Korean Navien gas boilers, like other equipment, are distinguished by good efficiency and the presence of many “tricks”: a remote control included, a functional menu and even external sensors for weather-dependent operation. All this for a fairly affordable amount. However, the manufacturer’s heating boilers are not without their drawbacks.
In the article we will look at the best models of Navien gas wall-mounted and floor-standing boilers, how they behave in practice, what advantages and, most importantly, disadvantages are noted by the owners, as well as what malfunctions may arise during the operation of boiler units in real conditions.
Information about the manufacturer Navien
The company has been operating on the market since 1978, when it was still called Kyung Dong Mechanics. Today, Navien provides comfortable temperatures in residential and industrial spaces by producing air conditioners, fans and, of course, water heaters and gas boilers.
The Korean organization exports its goods across the globe, including:
- Russia,
- USA,
- Japan,
- China and European countries.
Navien has its own representative office in the Russian Federation, thanks to which it has achieved full adaptation to our market. The equipment works with unstable gas and water pressure, and can also correct voltage fluctuations in the network. All this makes Korean products the best choice on the domestic market.
About company
Korea has long been famous for its high-quality electronics and household appliances, and heating equipment is no exception. NAVIEN is a giant enterprise specializing in the production of boilers running on gas and diesel fuel. The components are made in Korea and Japan. Assembly - only in Korean factories. Previously, the company supplied its products to the US and Pacific markets. Since 2007, promotion to European markets began. Today, Navien actively supplies its goods to Russia.
Construction of Navien gas boilers
The operating principle of the product is no different from that of other companies. The basic equipment consists of the following parts:
- Gas-burner;
- Circulation pump;
- Gas supply regulator;
- Heat exchanger.
Double-circuit devices boast two heat exchangers at once, one of which is for heating water, and the second for heating the coolant. The pipeline ensures an uninterrupted supply of gas to the device pipes.
The fuel burns and releases heat, which heats the water. The hot coolant is sent to the heating system, warming up the radiators and pipes.
The Korean technology is equipped with a smart electronic unit that monitors the temperature of the coolant and turns the burner on and off in time.
How to turn it on?
You can turn on the device in two ways:
- Remote control.
- Using the buttons on the control panel - you just need to press "Power".
After startup, the device begins to operate in the specified mode - which was previously set. To change the settings, you need to use the manual and set the modes correctly. Before starting the device, it is installed, connected to utility networks, and the heating system is filled with coolant - keeping an eye on the pressure gauge.
Types of gas boilers Navien
The organization covered all possible types of designs so that the end consumer could choose a model exclusively for their needs. That is why units can differ significantly from each other, which affects both the features of the initial installation and the further use of the equipment.
There is the following classification:
- By installation method;
- By the number of circuits;
- By function.
We will analyze each type in more detail so that everyone can choose the best option for their room.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of Navien gas units include:
- The optimal combination of cost and functionality of boilers.
- Environmentally friendly type of equipment.
- The ability to obtain both heating and hot water supply using one boiler.
- Simplicity and a wide range of possibilities for controlling operating modes.
- Availability of remote control panel.
- There is a self-diagnosis function that shows the error code and makes it easier to find the problem.
- With proper operation and maintenance, the service life of boilers is practically unlimited.
There are also disadvantages:
- The units do not tolerate contact with hard water.
- High noise level.
- Dependence on the supply of gas, electricity, water.
Both advantages and disadvantages are design features and are characteristic of almost all samples of such equipment, regardless of the manufacturer.
Download instructions
Download instructions for the Navien Deluxe, Navien Coaxial, Navien ATMO model.
Navien boiler installation method
The simplest, but one of the most important differences is the installation method. They differ in wall-mounted and floor-mounted. Wall-mounted ones are generally quite small in size, so they can be hung on vertical surfaces, for example, on a bathroom wall.
Due to their small dimensions, such units are often chosen for apartments, while floor units are installed in private homes. Floor standing ones are better suited for homes due to their large size and weight.
Usually these devices are placed in a separate room - in the boiler room, where such a large thing will not interfere. The marking of such products uses the letter “N”.
Functional
The manufacturer has created several product lines that differ greatly in the available functions:
- Prime. The most complete and expensive package. By purchasing products from this line, the consumer receives not only the most modern and reliable means of heating a home, but also the most convenient. Important information is shown on the liquid crystal display, boiler power from 13 to 35 kW.
- Deluxe. Most of the functions of the previous line were retained, but this series eliminated the display. There is an air pressure sensor, with which the air flow is controlled and thereby the boiler parameters are optimized. Devices with power from 10 to 40 kW are available.
- Ace. The most popular series due to its price-quality ratio. There is nothing superfluous in this product line, only the most necessary innovative technologies to control the optimal room temperature.
- Steel (GA/GST). Products with different numbers of circuits. The power of the products varies from 11 to 40 kW. The most durable materials are used in production, including stainless steel.
- SmartTok. A smart line of the 21st century for the most advanced users. This series is controlled using a smartphone, so you can control the devices remotely. You can also control it by voice or in the classical way. It is possible to install a special outside temperature sensor.
Which boiler should I buy?
To choose the best boiler option from Navien, you need to answer several questions:
- What is the total area that the device needs to heat. Usually the maximum power is directly proportional to the capabilities of the boiler. That is, a 24 kW model will effectively heat 240 m2, and a 40 kW device will cope perfectly with an area of up to 400 m2.
- Desired material for the heat exchanger. Copper or stainless steel. The first option is used in cheaper models, but it provides no less heat. The service life of copper heat exchangers is slightly lower than that of steel (on average 0.5-1 year).
- The boiler must operate on mains and liquefied gas. This way you can protect your home from breakdowns on gas lines and save money if heating is only needed from time to time. For example, if we are talking about a country house, where the family goes once every few months.
- Floor-standing models take up more space, but are much easier to install compared to wall-mounted boilers.
If you need a reliable double-circuit gas boiler with a control panel, temperature sensors and variability in power consumption, choose the Korean brand “Navien”.
30.09.2017
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Condensation models
A modern series, distinguished by a special assembly that demonstrates the highest performance indicators. Due to their design, these heating devices use condensate, previously collected in a heat exchanger and highly heated.
These boilers use a third less fuel and also reduce harmful emissions by up to 70 percent. These innovative boilers are marked with the NCN symbol.
Operating principle
Combustion of fuel contributes to heating of the coolant in the primary heat exchanger.
The circulation pump ensures the movement of water through the system, constantly supplying new portions of the cooled flow to replace the heated one.
The three-way valve regulates the temperature by mixing a certain amount of cold coolant into the flow with the maximum degree of heating, resulting in the formation of a given temperature in the system.
Fuel combustion is supported and enhanced by the air flow supplied by the turbocharger fan.
All work is constantly monitored by appropriate sensors that transmit signals to the control board, which interacts with the remote control.
Atmospheric models
An important feature of this type is the increased safety and performance of the products - they are able to function properly even during serious fluctuations in gas pressure. The devices are supplied with an open combustion chamber.
- Due to their type, these Navien products must be connected to a chimney with a draft capable of eliminating combustion products.
- The units are capable of accelerating the coolant temperature to +80 degrees Celsius, and the water temperature to +60.
They can operate on both natural gas and liquefied gas, which will allow the equipment to be used even by those who are far from gas mains. The markings indicate "ATMO".
How does Navien Ace TURBO work?
For example, consider the description of the operation of a turbocharged heater. Such a device is not afraid of low fuel pressure or power surges. It will heat any area. At the same time, it heats the water - there is a second circuit. DHW heat exchanger – steel. It is much cheaper than copper analogues. The lack of power - due to the insufficient thermal conductivity of steel - can be compensated for by turbocharging the burner. Such devices easily compete with analogues that have copper heat exchangers.
The turbo heater monitors the temperature of the coolant - if it drops below plus 10 degrees, the circulation pump turns on. It drives water, preventing ice crystals from forming. When the temperature drops below plus 6 degrees, the burner will light up and heat the coolant to +21 degrees.
Turbocharged devices are available in two modifications, the second - with a coaxial chimney “Navien Ice Turbo Coaxial”. It is advantageous to install it in rooms where it is impossible to ensure a normal supply of oxygen. A coaxial chimney takes air from the street.
Turbocharged models
This line not only monitors pressure fluctuations in gas pipelines, like the previous one, but is also resistant to sudden surges in power supply voltage. This is achieved thanks to the smart SMPS chip. Turbocharged boilers have a closed combustion chamber.
The equipment comes with different chimneys:
- With separate. In such devices there are two pipes, one for supplying air, the other for eliminating combustion products. In the marking you should pay attention to the letter “K”.
- With coaxial. The design provides two pipes installed inside each other, due to which the outer one supplies oxygen to the combustion chamber of the products, and the inner one removes these products. In the marking o.
Installation technology and connection instructions
Floor structures are installed in a specially designated area and connected to the power supply network and related communications.
Wall-mounted units are hung on brackets secured with anchor bolts. Hanging on weak walls, temporary plasterboard partitions, etc. is prohibited.
The wall must be strong enough to support the weight of the boiler (about 30 kg). Connecting communications requires attention so as not to confuse the pipes.
The main responsibility lies with the connection of gas pipelines . It is necessary to carefully check the connection for leaks and check the condition using a soap solution.
Connection and installation should be entrusted to specialists, most often representatives of the service center that performs warranty service and repairs.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other company, Navien products have a huge number of advantages:
- Resistance to voltage surges, which is achieved using a special chip. With it, the creations of the Koreans will work even with network fluctuations ranging from 165 to 300 Volts;
- Ease of operation, the ability to control some models by voice and using a mobile phone over a long distance;
- Small dimensions of the devices, thanks to which they can easily be placed even in the smallest apartment or boiler room in a private house;
- Low cost of operation;
- Automated operation, the ability to program the operating mode in advance;
- Long service life with necessary maintenance;
- Excellent quality to price ratio;
- High heating rate of the heating circuit;
- Diagnostic function, which itself determines errors and breakdowns of the model;
- Caring for the environment.
Minor disadvantages include the following:
- Energy dependence;
- Connection to only one hot water tap;
- Noise during operation;
- The need to protect electronics during thunderstorms;
- Difficult repair due to the fact that only original Korean parts can be installed, since there are simply no analogues;
In the event of a breakdown, you must contact the repair service, because you cannot repair a gas boiler yourself.
Advantages
The brand positions its heating equipment as optimal according to the price-quality formula. Navien boilers can be used for heating a private house, apartment, or industrial premises. Their advantages:
- Resistant to voltage surges. Its surges often lead to equipment failure. The Koreans have provided reliable protection - they have installed a Switched-Mode Power Supply control chip - it expands the voltage range to 165-300 V.
- Resistant to low gas pressure. Many modifications refuse to work because of this, but not Navien - they continue to work at the lowest values.
- Pleasant, ergonomic design.
- Any Navien boiler is double-circuit. This means that, in addition to heating, its owner receives an addition in the form of hot water supply.
- A wide range of powers is offered - you can choose an option for any room.
- Equipment owners can always get professional help at the service center. Contact details can be found in the attached documentation.
The most popular boiler models
The organization has provided a wide selection of different models, so it can be difficult for a beginner to figure it out right away.
Let's look at the most popular options that regularly earn positive reviews:
- Navien SMART TOK 24K. Convection unit with a wide range of functions. It can handle an area of up to 240 square meters. Thermal power from 8 to 24 kW. Uses both natural gas (consumption - 2.79 cubic meters per hour) and liquefied gas (2.15 kg per hour). The kit comes with a remote control and LCD display. It is also possible to control from a smartphone. Weight – 28 kg. You can connect a coaxial or separate chimney.
- Navien DELUXE COAXIAL 16K. A model with two circuits, which is suitable for heating a house up to 160 square meters. The efficiency of the device is 91.2 percent. Thermal power from 9 to 16 kW. Operates on natural gas (consumption - 1.72 cubic meters per hour) or liquefied gas (1.43 kg per hour). The maximum available heating of the coolant is up to +80 degrees Celsius, heating of water up to +60. Includes remote control and display. Weight – 28 kg. Installed on the wall.
- Navien DELUXE 13K. Convection unit for wall installation. Heats houses up to 130 square meters. Electronic control, remote control included, closed combustion chamber, power from 7 to 13 kW. Consumption is either 1.4 cubic meters per hour if it is natural gas, or 1.16 kg per hour if it is liquefied gas. Heating of coolant up to 80 degrees Celsius, water up to 60.
The most common problems
Often the causes of problems are low quality coolant or gas. Error codes help you solve problems. Here are the most common malfunctions that can occur with Korean gas equipment:
- Overheating.
- No flame signal.
- The fan is faulty.
- Damage to the control board.
- Short circuit in the flow sensor circuit.
How to choose a Navien gas boiler
The correct choice of model can be made only when all the needs and goals of the future purchase are clear. If there is a need for hot water, you should buy a double-circuit unit, but if you only need to heat the house and nothing else, you should choose a single-circuit option.
- You need to decide where to install the equipment.
- If there is a separate room for arranging a boiler room, then it is worth buying a floor-standing type.
- Otherwise, you will have to opt for the wall-mounted option.
- It is necessary to calculate the area of the heated room in order to select the appropriate power.
After that, all that remains is to choose the design you like and answer whether you need a liquid crystal screen, a remote control, or control from a mobile phone.
Positive aspects of Navien products
Heating gas boiler Danko
Connecting a Navien gas boiler
All components for Korean boilers are produced in South Korea and Japan. The introduction of innovative technologies and a high production culture allowed the company to become a leading manufacturer of heating equipment in its country. It occupies far from the last positions on the world stage. Navien gas boilers are characterized by a number of positive features:
- Heat exchangers made of stainless steel. Considering the not the best characteristics of water from centralized supply systems, Korean engineers deliberately chose this material. It ensured the longevity of the devices.
- Turbocharging system. Stainless steel reduces the cost of a gas boiler and increases its service life. However, compared to copper, its thermal conductivity is lower. Therefore, products from South Korean manufacturers should theoretically have a lower efficiency factor. The use of a turbocharging system, which supplies air in optimal proportions to fuel, equalized the performance. Moreover, the efficiency of Navien boilers is even higher than many analogues with copper heat exchangers.
- Equipped with SMPT protection. The built-in chip responds to changes in power supply. It neutralizes fluctuations within 30% of the rated voltage. The gas boiler operates stably even with such fluctuations. Naturally, this protection extends the trouble-free service life of the devices.
- Adaptation to harsh security conditions. The company declares the minimum requirements for stable operation of its products. Wall-mounted gas boilers can operate at a gas pressure of 4 Mbar, water - from 0.1 Mbar. Even such “extreme” conditions are not typical for Russian utility services. But in exceptional cases, Navien boilers are the only heating devices that will provide housing with warm water.
- South Korean assembly. The boilers of this manufacturer do not contain low-quality components. All parts are produced by the company independently. The only exceptions are TIME valves, which are purchased in Japan.
- Remote control. Not every European manufacturer can boast of this. Ease of use is provided not only by remote control. The devices are equipped with a liquid crystal display, room thermostat functions, and secondary circuit water temperature control.
It is unlikely that any other global brand among heating device manufacturers will be able to offer such an affordable price for equipment with such characteristics and functionality.
Installation Features
The products are equipped with protection against power surges, but it is still worth providing stabilizers. This is especially true in case of frequent network failures and deviations from the normal value.
It is also necessary to ground the boiler body. Finally, if the model is mounted on a wall, then the surface must be sheathed with non-flammable material.
The device can be independently connected to the water supply system and heating circuit, but the gas supply must be made with a representative of the gas service.
Operation of Navien boilers
The simplest and most important thing you can do for proper operation of the equipment is to read the instructions. The manufacturer described in detail all the subtleties and rules of installation, connection and operation.
Different models of equipment are significantly different from each other, which means their instruction manuals are also different, so they should be studied in detail and saved just in case.
Error codes
Despite the saturation of electronics, Korean heaters are functional, like any equipment, they can break down. Startup and operation do not always go smoothly - problems may occur during the process, and numbers appear on the display - error codes. The decoding of the codes can be read in the instruction manual. Common problems:
- Error "01". May occur due to a clogged system or pump malfunction.
- Error "02". The heating system flow sensor has tripped. There are several reasons:
— air has entered the system;
— the coolant filter at the inlet is clogged;
- there is a leak;
- sensor is broken.
With error “02”, hot water disappears. The water temperature rises sharply and then drops. It is likely that there is an air lock in the hot water system. It appears due to low pressure, poor operation of the circulation pump, or breakdown of the flow controller. In this case, you need to adjust the pressure and bleed air from the system.
- "03". The flame sensor worked - it “did not see” the fire. Causes:
— low gas pressure;
— the ignition electrodes are dirty;
— poor gas quality;
— the sensor is broken or there is a break in the electrical circuit conducting its signal.
- "10". Incorrect combustion products are removed. Causes:
— the turbine is broken;
— the pressure sensor is incorrectly connected;
— the chimney is clogged;
— excessive length of the pipe.
It happens that there are no problems with the chimney - perhaps the signal is caused by gusts of wind. Then the reason is in the chimney - it needs to be redone. To temporarily correct the situation, you can remove the air supply hose. But this is done only as a temporary measure.
Important! It is recommended that when installing boilers, the chimney should be located on the leeward side.
All Navien modifications are reliable, but the duration of their operation largely depends on how the installation was carried out, how the maintenance is carried out and whether the settings are set correctly.
