Fo oncu: s HEAT PUMPS
Mark Mogey, Head of OEM Sales UK and ROI.
INVESTING TIME IN ACCESSORY SELECTION AND INSTALLATION HELPS HEAT PUMPS TO DELIVER ON THEIR PROMISE IN HOMES AND BUILDINGS, SAYS ALTECNIC HEAD OF OEM SALES UK & ROI MARK MOGEY… Accessories for heat pump systems
Protecting the system from the elements One of the most immediate challenges faced by air-source heat pump installations is exposure to cold conditions. External pipework is particularly vulnerable, and freezing can cause significant damage not only to pipes, but also to internal components of the heat pump itself. This is where anti-freeze valves play a vital role. Installed on the external flow and return pipework, these valves act as a passive safety mechanism. When water temperature drops below a critical threshold, the valve opens automatically, allowing water to discharge safely and preventing ice from forming inside the circuit. Once temperatures rise again, the valve closes, ensuring normal operation resumes without intervention. Unlike glycol-based solutions, which can reduce heat transfer efficiency, increase
As heat pumps become central to the UK’s transition towards low-carbon heating, system design is under greater scrutiny than ever. While the efficiency of the heat pump unit itself remains a critical consideration, there is growing recognition across the industry that the supporting accessories within a heat pump system are just as important. In many cases, accessories are the difference between an installation that performs well on paper and one that delivers consistent, reliable efficiency in the real world. Modern air-to-water heat pump systems operate under conditions that demand precision, stability and protection. Lower flow temperatures, variable operating modes and exposure to external environments place unique stresses on the system. Without the correct accessories in place, even the most advanced heat pump can suffer from reduced efficiency, excessive wear or avoidable breakdowns.
pump energy consumption and require ongoing maintenance, anti- freeze valves offer a simple, mechanical alternative that protects the system without compromising performance. Their correct placement, orientation and sizing are essential,
Example: iStop® PLUS Anti- Freeze Valve from Altecnic.
making them a fundamental accessory rather than an optional extra in heat pump design. Recent developments in compact anti- freeze valve design have further improved installation flexibility. Smaller footprints, high temperature tolerance and the ability to install valves in close proximity or parallel configurations make it easier to protect systems even where space is restricted, which is a common challenge in modern domestic installations.
“Heat pump accessories should not be viewed as add-ons, but as integral components of a holistic system design.”
68 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE
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