Efficient energy consumption, optimal efficiency and a lot of comfort; The ideal scenario for the operation of a heating installation (or cooling installation). If a climate system has not yet been calibrated, the question is not whether this should be done, but who is capable to do this job? Hydronic balancing requires specialist knowledge and insight into the operation of the control installation.
Imbalance implicates unnecessary waste of energy, poor efficiency and complaints about comfort. However, proper adjustment of the climate system – hydronic balancing – can yield savings of as much as 10 to 20%. You can only achieve this if the water quantities are geared to the output of radiators or other temperature exchangers.
Without or with hydronic balancing?
Without hydronic balancing the radiators closest to the pump provide too much heat, while the radiators that are further away provide too little. This is often “solved” by turning up the pump or increasing the setpoint. The result is that the radiators furthest away from the pump do provide sufficient heat, and the radiators closest to the pump far too much. Windows and doors are opened for cooling. Result: ENERGY WASTE.
With hydronic balancing the volume flows in a central heating or cooling installation are optimized. The correct amount of hot water is distributed over the radiators at the correct speed to achieve the optimum temperature in a room. The amount of water per radiator can be regulated by means of the interior, the plug screw of the radiator valve, the (foot) valve, etc. A radiator further away from the boiler needs a larger opening than a radiator close by. Hydronic balancing is determining the correct settings. Result: 10 to 20% SAVINGS.
Accurate hydronic balancing according the ultrasonic method
The most accurate way of hydronic balancing is by the ultrasonic method. The flow volume is measured by means of an ultrasonic flowmeter. The setting for each radiator is then determined based onthis result. This method measures liters per hour to 2 decimal places, with an accuracy of 0.5%. Deviations of 20 to 30% as with the temperature method are excluded, so that there is no question of doubt or needing to return for a new measurement.
