The flow heater consists of several nodes. The principle of operation of the device is simple, but individual blocks require special attention. In the article, we consider the water node of a gas column. You will find out what kind of work it does, what materials it is made of and what kind of work principle it has.
Design and varieties of the water block
The manufacturing material of the water reducer is different, so it is divided into several types:
- Brass. Alloy of copper and zinc.
- Plastic. The practical device is not subject to corrosion.
- Polyamide. Reliable device with fiberglass in the composition.
The column regulator or “frog”, as the block is also called, has protective functions. It serves to automatically turn on the device when water is supplied. It also protects against overheating while reducing pressure in the line.
How is the gearbox arranged:
- Base and cover with bolts.
- Rubber membrane with a disc on the stock.
- Flow device.
- Temperature switch.
- Flow sensor.
- Venturi tube.
- Filter device for hot water.
See the diagram:
The cover of the water pressure regulator can be fastened with steel screws or plugs. Since the parts do not come in contact with water, there is no risk of corrosion. Unscrewing the screws, you will remove the cover, behind which the membrane is located. The device is quite simple.
When water is turned on, pressure is created on the membrane. It pushes the stem, which actuates the gas valve. Fuel is supplied to the burner and heating starts. When the mixer closes, the pressure drops - the parts return to their previous position.
An important part of the gas-water unit is the venturi nozzle. What is it for? For example, in the technology of the Neva company, the tube is in the lower part. The location in the columns "Oasis", "Astra" may vary. The part serves to reduce the pressure of the working environment. This is how the gas flow is regulated.
When you close the faucet, the tube aligns the indicators, so that the diaphragm fitting returns to its place. After that, the device turns off.
The water part is also prone to breakdowns, so we will list the main malfunctions and the ways of self-repair.
Common block problems
Most often, the node fails due to poor-quality water. Impurities of potassium and magnesium settle and clog the details of the device. The pressure drops in the pipes are also affected. It is proved that 80% of failures of gas heaters occur due to failure of the gas-water unit.
Explore the main signs and causes of breakdowns.
The water pressure is normal, but the burner does not ignite
- Check the membrane. The rubber element wears out quickly, tears, flows. Instead of the old element, it is better to install a silicone membrane.
- Stuck stock, does not move. Perhaps he stuck. Lubricate this area and the oil seal with grease to restore operation.
The cold stream is strong enough, but the hot stream is weak
- The strainer is clogged with small debris, rust. Remove and clean the part.
- Clogged nozzle at the entrance to the site. Cleaning is also in progress.
When opening the mixer, the column does not start immediately
- The moderator ball channel is clogged. Disassembly and cleaning of elements. The ball is in the assembly cover.
- Ball retarder incorrectly adjusted. It is necessary to tighten the adjustment screw.
After closing the taps, the device does not stop working
- The ball is jammed or its channel is clogged.
The equipment does not work at full capacity, may go out during operation
- The membrane was damaged. It is necessary to replace the defective element.
If you find a malfunction and decide to do it yourself, read below how to remove the gearbox.
Dismantling the water unit
To carry out repairs, the unit must be removed from the seat. This is possible only with the dismantling of the gas unit.
- Turn off the gas tap.
- Disconnect the cold water hose.
- Using a wrench, disconnect the assembly from the nozzle.
- Disconnect the wiring from the gas valve and micro switch.
- Unscrew the flange bolts with a screwdriver.
- Remove the water-gas block.
Now you need to disassemble it and replace the broken parts:
- To disconnect the gas part from the water, unscrew the two screws. One is on top, the other is on the bottom. You can not unscrew completely, but slightly loosen the mount. It happens that the bolts stick. Sprinkle these places on the VD-40.
- Separate the blocks.
- Now unscrew the “frog” screws from above.
- The case will be divided into two parts and the diaphragm will become available.
- Remove the rubber part (in case of a malfunction, prepare a new one).
- Remove the stem disc. Behind them is a spring.
- Remove the spring and check the seal located behind it. It requires periodic cleaning and lubrication.
- Install new parts and reassemble the unit in the reverse order. The oil seal can be lubricated before installation.
- When tightening the frog bolts, grease them with graphite grease.
In order not to start the column to a malfunctioning condition, check its components once every six months, and clear of scale and dirt.