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Nowadays, magnetic filters are automatically installed in the heating systems of new family homes. There are several reasons for this – this relatively inexpensive device with zero operating costs effectively protects the heating system, including all components, from the negative impact of mechanical impurities in the operating fluid. These impurities damage pumps, boilers, reduce the heating performance of the system, and shorten its lifespan.
A lot of solid impurities naturally circulate in the heating system, mainly particles of magnetite, released metal shavings, and other small impurities.
These impurities shorten the lifespan of the heating system and individual components, such as circulation pumps, boilers, control valves, or meters. These components become clogged with impurities, leading to their damage (e.g., seizing of the circulation pump). Mechanical impurities also reduce the thermal efficiency of the heating system by settling on the walls of pipes and heating bodies, thus limiting heat exchange. This increases energy consumption for heating.
Magnetic filters capture these impurities in heating systems and are therefore a very effective solution and prevention of the problems described above.
Magnetic filters, as their name suggests, contain a strong permanent magnet. This captures all metal particles in the heating circuit. The principle of operation is very simple – the operating fluid simply flows into the filter body, where it passes through the magnetic insert.
Magnetic filtration is almost 100% effective prevention against undesirable phenomena caused by the clogging of the heating system with solid particles. By installing this type of filter, you ensure the capture of all types of mechanical impurities.
A major advantage of magnetic filters is that they operate solely based on physical laws – therefore, you do not need an energy source for their operation. You simply install the magnetic filter into the heating circuit (ideally before the circulation pump, which is most susceptible to damage from mechanical impurities) and you can start using it immediately, with zero operating costs.
Mechanical impurities in the operating fluid reduce heating performance and shorten the lifespan of the entire system.
When selecting a magnetic filter for the heating system of a family home, focus on several criteria:
The basic technical parameters of magnetic filters are maximum operating pressure and operating temperature. First, make sure that the magnetic filter you choose matches the parameters of your heating system.
The dimensions of the filter body must allow for installation in the available installation space. Determine whether the filter is installed horizontally or vertically. The package should include connection fittings, which must also match the threads on your system in terms of type (external or internal thread, compression fitting, or flange) and size.
The core of the magnetic filter is, of course, the cartridge with a magnet that captures solid impurities. Some magnetic filters also contain air separators. These remove unwanted bubbles from the operating fluid, which cause noise and reduce heating efficiency. Air separators can also be installed separately – this is a more efficient but space-consuming solution.
Heating filters are therefore divided into:
dirt separators,
air separators,
combined air and dirt separators.
Flamco heating filter with a magnet and air separator.
The magnetic filter should be regularly cleaned of deposited impurities, at least once a year, more frequently in heavily contaminated systems or after the first installation. Impurities settle in a special chamber – the larger this chamber is, the longer the required cleaning interval.
The filter should allow for maintenance while the heating system is in operation, so you do not have to drain the system. This is possible if the magnetic ring is located outside the vessel, or if the neodymium magnetic rod can be easily unscrewed from inside the filter. If the filter is also equipped with a drain valve, you do not need to dismantle it for cleaning, you can simply let the impurities drain out with the water using the valve.
For the best filtration results and long filter life, it is of course necessary to focus on the manufacturing material and manufacturer.
The cheapest magnetic filters are made of plastic and cost around 1,500 CZK. On the other hand, the highest quality filters from renowned manufacturers (such as Flamco or Caleffi) with magnetic filtration and air separation functions cost from 4,000 CZK. The difference in initial investment is not very large, but quality magnetic filters will reward you with higher filtration efficiency, easier maintenance, and longer lifespan.