Spring is the ideal time to plan the modernization of your heating system. Since the heating season has already ended, interventions in the system will not limit your comfort. At the same time, you still have plenty of time before the next winter, so you can think everything through and plan well. Replacing the circulating pump will not only bring you significant energy savings but also increase the efficiency of the entire heating system.
When one thinks of a heating system, a layperson usually imagines radiators, a boiler, and a thermostat. The circulating pump is an inconspicuous yet key element of every heating system. Its task is to efficiently distribute the heating water from the source (usually a boiler) to the heating bodies or underfloor heating. Choosing a circulating pump is therefore crucial for heating efficiency and optimal energy consumption.
Based on the technical parameters of the building and the heating system, you must select the appropriate flow rate and pressure, delivery head, size, and connection of the pump. Modern electronic circulating pumps for heating are characterized by low energy consumption, high efficiency, compact dimensions, durable construction, easy operation, and a display. Some feature smart functions for completely unattended and always maximally efficient operation. Thus, they are a very advantageous investment with a short-term return, usually within 2 years. Among the best-selling and highest-rated are circulating pumps from brands like Grundfos and Wilo.
On the market, you will encounter two basic types of circulating pumps for heating – dry rotor and wet rotor. Find out what the differences are between them and how to choose a suitable circulating pump.
In the case of a wet rotor pump, the rotor is submerged in the pumped liquid, which cools the motor and lubricates the bearings. The electrical part of the motor is separated from the heating water by a casing. The main advantages of this type include compact dimensions and lower noise levels.
On the other hand, it is necessary to account for the filtration of the heating water, usually, a filter screen is part of this type of pump. Impurities in the water can clog the rotor, cause malfunctions, or shorten the lifespan of the entire pump.
A wet rotor circulating pump for the boiler is thus an ideal solution for households where operating conditions are not demanding, but high demands are placed on comfort, such as low noise, easy operation, minimal maintenance needs, and simple installation.
The small and economical Wilo Yonos circulating pump has a delivery head of 8 m, a flow rate of 4.4 m3/h, and a maximum pressure of 10 bar. It is therefore suitable even for larger family homes or smaller commercial properties. It is characterized by high efficiency and extremely low consumption – the minimum power input is only 4 W. The pump allows for manual and automatic operation and features an automatic air venting function and a particle filter.
Wilo Yonos PICO Circulating Pump
Dry rotor pumps have a motor separated from the liquid by a mechanical seal. The motor is air-cooled using a fan, but the bearings need to be lubricated separately.
The main advantages of dry rotor pumps include a longer lifespan even in demanding operating conditions, as the pump is not threatened by impurities in the water. These pumps are designed for larger buildings and more demanding operations, offering higher performance, flow rate, delivery head, and maximum pressure.
Due to their more complex construction, dry rotor circulating pumps are larger, more expensive, and also noisier. Moreover, they require regular professional maintenance. They are therefore suitable for heating systems in more demanding applications, such as commercial buildings, industry, and central heating systems.
The single-stage Grundfos TPE2 dry rotor pump offers a delivery head of 15 m, a flow rate of 74 m3/h, and a maximum pressure of 6 bar. It has a removable top construction, which significantly facilitates maintenance without the need to dismantle the pump body, which remains attached to the piping. The pump allows for smooth motor speed regulation, thus adapting performance to current operating conditions.
Grundfos TPE2 Circulating Pump
Wet Rotor Pump | Dry Rotor Pump | |
---|---|---|
Efficiency | High in smaller objects | High even in demanding operations |
Noise | Low | Higher |
Maintenance | Minimal, can be done by oneself | Regular, professional |
Lifespan | High with proper water filtration | High with proper maintenance |
Price | Low | Higher |
Usage | Households and smaller commercial properties | Large buildings, commercial spaces, industry |
If you have an older type of circulating pump for your boiler, now is the ideal time to replace it. At BOLA, our heating technology experts will be happy to provide you with professional advice on selection and design. Do not hesitate to take advantage of individual consultations with our specialists for free and contact us today.