The best Russian gas boilers for heating a private home

Russian-made gas boilers cannot be compared with well-known foreign brands, no matter how much we would like the opposite. They are less efficient and only a few models have an efficiency above 90%. They have simple automation, which in most cases does not provide protection against overheating or freezing, or stopping the circulation pump. The heat exchanger is often made of the simplest short-lived steel alloys, and much less often cast iron.

However, there are also significant advantages in the form of a 20-60% lower cost, ease of installation, availability of spare parts and a developed service structure. Some of the most successful domestic models have excellent characteristics, even by European standards, and have been serving without problems for more than 7 years.

Distinctive features of Russian gas boilers

The most important feature is the low cost of domestic boilers. This is achieved through the absence of customs duties, often lower transportation costs, cheaper labor, lower component costs and lower technology research costs. However, every year Russian models become more and more efficient and functional, and prices in foreign currency equivalent remain practically unchanged.

Adaptation to domestic conditions is also important: low pressure of natural gas in the main, voltage drops. Many Russian models, unlike rare foreign ones, are non-volatile, i.e. do not require connection to the electrical network; the automation is powered by a heating thermocouple.

The device is based on the example of the domestic two-circuit model Conord KSts-g-30N: minimum number of components, simple materials, simple non-volatile automation.

A simple design and operating principle are the key to easy and quick troubleshooting. Finding a competent specialist is not a problem even in regions remote from the capital.

However, Russian gas boilers have a lower efficiency, on average 4-6%, which means not only lower heating output, but also often higher gas consumption. Domestic models are less automated and less safe. Starting in most models is done manually, using piezo ignition; as mentioned earlier, there are usually no additional protective functions.

Reviews of domestic gas boilers: advantages and disadvantages

Based on technical characteristics, installation practices and owner reviews, you can clearly weigh all the pros and cons of boiler units:

Rating of units produced in the Russian Federation

The following models are widely used:

Lemax AOGV (15.5)

High-quality floor-standing gas unit made in the Russian Federation. Burner device and control unit made in Italy. The product is equipped with a tubular heat exchanger with a wall thickness of 2 mm.

The maximum power of the boiler unit is 15.5 kW. The model does not require connection to an electrical network. It is reliable and easy to use.

Lemax premium (25)

Russian-made model with high efficiency. Has a steel heat exchanger with an increased area. The unit is equipped with protection systems against exceeding the permissible temperature, soot accumulation, deterioration in the degree of draft and flame extinction. The manufacturer equipped the model with two working circuits. One is designed to supply coolant to the heating system. The second is necessary for preparing hot water supply. The product is highly reliable and easy to use.

Borinskoe (11.6)

Model of a Russian-made gas floor-standing boiler. A distinctive feature is the heat exchanger made of corrosion-resistant steel. It is characterized by thermal conductivity, which increases the efficiency of the boiler.

The advantages of the boiler unit are low gas consumption, the presence of a device for stabilizing the output pressure, no need to connect to electricity, ease of control and safe operation.

ZhMZ (17.4)

The model is equipped with a heat exchanger made of steel. It is possible to re-equip the boiler to use gas from cylinders as an energy carrier. The power of the unit is 17.4 kW. The boiler is used for connection to open or closed heating systems.

The best Russian manufacturers and models: characteristics and prices

Lemax

One of the best and best-selling Russian gas boilers for heating a private home. has been specializing in the production of climate control, including heating, equipment for more than 20 years.

It is known for boiler units with fairly competitive characteristics, good reliability and affordable cost. Most models use well-known Italian automatics; more expensive models have overheating protection, frost prevention mode, auto-ignition, a safety valve and an air vent are installed from the factory. If you have the necessary funds, it is better to choose a model from this particular manufacturer.

Model Lemax Premium-16.

One of the best and most popular models is Lemax Premium-16 - a Russian-made floor-standing gas boiler with a capacity of 16 kW with an open combustion chamber. The boiler has an excellent efficiency of 90% for a floor-standing version with a flow rate of 0.95 cubic meters. m/hour, the model is considered one of the most economical and is ahead of many successful foreign models of the same power in this indicator. The range includes similar models with a capacity of 10; 12.5; 20; 30 kW. Owners also note almost silent operation.

Among the disadvantages is a steel heat exchanger, which, although coated with an inhibitory anti-corrosion compound, cannot be compared with copper or cast iron. The build quality and design leave much to be desired. The burner is not modulating (not adjustable in power), which could further reduce gas consumption. In practice, there are quite a few examples of problem-free operation for 5 or even 7 years. Cost: 19-22 thousand rubles .

Wall-mounted Lemax PRIME-V24.

Almost unique and very successful is the wall-mounted model Lemax PRIME-V24 - a double-circuit boiler with a closed combustion chamber with a power of 25.5 kW. Apart from Lemax models, there are practically no mounted options on the market, not to mention successful and worthy of attention. The boiler efficiency is 92.5% with a gas consumption of 1.4 cubic m3/hour, which also allows us to consider it one of the most economical. It features a modulating burner (with power adjustment), which often allows you to keep it lit at low power - the most efficient and economical mode of operation of gas boilers.

The automation is equipped with functions of auto diagnostics, auto ignition, protection against overheating and freezing, it is possible to connect external control, for example, a room thermostat. Apart from the simple design and relatively high price, no disadvantages have been identified due to practical use. Cost: 31-35 thousand rubles .

Parapet Lemax Patriot-12.5.

Another unique option among Russian-made gas boilers is the parapet non-volatile Lemax Patriot-12.5 with a power of 12.5 kW. An excellent solution for heating an apartment. Efficiency 87% at a gas flow rate of 0.75 m3/hour, closed combustion chamber with exhaust of combustion products through a coaxial (side) chimney. Known for its reliability, compactness and virtually silent operation. Cost: 16-19 thousand rubles .

How to calculate the required boiler power Individual calculation, formula and correction factors

Zhukovsky Machine-Building Plant (ZhMZ)

In Russia, the Zhukovsky Machine-Building Plant has been operating for decades and is known for its floor-mounted single-circuit gas boilers. All models are reliable and energy-independent, and are produced in three series: Economy, Universal and Comfort. In practice, most models operate for 8-11 years, after which the life of the steel heat exchanger expires and it leaks - this is a feature of almost all steel heat exchangers.

Floor-standing ZhMZ AOGV-17.4-3 Universal N.

The best and best-selling model is the single-circuit ZhMZ AOGV-17.4-3 Universal N with a power of 17.4 kW (and its analogues of other power). Efficiency 80% with a maximum gas flow of 1.87 cubic meters. m/hour, can also run on liquefied gas. It features a vertical layout, which is why it takes up significantly less space in the boiler room. Until the end of its service life, the steel heat exchanger rarely needs repairs; owners note a little noisy operation. Cost: 20,000-21,000 rubles .

Borinskoe

Gas boilers from this company are known as one of the cheapest domestic models, but at the same time they are quite reliable, have high performance and the well-known non-volatile Italian automatic system EuroSIT, also used by the leading manufacturer Lemax.

Floor-standing Borinskoe AOGV-11.6-1 (M) Eurosit.

The most successful is the single-circuit non-volatile Borinskoye AOGV-11.6-1 (M) Eurosit with a power of 11.6 kW with an open combustion chamber - the simplest and most reliable option. The model has a relatively high efficiency - 90% with a gas flow of 1.17 m3/hour. In practice, there are examples of trouble-free operation for more than 8 years; the boiler operates relatively quietly. There is protection against overheating of the heat exchanger. Average cost: 14-16 thousand rubles .

A newer and excellent analogue is the double-circuit model AKGV - 11.6-1 SABK DHW with an efficiency of 90% and gas consumption of 1.2 cubic meters. m/hour. It features a copper secondary heat exchanger - more heat-conducting and durable. Equipped with successful domestic automatic equipment "SABK". Otherwise, it is practically no different from the previous model. Average price: 17,000 rubles .

"Signal"

The boilers of the Engel Heating Equipment Plant are unremarkably “average”. They have good technical characteristics, average reliability, limited functionality, but also the lowest price on the market of domestic gas boilers.

Signal KOV-16 SKs.

The best model is considered to be the classic single-circuit non-volatile Signal KOV-16 SKs with a power of 16 kW. Boiler efficiency is 90% with a flow rate of 1.8 cubic meters. m/hour. It is equipped with the same well-known Italian automatic system “EuroSit 630”. An important drawback is the non-standard gas connection pipe with a diameter of 1/2 inch. Cost: 14,000-16,000 rubles .

Review of Signal gas boilers Average statistical characteristics at one of the lowest prices

Conord

Rostov-based manufacturer of some of the most inexpensive models of floor-standing gas boilers. It features relatively high performance and simplicity. However, the quality and reliability of models is not always satisfactory. Cases of unstable operation of the automation, depressurization of the heat exchanger or incorrect ignition after 4-6 years of operation are not uncommon.

Also, many owners who encounter malfunctions complain about the slow and unsatisfactory performance of the service. Nevertheless, in view of the excellent characteristics for the extremely low cost, the boilers of this manufacturer are worthy of attention, especially if long-term operation is not expected.

Floor-standing Conord KSts-G-16S-3.

The most successful model is the floor-standing single-circuit Conord KSts-G-16S-3 with a steel heat exchanger with a capacity of 16 kW. Boiler efficiency is 90%, with a flow rate of 2 cubic meters. m/hour. Cost: 17-18 thousand rubles .

Rostovgazapparat

Another manufacturer from Rostov-on-Don, whose plant was founded at the end of the 19th century, has a huge selection of gas boilers. Known for efficient, simple and reliable, but not the cheapest floor-standing gas boilers.

Siberia 11.

One of the best models is the non-volatile Siberia 11 with a power of 11.6 kW. Efficiency 90% at a gas flow rate of 1.18 m3/hour. Equipped with reliable Evrosit automation. However, its high price compared to its analogues does not allow it to take pride of place in the ratings. In practice, there are many examples of operation for more than 9-10 years, despite the steel heat exchanger. Average cost: 20-22 thousand rubles .

Review of Siberia gas boilers One of the most reliable among domestic boilers

RGA 17K.

A good analogue is a model from another line - RGA 17K with a power of 17.4 kW and an efficiency of 90%. It is economical, the maximum gas consumption is 1.76 m3/hour. Owners note reliability and quiet operation. Cost: 15-19 thousand rubles .

Popular companies

Let's consider the most popular companies and models of floor-standing gas boilers:

• Vaillant. A popular German company, which is considered a leader in the production of thermal products among European manufacturers. It produces a wide range of equipment, which includes a large selection of floor-standing dual-circuit models.
• Buderus. An outstanding German manufacturer whose floor-standing boilers are widely known throughout the world. The Logano series consists of many models with optimal parameters for any room.
• Viessmann. A German concern that produces a large amount of equipment of various types. Floor-standing gas boilers are distinguished by their durability, high build quality, and reliability.
• Baxi. A famous Italian company producing high-quality gas units. The Baxi Slim and Power HT series represent floor-standing boilers with extensive capabilities and many additional functions.
• Ferroli. This is another Italian company known for its quality and reliability. Floor-standing boilers are presented in 7 series under the general name Pegasus. They have a wide range of capabilities and allow you to choose an option for any working conditions.
• Protherm. A Slovak company that names each series of its boilers after an animal. Double-circuit floor models are represented by the Bear series, capable of heating rooms up to 440 m2.
• Navien. Korean manufacturer of inexpensive and efficient gas boilers.
• Kiturami. Another Korean company that produces the STS GAS series of two models. The units are distinguished by high performance combined with low prices, which is typical of all Korean products.
• Daewoo. Floor-standing boilers from this world-famous company demonstrate high performance combined with affordability.
• Fondital. An Italian brand representing floor-standing double-circuit boilers of the Bali series, designed for heating and supplying hot water to residential, public and office premises of various sizes.
• Siberia. A domestic company that produces energy-independent floor-standing models for use in private homes. The power of the units is in the range of 11-50 kW.

The list of boiler manufacturers is much wider, but not all of them produce double-circuit models, specializing in installations with external additional boilers.

Prices: summary comparison table

Main selection criteria

There are several criteria that I always advise you to pay attention to, the first of which relates to the type of fuel. It all depends on the region, you should choose the most affordable and economical

The second point that I always advise you to take into account is autonomy, because there should be no difficulties during operation. Do not forget that for continuous operation of some models, the constant presence of a person in the building will be required.

Often on weekdays, most families travel to work and educational institutions; in such a situation, a boiler for a home must have the function of operating without owner intervention for a certain period of time.

Ease of maintenance is no less important to consider, as is the ease of use of home heating equipment. After all, in addition to visiting the boiler room, each person has his own personal needs and favorite activities

An automated version of the unit can make spending time in the house as comfortable as possible.

Some types of fuel will require maintenance; regular cleaning of components will seem very cumbersome over time.

How to calculate boiler power by area

I think the simplest and fairly easy way is to calculate it taking into account 1 kW per 10 sq. m. The average climate zone will correspond to such heat loss.

It is equally important to take into account the insulation of walls and the presence of glazing; for a more accurate calculation, you should use special tables. But often the average house can be calculated quite accurately using the formula, because the ceilings are 2.7 m, and brick laying is done in 2 pieces

But often the average house can be calculated quite accurately using the formula, because the ceilings are 2.7 m, and the brickwork is done in 2 pieces.

Decide on installation location

Installation involves taking into account the design features, as well as its fastenings; there are both floor-mounted units and those that are hung on the wall. In a private house, if possible, it is worth setting aside a separate room with good ventilation and sufficient space to implement your plan.

There are certain rules regarding the area of ​​the room; ceilings should not be lower than 3 meters, and the total figure should reach 15 cubic meters.

Not only the productivity of the device depends on this, but also ease of use, as well as the safety of people living in the house.

Russian or foreign

In this matter, it is worth paying attention to some important points, such as:

1. Price.
2. Working under existing conditions.
3. Reliability of the unit.
4. Easy to maintain.
5. Availability of components for repair.
6. Possibility of service in the region of residence.

I noted the highest price for German models; they are very popular and quite practical. Czech and Slovak manufacturers are famous for matching the price and quality of their devices. Russian boilers can be easily selected for any room; the range will pleasantly surprise even the most skeptical buyer.

There is no definite answer to the question of which boiler to choose, but my advice does not change over time; it is worth buying a copy that you can look at directly in the store, get advice on its characteristics and be confident in quality service if a breakdown occurs.

Which manufacturers to pay attention to

The flagship company Vaillant supplies its products to more than 100 countries, which earns its credibility. 5 continents use the equipment and monitor the release of more modern models. The brand was founded back in 1874, this indicates high experience in production.

I also consider Viessmann to be a fairly reliable supplier; these German boilers are available in a wide variety of configurations. The design is very attractive, and the service life with proper use will be at a high level.

Among domestic manufacturers, I advise you to pay attention to Lemax; from the line of products presented you can pick up some pretty good specimens

Choosing a floor-standing boiler: how not to make a mistake

Before you go to the store, you should carefully analyze the features of the heated object in order to clearly understand the operating conditions of the device. Based on this, the characteristics of the equipment are selected.

Gas unit power

One of the main factors determining the choice of boiler. Standard recommendations suggest determining the required power of the device from the following ratio: 10 sq.m of building will require 1 kW of power produced by the unit.

However, this is a very average figure. It does not take into account the heat loss of the building, the height of the ceilings in the room, the number of doors and windows, their thermal insulation and much more. If possible, a specialist should calculate the required boiler power.

One more thing. It is usually recommended to select a boiler with some power reserve. This is fair, but this reserve should not be large. Otherwise, this will lead to rapid wear of the equipment and constant excessive fuel consumption. For single-circuit boilers, the power reserve should not exceed 15%, for double-circuit boilers 25%.

Specifics of fuel consumption

If possible, it is advisable to choose the most economical boilers. These include all condensation models. Compared to traditional devices under similar conditions, they consume 15-30% less fuel. An electronic ignition system will also help you save money.

Standard piezo ignition requires constant operation of the pilot burner, which leads to excessive gas consumption. This is not necessary for an electronic system. Such boilers are more expensive, but during operation the investment quickly pays off.

Double-circuit boilers are very convenient for small buildings, as they allow you to simultaneously heat the house and provide it with hot water

Optimal number of circuits

It makes sense to think about purchasing a double-circuit boiler only if there is a need for hot water supply. In this case, it is worth installing a device with two circuits only in a building of small or medium size.

For large houses, installing double-circuit boilers is impractical, since the device’s power is often not enough for full operation. In addition, the security of the system suffers.

Priority heat exchanger material

Copper is not considered in this case. Only steel or cast iron. The first option is chosen if you want to save money. But you need to be prepared for the fact that in a few years you will have to change the heat exchanger. For long-term trouble-free operation of the boiler, a cast iron unit is chosen.

Design type and performance

For floor-standing gas boilers, efficiency is considered normal, varying in options from 80 to 98%. Condensing models differ in efficiency ranging from 104 to 116%. The higher this value, the more efficiently the boiler operates and uses less fuel.

For dual-circuit models, the performance of the DHW system can vary from 2.5 to 17 liters per minute. The performance and power of the unit affect its cost; the higher it is, the higher the price of the device.

Best control system

The most convenient and safe to use are boilers with automatic control. They are able to function autonomously, without constant control of the owner. These are expensive, complex systems.

It is also possible to use more budget-friendly manually controlled boilers, but in this case its operation will have to be controlled by turning the device on/off to obtain a comfortable temperature in the room.

An excellent option in the operation of a gas boiler is the presence of a built-in thermostatic sensor. If you don’t have one, it is recommended to purchase and install a thermostat so as not to waste energy and overload your heating equipment.

Floor-standing boilers with automatic control are considered the most convenient to use. They do not require constant monitoring, yet they work safely and efficiently

The rules for adjusting the automatic control unit of gas equipment are given in the article, the contents of which we advise you to familiarize yourself with.

Acceptable design and dimensions

The dimensions of the boiler and its appearance are selected based on the area of ​​the combustion room. Manufacturers offer a large selection of a wide variety of models of various designs and dimensions, which allows you to choose the device that is most suitable for a particular room.

It is important to remember that the boiler and additional equipment must be provided with completely free access

The best models of gas boilers are presented in the article, which sets out in detail the selection criteria and provides all the arguments on the basis of which you can make an informed purchase.

What principles should you follow when choosing a boiler?

When choosing a boiler, a person must first of all be guided by the advantages or disadvantages of a particular model. Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at what advantages or disadvantages cast iron gas boilers have:

• Cast iron heating devices are much more expensive than similar units made of steel. But this cost is justified by the fact that a cast iron device will last 15 years longer than a steel one;
• If a steel heat exchanger breaks down in a steel boiler, then any technical part cannot be repaired, because it is impossible to seal the seams by welding. But a cast iron unit can be repaired quite easily, because it is assembled in sections and any of the component parts can be replaced;
• if the user has some welding skills, then you can quite easily repair the boiler yourself, as well as increase the volume of the existing cast iron boiler by attaching sections;
• cast iron is difficult to corrode and is also inert to the effects of any acids, so any antifreeze can be safely poured into the circuit;
• Cast iron has much better thermal characteristics than steel.

There are not many disadvantages to such heating systems:

1. high cost, due to the fact that cast iron is more expensive than steel, but this is offset by a long service life;
2. heavy weight, it is quite difficult to install such a boiler alone;
3. mandatory filling of the slab under the boiler itself.

Despite the fact that cast iron boilers are less popular than steel ones, the homeowner should still think about what to do better. Win a small amount on the difference in the cost of boilers at once, or still buy yourself a good unit so that it will serve for many years and also help save on fuel.

Performance characteristics

In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you should study the operational characteristics of the boiler. Some features and capabilities deserve special attention.

Power

To heat a house in central Russia, a minimum of 1 kW of energy per 1 square meter of room is required. The calculated value must be increased by 30% if it is planned to install double-circuit heating equipment.

PHOTO: termoresurs.ru Before choosing a boiler, calculate the area of ​​the room and only then determine the required power

Number of circuits

Manufacturers of heating equipment offer customers:

• boilers with one circuit, used only to create the optimal temperature in the room;
• double-circuit boilers, which are multifunctional and suitable for both heating and water heating.

PHOTO: koffkindom.ru To simultaneously heat water and air, you need to purchase a multifunctional, double-circuit boiler

Combustion chamber type

According to the type of operation, heating chambers are divided into several types:

1. Open. There is a natural extraction of air and release of oxygen. Combustion products are returned back to the boiler, so when installing this equipment, you must first ensure that there is good ventilation.
2. Closed. For proper operation, fans with a forced air system are additionally installed. Air enters the boiler through a pipe from the street. Combustion products are also removed outside the house, so the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning is virtually eliminated.

PHOTO: utepleniedoma.com For safe use, a closed gas chamber is best suited

Heat exchanger material

In the manufacture of thermal equipment the following is used:

1. Heat-resistant cast iron that can withstand the aggressive effects of almost any substance. This material lasts for 5 years or more, however, the heat exchanger itself is very fragile, and it must be placed in a safe place, so as not to hit it. In addition, transporting a cast iron boiler turns out to be a very difficult task. The temperature difference between the elements should be no more than 45°C to prevent cracking of the structure. Difficulties also arise during the installation process due to the heavy weight.
2. A steel heat exchanger weighs slightly less and is shock resistant. The main disadvantage is the rapid onset of corrosion. If operating conditions are not violated, the boiler can be used for ten years or more.
3. Copper heat exchangers are corrosion resistant and easy to install. This device has only one drawback - high cost.

PHOTO: tgv.ru Copper boilers are used less frequently than steel ones

Type of ignition and burner

Depending on the design features, gas burners can be:

• single-stage, with the ability to use only one power level;
• two-stage - they last a very long time and have two modes. Most often, owners use only one, lower one, which significantly extends the service life;
• modulation - convenient in cases where it is necessary to reduce the cost of servicing the boiler by a specialist. Due to the slow switching of power from one mode to another, sudden jumps are not created and the device operates normally.

PHOTO: paint-market.ru To maintain a certain temperature, it is necessary to change the power settings

Piezo and electronic ignition are two options for using a floor-standing gas boiler. In order for the device to turn on after ignition, it is recommended to purchase a model with electronic ignition. After switching off, the boiler goes out.

Single-circuit and double-circuit devices - what is the difference?

A single-circuit heating device differs from a double-circuit heating device only in that it is responsible only for heating the room. At the same time, a double-circuit boiler, in addition to heating, is also designed to solve issues of providing hot water supply.

Owners of single-circuit boilers solve DHW problems by installing additional equipment. Most often this is an indirect water heating boiler connected to the boiler. What is more efficient: a single-circuit boiler or a double-circuit boiler? We'll figure this out now.

The main advantage of a single-circuit boiler in conjunction with a storage heater is that water is heated to a comfortable temperature without cooling the home. Whereas, with significant water consumption in a double-circuit boiler, the circuit responsible for heating is automatically switched off, and the unit only works to heat the water.

A single-circuit gas boiler with an indirect heating boiler completely solves the issue of hot water supply without disrupting the operation of the heating system

The following factors should be considered before selecting a heater configuration:

• Heated housing area;
• Number of water intake points;
• Distance from water intake points to the boiler;
• Number of residents.

In a house with a small heated area, with economical consumption of hot water and close placement of water intake points, the optimal solution would be to install a double-circuit boiler.

If hot water is simultaneously consumed from several water intake points, the water temperature may be lower than required. In addition, with a large housing area, additional inconveniences arise. In double-circuit boilers, the priority is DHW; when hot water is consumed, the circuit responsible for heating is turned off.

But these issues are also resolved at the level of the unit design. There are double-circuit boilers that heat water in flow mode and are equipped with a built-in boiler.

The latter provide a supply of hot water of 30-60 liters, but at the same time gas consumption increases slightly. In addition, the weight of the boiler and its overall dimensions increase significantly.

A floor-standing gas boiler with a built-in indirect heating boiler provides an adequate supply of hot water

We can conclude that if the needs are met, the optimal solution would be to install a double-circuit flow-type boiler. If you want to have a sufficient supply of hot water at a comfortable temperature at any time without cooling your home, then it would be preferable to install a combination of a single-circuit boiler with an indirect heater.

In addition, if it is necessary to increase the need for hot water, the boiler can always be replaced with a larger capacity boiler. As a result, the price of such a combination will be higher than the cost of a double-circuit boiler, but the issue of hot water supply and heating will be reliably resolved.