What kind of antifreeze can be poured into the heating system. Which coolant to choose for periodic heating of a private house

With development modern technologies home owners have more options increase the operational capabilities of life support devices. This is especially true for the reliability and functionality of heating equipment. Increasingly as a coolant plain water replaced with special liquids that differ in composition and effectiveness.

When the owner of a private home needs to decide what liquid to pour into the heating of a private home, many opt for antifreeze. It solves many heating problems, especially when it comes to a country cottage.

Choosing a good “anti-freeze” is not difficult if you know the features of its use.

Water or antifreeze: what to choose?

Traditionally, ordinary water is poured into the heating system. There is an opinion that it is not advisable to fill in other coolants. However, situations may arise when you simply cannot do without an anti-freeze agent.

For example, in a country house where there are no permanent residents, but for some reason it is not possible to “mothball” the heating system. To understand what liquids to pour into the heating, and what will bring greater benefits, you need to find out the positive and negative sides.

A comfortable stay in a heated room depends on how correctly the coolant is selected. It should be taken into account that the composition of liquids for steam heating is different for each manufacturer.

Here are the main components that are currently actively used:

• glycerol;
• salt solutions;
• propylene glycol;
• ethylene glycol;
• bischofite

These funds were not chosen by chance. They perform certain functions that water cannot replace.

The main disadvantage of water as a coolant

Water is an environmentally friendly product. If a leak is detected in the radiators, it will not cause harm to a person. But while water is affordable and suitable for most heating systems, it has several disadvantages.

In case of unexpected temperature changes, if the mercury level in the thermometer drops below zero, the water will freeze when the boiler is turned off. Once the radiators and pipes rupture, it will be almost impossible to repair it; the entire system will need to be replaced. More often than not, the boiler will be the first to suffer. Thus, you will have to spend a lot of money to restore heating.

Metal pipes from water gradually rust. If electricity is used as an energy source, its consumption will increase due to the formation of scale and rust.

Why is it beneficial to use antifreeze liquid?

If the coolant is antifreeze, then there is no need to drain it during the cold season. Even in severe frost, the entire heating system will remain normal. The antifreeze solution will turn into a gel when the threshold of its permissible operating parameters is exceeded. Once conditions return to working conditions, it will return to its normal liquid state. The temperature range of use is quite high; for some “anti-freeze” devices it drops to 65 degrees below zero.

The use of non-freezing liquid for the heating system of a private home allows you to avoid corrosion in pipes due to special additives. Another plus is that antifreeze does not foam.

A non-freezing coolant will be very helpful if the room has heated floors. After all, if pipes freeze throughout the house, you will have to make expensive major renovation. Getting rid of moisture under your home that leaks out from broken connections will not be easy.

The cost of different products may vary significantly. It’s better to buy a good, expensive antifreeze once and be sure of its quality. You shouldn’t expect good results from a cheap “anti-freeze” for heating.

Important! Antifreeze should be stored away from sunlight, preferably in unheated outbuildings.

Disadvantages of “anti-freeze”

Antifreeze has two disadvantages, everyone who plans to use such a coolant should be aware of them:

1. Products made with ethylene glycol are toxic. If the antifreeze liquid for the heating system leaks, harmful fumes will begin to poison the air, creating a threat to human health.
2. You need to know that antifreeze as a coolant has an aggressive effect on some elements of the heating system. Its viscosity is 20% higher than that of water. This means that the hydraulic load on the pumps is much greater.

These disadvantages must be taken into account when using a non-freezing solution. Before starting the system, it is necessary to check all joints for leaks to eliminate possible leaks. It is recommended to install pumps with a power reserve.

When planning to make your home warm, you need to choose high-quality battery fluid, from reliable manufacturer. There is one way that will help increase heat transfer and reduce the load on equipment: dilute with distilled water.

Important! It is not advisable to dilute antifreeze with ordinary water, since calcium salts gradually “coke” the walls of pipes, radiators, heat exchangers and pumping equipment.

How to choose a good antifreeze for your heating system

When you decide to fill the system with a freeze-resistant liquid, it is important to approach its choice responsibly.

This product is produced by many manufacturers. But out of all the variety, several leaders stand out, producing truly high-quality antifreeze that meets the declared parameters.

When choosing an antifreeze liquid for heating systems, you need to look at the following characteristics:

• period during which it can be used without complete replacement;
• toxicity level;
• compatibility with home heating equipment;
• the presence of additives to improve the performance of heating devices.

Good antifreeze can be used for 5 to 10 winter seasons. This period speaks of high quality product.

The product is considered safe if propylene glycol is used as a base.

Domestic manufacturers are constantly improving their products and offering universal solutions. For example, high-quality products contain additives that protect metal from corrosion.

Important! It is strictly forbidden to use car antifreeze instead of coolant. The additives that are present in its composition are not intended for use in enclosed spaces where people live. Automotive antifreeze and heating fluid have the same properties and have different compositions.

When should antifreeze be used?

To make a warm home safe, heating fluid must be used correctly. Unfortunately, manufacturers of antifreeze liquids do not always warn consumers about the cases in which their product should not be used. To avoid heating problems, you need to know not only about positive aspects“anti-freeze”, but also about negative ones.

Its use is not allowed in a heating system where zinc or electrochemical coating is present. Before choosing a coolant, you need to familiarize yourself with the recommendations of heating equipment manufacturers. If the antifreeze reacts with zinc, it will change its composition, and therefore its original properties. The equipment will be damaged.

Antifreeze liquid for heating boilers, which contains ethylene glycol, is used only in single-circuit systems intended exclusively for heating the room. Ethylene glycol is extremely toxic. If the circuit is double-circuit, there is a danger of toxic substances entering the hot water supply pipes.

With an open-type heating system, you will also have to abandon the “anti-freeze” system. Ethylene glycol will be harmful to health if it evaporates.

Important! Be sure to look at the label for information about the date of manufacture of the antifreeze and find out whether the product’s expiration date has expired.

Features when starting the heating system

Different compositions of solutions affect the operation of the heating system. So the presence of ethylene glycol affects First stage system startup. The heating process must be started at low power, then gradually increased to the required level. This method will reduce the toxic effects of this substance.

A product based on propylene glycol does not require such adjustments when starting heating equipment.

Important! Antifreeze has a lower heat capacity than water. Therefore, more radiators need to be installed in the room.

When all the requirements are met, then there is no need to be afraid of using “anti-freeze” as a coolant. It will solve a lot of problems if used skillfully.

Prices for non-freezing liquid vary, and so does the quality. The policy here should be this: when it is not possible to buy good remedy, it's better to stay on the water. In this case, you must ensure that the coolant is drained from the system before the onset of frost, or turn on the heating devices on time.

Heating networks country houses They are not always filled with clean water. In special operating conditions, it is practiced to pump in non-freezing liquids - antifreeze, plus the addition of additives with a certain set of properties (inhibitors and salts). We propose to consider 2 questions - which coolant for the heating system is better and how to properly use various chemical compositions.

Types and properties of heat-carrying liquids

The working fluid of any water system - the coolant - is a liquid that takes a certain amount of energy from the boiler and transfers it through pipes to heating devices - batteries or. Conclusion: the efficiency of heating depends on the physical properties of the liquid mediator - heat capacity, density, fluidity, and so on.

In 95% of private houses, ordinary or treated water is used with a heat capacity of 4.18 kJ/kg °C (in other units - 1.16 W/kg °C, 1 kcal/kg °C), freezing at a temperature of about zero degrees. The advantages of traditional heating fluid are availability and low price, main drawback– increase in volume upon freezing.

Crystallization of water is accompanied by expansion; cast iron radiators and metal-plastic pipelines are equally destroyed by ice pressure

The ice that forms in the cold literally splits pipes, boiler heat exchangers and radiators. To prevent the destruction of expensive equipment due to defrosting, 3 types of antifreeze made on the basis of polyhydric alcohols are poured into the system:

1. Glycerin solution is the oldest type of non-freezing coolant. Pure glycerin is a transparent liquid of high viscosity, the density of the substance is 1261 kg/m³.
2. An aqueous solution of ethylene glycol - dihydric alcohol with a density of 1113 kg/m³. The starting liquid is colorless and is inferior in viscosity to glycerin. The substance is toxic, the lethal dose of dissolved glycol when taken orally is about 100 ml.
3. The same, based on propylene glycol - a transparent liquid with a density of 1036 kg/m³.
4. Compositions based on the natural mineral - bischofite. We will analyze the characteristics and features of this chemical separately (below in the text).

Reference. Any non-freezing heating fluid contains a dye that gives the chemical a distinctive color. Poisonous ethylene glycol is usually colored red or yellow, propylene glycol is green (less often blue). Glycerin antifreeze is given a pink tint or left transparent. This classification is not mandatory and is not always observed.

“Anti-freeze products” are sold in two forms: ready-made solutions designed for a certain subzero temperature (usually -30 ° C), or concentrates, which the user dilutes with water himself. Let us list the properties of glycol antifreezes that affect the operation of heating networks:

1. Low crystallization temperature. Depending on the concentration of polyhydric alcohol in an aqueous solution, the liquid begins to freeze at a temperature of minus 10...40 degrees. The concentrate crystallizes at 65 °C below zero.
2. High kinematic viscosity. Example: by the water this parameter is 0.01012 cm²/s, propylene glycol - 0.054 cm²/s, the difference is 5 times.
3. Increased fluidity and penetrating ability.
4. The heat capacity of non-freezing solutions lies in the range of 0.8...0.9 kcal/kg °C (depending on concentration). On average, this parameter is 15% lower than that of water.
5. Aggressiveness towards some metals, such as zinc.
6. The substance foams when heated and quickly decomposes when boiling.

In order for antifreezes to meet operational requirements, manufacturers add additive packages to glycol solutions - corrosion inhibitors and other elements that maintain antifreeze stability and reduce foaming.

About the pros and cons of glycol antifreeze

The main advantage of artificial coolants based on glycols is the preservation of the liquid phase during negative temperatures. We list other positive aspects of using water heating antifreeze:

• coolants do not contain calcium and magnesium salts, which form scale inside the heat exchangers;
• due to the penetrating ability of glycols, the effect of lubrication of moving parts occurs, ball valves and thermostatic valves do not sour, the fittings last longer;
• the boiling point of antifreeze 103-106 °C delays the moment of vaporization and airing in case of overheating of a solid fuel boiler;
• When the temperature drops below the freezing threshold, glycol solutions turn into a gel mass.

Note. The paragraph about scale implies that the “anti-freeze” is diluted with demineralized distilled water.

Let's clarify the last 2 points. Ordinary water, often poured into the heating system of country houses, begins to boil at 96-98 ° C, actively releasing steam. If the circulation TT boiler, the steam phase penetrates into the chamber with the impeller, water pumping stops, and the boiler completely overheats. A higher boiling point of antifreeze will delay the moment of the accident.

Unlike water, glycol hardened in the cold does not expand and does not destroy pipe walls. In the event of freezing, the only unit that will suffer is the forced circulation pump. The crystallizing gel will jam Working wheel and the motor will burn out.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of disadvantages to non-freezing substances:

Glycol liquids are poorly compatible with electric boilers. Instructions for the use of various antifreezes categorically do not recommend filling systems operating in conjunction with electrolysis heaters with antifreeze. That is, for electrode boilers of the “Galan” type, a special coolant developed by the specified company is needed.

Under rare circumstances, antifreeze can release flammable gas that breaks through the automatic air vent. Example: the heat source is an electric boiler, the heaters are Chinese-made aluminum radiators. Heating glycol causes a complex chemical reaction and gas formation. The fact is demonstrated in the video:

New mineral coolants

We decided to highlight the description of these liquids, since they are made on the basis of the natural mineral - bischofite. The substance is a magnesium salt of hydrochloric acid, the full name is magnesium chloride hexahydrate. The manufacturer declares the following characteristics of the finished antifreeze, designed for a minimum temperature of minus 30 degrees:

• the color of the aqueous solution is light yellow, the density is 1117…1250 kg/m³;
• boiling threshold - 116 °C, freezing point - minus 30 °C;
• specific heat capacity - 0.77 kcal/kg °C (3.23 kJ/kg °C);
• thanks to the additives, there is no foaming and no aggressive effect on various seals - silicone, paronite, EPDM and BMS rubber;
• the substance is not toxic;
• In terms of viscosity and fluidity, the drug is very close to glycol chemicals.

Reference. The product appeared on the market after 2010. The price of liquid as of 2018 is about 1 USD. e. per liter of finished coolant (-30 ° C).

Compared to traditional glycol analogues, mineral antifreeze benefits due to high temperature boiling, cost and health safety. The negative point is the increased density and low heat capacity, 23% worse than that of water.

The practical use of the coolant has revealed a number of shortcomings, as evidenced by reviews from homeowners:

User responses about this type of “anti-freeze” can be read on the well-known construction forum: https://www.stroimdom.com.ua/forum/showthread.php?t=157650

Taking into account the experience of users, we do not dare to recommend mineral antifreezes for use in heating systems of private houses. Perhaps over time, manufacturers will eliminate the above problems and the magnesium chloride solution will be able to compete on equal terms with glycols.

Choosing an “anti-freeze” for heating

Tip number one: buy and fill in antifreeze only in extreme cases - for periodic heating of remote country houses, garages or buildings under construction. Try to use water - regular and distilled, this is the least troublesome option.

When choosing a frost-resistant coolant, follow the following recommendations:

Clarification. It is not profitable to use frost-resistant liquid for an open heating system. Hot antifreeze will evaporate into the atmosphere through the expansion tank, the antifreeze will have to be constantly topped up, and money will be spent. It is unacceptable to pump in ethylene glycol, since its vapors are toxic.

There is a lot of debate about the harmfulness of ethylene glycol compounds, including on the pages of construction forums. Without denying the harmful effects of the chemical on human health, let us draw attention to a convincing fact.

Homeowners whose closed systems are installed well have been using inexpensive glycol for years without any problems. Let's listen to the expert's opinion in the video:

Instructions for use

If your system previously ran on water, switching to antifreeze will not be easy. Theoretically, radiators with a boiler can be emptied and filled with cold-resistant coolant, but in practice the following will happen:

• due to lower heat capacity, the output of batteries and the efficiency of heating rooms will decrease;
• due to viscosity, the load on the pump will increase, coolant flow will drop, and less heat will reach the radiators;
• antifreeze expands more than water, so the capacity of the old tank will not be enough, the pressure in the network will rise;
• To improve the situation, you will have to increase the temperature on the boiler, which will lead to excessive fuel consumption and increased pressure.

Addition. After filling the liquid, the old connections sealed with flax and paint are guaranteed to flow.

In order for heating to function normally using a chemical coolant, you need to calculate in advance or remake the existing system according to the new requirements:

Advice. The total amount of coolant is easy to calculate - the cross-sectional area of ​​the pipe is multiplied by its length, the capacity of the boiler and radiators is indicated in the product data sheets. How to properly place and connect the expansion tank, a separate publication.

The concentrated coolant must be diluted with water, ideally with distillate. Do not rely on an excessive reserve of frost resistance - the more water you add, the better the heating will work. Recommendations for preparing coolant:

1. For heating elements, electric and gas double-circuit heat generators, prepare the mixture at minus 20 degrees. A more concentrated solution may foam upon contact with the heater, and carbon deposits will form on the surface of the heating element.
2. In other cases, mix the components at freezing point according to the table below. Proportions are indicated per 100 liters of coolant.
3. If there is no distillate, first conduct an experiment - dilute the concentrate in a jar with plain water. If you see a precipitate of white flakes - a product of the decomposition of inhibitors and additives, this water should not be used.
4. A similar check is done before mixing antifreeze from two different manufacturers. It is unacceptable to dilute ethylene glycol with propylene composition.
5. Prepare the coolant immediately before pouring.

The maximum service life of any antifreeze substance in pipes and heating radiators is 5 years. At the end of the specified period, the liquid is drained, the system is flushed twice and filled with fresh antifreeze.

Finally, about coolants for electrode boilers

Electric water heaters of this type operate on the principle of a “soldier’s boiler” consisting of two blades connected to a 220 volt network. Water simultaneously serves as a coolant and electrolyte; heating occurs due to its conductivity, which depends on the content of magnesium and calcium salts.

This is why electrode boilers do not work with distillate and significantly lose power with under-salted water. According to the passport of the Galan heater, the resistance of the working fluid should be no more than 3200 Ohms per 1 cm.

If you pour regular ethylene glycol into an electrolysis heat generator, the substance will enter into a chemical reaction, foam and lose additives against corrosion and scale formation. The problem can be solved in 2 ways:

1. A special antifreeze designed for electrode-type units is purchased. Special additives that resist foaming are dissolved in the working environment.
2. A saline solution of the required concentration is prepared, as shown in the video below. Such water will begin to crystallize at a lower temperature, although it cannot be compared with antifreeze in terms of frost resistance.

You should pay attention to the preparation of tap water - pass it through a filter and let it sit for 1-3 days. A good solution is to buy a corrosion inhibitor separately and add it to the coolant for the heating system in advance.

Taking into account the peculiarities of our climatic conditions, in winter the temperature can drop to 20-30, or even 40 degrees Celsius. This means that if the heating does not function and there is water in the system, it will freeze. It would seem, what's wrong with this? The thing is that when it freezes (transitions into the solid phase), water increases in volume by 9%. Therefore, if the liquid freezes in the heating system, there is a high probability that many components will fail: pipes, the boiler itself, taps and other elements.

Antifreeze - as an antifreeze liquid for the heating system

Ethylene glycol based antifreezes

• -65°С
• -30°С

Composition of antifreeze

• preventing destruction of system seals;
• dissolution and removal of scale and sediments that accumulate in the system over time;
• corrosion protection of metals that are part of the heating system.

Fill it up and use it?

Reasons why boiler manufacturers refuse to use antifreeze

What problems exist when using antifreeze fluid in heating systems?

Problem #1

• boiler power;
• increase pressure by 60% circulation pump;
• increase the volume of the expansion tank by 50%;
• increase the thermal power of radiators by 50%.

Problem #2

The acids formed during the decomposition of ethylene glycol react with the metals of the system, as a result of which the development of corrosion processes is possible. Decomposition of additives can cause a decrease in the protective characteristics of the composition in relation to seals, which can cause leakage at the joints. If the system has zinc coating, the use of antifreeze is unacceptable. When overheated, increased foaming occurs, which means that airing of the system is guaranteed. Therefore, in order to eliminate all these phenomena, it is necessary to strictly control the heating process. Since boiler manufacturers do not know physical properties coolants used (except water), they exclude their use.

Problems #3

Which coolant to choose?

Is there an alternative to antifreeze?

1. Creation of a heating system with electrically independent boilers.
2. Use of backup power sources: batteries and electric generators.

Results: water or antifreeze?

If this happens, then you should use distilled liquid. As already noted, the use of antifreeze in galvanized systems is prohibited. Also, the composition should not be diluted by more than 50 percent, which reduces the anti-corrosion characteristics of the mixture. You also need to remember about the aging of antifreeze, so it will have to be changed after some time. Typically the period is about five years. Therefore we can draw a conclusion. It is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of whether it is worth pouring antifreeze into the heating system of a house; it is the best coolant. You will have to compare your conditions with those described above, based on which you will make a decision. Finally, we can only note that since the active use of antifreeze in heating, not a single serious accident has been reported. Therefore, statistics suggest that in practice everything may not be so scary.

How to choose an anti-freeze

Modern heating systems can operate according to different principles of heat transfer to heat exchange points. Traditional water, without an influx of heat from outside, begins to freeze, significantly expanding with volume. It is being replaced by special compounds - antifreeze for heating, which have a significantly lower freezing threshold.

The choice of antifreeze liquid should be based on the following criteria:

• safety for humans (Warm House ECO-30);
• harmless to the system;
• long service life;
• heat capacity.

But the key selection factor remains the chemical base raw material.

Traditionally, the following are used as a basis:

• propylene glycol – non-toxic, suitable for use in the food industry;
• ethylene glycol is a toxic dihydric alcohol.

Additives

An important selection criterion is the additives added to the coolant. It is customary to distinguish between organic and inorganic additives. The type of substance affects the service life and quality. Best Features organic guarantees, plus it protects the system from corrosion.

Anti-freeze compatibility with heating systems

It would be a good idea to evaluate how heating equipment manufacturers treat the product.

In this context the following can be said:

• propylene glycol based product with organic additives– demonstrates a wide range of indicators. These are safety, environmental friendliness, versatility of use, excellent physicochemical characteristics. Suitable for use in food production, kindergartens, and for home heating;
• compositions based on ethylene glycol with organic additives(DIXIS) – we can talk about some restrictions in application. This is a solution for industrial facilities and systems isolated from human activity;
• propylene glycol with inorganic additives– safe for people and animals, but has a shorter service life;
• ethylene glycol with inorganic additives– demonstrates a short service life, is poisonous. But this is the most budget option. It is quite logical for a system well isolated from contact with human life.

How to calculate the required volume

Calculating the quantity is not too difficult a task. When the system is fully installed and commissioning has been carried out, you can look at the results of the control pressure test. The water drawn from the system will indicate the exact amount of liquid.

Dilution with water

Heating system manufacturers advocate for efficient and safe operation by setting their own requirements. Users, on the contrary, are inclined towards saving money. Antifreeze companies offer coolants at -30, -65 degrees. These are the most popular samples, which are guaranteed not to freeze at the time of sale. When choosing, it is recommended to look at the density.

For example, for antifreeze -25 degrees is 1.03 g/cm3, -30 degrees is 1.04 g/cm3. There is not too much deviation in the concentration of the main substance. But keep in mind that all the water may not be drained from the system; the circuit itself may be refueled. Some reserve of concentration is still necessary.

On the other side, diluting antifreeze from -30 degrees to -25 degrees will not provide significant savings. But at the same time you can lose some useful properties. It is much more efficient to take a product at -65 (Teply Dom 65) and dilute it; in this case, savings can result in 20%.

Life time

The longest-lasting antifreeze with organic additives. The service life reaches 10 years (10 seasons). Silicate additives provide a service life of 5 years. I advise you to check the composition after each heating season.

It is enough to drain a small amount of the substance and inspect it for the presence of impurities, transparency, and color. If there are grains or crumbs, the product must be drained, washed, and filtered. Clots and flakes indicate traces of chemical changes, which should be addressed to specialists.

• COZY TECHNOLOGY– this brand hides high-quality, modern, highly efficient coolants from Russian company"Obninskorgsintez" This is a world-class manufacturer that produces auto chemicals and other products for the industrial and household sectors. Antifreezes for autonomous heating systems are in high demand due to their low cost, multifunctionality, and quality;
• TERMAGENT- another brand of the Obninskorgsintez company. These are high-quality products based on polypropylene glycol or monoethylene glycol, based on the best German raw materials. The company's product range includes four types of coolants;
• Warm House 65– owner of the trademark is the Himauto group of companies. The holding specializes in the production of coolants for heating systems for industrial and residential premises. In its niche, the products are the standard of quality and ensure uninterrupted heating operation during harsh winters;
• DIXIS– the brand produces antifreezes based on propylene glycol and ethylene glycol using a patented additive package. All formulations and technologies of process fluids are developed by highly qualified specialists. This is one of best solutions, which is on the market today;
• Thermotrust, Aquatrust– both antifreezes are produced by Thermotrust. This Russian brand specializes in the production of instantaneous water heaters, electric boilers and a wide range of antifreezes. All produced antifreeze liquids comply with GOST requirements.

Antifreeze liquid for heating systems

Non-freezing liquid for heating “TECHNOLOGY COMFORT-65”

Low-freezing coolant works successfully in closed systems heating and Compatible with any type of heating boilers - electric, gas, diesel. The only limitation is that the liquid is not used in boilers in which heating occurs due to an electric current passing through the coolant.

I'll add a few words about pipes. The liquid is compatible with polypropylene and aluminum pipelines. But, her cannot be poured into galvanized pipes. Antifreeze “Technology of Uta-65” provokes zinc peeling and its sediment remains on the boiler heaters over time.

The basis of the product is ethylene glycol (65%) with silicate additives. This gives antibacterial, anti-foaming and anti-corrosion properties. In operation, the antifreeze behaves stably and works for 5 years (in other words, enough for 10 heating seasons).

Crystallization begins at -65 degrees; even at such a low temperature, the non-freezing liquid will not turn into ice. In general, an option for the Far North and other harsh conditions. A significant plus is the elimination of destruction and damage to the system, since the product does not expand. Weight – 20 kg. Price – from 1.8 tr.

Pros:

• optimally suited for a wide range of consumers;
• can be diluted with ordinary tap water;
• does not contain amines and nitrates;
• works against corrosion;
• service life 5 years.

Minuses:

• not suitable for electrolysis boilers;
• toxic, contact with drinking water must be avoided;
• requires special disposal.

Non-freezing liquid for heating "TERMAGENT-65"

The manufacturer produces antifreeze that can be used as a coolant in closed heating systems heated with hot water, solar energy, heat pumps. In industry, the product works in refrigeration equipment. The composition is based on highly purified monoethylene glycol.

This is a diatomic alcohol to which anti-corrosion organic additives (carboxylate inhibitors from European manufacturers) have been added. They work to protect the system from the formation of corrosion, scale, bacteria, foam.

The operating temperature range is from -65 degrees to +112 degrees. The composition is compatible with pipes based on elastomers and plastics. Antifreeze is supplied in 20 liter plastic cans. Antifreeze is characterized by high viscosity and therefore requires dilution. To do this you need to use distilled water. The minimum concentration allowed for use is 20% of the total volume of the system. This non-freezing liquid for the heating system can be purchased at a price of 2.2 tr.

Pros:

• presence of anti-corrosion additives;
• wide temperature range;
• works on plastic pipes;
• complies with sanitary and hygienic standards;
• does not expand when frozen;
• blocks the formation of scale, foam, and corrosion.

Minuses:

• you will have to purchase distilled water separately;
• Overheating must be completely excluded (continuous circulation of liquid, complete immersion of heaters in antifreeze, etc.);
• does not work with zinc-containing elements.

Non-freezing liquid for heating “Teply Dom-65”

This is a concentrated coolant based on high-quality ethylene glycol. Russian production(Red). It is designed to work in various heating systems. Dilution with water is carried out based on the required temperature. As a rule, this is from -20 to -30 degrees, although the permissible range is much wider: from -65 to 112 degrees.

Antifreeze contains an additive package. These are 10 active components that work to stabilize thermophysical characteristics over the entire temperature range, anti-foam, and anti-corrosion properties. The result is an aqueous solution with a much lower crystallization temperature.

Reducing the concentration when diluting ethylene glycol with water reduces the freezing point, increases the thermal conductivity and heat capacity of the solution. At the same time, the viscosity is reduced, which gives improved performance of antifreeze in the system. At the output we have excellent heat transfer without consequences. Volume – canister 20 l. Price – from 1.7 tr.

Pros:

• optimal thermophysical characteristics;
• 10 additives in the composition;
• service life is 5 years, while the liquid retains its antifreeze properties, but loses the effectiveness of additives;
• explosion- and fireproof;
• affordable price.

Minuses:

• does not work in systems with galvanized pipes, on electrolysis boilers;
• mixing with other antifreezes is undesirable;
• ethylene glycol is poisonous.

Anti-freeze for the heating system of a private house

Anti-freeze for the heating system of a private house DIXIS-65 with ethylene glycol

Before us concentrated aqueous antifreeze based on monoethylene glycol. The manufacturer did not forget to add unique additives with which the antifreeze acquired heat-stabilizing, anti-foam, antioxidant properties and the ability to protect the system from corrosion.

In addition, the inertness of the liquid to sealing materials has increased significantly. The composition is completely ready for use and does not require dilution with water. However, the manufacturer allows two uses: without dilution and diluted.

Among the obvious advantages of anti-freeze over competitors, I would like to note its long service life - the liquid can work for up to 10 years (!). The product is characterized by high frost resistance and works to remove deposits on the internal surfaces of pipes. Antifreeze does not cause degradation of paronite, rubber, or Teflon seals.

The operating temperature range of the non-freezing liquid is simply amazing - from -65 to +95 degrees. Crystallization will begin at -66 degrees, boiling - from 111 degrees. Volume – canister 20 l. This anti-freeze for the heating system of a private house has a price of 1.8 thousand rubles.

Pros:

• fireproof;
• effective additive complex;
• wide range of operating temperatures;
• long service life – 10 years.

There are no cons.

Antifreeze liquid for the DIXIS TOP system on propylene glycol

This is a safe antifreeze based on propylene glycol., which distinguishes it favorably from traditional ethylene glycol-based analogues in terms of toxicological properties. The composition is intended for use as a working fluid in heat exchange systems of industry and residential buildings. It successfully eliminates “defrosting” when exposed to negative temperatures.

A complex of additives protects equipment from the development of microorganisms and the formation of corrosion. The liquid is compatible with metal-plastic, plastic pipes and seals, works in double-circuit boilers, in open systems, and allows commissioning at subzero temperatures. Crystallization begins at -31 degrees, freezing - at -40 degrees.

Due to the fact that the antifreeze is prepared on the basis of food-grade propylene glycol, it can be safely used even in food industry systems, not to mention residential buildings. The drug provides excellent frost resistance and prevents the destruction of elements of heat exchange systems during freezing, corrosion of cast iron, steel, brass, aluminum and solder. Plus, it prevents the accumulation of scale and, in principle, prevents its formation. Volume – 20 kg canister. Price – from 1.9 tr.

Pros:

• eliminates system destruction;
• fireproof;
• favorable price;
• 100% output quality control;
• full set of additives.

Minuses:

• not suitable for harsh Yakut winters.

Antifreeze liquid for the home heating system Antifreeze Thermotrust

Antifreeze Thermotrust used in the form of aqueous solutions or in the original form. It can be safely used in autonomous heating systems of residential buildings to prevent defrosting at low temperatures. The additive package is optimally balanced and provides protection against microorganisms, corrosion, and scale.

The composition is inert to sealing materials, contains heat-stabilizing, antioxidant, anti-foam components. Does not destroy cast iron, steel, copper, aluminum, brass and solder, compatible with metal-plastic and plastic pipes.

The basis of the liquid is monoethylene glycol, it is homogeneous, red in color, and does not contain mechanical impurities. In areas with a temperate climate it can be diluted with water; in the Far North it is used in its pure form. Crystallization temperature -66 degrees, boiling point 111 degrees. The price of a 20 l canister is from 1.8 tr.

Pros:

• high frost resistance;
• blocks degradation of elements of heat exchange systems during freezing;
• operates in the range -65 – +90 degrees;
• diluted with plain tap water;
• made from high-quality raw materials;
• service life is 5 years.

Minuses:

• does not work with galvanized systems and electrode-type boilers.

Non-freezing liquid for the heating system of a private house using propylene glycol

Non-freezing liquid for heating the house "Warm House ECO-30" environmentally friendly

Antifreeze is environmentally friendly and ready for use. The base is propylene glycol (green). The composition can be diluted with plain tap water down to -20 degrees. If you have a double-circuit or heating element boiler, dilution is mandatory.

Antifreeze liquid based on propylene glycol is best used where there are increased requirements for environmental safety (heat pumps, double-circuit boilers), but it works well with any heating systems.

The liquid is characterized by good temperature range from -30 to +104 degrees. The composition includes a special set of additives. This provides protection against corrosion, foaming, and scale. Antifreeze is not aggressive to metal and plastic, paronite, rubber, flax. With such characteristics, the possibility of leaks is eliminated. The price of a 20 liter canister is from 1.6 tr.

Pros:

• environmental friendliness;
• explosion and fire safety;
• works on any system;
• excellent set of additives;

Minuses:

• does not work with galvanized systems.

Antifreeze liquid for heating and air conditioning Antifreeze Aquatrust

This is another safe antifreeze in our rating. The composition is based on high-quality propylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, demineralized water, and dyes. It works successfully in heating and air conditioning systems of residential buildings.

It is a homogeneous green chemical liquid without mechanical impurities. The beginning of crystallization occurs at a temperature of minus 31 degrees, the boiling point is plus 107 degrees.

Thanks to the latest formula, the composition prevents corrosion of copper, cast iron, brass, steel and solder. There is no aggressiveness towards seals, plastic and metal-plastic pipes.

Pros:

• environmentally friendly;
• good operating range;
• excellent corrosion protection;
• does not affect plumbing rubber, gaskets, plastic and metal pipes.

Minuses:

• does not work with galvanized surfaces;
• not suitable for areas of the Far North.

An overview of non-freezing liquids for heating systems (coolants) from a professional is shown in the video:

Antifreeze liquid (antifreeze) is a special substance with a low freezing point. It is used in heating systems to avoid ruptures of pipes and equipment that are possible when using ordinary water.

Antifreeze provides the following benefits:

• It is left in the system on a permanent basis - the properties and characteristics will be preserved;
• Does not freeze at subzero temperatures;
• Prevents the formation of scale on pipes and heating equipment and is able to remove it;
• Does not affect changes in gaskets and seals (do not swell, do not dry out, do not dissolve).

But it also has the following disadvantages:

• Lower heat transfer properties compared to water;
• May release toxic substances into the air when the system leaks;
• It has viscosity - it is necessary to take into account enhanced hydraulic characteristics when selecting heating equipment;
• It is much more aggressive towards metals than ordinary water.

Types of antifreeze

The market for these specific products is very large. Recently, due to the increased demand for anti-freeze products, manufacturers have greatly expanded their range.

Antifreeze liquids are made based on various chemical compounds:

• Glycerin;
• Ethylene glycol;
• Propylene glycol;
• Bishofite brine;
• Saline solution.

The most common household anti-freeze products are made based on aqueous solutions of ethylene glycol, glycerin and propylene glycol. Since these substances are highly aggressive, special components are added to them - additives.

The purpose of which is to prevent damage, corrosion, scale and foaming.

1. Ethylene glycol are most popular among our consumers. Their main advantage is their low price. But at the same time, it is the most toxic non-freezing liquid, the use of which is prohibited in double-circuit boilers, due to the high probability of entering the water supply system, which is dangerous to human health. It is worth considering that when the boiling point increases above 110 degrees, ethylene glycol gives a precipitate that can damage some elements of the system.
2. Propylene glycol similar in properties to the first type, but at the same time harmless and safe. They are recommended by most manufacturers.
3. Glycerin Absolutely non-toxic and environmentally friendly, provide maximum protection against corrosion. It does not increase in volume when it turns into a solid state, and to start the system it is enough to simply heat it.
4. Antifreezes based on natural bischofite solution have unique physical and chemical properties. Low freezing point and high boiling point, as well as greater heat capacity and heat transfer than water, which is not typical for most of these products.
5. Solehigh coolants are produced on the basis of solutions of mineral salts (magnesium, calcium, sodium and their compounds). A significant disadvantage of these liquids is their high corrosiveness to equipment.

Antifreezes are sold either already diluted and ready for use (experts recommend using a coolant with a freezing point of -20 to -25 degrees), or in the form of concentrates, and then the solution must be prepared independently.

Example of dilution of ethylene glycol liquids. They come in two types:

1. With a freezing threshold no higher than -30 degrees (then, to reach a freezing temperature of -25, the mixture must be diluted with distilled water in a ratio of 9:1);
2. With a freezing threshold no higher than -65 degrees (to get a freezing threshold of -25, antifreeze and water are mixed in proportions of 6:4).

Which liquid to choose for heating installations

Water is the standard and most common liquid used in heating. It is an environmentally friendly and non-toxic substance, inexpensive. At the same time, with prolonged use it provokes scale and corrosion processes.

If frost suddenly sets in and the heating is not started, pipe ruptures are possible (since during the transition from liquid to solid state, the volume of water increases by approximately 9%).

Thus, despite all the disadvantages of using ordinary water, if you still live in the house permanently, then it is better to use it in the heating system.

Antifreeze is mainly used in cases where the room is winter period is rarely visited and the heating does not work constantly, but is started as needed.

How to choose an antifreeze liquid

Ideally, immediately select heating elements taking into account the fact that you will use antifreeze and not ordinary water. In this case, you can avoid the nuances associated with equipment damage.

If the heating installation is already in operation, and you decide to replace the water with a modern “anti-freeze”, then when choosing it you must:

1. Select the type of antifreeze taking into account the installed heating structures(metal from which the elements of the heating system are made, type of heating boiler - if double-circuit, then the use of ethylene glycol antifreeze is prohibited, power of pumps and radiators);
2. Choose the optimal manufacturer for you in terms of price, quality and reliability;
3. Familiarize yourself with the properties of additives included in the liquid to provide for the possible impact on the material of the structure;
4. Carefully read the instructions for use and recommendations for diluting antifreeze;
5. Clarify the service life and features of the product(usually antifreeze can be used for no more than 5 years).

Taking into account all the above points, you will accurately select the optimal product for you.

Determining the required amount of antifreeze

The volume of non-freezing liquid that is supposed to be poured into the heating system is calculated based on:

• What heating design is used;
• What material is it made of?
• Its internal volume;
• The area of ​​the heated room.

Some equipment parameters can be determined visually; more detailed nuances can be found in the operating instructions. If exact numbers are not found in the technical documentation (for example, the use of antifreeze is not recommended by the manufacturer), then more complex calculations and, possibly, a professional approach will be required.

In this case, for calculation you can:

• Use specialized literature;
• Calculate the volume depending on the number of batteries and sections in them. When taking into account the volume of liquid filling one section;
• Follow the most rational path - contact specialists who will carry out all the necessary calculations in the shortest possible time and with a professional approach.

Pouring liquid into the heating system

How to fill the coolant into the system

If you have a heating installation with natural circulation, then the coolant must be placed in an expansion tank, which is best placed slightly above the highest point of the system and connected with a strong hose.

There are two main points to consider here:

1. Deflate(check all installed valves; if you use float valves that release air automatically, then simply monitor the filling);
2. Make sure the container is not empty, because then an air lock will form in the system and the liquid will have to be drained again.

Thus, if ordinary taps are used, then it is better to fill it together - one person makes sure that the container is filled all the time, and the second checks the taps. If you have automatic taps, you can pour liquid into the structure yourself.

If you are using the installation with forced circulation , then the coolant must be supplied under pressure using a pump with a bottom water intake. Connect a strong hose to it and secure it well at the joints. Place it in a container with antifreeze and turn on the pump.

There are also nuances here:

1. Since the pump empties the container quite quickly, then you must ensure that it is filled to avoid the formation of an air lock;
2. Monitor the pressure in the system(so that it does not rise above 2-3 atmospheres), turn off the pump in time;

Before pumping in antifreeze, it is better to fill the installation with water a day in advance to make sure it is tight. Detecting a leak after the “anti-freeze” is in the system is undesirable, since it is toxic and can get into the living room. Yes, and draining the liquid to troubleshoot problems is problematic.

If water was previously used for heating, then you should definitely pay attention to the fact that it has greater expansion properties than antifreeze. And before using them, it is necessary to change all seals at the joints to avoid leaks.

It is also worth considering that it will not be possible to drain all the water from the system, and then additional dilution of the antifreeze will occur. To avoid loss of density, you need to mix the antifreeze solution with the concentrate approximately 1:1.

Antifreeze liquids are not used if:

• You have galvanized pipes installed. This will entail chemical reactions resulting in the formation of a lot of salt deposits, which will block the operation of the heating system;
• They are made on an ethylene glycol basis, and you are using a double-circuit boiler. In this case, it is possible that antifreeze from the heating cycle may enter the water supply circuit, and this is dangerous to human health.
• You have an open heating system, since the antifreeze agent may evaporate, and its vapors are toxic.

• “Anti-freeze” is ideal for heating houses, which are rarely visited in winter and the system is turned off most of the time;
• Choose special equipment for the use of antifreeze;
• It is better to purchase radiators with power 30–40% higher than usual;
• Due to the increased viscosity of antifreeze agents, pumps preferably used with enhanced hydraulics;
• If you need to prepare a solution from the concentrate, then use only distilled water for this;
• Don't mix different types antifreeze, it is better to use one. But if there is no other way out, then first mix them in a container and observe whether a precipitate forms;
• It is unacceptable to use automotive antifreeze in heating structures., since it contains components the use of which is unacceptable in residential buildings;
• It is better not to use a concentrate with a freezing threshold of -65 degrees Celsius in its pure form., this will lead to overheating of the heat exchanger and decomposition of additives;
• But if the system uses a solution with a freezing temperature of no more than -25 degrees, and the temperature drops below (which is unlikely), then there is no need to worry. The heating installation will not be damaged at all. The antifreeze will thicken, and when the temperature rises, it will return to its original state, without loss of properties.
• To avoid leaks at sealing joints You can use automotive sealant.