Boiler Guide Radiant R1K 28/B – Operational and Maintenance Manual

With the Radiant R1K 28/B condensing boiler, you achieve both heating and domestic hot water efficiently with the aid of an external boiler. The advanced condensing technology improves energy yield, requiring a drain for the condensate.

The innovative design of this boiler makes it compatible with solar systems, offering an energy alternative even when the solar system cannot provide sufficient heat.

Common Procedures

To maintain the safety, efficiency, reliability, and performance characteristics that distinguish the device, it is necessary to perform maintenance annually. Annual maintenance is essential for safety and continuity of operation.

Annually or at the Start of the Winter Season

• Regularly check the pressure shown by the pressure gauge.
• Check the batteries of the room thermostat.
• Ensure that the heating system’s pressure is between 1 and 1.5 bar.
• Contact qualified personnel for maintenance and cleaning.

Managing Pressure in the Heating System

Checking the heating system’s pressure every quarter is crucial to ensure it remains between 1bar and 2bar. This check is also fundamental in summer, as the radiator water is used for sanitary water heating. If the pressure drops too low, the boiler may cease to operate.

To adjust the pressure, locate the filling tap under the appliance, usually green, open it until the pressure gauge reaches 1.5bar, then close it.

Check the Temperatures

On the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler, there are two knobs for adjusting the temperatures for domestic hot water and heating.

Pay attention to temperature settings:

• The heating temperature adjustment refers to the radiator temperature, not the ambient temperature.
• The domestic hot water temperature setting should be kept as low as possible to avoid calcification in the secondary heat exchanger.

In general, we suggest setting the domestic hot water temperature to mix it with cold water as little as possible under the shower. This helps to prevent long-term limescale buildup.

Regarding heating, we suggest setting a temperature based on the season.

Preventing Limescale in Showers: Filters and Shower Heads

Preventing limescale buildup in shower head aerator filters is crucial for maintaining an efficient sanitary system. Excessive buildup can complicate the removal of aerators and lead to unwanted overheating. We recommend regular replacement of these elements to preserve the functionality of the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler.

Getting Your Boiler Ready for Vacation

Before leaving for a vacation, it’s vital to ensure that your Radiant R1K 28/B boiler is ready and safe. This is important even for the most advanced boiler models.

Recommended procedure:

• Stop the hot water supply to prevent leaks.
• Shut off the gas supply as a safety precaution.
• Deactivate the heat generator to avoid wasting energy and increase safety.

Upon your return, restore the functions in reverse order. You may need to restart the heat generator to resolve errors related to the prolonged shutdown.

By following these steps, you can relax on vacation knowing that your boiler is in a safe state.

Intuitive User Interface

The R1K 28/B boiler stands out for its simple and intuitive user interface, thanks to the collaboration with NORDGAS. The Radiant’s control panel is designed to be user-friendly, with clear buttons and a display that accurately reports errors, allowing for quick problem diagnosis and resolution.

Simple Error Diagnosis

Common errors such as no flame, thermal fuse interruption, or lack of water in the system are clearly reported on the display. This allows users to quickly identify the issue and take appropriate measures, such as reactivating the system or refilling the system. The boiler is also equipped with safety features like anti-freeze and preheating of sanitary water, ensuring optimal operation in all conditions.

• Error 01: No flame, which can occur if the gas tap is closed or if the meter has been changed. Press the button. In all other cases, if it does not restart, call a technician.
• Error 03: Flue side thermal fuse tripped. Press the button. If it does not restart, call a technician.
• Error 04: No water in the system. Refill the system via the black cylindrical tap under the boiler, keep an eye on the pressure gauge above the display, and close the refill tap when the pressure reaches 1.2 or 1.5 bar. The error resets itself, followed by an approximately 2-minute venting procedure. Please wait.
• Error 18: Insufficient circulation. This error may be caused by particularly dirty magnetic filters. Check the magnetic filter at the boiler inlet with a technician to restore the circulator flow rate.

Notifications

These refer not to errors but to functions currently in operation:

• F08 Anti-freeze function for heating active: If the boiler is external and reaches a very low temperature, this procedure activates to prevent the technical water from freezing. Please wait for the operation to complete.
• F33 System Venting Cycle: This usually happens during the reset of error E04. Once the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler pressure is restored, it performs this function for about 2 minutes. Please wait for the operation to complete.
• FH Fast H20: The boiler is preparing to preheat the sanitary water. Please wait for the procedure to complete.

Comfort and Sustainability in Noise and Consumption

The Radiant boiler series is designed with user comfort and environmental sustainability in mind. Their ultra-quiet operation, with noise levels of only 55 decibels, ensures unparalleled tranquility at home. From a sustainability perspective, these boilers excel in reducing gas and electricity consumption, with their 9 flame modulations for precise temperature control and the use of a high-efficiency modulating circulator. This combination of technologies makes Radiant’s boilers an ideal choice for those seeking an eco-friendly and comfortable option.

Boiler Usage Warnings

To ensure the safety, efficiency, and performance of the R1K 28/B appliance, annual maintenance is crucial. It is highly discouraged to intervene inside the boiler without adequate technical skills. In case of anomalies or malfunctions, it is important to always consult a qualified technician. Annual maintenance by specialized personnel is essential for the safety and continuous functioning of the appliance.

Warnings for the Use of Electric Energy

For safe use of the boiler, it is important to follow some basic rules:

• Do not touch the appliance with wet or damp body parts and avoid doing so barefoot.
• Avoid pulling electrical cords and ensure they are not damaged.
• Do not expose the appliance to adverse weather conditions such as rain or direct sunlight, unless otherwise indicated.
• In case of damage to the electric cord, immediately turn off the appliance and contact a qualified technician for replacement.

Additionally, ensure that the boiler is installed, put into operation, and maintained by authorized technicians to guarantee the validity of the warranty and safety in use. Improper use of the appliance and any unauthorized alterations could pose safety risks.

What to Do in the Presence of Gas Odor

In situations of potential gas leakage, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:

• Avoid using any electrical device that could trigger sparks, including the phone.
• Immediately ventilate the environment by opening doors and windows.
• Close the gas taps to stop the leakage.
• Promptly call for urgent intervention by expert and qualified personnel.

The boiler should be used exclusively according to the manufacturer’s instructions and for heating water to safe temperatures. Improper use can cause serious damage. Ensure that installation and maintenance are entrusted to authorized technicians to avoid risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Guide to Components and Spare Parts

This section is dedicated to providing a complete overview of the various components and spare parts available for the R1K 28/B boiler. You will find detailed information on each part, from its main function to advice on when it might need to be replaced.

Temperature Adjustment

On the control panel of the Radiant R1K 28/B condensing boiler, you can find all the operational information. You can set the temperatures for heating or hot water by pressing the + and – buttons next to their respective symbols: Faucet and Radiator. After pressing, the boiler displays the set temperature for only a few seconds.

Normally, the boiler shows the flow temperature, to be interpreted as the internal temperature of the boiler. As a result, you will see the temperature rise even in summer when the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler produces hot water, while in winter it can be interpreted as the current temperature of the radiators.

Using the + and – buttons at the top for heating and at the bottom for domestic hot water, you can choose the desired temperatures for heating. We suggest:

• From 25°C to 38°C if you have underfloor heating.
• From 55°C to 65°C if you have radiators made of aluminum or steel.
• From 45°C to 60°C if you have cast iron radiators.

For domestic hot water, you can choose the temperature using the + and – buttons at the bottom. We suggest a temperature between 38 and 45°C.

The general advice for the temperature of domestic hot water is to keep it as low as possible, especially if your water supply provides very hard water (over 30°F).

Boiler Filling Tap of R1K 28/B

The filling tap is an essential component for maintaining optimal pressure inside the R1K 28/B boiler. This tap, usually located at the bottom of the boiler (as shown in the image), should be opened when the system’s pressure drops below 1 bar.

To refill the system, slowly open the tap until the pressure reaches the recommended level, usually around 1.5 bar. It is crucial to remember to close the tap after refilling to avoid overpressure that could damage the boiler or the system.

ALCO-CORP Three-Way Valve

The ALCO CORP 96032LA ATVA-03 diverter valve is a critical component in the management of the heating system and domestic hot water production. Equipped with two end-of-travel switches, this valve hydraulically directs heat to provide both heating and domestic hot water.

Problems from failure can include:

• Exclusive production of domestic hot water, with no heating.
• Heating of radiators during summer, when not necessary.
• Only heating production, with no domestic hot water.

These issues can significantly impact home comfort and the system’s energy efficiency. Regular checks and preventive maintenance on the diverter valve are therefore important to ensure its proper functioning.

Preventive Maintenance of the 20-Liter Stainless Steel Boiler

The 20-liter stainless steel boiler from the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler offers optimal hot water production thanks to its efficient internal coil. To preserve its performance and lifespan, accurate maintenance is fundamental.

A key aspect of this maintenance is the periodic replacement of the sacrificial anode, vital to protect the boiler from corrosion. This intervention significantly prolongs the boiler’s life and maintains its operational efficiency.

Ignoring the replacement of the anode can cause serious damage to the boiler, including malfunctions and leaks. It is strongly advised to respect the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines and regularly check the condition of the anode.

Energy Saving with the Modulating Pump for Boilers

The introduction of variable speed modulating pumps in modern boilers is a revolution in terms of energy saving and cost reduction. These pumps, regulated by an advanced electronic system through a second connector, are capable of varying their speed from 0 to 100% according to the real needs, maximizing the efficiency of the system. Their use, mandatory in new boilers, demonstrates a commitment to solutions that combine excellent performance with care for the environment and household economy.

Automatic Plastic Air Purger

The plastic automatic air purger, used as an insert in the purging housing in the pump manifold, is a key component in the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler. This small element plays a vital role in ensuring the efficiency of the heating system by eliminating air from the system.

Made of durable plastic, this air purger is designed to easily fit into the dedicated housing in the pump manifold. Its use is particularly recommended to prevent air accumulation in the boiler’s hydraulic circuitry, especially in systems with a lot of aluminum where this problem is more frequent after periods of inactivity (summer).

Regularly checking and replacing the air purger and the system pressure is essential for maintaining uninterrupted operation at the start of the heating season. Its functionality is crucial for the proper operation of the entire domestic heating system.

3/8 Automatic Air Purger

The 3/8 automatic air purger is a fundamental component in the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler to ensure the elimination of air in the heating system. This small but essential device plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency of the heating system.

Despite its low cost, this component is vital to ensure that there is no trapped air in the radiator system, especially for aluminum ones, where the presence of air can be a frequent problem, particularly after long periods of inactivity like during the summer.

Checking the functionality and replacing the air purger is always advised to prevent circulation problems at the beginning of the heating season. Its efficiency is crucial for the proper operation of the entire domestic heating system.

Safety Systems according to the ErP Directive

The construction and installation of boilers in Europe are strictly regulated by a series of European standards, aimed at ensuring safety, energy efficiency, and reduction of environmental impact.

One of the main reference regulations is the ErP (Energy-related Products) Directive, which imposes stringent requirements in terms of energy efficiency and emissions for all energy-related products, including boilers. This directive is accompanied by specific UNI EN standards for each type of boiler, detailing the technical and safety standards to be respected.

The R1K 28/B boiler therefore includes:

The Safety Thermostat, located on the heating supply, intervenes by blocking the gas flow to the burner in case of overheating of the water in the primary circuit. It is essential to never deactivate this safety device.

The Flame Ionization Detector ensures safety by shutting down the boiler in case of gas absence or incomplete ignition of the main burner.

The Antifreeze Device activates the burner to maintain the water temperature above 5 °C, preventing freezing of the system.

The Hydraulic Safety Valve, set at 3 bar, protects the heating circuit. It is advisable to connect it to a siphoned drain and not use it to empty the circuit.

Possible Improvement Works

The condensing boiler Radiant R1K 28/B requires special attention to the correct installation of the flue pipe. Especially in horizontal sections, condensation can form, compromising the functionality of the fan. It is not uncommon to see installations where the flue pipe (especially if corrugated) forms a siphon, causing the boiler to produce very loud noises. It is essential to have a qualified technician ensure that the pipes are in optimal condition.

Integrating a Gas Tap with a Test Well

Not always does the meter provide a connection for instrumental tightness testing. A useful tip is to replace the gas tap under the boiler with a valve with a well equipped with an instrumental take-off, essential for the tightness test of the system. This element can be crucial in case of inspections and safety checks and certainly facilitates the maintenance of the R1K 28/B boiler.

In fact, during the maintenance of the appliance, it is mandatory to perform a suitable test like UNI 11137:2019 that verifies the correct tightness of the gas system.

Flushing the Heating System

Flushing the heating system is crucial to prevent clogging of the primary exchanger of the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler. Over time, especially in cast iron or aluminum systems, a metallic sludge can form that can clog the narrow passages of the exchanger.

After flushing the system, it is highly recommended to install a magnetic sludge filter on the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler. This filter plays an essential role in protecting the exchanger from the buildup of dirt and debris, ensuring greater efficiency and longevity of the heating system.

Additional improvements can include the installation of an advanced thermostat with relay function. This device allows for more effective management of heating hours, helping to optimize energy consumption.

Suggested Accessories

You might consider a range of accessories that would enhance the functionality of the R1K 28/B boiler.

Magnetic Filter for Heating

Considered the best accessory to block the entry of dust and debris from the heating system into the device.

The decision to install a magnetic filter on the heating return line is an important one to maintain the effectiveness and reliability of the boiler. This component is essential for filtering debris that could otherwise accumulate and hinder the proper functioning of the boiler, particularly regarding the primary exchanger and the diverter valve. It’s important to choose a high-quality filter and ensure it is correctly installed to fully benefit from its advantages.

Maintenance of the Polyphosphate Doser

If the tap water hardness exceeds 20 French degrees, a polyphosphate doser is recommended for the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler.

The polyphosphate doser, which can use powder or liquid additives, is vital for reducing limescale in the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler. These additives require constant replenishment to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Available in different variants, polyphosphates include:

• Powder Polyphosphates
• Liquid Polyphosphates

The choice of polyphosphate determines the type of mixing mechanism required.

Customize Home Climate with a Thermostat

Get the most out of your Radiant R1K 28/B boiler with a customizable room thermostat or programmable thermostat.

These solutions allow you to create the ideal home environment by regulating the temperature according to your specific needs. Choose a programmable thermostat to set varied schedules, adapting the home climate to your daily and weekly rhythms and improving energy efficiency.

Among the available models, you will find:

• Daily Programmable Thermostats
• Weekly Programmable Thermostats
• Smart Thermostats with Smart Functions

The ideal choice should respond to your preferences and the technical characteristics of your Radiant R1K 28/B boiler.

Daily Programmable Thermostat

The daily programmable thermostat is an effective solution for daily temperature control in your home.

This device allows you to set the desired temperature for each individual day, enabling flexible management adaptable to your daily routines. It is ideal for those seeking simple yet precise control of home heating, with the ability to adjust settings according to variations in their daily schedule.

Typical features of a daily programmable thermostat include:

• Easy and intuitive programming
• Precise temperature adjustment
• Energy-saving functions

This type of thermostat is an optimal choice for those who want to combine comfort and energy efficiency without the need for complex weekly programming.

Weekly Programmable Thermostat

For advanced and personalized home temperature management, the weekly programmable thermostat is an excellent choice.

This device allows for setting different temperatures for various days of the week, perfectly adapting to different weekly routines. It is ideal for those who need detailed heating control, with the ability to set lower temperatures on days when the home is empty and higher when it is occupied.

Key features of the weekly programmable thermostat include:

• Flexible programming for each day of the week
• Advanced energy-saving functions
• Intuitive user interface for easy programming

A weekly programmable thermostat is perfect for those seeking a balance between comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency, providing precise control of the home climate.

Advanced New Generation Thermostats

New generation advanced thermostats offer cutting-edge technologies for optimal home climate control.

These devices stand out for their learning capability and adaptation to user habits, automatically adjusting the temperature based on daily and seasonal patterns. With features like remote control via smartphone and integration with home automation systems, they offer an unprecedented level of convenience and energy efficiency.

Salient features of these thermostats include:

• Wi-Fi connectivity and remote control
• Integration with voice assistants and smart home systems
• Learning algorithms for automatic temperature optimization

For those seeking the utmost efficiency, convenience, and personalization in home temperature control, an advanced new generation thermostat is the ideal choice.

Magnesium Anode Protection

To prevent corrosion in the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler’s accumulation tank, the magnesium anode plays a key role. Its high reactivity safeguards the boiler’s metallic components from oxidation, ensuring optimal performance over time.

Scheduled regular changes of the magnesium anode are essential, based on specific usage conditions and water quality.

Issues with the Magnesium Anode

In some situations, such as in the presence of intense electrical fields:

• Rapid deterioration of the magnesium anode may occur.
• Accelerated consumption can produce excess air in the system, noticeable after periods of inactivity.
• An occasional sulfur smell may arise after long periods of boiler inactivity.

Air-related issues tend to decrease in the weeks following maintenance. Using an aluminum anode in future maintenance can offer a longer lifespan.

Aluminum Anode

The aluminum anode, used in boilers such as the Radiant R1K 28/B, offers a longer lifespan compared to magnesium anodes. This flexible material allows for easy insertion and provides effective protection against corrosion.

The aluminum anode can last over 6 years, making it a cost-effective option for boiler maintenance.

Electronic Anode

The electronic anode is an advanced solution for corrosion protection in boilers like the Radiant R1K 28/B. Thanks to its electronic control system, it monitors and adjusts the protective action according to the water conditions.

This type of anode requires less maintenance compared to traditional anodes and ensures more effective and long-lasting protection.

INFO MENU DISPLAY DATA

To view the boiler data from info menu you just have to press the INFO key. The info code will be displayed on the left side of the screen and its relative value will be displayed on the centre of the screen.
Use keys ‘ + ’ and ‘ – ’ of the heating circuit to scroll through the list of displayed data. To exit display mode press the INFO ‘ i ’ key.

Anomaly Reporting Codes R1K 28/B

To display the last 5 anomaly reporting codes, from the most recent in chronological order, activate OFF mode using the central button and hold down the INFO button for 5 seconds. To scroll through the list of stored anomalies, use the PLUS and MINUS buttons of the heating system. To reset the anomaly history, press the RESET button. To exit the display environment, press the INFO button.

Common Questions and Answers About the Boiler

Here is a list of common questions and answers that we frequently receive about the Radiant R1K 28/B boiler model. This section will help you better understand the features, functionality, and maintenance of your appliance.

Loud Noises During Operation

If your Radiant R1K 28/B boiler makes loud noises during operation, first check the system pressure. Too low a pressure can be the cause. Otherwise, in this condensing boiler, it could occur due to lack of maintenance.

Indeed, the heat exchanger tends to slightly oxidize during operation and over time a large amount of dirt can accumulate in the condensate siphon. Regular maintenance is essential to reduce the risk of noises or machine shutdowns.

Does the boiler support the Opentherm protocol?

YES: The boiler’s thermostat contacts are voltage-free (no tension) and can communicate with an Advanced Thermostat or Remote Control.
This allows you to:

• Set the domestic hot water temperature: Especially useful if the R1K 28/B boiler is difficult to reach (attic, basement, external technical room).
• Set the radiator temperature: In addition to room temperature, the advanced Opentherm chronothermostat can communicate with the boiler to adjust radiator temperatures.
• Set operating hours for domestic hot water: Useful for boilers with storage tanks, it can save on boiler maintenance costs (like gas).
• Error Management: With Opentherm 2 or with proprietary remote control from Radiant.
• etc..

Pressing the buttons to adjust the heating, the temperature does not change.

The button panel is sensitive to repeated presses after years of operation. Often, the malfunction of the adjustment buttons is due to the absence of a thermostat, which has led to the exclusive use of the boiler’s buttons.

In light of this, it is suggested to install a new control board to restore the correct functioning of the button panel, but also to integrate a thermostat to continue adjusting the heating from another, more reliable, and less expensive device.

Downloadable Manuals

• Technical Manual for Radiant Boiler R1K 28/B