Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer May 2020 by Hamerville Media Group

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MAY 2020

HEATING & RENEWABLES

MAKE THE SWITCH TO SMART CONTROLS

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

‘GO LARGE’ WITH YOUR NEXT VAN

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS THE SMART QUARTZ COLLECTION FROM AQUALISA

VISIT PHPIONLINE.CO.UK FOR CORONAVIRUS ADVICE, REGULAR UPDATES & EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

MAY 2020 VOL. 35 NO.4 phpi@hamerville.co.uk

@phpimag

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

NEWS

30 VW’S NEW TRANSPORTER

12 #INSTALLOFFAME 45 CIPHE UPDATE 46 GIVEAWAYS 47 USING RDR.LINK 48 HORROR SHOW 49 NEW PRODUCTS 51 MY BRAIN HURTS

COVID-19 UPDATE 10 INFORMATION SOURCES 11 SUPPORT FOR PLUMBERS

16 BIOLPG FOR RURAL HOMES

20 GRANT’S MANIFESTO FOR A GREENER FUTURE

34 WAVIN’S ‘FULL SERVICE’ SOLUTION DELIVERS FOR NEW-BUILD

22 HOW TO DECARBONISE HEAT

36 HAS SHOWERING ENTERED THE SMART HOME MARKET?

24 CAN DIRT SEPARATION UNITS CONTRIBUTE TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE? 38 BOOSTING MAINS WATER PRESSURE AND FLOW 26 ROUND UP 40 ROUND UP

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

42 GUIDANCE ON SEALING THREADS

28 HONEST JOHN’S ADVICE ON LARGE VANS 30 CAN VW’S FLAGSHIP VAN MAINTAIN ITS PROUD LEGACY?

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS HEATING & RENEWABLES 14 THE PATHWAY TO FURTHER HEAT PUMP INSTALLS 16 FAQ ON LPG & BIOLPG 18 THE SKILLS NEEDED TO BE A HEAT PUMP INSTALLER

32 FLUSH PLATES: THE NEW BATHROOM FOCAL POINT

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT 42 ADVICE ON SEALING THREADS

32 THE RISE OF THE FLUSH PLATE 44 ROUND UP PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 3

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VIEWPOINT EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR ABBIE SMITH asmith@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN & MIDLANDS SALES EDDIE WRIGHT ewight@hamerville.co.uk

DIGITAL GROUP MANAGER STUART DUFF DESIGNER GEMMA WATSON GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CLAIRE THWAITES DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PUBLISHER BRYAN SHANNON PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH LTD PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER is a business journal for those involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating and plumbing systems. It is available to the trade at leading heating and plumbing merchants and specialist outlets throughout the UK. The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication.

@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

An unprecedented time ONAVIRU S COR

It is an unprecedented and worrying time for us all. The Coronavirus outbreak has caused a shift in the way the country operates – the likes of which has not been seen since the 1930s and 40s. And, as you know, At this worrying and the heating and plumbing sector has been difficult time access to significantly impacted. accurate information is important. As this piece is being written it is not known Please turn to page 10 for guidance. for what length of time social distancing, Visit our website home-working and self-isolation restrictions will www.phpionline.co.uk for the latest last. As we have recently witnessed, official advice changes rapidly. Hopefully, by the time updates. Stay safe and follow this is published, the situation will have calmed government advice. See and the country will be coming out of the www.gov.uk restrictions we currently face. However, as this magazine is compiled some weeks before it may be read, we recommend looking at our website www.phpionline.co.uk for the most up-to-date advice. On the site you will also find stories on how installers, suppliers and the wider sector is reacting to the situation. In this issue we have prepared some sources of further information which may be useful should you need to access government services, business assistance, HMRC guidance and industry guidelines. Plus, we have details from a charity linked to the sector, The Rainy Day Trust, on the services it can offer those connected with the sector at this difficult time. You can find all this on pages 10-11. However, whenever we emerge from this challenging time – and we will – the country will need services and solutions from experienced trades professionals as much as ever. So, in this issue you’ll also find our usual in-depth coverage of the sector: the latest solutions, Q&As, installation guides, giveaways and much more. We have chosen to do this to retain a little normality in this abnormal, unprecedented time. Most importantly, however, please stay safe and follow the latest government advice. This can be accessed at www.gov.uk

E DAT UP

MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH

phpionline.co.uk

Jonathan Cole

EDITOR

Subscriptions to PHPI are available for 1 year (11 issues) at the following rates: UK £30 post paid Airmail £80 post paid Europe £50 post paid

For the latest news, plus video reviews, competitions and exclusive content, log on to the PHPI website at WWW.PHPIONLINE.CO.UK

64,368 (Certiﬁcate of Average Distribution for the 11 issues distributed between January 1st and December 31st 2019).

Want to receive a digital copy of PHPI? You can sign up by using www.rdr.link/email PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 5

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News

Share your thoughts with us on the industry via Twitter (@PHPI), Facebook (@ProfessionalPlumber), or by emailing phpi@hamerville.co.uk

COVID-19: AN UPDATE With the Coronavirus situation continually developing we are encouraging readers to visit our website www.phpionline.co.uk for regular updates for installers. We also recommend visiting the Trades Talk website, or on social media #tradestalk, where many are sharing their thoughts and experiences. Visit www.tradestalk.co.uk or use www.rdr.link/pq001 The CIPHE has also published advice for the sector with details available on its website: www.ciphe.co.uk – or use www.rdr.link/pq002 We have also rounded-up some useful sources of advice from industry and the government, available on page 10. However, due to the fast-moving situation, combined with the fact that the magazine is ﬁnalised a number of weeks before it is available to readers, we have taken the decision not to cover the COVID-19 situation in any further detail in this issue as we do not wish to include information that may since have been superseded. Extensive coverage is available on our website. www.phpionline.co.uk Please stay safe and follow up-to-date government advice. See www.gov.uk

Help for installers The government has announced the measures it is putting in place to support the self-employed… including thousands of installers across Britain. The Chancellor has announced that the self-employed will be entitled to a taxable grant of 80% of their average monthly proﬁts over the past three years, capped at £2,500/month. The scheme will run for at least three months, and the Chancellor says he hopes people will be able to access it no later than June. It will only be open to those who are already self-employed and have a self-assessment tax return for 2019, and will apply to those with trading proﬁts up to £50,000/year. For more details on this scheme, and other government initiatives to support businesses please visit www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-support

NEW DISTRIBUTION NETWORK FOR ATAG ATAG boilers has expanded its distribution network to include plumbing and heating merchants. Up until now, the ﬁrm, based in Dunfermline, Scotland, had only sold it boilers to ATAG Selected Partners. But in a bid to give wider, same day availability of product, ATAG’s range is now stocked in a range of local, independent merchants.

WORCESTER REPOSITIONS GREENSTAR RANGE Worcester Bosch has announced a price reduction for its Greenstar CDi Compact range. The move was introduced on March 1st this year, and saw prices reduced between 7 - 15% dependent on the product. Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communications and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, said: “The price revision offers installers greater choice for their customers. It also enables homeowners to have the same high-quality heating system, at a competitive price, along with all the aftercare support that is synonymous with the Worcester Bosch brand.” To read more about the Greenstar CDi Compact range, or about Worcester Bosch www.rdr.link/pq003

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GRANT EXTENDS GUARANTEES TO 7 YEARS It has been announced by Grant UK that ‘G1’ Installers who are accredited to fit its heat pumps can now access longer guarantees on the Aerona³ heat pumps that they purchase, install and register through the G1 Scheme. Aerona³ units which are installed by a G1 Air Source Heat Pump Installer are now eligible for a seven year guarantee – two years longer than the ﬁve year heat pump guarantee previously available through the Scheme. “Renewable technologies are becoming increasingly popular with air source heat pumps playing an important role in the industry and for all of us here at Grant,” commented Kevin Ellis, Renewables Sales Manager at Grant UK. For more details about the G1 Installer www.rdr.link/pq004 Scheme

JTL ANNOUNCES REGIONAL WINNER Shaun Donaldson from Birmingham has been named as JTL’s Mechanical Engineering Services Apprentice of the Year in the Midlands. Shaun, who currently holds an NVQ L2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating, said: ‘’After a challenging start to my apprenticeship, I am extremely grateful to both my employer and my JTL Training Officer, for sticking with me, and for recognising my commitment for the course with this award.” JTL is a leading national training provider for electrical and heating & plumbing apprenticeships. Training Officer, Paul Walton, said: ‘’Shaun is an extremely committed, conscientious and polite student, and from my ﬁrst session with him he instantly showed maturity beyond his years.” Following a successful apprenticeship with local ﬁrm, JS Wright Co LTD, Shaun has now been shortlisted to represent the Midlands against three other regional MES winners at JTL’s National Awards.

DESIGN AWARD FOR HULTAFORS TOOLS Hultafors Group’s Workwear and Tools brands has scooped another award. Added to the Red Dot Design Award for Workwear, the Hultafors Group has announced it also recently won the iF Design Award for its Snap-Off Knife (SRP18A) and its HDM Dry Marker. With over 7,200 entries from 56 countries, competition was intense.

PLUMBERS SEEK CUSTOMER SERVICES TRAINING According to a new survey by WRAS, 50% of plumbers believe their training should incorporate more guidance on customer services. The survey commissioned by the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS) in collaboration with WaterSafe, questioned UK plumbers about training to understand any issues and how they could be improved. The research also found that over the last 12 months, 38% of plumbers have experienced a customer dispute about payment that resulted in a late or partial payment, or not being paid for their plumbing services. 45% believe their training should incorporate guidance on handling and avoiding customer complaints. Nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of the plumbers surveyed had to resort to the small claims court to recover costs from a non-paying customer. Julie Spinks, Managing Director of WRAS, said: “Based on our survey findings, it is clear that many plumbers believe that they would benefit from additional training on managing customer services effectively to avoid losing out on precious income.” To assist plumbers WaterSafe has produced a guide on Customers Services – To review the guide www.rdr.link/pq005 please

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ADEY INTRODUCES NEW MANUFACTURING FACILITY ADEY is aiming for further expansion in 2020 with the announcement of a third site, a purpose-built 44,000 sq ft facility, to be based in Gloucestershire. Matthew Webber, ADEY’s Group Managing Director, said “Since ADEY created magnetic filtration technology more than 15 years ago, we’ve experienced significant growth becoming a global presence with sales and operations covering UK, Europe, North America and Asia Pacific. “We’re committed to delivering innovative and high-quality products and services to customers all over the world. As such, it’s important that we continue to have a controllable, scalable and sustainable platform to service increasing demand in our products and services. Investing in this additional facility further fulfils this aim.” The company says that its new facility will create an initial 40 new jobs for the local area.

BAXI CALLS FOR HYDROGEN-READY BOILERS BY 2025 Baxi Heating has called on the Government to mandate hydrogen-ready boilers for all new gas boiler installations by 2025. Commenting prior to the recent Spending Review, Jeff House, Head of External Affairs for Baxi Heating, said: “Baxi and others in the heating industry are preparing to deliver clean heating and play our part in tackling climate change. We now call on the government to match our commitment with a clear message that hydrogen is one of the key solutions to deliver Net Zero by committing £1bn towards readying the UK for hydrogen.” He continued: “From the consumer’s perspective, hydrogen will offer everything they value from their current heating solution, namely instantaneous heat and hot water delivered by the existing gas network. Hydrogen offers a straightforward and practical solution for the consumer and we urge government to prioritise it in its future plans.” Recently launched in Parliament, the Hydrogen Taskforce brings together ten leading organisations at the heart of the current and future UK energy system to offer a shared vision of the role of hydrogen in the UK’s transition to Net Zero. The Taskforce has agreed a collective position on the next steps that must be taken to ensure the UK capitalises on an opportunity to decarbonise heat which accounts for 37% of UK carbon emissions.

8 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

NEWS IN BRIEF... Designer and manufacturer of macerators and pumps, SANIFLO, has updated its brand identity. The move is to align it with parent company SFA. In the UK, the Saniflo name has been retained in the new identity in recognition of the many years of positive association with plumbers, installers and the wider industry. Saniflo also enjoys the accolade of being the generic term for a macerator here. Find-a-tradesperson service, MYBUILDER, has launched a tool that allows users to create and send professional quotes in minutes. The free tool available for iOS and Android devices gives control of pricing and payments. Tradespeople can send quotes directly to customers, with no limit to the number of quotes that can be compiled. For www.rdr.link/pq006 more details Monument Tools will be Lead Sponsor at SKILLPLUMB 2020. The company has been supporting the competition for many years, and has now stepped up to become the lead sponsor. Jamie Fisher, Monument Tools Sales Director, commented: “Monument Tools have a history of supporting Apprentices right back to the start of our business as a Tool Merchant in the City of London back in 1880, and we are proud to be continuing this tradition.” Find out more about www.rdr.link/pq007 SkillPLUMB Plumbing has been revealed as the second best trade skill to learn for 2020. That's according to a recent report from TOTALLYMONEY which looked into the best skills to learn to increase a salary. From the study relating to trades skills, the report found that while Electricians have the highest average salary at £37,500, plumbers are ranked a close second of average salary at £32,500. Gardening ranked bottom for average salary at £21,000. To see the full www.rdr.link/pq008 findings

VIESSMANN has continued its growth for the third consecutive year, reporting global sales of EUR 2.65 billion, an increase of 6.4 percent, in 2019. The business grew by five per cent in both 2017 and 2018. The family business says it is progressing its strategic transformation from a traditional heating manufacturer to a provider of integrated solutions for living spaces. An independent report by the HEALTH & SAFETY EXECUTIVE (HSE) has questioned the effectiveness of tool manufacturers’ dust extraction systems. The report, entitled ‘Assessment of dust extraction system solutions on hand-held electric diamond cutters to BS EN 50632’, examines exposure levels to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) on three different systems composing of tool, insert and vacuum unit. The report was directed by Hilti as part of its ongoing dust awareness campaign, further information on which can be found at www.rdr.link/pq009

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SPECIAL REPORT | Coronavirus

COVID-19//

ACCESS THE LATEST ADVICE

This information was compiled in the final week of March. Pleas e CHECK OUR WEBSIT E for up-to-date informatio n: phpionline.co.uk/ tag/coronavirus/

Important contact points for further information, advice and guidance on COVID-19.

ith heating, hot water and sanitation as important as ever in these difficult and worrying times many plumbers and heating engineers will be offering critical advice and support to building mangers and property owners. As access to information is essential, we have rounded up some points of guidance from the industry and from government. However, please note, since this information was collated any guidance given may have changed. Please see our website for the most up-to-date information. To help you do this we’ve set up a dedicated Coronavirus section on the site so that we can bring you the latest updates from government, installers, trade bodies, and manufacturers.

their tax due to Coronavirus to get practical help and advice. The helpline number is 0800 0159 559, and is in addition to other HMRC phone contact numbers.

Trades Talk

HHIC

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

The Heating & Hot Water Information Council (HHIC) has issued advice to heating engineers on working during the COVID-19 crisis. It has identiﬁed a number of actions that frontline engineers - who are still operating - can take to help protect themselves and their customers at this time. HHIC advises that engineers follow the most up-to-date guidance available. Visit www.hhic.org.uk

UK Government

CIPHE

You can access the latest information from the Government at www.gov.uk/coronavirus

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has published advice for the sector with details available on its website: www.ciphe.org.uk – or use www.rdr.link/pq010. Members of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) have access to a free legal advice service as a part of their membership. It is available via 01275 405 600.

Bookmark phpionline.co.uk/tag/coronavirus/

Business Support The government has announced a number of measures to help businesses, including the measures it is putting in place to support the self-employed. For more details on this scheme, and other government initiatives please visit www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus -business-support

Gas Safe Register Advice for the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak has been issued by the Gas Safe Register. Visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk

HMRC HMRC has a set up a phone helpline to support businesses and self-employed people concerned about not being able to pay their tax due to COVID-19. The helpline allows any business or self-employed individual who is concerned about paying

At this time it is vital to keep communicating with each other and colleagues from across the sector. Sharing information and experiences can be of signiﬁcant assistance. One way to keep in touch with trade professionals from across the wider construction sector is ‘Trades Talk’. Visit www.tradestalk.co.uk and look out for #tradestalk on social media.

NHS You can access the latest information from the NHS at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid -19/

Rainy Day Trust The Rainy Day Trust is a charity linked to the sector which supports people who have worked in the home improvement sector, including plumbers. It’s CEO, Bryan Clover, said: “The stress and strain associated with the virus will be causing a lot of anxiety, so please encourage people to use our telephone counselling service.” (0203 192 0486) You’ll ﬁnd more details on the charity’s work on page 11. To help it do its important work, the charity has also issued a call for support. Bryan Clover said: “We do not have vast reserves to call on, so we need your help in any small way that you can, to give us the boost that we in turn need to help those around you.” Please get in touch with Bryan bryan@rainydaytrust.org.uk or visit www.rainydaytrust.org.uk

follow up-to-date government advice. See www.gov.uk 10 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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SUPPORTING THE TRADE

Bryan Clover, CEO of the Rainy Day Trust provides a statement on the support that is available from the charity.

he last few months have brought some serious disruption to our industries. First the ﬂooding brought by storms Ciara, Dennis and Elena, and now Covid-19. Covid-19 is an incredibly fast-moving situation, but one that we are well placed to deal with from an operational perspective. The Rainy Day Trust is set up for home working, and our caseworking partner, Connect Assist has robust measures in place to keep applications moving. We are also working up a short application process for people to access cash quickly. Retirees, those on zero hours contracts, self-employed tradesmen or those have caring responsibilities are the ones that are going to be hardest hit. If you can’t work, you can’t earn, so that’s where we can help. We can provide assistance across the range of services that we offer and we would encourage employers to get in touch as soon as they recognise a need to adjust working hours so that we can have a preventative effect rather than a curative one. HR Managers and team leaders can let us take some of the strain.

Call for donations The ﬂip side of the same coin is that our income is taking a battering with the cancellation of so many events. We do not

If you or someone that you know needs help, please get in touch.

have vast reserves to call on, so we need your help in any small way that you can, to give us the boost that we in turn need to help those around you. You can support us with straight donations, stock that we can sell on, or collections at work. The list is long and varied. Please get in touch if you can help bryan@rainydaytrust.org.uk

Here to help But, as always, we are here to help. It’s why we exist. The stress and strain associated with the virus will be causing a lot of

Get in touch… www.rainydaytrust.org.uk For beneficiaries or help, call 0203 192 0486

anxiety, so please encourage people to use our telephone counselling service; perfect for social isolation as it turns out. We know only too well that applying for help from a charity can be seen as stigmatizing but it isn’t. It’s short-term help to get you through a crisis or period of transition. If you or someone that you know needs help, please get in touch. It is all completely conﬁdential. Remember, it’s a leg up, not a hand out. To contact the Rainy Day Trust use www.rdr.link/pq011

For administration, call 01527 872545 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 11

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Proud to support the profession al installer #InstallOfFame is designed to showcase some of the great work carried out by plumbers and heating engineers. PHPI’s #InstallOfFame will feature on Twitter and Instagram and give installers the chance to show off their finest installations… and we’ll be highlighting some of the best submissions on our website and in print. Honeywell Home is proud to support the professional installer and will be giving away a T6 programmable thermostat each issue to one lucky entrant! To check out the latest additions to the galleries follow #InstallOfFame on Twitter and Instagram. If you are not on social media and would like the opportunity to be included, please email your photos to phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Here are a few more examples:

bin @ajg_plum

@jw_heating

@heatmanialtd

@Rosario_Heating

@VIRTUEHEATINGANDPLUMBING

HONEYWELL HOME ASKS… Why is doing a good job important? “I’m only as good as my last job, so, ultimately, you’ve got to do a good job every job.”

Hear more from Honeywell installers at www.proudtosupport.co.uk

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

PUMP IT UP

Graham Wright, Chairman of the Heat Pump Association, explains why the next generation of heating installers will play a crucial role in changing consumer habits and scaling up heat pump deployment to help reduce the carbon emissions from the UK’s heating supply.

he UK has shown commitment to tackling the climate crisis by setting a signiﬁcant – and necessary – target to meet net zero emissions by 2050. But, despite leading the way on emissions targets, we still have some way to go before we can be classed as a pioneer in low carbon heating. Fossil fuel heating systems are still used in the majority of buildings here in the UK, contributing to the climate crisis, whilst low carbon solutions wait in the wings. In 2018, heat pump sales in the UK were around 27,000 units. In order to decarbonise the heat supply, it is thought that this number

will need to rise to over one million annual installations by the mid-2030s. At this rate, the deployment of the 19 million heat pumps recommended by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) in order to attain net zero by 2050 could be reached. In the HPA’s recently launched vision report, “Delivering Net Zero: A Roadmap for the Role of Heat Pumps”, we stated that the industry’s efforts to establish wide-scale deployment of heat pumps in the UK would be delivered through three key pillars: l Putting the consumer at the heart of

change

Image: NIBE

14 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

l Upskilling the installer base to create a

cohort of highly skilled low-carbon heat installers l Working with government to ensure a supportive policy mix

Increasing consumer awareness We have placed an emphasis on the role of installers as they will play a crucial role in increasing awareness among their customer base. At the moment, a potential complication to the uptake of heat pumps is the need for installers to improve their knowledge and skills in regard to the technology as consumers typically rely on the expertise and advice installers are able to provide. Consumers are more likely to take-up a new technology if it provides a better service than they currently experience. Heat pumps can do this, but consumers need to be made aware of the beneﬁts. With a highly skilled installer base, heat pumps can be deployed to a standard that ensures consumers get the most out of them and their beneﬁts can be properly explained. A high proportion of current heating installers are therefore likely to need to upskill to be able to install low carbon heating systems. There is, for example, a need to size heat pumps more carefully according to the

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heat demand of a building – heat emitters often need to be upgraded to work with lower ﬂow temperatures and hydraulic balancing is carried out to ensure that the distribution of water in heating systems is optimised. Though there will be new entrants to the installation market, the expectation is that the majority of installers will need to come from the current boiler installer base. There is also a responsibility from industry and government to ensure that new entrants to the installer base are adequately trained and possess the skills that they will need in the long term. The HPA supports the offering of apprenticeships to encourage the younger generation of installers to develop their skill base and ensure that the quality of heat pump installations is high, the knowledge of the beneﬁts that the technology can bring is commonplace, and there are sufficient installer numbers to scale up deployment to the required levels.

Maintaining standards To maintain high standards and guarantee quality, there is a strong case for bringing

in a ‘skills card’ of some sort, specifically for installers of renewables. The skills card could be used to highlight the separation in the abilities needed to install heat pumps, such as the design, install and commissioning functions. This division could allow specialisation across these skills and help to optimise the time for training and increase the labour force. The heat pump industry is ready to meet the upskilling challenge by providing the delivery of training through the development of suitable qualification schemes and administration of this. However, it is crucial that there is enough interest from people wanting to undergo this training. This is reliant on a firm commitment from the government to indicate that low carbon heat is the ‘direction of travel’ and fossil fuel heating will be phased out sooner rather than later. To read the Heat Pump Association report “Delivering Net Zero: A Roadmap for the Role of Heat Pumps” please www.rdr.link/pq012

Though there will be new entrants to the installation market, the expectation is that the majority of installers will need to come from the current boiler installer base.

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

Q&A // LPG In rural locations, where mains gas is not always an option for heating and cooking, one alternative is LPG. Karl Bateman, National Specifier Manager at Calor, answers some of the most common questions about LPG and BioLPG.

early four million rural homes in the UK do not have access to mains gas, according to the Energy Savings Trust. Instead, they rely on alternatives such as oil, electricity or solid fuel for heating, hot water, and cooking. This means there’s a signiﬁcant potential market for customers who could be interested in LPG. Additionally, the government’s new Clean Growth Strategy means many off-grid homeowners may consider cleaner, renewable, lower carbon fuels, such as BioLPG.

What is BioLPG?

Carbon reduction is becoming a major focus for homes and businesses across the UK. It is hoped that the use of fuels such as BioLPG will provide a major boost to the country’s efforts to achieve targets both in terms of emissions reduction and renewable heat deployment. Available to bulk tank customers, BioLPG is chemically identical to standard LPG, but is created from a blend of sustainably sourced materials. It’s delivered in the same way as conventional LPG, has the same efficiencies, and can also reduce your customer’s carbon

16 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

emissions compared to heating oil. With BioLPG, there’s no speciﬁc training required – as it’s classed as a ‘drop in’ fuel and is compatible with all LPG appliances So, anyone that is LPG qualiﬁed and on the Gas Safe Register can both recommend and install it.

Is it difficult to become LPG qualiﬁed?

To become LPG qualified, gas-certified installers only need to complete two key qualifications. The first of which is CCLP1: Core LPG Safety Training and Assessment. This is a Gas Safety qualification and is required for any engineer wishing to work on LPG installations or further their training. The second is CONGLP1 (PD): Conversion of Natural Gas to LPG. This allows an installer to convert all of their existing natural gas qualifications to their equivalent LPG counterparts. Calor will manage everything from tank specification to siting. In some cases, the tank can be installed in just one day, including civil works, external pipework, delivery and installation of the tank. This leaves the installer to carry out the boiler installation.

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Are LPG boilers expensive?

Switching to an LPG boiler can be a cost-effective option for off-grid homeowners, with an LPG boiler costing less than an oil boiler, according to our comparative pricing. As well as costing less to purchase, many LPG boilers have also been proven to achieve efficiencies of 90 per cent or more. This energy efficiency makes them kinder to both the environment and the customer’s bank balance.

How can Calor help?

Calor offers support and incentives to the boiler installers on its Installer Scheme; all installers are listed on the Calor website under the ‘LPG boiler installer finder ’ tool, enabling homeowners to find a local installer near them. The company also pays installers up to £250 for a domestic lead, and £500 for a commercial lead, which will be paid once the customer has their first fill of gas.

It’s clear that the case for greater energy efficiency is strong. With off-grid fuel options limited historically; LPG and BioLPG provide rural, off-grid homeowners with a renewable, sustainable option which installers can continue to champion. With the Government focusing on initiatives, such as the Clean Growth Strategy, which includes proposals around reducing the installation of high-carbon heating systems in new and existing off-grid homes, there is a clear opportunity for installers to not only contribute to UK efficiency targets, and help the end user, but also develop a new revenue stream for their businesses.

BioLPG is chemically identical to standard LPG, but is created from a blend of sustainably sourced materials. To discover more about Calor’s Installer www.rdr.link/pq013 Scheme For more information on BioLPG www.rdr.link/pq014

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

GROWTH POTENTIAL

Jonathan Grist, Renewable Sales Director at Viessmann UK, explains why it is a good time to become a heat pump installer, and how the job differs from a gas or oil installer.

eat pump sales are climbing strongly and expected to keep rising for years. This means there is a big commercial opportunity for installers of gas and oil boilers who expand their skills to include heat pumps too. Becoming certiﬁed to install heat pumps can open the door to new business straight away and will be even more valuable in the near-future. Let’s see why, before taking a brief overview at the four key ways in which a heat pump installer’s job differs to a boiler installer’s.

Why it’s worth doing? The first good reason for getting certified to work with heat pumps is consumer demand. The ‘Blue Planet effect’, as some trend-watchers have named it, is inspiring more end-users to make environmentally-responsible choices. About 28,000 heat pumps were installed in the UK during 2017, according to the latest figures from BSRIA, and this represented an 18% increase over the previous year – yet currently, there are only about 600 MCS-registered heat pump installers. The other good reason is the government. The Chancellor’s spring statement last year delivered a bombshell

by saying that fossil-fuel heating should be replaced by low-carbon heating systems in all new homes built after 2025. There could be some resistance to this policy idea, and perhaps some delays and dilution, but there’s no escaping the fact that radical change is on the way. The energy research and consulting services company Delta-EE forecasts that by 2025 the UK heat pump market will double in size.

we are seeing high levels of interest in the introductory heat pump courses run by the Viessmann Academy With all these changes afoot, we are seeing high levels of interest in the introductory heat pump courses run by the Viessmann Academy. After completing this one-day course, participants usually know whether they want to go on to get MCS-certiﬁcation, either immediately or to wait for a bit longer.

18 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

FOUR KEY DIFFERENCES FOR HEAT PUMP INSTALLERS 1 I The necessary certification It is always desirable, and sometimes essential, for heat pump installers to be qualified with the MCS quality assurance scheme. Becoming an MCS certified installer proves competence, as well as a commitment to quality workmanship, customer care and continual improvement. MCS certification is required when end-users wish to claim Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) benefits – and many do. On those occasions when split air source heat pumps (rather than monoblocs) are installed, another necessary qualification is F-Gas certification. This is because the outdoor and indoor units have to be connected on-site with refrigerant pipework. Some installers choose to get F-Gas certified, but most prefer to sub-contract this part of the job to someone else who is suitably qualified.

2 I The initial assessment When ﬁrst visiting a potential customer to assess the viability of installing a heat pump, the considerations are quite different

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to those for a boiler. But ascertaining whether a heat pump is suitable for the property and providing a ballpark price estimate can sometimes take as little as ten minutes, as part of an initial assessment. It is necessary during this initial assessment: to inspect the property’s insulation and check the existing heating system’s radiators, which may need supplementing or replacing, because of the lower ﬂow temperature with heat pumps; to calculate the size of the heat pump required according to the building’s heat loss, and not according to hot water demand; to be mindful not to over-size the heat pump; to ensure there is space for an additional hot water cylinder and buffer vessel; and to establish whether the home occupier’s lifestyle, including annual energy usage, is suitable for a low-temperature system, remembering that the boiler can be kept as back-up. Another consideration is that if the heat pump has to produce 11 kW or more, it will need three-phase power, and this could make the installation prohibitively expensive.

3 I Full heat loss calculation If the customer is happy with the quote and advice provided from the initial assessment, the next step is to select the best heat pump for the circumstances. This decision will be

shaped by taking a more detailed look at the radiators or underﬂoor heating and making a precise heat loss calculation by physically measuring all rooms and windows and assessing the level of insulation in walls, windows, and attic. Again, online tools are available to help with this. These calculations will make it possible to inform the customer how much the heat pump-led system will cost to run and what their RHI payment entitlement will be. People who join the Domestic RHI scheme and stick to its rules currently receive quarterly payments for seven years for the amount of renewable energy their system is estimated to produce.

4 I The installation Much of the work at this stage will be familiar to boiler installers. Fitting pipes and valves for the hydraulics system is much the same, though pipework off the heat pump will probably need to be larger than that off a boiler, and the electrician’s job of ﬁtting connections will also be the same.

Hydraulic balancing is recommended to ensure the system runs at the correct operating temperature. There are, however, a few differences. The lower ﬂow temperatures of a heat pump system mean that there need to be bigger radiators or underﬂoor heating. Weather compensating controls are obligatory as part of building regulations Part L and for all MCS-approved work. Electric meters must be installed for every phase used in conjunction with the heat pump, including the outdoor unit and building low meter, for example. Planning permission also requires minimum distances between the heat pump’s outdoor unit and the plot’s borders. Also related to planning rights are noise levels. These must be assessed to ensure the heat pump isn’t a nuisance to the householder or neighbours. This is calculated by measuring the distance between the heat pump and neighbouring house and checking that the pump complies with Planning Regulation-permitted development guidelines. Viessmann can provide a calculator to simplify this. For the reasons given here, installing a heat pump system typically takes a little longer than installing a boiler.

Ride the wave The proportion of new-build homes with heat pump systems is going to increase signiﬁcantly. The number of homeowners choosing to replace their expiring boilers with heat pumps will also increase. This means an upsurge in heat pump purchases is on the way – and the most successful heating system installers will be those who ride the wave. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq015

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

A CLEANER FUTURE

The UK Government has set a target of net zero carbon by 2050. Paul Wakefield, Managing Director of Grant UK outlines what this means for installers.

he UK Government has set out a target of net zero carbon by 2050. The target will require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, compared with the previous target of at least 80% reduction from 1990 levels. In line with this target, the clear goal for Grant UK is to take the lead on decarbonising home heating, helping installers make the transition to cleaner more sustainable domestic heating systems. To start this process, we have recently outlined our vision for how home heating could look 10 years from now in 2030. Leading the way in the off-gas heating sector, Grant UK is well positioned to play this key role in the transition towards greener technologies. For over 20 years we have been helping homeowners consider and adopt more sustainable approaches to home heating, especially those in older, inefficient, harder-to-heat homes that are costly to upgrade. We also continue to manufacture incredibly energy efficient oil boilers, such as the award-winning Grant Vortex condensing boiler range, available in outputs from 12 to 70kW. The boilers have won accolades such as Which? Best Buys in recent years, are endorsed by the Energy Savings Trust and are currently some of the most efficient oil-ﬁred boilers on the market. Our hope is that both new and existing homes will no longer be solely dependent on fossil fuels for heating but have access to affordable and sustainable biofuel substitutes, or alternatively, can transition

Paul Wakefield MD of Grant UK. Grant UK has recently introduced its vision of low carbon heating in the coming decade

to hybrid or renewable solutions. Hybrid systems are a signiﬁcant and immediately available solution to transitioning the off-gas market towards low-carbon heating as they combine a traditional boiler with a renewable technology like a heat pump. This approach prioritises the renewable technology, with the boiler providing back up when required and is ideal for retroﬁt hard-to heat homes. A typical carbon reduction of up to 70% can be achieved with this method of heating and even more when using a biofuel alternative for the boiler.

20 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Manifesto for change Acknowledging the current situation in off gas and rural areas, what needs to change to help us achieve our 2030 vision? This is our manifesto for change to help the industry decarbonise:

1 I The Government policy to support renewable technologies including hybrid heating solutions, should be reinforced after the cessation of the RHI to continue to bridge the gap between fossil fuels and renewable technologies, especially with retroﬁt installations. There needs to be clear market direction and encouragement to end users to update their houses and make the move to greener heating alternatives.

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Hybrid systems are a significant and immediately available solution to transitioning the off-gas market towards low-carbon heating 2 I Future Legislation needs to consider how to make older houses more energy efficient. This must cover properties that are in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and possibly listed buildings, to enable solutions for improving thermal efficiency.

3 I Government needs to agree to support industry in the move to bio-liquid fuels, with a clear timetable for implementation (with the caveat of the use of sustainable palm free feed stocks). 4 I A scrappage scheme should be introduced for older inefficient appliances to encourage homes to switch to greener heating methods.

5 I Financial support should be considered for installers to encourage them to train on renewable technologies. This will increase uptake, ensure installations are carried out correctly and provide a higher standard of workmanship for consumers.

6 I A Competent Persons Scheme is required for heat pump installers ensuring standards are maintained and the technology performs to its potential.

7 I New homes should be future-proofed today to ensure an adequate electrical and plumbing infrastructure is ďŹ tted, allowing for the move to renewable technologies in the future. Grant UK is already investing heavily in external training facilities and staff so it can not only improve awareness and product knowledge in the marketplace, but also help heating engineers diversify and grow their own businesses to take advantage of these opportunities. Installers will be so important in delivering the change that is required to move away from a reliance on fossil-fuels. Our aim is to support them as much as possible to enable this to happen. For more details www.rdr.link/pq016

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

ON TARGET

OFTEC Chief Executive, Paul Rose, says it is time to target emissions, not technologies, in the race to decarbonise heat.

ost people agree that action is needed to reduce the carbon emissions generated from heating people’s homes – but when it comes to the best way to do it, this same consensus of opinion distinctly lacking. Most discussions focus on the technology required to achieve results and the arguments rage back and forth, with each side claiming its solution offers the most credible answer. For buildings on the gas grid, the existing heating industry is promoting hydrogen while its opponents propose low carbon electricity and the use of heat pumps. For off gas grid homes, existing industries are focused on biofuels, while electric heating is again promoted as the leading alternative. The government, quite rightly, wants to make choices based on evidence and has commissioned a considerable amount of research into how to decarbonise heat. The problem is that the evidence so far shows that all the technologies have their virtues and their vices. None is perfect; it all comes down to the best ﬁt for each individual home and crucially, to cost.

Impact on households The impact on the consumer is particularly important because the next steps needed towards decarbonisation will directly

Research shows that low carbon liquid fuels offer the most cost-effective option to decarbonise heat from oil heated homes

involve households in a way that has not happened up to now. The measures required will affect the very fabric of people’s homes, cause disruption to their everyday lives and potentially deplete their bank balances. There are also the potential political consequences to consider should the chosen solutions turn out to be unpopular or expensive. The challenge for politicians has always been how to deliver the transformation needed while keeping the electorate on board.

Carbon saving percentage vs current day fossil derived kerosene

22 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Technology neutral So, what if the best course of action for government was not to make a choice at all? Instead of trying to pick winners, would it simply be better to set appropriate carbon intensity targets in line with government’s strategic goals and then encourage all the potential technology players to meet or exceed these? This is broadly the idea proposed by the Sustainable Energy Association in its recent policy document, ‘Achieving Net Zero - Regulating the Decarbonisation of Heat’, and it certainly has some merit. Not least because it potentially allows for the range of solutions that are needed to cope with the messy reality of the decarbonising the UK’s housing stock. The approach could, for example, overcome the practical difficulties of retrofitting heat pumps into older homes. The argument here isn’t whether this can be done but whether it can be done at a price the owner would be willing and able to accept. So, if a heat pump is too expensive, perhaps a boiler running on a liquid biofuel would be a more attractive alternative – particularly if it means the existing appliance can be converted at low cost, rather than entirely replaced.

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Target focus Regulation by emission targets rather than technology creates a level playing ﬁeld and naturally promotes competition between technologies, encouraging innovation and keeping prices down, both of which are good news for consumers. The idea is obviously in the government’s interests too because it makes it more likely that households will embrace the changes and that technology solutions will be forthcoming. Government has so far committed to supporting major trials of heat pumps and hydrogen but done little or nothing to

1.53

MILLION

The number of oil heated homes in the UK

develop other sectors. It could be argued that alternative technologies such as bioliquids are niche solutions but given that off-grid homes are a key priority for decarbonisation during the 2020s – and the clock is already ticking – it would surely make sense to explore such options seriously. One reason why this hasn’t happened is that some policy commentators see the UK’s off-grid homes as offering the perfect opportunity to develop the heat pump sector ahead of wider deployment. However, the age and condition of the UK’s 1.53m oil heated homes present a

considerable challenge to this idea. By contrast, extensive research shows retaining and upgrading existing oil heating systems while deploying a low carbon liquid fuel offers a more cost-effective and pragmatic route to net zero for these homes. It is certainly one that off-grid households would be likely to embrace. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq017

To view the report ‘Achieving Net Zero Regulating the Decarbonisation of Heat’ www.rdr.link/pq018 please

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE T

here are a number of definitions of sustainability. But in essence, we are talking about the use of resources, and finding ways to rebalance consumption so that the needs of today can be met without impacting adversely on the needs of tomorrow. The ultimate aim is to bring about change so that the environment is better protected and better respected. The heating and plumbing industry, as with other construction sectors, is in a great position to make a positive contribution towards this objective. Finding more sustainable solutions goes much further than finding an alternative fuel source. We can also make progress by being selective in the technologies we use, by considering the materials products are made out of, and by adopting more eco-friendly working practices.

Legislative drivers Of course, much of the direction of travel and how quickly this ‘green’ objective can be achieved is enshrined in, and driven by, legislation.

The issue of sustainability is a significant topic in the sector. Dave Goodyer from Spirotech considers the implications for installers and how the industry can contribute to a ‘greener’ future.

The UK government’s Future Homes Standard, to be introduced by 2025, directs that all new-build homes will be ‘future-proofed’ with low carbon heating and improved energy efficiency. Further down the line, in 2050, the ambitious target of the country having Net Zero carbon emissions will need to be met. This will have major implications for boiler manufacturers, as ‘traditional’ forms of energy for fuelling heating systems, such as natural gas, are phased out and new ones such as hydrogen are introduced. On the ‘wet’ side of the equation, whatever fuel is adopted for heating, the removal of air and dirt will still have a vital role to play in maintaining the quality of the system ﬂuid and protecting the system itself. This, in turn, will help keep the system performing at optimum levels, making an

24 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

important contribution to minimising energy consumption and broader ambitions to lower carbon emissions.

System protection As all good installers know, it is fundamental to the running of a wet heating system that if the quality of the ﬂuid is impaired, efficiency will be compromised, no matter how well the boiler and pumps are functioning. Despite the increase in uptake of dirt separation and deaeration technology by heating engineers in the UK over the past few years, there is still a long way to go to meet the levels of which it is adopted across Europe. Installers can play their part by making homeowners aware of the merits of deaeration and dirt separation; not only will

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Installers can play their part by making homeowners aware of the merits of deaeration and dirt separation it lead to a more efficient system and lower energy bills, it will address their wider concerns about the environment.

Brass is class Another choice to be made is around which products to use, or more speciﬁcally selecting products not just for their functionality and effectiveness but also that meet today’s ‘green’ agenda. Society as a whole has turned against plastic, particularly single-use plastics, concerned about its impact on the world around us and the oceans. As well as dramatically reducing the use of plastic bags, pressure from consumers has led manufacturers to look at more sustainable packaging and also applying this

to the materials their products are made of. Spirotech’s dirt separation and deaeration units are manufactured out of brass, which can be recycled indeﬁnitely. In fact, brass is one of the most recycled metals in the world. Coupled with their sturdiness and longevity, with the beneﬁt of a 20-year performance guarantee, it is no surprise that they are a popular choice with installers. The trend towards living more sustainably is only going to gather momentum, and installers can play their part by raising awareness among home owners of the consequences of their choices. For more information on the solutions available from Spirotech, www.rdr.link/pq019

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HEATING & RENEWABLES MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pq029

REHAU NEA Smart 2.0 Designed to help occupants better realise energy efficiency and cost beneﬁts Rehau has developed the new NEA Smart 2.0 underﬂoor heating smart control for use in new or refurbishment projects. From a base station that is hard-wired, or wirelessly connected to individual room controllers, it combines disparate data from multiple sources to efficiently regulate heating in up to 60 rooms. These sources include weather data gathered from its own sensors and the internet, and information learnt from a building’s overall energy efficiency and occupant heating habits. It is applicable to a wide variety of premises including residential properties, schools and office buildings. www.rdr.link/pq020 To discover more

ALPHA HEATING INNOVATION ProTec Plus A village pub in Suffolk is set to beneﬁt from a new heating system, using Alpha Heating Innovation’s ProTec Plus boiler. The Crown Inn required a new heating system to replace its outdated and inefficient boiler. With a wide 1:10 modulation range the ProTec Plus 50 was chosen as the right replacement, as it is said to offer a simple logical layout, a wide range of accessories to aid installation and multiple ﬂue options. Also offered is support from a commercial technical department. www.rdr.link/pq021 To discover more

ATAG COMMERCIAL QR Series ATAG Commercial has launched a new range of boilers – the QR Series. Featuring a stainless-steel heat exchanger, a new burner control unit with LCD display, built-in pump and an integrated zone management system for up to three central heating zones. The new boilers replace the existing Q Series range. Each boiler also benefits from multiple cascade configurations, as well as numerous flue options suitable for a wide range of applications. All QR Series boilers are supplied with a 5-year parts and labour warranty as standard, while extended 8 and 10-year warranties are available, for added peace of mind. www.rdr.link/pq022 To discover more

26 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

BOILERMAG XL An independent and family run hotel situated just outside the village of Beamish is the latest hotel to protect its heating system and new boilers with a BoilerMag XL. Onsite installer Adrian Mills said: “After replacing the hotel’s boiler, we insisted that it was covered by a BoilerMag. We have done all we can to ensure that this lovely little family owned hotel maintains an efficient heating and hot water system for many years to come.” To discover more www.rdr.link/pq023

SPIROTECH SpiroCombi MB3 Spirotech has extended its SpiroCombi MB3 range to meet demand for two-in-one air and dirt separators, with the introduction of a broader range of sizes. Already available to suit 22mm and 28mm connections in domestic heating systems, the SpiroCombi MB3 is now available as a 1 ¼”, 1 ½” and 2” unit, helping to meet demand for light commercial projects. The SpiroCombi MB3 provides continuous air and dirt removal via one unit, whilst minimising downtime. The unit can be ﬁtted on either the ﬂow or return, depending on the location, age and condition of the system. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq024

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Fiat Ducato

THE

HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONS

Do you need van buying and selling advice? Visit vans.honestjohn.co.u k or type “Honest John Vans” into your Time to change your existing van? Need internet search a bit more room in the back? Dan Powell, browser. Editor of Honest John Vans explores some of the large panel vans on the market.

Popular with the readers of Honest John Vans, the Fiat Ducato is one of the most spacious and capable large commercial vehicles on the market, thanks to its impressive payload capacities that peak at to 2.2 tonnes. Cab comfort is good throughout and the MultiJet diesel engines are ﬂexible and reasonably frugal performers. Add in good levels of standard equipment and an agile turning circle and it’s easy to see why so many plumbers consider the Ducato to be a solid workhorse.

Is it time to buy a new large van? Whether your business has outgrown your existing vehicle or you want something that’s more modern and better equipped. PHPI has enlisted expert advice from Honest John Vans to help you make the most informed decision when it comes to your next vehicle.

he key to getting a great new van is understanding the annual costs. That’s why it’s important not just to look at the price of the van itself, but also how much it will cost to run over the medium and long term. If you’re funding a new van with monthly payments (as many plumbers do) then you’ll need to add fuel, tax and insurance to your budget. This isn’t complicated but it does require thought and planning – and the willingness to stick

to your budget. If you need to carry specific materials, tools or equipment, work out the measurements and weights so you can ensure that the new van will meet the length, width and payload requirements. And don't forget to make a note of the width between the rear wheel arches, as this will be listed separately and be narrower than the general load width figure.

What type of licence do you need to drive a large van? Did you know the date you passed your driving test has a bearing on the type of vehicle you can drive? If you passed your test before January 1997 then you may automatically be able to drive vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes. However, if you passed since then, you may be limited to vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes (the back of your driving licence will tell you for sure).

28 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter A favourite with the staff at Honest John Vans, the Sprinter is practical, comfortable and packed with useful driver tech. The largest version will carry payloads that weigh in excess of three tonnes, while the infotainment system can be operated via voice control, which means the driver can say “hey Mercedes, call my boss...” to make handsfree calls. Plumbers who need a crew van can sacriﬁce load space for an additional set of seats, with the full height bulkhead being shifted back to accommodate three extra pews.

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YEARS

The Ford Transit was first launched in 1965 and is now in its 55th year of production

FORD TRANSIT First launched in 1965, the Ford Transit has developed into a byword for a brilliant large van. The latest model doesn't disappoint, with its maximum load volume peaking at a Tardis-like 15.1 cubic metres. What’s more, 2020 models promise affordable fuel costs, thanks to a new hybrid system that recovers energy from vehicle braking and feeds it back into the powertrain, via 48-volt lithium-ion air-cooled battery pack.

MAN TGE

Volkswagen Crafter The Crafter doesn’t enjoy the same level of popularity as the Ford Transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, but Volkswagen has lots to offer plumbers who need a reﬁned and capable large van. Most versions will carry six Euro pallets, while payloads peak at 2.5 tonnes. The Crafter is also one of the best for driver comfort, with the optional ErgoComfort seat (complete with independent shock absorbers) ironing out all of the lumps and bumps from the road.

MAN made a name for itself by building some of the best HGVs. Now the German truck specialist has moved into the world of large vans. The TGE is based on the Volkswagen Crafter, which means the largest versions provide a max cargo length of 4855mm, with a maximum internal height of 2189mm for the super-high version. What’s more, being a MAN, it’s supported by the manufacturer’s comprehensive UK truck service dealer network.

For more advice on van buying and www.rdr.link/pq025 selling

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 29

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COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

VAN POWER

The Transporter 6.1 is the latest in a very long line of vans of that name in which generations of installers have placed their trust. PHPI gets behind the wheel.

n the world of four wheels there are certain brands that have achieved the status of industry institution, and the Transporter is certainly a case in point. Almost as ubiquitous as the tarmac on which successive models have clocked incalculable miles, at 70 years young, VW’s ﬂagship LCV has been in production for longer than any of its rivals. Indeed, take into account its variants in panel, minibus and campervan and it’s one of the biggest selling vans of all time – with more than 12 million units sold and counting. The Transporter 6.1 is the latest instalment in this success story, and it is a tale of advances in design and technology on every front.

Load up For installers, the business end of any commercial vehicle is the loadspace, and the Transporter is available with a full range of body styles. Users will, of course, have subtly different requirements, and with payloads from 772 – 1,309kg – and load volumes starting at 5.8 and extending to a cavernous 9.3m3 – this is a vehicle with the muscle to manfully cope with whatever a plumber can throw in it, with even the short wheelbase option accommodating two Euro pallets. Indeed, four gross vehicle weights, three wheelbase lengths, and a

high roof version, should allow for a vehicle conﬁgured to the exact needs of your business. Entry into the loadspace can be achieved via a choice of rear tailgate or rear wing doors. Those who opt for the long wheelbase model will welcome the convenience of a low loading height of just 566mm. If you need to approach from the side then there’s the option of two sliding doors, each of which will grant access to load lengths stretching from 2,572 – 2,975mm.

standard on all infotainment systems, opens up a brave new world of internet-based services. The ‘We Connect’, ‘We Connect Plus’ or the ﬂeet management system ‘We Connect Fleet’, introduces smartphone integration and a host of additional functions. A 6.5in. colour touchscreen is your in-cab gateway to an information highway, whilst the app will allow you to access the vehicle’s systems remotely. Effectively a remote control unit when outside your vehicle, We Connect offers the convenience of emergency and breakdown call, a vehicle health report, and much more besides. Ever experienced the exasperation of walking along endless rows of vehicles in a car park looking for yours? Of course you have, but with Park Position you’ll never need to again, because the exact location is on your smartphone. With the additional functionality of We Connect Plus you can even lock and unlock the doors, and access an online anti-theft alarm.

Connected workspace

Driver aids

Sufficient brawn there may well be but this is equally a vehicle with brains. In the modern world, we demand to be digitally connected at all times, and that’s just what the Transporter provides. It’s online connectivity unit (OCU), now available as

We live in a digital world and the advances that have been made in the ﬁeld of the internet of things are prodigious, a trend equally matched in the onward march of driver assistance and safety. Thanks to the introduction of electro-mechanical power

30 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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steering, a whole host of systems can now quite literally take the wheel. Cross Wind Assist, for example, makes use of the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control programme to mitigate the potentially dangerous consequences of a sudden and unexpected blast, and is automatically activated at speeds over 50mph. Lane Assist keeps the Transporter on the straight and narrow by counter steering if it crosses the line, whilst a simple push of a button will engage Trailer Assist, and help you safely reverse when towing plant and equipment. If rear view cameras are not enough – and there are three different options to choose from – Park Assist will map the Transporter 6.1’s entire surroundings. Park Assist 3.0 takes the technology a stage further still by identifying suitable spaces, and automatically parking the vehicle, or manoeuvring out of tight spots – and these are far from the only safety innovations that will intervene on your behalf. Both the Manoeuvre Braking Function, and Rear Traffic Alert will apply the brakes if they anticipate a collision with a static or moving object. Traffic Sign Recognition identiﬁes a host of road signs and ﬂashes them on the instrument display, and Front Assist with City Emergency Braking will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and will stop the Transporter in order to prevent a crash.

Power plant The internal combustion engine has been on an emissions-busting journey of its own in recent years, and its latest destination is Euro6. If you want to access the ultra-low emission zones that will in the future be as much a feature of our town and city centres as pound shops and coffee houses then it represents the minimum requirement, and could well be reason enough alone to make the not inconsiderable investment in a new van. It has introduced technologies like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to our commercial vehicle vocabulary, with drivetrains now on a mission to reduce thirst whilst increasing output. The Transporter is on that self-same path and is powered by a choice of four different engines, two of which have been reconﬁgured on that basis. The entry level 2.0-litre TDI 90 PS replaces a previous 84 PS unit, for instance, and the 2.0-litre TDI 110 comes in for the former 102 PS motor. A vehicle like the Transporter doesn’t so much blur the boundaries between car and van as break them down completely, and each new incarnation brings over more of the equipment that we are accustomed in our saloons, estates and SUVs. Now into its seventh decade, it is a van that has quite literally stood the test of time.

AR aids rapid repairs To help keep its vehicles on the road Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is rolling out augmented reality headsets for technicians across its Van Centre network. The company believes the move will help speed up complex repair work with the potential to save customers ﬁve years of downtime – equal to £1million.

Each of the 67 Van Centres and 30 Authorised Repairers across the UK will have access to a pair of the RealWear glasses, which includes microphone, head camera, display screen and voice activation. The nationwide rollout follows a successful trial that saved customers a year of downtime – equal to almost £250,000 – with repair efficiency up by 93%.

For further information on the VW www.rdr.link/pq026 Transporter

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

FLUSH HOUR From humble beginnings as a functional device to its current status as a design feature, the flush plate has undergone a transformative journey. Scott Clark, Category Manager – Waste and Plumbing at Multikwik, explores the wide range of options now available.

lush plates were perhaps first introduced to the plumbing sector back in the 1980s, alongside wall-hung toilets and concealed cisterns, which were favoured for their functionality and space-saving qualities. Since this initial introduction there has been a significant shift within the flush plate market, with the mechanism becoming a stylish, ‘must-have’ design feature in its own right. For customers who are still after the simple design aesthetic of the past, there remains a wide range of classic two-button flush plates available, but often with a contemporary twist. The modern plates tend to feature dual-flush buttons in an array of different shapes and colours, as well as being manufactured in a variety of finishes, including chrome, satin and stainless steel. However, should you have a customer who is looking for a more stand-out bathroom space or has a larger budget available, this is where the newly expanded flush plate market really comes into its own. Whether you’re working on a domestic project where the homeowner wishes to express their individual style, or a commercial building, with the need to create an on-brand appearance throughout, consider recommending a flush plate that

offers greater design freedom. Indeed, customisation is becoming a key aspect of the general customer experience, whether as part of the purchasing process or continuing throughout a product’s lifespan, with people increasingly looking for a product or service that they can tailor and make their own.

Light & colour

the modern flush plate is a far cry from its humble predecessor.

With this in mind, there are ﬂush plates available that enable the customer to customise the bathroom space through both light and colour – two crucial aspects of interior design. For example, the Hydra Glow ﬂush plate from Multikwik is

32 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

manufactured with a built-in illumination strip and a choice of seven interchangeable colours, allowing your customers to add a playful and colourful edge to their toilet or bathroom space. Staying with this theme of customisation, some manufacturers also produce flush plates with a ‘frame only’ option, allowing the customer to insert their chosen bathroom wall tile into the plate. Not only is this a great way to truly make a flush plate the customer’s own but it also helps to create a sleek, seamless and minimalistic look – currently a very popular design trend – with the flush plate blending seamlessly with the existing wall.

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Hygiene considerations As well as the wide array of stunning design opportunities presented by the new, comprehensive flush plate market, it is also worthwhile considering the solutions it offers from a practical and hygiene perspective. Public bathrooms, such as those within hotels, offices, education buildings and retail outlets, present a particularly challenging and high-risk setting when it comes to the issue of hygiene. When you consider that flushing the toilet is an almost unavoidable situation, it stands to reason that the flush plate will likely contain a large number of germs and bacteria, which can then be easily passed on to the next user. It is therefore easy to see why contactless operated toilets are becoming a common feature within commercial and public bathrooms across the country. The IO Infra-Red flush plate by Multikwik is a particularly technologically advanced version. With its two short-range infra-red sensors, the IO offers dual-flush contactless operation, meaning that your customer can benefit from improved hygiene levels without having to compromise on water efficiency. Nor is the theme of customisation ever too far away, for the IO also comes with a bespoke option, whereby a company logo or name can be added to the illuminating flush plate.

Design feature With such a wide array of styles, finishes, customisable effects and technologically advanced options available, it is clear that the modern flush plate is a far cry from its humble predecessor. Now a design feature in its own right, and the perfect finishing touch for any sleek, striking or contemporary bathroom space, not only does the comprehensive flush plate market provide customers and homeowners with even greater design freedom, but it also presents you as the installer with a great up-selling opportunity. It is, therefore, important that you liaise with a manufacturer that offers a wide selection of high-quality plates for all budgets and applications, so that you can then pass this extensive design choice on to your customers. For more information on flush plates please www.rdr.link/pq027

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

SINGLESOLUTION

PHPI discovers why Stewarts Plumbing & Heating opted for a combination of Wavin’s solutions on a new-build apartment building in Birmingham.

he waterside redevelopment at Sherborne Wharf will eventually see over 80 blocks of residential buildings in the heart of Birmingham city centre. Part of this project is five blocks comprising 203 one, two and three-bedroom apartments by a national housebuilder. Stewarts Plumbing & Heating Ltd wanted to provide a streamlined installation process and find a ‘one stop shop’ for plumbing and drainage solutions ahead of installation. Firstly, the installer required a flexible and durable drainage system than could service several entire multi-occupancy buildings. Stewarts selected Wavin’s HDPE offering, and the manufacturer’s wider portfolio. James Yiend, Technical Sales Manager for above ground at Wavin, said: “We spoke with the Stewarts team about what they needed to make sure the client was happy, and we worked together to find the best full-service solution.” Glenn Morton, Project Manager at Stewarts, said: “We had a preference to work with just one manufacturer for all solutions for plumbing and drainage if possible, as it would make the process much easier in terms of delivery management. “We were able to work very closely with the Wavin team to make sure we were getting the best products for each element of the project. HDPE was an absolute must for us, and then Osma and Tigris K1 ticked the boxes for us to ensure reliable drainage throughout the buildings.”

Basement pipework Wavin’s HDPE was chosen for the basement car park area, as it’s durability and elasticity enables to pipes to deal with vibrations potentially encountered in this environment. The pipes have been designed to be easy and quick to install – an important consideration for any large project – and are suited to outdoor exposure, being able to withstand up to - 40˚C temperatures. Wavin’s Osma Soil & Waste solutions, which can be used in both domestic projects and commercial developments, are to be used throughout the apartments. This system is appropriate for tighter spaces, enabling maximisation of liveable apartment space, and with traps useable across all waste water sources.

34 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Press fit Multi-layer press-ﬁt system, Tigris K1, was chosen for the hot and cold water system, with its integrated aluminium layer and reliable connections protecting against thermal expansion and leaks in the tall structure. Sections of the development are ten stories high meaning this kind of secure and reliable system was of paramount importance for the Stewart’s team. As well as product support, technical advice was provided by Wavin’s specialist service engineering team and HDPE fusion welding training was conducted with eight members of the Stewart’s team to ensure installation was as quick simple as possible. James Yiend concluded: “This project is a great example of how collaboration between manufacturer, merchant and installer can ﬁnd a full system solution and make the entire process, from choosing product to installing it at the project, as smooth as possible.” To discover more www.rdr.link/pq028

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

A WORK OF SMART PHPI reports on the launch of Aqualisa’s Smart Quartz Collection, which promises to propel the shower into the rapidly growing world of smart home technology.

lmost imperceptibly, the smart home is becoming a reality. Most installers will already be aware of home assistants, like Amazon’s Alexa, but what about smart door bells, smart ovens, and even smart fridges. It’s a fully-ﬂedged sector and one which Aqualisa has fully recognised, recently launching a new collection to bring the beneﬁts of smart technology into the bathroom. Becoming more mainstream, smart products are

popping up in even the most conservative homes across the UK. BSRIA reports that the value of the UK’s smart home solutions market, which includes installation, servicing and maintenance work, has grown by more than three times in value over the last ﬁve years. With a current market valuation of £400m, the association cited demand for HVAC and control products as key factors behind the anticipated market growth.

The research concluded: “In countries like the UK, anyone connected with the residential housing market needs to be aware of the implications of the smart home revolution. Consumers may not necessarily be expecting a fully configured smart home, but they are likely to want a home that is flexible enough for them to make it as smart as they want it to be without undue cost or effort.” Specifically relating to the UK shower equipment market, AMA research suggests that despite a challenging economic climate, longer term prospects are more positive. The report reinforces the digital growth forecast by saying that ‘flexibility, durability, and ease of use will be key influences in a shift towards higher value products. For example, while the digital

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shower category is set to grow at a steady rate, the greater use of smart technology in the home is now expected to create a new Smart category that has the potential to grow at an even faster rate. This growth will come from both new shower installations and bathroom refurbishments, when a shower upgrade is part of the package.

It is thought that over half of UK homes now own some sort of smart device. Clearly, smart tech is no longer just for gadget lovers. Homeowners are beginning to realise that technical updates are making homes cheaper and more efficient to run than ever before. Even those who have traditionally been reluctant to invest in technology in the home are starting to spend their money on smart products if it clearly makes sense from a ﬁnancial or common-sense point of view.

App technology allows homeowners to control their Smart shower via WIFI, connecting through residential WIFI networks to the Aqualisa Smart Valve (ASV) using safe and secure best practice for IoT/Connected devices. It utilises simple on-boarding techniques to establish secure and robust connection with the ASV via WIFI. It also integrates into established smart home eco-systems via voice control – using Alexa. So, the new Smart Quartz Collection has been designed to deliver the high-quality showering experience homeowners are used to – but with enhanced smart features that take that showering experience to new levels.

Quartz goes smart

Remote control

In this context that Aqualisa’s best-selling Quartz digital shower has been succeeded by the new Smart Quartz Collection – a smart shower range, that brings internet connectivity and control via an App, through the Aqualisa Smart Valve, the brains behind intelligent showering. The new collection retains its ‘easy to install’ heritage and has been designed for both the end user and the installer. The company believes it offers the best of both worlds for installers and their customers alike. “’Alexa turn my shower on’ will quickly become a familiar command in homes with a new Aqualisa Smart Quartz Collection shower”, said Aqualisa CEO, Colin Sykes. “The Quartz excellence established from the early two thousands has now reached new heights and will offer homeowners the

These benefits include precise temperature and a powerful showering experience whatever water supplies it is connected to. Shower profiles can be pre-set for each member of the family to ensure they can each, consistently, get into a shower they enjoy. They can start their shower remotely from anywhere in or away from the home via WIFI, confident that the shower is at the perfect temperature and ready to step into. A clearly visible LED display indicates when the shower is ready – so there’s no need to lean in and test the water. CEO Colin Sykes believes it’s an exciting time for Aqualisa customers: “The Aqualisa range has every kind of shower you can imagine or want,” he said. “Now the Smart Quartz Collection extends our offer yet again, with cutting edge innovation. The smart shower has arrived – creating unprecedented personalisation and convenience to showering in homes that are increasingly geared to smart technology. It may have been just a dream until now, but we have made these modern lifestyle aspirations possible for everyone.”

The smart majority

The smart shower has arrived – creating unprecedented personalisation and convenience to showering in homes that are increasingly geared to smart technology.

most sophisticated showering experience available. Despite the advent of the smart home and the arrival of a myriad of smart products, the suggestion, even ﬁve years ago, that showers would take this huge step into the world of smart technology would have been difficult to imagine. Thanks to Aqualisa, this is now a reality. It seems the most natural development for them to take, but we’re delighted it’s us introducing this technology to the UK and Ireland”, he added.

Connect more Establishing Wi-Fi connection, app technology and voice activation as integral to the showering experience – all things that come as standard with the new Smart Quartz Collection from Aqualisa – is thought to be the next big step for showering here in the UK.

You can discover more about the new Aqualisa Smart Quartz Collection by www.rdr.link/pq030 using

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

BOOST THE FLOW

With low water pressure affecting many homes across the UK, PHPI asked Salamander Pumps to outline how to install its Accuboost solution to boosting mains water pressure and flow.

ow water pressure and flow is a frustrating problem experienced in households across the UK. However, boosting the flow and pressure from a home’s incoming mains supply can drastically improve the performance of taps, showers, baths, and other outlets. Salamander Pumps, one the UK’s leading manufacturers of low water pressure solutiuons, recently launched its AccuBoost range, consisting of nine different models, ranging from 60 to 450 litre units and including pumped and unpumped tanks, to provide a solution to boosting mains water pressure and flow. Here, Ken Vance, Training Manager at Salamander Pumps, provides a step-by-step guide on how to install an AccuBoost accumulator tank.

1 I Selecting the location AccuBoost accumulators can be installed in various locations such as kitchen cupboards, larder-style cupboards or in a garage, where it can be connected to the mains water supply. Pumped models should be connected after the stopcock. Unpumped models can be sited more ﬂexibly.It is important to ensure that the accumulator and pump are easily accessible, should maintenance need to be carried out. The installation location must also have adequate thermal protection and ventilation to protect the AccuBoost tank, pump and associated pipework from temperature extremes.

INSTALLATION

Once a decision has been made on the size of the unit and whether a pumped or unpumped model is required using our online product selector, you can then begin the installation process:

“My plumber recently installed a Salamander accumulator tank, AccuBoost 450 pumped model, into my home to improve water performance. I was getting up to 8 l/min of ﬂow from my mains water supply which wasn’t enough to run one large shower head powerfully, never mind multiple bathrooms at once. The result is amazing, the water performanceis so much better. I now get the maximum ﬂow possible from my kitchen tap and can run a powerful shower without it being affected by other taps and showers being used in other rooms. Massive improvement.” Martin Jones, Homeowner, February 2020

2 I Unboxing AccuBoost Unbox the product and read the installation guide. Although it sounds obvious, this should always be the ﬁrst port of call. The guide provides you with a pre-installation checklist, product descriptions and technical speciﬁcations, step-by-step instructions, as well as helpful tips. 3 I Turning off the mains It’s important to ensure you’ve turned off the home’s mains water supply and then drained down the system.

4 I Re-routing the mains cold feed Once drained, make a provision for the cold mains to be taken to the AccuBoost tank. Re-route the existing mains cold feed to taps and the rest of the property.

38 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

5 I Re-routing the mains cold feed Make sure to install a pressure reducing valve, as well as a double-check valve. An inline ﬁlter is recommended for unpumped models after the stop tap, to allow the system to retain the built-up pressure. At this point, there is a crucial difference between pumped and unpumped models. If you are installing a pumped tank, a maintenance bypass should be ﬁtted. If you are installing an unpumped tanked, you must install a full bore isolation valve.

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6 I Setting the pressure For pumped tanks, the precharge air pressure of the tank is already pre-set. However, unpumped models need to be set at 1.5 bar less than the natural mains pressure.

7 I Creating a connection to the mains AccuBoost accumulators come fully built, with the exception of the 450 litre pumped unit, meaning little or no assembly is required. For pumped AccuBoost models create a connection from the mains to the pump inlet, and a connection from the AccuBoost pump outlet to the system. For unpumped AccuBoost models, create a direct connection between the mains supply and the AccuBoost tank. Pumped models also need a connection to the system from the pump outlet as seen here:

8 I Results The mains water pressure and flow around the home should now be noticeably improved. Before AccuBoost installation:

Once the necessary connections have been created, turn the stop tap back on. Open the isolation valves to allow water in and out of AccuBoost. Pumped models will then need the pump to be plugged in and turned on.

AccuBoost accumulators can be installed in various locations such as kitchen cupboards, larder-style cupboards or in a garage, where it can be connected to the mains water supply. After AccuBoost installation:

For more information on Salamanderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AccuBoost range www.rdr.link/pq031

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pq032

DUNLOP Shower Waterproofing Kit Recent changes to British Standards now state that all commercial and domestic wet areas should be tanked with an appropriate waterprooﬁng system prior to tiling. Dunlop offers a Shower Waterprooﬁng Kit, designed for any internal intermittent area where continued exposure to water may cause damage. It fully waterproofs the background behind the tiles to prevent water penetration up to 1.5metres high in a two-walled shower unit or 1metre high in a three-walled shower unit. The kit contains a primer, ready-mixed tanking paste, corner tape and matting. www.rdr.link/pq033 To discover more

ROCA The Gap Round Roca has launched a new collection of The Gap sanitaryware; The Gap Round. Renowned for its compact and functional style, the diverse range has been designed to optimise the bathroom space. “The Gap has always been a popular range and we are so excited to be able to build on the success of this with the new round design” commented Claire Gay, Marketing Manager at Roca. The latest products in the family include four rimless WC’s and two bidets. The round design is in contrast to the modern and sleek lines in the original collection and provides an alternative option for homeowners. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq036

METHVEN Amio Range Methven is extending its Amio tapware collection to feature five new matte black products. The range comprises of mixer taps as well as mounted bath filler designs. Available with a two-year warranty, all of the products are also available in a chrome finish too, guaranteed to complete any bathroom look. Simon Cornelius, Head of Marketing at Methven UK, commented: “Alongside our Amio range we also offer a number of matte black accessories including a bottle trap, basin waste as well as a bath fill and overflow to provide the complete look. With matte black becoming increasingly popular, we are pleased we can now extend our offering to our customers.” www.rdr.link/pq034 To discover more

KINEDO Kocoon Kocoon is a new self-contained shower cubicle from the Kinedo range by Saniflo. It combines shower walls with a chrome frame, low level shower tray and overhead rain shower, handset and valve in one package. The cubicle offers a choice of three coloured shower wall options, including a tile pattern; in grey, grey with tile pattern and beige with tile pattern. The cubicle is available in multiple sizes and configurations from 1000mm to 1700mm for corner and recess installations and either right- or left-hand fitting. Sizes include bath replacement models which can be fitted in the exact place of a standard UK sized bath. www.rdr.link/pq035 To discover more

40 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

VIEGA Prevista Featuring a newly redesigned pre-wall element engineered for easier, more ﬂexible installation, simpler maintenance and reliability, Viega has launched its new range – Prevista. The range is compatible with all Visign ﬂush plates giving customers the freedom to choose the option that best suits their requirements. For simplicity, the range has just three standard types, Prevista Dry for wall installation, Prevista Dry Plus for rail mounting and Prevista Pure for wet construction. Within these broad types are options for WCs, wash basins and urinals as well as low-height WC systems for where vertical wall space is limited. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq037

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

SEAL

THE DEAL

Sealing threads is an everyday job for most plumbers. PHPI speaks with Colin Chapman, Regional Product Manager, UK & Ireland at Henkel, to find out more about some of the options available within the Loctite brand.

HENKEL produces a range of LOCTITE thread sealers – which are most applicable to domestic plumbers? LOCTITE sealants are widely used throughout industry for maintaining critical plant and this technology now benefits many trades too. The most applicable to domestic plumbers are LOCTITE 55 sealing cord and LOCTITE 5400, a hazard-label free anaerobic thread sealing compound. The cord is ideal for general purpose sealing but the adhesive is the best choice when the joint needs to be locked against self-loosening. Henkel can supply specific grades of anaerobic sealants for use with potable water, gas, LPG and heating oils. In practice, however, LOCTITE 5400 meets the needs of the lion’s share of domestic applications which involve metal fittings. Another popular product is LOCTITE 5075 insulating and sealing silicone wrap. This is ideal for a late-in-the-day call out to a hot water tank with leaking fittings. It provides a fast and effective temporary fix for sealing joints or pipes leaking under mains water pressure. As the product can be stretched by 300% it creates a silicone rubber tourniquet around the damaged area.

What is your view on some of the other options?

One of the oldest methods of sealing threads is with non-curing pipe pastes. Although they lubricate and compact into the threads, creating a seal, they provide no locking. The paste can also squeeze out under pressure, has poor solvent resistance and does not work on parallel threads. Solvent-based sealing compounds also lubricate and compact into threads, creating a seal, but ﬁttings must be re-torqued to minimise voids. Their biggest disadvantage is they shrink during cure, as the solvents evaporate, compromising the efficiency of the seal.

The cord is ideal for general purpose sealing but the adhesive is the best choice when the joint needs to be locked against self-loosening.

42 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

PTFE tape gives a good initial seal and resists chemical attack. And although its ability to act as a lubricant is an advantage in one respect, this action also prompts fittings to loosen under dynamic loads causing loss of clamping force and leakage. It encourages over-tightening of fasteners, adding stress or fracturing parts. Its tendency to shred also makes it unsuitable for use in hydraulic systems and this can clog key apertures and lead to maintenance problems. The hemp and paste method has been used for many years but it is messy and fiddly, requiring a degree of experience and technique to achieve a complete seal. Another disadvantage is it cannot be used on fittings carrying potable water.

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What do you consider to be the advantages of using LOCTITE 55 sealing thread and over other solutions?

How many turns are recommended?

The number of turns is governed by the thread size and a guide is provided on the pack. A single 160m will seal up to 405 joints with a half-inch thread size.

Can it be repositioned once tightened up?

What are the main applications for LOCTITE 5400?

Yes, that’s one of its advantages. It can be backed off by 45° without fear of leakage.

This is a single component product that relies on the absence of air and contact with metal to make it cure. This is achieved by the sealant displacing the air gaps between the threads. Unlike other sealing

What is the recommended application process?

Up to what pressure can LOCTITE 5400 be used?

Can it be used on potable water?

Once cured can the fitting be removed again?

For best results, clean all surfaces with a cleaning solvent and allow to dry. If the material is an inactive metal or a faster cure speed is required, spray with an activator such as LOCTITE 7471 or 7649. Apply a 360° bead of LOCTITE 5400 to the leading threads of the male fitting, leaving the first thread free, and thoroughly filling all voids. For bigger threads and voids, apply a bead of product to the female threads also. Assemble and wrench tighten the fitting to create an instantaneous seal to moderate pressures. For maximum pressure and solvent resistance allow the adhesive to cure for 24 hours.

The main reason why LOCTITE 55 is so popular and continues to attract new users is that it seals threaded ﬁttings – metal or plastic – quickly, cleanly and cheaply. It creates a non-curing and immediate, high pressure seal on all coarse threads but also allows reliable adjustment. LOCTITE 55 has EN751-2 Class ARP certiﬁcation for the gas industry and WRAS approval (1612522) for use with potable water to 85°C.

systems, including LOCTITE 55, this adhesive also locks the ﬁtting to resist vibrational loosening. When LOCTITE 5400 is applied to a taper parallel thread and wrenched tight it provides an instant seal. So, if needs be, the system can be pressurised straight away. It also protects the mated threaded areas against corrosion. The key differentiator for this product is that it is hazard-label free, part of the LOCTITE Health and Safety range. It is therefore Henkel’s front-line offering with products carrying health and safety symbols only being called in where a speciﬁc performance characteristic is required.

68978 kPa (10,000 psi) or to the burst pressure of the pipe.

Yes, it is WRAS approved (191152) for use with potable water up to 85°C.

Yes, the seal can be released at any time using compliant practices. For more information www.rdr.link/pq038

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pq039

SOLID GEAR Safety Shoe Technology Solid gear is highlighting the features of its safety shoes and boots, which are designed to provide comfort protection and durability. The wide range integrates the type of modern technical designs that are a feature of outdoor and athletic footwear. There’s a host features like GORE-Tex Surround Technology for all-round breathability. Also look out for ETPU sports footwear performance that delivers footbed energy return to put a spring in your step. Plus, the BOA Closure System on certain styles, distributes the pressure evenly across your feet to ensure a glove-like ﬁt. www.rdr.link/pq040 To discover more

MAKITA Efficut Metal blades Building on the Efficut range, Makita, has launched two new metal cutting saw blades; the Efficut Metal 136mm or 150mm for general purpose metal cutting and the Efficut Metal 136mm or 150mm for stainless steel and thin metal cutting. The new range of blades has been manufactured incorporating ‘chip breaker style’ saw tips. The tips, made of cermet, are strong enough to handle the most demanding of jobs, remaining stable when cutting, even when impacted, and therefore reducing the risk of breakage. www.rdr.link/pq041 To discover more

SNICKERS Stretch Work Shorts The new AllroundWork and FLEXIWork shorts from Snickers are designed for working in the warmer months. Delivering ﬂexibility and comfort, these lightweight work shorts come in a body-mapping design and a range of new colours including Hi-vis options. Made from a self-ventilating stretch fabric with Cordura reinforcements for all-round mobility and durability, they’re packed with comfort and functionality and specially designed for the fast-paced professional. To discover more

www.rdr.link/pq042

HB42 Solvent All-In-One The HB42 Ultimate Solvent ‘All-In-One’ is fast acting on dirt, chewing gum, tar, wax, adhesive labels and even splashes of cement. The ideal partner to the HB42 Sealant Range, the product is suitable for professional preparation work, ensuring the maximum adhesion and long-term performance. The spray evaporates, leaving no oily residue and is non-aggressive, safe to use on virtually all materials. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq043

WIHA speedE II Featuring two material protection levels of 0.4 Nm and 1 Nm, Wiha has launched its new speedE II electric e-screwdriver. With its voltage-proof slimBit interchangeable system (up to 1,000V AC), this 'Made in Germany' innovation is said to offer users maximum safety, ﬂexibility and freedom of choice in everyday professional life. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq044

SUPER ROD Quick Drill Super Rod has launched Quick Drill – a new range of drilling solutions which offer a one-tool approach to passing pipes or cables through cavity walls. The range includes four different specially adapted drill bits: the 22mm and 28mm versions (SRSDQ22 and SRSDQ28) with sleeves that are suitable for gas pipe or multiple cable installations, while the smaller 10mm and 16mm Quick Drills (SRQD10 and SRQD16) which are for routing individual cables. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq045

44 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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A GREENER FUTURE

CIPHE CEO, Kevin Wellman, explains how a smooth transition to a greener economy will require more training and support for existing professional installers, a growth in apprenticeships for aspiring new entrants, and a far-reaching public information campaign to raise awareness. Simplifying installations

t the CIPHE, we know that it will take a dedicated and united approach to ensure that low carbon energy efficiency policies will be met. There will be some key elements required in order to help installers learn about the steps that the plumbing and heating industry will need to take to help ensure a smooth transition to a low carbon future.

The success of a low carbon heating rollout will rely heavily on systems being simple for engineers to install and easy to operate for the end user. Clearly, more households will replace their domestic heating system with a low carbon solution if this can be done conveniently and with minimal disruption to their home and heating. If the options require substantial extra work in or around buildings for them to work effectively, full transparency that provides clarity for the consumer ahead of an installation will be essential. This may be upgrades to electricity supplies, new heat network connections, or disruptive work on insulation and/or draft-prooﬁng. Advances in technology and digital tools to assist installers could be used to enable them to correctly size radiators, pipework, pumps for standard and underﬂoor heating, when at a property.

Training and apprenticeships Only through upskilling somewhere in the region of 100,000 of the UK’s existing professional plumbing and heating engineers will the best possible chance of a neat transition to a low carbon economy in the 2020s and beyond be ensured. The CIPHE is already working with BEIS, plumbing and heating manufacturers, merchants, suppliers and other like-minded industry bodies to develop updated educational resources, CPD programmes and more. While the Institute has an active training schedule for 2020, it will ultimately be up to installers to take advantage of this and to choose to future-proof their career by learning about the installation of systems powered by low carbon heating technologies. Alongside this, apprenticeships that will equip learners for careers in these changing times must also be prioritised in order for the industry to show that it can help government to hit the zero carbon targets it has set. This will mean high-quality apprenticeships that encourage more young people to start their careers in this way, and for more employers to realise the beneﬁt of their investment in providing long-lasting career opportunities that may not fully reﬂect how they currently do business.

Limiting consumer resistance The CIPHE is well aware that transitioning to low carbon heating, especially changing

Working together

how existing homes are heated, will be a challenge for a number of reasons. Designing new build properties to a speciﬁcation that includes a commitment to low carbon heating solutions, that the consumer then buys as a ‘package deal’, will be the easiest part of the transition. Equipping consumers in existing properties with the necessary information to accept new technology will be more of a challenge. The implementation of mandatory low carbon heating systems, which could require households to endure changes to their current expectations with regards to comfort, time and cost, risks consumers being reluctant to accept the changes. As a consequence, policy makers would then struggle to see immediate results from unpopular, enforced changes.

The CIPHE has made it clear that now is time for the Government to maximise the expertise of installer organisations, manufacturers and industry bodies to tackle the timescales and practicalities of transitioning towards a low carbon plumbing and heating industry. At the CIPHE, we are dedicated to supporting our professional members by working with our approved training centres and industrial associates to provide quality training and support Ultimately, the success of meeting low carbon domestic targets will be down to the entire industry working together to achieve a smooth transition. If you want to assist the CIPHE in promoting the professional values of the plumbing and heating industry and improving the safety, health and welfare of the public contact Tim Sainty via 01708 463102 or tims@ciphe.org.uk

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 45

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GIVEAWAYS GRAB SOME GEAR

All this month’s giveaways are now on one handy webpage, meaning you only have to enter your details once! For more fantastic giveaways and competitions, www.rdr.link/pq046

GEOCEL

BOSCH MEASURING TOOLS

ECOSEAL

GMS 120 PROFESSIONAL DETECTOR

Working in conjunction with a unique re-usable sleeve, users can now easily switch from traditional Dowsil 785+ cartridges to a more environmentally-friendly alternative, which can ﬁt into any standard gun. The plastic sleeve is recyclable – and when empty, the foils are eight times smaller than traditional cartridges, meaning less waste is sent to landﬁll and disposal costs on larger projects are reduced. Each sleeve can be used an average of 75 times and can be recycled on disposal. In addition, as the sleeve is clear, users can always see exactly how much product is left.

A detection tool made for plumbers and installers, or for anyone who wants to boost their day to day efficiency whilst reducing the risk of drilling into unknown areas. With three surface material modes; Drywall, Metal and Live wire, switching between these based on the wall material will optimise your detection results. The GMS 120 has a max detection depth of 120mm and can detect ferrous and non-ferrous metals, wooden studs and even live wires that are hidden behind a wall.

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN, www.rdr.link/pq048

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, www.rdr.link/pq047

HULTAFORS HAMMER SET Whatever type of hammering jobs you have to do, the Hultafors Tools range of Hammers claims to deliver all the power and precision needed. This set of three hammers includes a Bricklayers Hammer, a Carpenters' Hammer and a T-Block Hammer. According to the company, the tools can handle the toughest work, delivering precision, performance and safety. They’re all ergonomically designed for ease of use and come with a special grip technology – crafted for your needs.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN, www.rdr.link/pq049

46 MAY 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

ENGEL WORKWEAR ‘X-TREME’ 4-WAY STRETCH Engel is giving away a pair of its new ‘X-Treme’ 4-Way Stretch’ work trousers. The slim-ﬁt trousers feature a 4-way stretch ‘breathable’, cooling fabric which quickly absorbs and dries light perspiration. The knee-pad pockets are reinforced with Kevlar Teramid and have two options for pad height adjustment; in addition to the many pockets for keeping essential tools and accessories immediately to hand, optional hanging tool pockets can be attached to the waist; the trousers also have extra deep hems so that lengths can be increased if required.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY, www.rdr.link/pq050

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RDR.LINK

WWW.RDR.LINK

HOW TO USE PHPI’S ENQUIRY SERVICE Never ones to rest on our laurels, we've updated our reader enquiry service to help you to get to the product, business or technical information you require, quickly and efficiently. What is rdr.link? With a wide array of online resources supporting the latest solutions – from videos to technical guides, PDFs to podcasts – it can be a challenge to locate what you need quickly and efficiently. To ensure you don’t miss out on those valuable resources, we’ve introduced rdr.link – a new, rapid service to transport you immediately to the online resources mentioned in our stories.

How to use rdr.link On certain pages you may read: “To download a technical data sheet for this product, visit: www.rdr.link/pq001” (or similar). Simply enter www.rdr.link/ with the unique 5 digit code into a browser and it will take you directly to the mentioned resource.

LOST YOUR BACK ISSUE OF PHPI? FEAR NOT!

APRIL 2020

LIGHT COMMERCIAL

CHOOSING A COMMERCIAL BOILER

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT UNILITE’S COMPACT LIGHT

Introduced on the back of long-term public demand, and ensuring that there's no need to panic if you've misplaced a recent issue, you can now access a digital copy of your favourite magazine directly from our website. All you need to do is click on the 'Magazine' tab on our website, and you can view the past month's issue in digital format, complete with clickable links to take you to further information about products and articles you're interested in. WATER HEATING & PUMPS TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON PUMP

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048_PHPI_MAY20_Layout 1 30/03/2020 16:50 Page 14

Welcome to the

The Gas App UK Horror Show showcases some of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;finestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work spotted by installers across the country. If you spot any masterpieces to rival these, please submit them to the good people at Gas App UK or email us: phpi@hamerville.co.uk

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049_PHPI_MAY20_Layout 1 30/03/2020 16:59 Page 49

PRODUCT ROUND UP MORE INFO

To discover more of the latest product launches and hands-on tests from installers GO TO

www.rdr.link/pq051

ECOSEAL Dowsil 785+

TRITON Instaflow T30iR & T30i Featuring a one-year warranty and labour guarantee, Triton has introduced two new handwash units to provide an improved offering for commercial environments working to enhanced hygiene needs within space constraints. Both the Instaﬂow T30iR and the T30i are said to be ideal for cloakrooms and utility rooms, along with businesses such as workshops or garages, with no hot water supply. Tina Simpson, Marketing Director comments: “The upgrades we’ve made to these two models are borne out of real in-situ feedback from our customers, looking for neat and simple to install ways to address speciﬁc hygiene and space challenges.” www.rdr.link/pq052 To discover more

Extending the recently re-launched ecoSEAL range of products, Dowsil 785+ Bacteria Resistant Sanitary Silicone Sealant is the newest addition to the sealant range. It is a fast cure sealant that is said to give excellent adhesion to most non-porous surfaces. Containing a fungicide to resist mould growth, Dowsil 785+ protects against bacteria growth, MRSA, E. Coli and Salmonella. Tack-free in 30 minutes, it can be applied in a temperature range of +5°C to +40°C and cures to a gloss ﬁnish To discover more www.rdr.link/pq055

MARLEY PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE Flowloc Designed to work in conjunction with a stormwater attenuation tank, Marley Plumbing & Drainage has announced that it has relaunched its Flowloc system, helping to control and manage the rate at which stored water is released into natural water courses or underground sewer systems, during a heavy rainfall or storm event. Able to accommodate flow rates ranging from 2.5 l/s to 18 l/s, Flowloc comprises a Vortex flow control unit and pre-fitted inlet filter all supplied within a chamber base. The product is available as a pre-packaged ‘drop-in’ solution, with the polyethylene chamber containing the riser kit, heavy-duty aluminium flow control unit, inlet filter and overflow pipe. www.rdr.link/pq053 To discover more

PEGLER VSH PowerPress

HODGSON SEALANTS Silfix U7 & U8 The Silﬁx range from Hodgson Sealants has been expanded with the introduction of U7 which is a sanitary, high modulus, acetoxy cure silicone sealant. In addition, Silﬁx U8, a low modulus, neutral cure, solvent free, alkoxy silicone sealant has also has been launched. It is said to provide excellent application characteristics and outstanding adhesion to a wide range of substrates used in the building envelope. In addition, the company has also developed a range of hybrid sealants in the form of HY-SPEC 25, which is paintable, and HY-SPEC Ag, which brings anti-pick properties and an anti-microbial formulation in hybrid form. www.rdr.link/pq054 To discover more

Pegler now offers its VSH PowerPress system across the UK and Irish market. Holy Family National School in Swords, County Dublin (pictured) is one establishment which now features the thick wall steel pipe and press ﬁtting range. “Our VSH PowerPress is revolutionising installations that require robust piping systems but, is also proving a huge hit with installers who reap the beneﬁt of speedy installations,” said Amy French, Product Manager, Pegler. To discover more www.rdr.link/pq056

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER MAY 2020 49

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Bathroom Manufacturers Association ....................... page 13

Stelrad Radiators ............................................................ page 27

Bott Ltd ......................................................... outside back cover

Stuart Turner Ltd ............................................................. page 25

Kohler Mira Ltd ................................................................ page 35

The Electric Heating Company Ltd ............................ page 15

Nu-Heat UK Ltd ................................................................. page 9

TSB Bank plc .................................................. inside front cover

Pump Technology Ltd ................................................... page 23

Ubbink (UK) Ltd ................................................................ page 17

RWC (UK) Ltd .................................................................... page 41

Viega Ltd ............................................................................. page 4

Sherwin-Williams Diversiﬁed Brands Ltd/Geocel ... page 47

WIRQUIN Ltd ................................................................... page 33

SpiroTech ........................................................................... page 21

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all the tools you need...

Visit phpionline.co.uk for even more content! Offering access to all the best features from the magazine, the Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer website also has exclusive online articles, the latest product releases and up-to-date news stories from the industry. In addition, installers can enter all our competitions and giveaways directly, gain access to step-by-step video guides, and sign up to the weekly newsletter.

Plumbers and heating engineers can also follow all the latest updates on PHPI’s social media feeds. On each platform, you’ll find exclusive #InstallOfFame and Horror Show archives, as well as giveaways and competitions!

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IBC_PHPI_MAY20_Layout 1 30/03/2020 17:11 Page 67

in association with

Are you looking for a totally pointless way to waste a bit of your day? Well you’ve come to the right place.

SNAPPY REVEAL

By replacing one letter at a time, can you make it from the top to the bottom word in the number of steps provided?

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One solution is: Word, Wore, Wire, Sire, Size.

FACT FILE Here are three amazing facts that you may not know about the moon landings! ●

The six American flags erected on the moon will no longer be red, white and blue. Exposed to direct UV radiation from the sun, the material will now be entirely bleached white. ● When astronaut crews who had been to the moon returned to Earth, they had to declare all moon rocks and scientific findings at US Customs. The documentation states origin of travel as ‘The Moon’ and arrival into ‘Honolulu’. ● The first mineral to be found on the moon and not of the Earth was named in honour of the Apollo 11 crew. It is a Titanium-rich mineral called Armalcolite; Arm from Neil Armstrong, Al from Buzz Aldrin and Col from Michael Collins.

NAME THAT CITY

Answer: Cairo

The trend of baby gender reveals has become increasingly popular, with couples hiding the sex of their unborn baby in cakes, confetti, and balloons. One couple from Louisiana may have taken the trend a little too far… Mike Kliebert — an alligator wrangler and trainer who also goes by “T-Mike, the Gator King” decided to enlist the help of his alligator Sally to reveal the gender of he and his wife’s baby. In a video posted to Facebook, Mike places a watermelon into the gator’s mouth. Sally shuts her jaw and a blue liquid comes out pouring out, indicating that the baby is going to be a boy. Speaking to Huffington Post, Kliebert said: “First thing that came to my mind when my girlfriend and I decided to have a gender reveal party were alligators. They’re a big part of our family, so why not incorporate them into our reveal?” Following the happy family event, a Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries spokesman said what happened in the video didn’t appear to harm Sally, but the department doesn’t support bringing an alligator to a party.

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