Boilers are electrode. Electrode boilers: principle of operation, pros and cons, installation tips Electrode boiler for private heating

Sometimes the situation develops in such a way that when choosing an energy source for the heating system of your own home, the most acceptable, and sometimes even the only possible option see the use of electricity. Gas networks have not yet arrived in every settlement and not in every building. The use of solid fuel becomes profitable only in those regions where it is really available and cheap. As for diesel-fueled boilers, this is generally a separate conversation, since such equipment itself is very expensive, and organizing the correct and safe storage of at least a minimum supply of diesel fuel is also not an easy task.

Electricity, presumably, is in every country house. It is clear that many are scared off by the high level of tariffs, but it happens that there is simply no other way out. The natural desire of the owners is to choose equipment with minimal energy consumption and maximum heat transfer. Therefore, such a high interest of consumers has recently been caused by an electrode boiler for heating a private house.

Against the background of their "brother-competitors", that is, electric boilers of other types, it is the electrode boilers that can be called the most ambiguous in terms of reviews, according to the incredible qualities attributed to them, which are adjacent to devastating criticism. These polar opinions should be taken with caution, as in such situations, most likely, the truth lies somewhere in between the extremes.

You might be interested in knowing which one is right for you.

The purpose of this publication is to help an ignorant reader understand what an electrode boiler is, how it works. And, of course, how much attention should be paid to real and imaginary advantages and disadvantages. Will be brought short review commercially available models address some issues related to the installation and maintenance of such equipment.

Basic device and principle of operation of the electrode boiler

It will be much easier for some readers to understand the device and principle of operation of the electrode boiler if they remember the simple way to quickly boil water using a simple device. In student dormitories, where commandants strictly enforced the prohibition of having electric heaters, such a device was probably hidden in every room. This is a cable, at one end of which there is a plug for connecting to the network. And on the other - two razor blades, fixed in one way or another, but always so that there is a small gap between them. Instead of blades, other metal plates were also used: in the army barracks, for example, horseshoes for boots were often used. The essence of this has not changed.

After lowering such an “assembly” into the water and connecting it to a 220 volt network, the water heated up very quickly. We didn't have to wait long - it took less than a minute for a glass to boil. The same principle is used in electrode, or, as they are often called, ion boilers.

Warning: such experiments are very dangerous and should not be repeated. There is a high probability of electrical injury or a fire hazard from a short circuit. Nowadays, there are plenty of miniature factory-made boilers.

What is the matter here, due to which such rapid heating is carried out? To understand the principle, it is necessary to remember some physical laws.

Even ordinary water (unless, of course, distilled water is taken into account) has electrolytic qualities - the substances dissolved in it acquire an ionic structure, that is, a set of positively and negatively charged particles. If two electrodes are immersed in such an environment direct current, then the directed movement of ions will begin: negatively charged (anions) - to the positive conductor (cathode), and positive (cations) - to the anode. This process is called electrolysis.

But in our case, an alternating voltage with a frequency of 50 Hz is used. This means that the polarity of electrodes immersed in water changes at a rate of 50 times per second. Naturally, the movement of ions under such conditions is not directed, but turns into an oscillatory one, with a change in direction with the same frequency. Since such oscillations occur in a sufficiently dense water medium, which provides significant resistance to movement, the movement energy is converted into heat. In the space between the electrodes there is a very rapid heating, which leads to the boiling of water.

The electrode boiler works in the same way, only the generated thermal energy is already transferred by the coolant flow through the heat exchange points - radiators. In all other types of electric boilers, certain metal parts act as a "transfer link". This can be a tubular body of a heating element, a labyrinth of internal channels, or the body itself - in induction-type devices. In the forehead case, the coolant warms up only due to direct heat transfer. But in the electrode circuit there is no such “intermediary” in principle - the liquid medium itself, which is currently between the conductors immersed in it, heats up.

They say, and it seems to be true, that such technology was transferred to the life of a person from the military industry - this is how water is heated for heating the compartments of submarines and surface ships. This is supported by a combination of the necessary qualities - compactness, speed, efficiency, fire safety.

A small digression so as not to return to the problems of terminology. Electrode boilers sometimes called ionic - why, probably, it is clear. However, sometimes manufacturers focus on just such a formulation, trying to draw a certain line between these two concepts. They motivate by the fact that their devices implement high-precision control at the level of the "quantity and quality of ions" involved in the heating process. This can be perceived as a publicity stunt or taken seriously - in any case, such control is assigned to any electronics unit and requires the use of a precisely adjusted composition of the electrolyte-coolant. But the principle of operation of the heating circuit itself does not change at all from this. So it will not be a big mistake to use either of these two formulations.

But the name “cathode” or “anode” boiler is completely incorrect, since in constant voltage mode such a circuit is simply inoperable.

How is an electrode heating boiler arranged?

The simplicity of the principle of operation of such a boiler determines the very simple device of the heating device itself. Despite the fairly wide variety of models currently on sale, almost all of them are outwardly similar to each other and have approximately the same layout.

The only difference is in some nuances of the external design in various manufacturers, and in the features of the control equipment (which, in fact, most often is no longer a boiler and is purchased separately).

Electronic boilers can be designed to operate on AC 220 V, or on three-phase - 380 V. This predetermines some difference in their design.

Consider first how a single-phase boiler works.

It is a cylindrical metal case (pos. 1). This department serves not only to ensure the flow of the coolant - the metal walls of the case play the role of one of the electrodes. To do this, a terminal for connecting a “neutral” wire (pos. 2) is provided on the case. The figure shows a simplified view, but often this terminal is located hidden, as it is removed in the boiler's switching unit.

The cylindrical part of the body on one side ends with a branch pipe for connecting to the heating circuit supply pipe (pos. 3) - it is from here that the coolant heated in the boiler will flow into the system (shown by a pink arrow). The coolant is supplied through another branch pipe located perpendicular to the axis of the main cylinder (pos. 4 and blue arrow, respectively).

Exactly in the center of the main working cylinder is the second electrode (pos. 5). Naturally, the necessary gap between it and the walls must be observed - it is in this gap that the coolant will quickly heat up. On this side, the working cylinder is muffled - a switching unit is located here, including a terminal for connecting the phase wire. (pos. 6).

The figure, just for clarity, shows a kind of "layout", a boiler homemade. Naturally, in factory-assembled models, all this looks more accurate.

The differences in three-phase models, in fact, are only in the design of the electrodes, and in the associated increase in the dimensions of the entire product.

A terminal connection is still provided on the boiler body, it is intended for switching the zero and ground wires. And inside the working cylinder there are three electrodes (according to the number of phases), which are structurally placed on a common dielectric block at equal distances - at the corners of an equilateral triangle.

The electrodes are a replaceable part of the boiler - in case of failure, they can be replaced with new ones.

Of course, in the area where the working central cylinder is muffled by the switching unit, reliable hydro- and electrical insulation is provided. In factory models, in order to minimize the likelihood of electrical injury to the inhabitants of the apartment, the body is covered with a special insulating polyamide compound.

The dimensions of electrode boilers can vary greatly - from miniature heaters that serve only one or a few heating radiators, to powerful installations that can provide heat to a large building. Often, such boilers are combined into a kind of "batteries" with parallel connection, and put into operation simultaneously or selectively, as it becomes necessary to maintain more or less heating power.

In fact, most models of boilers on the body itself no longer have any control or additional devices. All monitoring and control functions are placed in separate modules of varying degrees of complexity.

The simplest set of control equipment is equipped with a temperature sensor that is installed on the supply pipe and controls the degree of heating of the coolant. More accurate systems already have two sensors - at the inlet and outlet to the boiler. Displayed on the control panel required level heating, and the automation will supply power to the electrodes, based on the current values, taking into account their hysteresis (set range).

There are also much more complex control and management schemes - they are a “chip” of some manufacturers of such equipment. Basically, they are designed to maintain comfortable conditions at the lowest possible energy consumption.

We will deal with the advantages and disadvantages of the electrode boiler

This is probably the most important question- in the course of the presentation, it has already been noted that a lot of real and far-fetched advantages and disadvantages are attributed to such equipment. Therefore, it is better to understand slowly - for each item.

What do they say about the advantages of ion boilers?

• If we consider electric boilers equal power, then in terms of compact size and low weight, ion boilers are out of competition.

This is an indisputable quality - indeed, the simplicity of the contraction predetermines the small size. This is especially pronounced in comparison with induction models, which are "famous" for their massiveness and considerable dimensions.

• The electrode boiler does not require coordination procedures during installation, it does not need a chimney and additional supply ventilation.

You can’t argue with this, but all electric boiler equipment in general has the same advantages, and electrode models do not stand out in this regard.

• The electrodes are credited with literally “fabulous” efficiency indicators - supposedly their electricity consumption is almost half that of other electric boilers.

By and large, all electric stakes have an efficiency tending to 100% - there are no friction units, no mechanical gears, there is absolutely no removal of combustion products - all electrical energy is converted into heat. Another thing is that, say, boilers that use the resistive heating principle are more inertial, that is, they need more time to reach the nominal mode, and in the electrode “acceleration” it takes much faster. But in the future, there will hardly be any advantages. It is simply not serious to expect some kind of “influx of energy from outside”, since the fundamental law of physics on the conservation of energy cannot be deceived.

• Electrode boilers are safe from the point of view that if the coolant flows out of the heating system, they will not lead to overheating and burnout.

This property of them is quite obvious. If there is no water (coolant) in the working cylinder, then the circuit is simply open, and the boiler cannot operate in such conditions in principle.

• Ion boilers are insensitive to mains voltage fluctuations.

This is a rather controversial, if not even an absurd statement. Look at any heater that works on a resistive type - it is also unpretentious to voltage drops, its current heating power is simply reduced. From this point of view, the electrode boiler is not much different from it. And by and large, a stable voltage is necessary not so much for the heater as for the monitoring and control unit and additional equipment of the heating system. So, in conditions of instability in the local power grid, it is still difficult to do without installing a stabilizer.

Precise control electronics for heating boilers require a stable voltage!

Read more about how it works, how to choose it correctly from the variety offered for sale - read in a separate publication of our portal.

• The heating of water in the electrode boiler is so rapid that the necessary pressure is created by itself, which makes it possible to manage with natural circulation, without the use of pumps.

This is, of course, a profound misconception. Indeed, immediately after startup, this effect can be expressed to a certain extent, but when the system reaches the design mode, the difference in the density of the coolant at the inlet and outlet of the boiler will not differ in any way from systems with other models of heating devices.

The pump in the system, especially equipped with an electric boiler, becomes an indispensable element - such an addition makes it more economical and manageable. And the cost of powering the pump is incomparable with the energy losses that are wasted to ensure the movement of the coolant through the pipes in a system with natural circulation. So the electrode pump does not create any preferences in this regard.

• The compactness of electrode boilers allows them to be installed in existing heating systems as additional sources of thermal energy.

Yes, this is practiced, and the electrode boiler, depending on the power and dimensions of the model, can be installed both in the boiler room and directly in residential premises, right next to the radiators. An electrical device can be launched "to help" the main one, come "to replace" when the main heat source needs some kind of technological or maintenance break. Especially successful is the use of electric boilers in conjunction with other boilers with their common connection to buffer tanks - this allows you to accumulate energy potential during the period of the night preferential tariff.

Buffer tank (heat accumulator) - optimization of the home heating system

The accumulation of heat generated by a solid fuel boiler during the combustion of a wood-burning bookmark, or an electric one - during the operation of a preferential tariff - is a direct way to increase the efficiency of the heating system. How it works, and how to properly approach the choice of such equipment - in a separate publication of the portal.

If a mixed scheme is used using an electrode and another boiler, then either the common heat carrier must comply with the electrode heating principle, or a buffer tank is used with an additional heat exchanger that does not allow mixing of heat carriers.

• The low inertia of the electrode boiler greatly simplifies the process of fine adjustment of the heating system.

A very controversial statement - complete with simple control systems, this will only lead to more frequent start and stop cycles, which is not a blessing at all. In addition, electrolytes tend to change their electro specifications when heated, and not linearly. This makes the correct debugging of the heating system and precise control of it - not an easy task. Electric boilers with heating elements or induction in this regard look preferable.

• The operation of electrode boilers does not harm the environment.

This property is inherent in all electrical installations in general - there are no emissions into the atmosphere. But, on the other hand, electrode boilers are even less “safe”, the weeks of their “brothers” are a question in the chemical composition of the coolant used, which often contains very toxic substances. Disposal of such liquids must be carried out by specialists, in accordance with all the rules, in no case is it allowed to drain either onto the ground or into the sewer system.

• Electrode boilers are famous for their low cost.

Again, it would seem indisputable, since the price of the heaters themselves, indeed, lies in a very affordable range. But very often there is also a “marketing trap”. Add to the cost of the boiler the price of the control unit, temperature sensors, circulation pump - and the overall result will be quite comparable with, say, a heating element boiler, in the layout of which all these nodes are already provided.

You may be interested in information on how effective

And without additional monitoring and control devices, operating an electrode boiler is not only unprofitable, but also very dangerous: leaving the process of extremely rapid heating of water uncontrolled is the same as planting a bomb with a frozen action - sooner or later it will definitely explode.

So when buying, you should focus not only on the widely advertised low cost of electrode boilers, but also on the price level of everything necessary for their efficient and safe operation of hardware content.

Real and far-fetched disadvantages of electrode boilers

Even a cursory glance at the negative aspects attributed to electrode boilers can form a prejudice against such a heating system in advance. However, is it all true? Let's look a little deeper here.

• The coolant must always be of high quality, with a properly selected, balanced chemical composition.

This is true, and such a requirement sometimes causes a lot of trouble. The composition must give good ionization, have sufficient heat capacity, a wide operating temperature range, be safe from all points of view and not cause active chemical corrosion of the metal parts of the system. The liquid should not have too high resistance, otherwise the current may not flow through it at all. In a word, there are many criteria.

It can be very difficult for an inexperienced owner to choose the optimal composition, and the composition filled “by eye” is quite capable, although ensuring the operation of the system in principle, to drastically reduce its efficiency, minimizing all the main advantages of ion boilers. If we also take into account the fact that the coolant quickly “ages” and changes its qualities, requires regular replacement, then this, of course, in the aggregate, raises a lot of questions about the ease of operation of such a system.

• The use of ion boilers limits the owners with a choice of heating radiators

A perfectly fair reproach. Indeed, cast-iron or steel radiators are contraindicated for such heating systems. Possible phenomena of corrosion of ferrous metals can disrupt chemical composition coolant, reduce its electrolytic qualities. In addition, the excessively high heat capacity of cast iron, combined with the large internal volume of such batteries, will lead to the fact that the electrode boiler will work almost without pauses, and you will have to forget about efficiency.

The best option for such boilers is this. Good quality aluminium. But inexpensive radiators made of recycled aluminum (usually manufactured using extrusion technology) are not recommended - the metal will contain many impurities, and this circumstance will very quickly disrupt the balanced chemical composition of the coolant.

• Another disadvantage from the same series is that such boilers should not be used in an open heating system.

All right - free access atmospheric air to the coolant is able, firstly, to sharply increase its corrosive aggressiveness, and secondly, to unbalance the required chemical composition of the liquid.

• Water from the heating system must not be used for domestic or technical needs.

It is not clear why this is attributed only to electrode boilers? It would never occur to a good owner to take water from the heating circuit, regardless of which boiler is installed in it! There are other ways to do this hot water, for example, installation of an indirect heating boiler. And the electrode boiler is no different from others in this regard.

• A circuit using an electrode boiler always puts forward special requirements for reliable grounding.

Yes it is. The importance is great already from the positions that the body of the electrode boilers itself is one of the electrodes, unlike all other types of equipment. If in other devices it is fashionable to confine ourselves to installing an RCD, in this case such a measure will be ineffective, also due to the peculiarities of the principle of operation - the RCD will work constantly due to inevitable leaks. So, to ensure safety - only reliable grounding.

However, in fairness, we note that high-quality grounding is necessary in general for all powerful electrical appliances. So this is not, in the literal sense of the word, a disadvantage of ion boilers, but simply belongs to the category of increased requirements for ensuring the safety of their operation.

• The upper limit of heating the coolant in systems with electrode boilers is 75 degrees.

All boilers have a heating threshold - for this, there are control and management units to monitor this. In electrode boilers, this threshold is due to the fact that at higher heating values, strong changes begin in the electrolytic characteristics of the coolant, which leads to unnecessary excess consumption of electricity without any useful heat transfer.

However, for home autonomous heating systems, such a temperature threshold is usually quite enough for efficient space heating.

• The electrodes of ion boilers have a non-positive service life, quickly overgrow, and require replacement.

Very debatable. Perhaps such a conclusion was made by those owners who used low-quality coolant, which led to the rapid formation of scale. Under normal conditions, the electrodes serve a lot.

But even if the deadline for replacing failed components has come (and this happens with absolutely any electrical equipment), then such an operation cannot be called particularly costly or complicated.

• Installing an electrode boiler, debugging and starting the heating system are quite complex procedures that require the involvement of specialists.

Here it would be necessary to separate the concepts. The installation of the boiler in the heating circuit, on the contrary, is very simple and understandable. But as for debugging - then, alas, we have to agree with this. Correctly evaluate the chemical composition of the coolant, the overall efficiency of the system, without having the appropriate experience and without having necessary equipment- extremely difficult. This means that you should be prepared for the annual call of specialists for preventive work before the start of the heating season.

We hope that the information in this section of the publication will help to carefully assess the prospects for installing this type of boiler. If, in the opinion of potential owners, the advantages of this heating principle outweigh the disadvantages, then you can proceed to the choice from the range available for sale. More on this in the next section of the post.

Overview of the Russian market for electrode boilers

It should be noted that despite the inconsistency in the assessment of electrode boilers, their popularity is quite high and even tends to grow. Naturally, manufacturers take this into account, and present on Russian market a large number of models. Consider the most popular brands in our area.

Boilers of the company "Galan"

This is a Moscow company that has become a pioneer in the production of electrode heating equipment. Moreover, some information allows us to say that this is a leader in the development innovative technology- not only among Russian companies, but also on a wider, global scale.

The first developments were patented and put into mass production in the early 1990s. It can be said with a high degree of certainty that the Galan brand still remains a kind of “trendsetter” in this area.

If you set a search query on the Internet on the topic “electrode boiler”, then almost certainly the first lines in the list of information received will be occupied by Galan products.

Prices for the model range of Galan boilers

Galan boilers

The modern range of electrode heaters for heating systems is represented by three product lines. Each of them has several models of different capacities.

• For large mansions, for apartment buildings or for heating large household or public facilities, boilers of the Galan-Volkan line are used. They operate exclusively from a three-phase power supply, and are represented by power models. 25, 36 and 50 kW.
• Medium power line - "Geyser". It has only two models, with a capacity of 9 and 15 kW. Suitable for most medium-sized country houses.
• Finally, the most compact models are the Ochag line, from 2 to 6 kW. Despite their modest size and only “half a kilo” of weight, very serious indicators are claimed behind them, sufficient to heat small houses.

Main settings	"Volcano 50"	"Volcano 25"	"Geyser 15"	"Geyser 9"	"Hearth 6"	"Hearth 5"	"Hearth 3"
Consumed voltage, volt	380	380	380	220 or 380	220	220	220
Heated room, m³	before 1600	up to 850	up to 550	up to 250 / up to 340	up to 200	up to 120
Volume of coolant in the system, liters	300-500	150- 300	100- 200	50-100	35-70	30-60	25-50
Power consumption, max, A	2×37.9	37.5	22.7	13,7/40	27.3	22.7	13.7
Peak power consumption in kW, at tº of water 90ºС	50	25	15	9	6	5	3
Power consumption in kW, on average per season (6 months) from October 15 - April 15.	up to 36000 kW	up to 18000 kW	up to 12000 kW	up to 8000 kW	up to 6000 kW	up to 5000 kW	up to 3000 kW
Recommended outlet temperature, ºС	60	60	60	60	60	60	60
Coupling diameter for connecting the boiler to the heating system	32	32	32	32	25	25	25
weight. kg	11.5	6,5	6,5	6,5	0.5	0.5	0.5
diameter, mm	130	130	130	130	35	35	35
length, mm	570	460	410	360	335	320	275
Price in the basic configuration	25000	16000	15800	15500	12500	12000	11500

The Galan electrode boilers themselves are a well-established and proven design, which has been produced for a long time without any fundamental changes. But the automation for them is constantly being improved, replenished with new samples.

The basic package (the prices of which are indicated in the table) includes the Navigator control unit. If desired, you can replace it with a more advanced Navigator KT + model, of course, with an appropriate surcharge.

More expensive, “fancy” configurations are also possible, including digital temperature controllers for supply and return, circulation pump control modules, room remote room thermostats that monitor the air temperature in the premises, additional devices for ensuring protection and safety of operation.

Video: presentation video about Galan electrode boilers

Boilers electrode brand "EOU"

Under this abbreviation lies a very simple and eloquent name - "Energy-saving heating installation." A product of Russian development and production, popular in a number of countries near and far abroad and having international quality certification.

The range of EOU boilers is represented by two lines - models operating in a single-phase 220 V network, with a power of 2 to 12 kW, and designed for a three-phase 380 V supply, with a power of up to 120 kW. Interestingly, in the model range, uniform external dimensions devices - they are shown in the illustration below.

The table below shows the characteristics of the model range of EOU boilers, designed for a single-phase power supply network, as the most popular for heating small and medium-sized private houses.

Main settings	1/2	1/3	1/4	1/5	1/6	1/7	1/8	1/9	1/10	1/12
Operating voltage, Volt	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220	~220
Power consumption. kW	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	12
Heated room volume, m³	120	180	240	300	360	420	480	540	600	750
Heated area, m²	40	60	80	100	120	140	160	180	200	250
Electricity consumption per day, kW	2-16	3-24	4-32	5-40	6-48	7-56	8-64	9-72	10-80	12-96
The rise of water in the water system (without pump), meters of water. Art.	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	13
Temperature control limits,	up to 95
Number of electrodes, pcs.	one
Weight, no more than, kg	3
The price of the device, without a control panel, rub.	4500	4700	4900	5000	5300	5500	5800	6000	6200	6300
The price of a set of accessories for mounting the control panel, rub.	1410	2000	2000	2000	2000	2000	3200	3200	3200	3200

The manufacturer declares that the equipment is ready for trouble-free operation for 30 years, and for the first decade he gives a factory warranty.

You may be interested in information about what is

Electrode (ion) boilers "Beryl"

It is not in vain that the word “ionic” is placed in parentheses in the title of this subsection - this is exactly the case already mentioned above when a manufacturer grades between electrode and ion devices of his own design. In some models, a special electronic system is provided for assessing the quantitative and qualitative state of the ionic medium of the coolant with the development of appropriate amendments to the operating mode of the equipment.

The model range is presented in two standard sizes - respectively, for a single-phase power supply network (power from 2 to 9 kW), and three-phase - up to 33 kW. The dimensions of the boilers are shown in the illustration below:

It can be noted that the boilers of this manufacturer have one salient feature: "mirror", unlike other brands, the location of the power unit - it is located in the upper part, along the course of the coolant. This, by the way, greatly simplifies installation and maintenance work, including rewiring or even replacing the electrode block with a new one - everything is much more affordable.

The table below shows the price level for various models boilers "Beryl" and recommended control modules for it.

Name of boilers, control systems, other components:	price, rub.
Ionic boilers BERIL with an automation unit (manual power change in steps of 200 (600) W)
	5000
	9000
Control unit "Euro" for boilers 220V and 380V	15000
Ionic boilers BERIL with an automation unit (automatic and manual power change, step 600 W)
Boilers 380 V with a triac unit, power 6, 9, 12, 15, 25, 33 kW	20000
CSO control module (with PID mode function)	15000
Ionic boilers BERIL with automatics (automatic or manual power change in 2 kW increments)
Boiler 380 V with built-in triac unit, power 100 kW	75000
Boiler 380 V with built-in triac unit, power 130 kW	100000
CSU control unit (with PID mode function) for 100 and 130 kW boilers	25000
BERIL electrode boilers and automation for them
Boilers 220 V; power 5, 7, 9 kW	5000
Boilers 380 V; power 6, 9, 12, 15, 25, 33 kW	9000
Control unit ETsRT GECK for boilers 220 and 380 V	9000
Recommended coolant
Coolant BERIL V.I.P. based on propylene glycol, crystallization threshold -45 ºС, polyethylene canister 20 liters	2500

By the way, in terms of control equipment, this company is trying to set the tone. The choice of the consumer is offered manual, semi-automatic and fully automated control modules. It is possible to adjust the levels of power involved in certain steps, which ensures smoother and more economical operation of the entire system.

More modern control modules monitor the state of the heating system in real time, are equipped with special triac units, PID response devices. Such control systems are able only to evaluate the current indicators of the sensors, but also to predict the situation, while developing corrective amendments to the set operating mode of the boiler. As a result, such models give a very significant, estimated at 15-20%, the effect of saving electricity consumption without loss in the comfort of the microclimate created in the premises.

Electrode boilers are that rare, but very pleasant case for understanding when, when choosing the optimal model, there is no need to look for foreign samples - Russian equipment of this class is confidently at the forefront. Of the entire imported range, only the boilers of the Latvian company "STAFOR" can be mentioned, which are in demand among our consumers for their high reliability and safety performance.

The manufacturer completes its products with the necessary control and monitoring units of its own design. In addition, the range includes a branded coolant designed specifically for ion power plants, as well as a special additive "STATERM POWER", which makes it possible to accurately adjust the chemical composition of the coolant to achieve maximum boiler efficiency.

Evgeny AfanasievChief Editor

Publication author 07.11.2016

How to install an ion boiler

Most often, a gas or solid fuel boiler is used to heat a private house. If none of the options match, choose ion heating boilers. Specifications this type of boilers will pleasantly surprise you, because this device works thanks to a special method of heating water in the heating system.

Specifications of the ion boiler

During operation, water ions move in chaos between the anode and cathode placed inside the boiler. The current generated between them helps to accelerate the ions and thus heats the coolant. Cathodes and anodes are made from a special durable material that does not rust.

The case is sealed to avoid a breakthrough if the system is not properly connected. The complete set of the heater consists of a heating element, a relay protecting the boiler and a special thermostat that allows you to regulate the temperature.

The ion boiler allows you to install several closed heating systems in one room. This heater is compact and can be mounted in any more suitable place for this. The efficiency of such a boiler is almost 100 percent.

The installation of a cathode and an anode in the system makes it possible to reduce energy losses to zero. It takes about one kilowatt per hour for 20 square meters. The water in the system during the operation of the boiler heats up much faster in comparison with other types of boilers. The low start-up inertia allows heating the coolant in the radiators to the required level in a short period of time. In addition, the boiler has increased protection against power surges. In the absence of a coolant in the heating system, the boiler does not fail.

Installation of an ion heating boiler

The area, that is, 48 ​​is multiplied by the height from floor to ceiling, that is, by 2.6. From this, a calculation is made that for heating one meter it will be 0.025 kilowatts. A boiler with a capacity of 3 kilowatts is enough to heat the entire room.

1. To shut off the coolant in the event of a system failure or replacement of the coolant, a ball valve is mounted.
2. A circulating pump is mounted for uniform running and distribution of water among the batteries.
3. The filter cleans the incoming coolant into the boiler from scale and rust.
4. A drain valve is mounted on the return pipe at the bottom to remove water from the system.
5. An expansion tank is required to take in the excess water that forms when it is heated in the system.
6. The automatic module for switching on the boiler starts the boiler with the given parameters.
7. After that, the air intake is installed.

For the ion boiler to work in the correct mode, the water must have a certain density. When replacing any boiler with an ion one, you first need to drain the old water from the system and fill in new water. In addition, an inhibitor is added to it. Water for the heating system is taken distilled.

To connect the boiler to the heating system, steel pipes without galvanizing treatment are used. After 120 centimeters from the boiler, the pipeline can be made of another material.

The ion boiler allows you to quickly and efficiently heat up the room, so read carefully specifications. ion boiler you can install it yourself if you do the calculations correctly and follow the step by step instructions.

Ionic heating boilers: technical specifications

Thinking about which heating boiler to choose? Evaluate the advantages of ion heating boilers for your home. Watch the video and discover the unique features of this…

Ionic heating boilers

In places where there is no access to the central heating system, electric boilers are often used. They work on the principle of converting electrical energy into thermal energy using a coolant (water or antifreeze) moving through the pipeline system. One of the types of electrical equipment are ion heating boilers. Let's consider everything in more detail.

Initially, all electric boilers, according to the method of connecting to the network, are divided into: single-phase (220V) and three-phase (380V). They are also single-circuit (capable of providing only space heating) and double-circuit (with the ability to additionally heat water for domestic use).

According to manufacturing technology, they are divided into three types:

• Electric boilers with heating element (heating element)
• Induction boilers
• Electrode (ion) boilers

Electric ion boilers

Such boilers operate on the principle of heating water (coolant) by ionization. This process takes place as follows:

When the boiler is connected to the network, water molecules are divided into positive and negative ions, which oscillate between two electrodes (anode and cathode). During this process, heat energy is generated. It is immediately transferred to the coolant, which distributes it throughout the heating system.

Such units are used as an autonomous heating system. They differ from boilers with heating elements small size, as well as a block of electrodes, which has high performance and efficiency. Salt is additionally added to the water, which plays the role of a heat carrier. This is necessary to increase the electrical resistance of water. In order to avoid metal corrosion or scale formation, antifreeze, designed specifically for ion boilers, is poured into the system instead of water.

Electrode boilers were originally used only for military purposes to heat submarines or warships. After that, having slightly changed the design, the developers began to produce boilers for domestic or industrial use.

For example, the Galan brand boiler is produced in accordance with all established standards of military equipment, as manufacturers specialize in the manufacture of devices for submarines and ships.

Ionic boiler "Galan"

For domestic use, boilers of the Galan brand are produced in the Hearth series, which has several models:

« Hearth2» – designed for space heating no more than 80 m3. The power consumption of the unit is 2 kW. The boiler operates on 220 V. With normal thermal insulation of the room, the power consumption fluctuates within 0.5 kW / h. The recommended amount of coolant fluid varies between 20-40 liters.

« Hearth 3»- Can warm up a room with a volume of 120 m3. The boiler power is 3 kW. Energy is consumed within 0.75 kW/h. Liquids for heating the system need from 25 to 50 liters.

« Hearth 5"- used in rooms with a volume of not more than 180 m3. The boiler has a power of 5 kW. Consumes about 1.25 kWh. The displacement of the coolant varies between 30-60 liters.

"Ochag 6" - is able to warm up 200m3. The power consumption is 6 kW and the consumption is 1.5 kW/h. Recommended from 35 to 70 liters. coolant.

Only the specially developed Potok liquid, which prevents corrosion of pipes, can be poured into the Galan boiler system.

Ionic boiler "Koterm"

The Koterm brand boiler for domestic use is produced in the Summer Resident series, which is characterized by high efficiency (98%).

The most demanded model of this series is "Koterm m-1". This unit is used to warm up a room with a volume of not more than 200 m3.

The ion heating boiler "Koterm" is capable of operating in three power modes: 1.2 kW-1.7 kW -3.5 kW. The unit weighs 7 kg.

The displacement of the coolant should not exceed 45 liters. The average power consumption varies within 1.5 kW/h.

Anode (ionic) heating boilers

Energy-saving technologies remain a priority in all areas. Nai greater efficiency they show in the area of ​​heating. This approach is associated with a constant rise in the cost of fuel. Equipment manufacturers offer various options execution of heating devices. One of them are anode heating boilers.

Design features

In order to understand what is at stake, let us recall the student and / or army past of many of those who are now reading this article. We are talking about a method of boiling water, for which someone used a boiler, and someone - the simplest handicraft design. These are two blades fixed at a small distance from each other and connected by a 220V mains wire. When this “boiler” was placed in water, it heated up literally within 2-3 seconds and began to boil violently. It is precisely on this principle that the anode heating boiler works.

Handicraft boiler - an analogue of a modern ion boiler

Please note that conducting experiments with heating water is dangerous to life and health. On the one hand, a short circuit may occur, on the other hand, a person risks electrical injury (electric shock).

The convenience of using such devices lies in the fact that parallel installation of electrode heating boilers is allowed in an existing heating system that works, for example, with a gas boiler. The coolant remains the same in both cases. But manufacturing companies produce not quite standard heaters, in which water is simultaneously used as both a heat carrier and a heating element.

The main elements of the module are:

• steel tube;
• inlet/outlet pipes;
• terminal for connecting wiring;
• heating electrodes;
• quality insulation.

Cathodic heating boilers outside have a powerful steel body. The walls are made of sheet metal up to 4 mm thick. Inside the household structure there are several electrodes up to 20 mm. They are made of refractory alloy having a long service life.

Modern electrode ion boilers do not have an intermediary material between the anode and cathode. Heating from both terminals occurs directly to the coolant itself, water. Accordingly, there is practically nothing to “burn out” inside the cavity. The scale that appears after long-term operation on the tubes in electric electrode boilers is cleaned with ordinary sandpaper.

Difference from heating elements

The individual characteristics that electrode boilers for heating are endowed with allow them to be distinguished from heating elements:

• in heating elements, at the initial stage of launch, the working tubes are heated, and electrode boilers, made with their own hands or bought in a specialized store, begin to heat the water immediately after the start, which reduces inertia;
• ion heating boilers have positive reviews, as they have an efficiency of 20-0% more than devices with heating elements;
• thanks to alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz, the electrodes move between the terminals and create a chaotic movement that promotes heating, this feature reduces the starting current for the electrode heating boiler, reducing the load on the electrical network

Anode and cathode change places at a speed of 50 r / sec

• do-it-yourself electrode boiler made or produced at the factory has smaller overall parameters than other household counterparts.

Such features provide a significant distribution of this heating system.

Positive performance

It is not necessary for homeowners to completely refuse gas if the wiring from radiators and mains is already installed in the room. Often such ion heating boilers perform a backup role in finished systems. Although, if the cost of gas grows faster, then they can be used as the main source of heating.

Their positive properties include:

• high degree of reliability;
• temperature is controlled automatically;
• real efficiency reaches 99%;
• installation of additional equipment may not be carried out;
• start-up and operation in systems designed to operate on gas;
• increased economy.

The electric electrode boiler operates exclusively on alternating current. Switching to DC voltage is not allowed.

Thanks to the built-in automation, the set optimum temperature is maintained for a predetermined time. You can improve economic usage by programming the system to lower the temperature on weekdays when no one is home and to increase the temperature in the evenings and weekends.

According to reviews, electrode boilers have a good emergency shutdown system. If a possible leakage of the coolant is detected, the device will automatically turn off. Also in these heating devices there is no short circuit.

The coolant for such equipment can be purchased directly from the manufacturer, which will provide the proper quality composition.

System Disadvantages

In addition to the pros, each system has its cons. Ionic electrode boilers have the following disadvantages:

• increased requirements for the electrolytic quality of water;
• it is necessary to carry out mandatory grounding of the device in order to reduce possible risks work with electrical equipment;
• it is desirable to maintain the water temperature in the system no higher than 70-75 0 C in order to reduce energy consumption;
• the cathode and anode need periodic descaling to ensure greater efficiency for the ionization process;
• the system needs mandatory circulation of the coolant, so a water pump must be installed in it.

Voltage drops for the boiler itself are not terrible, but they are necessary for the associated automation. To avoid damage from an unstable network, a UPS or, at a minimum, a surge protector will help.

Rules for safe operation

Optimal for operation is the water temperature at the level of 50-75 0 C. This information is indicated in the device passport. Expansion tanks must be used in closed and open systems.

The outlet from the boiler to the expansion tank in an open system must not have any shut-off valves.

Do-it-yourself installation of an electrode boiler into the system must be accompanied by the installation at the highest point of the system of an automatic air valve, a pressure gauge for measuring the working pressure and an explosive safety valve.

It is possible to install in the heating circuit as additional source heating, but in this case it is necessary to bring the quality and type of coolant into the proper state.

Not all radiators can work with ion boilers, and the quality of the coolant suits the units. With very big reservations, cast iron radiators can be used.

During installation, one and a half meters of supply pipes to the boiler must be made of non-galvanized metal. After this section, the use of metal-plastic is allowed.

Grounding according to PUE standards is mandatory. The cable should be with a cross section of 4-6 mm. Its minimum electrical resistance must be no higher than 4 ohms.

If possible, the entire piping system and consumers must be flushed with clean water before installation. It is allowed to use special chemicals to help clear lines.

After the coolant has been used up, it must be properly disposed of. It is not allowed to drain it into sewers, waterways or into the ground.

When calculating, they are guided by this parameter: 8 liters of coolant must correspond to 1 kW. To operate in the 10 l per 1 kW mode, the device will turn on almost constantly, which may adversely affect its performance.

VIDEO: Heating a private house. Electrode boilers

Anode (ionic) heating boilers: negative and positive reviews, tips for choosing

Anode heating boilers are still a rare occurrence in our lives, but extremely effective. What is it and where can it be used.

Ionic boilers. Minuses.

The question is, a client came and wants to install an ion boiler, asks what is the trick, and I have been playing plumbing on the stage for 10 years (that is, I work), but I have only seen these boilers from a distance at exhibition stands.

Please. Need info, especially cons.

I need cons. only they!

1. The ion cauldron is a cultivated product similar to the “student boiler” (two blades, 2 matches between them, all this is connected with a thread)
2. It does not have fantastic efficiency. Estimated power is still 100 W/sq.m
3. For the normal functioning of this unit, it is necessary to fill it with a special electrolyte, which is recommended to be changed every 2 years (I heard the price is 2 euros / liter).
4. Of the acquaintances who pecked at advertising, they changed everything a year later to ordinary heating elements boilers. (3 pcs)
5. Grounding is MANDATORY.

Elden! countryman, thank you.

Happy to help

1. The power during heating is large (equal to the set), then gradually decreases.

Although the manufacturer declares a decrease in power when the temperature rises.

A couple of times, they set up and “launched” Galan on their own brine! I observed a different picture: the higher the temperature, the greater the current strength. Although the manufacturer declares a decrease in power when the temperature rises.

Chesslovo saw how the current decreases. But that was 5 years ago. then it was “a product of declassified defense technologies”.

apparently it means that when heated, the thermostat will turn on, and the heater will become cyclical (on - off), respectively, energy consumption will be less

Exactly. And in advertising it is written in BIG letters - electricity consumption from 0.5 kW, and then in small, small letters it is written the average daily. And after all people are conducted. It can be seen that not everyone is friends with “arithmetic” and calculate that 0.5 kW / h is 360 kW / h per month + the pump will add at least 34 kW / h per month (45 W around the clock). And this is all without taking into account heat loss.

Well, people don’t know that the “freebie” beast is not found in our latitudes

For example, I am engaged in the sale of KULON boilers (respectively, ionic ones), how many have already been sold, installed in 2 years - not a single return. Clients are happy with everything.

These boilers in everyday life are complete shit. They went from military applications, where their main advantage was simplicity, low cost and high power (200-400 kW) with small size and weight. Everything else is a big minus.

Brine destroys aluminum radiators in a few years. Cast iron lasts longer, but it also corrodes from the inside thoroughly. That is why it is advised to change the electrolyte so often. There are no real statistics for how long circulation pumps designed for pure water or antifreeze with anti-corrosion additives live on this brine, but I think not for long. Especially pumps with a wet rotor (and they are the majority on the market).

They do not have any supernatural efficiency, the same 99% as conventional boilers with heating elements. A huge disadvantage is the electrical hazard. An almost perfect grounding of the casing is mandatory, otherwise a dangerous potential may appear on all pipes and batteries. Given the almost zero resistance of the electrolyte, death by touch in the absence of grounding is guaranteed. Naturally, no RCDs can be installed, because. Leaks on the chassis are normal.

IMHO - these boilers are an extremely harmful and DANGEROUS solution for health. In normal countries, it is forbidden to sell such Mr. for domestic applications. It never occurs to anyone to put engines from fighters on civilian aircraft.

These boilers (pendant) are filled with ordinary water, and not electrolyte. It is recommended to change every year. It requires grounding like any other household appliance (for example, a washing machine).

All ion boilers must be filled with a low resistance electrolyte. Without it, they cannot theoretically work. In this type of boilers, heating occurs due to direct heating of the electrolyte between the electrodes. If the electrolyte has a high resistance, then there will be no current between the electrodes, or it will be negligible. Naturally, there will be no heating.

confused with washing machine and other household appliances, these boilers cannot be used, because in all household electrical appliances, the current-carrying lines are isolated from the case, and grounding serves to prevent the appearance of voltage on the case during insulation breakdown. With normal insulation, there should be no potential on the case. The RCD operates on this principle, which controls the occurrence of leakage current. In ion boilers (popularly called electrode boilers), two electrodes are lowered into a conductive brine between which an electric current flows. The third electrode (and often the second) is the boiler body, which must be carefully grounded. Between the electrodes (electrode) and the housing, the presence of a powerful electric current is nothing criminal.

I respond to your topic, I think my knowledge can help someone. I have been installing ion boilers in Latvia for a year and a half.

To begin with, I would like to note that they are not ionic, that is, there are also ionic ones, but few people put them on, because they are expensive and are intended mainly for some kind of industrial premises, we put only electrode ones for home use, it is these boilers that are discussed on the Internet . And the word “ionic” is a marketing ploy, in my opinion.

There was a lot of talk about saving and spending. Yes, it’s true that all the kilowatts squeezed out of the network will go away as thermal in a ratio of 1 to 1, you can’t imagine anything here, but the main feature of electrode boilers is that instead of a conventional coolant, an antifreeze electrolyte with low electrical conductivity is used. current. Therefore, by gaining degrees, the conductivity increases and the boiler gives more power, this leads to savings in electricity. energy due to more uniform heating of the house.

I don’t want to engage in advertising, I’m an installer, but our company does not use the manufacturer’s brine and electronics, the original brine is toxic and unstable, besides, it’s an incomprehensible color, we made our own, based on safe substances, besides, it looks very “pontoon”.

As for electronics, we use European email. modules, most importantly, allowed us to insert into the system main sensor, which stupidly turns the boiler on and off depending on the temperature premises, which is installed by the client himself, this sensor, in my opinion, contains 20-30% savings.

As for numbers, there are many examples, but there are a couple of objects where everything turned out well and turned out very economically. For example, a house of 200 sq. m. heating underfloor heating and batteries are connected on the same comb with the floors, so the temperature of the batteries is also underestimated. In short, it turned out an average of 70 bucks per month of winter for light. I want to note that the house was built according to the heat project.

Well, he said everything.

To begin with, I note that in any case, gas is better. I advise you to granular and wood-burning boilers as a support.

The main disadvantage is that a jumper is not provided in our system, because it is not economical, therefore, when closing all thermal heads or el. drives on warm floors the boiler remains without circulation, and boils. The next minus = electrolyte, if the system is not new, then the old coolant will remain in it, mixing with ours, its characteristics change, but it’s not scary if there was water or antifreeze in the system, but if there is some kind of fashionable additive, then problems begin.

And of course, power, after all, is a powerful thing, and the network should not be weak. For an average house - (150 sq. M.) At the last degrees it takes 18 A from each phase.

Ionic boilers

The question is, a client came and wants to install an ion boiler, asks what is the trick, and I have been playing on the plumbing stage for 10 years (that is, I work), but these boilers are only from afar at exhibition stands ... - Forum Mastergrad

An ionic or, as it is also called, an electric electrode boiler is a direct-flow water heater that can quickly and efficiently heat a liquid. The device is used mainly in summer cottages or country houses, as it is easy to install and no permission is required to use it. The only significant drawback is the rather expensive operation as the main heating method in the apartment.

Instead of a heating element or a coil in an ion boiler, electrodes act as heating elements. They have good efficiency and do not consume too much electricity compared to other electrical heating devices. The design of the device is quite simple, so you can assemble it yourself.

The principle of operation of the electrode boiler

As can be seen in the figure, when the polarity of the current changes, the direction of movement of salt ions in water also changes. In this case, the electrode and the body of the device are used as contacts.

The principle of operation of such a device is based on the process of electrolysis, that is, the water itself plays the role of a heating element. However, there is one condition: in order for water to begin to conduct current through itself, the presence of salts is necessary. The more impurities in the liquid, the better it will conduct current. Charged impurity particles or ions under the action of electricity begin to move from contact to contact (electrodes). Since the current in a conventional electrical network is variable, and its frequency is 50 Hz, the ions change their direction from electrode to electrode 50 times per second.

The home network has a constant voltage of 220 V, hence, based on Ohm's law, as the resistance decreases, the current increases. But water is still not a good conductor, unlike metals such as aluminum or copper, so due to the increase in current, it begins to heat up. Thanks to this, the efficiency of electrode boilers is close to 100%.

IMPORTANT! The power of the water heater directly depends on the amount of impurities in the water. The more salts, the more powerful the boiler.

This simple circuit clearly shows the simplicity of the device of the electrode boiler.

As a rule, a standard boiler has the shape of a cylinder. Inside the latter, an electrode is also installed, also cylindrical in shape. In this case, the first contact in the device is the electrode, and the second is the body itself. Based on this, there is a need to ground the water heater, as the current can pierce its body.

If you decide to buy an electrode heating boiler, the problem of grounding disappears. Most factory models have a case covered with polyamide. The latter plays the role of an insulator. Also pay attention to the size of the water heater. Usually it is a small cylinder up to 600 mm high and up to 300-400 mm in diameter. Such boilers can develop power up to 6 kW, which is quite enough to provide an average house or apartment.

Advantages and disadvantages of electrode heating boilers

We will only compare electrode models with others. electric water heaters. Will not be taken into account gas boilers, which, of course, are much cheaper to operate, but require obtaining permits for their use, the availability of a project, gas, and other special conditions.

So, ion boilers can favorably stand out among their counterparts as follows:

Electrode boilers are the smallest heating elements. That does not affect their performance at all.

• they are compact, simple design, therefore, they are well suited for use in summer cottages or private houses;
• devices are not afraid of voltage drops, since the latter only affects the power of the boiler, but not its operation;
• ionic water heaters quickly heat up and cool down, so it is convenient to use any automated room temperature control systems with them;
• they are safe because even in the absence of water, the device will not deteriorate, cause a fire or short circuit, it simply will not work (there will be no closed circuit);
• they have excellent efficiency, reaching 98%.

Disadvantages of electrode water heaters:

• knowledge in electrical engineering is needed not only to build a boiler, but also to calculate the parameters of the liquid, its electrical conductivity and the amount of impurities;
• ordinary water, for example, from any heating system, is not suitable for the operation of the device, since there are a lot of free ions in such a liquid;
• do not allow air to enter the boiler, as this will accelerate the process of metal corrosion, thereby reducing the life of the water heater;
• you need to monitor the temperature of the water in the boiler, because if it exceeds 75 degrees, this will significantly increase the cost of electricity;
• when installing the device, you need to ground it, especially for home-made devices;
• the power of the water heater directly depends on the coolant; high-quality and properly made liquid can increase the power of the device and vice versa;
• they operate on AC power only.

You will be able to use your electrode boiler as instantaneous water heater by simply connecting it to the plumbing system.

In addition, it is worth mentioning several features of the ionic water heater:

• it can be used as a conventional instantaneous water heater, and not just as a boiler;
• ease of assembly and installation, ease of repair have a positive effect on its popularity;
• very cheap, even if you buy a factory version, and not do it yourself;
• silent, does not affect the environment or humans in any way, does not emit toxins or harmful substances so it can be installed anywhere.

No matter how good the ion boiler is, it is still not a worthy replacement for gas counterparts. If it is possible to install gas equipment, of course, choose the latter.

Installation and operation of electrode water heaters

Although the installation of an ion boiler heating system is quite simple, you must first learn a few mandatory rules, without which the system will either not work at all, or it will become unsafe and short-lived.

Mandatory requirements:

• equip the system with a pressure gauge that will help monitor the pressure in the boiler and pipes;
• be sure to install safety valve so that the latter dumps excess steam;
• it is worth installing automatic air vents;
• take care of the device of shut-off valves, which must be located after the expansion tank.

The scheme of the heating system using an electrode boiler is quite simple. The main thing is to install all its mandatory elements. Namely: air vent and check valves, pressure gauge, drain and safety valves.

The boiler itself must be mounted strictly vertically, since water turns into steam when heated and rises. The supply of cold liquid is carried out from below. The device must have a separate mount, and not hang on pipes. Also don't install plastic pipes directly at the outlet of the boiler. The first 1.5 meters of the pipe must be metal. The rest of the heating system can be made of metal-plastic pipes.

Before starting the heating system with an ion boiler, it must be completely flushed with special products. Thus, you will significantly increase the efficiency and durability of the entire system.

Another important issue is grounding. It must be made of wire with a diameter of 4 mm or more, having a resistance of no more than 4 ohms. You need to connect the ground to the zero terminal located at the bottom of the water heater.

Particular attention should be paid to the volume of the heating system. Follow simple rule: for 1 kW of boiler power, the largest volume is 8 liters. It is easy to calculate that for a power of, for example, 5 kW, the maximum allowable displacement will be 40 liters.

Volume calculation is an important component. If the calculation is incorrect, the efficiency of the device will decrease. The boiler will work more, which means that the consumption of electricity and the wear of the heater will increase.

Aluminum radiators are best choice for private houses with electrode heating boiler.

Conventional cast-iron radiators are not suitable for electrode devices, since they contain a greater amount of impurities in their composition that affect the electrical conductivity of the liquid. Here the best choice will become aluminum or bimetallic batteries. It is better to choose those that have the smallest volume in order to reduce energy costs.

Do-it-yourself electrode boiler

As mentioned earlier, an ionic water heater has a relatively simple design, so you can make it yourself. Is it worth doing this, because you can take a ready-made model in the store, however, overpaying a little.

So for self-manufacturing you need to buy or find in the bins the following materials and tools:

• tee and coupling;
• insulating materials;
• terminals for connecting the boiler to the mains and grounding;
• one or more (optional) electrodes;
• steel pipe of large diameter (for the device case);
• welding machine;
• a set of keys;
• gas key;
• valves, check and air valves, pressure gauge.

Take a pipe of large diameter (about 100 mm) and preferably from 250 mm long. Using a tee, you need to insert an electrode into it. Water will flow through the same tee. On the other side of the pipe, you need to install a coupling through which the already heated liquid will go into the heating system.

IMPORTANT! The so-called zero coming from the outlet must be installed on the pipe, not the electrode. The phase is connected to the last one.

The assembly process of the electrode boiler is quite simple, the main thing is that the system is airtight and the electrode does not touch other metal parts.

When mounting the electrode on a tee, install an insulator (for example, plastic) between them. Do not forget that the device must be sealed. If you want to connect the pipe and the tee to each other with a threaded connection, you will have to order it from a turning shop.

Weld a bolt onto the pipe and install a terminal on it for attaching future grounding. Install a coupling from above and weld a metal pipe (as mentioned earlier with a length of 1.2-1.5 meters), after which you can close the entire structure with a decorative case.

Electrode heating structures are part of autonomous heating systems. Such devices are characterized by the presence of a specific type of heater, consisting of several electrodes. An electrode boiler for heating a private house is used in conjunction with innovative types of automatic control. This allows you to increase the efficiency of the heating system and make it more economical.

Operating principle

In order for the used heat carrier to heat up, it is necessary to split the water molecules. The result of this process is the formation of constantly moving positive and negative ions. In this case, a large amount of energy is released. The heating device heats the liquid without using heating elements.

In the process of increasing the temperature of the heat carrier, its electrical resistance decreases. An arc flash may occur. To prevent this situation, table salt is added to the liquid. The required proportions can be found in the technical data sheet for the heating device. The power of the electrode assembly increases when the heat carrier is heated. The result of a decrease in the value of electrical resistance is an increase in current strength.

Design features

The heat carrier used is heated during the movement of differently charged ions between the electrode contacts. The design of such a heater is quite simple. It consists of: a metal rod and a hollow steel pipe.

The device is hermetically sealed on both sides. Special pipes are welded to its sides. With the help of them, the heater is connected to the heating system.

A phase wire is attached to the inner rod, and a zero wire is attached to the surface of the housing. A three-phase network is used to power powerful heat generators.

Under the influence of alternating current, the ions contained in the composition of the heat carrier constantly change the direction of their movement. Electrolysis is not fully carried out. During the heating process, there is no transfer of substance between the two electrodes.

The heater has the following features:

• small overall size;
• simple design;
• ease of installation;
• high level of efficiency;
• long service life;
• reliability of work - there are no contacting parts;
• low cost.

Advantages

Electrode heating boilers make it possible to regulate the microclimate in the room and save electrical energy. If we compare their efficiency with the efficiency of induction devices and heaters, which include heating elements, we should note the advantages of the electrode design:

• the heating of the water entering the boiler is carried out very quickly;
• efficiency level approaches 100%;
• long service life. Design features devices are the cause of rapidly changing polarity. Ions constantly change the direction of their movement. Therefore, despite the presence of constant contact of the surface of the electrodes with the liquid, scale does not form on them;
• the electric electrode boiler has small dimensions;
• it is easy to install in any room;
• there is an automatic control of the heater;
• the heater has a high fire safety. If there is a depressurization of the system, the risk of electric shock is eliminated. The device will simply stop working;
• there are no extraneous noises during the operation of the heating system;
• electrode electric boilers for heating a private house do not have a harmful effect on the ecological situation;
• chimneys are not used during their work;
• devices are not afraid of voltage drops

Flaws

Despite the high quality performance of electrode heating systems, certain disadvantages should be taken into account:

• for the high-quality functioning of the heater, pre-prepared water is required, which has a given resistivity;
• distilled water, antifreeze or oil cannot be used as a heat carrier;
• An electrode electric boiler for heating can work effectively only with continuous circulation of the liquid. If the speed of movement decreases, the probability of boiling of the system increases. With its increase, difficulties may arise with the launch of the thermal unit;
• over time, the substance that makes up the electrodes dissolves in water. Periodically they have to be replaced;
• the heating system must have a ground loop;
• with an increase in the temperature of the heat carrier more than 75 degrees, the consumption of electrical energy increases sharply;
• in single-circuit devices, liquid cannot be used for domestic needs.

Carrying out installation work

When installing electrode heating systems, air vents are required. They work automatically. They include a safety valve and a pressure gauge. The design of the shut-off valves should be located next to the expansion tank.

The heating device is installed in vertical plane. The mounting kit, as a rule, includes a special mount. The electrode structure must be connected to metal pipes. The remaining sections of the heating system may consist of a different material.

The process of installation and installation of climate control sensors and temperature control devices is best left to specialists. Before installation work flush the system with water. Special cleaning agents are added to the liquid.

When choosing a radiator, take into account the total volume of the circulating heat carrier. 8 liters of liquid must correspond to 1 kW of heating device power. With an increase in this indicator, the consumption of electrical energy will increase.

The efficiency of boilers with an electrode design increases with a decrease in the volume of liquid used in the system. Wiring heating device it is better to carry out with the help of bimetallic or aluminum radiators and polyethylene pipes.

All heating circuits are pre-insulated. A separate cable is used to connect the heater. It, in turn, is connected to a switchboard and a separate circuit breaker.
A ground loop must be installed. To increase the power of the heating system, in some cases, several heating devices are used at once. When installing them, a serial or parallel connection is used.

Heating devices of the electrode type can only be used in closed systems with an integrated circulation pump. They are reliable equipment with a number of undeniable advantages. The systems are successfully used for heating individual buildings.

Hello again! Many of you have heard about wonderful electrode boilers that save electricity a lot. A legitimate question arises: “How and due to what does this happen?” Let's try to figure out where is the truth and where is fiction. Let's start by explaining the physical principles of the electrode boiler.

The principle of operation of the electrode boiler.

The physical principle here is simple - the coolant in the heating system is heated by directly passing an electric current through it. The phases of the electrical network are connected to the electrode group, and zero is connected to the boiler body. And in the usual network is connected to the heating element. To make it clearer, look at the following picture:

The release of heat occurs due to the fact that the coolant has some resistance. In general, the selection of a coolant for such boilers is a difficult task:

• Distilled water is not suitable because it does not conduct electricity.
• Water with the addition of salt can cause accelerated corrosion of the metal parts of the system and scale formation on the electrodes.

In the passports for such heating devices, manufacturers usually write that the boiler will be guaranteed to work only with their coolant, which includes “special” corrosion inhibitors or something else. I am tormented by suspicions that this is being done in order to, if necessary, refuse warranty service if the consumer used some other liquid. Manufacturers recommend using propylene glycol or ethylene glycol for electrode boilers. If interested, you can read my article about . Now let's touch on one more question.

Comparison of the efficiency of an electrode and a conventional electric boiler.

Manufacturers praise electrode boilers for their high efficiency. They explain the absence of losses by the fact that the electric current directly heats the coolant. But at the same time, for some reason, nothing is said about the losses when using . I will give a picture to remind you of their device:

Inside the heating element, a nichrome spiral is sequentially heated, then a periclase filler, and then a metal tube. This whole structure is tightly rolled and there are no air cavities inside that could retain heat. Therefore, almost all the energy released on the nichrome spiral is spent on heating the water. Exactly the same as in the electrode boiler.

There is one more statement from the manufacturers: “The electrode boiler heats water faster than the heating element. Because the water is heated throughout the volume of the boiler. This is also a controversial argument. There is little water inside the boiler, and a lot of power is applied to heat it. Of course, there will be some kind of advantage in time, but most likely it will not play a role for you. And it will not bring any promised 30% savings.

The temperature of the coolant in the system is also very important. This is due to the fact that when its temperature rises, its resistance drops. And this causes an increase in power consumption:

For this reason, the temperature of the coolant should not exceed 50°. And what will this mean for you? This is another ambush! For example, the heat transfer of aluminum radiators is measured based on the condition that the coolant temperature is 90 °, and the air temperature in the room is 20 °. At lower coolant temperatures, you will need to increase the number of radiator sections. So, for example, it is done in a heating system called "Leningradka", where the radiators most distant from the riser or boiler should be with a large number of sections. The more sections, the more expensive the heating system will cost. The only option with such a coolant temperature is. But we must remember that for our cold climate they are not suitable as the main heating system.

The moral of all that has been said above is that the electrode boiler does not have any particular advantage in terms of efficiency compared to a conventional electric boiler, but there are added difficulties with operation. We will talk about other difficulties below.

Difficulties in the operation of electrode boilers.

In addition to what was listed earlier, there are also “features” in the operation of such heating devices:

• The need to monitor the condition of the coolant. The properties of the coolant change over time under the influence of an electric current, and the power consumption depends on these very properties.
• The need to ground all metal parts everywhere - pipes, radiators, etc. Grounding systems are expensive and complicated pleasure
• Faster process of corrosion of metals under the action of electricity. The phenomena of electrocorrosion destroy not only black, but stainless steel grades.
• High probability of failure in the warranty service of the equipment. In order not to be unfounded, I will give excerpts from the passport for the electrode boiler:

In general, too many problems for one device.

Brief summary of the article.

Electrode boiler, of course, interesting technical solution. But there are many problems with its operation and they are serious. At the same time, there is no evidence of its efficiency, except for the promises of manufacturers and sellers. I will also say that for some reason unknown to me, not a single well-known manufacturer of heating equipment produces electrode boilers. It is possible that this is caused by these problems. On this optimistic note, I conclude this article. I look forward to your questions in the comments.