How to refill my air source pump heating tank with right antifreeze after draining it?

When you drain my tank to install a new radiator, how do I get the right antifreeze back in to the air source heat pump system?

Asked by Wayne on 7th Aug 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Should have saved the drained fluid and replenished tank … save money future reference for you"
Answered on 3rd Sep 2024 - Member since Nov 2017 - report
"Both glycol and antifreeze valves are only really necessary in the case of an extended power or major system failure in cold weather. When everything is functioning as it should the antifreeze function of the ashp kicks in."
Answered on 24th Aug 2023 - Member since Jul 2023 - report
"This information is on a name plate with the correct details of what you need"
Answered on 18th Mar 2024 - Member since Feb 2024 - report
"Refilling your air source heat pump heating system with the correct antifreeze after draining it for radiator installation involves a few steps to ensure proper re-filling and system protection:

Choose the Right Antifreeze: Select the appropriate antifreeze recommended by the manufacturer or specified for your air source heat pump system. Different systems might require different types or concentrations of antifreeze, so refer to the system manual or consult a professional if unsure.

Prepare the Mixture: Mix the antifreeze with water according to the manufacturer's instructions or recommended ratios. This is crucial as the concentration of antifreeze needs to be accurate for optimal performance and protection against freezing.

Refill the System: Once the radiator installation is complete and the system is ready to be refilled, use a funnel or appropriate equipment to pour the prepared antifreeze-water mixture back into the system. Ensure you fill the system slowly and steadily, allowing the air to escape and preventing air pockets.

Bleed the System: After refilling, it's essential to bleed any air pockets that might have formed. Open the bleed valves on your radiators and let the air escape until you get a steady flow of liquid.

Check Pressure and Functionality: After refilling and bleeding, check the system pressure to ensure it's within the recommended range. Then, turn on the heat pump and check for any leaks or irregularities in the system's functionality.

Professional Assistance: If you're unsure about the type of antifreeze to use or the correct procedure for refilling your specific air source heat pump system, it's always wise to seek guidance from a professional technician or the system manufacturer's support line. They can offer precise instructions and ensure the correct antifreeze is used for your system.

Properly refilling your air source heat pump system with the right antifreeze after draining it is crucial for maintaining its efficiency, preventing freezing, and ensuring optimal performance during colder temperatures."
Answered on 13th Dec 2023 - Member since Sep 2023 - report
"Hi it's glycol that goes into a air sauce heat unit.

We use a refractometer to get the right volume.

Or you fit antifreeze valves and use water in an air sauce heat system."
Answered on 7th Aug 2023 - Member since Sep 2021 - report
"Refilling an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) system is more complex than a standard boiler because the fluid isn't just water—it is a brine/glycol mixture that must be precisely balanced to prevent the outdoor unit from freezing and cracking in winter.1. Choose the Correct AntifreezeYou cannot use automotive antifreeze. You must use Food-Grade Propylene Glycol (often inhibited to prevent corrosion).Propylene Glycol (Usually Pink/Orange): Non-toxic and the industry standard for home ASHPs to ensure that if a leak occurs in the heat exchanger, it doesn't contaminate your domestic hot water.Concentration: Most UK systems require a 25% to 35% concentration. Check your manufacturer’s manual (e.g., Vaillant, Mitsubishi, Daikin) for the exact percentage.Premixing: It is highly recommended to premix the glycol with water in a large container before adding it to the system to avoid "slugs" of thick fluid damaging the pump.2. Required EquipmentExternal Filling Pump: You cannot usually fill an ASHP via a simple garden hose if the system has been fully drained. You need a manual or electric "bucket pump" to force the fluid into the pressurized loop.Refractometer: A small handheld device used to test the freezing point of the mixture to ensure your concentration is correct.Hydronic Pressure Gauge: To monitor the system pressure (usually set between 1.0 and 1.5 bar).3. Step-by-Step Refilling ProcessFlush with Water: If the system was dirty, flush it with fresh water first to remove debris. Drain it one last time before adding the glycol mix.Connect the Filling Loop: Connect your external pump to the filling valves (usually located near the indoor cylinder or the manifold).Purge the Air:Open the manual air vents (AAVs) on the radiators and the top of the heat pump.Pump the mixture in slowly.Crucial: Keep the "return" hose in your bucket of mixture so that as fluid circulates, air bubbles are pushed out into the bucket and only liquid is sucked back in. This is called "looping."Pressurize: Once the air bubbles stop appearing in the bucket, close the return valve and continue pumping until the system pressure reaches roughly 1.2 bar (check your manual for specific pressure).T"
Answered on 14th Apr 2026 - Member since Jan 2019 - report
"Hi you will need to add glycol to the unit this goes into an air sauce heat unit.

We use a refractometer to get the right volume.

Or you fit antifreeze valves and u"
Answered on 7th Aug 2023 - Member since May 2023 - report
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