Due to the constant increase in energy prices, the owners of country houses and city apartments are switching to alternative, more profitable types of heating, mainly choosing its autonomous options. Some prefer to install in order not to overpay for central heating, which in some regions is paid not only in winter, but also in summer. Other homeowners have become interested in heating their homes using electrical appliances.
Electricity is more convenient in the sense that the installation of such a water heater does not require coordination with permitting organizations, drawing up and approval of a project. But many are put off by high tariffs. This means that you need to opt for electric boilers, which are characterized by increased efficiency and economical operation. These, of course, include units of the induction operating principle. They rightfully created quite high competition for gas heating appliances.
But the induction boiler itself is a very expensive “pleasure”. Therefore, many home craftsmen are interested in the question of whether it is possible to make an induction heating boiler with their own hands. It turns out, yes, this is a feasible task, but it requires a certain skill and knowledge, especially in the field of electrical engineering.
Let's immediately make a reservation about the following. The author of these terms is not a supporter of “home-made products” in the field of electrical equipment operating with life-threatening voltages. Therefore, this publication should be considered as an overview of possible options, but not as a step-by-step guide to action. You should very soberly weigh your strengths, knowledge and capabilities before embarking on such a task.
What is an induction boiler?
Induction heating systems began to be used in the 80s of the last century in industrial enterprises. Household appliances appeared only in the mid-nineties. Over the past decades, they have been refined and some updates have been made to their design, however, the principle of their operation remains unchanged.
The name of these heating systems and devices in itself indicates that their operation is based on electromagnetic induction. The essence of the principle of operation is that if an alternating current is passed through a wire of a sufficiently large diameter in cross section, wound in the form of a coil, then a powerful electromagnetic field is created around this primary winding. If a conductor is in this field, then a voltage will be induced (induced) in it. Well, if the field lines of force cross the core of an alloy with magnetic properties located in it, then a kind of short-circuited circuit is obtained. And due to the appearance of stray Foucault currents on it, there is a very fast and strong heating of this material.
This principle is widely used, for example, in the steel industry. They also found a use for it for fast and high-temperature heating of water. It is clear that in this case a pipe or other channel through which the coolant circulates will act as the core.
And the most understandable example of an induction heater is a wire wound on a pipe made of a dielectric, which will insulate a magnetic core placed in its interior.
The wire coil is connected to the power supply and creates an electromagnetic field. As a result of exposure to an alternating electromagnetic field, the metal core-rod will heat up, transferring heat to the coolant, which then enters the pipes and radiators of the heating circuit. Oil, water or ethylene glycol can be used as a heat carrier in autonomous heating systems.
This is, of course, a very simplified explanation. In induction boilers of industrial production, a whole labyrinth of pipes or channels can be a heat exchange ferromagnetic core, and often, for example, in vortex heaters, the body of the device is also involved in this process.
In heating systems of short length, the coolant, heating up, will to go up, and the resulting natural pressure is usually sufficient for its natural circulation. If the heating main quite long and branched, connected to collectors with further distribution of coolant flows along separate circuits, then one or more circulation systems are installed in the system, since without them the required coolant movement will be impossible to achieve.
Is the induction heating method really effective and reliable?
Before you buy or start making an induction boiler, it is worth understanding how effective this heating method is. In specialized shopping centers you can hear only positive characteristics of systems operating on this principle from sales consultants. However, not everything they say is 100% true. And these heating units have their own, so called, "underwater rocks".
Sellers operate with a whole list of theses, trying to increase sales of boilers operating on the induction principle:
- For example, it is a common statement that the operating principle of these devices is an innovative development.
In reality, this is not true, since electromagnetic induction was discovered back in 1831. English experimental physicist Michael Faraday. In the second half of the 20th century, induction systems were successfully used in the metallurgical industry.
From this we can conclude that these devices can hardly be attributed to innovative technologies. However, this has its own “plus”, since such a system has already been tested by time and has proven its effectiveness.
- The next important quality that sellers focus on is the cost-effectiveness of using an induction boiler. It is usually stated that this type of unit consumes 25÷30% less energy than other electric heaters. Is it possible to agree with this?
Prices for induction heating boilers
induction heating boiler
Probably not, though. Any one consumes electricity according to its power, indicated by the manufacturer in the technical data sheet. That is, to generate one kilowatt of heat, in the most ideal case (at 100 percent efficiency), the device needs to consume a kilowatt of electricity. Moreover, even with the named parameters, the efficiency of the unit may be less, since much also depends on the specific operating conditions of the boiler.
The time it takes to heat the coolant to the desired temperature depends on the power and efficiency of the heating element. It must be said that part of the expended energy, one way or another, is wasted, since the materials from which the device parts are made have non-zero resistance. However, heat loss from the operation of an induction boiler does not go “down the chimney”, but remains in the room where the device is installed, which is often their obvious advantage.
So, the conclusion suggests itself is that it is unlikely that you will be able to save any serious money on electricity when using an induction boiler. But their efficiency and heating speed are really high.
- Despite the approximate service life specified in the data sheet, established by the manufacturer (not to be confused with the warranty!), sellers assure that the induction heating boiler will last at least 25 years. It is necessary to agree that this information is reliable if the electronic control unit is made of high quality. The unit includes semiconductor elements, which can still fail. As a rule, manufacturers provide a ten-year warranty on the components of the electronic unit. However, quite often they work perfectly for 25–30, or even more years.
But in the boiler itself, by and large, there is simply nothing to break. Thus, the primary winding, usually made of copper, has a large margin of safety and will last a long time if it is properly cooled (and this is ensured by coolant circulation).
The core rod or the material of the internal channels, of course, will begin to deteriorate over time, since it will be constantly adversely affected by the aggressive environment of the coolant, as well as by alternating cooling and heating. However, for it to become completely unsuitable for use, more than a dozen years must pass.
Considering the design of a boiler operating using an induction circuit, we can conclude that it is much more reliable and durable than heating devices, in which as Heating elements are used for heating elements.
Prices for heating boilers
boiler
- Another quality that is a plus for an induction heating device is its silent operation - supposedly this distinguishes it from other heating units. The question arises, is this so?
But here, exactly, exactly the opposite. Yes, electric heating units operate silently, since during their operation no acoustic vibrations are created and no mechanical components are used. However, it is during the operation of the induction device that low-frequency vibrations can be clearly felt, which can irritate people with acute hearing. This negative phenomenon is minimized in vortex-type boilers, in which the supply voltage to the primary coil is first converted to high frequency.
In addition, if a low-quality circulation pump is installed in the system, it can also become a source of mild annoying noise. But this already applies to all heating systems, regardless of the type of boiler. But the modern range of pumps makes it possible to purchase a completely silent model.
- The buyer can evaluate the compactness of the boiler visually. We can say that this unit consists of a piece of pipe of a certain length, which does not take up much space, unlike other heating devices. True, the mass of an induction boiler is usually quite impressive, which means that reliable brackets will be required.
However, do not forget that space will be required for the accompanying elements of the system, as well as the wiring of circuits and the installation of collectors, if required by the circuit. If it is necessary to heat a fairly large area of the house, then several induction devices are often installed, and the entire system will require a lot of space.
- The statement that boilers of this type are completely safe is and, this quality of boilers is more pronounced than that of their heating element counterparts, which is incorrect. The operating safety of these two types of heating devices is approximately the same, and depends on the correct connection and the performance of the systems designed to protect them from extreme situations.
For example, if a coolant leak occurs in an induction device, and the electromagnetic field does not turn off in time, and heating of the internal core continues, then the housing and fastenings can melt literally in a matter of minutes. Therefore, when purchasing a device or designing it yourself, you need to pay attention to the automatic shutdown of the unit in the event of an emergency.
As you can see from the information presented above, induction boilers, just like other heating units, have their own shortcomings, and they are not unique devices that allow you to pay mere pennies for heating. However, their effectiveness is beyond doubt. And yet, thanks to the compact size of the boiler, it can be placed in an apartment, for example, in a niche, so that it will be almost invisible.
How to make an induction boiler yourself?
There are many designs of induction boilers. Some of them are difficult to perform independently, others are simpler. Next, we will consider relatively affordable options that can be made at home. However, to bring these projects to life, you will need certain materials and tools.
The first option is with using an induction cooker panels
This version of the heating device can be called experimental. It is suitable for heating a small room of 20÷25 m². It is best to install radiators in the heating circuit heated from such a device, which quickly warm up and release heat into the room. In addition, the volume of such radiators is small, so a small amount of coolant is required, which will quickly heat up in an induction mini-boiler.
The source of the alternating electromagnetic field in this project is an induction hob, which may have been replaced with a more modern model, and is currently lying idle in the pantry.
To manufacture this model of a heating device operating on the induction principle, you will need the following materials:
- Steel profile pipe 50x25 mm, ten pieces 500 mm long and two 300 mm long - for the manufacture of a boiler heat exchanger.
- Steel profile pipe 50x30 mm, two pieces 500 mm long and one 700 mm long - for making a bracket.
- Steel pipe with a diameter of 20÷25 mm - two sections 120÷150 mm long.
- Steel sheet 3÷4 mm thick for the manufacture of an expansion tank measuring 270×270×100 mm.
- . Their number will depend on the specific design that is made for a specific location of the boiler and its piping. To connect pipes, you will need related elements - couplings, angles, threaded fittings, etc. – here you can show your own vision of piping and pipe routing.
- Ball valves that will shut off the flow of coolant when it is necessary to carry out preventive or repair work on heating equipment.
In addition to these materials, it is necessary to prepare some other devices and accessories necessary for installation and installation in the boiler piping.
Prices for polypropylene pipes
polypropylene pipes
- Circulation pump.
- Induction electric two-burner slab - otherwise it is often called a panel.
To carry out the work you will need some tools and instruments, as well as, of course, the ability to work with them:
- Device for soldering polypropylene pipes.
- Gas key.
- Electric drill.
- "Bulgarian" (grinder).
Circulation pump prices
circulation pump
Work on the manufacture of such an induction heating boiler is carried out in the following order:
| Illustration | |
|---|---|
 | The first step is to cut the profile steel pipe into pieces of the required length using a grinder. The heat exchanger body will be made from them, through which the coolant will circulate. The segments are folded side by side on the end side, creating a kind of battery. They must be fixed in a position pressed against each other. Next, the pipes are welded together using spot welding. First, they are grabbed along the edges, and then along the entire line of joints, every 100 mm. For faster cooling and strengthening of welded points, as well as for cleaning from welded fumes, the resulting structure can be sprayed with a stream of cold water. |
 | The next step is to trim the edges of the resulting “battery” - to do this, they are trimmed with a sander. Smooth edges are necessary, since they will be covered with a metal U-shaped profile (channel), which must be perfectly evenly installed on the edges of the square pipes welded together. |
 | A U-shaped profile can be purchased ready-made or made independently by cutting one wide strip from a profile pipe. You need to prepare two such parts. Moreover, the cut strips will be further used to cover the end edges of the U-shaped parts, as well as for the design of the brackets. |
 | Now, the resulting channel profile must be very carefully welded with a continuous seam to the edges of the end sides of the “battery”. The space that will be formed by this part will allow the coolant to circulate through the pipes - you get two unique collectors. It should be noted here that it is quite possible to make a heat exchanger-battery in the form of a coil - this will simplify the circulation of the coolant, it will warm up faster, which will increase heat transfer. |
 | Next, from one of the strips that remained after the manufacture of the U-shaped profiles, four plug inserts are cut off, corresponding in size to the holes formed by the U-shaped profiles welded to the ends of the battery. Then, they are welded to the place intended for them with a continuous seam, since the structure should be airtight. |
 | Now, on the end sides of the battery you need to drill two holes into which sections of pipes with threads on the outside are welded. One pipe should be located at the bottom of one side of the battery - it is intended for the entry of cooled water into the heating boiler (the so-called “return”). The second pipe is welded into a hole located in the upper part of the opposite side of the structure. Through it, heated water will flow into the heating circuit (supply). In addition to them, in the center of the sides, also by welding, sections of a profile pipe 100 mm long are fixed. |
 | Welding points and seams on the finished heat exchanger are cleaned using a grinder and give the structure a neat appearance and smoothness. The back side of the heat exchanger must be treated especially carefully, since the heating surface of the induction cooker must be pressed against it. |
 | Next, the finished assembly must be primed and then coated with heat-resistant paint intended for metal elements of the heating system. |
 | The next step is to make an expansion tank from metal panels. Its parts are welded together with a continuous seam, since it must be airtight. A pipe with an external thread is cut into the lower side of this part of the system for connection to the heating circuit. It must be said that the expansion tank can also be bought ready-made. Its capacity is selected depending on how much coolant will be in the heating circuit - you can proceed from the value of 10% of the volume. |
 | Next, you need to prepare a frame-bracket for installing the induction panel and securing the heat exchanger. In this illustration you can see that the bracket consists of two vertically located profile pipes and a lower shelf. The latter can also be made from a profile pipe, from which one narrow and one wide side is cut off. In the middle part of the vertical profiles, sections of the profile pipe are welded. Their location must be calculated so that they can dock with pipe sections fixed at the ends of the heat exchanger. Then all the parts are fastened together by welding, and the lower horizontal part of the structure should form a shelf on which the induction panel will be installed. After that, the heat exchanger is fixed on the bracket with the help of pipe sections welded on its ends. However, there must be a gap between the bracket and the heat exchanger, in which it will be possible to install the induction hob, so that it is firmly pressed against the heat exchanger with its heating elements. |
 | An induction hob designed for cooking works on the same principle as a boiler, since there are coils inside it that induce a powerful alternating electromagnetic field. This field will become the "initiator" of heating the steel profile pipes of the heat exchange battery. The convenience of its use lies in the fact that all electronic and electrical modules are inside the structure, and the outer coating of the panel makes the device safe. Installing the panel in the bracket behind the heat exchanger, it is pressed against its surface. |
 | Now it remains only to bring pipes to the boiler that will connect it to the heating circuit. For this, polypropylene or metal-plastic pipes can be used, the main thing is that they are designed for hot water with a temperature of at least 95 degrees. As mentioned above, the outlet of the heated coolant from the installation is connected with a pipe delivering it to the radiators, as well as with an expansion tank, which is fixed on the wall under the ceiling. |
 | The whole system will not work effectively without a circulation water pump, which can be installed in any convenient place of the heating circuit, but ideally - on the "return" pipe before entering the boiler - where it will be less exposed to high temperature effects. It is advisable that it be located close to a power outlet. |
 | It remains to fill the system with water (coolant), check the tightness of all connecting nodes. If everything is normal, you can start the boiler. The illustration shows a test run using a carrier. In actual operating conditions, it is certainly necessary to bring a separate power line to the boiler with an appropriate wire cross-section and a ground loop. |
Using the induction panel, you can make another version of the boiler, which will be more efficient than the one described above, although less compact.
The peculiarity of this option is horizontal induction hob with heat exchange blocks installed directly on the heating pads located in it. Here the design essentially works the same as a regular tile, on which a pan of water is placed and heated to high temperatures. The difference is that the container (“pan”) is made from ferromagnetic alloy, that is, all its walls are actively heated. These containers are made sealed, interconnected, and the heated water does not evaporate, but goes into the heating circuit connected to such a boiler.
The second option is with a homemade induction coil and a welding inverter
The second version of the induction boiler heater is made on the basis of a high-frequency welding inverter. It is desirable that the machine be equipped with a continuously adjustable welding current. The power of the inverter should be directly proportional to the power that the heating boiler should have. The most suitable option for a homemade design is an inverter rating of 15 amps, but if necessary, you can make it more powerful.
It should be correctly understood that the water heater is under no circumstances connected to the welding wire terminals - nothing but a short circuit will result in this case. The inverter will have to be modified somewhat - the primary winding of the created heater must be connected after the high-frequency converter, instead of the induction coil of the inverter itself. If it’s difficult to figure this out on your own, then consult with a specialist in this field.
This heating principle is used for heating the coolant, which passes through the same pipe placed in an electromagnetic field. The option shown below can be called very controversial, but the master who tried it in practice convinces of its performance and effectiveness.
As will be seen, manufacturing costs are minimal, so if desired, it is quite possible to conduct an experiment. Even if the power is not enough for full heating, perhaps this will be an acceptable solution for heating water for domestic purposes.
| Illustration | Brief description of the operation performed |
|---|---|
 | So, in addition to the inverter welding machine, to create a heater you will need a number of other parts. As a housing, which will be part of the heating circuit, as well as the basis for the formation of an induction coil and a heat exchanger, a piece of polypropylene pipe with thick walls (PN25) 400÷500 mm long, intended for transporting hot water, is used. It is desirable that the internal diameter of the pipe be at least 50 mm, that is, a pipe with an external diameter of 75 mm is used. You can take a smaller one, say, with an external 50 mm and an internal 33, but the performance of the heater, of course, will decrease. You will need steel wire or a metal rod with a diameter of 6÷7 mm - sections of 40÷50 mm long are cut from it. These elements will take on the role of a ferrimagnetic heat exchanger core. Other options for heat exchangers are also possible - this will be discussed below. |
 | Instead of cut pieces of rod inserted into the cavity of the pipe, one thick metal rod or a steel pipe of smaller diameter, a steel auger, or other products that have magnetic properties and are convenient for placement in a PVC pipe can be used. Thus, they practice filling the pipe with steel balls, large shavings, unnecessary nuts, etc. If small metal elements are used to fill the pipe, from which the coolant will heat up, then one edge of the pipe must be covered with a metal mesh. Then pour steel filler elements into it, and then cover its second edge with mesh. |
 | You can use a metal screw with frequent turns or several metal tubes with a diameter of 4÷5 mm, which will be tightly installed in a polypropylene pipe body. They will provide a large area of direct heat exchange with circulating water. Some craftsmen use steel wire or even ordinary stainless steel kitchen sponges to fill the “cauldron”, tightly driving them into a polypropylene pipe. |
 | When purchasing kitchen sponges for such purposes, you will need to check them to see if they have magnetic properties. To do this, when you go shopping at the store, you can take a regular magnet with you and attach it to the product to clean the dishes. If such a sponge is magnetic, then it is suitable for filling the cavity of an induction heat exchanger. Since the chips are thin, they will heat up very quickly, giving off thermal energy to the coolant that will pass through it. The option of densely filling the pipe with metal shavings can perhaps be called the simplest, most affordable and effective option. |
 | When the body of the induction heat exchanger is filled with metal products, adapter couplings are welded along its edges, bringing its large diameter to the diameter of the heating circuit pipes. Then, if it is necessary to install the device in a specific location, elbow corners are welded to the couplings through a section of pipe, directing the coolant flow in the desired direction. It would be nice to weld the couplings with American nuts - this way the heating device will become removable, for example, to perform any repair or maintenance work. A specific wiring diagram for these corner bends or, if necessary, straight sections of pipe, is drawn up in advance, based on the specific conditions for installing the heating device and the circuit layout. |
 | Next, you need to glue textolite sticks or rods onto the pipe, which will serve as the basis for winding the induction coil. Textolite is chosen because it has excellent dielectric properties and is not afraid of elevated temperatures. |
 | Along the edges of the heat exchanger body, from the same PCB, you need to make compensator stands for the ends of the wire, 12÷15 mm high. They will be required to locate the terminal contacts through which the boiler will be connected to the inverter apparatus. |
 | The coil is wound from insulated wire with a cross-section of 1.5 mm, which is used for winding in transformers. The coils are laid on top of the textolite rods in increments of 3 mm. The ends of the cable are fixed on textolite racks-clamps. The winding must consist of a whole section of well-insulated cable, since it is through it that the electric current will pass, creating the electromagnetic field necessary to heat the heat exchanger core. |
 | To create a winding, you will need 10÷10.5 m of insulated cable, from which 90 turns should be obtained. Its length and cross-sectional size were determined after calculating the parameters of the coil located on the “native” inductor of the welding machine. To connect the coil to the welding machine, terminals are attached to the ends of the wound wire. The connection must be well insulated. |
For safety reasons, this entire structure can be placed in a casing that will serve as external insulation for the device. It must be made of a dielectric material, which can be a large diameter pipe made of PPR, PVC or PE. The protective casing has holes for the outlet of the ends of the power cable and the outlet of pipes for insertion into the heating or hot water supply circuit. For example, the ends can be sealed with plugs, placed on heat-resistant glue and holes for the pipes made in them or in the side parts of the casing. Here, in principle, there is a wide field for the master’s imagination.
Testing of this device can only be carried out after installing it in the heating system and filling it with coolant. Otherwise, when heated, the polypropylene pipe of the housing may quickly melt.
This illustration shows an approximate diagram of an autonomous heating circuit with an induction boiler installed in it. The system consists of the following elements and units:
1 - Connection to the electrical network via an energy converter. In the design discussed above, a high-frequency converter of a welding inverter is used as it.
2 - The induction water heater itself.
3 - Elements of the “safety group”, which may include a pressure gauge, thermometer, safety valve and automatic air vent.
4 - Ball valves that shut off the water supply in a certain section of the circuit, as well as for replenishing or draining water from the heating circuit.
5 - Circulation pump necessary to create the required coolant flow.
6 - mechanical (mesh) for cleaning the coolant. Coolant filtration can significantly increase the service life of boiler equipment.
7 - Membrane expansion tank, necessary to compensate for the thermal expansion of water or other coolant.
8 - Heating radiator. In a system powered by an induction boiler, a bimetallic or aluminum radiator will work most efficiently. They are characterized by small volumes and very high heat transfer.
9 - Line for replenishing the system with water or emptying it for maintenance or repair work.
In conclusion of the publication, it is necessary to emphasize once again: if you have no experience working with electrical products, have forgotten your knowledge of basic physics, and have no confidence in your skills in plumbing and plumbing, then you should not take on such a job. It would be best to purchase an induction boiler ready-made or in case of emergency, order the device from an experienced technician who will not only manufacture it, but also check its performance and safety in operation.
Video: Master shares the secrets of making an induction boiler yourself
Rating: 1 606
Whatever one may say, using electrical energy for heating is a new trend in the modern world. Using inverters is very profitable and has many advantages. For example, electricity, unlike gas, is available in every home and even cottage.
It is very easy to use because you do not need permission to use it, they cost less than conventional devices, and are smaller in size. The benefits of inverter boilers can be negated when you consider the cost of electricity for some users.
But the world does not stand still, and today improvements are being made. Great steps have been taken in the area of increasing their efficiency (hereinafter referred to as efficiency) and reducing heat loss. Based on these factors, it follows that inverter boilers are the most promising system in our time.
Inverter boiler
Classic boilers operate on the principle of heat transfer using. As a result, it is necessary to take into account the place where the coolant will be heated, and to protect it from the coolant getting on the surface of the heating element in order to prevent corrosion. It is also necessary to take into account and minimize heat loss.
Inverter heating boilers are also called induction boilers. They operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction. For this, an alternating magnetic field and an inverter are used, which can operate either from an industrial power supply or from a battery. An inverter is used to convert from AC to DC current. Due to alternating current, the inductor creates a magnetic field, and this, in turn, heats the coolant in the heat exchanger, and then the rest circulates in the pipe system.
Scheme of operation of an inverter boiler
Such boilers are mainly sold in double-circuit form:
- Magnetic circuit. Used to generate an alternating magnetic field;
- Heat exchanger. This element is used to heat the coolant.
Advantages and disadvantages of an inverter boiler
Like any product, inverter heating boilers have their positive and negative sides.
Positive aspects of using such boilers:
- Operational characteristics have been increased due to the fact that there are no elements for heating the coolant;
- Low inertia in heating the coolant. When used in a heating system, the heating rate of the coolant increases significantly;
- The requirements for the coolant and its chemical composition have been reduced. The element that heats the coolant is the winding. It does not come into contact with the coolant and is therefore not affected by it. In this regard, the chemical composition of the coolant is determined by the properties
The use of electrical energy for heating has many advantages. So, if we compare such a system with gas heating, it is worth noting that electricity is available in every home. An electric boiler does not require a permit; such boilers are small and their price is lower. Of course, the cost of electricity may completely offset the benefits for some users. But currently, developments are aimed at increasing the efficiency of boilers and reducing heat loss. And the most promising system in this case is inverter heating boilers.
How does an inverter heating boiler work?
As a rule, if we consider classic electric boilers, then here the operating principle is that energy is transferred to the coolant using a heating element. So, if the design has a heating element, then it is also necessary to provide a separate place to heat the water, protect the heating element from the corrosion process, and also take into account heat loss.
Inverter (or induction) heating boilers operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
Thus, with the help of an alternating magnetic field, an induction current is generated. In order for this process to be implemented, direct current from the electrical network must be converted into alternating current. This is what the inverter does - it can work both from the network and from batteries.
So, an inverter heating boiler has two circuits:
- Magnetic. Generates an alternating magnetic field.
- Heat exchanger. Heats up the coolant.
When alternating current is applied, the coil creates a magnetic field, which heats the water in the pipe system.
What is good and what is bad about an inverter boiler
An inverter heating boiler has several advantages:
- Since there are no heating elements, performance characteristics increase.
- The heating inertia is small. So, if the system has a centrifugal pump, then the rate of heating of the coolant will be higher.
- Reduced requirements for the chemical properties of the coolant. After all, the heating element, in this case the winding, does not come into direct contact with water. Therefore, the chemical composition of the coolant will be determined only by the properties of radiators and pipes.
Among the disadvantages it is worth highlighting:
- First of all, the cost. When compared with boilers using heating elements, inverter boilers will be more expensive.
- Quite large in size and weight. To organize a heating system in large rooms, you will need a volumetric heat exchange chamber, and therefore a larger number of turns in the coil.
- Power regulation requires a complex electronic control system.
Despite the presence of such disadvantages, the number of objects heated by boilers that use inverters for heating boilers is growing.
Organization of the heating system
Depending on the power, all inverter boilers can be divided into the following types:
- Industrial. They have large dimensions, a rather complex current conversion system (carried out by an inverter for a heating boiler), and volumetric heat exchangers.
- Household. This type of model is characterized by relatively small dimensions, as well as the ability to operate on mains power or batteries.
To organize an inverter-type heating system, you should carefully pre-design it.
Installation of an induction boiler involves a closed-type heating system with a circulation pump to ensure forced circulation of the coolant and an expansion tank.
The requirement for installing an induction boiler is strict verticality. The inlet pipe in induction boilers can be located at the bottom or on the side, for different models. The return pipeline of the heating circuit is connected to the inlet pipe, and the supply is connected to the outlet pipe (in different models it can be located at the top or in the upper level of the housing). Wall mounting is carried out taking into account the mass of the boiler and the coolant circulating in the boiler and through the pipelines. The fastening must be reliable, and the boiler must be strictly vertical. Distance requirements:
- The boiler body must be located at least 0.3 m from all surfaces (floor, ceiling, walls and any objects) relative to the side edges
- Likewise - at least 0.8 m from the top and bottom edges of the boiler unit
To connect an induction boiler, grounding is required. There is no need for piping made of metal; it is possible to connect metal-plastic pipes of the grounding loop to the boiler pipes. A safety group, consisting of a pressure gauge, an automatic air vent and a safety valve, is built into a local section of the pipeline in close proximity to the boiler outlet pipe. Then shut-off valves are placed along the way. The expansion tank is installed on the return pipeline. Behind the connection point of the expansion tank and before connecting the return pipeline to the induction pipe of the induction boiler, connections are made in the following sequence: a settling filter, a coarse mesh filter, a circulation pump and a flow sensor (to control the flow of coolant through the return pipeline and its passage into the boiler).
To connect the control system of an inverter boiler, it is mandatory to follow the electrical installation rules (PUE). All systems are connected according to schemes regulated by the technical documentation for the boiler (technical passport).
About choosing an inverter boiler
Domestic models of inverter units have the following versions: single-phase, power 2.5; 7.5 kW and more powerful - three-phase: from 8 to 65 kW. Heating systems with induction boilers include both mandatory elements and additional equipment with a control unit: an electronic mode programmer for up to seven days of operation or a programmer for remote control.
Induction boilers do not reduce power during operation, so a modification is selected based on the initial data of the heated area. But in order to accurately assess the need for boiler power and thermal parameters for a particular house, you need all the information about the insulation of building envelopes and ventilation systems. You can preliminarily determine the minimum boiler power using the proportion: for 10 m2 a power of 0.6 kW is required. Example: a room with an area of 18 m2 requires a boiler installation power of at least 2.65 kW for heating.
Manufacturers provide a 36-month warranty on induction boilers, both for the boiler unit itself and for the electrical equipment. The main point for a long and reliable service of induction boilers without accidents and repairs is the magnetic core element. The thickness of the pipe wall is important, since the metal will be subject to corrosion one way or another. Pipes for cores are thick-walled - with a wall thickness of at least 1 cm.
Technical characteristics and advantages of induction boilers
- There are completely no moving, loaded, rubbing parts, as well as heating elements. As a result, there is no wear, no need for periodic replacement of parts, etc.
- It is possible to connect and operate in normal mode from DC power networks and at low voltage. As a rule, electric boiler models do not have such capabilities
- The design of the induction boiler has no connections with connectors, which eliminates coolant leaks
- It takes much less time to operate and heat up to operating parameters when compared with all other types of electric boilers
- The design and operating features of the boiler provide the advantage of preventing scale deposits of salts on the internal surfaces of the magnetic core core. Firstly, the heater and coolant fluid have a slight temperature difference - up to 30 degrees. Secondly, the operation of the boiler involves high-frequency vibrations caused by eddy currents arising in the core, which “repel” ionic salt particles from the metal of the pipe core
- High class for electrical safety and fire safety (second class). The electrical connection between the inductor primary winding and the heater-core in the design of the induction boiler is structurally excluded, and heating of the coolant and the magnetic core pipe has an interval of no more than 30 degrees
- Inverter boilers do not require fuel, smoke removal and chimneys, as well as cleaning them from soot - as for all electric boiler units
- No need for a separate boiler room and collecting permits to connect the boiler
- Like the vast majority of electric heating devices, the inverter boiler has an efficiency close to 98-100%, and there is no decrease in power and efficiency during operation, which distinguishes the induction device from electrode and heating elements
- Manufacturers claim that the average service life is a quarter of a century or more, and no maintenance is needed. The thicker the wall of the metal core pipe, the lower the risks of corrosion processes and the more durable the unit
- There are no special requirements for the chemical composition of the coolant. It is possible to use water, oil, antifreeze and other liquids; their preliminary preparation and cleaning is not required, and the coolant lasts for about ten years before replacement
- Induction boilers operate absolutely silently
- Low inertia, which saves energy (heating element heaters have much greater inertia, but electrode boilers have even less inertia than induction boilers). The energy efficiency of induction boilers is due to the use of electronic control. Energy consumption is less because the temperature is regulated at a certain minimum, and when it increases, the control elements disconnect the boiler from the power supply, and reconnect as soon as the temperature drops below the level set by the user
- For installation work on installing the boiler, it is not necessary to involve highly qualified specialists
- The boilers can be used for all closed-type heating systems, including underfloor heating and baseboard heating systems, since the minimum threshold for heating the coolant is only 35 degrees
- The maximum permissible pressure for a heating system powered by an inverter boiler is 0.30 MPa
The disadvantages of inverter boilers include:
- Considerable dimensions and weight. Parameters of a small single-phase boiler with a power of 2.5 kW: diameter 125 mm, height 0.45 m and weight more than 20 kg
- The main part of the control system - the inverter starter - determines the considerable cost of the boiler. Prices for inverter boilers today are considerable
- Inability to use in open heating systems
- The presence of difficult-to-screen interference within a radius of several meters from the boiler location. The boiler generates long, medium and VHF waves. The human body does not perceive or react to these waves in any way. The reaction of domestic animals to the operation of induction units was observed, also within a radius of up to ten meters
One of the additional advantages of using an induction boiler in the heating system of an individual house or cottage is that it is possible to maintain an optimally comfortable temperature in a home in which people do not live permanently, but come for a while. Such operating conditions do not require powerful boiler models, since a 4.5 kW boiler can stably heat a house of up to 100 m2 with a constant temperature level of about 10-15 degrees. In this case, you can create comfortable conditions if you have a fireplace or stove. Such heating combinations are popular in areas with cold climates, as they provide both thermal comfort and certain energy savings.
Inverter heaters have recently appeared on the heating market. Such equipment quickly gained trust and became very popular. This can be explained not only by efficiency, but also by high productivity. Due to increased demand, manufacturers began to develop new systems, the demand for which is increasing every day. As a result of this breakthrough, inverter equipment designed for home use appeared. These devices require either electricity or gas to operate.
How it works
What is an inverter heater? The operating principle of such equipment is quite simple. Each device is equipped with an inverter. This part of the system allows you to convert alternating current to direct current. In this case, both frequency and voltage change. A similar process in physics is called inversion. The basis of the system resembles a generator not with constant, but with periodic voltage. This looks like a discrete signal in form.
The inversion process greatly affects the power of the entire unit. It is worth noting that other devices connected to it become more economical and less noisy.
Why is it economical
Inverter heaters are considered one of the most cost-effective devices. How does this manifest itself? Let's start with the fact that such systems, having reached the required temperature level, do not completely turn off. The device continues to operate, reducing the speed to a minimum. This process leads to maintaining a comfortable and favorable climate in the room. At the same time, the heater does not waste extra electricity turning it on and off.
In addition, inverter heaters do not use “high current” for starting during their use. This is also beneficial for consumers. When starting the unit, the current does not exceed the rated current. And this has a positive effect on the service life of such devices. In this case, the device is not constantly in the on and off mode. Such cycles significantly reduce the life of the equipment. It is worth noting that, unlike conventional heating devices, inverter heaters can save up to 40% of electricity.
Performance and practicality
Now you know what inverter heaters are. Such heating devices differ from others not only in efficiency, but also in productivity. It is worth noting that an inverter heater is capable of heating a room even at the minimum temperature. At the same time, the efficiency remains quite high. During operation, the equipment shows the ratio of energy expended and the amount of heat generated. This proportion is designated EER. This indicator for inverter heaters is almost equal to 4.
In other words, with a unit consumption of 250 kW, 1 kW of heat is obtained. This indicator is quite good for household appliances.
Other advantages and disadvantages
Inverter heaters for home have other advantages, among which it is worth highlighting:
- When operating, such equipment has high indicators of both environmental friendliness and safety.
- During operation, the inverter heater makes virtually no noise. This is due to a significant decrease in the speed of revolutions when the load decreases.
Despite so many advantages, such equipment has disadvantages. In general, there is only one thing - cost. The price of an inverter heater is significantly higher than other types of heating devices.
Inverter heater and home heating with electricity
Inverter heaters, reviews of which are often positive, can be used for heating living spaces. This is especially true if the system is powered from the main power line. This method has already won many fans. Inverter heaters are installed wherever there is access to electricity.
Moreover, such equipment can be used without obtaining permits. This is another plus of the unit. In other words, to install a heating system, there is no need to contact the relevant authorities to obtain permission to install an inverter heater. Another pleasant point for users is the cost of the equipment. This figure is significantly lower than the price of other heating systems.
Is it possible to replace a gas boiler?
An inverter heater can replace a conventional gas boiler. In this case, the operating principle of the unit does not change. With an integrated inverter heater, the operating principle of the system will be as follows: electricity will pass through the inverter heater before entering the boiler. In this case, an induction current will be generated. If the power is turned off, the boiler will continue to operate, but from the battery. The heater includes a heat exchanger and a magnetic part.
Main types of devices
At the moment, there are several types of inverter heaters. This allows you to make the best choice for heating your home:
- Gas inverter heater.
- Infrared.
- Electric.
- Inverter air conditioner.
What is an infrared heater?
Recently, infrared inverter heaters have gained particular popularity. Such units are ideal for heating not only residential premises, but also outbuildings, country houses and verandas.
The main feature of an infrared inverter heater is its ability to withstand moisture and natural precipitation. Heating devices of other types are not capable of this.
Gas inverter heater
Currently it produces many models of inverter heaters that can operate not only from the mains. Heating devices of this type require special attention, the fuel for which is liquefied or natural gas. The main task of a gas inverter heater is to maintain a favorable climate in the rooms of country houses, as well as in large unheated areas.
A distinctive feature of such a heating device is the minimal cost of the necessary fuel with a fairly high heat output. It is worth noting that gas inverter heaters are very easy to use and mobile. Even a non-professional can handle such a heating device.
Inverter air conditioner
There are inverter wall heaters. Recently, interesting heating units have appeared in the form of air conditioners. Of course, many people associate this word only with air cooling. However, an air conditioner, especially an inverter one, can also perform other functions. Such equipment can heat a room and create a favorable climate in it. This significantly saves energy. Based on the operating principle, a modern air conditioner can become a good inverter heater. All models of such equipment can be divided into two types.
Today you can buy a classic air conditioner that operates in on/off mode, as well as an inverter type. Of course, the latter type of equipment costs much more than the traditional one. However, this air conditioner is durable and economical. The choice of such a unit should be approached with all responsibility. After all, an air conditioner of this type can not only cool, but, if necessary, heat the room.
It is worth noting that such equipment is environmentally friendly. During its operation, no fuel or air is burned. In addition, the air conditioner does not emit harmful substances into the environment.
Operating principle of an inverter air conditioner
In fact, such an air conditioner is an inverter electric heater. The principle of its work is not so complicated. The operation of an inverter air conditioner is similar to that of a heat pump. The unit has not only an internal, but also an external unit. At the same time, each performs its functions. The indoor unit contains a heat exchanger in which freon condenses under fairly high pressure. During this process, the temperature can reach 80°C.
After heating, freon flows into the outdoor unit. In this case, the pressure in the system decreases. As a result of such a difference, freon passes from a liquid state to a gaseous state. Thanks to this feature, an inverter air conditioner can take warm air from the street, even at sub-zero temperatures.
It is worth noting that such equipment is ideal as additional heating for offices and private houses, cottages, and garages.
Manufacturers and models
Particularly in demand at the moment is the Ballu inverter heater. According to customer reviews, it is reliable and durable. Nevertheless, Japan occupies a leading position in the production of such equipment. And this is not surprising. After all, it was the specialists of this country who were the first to develop an inverter system.
The Japanese company Daikin produces household wall heaters with this operating principle, designed to create a favorable climate in residential buildings and offices. At the moment, developers are paying special attention to a system of better air purification. In addition, company employees are trying to reduce the noise level of the units during operation. Some models of their equipment are equipped with special sensors that can turn on an energy saving function if there are no people in the room for 20 minutes.
Most popular brand
A fairly wide range of inverter heaters on the heating market is represented by Toshiba. According to consumers, the products of this company are distinguished by a stylish and original design that can fit into almost any interior. As for some characteristics, the equipment of this brand is capable of reaching the desired temperature 25% faster, unlike products of other brands. This does not affect energy consumption. Many models have an air filter that can destroy up to 99% of all harmful microorganisms in the room.
