Why do you need a circulation pump

Gaining insight into the function of a circulation pump can help you maintain a warm and comfortable home. Imagine that even though your home has excellent insulation and heating, the warmth still doesn’t seem to distribute throughout the space. This is where a circulation pump comes into play, serving as an essential part of the heating system in your house.

So what is the precise function of a circulation pump? Consider it the central component of your heating system, working nonstop to force hot water or steam through the pipes and radiators in your house. Without it, the heat produced by your furnace or boiler may not be able to circulate throughout your home, resulting in cold spots and uneven temperatures.

However, if you already have a heating system in place, why is a circulation pump necessary? Efficiency holds the key to the solution. By removing stagnant areas where heat could be lost or trapped, a circulation pump makes sure that heated water or steam is constantly circulating throughout your house. Stated differently, it optimizes the efficiency of your heating system, guaranteeing that every room remains comfortably heated.

Additionally, a circulation pump can help reduce energy use and utility costs. Your boiler or furnace will be less stressed and able to function more effectively if the hot water or steam is kept flowing efficiently. As a result, less energy is wasted, which will ultimately save you money.

However, the comfort a circulation pump adds to your house is probably the best argument in favor of buying one. No more icy hallways or cold spots—just constant, even warmth all around. Your circulation pump will maintain the ideal temperature, keeping your house a refuge from the cold on chilly winter nights or crisp autumn mornings.

Calculation of the circulation pump for heating – pump capacity

Without a circulation pump, the house’s installed autonomous heating system will not be able to operate to its full potential. If this device is installed, the efficiency of the heating system and the quality of the heat supply to the house can both be increased multiple times.

Many models from both Russian and foreign manufacturers are available on the local market. The purchaser is always able to select a device that is compatible with the specific heating system’s technical specifications. But in order to make the best decision, you’ll need to calculate the heating circulation pump and consider a number of specific details.

Why do you need a circulation pump

It’s no secret that the majority of high-rise building residents who use heating services are accustomed to dealing with cold batteries. The absence of the required pressure is the root of it. Because coolant flows slowly through the pipeline in the absence of a circulation pump, the lower floors cool down as a result. For this reason, it’s critical to determine the circulation pump for heating systems accurately.

Private home owners frequently experience a similar situation, where the radiators are significantly colder at the end of the heating system than they are at the beginning. In this instance, experts believe that installing a circulation pump—as shown in the photo—is the best course of action. It’s true that natural heat carrier circulation heating systems work pretty well in small homes, but even in this situation it doesn’t hurt to consider purchasing a pump since, with proper adjustment, its operation will lower the cost of heating.

A circulation pump: what is it? It is a device made up of a motor with a coolant-immersed rotor. The way it works is that the rotor rotates, forcing the fluid that has been heated to a specific temperature to flow through the heating system at a set speed. This creates the necessary pressure.

Pumps have various modes of operation. Warming up the house quickly even when the owners are not there is possible if the heating system’s circulation pump is set to operate at maximum capacity. After resetting the settings, customers get just the right amount of heat at the lowest possible cost. There are two types of circulation devices: "dry" and "wet" rotors. It is partially submerged in the liquid in the first version and fully submerged in the second. Wet rotor pumps are quieter than dry rotor pumps when they’re operating.

Calculation of pump parameters

The circulation pump needs to accomplish two key goals:

• create in the heating system such a pressure of coolant, which will be able to overcome the hydraulic resistance arising in individual elements of the structure;
• ensure the right performance and thus facilitate the movement of sufficient heat through the system to heat the house.

The heat demand of the house and the hydraulic resistance of the entire system must be calculated for the circulation pump for heating based on the tasks at hand. It is impossible to select a device for forced coolant movement without knowing these parameters.

Calculation of pump capacity

The letter Q is typically used in formulas to represent this device’s performance. This figure shows how much heat is dispersed in a given amount of time.

The calculation formula is as follows:

R is the heat power (kW) needed to heat the space; The system’s supply pipe temperature (TF) is measured in degrees Celsius, while the system outlet temperature (TR) is measured in degrees Celsius in the pipeline.

In Europe, the indicator R is determined by the operating conditions and is typically computed in compliance with the following regulations:

• In houses with no more than two apartments, the power of the circulation pump for heating is 100 W/m²;
• in apartment buildings – 70 W/m².

The aforementioned values ought to be raised when the pump calculation is carried out for buildings with inadequate thermal insulation. Use the indicator R, which ranges from 30 to 50 W/m², to determine whether the building is well-insulated.

Calculation of hydraulic resistance

The hydraulic resistance, which the device must overcome, is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a circulation pump.

Initially, the following formula needs to be used to find the pump’s suction height H:

L1, L2 is the length of the pipeline’s supply and return sections (measured in meters); R1, R2 is the pressure loss on the supply and return pipes (measured in PA/m); Z1,…..ZN – information on the resistance (Pa) of the individual heating construction elements.

Tables provided in specialized reference books are used to calculate the values of R1 and R2.

In the technical documentation that comes with the product, the manufacturer typically specifies the hydraulic resistance for nodes and other components of the heat supply’s structure when determining the circulation pump for heating. Approximate data can be used:

• heating boiler – 1000-2000 (Pa);
• thermostatic valve – 5000-10000 (Pa);
• mixer – 2000-4000 (Pa);
• heat measuring device -1000-15000 (Pa).

Adjustment of circulation pump speeds

The majority of circulation pump models feature a feature that allows you to change the pump’s speed. These are usually three-speed units that let you adjust how much heat is sent to warm the space. The device’s speed is adjusted to increase in the event of a severe cold snap and to decrease during warming, all the while maintaining a comfortable temperature in the rooms for occupants.

On the pump body is a unique lever that can be used to change the speed. Models of circulation devices that automatically adjust this parameter based on the outside temperature of the building are very popular.

Other options for pump calculations

One way to calculate the necessary parameters is to use the calculation method mentioned above. Many manufacturers employ a different process. Another option is to hire a trained professional to calculate the circulation pump. He will perform all computations expertly since he is aware of the specifics of a system’s design and operating circumstances.

Determining the maximum load necessary for the heating system to function is a common practice. It is reasonable to buy a device with parameters that are marginally lower than the calculated data because in reality they will be lower. The ideal outcome is reflected in the heating circulation pump’s power calculation. Buying a more powerful device is not reasonable as the system’s performance won’t improve and the costs will go up.

After receiving the results of calculations, it is necessary to pay attention to the pressure-flow data on pump models, taking into account the speed of its operation. The characteristics can be plotted on a graph with two coordinates, head and capacity, and then determine the point of intersection of these values. Based on the graphical representation, the right model of heating pump is selected for a particular house.
[Point A in the figure corresponds to the required parameters according to the results of calculations, and point B indicates the actual characteristics of a certain model of the device specified by the manufacturer. The more suitable the circulating pump is for the conditions of use in a particular heating system, the smaller the distance between the two points.

A few important points

Although circulating pumps with "dry" or "wet" rotors and manual or automated speed controls are available for purchase, experts recommend choosing a pump whose rotor is fully submerged in coolant. It should be selected since it will handle the load more skillfully in addition to its lower noise level. The rotor shaft of the pump needs to be mounted horizontally.

Sturdy steel and a ceramic shaft are used to create a high-quality product. Such a circulation pump has a minimum 20-year service life. A cast iron-bodied device is not a good choice for a hot water supply because it corrodes fast under such circumstances. Purchasing a product made of brass, bronze, or stainless steel is the better option.

Even though the pump is operating, hearing a noise in the system does not always mean that there is a problem. Air that entered the system after it was started is frequently the cause. As a result, using special valves, it is necessary to drain the air before beginning the heating construction. This process should be repeated and the pump adjusted after the system has operated for a few minutes.

When starting a manually operated pump, the device is adjusted to its highest speed; for regulated models, the lock is simply turned off.

A video explaining how to calculate the heating circulation pump:

Installation of a pump for heating: why it is necessary?

What are the benefits of the heating system’s forced water supply? a heating pump. Radiators and pipes can be heated in a matter of minutes by pumping coolant through the pipelines. The whole apartment receives the same amount of heat. You can automatically control the temperature inside the pipeline, preventing wear and tear on the parts, by adjusting the coolant’s intensity of supply (head). The lifespan of the expansion tank, boiler, and other system components is increased by uniform water movement. Placing the pump in the heating system correctly is a crucial requirement for the device to continue operating without interruption.

Your radiator’s efficiency will increase with a pump on the heating element.

Choosing the right unit

It is preferable to leave the equipment selection to a skilled craftsman in order to guarantee the system’s continuous, long-term operation.

In the event that you must install independently, you must take into account a few selection criteria. The heating system’s circulation pump must fulfill the following crucial requirements:

• low energy consumption,
• durability,
• uniform heat distribution ,
• quietness,
• automatic regulation of the maximum, minimum head,
• sufficient water velocity in the heating system.

The entire length of the system line, the pipe’s material, and its diameter must all be calculated for this purpose. Consider the kind and quantity of heating units, the kinds of control and shut-off mechanisms, and the automation’s features. Durability, low power consumption, and a rotary shaft speed and frequency control feature define this heating circulation pump. When the temperature of the water (glycol mixture) drops or rises, the revolutions speed automatically changes. The issue of air locks is resolved when the unit is outfitted with air vents.

Professional masters refer to the Wilo circulator pump (Wilo Top and Wilo-Stratos), one of the many models that are popular and economically advantageous low-noise devices with a wet rotor installed inside the coolant pipeline. The unit’s low weight enables mounting on the pipe surface without the need for additional supports. Models with high performance are universal and fit for any type of heating system. Well-liked domestic units are the linear CVC and Livgidromash companies.

Select a heating pump model with two or three operating modes to determine the most efficient way to heat the space.

The approximate calculation of circulation is as follows: at a pressure head of 0.4 atm, 3, 5 cubic meters of water are circulated per hour for an area up to 250 sq km. м.

Expanding the area to a maximum of 350 square meters. It takes 4,5 cubic meters for м. м. and 0.6 atm. per hour.

Close to 800 sq. м. requires up to 10 cu m.м. at 0.8 atm if the area is larger than 350 sq. m.

A larger room in the house necessitates the installation of an additional pump in the heating system.

The smooth operation of the apparatus is impacted by the proper installation of the pump.

In the world of home heating and insulation, a circulation pump plays a crucial role that often goes unnoticed. Essentially, a circulation pump helps move hot water from your boiler or heater to where it"s needed throughout your home, ensuring consistent warmth and efficiency. Without it, heated water might linger in one area, leading to uneven temperatures and wasted energy. By keeping the flow steady, a circulation pump helps your heating system work smarter, not harder. It not only saves you money on energy bills but also enhances comfort by evenly distributing warmth. So, whether it"s cozy winters or efficient energy use you"re after, a circulation pump is an essential tool for a well-functioning heating system in any home.

Determining the pump tapping point

Installing an electric heating boiler with a built-in pump is the best way to handle the task of heating the house. New equipment uses little energy and has an efficiency of 98–99%. The automated system is easy to operate and rarely needs further customization. The unit makes it possible to supply hot water.

This gadget will quicken the heater’s (battery’s) heating process.

The technical specifications of each device, their compatibility, and the proper placement of each in relation to the floor, walls, and other components are all taken into consideration when installing the circulation pump in the heating system of individual parts.

Installation rules

Boiler, expansion membrane cistern, circulation pump, radiators, coupling valve, gas valve, and signaling devices are the main parts of the heating system. A strainer, water supply branch, control elements, temperature sensors, and emergency sensors are required.

When determining the design’s location, the most important thing to remember is to connect the grounding and allow unrestricted access to all electrical network appliances and units. Additional crucial prerequisites for installing a pump

1. "Wet" models should be placed only horizontally, for complete immersion of the rotor in water.
2. Versatile equipment of the device with ball shut-off valves for maintenance, repair, dismantling.
3. Installing a safety filter in front of the pump.
4. Equipping the bypass with a built-in valve to remove air locks.
5. Sealed serial connection of threaded elements of the system.

The basic guidelines for installation and operation are included in the instruction that is fastened to every device. Precisely meeting every requirement will increase the structure’s lifespan and guarantee a steady flow of coolant.

Water filtration

According to the arrow indicating the direction of the liquid flow, strainers for the heating system must be installed before the circulation pumps. Sand, metal, and scale particles, which can damage appliance bearings and wings, are not allowed through filters. At the bottom is the tank used to sediment suspended solids. An incorrect placement will result in more contamination and component wear and tear.

Positioning of the pump in the heating circuit

The unit is situated before the heating boiler on the pipeline’s return section.

A check valve is required, and the additional pump in the heating system and the main unit must be connected in parallel.

Before the pump, there are pipes with ball shut-off valves installed that allow the system to be filled. Pressure control will be made easier with the installation of pressure gauges.

How to put the plan together correctly:

• a threaded fitting with a diameter corresponding to the size of the ball stop valve is placed on the pipe section;
• jointing of plastic pipes is made with a soldering device, metal-plastic pipes – with a compression fitting.
• then mount the ball shut-off valve, attach the filter, install the circulation pump with the help of couplings, then the second valve and fitting.
• A bleeder valve is included in the piping.
• Each connection is sealed with tape "Fum", or water-resistant sealants with wadding (tape).

Pump scheme for the heating system

An expansion tank must be positioned at a certain height in an open heating system with a circulation pump. When building is closed, it is situated close to the membrane cistern and boiler.

What the bypass is for

When installing a circulation pump in a heating system, electricity must be present. In order to prevent the interruption of the water supply in the event of a power outage, the pump is situated on a bypass, and ball valves are used to block its inlets. When turning on or off the appliance, open or close the fittings around the bypass to direct the water flow in the desired direction. When there is frost, the pump is turned on, causing coolant to shoot into the bypass pipe. During the summer, when there is no power supply, the liquid moves through the straight pipe gravitationally.

Options for electrical connection

The only drawback to using an electric pump for heating is that it will stop circulation in the event of an emergency power outage. For this reason, systems must be designed to allow for additional coolant flow naturally occurring in the system.

The three contacts on the pump box are labeled phase, ground, and zero. A cable with a plug connects to the socket, or the cable line from the meter goes straight to the apparatus. It is preferable to establish an automated electrical connection using the thermostat rather than manually starting the device, which increases energy consumption and wears out the mechanism and parts.

One benefit of utilizing a thermostat is the ability to control the on/off time. The pump in the Wilo heating system only operates when the water is heated, preventing cold water from running unnecessarily.

Thermostat attached to the pipe senses the temperature of the heat pipe and initiates the unit mechanism. This is the basic principle of operation.

If purchasing a specialized pipe device is not an option, the circulation pump can be powered by a room thermostat that is connected to the pipe via a remote temperature sensor.

Use a backup UPS source, such as car batteries or a set of batteries stored in a small cabinet, to ensure that the heating pump has a continuous power supply in the event of an electrical outage.

The connection is made as planned: the UPS is connected to the home electricity line, which is then connected to the boiler and pump. Conditions of connection:

• Do not allow the power cable to come into contact with hot parts of the device – motor, housing, pipe;
• It is necessary to avoid moistening the terminal box;
• If the box is on the side, the connection can be made from below;
• The cable must be heat-resistant;
• grounding is mandatory.

Pump energy losses can be minimized by installing a thermostat on the pipe.

Checking operation and start-up

Testing the equipment is the last step in the installation assembly process. Coolant must first be poured into the system, and air must then be released using taps and valves.

Try turning on the pump two or three times in a row. Pay attention to how evenly it hums; if it changes, the pump needs to be adjusted. The system’s serviceability is indicated by how easy the engine starts; if braking occurs, you should contact a master.

The vessel needs to be cleaned of contamination or if something foreign has gotten inside if the circulation pump is heating up.

An additional factor could be insufficient voltage within the network. The unit burns out when it overheats and the bearing parts are not properly lubricated.

In order to save money, a private home with two or three stories needs a pump for heating. By using smaller diameter pipes and quick water circulation, coolant cooling in large system circuits can be avoided, air lock formation can be avoided, and power supply costs can be decreased. The primary requirement for the efficient operation of the work is: – select a dependable device and install the heating pump correctly.

How to install a circulation pump

Place circulation pumps in forced or natural circulation heating systems. It is necessary to improve heat transfer and have control over the room’s temperature. Installing a circulation pump is not an extremely difficult task; with the right knowledge and hands-on experience, you can do it yourself.

What is a circulation pump and what is it for?

A circulatory pump modifies the liquid medium’s velocity without altering the pressure. It is utilized in heating systems to provide more effective heating. It is a necessary component in forced circulation systems, but it can be added to gravity systems if you wish to boost the heat capacity. By installing a circulation pump with multiple speeds, the amount of heat transferred can be adjusted based on the outside temperature, allowing the room to remain consistently warm.

Cross-section of a circulation pump with a wet rotor

These units come in two varieties: wet and dry rotor models. Although dry rotor units require frequent maintenance and have a high efficiency of approximately 80%, they are highly noisy. When the coolant is in good condition, units with a wet rotor can operate nearly silently for up to ten years without experiencing any problems. Despite their reduced efficiency (roughly 50%), their qualities are more than sufficient to heat any private residence.

Where to put

Installing the circulation pump on the supply or return pipeline is the same, but it is advised to do so after the boiler and up to the first branch. The materials used to make modern units can typically withstand temperatures between 100 and 115°C. Though it is unfeasible to consider a more "comfortable" temperature, put the coolant in the return flow if that is how you feel more comfortable. Few heating systems operate with hotter coolant.

It can be fitted in the direct or return pipeline up to the first branch pipe, either before or after the boiler.

The hydraulics of the boiler and the remainder of the system are identical; a pump is located in either the supply or return branch. What counts are the proper piping installation and rotor orientation with respect to space. The remainder is not significant.

There is one important point on the place of installation. If the heating system has two separate branches – to the right and left wings of the house or to the first and second floor – it makes sense to put a separate unit on each, rather than one common unit directly after the boiler. Moreover, the same rule is maintained on these branches: right after the boiler, up to the first branch in this heating circuit. This will make it possible to set the required thermal regime in each part of the house independently of the other and also in two-storey houses to save on heating. As? Due to the fact that the second floor is usually much warmer than the ground floor and much less heat is needed there. If there are two pumps in the branch that goes upstairs, the speed of movement of the coolant is set much lower, and this allows you to burn less fuel, and without sacrificing the comfort of living.

Heating systems come in two varieties: those with forced circulation and those without. Systems that use forced circulation require a pump to function; those that use natural circulation can, but their heat output is reduced. However, less heat is still far preferable to none at all, which is why the system is built as a hydraulic system (with natural circulation) and then a pump is added in locations where electricity is frequently cut off. This results in heating that is highly dependable and efficient. It is evident that these systems differ in how a circulation pump is installed.

Every underfloor heating system is forced because the coolant cannot flow through such big circuits without a pump.

Forced circulation

Forced circulation heating systems are installed directly in the supply or return pipe break (you choose). This is because they cannot function without a pump.

The majority of circulation pump issues stem from the coolant’s mechanical impurities, such as sand and other abrasive particles. The motor can be stopped by jamming the impeller. Because of this, the unit needs to have a strainer/dirt filter in front of it.

Installing a circulation pump in a forced circulation system

Installing ball valves on both sides is also preferred. They enable the device to be fixed or replaced without requiring the system’s coolant to be drained. Turn off the faucets and take the unit out. The water that was directly in this section of the system is the only portion that is drained out.

Natural circulation

One significant distinction between circulation pump piping in gravity systems is the need for a bypass. This is a jumper that keeps the system going even when the pump isn’t. One ball shut-off valve on the bypass is permanently closed while the pump is operating. The system functions as a forced system in this mode.

Installation plan for a circulation pump in a naturally circulating system

The system operates on gravity when there is a power outage or malfunction with the unit because the jumper valve is opened and the pump’s valve is closed.

Peculiarities of installation

One crucial component needs to be turned in order to avoid having to redo the installation of a circulation pump: the rotor needs to be oriented horizontally. The direction of flow is the second point. The coolant flow direction is indicated by an arrow on the body. This is how the unit should be turned around so that the coolant is moving "in the arrow."

Although the pump itself can be installed both vertically and horizontally, make sure the model you choose can operate in both orientations. Furthermore, there is a roughly 30% decrease in power (created pressure) when positioning vertically. When selecting a model, this should be considered.

Reason	Explanation
Improved Efficiency	A circulation pump helps distribute hot water evenly throughout your home, reducing energy waste and ensuring rooms heat up efficiently.
Faster Heating	By constantly moving hot water through the pipes, a circulation pump ensures that you don"t have to wait long for hot water to reach your faucets or radiators.

A circulation pump is an essential part of any contemporary heating system, helping to keep your house at the highest possible level of efficiency and comfort. With the help of these pumps, which actively circulate hot water throughout the system, your home will be evenly heated, preventing cold spots and offering constant warmth.

Reducing energy consumption and subsequently utility bills is one of the main advantages of a circulation pump. The pump reduces the need for the boiler or heater to frequently cycle on and off, which can be expensive and energy-intensive. Instead, hot water is continuously circulated through the pipes. It is not necessary to wait for the system to heat up thanks to this constant circulation, which guarantees that hot water is always available when needed.

Furthermore, a circulation pump reduces the possibility of freezing and corrosion, which could harm your heating system. Over time, corrosive elements can accumulate in stagnant water in pipes and cause damage to radiators and pipes. The pump prolongs the life of your system and lowers the need for expensive repairs by keeping the water flowing, which lessens the possibility that such problems will arise.

Additionally, adding a circulation pump can greatly improve your home’s overall level of comfort. These pumps provide a more comfortable living environment for you and your family by maintaining constant warmth in all of the living areas, regardless of how close they are to the boiler or heater.

In summary, even though a circulation pump might appear to be a minor part of your heating system, it actually has a significant impact. The advantages of adding a circulation pump are indisputable, ranging from increased comfort and longer system lifespan to lower energy costs and increased energy efficiency. Therefore, adding a circulation pump to a new or upgraded system is a prudent investment that will pay off in the long run in terms of comfort, efficiency, and cost savings.

Video on the topic

Heating circulation pump.Whether it is needed??? Experiment