Making sure our heating systems are safe and effective is crucial for maintaining a warm and cozy home. Electric water heaters are essential for providing us with hot water for everyday use, but they also need to be properly protected in order to avoid mishaps and guarantee reliable performance. We’ll explore the world of protective automation for electric water heaters in this article, with particular attention to gadgets such as the Automat, RCD, and Difavtomat (AVDT). We’ll go over the necessity of these devices, which ones work best in certain situations, how to choose the best protective automation for your boiler, and the crucial procedures for installation and parameter setup.
Modern homes are almost always equipped with electric water heaters, which offer a dependable supply of hot water for showers, bathtubs, dishwashing, and other uses. They do, however, carry some risks, just like any other electrical appliance, especially those associated with overheating and electrical malfunctions. Protective automation must be incorporated into the system in order to reduce these risks and guarantee occupant safety.
The Residual Current Device (RCD) is one of the main safety features frequently found in electric water heaters. In order to prevent electric shocks and fires, this device keeps an eye on the amount of electrical current flowing through the circuit and trips the power if it finds a leak. In residential settings, where safety is of utmost importance, RCDs are indispensable.
The Automatic Circuit Breaker, also known as the Automat, is another essential part of the safety system for electric water heaters. In the event of an overload or short circuit, this device is intended to cut off the heater’s power supply, protecting the machinery and lowering the possibility of electrical hazards. In order to stop additional damage and guarantee the safety of the area, the Automat moves quickly to isolate the malfunctioning circuit.
The RCD and Automat functions are combined into a single device called Difavtomat (AVDT), which provides complete protection for electric water heaters. The AVDT streamlines the protective system while preserving high standards of safety and dependability by combining these two crucial functions. Because of this, it’s a well-liked option for installers and homeowners searching for effective and compact solutions.
It’s important to take local laws, the installation environment, and the power rating of your electric water heater into account when choosing protective automation. Selecting the appropriate devices guarantees the best possible protection and adherence to safety regulations. To guarantee the protective automation system operates dependably, correct installation and parameter settings are also necessary.
To sum up, safety measures against electrical faults and hazards are provided by protective automation devices, which include the Automat, RCD, and Difavtomat (AVDT). These devices are crucial parts of electric water heater systems. You can guarantee the longevity, effectiveness, and safety of your heating system by being aware of these devices’ functions and choosing the right ones for your particular needs.
- RCD on a water heater
- Why is it knocking out an RCD
- How to check the serviceability of the RCD
- A RCD cable for an electric heater
- How to choose an RCD
- Phases of the network
- Rated current
- The setting of differential current
- Type
- Kinds
- Time of operation (selectivity)
- How to connect an RCD
- Schemes with grounding and without
- Schemes for the number of automatic machines
- A single -level scheme
- Two -level scheme
- Which difavtomat to put on a water heater
- Video on the topic
- RCD or difavtomat? Which is better to choose?
- Electric protection for the boiler
- RCD or DEF Automatic, what to choose? Secrets of high -quality electrical installation
RCD on a water heater
The differential transformer that measures the veins of phase and zero is where the RCD for the boiler operates. If the balance is upset (by insulation or malfunction), the executive mechanism opens the chain as long as it has passed through the neutral.
Why is it knocking out an RCD
When current enters the body of the water heater, the RCD only de-energizes. When combined with an automaton, a ligament provides complete protection because the RCD corrects fluctuations that the AB is unable to detect. The toggle switch on the RCD makes one click sound.
The following explanations explain why the water heater’s RCD is operating:
- most often leakage, short circuit, superfluams. Disturbed, isolated, old wiring, a breakdown of the heating element, and electrifications malfunctions;
- False triggering – a too sensitive device is picked up, the disconnection value is low;
- unification or closing of the "earth" or zero, for example, in a socket;
- moisture, lightning strike;
- Incorrect connection.
How to check the serviceability of the RCD
The test’s fundamental idea is to create scenarios where there is leakage and it is more in phase than neutral. Monthly and yearly analyses of the "Test" button are conducted using detailed methodologies.
Methods of checking the RCD | Description |
Tumbler "Test" ("T") | Initiates the appearance of resistance, the difference in values. |
Incomplete data is a drawback; the following scenarios could arise if the device is sturdy:
- Incorrect installation. It is necessary to double -check the scheme;
- The button worked, but stopped moving away (broken, marriage).
- Turn off the knot from all wires.
- The wiring of the battery is connected to the terminals on one of the sides.
- the current battery is equal or more than the setting of the device;
- polarity.
- The power of the lamp. For a setting of 30 mA, 10 W is suitable – 45 mA (i = p/u => 10/220 = 0.045) is taken. If 100 mA, then from 25 watts;
- For analysis of performance, excessive power is not significant, but it is taken into account for accurately to evaluate the dispalibration. The circuit is supplemented with resistance (resistor) or taken a light bulb for a m. Example: Hotel controls are 450 mA, but it is not known at what value the operation. If the product is displayed and activated instead of 30 at 100 mA, there is a risk of mortal blow.
The following method, which is an example for 100 W and a device with a charter of 30 mA, is used to determine the resistance (r) of the lamps instead of using a multimeter:
- Determine the network voltage. Denomination 220 V, but deviations are even significant;
- General Resistance: U/I. 220/0.03≈7333 Ohm;
- Harring bulb (network 220 V), this is 450 mA, which means its R: 220/0.45≈488;
- For the leakage parameter, 30 mA to the control is sequentially connected by a resistor of 6845 Ohms (7333 – 488).
A resistor needs the same or 2 to 50 W for a 100 W tester (but it needs to be connected in parallel, with R being calculated as (R1*R2)/(R1+R2)).
- There is grounding. You can check each outlet. The indicator screwdriver is found, where one end of the control is inserted, the second – to the "Earth", the protection should work – the current has gone from the phase, did not return through zero. If there is no activation, then faulty automation or grounding;
- single -phase network without "land". The census veins go to the terminals from above, go down to the protected devices. One end of the control – to the bottom, the second – to the upper zero (where it goes from the shield). One winding is involved, the contacts will open;
- Checking the value of the leak. STUDITION: Ampometer – lamp (10 W) – resistor (2 kOhm) – rheostat (dimmer). The probe of the first device – to the input of zero, the wire from Dimmer to the phase output. Slowly lowering the value of the rheostat, the ammeter is observed – when the shutdown works, the device is so designed.
A RCD cable for an electric heater
There are already network cords with RCDs attached to some water heaters, in addition to extension cords, outlets, and adapters with safety devices. chosen in a manner akin to that of products at the box form factor.
Experts say that the water heater’s standard RCD on the wire does not inspire confidence because it is always electronic, which makes it less dependable.
How to choose an RCD
Products of low quality may be presented inaccurately. Buying reputable brands is preferable:
- ABB;
- Legrand;
- IEK;
- Schneider Electric;
- Siemens.
Phases of the network
- single -phase (two poles, for 220 – 230 V);
- three- (four-pole, for 380- 400 V). It will take a VVGNG cable, resistant to fire. For powerful water heaters (from 3.5 kW).
With just the quantity of wires different, a 4-pole device can be connected to a single-phase network.
Rated current
The following formula is used to choose the face value: Capacity of boiler: X 1000 /220 V. Up to 20% should be set aside as a reserve.
A level above the machine’s nominal current; otherwise, it will burn. For instance, if AB is at 32 A, 40 A will be needed; if AB is at 50 A at the entrance, the device is 63 A. 16, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, 80, and 100 a are common.
Following a protective shutdown, machines with an infinite value are permitted overall (but within one AV parameter) if AB "from above" has a face value, as it should.
The setting of differential current
I∆n – UZO disconnection (opening, de-energization), leakage current. Choices: 6, 10, 30, 100, 300, and 500 mA; occasionally expressed in amperes (a); the result is 0.006, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 when divided by 1000. They choose an RCD with a 10 ma leak current or up to 30 mA for people because of "irrication," which occurs when it is impossible to remove hands from 30 mA.
It is advised to use a water heater protective shutdown device with a 10 mA setting. Likewise, a "wet" RCD for a humid environment.
If there are additional consumers (power is summarized) in addition to the boiler, false activations may occur at a current of 10 m, hence 30 mA (SP 31-110-2003 P.A.4.15).
Disconnection happens between the 50 and 100% differential current settings. The 30-mA gadget can operate between 15 and 30 mA. Using joint venture 31-110-2003 p.A.4.2 to provide dual, multi-stage protection The setting and response time for an RCD are three times greater than those for consumers when it comes closer to the power point (input).
Type
UPO ACO is appropriate for variable and pulsating currents in water heaters; RCD type AC (which aren’t used for boilers in Europe) is the only type that works (PUE P. 7.1.78).
Kinds
Firefighters: RCD 100, 300, 500 mA, for input.
Electronic alternatives are less expensive but less dependable than electromechanical ones because they rely on power; for instance, they won’t work if the shield’s zero burns out. Accuracy is a benefit.
Time of operation (selectivity)
Since a substantial leak can activate two levels of safety simultaneously, an RCD selective version with 150–500 ms is installed as a basic one–ten times faster than the standard (20–40 ms). The better, the shorter the reaction time.
- There is no delay. On the first line of protection (immediately in front of the receiver);
- S, selective, they are also fire. 0.2 – 0.5 sec. For entry, after the general AB, to the second line;
- G, 0.06 – 0.08 sec.
To prevent all levels from operating simultaneously at the same time, each subsequent line of the RCD on a single line is positioned with a greater exposure (to the side to the input) and the charter.
How to connect an RCD
Schemes with a shared RCD are available for both electrical appliances and groups.
Conventional order (from boiler):
- water heater;
- RCD;
- Line automatic;
- counter;
- General (introductory).
Switching positions with AB is permitted on a boiler line with a rosette. It is acceptable to transfer power to both the upper and lower contacts.
- To the right of the machine gun, the device on the din-pound is snapped.
- The veins from AB and zero are inserted into the upper, then into the lower terminals, tighten the fasteners;
- Turn on the overall machine, then the RCD, conduct a test with a button or lamp control.
How to steer clear of errors:
- Do not break the sequence;
- not to confuse N and L, the terminals are signed;
- The working current is the same or with a slight exceeding the machine gun;
- It is not recommended to put under the tank, as in wet rooms (false triggers from moisture);
- put the machine to each protection apparatus, less reliable – one device for group AB;
- Too sensitive the device (low activation threshold) is falsely triggered;
- After installation, perform the check with the "Test" button.
Connecting to terminals:
- input n (top left) – from AB;
- output n (bottom on the left) – on a separate bus "zero";
- input l (top right) – from AB;
- Exit l (bottom on the right) – to group machines.
It is advised to use a two-level scheme and an individual RCD for the line that has a boiler.
Schemes with grounding and without
Finding out whether grounding PE is present right away is essential. In older developments, PEN schemes are frequently used in conjunction with working zeros.
In the event that current flows through any parts of the water heater during grounding, a short circuit is formed, AB is activated, the equipment is de-energized, and if this precaution is not taken, the protective shutdown is required.
The device is advised in addition to instant operation; the RCD is installed in and without grounding circuits and is not present at all in the device’s connection (there is no terminal). The leak proceeds to the case before reaching the "Earth" wire, so it is detected right away and the chain opens right away.
Nevertheless, if the protective shutdown is implemented without grounding (old homes with PEN), the current has nowhere to go, the equilibrium is maintained, the threat is identified, and the opening is only triggered by contact with the water heater. It is possible to experience painful sensations if the device is not chosen correctly. As a result, both measures are better when taken simultaneously.
- TN, neutral;
- subspecies TN-C-in the same wire with zero. A simple but big minus: a PEN break in the presence of the Earth’s device is fraught with the appearance of all potential on it. De -energization here when touching the object, there is a minimum danger;
- TN-S-the most reliable, protective core is connected separately, with neutral it is united only in the source. Maximum effectiveness, defeat is excluded. The boiler in the chain works with the cliffing of neutral or "Earth". The object is safe – the potential will spread to another core, and if two indicated wires break off, the power will turn off completely;
- TN-C-S is an intermediate option, Pen is created (neutral and “Earth” are united), but only in individual segments, an RCD on unprotected parts is mandatory.
It is unsafe and incorrect to "land" in the outlet and close the neutral.
Auto switches (short-circuit, overload) to the RCD are required if the system is not grounded.
Schemes for the number of automatic machines
- on one AB – recommended for water heaters;
- to group AB (not preferably for the boiler), the amount of their denominations below the RCD. But if you first put AV with a lower value, then the subsequent ones can be “clinged” with any denominations. More than 5 AB (there will be false works).
A single -level scheme
After the meter, the wires with tires are divided into groups and equipped with unique RCDs, each of which has a unique computation for the maximum power that can be used by all of the consumers on that specific branch. For instance, the nominal RCD of a 2.4 kW water heater must be at least 2400/220 = 10.9 A.
Common equipment. Example of total consumer power: 2.4 kW for a boiler, 1.1 kW for a light, and 2.8 kW for another. The value of (2400+1100+2800)/220 = 28 A is at least 28 A. Take 30 A of the product. The plan’s drawback is that energy will be cut off throughout the entire house if a breakdown occurs, making it difficult to locate. Additionally, you must de-energize the entire apartment while the repairs are being made.
A circuit for a water heater is ideal for every user.
Two -level scheme
The most efficient and dependable water heater circuit. A shared RCD for fire safety leads from the apartment’s entryway to the second level. The face value of the electricity accounting device (counter) is not less than its maximum. The first step is to protect an individual for each line (group) or consumer using a different RCD.
The nominal amount ought to be less than the input device’s amount. For instance, if there are devices 10, 16 A in the first level, the total automation will be 10 + 16 = 26 A.
- double protection – when the boiler is defended (marriage, breakdown, incorrect connection), the general shutdown is activated (but will turn off all the lines);
- It is immediately clear where the leakage place is;
- For repair, you do not need to de -energize the whole house;
- Only a leakage line is turned off, the rest of the workers.
A disadvantage is that loading the shield costs more.
It is essential to select the appropriate protective automation for your electric water heater if you want to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Automats, RCDs, and Difavtomats (AVDTs) are essential for protecting your system from electrical failures and guaranteeing the security of your family. But with so many options at your disposal, it’s critical to know why you need them and which one best meets your requirements. This article walks you through the process in simple terms, from installation to choosing the appropriate parameters, assisting you in making decisions that will safeguard your family and your house.
Which difavtomat to put on a water heater
The difavtomat operates on a standard principle in which contacts are released when threshold values are fixed.
The schematics that link a water heater to a Difavtomat overall are identical to those that link an RCD.
The following is an example of a common AVDT option for a group of machine guns (not advised for a water heater):
For every customer or in dangerous locations (it is better to have a storage water heater diagram with a difavtomat):
AVDT with two defense levels. The initial difavtomat is always set higher (200, 100 mA) than the ones that follow that are protected by it or the same, but the chosen type S has a higher face value as well.
Difavtomato face value: consider the boiler’s power and choose carefully. When the current surpasses ten times the allowable limit, the protection will function more slowly (the heat release is heated longer) and could have serious consequences for KZ. The supply should not be greater than 20%.
If there are other users on the line using 30 mA, the disconnection value is 10 mA. The selection of a Difavtomat for a flow water heater follows the same guidelines as for a cumulative.
The typical face value for an average water heater is 20, 25 A. enhanced dependability in electromechanical goods.
A boiler’s typical diplomatic defense should be able to withstand a 5–7 mA leak. Zero and AVDT phase cannot be combined with unsupported wires, even if the wires are connected dipavtomats in parallel. Nobody should come into contact with Zero from the residential "land" when they leave the device.
Topic | Automat, RCD, Difavtomat (AVDT) for electric water heaters: why, which to put, selection of protective automation of the boiler, installation, parameters |
Explanation | Understanding the need for automatic protection, RCDs, and AVDTs for electric water heaters. Guidance on choosing the right type of protection for your heater, installing it properly, and adjusting parameters. |
For both efficiency and safety, selecting the appropriate protective automation for your electric water heater is essential. Choosing between automat, RCD, and difavtomat (AVDT) can be difficult due to the abundance of options. It’s important to comprehend the role and objective of each kind.
An automat is a simple safety feature that guards against electrical problems and overheating in your water heater. It’s a straightforward but crucial part that gives your system an extra degree of security. On the other hand, you might want to think about getting an RCD (Residual Current Device) for more complete protection.
By identifying electrical current imbalances brought on by faults or leaks to the earth, an RCD provides extra protection. Many homeowners choose this extra layer of security because it can help avoid electric shocks and fire hazards.
You may want to consider an AVDT (difavtomat) for even more sophisticated security. Combining the capabilities of an automat and an RCD, this device provides complete protection against earth faults as well as overcurrents. Even though the price might be higher, the peace of mind it offers frequently makes the investment worthwhile.
It’s important to take your unique safety requirements into account along with the size and power of your water heater when choosing protective automation for your boiler. Getting advice from a licensed electrician can assist you in choosing the best option for your house.
After selecting the appropriate protective automation, installation must be done correctly to guarantee its efficacy. Ensure that you adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and, if necessary, seek professional assistance. Furthermore, you can make sure your protective gear keeps working properly over time by testing and maintaining it on a regular basis.
In conclusion, it is imperative to invest in the appropriate protective automation for your electric water heater if you want to ensure its safety. A basic automat, an RCD, or a difavtomat (AVDT) are all good options, but in the long run, you and your family will benefit more from safety and efficiency.