Radiator Outputs?

Einsiedler_2

I have some small 24" tall rads of various lengths(columns) and need to know the BTU output I can expect from these @ 180F. I'll be running in/out reset, constant circ, with TRV's @ each rad.

all Rads same height (24")
column lengths are;
10 column (2')
12 column (28")
15 column (3')
19 column (38")
25 column (5')

can any wallies give me a rough indication on BTU output expected?


thanks in advance,
Einsiedler

"everythings better wet"

Mike T., Swampeast MO

Nomenclature:

Standing Iron Radiators come in two general types: Column and Tube. Both are made up of sections and are first classified by their number of columns or tubes--then by their height and finally by the number of sections.

Column-type radiators are the older style. Two-column is probably the most common and generally regarded in the old texts as the most efficient. The individual columns are quite large and the outer ones usually have a quite sharp line running vertically. Both plain and decorative varieties were made.

Tube-type radiators are newer. Five-tube is probably the most common. The individual tubes vary in layout from near perfect cylinders to a shape made from four bell curves. The individual tubes are quite small. To my knowledge there is no such thing as a patterned (decorated) tube radiator.

1) Do you have tube or column radiators? How many tubes/columns in each.

With an old gravity system converted with TRVs, constant circulation and reset it is EXTREMELY unlikely that the radiators will even approach 180° regardless of the outside weather.

2) Do you have a heat loss calculation for the house? If you don't--have one made or do one!! Make certain it is room-by-room! That's the ONLY way you're going to have a good idea of the total output required in the system.

Once you know the requirements in each room and the amount of EDR, you can make a reasonably accurate calculation of the actual surface temperature of the radiators at various outside temperatures. This will greatly aid you in establishing your reset curve and selecting any replacement boiler.

Write back (here or to me privately) with the particulars of your radiators and I'll be happy to let you know their EDR. Look around on the radiators (very frequently the end plugs) for markings. Most manufacturers put their mark on the plugs. The writing may be stylized or in a goofy position, but let us know what you see.