The introduction of plumbing manifolds for water increases the comfort of using the fluid, adjusting evenly the flow to all taps. Consider the features of the installation of this device, varieties and features, as well as user reviews.
general description
The collector for water is a separation device that transforms the flow of fluid into several streams. The principle of operation of the design is based on the principle of a tee (there is one inlet pipe and several output analogs). The inlet opening is 30-40 percent larger in diameter, which makes it possible to stabilize the working pressure of the water supply at the same level when opening several taps. The fixture splits the main stream into several small jets. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the higher the rate of fluid per unit time.
The specified water supply scheme is more effective than the traditional analog with risers, additional wiring and tees. However, when installing it, it is worth considering that the price of the system is 8-10 times higher. Consequently, with a limited budget, its laying is inappropriate.
Device and varieties
Water collectors are divided by the number of taps (usually two to six pieces). Each node has a pair of fasteners, the diameter of which is identical to the pipe supplying the liquid. They are designed to connect several units into one system without the need for additional adapters. If one element is enough, special plugs are used for the plug.
The structures in question are made of brass, stainless steel, cross-linked polyethylene or polypropylene. According to the method of fixing the working parts, water collectors are divided into the following types:
- Variants with internal or external thread.
- Versions with compression-type fittings for metal-plastic and plastic pipes.
- Analogs for soldering.
- Eurocone models.
- Combined modifications.
Criterias of choice
Before choosing a device, it is necessary to determine the amount of cold and hot water consumed, given the operation of taps, toilets, household appliances. Depending on the type of pipe used, the appropriate collector material is selected.
If the number of consumers does not coincide with the number of taps, you should purchase several distributors and build one system from them. Polypropylene collector for water is used with pipelines of the same material or cross-linked polyethylene. They are cheaper than metal models, at the same time they are not inferior to them in reliability, they are easy to install. It is worth noting that the polypropylene version is joined by soldering, while the polyethylene elements are joined by compression fittings.
If the water supply scheme does not include filters, a non-return valve and a water meter, they must be mounted directly in front of the distributor. This facilitates the repair and maintenance of the entire assembly.
Installing a collector for water
After choosing a device or system from several devices, it is necessary to purchase fittings, gaskets, insulation, adapters. It is desirable that the elements were from the same manufacturer. This is due to the fact that the connecting parts of different brands may vary slightly in size, which greatly complicates the installation of the structure.
Before installing the distribution manifold for water with taps, filters, meters and a reverse valve are pre-installed. Then connect the system in question. The indicated sequence of actions allows to reduce the load at the connection points, preventing their deformation during installation work.
Location selection
The location should be based on the principle of equipment being located at the same distance from the collector. If you ignore this moment, over long sections of the pipeline may cause increased pressure, adversely affecting the condition of the pipes and fittings.
When arranging a heating system with a collector, it is necessary to ensure that the difference in the lengths of the pipe sections from the distributor to the radiators does not exceed a 1: 2 ratio. That is, the length of the pipes from the first battery to the collector and the following radiators should not be less than half. If the specified parameters are exceeded, it will be very difficult to achieve the correct wiring. In a multi-storey building, the distributor is mounted at each level in a special cabinet or directly on the wall.
Recommendations
To install a home-made collector for water, a special niche is set up, slightly above the floor surface. The assembly location must be dry and clean. As a rule, a corridor or utility room is used for these purposes.
In the corridor, when installing the collector, it is advisable to provide a special cabinet. To do this, a metal box with a door and technical holes for pipe outlet is suitable. Additionally placed fasteners.
Solar collector for heating water
The efficiency of water heating from solar energy depends both on the choice of collector material and on the correct installation. There are many connection options, but it is better to dwell on the most understandable and simple ones.
For example, the standard "summer" scheme provides for the natural circulation of fluid. In this case, the collector battery is mounted 800-1000 millimeters below the level of the tank for the flow of hot water. This solution allows you to provide the optimal density difference between the heated and cold liquids. To connect the nodes, pipes with a diameter of ¾ inch are used.
In order for the water in the tank to stay warm as long as possible, it is necessary to insulate the walls with mineral wool and polyethylene. Better yet, place the container in a stationary shelter that protects the structure from rain. If hot water is required on the street or in summer buildings, the tank is placed in the yard. For distribution of water supply at home, the tank is mounted indoors.
Winter option
If it is planned to operate a solar collector to heat water year-round, non-freezing liquid (antifreeze) is poured into the working circuit. This will prevent freezing of water and possible rupture of fittings or pipes. An indirect heating boiler is included in the circuit so that the hot refrigerant passes through the coil-heat exchanger, heating the water in the tank.
In the "winter" system, an expansion tank and a safety unit must be mounted. It is an automatic air vent, pressure gauge and safety valve, adjusted to working pressure. Continuous circulation of the heat carrier provides a special pump.
User Feedback
As for the solar collector, consumers note its efficiency and relative profitability. The fact is that home-made designs can be made from improvised materials:
- Rubber hose and black pipes as a heat exchanger.
- Plastic containers for equipping the contour casing.
- Metal or wooden scraps for coasters.
You will have to spend on an additional battery, connectors and the main tank.
Reviews of standard type water collectors are also mostly positive. Despite the high cost of equipping such a system, it pays off quickly, providing simplified installation and maintenance of the structure. At the same time, water is supplied by a stable flow to all connected consumers.
Finally
A variety of construction technologies are presented on the modern market in terms of equipping plumbing water systems. Water collectors are one of the most popular elements for organizing a uniform fluid supply with stable pressure. When choosing parts, all the pros and cons should be considered, choosing the most optimal option for each particular case.