Does Anyone Know

[dunoon]

Hi,
I'm going to putting a hot water central heating system in my house in the USA with copper tube/fin base board convecters. I was helping my daughter who lives in Slough put in a kitchen in Feb. On the many trips I made to B&Q I was looking at the boilers they had. I was quite surprised at how much cheaper they are compaired to the US. But, I was wondering if the controls would work on 60 Hz 220V. I contacted a couple mfgs. and they didn't even know they suggested that I try the mfg of the control modules. I thought I'd try this forum first.
Also generally how are your systems/ radiators plumbed? I can't really tell from the houses that I've been in, I'm guessing reverse return. Where all supplies to the radiators and piped together and all retuns are piped together. Is that right? Thanks.
Great site, I'll even understand it better when I learn your terminology.
Rich Davis

 

[royalflush]

I doubt you would see many reverse return systems in domestic premises. Most of our systems are two pipe, occasionally come across one pipe systems.

 

[Bob Croft]

The mains supply in the UK was harmonised some time ago to a European standard which I believe is 230 VAC. However the tolrance for supply voltage encompasses the more usual 240 VAC found in the Uk. It may be worth checking what the lower tolerance is because if it goes down to 220 VAC then in theory boilers designed to work on the European voltage levels should work at 220 VAC. However please be aware that I have seen boilers specifically labelled 'For UK and Eire markets Only' this may be for reasons of voltage compatability. The frequency difference of 50 and 60 Hz is another matter and can have an adverse effect on wound components such as transformers.
Finally if you are going to buy a boiler in the UK then you ought to look at the leading brands rather than those in the DIY sheds