Advantages and disadvantages of Wolf gas boilers + operating instructions and owner reviews

Heating private houses, apartments and other premises using gas boilers is becoming popular and widespread.

The constant increase in housing and communal services tariffs, the low quality of supplied resources and the inconvenient operating mode of the central heating system are forcing property owners to reconsider their approach to heating premises.

To create autonomous heating systems, a huge number of gas boilers are manufactured, the production of which is carried out by well-known European or Asian companies.

One of these brands offering high-quality and reliable heating systems is the German company Wolf.

Let's take a closer look at its products.

Wolf gas boilers

Wolf GmbH was founded in 1963. During its activity, the company managed to grow into a large industrial concern engaged in the production of heating, climate control and water heating equipment.

Gas boilers occupy a prominent, although not the main place in the company’s list of products . A special feature of the equipment is the absence of scattered production and assembly across different countries, which is typical of other well-known European brands.

Despite the fairly widespread use of imported custom parts, the units are assembled in Germany, which ensures quality and compliance with all requirements and standards. The boilers are adapted to the technological conditions of the countries in which they will be used.

This helps to overcome a lot of problems, for example, according to manufacturers, the boiler electronics are able to compensate for voltage drops of up to 160 V.

The operational capabilities and reliability of Wolf boilers were highly appreciated by specialists and ordinary users, and were also awarded the corresponding diplomas and certificates.

About the manufacturer

WOLF GmbH has been producing heating equipment for more than 40 years and has established itself as a high-quality and reliable German brand. The company is represented on the Russian market as Wolf Energy Saving Systems LLC. Not so long ago, purchasing boilers was done at your own peril and risk, because installation and maintenance specialists were only in Moscow. However, in recent years the service structure has developed very rapidly; today you can count on high-quality service in large regions. In general, many often note the excellent work of the hotline.

Gas boilers of this brand rarely cause problems; they have a classic design with a closed combustion chamber. Burners are modulating, heat exchangers are copper. More budget models are somewhat noisy, while more expensive ones make virtually no noise during operation. All models are equipped with automatic equipment with self-diagnosis and all modern safety systems: protection against overheating and freezing, stopping the circulation pump, auto-ignition, and a water filter.

The device using the Wolf CGG-1K-24 as an example. Typical layout, copper pipes and threaded connections, all insulated and assembled. There is a layer of thermal insulation.

A well-known drawback of almost the entire model range is the lack of a programmer, which is not uncommon among analogues in this price segment. It is possible to connect external control, but almost all boilers only support control via the eBus protocol. This means that you need to buy only a branded control unit, at a considerable cost, which is not justified for all consumers.

It cannot be said that Wolf boilers are sensitive to voltage changes, but we still recommend connecting them through a voltage stabilizer. If a breakdown occurs, then most often it is the failure of the electronic board due to a voltage drop. Otherwise, all gas models can be called practically problem-free; there are quite a few cases of service calls in comparison with many analogues. The price of even budget models is quite high, but typical for boilers of this category from any manufacturer.

Types of Wolf gas boilers

The range of Wolf gas boilers is quite wide and includes all modern designs and developments. Among the company's products there are units with different characteristics.

By type of installation we offer:

• Floor standing boilers . They are installed directly on the floor, so they can be slightly larger in size. They are equipped with a massive cast-iron heat exchanger and demonstrate high power (up to 1000 kW).
• Wall mounted . Compact units designed for wall-mounted installation. Since the size of the boilers is forced to be limited, the level of power and productivity is also relatively low - up to 24 kW.

By feature set:

• Single-circuit . They only heat the coolant for the heating system.
• Dual-circuit . In addition to heating the coolant, they are capable of preparing hot water for domestic needs.

By heat transfer method:

• Convection . The coolant is heated only from the heat of the burner.
• Condensation . A two-stage heating of the coolant is carried out, first from the heat obtained by condensing water vapor from flue gases, then in the usual way. The presence of preheating allows you to reduce the temperature on the burner, which provides significant fuel savings and increases the service life of the heat exchanger. The efficiency of condensing boilers is 109%, which is a common marketing ploy - any educated person understands that such efficiency is impossible in principle.

IMPORTANT!

Condensing boilers can only operate under appropriate conditions. In particular, the temperature difference between the outside and inside the premises should not exceed 20°, otherwise condensation of steam from the exhaust smoke will become impossible. In Russian conditions, such a boiler will be useless; this must be taken into account when choosing a suitable model, especially since the prices for condensing boilers are approximately twice as high.

By type of combustion chamber:

• Atmospheric, or open . The air required for gas combustion is taken directly from the room where the boiler is installed. Smoke is removed naturally, using a traditional chimney and stove-type draft.
• Turbocharged or closed . The air supply, as well as the removal of combustion products, is performed by a special turbofan. this design does not depend on external conditions and allows the use of a coaxial type chimney. It does not have to be connected to the central chimney of the house and can be removed directly through the wall of the kitchen or other room where the boiler is located.

The choice of design is wide and allows the user to choose the optimal type of boiler.

Owner reviews of Wolf gas boilers: advantages and disadvantages

Many features depend on the model, since it is impossible to generalize the entire model range. However, after analyzing the experience of installation and operation, and many reviews from owners, we have identified general advantages and disadvantages that apply to each model.

Series and models

Wolf boilers are represented by a number of series and model lines.

Series of wall-mounted boilers:

• CGU-2, CGG-1K, CGG-2 are model lines belonging to the Comfort Line series. They are represented by double-circuit boilers with an atmospheric or turbocharged burner.
• FGB, CGB-2 - condensing boilers, double-circuit, with a separate heat exchanger.

Floor standing boiler series:

• FNG . Single-circuit floor-standing boilers. The line consists of 4 models with a power of 26, 34, 41 and 57 kW. Equipped with an atmospheric burner.
• NG-31E . Single-circuit boilers with cast iron heat exchanger. Power range - 40-220 kW.

The manufacturer is constantly developing new model lines of gas boilers, so the list cannot be considered exhaustive.

Reviews

CGG-1K 24: Victor E., Tolyatti

I doubted the choice. I have heard little about this brand, there are practically no advertisements. I'm happy with the work. Simple, economical, works quietly. Inside each device there are stickers indicating the number and country of manufacture. I recommend buying a single-circuit device with a boiler in addition. Regardless of the pressure in the pipes and the number of times the tap is opened, there is always stable hot water. The boiler recirculates, so there is no need to wait for cold water to run through. I have a 110 liter boiler - you can take a bath, and there is no cooling, since the water quickly heats up.

CGG-1K 24: Natalya G., Engels

There are no advantages. Service too. After a year of installation, the boiler remains untuned. At minimum, the water is heated to 55 degrees - not even suitable for washing dishes, let alone for a bath and shower. The service department set it up according to the heating area. At first the water was too hot, they called a technician and they reset it, and this happened several times. As a result, we were once again unable to connect the module and turned to the importer. The issue has not yet been resolved.

Wolf heaters are some of the best on the world market. Thanks to the variety of models and a wide range of capacities, every consumer can find a suitable option to suit their needs. Among other things, the company can change the configuration at the request of the client.

Specifications

Let's look at the technical characteristics of some models of Wolf gas boilers:

The best and most famous models: characteristics and prices

Wall mounted

FGG-K-24

The most budget model in the line of gas boilers and one of the most successful for its price. This is a convection double-circuit boiler with a closed combustion chamber. The primary heat exchanger is copper - more resistant to corrosion and more thermally conductive. Maximum gas consumption is 2.1 m3/hour. Equipped with a built-in expansion tank. The average performance of the DHW circuit is 11.4 l/min, which is enough for 2-3 points of consumption.

The manufacturer claims stable operation when the network voltage drops to 160 V and the pressure in the DHW circuit to 0.5 bar. However, problems with electronic board failure still occur. Also, in severe frosts, the boiler often displays error E51, which indicates insufficient draft. Most often this happens due to ice on the chimney head. This is the only boiler in the Wolf range that works with the OpenTherm protocol, which most third-party room thermostats work with. Perhaps the only drawback, besides the lack of a built-in programmer, is the limited power selection. The model is available only in a version with a heating capacity of 24 kW.

How to choose a room thermostat and save up to 30% per month on heating

CGG-1K

It has almost the same design structure as the FGG-K, differing only in a few points. Firstly, there are different controls, the expansion tank is 2 liters larger, slightly larger in size and quieter. Secondly, it is possible to work not only on natural gas, but also on liquefied gas. Thirdly, there is a version with not only 24, but also 28 kW. This is one of the few models assembled directly in Germany.

Otherwise, it is the same double-circuit mounted gas boiler with a closed combustion chamber. However, due to the almost 2 times higher cost, we consider this model not the best solution, inferior in terms of price-quality ratio to other models in the Wolf line of gas boilers.

FGB

Condensing single-circuit gas boiler with a closed combustion chamber. The condensation principle of operation involves additional heat extraction from exhaust gas condensate, which significantly increases efficiency (but at the same time, the cost of the design). Efficiency – 110%, primary heat exchanger – copper, can operate on both natural and liquefied gas (models with the “K” prefix). Due to the condensation principle of operation, the boiler is free of the well-known problem of poor draft due to ice on the chimney; at a lower temperature of the exhaust gases it does not form.

The boiler is equipped with all modern protection systems and a water filter. With an optional interface module, control via a smartphone is possible. Apart from the cost, the boiler has no disadvantages. The only known problem is the failure of the ignition electrode; the boiler must be regularly maintained and cleaned. Available in power versions: 24, 28, 35 kW.

All operating features and selection criteria for condensing gas boilers

CGG-3K

The most modern double-circuit model of the 3rd generation, one of the best Wolf gas boilers for heating a private home. It is highly efficient, efficiency – 92.2%. The heat exchanger is copper, the burner is modulating, water-cooled: a rather rare technology for cooling the return line with coolant, which reduces its wear. In general, the boiler design is focused on the most gentle, resource-efficient operating mode. However, due to the novelty of the model, statistical data on reliability are not available.

DHW productivity is 11.7 l/min, which is higher than the market average. Owners often note the absolutely silent operation of the boiler (only 38 dB, which is quieter than the average air conditioner or fan). Among the shortcomings, again, the basic configuration lacks an important programmer, which is available in many analogues in this price segment. Organization of programming of the boiler operation for the next day or week, as well as weather-dependent control, is implemented only through the proprietary Link Pro module, the cost of which is about 30 thousand rubles. Over the years of presence on the market, no serious service calls are known. Also an advantage is the availability of a low-power version with an output of 18 kW. In total, the boiler is available in versions with heating capacity: 18, 24 and 28 kW.

Floor-standing

MGK-2

Today, Wolf’s selection of floor-standing gas boilers is small and this is the only unique model worthy of attention. The single-circuit condensing MGK-2 is designed for heating large private houses or commercial premises, since the power of the least efficient version is 130 kW. The boiler design is designed for maximum service life: modulating burner with a range from 17%, durable aluminum-silicon heat exchanger, closed combustion chamber. The permissible operating pressure is 6 bar; it can operate on both natural and liquefied gas.

Automation already in the basic configuration allows you to control the boiler via a smartphone, all security systems and automatic ignition are present. Installers note the ease of combining several boilers in a cascade and controlling them from one unit. With enormous power, it is worth noting the almost silent, very quiet operation. Available in versions with a power of 130-1,000 kW.

Cost: from 490,000 rub.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of Wolf gas boilers include:

• Strength and reliability of all components and parts.
• High build quality.
• Wide range of models, structural types.
• Ease of Management.
• Quiet operation.
• The boilers are being adapted to Russian operating conditions.

The disadvantages of the units are:

• Volatility and sensitivity to voltage stability. When there is a power outage, heating of the coolant stops, and power surges damage the control board.
• Demanding on water quality. Lime deposits quickly damage the filling of the units, so you need to use special filters.
• The prices for boilers, and especially for spare parts, seem too high to many users.

Most of the disadvantages apply equally to all gas boilers, so they can be considered design features.

Official website: where to view all models and operating instructions

A snapshot of the official Wolf website in Russia.
In Russia, the official website of the manufacturer is located at: wolfrus.ru/

By going to the “Heating” section → “Products” → “Gas boilers” → “Overview” you can see all available models and their descriptions. Each model is accompanied by electronic copies of full instructions for use, installation, configuration, technical data sheets and certificates. The manuals for each model describe the characteristics, installation diagram, algorithm for switching on and adjusting the operation, maintenance features, and contain clear schematic images.

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Operation and setup

The basic settings of boilers are carried out at the manufacturer. After installation and connection to communications, a pre-start setup is performed, designed to adjust the basic settings to the specified operating conditions.

The limits of gas and water pressure are determined, and the boundaries of temperature conditions are established. Operation of the boiler does not require any measures other than periodic cleaning of dust and regular switching of the unit to summer or winter mode.

These actions are simple and are performed by the user independently . All other work must be carried out by an invited technician from the service center.

Any attempt at self-repair is fraught with damage to the boiler and loss of warranty.

Download instructions

Download instructions for the Wolf gas boiler.

How to light it

The Wolf gas boiler is ignited automatically when the required coolant temperature is set on the regulator.

No specific actions characteristic of non-volatile boilers are required.

A request to turn on the burner is sent from the control board when the regulator handle is turned, as a result of which the electric ignition system starts and the burner begins to function in operating mode.

Why does it go out?

The attenuation of a gas boiler is caused by the following reasons :

• Strong gust of wind outside or draft indoors (for atmospheric units).
• Burner nozzles clogged.
• Stopping the gas supply to the mains.

There are other possible reasons for the boiler to fade out - for example, blocking by the self-diagnosis system if significant problems arise with any components.

All problems can be solved only by calling a gas service worker or a technician from the service center. Self-repair of gas equipment is prohibited and may result in administrative sanctions.

Basic faults

Experts consider the main malfunctions of Wolf boilers to be excess coolant temperature and burner extinguishment. The first problem is caused by clogging of the heat exchanger, which requires increasing the heating mode.

In addition, there may be problems with the circulation pump, which does not have time to discharge the hot coolant into the heating circuit.

Problems with the burner can have several causes, from clogged nozzles to gas valve problems or fuel supply interruptions.

In these situations, you should first contact the gas service and clarify the gas supply mode . If it has not been changed, you need to look for problems in the boiler, sequentially checking the functionality of all components of the gas equipment.

Price range

Prices for Wolf gas boilers range from 35 to 427 thousand rubles. This price range is due to the difference in power, functionality and design of the units . Before purchasing, it is necessary to clarify the equipment, in particular regarding the chimney.

Sometimes it is included with the purchase as a gift, but more often it is not included in the package and is purchased separately.

IMPORTANT!

It is strongly recommended not to skimp on warranty service. Possible problems can rarely be eliminated on your own, and it is very easy to disable the boiler.