PHPI caught up with Stuart Gizzi, CEO of Intatec, to discover more about water conditioners and the company’s ActivFlo solution.
Q. In what situations should plumbers consider using a water conditioner?
Anywhere there’s hard water – and that’s over 60% of UK homes. Limescale sneaks into pipework, boilers and appliances, reducing efficiency and racking up repair bills. A conditioner like ActivFlo helps keep everything running smoothly, cutting back on breakdowns and callouts.
It’s especially useful in rental or commercial settings like hospitality and healthcare, where system reliability is non-negotiable. Whether you’re fitting a new boiler, upgrading to a heat pump, or just want to protect top-end fixtures, ActivFlo is a no-brainer. No salt, no chemicals, no maintenance – just a solid fit-and-forget solution that works for the long haul.
Q. The ActivFlo range features a number of solutions – which would be most suited to a typical domestic application?
It all comes down to flow rate. While pipe size can be a useful guide, the most important factor in selecting the right ActivFlo unit is the actual flow rate of the system. The 15mm ActivFlo is your go-to for most homes, with a 15mm supply, copper or plastic it takes care of the whole house. For something more flexible, the ActivFlo+ 22/15mm comes with adapters for both sizes – ideal when you’ve got 22mm pipework. If you’re dealing with a big setup or high demand, the 28mm is the one to reach for.
Q. Which ActivFlo is best as a part to stock in the van?
The ActivFlo+ is the one you want on standby. It’s got a 22mm compression inlet but also works at a lower flow rate, so it’s ideal for jobs where pipework is 22mm but the flow doesn’t quite match. Even better, it comes with 15x22mm reducers in the box – giving you a neat 2-in-1 solution without rummaging for extras. Whether it’s a planned install or a same-day swap, having ActivFlo+ in the van means you’re covered, whatever the pipe size.
Q. Are there any solutions for a single outlet?
Absolutely – meet the ActivFlo Solo. It’s a compact unit designed for point-of-use protection on appliances like electric showers, taps, washing machines, or instant water heaters. Same catalytic core as the full-size units, just shrunk down to do the job at the outlet. It’s perfect for low-flow setups in tiny homes, caravans, off-grid cabins, or eco-renos where space and simplicity matter. Just match it to the flow rate, pop it in before the appliance, and you’re good to go – no power, no maintenance, no drama.
Q. Does the range also cover commercial applications?
It does – and then some. The ActivFlo Commercial range is purpose-built for high-demand sites with larger pipes and serious flow rates. Available in threaded (BSP) and flanged options, they’re spot on for schools, hotels, office blocks, hospitals, industrial buildings, and apartment complexes.
Standard units handle mid-sized jobs like small hotels or schools, while Pro BSP versions bring in power regulators and optional BMS compatibility for bigger setups like leisure centres or healthcare sites. And for the heavy-duty stuff – think large flats or industrial installs – the Pro Flanged models step up with solid flanged connections and high-pressure handling.
Q. Is a power supply required?
Most ActivFlo units are completely passive – no electrics, no moving parts, no maintenance. The only exception is the Pro BSP model, which requires power solely to support BMS compatibility in larger systems. ActivFlo units use a catalytic alloy core to alter mineral structure and stop limescale forming, all without drawing a single watt. That means faster, simpler installs with no need to worry about wiring or safety zones. Plus, it doesn’t need to be earthed.
For the customer, it’s zero running costs, no maintenance, and total peace of mind – especially handy in off-grid setups or anywhere access to power is limited.
Q. Do you have any installation tips for fitting ActivFlo?
Install ActivFlo on the incoming mains, before any draw-off points, and you’ll get full property protection. It can go in horizontally or vertically, and compression fittings come as standard.
The ActivFlo+ even includes reducer sets, so you can jump between 15mm and 22mm pipework without extra parts. And because there’s no power needed, it’s quick to fit and perfect for retrofits. Just make sure the pipework is clean and match the unit to the flow rate for best performance.
Q. What kind of working life does ActivFlo have?
ActivFlo’s built to go the distance. With no moving parts and no electronics to fail, you’re looking at over 20 years of reliable protection – depending on flow and water quality. Every unit is backed by a 15-year manufacturer’s warranty, and once it’s in, it’s basically off your list. For homeowners and commercial installs alike, it’s a long-term fix that pays for itself.
Q. When is a good time to fit an ActivFlo?
The perfect time? During a kitchen or boiler refit. The water’s already off, you’re installing new high-value appliances like dishwashers or washing machines – and you’ve got the chance to build in long-term protection right from the start. One quick install, and the system’s future-proofed.
Image: Inta
