More and more people are deciding to install a heat pump. This is undoubtedly an ecological solution. As of 2024, the installation of a heat pump in new homes will be a mandatory market standard. Currently, there is a move away from fossil fuels, but also from gas, in favor of a heat pump. It is important to remember how important the anti-freeze valve is. It is worth learning more about it.
Check out the anti-freeze valves at the Onninen wholesaler
Heat pump - working in negative temperatures
The heat pump undoubtedly reduces CO2 emissions, even by over 20% compared to gas boilers . It also reduces the reduction of greenhouse gases and does not emit exhaust fumes. Importantly, it uses renewable energy. However, many people still worry whether the heat pump will work properly in negative temperatures. In winter, heating must certainly be effective, because only then can thermal comfort be achieved in the home. However, heating with coal is not the best choice, if only because of the air pollution it leads to. Fortunately, at low temperatures, the heat pump can operate efficiently.
All you need to do is make sure that the heating system is well-chosen. You also need to know that even at very low temperatures, the operation of a heat pump can be just as effective as in other seasons. When the outside temperature drops, e.g. in autumn or winter, the amount of energy accumulated in the heat pump allows for effective heating of the house. The refrigerant does not freeze. If you have a large surplus of thermal energy, you can use it to heat water. You should also remember that the heat pump contains expansion valves, which in turn ensures the continuity of the refrigerant circulation. The compressor for the heat pump is also important, which should be highly efficient. Do not forget about the important role of the anti-freeze valve for the heat pump, the principle of operation of which is based on opening or closing the thermostatic insert.
Anti-freeze valve for heat pump
The anti-freeze valve ensures functionality and prevents potential failures of the heat pump. It is important to know that in the case of a monoblock heat pump, water circulation sometimes fails. This is especially the case when there is a power failure. The situation becomes problematic when this happens at negative temperatures. Then the medium in the installation may freeze. This is dangerous because the medium turned into ice may damage the heat exchanger in the heat pump or other elements of the installation. Unfortunately, the repair in such a case is very expensive. Another problem is that then you do not have heating in the house. For this reason, it is worth, and even necessary, to invest in an anti-freeze valve.
What is an anti-freeze valve made of and how does it work?
The anti-freeze valve should be made of strong and reliable materials resistant to mechanical damage. Its construction is very simple. It consists of an air valve. Below is the valve body and the thermostatic insert. Even lower is the cartridge with the thermostatic insert and the relief valve. It should be mounted vertically on the return and supply pipes, of course in the coldest part of the installation. The valves should not be thermally insulated. The operation of the valve is very simple. It has a specially calibrated thermostatic insert. This insert opens the water relief. This happens when the temperature of the medium drops below 3 degrees Celsius, while the thermostatic insert closes the relief when the temperature is 4 degrees Celsius. The amount of water that flows out of the installation depends on specific factors such as:
- type and quality of installation;
- outside temperature;
- length of outer sections;
- water temperature in the installation.
Which anti-freeze valve for a heat pump should you choose?
For a monoblock air heat pump, the Afriso AAV 100 anti-freeze valve, G1", PN10, Kvs 55 m3/h, opening temperature 3°C , will work well. It is made of strong brass. It perfectly protects the internal elements of the pump, but also the entire installation from the negative effects of freezing the medium. You can also choose the Afriso AAV 300 anti-freeze valve, G1 1/4", PN10, Kvs 70 m3/h, opening temperature 3°C . This model is mounted on the return and supply pipe outside the building. It should be located as close to the external unit as possible. It is also intended for a monoblock heat pump. The Caleffi anti-freeze valve is also worth noting. This product is also made of brass. It works perfectly at both very low and very high ambient temperatures, i.e. from minus 30 to 60 degrees Celsius.