Navien floor-standing gas boilers - pros, cons and model range

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.

About the manufacturer

KD Navien Co., Ltd. has been producing heating equipment for more than 30 years and has established itself as a manufacturer of optimal technical characteristics and multifunctional equipment. It is present on the Russian market in the form of the official representative office of NAVIEN RUS LLC. The service structure is extremely developed and covers all regions of the country, not only the Moscow region.

Gas boilers of this brand have a fairly standard, simple but effective device with an average efficiency of 90-92%, depending on the model. First of all, the emphasis is on lower cost; in comparison with analogues, Navien boilers are always at least 5-10% cheaper. Therefore, even in the middle price segment, the manufacturer saves significantly on materials. The heat exchangers are steel, not copper, the pipes are also usually steel, the circulation pumps are quite noisy, like all switches, there is no thermal insulation. However, at an affordable price, this is more of a post than significant disadvantages.

Device using Navien DELUXE ONE as an example. Standard efficient layout, steel pipes, plastic hydraulic group. There is no thermal or noise insulation layer.

What else the manufacturer’s gas boilers are known for is their wide automation functionality. Even the most budget models costing 30-35 thousand rubles have a programmer that allows you to set the boiler operation settings for the next day or week. More expensive models already have a remote control (room thermostat) and external temperature sensors as standard. The controls and menus themselves are quite clear and convenient.

However, despite all the advantages, the reliability of heating boilers, especially mounted ones, raises questions. According to the statistics of service requests, products are not the leader in the number of breakdowns, but the opinion that Korean equipment is unreliable is not prejudice. Most often, the boiler displays errors 02 and 03, associated with circulation or ignition problems, respectively. Almost all existing components fail, most often these are: a three-way valve, a circulation pump, a turbine.

In recent years, models 8-10 years old often have problems with heat exchangers, which in general is practically the norm for steel structures when using hard, contaminated coolant.

There are many cases of problem-free operation over many years; it would be more correct to say that they are the majority. However, statistics of service calls show that the manufacturer’s wall-mounted gas boilers are among the least reliable in the price segment, along with Italian Ferroli and others. It is worth noting that floor-standing models are almost completely problem-free.

Owner reviews of Navien 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.

Features of the functionality of Navien brand boilers

It is not without reason that boilers made in South Korea with the Navien logo are leaders in ratings compiled based on the opinions of service technicians. They work flawlessly, comply with Russian standards, and have an impressive list of qualities that ensure comfortable operation.

The benefits that owners of gas heating units can take advantage of include:

• Frost protection. A stable operating system that eliminates the formation of ice plugs in pipes and the unit. When the ambient temperature drops below +10º, the circulation pump is automatically activated; when it drops from +6º, the burner starts.
• Protection against power surges. The safety and continuous operation of the unit is ensured by a device that eliminates failures and stops. The SMPS chip (an abbreviation for Switchet Mode Power Supply) built into the microprocessor is triggered by fluctuations in the power supply.
• Protection against low pressure in the gas pipeline. The units can withstand pressure drops in blue fuel supply systems without disruption. They do not stop working even if the pressure is only 4 mbar.
• Use when water pressure drops. Boilers from the South Korean manufacturer work efficiently if the cold water pressure at the inlet to the units drops to 0.1 bar.
• Unique heating technology. The equipment is supplied with a remote control panel equipped with a temperature sensor. The readings it takes are instantly transmitted to the boiler, which turns on and off in accordance with changes in the temperature background within the object being processed.

In addition, Navien brand boilers are equipped with well-functioning automation and a wide range of safety systems that interrupt the heating of coolant and sanitary water in the event of a threatening situation brewing or arising.

The best and most famous models: characteristics and prices

Wall mounted

Ace (ATMO)

The most budget-friendly in the line, a classic atmospheric double-circuit wall-hung boiler. The model clearly stands out from the rest of the series, since it is the only one equipped with a primary copper heat exchanger: its heating rate and thermal conductivity are many times higher, and its durability is also longer by an average of 5 years. However, due to the design with an open combustion chamber, the boiler efficiency is optimal, but not high, only 86%. The productivity of the DHW circuit is also low, in addition, the prepared water is supplied for quite a long time (from 30-40 seconds, also depends on the length of the pipeline), and its temperature is often unstable.

However, what’s nice is that already in the basic configuration, the most budget atmospheric model is equipped with a room thermostat. There is protection against overheating and freezing, autodiagnostics. But there is no protection against stopping the circulation pump. The manufacturer states that the boiler is adapted to voltage surges. Regarding reliability, in most cases the model works without problems for at least 7-10 years. However, there is enough negative operating experience; there are cases of failure, including the control board. In any case, the boiler is demanding on the quality of the coolant and the electrical network and needs regular cleaning.

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

Deluxe S COAXIAL

A slightly more expensive, but much more optimal in terms of functionality and technical characteristics, is a dual-circuit model with a closed combustion chamber. The efficiency of the design is quite good - 91.4%, there are all standard protection systems, including against pump blocking. However, the primary heat exchanger here is already made of steel: less durable and more susceptible to corrosion.

The basic package includes a room thermostat. Owners often note almost silent operation; this is one of the quietest boilers in the Navien wall-mounted line. A special feature is that there are no controls on the boiler body itself; all parameters are set using a remote control panel, which has its drawbacks (the wire is only 2 meters, there is no display backlight).

As for reliability, it will be simpler with this model; the only common fault that can be noted is the failure of the control board. The boiler is extremely demanding on grounding; it is advisable to connect it through a voltage stabilizer. Otherwise, the model usually does not cause any complaints; service specialists note the ease of maintenance.

SMART TOK

Multifunctional, more expensive double-circuit gas boiler with a closed combustion chamber. Efficiency is 91%, the burner is modulated, in practice, gas consumption is lower than that of previous models. All modern protection systems are available.

The basic package includes a room thermostat and an outdoor temperature sensor. The room thermostat has a programmer that allows you to set the boiler operating schedule for the next day or week, which can significantly reduce fuel consumption. The control unit also has a built-in Wi-Fi module, and there is an official application through which you can control the boiler remotely from a smartphone. Such rich equipment is typical for 2-3 times more expensive models costing from 60-80 thousand rubles, however, SMART TOK also has enough disadvantages.

First of all, owners often complain that the control panel is problematic; it often buzzes or makes an unpleasant whistle, and there have been cases of failure. Often the time on the control panel is reset, which does not allow normal operation according to the schedule specified in the programmer. Also, some owners complain about incorrect readings from the thermometer built into the remote control. Among service workers, the model is also not considered reliable; the circulation pump, control board, three-way valve, and turbine fail. It is worth noting that spare parts are also extremely accessible and inexpensive. The DHW circuit is the same as that of previous models: the same low performance, often unstable water temperature.

NCB 700

Double-circuit condensing model with a closed combustion chamber. The condensation principle of operation implies the presence of an additional heat exchanger that removes heat from the exhaust gas condensate. Therefore, the boiler efficiency is 107.7%, which is the average among condensers. It is important to note the high productivity of the DHW circuit, 10 l/min at a water temperature of 40°C; analogues in the price category produce similar indicators at 30-35°C. There are protections against overheating and freezing.

This model is not equipped with an external control unit or a room thermostat. It appeared on the Russian market recently and there is no extensive operating experience yet; in the first years of operation, the presence of problematic components was not noticed. Available in 24 and 35 kW versions.

All operating features and selection criteria for condensing gas boilers

Floor-standing

GA

Double-circuit floor-standing gas boiler with a closed combustion chamber and a steel heat exchanger. It has a fairly high efficiency for floor-standing gas boilers - 91.5% (due to the turbocharged design). Equipped with protection against overheating and freezing, auto-diagnosis, auto-ignition. Please note that the boiler is volatile, that is, it requires connection to the electrical network. The basic package includes a room thermostat and programmer.

It can operate on both natural and liquefied gas, the permissible operating pressure is up to 3 bar, which allows the boiler to be installed in the heating systems of two-story houses.

Unlike the wall-mounted boiler range, the GA is known to be virtually hassle-free. The only difficulties arise with heat exchangers, which, when using hard, unrefined coolant, burst and leak quite quickly. Clean water from a well as a coolant and a softening filter are a necessity. Otherwise, there are no complaints about the boiler; at such an affordable price, there are practically no floor-standing boilers with similar characteristics and functionality. Available in 23 and 35 kW versions.

Specifications

NAVIEN Ace-16K Turbo

Gas wall-mounted 16 kW is a compact design of a gas boiler for autonomous heating and hot water supply in houses with an area of ​​up to 98 m2 with a remote control unit. Net power is 16 kW, average efficiency is 86%, and the highest fuel consumption is up to 1.33 m3/hour. DHW capacity - up to 5.5 l/min at t=35C.

Official website: where to view all models and operating instructions

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

By going to the “Equipment” section → “Wall-mounted boilers”/“Floor-standing boilers” → 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.

Which boiler model is ultimately better to choose?

In our opinion, the most optimal among wall-mounted ones is the atmospheric model Ace (ATMO). It has a fairly simple design, making it more reliable, while its cost is as affordable as possible. Already in the basic package there is a room thermostat. It is only important to connect the boiler through a voltage stabilizer and use high-quality coolant. More technologically advanced and expensive models often raise many questions regarding reliability.

An even better option, if boiler room conditions allow, would be to choose a floor-standing GA; this is one of the best Navien gas boilers for heating a private home. It is quite economical, functional and reliable, and costs only slightly more than the Ace.

Tips and recommendations for operating the Navien boiler

The main advice from experts regarding the safe operation of the boiler:

1. The room where the unit is located must have good ventilation.
2. The unit must have a separate independent connection to the electrical network.
3. The boiler must operate in a fully assembled and protective housing.
4. The user is prohibited from independently repairing the gas equipment of the boiler.
5. The boiler must undergo an annual inspection by representatives of Gorgaz.
6. The boiler owner must periodically check the joints of the boiler and the gas pipeline for leaks with a soap solution.

Additional Information. If leaks occur, immediately turn off the gas valve, ventilate the room and call the emergency gas service.

Navien gas boilers have been used by Russian consumers for a long time. They have rightly earned the trust of customers. The lightweight layout with the widest range of modern water heating functions allows you to choose these models from a large list of offers on the heating equipment market.

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South Korean offers Russian consumers a wide range of boilers of different power and design variations. The equipment is adapted to the specifics of domestic communication networks and local weather conditions. Reliable and functional units are rightfully in demand.

Navien, Baxi or Protherm

These two European manufacturers are often compared not only by sellers, but also by buyers themselves. Generally speaking, there are not many differences between the products of Baxi and Protherm, but the difference between them and Navien is noticeable. All similar Navien gas boilers are at least 10-15% cheaper; only some Baxi and Protherm models are equipped with room thermostats and programmable operating modes; in terms of the efficiency of converting gas into thermal energy, the boilers of all three manufacturers are similar. However, models from European manufacturers do not have most of the disadvantages of Korean boilers.

In our opinion, functionality and lower cost do not justify spending time and money on further maintenance and repairs; moreover, problems with the boiler in the middle of the heating season are an extremely unpleasant situation. According to service statistics, there are several times fewer calls for Baxi boilers (in percentage terms), and even less for Protherm boilers.

No matter what gas service workers or store managers claim, you can find out at least some real information by analyzing the number of problems described on forums, in comments to videos, or by talking with owners or service specialists. Therefore, in our opinion, it is worth choosing Navien boilers only if you have a really limited budget, and it is better to choose only the models described above (Ace or GA). Of course, we do not deny the trouble-free operation of the entire model range in most cases.

Known faults of Navien boilers

The list of faults is quite wide, almost all of them are unique to wall-mounted models. Most often, due to even small voltage drops, the control board (automation) fails; boilers must be connected to the electrical network through a voltage stabilizer. A less painful, but also common problem is the breakage of the make-up valve or its leakage, since it is made of rather fragile plastic. Less likely to fail are: DIP switches, circulation pump, flow sensor, turbine.

Separately, it is worth examining problems that are not always associated with a breakdown (click to expand):

+ The boiler does not heat hot water

If the treated water does not arrive after 30-60 seconds depending on the length of the pipeline, the situation is not normal. The most common reason is clogging of the heat exchanger with scale, which is especially typical for budget twin heat exchangers. Often replacement may be required, but if the contamination is light, the heat exchanger can still be washed. Less commonly, the problem may be a failure of the three-way valve that switches the heating, or a failure of the flow sensor.

+ Pressure drops / does not maintain pressure

A drop in pressure clearly indicates a leak in the heating circuit: pipeline, safety valves, expansion tank, make-up tap, etc. Normal operating pressure in most Navien models should be 1.2-1.5 bar. Most often, the cause is a leaking make-up tap; to correct the situation, you need to check and seal all elements of the system. All possible reasons for a drop in water pressure in domestic gas boilers

+ The boiler does not start at all

The problem is almost guaranteed to be a control board that has failed due to a voltage drop. Despite the manufacturer’s assurances, the wall-mounted model range is extremely vulnerable to the domestic unstable power grid and requires connection through a stabilizer, which is neglected by almost all buyers.

Most common error codes

All models are equipped with an autodiagnostic function, which has quite a lot of measured parameters and makes it easy to diagnose a malfunction using the corresponding error code. Let's look at the most common ones:

+ 02

Problems with coolant circulation in the system. First of all, fill the system with coolant through the make-up tap; the pressure gauge should read 1.2-1.5 bar. Make sure the values ​​are maintained throughout the day. The second main reason may be the failure of the circulation pump, which cannot reach the required speed or turn on at all. Rarely, the cause may be a clogged dirt filter or a faulty flow sensor blocking the operation of the boiler.

+ 03

Open circuit of the flame sensor or lack of signal about the presence of a flame. If all the shut-off valves are open, the burners have not been adjusted and gas flows normally, the problem is in the ignition electrode, which sometimes can be simply cleaned, but more often it will need to be replaced.

+ 10

Incorrect operation of the smoke removal system. First of all, carefully clear the chimney of ice if there is any on its head. If the problem is not solved, the design of the chimney has not been changed in any way, then a possible reason could be strong gusts of wind or problems with the turbine.

+ 13

Short circuit of the flow sensor. Usually, if such an error occurs, the flow sensor must be replaced, but sometimes the problem can be resolved by careful dismantling and cleaning of the mechanism.

Settings

“Navien” is programmed for winter (heating and DHW) and summer (DHW) operating modes - with the “Snowflake” and “Sun” icons. The network temperature is adjusted on the LCD remote control when the “radiator” icon on it is lit. In some options, the “Heating Mode” is started, in others the knob is turned. A flashing LED records the set water temperature.

If the icon just lights up without pulsating, the actual temperature in the network is displayed. By selecting the icon, use “+” or “-” to increase or decrease the temperature. After a couple of seconds the LED will stop flashing and show the actual temperature. They regulate the heating temperature from 40.0 C to 80.0 C. If it is set incorrectly, an error code will be displayed.

Note! The DHW temperature is adjusted in the same way, only on the remote control there are pictograms with a tap, the range is from +30 to +60 C.