Fernox TF1 1 1/4″ Antifreeze Valve
The Fernox TF1 1 1/4″ Antifreeze Valve provides automatic frost protection for water-based air source heat pump systems. It helps protect vulnerable external pipework and heat pump components when system water approaches freezing conditions.
When the system fluid temperature falls to approximately 3°C, the valve automatically opens. It releases system water to help prevent ice from forming within the heat pump circuit. Once the fluid temperature rises to approximately 4°C, the valve closes automatically.
This version features a 1 1/4″ threaded connection, making it suitable for compatible heat pump installations that require larger threaded pipe connections.
The robust brass construction provides excellent durability. Its mechanical operation also means the valve requires no electrical supply.
Why Choose the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve?
Automatic Frost Protection
The valve responds automatically to low system-fluid temperatures. No electrical supply or manual activation is required.
Opens at Approximately 3°C
When the system fluid reaches approximately 3°C, the valve opens automatically. This allows water to discharge and helps reduce the risk of freezing.
Automatically Closes at Approximately 4°C
As the fluid temperature rises to approximately 4°C, the valve closes automatically.
Designed for Air Source Heat Pumps
Fernox developed the TF1 Antifreeze Valve specifically to protect water-based heat pump systems against freezing conditions.
1 1/4″ Threaded Connection
This model features a 1 1/4″ threaded connection for compatible heat pump installations.
Durable Brass Construction
A robust brass body provides strength and reliable long-term operation in demanding heating applications.
Key Features
- Genuine Fernox product
- Designed for water-based air source heat pumps
- Automatic frost protection
- Opens at approximately 3°C
- Closes at approximately 4°C
- 1 1/4″ threaded connection
- Durable brass construction
- No electrical supply required
- Helps protect external heat pump pipework
- Helps prevent freeze damage
- Suitable for flow and return pipework
- Maximum static operating pressure of 10 bar
- Suitable for renewable heating installations
- Five-year Fernox warranty, subject to manufacturer terms
Technical Specification
- Manufacturer: Fernox
- Product: TF1 Antifreeze Valve
- Connection Size: 1 1/4″
- Connection Type: Threaded
- System Fluid: Water
- Opening Temperature: +3°C
- Closing Temperature: +4°C
- Temperature Accuracy: ±1°C
- Maximum Static Operating Pressure: 10 bar
- Minimum Static Operating Pressure: 0.5 bar
- Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to 75°C
- Ambient Temperature Range: -30°C to +60°C
- Body Material: Brass Alloy
- Seals: EPDM
- Application: Water-based heat pump systems
- Warranty: 5 Years
How Does the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve Work?
Air source heat pumps often contain water-filled components and pipework outside the property. These parts can become vulnerable to freezing during very cold weather.
The risk can increase if water circulation stops. A power cut or system shutdown can leave stationary water exposed to freezing outdoor temperatures.
The Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve responds directly to the temperature of the system fluid.
When the fluid temperature falls to approximately 3°C, the valve opens automatically. It releases water from the circuit, helping to prevent ice formation.
Once the system fluid reaches approximately 4°C, the valve automatically closes.
Why Do Air Source Heat Pumps Need Frost Protection?
Water expands when it freezes. If water freezes within external heat pump components or connecting pipework, the expansion can cause significant damage.
Potential problems include:
- Damaged external pipework
- Heat pump component failure
- Split fittings
- System breakdown
- Loss of heating
- Expensive repairs
- Replacement components
- Extended system downtime
The Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve provides a simple mechanical method of reducing this risk on suitable water-based heat pump systems.
Ideal for Water-Based Heat Pump Systems
The Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve provides frost protection for suitable heat pump installations that use water as the system fluid.
It automatically discharges water when the temperature approaches freezing conditions. This provides an additional level of protection for exposed external components.
The valve can prove particularly valuable during a power cut or system shutdown, when normal water circulation may stop.
1 1/4″ Threaded Connection
This version of the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve features a 1 1/4″ threaded connection.
The larger threaded connection makes it suitable for compatible heat pump systems and installations where this connection size forms part of the system design.
Always check the required connection size before ordering.
For installations using 28mm pipework, the Fernox TF1 28mm Compression Antifreeze Valve provides an alternative connection option.
Installation Requirements
Correct installation remains essential for reliable operation.
Install the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve horizontally with the outlet facing downwards. This position allows discharged water to drain correctly.
Install the valve outdoors within the coldest section of the system. Keep it away from heat sources that could influence the temperature-sensitive mechanism.
Fernox recommends installing an antifreeze valve on both the flow and return pipework.
The installation should also:
- Keep the valve at least 10cm above ground level
- Maintain at least 10cm between multiple valves
- Allow discharged water to drain safely
- Avoid pipe arrangements that could create water traps
- Protect surrounding areas from discharged water
- Follow the complete Fernox installation instructions
Protecting the Valve Outdoors
The TF1 Antifreeze Valve operates in exposed outdoor environments, so suitable protection remains important.
Fernox recommends using an appropriately sized thermal cover around the valve body.
Do not cover the vacuum breaker.
The installation should also protect the valve against excessive exposure to rain, snow and direct sunlight while allowing it to operate correctly.
Heat Pump Protection Without Electricity
The Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve operates mechanically according to system-fluid temperature.
It does not require electricity, batteries or a connection to the heat pump controller.
This independent operation can provide valuable protection during a power failure. If water circulation stops and the fluid reaches the operating temperature, the valve can still activate automatically.
Ideal Applications
The Fernox TF1 1 1/4″ Antifreeze Valve is suitable for:
- Air source heat pump systems
- Water-based heat pump systems
- Domestic heat pump installations
- Commercial heat pump installations
- 1 1/4″ threaded pipe connections
- Heat pump flow pipework
- Heat pump return pipework
- Renewable heating systems
- Compatible monobloc heat pump installations
- New heat pump installations
- Heat pump upgrades
Complete Your Heat Pump Installation
Fernox TF1 28mm Antifreeze Valve
Choose the 28mm compression version for compatible heat pump installations using 28mm pipework.
Pre-Insulated Heat Pump Pipe
Reduce heat loss between the outdoor heat pump and the property with suitable insulated flow and return pipework.
Isolation Valves
Create accessible isolation points to simplify servicing and future maintenance.
Fernox Heat Pump Chemicals
Maintain and protect renewable heating systems with specialist Fernox water treatment products.
Fernox Heat Pump Filters
Capture circulating debris before contaminants reach sensitive heat pump components.
Underfloor Heating Manifolds
Distribute low-temperature heating water across individual water underfloor heating circuits.
Underfloor Heating Pipe
Complete low-temperature heating installations with PE-RT, PE-RT-AL-PE-RT and PEX-AL-PEX pipe.
Why Buy the Fernox TF1 1 1/4″ Antifreeze Valve from Kudos Trading?
Kudos Trading supplies professional plumbing, heating and renewable-energy products for installers and homeowners throughout the UK.
Our extensive range makes it easy to source heat pump components alongside underfloor heating and plumbing products.
When you order from Kudos Trading, you’ll benefit from:
- Genuine Fernox products
- Competitive UK prices
- Fast nationwide delivery
- Expert technical support
- Extensive product availability
- Friendly customer service
- Over 25 years of industry experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve do?
The valve helps protect water-based heat pump systems against freezing. It automatically releases system water when the fluid temperature approaches freezing conditions.
What connection does this Fernox antifreeze valve have?
This version features a 1 1/4″ threaded connection.
At what temperature does the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve open?
The valve opens when the system fluid reaches approximately 3°C.
When does the valve close?
The TF1 automatically closes when the system fluid temperature reaches approximately 4°C.
Is the Fernox TF1 suitable for air source heat pumps?
Yes. Fernox designed the TF1 Antifreeze Valve for water-based air source heat pump systems.
Does the antifreeze valve require electricity?
No. The valve operates mechanically according to the temperature of the system fluid.
Will it still operate during a power cut?
The valve does not rely on electrical power to operate. This allows it to respond to low system-fluid temperatures when a power failure stops normal heat pump operation.
Should I install an antifreeze valve on both pipes?
Fernox recommends installing a TF1 Antifreeze Valve on both the flow and return pipework.
Can the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve be installed vertically?
No. Install the valve horizontally with its outlet facing downwards to allow correct drainage.
Where should the antifreeze valve be positioned?
Install the valve outdoors in a cold section of the system. Keep it away from heat sources that could affect its operation.
What is the maximum operating pressure?
The maximum static operating pressure is 10 bar.
What is the minimum operating pressure?
The minimum static operating pressure is 0.5 bar.
What is the operating temperature range?
The system-fluid operating temperature range is 0°C to 75°C.
What ambient temperatures can the valve withstand?
The specified ambient operating range is -30°C to +60°C.
Is there a 28mm version available?
Yes. The Fernox TF1 28mm Antifreeze Valve provides the same type of frost protection with 28mm compression connections.
Does the Fernox TF1 Antifreeze Valve have a warranty?
Fernox provides a five-year warranty, subject to correct installation, use and the manufacturer’s warranty terms.
Related Products
- Fernox TF1 28mm Antifreeze Valve
- Fernox Heat Pump Chemicals
- Fernox Heat Pump Filters
- Air Source Heat Pump Accessories
- Pre-Insulated Heat Pump Pipe
- Heating Isolation Valves
- Underfloor Heating Manifolds
- Underfloor Heating Pipe
- Heat Pump Installation Accessories
- Water Underfloor Heating Controls
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Collection Available: You can always collect from our Nottingham location and help yourself to a free tea and coffee.
