Check valve for a water heater (boiler): what is it for and how to use it. Boiler Safety Check Valve How to Check the Boiler Safety Valve

From the quality of the piping of the storage water heater electric type not only the duration of its operation will depend, but also the level of safety during operation. This is one of the most serious moments when installing a boiler, requiring special attention. Correct strapping for a water heater is called a safety valve built into the supply system cold water.

The embedding of a safety valve protects against a sharp increase in pressure in the internal part of the unit, which is much higher than the norm. The question arises, what is the reason for such a jump? As it was established, during heating, the liquid increases in volume, and, consequently, expands. Due to the tightness of the heater reservoir, the resulting excess simply has nowhere to go - the tap is closed (as a rule, a valve is installed on the supply reverse type).

Further heating of the liquid may cause rising pressure. At this point, there is a danger of exceeding the tensile strength of the unit and breaking its walls. To avoid such an explosion, a safety valve for the boiler is installed.

Some owners may ask: is it worth the trouble of installing a fuse when you can simply remove check valve. Experts answer this as follows: with a relatively high and uniform pressure in the water supply system, such a scheme will function, but for some time. This does not mean that such actions are a way out of the situation. The error of this scheme is due to a number of reasons:

1. The pressure in the water supply system is not stable.
2. Excess water is removed from the boiler into the water supply, exposing the heating element.
3. Heating the air, the boiler will fail after a while.

Burnt out heaters are not the biggest problem. More importantly, there is a risk of sudden changes in pressure in the water pipes. The liquid, falling on a heated heating element, quickly turns into steam, sharply increasing the pressure. Under such conditions, the walls of the boiler are guaranteed to burst. A large amount of boiling water and steam, pushed by pressure, will fill the room, threatening everyone in it with serious injuries.

Principle of operation

The safety valve for a water heater, in addition to the main structure, consists of several more elements. They are housed in brass or nickel housings. In most cases, the device looks like an inverted letter T. It is attached to the bottom of the tank on the water heater. check valve, capable of preventing fluid from flowing out of the tank when the pressure drops in the pipes.

The perpendicular branch accommodates another valve, which operates after the pressure is increased and discharges excess fluid through the fitting. The principle of operation occurs in several stages.

1. If the reservoir pressure is lower than that which occurs in the pipes, when filling or opening a tap, the poppet plate in the non-return valve is pressed out by the water pressure. When the pressure level returns to normal, the spring mechanism presses the plate against the ledge of the body, limiting the flow of fluid.
2. During active heating, a slow increase in the temperature of the liquid occurs, and with it, the pressure also increases. Until it reaches the maximum value, the mechanism is not activated.
3. After reaching the limit level, the pressure compresses the fuse spring, opening nozzle outlet. The excess volume of liquid from the tank is removed through this channel. After the pressure drops to the standard level, the spring closes the flow, and the removal of water stops.

Based on the above, it can be understood that liquid will periodically drain from the choke channel. This phenomenon occurs during water heating and pressure reduction in the water supply system. If you regularly notice water at the fitting, this means that the safety valve for the boiler is operating normally.

However, at the same time, there is a need to drain the flowing liquid. To carry out the procedure, a tube is fixed on the nozzle right size: its necessary tighten with a clamp to ensure a secure fit. Regular working pressure in the water heater tank is from six to ten bar. Without secure fastening, the tube will simply be torn off, so the choice of clamp must be approached with great care. Tighten it firmly and lead the tube to the nearest sewer drain.

The tube on the fitting should be transparent, a reinforced hose would be ideal. This helps to control the performance of the system, and the reinforcement creates additional pressure protection.

Valve principle

Features of various types of valves

If we talk about the standard safety valve for the boiler, then they do not differ much in appearance. However, there are small nuances that are responsible for the usability of the device.

The image shows valves equipped with triggers. Their purpose in periodic health checks:

• the lever is moved to a vertical position;
• it activates the spring mechanism, pulling it along;
• As a result, a channel opens through which water flows.

Trigger lever on the valve

The differences between the models shown are that the valve located on the left has a lever fixed special bolt. This eliminates the possibility of involuntary opening and complete removal of liquid.

The following image shows valves without a positive fluid removal lever. The left model has a cover fixed on the thread in the upper part. It is intended for Maintenance fuses. If necessary, it is unscrewed to remove blockages, scale and other contaminants.

Valves without lever

The right model is the least preferred option. It does not have any markers, a water release lever or a maintenance hole. This is the cheapest and lowest quality product shipped from China. There is no need to talk about reliability and durability. You can use it only as a temporary replacement at your own peril and risk.

Withstand pressure mark

There are a few other notable differences. The arrow shown on the body indicates water flow direction, as well as an inscription announcing maximum pressure that the device can handle. At first glance, the details seem insignificant. But if you can easily figure out the direction of fluid flow (for this, just look at the location of the poppet-type valve), then the situation is more complicated with ratings.

By what signs can a valve be distinguished by six and ten bar? Only by experience. You ask, how do suppliers distinguish them? No, only according to the inscriptions in the documents. Experts do not recommend purchasing devices without any markings on the case. Of course, the cost of branded products may be higher than that of analogues, but it is better not to save in this matter.

Fitting shape

In addition, it is worth paying attention to the shape of the fitting for removing liquid. In the left model, this element is quite long, has a non-linear form. It will be easy to attach a tube to it, and the length is quite enough for secure fastening with a clamp.

The shape of a similar element in the right model is different. It has a characteristic extension at the end, but the most important thing is the length of the fitting. It will be quite difficult to install a tube on it and even more difficult to ensure a secure fit. The use of artisanal methods will not be able to guarantee a good result, and in the future there may be difficulties with drainage.

For large boilers

Each of the devices described above is designed for a storage water heater with a volume of fifty to sixty liters. To tanks bigger size other systems are used, each of which has special equipment integrated. Most often this ball pressure gauge or a pressure control valve.

Ball pressure gauge

The fitting for removal of liquid in them is equipped regular thread to improve the reliability of fastening and solve the problem with clamps. This type devices has a high price, but the level of quality is much higher than other systems.

A significant disadvantage for many owners can be appearance crane. Especially for such people, the production of fuses has been launched, which are not only practical, but also able to decorate the interior of the room. Their cost can significantly reach the price of the boiler itself, so everyone will evaluate the feasibility of such a purchase.

Installation of other valves

There are cases when, instead of the factory system of protection against pressure surges, a heater tank is installed blast valve. It is intended primarily for emergency removal of liquid into the heating system. Although their functionality converges in many respects, the basic principle of operation is fundamentally different.

The blast valve only performs its functions during an accident. It is needed for the emergency removal of all water from the tank. It is not intended for periodic bleeding of small portions of liquid. Given all this, you should not expect correct functioning from such crafts.

Another example is mounting only check valve. Its mechanism will not allow liquid to drain at a reduced pressure in the system, but it will not be able to save it from sudden surges in the tank. As practice shows, such an assembly is also not functional.

Scheme of all components of the safe operation of the water heater

Selection and installation

The fuse should be selected based on the pressure ratings that the device can withstand. This figure is usually entered in the data sheet. In addition, the choice may be influenced by the volume of the tank. There are systems with a threshold of six, seven, eight, ten bar. These are the most common values ​​for fuse tripping.

The installation process is quite simple.

1. Wrap a special tape or linen tow on the thread for tightness.
2. Screw the valve onto the nozzle.
3. Continue to turn it all the way by hand, and then turn it a few turns with the wrench.
4. Don't forget about right choice places for its installation. Experts recommend attaching it directly to the cold water inlet pipe.

After that, you can install a check valve system, or as it is also called - constipation. But these are reinsurance measures, a device with similar functions is already included in the fuse system, and it is also often integrated into water meters.

Diagram demonstrates location ball valve . It is used to remove liquid from the tank during storage for the winter or during dismantling. Also, drainage may be required during maintenance or repair. In most cases, it is installed on a tee, which, in turn, is connected to the fuse system.

Don't skimp on this important detail like a fuse. This device will help you not only keep the heater working, but may also save you from serious injury. Pressure surges in the water supply system are not uncommon, and no one is safe from tank failure. Spend some time installing safety valves and be sure of your own safety.

We will deal with the device of the safety device for the water heater and the principle of operation.

Device

The device itself is very simple. The design consists of two cylinders. One is large and the other is smaller. The cylinders are arranged perpendicular to each other.

1. big cylinder. It has a poppet valve, which is pressed by a spring. It provides water flow in one direction. A poppet valve is essentially a check valve. On both sides, the cylinder has a thread for connecting to a pipe and a heater.
2. Small cylinder. It is placed perpendicular to the first and has a smaller diameter. The cylinder is equipped with a drain socket with a poppet valve inside. It works in the opposite direction.

Principle of operation

There is nothing difficult in the operation of the safety valve for the water heater.

To clarify the operation of the device, we will simulate several situations.

• Let there be no valve at the heater inlet. which would block the return flow of cold water supplied to the tank. Even with a stable pressure in the water supply, such a unit will not be able to work. The fact is that along with the heating of water in the tank, the pressure increases. At some point, the pressure in the tank may exceed the pressure in the plumbing, and hot water will begin to flow into the plumbing system. For example, hot water can flow from a cold water faucet or from a toilet bowl.
• There are times when pressure drops in the plumbing system(often this happens at night, when the load on the water station decreases). In this case, the water from the tank is drained into water pipes. TENY empty heat an empty tank, which leads to inevitable burnout. Of course, in theory, automation should prevent the process of overheating. However, not all models are equipped with this feature. Yes, and automation can simply fail in the most difficult moment.

Having considered both situations, one would say that this can be avoided by installing a simple check valve. There are craftsmen who do just that. But they do not even suspect that they are planting a time bomb in their house.

It is terrible to think what consequences can be expected if the thermostat fails.

There is no outlet for boiling water from the tank. The pressure rises, and with it the boiling point of water rises. If you open the tap, the pressure may drop, the boiling point also drops. This will cause water to boil instantly. as a result, a huge amount of steam is formed, which can cause a violent explosion.

Dangerous situations can be avoided by installing a serviceable valve for the water heater.

The main advantages of the safety device for the water heater.

1. Blocks the return flow of water from the heater to the water pipe.
2. It does not allow a sharp change in pressure in the plumbing system.
3. When the pressure rises, it releases excess water from the boiler.
4. If the safety device is equipped with a lever, the water can be drained for maintenance work.

Installation on a water heater

Choosing the right model

Usually boilers are already sold with a safety valve of a certain parameter. If the valve is missing, then you have to purchase it yourself. approximate price for a safety device - 250–450 rubles.

When buying a valve for a water heater, pay attention to the threaded part. If everything is in order with it, then you should pay attention to what working pressure the valve is designed for. This value can be found by looking at the technical passport for the equipment. If it is below the prescribed pressure level, then water will constantly flow from the safety device. A valve with a pressure level higher than set in a critical situation may not save the boiler from overheating.

Correct installation

Some users try to hide the safety valve for the water heater and place it as far away from the heater as possible.

This approach is not forbidden if two conditions are met:

1. It is forbidden to install locking devices of any kind between the boiler inlet and the safety device.
2. It is forbidden to carry the boiler and valve at a distance of more than two meters.

If there is abundant water leakage through the drainage pipe until the water is very hot, then this indicates too high pressure in the plumbing system. This rarely happens. In this case, it is worth installing a gearbox.

At the same time, it does not interfere with checking whether the acquired the valve has a low pressure indicator and does not match the heater model. If it is normal, then it is worth checking the spring - perhaps it has “sat down” a little, and it needs to be replaced.

You should be wary if the valve remains dry at maximum heating rates. In this case, with a high degree of certainty, we can talk about its malfunction. You should not play Russian roulette, it is better to purchase a new device.

Conclusion

The safety of property and your own safety depend on the operation of the safety device for the water heater. When buying this device, be sure to check:

Safety devices for the water heater designed for smaller parameters must not be installed. Also do not install valves whose threaded connections are not suitable for the installation site.

If in doubt that you can install a safety valve for a water heater yourself, then it is better to entrust the work to qualified specialists.

Non-return safety valve for boiler

Safety valve for a water heater - why is it needed, the device and principle of operation of the safety valve, model selection and proper installation to ensure the safety of the boiler.

Source: kotel.guru

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Why does a water heater need a safety valve?

Safe operation is exactly the factor that firefighters, employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, housing and communal services, police and other utilities tirelessly tell us about. It may surprise you that a large percentage of people simply ignore the safe installation, do not pay attention to elementary rules safety, and the safety valve for the water heater is generally an unnecessary innovation from the realm of fantasy.

The valve for the water heater is one of the main safety elements of the boiler

But what happens if the electric boiler just explodes? This is a huge danger to residents and the building itself. And the reason for the explosion is often the refusal of the negligent owners of the boiler to buy and install an inexpensive and easy-to-use safety valve.

Why is the safety valve on a water heater so important?

To better understand and understand the importance of the valve, let's understand its structure and system.

How is the safety valve installed?

To begin with, the boiler safety valve is very simple. The design consists of two cylinders located parallel to each other and with a common cavity.

The large cylinder contains a poppet-shaped valve supported by a spring. It produces water flow in one direction. In general, this is a well-known check valve. The ends of both cylinders are threaded so that the valve can be connected to the heating system and pipes.

How the safety valve works

The second cylinder has a much smaller diameter and is perpendicular. On the outside there is a plug, and a pipe for draining and withdrawing water (drainage) is made in the body. From the inside, there is also a poppet-type valve, only with the opposite direction of action.

Often on such a device there is a handle, or lever, which helps to open the drainage mechanism at any time.

What is the principle of operation of the mechanism?

The valve also works simple principle. Cold water creates pressure in the water supply and squeezes out the poppet check valve, due to which the heater tank is completely filled.

If the tank begins to fill, then the internal pressure exceeds the external one, the valve begins to close, and when water flows out, it ensures filling.

A more powerful spring is installed in the second valve, which is designed for high blood pressure in the cylinder, which will begin to rise when it is full. If the pressure in the cylinder begins to exceed the norm, this acts on the spring, which, compressing, opens the drainage hole, where excess water flows out.

Frequently asked question: Why is the normal operation of the water heater valve so important?

We may not have convinced you by our description of the valve structure that this is a very important thing. Then let's simulate a situation to which its absence can lead.

Suppose that there is simply no safety valve that stands on the tank and ensures the outflow of remaining water.

Even if the pressure in the water supply is kept at a stable level, the boiler will not work correctly. It is very simple to explain this - if the temperature starts to rise in a tank with a stable water level, then the pressure will automatically increase.

The safety valve is designed to protect the boiler from pressure drops that occur during water heating.

There will come a moment when the pressure inside the tank will exceed the pressure of the supplied water and the heated water, on the contrary, will go into plumbing system. Then everything will be broken - hot water will come out of warm faucet and from the toilet bowl. In this case, the heat regulator continues to work stably, and the boiler will continue to wind up expensive energy.

The situation will become critical if there is a pressure surge in the water supply system, which happens quite often with us, for example, when the water pressure at the water station drops at night.

Pipes in general may be empty due to an accident or repair work. The water that is in the boiler will gradually pour out, and the water heater itself will heat the void, which leads to burnout.

What if we take a complex model?

You can say that the water heater has an automatic system that cuts off the water supply, or stops heating. But you must understand that the machine is not on all models and any mechanism fails.

It seems that to save yourself from such a situation, it is enough just to put a check valve.

Our "kulibins" do just that, not fully understanding that the check valve in this case is a time bomb. I don’t even want to imagine what will happen if the thermostat is covered. The water in the tank begins to boil, and since there is no way out of the circle, the pressure will begin to rise, and if the pressure is increased, the boiling point of the water automatically rises. The least that can happen is a crack in the enamel coating inside the tank.

If a crack forms due to the pressure drop, or you just have time to open the tap, the pressure will return to normal, but inside the water will still exceed 100 degrees. Further, the entire volume of liquid will boil very quickly and the explosion will still not be avoided.

All this can and should be avoided if you buy a serviceable valve. So, let's sum up.

Valve main value:

• Does not allow the reverse overflow of water from the boiler into the water supply system.
• Optimizes and balances pressure surges inside the boiler, protects against water hammer.
• Discharges excess water when it overheats, thereby preventing pressure surges.
• If the valve has a lever, then you can easily drain unwanted water during maintenance.

About plumbing installation

To start using the water heater. it must be connected to the plumbing system. You can buy and install polypropylene pipes.

Now the fashionable and most convenient option is considered metal-plastic pipes. Before you buy something, compare prices on websites.

About installing a valve on a water heater

First, let's choose a model. As a rule, if the boiler is really good, then its kit already has valves of the required parameters. If you do not find it, then in the event of a replacement, you will have to buy it for your money. Their price is small - a maximum of 400 rubles. If there are usually no questions about the thread part, since the diameter of a conventional valve is no more than half an inch, then what you need to pay special attention to is the working pressure.

Before buying a water heater, check all its parameters in the instruction manual, or consult the sellers on the spot.

Do not buy a valve with a low pressure rating - it will start to leak very quickly. If you choose a valve with a large value, then it will not save you from trouble in case of overheating of the boiler.

How to install the water heater valve?

Prior to installation, check that the boiler is not connected to the mains and drain all water.

The valve must be installed in the place where cold water enters the heater. The process itself is absolutely not complicated - you pack it with a key with 3-4 turns, and use sealants (tape, tow - whatever you want). The valve must be mated with the second end of the thread cold system plumbing.

Be sure to follow the direction of the incoming water (look at the valve body - an arrow should be drawn there).

If you notice that the pressure jumps, or is increased, then before installing the valve we put a reducer for water.

Not everyone likes it when water starts to flow out from under the valve. Remember - this is absolutely normal. This suggests that the mechanism works without deviations. Another reasonable solution is to connect the drain pipe to the sewer with a hose. It is best to choose a transparent hose so that it is easy for you to assess the performance of the entire system.

If you purchase a valve with a lower pressure indicator, water will constantly flow from it

1. It is FORBIDDEN to install a locking mechanism between the valve and the water heater.
2. The pressure on the valve will automatically increase vertical section pipes, and then the leakage of cold water begins, which you do not need at all. Make sure that the distance between the valve and the heater is 2 meters.

What to do if the water begins to flow strongly through the pipe and does not warm up?
Check the pressure in the pipeline - it can be very high (but this happens very rarely). To solve the problem, install a reducer.

Check the valve - you may have purchased a low pressure model that is not suitable for your boiler. If everything is in order here, then the matter is in the spring - it has sat down and it is time to change the valve.

If the valve remains dry in any situation, this should be a concern. If even with strong water pressure not a drop comes out of it, this means that it is simply faulty - it is clogged or greasy. Also, do not take risks and hurry to buy a new one.

Buying and installing this simple device is very simple, but you will be sure that you are safe, and your home is protected from fire, and the residents of the house from the trouble that a faulty water heater can do.

Why does a water heater need a safety valve?

Have you installed a boiler and already want to use hot water? Have you thought about security measures? After all, the automatic system does not always cope! It is a fact! Therefore, it is advisable to install

The main function of the non-return safety valve in the water heater system is to compensate for the increase in the volume of water in the tank during heating and prevent it from returning to the water supply, and additionally to protect against pressure drops in the supply line or the operation of heating elements in the absence of water supply. On the piping diagram, it is located between the shut-off valve and the inlet pipe of the boiler; it is prohibited to place tees or other valves in this area. Its presence is mandatory, this device serves as direct protection against emergencies. The choice of a specific type of valve for a water heater depends on the volume of the storage tank; for called manufacturers, it is included in standard kit, but if necessary, just buy a replacement and install it yourself.

The design includes two parts, outwardly they resemble perpendicularly connected cylinders with different diameters. The larger one acts as a check valve and consists of three simple elements: plates, seats and springs. When cold water is supplied inside the water heater, it opens, after filling and exceeding the pressure above the water supply, it closes automatically. When HW is consumed, the process is reversed and the tank is filled again. It is impossible to use only this type of protection, as well as to install stopcocks to turn off the check valve (leads to overheating of heating elements in an empty water heater). Does a cylinder with a smaller diameter have a tighter spring when the internal pressure exceeds the standard? the drain opens and excess water is discharged, to avoid the release of hot water into the open space the appropriate hose is connected.

Thus, the use of valves implies protection functions:

• From a drop in pressure in the supply line, water hammer and air ingress into the water heater.
• From overheating of the boiler and boiling inside the tank.
• From the ingress of hot water into the supply pipe.

The higher the volume of the water heater, the large quantity excess fluid is discarded. For example, for a boiler of 100 liters, this value reaches up to 3-4 liters per day. During operation, you should pay attention to possible signs of breakdown, in particular: poor transmission or its complete absence, leakage in cold mode.

Varieties

The main criterion for selecting a valve for a water heater is the operating pressure of the water (both in the water supply and inside the tank). Depending on the volume of the boiler, the following capacities are used: up to 50 liters, from 50 to 200 and above 200. Accordingly, the protection class is selected from these indicators, experts recommend purchasing the most reliable devices for water heaters with a large volume, regardless of their cost. According to the principle of operation, all check valves are divided into direct and folding. The first variety is a butterfly valve with vertical movement (they work only under the pressure of the working medium), the second - with placement under the saddle.

According to the degree of complexity, all reverse and safety components for a water heater differ in:

1. Non-separable - the simplest a budget option, the overlap of water is carried out due to the resistance of the spring or disk. This is a classic check valve and nothing more, such protection is only allowed for water heaters with a minimum volume, its main function is to keep the heating elements from overheating when the tank is empty. When installing such devices, be sure to monitor working condition, at the slightest suspicion of marriage or breakdown, they change. This variety is not suitable for collecting excess pressure; for these purposes, you need to buy a separate safety valve.

2. A complicated complex for a water heater that combines both functions. It includes a ball valve, safety and shut-off (check) valves, outlet for draining. The process of controlling discharges of excess heated liquid is visual, not automated, and the protection efficiency is high. The disadvantage of this group is the flow of water onto the floor; to eliminate such a problem, additional equipment is required with a flexible hose connecting the outlet valve directly to the sewer.

3. Group of hydraulic safety, the main difference is the inclusion of a pressure reducer in the piping circuit of the water heater. Also included in the kit: safety and non-return safety valve, siphon. This option is selected for industrial systems, the group is placed on a pipe with cold water. The presence of a siphon allows you to easily drain the excess directly into the sewer.

Replacement Guide

The need for this procedure arises in case of physical wear, weakening of the spring, clogging with salt deposits, or defective parts. Another reason for the constant leakage of the check valve is associated with excessive pressure in the supply pipe, in this case it is recommended to install a reducer. Leaving a breakdown for a long time is fraught with the same consequences as in the absence of a fuse. The replacement process is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Power off the water heater.

2. Blocking the supply to the device: at the entrance in front of the boiler or common around the apartment.

3. Complete emptying of the storage tank.

4. Dismantling (unscrewing) the old safety valve.

5. Installing a new one, sealing using seals, linen tow or fum tape. The thread is turned with a key 3-4 times.

6. Water supply, checking the tightness of connections.

The correct direction of water is easy to determine: a red arrow is drawn on most devices, and this information is also duplicated in the attached instructions. Before starting installation, it is recommended to check the operation of the unit; in the process of tightening the connection of the relief and check valves, do not put pressure on the thread or exert excessive force. It is easy to check the reliability of a new fuse - a full tank of the water heater is filled and the maximum temperature is set (at 30-40 ° C the device may not work, especially with small boiler volumes), after a while the discharge begins to drip.

But for complex hydraulic groups, other installation and control schemes apply, in this case it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. For obvious reasons, the installation of only a check valve in the water heater system is unacceptable (as well as the installation of heating fittings), the presence of an output to relieve excess internal pressure is mandatory.

Storage water heaters are installed not only in private houses that are not connected to central communications, but also in apartments for a comfortable waiting for the completion of repairs planned by public utilities.

For the safe operation of water heating equipment, it is necessary to purchase and install a safety valve for the boiler that protects the household appliance from pressure surges in the cold water supply system. In addition, this valve is also called a check valve, since it prevents water from flowing back from the storage tank in the event of an emergency shutdown.

Therefore, in the absence of water in the cold water supply system, you can not worry about the safety of the electric heating element. The heating element will not remain “dry” and will not burn out. The presence of a safety valve will allow you to easily drain the water from the boiler if you need to clean the tank from accumulated deposits in the process of heating water or replace a heating element that has served its time.

A serviceable safety valve is able to ensure long and stable operation of storage boilers.

In the process of heating water in the storage tank of the water heater, its volume increases. In a closed system, according to the laws of thermodynamics, as the temperature of a substance increases, so does the pressure level.

To control the water temperature in boilers, manufacturers install temperature controllers and thermostats on manufactured products. If these devices fail, then the water in the tank will boil, which will lead to a noticeable increase in pressure and an even greater heating of the liquid.

The avalanche flow of the described process, in the end, will lead to the formation of a crack in the walls of the storage tank, through which some of the hot water will pour out. The vacated space will immediately be filled with cold water coming from the plumbing system.

This will lead to an instantaneous boiling of all the liquid in the tank, accompanied by the release of a huge amount of steam and, as a result, the explosion of the container, bursting under its influence.

The safety valve will not allow the pressure to exceed the allowable values ​​by dumping part of the liquid into the sewer system.

In addition to ensuring the integrity of the equipment in the event of critical situations, safety valves perform several other important functions, which include:

• preventing the return of heated water from the boiler back to the water supply;
• smoothing pressure surges of cold water at the inlet to the water heater tank, which prevents the possibility of water hammer;
• dumping excess fluid from the tank at the time of a critical increase in temperature and pressure;
• providing the possibility of draining water from the storage tank of the water heater for scheduled preventive maintenance and necessary repairs.

Valves that manufacturers currently produce can have a variety of designs. The kit, along with the main product, may include pressure gauges, various shut-off valves, etc.

When choosing a safety valve for a boiler, one should take into account the fact that the purchased device must comply with the parameters of the operating hot water supply system in the house.

The diagram clearly shows the device of a safety valve for a water heater (boiler), all elements of which are provided with pointers with inscriptions

How does such a valve work?

The safety valve of the boiler also performs the functions of a check valve, which is reflected in its design. Schematically, the product can be represented as two thin-walled cylinders located at right angles to each other, having different sizes endowed with a common working cavity.

If you look inside a larger cylinder, you can see a check valve installed there, the design of which includes a plate, a spring and a seat machined in the body of the product. The thread applied on both sides of this part of the protective device allows it to be connected to the inlet pipe of the electric boiler.

The smaller cylinder also contains a shut-off device similar in design to the check valve described above, but differs from it only in the presence of a stiffer spring.

Most relief valves have a function to adjust the opening pressure by changing the compression ratio of the spring. The drain hole is located directly behind the locking mechanism. It is recommended to connect a transparent tube to this hole, which allows you to observe the water discharged from the tank.

The safety valve operates according to the following algorithm.

• With the valve in the open position, mounted on the inlet line, water freely passes into the container through the hole resulting from pulling the check valve disc from the seat. At the same time, the incoming liquid does not have access to the drainage hole, because the safety spring has a stiffness designed for a higher pressure compared to the plumbing value of this value.
• At the moment of full filling of the boiler, the pressure level in the tank and in the line equalizes, due to which the check valve closes. An increase in the temperature of the heated water in the storage tank causes an increase in the pressure force on the check valve disc, which is even more tightly pressed against the seat. Therefore, the heated water cannot return to the cold water supply pipes.
• When users begin to consume hot water for domestic needs, the pressure inside the water heater begins to drop and reaches a value less than the water pressure value. At this moment, the plate is wrung out from the saddle and the process of filling the tank with water begins.
• If the thermostat breaks down, then an uncontrolled increase in temperature will begin, which will cause an increase in pressure to a critical level. Here, as a result of the compression of the safety valve spring, it will be possible to drain excess fluid through the drainage hole into the sewerage system through a transparent hose.

A small lever is needed to force the opening of the drainage hole, through which water is discharged and pressure is reduced.

Waste of electricity without check valve

A hot water supply system with a water heater can function without a shut-off valve, but then, in the event of an increase in pressure, hot water will be squeezed into the supply line. This will lead to an overrun of electricity, because the device will have to heat more water.

The extra wound kilowatts will need to be paid for, which will not add joy to the owner of an apartment or house. Apart from financial side There are also practical inconveniences. After all, instead of cold water, warm water can run from the taps.

These problems must be added to the disadvantages that were described above. Therefore, do not agree to the installation of a water heater without installing a safety valve.

The cost of this brass product is incomparable with the costs incurred to purchase a boiler.

The information on the safety valve body helps to choose the right part for the initial installation or replacement during the repair of the water heater

How to connect a water heater

After installing the water heater, proceed to connect it. To do this, they take a tee, try it on, winding it on the cold water inlet, marked in blue. If there is not enough thread, then a few turns are added with a special device so that the tee is set correctly.

Then they wrap the thread with tow, coat it with a paste that provides a tight connection, and wind the tee, tightening it with an adjustable wrench. Next, a tap is screwed onto the side outlet of the tee to ensure that water is quickly drained from the boiler in case of replacing a burned-out heating element or cleaning the tank from scale.

Also, the connection is sealed with tow or tape for threaded connections. From below, a safety valve is connected to the tee, focusing on the arrow showing the direction of cold water entering the water heater. The arrow is located on the valve body.

Next, one part of the American is wound onto the safety valve. The second part of the American is screwed onto the tap and a connection is made with the first part. Then, an adapter is screwed into the faucet for connection to the water supply with propylene pipes.

Next, connect to hot water. To do this, they wind the first part of the American on the outlet pipe of the boiler, marked in red. The second part of the American is wound onto the shut-off crane. Perform the connection.

Then, an adapter sleeve is also screwed onto the tap for soldering the propylene pipe. It remains to connect the boiler to the cold and hot water supply system. Propylene pipes can be replaced with a flexible eyeliner.

The connection diagram of the water heater (boiler) to the hot and cold water supply systems shows the sequence in which the device is installed

Alternative way to mount a non-return valve

This method was invented by a craftsman who is facing the problem of contamination of the safety valve with sediment from a pressurized hot water tank. If a piece of rust gets under the piston plate on the seat, then the valve can no longer work correctly. It remains open all the time.

To prevent such a development of the situation, it is necessary to mount the valve at the level of the middle of the tank. That is, in the same way as described above, a tee is connected to the inlet pipe of the boiler, and then the connection is made a little differently.

The drain tap is screwed on from below, and the pipe is taken to the side, corners are placed, again the pipe, and somewhere at the level of the middle of the tank a safety valve is installed. After it comes a shut-off valve and a fitting, through which the device is already directly connected to the water supply.

With this method, the valve always remains clean and the poppet piston does not “hang” above the seat. In addition, in the absence of water in the system, such a curved connection serves as a kind of water seal.

You can learn more about this installation method from the video.

During operation of the boiler, make sure that the drain hole on the safety valve is not clogged or blocked. The drain can become clogged with rust, small solids and other impurities found in tap water.

To check its working condition, a small amount of water is periodically discharged by pressing a special lever or turning the handle. The instructions supplied with the water heater safety valve describe how the valve's forced opening mechanism works.

Installing a cleaning filter tap water solves part of the problem. It is undesirable to change the factory settings of the spring stiffness in valve models endowed with such an adjustment.

Such intervention can lead to the destruction of the water heater tank due to the excess of the permissible pressure values ​​inside household appliance.

Forced discharge of water from the boiler in order to reduce the pressure in the tank is carried out by pressing the lever

Constantly dripping water - what to do and how to fix it?

Some boiler owners are faced with the problem of constant seepage of water through the drain hole. Water can drip from the drain for two reasons:

• incorrect valve setting;
• too high pressure in the cold water supply system.

The first problem is fixed by replacing or adjusting the device, which must be done with a hex wrench. At the same time, the clamping nut located at the inlet inside the valve is slightly tightened.

You can get to this nut by partially disassembling the device, in which the lever, nut and sealing washer are removed. In general, you can solve the problem faster by buying a new valve.

The second problem related to high pressure in the system, disappears when the pressure reducing valve is installed.

The connection of a tube with transparent walls to the drainage hole was made without bringing it into the sewerage system

Connection of a branch in the form of a transparent tube from the drain hole of the safety valve to the sewerage system through a branch pipe with an oblique inlet

Problems and ways to solve them

The cause of the incorrect operation of the water heater should be searched for immediately, as soon as the first signs appear. It is advisable to test all elements of the household appliance, starting with the thermostat, safety valve and heating element. Most often, it is these parts of the boiler that break.

In the event of a valve breakdown, the masters advise not to save money by repairing the part, but to immediately purchase a new analogue. The model is selected according to the pressure level for which the valve is designed, indicated on the body of the product. This information is also indicated in the safety valve instruction manual.

There are situations when the valve does not function due to a hidden marriage, which is not possible to identify. It is not worth spending time searching for a defect in the design of the part, since the boiler must be operated for its intended purpose.

Therefore, the defective valve is replaced with a new device. If the resource of the installed safety valve is exhausted, then it is also dismantled and a new device is installed. By changing the valve, you can not worry about how the water heater works.

The supplied part will ensure reliable and safe operation of water heating equipment.

The disassembled safety valve allows you to see the screw, which adjusts the degree of spring stiffness with a screwdriver

Install the water heater and properly tie it under the power of any novice master. After reading the article and watching the videos, you can do everything yourself, saving on payment installation work made by third parties.

If you think that everyone should do their job on professional level then invite the experts. Experienced craftsmen they will help you choose the right safety valve model, buy the missing fittings, connect the boiler to cold and hot water in accordance with construction standards.

Do not listen only to those unfortunate masters who consider safety valves to be unnecessary links in the piping chain of a water heater connected to the water supply. Never skimp on your safety!

Water heaters are installed not only in private houses that are not connected to the central water supply, but also in city apartments. The possibility of self-regulation of temperature and a comfortable existence during the period of scheduled repairs - these are the advantages of apartments and houses with boilers. Self installation such complex equipment requires strict adherence to all connection rules and safety precautions. Since the electric power in the water heater is combined practically with boiling water, a safety valve is necessary.

Peculiarities

The safety valve for the water heater helps prevent overpressure from building up inside the appliance. When the liquid is heated to certain temperatures, the device must turn off the heating at the signal of the thermostat, but in rare cases the sensor may not work or simply break. The design of the boiler assumes tightness and closed taps, therefore, when the water overheats and steam forms, which occupies a larger volume, an explosion may occur. The safety valve allows, in this case, to relieve pressure up to normative indicators at 10 bar and normalize the operation of the entire system.

The functionality of the safety valve is not limited to this alone. It also prevents the water heater from flowing back into the supply system when it is empty. Any fuse consists of a body, a stem with a handle at the top, a spring and a plug. At both ends of the body applied pipe thread with sizes from 1⁄2" to 3⁄4" depending on the type of product.

Kinds

There are practically no special differences between the many types of safety fittings for a water heater.

Most often they are divided into three groups depending on the volume of the heating apparatus.

1. Valves for boilers up to 50 liters. This category includes standard disposable valves. They are almost always non-separable and their service life is very short. But their cheapness allows, without any difficulties, to simply change such devices once a year.
2. Valves for boilers up to 200 liters. More serious devices that professionals recommend installing even on boilers up to 50 liters. They consist of several valves for various purposes and an additional nozzle for sewage supply.
3. Valves for boilers with a volume of more than 200 liters. These are serious devices of complex configuration, including a pressure reducing valve and a device for draining water and various adapters. Most often, such valves are installed on large industrial heaters and are rarely installed even in large private houses.

In addition, safety valves may differ in the presence and operation of additional structural elements. For example - trigger handles.

Using such a handle, the operation of the valve is checked as follows:

1. The lever is installed vertically.
2. It pulls on a spring.
3. The spring opens the current to the water.

Such a check should be carried out at least once every couple of months. With the help of the trigger lever, the water from the tank is also completely drained. Until the water runs out completely, the handle must be held until it drains completely.

For some models of protective valves, such a lever can be fixed with a special screw, which prevents spontaneous opening when the spring is weakened. There are also valves without a relief design for forced draining of water. Most often they have a lid mounted on a thread. Through it, the valve can be cleaned of scale and blockages.

ABOUT high quality of the purchased product is indicated by the marking applied to it. For example, an arrow should be engraved or drawn on the body to indicate the direction of fluid flow. Also on the body must be applied information about the maximum allowable pressure that the valve can withstand. Even professionals will not be able to distinguish between a four and six bar valve if there is no information about this in the accompanying documentation. Of course, such a device will have a higher cost, but the priority should still be the quality of the entire system, and not its price.

In addition to the above, differences may be in the shape and length of the fluid outlet fitting. A long non-linear fitting without an extension at the end will be more convenient, since it is easier to put a hose on it and secure it with a clamp. In addition, sometimes, instead of a safety valve, a subversive one is installed on a home boiler. It is designed to quickly remove water in an emergency and should not be bled multiple times. Although the functionality of these constipations is largely similar, one cannot replace the other.

Boiler safety fittings are often referred to as a check valve, but they are actually a completely different device, although they look similar in appearance. The check valve is responsible for the unidirectional flow of water, and the safety valve protects the pipe and the water heater from damage during overpressure. Installing a reverse locking device instead of a safety locking device can cause damage to property and health of residents. A unidirectional water flow device will not be able to stop the heating of the liquid above the boiling point if the thermostat fails and will not prevent an explosion inside the device, which will destroy not only the boiler, but also the walls of the room.

Principle of operation

Standard water heater fuses consist of three independent valves:

• the safety valve itself (in rare cases, subversive);
• check valve;
• drain (drain) valve.

The safety valve includes a metal stem, a plug at its end, a powerful spring and a fluid drain fitting. As soon as the pressure inside the boiler exceeds the value specified in the documents, the device is triggered, the rod will compress a tight spring and it will open access to the fitting for water, through which it will flow out. This happens so smoothly that the flow of water is just a large number of drops.

The check valve includes a plastic stem with a rubber plug at the end and a weak spring. Unlike plumbing, the boiler check valve is not designed to hold high pressure water and serves as an ordinary damper, which is why the spring is so weak. It just prevents water from flowing into the pipes in case of an emergency or turning off the water in the central water supply.

The last but very important valve is the bleed valve. It consists of a check valve stem and a small spring. He works "on the safety net" of the safety. When the pressure approaches critical values, but does not cross them, the drain valve is able to normalize the pressure inside the heater while turning on the water tap or flushing the toilet. When the water in the pipeline slightly lowers its pressure due to this, the drain valve opens and the excess of almost boiling water goes back into the pipe.

Installation

Before installing safety fittings on an installed water heater, it is necessary to study the offer construction market and choose a quality product.

Good valves have several distinguishing features.

• The body of a good unit is made of brass alloy by seamless casting. Sometimes it is plated with nickel to prevent corrosion and scale formation. Unlike cheap copper or aluminum alloys, brass is heavier and therefore easy to distinguish.
• When you press on the stem of high-quality shut-off valves, you can see how the plug walks tightly inside the body. Even its slight jamming at the end is allowed.
• A bad valve can be identified by simply blowing into it. If even with a strong pressure on the rod, the air freely escapes, then it is better not to take the product. At the same time, if water periodically drips from the fitting of the installed constipation, this does not mean that it is broken. Perhaps you just need to clean the plug from sediment and everything will work again.

If you follow these tips, you can choose the right fuse the first time and start installing it right away. There are few requirements for it. The valve is always installed in the cold water line. It is placed between the constipation valve and the pipe inlet to the boiler body. You can cut it directly into the water supply pipe or install a special tee at a distance of no more than 200 cm from the heater inlet.

In addition to the fuse, nothing should stand in this area. Most models are installed in such a way that water enters them vertically from below. An arrow showing this movement should be marked on the fuse case.

A PVC pipe is attached to the fuse fitting, connecting it to sewer pipe. It is better if this tube is transparent - you can see if the device is working properly.

The installation process itself is divided into several stages.

• Disconnecting the installed boiler from the mains and draining the water from the tank. You need to make sure that the water supply to all pipes is shut off, otherwise, at the time of cutting the required section, you can simply flood all the apartments below.
• The valve body is purged with air to remove stray debris and dust. A tow or FUM tape is being prepared, which will serve to waterproof the threaded connection.

• With a wrench, the valve is screwed in at the junction of the pipe and the boiler. The arrow on the valve body must match the direction of fluid flow. union nuts must be well tightened, the junction can be additionally smeared with silicone sealant.
• Before connecting the boiler to the mains, it is worth crimping the connection with cold water. If, after 5 minutes of fluid flow, no drops appear at the junction, then everything is connected correctly.

The safety and check valves are also checked “cold”. In the first case, you need to press the trigger flag weakly at first (the first drops of water should appear), and then at full strength. When fully pressed, water should quickly flow through the transparent outlet tube. The non-return valve can be checked by filling the water heater tank completely and shutting off the central water inlet. When you open a faucet in the bathroom or in the kitchen, the flow of water should quickly stop. If water continues to flow from the faucet for several minutes, then the check valve needs to be adjusted.

Sometimes individual elements water heater or the entire system stops working properly. This reduces the safety of the structure and can lead to sad consequences. In this case, you need to find out the cause and place of the breakdown as soon as possible and either fix it yourself or call a specialist for this. Most often, thermostats, heating elements and safety valves fail. Moreover, a problem in the work of one of them can instantly affect the rest. You should never install elements that do not match the parameters of the boiler or have different connection methods.

Problems cannot occur on their own, they have certain causes.

Most often they are as follows.

• Untimely replacement of damaged parts. For example, the check valve should be changed at least once a year. It's cheap and doesn't cost much.
• Incorrect installation of the entire system. If the fuse insert in the pipe is made with insufficient waterproofing or too far from the boiler inlet, the system will not work properly.
• Voltage fluctuations in the mains can lead to failure of the heating elements of the system.

• The presence of a factory marriage or lack of preventive examinations. In order to choose the right heater and fuses, you need to carefully study all the information when buying. And even the highest quality device needs to be checked periodically.
• Scale formation or corrosion. Scale and corrosion on the non-return valve can cause water to leak back into the pipeline or corrode various connections, violating their tightness.

The most basic malfunctions can be divided into several types. Most often, the broiler starts to flow. This can be either a manufacturing defect or a crack acquired due to corrosion. Such a tank cannot be repaired on its own, it will have to be completely replaced. Water dripping from pipe joints indicates a leak. From the safety valve, water, on the contrary, should sometimes drip. If it is always dry, then it should be replaced.