TOP 10 best cast iron heating radiators: 2021-2022 rating by quality and price

Today there are more than five different types of radiators for home, office and other premises. They differ from each other in the material from which they are made, as well as in shape. Radiators are made of steel, cast iron, aluminum and bimetallic. They can be tubular, sectional or panel in shape. The battery material affects heat transfer, and the shape affects the circulation of warm air. The combination of these factors forms the climatic conditions in space. In this collection we will look at cast iron radiators.

Modern technologies and design solutions have made it possible to breathe new life into these devices. If previously they had a very unattractive appearance, today you can choose a model for almost any interior. In addition, they have the longest service life, which averages about 50 years. Cast iron batteries can withstand very high water pressure, allow most of the heat to be transferred not through convection, but through thermal radiation, and are practically not subject to corrosion. The devices are connected to the central heating system in apartment buildings, and if we are talking about a private building, then there is a need to lay a main line. All these features make them very competitive in the radiator market. However, they also have a number of disadvantages. In particular, it is heavy, difficult to assemble and install, as well as difficult to clean between sections.

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Komsomolskaya Pravda analyzed offers on the device market and compiled a top 10 rating of the best.

Rating of the TOP 10 best cast iron heating radiators for 2021-2022

How to choose and what to pay attention to?

To choose an effective and reliable model, you should know some of the nuances of cast iron radiators.

• If your room has a standard ceiling height, a power of 120 W per sq.m. will be sufficient.
• Each section weighs from 3 to 7 kg. After installing the battery, the quantity can be increased or decreased.
• The standard location of batteries is wall-mounted, but floor-mounted ones are also available. For wall-mounted ones, you need to choose a strong bracket or hooks; for floor-mounted ones, “legs” are provided.
• The old type of model holds one and a half liters of coolant, the new ones have less of it - up to 0.8 liters.
• The old ones have a pressure of 8 atmospheres, the new ones - 12-18 atm.

Batteries should not be repainted frequently. Each layer of paint reduces heat transfer.

Calculation by area

This is the simplest method that allows you to roughly estimate the number of sections required to heat a room. Based on many calculations, standards for the average heating power of one square area have been derived. To take into account the climatic features of the region, two standards were prescribed in SNiP:

• for regions of central Russia, from 60 W to 100 W are required;
• for areas above 60°, the heating rate per square meter is 150-200 W.

Why are the standards given such a wide range? In order to take into account the wall materials and the degree of insulation. For houses made of concrete, the maximum values ​​are taken; for brick houses, average values ​​can be used. For insulated houses - minimal. Another important detail: these standards are calculated for the average ceiling height - no higher than 2.7 meters.

Knowing the area of ​​the room, multiply its heat consumption rate, which is most suitable for your conditions. You get the total heat loss of the room. In the technical data for the selected radiator model, find the thermal power of one section. Divide the total heat loss by the power, and you get the amount. It’s not difficult, but to make it clearer, let’s give an example.

An example of calculating the number of radiator sections by room area

Corner room 16 m2, in the middle zone, in a brick house. Batteries with a thermal power of 140 W will be installed.

For a brick house, we take heat loss in the middle of the range. Since the room is corner, it is better to take a larger value. Let it be 95 W. Then it turns out that heating the room requires 16 m2 * 95 W = 1520 W.

Now we count the quantity: 1520 W / 140 W = 10.86 pcs. Round up, it turns out to be 11 pieces. This is how many radiator sections will need to be installed.

The calculation of heating radiators per area is simple, but far from ideal: the height of the ceilings is not taken into account at all. For non-standard heights, a different technique is used: by volume.

The best cast iron radiators in price/quality ratio

STI Nova 500

Radiator made of lightweight cast iron with good functionality . Maximum number

attached sections - 14.

Warm up quickly with a circulation pump. The heat dissipation is excellent. Connection diameter is 1 inch.

Fuel in the section - no more than 0.52 liters . The distance between the axles is 500 mm. Pressure - 18 bar (pressure testing) and 12 bar (working).

The heat output of the radiator is 120-1680 W. Connection - side.

The outer part is spray painted and pre-treated with a sandblasting machine..

You can install a regulating tap for water supply to the radiator (this will help you regulate the heat yourself using the tap).

Specifications:

• section weight: 4.2 kg;
• section dimensions: 60 mm (width);
• thickness: 85 mm;
• height: 580 mm.

pros

• strength;
• price;
• aesthetic appearance;
• compactness.

Minuses

• narrow passage opening;
• the paint chips easily.

Konner Modern 500

The line of these radiators is very popular and has many positive reviews for several reasons.

Firstly, all models are adapted to Russian operating conditions, secondly, they have high heat transfer, and thirdly, they are easy to install (without the involvement of unauthorized persons) and maintained.

They comply with GOST requirements, as well as international production quality standards.

Quality guarantee - 5 years, service life - 5 times longer. The inlet diameter is 32 mm.

Heat dissipation - 130 W. The test pressure parameters are 1.8 MPa, and the working pressure is 1.3 MPa. The distance between axles is 500 mm.

Specifications:

• section without nipple weighs: 4.14 kg;
• height: 60 cm;
• width: 60 mm;
• depth: 96 mm.

pros

• heat transfer at altitude;
• the buyer can install the radiator without a specialist;
• installed on the wall;
• large sections.

Minuses

• heavy weight of the radiator.

Viadrus Styl 500/130

Radiator adapted for domestic heating systems . Manufacturers

They abandoned the intricate design in favor of reliability and power, but there is no need to hide this device: it is made in a simple, pleasant style with slight asymmetry, and will not look like a “white spot” in your apartment or office.

Long service life, long warranty period, ability to withstand high operating pressure and water hammer - these are other advantages of this radiator.

The heat-resistant paint that covers the models does not fade over time and does not even crack.

The radiator is easy to clean.

The power can be changed to suit your requirements.

Specifications:

• weight: 3.8-76 kg;
• thickness: 130 mm;
• height: 580 mm;
• width of the entire row: 1200 mm.

pros

• powerful;
• any fuel can be used;
• energy efficient;
• easy to maintain.

Minuses

• Nowadays it is rarely found on sale.

RETROstyle TOULON 500/110

Compactness, reliability, functionality - these are the 3 main qualities of the brand’s radiator.

Its appearance is determined by the elegant laconicism of its forms and the absence of unnecessary details.

It will look great in apartments designed in eclectic, loft, grunge and hi-tech styles.

One section is 60 mm wide.

In total, you can install 30 sections - much more. than its analogues. Working pressure - up to 10 sconces, maximum pressure testing - up to 15 bar. In the section - 0.8 liters.

Power range: 158-4740W.

The distance between the axles is 500 mm. Connection is only possible from the side.

All radiators of this brand undergo sandblasting before sale, thanks to which the surface is prepared for further trouble-free painting (the buyer can order it for an additional fee, or do it himself).

Specifications:

• section weight: 4.7 kg;
• section thickness: 110 mm;
• height: 580 mm.

pros

• powerful;
• fashionable;
• cools down slowly;
• It is not afraid of corrosion.

Minuses

• very heavy.

STI Nova 300

A reliable and powerful radiator that can be installed in residential buildings and administrative premises.

Has all relevant certificates and complies with GOST 31311-2005. The section heats an area of ​​8.5 sq.m. well.

Heat dissipation is high - 850 W. The center-to-center distance is 300 mm. Test pressure - 18 MPa. The maximum working pressure is 12.

The structure is installed on the wall, connected from the side . Nipple hole thread (DN) - G 1. O-rings are made of heat-resistant polymer.

Service life - 30 years . The warranty is issued for 5 years.

Section capacity is 0.3 liters. The maximum coolant temperature is 130 °C. Heat transfer per section: 120 W.

Specifications:

• section weighs 2.8 kg;
• section width: 60 mm;
• thickness: 80 mm;
• height: 380 mm;
• total width: 1200 mm.

pros

• high power;
• reliable;
• long service life;
• good temperature indicators.

Minuses

• connection is possible only from the side.

RETROstyle WINDSOR 500

A real decoration for the apartment, not just a heating device . Optimal proportions

allow you to install the radiator at any convenient point in the apartment.

It is trouble-free, reliable and efficient.

They can last more than 25 years and are made of high-quality cast iron.

Adapters and cast iron plugs are mounted on the radiator depending on the connection diagram.

They are coated with a primer as standard, which allows you to paint them yourself after purchase in any pleasant shade.

Allowed to install up to 30 elements.

The volume of water in the section is 2.3 l. Connection diameter is 1 1/2 inches. The pressure test is 15 bar, the operating pressure is 10 bar. Temperature maximum - 110 °C.

Specifications:

• weight: 11-300 kg;
• section width: 80 mm;
• overall width: 2400 mm;
• thickness: 195 mm.

pros

• beautiful in appearance;
• powerful;
• can be repainted;
• good indicator of maximum temperature.

Minuses

• due to the numerous patterns it is difficult to clean from dust and dirt;
• expensive.

Viadrus Bohemia R 450/225

Compact model, elegant and generously decorated with intricate patterns . will bring

a touch of luxury to any interior: from classic to modern.

It is ideal for domestic heating systems, as it is not afraid of either hard tap water or summer utility “blowdowns” of the system.

Power can be changed at your own discretion . Available in gray, but it is possible to paint the radiator in any color you wish.

The dimensions are small, so it fits comfortably under any window sill.

Maximum operating temperature is 115 °C . A total of 20 sections can be installed. One section holds 2.4 liters of liquid.

Crimping pressure - 16 bar. Connects from the side.

Specifications:

• weight of one section 10.3 kg;
• dimensions (WxHxD): 86x540x225 mm;
• maximum temperature range: up to 115 °C.

pros

• stylish design;
• can be placed on “legs”;
• practical;
• warranty: 20 years.

Minuses

• expensive sections.

Konner Modern 300

An exclusive item with a European design made of high-quality cast iron . Suitable for both

for individual and centralized heating systems, it is characterized by high heat transfer, ease of operation and reliability.

Complies with GOST and all European certificates . One has a width of 64 mm. The maximum number of sections is 12 pieces. Crimping pressure is 18 bar, working pressure is 12 bar.

Quality guarantee - 5 years, service life - more than forty years . Radiator heat output - 120-1440 W. The distance between the axles is 300 mm. Connects from the side (input left, output right).

The volume of water in one element is just over a liter . Not only water, but also oil and antifreeze can be used as fuel.

The kit includes, in addition to the radiator, a set of fittings for connection (Maevsky tap, right plug and 4 through-hole plugs).

Specifications:

• weight: 3.4-40.8 kg;
• thickness: 90 mm;
• height: 400 mm;
• width: 64-768 mm.

pros

• you can use different types of fuel;
• inexpensive;
• withstands high pressure;
• the material is resistant to corrosion.

Minuses

• heavy.

Viadrus Bohemia 450/220

A classic model from a leading European manufacturer of radiators . This option

Suitable for lovers of industrial and retro interiors, as well as for the reconstruction of heating systems in architectural monuments and historically valuable buildings.

The radiator has a 20-year warranty, but its service life is practically unlimited.

The volume of water in the section is 2.4 liters, the total volume reaches 48 liters.

The permissible maximum temperature is 130 °C. The heat output of the radiator is 110-2200 W. Working pressure - 10 bar.

Center distance - 450 mm.

is 110-2200 W. Attached to the wall. The power can be changed additionally.

Specifications:

• weight: 9.9-198 kg;
• width of one section: 86 mm;
• thickness: 225 mm;
• height: 540 mm;
• width: 86-1720 mm.

pros

• easy to care for;
• power can be adjusted manually;
• exquisite appearance;
• meets sanitary and hygienic requirements.

Minuses

• price is above average;
• Only lateral connection is possible.

Demir Dokum Floral 750

Stylish retro-style radiator with an original pattern across the entire surface . External

The view will perfectly enliven any interior.

A section can have from 1 to 15 elements. Can warm a home up to 34 square meters.

The required testing pressure is 12 bar. Center distance - 582 mm. Heat dissipation - 228-3420 W.

The radiator is made by casting gray cast iron, which extends its service life.

Radiators are sold with a set of “legs”, but you can individually order a model without “legs”.

The radiator can be painted, or even artificially aged if desired . The connection type can be any.

The maximum coolant temperature is 110 °C. Maximum operating pressure is 9 bar.

Specifications:

• weight: 13.5-202.5 kg;
• section width: 78 mm;
• thickness: 250 mm;
• height: 750 mm;
• width: 78-1170 mm.

pros

• original appearance;
• easy to repaint;
• high thermal power;
• affordable.

Minuses

• difficult to wash.

Types of cast iron radiators and their brief description

1. Although old models of cast iron batteries are unattractive in appearance, their characteristics are practically not inferior to modern ones. They are cheap (one section is about 350 rubles), they can be different in size, so you need to figure out in advance whether such a battery will fit under the windowsill.
2. New generation radiators fit better into modern interiors: they have a smooth surface and a flat front panel. Good quality models are manufactured not only in Europe (Italy and the Czech Republic), but also in Russia.
3. Designer models are not hidden, but displayed as room decoration. Most are stylized as products of past centuries, have bas-reliefs, drawings and decorations on the surface, and twisted legs. The size range is wide.

How do foreign radiators differ from domestic ones?

The products of both groups of manufacturers are made from almost the same cast iron. The difference lies in the surface characteristics of the cast iron.

Foreign versions have a smooth inner surface . The coolant circulation easily slides along it without “feeling” much hydraulic resistance. Therefore, smaller sections of foreign heating devices are able to pass more water per unit of internal area and absorb more heat. As a result, their power increases. They need to be installed in rooms with a large area (30 or more sq. m.).

Advantages and disadvantages of cast iron radiators

Advantages:

1. Corrosion resistance is one of the most important properties of cast iron. When moisture gets on its surface, a thin protective film is formed that prevents corrosion from getting inside the cast iron.
2. As a coolant, you can use not only water, but also oil and propylene glycol antifreeze.
3. Cast iron radiators do not cool down for a long time after being turned off.
4. Unlike steel and aluminum radiators, cast iron ones can easily withstand a long stay without coolant without loss. Therefore, the buyer should not worry that something bad will happen to the heating system during the period of summer utility repairs.
5. The design feature allows you to repair and improve cast iron radiators without problems. Make it longer or shorter, replace the old part with a new one, throw away the element - no problem!
6. The service life of cast iron elements is quite long - 40-50 years.
7. They are affordable.

Flaws:

1. They are very heavy, require reliable fastening to the wall or a special stand, and older models are also bulky.
2. A rough surface attracts dust and makes cleaning difficult.
3. The heat transfer surface area is smaller than that of steel and aluminum, and cast iron radiators take longer to heat up.
4. Automatic thermoregulation cannot be installed.

Briefly about the battery design

Cast iron heating devices consist of the following parts:

• heating section filled with coolant;
• connecting nipples – bushings with external threads used for joining adjacent sections;
• end caps;
• transition plugs for connecting pipes or taps;
• gaskets made of paronite or rubber - artificial rubber EPDM.

Note. The minimum number of sections (fins) in one radiator is 3 pieces. It is not customary to do less - the heat transfer is too low, and it looks ugly.

Sectional drawing of the heater, design of the nipple and key.
The heating elements are pulled together by nipples; to avoid leaks, the joints are sealed with gaskets. Paronite is used on old Soviet-made radiators; the modern analogue is EPDM sealant. The nipple shown in the drawing is tightened with a long socket wrench with a special nozzle.

The side openings of the outer sections are closed with blind or through plugs, where pipelines are connected. The manufacturing plant or the store selling the products can additionally equip the batteries with hanging brackets and a manual air release valve - a Mayevsky valve.

Aluminum or cast iron radiator – which is better?

Models made of aluminum are elegant in appearance and are many times lighter than models made of cast iron. They have high heat transfer and an affordable price .

Unnecessary sections can be easily removed, or a few more can be added if necessary. But if the model has not been treated from the inside with a special polymer composition, then over time it will begin to oxidize from water.

And tap water, which is often too hard and saturated with salts and other chemical compounds, is harmful to it.

Therefore, it is better to install aluminum radiators in private houses with an autonomous heating system.

Cast iron radiators are now produced in different shapes and colors . They are not afraid of corrosion, can withstand water hammer, are able to warm up a home for a long time and, after being switched off, serve for a long time.

However, automatic regulation is impossible on cast iron radiators; they require a lot of water for their normal functioning, and they weigh a lot.

They can be installed in private houses and in apartment buildings.

FAQ

Do cast iron radiators need to be flushed? Although cast iron radiators require almost no maintenance, they still need to be washed occasionally: the internal channels gradually become clogged, which is why they begin to give off heat less well. If the room used to be comfortable, but over the years it became cold, this is probably the reason. Can they be repaired?

Most breakdowns can be fixed. Thus, a leak can be sealed using putty and a metal clamp, and in sectional models you can simply replace the faulty section.