Connecting an Actuator to a Mixing Valve – 3-way or 4-way – may seem like a simple task that usually doesn’t pose difficulties for plumbers, but certain rules should be followed to avoid mistakes. The following guide is a practical instruction on how to do it. Of course, valves and actuators from various manufacturers are available on the market, and we’ll try to make this guide for connecting an actuator to a mixing valve as universal as possible. However, we must ultimately use a reference point, which will be the Nordic Tec mixing valve and its dedicated actuator, the German Elodrive ST10. This will serve as a kind of installation guide for the actuator on the valve, as universal as possible. This guide also applies to connecting an actuator to a 3-way valve in Nordic Tec pump groups.
First, we need to check the completeness of the delivery. Before installation, ensure all components have been delivered. Pay attention to elements such as:
Of course, in some cases where the valve is already installed and we’ve decided to add an actuator later as part of a heating system renovation—our options may be limited. However:
An important aspect is the so-called actuator rotation angle. It is usually factory-set and often cannot be adjusted. For Elodrive actuators and Nordic Tec valves, the rotation angle is 90° and is not adjustable—this is the factory setting. Keep this in mind to properly set up the device, also using the blocker.
After installation, mixing valves with actuators should be checked before system startup to ensure they don’t rotate—otherwise, they won’t function as intended. Similarly, during use, it’s recommended to occasionally check if the valve knob with the actuator hasn’t rotated—ideally once a year, before the heating season. Any rotation of the valve with the actuator around its axis may damage the actuator motor—essentially requiring its replacement.
Proceed with the connection in the following order:
Of course, you must ensure the supplied actuator is compatible with 230V – 50-60Hz parameters—since there are also 24V actuators designed for different applications.
Below, we describe the electrical terminal diagram:
Most mixing valve actuators are factory-prepared for emergency manual operation in case of critical situations.
For the Elodrive / GoHeat actuator paired with Nordic Tec valves, the emergency manual operation switch is located on the actuator body and functions according to the diagram above.
Manual Switching – Diagram Explanation
As a supplement, we mention a common issue—the possibility of connecting a mixer and an actuator that are not dedicated to each other. Many actuator manufacturers anticipate this scenario by offering adapters in different sizes to fit the spindle thickness of other valves. However, these are not standard inclusions—meaning when purchasing an actuator for a mixer, you typically receive only the most common adapter. For other adapters, inquire with the seller or the actuator manufacturer’s service.
Any disassembly should also be performed by a qualified and experienced person. As an electrical device, it should be disposed of in accordance with applicable e-waste laws.
We emphasize that our guidelines do not constitute a ready-made connection diagram. The presented diagrams are not intended to replace a professional project prepared by a specialist who has assessed the heating system’s needs and inspected its setup. The actuator connection diagrams and advice are general and illustrative, and the ultimate responsibility for their application and installation lies with the installer.
BLOG:
Pump group - types, application
Mixing valves, three-way, four-way - what exactly are they?
Check valve in the central heating system
Three-Way Valve - A Comprehensive Guide (Construction, Diagram, Connection, Control, Types, Settings, Mechanism of Operation)
How does a three-way valve with an actuator work?
Four-way valve - knowledge compendium (construction, diagram, connection, control, types, settings, operating mechanism)
Leave a comment