How to choose a gas column

As an independent source of home heating, the gas column has been known since time immemorial. “Grandfathers” devices can be found in Khrushchev houses to this day, however, when choosing a modern source of heating, such a device is almost always overlooked. And very unfairly: for the past time, these devices are quite advanced in their development, becoming modern, convenient in operation and economical sources of heat.

Content

The best manufacturers. Which burner to choose?
What to look for when choosing a gas column?
Additional functions
What kind of gas column to choose?
Gas selection video

The best manufacturers. Which burner to choose?

Due to its design, gas equipment is a source of increased danger. Even the most reliable speaker, equipped with the latest security systems, can cause a lot of trouble if used improperly, and therefore should be preferred only to proven devices from reliable manufacturers with a worldwide reputation, whose products have earned many complimentary reviews from users:

Indesit
Ariston
Electrolux
Bosch
Will meet

It is possible to have decent models from domestic manufacturers. For example, the Neva produces high-quality, time-tested models, designed exclusively for domestic operating conditions and certified by all interested services.

What to look for when choosing a gas column?

Criterias of choice

A specific device is suitable for certain conditions according to a set of criteria that have the most direct impact on its functionality. Choosing a gas column, they need to pay close attention.

Ignition method

“Grandfather's” columns, which had to be “lit” manually with the help of matches, sunk into the summer. Modern models in this regard have advanced far ahead: nowadays the gas water heater is a fully automated device, and its ignition is carried out in one of three main ways:

Piezoelectric element. The classic method of ignition, known for a long time. The principle of operation is based on the interaction of a small gas wick and a piezoelectric element. Such a device boasts autonomy, but it’s impossible to call it economical;
Electrical ignition with 220V mains. Ignition is carried out using an electric spark, which is autonomous. The disadvantage of this method is the dependence on the 220V network - in the absence of electricity, the column will not start;
Electric ignition from the built-in battery or batteries. It is used where there is no voltage in the network. It is autonomous and unpretentious in operation, and the only thing you have to watch out for is the state and degree of charge of the battery or batteries;

Type and principle of operation of the gas column

Depending on this parameter, there are three main types of gas columns:

Constant power devices. The temperature mode of operation of such devices is manually configured and is stationary. This feature delivers a lot of trouble: water is heated with the same intensity, regardless of the strength of the flow, and therefore the temperature must be adjusted manually;
Variable power devices Advanced analogue of the above models, much more economical and convenient to use. A special sensor built into the main pipeline analyzes the flow rate and the amount of water supplied, depending on which device controls the degree of heating intensity. Control of the device is simplified to the banal setting of the water temperature on the control panel;
Modulation columns are considered the most advanced in terms of performance. Sensors for such devices - two: one monitors the speed of water flow and pressure in the system, the second - the water temperature at the entrance to the device. Analyzing the obtained readings, the device doses the amount of gas used to maintain the temperature at the proper level;

Device power

A parameter that directly affects the performance and reflects the performance of the device at a particular point in time. Measured in kilowatts, the average value for a variety of household models varies at around 15-30 kW. In addition to power, you can pay attention to the bandwidth of a particular device, as well as the temperature indicators at the input and output devices. The higher the numbers are, the more efficient the column is.

Types of water heater

Depending on this parameter, all devices can be divided into three main classes:

Instantaneous water heaters are devices that heat water in real time. Due to the principle of operation, they are able to supply heated water almost instantly, but cannot boast high power;
Accumulative water heaters are a tank in which constantly heated water is located. Due to this feature, hot water is available here and now, but its volume is limited by the volume of the tank;
Bulk water heaters are similar to flow-through water heaters, but in this situation a special container is initially filled in which the water is heated. Due to this feature, it takes some time to heat the water. The operation of the device is carried out cyclically.

Additional functions

gas column functionality

Options affecting the ease of use and its functional features:

Control method . There are models with hydraulic control, when the operation of the device is adjusted manually, using different valves or valves, or electronically controlled models, in which all manipulations are carried out using a special console or control panel;
Existence of the indication display. A useful feature that allows you to display comprehensive information about the status of the device;
The presence of various protective systemsmaking it impossible to operate under critical conditions. It includes a whole range of algorithms designed to protect against gas leakage, overheating of the device, from a power outage, from lack of water or excessive pressure in the system;

What kind of gas column to choose?

When choosing a gas column for the dacha, preference should be given to models with a capacity of up to 20 kW, equipped with a multitude of protective systems, as well as a starting system operating from the electrical network;
In the absence of electricity at the place where the gas column is installed, preference should be given to a device that is started from an internal battery or batteries. The presence of various protective systems is mandatory, power - 15-20 kW;
When it is impossible to continuously monitor batteries or built-in batteries, as well as in the absence of a constant source of electricity, preference should be given to devices equipped with piezoelectric starting.