The effective operation of a water heater depends on the serviceability of all components and mechanisms. The membrane in the gas column is one of the important parts, but wears out over time. How to do the replacement yourself? For this, we have a detailed work plan.
Membrane functions, causes of malfunction
An elastic membrane is located at the base of the water unit, responds to pressure drops in the system. As soon as you open the mixer, the rubber element bends under pressure and pushes the stem. The stem, in turn, actuates the gas valve. So the fuel enters the burner.
With intensive use of the column "Vector", "Neva", "Oasis" the membrane wears out. Rubber is stretched, clogged and damaged. As a result, fuel does not enter the burner: the column does not ignite or ignites, but immediately goes out.
Signs of breakage
How to understand that it’s time to change the rubber diaphragm? It is necessary to pay attention to:
- The pressure force of gas and water in the system. Open the tap, calculate how many liters are consumed per minute. Normally, there should be at least two to three liters. The gas supply can be calculated visually by looking at the power of the fire.
- The location of the flame. In devices with wick ignition, the fire should burn from the edge of the burner, be at least 3-5 centimeters high. Does not match? Then check the jets for clogging. After cleaning, look again at the flame. If the situation has not changed, the problem is the diaphragm.
- The piezo ignition technique should click when the button is pressed. This means that the diaphragm worked. If no sounds are heard, the part may be damaged or torn.
- In some models, the stem, which controls the operation of the control unit, will help determine the breakdown. Remove the protective cover and open the water. If the stem is motionless, the diaphragm needs to be replaced.
After you find the breakdown, you need to choose the right part for replacement.
How to choose a new part
For each column ("Termet", "Ariston", "Beretta") the membrane is selected individually. For foreign models, it is most difficult to find a replacement, since you can only buy goods from an authorized supplier. In this case, you have a choice: invest in a new item or buy a new column.
With domestic technology, everything is easier. Replacement can be found in stores or ordered online.
Experts recommend choosing a silicone diaphragm. It is more elastic and durable.
If you think that the principle of arrangement of all membranes is the same - this is not so. For example, in Ariston water heaters special elements are installed - “eights”. They are made of dense rubber and have a special shape. Their cost is from 300 to 500 rubles.
By the principle of "eight" the membrane works in the "Electrolux" devices. But its price is much lower - from 200 rubles.
The simplest to operate and replace the Neva and Astra membranes.
There are universal options, but they are only suitable for temporary installation. It is impossible to fine-tune the equipment without factory parts.
DIY repair
For repair, it will be necessary to disassemble the entire water-gas unit. You will need:
- slotted and Phillips screwdriver;
- wrenches for 19 and 24;
- repair kit;
- new item.
Turn off the water and gas supply first. After that, open the faucet in the bathroom, drain the remaining water.
- Remove the adjusters from the housing by pulling them towards you.
- If there is a display, disconnect the wiring leading to it.
- Now you need to remove the casing. In some models it is bolted on top and bottom, in others it sits on latches. Pull the trim towards you and up.
A water node will open before you. In earlier models, it is located separately, vertically. A gas block is installed on top, a water supply is organized on the left, and a heat exchanger on the right.
To dismantle such an element:
- Unscrew the two nuts on the water pipes. Use the key on 24.
- Remove the two mounting screws, pull down and remove.
In the latest models, the water unit is placed horizontally. Below there is a special faucet through which the remaining water merges.
- Unscrew the fixing nuts with a wrench to 19.
- Disconnect the inlet sensors.
- Remove the bolts that secure the unit to the base.
- Remove the burner.
- Unscrew the fasteners of the water-gas unit with a collector.
You can begin to disassemble. In the old versions of Astra and Neva, eight bolts need to be unscrewed to separate the assembly. In modern Neva models 4513, 4511, 4510, Oasis, and Vector, only four screws hold it.
If the fasteners are rusted and stuck, sprinkle them with VD-40.
It remains to get a worn membrane and install a new one.
Reassemble in the reverse order. At the end of the work, check. Opening the water supply gradually, inspect all connections for leaks. Then open the tap to full. Everything is good? Put on a casing, supply fuel - use hot water for your pleasure.
The video changes the aperture for some models: