Surface losses of heating systems (definition)

Surface losses of heating systems - these are heat losses that occur through the outer surfaces of elements heating systems, such as pipes, radiators, boilers and other components. These losses occur when heat is transferred from the heating system to the surrounding environment.

Surface losses: main characteristics

• Sources of losses: Heat loss through uninsulated pipes, radiators, heat exchangers and other surfaces of the heating system.
• Transmission mechanism: Heat is transferred from hot system components to the surrounding space through convection, conduction and radiation.
• Impact on efficiency: Increasing surface losses reduces the overall efficiency of the heating system, since part of the generated thermal energy is lost before it is transferred to the room.

Methods of reduction:

• thermal insulation: Use of thermal insulation materials on pipelines and other surfaces of the heating system to reduce losses.
• Temperature control: Optimization of the coolant temperature and regulation of the system operation to reduce excess heating, which leads to heat loss.

Example:

Surface losses through uninsulated pipes can significantly reduce the amount of heat delivered to the radiators, which increases fuel consumption and reduces the efficiency of the entire system.