Save time before starting your balancing project by determining if your radiation system needs balancing, and by how much. Then, automatic balancing valve controls can help you easily reach a balanced and more efficient heating system.
First step when measuring the balance is to make sure all the thermostat controlled vales on the radiators are open completely and that your system is at its normal working temperature. Next, record the temperature at the original positions and measure the temperature difference across each radiator. If you find a difference of 12 degrees Centigrade or 20 degrees Fahrenheit you will need to make adjustment by using manual or automatic balancing valve controls. If the difference is less than 12 degrees Centigrade or 20 degrees Fahrenheit you may only need to adjust the pump speed or boiler temperature.
It is important to make note that a properly balanced system does not have all the radiators at the same temperature. The temperature of the radiator depends on the size of the room it is heating, the air flow of the room and if doors are opened, its set temperature and the size of the radiator. Additionally, make sure you take into account that in general the temperature of the radiator is a bit higher at the top than at the bottom.
By balancing the heat distribution from you radiators correctly you will significantly reduce consumption and increase energy efficiency. A circuit setter is a useful balancing valve for setting and measuring the water flow rate through a coil. A circuit setter is calibrated valve with a known Cv (Velocity Constant). You can calculate the flow with a pressure gauge with a gauge adapter and take a reading on either side of the circuit setter.
Radiators are generally found in older houses and as a result have rusting problems. However, radiators should not be painted as each extra later of paint added increases insulation and does not allow heat to pass through. If your radiators are rusting it is best to remove the pain and then paint them again.
To learn more about how to reduce your energy consumption visit Flo-Pac balancing valves and 3 way valve control supplier webpage.
