any possible harm, make sure the antifreeze you choose is compatible with the components of your system before using it.
In conclusion, careful consideration of elements like composition, concentration, and compatibility is necessary when choosing the proper antifreeze for your home heating system. Through comprehension of the function of antifreeze and assessment of your system’s individual requirements, you can guarantee peak performance, economy, and durability. Whether you choose safer substitutes like propylene glycol or more conventional ethylene glycol, make sure that safety, efficacy, and compatibility are your top priorities to ensure that your heating system functions properly all year long.
Antifreeze Type | Advantages |
Propylene Glycol | Non-toxic, safer for pets and humans |
Ethylene Glycol | More affordable, better heat transfer properties |
- Nuances in the use of antifreeze
- Varieties of antifreeze for heating
- Independent pouring antifreeze
- Which affects the life of the antifreeze?
- What is the best antifreeze for the heating system?
- Coarler for a heating system of a country house.
- The difficulty of choosing a coolant for a country house
- Heating for heating of country houses: Basic requirements
- Water in the role of the coolant for the system of country houses
- Advantages and disadvantages of water in the role of coolant
- Independent replacement of antifreeze in the heating system, video:
- Antifreeze for the heating system of a country house: the main types and features
- General characteristics of non -freezing liquids for the heating systems of the house
- The main types of "non -freezes" for autonomous heating systems
- Ethinolenlygic compositions
- Propylene glycolia antifreeze
- "Non -freezing" based on glycerol
- "Non -freezing" with your own hands, video:
- Video on the topic
- What is the difference between Russian -made antifreezes and how to choose an antifreeze for a house heating system?
Nuances in the use of antifreeze
The majority of the time, antifreeze is sold as a liquid that is poured into the car to keep it operating correctly in the winter. However, private residences can use a comparable substance. Similar to choosing a car, you must select a specific kind of antifreeze because its qualities can change based on the kind and quantity of additives.
Antifreeze helps to protect the parts of the metal from corrosion, dissolves and displays precipitation that occurs in the system, and also does not allow the destruction of elements made of other materials – silicone gaskets, hermetic layers, rubber seals. In addition, if you compare the heating time of antifreeze and water, then the first coolant heats up faster. And this leads to the fact that due to long cooling, the boiler will be less often turned on. And this is savings. Objectively evaluating such properties of fluid, it is easy to understand how rational its use in the heating system. It is against this background, many replace the water with antifreeze.
Such advantages should force owners of private houses, only use antifreeze. But in fact, there are a number of their features that are put forward by boilers manufacturers to such a liquid. In all instructions, there is a warning about the categorical ban on the Antifreeze Bay in the wall models of boilers. Accordingly, the persons who violated such a warning will be responsible for the working system on their own. The main mistake of many buyers – they neglect the recommendations of the manufacturer. That is, if in the operating instructions indicated that only water is needed in the boiler, then you need to do so. In the opposite case, literally after 3-6 months, you will need to call the master. And this is not to mention the fact that in ready -made houses, developers create a heating system, focusing on the physical properties of water.
If the heating system was only chosen for installation or the house was just constructed, you should closely review the product’s technical passport. These documents usually include a list of approved coolants. The truth is that antifreeze expands by 45–60% more in volume and has a heat capacity that is 15-20% less than water’s. Furthermore, it is noteworthy to mention that the viscosity of this substance is 2-3 times higher than that of water. All of this could be detrimental to the heating system’s operation.
Why is it so important to know about the shortcomings of antifreeze? The fact is that the quality of heating and the service life of the system depends on this. For example, ethylene glycol fluids are very susceptible to high temperatures, since antifreeze begins to decompose from such an effect. In this process, anti-corrosion additives are also involved, which is why various kinds of acids and solid precipitation arise. Such substances, as circulating in the system, lead to the destruction of all elements, and not only metallic. And this is fraught with the fact that soon heating is out of order. This is especially true of those systems where the inner surfaces have a zinc coating. Such precipitation also affects the heating element, since, settling on it, they prevent him from fully giving heat.
One more thing that is important to mention is the antifreeze’s fluidity. Metal components expand as they cool after the system is turned off. This ultimately results in the coolant finding its way out of the parts at their joints. For this reason, experts advise attempting to create a minimum number of drives during the system installation process. Furthermore, you must realize that you must have easy access to the pipes in case you still need repairs.
According to the manufacturers, antifreeze can be used; the key is to exercise control to prevent the system from overheating. However, they want to sell their products. Objectively speaking, it is very challenging to exert such control over the clock. As a result, you should reconsider before relying on such a liquid and set aside funds to fully convert the system to heating with non-freezing.
Varieties of antifreeze for heating
Professionals are aware that you can use antifreeze or water to heat your home. However, there will always be those people attempting to substitute something "new" for these kinds of liquids. Consequently, the system is filled with transformer oil, ethyl alcohol, or machine antifreeze. People run the risk of losing their lives when they do such things because these fluids can catch fire easily in addition to ruining the system as a whole. Not only that, but these substances will start to evaporate if there is a leak somewhere, which means that the occupants of the house could easily become poisoned.
Regarding the antifreeze, you must deal with the current varieties of this type of coolant in order for the heating system to operate to its maximum potential. Although there are many different companies in the store, all of their products are made of the same three materials: propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and glycerin. The properties of antifreeze can vary depending on the basis. In this instance, there is a liquid that contains multiple mixtures at once.
It is worthwhile to deal with the technical aspects of each basis in order to make an informed decision and prevent damage to your home system. Thus,
- Glycerin antifreeze. This basis has good viscosity, while the substance has no smell and toxic fumes. If glycerin circulates in the system along with purified water, then you can not be afraid that the precipitate will form. This type of antifreeze allows you to significantly extend the life of the equipment.
- Propylene glycole antifreeze. This liquid also has high indicators in viscosity and is painted green. But there is already a rather pungent smell here. Well suited for double -circuit systems. True, crystallization in propylene glycol begins already with a mark of 35 degrees, so for extremely harsh regions, such an antifreeze may not come up. Among experts, it is believed that these coolants are the best for heating, but their cost is quite high. For the sake of justice, it is also worth saying that there are special additives that negatively affect the sealing elements of the system.
- Ethylene glycole antifreeze. The base is a multi -tower alcohol without smell and it is painted red. There are two parameters in temperature -it does not freeze to -30 and to -65 degrees. It is not recommended to be poured into the system, since ethylene glycol is quite toxic. Therefore, if a leak arises in the house, then the probability of residents poisoning is too high. Unfortunately, such liquids are cheap enough, which is why many acquire them. Another interesting point: such an antifreeze is sold in the form of a concentrate that needs to be diluted independently. And here again the problem of toxicity arises, since 250 ml of a given substance can kill a person with not accurate handling. Therefore, it should not be used in double -circuit systems, as there is a risk of substance entering the water.
- Trietilenlycolic antifreeze. Such a substance is intended for systems where the heating temperature reaches 180 degrees. But such a non -freezing is used mainly in production, for home heating it is not too acceptable.
Any of the aforementioned antifreeze can be used in areas with fairly harsh winters because all substances do not freeze at -30 degrees.
You can make the best choice if you are aware of the characteristics of each coolant. However, it is important to note that selecting an antifreeze is only half the story for the sake of justice. The most important thing is to pour, then fill the heating system with the appropriate equipment and turn it on.
The longevity and efficiency of your heating system depend on the antifreeze you choose. It’s crucial to take into account aspects like cost-effectiveness, compatibility with your system, and environmental impact when evaluating your options. While slightly less effective at transferring heat than ethylene glycol-based alternatives, propylene glycol-based antifreeze is recognized for being non-toxic and safer for the environment. On the other hand, ethylene glycol is more widely used and less expensive, but because of its toxicity, it must be handled carefully. The best option for your heating system will ultimately depend on your unique needs and priorities, so it’s advisable to speak with an expert to find the best course of action.
Independent pouring antifreeze
It is necessary to slightly redo the system before adding the antifreeze if water was used for heating earlier. To start, you will need to buy strong pumps that will let you move the antifreeze around freely in the circuit. Additionally, it’s important to monitor any rise in working pressure and thoroughly inspect each rubber seal. Oil paint and linen fiber should never be used for sealing because their antifreeze "eats" them up quickly.
Considering that antifreeze is being poured independently in this situation, it makes sense to go with the safe solution, propylene glycol. The entire system is pre-washed and wiped dry before the liquid is poured, regardless of whether it is the first or second time. Whether an open or closed heating system is used determines how such work should be approached. Every case has a unique filling procedure:
- Closed heating system. This option is more acceptable, since the antifreeze does not evaporate here. To fill the system with non -freezing, a pump is connected to the fitting fitting. If there is no such element, you will have to find the highest point where the automatic air vent is removed. The second person will already be required here, who will release air out of the radiators, as the first to fill the liquid into the system. At the very beginning, you need to perform the following actions:
- open the entire locking reinforcement;
- close all the taps that cut off the boiler;
- prepare a concentrate according to the existing instructions;
- Close reset cranes;
- Open the valve that cuts off the membrane expansion tank.
The liquid is poured until a pressure of 1.4-1.5 bar appears on the pressure gauge. From this moment they begin to release air from the batteries. Such a process begins with the lower elements, while it is important to control the working pressure in the system. As soon as all the air comes out, the non -freezing is added to the state until the pressure rises again to 1.5 bar. Now you can alternately close all the taps, starting with the reverse and ending with the feeding line. Important! For closed systems, it is necessary to install a spring -type check valve on a sub -tutor. This will make it easier to pour antifreeze.
- Open heating system. In this case, antifreeze based on propylene glycol should definitely be used. The fact is that in such a system an expansion tank is often placed in the house. And he is open. Thus, it turns out that at the time of filling, harmful evaporation can fall into the dwelling. To carry out the data of manipulations, it is necessary to first dilute the concentrate. Relations are always indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging. It is very important to observe them. After the liquid is cooked, through an expansion tank or a feed valve, it is poured out with a pump, poured inside. It is recommended to use Maevsky’s taps on radiators in heating systems, as they allow you to effectively perform their functions to the entire contour. In the process of pouring, they are first unscrewed, but as they are filled, the taps must be closed. The tank is filled with 13. Important! At the very beginning, you need to open all the elements of the shut-off-regulating reinforcement. As soon as the system is launched and warmed up, the taps open a little to lower the excess air. If the device shows that the working pressure, lower than the applied or it fell at the time of heating, then it is necessary to add a little more antifreeze until it leases.
It is preferable to call masters if you are unsure if trying to accomplish the task yourself will be successful. There will therefore be a chance to at least lay claim to someone.
Which affects the life of the antifreeze?
Every antifreeze has a life of its own. The heating system’s regime directly affects this moment. It’s usually not necessary to raise the temperature for home use above 105–120 degrees. On the other hand, you will have to buy specialized antifreeze.
Many manufacturers use the claim that their product has been in use for more than ten years to advertise it. It’s not quite true, though. For the first five to seven years, such a liquid is thought to work well without needing to be replaced. Still, everything is dependent on the operational environment. You will need to replace the system a little sooner if it overheated during this time. This is because the antifreeze just starts to disintegrate when the temperature exceeds 175 degrees. Furthermore, the system is already harmed by such precipitation.
You must pay close attention to where the heating elements are placed when installing the equipment in order to prevent overheating, which will shorten the time that it is used without freezing. The possibility of overheating and the unrestricted flow of antifreeze through the circuit rely on this precise moment. You must compute the heat exchange process in order to make an informed decision on this matter. And this is where experts will be needed.
It is therefore preferable to speak with the masters if there are any questions at all regarding this. Furthermore, this holds true for both the equipment itself and the kind of antifreeze that is selected. This will enable them to make sensible financial investments and preserve their nerve cells.
37-year-old Nikolai Aksenenko, g. Uman
It so happened that when we built our house, I was not in the country. Therefore, my wife led the construction, and consulted with me through the phone or skype. When it came to the heating system, she offered to dwell on antifreeze. Having read on the Internet about such a liquid, I gave her consent. And here the main problem was created. It turns out that some unscrupulous manufacturers do not indicate in the documents to their boilers that they cannot be contacted with antifreeze. So, there are certain types of gaskets that are strictly forbidden to interact with such a substance, since they begin to collapse. When I returned home, our construction has already ended. As a result, six months later, just at the end of winter, we had to call the master, since our heating system began to flow in many places. As the master explained, our boiler is not suitable for antifreeze – it needs water. When I took the instruction manual, there was no word said about it. So, when buying such products, it is necessary to be in advance of this issue in advance.
34-year-old Alexey Brigak, g. Kherson
My activity is related to the repair of heating boilers. Now many people have begun to switch to antifreeze. Let"s say there is nothing prohibited in this, but now, the need for the selection of the right technique is simply mandatory. Such a liquid requires a fairly powerful boiler and a pump with high circulation rates. Also, such heating will require a large volume tank and powerful radiators. For the sake of justice, it is worth saying that such changes in the standard plan will require impressive financial investments. But this will be a 100% guarantee that the antifreeze will not disable the entire system. And today, our repair services are also far from cheap. Therefore, as they say – the stingy pays twice. It is better to fork out once and fully equip your home, than once every six months to call masters.
41-year-old Alexander Berezhnaya, g. Kiev
Here everyone is discussing the topic of antifreeze. I would also like to say a few words about it. Those who were looking for such a liquid for their boilers know that there are coolants based on ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. The first, though cheap, but toxic, and the second is safe, but costs quite expensive – from $ 30 per liter of liquid. And if you take into account that a large amount of substance is needed for heating a house, it immediately becomes clear that not everyone has a “warmth” on your pocket. And so, interestingly – manufacturers of expensive products are trying to focus on its safety as much as possible. Like, if a leak arises in the system, then no one will suffer from the residents from ethylene glycol of antifreeze. But what I want to say. First, why is a leak? Because the owners take up the installation on their own (without qualification skills) or trust such work not verified "masters". Secondly, buying equipment, neglect the recommendations of manufacturers where you can often find a warning regarding antifreeze. Therefore, if you are responsible for the very installation of the entire system, then problems with cheap non -freezing, will not arise.
39-year-old Oleg Ilchenko, g. Voronezh
A couple of years ago, our family decided to switch to a heating system with antifreeze fluid. We bought an expensive option – Hot Blood (more than 5,000 rubles for one container). Therefore, I decided to save a little on the fill, that is, to do all the work on my own. Frankly, I flooded it, but some difficulties arose with heating. As it turned out, after heating the system, working pressure should not exceed 1.8 bar. Another moment is the crane of Maevsky. I installed such devices on the advice of one friend, since they allow us to conveniently control the pressure in the system. But when I independently poured antifreeze on my own, they strongly burned me. I also saw one small leak. Instead of cutting off one branch separately and eliminate the deficiency, I drained the whole system. In general, by summing up, I want to say that if there is no experience in such matters, then it is better to entrust all the work to professionals. Because I was tormented that I simply could not convey in words.
What is the best antifreeze for the heating system?
Expert House Comments on June 25, 2015: Which antifreeze is best for a heating system? Incapable
The debate over whether or not to use antifreeze when heating has gone on for a long time. Ultimately, each individual who heats their home with a boiler has most likely selected a suitable option for themselves. Furthermore, individuals who have opted for antifreeze most likely cherish their heating system and seldom want it to defrost or experience any other issues. What is the best antifreeze, then? There could be a few options available, and which one is selected will depend on the required outcome as well as the technical specifications of the boiler and system.
To begin with, find out what antifreeze usage instructions are provided by the manufacturer of your heating equipment. After all, manufacturers occasionally forbid using any other coolant besides water and won’t provide a guarantee if they don’t. It will be simple to determine which antifreeze should be used if a similar list exists. Simply get in touch with the manufacturer and pose the desired query to accomplish this. Conversely, other businesses offer "good" and allow you to use any coolant in your equipment without any limitations.
Thus, in the event that the manufacturer makes no mention of this, how should one select antifreeze (for further information, visit http://www.Eglikol.ru/ antifriz/)? To find out, we suggest consulting experts who will carefully assess the circumstances and recommend the antifreeze that is best suited for your model. Furthermore, even though the options are actually not as numerous as they would appear.
Two types of antifreeze are available for heating:
- from ethylene glycol;
- From propylene glycol.
The former are produced in large quantities in Russia, but they are more toxic. The latter are more expensive (we are practically not producing them, almost all are imported), but they are safer than any expert will tell you. Propylene glycole antifreeze is, of course, the superior choice when it comes to heating.
Don’t overlook, however, a different class of liquids that are bred with water alone: concentrated non-freezing liquids. They consist of 5% different additives and 95% ethylene glycol. With this, you must exercise extreme caution and focus on quality! Furthermore, if you do not mix the ingredients according to the manufacturer’s recommended ratios, you may end up with a "hellish" mixture that is bad for your heating system and your health.
The best antifreeze, in a nutshell, comes from propylene glycol. As we’ve already mentioned, a lot relies on the particular model of your heating equipment when it comes to the brand. If this is not covered in the instructions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with experts for assistance in selecting "non-freezing."
That’s all, good work, and have a cozy winter! additionally following the topical video.
Choosing antifreeze for your heating system in a video
Coarler for a heating system of a country house.
Though more accurately referred to as liquid, water heating systems derive their name from the coolant that is most frequently used in them. Water, however, is the most often used filler for radiators and pipes, and not just because it’s cheap.
Owing to operational characteristics, a country house’s heating system’s coolant is frequently made of special compounds and materials rather than water. with unique qualities and a low freezing point.
The difficulty of choosing a coolant for a country house
For a country home, selecting the coolant type happens concurrently with, or even before, the system design phase.
Unfortunately, using water as a traditional fluid in these situations isn’t always an option. This is caused by a number of things, the primary one being the high freezing temperature.
When a country house is not used as a permanent residence, a feature of the water can cause the system to malfunction in even mildly frigid weather. However, emergency situations are still possible even in the event that the system is always in operation.
For instance, blackouts in the power supply can also be fatal. A steady supply of electricity is required for the majority of gas boilers to function, as well as for pumps and electrical equipment; otherwise, the water will freeze and damage the system. It is not wise to hope for the backup source option; it should only be used in an emergency.
Because of this, non-freezing fluid is the best choice for heating a suburban cottage or house; however, you should carefully read the boiler’s installation instructions before selecting the composition.
Manufacturers frequently specify a particular kind of coolant that must be used to fill the system. If not, he is released from all warranty obligations. However, not all models meet this requirement. Moreover, you are free to take a chance and use a different kind of liquid even when limiting. On the other hand, the customer will assume all risks, including boiler equipment repair.
When designing a country house’s heating system, it’s critical to address the coolant type problem right away. Due to the fact that this factor places restrictions on the system’s installation’s features and technical specifications.
Heating for heating of country houses: Basic requirements
The coolant plays a major part in the heating system because it transfers heat to the pipes and radiators by circulating along their contours, which warms the surrounding air and objects.
Thus, in order for the coolant to perform the assigned function as effectively as possible, a set of requirements is placed upon it. Strangely enough, water is the perfect solution for this. She
- Safe for a person and in general for the system;
- has a high density, which positively affects its heat capacity;
- practically not limited in the duration of use;
- is inexpensive (Or even for free );
- has a high boiling point and many other advantages.
Water is therefore frequently used as a kind of standard when selecting a composition; based on its properties, a coolant type is chosen.
The high freezing temperature is the only significant drawback that keeps it from being perfect. overall 0 °C.
Furthermore, the greatest portion of Russia experiences this temperature in the fall; in the winter, thermometer indications are significantly lower.
When selecting a coolant, be sure to consider the following conditions as well as the conditions that pertain to the water:
- the efficiency of heat transfer;
- The non -aggression of liquid in relation to the materials that make up the contour of the system, that is, they should not contribute to corrosion of metal elements, cause the appearance of deposits and blockages. Preference should be given to compounds with a neutral or inert environment;
- The stability of the chemical composition of the liquid, that is, it should not change its properties under the influence of temperature changes, break up or split;
- a large operating range of temperatures, that is, from a freezing point to a boiling point;
- toxic safety of the composition, the absence of toxic or harmful fumes when heated and t. D.
Of course, cost is an important consideration when selecting a coolant, especially when considering the volume needed to fill the entire system.
Water in the role of the coolant for the system of country houses
In independent systems of country homes and cottages, water is used as a coolant quite frequently—60–65% of the time, on average.
And the main argument in favor of this decision is its high heat capacity—an average of one liter of water can provide 22–24 watts of thermal energy, an amount that most other coolants cannot match.
In which case The coolant’s temperature can readily rise above 70 °C, which is a crucial threshold for compositions that don’t freeze. Furthermore, it is the most economical both in terms of price and practicality—a necessary supply is always on hand.
However, there is one crucial factor that needs to be considered: water is a solution first and foremost, made up of many different chemical elements that can have a substantial impact on the system’s performance in addition to the elements H and O.
Water containing salts and other impurities can cause damage to radiator pipes and boiler equipment heat exchangers in particular because they can precipitate and form deposits on the walls of contour elements.
According to the investigation, there is a drop in clearance and a drop in heat transfer efficiency; consequently, more energy must be used to maintain a normal, comfortable temperature in the home.
When a country house is used as a permanent home, using water as a coolant for the heating system makes sense. Despite all of its advantages, it should be mentioned that it can be applied to both closed and open contours with forced or gravitational (gravitational) fluid circulation.
It can be used without limitations in double-circuit systems because there is no risk of a coolant and hot water supply mixing.
Advantages and disadvantages of water in the role of coolant
If closed systems make use of water. then the aforementioned factor has an indirect effect because there is no increase in the quantity of impurities, soluble metal elements, or other substances because the fluid’s volume stays constant.
As a result, the sediment that has accumulated on the walls is essentially incapable of impairing the heating process. Open systems, which are widely used on outside-the-city objects, require water additions on a regular basis, and additional pollution enters the system.
Instead of pouring tap water in this situation to prevent problems, distilled water or, as an alternative, rain and melt can be used as a coolant.
A very low water quality can also initiate corrosion processes, so it’s advisable to prepare beforehand and, most importantly, soften the water—that is, remove any magnesium and potassium.
Eliminating insoluble materials or suspended particles is even simpler—all that is needed is to pass water through a mesh filter. Iron can be taken out of the water with a straightforward upholding.
Water for the system can be prepared with specific reagents. For instance, calcified soda, sodium orthophosphate, and other substances; however, their application must be done carefully and appropriately, as an overly high concentration can lead to corrosive processes and greatly reduce heat transfer.
Moreover, unique additives-indigitors are employed. which, as a result of a slowdown in the oxidative processes in water, have a positive impact on the heating contour’s anti-corrosion stability.
It is advised to use PAVA (Supervisory and Active Substances) to clean the system. These substances can effectively remove large or old blockages in radiators and pipes.
Independent replacement of antifreeze in the heating system, video:
Antifreeze for the heating system of a country house: the main types and features
Water is the most ideal and affordable coolant, but its primary drawback—a high freezing temperature—cannot be eliminated.
This factor is the main reason why independent systems of country homes choose to use different kinds of coolant.
As a result, the proprietors of this property ought to fill the contour with non-freezing compositions. If not, any situation—even one that seems initially non-critical—could necessitate an immediate system repair in the middle of winter.
Nonetheless, I like antifreeze. It is advisable to concentrate on water indicators based on heat capacity, fluidity, safety, and other factors. Select coolant types whose indicators are as near to water indicators as feasible, without surpassing them.
However, these liquids have a low freezing point; for some, this indicator can go as low as -60 °C. However, even at a critical negative temperature, these compositions only crystallize and lose their fluidity—they do not freeze in the traditional sense. As a result, there won’t ever be a pipe or radiator break.
General characteristics of non -freezing liquids for the heating systems of the house
The benefit shared by all varieties of antifreeze is a long enough life, up to five years, after which the fluid in the system needs to be completely replaced.
Additionally, all compounds in the circuit should be repaired by choosing for this more resistant materials: such preventive measures must protect against leaks when starting the system to work, even in the face of positive data regarding the chemical stability of the compositions.
When selecting "non-freezes," it’s important to keep in mind that some of them could be toxic to an individual. for instance, entering a heated waterway or breathing in fumes. As a result, using them with double-circuit systems is not advised.
Since most antifreeze is more viscous than water, using it necessitates a forced circulation system and a higher pump power than when using water. Furthermore, the larger expansion effect of these liquids causes the damper tank’s dimensions to increase.
It is important to consider that, depending on the type, non-freezing compositions have a 15–25% lower heat capacity than water. As a result, the system will be less efficient than one in which the coolant is water when all other factors are equal.
As a result, it’s critical to accurately calculate the number and size of radiators in the space beforehand, as doing so will prevent the need to raise the heating temperature and consequently increase energy usage.
Most importantly, only closed contours can be heated with a non-freezing fluid.
The main types of "non -freezes" for autonomous heating systems
The term "antifreeze" refers to non-freezing liquids, of which there are three types available on the market:
- ethinolen glycolic;
- propylene glycolia;
- glycerin.
Apart from their chemical makeup, there are notable differences in terms of pricing and environmental safety.
Ethinolenlygic compositions
"Non-freezing" is more cost-effective for a private home’s heating system since it uses ethylene glycol, but it is also extremely hazardous.
Its low cost effectively draws in customers over more costly propylene glycol antifreeze, which likewise varies in its loss of fluidity and foaming at elevated temperatures.
Nonetheless, it makes more sense in terms of security.
It is important to be aware of the unusual way that ethylene glycol behaves at high temperatures because this can lead to sedimentary formations in the circuit, which can drastically lower the system’s overall efficiency. Because of this, it is not used with solid fuel boilers, where adjusting the heating level can be very challenging.
Ethylene glycolic antifreezes are available in prepared and concentrated forms on the market. In order to save money and consider the effects of the climate, it is permissible to independently prepare the solution at the appropriate concentration, using distilled water.
In order to increase the composition’s inertia and anti-corrosion properties, it also uses inhibitors and specific additives to prevent foaming. Furthermore, it is advised to use specific additives to enhance fluidity, heat capacity, and other solution indicators.
Furthermore, metal elements made of zinc should not be used to create the heating system’s contour; instead, use "not indifferent" and other "non-freezing" metals instead.
Propylene glycolia antifreeze
Propylene glycolia antifreeze safety can even be determined by a unique IVF inscription that lists the majority of these product types and even permits the use of these compositions in double-circuit systems.
A pricey antifreeze with a greater heat capacity than its ethylene glycolic counterparts. As a result, using it in the heating system gives it an additional benefit in addition to increased efficiency: its operational life can reach ten years.
Solutions of this kind can range widely in price, but they are already available for purchase and use.
This is because some of them already contain unique additives that enhance the composition’s technical features and functional aspects.
Because propylene glycolia antifreeze has an enveloping fluid effect that adds to its superior fluidity, it has the ability to significantly alter the hydraulic resistance in the system.
"Non -freezing" based on glycerol
Glycerin antifreeze is a good option for heating; opinions regarding its composition are so divided that they cannot be definitively stated. Nevertheless, in order to determine its potential application, it is still worthwhile to learn about his advantages and disadvantages.
- completely safe and not toxic;
- in terms of characteristics, it is practically identical to propylene glycolia antifreeze (Although its thermal conductivity is lower ), but has a lower price;
- Long operational period – up to 10 years;
- has a wide range of operating temperatures;
- inerten to zinc;
- does not apply to combustible or explosive compounds.
However, the size of glycerin antifreeze loads the system further and adds to its wear. At temperatures higher than 90 °C, the composition becomes unstable and breaks down into volatile compounds, some of which can be toxic to humans. Additionally, active foam formation occurs, which can be minimized with the use of additives.
Furthermore, despite the fact that this kind of "non-freezing" has only recently become popular, glycerin-based pounds were the industry pioneers in this regard. As a result, critics of this antifreeze argue that its use is ineffective given the availability of more contemporary options for self-contained heating systems.
Unlike compositions containing ethylene glycol, this type of antifreeze is not deemed dangerous, but European standards state that it is not used. The use of propylene glycol antifreeze is the safest and most financially advantageous option.
However, the primary disadvantage of glycerin that is "non-freeza" is that there are no common production standards. Every business uses one that is unable to improve the aesthetics of this arrangement for the home’s heating system.
"Non -freezing" with your own hands, video:
The longevity and efficiency of your heating system depend on the antifreeze you choose. It can be difficult to choose the best option for your home when there are so many on the market. You can, however, choose an antifreeze type that best meets your needs by being aware of the important aspects and traits of the various varieties.
Compatibility with your heating system is an important factor to take into account when choosing antifreeze. To ensure compatibility, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations or speak with an expert as different systems might require different kinds of antifreeze. The incorrect kind of antifreeze can harm your system and require expensive repairs.
The effectiveness and durability of the antifreeze are additional factors to take into account. Over time, certain products can lower maintenance costs and increase the lifespan of your heating system by providing superior protection against corrosion and scale buildup. A higher boiling point antifreeze can also offer more protection in extremely cold weather, guaranteeing dependable operation all year round.
A significant factor for many homeowners is cost-effectiveness. Even though some antifreeze products might cost more up front, they might end up saving you money over time by lowering energy usage and averting expensive repairs. Finding the most cost-effective option for your budget requires balancing the initial investment against the potential savings and benefits over time.
In conclusion, careful consideration of aspects like compatibility, performance, and cost-effectiveness is necessary when choosing the proper antifreeze for your heating system. You can ensure effective operation and safeguard your investment in your home’s heating infrastructure by carefully analyzing the features of various antifreeze products and knowing the requirements of your system.