Gas appliances are often electronically controlled. Such heating boilers are connected to the network, therefore they are sensitive to the quality of electric power. It is proven that every fourth failure occurs due to network instability. Service centers refuse to repair equipment after such breakdowns. Therefore, it is necessary to install a voltage stabilizer for a gas boiler.
How to choose the right device so that it protects the boiler to the maximum? We will tell in the article.
Do I need a stabilizer
Many models of heating equipment “Baxi” (Baxi), “Proterm”, “Navien” include electronic control and automation unit. This includes the main module with sensors controlled by it. The latter control the operation of the boiler units, ensuring safe operation.
Automation is sensitive to voltage quality. For its normal operation, a pure sine wave is required, which we wrote about in the article “How to choose a UPS for a gas boiler”. That is, the current supply must be constant and stable. If the board burns out at the next jump, the replacement will cost 30-50% of the total cost of the equipment.
The installation of a stabilizer is simply necessary to protect the device. It corrects the frequency of the current, so all systems operate without overloads and breakdowns.
Some users still operate old Soviet units with manual ignition and a complete lack of security systems. They argue that the additional connection of protective devices is just a waste of money. One of the typical objections is: “Network jumps are rare in our area (house). They are not so significant as to harm the technology. "
Here are the facts:
- No one is immune from natural phenomena: a storm, a hurricane, a strong wind, a thunderstorm - all this can break the transmission line.
- The number of consumers connecting to the line is growing, from this the supply can be unstable. And if the neighbors started a repair and turned on the grinder, then your network is guaranteed to receive a “leap”.
- The human factor plays a role: dishonest work of an electrician, damage to wiring during repair - all accidents cannot be avoided.
Did you know? When connecting the boiler without a stabilizer, the company has the right to refuse warranty repair.
Which protective device do you need? Let's start by exploring their varieties.
Types of stabilizers
Consider the types of operation.
Relay or electronic. They are connected to a network with a range of 135–315 V. Some of the cheapest devices. The advantages of the relay type include:
- Good response speed (100 ms).
- Compact and light weight.
- Stable sine wave. The accuracy of the output current is 7.5%.
Minuses:
- Quite noisy work (clicks are heard).
- When switching the windings, the light may blink.
- Short service life.
Electromechanical or servo-driven. The voltage is regulated by a brush that moves in a circle around the electric motor.
Benefits:
- High accuracy (3%).
- Work in a wide range.
- Infinitely variable output frequency.
- Low cost.
Disadvantages:
- After three to four years, the adjustment brush will have to be replaced.
- The appliance will not function in a cold room.
- Slow reaction.
- Due to the principle of operation, it can openly spark.
Triac or thyristor. Today it is the best device, although its cost is higher than the previous two. High accuracy 2-3% due to the large number of windings. Take-off run - 214–226 V.
Pros:
- High speed (10–20 ms) and accuracy.
- Stable and quiet operation.
Minuses:
- High price.
Double conversion (inventory). A separate type of protection, which can be called the most reliable.Initially, the device converts alternating current into direct current, and then again into alternating current with a pure sinusoid. The operating range is 120–300 V. Instantly reacts to a surge or decrease in voltage.
Among the disadvantages can be identified the high cost of the device.
Pulse width (PWM). The device is based on the operation of the pulse generator. It provides an accurate output current. Allows you to fully synchronize with a gas boiler. Recommended for connecting to a low frequency network.
Which device is best to choose also depends on the number of phases. You can choose a device with a built-in battery that will support operation when a power outage occurs.
Number of phases
The choice of the number of phases depends on the network parameters. If it is single-phase, then the protective device needs the same type.
Single phase. Suitable for mounted and floor heating equipment. It is often installed in houses and apartments with network values of 220 V. It is used to correct power up to 135 kVA.
Three phase. It is used more for industrial purposes for connection in boiler rooms. The power range is 380-400 V. It can also be used in domestic conditions, if the connection parameters are as stated.
What to consider when choosing
To choose the best model, pay attention to the following parameters:
- Boiler power. Electric models of different brands "Buderus", "Wisman", "Ariston", "Bosch" have a different operating range - maybe 10 or 24 kW. This must be considered when choosing.
- Response time. Indicated in milliseconds (ms). The parameter will tell how long the stabilizer will equalize the voltage during the jump.
- Input voltage. The recommended range is 140–260 watts.
- The accuracy of the output correction. So you will find out how high quality your boiler is “fed”.
- Working temperature. This refers to the ambient temperature at which the equipment works normally. Usually it is +5 - +40 degrees.
- Way of placement. Wall options are lighter and more compact, take up minimal space. Floor are more often used for industrial purposes for high power equipment.
To calculate the power of the stabilizer, summarize the power of all devices that are connected to it. Multiply the resulting number by 1.3 (jump at startup).
How to connect a stabilizer
Before installation, read the instructions and technical documentation of the device.
- The device is located in a dry room with the temperature indicated in the passport.
- The unit is placed away from combustible substances.
- Do not place the device in closed cabinets or cabinets. It is important to ensure proper air circulation.
- Connection to the boiler is carried out through a ground outlet.
See the diagram below:
Where to buy the device? You can do this in an online store or home appliance stores.
Most often, the protective device breaks during prolonged operation with a low voltage (170 V). When connecting, observe the input operating voltage.
Why clicks are heard during operation
This question is often asked by users on the forums. There are several reasons for this:
- Clicks are heard when the power is selected incorrectly. When the energy values are outside the permissible limits, the stabilizer is turned off. You hear a click. The way out is to choose a suitable device.
- Bad soldering of contacts. More common in low-cost versions. During use, a crack occurs at the soldering point, which causes extraneous sounds.
- The mechanical type of equipment. During mode switching, clicks occur.
Now you know what to look for when choosing, compared the advantages and disadvantages, the principle of connection. It remains to deal with the choice of model, its parameters and cost.
Rating of popular models
The review is based on customer reviews.
Resanta ASN-500 N / 1-Ts
Single-phase stabilizer of relay type. The compact body fits well on the wall. Provides protection of equipment during power surges in 220/380 V.The built-in filter eliminates noise; the current frequency is automatically adjusted. Resanta operates in a wide temperature range, but does not tolerate high humidity in the room.
Rated power (W / A) | 500 W (0.5 kW) |
Frequency Hz) | 50 |
Input voltage (V) | 220 |
Deviation Percentage | 8 % |
Response time (ms) | Up to 7 |
Ambient temperature | From 0 ° С to 40 ° С |
Connection | Wire and plug |
Display availability | Digital |
Dimensions (LxWxH) | 260 × 200 × 110 mm |
Weight, kg) | 3 kg |
The price is from 2 000 rubles.
Pavel
I bought Resanta for a boiler with a circulation pump. Conducted a test, tried to connect a TV and microwave to it - suitable for any equipment. After connecting to heating equipment, it has been working steadily for a year, without shutdowns. There were no problems with the instruction, I connected everything on my own. Now I do not worry that the electronics will fail, because repairs are expensive. I advise all friends.
Spire InStab IS3500
Model of the inverter converter "InStab" from the Russian manufacturer "Calm". A single-phase device is perfect for protecting gas double-circuit boilers, refrigeration, household appliances. Available in wall and floor versions. LCD display and LEDs help to monitor the current mode.
- Instantly responds to changes in the network.
- Does not distort the voltage in the primary network.
- Performs a double conversion.
- Built-in protection against short circuit (short circuit), overheating, overload.
- Forced fan cooling.
- An interference filter is installed.
Rated power (W / A) | 3500 (2.5 kW) |
Frequency Hz) | 50 |
Input voltage (V) | 220 |
Deviation Percentage | ± 2% |
Response time (ms) | 0 |
Ambient temperature | + 5–40 ° С |
Connection | Terminal block |
Display availability | LCD display |
Dimensions (LxWxH) | 203x359x106 mm |
Weight, kg) | 5 |
The cost of 22,000 rubles.
Alexander
Initially I was looking for an inverter version. It is more reliable and produces a high-quality sine wave in contrast to the relays. While functioning normally, it is on the floor in a horizontal position. True, it makes noise at work, which is annoying. Probably due to forced cooling by fans. It is better to secure the equipment once than then call the master and overpay. While happy with the purchase, the main thing is that everything is protected.
"Bastion Teplocom ST-5552"
Wall-mounted single-phase device of a relay type. Protects electrical appliances, improving the quality of power supply.
It can be installed in the private sector, apartment, office, company. The case is simply mounted on the wall thanks to three-point brackets. LED backlight softly illuminates the panel in the dark.
Protection against short circuit, automatic shutdown in case of emergency is provided.
Rated power (W / A) | 555 |
Frequency Hz) | 50 |
Input voltage (V) | 200–240 |
Deviation Percentage | – |
Response time (ms) | 20 |
Ambient temperature | + 5–40 ° С |
Connection | Plug and socket |
Display availability | no |
Dimensions (LxWxH) | 130x170x85 mm |
Weight, kg) | 1,8 |
The price is from 3 000 rubles.
Victor
At my place for a long time there is a dual-circuit Buderus unit. He perfectly heated the water and the room, until one day he broke. It was autumn, winter was nearing, so the master was immediately called. After diagnosing, he said that the electronic board flew. It turned out that the part is sensitive to deviations in the network. Recommended to install a stabilizer. I opted for the budget option Teplocom St-555. He pleased me with clear instructions, a light body. There are mounts for hanging, but I have on the floor. The manufacturer gives a guarantee for 5 years!
Connection is easy: the plug is connected to the network, and the socket on the cable to the boiler. I have been using it for 2 years, and no problems with the equipment. “Teplocom” is constantly on, most often instability occurs at night. The only inconvenience is the short wires. But if you consider how much the device costs, this minus can be ignored.
Having realized all the advantages and disadvantages, as well as familiarizing yourself with the varieties of protective devices, you can go shopping.Follow our recommendations, correlate the power of the heating unit with the parameters of the stabilizer. Consider the number of connected equipment. Have a good choice!