Professional Electricians Wholesaler July/August 2023

This issue

Regulars

12 EDA INSIGHT

Test your knowledge of Distribution, Switchgear and Protection in this month’s quiz

COMPETITION

24 WIN LSOH CABLE STRIPPER SETS COURTESY OF CK TOOLS

Your chance to win one of six sets of LSOH flat and round cable strippers and brackets courtesy of CK Tools

SPECIAL REPORT

20 The latest developments in the LED fire-rated downlights market

23 The advantages of using multi-discipline presence sensors

FIRE & SAFETY

34 VOICE TO BE HEARD

The specific recommendations for refuge areas to be provided with emergency voice communication

31 STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

How time switches are evolving to meet the growing requirement for smarter solutions

Editor

Tracey Rushton-Thorpe tracey@pewholesaler co uk

Advertising Manager

Anthony Scott

ascott@hamerville co uk

Assistant Advertising Manager

Ian Turner Ianturner@hamerville co uk

Designer Gemma Watson

Group Production Manager

Carol Padgett

Production Assistant

Claire Thwaites

Circulation Manager

Kirstie Day

Professional Electricians Wholesaler is an essential business magazine for those with decision-making responsibilities within electrical wholesalers

To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email: circulation@hamerville co uk

by Stephens & George

(01923) 237799

Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2023

6,025 (Certificate of Average Distribution for the issues distributed between January and December 2022)

Welcome to our July/August issue, which includes special features on Timers & Controls, Fire & Safety and Heating I am only just noticing the irony in having a Heating feature at the height of summer – as I write this editorial on the Summer Solstice the temperature outside is in the mid-20s and the office fan is working hard to keep us all cool.

The warm weather is generally welcomed, though – we have to appreciate it while we can! It does cheer everyone up as the ‘great outdoors’ offers so many fun opportunities when the sun is shining Having realised how demoralising it can be being couped up for months on end during lockdown I have noticed a definite increase in people genuinely loving being outside and being thankful that we are allowed out

whether that’s enjoying a barbecue with friends, a family picnic, going for a long walk or bike ride or sitting in a pub garden As a keen rower I spend a lot of time on the water and on days like this our rivers and lakes are packed with swimmers, kayaks and paddleboards Stand Up Paddleboards, or SUPs as they are commonly known, have taken the UK by storm as they offer a relatively cheap and easy way to get out and cool down on the water

With the school summer holidays approaching we are likely to see more and more families with children enjoying the multiple watersports available on our beaches and rivers While it is fantastic to see so many people pursuing their hobbies, health and safety is all too frequently overlooked and forgotten as people become absorbed in the fun they are having Every summer we are reminded of how quickly a seemingly innocuous trip to the seaside can end in terror and potential tragedy It is quite scary how often people are taken by surprise by the sheer strength of the water and just a moment’s lack of care and attention can catch people out In other circumstances, tragedy can sadly be caused by unsuitable equipment or negligence by individuals in positions of responsibility

Electricians are no strangers to health and safety requirements and they will know better than most that the equipment they are installing in our buildings is fit for purpose Unfortunately, there will always be poor tradespeople looking to cut corners and costs for a quick buck. But for those who take their profession seriously, being able to guarantee to their customers that they are installing products of genuine quality is vital. This is where wholesalers play their role. By familiarising themselves with the key details and qualities of the stock they are selling they can pass on this knowledge to tradespeople whose reputations and livelihoods depend on carrying out their job with safe and durable products.

See you next month

S A FETY FIRST Tracey Rusht on-Thor pe

Tracey Rushton-Thorpe Editor

N E W S & V I E W S

I

D U ST RY L E A D E R S E A N S M Y T H

The new President of ECA is business leader and electrical engineer, Sean Smyth.

Sean recently celebrated 50 years in the electrical industry, having begun his career as a JIB apprentice in 1973 and progressing to become CEO of WT Parker Group Sean takes over the ECA Presidency from Steve Murray During the last 12 months, Steve played a critical role in guiding ECA as it supported its members through difficult times, including

economic uncertainty around the pandemic, materials and labour shortages, and price volatility

New ECA President Sean Smyth commented: “I’m delighted to be taking over this prestigious role, representing ECA as an industry advocate and business leader Our industry faces significant challenges, but I am determined to support ECA’s members and the wider industry to maximise every opportunity in the next 12 months

“I want to use my time to enable every member to grow their business, prosper in this uncertain business climate, and be aware of all new initiatives though clear communication and ongoing support ”

Martindale Electric is urging gas engineers to take extra care when working with or around electricity Many gas engineers can come into contact with electricity whilst carrying out seemingly innocuous tasks and, sadly, preventable deaths still occur in the workplace

“We are urging all gas engineers to identify the point of isolation, lock off the electricity supply and place war ning tags onto the equipment before they begin any work,” says Steve Dunning,

Martindale’s Managing Director. “It is vitally important and could save a life ”

Taking into account the danger posed by electricity, the Gas Safe Register’s Technical Bulletin 118 addressed test procedures to keep service engineers safe from electrical hazards This was issued on the 30th of January 2018 On the 1st of February 2023, a new version of the bulletin was issued and the previous one withdrawn

The new Technical Bulletin 118a provides information and guidance which

only relates to safe-to-touch and safe isolation procedures on single-phase supplies when carrying out gas work This will be followed by a version covering loop impedance and multi-phase supplies at a later date The technical bulletin should be read in conjunction with all other relevant safety guidance such as HSE Guidance Note GS38 (Electrical test equipment for use on low voltage electrical systems, fourth edition)

The provisional programme for September’s Circular Lighting Live 2023 conference and exhibition has been unveiled by organisers Recolight. The event, which takes place on Thursday 21 September 2023 at the Royal College of Physicians in London, will feature two separate tracks for the first time, one focused on manufacturers and another focused on specifiers

The manufacturers’ track in the Wolfson Theatre will open with a provocative keynote on ‘reimagining the lighting industry’ in a circular economy

It will be followed by presentations on the ‘avalanche’ of green regulations facing the sector, remanufacturing, environmental data and bioplastics There’ll also be a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style session based on the

popular BBC television series In it, executives will pitch innovations and ideas in circularity to a panel of seasoned lighting manufacturers

Designers, meanwhile, will explore design as a differentiator in circularity and look in depth at a life cycle assessment method created by lighting designers for lighting designers An expert will also look at methodologies for evaluating the environmental impact of projects

Read more and register at circularlighting live

C R O W D S F LO C K TO ETIM UK ’ S D I G ITA L I SATI O N AND B U I L D IN G S A FET Y DEBATE

ETIM UK, a joint venture between the Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) and the Electrical Distributors’ Association (EDA), was back at Digital Construction Week 2023 recently, drawing a large audience to the Main Stage for a panel discussion chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt on the topic of ‘Why standardised product data and building safety are inextricably linked’.

The panellists were all senior leaders representing the key players in the construction supply chain.

Introducing the session, Dame Judith emphasised that the UK is moving into a different phase of building safety – that of implementation, with digital technologies being used to support that implementation

process, warning too that those businesses which are slow to adaptcould be left behind.

John Newcomb, CEO at the BMF said “We were delighted to see a full house for this important debate on the importance of digitalisation in achieving building safety, and I would like to thank Dame Judith and all four of our panellists for their thoughtful and considered contributions One of the prime take-aways of the event is the need for collaboration across the whole supply chain to drive change. High quality product data is key to successful digitalisation and we are working with materials manufacturers and builders merchants to adopt ETIM as the standard data model ”

Margaret Fitzsimons, CEO at the EDA added “We are very proud of this great example of collaboration between two trade associations with similar goals The Electrical Distributors' Association (EDA) and the Builders Merchants Federation Ltd have been working together since 2020 to help standardise technical product data for the good of the construction sector - the data standard is ETIM and the joint venture is ETIM UK Ltd ”

N E W S & V I E W S

Schneider Electric is running a once in a lifetime promotion for electricians and contractors, which is available at all participating distributors across the UK and Ireland

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the brand’s KQ line of distribution boards, electricians and contractors in Britain can be in with a chance of winning a trip to New York In the UK, the promotion will be available for all electricians or contractors that spend £100 or more on Schneider Electric products Each participant will be then given a unique scratch card with a code that automatically entitles them to a £5 Starbucks gift-card and one entry to the grand prize – a trip to the Big Apple In Ireland, the entry requirements

remain the same, but prizes will instead be a gift card for Insomnia coffee, and a €1,000 holiday voucher

The offer is running until the end of August and the lucky winner will be drawn in September Distributors looking to take part should get in touch with their local Schneider Electric contact to find out more

GRAND PRIZE DETAILS (UK only)

● Seven days in New York for two adults + £1,000 spending money

● Direct retur n flights from London Heathrow

● 4* Hotel in Manhattan (centrally Located) for 6 nights – room only in a standard room

● Retur n private transfers

● £1,000 spending money (total)

● Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island excursion

● New York Pass for three attractions

W H O L E S A L E R N E W S

EDATA, the data pool for the UK’s electrotechnical sector which offers free access to EDA wholesalers, now has an extra data quality feature built in. If wholesalers suspect an error in a manufacturer’s product data, they can use a new alarm bell icon to raise a query that pings straight to the manufacturer.

Richard Appleton, Head of Digitalisation at the EDA, explained: “Manufacturers must be in full control of how their products are presented, and fresh eyes and a feedback facility from the

wholesaler is extremely useful

“We are constantly improving the user experience of the EDATA data pool and, as well as the bell feature, there are a number of other new benefits which help manufacturers when they are uploading and maintaining their product data These include the option to search and filter their products by quality level – Gold, Silver, Bronze, or In Development – plus they can import data using BMECat 5 0 ”

EDATA currently holds product information for 193,000 SKUs Wholesalers can download product data in bulk to populate their web sites and drive ecommerce and other business systems, or in individual Product Data Sheets which are generated on demand To date 65 leading electrotechnical brands have subscribed to EDATA to disseminate their product information with multiple wholesalers

BEW is expanding its network with the opening of a 22nd branch in Old Heath, Colchester, Essex Regional Sales Manager, Martin Newnham said: “We wanted to open a third Essex branch due to growing

demand from contractors wanting a full service from their local electrical distributor This location is ideally situated to meet their needs in North Essex and Suffolk ” Branch Manager, Glen Pettitt added: “I am so pleased with how these

premises have been transformed over the past few months There’s a built-in 24 hour secure collection facility as well as a smart new trade counter to welcome customers in for a chat over a coffee and discuss their latest project from 6:30am each weekday ”

Glen continued: “We’re staffed with local, knowledgeable people who have expertise in solar and EV charging The newly expanded mezzanine floor holds stock of all the essential everyday items that electrical contractors want at a moment’s notice. And if that’s not enough, we also offer free local on site delivery ”

Situated on the Whitehall Industrial Estate, the 7,900ft2 building has been completely fitted out with a new trade counter and the company also added a mezzanine floor to increase capacity of fast-moving top brand suppliers such as Electrak, Hager, Prysmian, Marshall-Tufflex and Robus to name but a few

EDA INSIGHT

An update from the Electrical Distributors’ Association

DON’T SHORT CIRCUIT YO UR SALES

The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have recently won a Princess Royal Training Award 2022 so you can be assured of their value.

Distribution, Switchgear and Protection is one of 12 training courses in the programme The EDA modules are completely flexible and can be studied in any order or combination You choose only the training your team needs

E-learning option

By summer 2023 all the EDA training modules will be available in a digital format instead of a printed textbook The digital learning option is a complete e-learning experience with videos and interactive content The EDA team is happy to talk you through your options and can give you a demonstration of the new e-learning platform The Distribution, Switchgear and Protection training module covers:

l Generation Transmission and Distribution

l Distributing Electricity within a Property

l Protection and Control Devices

l Additional Protection

l Supply and Metering

l Specialist Applications

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team

TesT your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Distribution, Switchgear and Protection module Then check your answers below If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today

Q1: Give the names of the two current ratings of a circuit-breaker

Q2: Explain the term “DNO”

Q3: What are the consequences of a poor termination in a consumer unit?

Q4: What does the acronym SCADA stand for?

Q5: What unit of electricity is used for billing purposes?

Q6: What is pulsed output?

HOW DID YOU DO?

Full marks: Well done!

3 - 5 out of 6: Not bad Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

If you’re a manager looking for a flexible and convenient way to train your team to drive sales, get in touch on: 020 3141 7350 or email: training@eda.org.uk

STRE S SANDANXIET Y: THES IGNSAND SYMPT O M S

When it comes to stress and anxiety, recognising the signs early often means we can work to try and combat it to prevent it from spiraling further

What are the signs of stress?

Stress can result in mood changes, irritability and sometimes anger You may notice that a person has become short tempered and snappy, and this is different to how they usually are. Other people who are stressed may describe feeling generally unhappy and can’t quite pinpoint why or it could be a feeling of being completely overwhelmed. This can result in anxious and racing thoughts It’s important to remember that these signs occur in response to a stressful situation, and they tend to lessen when the stressor is removed or resolved

What are the signs of anxiety?

Anxiety is a general sense of apprehension or worry which occurs on a regular basis when a specific trigger can’t be recognised This can result in people experiencing constant racing thoughts which can interfere with their ability to concentrate during the day, or even fall asleep at night

People experiencing anxiety may notice physical symptoms such as restlessness, fidgeting, muscle tension especially in the neck, back and shoulders Some people experience tension headaches, teeth grinding and trembling.

Other distressing symptoms of anxiety include feeling hot, sweating, palpitations (a racing heartbeat) and rapid shallow breathing or panic attacks If the anxiety is extremely severe people might experience feelings of dizziness or notice that they

have an extremely dry mouth Other people may feel sick, and this could result in vomiting or pains in the stomach.

Occasionally severe anxiety can result in hot or cold flushes, and a tingling, or pins-and-needles feeling in a person's hands or feet

The signs and symptoms of stress and anxiety can be extremely distressing and have the potential to cause significant disruption to a person's personal, social and work life People experiencing anxiety describe feeling as if they have no quality of life, and this is completely understandable

What can I do to help manage stress or anxiety?

There are lots of things that you can do if you’re feeling stressed or anxious to help ease the symptoms. A good starting point is to follow a balanced, nutritious, and healthy diet, keep hydrated, avoid caffeine and alcohol and do regular exercise, like going for a walk Sleep is important for helping to manage stress and anxiety Most of us have experienced times when we have not had enough sleep, and the following day we may have noticed higher levels of stress and even some signs of

anxiety You could also try some relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga or simply taking a bath.

It may be tempting to withdraw and selfisolate when experiencing stress and anxiety. However, social interaction is a key part of protecting our sense of wellbeing and if you have a support network, lean on them when times get tough. It’s nothing to be ashamed of and most people experience stress and anxiety, so talking about it can really help

What should I do if this isn’t enough to reduce my symptoms of stress/anxiety?

If you have noticed that yourself or your loved one are displaying persistent signs of stress or anxiety, it’s important to seek help as early as possible The Electrical Industries Charity can offer prompt support and can put you in touch with a suitably qualified and experienced mental health professional

The latest EIC piece on stress and anxiety examines the signs and symptoms to be aware of.

In this month’s Face to Face we speak to Nigel Harvey, CEO of Recolight, to get his thoughts on sustainability in the lighting sector

FAC E TO FACE

R E C O L I G H T

QWhat is the history behind Recolight as an organisation?

A. Recolight is a not for profit company, set up by the lighting industry. It helps producers of lighting equipment to comply with their obligations under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations Representatives from Signify, Ledvance and Feilo-Sylvania sit on our board, which helps ensure that we always operate in the best long-term interests of our members

Over 200 lighting producers are now members of the Recolight scheme – and that number continues to grow We have a tangible commitment to sustainability in the lighting industry, and companies recognise the value of being associated with us.

Our industry recognised that to properly comply with the WEEE regulations, a dedicated WEEE scheme

would be required That was both to keep costs under control, but also because the unique characteristics of lighting WEEE means a dedicated approach is best

QDo wholesalers need to comply with WEEE?

A. Any wholesalers or distributors who import directly from outside the UK, or who sell their own branded product, are regarded as “producers” for the purposes of the WEEE regulations That means they must register with a WEEE scheme, such as Recolight (unless their volumes are very small) Many wholesalers are already WEEE compliant, but for those who aren’t, failure to comply is an offence But joining is simple and straightforward, and low cost.

QHow does the Recolight WEEE compliance scheme work?

A. Any company that imports, manufactures, or sells electrical and electronic equipment under their own brand needs to comply with the WEEE regulations. And membership of the Recolight WEEE scheme is open to all companies, from the largest to the smallest, on the same commercial terms. That means all benefit from the economies of scale of the UK’s largest lighting WEEE compliance scheme

The Recolight scheme effectively operates as a collective recycling arrangement The company provides waste lamp and luminaire collection and recycling services to end users, wholesalers, contractors and others That is a much more efficient way to manage recycling, than for every producer to try to deal with their own recycling obligations

Recolight has a very simple and transparent charging scheme. Members are charged by the number of units, or Kg, of electrical equipment sold Fees are set up front, so members can build them into their budgets with confidence

QWhat can wholesalers do to assist with lamp recycling?

A For wholesalers that can collect sufficient volumes of waste lamps, Recolight offers a completely free of charge collection and recycling service Even the container is supplied free Wholesalers can register at www recolight co uk/collections/wholesalers

For those who don’t meet the threshold for free of charge collections, there is a subsidised alternative For a one-off payment, they can have a waste lamp

container on their site for three years, which will be emptied free of charge whenever it is full There is an online portal to request a collection, and that usually happens within five days of the request

All waste lamps are sent to one of three UK based specialist lamp recyclers, contracted to Recolight

QCan wholesalers also collect other WEEE or batteries?

A. Yes Recolight also offers collection and recycling services for general WEEE, and for batteries. All waste collected is sent to suitably accredited recyclers, so wholesalers can be absolutely confident that the waste is transported and treated appropriately

QAre there any other benefits for wholesalers offering recycling?

A Most wholesalers working with Recolight opt for their sites to be added to Recolight’s online waste lamp recycling locator Many report that providing access to free of charge lamp recycling increases footfall. Recolight also recognise good performance of collection points, and issue annual certificates confirming status

But what is more, many wholesalers are also under a legal obligation to offer “like for like” instore takeback of electrical products that could be used by consumers, when selling new products A Recolight container ensures compliance with this legal requirement for waste lamps – and general WEEE if that service is requested

QWhat is the Circular Economy and how can wholesalers help to make it a reality?

A. Specifying, selling and using products designed with the Circular Economy in mind is a vital way in which we can all respond to the climate crisis As our planet

continues to heat, we must improve not just energy efficiency, but also resource efficiency. That means rather than looking to install new products, end users should first seek to repair, upgrade, retrofit, or remanufacture existing products. For many wholesalers, this could appear a threat But in reality, for those who respond positively, it can be a significant commercial opportunity

The circular economy is going to get much bigger There are likely to be legislative incentives for doing the “right” thing, and additional costs for doing the “wrong” thing So those that can start to work with their customers to offer services that keep products in service for longer will reap the rewards And those that don’t, risk a downturn as the market moves

On September 21st in London, Recolight is hosting Circular Lighting Live, a major conference and exhibition dedicated to all aspects of sustainability in lighting It provides an excellent opportunity for all to learn more of this essential next step for the lighting industry.

QHow can the lighting industry come together to tackle the issue of waste from Cat A lighting fit-outs?

A Cat A fitouts are the source of very considerable, and totally unnecessary, waste in the lighting industry That is an uncomfortable truth for companies that benefit from selling product that, once installed, is virtually unused before it is removed and trashed The situation cannot be justified – particularly in the light of the climate crisis. An industry-wide group of stakeholders has come together under the leadership of Ray Molony, of the

Build Back Better awards, and also Editor of Recolight’s Circular Lighting Review

The group is seeking to develop solutions and alternative business/ownership models that will put an end to the waste. They plan to launch their recommendations at the Circular Lighting Live event in September

QWhat are Recolight’s plans for the year ahead?

A. Over the last three years, Recolight has championed and driven sustainability within the lighting industry And next year will be no different We will continue to encourage more reuse rather than recycling That will be aided by the launch of a new Circular Place app that will seek to connect offers of unsold lighting stock, and product capable of reuse, with those who can use them Where reuse is not possible (which is the case for most lamps), our recycling service will continue to expand

And there will be more workshops, conferences, and webinars, all focused on encouraging sustainability action in our industry

And we also seek to practice what we preach We have set our own target to reduce the carbon footprint of our waste lamp collection service by 10% We prioritise the purchase of reconditioned IT, and only replace IT when it actually fails And all our events serve vegetarian and plant-based foods because the carbon footprint is so much lower.

“ Most w holesaler s wor king with Recolight opt for their sites to be added to Recolight’s online waste lamp recycling locator.”

M O V E R S AND S H A K ERS

It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we detail who has gone where.

Pete Wilkinson SCOLMORE GROUP

Scolmore Group has welcomed Pete Wilkinson to the company as new Group Key Account and Specification Manager for the West Midlands region

Pete joins a growing specification team who have responsibility for creating demand for products from the Scolmore Group portfolio across a variety of sectors. His particular focus will be within the residential, social housing and commercial sectors, targeting consultants, architects and contractors

He brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding to his new role having spent nearly 30 years within the electrical industry, including time working with some of the major players operating in the sector His experience within a variety of sales roles, including area specification manager and national accounts, saw him working with M&E consultants as well as national construction and engineering companies

Brett Smyth IDEAL ELECTRICAL

Brett Smyth has been promoted to Managing Director of EMEA and APAC for IDEAL Electrical Brett will retain his current responsibilities and now oversee IDEAL Australia and IDEAL Asia

Brett started with IDEAL Industries in January 2019 when he was brought in to lead the European electrical business

Despite the Covid crisis and subsequent supply chain challenges, Brett and his team have managed to grow the business substantially in key areas like the Middle East, UK and Europe His mix of innovative thinking and pushing his team to give their best combined with the ethos of celebrating the employees and their efforts make his team proud of working for IDEAL while providing high-quality, functional and innovative products to the electrical and aerospace sectors

A RE YOU OFF E R IN G YOUR CUS TOMERS THE V E RY BE S T ?

When it comes to stocking fire-rated downlights, wholesalers need to offer the latest innovation, functionality, convenience, and price for a variety of different projects.

Shyel Stark, Senior Product Manager at Luceco Lighting, introduces the new FType family of LED fire-rated downlights.

Introducing Luceco Lighting's revolutionary new family of FType fire-rated downlights: FType Essence, FType Mk2 and FType Ultra These cutting-edge downlights are designed and engineered in the UK to set a new standard of lighting performance and functionality, with the latest advancements in LED technology

The new FType family elevates the lighting experience to a whole new level, sets new trends and is specifically designed with wholesalers, contractors, and end users in mind By combining functionality, ease of installation and aesthetic appeal, these downlights are designed and engineered to revolutionise the lighting experience Whether the project or contractor prioritises budget, customisation options, or unparalleled convenience, the FType family of Essence, Mk2, and Ultra has it all covered - offering simplicity for both wholesalers and contractors

Key features across the range

At the core of every product in the FType family lies a set of standard features that immediately levels up this range

QuickView Cable Window: Our downlights come equipped with a convenient QuickView Cable Window This feature enables easy inspection of wire connections, even after cables are secured in place This provides the contractor with added safety and reassurance that the connection is secure.

Super-efficient chips: Harnessing the power of the most current technology

without compromising on performance, FType incorporates super-efficient Samsung LED chips, that boast an impressive luminous efficacy between 120 to 160 lumens per watt (Lm/W), setting new benchmarks

Trade-rated toolless SpeedFit Connector: Say goodbye to complicated installations Our innovative loop-in/out piano key terminals allow for effortless connection with both solid and stranded cables, minimising installation time

Super slim flat or regressed removable bezels: We understand the importance of flawless aesthetics. Compared to many competitors offers, the new FType boasts a super slim bezel design, offering a refined and discreet finish that seamlessly blends into ceilings and complements any interior décor

Three modes, one range

FType Essence

If the project budget is a priority, FType Essence is the perfect choice for fire-rated LED downlights. These lowprofile downlights strike the ideal balance between functionality, design, and performance. With LENLEN terminals and trade-rated SpeedFit housing design, installation becomes a breeze and upgrading to downlights becomes affordable Available in 3000K or 4000K light outputs and a range of bezel colours, Essence downlights deliver maximum

performance at a cost effective price, making them ideal for any application, including bathrooms and shallow ceiling voids. And with a three-year warranty, you can trust in their quality and durability

FType Mk2

The Mk2 range includes all the exceptional features of Essence and adds even more value to your lighting experience FType Mk2 incorporates only the very latest technology and designs, ensuring marketleading performance and truly innovative lighting features. Power selectable functionality between 4W and 6W is standard, which allows lighting spaces to be customised based on the end user’s needs Choose between the new-to-market Dim2Warm CCT and 4Colour CCT versions

HaLEDgen Dim2Warm CCT

Completely new to the global lighting market, HaLEDgen Dim2Warm CCT combines the traditional benefits of filament and halogen with modern LED technology Dim2Warm CCT versions are colour selectable via a switch between 3000K and 4000K However, unlike any other, when set to 3000K and installed on

a dimmer switch, Dim2Warm mode is unlocked Luceco Lighting’s Dim2Warm technology now allows the downlight to adjust to a warmer colour temperature output when dimmed, creating that cosy, ambient effect delivered by filament and halogen, but lost with LED technology Unlike traditional LEDs that dull down when dimmed, with Dim2Warm CCT, the more you dim, the warmer the tone.

4CCT Colour Change

Alternatively, opt for the four colour CCT version, which offers a choice of 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, and 6000K with a flick of a switch, enabling rooms to be fully customised based on lighting preferences and preferred colour temperature, for example, choose a warmer white such as 2700K or 3000K to create a more relaxed comfortable feel such as in bedrooms or living rooms Choose a cooler white such as 4000K

or 6000K for spaces and rooms which are more task-focused, like kitchens or offices

FType Ultra

Designed for and with contractors in mind, the lowprofile FType Ultra range represents the pinnacle of downlight technology Not only do they incorporate all the features and benefits of the Mk2 range, but they are also available in both the Dim2Warm and 4Colour CCT options and include the new, groundbreaking Easy Access ClipFit connector

The FType range has been rigorously fire-tested in various scenarios and complies with Part L1/L2, Part C air leakage, and Part E acoustic standards

Additionally, contractors and end users can customise

installations with polished chrome, brushed steel, or matt black bezel accessories

Give your customers the very latest and offer the best downlights today Choose the new FType family of fire-rated downlights and enjoy the perfect blend of style, innovation, and quality With our diverse range of options and confidenceinspiring warranties, you can trust you're making the right choice when offering this range Upgrade your

PRESENCE &C ORRECT

One of the most interesting device categories on the KNX market is the presence detector. This seemingly simple device is commonly understood to be a lighting function controller and nothing more However, this is where a KNX presence detector differs greatly

A KNX presence detector is used to detect human presence in a specific area This offers a vast and versatile range of functionality encompassing key building services to include lighting, HVAC and security among other features

Functions and benefits of KNX Presence Detectors in building management include:

Energy conservation: Lighting can selfregulate via dimming or on/off, dependent on room occupancy levels and measured natural daylight. Similarly, the HVAC system can automatically move between comfort and economy mode upon presence detection. Both can help reduce energy consumption resulting in lower energy costs and aligning with BREEAM & LEED certifications

Security: Room monitoring functions can be carried out by the KNX presence detector with updates sent to the site intruder alarm system thus detecting unauthorised entry to the building and helping to prevent theft or other security breaches. KNX presence sensors can also feature a heartbeat function which ensures the device cannot be unknowingly tampered with.

Improved building utilisation: Building managers can gain insights into how spaces are being used This information can be used to optimise the use of space and improve building efficiency

Enhanced comfort and convenience:

Automating various functions of the building can impr the comfort and convenience of building occupants, while also reducing the workload of building maintenance staff

The products below are high performing KNX certified products in terms of their multi-disciplinary functions and offer engineers a comprehensive solution that can be specified with confidence:

The BEG Luxomat PD11 presence detector is an excellent solution for rooms with abnormal detection conditions, such as glass divisions that ordinarily don’t allow PIR detection:

l Constant Light Control including HCL (Human Centric Lighting)

l HVAC control

l Noise detection

l Temperature measurement

l Simulation, logic, timers and scenes

The Theben thePrema Multi features a comprehensive air monitoring solution in addition to all the expected lighting & HVAC functions:

l Multiple Constant Light Control Channels with Lux

l Independent Presence channels

l HVAC Control

l Occupancy/Room Monitoring

l CO2 Level Monitoring

l Relative Humidity Monitoring

l Temperature Measurement

l Air Pressure Measurement

The Steinel Multi-sensor True Presence is a truly innovative product that monitors multiple internal sensors for air changes to form an accurate conclusion of room presence:

l True Presence Detection (based on sensory organ)

l Air Humidity Monitoring

l Air Pressure Monitoring

l Lux Level Monitoring

l CO2 Level Monitoring

l Temperature Monitoring

In addition to the above, many other KNX certified manufacturers offer feature-rich presence detectors:

l MDT Presence Detectors

l Jung Presence Detectors

l Zennio Presence Detectors

l Faradite Presence Detectors

The takeaway from this article should be just how versatile and rewarding it is to utilise KNX presence detection in residential and commercial buildings As a consulting engineer, you have a degree of comfort in specifying a KNX presence detector with the understanding that a single device covers multiple services In contrast, a traditional installation may require individual lighting, HVAC, air quality and intruder sensors. Failing to correctly specify and/or include one of these sensor types on a tender drawing can lead to system functionality issues resulting in hefty costs to remedy By contrast, it would be difficult to make a mistake when specifying a KNX presence detector.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL005

KNX UK member Ryan Sheppard of KNX Ireland comments on the often overlooked advantages of multi-discipline presence sensors.

COMPETITION

W IN L S 0 H CA B L E S T R I P P E R S

S E T S C O U R T E S Y O F C. K T O OL S

C.K Tools, the trusted choice for trade professionals, is giving away six sets of its recently launched LSOH flat and round cable stripper and brackets, giving you the chance to claim a tool set that will take all the effort and frustration away from stripping fire-safe cable

Each set is worth £65, and with use of LS0H (low smoke zero hydrogen) cable on the rise, will quickly become an essential part of any electrician’s tool kit

While PVC cable jacketing is fire resistant, it generates around 50% its weight in highly toxic, deadly smoke when exposed to high heat or flames

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning an LS0H cable strippers set simply choose the correct answer from the following choices:

Q. How much is a CK Tools LS0H cable stripper set worth?

As such, many specifiers are opting to replace PVC or other cable jacketing with LS0H but many electricians have reported challenges in stripping the cable, as standard cable strippers fail to meet the strength of the thermoplastic material C K Tools’ new LS0H cable stripper, however, has been designed specifically for the task.

Compatible with round, flat, and LS0H cabling, C.K Tools’ latest strippers make light work of all cable types thanks to their two titanium nitrade coated blades and four cable brackets. The range includes a 10mm flat and LS0H bracket, a 6mm flat and LS0H bracket, a 2 5mm flat and LS0H bracket, and an 8-28mm round bracket

The stripper itself boasts a self-locking switch, automatic blade protection, and keyless blade adjustment, alongside the titanium nitride coated blades The range is available as a set with the stripper included, and LS0H brackets can also be purchased as a set of three

Stelrad has taken another major step in meeting the demands of its customer base across the UK and Ireland with the launch of a range of electric radiators – its Electric Series. It’s the first time the Stelrad brand has ventured into the electric marketplace and it brings with it the quality and brand values associated with its radiator products since it began manufacturing in 1936

Stelrad is now setting its sights on the electric market with a highly competitive range of both steel and aluminium electric radiators The new Electric Series range will be available through merchants from September 2023

Essential selection

The range will include a dozen or so different models with a number of sizes of each model available, with standard radiators for any room along with a selection of towel rails specifically targeted at bathrooms and en-suites

Chris Harvey, Stelrad’s Head of Marketing for the UK and Ireland, said: “The new range offers a selection of

H OT ST U F F

radiators and towel rails with Stelrad’s unbeatable quality and design to suit every area in the home and to match or contrast with décor in every room The selection includes radiators that are dry, dry stone and fluid filled offering a full choice of options within the technology. As you would expect, the new range offers a variety of energy saving and comfort enhancing features Some of the new radiators will be ‘three in one’ options, featuring a fan heater at the base of the radiator and manual controls that allow you to use the towel rail and the fan heater individually or together if you wish Colours will be white for all radiators with the option of anthracite grey and chrome for some of the models

“Amongst the features you’ll find on these new radiators you will discover the ‘Open window’ function that enables the appliance to automatically detect when a window is opened near the towel warmer and to switch to ‘anti-freeze’

mode to prevent unnecessary heating and to avoid wasting energy. Similarly, it can detect when the window is closed and restore the operating conditions set previously. The appliance comes on automatically at ambient temperatures below 7°C. And when the ‘child safety’ function is activated, the surface of the appliance is cooler than in normal operation in the currently active mode to avoid the risk of burns caused by brief accidental contact These are just a few of the features – these are intelligent radiators that are designed to provide heating in the most flexible and energy effective – and as a result – cost effective way ”

Chris continues: “We pride ourselves in being a one stop shop for all things radiators and the arrival of the electric series builds on that claim even further The new range will be unveiled in the next couple of months and be available to order from September ”

As well as offering effective, functional heating in the home, as you would expect from Stelrad, the radiators in the Electric Series are aesthetically appealing and

provide attractive options for the décor in the home and come with a five-year warranty on the heating parts and a twoyear warranty on the electric components

New products

The new range will include a number of exciting new products – like the Stelrad Electric Column design – a rounded vertical tube column radiator available in three sizes in both white or anthracite grey There’s the Stelrad Electric Agata and the Agata E-Flow - a straight, flat tube towel rail design, featuring five banks of three tubes

with spaces between each bank, available in three sizes in both white and anthracite grey It combines modern design with functional heating and energy saving features The E-Flow towel rails in the range feature a fan heater at the base of the towel rail and include manual controls for individual use of the towel rail or the fan heater, or both together as a three in one unit

On the aluminium front, there’s the Stelrad Electric Alu Simple Dry and Simple Fluid - available in three sizes in either white or anthracite grey The matching colour digital thermostat is included with each model along with its remote control

There’s the Stelrad Electric Cloud – a fashionable, smooth fronted, curved faced steel radiator comes in four models, in white and anthracite that offers a chic heating

option for any room in the house

And the Stelrad Electric Cobalto and Cobalto E-Flow – a flat tube towel rail combines good looks with exceptional heating efficiency As with the Agata, the Cobalto E-Flow towel rails feature a fan heater at the base of the towel rail and include manual controls for individual use of the towel rail or the fan heater, or both together as a three in one unit

Not to be overlooked there is the Stelrad Electric Fantasia –available in white or anthracite to match or contrast with colour schemes and designs in the home

The Stelrad Electric Series provides a range of exciting new options where direct electric heating is the chosen option for a home

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL007

Salvatore Cirasuolo of IntelliHeat examines the latest low carbon electric heating alternatives to heat pumps

HEAT OF THE MOMENT

As we are encouraged to be greener, low-carbon heating is today’s gold standard for heating systems The Government’s strategy for net zero is to end our contribution to climate change and that includes replacing fossil fuel gas and oil central heating systems with greener alternatives like heat pumps Although this is the perfect solution for modern housing built to today’s energy conservation standards, sadly, there are not suitable for up to 13 million homes in the UK

The latest report findings state that for the existing UK housing stock, the levels of disruption and cost as well as lack of space and inefficiency of the fabric of the building, deems heat pumps only a greener solution for a minority of properties There is also the issue of listed buildings which have rules and regulations on what you can and cannot change about their appearance and which may class a heat pump unsuitable to meet the required aesthetic standards

How do they work and what’s the cost?

Heat pumps work in a similar way to a refrigerator, but in reverse - they allow you to generate heat energy from the surrounding air or ground The process of installing an air source heat pump can be completed between two to four days, while a ground source heat pump between seven to 10 days at a cost that ranges from

£9,500 to £24,000 - a substantial expense few people are able to afford

The UK electricity grid is rapidly decarbonising and within two to three years electricity will be greener than gas, oil, and LPG With Government regulations looking into banning gas boilers in any new builds from 2025, it’s clear that heat pumps are not suitable for everyone Therefore, the biggest challenge for older housing stock and properties built pre1999 is how to make these properties suitable for low carbon heating, providing the best alternative to meet the Eco-design energy efficiency regulations and renewable energy targets set out in the new Part L of the building regulations

So, what’s the alternative?

There are other alternatives to fossil fuels using energy efficient systems that can also be powered by renewable energy However, which system is best for your property type to help meet the current UK climate change targets?

Affordable electric heating

If you are not ready for the heat pump revolution, replacing dated gas boilers and storage heaters with low carbon electric radiators can still help reduce your carbon footprint at home.

Electric heating systems by Intelliheat are manufactured of a superior quality and are packed with energy efficient features

generated by innovative technologies that create the ideal balance between comfort and efficiency while offering cost effective alternatives to inefficient storage heaters, oil, LPG and solid fuel when the installation of a heat pump is not an option

The system thermostat can heat individual rooms (zoning) at the desired temperature within 0 1°C In addition, room temperature control with open window and presence detection paired with an ultrafast heating response make intelliheat systems one of most technologically advanced heating products available. And with under £3,000 in costs for an average property, this represents a significant saving compared to the installation of a heat pump deemed unsuitable

Controls

Lately, there has been growing demand for heating management controls Smart devices (IOT) are now part of our everyday life - monitoring, optimisation and intelligent

control reduce energy consumption and give the user full control over heating expenditure, CO2 emissions and energy usage. Linking design and efficiency with the implementation of smart controls, Intelliheat Smart and cleverly connected heating management enables users to:

l Control the heating system in the most efficient and effective way

l Monitor several buildings via one single account

l Understand the client's carbon reporting requirements, save energy, and reduce carbon footprint

l Manage the system through a mobile App and web-based dashboard

l Achieve system optimisation via data monitoring

l Reduce costs through improving performance

IntelliHeat is a British company designing, supplying, and installing electric heating systems with a dedicated Wi-Fi heating management control.

IntelliHeat offers a cloud based heating management training course to all authorised partners, resellers and contractors who wish to supply their customers with a quality product designed to exceed expectations whilst contributing to a better world This training is designed to improve product knowledge, expertise and skills to correctly install IntelliHeat systems

F O R F U RT H E R D E TA I L S G O TO : WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL008

STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

We are living in a time of rapid technological development, with smart homes and the internet of things seeming to dominate the sector With the speed of this change and the huge number of smart devices and products being developed, it can be a challenge for electrical professionals to keep up to date with the latest new products and trends It can also be easy to overlook the traditional products that are still in demand

Sangamo continues to see demand for the traditional products in its time switch range, but the company has continued to develop the range so that it is also able to meet demand for smarter products and offer wholesalers a choice of products that will allow them to upsell to their customers

Round pattern time switch

Sangamo has been manufacturing its Round Pattern Time Switches at its Port Glasgow factory for over 65 years and has sold over 11 million units in that time The installation of a Round Pattern Time Switch (RPTS) used to be a regular job for many electricians and, despite the electromechanical time switches being less common today, Sangamo still sells over a 1,000 units each month, both as replacements and as brand new installations

The Round Pattern Time Switch is trusted by installers for a wide variety of applications, n just because of its reliability but its of use The simple dial and levers setting the switch up for daily fixed timings a breeze with no complica menu options to navigate through All Round Pattern Time Switches are also 20 Amp rated, providing a more robust switch than most other products on the market We regularly hear from people with Round Pattern Time Switches still going strong after 40 and 50 years When they eventually need a new switch, they reasonably assume, because of its age, that it might not be possible to get a direct like for like replacement However, because the original design has never needed to be updated, an RPTS you buy today is completely interchangeable with one bought decades ago

The switches are split into four categories - Basic ‘black dial’ 24-hour time clock for simple on and off switching of up to 20A; Standard 24-hour ‘red dial’ switch with added 100 hour battery reserve; Solar Range - specially designed for lighting

applications and Digital Range - the newest addition combines the high capacity and reliability of the electromechanical models but provides full seven day programming

DIN rail and panel mounted time switches

Other options include DIN rail and panel mounted digital time switches that include NFC capability Near Field Communication (NFC) is a low powered wireless communication technology that allows devices to exchange information from just a few centimetres away Using the free Sangamo Connect app on an Android NFC enabled smartphone allows you to upload a created programming schedule; download an existing schedule to store or amend, as well as transfer programmes from one switch to another. This enhanced capability makes this form of time switch so much easier to program and has been exceedingly well received by the industry. Another strong feature of the NFC range of timers is that they will switch up to 600W of LED lighting

Matt Parton,

Product Development

Manager

with Sangamo,

takes a look at the time switches product category and how it is evolving to meet the growing requirement for smarter solutions.

“ It can also be easy to over look the traditional products that are still in demand ”

TIMERS & CONTROLS

The range also includes Astro Switches also known as solar switches, which automatically adjust the on and off times to match sunset and sunrise times A selection of Standard Switches completes the range These are often used to control heating, ventilation and door entry systems

Bluetooth compatible

The latest development in this category has seen the addition of a Bluetoothcompatible range of timers to the DIN Rail Time Switch collection. This range is designed to offer convenience and versatility to the user and broaden the product category reach to a wider potential market, where it will help manage costs in residential, commercial and industrial applications It uses Bluetooth technology to programme the timer and is compatible with Android and IOS, and applications that include lighting, security, heating, ventilation, irrigation and horticulture

As well as Bluetooth communication, these time switches feature zero-crossing

technology supporting up to 600W LED load This technology protects the relay contact and extends service life, therefore helping the lighting controls to match the long lifespan of LED lighting systems The new Bluetooth range consists of four products - Weekly Bluetooth 2-module 1channel, seven day timer with 100 on/off operations; Weekly Bluetooth 2-module 2channel, seven day timer, with 100 on/off operations; Astro Bluetooth 2-module 1channel, seven day timer with 100 on/off operations and Astro Bluetooth 2-module 2-channel, seven day timer with 100 on/off operations

As advancements in technology continue to drive new product development, it is essential that both the professional installing the products and the wholesaler supplying them, do their research to stay up to date with the latest products and trends Manufacturers have their part to play by ensuring that they provide easy access to product training and support for the wholesaler

VOICE T O B E HEARD

Matt Tighe, Technical Service Manager with ESP, part of the Scolmore Group of companies, looks at the specific recommendation for refuge areas to be provided with an emergency voice communication (EVC) system conforming to BS 5839-9 and the provision of such an EVC system.

It is essential that persons can escape from a building should fire occur The building regulations in all parts of the United Kingdom have similar requirements For example, in England Regulation B1 states:

“The building shall be designed and constructed so that there are appropriate provisions for the early warning of fire, and appropriate means of escape in case of fire from the building to a place of safety outside the building capable of being safely and effectively used at all material times ”

It is always necessary for all persons to escape; this will include those with disabilities which precludes rapid and safe evacuation There will, therefore, be times when it will be necessary for persons escaping to have access to areas where it is safe to wait for a short period; such areas are called refuges

Approved Document B Volume 2 Fire Safety 2019 (incorporating 2020 and 2022 amendments) (ADB2) gives guidance on the recommendations for refuges to ensure compliance with legislation Further guidance is also given in BS 9999: 2017

Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings – Code of practice

This article briefly considers the specific recommendation for refuges to be provided with an emergency voice communication (EVC) system conforming to BS 5839-9 and the provision of such an EVC system, such as those produced by ESP under the Beacon range

Refuge

The presence and nature of a refuge will need to be considered on a case-by-case basis Fig 1 is based on Diagram 3 1 and Fig 2 on Diagram 3 2 of ADB2 These detail examples of refuges formed in a protected stairway There may be instances where a refuge extends into rooms which are near those exemplar areas detailed in DB2 Annex G of BS 9999 details other examples of refuge areas

Approved Document B

In the refuge, ADB2 recommends that the EVC system consists of Type B outstations communicating with a master station in the building control room (should one exist) or next to the fire detection and alarm panel It is permitted for the EVC system to be wireless

BS 9999

Clause 45 8 of BS 9999 recognises that refuges are places of relative safety and references the normative annex G in the Standard Once the number and locations of refuges have been decided by the key stakeholders (see Clause 5 BS 5839-9), Annex G recommends that procedures are established for independent communication between the occupants and evacuation management personnel

The recommendations detailed in clause 45 8 and Annex G of BS 9999 will require an emergency voice communication system to be installed

The emergency voice communication system should conform to the recommendations of BS 5839-9: 2021 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings. Part 9: Code of practice for the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of emergency voice communication systems.

BS 5839-9

The purpose of BS 5839-9 is not to provide a justification for the installation of EVC systems, rather to provide recommendations for the planning, design,

Fig 1 Diagram 3 1 Refuge formed by compartmentation ADB2

Fig 2 Diagram 3 2 Refuge formed in a stairwell

installation, commissioning and maintenance of such systems

The scope to the Standard makes it clear that, other than in exceptional circumstances, EVC systems are not intended as a means of raising a fire alarm instead of manual call points (MCPs)

The designer of the EVC system should adequately consult with key stakeholders at the design stage Such key stakeholders are:

l User or purchaser

l Supplier of the system

l Installer of the system

l Consultants, including architects M&E, fire safety, access, acoustic and risk assessment – clause 5.

To the extent necessary, the installer of the system should consult with the designer, supplier and consultants

Beacon EVC system

An EVC system is typically required in the following situations:

l In any building or sports or similar venue where there are disabled people, or people who may have difficulty negotiating the evacuation route

l In buildings with phased evacuation and/or firefighting lifts where it facilitates secure communications for building managers, fire wardens, and attending fire officers

l At sports venues and similar complexes, where it will assist stewards in controlling the evacuation of the area in an emergency

The Beacon Emergency Voice Communications (EVC) system is designed to fully comply with BS 5839-9:2021 for use as a Fire Telephone system, Disabled Refuge Call system or as a combined system when both Fire Telephones and Disabled Refuge Points are required

The Beacon EVC system comprises of a Master Station and one or more outstations Additionally, the “Assist Call” emergency assistance alarm system can either be connected to the same line as a Type B outstation or connected to a dedicated line

Neither the outstations nor the “Assist Call” emergency alarm system requires a separate power supply unit as each line is powered from the Master Station This has the additional benefit of each line being fully monitored and battery backed up

Conclusion

The provision of an EVC system is essential in those premises where it is likely that the less able-bodied are present and where the nature of the people on the premises is likely to create problems for evacuation The EVC system will enable those responsible for managing evacuation to safely manage, insofar as they are able, the evacuation.

KNIPEX TOOL CASE

Transport all your tools safely and reliably with the Robust26 Move tool case from Knipex Made of impact-resistant polypropylene, this case is fit to fly, temperature-resistant, dustproof and waterproof, making it perfect for even the most demanding tasks and toughest of operating conditions.

When you need to move lots of tools safely, the new Robust26 Move tool case from Knipex (00 21 33 LE) is ideal With an extendable, ergonomic handle, smoothrunning wheels and an automatic pressure compensation valve, it is great for plane, train or van It is also impact resistant thanks to its tough polypropylene shell and is temperature-stable from -30°C to +80°C

The interior of this extremely flexible case consists of 19 tool pockets, 61 straps and a document compartment The tool boards with the tool pockets and straps are made from dirt-repellent PP twin-wall sheets while the lockable base tray can be divided individually using an aluminium divider system Magnetic recesses offer a practical storage area for small items and there is an integrated padlock fitting to keep all your tools secure

This robust case is available empty or with equipment for the electrical or HVAC sector The Robust26 Move electrical tool case (00 21 33 E), is equipped with 16 KNIPEX tools, a total of 22 branded tools, and is partially VDE tested according to DIN EN 60900 For HVAC professionals, the Robust26 Move sanitary tool case (00 21 33 S) has been designed with 12 Knipex tools, a total of 17 branded tools. It is also partially VDE tested according to DIN EN 60900. If required, several cases can be conveniently stacked.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL011

ESP ACCESS CONTROL

ESP has added a new range of products to its Aperta access control portfolio The new Aperta IP PoE (Power over Ethernet) collection provides quick and easy to install door entry solutions for a wide range of projects, covering large apartment blocks to small commercial properties and domestic dwellings.

The new IP access control range is designed to offer more flexible installation and improved performance compared with traditional ‘2-wire’ and ‘4-wire’ systems. The IP range comprises a visitor Multi Way and a Single Way outdoor station to suit a range of project applications, and a feature-packed video monitor to enhance user preferences, complete with APP facility All devices are connected together via PoE switches, making installations convenient by removing the requirement to have a power supply per device In addition, unlike other options on the market, the Aperta IP door entry system does not require programming software to configure the system

At one end of the range is the IP PoE IP65-rated Multi Way Outdoor Station, which is capable of supporting 200+ apartments and includes proximity fob and keypad function to release connected door locks, making it an ideal system for buildings housing multiple apartments or offices

For smaller private or commercial projects is the IP PoE IP65-rated Single Way Outdoor Station, which also includes proximity fob and keypad release facility and can simultaneously call up to six video monitors

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL012

STELRAD ELECTRIC RADIATORS

Stelrad has taken another major step in meeting the demands of its customer base across the UK and Ireland with the launch of a range of electric radiators – its Electric Series It’s the first time the Stelrad brand has ventured into the electric marketplace, and it brings with it the quality and brand values associated with its radiator products since it began manufacturing in 1936

The new Electric Series range will be available through merchants from September 2023

The range will include a dozen or so different models with a number of sizes of each model available, with standard radiators for any room along with a selection of towel rails specifically targeted at bathrooms and en-suites

The selection includes radiators that are dry, dry stone and fluid filled offering a full choice of options within the technology. As you would expect, the new range offers a variety of energy saving and comfort enhancing features with fitted and Wi-Fi enabled controls. Some of the new radiators will be ‘three in one’ options, featuring a fan heater at the base of the radiator and manual controls that allow you to use the towel rail and the fan heater individually or together if you wish Colours will be white for all radiators with the option of anthracite grey and chrome for some of the models

Features include the ‘open window’ function that enables the appliance to automatically detect when a window is opened near the towel warmer and to switch to ‘anti-freeze’ mode to prevent unnecessary heating and to avoid wasting energy Similarly, it can detect when the window is closed and restore the operating conditions set previously The appliance comes on automatically at ambient temperatures below 7° And when the ‘child safety’ function is activated, the surface of the appliance is cooler than in normal operation in the currently active mode to avoid the risk of burns caused by brief accidental contact

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL013

HOYLES ELECTRONIC DEVELOPMENTS

WIRELESS TOILET ALARM

Hoyles has launched a new range of wireless disabled persons assistance alarms – perfect for retrofit as well as new installations The range is available in kit form with both mains and battery powered controllers and battery powered ancillary items

The new Wireless Aidalarm operates on ISM Bands with a 200m range in free space and up to 50m range internally Battery status is monitored by the control panel. When the battery requires replacing, the control panel will indicate a fault ensuring users are never left unprotected.

Everything is provided in the kit and all required batteries are supplied, delivering an effective, fully compliant, simple to install and simple to use system

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW RDR LINK/WAL014

HAGER SWITCHBOARDS

For the first time in its history, Hager has launched a factory-built switchboard offer combined with its own ACBs and MCCBs By evolving the successful Quadro Evo platform, the Hager switchboard offer is now specific for the legislative needs of British Standards combined with the specific market and installer expectations.

In the field of electrical enclosures, internal separation plays a crucial role in ensuring safety standards. Quadro Evo is designed to comply with BS EN 61439-2 and provides tailored solutions to achieve the ultimate internal separation of busbars, functional units, and terminals, according to project requirements This allows for a greater degree of choice in terms of Form 4a and Types 2 to 7 arrangements

Quadro Evo's scope goes beyond the enclosure system The platform is capable of using the latest innovative h3+ Hager MCCBs and ACBs, providing highly precise energy consumption data to support sustainability efforts

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL015

H E AT R A E SA D I A HOT WATER CYLINDERS

Baxi has launched a new range of Baxi direct and indirect hot water cylinders to complement the existing range from its Megaflo brand, giving installers a full choice of hot water storage options for customers

Designed and manufactured in the UK by the Heatrae Sadia hot water storage experts at Baxi, the new cylinders provide a high performance and cost-effective option for heat only and system heating set ups.

Delivering up to 76 litres per minute of hot water at three bar pressure, the new cylinders provide outstanding hot water performance without the need for additional shower pumps or tanks – even at low pressures

The high-grade duplex stainless steel tank has a high corrosion resistance and strength to weight ratio, while the insulated T and P valve and 50mm injected foam insulation offers great heat retention and energy efficiency The direct and indirect models also feature an internal expansion with floating baffle, which provides neat and space-saving options for installers to offer customers and reduces overall installation time

The indirect models also boast a high performance ‘coil-in-coil’ heat exchanger, which provides exceptionally fast recovery times

For peace of mind for installe their customers, the range come 25-year warranty on the inner ta two-year warranty for all other components, subject to terms and conditions All cylinders across the range are compatible with all system and heat-only boilers on the market, including those from the Baxi’s latest 600 and 800 ranges.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL016

BREATHING BUILDINGS VENTILATION

Breathing Buildings has added to its award-winning natural ventilation with heat recycling (NVHR) range with its new NVHR 1700 This larger unit is ideal for leisure centres, halls, sport facilities, shopping centres, offices, schools, and other buildings with high heat gains, with the NVHR 1700 offering excellent ventilation and thermal comfort

Meanwhile, in school classroom applications the NVHR 1700 now allows one unit to be specified rather than two, which means a simpler and quicker installation

Breathing Building’s NVHR 1700 offers enhanced natural ventilation with hybrid technology in a slimline, compact, lightweight and energy efficient unit The unit is designed to fulfil the ventilation needs automatically with its demand-controlled equipment, best-in-class flowrate, low noise levels and low energy consumption The NVHR 1700 leads the way in efficiency with specific fan power levels as low as 0 08 W/l/s and in larger applications provides airflow rates as high as 540l/s

The NVHR 1700 also boasts other additional benefits beyond Breathing Building’s current NVHR range of products, since one single unit can be used to ventilate a room or space rather than two smaller units As a result, when installing the NVHR 1700 only one penetration through the external façade is needed rather than two and only one external weather louvre is required. Plus, since there is only one unit to wire to less cabling is required during installation and only one power supply and one fuse spur are needed.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW RDR LINK/WAL017

PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

AICO FIRE & CO ALARM

Aico has introduced the newest innovation in Multi-Sensor alarms - the Ei3030 Multi-Sensor Fire and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm The flagship alarm in Aico’s technologically advanced 3000 Series, the Ei3030 combines individual optical, heat and CO sensors, for the ultimate fire and CO response

Aico continues to evolve its offering to provide products that align with its customers’ requirements while maintaining the simplicity that Installers love

The Ei3030 multi-sensor Fire and CO specifications include:

l Fire Response - The device contains a thermistor heat sensor and highperformance optical sensor that intelligently work together, but will also operate independently

l CO Response - The proven electrochemical CO Sensor provides an accurate CO response. The CO response is in line with BS EN 50291-1:2018.

l Visual Indicators - The Ei3030 has visual fire and CO indicators. The relevant indicator flashes depending on what has triggered the alarm.

l Kitemarks - This device holds Kitemarks for British Standards BS EN 14604:2005, BS 5446-2:2003 and BS EN 50291-1:2018.

The Ei3030 also has a range of additional benefits, including built-in dust compensation technology. The unique selfmonitoring dust compensation mechanism reduces the risk of false alarms The optical sensor chamber continually self-monitors minute changes in dust levels, automatically recalibrating the alarm’s trigger point when necessary to reduce false alarms

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW RDR LINK/WAL018

SCOMORE METAL CLAD SOCKET OUTLETS

Scolmore has added a new metal clad outboard rocker socket to its Click Essentials wiring accessories range The new 13A 2 gang DP three pin safety shutter switched socket outlet with outboard rockers (twin earth) joins the growing Click metal clad range which also includes a number of two way switch plates, switched sockets, safety shutter switched sockets and fused connection units.

The metal clad range features electrophoretically coated plates and back boxes that provide a durable and long lasting heavy duty finish All switch products are of modular construction allowing the installer total freedom in designing customised switching solutions according to on-site needs

All socket outlets and spurs are tested and approved to BS1363 Unfurnished metal clad plates and mounting boxes are also available for use in conjunction with the extensive Click Minigrid and Click New Media modules

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL019

ANSELL LIGHTING FLOODLIGHTS

An extensive range of customisation options make Ansell Lighting’s new Kamar floodlight a great choice for any application With a sleek and modern die-cast design offering beam angles ranging from 8° to 60 the floodlight is suitable for commercial, hospitality, retail and industrial settings and is also ideal for adding dramatic architectural impact to buildings such as church exteriors

Multiple control functions including DALI as standard, DMX, and Casambi (on 35W and 100W versions) enable the Kamar to offer complete controllability.

A huge variety of CCT options can be selected - 2000K, 2200K, 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, 5000K, TW and RGWB – to create the optimum in visibility or mood, and accessories such as a low glare hood and honeycomb film provide the solution where applications require glare optimisation and upward lighting The Kamar is available in two sizes: 330mm x 219 5mm x 100mm and 452mm x 450mm x 160mm

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW RDR LINK/WAL020

MARTINDALE ELECTRIC SOCKET TESTERS

Martindale Electric has introduced two new advanced socket and non-trip earth loop testers, the EZ165 and EZ365; must-haves for any electrician or engineer needing to check mains sockets These conveniently compact but powerful testers detect 28 fault conditions, check the mains voltage level and show how safe the earth wiring is by carrying out a non-trip earth loop test and indicating its value in six discrete ranges This test is critical for ensuring the safety of your electrical system, as a low earth resistance is essential for safety disconnection devices to work properly and prevent electrocution when faults occur

The EZ165 and EZ365 testers have a variety of features to make fault diagnosis fast and easy The combination of red and green LEDs quickly identifies neutral, earth, and live connections, and makes it easy to spot common faults A lookup chart provides further fault diagnosis The testers also indicate high and low voltage levels and their tough, sculpted design makes them easy to unplug, transport and use in a variety of environments

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CARHARTT WORK TROUSERS

When it comes to getting the job done, work trousers matter and Carhartt's unbeatable range of work trousers is designed to offer you specialist protection for every task, no matter how tough. Two highlights in the range are the Men's Relaxed Fit Multi Pocket Tech Pants (103337) and the Ripstop Cargo Work Pants (105461) – both are tough yet comfortable options that will have you covered from dawn ‘til dusk Featuring Rugged Flex technology, these trousers are built to move with you, making it easier to bend, squat and stretch, and their midweight cotton blend means they work in any temperature

But it's the pockets that truly set these trousers apart With pockets reinforced with Cordura, they are almost indestructible and offer ample space to keep all your tools within arm's reach The Multi Pocket Tech Pants also come with two hanging tool pockets and a back utility pocket with a free hanging bottom for ruler storage

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL022

PRODUCTS & EQUIPMENT

HAMMOND ENCLOSURES

The new 14 strong flame-retardant ABS IP54 1556 family, rated UL94-V0, is inspired by the recently launched IP68 polycarbonate 1557 series It follows the same modern rounded corners and top face styling and introduces rectangular versions to complement the square format versions derived from the 1557 series IP54 sealed for general purpose indoor use, the ABS material gives a lower price point than the polycarbonate used in the 1557, which is designed for installation outdoors and in aggressive environments Self-tapping screws secure the lid to the base, making it ideal for applications where repeated opening and closing is not required It is feature-rich and offer multiple option for configuration and customisation There are multiple PCB mounting standoffs in both the lid and the base There are four square plan sizes from 80mm x 80mm to 200mm x 200mm in the range and three rectangular ones from 120mm x 80mm to 200mm x 160mm All sizes are available in two heights, 45mm and 60mm for the smallest size and 45mm and 70mm for the larger ones in the family All sizes are available in black, RAL 7035 grey and white The modern soft rounded styling makes the 1556 an ideal desktop enclosure when fitted with the supplied feet, or it can be wall-mounted with either four visible mounts or two hidden mounts, which are available as optional accessories. Also available as an option for all sizes are 2mm thick aluminium internal panels.

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL023

MAKITA CORDLESS MICROWAVE

Makita has launched its eagerly anticipated cordless microwave oven Driven by the company’s powerful 40VMax XGT battery, the new MW001GZ is designed for portability, allowing users to enjoy hot, microwaved meals in minutes, whether on site, on the road, or at leisure

The eight litre capacity MW001GZ is powered by one or two 40VMax XGT batteries and is designed to utilise the power sequentially for continuous power when it’s needed

With two output settings – 500W or 350W, the inner heating area is large enough to fit most microwave containers and provides a continuous heating time of up to 37 minutes (when used with two BL4080F batteries at 500W output) To withstand tough conditions such as building sites, this compact and durable microwave has been manufactured with a tempered door glass and is dust and water resistant The appliance also features large carry handles for easy transportation and is also supplied with a carry strap A USB port is also built-in for charging devices such as mobile phones

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL024

LASNEK SLOPE TOP BOXES

Lasnek has unveiled its latest selection of IP69 slope top boxes for installing terminals, pushbuttons, or switchgear Available in three different configurations, the latest product offering of slope top boxes from Lasnek includes push button boxes with supplied 22 5mm holes, terminal boxes with a blank front cover, and control station boxes with suitable apertures for easy fitting of an isolator and switches

Manufactured from 1 5mm 304 brushed stainless steel, the latest additions to the range feature a 15˚ slope, to help prevent the build-up of material deposits Suitable for use in highly corrosive environments and those that are subject to strict hygiene control, such as the food and drink industry, the latest range is available in 16 different sizes ranging from 100(H) x 100(W) to 285(H) x 285(W).

Complete with DIN rail for quick and simple mounting, all units within the range are 100mm deep, making them suitable for a wide range of electrical components requiring ingress protection to IP69

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW RDR LINK/WAL025

RING INSPECTION LAMP

Ring has upgraded its MAGFlex Twist to conform with EU laws that are coming into force and provide a new, better and brighter inspection lamp for professionals in a host of different industries In line with EU law that states that by the end of 2024 all consumer electronics must use USB-C charging, Ring has adapted its RIL3600HP, or more commonly known as the MAGFlex Twist, to comply with these new laws and has therefore launched the RIL3600C.

As Ring was adapting the MAGFlex Twist, the product and development team decided to continue to upgrade this lamp alongside its new charging port Consequently, instead of just one light output, it now has two – high (450 lumens) and low (250 lumens) The new model also has an updated charge status indicator, so it’s clear to the user how much battery life the lamp has and if it needs additional charging Furthermore, if it does need charging, it will no longer take four and a half hours: with this new model, it will take just two and a half hours to charge fully

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL026

AIRMASTER COOLING RANGE

Airmaster is a key brand in air cooling with comprehensive ranges of table and floor fans, encompassing both premium and economy options to key products. Aircon units have been added in recent years, with 2023 enhancements to both 9000 and 12000 BTU units now with quieter operation and complete with wi-fi app controlled versions

There are three further major additions for this year, starting with a portable air purifier This 22W floor standing unit, for room sizes from 17 to 30m2, features a high efficiency filter and clear LED display A similarly portable compact dehumidifier is next Designed for quiet operation, this 12 litre refrigerant and auto frost detector is fitted with omni-directional wheels for ease of movement

And the final new addition is a floor standing evaporation cooling tower, cooling air by water

evaporation With three fan speeds, this unit has a remote control seven hour programmable timer with an auto pump shutdown protection when waterless

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PRODUCTS IN DEMAND

PEW takes a look at the most sought-after products from recent issues of Professional Electrician & Installer magazine to give you an insight into your key customers’ buying behaviour.

MEGGER

L A- K I T L A M P

A DA P TO R S E T

The new LA-KIT lamp adaptor set makes it safer, easier and faster to test low voltage electrical installations

E LU C I A N PATTRESS MOUNT KIT

The latest addition to the Elucian by Click consumer unit range is a new pattress mount kit which allows cables to be fed from the top, bottom and either side of the consumer unit With the pattress mount secured to the wall and attached to the back of the consumer unit, the electrician has space between the mount and the unit to neatly feed cabling from the trunking through the rear knockouts The mount allows for a maximum of 16mm trunking which would slide behind the consumer unit Because the mounting kit comprises two separate parts - a left and right mount – it can be used across any size of distribution board and is therefore compatible with the full Elucian consumer unit range - 5, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 and 22 way.

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL028

H OY L E S

H O B WATC H E R & D O R WATC H E R

Students can be vulnerable in many ways, so universities strive to provide safe and secure environments for young people Although full blown fires in student accommodation are extremely rare, propped open kitchen doors and unattended pans on hobs are a cause for concern With a student’s habit of late-night cooking this can be an accident waiting to happen, and it can happen very quickly! Now installed in universities up and down the country, HobWatcher ensures hobs will only operate for a pre-set time if left unattended. Additionally, DorWatcher prevents the spread of cooking smoke and, in the worst case, ensures kitchen fires are contained by ensuring kitchen fire doors are kept closed

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL029

The kit includes five adaptors which plug directly into light sockets in place of the lamp, allowing connections to be made to the lighting circuit in seconds - without the need to dismantle the sockets to access the terminals Not only is this a big time saver, it is also much safer, especially when working at height Suitable for use with almost all types of installation tester, the Megger LA-KIT lamp adaptor kit includes adaptors to suit B22, B14, E27, E14, and GU10 lamp holders Each adaptor has two sockets that accept standard 4 mm test plugs and, for the E27 and E14 types, the sockets are colour-coded for polarity As the other adaptors are reversible, polarity coding is not possible

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R I N G

I N S P E C T I O N L A M P S

Ring, a leading inspection lighting brand for mechanics and technicians, is now making its lamps available to electricians and other trade professionals In addition to the existing classic black, Ring’s MAGflex Mini LED Inspection Lamp, RIL6100, will now also be available in blue and yellow, so tradespeople can easily and quickly find it. The RIL6100 projects 250 lumens, is robust to withstand tough working conditions and has multi-angle positioning, so that users can rotate the lamp to point it at the exact spot needed Helpfully, the lamp has a fantastic battery life, with up to six hours operating time from just a single charge, and it also features a charge level indicator so the electrician can see when it needs to be recharged

GET MORE DETAILS AT: WWW.RDR.LINK/WAL031

PEW looks at some of the latest advertising campaigns featured in recent issues of Professional Electrician & Installer magazine which are helping to create awareness and pull-through sales opportunities at your trade counter.

CAMPAIGN NEWS

TOUGHBUILT PRO-GRADE PORTABILITY

Offering the ultimate in flexible, portable storage for the jobsite, ToughBuilt’s ClipTech platform has been a massive hit since launch With 800+ configurations to outfit every professional, the product gives users the option of effortless, adjustable, and interchangeable pouches, totes, holsters and loops to fit every job. This latest advertising campaign utilises a close up image of the product in action and should send electricians flocking to the trade counter

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC LIGHT COMMERCIAL ESSENTIAL SOLUTIONS

The small and medium building category is a highly competitive space, which is why contractors and electricians need access to versatile solutions that are reliable, quick and easy to install These advertisements comprehensively highlight Schneider’s range of essential mid-market solutions that offer fast and easy installation, safe and reliable circuit protection, and fewer connections Products include I-Line panelboards, IKQ distribution boards and Easy9 consumer units

ROINTE THE MOST EFFICIENT HOT WATER HEATING

Although Rointe may be best known for its range of electric radiators, that doesn’t stop the company from offering a raft of other products, including the new DALIS Pro This air source heat pump and storage tank for domestic water offers highest energy efficient in its class, will work with renewable energy, can expel air flow for cooler rooms in the summer and provides a five-year tank guarantee The product features in this latest advertising campaign and is sure to heat up sales at the counter

ROBUS THE APP THAT WORKS FOR YOU

ROBUS is on a mission to make life easier for electrical contractors and is shouting loud and proud about it in this new selection of eyecatching adverts. With the launch of the new MyROBUS App, electricians can run their business from anywhere Whether they want to create a quote request, claim two-years onsite warranty, calculate energy savings or order a bespoke lighting design, the App has it covered

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A look at the latest display solutions to help increase your in-store purchases.

F O R G IN G AHEAD

Fixings and fastener specialist ForgeFix has launched its new point of sale, designed to help educate customers and save time for busy counter staff

The ForgeFix point of sale is available in eye catching ‘bus stop’ displays that can be hung onto shelving and attract customers to an area The graphics feature handy guides to screws, their uses, surface finishes, sizes, head and thread types. One bus stop also offers a measurement chart and imperial to metric conversion

D u a l p u r p o s e

“These bus stop displays serve two purposes,” explained Rebecca FortescueHalliwell, ForgeFix’s Head of Marketing “Firstly, they grab the attention of the merchant customer, and secondly they help save time when it comes to product selection and any queries the customers may have They can also relieve pressure on counter staff as they negate the need for customers to spend time waiting for answers on product sizes and suitability ”

The new point of sale is part of a wider programme of marketing support ForgeFix is launching for its merchant customers in 2023, including new training videos, packaging and a ‘good, better, best’ product range which encompasses ForgeFix’s popular Fasteners & Fixings, Spectre and ForgeFast brands.

Another day, another dollar: a buoyant construction market is keeping the trade busy

The outlook for electrical wholesalers looks good, according to any number of market reports These expensive reports are of course always based on extrapolating historical data and are skewed by the hard stop of lockdown being followed by exponential ‘regrowth’. Nevertheless, and despite the challenge from Internet traders, there’s an underlying positive theme for the traditional wholesaler and distributor channel Yet why, if installers are so busy, do we really need the middleman? Isn’t the market all pull now? Do we need wholesaler push?

For me, the answer is always going to be an unequivocal yes: and that’s not just because l’ve been around long enough to see snakes as well as ladders The table can turn soon enough – we need to work together but we do need to keep this marriage fresh and alive

Our contribution is to secure your margins by providing superior and innovative products and by continually improving and personalising product support – we do it with real people!

Wholesalers and distributors in turn provide certainty for manufacturers because you take on the stock and the complexity of last-mile logistics. That is your strength – your decisions to stock enable us to plan production with confidence That means we can plan

confidently and invest a long time in advance of the products being sold over the counter and actually installed

Getting products designed, tested and quality assured and then bulk shipping them half way around the world is one thing – and it’s our thing We love doing it However, the minutiae of understanding and predicting local demand, fulfilling individual orders, and getting products in installers vans or delivered on site is not our core skill. That’s your thing and we’re happy to support this partnership where you complete in good fashion the ‘last mile’ logistics

Digitisation

Clearly, a key challenge in recent years has been digitisation throughout your business In particular, I take my hat off to the EDA’s EDATA scheme which has set the bar for the product information that passes between manufacturers and wholesalers high.

We were proud to be one of the first of the mid-sized UK-based manufacturers to invest in adopting E-data standards and achieve the Gold Standard But while E-data is undoubtedly a good thing for or own accuracy and efficiency, it’s a database Important for you and me, yes, but of course, it’s not necessarily the be-all and end-all for installers and end users What they want is for products to keep getting better and to have swift and seamless support

Innovation

Wholesalers have broad catalogues and room and confidence to take on new products That in turn enables us to commit to development and innovation Between us we keep the market alive, avoiding the awful downward spiral to lowest common denominator on price and out-of-date specifications.

The channels partnership approach also enables us to be agile, picking up on success stories, and taking it on the chin when the odd idea doesn’t go down as expected That said though, you’ll have seen how success breeds success

“ There’s an under lying positive theme for the traditional w holesaler and distr ibutor channel.”

In a generation of digitisation and E-data, Andy Douglas, Managing Director of Timeguard, casts his eye over the role of the wholesaler and discusses changes he has seen in the business.

in the evolution of our ranges: you helped us to drive the idea of modular LED lighting into the market and, when it took off, we were able to be quick to expand the range The same has been the case with our professional Wi-Fi home control range. Win-win.

Wholesaling is of course competitive, and staying on top means responding to evolving customer expectations and that means product diversification Building automation and smart buildings in particular offer huge growth opportunities, with rapid advances in connectivity and at the human machine interface (HMI) We look forward to big demand for the affordable and practical active energy efficiency control that Timeguard specialises in

Support

The front line of support is now the Internet Well-written instructions should be freely available to download, and they have to be subject to regular review and updates by the manufacturer or supplier

Digitisation and downloads cannot do the whole job, though, especially if you want to sell higher end and more complex products There should be access to tech teams who know the products inside out Our helplines are staffed by people supporting the product development team - an approach made in support of installers countrywide, and keeping the volume of queries low Guarantees and technical support are, of course, much easier to provide if you continually strive to provide high quality products

We do recognise that many specifiers and contractors prefer to use e-PIM, a Product Information Management system developed for the electrical and construction industry, rather than EDATA So, we also offer ePIM standard datasheets available via the Timeguard

website, with other website and media assets freely available on request

Access to the Internet also means that end users are more likely to go direct to the source, rather than through their installer who, in turn, would be knocking on your door How manufacturers deal with requests for advice or general queries and complaints ultimately reflects on you

What do we get in return? We win space at your wholesale counter, the traditional town square of the electrical trade where fat is chewed, products are poked and prodded, and performance is recommended (or not) It is as ever thus, and long may it remain so

“ Staying on top means responding to evolving customer expectations and that means product diver sification.”

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