For many homeowners, the efficiency of their home heating systems becomes a top priority as the winter months draw near. Given its affordability and ease of use, an open heating system is frequently the preferred option. It is important to weigh your options. This kind of system, which is distinguished by its ongoing interaction with atmospheric air, can have a significant impact on how cheaply and comfortably we survive the winter.
An open heating system’s primary components are a boiler and a system of pipes that distribute hot water throughout a house. The water tank is vented to the atmosphere, giving the system its "open" character. This is in stark contrast to sealed systems, which are sealed off from outside air. It’s critical for homeowners to comprehend how this design decision will affect system longevity, efficiency, and maintenance.
Comparing open heating systems to more intricate sealed systems, one more benefit is how simple they are to install and maintain. Because of this, they are a desirable choice for individuals looking for a simple heating solution without the need for complex machinery or specialized training, or for older homes. The possible negatives, such as the elevated risk of contamination and the effects of oxygen on system components, must also be understood, though.
We’ll go into more detail about open heating systems’ features, advantages, and things to keep in mind when selecting them for your house in the sections that follow. Knowing these factors can help you make an informed decision that fits your household’s needs and budget, whether you’re installing a new system or upgrading an existing one.
An open heating system uses gravity and air pressure, two natural phenomena, to move hot water or steam around a house for heating. This kind of system allows water to be continuously heated and recirculated from a boiler through radiators or baseboard units to provide warmth. It is usually easier to install and maintain than its closed counterparts. For homeowners looking for a dependable and affordable home heating solution, open heating systems are a sensible option because it’s crucial to make sure these systems are adequately sealed and insulated to reduce heat loss and boost efficiency.
How does an open heating system work?
The pump does not need to be installed in order to start the system. There are no losses because the coolants are continuously in a closed system. The heating system installation is so easy that no special skills are needed.
What are the main parts of the system?
- Gas or solid fuel boiler. The consumer for himself can choose the best option that meets the desired requirements;
- Heating radiators. You can make your choice both in favor of cast iron and steel;
- Expansion tank made of steel;
- Pipes.
How does an open -type heating system work?
The first step is to heat water in the boiler. Then hot water under the pressure enters pipes and reaches a low pressure zone. After hot water makes a full whirlpool and gives heat, it returns to the starting point – the boiler. Due to the fact that under the influence of high temperatures, water expands, an expansion tank is necessary in the system. He acts as a compensator of excess volume of water. The tank is an object that is not sealed. To facilitate the launch of the heating system, it is necessary to install a crath. With it, air is removed from the system. The principle of operation of the open heating system is divided into two stages:
- "Innings". Water heats up, flows through the pipes into radiators and heats the room;
- "Treatment". The cooled water from radiators is returned to the boiler through the pipes.
Characteristics of an open heating system configuration:
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Be sure to have an expansion tank above the level of the remaining devices of the heating system;
Use larger pipes to improve the room’s heating. This will improve the system’s ability to circulate water;
Is it possible to independently mount open heating independently?
It’s not necessary to be superhuman to install an open heating system, but it is important to thoroughly research the matter, including the work schedule. Installing the boiler is the first step. To save space, you can hang it or put it on the floor. Depending on which part of the room you intend to use, select the boiler’s power.
Radiator distribution and installation will take place in the second phase. Determine how many they need based on the room’s size. A single radiator can heat a room up to one kilovolt-meter. If you don’t want a radiator, install a 10-cm-diameter pipe. It has the ability to be fired all over the house and then returned to the boiler. Fix the pipe underneath the slope to improve water circulation. Regarding the tank, it can be situated close to the boiler on the return.
For the installation of open heating, there is an alternative. While the tank is installed in the attic, open heating can be positioned vertically. Take care of the insulation in the tank to prevent damage from temperature changes.
Give careful consideration to the expansion tank’s volume calculations. You run the risk of an explosion if you calculate incorrectly. High pressure will cause the tank to burst.
Now let’s discuss choosing components for open heating:
- It is better to place the boiler in a separate building. At the same time, air should flow to him in the public domain. On the floor, bed material that does not flare up in a fire. For this it is better to just concrete floors. Measure the area of the room. Based on these calculations, you can calculate the necessary power of the boiler. The boiler will be able to work both on gas and on firewood.
- Radiators are better to choose steel. Their installation is carried out so that they are placed from the wall at a distance of 5 cm. Radiators can be mounted under window sills. In this case, they will protect the room from the outer cold, playing the role of the veil. Retreat from the floor at least 40 cm. To warm a room with an area of 15 square meters.m. You need to install a radiator of at least 100 cm.
- Pipes. Copper pipes were used in the old fashioned way. However, they did not justify themselves. Copper pipes are expensive and quickly rust. The best option will be the choice in favor of plastic pipes. Their diameter is at least 32 mm. Calculate the length of the pipes, given that they leave the upper part of the radiator and close it with the lower part. Pipe installation is carried out along the outer part of the wall. There is no need to mount them in the wall. You can connect the pipes with each other by diving. Also, do not forget to connect the boiler, expansion tank and radiators with pipes.
- Expansion tank. Expansion tank, place in the attic of the room or not far from the boiler. The expansion tank should not exceed 5% of the volume of the entire heating system in general. To heat the house to one floor, you better choose a 8 liter tank. In order not to make a mistake, buy a 15 liter tank.
Open heating systems present special advantages as well as difficulties because they are directly connected to the atmosphere. Their ease of operation and design is one of their primary benefits. They are a sensible option for smaller or older homes where complex modifications are impractical because they are typically simpler to install and maintain than closed systems. On the other hand, homeowners must make sure these systems are properly maintained in order to avoid problems like scaling and corrosion, which can drastically shorten their lifespan and efficiency.
The fact that open heating systems depend on ambient air pressure to operate properly is another significant feature. Under some circumstances, this design may result in increased efficiency, but it also increases the system’s vulnerability to air infiltration issues in the pipes. Homeowners should be conscious of these dangers and think about scheduling routine inspections to take care of any possible imbalances or air locks that might impair heating efficiency. Furthermore, because these systems are open, constant monitoring is necessary to preserve water quality and stop pollutants, which can deteriorate system components and lower overall efficacy.
The benefits and drawbacks of installing an open heating system must be carefully considered. It is appealing because of its low cost and simplicity of upkeep, but one shouldn’t undervalue the possibility of more maintenance problems and the requirement for ongoing supervision. For those who are prepared to work more closely with their home heating system, it’s a good option because it provides a hands-on approach that can ultimately be cost-effective and satisfying. Knowing the ins and outs of open heating systems can help homeowners make well-informed decisions that complement their heating requirements and lifestyle choices, whether they are building new or renovating an existing property.
