The Altecnic iStop anti-freeze valve with 28mm compression ends (108301) protects heat pump pipework from freezing by draining the circuit medium when the temperature falls to an average of 3°C. This prevents ice forming in the circuit, avoiding damage to equipment, valves and pipework. It is offered as an alternative frost prevention measure to be installed with Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pumps.
The valve opens at 3°C and closes again at 4°C (accuracy ±1°C), and is built from brass with stainless steel springs and EPDM seals. Both the vacuum breaker and the thermostatic cartridge can be replaced, with an automatic shut-off cock keeping the system pressurised during replacement.
10 bar
Max working pressure
0 to 65°C
Working temperature
-30 to 60°C
Ambient temperature
Correct installation is essential
Fit the valve vertically with the outlet facing down, outdoors and clear of heat sources. Install on both flow and return pipes, make no trap connections, and keep the system under pressure at all times. The valve must be free of insulation. Incorrect installation removes the frost protection.
Heat pump compatibility
Listed as an alternative frost prevention measure for Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pumps. Always confirm the requirements in the heat pump manufacturer's installation instructions.
Drain and clearances
Leave at least 15cm clearance from the ground, keep at least 10cm between valves, route the drain to a suitable collection point, and protect the valve from rain, snow and direct sunlight.
Key features
Automatic frost protection
Drains the circuit when the medium reaches an average of 3°C and closes at 4°C.
Brass construction
Brass body with stainless steel springs and EPDM seals.
28mm compression ends
Compression connection to BS EN 1254 for direct 28mm pipework connection.
High flow
Kv of 55 m³/h through the straight path.
Serviceable cartridge
Replaceable vacuum breaker and thermostatic cartridge, with an automatic shut-off cock.
Low discharge rate
Discharge of 0.5 l/h at -5°C and 1 l/h at -20°C (at 3 bar).
Technical specification
General
Connection size
28mm compression
Connection standard
Compression to BS EN 1254
Performance
Medium temperature, opening
3°C
Medium temperature, closing
4°C
Maximum working pressure
10 bar
Working temperature range
0 to 65°C
Ambient temperature range
-30 to 60°C
Kv, straight path
55 m³/h
Discharge at 3 bar, -5°C
0.5 l/h
Discharge at 3 bar, -20°C
1 l/h
Materials
Body
Brass, BS EN 12164 CW724R
Obturator
Brass, BS EN 12164 CW617N
Springs
Stainless steel, BS EN 10270-3 (AISI 302)
Compression nut
Brass, BS EN 12165 CW617N
Olive
Brass, BS EN 12164 CW614N
Frequently asked questions
How does the valve work?
When the water in the pipe drops below 3°C the obturator opens and drains water off. It closes when the medium returns to 4°C.
Do I need one on both pipes?
Yes. Fit valves on both the flow and return pipes, otherwise water may be left in one pipe which could freeze.
Where should it be installed?
Outdoors, where the lowest temperatures are reached if the heat pump is not operating, vertically with the outlet facing down and away from heat sources.
Should the valve be insulated?
No. The valve must be free of insulation for the system to work properly, and protected from rain, snow and direct sunlight.
Can the cartridge be replaced?
Yes. The vacuum breaker and thermostatic cartridge can both be replaced, and an automatic shut-off cock keeps the system pressurised.