Antifreeze valves in heat pump installations play a key role in protecting the system against damage caused by freezing of the medium. They are an essential element for the correct and failure-free operation of the installation, especially in the event of a power outage in the power grid. This article discusses the details of the design, operation and installation of antifreeze valves, from the perspective of a heat pump installer.
Operation of antifreeze valves
IW antifreeze valves in heat pump installations, they start operating when the ambient temperature drops below 0°C. When the temperature drops to -3°C, the valve opens, allowing the medium to flow out, which prevents it from freezing. The valve's operation is proportional to the temperature drop - the lower the temperature, the greater the refrigerant outflow. When the temperature reaches 4°C, the valve closes, eliminating the need for additional medium consumption, minimizing losses. IW antifreeze valves included in the Dambat offer are intended for installation in installations using monoblock heat pumps. Their task is to eliminate the risk of thickening and freezing of the medium in the installation at negative temperatures, which may occur, for example, as a result of a power failure. Why is the role of an antifreeze valve for a heat pump so important? Well, if the medium freezes, the resulting ice may damage the heat exchanger or other elements of the installation, and the repair costs will be very high in such a situation.
Even though antifreeze valves are relatively small elements with a not very complicated structure, their role is huge. Therefore, it is simply not worth giving up the installation of this element, the cost of which is very small compared to the expenses that would be incurred in the event of damage to the installation.
Construction of antifreeze valves
Antifreeze valves available from Dambat are simple in design, but incredibly effective in operation. They consist of a three-element structure, including a body, a cartridge and a foot valve. The body made of brass ensures high durability and corrosion resistance, which guarantees the long operation of the valve. Thanks to their modular structure, IW valves can be replaced quickly and easily, which is an important advantage for installers.
The importance of proper installation
Installing antifreeze valves is a simple process, but crucial to their effectiveness. It is recommended to install valves on both the supply and return of the heat exchanger. It is important to install them in places most exposed to low temperatures, but avoiding the proximity of heat sources that could disturb their proper operation. Correct installation in a vertical position with the outlet pointing downwards allows for optimal medium drainage. Importantly, antifreeze valves for heat pumps only work when there are changes in temperature, ensuring reliable and tight shut-off. They do not change the pressure and only remove the minimum amount of water required to prevent possible damage due to freezing of the medium.
The anti-freeze valves for heat pumps offered by Dambat can be quickly and easily replaced, thanks to their three-piece design, with a foot valve placed between the body and the insert. The body itself, as well as the thermal element of the IW valves, are made of brass.
Variants and parameters of antifreeze valves
Antifreeze valves are available in three basic variants, differing in connection diameter: 1ʺ, 1¼ʺ and 1½ʺ. The maximum flows of these valves are 166.7 l/min, 266.7 l/min and 416.7 l/min, respectively. The maximum outflow in each variant is 16.7 l/min, which is sufficient to protect the system against freezing. The operating range (medium) is 0ºC-65ºC, and the operating range (outdoor temperature) is between -30ºC and 65ºC. The valve opens fully at a temperature of 1ºC and the closing temperature (medium) is 4ºC. The maximum pressure is 8 bar.
Installation recommendations
Anti-freeze valves should be installed maintaining distances: both between each other and from the ground. The horizontal distance between the valves should be 15 cm, while the vertical distance of the lower part of the valve from the ground must also be at least 15 cm. Proper arrangement of valves will ensure effective discharge of the medium when the temperature drops, thus guaranteeing optimal protection of the installation.
