Gas water heaters Astra: review, reviews, faults

ABOUT

The manufacturer of Astra gas water heaters is Russian. This powerful enterprise is located in Nizhny Novgorod, and has been engaged in high-tech production for 60 years. More than 50% of its products are in the aviation industry, and water heaters make up only a fifth of the products produced by this giant. The dispensers produced by the plant operate only on natural gas. Combustion products are removed through a chimney. The company previously produced KG water heaters, today they are obsolete, and the plant offers Russian consumers more modern versions - economical, high efficiency, durable and safe.

Device

Astra geysers consist of the following elements:

• rectangular body with knobs for adjusting fuel supply, water pressure, and a window for ignition;
• copper heat exchanger;
• water and gas connection fittings;
• burner with a large fuel combustion chamber;
• security sensors;
• chimney

Such models operate by burning gas. The fuel burns in the combustion chamber, and the cold water entering the heat exchanger begins to heat up quickly. Waste released during the combustion process escapes through the chimney. Due to the fire hazard, before installing a geyser, you must obtain permission from the gas service.

Installation can only be carried out by a specialist from the appropriate service. To obtain permission to install, the following requirements must be met:

• the room for the Astra water heater is non-residential, with good ventilation, the possibility of airing;
• room volume – at least 8 m³;
• the walls are made of heat-resistant materials;
• The location of the Astra water heater provides access to it and allows for maintenance.

Installation is carried out in compliance with safety rules.

To prevent scale and contamination from fuel from accumulating, it is recommended to install filters for water and gas. Before each launch, the speakers are checked for connecting elements and traction.

Why are geysers popular?

It’s good when hot water flows from the tap “by itself” in an apartment, but some residents of apartment buildings can only dream of this. The deplorable state of housing and communal services networks forces Russians to independently solve the problem of hot water supply, choosing between a boiler and a water heater. If gas is not supplied to the house, there is no question - you have to buy a boiler; if blue fuel is available, a gas appliance is a more profitable option. The offered models differ in power and performance. The maximum value is 20 kW. By consuming gas moderately, they save their owners money. The average price is 9,000 rubles. Chimney diameter – up to 12 cm.

General description of the model range

The Astra gas water heater is economical and can quickly heat water. Natural fuel is used. Some heater options can supply hot water to 2 points at the same time. The manufacturer produces flow-through models with manual or electric ignition.

The heat exchanger of the columns is well insulated, so the water cools down slowly. On the body there are combustion control levers, gas supply, a power button and a window for ignition and flame monitoring.

The units have a simple, understandable control system. The case is made in white colors, has a rectangular shape, it is easily mounted on the wall and does not take up much space.

What are the benefits of Astra Group of Companies?

The Nizhny Novgorod enterprise offers not one or two modifications of gas-powered water heaters, but a whole model range, which includes speakers of different power and performance. All gas heaters can be divided into two groups:

• Flow-through. They heat the water constantly. They are more compact and can be installed in tight spaces.
• Cumulative. Heat a certain volume of water - 50-500 liters. This option is selected taking into account the needs of the family.

Advantages of Astra products:

• Made in Russia. Therefore, they are inexpensive and can be easily repaired. If it breaks, you can always find a suitable spare part and fix it.
• The heating container has a heat-insulating layer, so the heated water does not cool down for a long time - resources are saved.
• Simple design - you can easily understand everything. Reliable device - tested by consumers. It's easy to figure out how to use the device.
• There is nothing superfluous, no “functionality”, it just heats the water. This has a positive effect on the price.
• Good productivity - up to 12 liters per minute. This is enough for two water intake points.
• Safety. The machine turns off the device when there is no draft, when the water supply stops and when there is no flame.

Basic Rules

First of all, you need to remember that any devices that use gas have an increased level of danger.

The same applies to operation. Therefore, they are subject to handling rules similar to other household gas appliances.

So, if you suddenly smell gas:

1. You must immediately turn off the gas supply.
2. In order to quickly reduce the gas concentration, it is necessary to open the windows and ventilate the room.
3. Until the house/apartment is completely ventilated, you should not use any electrical appliances or light a fire.
4. After this you need to call the gas service.

It is important to know: installation and connection can only be carried out by certified specialists, in accordance with the design documentation approved by the gas industry. Most often, a user manual comes with the device itself. So, if you have an open type geyser installed, then:

So, if you have an open type geyser installed, then:

Most often, a user manual comes with the device itself. So, if you have an open type geyser installed, then:

1. You cannot light a fire in the burner or use it if there is backdraft in the chimney or if there is no backdraft at all.
2. Without first studying the instructions, it is prohibited to use the “scientific poke” method to turn on the device or ignite the gas.
3. There must be a constant flow of air in the room where such a unit was installed.
4. It is strictly forbidden to make any changes to the design of the gas water heater.
5. To prevent burns, you should avoid touching the parts of the front panel located next to the inspection slot, as well as the chimney elements.

Note:

It is better to turn on an open-type geyser at low heating power and not use mixers to produce hot water. The reason is that in the case of strong heating of the heat exchanger, an intensive process of salt deposition occurs.

Model overview

Astra 8910-00.02

Ignites manually. Open combustion chamber. Specifications:

• Power up to 21 kW.
• Heats 12 liters of water in a minute.
• Gas consumption 2.3 m3/h.
• Water pressure is 0.5-0.6 bar, this is the minimum and maximum values, respectively.
• Chimney D – 12 cm.
• Dimensions 70x37.2x23 cm.
• Weight – 15 kg.

To what temperature does the water heat up? Within 35-60 °C. In order for the column to work, it must be connected correctly, supply gas and connect water. Gas is connected via ¾ inch pipes. Water connection is through ½ inch pipes.

You can adjust the traction yourself. The thermostat is located at the bottom. Very durable frame - can withstand any load. The power supply is protected by a special system. The fitting is adjusted using screws. A pressure regulator is provided. The presence of traction is easily checked. Quick removal of combustion products. Compared to other analogues, they are reliable and safe.

VPG 8910-08.02

Differs from the previous modification:

• Lower power – 18 kW.
• Lower productivity – 10 l/min.
• Lower fuel consumption – 2 m3/h.

All other parameters are the same as for 8910-00.02. The design is also similar - open chamber, manual ignition, etc.

VPG 8910-15

The 18 kW device differs from previous models by electronic ignition - it is powered by batteries. This is a more comfortable solution that eliminates the need for the owner to have matches or a lighter on hand. The parameters are the same as the previous model 8910-08.02. It differs only in the larger diameter of the chimney - it is 13.5 cm. Warranty - 2 years.

VPG 8910-16

Power – 21 kW. Ignites via electric ignition. Heats water at a speed of 12 l/hour. Gas consumption 2.3 m3/h. Chimney D is 13.5 cm. The water heater weighs 15 kg.

Astra 15

This is a modification of low power - only 13 kW. Heats 12 liters in a minute. Open combustion chamber type. Ignites manually. The minimum maintained temperature is 35 degrees. Consumes 2.2 cubic meters of gas per hour. 1.2 inch pipe – for cold water. 12 cm – d of the chimney. Weighs 15 kg. The device has earned mostly positive reviews. Reliability is attractive - this is reflected in the high quality of the parts used and high productivity. The system can withstand a pressure of 7 bar. There is a thermostat - it is at the bottom of the device. Estimated cost 8,500 rubles.

Astra 16

18 kW – power. High productivity - 14 liters per minute. 11 cm – chimney diameter. 5 bar is the maximum pressure the system can withstand. Consumes 2.1 m3/hour. Weight – 14 kg. Manual ignition. Open combustion chamber. This modification also earned a lot of positive reviews. Consumers note the high performance of the device. Disadvantage: increased gas consumption. But the system quickly increases the temperature. Cons: limited pressure parameters that the valve can withstand. There are burner breakdowns.

Checking traction

In this case, we are talking about options for geysers that have an open combustion chamber.

It is also worth noting that modern versions of atmospheric speakers often already have automatic safety systems (most Astra, Bosh and Vaillant models). They prevent the column from starting if there is no traction, and will also turn it off if it disappears during operation.

• How to turn on a BOSCH gas water heater?

However, you should not rely on the fact that automation will give you a 100% guarantee of safety. Therefore, it is necessary to be able to check traction yourself. For this purpose, professionals use special measuring devices that evaluate the presence and strength of air movement (draft).

But an ordinary person is unlikely to have such devices at home. Therefore, the usual “old-fashioned” methods are used:

1. The first method involves removing the front part of the device and, taking a small strip of paper, bringing it to the chimney. If there is traction, then the paper will be pulled inward a little.
2. The second option is simpler and does not require any manipulations with the device itself. It will be enough to light a match and then bring it directly to the viewing window, which is located on the front panel. In the case when the flame is drawn into it, this will mean the presence of draft.

Which models are the most purchased?

Consumers are happy to express their emotions about domestic technology, mentally accustomed to scolding everything that is made in Russia. When discussing Nizhny Novgorod gas water heaters, you need to be objective and take into account the realities of domestic consumption. Any equipment is prone to wear and tear and cannot operate at full capacity for a long time: breakdowns and malfunctions are common for equipment that deals with different types of resources. The GC models received the greatest recognition among consumers:

• Astra 8910-10 has become the number 1 choice for its extreme simplicity and low cost. Estimated cost 5,000 rubles.
• JSD20-10A. Consumers are attracted by electronic ignition and the absence of an ever-burning wick.

If your water heater breaks down

Before you begin repairing gas water heaters, regardless of the type of breakdown, you need to shut off the gas supply. The device itself does not need to be removed - all structural parts are accessible without dismantling. But the “facade” - the front cover of the heater, needs to be removed by unscrewing the side bolts with a screwdriver. First you need to inspect the heat exchanger - it is located behind the electrode, fixed with four bolts. It is not recommended to unscrew the heat exchanger.

When repairing device components, the main thing is not to touch the fitting - this element is needed to measure water pressure. If you accidentally damage the fitting, you will need to replace the head. The main malfunctions of gas water heaters:

• Contacts are dirty. Contacts that have become unusable must be replaced with new ones.
• The heat exchanger is damaged. Correcting the situation is replacement.

If the column does not light up

The most common problem that happens with a gas water heater is that the heater does not light up. The cause of the problem may be a lack of traction. Before turning on the column, you need to check the draft in the ventilation hole - light a match and bring it to the chimney outlet. If everything is in order, then the flame seems to be drawn into the hole - there is draft, and you can turn on the device. If the flame does not stop, the chimney needs to be cleaned. You can do this yourself, but if you lack the skills, it is better to entrust it to a specialist.

Another common malfunction that occurs with gas-powered water heaters is extinguishing after ignition. If the wick goes out, you need to adjust the cold water supply.

How to use?

The purchase has been made, and the connection has been made by employees of the appropriate service. To turn on the column, first of all, you need to check the draft by applying a strip of paper (2-5 cm wide and 20 cm long) to the side holes on the body. If from a distance of 15 cm the paper is attracted to the holes, then everything is fine.

Then you need to open the taps - first the gas tap, then the water tap. After this, you need to act accordingly with the model type. For devices with manual ignition, turn the pilot burner control knob to the left to the “Open” position. Then you need to light a match and bring it closer to the ignition wick located on the front panel of the device, while simultaneously pressing and holding the solenoid valve button.

The time you hold the button can be very different and range from 3 to 60 seconds. You can set a certain pressing duration for your own device experimentally.

After these steps, you should not quickly open the hot water, turn the gas supply adjustment knob to the main burner, setting the required position with a specific outlet temperature. If everything is done correctly, the main burner will light up.

For models with electronic ignition, the switching procedure is even easier: you need to turn the taps of the gas pipeline and water meter unit in front of the device, and then simply turn on the hot water - the column will start on its own.

Adjustment is performed using 2 knobs. The gas flow control knob affects the outlet temperature, and the water flow control knob naturally changes the water consumption.

To turn off a device with manual ignition, you need to move the handles, first of all, of the key burner, and then of the ignition burner to the right to the “Closed” position. Then you need to make sure that the two burners go out. Now you can close the hot water tap and, finally, the general gas pipeline tap.

For automated models, it is enough to close the taps.

From reviews of Astra gas water heaters, we conclude that the units are quite good and easy to operate and repair. Malfunctions are infrequent and spare parts are easy to find on the market. The ease of use is very popular with the older generation, which is not chasing newfangled functionality. And the price looks very nice when compared with foreign similarities. At the same time, the unpresentable but attractive design makes it possible to fit such a device into any design.

Typical breakdowns

It happens that in the devices in question the hydraulic unit breaks down. It is easy to dismantle, but difficult to put back in place. After disconnecting the hydraulic group, you must immediately check the valves - they must be securely fastened. If the valves move, or the tightness of the connection is compromised, they must be replaced immediately. When purchasing elements of a hydraulic unit, it is important to know the modification of the hydraulic unit.

Also, the solenoid valve may break down in the main body. This is a small problem, but if it is not addressed in a timely manner, the consequences can be very serious. The valve may deteriorate due to clogging with combustion products - you need to urgently clean it of soot, otherwise there is a risk of explosion.

Malfunctions and methods for their elimination

Despite the proven reliability of the equipment, breakdowns still occur.

• The wick goes out. In this case, it is necessary to check the draft on the side of the device, and if necessary, clean the chimney from combustion products. If the problem persists, it may be in the electrical part. It is necessary to examine the contacts of the electrical circuit using special equipment and eliminate the violation.
• The pilot and main burners do not light up. In this case, it is necessary to check whether the gas tap is in the right position. It is also worth paying attention to the thermocouple fitting - if it is loose, tighten it. It may be necessary to replace a water line membrane that is torn or stretched. The igniter nozzle may be clogged; in this case, cleaning is necessary. It may be necessary to adjust the position of the thermocouple sensor so that it is surrounded by the pilot flame. Another simple reason is that the inlet water pressure is below the operating range. If all of the above does not work, then the fault may be in the solenoid valve.

This element must be replaced by a specialist.

• There is no water pressure at the outlet. It is necessary to check the pressure of incoming cold water. Another common cause is the accumulation of scale on the filters. This will require cleaning. It is recommended to entrust the removal of scale in the heat exchanger tubes to a specialist.
• The main burner burns poorly , which is why the water does not heat up to the required temperature. This means that the gas filters and nozzles on the main burner are clogged - you need to clear them of debris.
• Water is dripping. In this case, you can try replacing the gaskets at the joints. But if the heat exchanger has worn out - corrosion and cracks have formed on it - you will need to either seal the heat exchanger or buy a new one. It is worth noting that applying solder to the leak site gives a temporary effect, and sooner or later there will be a need to replace the element.
• When you turn on the water, you hear a popping sound from the main burner. This happens because the gas pressure is low, or the plug holes and igniter nozzle are clogged.

What tools are needed?

To connect, configure, repair or service the device, a screwdriver alone is not enough; you need a set of tools:

• Adjustable wrench – 2 types.
• Pipe wrench.
• Gaskets – paronite and rubber.
• Screwdrivers – Phillips and flat head.
• 1-2 inch rubber hose and metal clamp.
• Special composition - remove scale.
• Bucket - drain water.