Flow control valves vs check valves

zeb2000_2

I have always used B&G flow control valves when zoning hot water heat, but have run across a job that was installed without any flow control and need to fix it. The different zones are pulling the water backwards through the pumps that are shut off. The problem is that there is very little room to install B&G flow control valves on the 4 zones because the copper tubing is very close together. I was thinking of installing horizontal check valves in the tubing instead. Has anyone done this? Could I have a problem?

hr

a simple fix

might be to replace those circ with a brand that has an intergal check. Both Grundfos and Taco have models available. The Grundfos 15-58 has a 3 speed motor for some flow rate fine tune-ability.

This wouldn't require any repiping, and you could use the former circs on the next job.

hot rod

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Dan Schaffer

new flow control



You could try B&G's Hydro-Trol flow control valve. It's smaller in design and uses a spring to close the check. It can be installed in any direction, so maybe it would fit into your space. The attachment shows the valve with specifications.

Best Regards,

Dan

Duncan_9

check valves

Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't flow control valves simply check valves with a screw that limits how wide they open? Also there's another bottom connection if you need to configure it that way?

Or am I thinking of another brand?

Anyway, horizontal check valves are fine, I've used them for the same reason you mention. The down side is that they can stick - I'm thinkin' from agressive or dirty water. They can also rattle if the pump isn't powerful enough to fully lift the valve off its seat.

I'd say generally that flow in most hydronic systems is forgiving enough that balancing isn't absolutely required. That is, whether one zone is getting 4 gallons per minute while another is getting 1 gallon per minute, design is usually forgiving enough that both zones will heat OK.

Tom Anderson

A check valve would work fine.

Phil_6

very cool...

...I never saw those before.