There are many reasons why a heating system might be vulnerable to freezing and need to be protected. It is essential to choose the right product to ensure the best system performance as well as the protection of the local environment and those who live or work in the building.
Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 is a tried and trusted combined glycol antifreeze and corrosion inhibitor. Manufactured in the USA, it prevents freezing pipes in temperatures as low as -29.2°F (-34°C) while providing long term protection against the build-up of corrosion and scale to maintain the efficiency and lifespan of hydronic heating systems. Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 is compatible with all metals and materials commonly used in hydronic systems, including aluminum.
Where should it be used?
It is suitable for both residential and commercial buildings and is ideal for the protection of geothermal heating systems, heated driveway (snow melt) installations and mobile homes. It should also be considered where a section of the pipework is in an uninsulated area of the building and as such might be exposed to freezing temperatures.
Why Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11?
The product has NSF HT1 approval, meaning it is certified safe for ‘incidental food contact’. As a result, it can be used safely in combined heating and potable water systems that include a single-walled heat exchanger. Although initially required in food-processing facilities, this is an increasingly common requirement for this type of system across many states.
Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 has several benefits over food-safe phosphate-based inhibitors. Firstly, potassium phosphate-based products are typically less effective at preventing the corrosion of the yellow metals common in heating systems, such as brass and copper. Also, phosphate-based products can precipitate in hard water, creating scale-forming calcium phosphate, which can shorten the life of the boiler and other important components.
Phosphate-based products also present a hazard to the environment. The presence of phosphates in any leaked or drained system water that finds its way into rivers and lakes can cause over-enrichment. This can result in algae blooms that will harm fish and other aquatic life.
Lastly, Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 has a pH level of 7.0 – 7.7, regardless of concentration level. Using a quality inhibited glycol that meets the boiler manufacturer’s warranty requirements for pH levels is critical for a long-lasting hydronic system. Many inhibited glycols on the market today range from 8.0 – 10.5 which far exceeds most boiler manufacturer’s specifications for fluid quality.
How should it be dosed?
Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 is simple to use and is suitable for use with water of varying quality, including city water. It can be mixed at different concentrations depending on the level of antifreeze protection required. At the minimum 25% concentration it will protect at temperatures down to 12.2 °F (-11°C) and this can be increased to 50% if necessary to deliver protection down to -29.2 °F (-34°C). It is available as a full strength or premixed product depending on the requirement.
Alphi-11 Antifreeze Protector can be added via the feed and expansion tank or injected directly into the system via a suitable point (e.g. system feeder) Simply drain off the quantity of water equal to the amount of Alphi-11 to be added, then engage the circulating pump and ensure the system runs for a few hours to achieve full distribution.
Fernox Antifreeze Protector Alphi-11 provides reliable and effective protection against freezing, corrosion and scale formation and is simple and safe to use.
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