One, Series Connection Method
Connecting multiple radiators in series is the most economical and traditional method for installing radiator systems, as it minimizes pipework. However, this method has a significant drawback: all water flows through the first radiator before reaching subsequent radiators. The final radiator must pass through all preceding radiators, which can lead to insufficient heat output at the end of the system. If any of the radiators in the series are blocked or have faulty valves, it will affect the functionality of all subsequent radiators. This method was commonly used in the 1970s but is now largely obsolete and rarely used.
Two. Parallel Bypass Method for Single Pipe
This parallel bypass method, which connects multiple radiators in series, retains the advantages of the single-radiator series connection while effectively addressing the drawback of being unable to independently control each radiator. The solution involves adding a three-way valve and a connecting pipe at the inlet of the radiator, directly connecting it to the outlet pipe of the radiator. Under normal conditions, water flows directly through the radiator. When a fault occurs, the valve is turned to bypass the water path, allowing water to flow directly to the outlet pipe of the radiator. By adjusting the three-way valve, the water flow rate passing through the radiator can be adjusted, thereby achieving the desired temperature control.
III. Fan-shaped Radiation Method
The radial radiation system features a diverter installed on the radiator, with each group of radiators having its own independent supply and return pipes, similar to a underfloor heating system, allowing for centralized and independent control. This makes temperature adjustment convenient. The pipes at the inlet of the radiators can be buried, which is a desirable feature. However, due to the need for separate circuits for each group of radiators during installation, the amount of piping used is large, resulting in higher installation costs. Currently, most customers are unable to accept this method.
IV. Parallel Connection Method
The parallel installation method for radiators is the most commonly used installation method, inheriting the advantages of independent control and aesthetically pleasing design of the above methods. It uses fewer pipes than the fan-shaped radiation method and more than the single-pipe serial method, which is acceptable to most customers.