Mistakes in the selection and operation of pumps in heating systems

Pumps are machines that use up a substantial part of generated energy but no heating system can do without them. Due to the fact that the heating system operating parameters vary with time, the parameters of pumps being an element there of need to be adapted to the network changing flow characteristics. This paper presents the most common methods of regulation of main parameters in the heating system pumping stations. Co-operation between the network and a single pump and a system of pumps connected in parallel is discussed. Relations are given that allow a quantitative comparison of energy efficiency for individual systems using different regulation methods. The mistakes that may lead to a rise in the consumption of energy needed to drive the pumps are discussed.