Professional Heating & Plumbing Installer September 2020 (Graham) by Hamerville Media Group

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SEPTEMBER 2020

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CONTENTS phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

SEPTEMBER 2020 VOL. 35 NO.7 phpi@hamerville.co.uk

@phpimag

REGULARS 5

VIEWPOINT

NEWS

28 ALL IN ONE VALVES

10 NEWS REPORT 18 #INSTALLOFFAME 40 GIVEAWAYS 48 HORROR SHOW 49 CIPHE UPDATE 50 NEW PRODUCTS 51 PLAYTIME

SPECIAL REPORTS 12 DAIKIN’S NEW INSTALLER SCHEME 15 GIVING BACK DURING ‘LOCKDOWN’

20 INSTALLING METHVEN’S AIO SHOWER

LIGHT COMMERCIAL

36 THE BENEFITS OF A WALL-MOUNTING FRAME

26 LOOK BEYOND THE BOILER

38 ROUND UP

28 ALL IN ONE VALVES

41 TIME TO CHANGE TO

30 MANAGE COMMERCIAL SOIL AND WASTE SYSTEMS

SEALANT FOILS?

HEATING & RENEWABLES 32 SPECIFY AND SIZE A HEAT PUMP SYSTEM 34 SMARTER WATER TESTING

PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT 41 SWITCH FROM SINGLE USE PLASTIC CARTRIDGES

20 FITTING METHVEN’S AIO SHOWER KIT

42 WORKWEAR FOR THE CHANGEABLE BRITISH WEATHER

22 UPSKILLING AND TRAINING 24 THE TREND FOR DESIGNER BATHROOM RADIATORS 25 ROUND UP

44 MAKITA’S NEW XGT 40V MAX TOOLS

36 MAKE INSTALLATIONS EASIER

46 ROUND UP PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER SEPTEMBER 2020 3

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VIEWPOINT EDITOR JONATHAN COLE phpi@hamerville.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR ABBIE SMITH asmith@hamerville.co.uk ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER JAKE TATUM jtatum@hamerville.co.uk NORTHERN & MIDLANDS SALES EDDIE WRIGHT ewight@hamerville.co.uk MANAGING EDITOR TERRY SMITH DIGITAL GROUP MANAGER STUART DUFF DESIGNER GEMMA WATSON GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER CAROL PADGETT PRODUCTION ASSISTANT KERRI SMITH DISTRIBUTION MANAGER KARL CLARK PUBLISHER BRYAN SHANNON PRINTED BY WALSTEAD PETERBOROUGH LTD PUBLISHED BY HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER is a business journal for those involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating and plumbing systems. It is available to the trade at leading heating and plumbing merchants and specialist outlets throughout the UK.

phpionline.co.uk

@phpi

@professionalplumber

phpi@hamerville.co.uk

Green shoots of recovery The last few months have been tough for so many people and on so many levels. As we emerge from ‘lockdown’ everyone will be looking for ways to re-build businesses and assist customers. One opportunity that has already received much attention is for a ‘green’ recovery – placing the economic growth we desperately need in lock step with environmental commitments. For many in the sector this will be welcome news – it is well-reported that housing accounts for a signiﬁcant percentage of our carbon emissions. Heating engineers are well versed at offering expert knowledge of appropriate systems to customers seeking cost-effective energy efficient solutions. For its part, the Government has recently announced a Green Homes Grant scheme, worth around £2bn. The scheme is designed to help make homes more energy efficient and has been broadly welcomed by the sector, as we report on page 10. However, a note of caution should also be sounded as the experiences of the failed Green Deal and the Domestic RHI have not yet faded from the memory of many in the sector. For those keen on making the transition towards renewable solutions a number of options are already available, with perhaps the most notable being heat pumps. Many in the sector are predicting growth in the Heat Pump market in the future, aided signiﬁcantly by the growth in their usage in the new-build market. In this issue we have advice on the specifying and sizing of heat pumps and news of a new installer scheme to help engineers interested in getting more involved in heat pump installations. During ‘lockdown’ many installers and manufacturers went far beyond what was expected to support customers and communities – you can read about some of them on page 15. As we move forward installers and businesses need a chance, and further support, to build up once more. Becoming more focussed on energy efficiency or renewable solutions could be one route to recovery – offering customers lower bills and enhanced levels of home comfort, while helping the country continue on its path towards lowering carbon emissions.

“businesses need a chance, and further support, to build up once more.”

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

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

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

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

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News

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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT ‘STAYCATION’ THIS SUMMER WITH BAXI With many people planning to stay in the UK this summer instead of going abroad, Baxi has announced a new ‘Staycation’ promotion. The Big Backyard Bonanza promotion will help to ensure installers who are staying at home this year can still enjoy a fun-packed holiday experience from their own back gardens. The scheme will give installers the opportunity of bagging one of eight different packages, from the ‘Party Bundle’, which includes a gas BBQ, a giant garden Jenga game and a box of BrewDog beers, to the ‘Chill-out Bundle’, featuring Apple AirPods, a Kindle, beach towels and more. To get their hands on a staycation bundle, installers have to purchase and install a Baxi 200, 400, 600 or 800 combi, system or heat only boiler and register it on the Baxi Works loyalty scheme. Andy Workman, Sales Director at Baxi, said: “Taking time off is essential so even if installers are staying at home this year out of choice, or because they have had to cancel a well-deserved holiday, we wanted to help them make the most of staying at home. Our eight Big Backyard Bonanza bundles will help transform any back garden into a holiday from home paradise, with something for everyone to enjoy.” The Big Backyard Bonanza runs until Sunday 30th August.

A plumbing and heating entrepreneur from Willenhall in the West Midlands has swapped showers for cauliflowers and bath spouts for Brussels sprouts. Simon Newton diversified his business into delivering fresh produce and groceries, in order to stay afloat during the current COVID-19 pandemic. The business diversification has been such a big hit with both his existing customer base and local vulnerable people that Simon, who owns ACS Plumbing & Heating Ltd won the contract to supply a local children’s nursery, started a special trailer service and took on three extra staff. With the lockdown preventing him and his team from being able to install heating and bathrooms, Simon, a long-standing Mira installer, took the bold decision to start selling a range of fruit, vegetables and groceries, recognising the need for this service, particularly for the elderly and vulnerable in his community who were shielding during the grip of the pandemic. He commented: “My attitude was I couldn’t just sit still throughout COVID – I had to support the staff and the customers that I look after – even if that meant 4am starts to get to the wholesale market!” “It’s incredible how popular it’s proved to be - as well as providing a new revenue stream it’s also become a pipeline of new customers for the plumbing business.” Paul McGuire, Installer Communications at Mira Showers added: “It’s fantastic to see the ingenuity in our industry, and more so when it’s someone you know personally.”

GRANT UK EXTENDS CUSTOMER SUPPORT The Technical and Customer Service Departments at Grant UK have increased the hours of support that they are on hand to help customers during the working week. Both Teams are now available to answer calls and provide support via email from 7.30am every weekday morning through to 6pm Monday to Thursday and 5pm on Fridays. The Technical and Customer Service Teams can assist with a wide spectrum of product support from installation queries through to post-sales customer care, helping heating engineers and their customers throughout all seasons of the year. “Delivering high quality support is our primary objective and these new extended telephone hours will allow us to further increase the level of customer care our Technical and Customer Support Departments can provide,” noted Scott Woodham, Technical Services Manager at Grant UK. “All of our Technical Advisors are incredibly experienced and can provide diagnostic support and much more for Grant’s full complement of products and working alongside our dedicated Customer Services Team, they can now assist heating engineers, homeowners and all our other customers at times to suit them, whether that be ﬁrst thing in the morning or later in the day.”

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WORCESTER BOSCH BRIEFS CHANCELLOR ON HYDROGEN

NEWS IN BRIEF... Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP

Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP has visited Worcester Bosch to meet with staff and learn more about ‘safe gas’ technology. On Thursday the 9th of July Worcester Bosch welcomed the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak MP, to its Worcester factory. During his visit, Mr Sunak met with employees, including a number of apprentices, and toured the Worcester Bosch facilities. The Chancellor was also given an overview of the company’s prototype hydrogen boiler. Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch said: “It was fantastic that Mr Sunak was able to visit our plant, learn more about our hydrogen prototype boiler from our team and meet some of our apprentices.” To find out more about Worcester Bosch and its research and development into www.rdr.link/ps001 hydrogen

GROWTH IN LPG PREDICTED LPG industry bucks the trend and expects growth despite Covid-19 and Brexit, says industry body. The first ever industry census of the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry by Liquid Gas UK, the trade association for the LPG industry in the UK, has shown that the LPG industry is expected to grow despite concerns over Brexit and Covid-19. 86% of the industry expects turnover to grow in the next 12 months. Confidence across the industry is described as ‘high’, with businesses planning to make combined investments of £600m over the next five years. The industry has also earmarked £106m of investment into bioLPG, which is made from 100% renewable sources and emits up to 90% fewer emissions than LPG, helping to kick-start the industries vision to reach 100% bioLPG by 2040.

RADIATOR QUALITY CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED Radiator trade body, The Manufacturers Association of Radiators and Convectors (MARC) has launched a consumer campaign to stamp out poor quality. The new ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign is designed to show the importance of using quality, CE marked radiators, in order for heating systems and homes to be ﬁt and healthy. MARC is committed to product satisfaction and consumer assurance. Members pledge to raise standards and compliance, through a series of initiatives, the ﬁrst one being a targeted consumer campaign. Isaac Occhipinti, Head of External Affairs, MARC said; “MARC members are committed to driving change. Members are proud of their brand and what it stands for. The ‘You are what you Heat’ campaign has been created to ensure that consumers are aware of the importance of having quality radiators.” www.rdr.link/ps002 You can see the new MARC guide

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To support a working environment which increasingly recognises the vital role of certification in construction in Scotland, plumbing employers’ association SNIPEF is helping produce a new animated film explaining why the industry should use approved certifiers. Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, said: “We are producing this film to shine a spotlight on the many benefits that certification services bring, including public health and safety, greater efficiency and productivity and better peace of mind.” www.rdr.link/ps003 to watch the animation Lotus Cars will transfer its Aluminium Chassis manufacturing to the former HEATRAE SADIA site in Norwich. There will be a phased joint occupation with Heatrae Sadia from 1st July 2020, through to the end of Q1 2021 when it will take over full occupancy. Early last year Baxi Heating announced that it would be moving its Heatrae Sadia manufacturing activities from Norwich to Preston. Melville Gumbs EngTech MCIPHE RP has been elected as National President of THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE

OF PLUMBING AND HEATING ENGINEERING (CIPHE). Mel has been a member of the CIPHE for 44 years and joined the Surrey Branch Committee 15 years ago, rising to Branch Chairman. Mel is keen to build CIPHE membership and promote the opportunities available to everyone. The government’s economic recovery plans will create massive demand for residential and small commercial property retrofits, according to the quality assurance and consumer protection scheme TRUSTMARK. Chief Executive Simon Ayers described Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s £2bn Green Homes Grant scheme and the £1bn targeted at improving public buildings as “the best kickstart we could have hoped for”. For more reaction turn to page 10.

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

GREEN HOMES GRANT: INDUSTRY REACTIONS The heating sector reacts to the Government’s new £2bn scheme to boost energy efficiency in homes. The heating sector has welcomed the introduction of a £2bn grant scheme that enables homeowners and landlords to apply for vouchers to make their homes more energy efficient. The ‘Green Homes Grant’, set to go Viessmann’s Vitocal live in September, sees the Government Heat pump offering to cover two thirds of the cost of energy saving home improvements. solution to decarbonising our built Director said: “The Green Homes Grant The news has been broadly welcomed caters for all types of property. It promotes environment. by the sector. Remi Volpe, Vice President a ‘fabric first’ approach, acknowledging “With the planned phase out of fossil & General Manager, fuel boilers from new homes after 2025, that the best way to save Residential Temperature this package was needed to provide a energy in the home is to Controls at Schneider Electric boost to the much-needed reduction of reduce heat loss, and it also UK, said: “As the economy carbon emissions from the UK’s existing contributes to, or covers, the begins its recovery from the housing stock.” cost of the heat pump to impact of the pandemic, it’s ensure overall heating system ‘Green deal’ caution great to see the Government efficiency. We believe that The Association of Plumbing & Heating implementing a scheme that vouchers of up to £5,000 per Contractors (APHC) has called on will benefit both installers household will positively government to ensure the scheme won’t and homeowners. impact consumer behaviour Remi Volpe, Vice President & General “The new ‘Green Homes and stimulate heat pump sales be overly bureaucratic for homeowners Manager, Residential Grant’ scheme will help that have not been forthcoming and installers. John Thompson, CEO at Temperature Controls the APHC said: “In principle we welcome encourage home at Schneider Electric UK for financial reasons.” the Chancellor’s improvements that will not only announcement regarding the bring much needed work to installers, but Renewables now Green Homes Grant Scheme. also enable residents to reap the benefits ‘mainstream’ Other manufactures also Any scheme that financially of energy saving technologies.” believe the new scheme will incentivises homeowners and Kevin Wellman, CEO of the Chartered result in a wider consideration landlords to make their Institute of Plumbing and Heating of alternatives to fossil fuel properties more energy Engineering (CIPHE) said, “The boilers, such as heat pumps. efficient needs to be Chancellor’s summer statement offers a straight-forward. I have much-needed boost to the plumbing and Angela McGinlay, Managing Director, Daikin UK, said: “It’s written to government to offer heating industry. The Green Home Grant John Thompson, good to see homes at the input in shaping the Scheme in particular will help increase demand, CEO of APHC heart of this new as the government needs to providing much needed work learn from past schemes, such as Green opportunities for businesses and moving eco-package. New incentives will lead more UK homeowners to explore Deal which was based on the PAS 2030 the net-zero agenda forwards.” renewable, green alternatives to fossil standard and was overly bureaucratic The fact that the new scheme fuel heating and ensure technologies and failed to deliver on its core purpose.” recognises the importance of the ‘Fabric such as heat pumps are rightly Applications for the Green Homes First’ approach has also been welcomed. recognised as part of the mainstream Grant Scheme will open in September. Darren McMahon, Viessmann Marketing

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SPECIAL REPORT | Daikin Installer Scheme

CHANGE STARTS AT HOME Climate change remains a pressing issue for society with heating often considered an area where significant carbon savings can be made. PHPI spoke to Iain Bevan, Commercial Manager – Heating & Renewables at Daikin UK about the company’s new Sustainable Home Network and how installers can get involved.

What is the new Sustainable Home Network?

Why do you believe now is the right time to launch this initiative?

The Sustainable Home Network is Daikin’s exciting new installer scheme, designed to help traditional heating installers progress, expand and future-proof their business, ready for when renewable energy becomes the new normal. We offer structured and comprehensive training, help and support, everything that is needed to upskill successfully and offer heat pump installations as a service. For installers who want to be ready for the changes that are unquestionably coming to the heating industry – then this scheme is a practical and essential means of starting this journey.

housebuilders, developers, local authorities and installers have to look elsewhere for a domestic heating system, heat pumps are likely to be high up on the list. To put it into numbers, the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) estimates that, if we are to meet the 2050 target on net-carbon emissions, the domestic heating industry will have to shift from installing 1.5 million boilers per year to one million heat pumps instead, by 2030. This represents a huge new market, with the current boiler demand essentially being replaced by heat pumps, or other low-carbon heating systems. The recent introduction of the technical standard, ‘Hot water storage vessels for

Many factors have come into play meaning that the move to renewable heating is both inevitable and approaching at a fast pace. Ever since the UK government formally announced its objective for the country to become net zero carbon by 2050, it was clear that change was coming. This will affect all areas of society, from the cars that we drive to the ways in which we heat our homes. However, while this change may have seemed to be in the long-distant future, it is actually coming far sooner than you think. The Chancellor’s recent announcement of a £3 billion green investment package, including the introduction of Green Home Grants for homeowners, is a clear indication of this. What’s more, by 2025 there is a planned phase-out of fossil-fuel powered boilers in new-build properties, as part of the Future Homes Standard. When

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The Sustainable Home Network has three distinct tiers… with each level offering unique benefits and rewards.

Domestic Purposes for use with Heat Pumps’ by the Hot Water Association (HWA) is just another sign that the domestic heating industry is gearing up and preparing itself for the inevitable and momentous transition. Perhaps the ﬁnal sign that now really is the right time is consumer perspective and a visible shift in mindsets, with many of us, whether consciously or sub-consciously, making greener lifestyle decisions. In fact, while the recent lockdown has presented many economic, social and personal challenges, it has also served to further highlight the impact we as humans have been having on the environment, with substantial drops in air and water pollution one positive side-effect of the lockdown.

The scheme offers a tiered programme for installers. How does this work? The Sustainable Home Network has three distinct tiers, through which installers can progress as their confidence and experience grows, with each level offering unique benefits and rewards. Installers will first enter as a Sustainable Home Installer, where they will receive flexible, comprehensive and carefully structured training on our monobloc heat pump range. Manufactured with a closed refrigerant circuit, our monobloc heat pump is the perfect starting point for those new to the heat pump market and without F-Gas. As well as product training, we also offer continued help and support, including site visits, marketing materials and qualified homeowner leads. Once an installer has gained valuable experience and also their F-Gas certification (a process that we can support them through), they have the opportunity to advance to the second tier – Sustainable Home Expert. Here, they are granted access to Daikin’s complete portfolio of high-temperature, low-temperature and hybrid heat pumps, as well as unlimited product training, extended 5-year system warranties, co-branded marketing materials and Daikin’s business development fund. The final tier of the SHN is the Sustainable Home Centre, offering installers an exciting opportunity to take their business to the next level and become the

face of Daikin heat pump technology in their local community, enabling them to use the knowledge and expertise gained to assist consumers, housing providers and developers, as well as other installers.

What makes the Sustainable Home Network different to any other upskill/training course? The main difference that truly sets the Sustainable Home Network apart from other schemes is our emphasis on progression. Unlike a one-off training course, the Sustainable Home Network is a journey and partnership, throughout which we will offer comprehensive and continuous levels of help and support - not just at a product level, but at a wider business-level too. It is far more than just helping heating installers survive the transition from boilers to heat pumps. Instead, it’s about providing the tools, support and customer-base needed to truly maximise on the opportunities presented by the growing heat pump and renewables market.

Will you be raising awareness of renewable heating systems with consumers? The Sustainable Home Network forms part of our wider Energy for Change campaign, through which we hope to encourage and be the driving force for change within both the domestic heating industry and wider consumer society. We are raising consumer awareness of heat pump technology with a coordinated series of regional and national marketing activities, including TV, radio and mobile showroom events. Our aim is to continue to educate homeowners on the beneﬁts and the value heat pumps can offer as an alternative heating solution, as well as dispel any prior misconceptions around the technology. All qualiﬁed leads generated will then be made available to installers within the Sustainable Home Network, helping to bolster levels of customer demand. If you are interested in becoming part of the energy for change and in joining Daikin’s Sustainable Home Network, www.rdr.link/ps004

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SPECIAL REPORT | Supporting Installers & Society

STEPPING UP

Ever since the Covid-19 lockdown a number of manufacturers in the sector have developed new ways to support installers and the wider society. PHPI reviews some of the initiatives undertaken.

Worcester Bosch Safe in Your Home Installer Commitment Boiler manufacturer Worcester Bosch has launched a new initiative to support installers and homeowners for work undertaken in the home. The ‘Safe in your Home Installer Commitment’ is a pledge for installers to sign-up for, enabling them to receive a pack of digital and physical tools to help them undertake work in customers’ homes safely and securely. Every installer who signs up receives a digital pack of assets including a digital stamp for use on social pages and website, an email checklist for customers and installer to ﬁll out pre-visit and guidance documents for installers and homeowners. The ﬁrst 5,000 to sign-up were also sent a physical package of free goods including a removable van vinyl of the Installer Commitment logo and an ‘Installer at work’ sign, showing the precautionary measures being taken.

Victoria Billings, Director of Marketing at Worcester Bosch said; “We feel it is important to support installers at this time, enabling them to reassure customers about how they are safe working in their homes. This initiative intends to do just that and ensure that homeowners and installers are reassured and clear regarding safety considerations for an at-home visit, with a variety of digital and physical reminders putting safety front and centre of every visit.” The company also donated a total of £8,192.76 to NHS Charities Together after a recent raffle for two limited-edition rainbow-coloured boilers (main image). Both winning companies, Will Stone Plumbing and South Manchester Heating, offered to either give away their boiler to a local NHS worker, or run their own giveaway charity event. Find out more about the ‘Safe in your Home Installer Commitment’

Triton Troubleshooting Tips videos With installers unable to attend training sessions in person Triton was one of a number of companies that turned to online video help for those who may require advice on common site or product issues. The shower brand has published a number of useful troubleshooting clips covering a variety of topics, from changing the pressure relief device to ensuring the temperature dial is accurate. Martyn Brown, Regional Service Manager at Triton commented: “We have created these materials to support plumbers during these difficult times. For those who cannot brush up on their knowledge in person, this information will hopefully enable them to solve any queries they have. As a manufacturer we are doing all that we can to look after the health and safety of our staff and customers as this is our top priority right now.”

www.rdr.link/ps005

To check out Triton’s tips www.rdr.link/ps006

Bristan Group #BrumTogether Food Distribution Bristan Group were one of a large number of companies that stepped up to support wider society during the crisis. The logistics team at Bristan Group has been volunteering its time and expertise to help Birmingham based cooperative, The Active Wellbeing Society, with its food distribution services. #BrumTogether is a city-wide network of more than 70 partner organisations, charity and groups in Birmingham, co-ordinated by The Active Wellbeing Society. The network is working together to help the community and provide people most in need with essential support and services.

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SPECIAL REPORT | Supporting Installers & Society

Jason Smith, Chief Commercial Officer for Bristan Group, said: “We’re very happy to have been able to use our knowledge and expertise for the greater good during a particular difficult time for vulnerable communities in Birmingham.” Paul Moore, Head of Community Intervention and Tools at The Active Wellbeing Society, added: “Bristan Group has made such a massive difference to how we run our food distribution services here at The Active Wellbeing Society – from ﬁnding a more suitable food distribution centre, to creating a smoother and more efficient workﬂow.” To discover more about the #BrumTogether campaign www.rdr.link/ps007

To discover more about Bristan Group www.rdr.link/ps008

Mira Showers Producing critical care ventilators Mira Showers recently revealed how, in the critical months of the coronavirus outbreak, it refocused some of its resources and expertise to support the NHS in the manufacture and assembly of critical care ventilators. Craig Baker, Managing Director of Mira Showers, said: “When we were approached to become a

partner on one of the government-appointed ventilator projects we didn’t hesitate to accept, we knew that we had the expertise and the manufacturing and assembly capability, as well as the passion and skillset in our associates, to deliver what was required.” In just 12 weeks, the manufacturer produced a ‘factory in a factory’ - an all-clean room environment of 2,500 sq ft; providing assembly and testing facilities for the advanced development and manufacturing of the ventilators, as well as creating and training a dedicated team to assemble them. The company also designed its own prototype for high-quality face shields, producing 13,000 units across both its Hull and Gloucestershire manufacturing sites in just two weeks. To watch a video of the initiative www.rdr.link/ps009

Vaillant & Glow-worm Online learning Vaillant and Glow-worm turned to digital and online training and business advice to support installers during this challenging time. Installers and contractors can now sign up for free, online training courses on some of the industry’s hottest topics, including the decarbonisation of heat in buildings, hydrogen and other green gases, and the use of plate heat exchangers in commercial systems. The company has also added to its online learning portfolio with the addition of its popular Business Support Clinics. The 2020 clinics include a new team of experts all on hand to offer free advice on issues affecting the trade in a series of hour-long interactive webinars. Members of the Vaillant Advance or Glow-worm Club Energy loyalty programmes can register and receive the advice for free. Spencer Clark, Commercial Director at Vaillant Group, commented: “The self-employed are among those who have been hit hardest by the uncertainty around COVID-19 and so we wanted to offer e-learning sessions to support our installers and help them to gain valuable knowledge. They’re completely free and are just some of the many support initiatives that we will be rolling out over the next few months and beyond.” To sign up an online training or a business support clinic, Vaillant installers can www.rdr.link/ps010

Glow-worm energy club members can www.rdr.link/ps011

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

Here are a few more examples:

ating @finessehe

hoskins_heating

@heatingbrighton

@Heatmanialtd

gasinspect

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

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

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

SPRAY OF LIFE

Methven’s Aio Easy-Fit Shower Kit promises a contemporary look and features the company’s Aurajet technology.

uitable for both retrofit and new bathroom projects Methven’s Aio Easy-Fit Shower Kit has a stylish chrome halo design, popular with homeowners looking to add a contemporary touch to their existing or new bathroom project. Manufactured in New Zealand, the Aio collection features Aurajet technology to deliver a full-bodied spray for maximum contact, with hidden invisible nozzles that generate single jets of water to give up to 20% more spray coverage* and twice the amount of skin contact. Specifically designed for mains / high pressure, the system is suitable for water pressures between 1.0 and 5.0 bar, while the water flow rate is optimised to be water efficient, without comprising on the spray performance. This is achieved through Methven’s patented Aurajet technology, which maintains a water-saving flow rate, delivering nine litres per minute with wide-spray coverage to conserve water. Research by Methven has revealed that 9 L/min is the optimum level of water reduction for its products, as it still offers a powerful showering experience and is suitable for the water pressure in the majority of UK households. Featuring an engineered polymer with hydrophobic properties that resist the build-up of limescale, the shower kit also comes with a 360 twist free hose adaptor that’s makes the shower both easy to use and clean. The shower handset also comes with a lifetime warranty.

*Aio has up to 20% more spray force than the conventional Methven handset

For more information www.rdr.link/ps012

1c 1a INSTALLATION GUIDE: METHVEN AIO EASY-FIT SHOWER KIT Methven describes how you can install the kit with five simple steps.

STEP ONE

STEP THREE

First, remove all of the components from the packaging and check they are all present. If you are working on a replacement project, remove the existing shower rail from the wall beforehand. To get started, assemble the shower rail and slide the soap dish, hose retainer and slider onto the rail.

STEP TWO

Fit the top and bottom brackets onto the wall then twist and lock the rail brackets into place. You can then push the shower rail through the two brackets.

STEP FOUR

4a If you are replacing an old shower rail, screw the wall fixings into the existing holes. If this is a new installation, drill the required holes then screw in the wall fixings. Once completed, place the rail brackets over the wall fixings.

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4b Ensure the washer is fitted before attaching the hose and handset.

STEP FIVE Place the handset securely into the handset slider and turn the shower mixer into the on position. Check for any leaks. The shower is now ready for your customer to use.

Methvenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aio collection is available in a wide range of shower and tap configurations, including Handset, Overhead Drencher, Cool Touch Bar Mixer, Basin Mixer and Bath Filler. It is also available in a contemporary matte black finish to help installers add the perfect addition for customers looking to achieve a modern bathroom.

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

DISTANT BUT

Together Mira Showers’ Associate Channel Manager - Installer Communications, Paul McGuire explains how the manufacturer has come up with ways to assist installers through the last few months.

ince the lockdown began back in March, many installers may have found themselves with more time on their hands to upskill and focus on training. It’s fair to say that across all professions, much has moved online and many resources have been made available to help get us all through the lockdown months; and maybe even come out the other end a little wiser. Despite working from home, the Mira team was determined to put its time to good use and has been busy devising new ways to support installers through these challenging times.

Installer support So, we have produced a suite of online learning tools, including the Lockdown Lowdown series, a Gas App UK Live Lounge and a series of CIPHE animations to support and assist installers in a variety of ways. The Lockdown Lowdowns are a series of short installer troubleshooting videos that explore best practice fault finding and repair techniques across the Mira range of showers. We thought this would be really useful, at a time when many may have found themselves with extra capacity to update their knowledge. The videos assist in saving both time and money by troubleshooting confidently, first time, and could even provide an alternative revenue stream - repairing as well as installing showers.

The series launched with episode one Electric Showers Cold Only, which explores best practice fault finding and repair techniques in a cold flow only situation. This is followed by episode two - Electric Showers No Flow, which details what to do in a no-flow situation from a Mira electric shower; and episode three - Digital Showers No Flow, detailing the processes to follow in a no-flow situation from a Mira digital shower.

CIPHE animations

The short, animated guides are aimed at informing and supporting you, the installer, in a range of Mira’s products, illustrating best practice and technical overviews. They feature: Gravity fed hot water systems - mixer showers; Unvented hot water systems - HP digital and mixer showers; Combination boiler installation mixer showers and HP digital showers; Cold mains water systems - electric shower installation; Gravity fed hot water systems power showers; and Gravity fed hot water systems - pumped digital showers. From optimum temperatures, pressure speciﬁcations, best practice, parts, processes and regulations, they highlight a variety of useful hints and tips in easy to digest, bitesize clips. Installers are at the heart of what we do, and training and personal development are key to our commitment to support them. So we’re really pleased to be able to offer something back and continue to engage through these uncertain times.

In addition to this, Mira was really proud to team up with the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) to produce a series of online animations, which are featured on the YouTube channel.

You can watch the Lockdown Lowdown series, Gas App UK Live Lounge and CIPHE animations on Mira’s YouTube www.rdr.link/ps013 channel,

Answering your questions In addition to these, and being a former installer myself, I took to Gas App UK to present an ‘almost’ live Q&A (unforeseen technical difficulties meant it had to be pre-recorded!) - answering questions from installers that arose in response to the Lockdown Lowdown series, as well as other enquiries about showering technology and best practice. The session features questions including where Mira sources and assembles its products; whether Mira’s spares books still exist; what the best-selling models are; and technical questions, such as ‘what is Mira Clearscale technology?’

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS

RADIATOR TRENDS Steve Birch, Sales Director, Vogue (UK), takes a look at the growing move towards designer radiators in bathrooms. e have found that there has been a distinct shift towards eco-conscious consumerism in premium bathrooms and I anticipate this trend is set to grow in 2021. As more consumers discover the beneﬁts of using materials which are kinder to the planet as well as being more energy-efficient and cost-effective, I believe this type of bathroom design will continue to grow and develop at pace. As we enter a period of growing economic uncertainty in terms of global recovery from Covid-19 and a process of re-adjustment following the three-phased plan for Brexit, UK consumers in general are likely to be conservative when it comes to purchasing new property, choosing to add value to existing assets which has shown new investment in the bathroom.

well as being an eco-friendly metal, it is renowned for its ability to conduct heat rapidly, which ensures end-users will save both time and money with this improved efficiency in low-water content products. Another advantage of sourcing aluminium radiators is the opportunity for increased design flexibility and space planning, as these products can be easily installed on both stud and solid walls due to its lightweight core. This is extremely helpful when it comes to luxury residential developments where interior designers and architects are becoming ever more creative when working within the home, and also when working with discerning homeowners who want to have maximum benefits combined with minimum disruption during a renovation or retrofit project.

Replacement market Bathroom upgrades Heating is now viewed as a key way to upgrade the bathroom, with scope for both towel warmers and radiators to be more attractive and user-friendly all year round. As adding value becomes ever more important, we are seeing a move towards the use of aluminium as a must-have, covetable material for radiators in this key room. As

Alongside the increasing demand for eco-homes, in which materials are recycled and recyclable to minimise carbon footprints, the replacement market remains a strong part of the heating industry portfolio due to the age of the UK’s housing stock, which is the oldest in Europe, and probably the world: according to a recent report from the BRE Group. The opportunities here for

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the heating professional are considerable, as offering eco-friendly heating solutions will provide your customers with a long-lasting, designer product. In my experience, adding value to a home by upgrading your customers heating system is a sure investment, especially as more people are now working from home, which has led to a greater emphasis on sustainable living. A greener alternative to designs in brass and steel, we offer a blanket 30 years manufacturer guarantee across all aluminium models. For further information www.rdr.link/ps014

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PLUMBING & BATHROOMS MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/ps015

KINEDO Kinemoon

MONARCH WATER Ultimate Matrix Available for small commercial and large residential applications, Monarch Water has developed a 30-litre water softener to add to the HE range. The model measures 1038 (H) x 270(W) x 485 (D). Its high-efficiency capacity of 5,500 litres at 300ppm between regenerations makes it suited for large families of between seven to 18 people as well as small businesses. The water softener conserves water through its Opti-Brining technology and features the company’s Hi-ﬂow Rapid-Fit bypass. www.rdr.link/ps016 To discover more

JT Black Waste cover Complimenting the growing trend of black trims on shower enclosures and statement black brassware in the bathroom, JT has launched a Black Waste cover for the JTFusion range of shower trays. John Schoﬁeld, JT’s Sales and Marketing Director, commented: “We are pleased to be expanding our waste colour options, the statement black cover now provides even more of a luxury feel to achieve that sought-after premium bathroom design.” JT offers a 25-year product guarantee. www.rdr.link/ps017 To discover more

Kinedo by Saniflo has launched the Kinemoon shower tray. It is available in 5 colours – white, anthracite, grey, black and sable and has three different patterned waste covers which are self-coloured to blend-in with the tray. The tray stands at 26mm in height and doubles as an anti-slip surface rated to PN24. The tray can be supplied with an optional riser kit if extra height is required and can also be used in a wetroom-style application. Manufactured from durable Biolex material it can be cut on site for awkward installation situations. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps019

FLUIDMASTER Website

HIB Air With a 2.5cm ultra-slim profile and a border of LED illumination, HiB has unveiled the latest addition to its portfolio of illuminated mirrors, the Air. The mirror can be hung landscape or portrait and has been designed to create the illusion of more space without overwhelming the rest of the décor. Ash Chilver, Sales Director at HiB, commented: “Air is the perfect fit for customers who want all the benefits of an illuminated mirror but with a slim, unobtrusive design.” Air is available in four sizes: 70 x 40cm, 80 x 50cm, 60 x 80cm and 70 x 120cm. www.rdr.link/ps018 To discover more

UK based producer of replacement toilet parts, Fluidmaster, has announced the launch of its new product website. Visitors will be able to browse available products, watch informational videos, download resources and check out a comprehensive variety of FAQs. In addition, a regularly updated blog will help installers stay up to date with current news and ‘behind the scenes’ information from the company’s UK HQ. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps020

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

BEYOND THE BOILER

While choosing a product that is easy to install and cost-effective with optimum energy efficiency credentials is high on the agenda for many contractors, how can they take advantage of services beyond the product? Andy Green, Technical Director at Potterton Commercial, explains how value-added services can help contractors to stay competitive and prepare for the future.

n a recent survey, Potterton Commercial found that 71% of contractors are conscious of competition growing in their sector. In such a competitive market, and especially post-COVID, it makes perfect business sense to try and standout. While ensuring team punctuality, unparalleled customer service and quality installs are all essential to earn customer loyalty, it’s important to note that good manufacturers will offer additional services that can bring considerable advantages to contractors. From making the most of manufacturer training to accessing telephone and on-site technical support as and when necessary, contractors should be aware of these additional value-added perks.

Training A critical aspect of staying ahead of the competition is keeping abreast of the latest products, services and legislation. While our survey found 53% think there should be more certiﬁcation and compliance to keep standards high, 68% of contractors agree certiﬁcation and compliance is going to take up more of their time. What’s more, 58% of those surveyed admitted that keeping up with new technology is going to become

harder. As such, it is crucial for contractors to make the most of manufacturer-led training to help to ease concerns. During lockdown, manufacturers like Potterton Commercial have provided live online product training courses to enable installers to keep their knowledge up to date while adhering to physical distancing guidance. As restrictions ease and purpose-built training facilities re-open, commercial heating installers can reﬁne their skills and gain practical experience on how to correctly install and maintain products in a real-world environment. A typical training course will offer practical installation, commissioning and maintenance tips alongside advice on specifying the correct

The importance of being able to access additional and evolving manufacturer support and benefits shouldn’t be underestimated

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appliance for requirements and legislation updates to help installers to stay up-to-date and remain compliant.

Warranty Lengthy warranties provide the end user with welcome peace of mind. Many manufacturers are able to offer free extended warranties and free warranty registrations, making the process simpler and more cost-effective. It’s often the case that if a heating system is commissioned by the manufacturer, then the warranty is more substantial.

Genuine Parts Availability Unlike domestic boilers, commercial heating installations tend to have a minor and major service on an annual basis as a minimum, with various other checks likely to take place. Given this and the need to avoid downtime in commercial buildings, commercial contractors should ensure they have reliable and speedy access to genuine spares, as and when they need them. Opting to use genuine parts ultimately helps to ensure the reliability and longevity of a heating system as the components are designed, tested and approved to work

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alongside the specific products. As such, these official spares meet the required safety and quality standards and will play a part in validating a boiler’s warranty. What’s more, genuine spare parts are guaranteed to fit better and more easily, saving installers valuable time and costs. It’s also worth noting that some manufacturers offer installers comprehensive service kits – including only genuine spare parts – for their products that contain all the components required to complete a full recommended boiler service on the first visit. Potterton Commercial, for example, is currently offering free service kits as well as free commissioning and a free extended warranty with its wall hung and floor standing boiler ranges to help its installers maximise efficiency savings for building owners and end users in a timesaving, cost-effective way.

Technical Support The level of technical support available, pre- and post-sale, from providing help during the initial planning stages of a project right through to installation and aftersales is hugely important. Contractors

should look for manufacturers that offer 24-hour telephone support and on-site assistance depending on the circumstances, but also those that offer a range of technical literature such as maintenance guidelines, technical speciﬁcations and installation guides. With a contractor’s reputation based on how well a piece of equipment runs from the moment of installation, this two-pronged approach will ensure the most appropriate solutions are chosen for customers and if problems do occur on site, they are resolved as quickly as possible.

from heating equipment suppliers, this list isn’t exhaustive. For example, at Potterton Commercial, the likes of design services, a solid BIM offering, online tools/apps, and dedicated area sales managers all help to support contractors in their day to day role. The importance of being able to access additional and evolving manufacturer support and benefits shouldn’t be underestimated as these services help contractors resolve daily demanding challenges and assist them in attracting, rewarding and retaining their customer base. Price, speed and ease of installation are all primary considerations for contractors and installation teams. But support outside of the core product, such as after-specification, purchase and sales support are equally key when it comes to deciding on what commercial heating system to specify, buy or install for a new project. And in today’s challenging times, identifying and making use of these value-added services is arguably more significant than ever.

Above and beyond While the above outlines essential offerings that contractors should be looking out for

For more information www.rdr.link/ps021

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

A LL-IN-ONE

With high-rise living becoming increasingly popular, installers are now challenged with a number of obstacles when it comes to delivering water to these multi-unit buildings. Richard Bateman, Product Marketing Manager from RWC, discusses how all-in-one valves can help.

ue to rapid economic, demographic and social changes in urban spaces across the UK, city centres have become residential hubs for working professionals and families. ‘Megacities’ and high-rise buildings are transforming cities and urban areas across the globe, with the UN predicting 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050. These high-rise buildings need to be built faster than ever before, and with the UK’s current housing crisis – which has been exacerbated by COVID-19 – it is vital the industry gets back on track. To meet this increasing demand to complete projects faster, plumbing and heating engineers need to adopt smarter plumbing technologies to increase the speed of installation.

to complete projects faster, plumbing and heating engineers need to adopt smarter plumbing technologies

More complexity As we squeeze more housing units into our cities, the footprints of these living spaces grow smaller and smaller. This leads to increasingly difficult installation environments, with space, time, product supply and maintenance requirements all throwing obstacles in the way of plumbing contractors. The complexity of working in tighter, more conﬁned spaces that do not offer much room to manoeuver around can increase installation times. Therefore, installers need to seek products that are designed for compact spaces, while providing the same level of quality.

A tight squeeze One clear example where installers feel the impact of a tight squeeze is the riser cupboard installation. This is where chains of valves are fitted to control the flow of water to individual apartments, through a multi-unit block. Every individual apartment in a block of flats needs its own chain of valves. These consist of a pressure reducing valve (PRV), isolating valve, water meter, a double

28 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

check and a stop valve. And installing a single chain can take experienced plumbers up to ten minutes. Once they have been assembled, each chain needs to be ﬁxed on to the pipes, ﬂushed through, and tested. In blocks consisting of tens if not hundreds of apartments, this can take hours. Alongside this, the installation process may take longer if there’s a leak point or issue with the assembly, consequently pushing the construction timeline back.

Challenges with chain of valves Finding compatible valves, ﬁttings and ﬁxtures to build these chain of valves takes time and has its own set of risks. Usually contractors order different parts from different manufacturers to realise cost-efficiencies. However, this may

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jeopardise timescales and cause delays if there are issues with delivery or stock levels. Furthermore, carrying out future repair works can be tricky when the valves have been sourced from different suppliers. There is always the risk that some valves or products may have been discontinued.

One valve One way to overcome these space, time and aftermarket issues is by opting for the all-in-one Tenant Valve Plus from Reliance Valves, that’s been developed speciﬁcally for multi-unit buildings. These valves have multiple functions within one self-contained unit to control and monitor the water supply to individual ﬂats. The Tenant Valves Plus has a compact 311mm unit cartridge design, that ensures a simple, quick and easy installation in riser cupboards. It includes all elements that make up the chain of valves, such as – a ball-type isolating valve, an approved stop valve, a pressure reducing valve, a double

check valve, a dual reading pressure gauge/test point and a connection point for an optional water meter – all in a pre-insulated cover. Servicing and maintenance of these valves is much easier and efficient too. If an apartment has a leak, there’s no need to check every connection point on the chain of valves. All components are accessible from the front of the Tenant Valves, which makes repair jobs much faster.

Smarter ways to build faster As the need for multi-occupancy buildings and city centre living increases, plumbing contractors must adopt smarter, intelligent and time saving technologies. The all-in-one Tenant Valve Plus not only helps in solving the critical space-saving challenges but also speeds up installations, all thanks to its compact design. For more information about RWC please www.rdr.link/ps022

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL

A DELICATE BALANCE

Successfully managing the air pressure within the soil and waste system in a commercial building, and ensuring that trap water seals are maintained, is vital. David Barker, Head of Category Management at Marley Plumbing & Drainage, explores the challenges.

nlike a small domestic property, which may perhaps have only a handful of sanitary equipment, the soil and waste system within a commercial building can be hugely complex, with potentially hundreds of branches all feeding into the main stack or stacks. This will also understandably have an effect on the amount of water flowing through the system at any one time, with more people likely to be using plumbing fixtures simultaneously, particularly at certain hours of the day, causing the pressure within the commercial system to fluctuate. To demonstrate, every sudden flow of water within a pipe, such as the flush of a toilet or a running tap, causes positive pressure in front of the flow and negative pressure behind. While this change in pressure would barely be noticeable in a standard domestic dwelling, within a commercial building the effect can be potent. The subsequent fallback from the individual water traps, or the creation of air bubbles passing through the seal, can allow foul odours, sewer gases and bacteria to leak into the occupied space. So, how can this pressure fluctuation be controlled effectively? Fortunately, there are a variety of different products and solutions available, each depending on the individual application and budget.

stack-aerators can help to control the mix of water and air pressure within a commercial soil and waste system

Secondary ventilation

Secondary ventilation As its name suggests, it simply involves the installation of a ‘dry pipe’ parallel to the main stack, which is then conveyed through the whole building, up to the roof. Linking at each ﬂoor level, this secondary pipe works to passively balance air pressure within the system by allowing positive pressure a means of escape. This, in turn, helps to prevent bubbles of foul air from penetrating through the water trap seal and entering into the occupied building space. However, this means of air pressure management does come with some limitations, particularly for developments where available building space is limited. After all, the presence of this secondary pipe can take up a considerable amount of additional space within a building, perhaps making it unsuitable for city centre or refurbishment projects.

Stack-aerators For commercial projects where installers have to be more considerate around available space, stack-aerators could be

30 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

the ideal alternative solution. Designed to simply replace the standard branch fittings, meaning that no additional space is needed to be planned in, stack-aerators are installed on each floor of the building and work to connect the horizontal pipework branches with the vertical main stack. The curved shape of the fitting is carefully designed so as to slow the flow of water through the system; as well as helping to smoothly merge the horizontal flow from the individual pipe branches with the vertical main stack. Installed throughout a building, stack-aerators can help to control the mix of water and air pressure within a commercial soil and waste system, improving stability and helping protect the integrity of the individual trap water seals. Single stack aerator

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Active options While we have so far only looked at passive means of air pressure management, it is also well worthwhile considering an active solution and the different level of performance this could deliver. Active drainage ventilation is a more recent addition to the plumbing industry. It works to proactively control the pressure within a commercial drainage system, providing direct relief by either removing or reducing an incoming positive or negative pressure. This advanced level of control, working to combat each individual pressure change, can deliver high-levels of performance, efficiently reducing the chances of trap seal depletion occurring and providing a commercial building’s occupants with a pleasant and hygienic space. What’s more, active drainage ventilation products can also be used in conjunction with air admittance valves, delivering a

Active drainage

complete working system with high-levels of protection against foul odours, bacteria or sewer gases, as well as helping to ensure the efficient running of a building’s soil and waste drainage. Air admittance valves work on a relatively simple basis; staying closed until such time that negative air pressure is detected within the system. Only then will the valve open and allow air from outside to

be drawn into the drainage system, stabilising the pressure levels as a result. Marley Plumbing & Drainage’s Positive Air Pressure Attenuator (P.A.P.A) and accompanying Maxi-Vent and Mini-Vent is one example of such a total solution. Able to be installed either vertically or horizontally, depending on the individual project, P.A.P.A works to eliminate the potentially harmful effects of positive pressure generated in gravity-fed drainage systems. Commercial plumbing brings with it a unique set of challenges not ordinarily encountered with standard, domestic plumbing. Deciding how to effectively manage the mix of air and water within a commercial building’s drainage system is but one of those challenges and should be a key consideration for speciﬁers and contractors. For more information www.rdr.link/ps023

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

PUMP PREP PAYS OFF

In this short five-step guide, Grant UK’s Technical Design Manager, Stuart McWhinnie, examines how to specify and size a heat pump system, reminding us that prior preparation and planning prevents poor performance.

1 i DO YOUR RESEARCH Fully researching a potential purchase will always pay off. Specifying a heat pump is no different so take the time to comprehensively understand a property’s heating requirements and its physical build, correctly calculating heat loss within the home and projecting the heat demand. Then look at the heat pump model most suitable for the job. Once installed, it will leave the homeowner with years of reliable, sustainable home heating. If in doubt, why not look at some training to ﬁll in any knowledge gaps. You can take this, cost effectively, online.

2 i SYSTEM DESIGN PROCESS The system design process is crucial for successful air source heat pump installations. When sizing a heat pump, you need to understand the term ‘drop off’. This is essentially referring to the difference between a heat pump’s potential output (e.g. 17kW) and its actual operating output when installed and exposed to external temperatures.

Manufacturers will test their heat pumps at extreme temperatures to gauge each unit’s heating capabilities at temperatures such as -3˚C and -7˚C (Scotland). It is these ‘drop off’ values that need to be fed into a system design because a 17kW heat pump will not always be able to deliver this output due to the changes in external temperatures. If too small a heat pump is selected, it will not be able to sufficiently meet the

32 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

property’s heating demands. Similarly, select too large a model and the heating system may not be as efficient.

3 i HEAT LOSS CALCULATIONS Full room-by-room heat loss calculations are a necessity with all heat pump installations. These account for the size of the rooms, the insulation levels of both the walls and windows, as well as the height of the rooms. The calculation brings together the amount of space that needs heating along with the building’s materials and their capability to reduce heat loss from the property. Simple thermodynamics tell us that heat will ﬂow from hot to cold. All materials will transfer heat and the material type will determine the rate at which heat transfers across it, so this is the key to how we retain heat within a building and it is fundamental when specifying a heat pump. By measuring all the rooms individually and assessing all the building fabric ‘U’ values (how quickly and at what rate a building material will conduct heat), we can accurately build up a picture of the property’s total heat loss.

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It is also important to factor in a number of other variables such as air change rates, expected comfort temperatures and the lowest temperature expected in winter for that area, but a heat loss calculation can ensure that, with certain performance ﬁgures for the heat pump, the correct selection of heat pump can be made. Any short cuts could lead to insufficient heating, cold rooms and high energy bills.

4 i PLAN FOR HEAT EMITTERS Air source heat pumps operate within low temperature heating systems so with this in mind, it is just as important to size the heat emitters correctly as it is to size the heat pump. Selecting the most appropriate type of heat emitter and their positions within the property is another important stage of the design process. To effectively transfer the heat from the system into the occupied living spaces within the home, heat emitters with larger surface areas tend to be the best partners

it is just as important to size the heat emitters correctly as it is to size the heat pump.

rooms’ heating needs. As a general rule you can expect to ﬁt a radiator two and a half times larger than normal to provide the same heat output. The index circuit may have to be upgraded to cope with the lower ﬂow temperature as well.

for air source heat pumps. This is why underfloor heating is the most popular heat emitter choice for heat pump systems, but installers should not feel restricted when it comes to choosing the best solutions for their customers. A mixture of underfloor heating downstairs and then aluminum radiators upstairs could deliver the ultimate comfort levels in some circumstances. You may be asked to install a heat pump in a property where radiators will be used. Although there is no reason why a heat pump cannot be used in this way, the Delta T across the radiator will be significantly lower and this will have an impact when radiator sizes are selected to meet the

Although all this may seem a little complex and daunting, I like to apply the ‘six Ps’ (Prior Preparation and Planning Prevents Poor Performance). If installers take the time to comprehensively understand a property’s heating requirements and its physical build, correctly calculating heat loss within the home and projecting the heat demand, then the heat pump model most suitable for the job can be selected and installed. Support is also on hand from our dedicated Design and Speciﬁcation Team.

5 i MANUFACTURER SUPPORT

For more details on heat pumps, training and the Grant UK design service www.rdr.link/ps024

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

WATER TESTING GETS

SMART

ADEY’s smartphone integrated water testing kit promises immediate results.

oor water quality is a common cause of central heating breakdowns. Consequently, the importance of testing heating system water quality as part of installation, maintenance or servicing should not be underestimated. To help, international water treatment manufacturer ADEY is launching what it describes as, “a next generation water testing kit which provides lab-style reporting and interpretation instantly to a smartphone.” Called ProCheck, ADEY believes the new solution will make it easier for installers and engineers to tackle this issue with onsite analysis of system water via an app, providing an instant certified and trusted validation of system health. The ProCheck test kit and app uses technology designed to enable installers to show homeowners results immediately, indicating whether further action is required or providing reassurance that the system water has been treated and the system is healthy. ADEY believes this benefits the installer by reducing the need for a second visit as any quality issues that are identified can be dealt with there and then.

How it works Whilst on site, a water sample is taken from the central heating system and a dip test is carried out using the dedicated ProCheck strips supplied with the kit. This strip is placed on a test card before being scanned to the app using the phone camera, to be analysed and veriﬁed. ADEY ProCheck has been tested and the process approved by KIWA Gastec, to speciﬁcally look at the three main areas of concern; protective inhibitor levels, corrosion, and the dangers posed by the pH level present. A report is immediately created with the results and actions required. ADEY understands that it’s often not very easy for installers to explain to customers the importance of good water quality in the system and the need to carry out water treatment in the home. ADEY ProCheck not only visualises the necessity for water treatment, but the instant results negate the need to return to a property for remedial work. “While dip testing is the current method used to check water quality on site, the results provide only a measure of the level of inhibitor in the system and are open to interpretation in regards to the actions

required,” said Helen Isherwood, Innovations Director at ADEY. “Laboratory tests are extremely robust and test for a wide range of issues within the system water. However, using a laboratory requires the test to be posted and for the installer to wait for results before returning to take remedial action. Not only does ProCheck provide an instant result for three main areas of testing, it ensures a level of accuracy that’s previously not been possible in the field.” Helen noted: “In accordance with British Standards BS7593:2019, central heating system water should be tested on commissioning, as part of the annual service, and a full laboratory water test should be carried out every five years. The addition of an onsite test being carried out annually during a service has huge benefits for the installer. Water quality issues are one of the most common causes of boiler breakdowns, but by checking it every year it is easier to keep on top of any potential problems. Being able to show customers independent verification of their system water quality helps to demonstrate the added value that installers are able to provide. Management of multiple jobs is also made more efficient through an online portal and homeowners can see results immediately.” The ADEY ProCheck kit comes in a compact hard case and includes a testing pot, 25 dip test strips and 10 test cards. Purchase includes a year’s free subscription to the report management system where users can generate and email test reports directly from the app. For further information www.rdr.link/ps025

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HEATING & RENEWABLES

FRAME, SET AND MATCH

Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, explains why the manufacturer chooses to equip the majority of its boiler range with a wall-mounting frame.

e were recently sat in a meeting discussing the design of a future boiler and it was questioned as to why as standard, we equip our boilers with quite a lot of features that many other manufacturers don’t and tend to sell as an optional extra. We’re one of the few manufacturers to do so, so it’s understandable that the question was raised. However, we’re renowned within the installer community for doing so and we feel it’s time to explain why. As an example, let’s take the wall mounting frame, all of the Worcester wall-hung boiler range come with a wall-mounting frame, which is also a

Our frame allows the installer to set up and test the installation for soundness without the boiler even being on site. 36 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

pre-plumbing jig, accompanying the boiler within the carton. We started doing this in the 1990s with our boilers, and it’s become synonymous with the Worcester brand ever since. The only one that is the exception is our 2000 range, the entry level, lowest priced boiler.

Neat and tidy The first reason for doing this is an aesthetic one. Boilers are usually positioned downstairs in a home, most typically in the kitchen or utility room. With few exceptions, the central heating flow and return pipework rises from the boiler into the floor of the bedroom/sleeping area and is routed through each bedroom and bathroom to feed the upstairs radiators. The pipework also feeds the downstairs radiators, individually “drops” from above, normally behind the curtains where possible. Quite often the hot water distribution pipework also follows the same route to feed the bathrooms. In fact, the only pipework that tends to drop from the boiler is the PRV and Condensate discharge and, more often

036_PHPI_SEPT20_Layout 1 27/07/2020 13:33 Page 37

than not, the gas pipe. To make that neat, our wall mounting frame sits about 25mm from the wall and allows the installer to install all of the pipework to this wall mounting frame. The boiler then hangs onto the jig hiding this pipework from view with the only visible pipework being the short amount between the top of the boiler and the ceiling, perhaps 300mm or so. If you weren’t able to do this, the pipework would have to come out of the bottom of the boiler and be directed left or right up the side of the boiler into the ceiling. Most installers make a lovely job of this and are quite rightly proud of the straightness and precise clip positions however, many homeowners don’t feel the same way and would rather see as little pipework as possible, especially as boilers are now being integrated into expensive kitchen designs, for example.

Pipe up The wall-mounting frame allows installers to pipe the heating system up without the boiler actually being on the wall. This has

two key beneﬁts. Firstly, if you’re installing in a cupboard, for example, you’ll want as much space as you can possibly get and if you’re in a conﬁned space trying to pipe up the boiler whilst it’s on the wall with you, it will restrict your movement. The pre-plumbing ability is therefore space saving, making tricky installs far easier.

Secondly, it’s more secure. Our frame allows the installer to set up and test the installation for soundness without the boiler even being on site. This is useful for when working on building sites, where security may be a concern. It isn’t unusual to hear of materials being stolen, so this allows you to complete the installation of a heating system and bring the boiler in when the house is ready to be occupied – you’ll just need to tighten up the connections and you’re ready to go. We also find this ability to take the boiler off the wall without having the remove the pipework from it quite useful in social housing applications, where it’s a house that has a high turnover of occupants. When the house is empty, it’s not an unusual story to hear of fixtures and fittings being stolen by opportunists. Local authorities like our boiler as they can remove it off site, locking it away until the house is occupied again. www.rdr.link/ps026 to discover more about Worcester Bosch’s range of boilers.

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HEATING & RENEWABLES MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/ps027

ATAG COMMERCIAL Gas boiler range ATAG Commercial has launched a range of high efficiency gas boilers, comprising the company’s ﬁrst ﬂoor standing unit – the XL-f – as well as the wall-hung XL-w. Both new ranges offer outputs of 70 to 200kW from a single boiler and up to 1.6MW in cascade. There are six XL-f and six XL-w boilers to choose from, each available in one Single Heat Exchanger Compact (SEc) and one Single Heat Exchanger (SE) models, as well as two Double Heat Exchanger Compact (DEc) and two Double Heat Exchanger (DE) versions. www.rdr.link/ps028 To discover more

VAILLANT sensoCOMFORT and sensoHOME The sensoCOMFORT and sensoHOME controls are said to offer increased connectivity and ease of use. Both models feature load compensation and weather compensation as standard, while the wired sensoCOMFORT can control up to ﬁve heating zones with individual room temperatures. In addition, both the wired and wireless versions of the sensoCOMFORT are also compatible with the sensoAPP and renewable heating technologies, such as heat pumps. www.rdr.link/ps029 To discover more

GLOW-WORM Power System Filter Engineered to fit into tighter spaces easily and discreetly, Glow-worm has unveiled its Power System Filter. Specifically designed for use with Glow-worm boilers, the filter is said to offer flexible siting, quick installation and easy dirt removal. Because the filter is fitted horizontally, less space is required. Compared to classic filter designs, a smaller portion of the filter is visible once fitted so that it looks less intrusive and gives installers more siting options. The main body of the filter is high-quality brass, whilst the front is made from lighter composite materials, removing unnecessary weight from the product. www.rdr.link/ps030 To discover more

HAVERLAND Simply radiator Electric heating manufacturer, Haverland has launched Simply, a radiator featuring a simple manual dial that fully controls its functions as well as the option of control via the company’s free app for smartphones and tablets. www.rdr.link/ps031 To discover more

38 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

ESSE ESSE 175 Available in two models, ESSE is launching ESSE 175 wood burning stove, which delivers 5kW of heat output. The stove uses a three-stage combustion process to extract all the energy from each log burned. Incorporating the company’s Particulate Reburn Technology, the ESSE 175 reignites gases and particles to minimise emissions while maximising heat output. The ESSE 175 also features the company’s Precision Burn technology, delivering control of air circulation and the ability to ﬁne tune the combustion rate at every stage of the burn cycle, which improves the efficiency of the stove whilst reducing the running costs and emissions. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps032

VIESSMANN Reward programme Viessmann has launched the “What you really want” sales promotion to enable installers to exchange points for a multitude of professional products. Installers can register any Vitodens boilers up to 150 kW to earn and accrue points that can be redeemed against a collection of the most popular and practical items from all previous promotions, plus the new addition of PPE. Vitodens boilers, from the 050-W to the 200-W models, earn between 100 and 300 points each. The promotion is open to all Viessmann Trained Installers in Great Britain. Boiler installations from January 1st 2020 to registrations made by February 28th 2021 are valid. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps033

PHPI Page Grid_Layout 1 29/05/2020 11:12 Page 1

040_PHPI_SEPT20_Layout 1 27/07/2020 13:09 Page 40

GIVEAWAYS GRAB SOME GEAR

All this month’s giveaways are now on one handy webpage, meaning you only have to enter your details once! For more fantastic giveaways and competitions, www.rdr.link/ps034

PIPESNUG

TRITON

FLUESNUG

T3IR HANDWASH UNIT

Removing any need for pointing, FlueSnug can be installed in less than five seconds and snuggly fits the 152mm core-drilled hole in the wall through which the boiler pipe and flue exits. The product also allows installers to quickly access the flue for any service or maintenance requirements, without the need to remove existing brickwork, mortar or sealant. The FlueSnug can then simply be reinstalled once complete so no need to make good again afterwards, saving even more time and cost for installers and their customers.

The T30iR is Triton’s latest handwash unit which comes with all the features of the manual Instaflow T30i as well as providing the additional benefit of handsfree operation with the infra-red sensor. This helps to prevent the spread of germs, and a timed shut down, plus seasonal temperature adjustment feature, minimises wastage. The unit is perfect for fitting into small spaces and providing a source for instant hot water where only a cold mains water supply is available. The product also has a one-year warranty to give extra peace of mind.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN

www.rdr.link/ps035

DUNLOP SHOWER WATERPROOFING KIT

www.rdr.link/ps036

10 GEOCEL ECOSEAL

Designed to include everything required to allow the tradesman to waterproof a shower area, wet room or walk-in shower area as required by new British Standards, Dunlop is giving away five shower waterproofing kits. Suitable for any internal intermittent area where continued exposure to water may cause damage, the kit fully waterproofs the background behind a tiled surface to prevent water penetration up to 1.5m high in a two-walled shower unit, or 1m high in a three-walled shower unit.

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

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE TO WIN

www.rdr.link/ps037

40 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

www.rdr.link/ps038

041_PHPI_SEPT20_Layout 1 27/07/2020 13:11 Page 41

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

The sealant has really good workability

Loading the sealant gun is quick and easy

MORE SEALANT, LESS WASTE

hether it is high up your personal priority list or not, environmental issues are increasingly higher on the news agenda. They are probably becoming more important to many of your customers too. My own personal position is that it is important the industry introduces working practices and materials that do the job well, but with minimal impact on the world around us. So I was really interested to test out HB42’s Ultimate All-in-One Eco-Foils. These 400ml foils replace the single use plastic tubes you usually buy sealant and adhesive in. Hilton Banks, the manufacturer of Eco Foils, tells me that over two million single use plastic cartridges are put into landfill every week in the UK and recent figures on plastic waste in the construction industry are shocking – around 23% of all the plastic consumed in the UK comes from the construction sector. First of all it’s important to note that to use these foils, you need a different gun to your usual one for plastic tubes. You can pick these up from most merchants and it’s easy to load up, clean and reuse, and very strong. You can also use them with plastic tubes if you need to, so its not like it’s a waste of money if you can’t get on with foils. You cut the foil end with scissors, load up the foil, and with a gentle few trigger squeezes you’re good to go. To be honest, it’s quick and easy and you get a very smooth flow of sealant too.

You can check out a video on the Eco Foils from HB42 here www.rdr.link /ps039

Chris Burdett looks at how practical it is to make the move away from single use plastic sealant cartridges.

Seal the deal

I am changing to foils it is the right thing to do

I was keen to see how powerful the sealant and adhesive is – as well as its quality – and a kitchen renovation in Hertfordshire was the location for this test. Sealing the kitchen worktop it is obvious this is good quality stuff. This sealant has good workability, which is important to me as I don’t use some brands because they are too sticky and hard to smooth. Although strong, this sealant is safe, as it’s low in Volatile Organic Compounds but still bonds to almost anything; it is also food safe, inhibits mould and cures in 24 hours.

Space saver After you have used the entire foil, you are left with a small, squashed piece of foil. Hilton Banks say they produce 95% less waste than the single use tubes and you get 30% more sealant than in the 290ml plastic tube. One of my main concerns is whether these foils will last in the back of

Look at the difference in wastage

van, but they are very durable it turns out. The gun stays clean too. I can see a time in the next few years when, just like in other industries, the pressure to eradicate single use plastics becomes unstoppable. Before then, cut your waste and save a bit of cost with these HB42 Eco-Foils. For more details www.rdr.link/ps040

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER SEPTEMBER 2020 41

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

KEEP YOUR COOL A

James Whitaker, Marketing Director at Dickies Workwear, offers plumbers his advice on dressing for the typically changeable British summer weather.

s I write this, the sun is shining and the temperature is warm, but it’s easy to forget that the late summer weather can also bring wind, rain and hail – sometimes all in one day. Such unpredictable weather can make dressing for the day ahead particularly challenging. Here are my top tips on choosing workwear that will ensure you’re ready for whatever mother nature has in store.

Get flexible We always advise plumbers to opt for a ﬂexible shoe or boot when choosing footwear, as they’re likely to spend much of their days bending or kneeling. In the warmer months, it’s particularly important to go for both lightweight and ﬂexible options, so look for choices that provide foot protection without the weightier feel of traditional steel toe-capped footwear. Breathable lining will help to maximise comfort on warmer days, while choosing a sole design that offers maximum ground contact in wet conditions is an important consideration whatever the weather.

Keep your cool Working in the heat while maintaining a professional look can seem impossible, but today’s workwear includes fabrics that allow

42 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

you to stay cool as the temperature rises. For example, one of our own new innovations is the Temp-iQ fabric, which traps cool air inside the yarn while wicking away sweat. In this way, the wearer stays comfortable as the cool air is kept next to their skin while they’re working in warmer temperatures. And breathability doesn’t have to come at the cost of staying dry. In rain showers on warmer days, keeping dry without overheating can be a real challenge, so look for jackets that offer a good level of waterprooﬁng with breathable fabrics.

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Don’t forget sun safety We’re all aware of the importance of applying sun protection to our skin these days and this should extend to your clothing, especially if you’re likely to be spending much of your day outdoors. More and more clothing manufacturers are incorporating fabrics that offer UV protection in their designs. For example, there are t-shirts that are light, breathable and offer UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) 45+. (The UPF rating is similar to the sun protection factor used for sunscreens.)

Choose clothing to be seen in While staying visible may not seem as much of a priority before the clocks move back, if you’re working in an environment where you’re still required to wear hi vis clothing, there are plenty of options that help you to be seen without compromising on comfort. There are a number of short-sleeved hi-vis t-shirts and polo shirts on the market, as well as shorts, which allow you to remain compliant with safety standards without resorting to long-sleeved tops and trousers in hot weather.

More and more clothing manufacturers are incorporating fabrics that offer UV protection in their designs. A word on shorts Shorts are a summer workwear staple and, while they are naturally less restrictive than trousers, it’s still important to look for features such as stretch back waistbands and side panels for an ergonomic ﬁt that will provide exceptional comfort and movement. Today’s work shorts also offer the practical details you would expect from workwear trousers, such as plenty of pockets, and are available in styles that help plumbers to cultivate a professional image. British weather is certainly unpredictable and, in many ways, our varied Summer weather can make getting dressed during the warmer months a lot harder than it is

in Winter. However, by investing in the right workwear, you can stay comfortable at this time of year without compromising on practicality, safety and your professional image. For more information www.rdr.link/ps041

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

TO THE MAX

PHPI takes a look through the new 40V line-up from Makita.

nstantly recognisable, thanks in part to their light blue colour, most installers and engineers will have come across at least one of Makita’s tools during their time. Now, the power tool giant has announced the introduction of its highest power cordless solutions yet: XGT 40V Max. The XGT range of machines – including combi drills, grinders, rotary hammers, impact drivers, circular saws and reciprocating saws – offers high output, durability and fast charge times, all designed to keep installers working for longer without disruption.

New platform XGT 40V Max is the new stand-alone cordless battery platform from Makita – with its own range of tools, lithium-ion batteries and chargers. The new 40V Max system will stand side-by-side with Makita’s LXT platform to offer a battery solution for all applications. XGT has been built around three concepts – high power, a tough design and smart technology.

High power With 40V Max power, XGT is the most powerful battery platform in the Makita range. The increased output is ideal for higher demand applications. The range

beneﬁts from a completely new design – across the machines, the batteries and charging system. Instead of going for a higher voltage battery, the Makita R&D Team has developed a system with improved construction and advanced technologies to achieve optimum power and performance. When going for a higher voltage battery there is a trade-off between power and run-time. However, Makita believes that XGT delivers balanced run-time delivered from the new 40V Max motor and battery platform, with all the power that is required for heavier duty applications.

Tough design The new XGT batteries have been engineered with durable design features to minimise damage and withstand tough

With 40V Max power, XGT is the most powerful battery platform in the Makita range.

44 SEPTEMBER 2020 PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER

environments. To protect the battery if dropped there is a heavy-duty outer casing and cell holder and a shock absorbing housing. Each battery also has an IPX4 rating, which means that it is splash and shower proof, and water ingress is limited – this could be a particularly useful feature when working with pipework or outside in unpredictable weather.

Smart technology To optimise battery performance and charge times, XGT features Makita’s unique smart system technology. This in-built programme allows digital communication between the battery and the charger, as well as the battery and the tool, to provide protection against issues such over discharge and overheating. For example, if the battery has overheated, the charger will cool it down before charging begins. This has been designed to signiﬁcantly speeds up the charging process and minimises downtime. Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita said: “This an exciting time for

044_PHPI_SEPT20_Layout 1 27/07/2020 13:16 Page 45

What’s in the range The new 40V XGT line-up includes: ● TD001G Impact Driver - delivering 220Nm of max torque and ten tightening modes. ● HP001G Combi-Hammer Drill - providing 140Nm of max torque and 41 electronical clutch settings. ● HS004G Circular Saw - with a no. load speed of 6,000RPM, 480 bevel capacity and AWS wireless connection facility for use with compatible dust extractors. ● JR001G Reciprocating Saw – achieving 255mm capacity in wood and Ø130mm capacity in pipe. All models are available as body only machines, or complete models with battery, charger and ADP10 Adaptor for charging LXT 18V batteries via the XGT 40V charger.

existing Makita users and new users alike. Makita’s new XGT platform is the next generation in cordless technology, leading the way in both performance and intelligence. With XGT, you can experience the same high power associated with corded and petrol machines, but with the increased ﬂexibility of cordless – making XGT the ideal solution for high demand, industrial applications. “The complete solution of our existing LXT 18V system and the new XGT 40V platform offers even more battery-powered solutions for a truly cordless job site.”

Brushless motor To improve durability, the new XGT tools also beneﬁt from Makita’s Brushless motor. As there are no moving parts within the motor causing friction, wear and tear and ongoing maintenance costs are minimised. No friction also means that no energy is lost through heat production, which increases run times. To support the new product range, Makita has also launched a selection of accessories. The 40V batteries can be purchased individually and are available in 2.5Ah and 4.0Ah versions. To minimise operator fatigue – and maximise on-site productivity – the batteries are relatively light weight. For example, the 2.5Ah XGT batteries weigh just 100g more than 18V LXT alternatives.

Battery charger To charge the batteries, Makita has launched the DC40RA 40V Max fast charger. Due to the smart system, the DC40RA offers optimised charging. For example, a 2.5Ah XGT battery can be charged in just 28 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in 45 minutes. For those that are currently using Makita’s LXT products, the company has developed an adaptor that allows you to charge your LXT batteries using the XGT charger. This makes changing between tools straightforward. With the adaptor, LXT batteries charge in just 22 minutes (for 3.0Ah LXT batteries) up to 40 minutes (for 6.0Ah LXT batteries). To find out more about the new range of 40V XGT products www.rdr.link/ps042 from Makita, please

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/ps043

GRANT UK Summer essentials backpacks Grant UK’s Sales Team have been equipped with branded backpacks to be given away to support heating engineers and installers throughout the England, Scotland and Wales. Containing a selection of giveaways from useful PPE items through to essentials for the summer, these backpacks are a useful gift for this season and beyond. Each multi-pocket backpack is distinct with its red colour and Grant UK branding. Inside, there is a large 250ml bottle of antibacterial gel, a handy tub of 100qty cleaning wipes, a branded sports drinks bottle, a large re-useable shopper bag, a bottle opener and some pencils. www.rdr.link/ps044 To discover more

MAKITA Brushless Portable Band Saws Makita has expanded its range of LXT cordless tools with the launch of the DPB183Z and DPB184Z Brushless Portable Band Saws. The compact and lightweight design of the new saws (the DPB183Z weighs 3.3kg and the DPB184Z weighs 3.6kg) makes them easy to manoeuvre around tight working spaces. The range’s ergonomic handle design has been engineered to ensure ease of use in both horizontal and vertical operation, making these machines incredibly versatile. For stable and secure cutting, both machines include durable, lightweight aluminium housings, with an optional grip handle for even greater control. www.rdr.link/ps045 To discover more

WISEMAN MEDIGRADE Pro Wiseman has expanded its range with Medigrade Pro Alcohol Hand Sanitiser Atomiser Spray, Alcohol Sanitiser Gel and Promain Antibacterial Liquid Soap. Medigrade Pro hand sanitiser gel and spray contain over 60% alcohol and a massive 70% respectively. Both products combat the risk of cross contamination, while leaving a residual biocide for maximum cleanliness. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps046

SNICKERS WORKWEAR Lightweight workwear To maintain wellbeing and working efficiency on site, cool, dry and safe workwear is essential. That’s why Snickers’ Topwear aims to make this summer a real breeze, with body-mapping designs and long-lasting comfort. Also new to the range are LITEWork Trousers and Shorts, plus a special offer ‘two-pack’ 100% Cotton T-shirts. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps047

PB page grid_Layout 1 21/05/2020 14:06 Page 1 NEW PB TF MAG AD_Layout 1 03/03/2020 10:43 Page 1

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TAKING SERVICING FURTHER

It is still very rare that the overall plumbing and heating performance of a building will be assessed during an annual service. Jerry Whiteley, Technical Manager, at the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) explains why servicing needs to be more inclusive. Renewables

y limiting an annual service to the boiler alone, occupants are at greater risk of something going wrong elsewhere in the plumbing or heating system. With this in mind, and to keep the household safe, a whole building approach should be taken when assessing the safety and efficiency of plumbing and heating systems. The CIPHE advises that, where possible, a plumbing and heating engineer should conduct a whole home health check. Installers should of course only advise on what they are qualiﬁed to install and maintain.

Hot and Cold Water Services Maintaining efficient hot and cold water systems is important to prevent unwanted heat gains into potable cold water, and ensure that water systems do not freeze in colder weather by checking the pipe insulation is sufficient. While this might not be a concern in the summer months, talking about it now before winter will mean that homeowners can avoid frozen condensate pipe problems in the future. Making sure that homeowners are aware of the location and accessibility of the stop tap is another important point to raise. You can check the functionality and advise the consumer to maintain it by turning every so often so it doesn’t become seized and unusable. Also, never keep the stop tap fully open.

Water Safety Regularly checking the water safety of systems is important to ensure that the correct temperature is maintained, is contamination free, safe, and runs as efficiently as possible. The dangers of poorly maintained water systems, such as hot water cylinders, could result in legionella or other such water borne health risks. One of the most effective ways to decrease the prevalence of legionella is to ensure all water systems are compliant

with the various standards and guidelines produced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE); these include ACOP L 8 and HSG 274, which stand alongside more industry-specific standards (such as HTM04 for health care premises). It is important that an installer follows the Building Regulations (Part G) to protect the safety of fitted systems. To be deemed competed, installers must be G3 trained in order to fit and maintain an unvented hot water cylinder.

Controls Encouraging the installation and/or upkeep of home heating controls has been an ongoing priority for the CIPHE and its members for some time. Regular checks will ensure that all controls are working efficiently and, in some cases, updated to offer the best energy saving and monitoring options. Understanding your customer’s behaviour when it comes to their use of heat and hot water will enable you to best advise them regarding their use of controls too.

Above and Below Ground Drainage Whether above or below ground, all drainage systems need regular maintenance to ensure that the pipework is still intact and the installation is correct and holding up as it should. Things to check for include that the right termination of waste pipe is present, as well as the correct sizing and installation of the pipework.

Recent net zero and sustainability targets mean that heat pumps and other low-carbon heating alternatives will likely become more commonplace in the future. For professional plumbers and heating engineers, this will present a new set of installation and maintenance challenges; to ensure that any new technology in a customer’s home remains safe and efficient to use over time. The CIPHE recognises that some 100,000 heating engineers will need to upskill for the industry to effectively contribute to meeting 2050 net zero targets. The CIPHE will support members by working with our approved training centres and industrial associates to provide quality training covering renewables. Overall, the CIPHE is passionate about communicating the need for adequate protection against risks of serious health issues, caused by poorly installed and maintained plumbing and heating systems. While the CIPHE is actively involved in consumer education programmes to promote the need for regular servicing across the home, installers on the frontline have a valuable role to play in educating and protecting homeowners too. When you are called out to a job, even simply mentioning these other checks will help improve understanding around the importance of a whole home health check. Not only is this a great way to safeguard the customer against future potential problems, but also demonstrates your professionalism and due diligence when it comes to offering thorough advice and guidance at the time of an annual service.

To find out more or to become a CIPHE member contact Tim Sainty via 01708 463102 or tims@ciphe.org.uk

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER SEPTEMBER 2020 49

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PRODUCT ROUND UP MORE INFO

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

www.rdr.link/ps048

INTA Hiper II After the original Hiper proved a success for Inta, thanks to its compact size, practicality, reliability and value for money the company has unveiled its latest HIU - the Hiper II. Beneﬁts of the HIU include its electronic PID control unit, which provides constant monitoring of the system and the Modbus communications system, which provides easy-to-understand feedback for users. Further features include optimised heating functions, auto-fault diagnostics and pay as you go (prepayment) switching. www.rdr.link/ps049 To discover more

WILO ‘Connect Module’ Wilo UK has announced an add-on product, the ‘Wilo-Connect Module’, which allows for additional features on the existing Wilo-Yonos MAXO pump range. Developed with customer feedback in mind, the module gives users greater ﬂexibility by enhancing the functionality of the Wilo-Yonos MAXO. It will also allow for integration into building management systems (BMS) with volt free contacts, fault/alarm signal, enable signal, run signal and dual pump management/integral changeover control for smooth operation when no BMS is on site. www.rdr.link/ps050 To discover more

PIPESNUG FlueSnug The team behind PipeSnug has launched a larger ‘FlueSnug’ version designed to fit all 100mm boiler flues. Removing any need for pointing, FlueSnug can reportedly be installed in less than five seconds and snuggly fits the 152mm core-drilled hole in the wall through which the boiler pipe and flue exits. The product also allows installers to quickly access the flue for any service or maintenance requirements, without the need to remove existing brickwork, mortar or sealant. It could also be the quickest, and most cost-effective way to comply with forthcoming changes to Part L of the Building Regulations. To discover more www.rdr.link/ps051

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX Aqualisa ................................................................................. page 45

Pump Technology Ltd ......................................................... page 29

Bosch Thermotechnology Ltd ............................................. page 9

Rhino Products Ltd .............................................................. page 23

Conex Universal Ltd ............................................................ page 27

RWC (UK) Ltd .................................................... outside back cover

Daikin ......................................................................................... page 7

Stelrad Radiators ................................................................. page 35

Ford Motor Co Ltd ................................................................. page 11

Stuart Turner Ltd .................................................................... page 14

Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd ................................................ page 39

The Electric Heating Company Ltd .................................. page 37

Hultafors Group UK Ltd ......................................................... page 4

TOOLFAIR .............................................................................. page 47

Hyco Manufacturing Ltd ..................................................... page 46

Triﬂow Concepts Ltd ............................................................ page 21

Keston Boilers ....................................................................... page 33

TSB Bank plc .......................................................................... page 17

Logic4training ........................................................................ page 31

Ubbink (UK) Ltd .................................................................... page 43

PEUGEOT Motor Company PLC ....................................... page 19

Vaillant Group UK Ltd ....................... gatefold inside front cover

PipeSnug ................................................................................. page 31

Wilo (UK) Ltd .......................................................................... page 23

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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!

PB PLUMBER Velocity Progear ‘PB’ bag

UNEQUALED HEATING How to solder neatly Tony Dumble runs through some tips and tricks for getting soldering right. He explains the equipment he uses, covering ﬂux, solder, steel wool, torch, gas and other accessories, before running through a number of different examples on a rig he has produced for the video. The comprehensive 20 minute video is a useful watch for professionals and apprentices alike.

Tools storage and kit bags can be a matter of pride of many installers. Peter Booth runs through the features of his Velocity Progear bag, which he helped design. The bag features numerous pockets and features to ensure tools and equipment are to hand – whatever the job. Skip straight to the video…

www.rdr.link/ps053

PHPI BOXSETS The full collection PHPI has put together a selection of videos in a number of new Boxset collections, and now you can ﬁnd them all in one handy location. You’ll ﬁnd some cracking Pro reviews, details of charity initiatives being undertaken, along with videos on – amongst other things – bending copper pipe.

To watch the video… www.rdr.link/ps052

KNIPEX

To binge watch the videos… www.rdr.link/ps055

TubiX pipe cutter demo The KNIPEX TubiX pipe cutter has been designed to make it easy to cut pipes up to 35mm in diameter and with a wall thickness of 2mm accurately. This short video runs through the main features and beneﬁts of the new tool which include an integrated deburring tool and a one-handed ‘QuickLock’ adjustment feature. Cut straight to the video…

www.rdr.link/ps054

PROFESSIONAL HEATING & PLUMBING INSTALLER SEPTEMBER 2020 51

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