Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer November 2023

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NOVEMBER 2023

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS BOOST WATER PRESSURE

LOW CARBON HEATING THE IMPORTANCE OF INSTALLER TRAINING

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

KEEP WARM AND DRY THIS WINTER

VISIT PHPIONLINE.CO.UK FOR REGULAR UPDATES AND EXCLUSIVE CONTENT

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

November 2023 VOL. 38 NO.9 phpi@hamerville.co.uk

@phpimag

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

6

NEWS

20 INSTALLER TRAINING

34 HEATING & PLUMBING SHOW 44 COMPETITIONS 46 HORROR SHOW 51 PLAYTIME

SPECIAL REPORT

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

8 NET ZERO ANNOUNCEMENT – INDUSTRY REACTION

37 COLD WEATHER WORKWEAR How to keep warm and dry when working this winter

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

40 DIGITAL FITNESS

10 REFRESHING ELECTRIC SHOWERS Deliver aesthetics and sustainability without compromising performance

12 PUMP IT UP Boost water pressure in a gravity fed system

14 BOX CLEVER hansgrohe’s iBox universal 2

16 STEEL OF APPROVAL Add value to kitchen projects with a stainless steel sink

Digital tools can help plumbers manage work more effectively

16 KITCHEN SINKS

LOW CARBON HEATING 20 CATCH THE TRAINING Installer training is key to paving the road to net zero

23 FROM ‘HEATING’ TO ‘HOUSEHOLDS’ Do we need to move from ‘low carbon heating’ to ‘low carbon households’?

26 SMARTER CONTROL

42 THE KAMM GENERATION PHPI catches up with Rhino Products to discuss the company’s latest van accessories

PRODUCT ROUND UP 48 Mira Showers’ latest digital shower 49 Drain cleaning, cylinders, knee protection and more...

Maximise the effectiveness of both existing boiler systems and low carbon home heating options

50 DRAIN CLEANING

WATER TREATMENT 28 THE POWER OF SYSTEM CLEANING Prepare heating systems for winter

30 KNOWING THE FACTS The causes of common problems and how to treat water

32 HEAT PUMPS – FIT THE RIGHT FILTER

14 CONCEALED SYSTEMS

Protect heat pump systems from circulating debris PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 3

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VIEWPOINT

EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER OLIVER SHANNON oshannon@hamerville.co.uk REGIONAL SALES MANAGER MARCUS HOOPER mhooper@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE PATRICK MOORE pmoore@hamerville.co.uk DIGITAL MANAGER KELLY NEWSTEAD DESIGNER GEMMA WATSON GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT CLAIRE THWAITES DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PRINTED BY PCP TELFORD PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2023 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.

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@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

A bump in the road to Net-Zero?

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has altered some of the Government’s key Net-Zero policies, with the phase out of oil and LPG boilers and incentives for heat pumps taking centre stage alongside alterations to policies on petrol and diesel cars.

Making headline news in mid-September, the radio talk shows and news feeds were soon full of comment and analysis – much of it around the political dimensions of the announcement.

But putting that to one-side for a moment, it was refreshing to see the heating sector being so widely discussed – highlighting many of the ways it is at the forefront of helping homeowners reduce energy use and cut carbon emissions.

Perhaps the key takeaway here for the heating sector was the move to push-back the date for phasing out oil and LPG boilers from 2026 to 2035 – bringing it in line with a 2035 deadline for gas boilers. The alignment of the two markets was welcomed by Liquid Gas UK, with its CEO George Webb stating: “Moving the phase out date to 2035 brings welcome parity between off-grid and on-grid households.”

The other major announcement for the sector was the enlargement of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. People looking to have a heat pump installed under the scheme can now benefit from a £7,500 grant – up 50% from the previous £5,000. This move was welcomed by many in the sector and will help to further incentivise homeowners looking to switch to heat pumps.

For the heating sector, the Prime Minister’s announcement can be summed up as a bit more carrot (larger incentives through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme) and a bit less stick (pushing previous deadlines back a few years).

However, it may be a while before it becomes clear what the longer-term impact of these changes will be on the heating sector and, in turn, the affect it will have both on the road to Net Zero and on voters ahead of a possible 2024 general election.

You can read more details of the announcement on page 6 and there is a round-up of industry reactions on page 8.

Jonathan Cole

EDITOR

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.

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News NEW CIPHE PRESIDENT TO SPOTLIGHT IMPACT OF ROGUE TRADERS Newly appointed president of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), Alex Wildish, has pledged to spotlight the impact of rogue trading in a bid to raise awareness and drive quality across the industry.

Alex, a consultant forensic engineer at Engineering Forensics, was elected as CIPHE president in June 2023, following a longstanding involvement with the membership body.

He said: “Professionalism, training and competency are some of the core values that underpin the CIPHE’s work, and all of these align with my own perspective on plumbing and heating works. Throughout my career I have very rarely seen defective products, which means most failures are a result of poor workmanship and incompetence.

This poses a serious public safety issue so must be addressed.

“Rogue traders not only rob the public of their confidence, but their work is disruptive and extremely dangerous. This critical issue isn’t something that can be swept under the carpet. I’m keen to use my position to develop clear resources which illustrate the real-world threats and impacts of rogue trading to increase awareness in the industry and inspire necessary change.”

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

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES CHANGE TO BOILER PHASE OUT PLANS Prime Minister Rishi Sunak MP has extended the amount of time before oil and LPG boilers are to be phased out, while increasing the amount of money available via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for Heat Pumps.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is being increased by 50% to £7,500.

There will be a delay in the ban on oil and LPG boilers for off-gas grid homes moving the deadline from 2026 to 2035. A ban on the sale of new gas boilers will come into effect in 2035.

Mr Sunak noted that the commitment to meeting 2050 Net Zero targets would remain.

To read the how the industry has reacted to the Prime Minister’s announcement turn to page 8

BAXI LAUNCHES CASHBACK SCHEME ON NEW BOILERS Baxi has launched its latest and highest ever cashback scheme which could see installers who are members of its Baxi Works loyalty scheme earn up to £900.

From September 4th 2023 to 8th January 2024, members of the scheme who install and register any of the new Baxi 600 and Baxi 800 ranges through Baxi Works are eligible for the cashback offer. For every three boilers installed and registered, installers will receive £300, capped at £900 total.

For more details please

www.rdr.link/pay001

LOCATIONS IN NEED OF TRADESPEOPLE REVEALED The Tradespeople HotSpot Index from MoneySuperMarket Van Insurance has revealed the places most in need of tradespeople and which trades were in low supply.

According to the Index Sunderland is the UK city most in need of tradespeople, followed by Belfast and Birkenhead. Plasterers are the most in-demand trade in the UK, with just 1.8 registered plastering businesses for every 10,000 people. The Index says that there are 8.1 plumbers for every 10,000 people.

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FREE ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM FROM ALTECNIC As an online-based learning platform, the Altecnic Academy has been developed to support members of the plumbing and heating industry by providing easy access to courses that focus on relevant industry topics.

The new platform already has a range of courses available for users to engage with, including: ‘Pressure Reducing Valves’, ‘Legionella Considerations When Reactivating Buildings’ and ‘Expansion Vessels’.

Head of Marketing at Altecnic, Helen Cooper, commented: “The Altecnic Academy is a great addition to our technical hub that already contains Idronics UK, the Altecnic Podcast, and our extensive video library. The free of charge training platform, covers anything from industry legislation to more product-specific training courses.”

FERGUS LAUNCHES NEW PLANS Two new ‘simpler’ plans designed to help all trade businesses, from start-ups, to sole traders, have been launched by Fergus.

The company says that the introduction of the new “Fergus Essentials” and “Fergus Pro” options for the job management software offers a number of cost effective and tailored features. James Chillman, UK Country Manager at Fergus said: “With Essentials, you can access a range of features including job tracking, quoting and estimating, invoicing, calendar, timesheets, job cards and more – all accessible on desktop or mobile.”

IDEAL HEATING TEAM TO ‘HEAT & GREET’ INSTALLERS ON NEW UK TRADE ROADSHOW Ideal Heating will showcase its products, training and dedicated support to installers as the company embarks on a major new UK trade roadshow.

The “Heat & Greet” roadshow follows a successful tour in the first half of 2023, when Ideal Heating’s team hosted more than 1,000 trade counter events and interacted with over 4,000 installers. The company’s showcase van – kitted out with products including its new Logic Air monobloc heat pump – will be parking-up at many locations, with installers invited to step inside and explore the company’s solutions.

The new “Heat & Greet” roadshow will run from September to December. To find www.rdr.link/pay002 your nearest roadshow event please

NEW HEADLINE SPONSOR FOR HIP FEMALE SKILLS COMPETITION Building on its successful launch earlier this year, the HIP Female Skills Competition is now making preparations for 2024 with entries now open – and the GROHE GIVE Program has signed up as headline sponsor.

HIP's ‘Learner of the Year’ competition is a competition for students, with the goal to build confidence and advocate skills development along with getting the very best people into the installer industry, regardless of gender.

Zoë Tanner, Managing Director at HIP, shared: “We’re so excited for the next HIP Female Skills Competition. It’s been immensely encouraging to see the competition being supported again by so many big names from the industry with the likes of the GROHE GIVE Program on board, and a fantastic way for learners to build their confidence and take pride in their work.”

For more information or to enter the competition please www.rdr.link/pay003

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 7

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SPECIAL REPORT

NET ZERO ANNOUNCEMENT INDUSTRY REACTION As part of a series of changes to the UK’s approach to its Net Zero 2050 targets the Government recently announced an amendment to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme alongside changes to the plans to phase out some boilers.

n the announcement, made at Downing Street towards the end of September, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak MP extended the amount of time before oil and LPG boilers are to be phased out. He also announced an increase in the amount of money available per installation via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for Heat Pumps, up by 50% to a maximum of £7,500.

For properties off the gas grid, often in rural areas, there will be a delay in the ban on oil and LPG boilers with the deadline moving from 2026 to 2035. A ban on the sale of new gas boilers will come into effect in 2035. The Prime Minister also announced an ‘exemption’ for the poorest households, although he noted that the commitment to meeting 2050 Net Zero targets would remain.

I

Industry reaction

Reacting to the announcement Ian Rippin, CEO, MCS, commented: “MCS welcomes the Government announcement today that Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant values will be increased to £7,500. Making it easier and more affordable for the average UK consumer to transition to low-carbon heating is vital if we are to reach our national decarbonisation goals.

“More people will now have the confidence and ability to invest in low-carbon heating and this is an important step forward towards net zero.

“However, it is disappointing to see a delay in the deadline to phase out new gas boilers by 2035. The most important

element of helping consumers make the right, informed, green choice is clarity and moving the goalposts now risks confusing home and business owners about what the right thing to do is.”

Henk van der Berg

Henrik Hansen

Henrik Hansen, Managing Director at Vaillant Group UK & Ireland said: “We understand from customer feedback that the cost and complexity of transitioning to a heat pump is a major barrier for homeowners keen to install low carbon technology. Our experience from some European countries with more established heat pump markets has shown that stronger subsidies and the benefit of lower running costs can speed up the consumer adoption of the technology. The announcement today of the increase of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to £7,500 will be welcome news to homeowners in England and Wales considering making the switch.”

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Henk van den Berg, Residential Sales Manager at Daikin UK commented: "Heat pumps are now more affordable than ever.

By increasing the Boiler Upgrade Scheme support to £7,500, the Government has made renewable heating more accessible.

However, the overall funding hasn’t been increased which means that there will be fewer installations overall for the remainder of the BUS scheme.

“Continuing to exclude hybrid heat pump systems – the cheapest and fastest way to decarbonise home heating – from the Scheme is a real misstep.

“Moving back the deadline for banning oil/LPG boilers till 2035 and the full cancellation of the landlord’s efficiency targets will have a severe impact in the mid-term. This is only going to make hitting the 2050 net zero target harder and, most likely, more expensive for households.

Especially as our PM failed to address the electricity levy once again, still favouring fossil fuels from a tax perspective.”

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George Webb

George Webb, CEO of Liquid Gas UK said: “Moving the phase out date to 2035 brings welcome parity between off-grid and on-grid households. The 2026 off-grid fossil fuel boiler ban would have seen many in our rural communities having to spend tens of thousands of pounds on electric heating systems for hard-to-treat homes where they would have been unsuitable.

“The new pragmatic approach now taken by Government is welcome. We look forward to working with Government on adopting a mixed-technology approach to off-grid heating. The LPG industry has a credible pathway to be 100% renewable by 2040, enabling consumers to use renewable liquid gases in their current heating systems, and negate the need for a costly retrofit and installation for those hard-to-treat properties, whilst still seeing significant carbon reductions of up to 90%, compared to fossil LPG.”

Jeff House

Jeff House, External Affairs & Policy Director at Baxi, said: “We welcome the government’s commitment to improving the Boiler Upgrade Scheme by increasing the total grant to £7,500. As a manufacturer supplying multiple heating technologies including air source heat pumps, we have always been clear that consumer choice is paramount. We need to bring the public with us on a decarbonisation journey and driving consumer demand is a key requirement for developing the heat pump market in the UK. By increasing the grant, we hope that more homeowners will be encouraged to make the switch to heat pumps over the coming years as we see the market continue to grow.

“As a company with a wealth of knowledge and expertise from our European parent company, we believe the government has missed a trick with not including tacit support for hybrid heat pump systems as part of this announcement. The technology offers a simpler route to heat pump integration for many types of homes and has been successful in European countries through local incentive schemes. We need clear policy support to bring them into the mainstream as a strategic stepping stone towards the 600,000 annual market ambition and can work with government to make this a reality in the UK.” Stewart Clements, Director of the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC), said: “Following yesterday’s speech made by the Prime Minister, we welcome the time afforded to make a more thought out and successful switch to low carbon heating. This will play a pivotal role in our journey in achieving net zero and decarbonising homes across the country.

“The 50% increase in financial support provided through the enhanced Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Great British Insulation Scheme will undoubtedly incentivise the switch to heat pumps for more homeowners. Such a positive initiative, however, requires a significantly larger number of installers than previously estimated, which the government must work with industry to address.

We need to bring the public with us on a decarbonisation journey and driving consumer demand is a key requirement for developing the heat pump market in the UK. Jeff House, External Affairs & Policy Director at Baxi “Data gathered by the HHIC suggests that to meet the Government’s ambitious heat pump installation target of 600,000, we require 100,000 installers more than the Government’s prediction of 50,000 – a figure almost equivalent to the entire Gas Safe Register. This shows the need for further support in addressing the current skills gap to meet the expected rise in demand for low carbon heating.”

Russell Dean, Residential Product Group Director at Mitsubishi Electric said: “We welcome the government’s decision to increase the financial support available to households via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to £7,500. This will help offset the cost of installing a heat pump for homeowners ahead of implementing the Future Homes Standard in 2025.

“Home heating currently accounts for almost a fifth of overall carbon emissions in the UK, so changing how we heat our homes will continue to play a crucial role in reaching current targets for net zero. To do this, we must focus on transitioning away from reliance on oil and gas boilers and towards more renewable energy sources like heat pumps.

“Heat pumps are three times more efficient than fossil fuel boilers, and we are highly confident in their ability to help in decarbonising home heating and contributing to the delivery of net zero by 2050 – with the government currently targeting 600,000 installations per year by 2028.”

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

REFRESHING E lec t r ic SHOWERS

In the ever-evolving landscape of consumer preferences and environmental consciousness, Triton has identified growing demand for electric showers that deliver attractive aesthetics, maximum sustainability, and space-saving potential without compromising on performance.

Karen Wise, Head of Product Management at Triton, dives into the creation of a new electric shower solution that tailors to these specific user needs, from conception to completion. nderpinning product innovation is consumer demand. Notably, aesthetics, sustainability, and space-saving have been highlighted as the key factors end users keep in mind when selecting a shower. Shifting legislation, including energy efficiency standards set out in Part L of the Building Regulations, also continue to influence the domestic market. It is these considerations that paved the way for the next generation of electric showers, ENVi.

U

Market drivers When introducing any new product to the market, the journey begins by identifying a specific demand. Triton does this through consumer research, which has recently highlighted a need for solutions that save energy and water, while being

design-forward. Once an understanding of market drivers has been obtained, Triton defines Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and objectives. These are applied to the development of new bathroom systems, providing clear direction to prevent ‘project creep,' which refers to when product development deviates from the original brief.

Equally crucial is commercial viability, making solutions affordable for developers, installers, and – most importantly – end users.

Space and style Increasingly, consumers are focused on interior design, caring about both form and functionality. As a result, desire for trend-led bathroom fixtures has grown.

Triton's answer to this demand is ENVi, which is available in three finishes – black, copper, and silver effect – and has shower

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head variations, such as dual-outlets.

From a developer’s perspective, being able to provide flexibility in smaller bathrooms is also crucial. To achieve this, Triton developed an electric shower heater box, known as Tri-Hub, which can be located up to three metres away from the control panel, in spaces like lofts or airing cupboards.

Another vital consideration is ease of installation, which can be accomplished by getting installers involved in the development process. Prior to its recent launch, Triton facilitated a focus group with a group of experienced installers to seek necessary feedback. This played a fundamental role in refining ENVi, including the addition of captive screws in the Tri-Hub, to improve visibility for installation in unlit spaces, and installation support QR codes on the unit.

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Going green As energy efficiency becomes increasingly important to consumers, manufacturers shoulder the responsibility of integrating it into product development. For example, Triton's dedicated sustainability manager collaborates with the project team from the outset, providing expert analysis, carbon footprint calculation, and strategies to minimise environmental impact.

Triton has even gone one step further by collaborating with ClimatePartner, an organisation dedicated to incorporating climate action into corporate operations. In fact, ENVi is Triton's first ClimatePartner certified product.

Empowering users Triton’s research also unveiled user desire for personalisation and control. In response, ENVi features a digital display control panel that empowers users to adapt their showering behaviour by adjusting the temperature, setting timers, and monitoring their water and energy usage. Additionally, it offers thermostatic functionality, ensuring

temperature stability during showers.

The control panel accommodates up to six user profiles and boasts an eco-mode, simplifying efforts to reduce water and energy consumption by encouraging shorter shower durations. This intuitive feature not only promotes sustainability but also offers users a seamless way to customise their shower experience while being environmentally conscious.

Designing sustainably Due to the on-demand heating aspect, electric showers use less water than mixer

counterparts. Building on this foundation, ENVi is designed as an A-rated appliance, guaranteeing that 96 per cent of the product's energy usage contributes to delivering water.

On top of this, user behaviour is key to ensuring energy and water saving is achieved. For example, a mere one per cent reduction in daily shower time among UK households could save over 673 million litres of water per annum – which is the volume of water in 270 Olympic swimming pools. It would also save nearly 6.7million kg of CO2e each year – equivalent to taking 3,950 cars off the roads. The ENVi eco mode makes it easier for users to save energy every time they shower, and installers can play an important role in helping consumers achieve this by educating on them on how to use their systems more effectively. Triton's energy and water savings calculator can also play a valuable tool for consumers.

For more information on Triton's ENVi www.rdr.link/pay005 please

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

PUMP IT UP Gareth Richards, Operations and Technical Director at Salamander Pumps speaks to PHPI about the issue of low water pressure and outlines how plumbers can boost water pressure in a gravity fed system.

Q

With many homeowners seeking solutions to low water pressure, what are some of the main solutions that Salamander Pumps has to help resolve the problem?

Low water pressure can be caused by many things, for example in a direct mains-fed system, such as combination boilers, the incoming supply determines the pressure and flow in the system. So, if the supply is low, it is likely that the homeowner will suffer with trickling taps and poor performing showers.

A vented (gravity-fed) system relies on gravity to move water around the installation, which rarely provides enough pressure to give a powerful shower or quick bath-fill.

Salamander Pumps can offer a solution for both these scenarios, manufacturing a range of products for boosting water pressure and flow rates in the home, with shower and whole house pumps for a vented system (gravity-fed) and inline pumps, accumulator tanks and pumped tanks for a mains-fed system.

Therefore, where a high water flow rate is required, such as whole house applications, supplying body jets or drench head showers, or boosting multiple outlets, Right Pumps are the best option given their greater flow efficiency.

Right Pumps also incorporate Salamander Pumps’ Cross Over Technology, a bypass facility which allows the pump to operate one-sided, such as when running only a hot or cold tap, without causing damage to the side of the pump not in use.

Q

Are there options for both positive and negative head?

Salamander Pumps’ Right Pumps range includes both positive head and universal (negative head) models.

Q

One solution for boosting water pressure in a gravity fed system is the company’s Right Pump range. In which circumstances should installers consider this option?

Right Pumps are an ideal choice to boost water supplies in a gravity-fed system. They use centrifugal technology which allows higher pressure to be maintained at greater flow rates.

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To determine what pump type is compatible with the system, installers need to measure the water flow rate. For instance, to activate a positive head pump, one litre per 30 seconds (or two litres per min) of water should flow through each side of the pump naturally and out of the tap or shower.

Whereas, if the system is unable to achieve the minimum flow rate of two litres per minute from all hot or cold-water outlets that are to be pumped, a universal (negative head) pump needs to be installed.

Q

What level of performance can a Right Pump deliver?

Designed to provide high flow and to boost pressure to multiple outlets, the inclusion of a centrifugal impeller enables Right Pumps to deliver a powerful performance to the whole house.

Centrifugal impellers within a Right Pump can be stacked to build higher pressure and flow, with a range of pressure ratings available between 1.5 bar and 3.6 bar. This also allows them to move more water at the same pressure compared to a regenerative pump, delivering a more powerful performance.

The power of the pumps can also be enhanced with the newly launched SuperBooster packs.

Developed as a powerful and versatile

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SuperBooster packs are recommended for situations where hot or cold water is regularly used individually

solution for helping Right Pumps provide stronger water pressure in gravity-fed systems, the packs include two single-ended, negative head pumps.

One pump elevates cold water pressure, while the other boosts hot water pressure, effectively 'splitting' a pumped installation. Using centrifugal technology, SuperBooster packs are a great option for larger households with gravity-fed systems, as they deliver higher pressures for both hot and cold water when compared to one twin pump.

SuperBooster packs are recommended for situations where hot or cold water is regularly used individually, such as supplying water to an electric shower, to prevent prolonged 'closed head running' when only one side of the pump is active.

The installation of a Right Pump can also help to keep noise to a minimum.

Some of the key things to consider are outlined below: ● Install a pump mat to reduce the vibration that is passed from the pump through to surface it is sitting on. ● Fit the feet, Right Pumps are supplied with anti-vibration feed that further reduce vibration. ● Keep AV couplers straight. They are able to flex, but they must not be bent more than 35°. ● Clip the pipework from the pump to limit vibrations transferring from the pump to the pipework.

Q

What is the size of the unit and whereabouts can it be sited?

Developed for easy installations, universal Right Pumps utilise vacant space above the pump for the pressure vessel to limit the space used by the unit.

The optimal placement for the pump is at the cylinder's base. The pump should also be positioned in a location that ensures sufficient airflow for motor cooling.

It should also be isolated from any other appliances that emit heat. The installation should allow for a clear space of 100mm on each side, at both ends, and on top of the pump.

Q

What type of connections are needed?

Q

Are there any particular things to be aware of when installing a Right Pump?

The Right Pump range is supplied with ¾” BSP x 22mm push-fit anti-vibration couplers with built in isolating valves, except the RP50PT which comes with ¾” BSP x 15mm push-fit anti-vibration couplers with built in isolating valves.

Q

The added noise from a pump could be an issue for some homeowners, what levels of noise does the Right Pump range produce?

The Right Pump range represents an exceptionally quiet pump option – operating from just 45dBA. Centrifugal pumps are much quieter in operation compared to regenerative pumps, due to the water being spun from the impeller using centrifugal force and with no physical action of stripping it, centrifugal pumps are quieter.

As some of the quietest, most compact and most reliable shower pumps on the market, the Right Pumps range has also been certified with the industry standard Quiet Mark.

When installing a Right Pump, precise specification and installation are essential for optimal performance and durability: ● Anti-vibration couplers must be kept as straight as possible, bent no more than 35°. ● Hot water temperature must not exceed 60ºC, and approved temperature control needs to be in place. ● The hot water supply to the pump must be using a Salamander Pumps approved method such as a No-Stop Essex Flange or S flange. ● The hot supply pipework from the hot water cylinder to the pump should be a limited up to a maximum of 5m in 22mm. ● Ensure sufficient cold water storage capacity (minimum 227 Litres per bathroom, 80 385 Litres for one bathroom and one en-suite shower room).

For more information on Salamander Pumps please www.rdr.link/pay006

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

BOX

CLEVER

hansgrohe has launched its new generation of intelligent concealed installation – the iBox universal 2. he hansgrohe iBox universal has been helping plumbers create concealed installations since its launch 22 years ago and has been used in countless bathrooms around the world. Now, the company has revealed the next generation of its concealed technology – the iBox universal 2, based on the proven iBox Universal, but featuring a number of extra installation features.

Axel Meissner, Product Manager, Hansgrohe SE, explained: “Installers are facing more demand and daily time pressures on the job than ever before. To support them in installing the best, high-quality products aligned with customer expectations, we designed the new iBox universal 2 with the installer’s needs top of mind.

“The new generation iBox is designed to simplify the everyday lives of installers, efficiently improving their workflows, and supporting them in obtaining excellent customer satisfaction.”

T

Installation options The iBox universal 2 gives installers a range of installation options. For example, the basic body can be adapted to any standard wall depth between 80 and 108 millimetres, and an extension rosette enables convenient installation even in the case of wall constructions being too flat.

The integrated circular spirit level makes the first alignment of the iBox universal 2 straightforward, with alignment indicators located on the expanded polypropylene box, as well as a pictorial representation to support with easy installation. A cleaning cap also protects

the concealed unit from dust and damage during installation and transport.

Thanks to pre-assembly, the function block forms a unit with the adapter. This eliminates the need to shorten the screws and the adapter must no longer be measured, cut and calibrated.

Plus, the use of tools is minimized.

The iBox universal 2 is also equipped with a new sliding sleeve for deep installation, meaning the product can be installed without cutting, regardless of the depth in which the flush-mounted body is installed. A pre-mounted sealing sleeve is also tightly connected to the sliding sleeve, meaning the iBox universal 2 is automatically fitted with essential watertight installation.

Finally, thanks to an all-new mounting ring, the new unit can be installed in a concealed fashion within, or alternatively in front of the wall.

The company says rigorous testing of the iBox universal 2 guarantees reliable protection against backflow, for example with bath inlets, outlets, and overflow

14 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

fittings, to ensure the customers showering experience remains a luxury.

In terms of materials, the iBox universal 2 is manufactured with expanded polypropylene (EPP) – a sustainable material providing sound absorption and thermal insulation.

Tranquil space More customers seek their bathroom to be a feel-good space of tranquillity, so minimising noise disruption is important. hansgrohe have considered this within the design of the iBox universal 2, with all water-bearing product parts being designed to reduce flow noises within the bathroom. The product also works in conjunction with new prefabricated sets for both showers and bathtubs, which comply with noise class 1, to support continued noise reduction in the bathroom.

Individualisation has also grown in importance, with select finishes, personalised experiences, and innovative functions in demand. To support this, the iBox universal 2 can be combined with all hansgrohe prefabricated sets. To support installers who may be working on older bathrooms, an adaptor plate can be bought to fit the new iBox universal 2 to any hansgrohe shower installation.

To watch a video of an installation please www.rdr.link/pay007

For more information please www.rdr.link/pay008

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

STEEL OF APPROVAL itchen sinks continue to play an indispensable role in homes worldwide, demanding durability and longevity. In a market brimming with various shapes, styles and installation options, the choice of material stands out as a pivotal decision.

Repeatedly, stainless steel emerges as the preferred choice of material among consumers and professionals alike. While there are excellent alternatives available, and fire-clay ceramic or granite composite models hold their merits, stainless steel remains at the forefront in terms of popularity, due to its durability, stain and heat resistance, low maintenance and antibacterial properties.

However, it is worth noting that not all stainless steel sinks are created equal – there are many differences. Factors such as the gauge (i.e. thickness) of the material vary among manufacturers and even product collections. This is significant because the thicker the material, the greater its durability and sound-deadening qualities, which are invaluable advantages in busy family homes and open-plan kitchens. As plumbers and installers know, low-quality materials can compromise longevity; as a result, our ranges exclusively use food-grade 304 18/10 stainless steel with gauges between 0.6 and 1.0.

The grade refers to the quality, durability and temperature resistance, while the numbers ‘18/10’ indicate the

K

Stainless steel has been used in the manufacture of sinks for over a century. James Cunningham, Sales Director at Leisure Sinks, looks at the benefits of the popular sink material and how it can add value to kitchen projects.

amount of chromium (18%) and nickel (10%) in the material – responsible for the stain, corrosion and rust resistance that stainless steel is renowned for. Additionally, it also ensures a long-lasting, high-sheen finish that perfectly complements modern design schemes. The longevity factor can’t be overstated; stainless steel products are designed to last for years, if not decades, so it’s no wonder they are so popular with builders, developers and installers.

With so many kitchen sink options out there, it can sometimes be challenging to

16 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

identify the one most suitable for a customer’s needs. After all, various brands offer seemingly similar models, on paper at least, made from 18/10 stainless steel. Some reliable advice to help with the buying decision is to look for the BSI Kitemark.

Sinks with this accolade have been tested and proven to benefit from the highest manufacturing standards and management systems. The Kitemark is one of the most recognised symbols of safety and quality throughout the industry – it represents genuine value to consumers, businesses

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and procurement practices. In fact, Leisure Sinks can proudly say it has the largest range of BSI Kitemark sinks in the UK.

A number of benefits While stainless steel sinks are celebrated for their durability and practicality, they also offer lesser-known benefits that make them suited for kitchen projects. One of the most practical elements is how easy they are to transport and store, due to their lightweight design, giving installers a distinct advantage over sinks made from alternative materials, such as fire-clay ceramic or granite composite. They can also be manoeuvred on site with ease, as well as fitted swiftly into kitchens or utility rooms.

It’s also important to recognise that, from an end-user viewpoint, stainless steel sinks are simple to clean and have a high level of corrosion resistance against many household chemicals and detergents. This allows them to maintain their pristine appearance in any kitchen, a feature highly sought after in privately owned and local authority homes.

From an environmental standpoint, stainless steel is also recyclable. When a sink is replaced, the material has typically only suffered minimal degradation and still contains a high volume of valuable alloying elements, such as chromium and nickel.

These can be passed back into the melting furnace, facilitating the creation of new products.

Range of options With kitchen sink trends becoming a more critical design element within the home, product ranges must adapt accordingly. An array of stainless steel sink designs, from single-bowl models with grooved drainers to double bowls with bilateral or

asymmetrical drainers, cater to diverse preferences. Different finishes offer even more variety, thanks to effects such as satin, polished, brushed and PVD (physical vapour deposition). Selecting the right combination of design and practicality ensures customers acquire a sink that not only looks fantastic but also meets the demands of their households, which will be music to most installers' ears.

Nevertheless, there isn’t a ‘one sink fits all’ formula. Plumbers and installers should keep up to date with the latest product developments and style trends to meet customers’ requirements or address any questions they may have. The stainless steel sink will undoubtedly continue to be the number-one product for UK kitchens.

Given the material’s simplicity of manufacture, combined with its many other benefits, it’s no surprise it has endured for so long – and remained the foundation of Leisure Sinks for the last 90 years.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pay009

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LOW CARBON HEATING

CATCH THE TRAINING Martin Passingham, Product and Training Department Manager at Daikin UK, outlines why installer training is key to paving the road to net zero.

ecuring the UK’s energy supply and meeting its net zero targets is a top priority for the UK government. Heat pumps have been highlighted as a key renewable solution in the country’s future heating strategy.

The UK is facing a major challenge to fill the green skills gaps needed to meet the government’s ambitious target of net-zero by 2050 and its aim to have 600,000 heat pumps installed each year by 2028 – with more than 200,000 people needing training for green energy roles by 2050.

At Daikin, we have the capacity to train more than 7,000 installers on air source heat pumps through our accredited courses and around 40-strong network of Sustainable Home Centres – and we’re striving to train around 30% of all installers in the industry. We’re urging installers to upskill to meet the upcoming demand and drive uptake across the country as we work to decarbonise home heating.

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Accredited training It is vital that homeowners have a positive experience during the installation process, and confidence in their heat pump solution in the weeks, months and years that follow.

Early adopters of heat pumps will effectively become ambassadors for the technology and can encourage others to make the move as well.

And there’s a benefit for installers, too.

Ensuring the install is carried out to a high standard reduces the potential need for follow-up visits to resolve any issues – increasing the likelihood of positive word-of-mouth recommendations and maximising the time available to take on more new jobs.

In 2021, the awarding body, LCL, launched a three-day air source heat pump foundation course that more closely aligned to industry requirements. And to facilitate the upskilling of installers in their thousands, third-party providers like Daikin are accredited to deliver the Air Source Heat Pump course.

The course covers the fundamentals of how a heat pump works, as well as the finer technical details of the installation.

It also provides a detailed overview of how to select the right heat pump for a particular home – starting by carrying out a thorough heat loss calculation for the property and understanding the household’s hot water demands to ensure its requirements can be met.

Courses like this one enable installers to carry out installations through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) where homeowners get thousands of pounds towards their heat pump installation in England and Wales and in Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme offers even more generous support.

7,000

Daikin has the capacity to train more than 7,000 installers on air source heat pumps through its accredited courses and around 40-strong network of Sustainable Home Centres

20 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Product training As well as a solid grounding in heat pump theory and best practice, product-specific training is a good idea for installers looking to get every install right first time.

Daikin provides three levels of courses for its Daikin Altherma air source heat pumps – including Monobloc, High Temperature, and hybrid systems.

The first level ‘Standard Installation’ course is designed for anyone who’s only involved in installations and set up of the Heat Pump including basic commissioning.

The second level ‘Advanced Installation and Commissioning’ course covers the skills required to install Heat Pumps in a much wider range of circumstances, also to fully configure and commission to suit the homeowners’ varying requirements.

The third level ‘Service and Fault Finding’ course covers all types of

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It is vital that homeowners have a positive experience during the installation process, and confidence in their heat pump solution in the weeks, months and years that follow.

servicing tasks. This course is for the experienced Heat Pump engineer and allows then to be able to diagnose issues that may arise during the lifetime of the unit and to be able to effectively repair.

The training is delivered virtually and face to face at our Training Academy’s in Woking, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow. Our network of Daikin local Sustainable Homes Centres also offers completely free product training and refresher courses to local installers, cutting down on costs and time taken away from work.

The company has also totally refitted its Daikin Training Academy in Birmingham. It provides a comprehensive range of training courses, including Daikin product courses and industry-accredited training for heat-pump renewables installers, social housing providers and developers.

Support for installers Daikin is offering £250 to MCS certified installers each time they fit a Daikin air-source heat pump in England, Scotland or Wales. The scheme is directly linked to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and the Home Energy Scotland Scheme (HESS). In Scotland, the eligible products also include hybrid boilers.

Running alongside the Installer Incentive scheme, Daikin’s new installer offer provides free local heat pump training in a Daikin Sustainable Home Centre and £100 off easy MCS accreditation, alongside end-user warranties for customers. In addition to this, new installers will also benefit from 40% off the first heat pump unit purchased at a local centre and commissioning support for the first installations.

Technology of today

of the future. They are the technology of today. With no gas boilers being installed in new homes from 2025 – and incentives in place to ensure the country’s existing housing stock is upgraded to low carbon heating, too – the need for installers to train on alternatives is paramount.

Those who are among the first to make the move can enjoy a competitive advantage while others catch up, as long as they can competently advise homeowners on the optimum solution for their home.

This represents a once-in-a-career opportunity for installers to not just future-proof their businesses as their existing customers upgrade to cleaner, green options, but to grow and expand their customer base.

For more information please

Heat pumps are no longer the technology

www.rdr.link/pay010

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 21

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Viessmann Vitovolt 300 solar PV array

LOW CARBON HEATING

FROM ‘HEATING’ TO ‘HOUSEHOLDS’ Christian Engelke, Technical Director, Viessmann argues that we need to move from low carbon heating to low carbon households.

t’s tempting for consumers and the industry to think about low carbon heating in terms of: what will replace the gas or oil boiler while doing more or less the same job? Going down this path leads us to the mainstream media headlines we commonly see today that directly compare the performance and cost of boilers and heat pumps. In many circumstances, particularly for existing properties, this apples versus pears assessment of the boiler replacement scenario sees the heat pump lose out.

I

We’re thinking about this all wrong and as an industry, we’re often getting drawn into the wrong debate. We should not be thinking about low carbon heating, but low carbon households where the prize is much bigger, in terms of both the environment and cost.

Top on the home improvement agenda for UK homeowners should be the question: how can I start building up a low-carbon heat and power ecosystem for my living and mobility needs?

Solar PV

Solar power plays a central role for this revised vision of energy in the home.

Solar power plays a central role for this revised vision of energy in the home. It requires changing the way we think of PV. Most PV systems are set up to export a large proportion of the (unused) generated power to the grid, whereas, in fact the aim should be to use as much as possible –

Christian Engelke, Technical Director, Viessmann

ideally all of it – within the household.

Making it and keeping it to oneself covers the increasing consumption of electricity within our homes and protects against volatile, high electricity prices. Solar PV has never been so important.

We must also think about the management of power for heat in the context of other electrical demands and appliances. For example, if PV is combined

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 23

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LOW CARBON HEATING

with battery storage and an energy optimisation system, a gas boiler can be replaced by a heat pump to cover the heat demand, saving the gas energy used for heating completely and with only a minimal increase in electric consumption (<10%).

For the electric demand for a residential home with both a heat pump and electric vehicle, adding solar PV and battery storage together with an energy management system can reduce electrical demand by around one third by increasing the amount of self-produced energy being used. When you consider that around 90% of the value of electricity is lost if it’s exported, as the sale price is typically around a tenth of the purchase tariff, it’s clear why this matters.

as budget and headspace allows. The Viessmann Energy Management System which is integral to the products’ One Base controls, allows a modular package approach to Viessmann’s heat-and-power-generating appliances to make installing, operating and optimising an autonomous system streamlined and simple.

Homeowners can start with PV panels as a first step on the road to self-sufficiency and add additional elements such as storage, heating and vehicle charging over time. Alternatively, if

they already have a heat pump, it’s simple to add PV to eradicate running costs.

Financial benefits A 4 kWp Vitovolt 300 PV system generates around 3,800 kWh/year – well over the typical UK four-person household consumption level of 2,900 kWh. Around 30% of this will be used within the home, saving approximately £422/year at 30p/kWh. Adding a battery increases household usage to 50%, giving annual savings of £627. With an electric vehicle

Modular approach Not everyone has the budget to install everything at once, and that can be a real barrier. Viessmann has devised a solution to these dilemmas that will make switching to renewable energy much easier, adding

Viessmann Vitovolt 300 solar PV module.

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and heat pump in the mix, nearly 100% will be used, saving £1,140/year and enabling fully renewable self-sufficiency for heat, power, hot water and transport.

To obtain these kinds of savings, however, it’s essential to have an energy management system that coordinates and optimises the entire ecosystem, improving efficiency and comfort while reducing costs and emissions. But finding software that can integrate with multiple appliances from different manufacturers is not always easy and can add extra complexity and costs.

All appliances with Viessmann’s One Base platform have Viessmann’s ‘Energy Management Inside’, a free energy-optimisation system which is easily connected to the user-friendly ViCare app for homeowners and the installer app ViGuide for remote monitoring and diagnostics.

Together, these innovations allow homeowners to build a self-reliant renewable system at their own pace, secure in the knowledge it will all integrate seamlessly and work together optimally.

For the electric demand for a residential home with both a heat pump and electric vehicle, adding solar PV and battery storage together with an energy management system can reduce electrical demand by around one third by increasing the amount of self-produced energy being used

Energy management Another important role for the sophisticated energy management software, when connected to solar PV and heat pump, is managing the operation of

the heat pump so that its power consumption is optimised and subsequently reduced, contributing to a more efficient, low-carbon heating and household system.

Where there is no power optimisation of the PV, the heat pump simply generates heat when needed by the household. This demand usually comes outside of the PV generation cycle meaning the battery uses up all its stored power as soon as the heat pump kicks in. With PV optimisation controls such as those included in the Viessmann Energy Management System, the heat pump operation is shifted to work in time with PV generation, while managing the storage of heat via a buffer and/or DHW cylinder. The battery is then able to supply energy outside the PV generation to contribute to the overall system efficiency savings outlined in the scenarios above.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pay011

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LOW CARBON HEATING

Smarter

CONTROL Heat pumps have once again been in the spotlight as government funded financial support for homeowners interested in switching to low carbon technology is explored further. Martin Wilson, Sales Director at Resideo, looks at how smart controls have an important role to play in maximising the effectiveness of both existing boiler systems, as well as for customers making the move to a low carbon home heating option.

esideo’s recent research revealed that 43% of homeowners were willing to spend money on the latest technology if it meant they could save money in the long run. Indeed, whether the decision to upgrade a property’s heating is being made due to a desire to reduce impact on the planet, or with an eye to saving on energy bills, the right control is vital in ensuring a home maximizes its energy usage.

In recent years, heat pumps have gone from a little-known technology to playing a central role in the government’s plans to decarbonise the nation’s heating systems.

The heat pump market is expected to

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26 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

continue to increase, as more homeowners start to look at potentially upgrading their heating systems using a low-carbon technology.

For some customers, fitting a smart control to an existing boiler installation could be the first step towards increasing efficiency, with a view to moving to a heat pump further down the line. The Honeywell Home evohome, for instance, can be installed with either heat source, providing smart advantages for an existing system while offering homeowners a future-proofed solution should they decide to make the switch later.

Hybrid working, flexible heating The opportunity to spend more time working from home has undoubtedly given many of us more flexibility. However, it has also made us think more carefully about how we heat our homes.

Working from one room during the day means heating an entire house is inefficient and costly. It is here where additional control over the heating system can result in both savings and increased comfort, and where a smart zoning control can make a real difference for both boiler and heat pump systems.

The Honeywell Home evohome with smart zoning technology can be installed with thermostatic radiator valves to wirelessly measure and control temperatures for up to 12 zones individually, without needing to disturb décor during installation. Working with boiler and heat pump systems, having this smart zoning feature available allows customers to control the temperature in rooms they aren’t using, therefore saving energy and money.

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It is also possible to link compatible smart controls into one efficient system too.

For instance, the Honeywell Home HCC100 underfloor multi-zone controller can also work seamlessly with the Honeywell Home evohome to ensure multiple underfloor heating zones can be created.

By combining the two, it ensures management of all zones through one touchscreen device and via the app. As both can work with existing and greener heat sources, it also means that, should the customer choose to upgrade to a greener alternative in the future, the controls are already in place and ready to go.

Working with the weather At present, the British weather seems ever more unpredictable, with a mild autumnal day quickly tuning to a chilly frost in the space of a few hours.

Advances in technology means homeowners can rely on smarter control

For some customers, fitting a smart control to an existing boiler installation could be the first step towards increasing efficiency offerings to navigate temperature fluctuations; monitoring outside weather temperatures and communicating with the heating system to adjust the temperature within the property, so that the system is running as efficiently as possible.

The smart weather feature on the Honeywell Home evohome system, for example, will follow the set programme on cooler days, but when it warms up outside it will automatically turn the heating off and save energy. It does this by monitoring outside temperature, room temperature and setpoint, and acts when heat demands are very low. Using patented Advanced Load Scaling technology, this limits

inefficient high return temperatures and runs the boiler in its most efficient mode.

As air source heat pumps rely on the outside air to generate heat, smart controls are essential to ensuring that heat pumps deliver optimum comfort in the most energy efficient way. However, it is crucial that they are correctly set up by the installer and used in the right way by occupants.

For more information on the Honeywell Home evohome smart zoning thermostat system please www.rdr.link/pay012

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WATER TREATMENT

THE POWER OF

system cleaning

A clean system is an efficient one, but research by ADEY has shown that heating systems in four in ten (40%) homes are either dirty, or not protected with inhibitor. With the nation’s boilers set to be working harder, the inclusion of system deep cleaning in the government’s latest energy saving tips is not only timely, but a welcome addition.

Maintaining your heating system, including a Deep Clean of the System and Servicing, is now part of a government awareness campaign. This is something that ADEY, along with the wider industry, has been calling for and

or a homeowner, they’re most likely to notice the effects of sludge build up in their heating system when their radiators aren’t getting as hot or they have cold spots. While bleeding might fix the problem temporarily, it doesn’t treat the root cause, which is where a system deep clean comes in. Explaining that the dirty water that comes out during a radiator bleed is the sludge that has settled at the bottom is a helpful starting point when talking to homeowners about the benefits.

If the sludge isn’t removed, it can build up quickly, not only floating around in pipes and radiators and blocking heat from coming through properly, but causing damage to the boiler. Here it will clog up components, which will start to reduce efficiency, meaning the boiler has to work harder, more gas will be used and bills will increase. Carrying out a system deep clean will help to remove virtually all of the debris that has built up over time and the demonstrable benefits are significant.

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also follows a meeting between ADEY and its local MP, Siobhan Baillie. She then raised the issue of sludge in parliament and subsequently met with the Secretary of State for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (ESNZ).

The campaign gives homeowners help and advice about how they can prepare their heating systems for winter. But with many homeowners unfamiliar with system deep cleaning, Colin Yearp, Head of Training at ADEY, considers how installers can talk to their customers about why it’s important and the benefits it can bring.

While energy bills are tipped to come down this winter, there’s no doubt that cost is still a big concern for most, which is why it’s important to demonstrate the proven benefits that come from carrying out a system deep clean. Just as a car will run more efficiently on clean oil, clean water in a heating system is key to optimum performance, and a system deep clean, when carried out as part of a best practice approach, radiator heat output can increase by up to 47% as well as reducing the amount of gas used and carbon emissions, by up to 7%. A system that’s been deep cleaned can also extend the life of a boiler by up to 7 years.

In just three minutes, it tests four main parameters which contribute to boiler breakdown

28 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Test and treat While reduced heat output from radiators indicates a potential build-up of sludge, a water test is the most effective way for installers to check the water quality and find out if a system needs attention. This can be done quickly and on-site using ADEY ProCheck, a digital water test.

In just three minutes, it tests four main parameters which contribute to boiler breakdown: turbidity, pH, corrosion and inhibitor, with results delivered straight to a smart phone or tablet. These can then be shown to the homeowner, helping them to see exactly what the problem is and then providing a recommendation for treatment.

If a system deep clean is needed, using ADEY MagnaCleanse is an efficient and time-effective solution. This has a pump at its heart and is carried out under low pressure, using the velocity of water to flush away deposits in the central heating system. Once any sludge has been loosened, clean water is forced through the system, pushing out the contaminated water through a dump valve.

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As most installers know well, this can be an incredibly time-consuming process because it relies solely on gradual dilution of the dirty water with incoming mains water.

This means it can take between four to six hours, or even longer for heavily sludged systems, as well as using a lot of water.

Using ADEY MagnaCleanse directly targets and captures the root cause of blocked systems, saving the installer time and using significantly less water. With the help of the VibraClean agitation tool, which helps to loosen even hardened debris and reduces the likelihood radiators need to be removed, the process can be completed by one person in an average of two hours for a three-bedroom system.

Chemical cleaner The addition of a premium chemical cleaner can also help lift the debris, especially where there is a large and very settled amount.

Powerful magnets then capture the magnetite which is easily disposed of, a process which is visible to the homeowner.

This provides an ideal opportunity for installers to show their customers exactly what’s been clogging up their system and explain why dosing with inhibitor and regular servicing can prevent their now clean system getting clogged with sludge again.

As a water treatment solution that’s relatively unknown to homeowners, with system deep cleaning now being included in government advice to homeowners, it’s an ideal chance for installers to demonstrate its effectiveness. With proven benefits including reducing gas bills, improving radiator heat output and extending boiler lifespan, it’s a valuable tool in an installer’s armoury from which their customers can reap the rewards.

ADEY has resources available that installers can use to talk to customers about system deep cleaning. To watch a video please www.rdr.link/pay013

To download an information leaflet please www.rdr.link/pay014

To find out more about MagnaCleanse, www.rdr.link/pay015

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 29

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WATER TREATMENT

KNOWING THE

Facts

Ed Morris, Technical Manager at Altecnic, details the key facts of water treatment, looking at BS 7593:2019 standards, the causes of common problems and how to treat water.

What is BS 7593:2019?

BS 7593:2019 sets out recommendations on good practice for preparation of the water within both open vented and sealed heating or cooling systems in individual domestic premises.

It outlines initial commissioning or recommissioning following major remedial works such as boiler replacement, but also ongoing water treatment to ensure system protection and efficiency.

What are the objectives of system water treatment?

A

To minimise corrosion of the system metals B To inhibit the formation of scale and sludge C To inhibit the growth of microbiological organisms D To maintain the engineering design specification and efficiency of the system E To restore energy efficiency of the system where appropriate

Causes of corrosion Corrosion is generally a process of oxidation of metals which, in a central heating system, can result in restriction of circulation and/or failure of components, for example – perforation of radiators.

Corrosion in a central heating system is promoted by the following: A

Poor system design and/or installation by creating oxygenated water B Ingress of air e.g. mechanical or poorly soldered joints C Electrolytic (galvanic) action between dissimilar metals

D

valves, zone valves, drain Deleterious materials, e.g. valves, etc., and any parts of flux residues or jointing the system where there is a compound from the low water velocity or small installation process E Characteristics of the pipe diameters (e.g. in radiators or fan convectors supply water (hard or soft and microbore circuits). water) and also chlorine Sludge accumulation will content that can promote result in poor circulation and a pitting of ferrous and Ed Morris, Technical decrease in system efficiency. non-ferrous metals Manager, Altecnic F Other sources of chloride, Causes of microbiological which include fluxes, hydrochloric acid contamination and washing materials G Presence of anaerobic bacteria Microbiological organisms ranging from simple bacteria to fungal and yeast spores resulting in acidity and localised pitting can cause problems when they enter a corrosion H Incorrect, unsuitable or poorly applied central heating system.

The greatest potential for or maintained water treatment products I The formation of corrosion products microbiological proliferation exists in the feed and expansion cistern of open-vented deposited or plated out in the system systems. Here the temperature conditions Causes of scale & sludge are more favourable for bacterial growth “Hardness” is the term which describes and there is contact with the air. the concentration of calcium and Under-floor heating and other systems magnesium salts dissolved in water, which operate at lower temperature (below usually expressed as calcium carbonate 60°C) can also be prone to microbiological (CaCO3) equivalence (scale). fouling. Even the high temperature in the System areas most prone to failure due boiler heat exchanger might not be to fouling by scale or sludge include the sufficient to kill all micro-organisms. boiler heat exchanger and circulator pump.

Anaerobic bacteria can thrive in both Fouling can also restrict flow through open and sealed systems fouled with components such as thermostatic radiator corrosion and other debris, beneath deposits where the temperature might be lower and there is an absence of oxygen.

This can give rise to microbiological corrosion of ferrous metals.

Sludge accumulation will result in poor circulation and a decrease in system efficiency.

30 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

How do you treat water?

General Treatment: In most cases, the quality of the water used in the central heating system is determined by supply to

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the premises and this will vary across the United Kingdom.

Water treatment should be applied to all primary systems except for single feed indirect hot water cylinders.

Consideration should be given as to whether the water is hard or soft, as this might influence the approach to water treatment and the choice of proprietary product.

External Treatment: Naturally soft waters of low alkalinity or those supplied via a base-exchange resin softener have an increased potential for corrosion and, if they are to be used in any central heating system, a corrosion inhibitor specifically formulated for the purpose should be added and properly maintained.

Internal Treatment: To minimize the likelihood of corrosion, scale and sludge formation, the system water in any system

should be treated with Altecnic C1 System Inhibitor, prior to this the system should be treated using Altecnic C3 System Clean to remove all system impurities as discussed above.

Bioocides may be dosed into static systems to prevent bacteria multiplying when there is a delay between pressure testing and commencement of flushing and chemical cleaning.

System flushing Cleaning and flushing should be undertaken prior to commissioning a new system and during refurbishment or repair of a system to overcome its loss of effectiveness and efficiency caused by the effects of poor water quality.

Where a system has been filled for a long period prior to commissioning addition of a biocide, circulation (refer to manufacturer’s instructions) followed by a flush might be

required in order to remove biofilm.

Cleaning and flushing should be undertaken to remove adherent and settled foulants and debris, and suspended sludge from systems.

Where a system is heavily fouled, a pre-flush should be considered prior to the cleaning cycle. The effectiveness of the cleaning cycle is determined by correct choice and application of the cleaning chemical – a good cleaning chemical should dissolve and/or disperse sludge and contaminants.

Altecnic provides a range of dirt and air separators, such as the Dirtmag Mini, and new Caleffi XS and Caleffi XF, that offer ongoing system protection through their designs and also allow easy maintenance to ensure that a system remains clean.

For more details from Altecnic please www.rdr.link/pay016

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WATER TREATMENT

HEAT PUMPS - FIT THE RIGHT FILTER

Mark Hall, Head of Mechanical Engineering and Devices at Fernox, explains why it is essential to protect heat pump systems from the adverse effects of circulating debris and discusses the role of system filters as part of a comprehensive approach in line with Part L of the Building Regulations. he industry is currently experiencing a significant shift from gas boilers to the adoption of heat pumps, with projections that the UK will reach 1.9 million installations a year by 2035. With rapid and continued growth of this market, installers are quickly educating themselves on this emerging technology as new build properties and existing households move away from traditional gas boilers to more sustainable, efficient heating and cooling solutions.

However, heat pumps are vulnerable to biocidal contamination due to the lower flow temperatures, and similar to traditional systems, are affected by the losses in performance caused by sludge, scale, corrosion and other installation debris.

Therefore, to ensure their energy performance is optimised and the heat pump performs as expected, the system must be properly protected and maintained.

Much like a traditional heating system, a heat pump system comprises water-filled pipes, along with radiators or underfloor heating. Without the proper protection, it can be susceptible to issues such as corrosion, scale build-up, and microbiological fouling.

T

Water treatment In accordance with the latest version of Part L of the Building Regulations and BS 7593:2019, heat pump systems must be treated with effective chemical water treatment to prevent scale, corrosion, and biofilm formation. An in-line filter should also be fitted to capture and contain debris already present including installation debris, that may have entered the system.

Choosing the right filter When selecting an in-line filter, it is important to choose one that has been specifically designed for heat pump systems. Until recently, most filters on the market were designed for traditional gas boiler systems, but there are some fundamental differences in the flow rates of heat pump systems that present specific challenges for magnetic filtration.

Not all filters used on heat pump systems are alike, so it’s important to understand the key features and

32 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

considerations that will help you consider the best specification and choice of filter for your customer. Look for filters that have the following characteristics: Effective at capturing and containing debris, even at high flow rates One significant distinction between heat pump and traditional gas boiler heating systems is the flow rate. Heat pump systems typically operate across a flow rate range of 6-40 litres per minute, as opposed to the 12-15 litres per minute range of a typical gas boiler system. To be effective in any system, a filter must be capable of capturing and, importantly, containing various types of debris, including magnetite, haematite, and scale.

In higher-flow heat pump systems, traditional magnetic filters might not effectively retain captured debris, due to ‘wash off’, potentially causing damage to system components and reducing efficiency.

Filters designed with particle separation baffles for efficient debris capture are better suited to high-flow rates – for instance, the Fernox TF1 Sigma HP Filter which has been purpose-built for heat pump applications.

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Minimises pressure loss Another consideration is selecting a filter that does not impede the pressure of the water. Heat pump systems rely on specific Co-efficient of Performance (COP) levels for efficiency. Therefore, selecting a filter with market-leading Kv values for minimal pressure loss is crucial in maintaining heat pump efficiency. Furthermore, filters with full bore isolation valves enable water to flow without additional restriction.

Prevents microbiological fouling A traditional gas boiler system typically operates at between 60°C and 70°C which naturally disinfects the water and reduces the opportunity for microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi to thrive. In contrast, the optimum operating temperature for a heat pump is between 35°C and 45°C, making it an ideal environment for bacteria to feed and multiply which in turn, leads to reductions in system performance with the formation of biofilms and slimes blocking heat exchangers, diverter valves

When selecting an in-line filter, it is important to choose one that has been specifically designed for heat pump systems and pipework. This type of contaminant is extremely difficult to flush, causing accelerated degradation of the system – and potential costly system repair.

Until recently it has not been possible to trap these bacterial slimes using traditional magnetic filters, but with the development of dedicated heat pump filters this is now possible. For example, the TF1 Sigma HP Filter uses patent pending flow disruptor technology to capture this type of debris at fast rate flow rates. Whilst filtration is important, it is complementary to the role of chemical

water treatment, which is crucial to prevent the development of microbiological fouling in the first instance. Effective biocides and inhibitors such as the Fernox Biocide F7 and Protector F1 prevent this happening.

Performs as expected When choosing heating system components, prioritise high-quality filters that are easy to install and maintain, ensure leak-free operation, and ones that have undergone comprehensive testing.

For instance, the TF1 Sigma HP Filter has been submitted to rigorous testing, including repeated pressure cycling up to 10 bar and temperature cycling up to 90°C during its design, development, and production phases.

To find out more about the Fernox TF1 Sigma HP Filter, as well as Fernox water treatment solutions for heat pumps www.rdr.link/pay017 please

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Introducing the new...

Your show,near you...

Get closer to the brands you use – at a venue near you – at the new Heating & Plumbing Show. aunching at three venues across the UK in 2024, the Heating & Plumbing Show offers a new way to get closer to the products and solutions plumbers and heating engineers use every day. In 2024 the two-day event is visiting venues in the South-East, South-West and North offering trades professionals an opportunity to discover the latest solutions in the sector, get hands-on with equipment, and meet the people behind the products.

Co-located with the popular and established Toolfair, Elex, and Professional Builder Live events, the Heating & Plumbing Show will also provide advice on

L

YOUR SHOW, NEAR YOU... ● Free entry ● At a venue near you ● Across two days ● 4 events in 1 ● Free parking (van friendly) ● Free T-Shirts and bacon rolls ● Show deals ● Hands-on demos ● Meet manufacturers ● Training opportunities ● CPD points

the direction the sector, introduce new training opportunities, highlight business opportunities and allow visitors to bag some great show deals.

Demos & deals Together the Heating & Plumbing Show, Toolfair, Professional Builder Live and Elex combine to offer a unique day-out on your doorstep. Taking place across two days at ‘van-friendly’ venues each show features hands-on product demos, a huge array of tools and equipment, a chance to meet and quiz manufacturers on the products you use, and the opportunity to grab some show ‘special bargains’ on the kit you need.

Plus, with regulations and best practice changing all the time, visitors will also find seminars and training sessions on a variety of pressing topics – helping to arm plumbers and heating engineers with the information you need to deliver for your customers. Specific seminar sessions include CPD accreditation to aid in your own professional development.

Across two days, at a venue near you, and free-to attend, Toolfair, Professional Builder Live and Elex – and now including the new Heating & Plumbing Show – is a must-visit event for professionals across the trades.

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4 great shows, in 1 – at venues across the UK, near you

Register for free at o.uk .c w o h s p a .h w ww

The new Heating and Plumbing Show brings the industry to your doorstep, featuring new products, advice on best practice and an opportunity to quiz manufactures on their latest solutions for plumbers and heating engineers

For over a decade Toolfair has brought together tool manufacturers and professional users – giving trades people the opportunity to get hands-on with the latest solutions, try-out the tools, and grab a great show deal on tools and equipment

The trades show built for professional trades, including hands on demonstrations of the latest solutions from across the building spectrum, free CPD accredited seminars and great show deals on top brand tools

The UK's dedicated trade show for electrical professionals including great show deals on top brand products, the chance to meet and quiz manufacturers, live demos and updates on the latest technical standards and regulations

Gain industry knowledge at CPD accredited seminars

YOUR NEXT SHOWS, NEAR YOU… ALEXANDRA PALACE, LONDON BOLTON ARENA, BOLTON EXETER

29TH FEBRUARY & 1ST MARCH 2024 21ST & 22ND MARCH 2024 25TH & 26TH APRIL 2024

TO REGISTER FOR YOUR FREE PASS PLEASE GO TO WWW.HAPSHOW.CO.UK

PHPI page grid_Layout 1 23/08/2023 10:53 Page 1

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Peter Dumigan, Managing Director of the Hultafors Group UK, which owns Snickers Workwear and Solid Gear safety footwear, discusses how to keep warm and dry when working during the winter.

COLD WEATHER WORKWEAR Q

What are the technologies to look out for that can help installers to remain comfortable and dry during wet weather?

hen the weather takes a turn for the worse, it’s time to make sure you suit up with clothes that work as hard as you do – properly designed, sustainable working clothes that have got what it takes to keep you warm and dry whatever you’re doing on site – inside or out.

This winter, workwear choices will be as much influenced by sustainability as they are for comfort, practicality and protection.

Many tradesmen and women are now buying better-quality garments that will not only last longer but incorporate recycled fibres in the fabric technology which helps to reduce environmental waste.

W Q

Working outside in cold weather can be a challenge on a number of levels. What approach can installers take to ensure they remain protected from winter weather?

If you’re wet or cold, you’re not going to be working as efficiently and comfortably as you could. That’s why wearing layers is the best way to maintain comfort and regulate

Staying dry and comfortable on site is all about choosing the right type of rainwear for the job in hand. Your choices depend on a variety of factors – the type of rain; how intensely you're working; how many hours you spend outside – and whether or not the clothing layers you wear combine to create a climate control system for your comfort and wellbeing.

Here’s what to think about when dressing for wet weather work: ● For 100% waterproofness and a full

your body temperature, especially when you’re working in unpredictable or generally inclement weather conditions.

That’s why a 3-layer workwear system – Base-layers, Mid-layers and Outer-layers – will keep you warm and comfortable by transporting moisture away from your skin, insulating your body, and protecting you from cold, wet and windy weather.

day’s high-intensity work – choose a breathable waterproof garment with taped seams for maximum protection and breathability. ● For 100% waterproofness in low-intensity work in pouring rain – choose a PU garment with welded seams. ● For a basic protection against water – choose a garment that is

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 37

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

water-repellent. The garment will keep you dry if it’s drizzling but still offers breathability. ● Look for garments that are certified for performance and effectiveness to the certification standard EN 343. ● Don’t forget that what you wear underneath your outer layer really matters, so think about comfort and breathability features.

features like Snickers Workwear’s fleeces, gilets and lightweight jackets which are made from more environmentally friendly fabrics such as recycled polyester.

Outer-layers

Also, sustainability is a major factor in today’s clothing choices. Look for clothes that have a hallmark for longevity and are made from environmentally friendly fabrics – Preferred Fibres such as REPREVE and SORONA which have more sustainable properties compared to conventional fabrics.

Q

What types of clothing should installers look out for to help remain warm, comfortable and ventilated when working outdoors?

Whether it’s hot or cold, the key to effective layering is making sure you stay dry, even when you’re working up a sweat. The best way to do just that is through the layer that’s closest to your skin – the Base-layer.

Base-layers These undergarments, including socks are vital for staying dry and ventilated and the types you wear should ‘wick’ moisture away from your skin. The range of Base-layer clothes from Snickers Workwear have seamless comfort and a great ergonomic fit, but different garments fabrics such as those with ‘37.5 technology’ provide different levels of ventilation and warmth depending on how active you are while working and the weather conditions you’re working in.

For instance, during the colder months of the year, Merino wool is a natural and durable Base-layer choice. While it can absorb around 5% of its own weight in moisture, this type of wool has the added benefit of being naturally odour resistant – and it’s environmentally friendly.

particular attention to your choice of Mid-layer clothing. Your second – middle – layer is designed for warmth and insulation and to compliment your base-layers. If it’s ergonomically designed for a body-mapping fit, it should trap your body heat in a pocket of warm air around you.

That means your Mid-layer needs to fit well, without being too tight or loose. Ideally, it will be made from a knitted, quilted, fleece, or microfleece materials that provide an airy yet comfortable enclosure.

However, if your work is physically demanding, ventilating your body is vital and this is where garment functionality is absolutely vital. You’ll need ‘Hybrid’ garments that provide insulation combined with ventilation and multiple functionality

Mid-layers If your job involves moving back and forth, indoors and outside, or you find yourself constantly switching back and forth between physical and stationary tasks in colder conditions, then it’s worth paying

38 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

If you have to work outside in cold, wet, or windy weather for long periods, work will get even harder. That’s when you’ll definitely want to protect yourself from the elements with your own protective shell – the third weatherproof Outer-layer. Your third layer needs to deliver effective wind and water protection to keep you warm, dry and to ensure the effectiveness of the two inner layers. And as with both Baseand Mid-layers, you’ll want to avoid getting too warm – so insultation combined with ventilation features in your outer garments are absolutely vital.

That means that you need jackets designed to be durable and weatherproof which complement the garments’ overall technical functionality. Snickers Workwear’s Work Jackets are built to be weatherproof enough to keep the elements at bay, and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of hard day’s work but still delivering the level of breathability and ventilation you need for a comfortable and effective day at work.

Q

Although it may sound like a contradiction, overheating can be a problem for many people working outdoors during cold weather. What features should installers seek-out to ensure this doesn’t happen?

Never forget about ventilation. The breathability of your clothing layers is just as crucial for your comfort as is the outer-layer protection against water especially when you’re working really hard. So, make it a habit of checking the breathability features of the fabric in the garments you buy to ensure that the fabrics transport sweat away from the skin. Breathability comes in two ways. Either the breathability of the fabric itself, such as 37.5 technology sports fabric, or built-in ventilation functionality such as zippers or meshed fabric areas at the sides and back of the garments.

For more information please www.rdr.link/pay018

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

DIGITAL FITNESS

Digital tools can help plumbers and heating engineers manage work more effectively. PHPI recently spoke with Greg Hill, Product Owner at Joblogic, to find out more about how the company’s software can help installers streamline their business.

Q

When it comes to admin, what do you see as the main challenges for owners of small businesses operating in the sector?

The plumbing and heating industry in the UK is tightly regulated, with strict adherence to safety standards, building codes and environmental regulations.

Keeping up with these regs and ensuring compliance can be complex and time-consuming. That’s not all: setting competitive yet profitable pricing for services while managing costs, including materials, labour and overheads, requires careful consideration – and documentation.

Similarly, managing a team of skilled workers, coordinating schedules, handling payroll, and addressing employee development and retention are essential for long-term success – but also an admin headache.

Embracing digital tools, such as online booking systems, service management software, and digital marketing, can be challenging for traditional businesses.

However, long term there’s no way around it and digital tools will become essential to remaining competitive and meeting customer expectations.

Addressing these challenges requires a combination of industry knowledge, compliance efforts, efficient management practices, investment in workforce development, and leveraging technology to streamline operations, while maintaining a strong focus on customer satisfaction and safety.

Q

How does Joblogic software help to streamline admin and make a business more profitable?

Joblogic can help small plumbing companies stay compliant by allowing them to store important documentation, track certifications, and create checklists for safety and regulatory requirements. This ensures that your team follows the necessary standards. It can also track the qualifications and licenses of your plumbers, sending alerts when renewals are due. This ensures that all your employees have the necessary credentials.

Joblogic can also include specific checklists and workflows for gas safety, helping you adhere to Gas Safe Register requirements and maintain proper documentation for gas installations and maintenance. The software can also help you create and manage health and safety protocols, perform risk assessments, and ensure that your team follows safety guidelines during every job.

Plumbers can use Joblogic to promote eco-friendly practices, such as scheduling energy-efficient installations and managing waste disposal in accordance with environmental standards.

Q

Is the solution tailored to fit the Heating & Plumbing sector?

Yes – it is perfect for plumbers. It offers features and functionalities specifically designed to address the unique requirements of businesses in the plumbing and heating field. These features include:

such as boilers, radiators, and pipes, for maintenance, tracking, and replacement purposes. ● Maintain documentation for certifications, licenses, safety protocols, and industry regulations to ensure your operations are compliant and safe. ● Address the specific requirements for gas safety, including proper documentation and adherence to Gas Safe Register regulations. ● Maintain a comprehensive record of customer interactions, service history, and job details to enhance customer service and streamline future work. ● Create accurate estimates, track expenses, and generate invoices tailored to the plumbing and heating industry. ● Manage customer information, track communications, and handle marketing efforts to build strong customer relationships and stand out in a competitive market. ● Address eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient installations and proper waste disposal, in line with industry-specific environmental regulations.

Q

Can the software help with quotations, invoicing, job allocations and regular servicing?

● Efficiently manage your team of

Yes, Joblogic is designed to help plumbers with a range of essential tasks, including quotations, invoicing, job allocations, and regular servicing. Here's how:

plumbers and heating technicians by assigning jobs, optimizing routes, and ensuring timely service. ● Keep track of equipment and assets used in plumbing and heating work,

Quotations Joblogic allows you to create accurate and professional quotations for your plumbing and heating services. You can customize

40 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

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templates, add pricing details, and easily send quotes to clients. This feature helps you present clear and transparent pricing to potential customers.

Invoicing With Joblogic, you can generate invoices quickly, based on completed jobs or services rendered. The software integrates with your job data, so you can create invoices based on the work performed, materials used, and any additional charges.

This streamlines the invoicing process and helps you get paid faster.

Job allocations Joblogic's job scheduling and dispatch features enable efficient allocation of jobs to your plumbing and heating technicians.

You can optimize routes, assign tasks based on skills and availability, and track the status of each job in real time. This ensures that your team is working efficiently and that jobs are completed on schedule.

Regular servicing Joblogic can help you set up and manage regular servicing and maintenance tasks.

You can create recurring jobs or PPM Schedules for routine servicing of heating systems, boilers, or other equipment. The software sends reminders when services are due, ensuring that you maintain a proactive approach to customer maintenance needs.

Q

Does Joblogic include a way to produce and store gas safety certificates?

Joblogic is designed to help plumbers with a range of essential tasks, including quotations, invoicing, job allocations, and regular servicing.

Yes. You can create gas safety certificates directly within the platform. You input the relevant information, including details about the gas work performed, the date, the engineer’s information, and any observations or recommendations. Gas safety certificates in Joblogic can often be customized to include your company's branding, logo, and other relevant details. This helps create a professional and consistent image when providing certificates to clients.

Joblogic also acts as a central repository for your gas safety certificates. This ensures that all certificates are securely stored in the system and easily accessible when needed. You can attach the certificates to specific jobs or customer profiles for quick reference.

Q

Busy heating engineers and plumbers are on the go from dawn to dusk. Is the software accessible from a smartphone?

Yes, Joblogic offers mobile apps that are accessible from smartphones, making it convenient for busy heating engineers and plumbers to manage their tasks,

appointments, and job-related information while on the go. Mobile accessibility is a crucial feature for field service management software, and Joblogic recognizes the need to provide a seamless experience for users who are often working outside of the office. Here's how the Joblogic mobile app can help: ● The mobile app allows heating engineers

and plumbers to receive real-time updates on job assignments, schedule changes, and new tasks. This ensures that they are always informed about their next job, even when they're away from the office. ● Plumbers can access detailed job information, including job descriptions, customer details, service history, and any specific instructions. This helps them provide better service by having all the necessary information at their fingertips. ● The mobile app can integrate with navigation tools, helping technicians find the fastest routes to job locations, reducing travel time and improving efficiency. ● Technicians can use the mobile app to input job notes, update job status, capture photos, record materials used, and gather customer signatures. This eliminates the need for manual paperwork and ensures that all job-related information is accurately recorded. ● The mobile app allows technicians to view their schedules, accept new jobs, and mark jobs as completed, providing better visibility into their daily tasks.

For more details about Joblogic please www.rdr.link/pay019

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

THE KAMM GENERATION leading manufacturer of commercial vehicle accessories, Rhino Products are already well known to tradespeople up and down the country. The company has been helping tradespeople maximise their vans’ storage capabilities for two decades, having celebrated their 20th anniversary in September this year.

Rhino has recently overhauled its entire roof rack and bar range, built upon the successful KammBar. This latest family of products has been launched as the Kamm Generation. Each of these new products use the same ultra-aerodynamic teardrop shaped bar profile used on the original KammBar. The company says that this means that the entire range also benefits from the fast fitting, pre-assembled leg design that allows users to fit the products in record time.

A

Q

How does the new Kamm Generation steel bar deliver even more for tradespeople?

One of the strongest roof bar systems on the market, Rhino’s KammBar Fleet has a stylish and practical design that enhances both the appearance and storage capabilities of any van. The high-tensile alloyed steel bar has the unique teardrop shape that reduces drag and fuel consumption, along with an inorganic zinc topcoat seal, which protects against even the harshest of weather.

Q

What other options are available when it comes to roof bars and racks?

Ultra-aerodynamic, stylish, and corrosion resistant, the KammBar Pro is the market leading, premium roof bar of choice for van users. The anodised aluminium finish delivers the highest possible protection against rust and corrosion, whilst also giving the bar a sleek, modern look to complement your van.

The next product to join the Kamm range was the KammRack, benefitting from the ultra-aerodynamic ‘Kamm’ bar

42 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

Over twelve months on since the introduction of the Kamm Generation of van accessories from Rhino Products, PHPI caught up with the company’s CEO, Steve Egerton, to find out more about the way installers can benefit from this increasingly well-known range.

profile, making it Rhino’s quietest rack ever. The KammRack also shares the fast-fitting, pre-assembled feet. This, coupled with the ‘click together’ side frames and crosstubes, means it is easy for one person to fit.

The start of 2024 will see the launch of the KammRack Black, which will be the same stylish roof rack in powder coated black with an aluminium roller, further complementing today’s modern commercial vehicles.

All of the Kamm Generation products are compatible with Rhino’s full range of accessories, including our iconic PipeTube Pro.

Q

Is there a roller system available for the Kamm Generation?

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Both the KammRack and KammRack Black are supplied with a strong anodised aluminium rear roller. Complementing the KammBar Fleet and the KammBar Pro, is the upgraded, lightweight yet durable aluminium roller. Lighter than Rhino’s previous rear rollers, the company has managed to substantially reduce the weight of the product without compromising on its strength. Every member of the Kamm family has been refined – even Rhino’s Kamm load stops have had a complete redesign, decreasing wind noise and drag.

Q

With a successful launch of the Kamm Generation under way, what else can we look forward to from Rhino Products?

The company’s most recent release, the MR4 Modular Racking range, is its first internal product to date. With a whole host of accessories and configurations available, MR4 internal racking systems allow the user to customise their van to their specific needs. The strong, yet lightweight high tensile steel systems come with bespoke

fitting kits for every vehicle, providing the quickest and easiest fitting process possible. (To find out more about this solution which was featured in the September issue of PHPI please use www.rdr.link/pay020) To find out more about Rhino Products and the company’s range of commercial vehicle accessories please www.rdr.link/pay021

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COMPETITIONS

WITH WIN! FERGUS

PHPI has teamed up with Fergus to offer one lucky reader a year’s supply of beer, delivered directly to your door every month.* Five runners up get an exclusive Fergus beanie from Regatta. ergus has announced the launch of two new, simpler, plans designed to help all trade businesses, from start-ups, to sole traders, all the way through to growing businesses with multiple subbies on the tools.

The introduction of “Fergus Essentials” and “Fergus Pro” options gives hours of free time otherwise lost to admin back to the trade and offers simple, cost effective and tailored features, ensuring that, no matter the size or stage of the business, Fergus is there to support you on your journey.

Fergus Essentials is cost-effective software designed specifically for sole traders or small teams. Priced from just £19 per user per month, it offers a range of features that help streamline your day-to-day operations. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features like job tracking, quoting, invoicing and more, Fergus Essentials streamlines administrative tasks and saves you valuable time. It is accessible on both desktop and mobile with the Fergus Go app, making it easy for you to stay on top of your business.

F

WIN!

CLEVER COUPLER SWAP OUT VALVES

PHPI has 10 of the 22mm Clever Coupler kits available to giveaway.

wapping out valves and equipment has been made simpler with the introduction of the Clever Coupler – which can be used on a number of types of valves including zone valves, blending valves, double-check valves and combination valves. The solution promises the installation and removal of a component where there is no pipe movement available.

Available in 22mm and 28mm Clever Coupler includes two stub adaptors, two insert adapters, four rubber ‘O’ rings and two vulcanised fibre washers, along with a small tube of silicon grease and an installation sticker.

Clever Coupler is compatible for use with a wide range of equipment for 22mm & 28mm compression and 3/4” BSP & 1” BSP female pattern. It is made from DZR brass to help prevent corrosion.

S

HOW TO ENTER

PHPI HAS 10 OF THE 22MM CLEVER COUPLER KITS AVAILABLE TO GIVEAWAY – TO ENTER PLEASE WWW.RDR.LINK/PAY022 44 NOVEMBER 2023 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

* the prize is a year’s monthly subscription to Beer52, giving the lucky winner a chance to get a selection of craft ale delivered to their door once a month.

HOW TO ENTER

TO ENTER THE DRAW PLEASE WWW.RDR.LINK/PAY023 FOR MORE FREE INFORMATION AND ADVICE ON RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL TRADES BUSINESS, AS WELL AS A FREE TRIAL, PLEASE WWW.RDR.LINK/PAY024

PHPI page grid_Layout 1 02/10/2023 14:41 Page 1

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Welcome to the

The Gas App UK Horror Show showcases some of the ‘finest’ 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

is now

The app is freely available for both iOS and Android.

Simply visit the stores and search for Gas App UK.

FREE!

PH TF Mag Ad 2022_Layout 1 02/10/2023 16:18 Page 1

THE HANDS-ON TRADESHOW BUILT FOR THE TRADE

TOOLFAIR 1000’S OF SHOW DEALS ON TOP BRAND TOOLS ● FREE CPD SEMINARS ● FREE ENTRY ● FREE PARKING ● FREE PROFESSIONAL TRADES T-SHIRT ● FREE BACON ROLL

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048_PHPI_NOV23_Layout 1 03/10/2023 14:06 Page 48

PRODUCT FOCUS

MIRA SHOWERS LAUNCHES NEW DIGITAL SHOWER hower manufacturer, Mira Showers, has unveiled a new digital shower, the Mira Platinum. The company says that the new shower is its “most advanced digital shower yet”. Designed to allow for ease of installation, Mira Platinum is compatible with all systems and pressures, comes with push-fit connections, has a small footprint and ‘plug and play’ power connection.

To encourage responsible water usage, the Mira Platinum comes fitted with adjustable temperature and flow pre-sets, as well as a built-in Eco mode.

The Eco mode limits water flow to between 4 – 8L per minute – up to 4L per minute less than when not in use. Featuring four spray settings – Rain, Glide, Silk and Burst – Platinum can also be fitted with a 250mm overhead deluge, available as part of the dual outlet option, that offers large nozzles for an enhanced experience and full coverage.

Just as with its predecessor, the Mira Platinum also comes with a fully wireless user interface, meaning that there are no data cables to worry about, making for an easier installation. The controller sits within its magnetic cradle when in use and when needed, can be lifted out and charged via the USB-C cable provided.

Mira Platinum is available as a rear or ceiling fed variant and also comes in single or dual outlet options, in Single and Dual formats.

S

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pay025

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

RIDGID K9-12 FLEXSHAFT DRAIN CLEANING MACHINE Engineered to tackle up to 30' of 1 1/4" to 2" lines, the new K9-12 FlexShaft Machine is an entry-level solution for clearing light residential blockages like kitchen and bath sinks, tubs and shower drains. Powered by a cordless drill, the unit has been designed to be easy to operate.

Powered by any standard 1800-2500 RPM cordless drill, the K9-12’s chain knocker fully expands inside the pipe, clearing grease, soap or hair blockages and restoring pipes to full flow capacity. The machine can be stored vertically and the drill can be positioned in multiple orientations during use. The unit is also compatible with a wide range of accessories including plain chains, carbide chains, penetrating heads and brushes.

For more information please

www.rdr.link/pay027

MEGAFLO UPGRADES ITS ECO CYLINDER RANGE Megaflo has enhanced its range of Eco Direct and Indirect unvented hot water cylinders by introducing a series of upgraded features designed to improve both performance and manoeuvrability for installers.

Thanks to optimisation of the cylinders’ energy performance, Megaflo says its Eco Indirect 170, 210, 250 and 300 now boast up to 19% improvement in reheat time.

Following feedback from Megaflo’s installer base, the brand has also pinpointed a growing need for unvented hot water cylinders to be installed in hard-to-reach spaces such as lofts. In response, it has added a more robust handle to its range of Eco Direct and Indirect cylinders.

The company has also brought in a simplified warranty which now sees every product within the Megaflo range boast the same 30-year warranty for its inner tank and a two-year warranty on all other components.

Megaflo Eco cylinders deliver up to 76 litres of hot water per minute at three bar pressure, without the need for shower pumps or tanks. Meanwhile, its 60mm of CFC/HCFC-free injected foam and insulated T and P valves combine to ensure heat retention and energy efficiency.

Snickers Workwear Trousers feature the company’s fully certified and trademarked system – KneeGuard. The company has 86 different types of Work trousers in multiple sizes plus eight different types of kneepads. Together they deliver a number of Work Trouser and Kneepad combinations to deal with different types of knee impacts; the amount of time working on knees; and individual needs for personal protection.

Both the Work Trousers and Kneepads have been designed to deliver flexibility when users walk, yet they close around the knees when users kneel down – helping to prevent knees from sliding off the kneepad when moving around on the floor.

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SNICKERS WORKWEAR KNEE PROTECTION

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PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 49

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PRODUCTS ROUND UP

KUDOS PREMIUM COLLECTION BROCHURE

UPONOR SICCUS MINI UFH SYSTEM Uponor has launched the Siccus Mini underfloor heating system – suited for refurbishment projects due to its low-construction height of 15mm. The company says that its ultra-thin, close to floor design allows the Siccus Mini system to deliver 90% of the desired temperature in just 50 minutes. The new system is suitable for a number of flooring types including laminate, parquet, natural stone, tiles, vinyl and carpet.

James Griffiths, Senior Manager Marketing North-West Europe at Uponor said: “It provides a high performance, low energy system that is straightforward to install and future proofs installations switching to heat pumps or hybrid heating systems in the future.”

The new Kudos Premium Collection brochure showcases a number of enclosure products. It includes Pinnacle8 doors and enclosures and Ultimate10 enclosures.

The Pinnacle8 range of enclosures feature ‘easy fit’ wall posts with concealed fixings and ‘crystal clear’ seals, with 8mm toughened safety glass throughout. All products are 2000mm high and feature hinged, sliding and centre-fold, quadrant and level access options in sizes ranging from 760mm to 1800mm.

Ultimate10 features an award-winning double action hinge which allows the door to open 90 degrees both inward and outward, for easy use and to save space. Ultimate10 is a frameless design available in a choice of nine profile finishes, is 1985mm tall and is compatible with the Ultimate10 wet-room panels.

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Conex ............................................................................................ (page 48) www.rdr.link/PAY100

Salamander Pumped Shower Systems .................................. (page 22) www.rdr.link/PAY110

Drayton ........................................................................................... (page 15) www.rdr.link/PAY101

Saniflo UK ..................................................................................... (page 45) www.rdr.link/PAY111

Elite Security Products ................................................................ (page 31) www.rdr.link/PAY102

Tado ........................................................................................... (page OBC) www.rdr.link/PAY112

FRÄNKISCHE ................................................................................ (page 41) www.rdr.link/PAY103

Tado ............................................................................................ (page 18,19) www.rdr.link/PAY113

Geberit ............................................................................................. (page17) www.rdr.link/PAY104

Mermaid Panels ........................................................................... (page 43) www.rdr.link/PAY114

Mitsubishi Electric Europe B.V ................................................ (page IFC) www.rdr.link/PAY105

The Electric Heating Company ................................................ (page 27) www.rdr.link/PAY115

Polypipe Building Products ........................................................ (page 11) www.rdr.link/PAY106

The IAA .................................................................................... (page 24,25) www.rdr.link/PAY116

Pump Technology ....................................................................... (page 33) www.rdr.link/PAY107

Toolfair (In House) ........................................................................ (page 47) www.rdr.link/PAY117

Rhino Products ............................................................................ (page 39) www.rdr.link/PAY108

Viessmann .................................................................................... (page 36) www.rdr.link/PAY118

Ridgid Tool UK ............................................................................. (page 39) www.rdr.link/PAY109

Wavin Ltd ......................................................................................... (page 4) www.rdr.link/PAY119

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PLAYTIME PHPI takes you straight to the heart of the action, as we round up the latest industry videos to keep your eyes busy.

Just type in the rdr.link codes listed to watch… & don’t forget the popcorn!

WOHLER VIS 700 In the latest video from PHPI, Stanley from SNL Plumbing puts the Wohler VIS 700 through its paces at a pub in Essex, where he inspects the drains ahead of a new septic tank being fitted. Stanley runs through the main features of the solution, including a handy auto-levelling feature on the camera and the metre counter, which indicates how far down the pipe the camera has travelled – a useful feature to help installers determine how far along a pipe a problem may be.

To watch the video www.rdr.link/pay032

RESIDEO Inside the Newhouse site Ever wondered what goes on at the site of a major manufacturer? Well, now you can take a virtual tour of the Resideo site at Newhouse in Scotland, one of the company’s six European production sites.

The products manufactured at Newhouse include the Honeywell Home evohome smart zoning thermostat and HR92 wireless electronic radiator controller, the Honeywell Home T6 programmable thermostat range, the Honeywell Home T3 programmable thermostat range and the Honeywell Home DT4 room thermostat range.

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pay031

VAILLANT Heat Pump Possible The owners of Pedn Billy Boathouse, a converted boathouse with a traditional thatched roof overlooking Helford River in Helford Passage, have been named as one of three winners in a nationwide competition to showcase where heat pumps are possible. The boathouse and new heating system has featured in a short film fronted by TV Presenter and Architecture Pundit, Kevin McCloud. In the video Kevin interviews the owners, together with Ben and Jamie from Abode Heat, to learn more about the property – which had a Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump installed to replace the property’s direct electric heating system in November 2021.

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/pay033

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER NOVEMBER 2023 51

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