Product Overview

The Pentair Smart Heater Automatic Bypass Valve Kit (462048) takes your MasterTemp or Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm heater mostly out of the flow loop whenever it isn't heating. An IntelliValve actuator turns a 3-way valve on the heater inlet to send water around the heater when no heat is called for, then routes flow back through it when the heater fires. Paired with a Pentair IntelliFlo VF pump, Pentair says this lowers head loss through the system, reduces pump power use and helps extend heater life. A check valve on the heater outlet keeps water from backing into the heater.

⚠️ Important Purchase Notice

This kit is for Pentair MasterTemp and Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm pool and spa heaters with an automatic bypass valve feature. Compatibility depends on your heater generation, control setup and plumbing, so confirm your heater model and system before ordering. Installation involves plumbing and low-voltage control wiring and should be done by a qualified pool professional. Inspect the shipment upon arrival and report any damage promptly.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov.

Ideal For

• MasterTemp and Max-E-Therm heater installations.
• Pools running a Pentair IntelliFlo VF variable-flow pump.
• New heater installs or upgrades aimed at lowering system head loss.
• Replacing a manual heater bypass with automatic control.

Key Features

• Genuine Pentair automatic bypass valve kit.
• Includes Pentair IntelliValve actuator (521485).
• Includes 2 in 3-way valve (263026) for the heater inlet.
• Includes 2 in check valve (263042) for the heater outlet.
• Bypass is enabled and set up through the heater's menu.

Benefits

• Water skips the heater when it isn't needed, cutting resistance in the plumbing.
• Lower head loss lets a variable-flow pump use less power.
• Less flow through the heater when idle helps extend heater life.
• Automatic operation, with no manual valve to turn.

Compatibility

For Pentair MasterTemp and Sta-Rite Max-E-Therm pool and spa heaters that support the automatic bypass valve feature, with 2 in plumbing at the heater. Pentair designs the system to work with an IntelliFlo VF pump. The IntelliValve connects to the heater, or to a Pentair IntelliCenter control where used. Verify your heater model, control and plumbing layout before ordering.

Installation or Upgrade Context

The 3-way valve and IntelliValve actuator mount on the heater inlet side, and the check valve installs on the outlet side. After plumbing, the IntelliValve's home and end points are set using its arrow buttons, then the bypass valve feature is enabled in the heater menu. Follow Pentair's Automatic By-Pass Valve Kit instructions (P/N 462050) and the IntelliValve manual for your heater's orientation and valve positions.

What’s Included

• One Pentair 2 in 3-way valve (P/N 263026).
• One Pentair IntelliValve actuator (P/N 521485).
• One Pentair 2 in check valve (P/N 263042).

Specifications

Warranty

This kit carries a 60-day manufacturer warranty, subject to Pentair's terms. Pool Supply Depot can provide proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Q&A

Is the IntelliValve actuator included?

Yes. The kit includes the IntelliValve actuator, the 2 in 3-way valve and the 2 in check valve.

Will it work with any MasterTemp heater?

Not necessarily. Your heater must support the automatic bypass valve feature. Confirm your heater model and controls before ordering.

Do I need a specific pump?

Pentair designs the bypass to work with an IntelliFlo VF pump to get the head-loss and energy benefits.