What is a bypass and what is it for in a heating system

The bypass in the heating system is an integral part of the installation of the heating system, which externally is a jumper or a piece of pipe mounted on the heating main in parallel with the main line. With its help, you can solve various problems, so it is invariably present in any scheme and is one of the most important elements. Specialists and ordinary owners of residential premises should know about the ways of using the bypass in order to prevent possible malfunctions in time and seek help.

What is a bypass for a heating system

A bypass is a small section of pipe, mounted so that the path for the heat carrier passes through the device itself and bypassing the unit. The term itself comes from the English word bypass, which translates as "bypass" or "bypass". The type and structure of the element depend on the problem being solved; it can be in the form of a bypass type pipeline or a section representing a straight line, which is needed to connect the return and supply lines. The part can be installed:

• on radiators in closed or open one-pipe systems;
• next to a circulation pump operating in a gravity heating network;
• as a bridge between return and flow, which forms a small circulation loop;
• in mixing units.

A standard bypass for heating can be controlled and uncontrolled; in the second case, it is constantly kept open so that the liquid flows freely through the path. Often, in private and apartment buildings, a control device is placed on such jumpers, it can be a valve or a special device that can change the cross-section of the passage.

Varieties of products

All bypasses used in the heating network are divided into three types, taking into account the option of shut-off valves and the purpose of the device itself. In general, they work according to the same principle, but each variety has its own characteristics.

Auto

The automatic type variant is capable of functioning autonomously; it does not need to be additionally adjusted. It does not look like a standard bypass pipe, but a rubber valve used in conjunction with a circulation pump. After switching on, the pressure of the valve paves the way for the warm medium, in the off mode it automatically closes.

An automatic bypass is installed only in hot water and heating systems with clean media without impurities, since any dirt, rust or plaque provokes deformation of the device.

Manual

This option works according to the mechanical principle by manually opening and closing the valve, which should be located in the central part of the bulkhead. A bypass of this type, used in structures for heating premises, is usually supplemented with a three-way or ball valve, both types differ only in structure and function exactly the same.

Unregulated

The unregulated bypass on the heating radiator is a simple pipe without accessories that is open all the time. The liquid inside it is able to move arbitrarily, which does not make it possible to change the speed and intensity of movement of the carrier.Installation of such devices is appropriate only for connecting units that are capable of high-quality heating of the room.

Where is bypass used

The bypass must keep the entire system in good working order even if one of its elements breaks down or the electricity is cut off. All units that are connected using the device can be easily disconnected from the base, for this you only need to close two taps, after which the heat carrier will go along the bypass path.

The correct bypass simple pipeline is installed at arm's length from the floor or higher. These are the minimum requirements for its installation in accordance with the regulations.

On the radiator trim

The jumper is used only for radiator devices operating in one-pipe heating structures; it is not needed for two-pipe circuits, since in this case all units will be connected in parallel to each one. Since single-pipe wiring requires a serial connection, the coolant will cool down as it approaches each device, the farthest of which will receive a minimum of heat. This problem is solved by a bypass, which helps to make the flow movement independent and help the coolant flow directly into the radiator.

On the circulation pump

A circulating pump is connected with the help of a device only in structures with natural circulation, in this case a bypass is needed only to enhance the efficiency of working capacity. This is a good option for systems in which a booster type manifold is installed, as well as pipes with the required slope and diameter. Forced circulation systems do not require a bypass.

For underfloor heating

In warm floors of any type, a mixing unit with a bypass bypass pipeline is constantly installed. The jumper itself is needed so that the underfloor heating works without interruption, this is an important element, without which the system cannot function. In heated coatings, a certain temperature must be maintained all the time, the bypass is responsible for adjusting it and bringing it to the required value.

Installation instructions

In order not to make mistakes during installation and to carry out the correct calculation, you need to take into account the nuances of connecting the bypass. You can mount the tube when creating a new system or repairing an installed structure. In the second case, you will need to install shut-off valves, pipes and tees made of polypropylene or other materials. When it comes to connecting a radiator, you need to remember:

• the bypass section inside must be less than one step in the diameter of the main pipe;
• the bypass is installed at a minimum distance from the radiator;
• in an apartment building, taps are not allowed on the bypass.

Compliance with the standard rules for installing and operating the bypass will help ensure that the system is fully operational and avoid possible emergencies.