Plumbing & Heating Magazine Issue 64

ISSUE 64 - FEB/MAR 2015

PLUMBEX NORTH WEST

WHEN: Thursday 19 March WHERE: Everglades Hotel,

Prehen Rd, L’Derry, BT47 2NH TIME: 3pm until 9pm SEE PAGES 17-21

Quality Assurance welcome Now with a 5 YEAR Warranty Text

47

22

41

contents...

Our range of Precision German Engineered Vessels are Nitrogen Pre-Charged THE TEAM

ISSUE 00 - ??????? 2015

NEWS & VIEWS 0 0 0 0

Text Text Text Text

FEATURES 0 0 0 0

Text Text Text Text

0 0

Text Text

IN FOCUS 0

Text Text Text Text Text Text Text

Karen McAvoy

Adam Hassin

Jacqui Fairley

• Holding the0Pre-Charge Pressure for Longer Managing Director Karen McAvoy 0

Publication Manager • Reduced Corrosion 0 Editor 0

Jacqui Fairley Adam Hassin Diane Day Julie Anne Guiney Jo Wilson Michelle Owens Gemma Sheppard Gordon McAvoy W&G Baird

Editorial • Less Call Backs the Installer 0 for Head Designer 0

• Longer Life forDesigner the Vessel Accounts Business Support Photography Printed by

Feature highlights...

SMART ON THE INSIDE, TOUGH ON THE OUTSIDE

CONTACT US

Text

Text

Text

Plumbing & Heating Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.

Altecnic Limited Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 1GW United Kingdom

The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR t +44 (0)28 9261 2990 - f +44 (0)28 9261 2091 e phini@kmpltd.co.uk w www.plumbingmag.com Publishers of: • Plumbing & Heating Magazine • Electrical Magazine • Northern Builder • Yearbooks • Diaries

For further details go to: www.altecnic.co.uk or email oemsales@altecnic.co.uk T: (NI) 01785 218 208 or (ROI) 0044 1785 218 208

CONTENTS

welcome

PLUMBEX

A

s we prepare to open the doors on PlumbEx North West, it is great to see that the industry is starting to get a spring back in its step.

Whether it is a case of everyone being sick of the doom and gloom or an injection of some much-needed optimism, the newfound positivity is welcome.

The aim of PlumbEx North West – and future shows in Belfast and Dublin - is to capitalise on this. We recognise time is precious, so being able to gather a wealth of new information on products and services as well as develop new relationships that will lead to new business – all under the one roof – will help.

The show will also reflect the focus of the industry, such as the rise in new house building and also the return of retrofit. The commercial sector is also being revitalised while merchants and manufactuers have a range of promotions, new apps and websites to make your life easier. And talking about making life easier, make sure you pre-register for PlumbEx North West as soon as you can.

THE TEAM

NORTH WEST WHEN: WHERE:

TIME: PRODUCT DEMOS

Thursday 19 March 2015 Everglades Hotel, Prehen Rd, L’Derry, BT47 2NH 3pm until 9pm

FREE GIFTS

FREE BUFFET TEA AND COFFEE

REGISTER NOW

WWW.PLUMBINGMAG.COM

FOR EVERY VISITOR INCLUDE: TECTITE SAMPLE PACKS

SEE PAGES

18-21

contents...

ISSUE 64 - FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

NEWS AND VIEWS Karen McAvoy

Adam Hassin

Managing Director Publication Manager Editor Editorial Head Designer Designer Accounts Business Support Photography Printed by

Jacqui Fairley

Karen McAvoy Jacqui Fairley Adam Hassin Diane Day Julie Anne Guiney Jo Wilson Michelle Owens Gemma Sheppard Gordon McAvoy W&G Baird

CONTACT US The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR t +44 (0)28 9261 2990 - f +44 (0)28 9261 2091 e phini@kmpltd.co.uk w www.plumbingmag.com Publishers of: • Plumbing & Heating Magazine • Electrical Magazine • Northern Builder • Yearbooks • Diaries

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

Energy Institute visits Kingspan APHCI’s illegal gas warning Hot topics – Backflow protection Duo battling it out for Brazil place Glen Dimplex boost Grant NI hosts events

5 6 22 25 38 54

FEATURES Project – Craigavon Area Hospital

28-34

Showers and bathrooms 41-52 Renewables 56-57 Project profile – CREST 60-64 Commercial heating 65-77 Gas industry news 79-82 Energy efficient products 85-94

8-9

IN FOCUS Gas opportunities with firmus 8-9 Cover story – Pegler Yorkshire 10-11 ErP roadshow 15 Plumb Centre’s getaway promotion 16 OFTEC Ireland 37

69 Plumbing & Heating Magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis and distributed throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on a controlled circulation.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 3

NEWS

OFTEC guide to help older people stay warm

Kingspan Environmental welcomes Energy Institute to Portadown plant

A

group of delegates from the Energy Institute’s Northern Ireland branch recently visited Kingspan Environmental’s stateof-the-art manufacturing plant in Portadown, where they learned how they can benefit from existing grants for commercial businesses.

Eamon Clarke from Kingspan Solar, a part of Kingspan Environmental, informed business leaders from across Northern Ireland about the nondomestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for businesses, which entitles commercial properties to 20 years of quarterly payments for installing solar thermal technology.

“As one of the most cost-effective and environmentally-friendly renewable energy solutions available, the business

case for solar thermal makes sense,” explained Eamon. “However, with the added bonus of the non-domestic RHI, businesses in the commercial, agricultural and industrial sectors that use a high volume of hot water could be saving thousands of pounds per annum on their hot water requirements.”

One of Kingspan Environmental’s leading ranges is Kingspan Solar, which houses the market-leading Thermomax and Varisol products in its portfolio.

Designed and manufactured in Northern Ireland, specifically for a northern European climate, both Thermomax and Varisol solar evacuated tubes are 30% more efficient than competing products.

T: (NI) 028 3836 4520 or (RoI) 048 3836 4520 W: www.kingspanenv.com

OFTEC Ireland and Irish Minister for Older People, Kathleen Lynch, have launched a free guide, offering key advice to help older people using oil home heating stay safe and warm throughout the winter period.

The guide, which is being distributed throughout Ireland, was created by OFTEC in conjunction with Age Action Ireland.

David Blevings, Ireland Manager of OFTEC, said, “We want to help as many people as possible save money on oil and have made this information available online through our Oilsave website.

“There are also grants available under the Better Energy Homes Scheme from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for those with older, inefficient oil boilers, and the details are contained within the guide. Our registered technicians can help older people to take advantage of the grants, while they are still available, to reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency.”

T: (RoI) 01 864 5771 W: www.oftec.org or www.oilsave.org

David Blevings, OFTEC’s Ireland Manager, joins Minister, Kathleen Lynch and Ellen Reddin to launch OFTEC’s new oil heating guide to help older people to ‘Keep Warm this Winter’.

Clarehill Plastics in Netherlands export deal Clarehill Plastics, a leading manufacturer of polyethylene oil, water and waste water storage tanks, has been assisted

by Invest Northern Ireland to secure business in the Netherlands which could be worth over £1million this year.

Invest NI’s marketing advisers assisted the company by arranging meetings with Mokobouw and Van Der Heijden, two leading Dutch petroleum product

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

installers, which have already led to advance orders of over €400,000.

Chris Mackie, Clarehill’s Export Sales Manager, said, “The expert assistance we received from Invest NI’s advisors in pinpointing and establishing agreements with our partner installers was crucially important, particularly in identifying regional distribution boundaries and explaining local factors within the

various provinces in the Netherlands.”

Clarehill Plastics has been manufacturing and supplying tanks under the Harlequin brand for over 30 years at its purpose-built factory in Moira.

T: (NI) 028 9261 1077 or (RoI) 048 9261 1077 E: sales@clarehill.com W: www.harlequinplastics.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

NEWS

APHCI tackles problem of illegal gas installers

T

he Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors Ireland (APHCI) has briefed the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources about the deepening industry crisis which has seen up to 100,000 illegal boilers installed in family homes across Ireland, which have the potential to cause fatalities.

Unhappy with the totally ineffective system of safety regulation currently in place, APHCI is calling for an independent public enquiry and for a new system of pro-active policing of illegal operations.

Chairman of the APHCI, Sean Giffney, said, “Our members have been concerned for some time about the regulator’s passive approach to tackling the ongoing safety issues and illegal activity in the industry, and today we are taking a stand and saying that enough is enough.

“We are deeply grateful that the JOC recognises the seriousness of the issue at hand and we are hopeful that, with their help, we can finally work towards a system of effective regulation of the gas industry and ensure the safety of thousands of families across the country.”

The APHCI has also issued a Public Safety Notice to gas users that their lives are potentially at risk from illegal gas installations in their homes.

“We are extremely concerned about the

Online ‘jargon buster’ lifts confusion over qualification abbreviations

6 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Think Energy scoops top prize at LAMA Awards

D

ublin City Council’s Think Energy campaign was among the winners at this year’s LAMA Community and Council Awards.

The campaign scooped the top prize in the ‘Best Energy Smart Initiative by a Local Authority’ category for the innovative way that it inspired staff in the council’s Civic Offices to become more energy efficient.

Dublin’s energy agency, Codema implemented the campaign on behalf of the council and created a range of unique activities to inform staff about the energy use of the building and the steps they could take to save energy.

This included the development of an interactive online platform, which was the first of its kind to be applied to a local authority in Ireland.

T: (ROI) 01 707 9818 or (NI) 00353 1 707 9818 W: www.codema.ie/thinkenergy

number of incidents of carbon monoxide and incorrect gas boiler installations that we have received since the start of this year alone,” added Sean. “One of our members, alone, has seen five dangerous and illegal installations in homes across the country in January of this year so far.”

T: (RoI) Sean Giffney, Chairman, APHCI on 086 2582 357 W: www.aphci.ie

F

ollowing new research by City & Guilds, which has revealed that an alarming number of employees do not understand today’s qualifications, WaterSafe – the UK’s national assurance scheme for the plumbing industry – has pledged its full support to helping cut confusion within the current curricular year.

The findings proved rather shocking, with well over half (57%) of employers stating they found acronyms on CVs to be confusing, and

Verena Brennan, Marketing Officer, Codema (left), and Dublin City Council’s John Ryan (second left) accept the LAMA award for ‘Best Energy Smart Initiative by a Local Authority’ for the Think Energy campaign.

nearly two thirds (64%), admitting that they have had to look up abbreviated qualifications on the internet to discover their meaning.

City & Guilds has now created an online ‘Education Jargon Buster’ in a bid to lift confusion around qualification abbreviations and help employers to understand the level of each qualification and to be better informed when next recruiting.

T: (NI) 0333 207 9030 W: www.watersafe.org.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

GAS INDUSTRY NEWS

INSTALLERS, BOILER ENGINEERS AND APPLIANCE SUPPLIERS BENEFIT FROM GROWTH OF EXISTING NETWORK…

firmus energy expansion plans create installer opportunities

M

ore and more homes are being connected to the firmus energy natural gas network across Northern Ireland as the company embarks on a substantial network expansion that will provide new opportunities for installers.

The local company is once again investing in its local network to provide new connections to existing owner-occupied housing developments in the areas which firmus energy operates across Northern Ireland. firmus energy currently owns and operates the gas licence area outside greater Belfast and supplies natural gas to around 25 towns and surrounding areas. Since it was first awarded its licence in March 2005, the

company has been focused on developing its network to supply natural gas to new housing developments, NIHE housing developments and industrial and commercial companies. To date, firmus energy has connected almost 25,000 customers in its network area.

With such a strong gas network now in place, firmus energy is branching out its existing network to include owner-occupied housing developments, as Gary Swann, Sales Manager for firmus energy’s housing team, explained.

“We have enquiries every day from potential customers hoping to switch to natural gas, so this is a potentially lucrative market for

gas service providers to be involved in,” he said. “By extending within our current network this will, in turn, create additional work for Gas Safe Registered installers, which is great news for the industry.

“As a local company, we pride ourselves on generating opportunities for local businesses and this is just another example of this.”

Following a trial in the Seven Oaks and Knightsbridge areas in Derry-Londonderry which saw 500 homes added to its network, firmus energy is currently working on including an additional 1,000 new homes in the Maiden City.

Looking ahead, future projects are planned in Moira, where approximately 1,000 new

“Since 2005, firmus energy has invested more than £90million and continues to commit in excess of £15million per annum.”

8 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

GAS INDUSTRY NEWS

THE FIRMUS ENERGY GAS NETWORK • Ahoghilll • Antrim • Armagh • Ballyclare • Ballymena • Ballymoney • Banbridge • Bessbrook • Broughshane • Bushmills • Coleraine • Craigavon • Cullybackey • Derry - Londonderry • Laurelvale

• Limavady • Lurgan • Maghaberry • Magheralin • Moira • Newbuildings • Newry • Portadown • Portstewart • Tandragee • Warrenpoint

“We have enquiries every day from potential customers hoping to switch to natural gas, so this is a potentially lucrative market for gas service providers to be involved in.” homes will be added to the network, while projects in Lurgan and Ballyclare will add another 300 and 500 homes respectively.

“These exciting plans will provide new opportunities for those who are on our registered installer list and, in particular, we are asking Gas Safe Registered installers operating in the North West area to contact us.”

Within these areas, firmus energy is also highlighting the benefits of switching to natural gas to local householders, with a recent information evening alongside H&A Mechanical and Ideal Boilers, at the Waterfoot Hotel, to speak to residents in the Knightsbridge and Sevenoaks areas.

North West installers wanted!

firmus energy wants to increase the number of installers on its register for the North West. If you are interested, contact Gary Swann on 07920 186415 or visit the firmus enery team at PlumbEx North West at the Everglades Hotel, Derry-Londonderry on March 19 from 3pm-9pm

From left, local residents Gary O’Kane and Paul Bryson at the recent information event, along with Mark Williamson, H&A Mechanical (second right) and Paul Stanfield, firmus energy (far right).

firmus energy, A4-A5 Fergusons Way, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, BT41 4LZ T: 08456 08 00 88 – E: furtherinfo@firmusenergy.co.uk www.firmusenergy.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

COVER STORY - PEGLER YORKSHIRE

AMY SEDGWICK, MARKET MANAGER FOR PRESS SYSTEMS AT PEGLER YORKSHIRE, LOOKS AT HOW A COMBINATION OF PRESS AND PUSH TECHNOLOGY IS BECOMING A SYSTEM OF CHOICE FOR MORE AND MORE INSTALLERS…

PUSH AND PRESS – A combined solution to modern plumbing systems

An installation incorporating both push and press fit connections from Pegler Yorkshire.

I

t is clear that today’s installer is much more likely to opt for a system that provides cost and time saving benefits over traditional forms of jointing. And, with the latest technological advancements in quality and range of fittings it is obvious why!

While the plumbing industry continues to debate the merits of both push and press, there has been a noticeable rise in the amount of systems being installed that now benefit from a combined approach.

Research undertaken by Pegler Yorkshire has shown that there are many reasons as to what influences an installer’s decision as to their preferred method of installation.

These range from education and tradition through to time and cost saving. Yet most are now governed by health and safety requirements that restrict the use of naked flames on site and, for those where there are no set restrictions, there is the time and

cost aspect of insurance and acquiring a hot works permit.

From the research conducted, one engineer commented, “We had to deliver this project within a specified timeframe. Traditional solder jointing is time-consuming, the time required to prepare and complete a joint alone is significant. Add to this the time to acquire a hot works permit and then post installation to thoroughly flush the system to remove flux deposits. Much of this time can be saved if an alternative approach is taken.”

RESULT Another respondent said, “The original specification was for soldered fittings throughout, but we had a lot of issues with leaks, pump failures and sticking valves, which were mainly due to soldering in tight spaces below floors and the excessive use of flux.”

The result for both projects was to opt for a total heat-free installation that eradicated the issues previously experienced.

Press-fit has a reputation for being a high performing solution.m Since its inception in the late 1950s, its popularity has been paramount to the success of many projects.

Because there is no need to use heat and solder it is a very clean and fast jointing method. It doesn’t leave carbon deposits or flux so there is less risk of corrosion and time required to flush the system.

On the other hand, push-fit is relatively new in comparison. Introduced back in the 1980s, it was originally classified as a light domestic solution used in conjunction with plastic piping. But today’s metal fittings have advanced so much that push-fit is now being used on a full range of projects, from small domestic to large scale commercial, including The Shard in London.

Installers have discovered that a combination of these jointing methods can provide a total system solution.

10 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

COVER STORY - PEGLER YORKSHIRE

A faster installation with Pegler Yorkshire’s Xpress system.

The technological improvements of push-fit fittings mean they are now compatible with a variety of pipe materials, and their range can easily dovetail with a wide choice from plastic to flexible metal, copper and even carbon steel.

Push-fit offers similar advantages to that of press-fit. As there is no heat required to seal the joint, there is no need for a hot works permit which significantly reduces costs associated, such as administration and insurance premiums.

Labour time saving is another distinct advantage. The process is faster and there is no longer a requirement to stay on site for up to two hours following the use of heat as a precautionary measure to guard against fire.

Another reason as to why these two alternative methods of jointing have been preferred is the issue of working in confined spaces. If access to it is restricted, it can

be almost impossible to ensure that a joint is made correctly when using traditional techniques. If the blowtorch, for example, cannot be passed around the fitting completely, there is a risk that jointing is incomplete and a corresponding risk of leakage.

But why is it only now that installers are looking at a more combined push and pressfit approach?

COMBINATION Modern systems have become much more advanced, with highly engineered fittings that incorporate failsafe features, such as Pegler Yorkshire’s XPress unique Leak Before Press identification window, designed to instantly identify unpressed joints, and Tectite’s patented TectSEAL - directional seals prelubricated for reduced insertion force and the provision of a reliable seal.

Installers have discovered that a combination of these jointing methods can provide a total system solution that is still less time consuming and safer than traditional methods.

In conclusion, every installation will bring its own challenges, but the key is being able to adapt. Today’s systems allow for the easy adoption of differing methods and products but with a reliable and robust conclusion.

Manufacturers are tuning into this and, according to the research by Pegler Yorkshire, there has been a significant upturn in the demand for press and push ended valves. There is now a variety of press, press union and push end connections penetrating the market which ensures installers are able to carry on adapting to their preferred installation method without compromising the overall system.

Pegler Yorkshire, St Catherines Avenue, Balby, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN4 8DF T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, on (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 E: george.mcguire@pegleryorkshire.co.uk www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 11

NEW STOCKISTS REQUIRED FOR REP. OF IRELAND Available in mixed pallet, full pallet and project quantities

COMPANY NEWS

MHD will focus the Kermi brand on the merchant commercial sector.

MERLIN HEATING DISTRIBUTORS LTD AND AFG GROUP JOIN FORCES TO BRING LEADING BRANDS TO THE UK AND IRELAND…

MHD announce new agreement with Arbonia and Kermi

M

erlin Heating Distributors Ltd (MHD) has announced, with immediate effect, a new association with the heating product manufacturer, Arbonia and Kermi - companies within the AFG Group for the territories of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

After satisfactory discussions, AFG Group has appointed MHD as distribution partners for the launch of their heating products to the UK and Irish market. On a partnership approach MHD, with the support of AFG Group, will concentrate the Arbonia product in the specification and design business and the merchant commercial sector with the Kermi brand.

AFG Group is a recognised brand leader in the manufacture of heating products through the company’s brands Arbonia and Kermi.

AFG Group is active worldwide with over 40 distribution companies, as well as offices and partners in over 70 countries. The company’s 12 main production sites are located in Switzerland, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Italy, USA and China with a total workforce of 6,500 personnel.

The addition of the complete range of

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

Arbonia and Kermi products from the heating division of the AFG Group, will provide quality products from a recognised brand leader in radiator manufacturing, through the distribution portfolio of Merlin Heating Distributors Ltd (MHD).

This is an exciting development for MHD and which the company believes will bring it to a new stage in MHD’s progression path with the comprehensive support of a solid partner. Combined with MHD’s in-house manufacturing capability and now with the strongest heating product portfolio from Europe’ leading suppliers, the company’s ability to offer choice, availability and competition goes from strength to strength.

“At all times, we test and assess our supply chain to ensure our suppliers are capable of providing the hard service the markets of the UK and Ireland demand,” said John O’Brien, Managing Director of Merlin Heating Distributors Ltd. “Quality of supply, service and competition has always been necessary for these markets. Unfortunately, many agents and distributors have not, in our opinion, worked hard enough to ensure the best performance from suppliers is

MHD will concentrate the Arbonia product in the specification and design business.

being achieved at realistic and fair market prices.

“When a customer works with MHD they must be reassured that we are working hard behind the scenes to ensure that we are finding and getting the best possible deal for them. As a distributor and manufacturer that is part of our functon. With Arbonia and Kermi by our side our customers can be assured of high performance in all aspects, delivered from a quality manufacturer.”

T: (UK) 0121 515 5901 or (RoI) 083 190 8265 W: www.merlinhd.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13

TRAINING

STEVE OWEN, NATIONAL TRAINING MANAGER AT BAXI, SAYS INVESTING IN TRAINING IS KEY TO MAKING THE MOST OF EXCITING GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES…

Learning made easy with BAXI’s hands on training

T

imes are changing, and fast. Over the next year alone we will continue to see a surging demand for smart home technology, which will be a big growth area for installers. Then the ErP Directive comes into play this September, which will have a huge impact on the role of the modern installer.

These changes, in turn, will bring fresh opportunities for installers – however, new learning and regular training to ensure a full insight is a must. And the good news is help is at hand.

At Baxi, for example, we offer a range of one-day ‘hands on’ training where installers get to put the note pad to one side and spend time getting to grips with product insitu. It also helps that all of our trainers are from installation backgrounds and know the inside track; they understand the customers’

14 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

requirements, as well as the products, inside out. And they can offer handy hints and tips to make life easier, as well as answer any queries.

Plus, unlike a lot of other manufacturers, we offer a range of unique, non-brand specific courses to help heating engineers widen their knowledge. These include multimeter training, boiler diagnostics, combi boiler appreciation and system wiring and controls. Also, most recently, we even partnered with Nest to give installers the chance to become an expert on the ground-breaking Nest Learning Thermostat™ and remain on the pulse of smart technology.

Yes, training can mean a day off the job but the reality is it can pay dividends in the long run. It can help installers to become more experienced working with

products, while remaining one step ahead of emerging trends. Plus, as jobs will be to the highest quality, happy customers may also recommend their installer to friends and family, bringing them additional work and income.

Baxi has training centres in Lisburn and Ballymount, Dublin, with 14 centres in total located across the UK, including Dartford and Warrington.

T: Sharon English on 07966 585902 E: sharon.english@baxi.co.uk W: www.baxi.co.uk/trade-resources/ training.htm

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

NEWS

DUE TO THE CONTINUED SUCCESS AND EXPANSION OF THE PLUMBING AND HEATING MAGAZINE, ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S MOST SUCCESSFUL PUBLISHING HOUSES IS NOW RECRUITING THE FOLLOWING POST.

BELFAST STOP PLANNED FOR INFORMATION ROADSHOW ON FORTHCOMING REGULATION CHANGES…

Plumb Center brings ErP Roadshow to installers

P

lumb Center and key heating and plumbing manufacturers have joined forces to help installers understand the new EU regulations, which come into force in September.

On September 26, 2015 a new Energy related Product (ErP) directive from the EU comes into force. This regulation is for ecodesign and energy labelling of space and water heaters, and will be mandatory for all 28 countries in the EU. The new regulations are designed to help the EU achieve its target to reduce energy use by 20% and increase the share of renewable energies by 20% by 2020.

Many heating products will be affected, including boilers, cylinders, heat pumps and solar thermal cylinders. Manufacturers will be responsible for ensuring their products are prepared for the new legislation change, including incorporating modulating pumps.

In addition, manufacturers will be responsible for ensuring their products have compliant energy labels, which must be clearly visible on the product at the point of sale. Each product must include a fiche of energy efficiency information documents.

There will also be a requirement for providing energy labelling for any package of heating products such as a space heater and a temperature control device.

In order to help installers get to grips with ErP, Plumb Center, along with major manufacturers Ideal Boilers, Baxi, Vaillant, Worcester Bosch, Heatrae Sadia, Kingspan, Honeywell, Danfoss, Fernox, Adey and Grundfos, is leading the way with a UK-wide information roadshow, which will include a stop in Belfast.

Starting in late April and continuing until the end of June, the roadshow will visit 40 convenient locations across the UK, from Inverness to Plymouth, Belfast, and Swansea to Ipswich.

Information on where and when the roadshows will be and how installers can register for the roadshows will be available soon at www.plumbcenter.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

Publication and Sales Manager (Ref: R15/01) The steady and successful growth of the publication is based upon a talented and committed workforce with the ability to build long term relationships with clients in a diverse market while maintaining excellent quality standards

Reporting to the Managing Director you will be responsible for managing all aspects of the publication and related events, as well as, securing new and existing business to achieve sales targets.

Candidate Requirements: • Customer focused approach with a proven track record of success • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a media sales or a sales and marketing environment • Target driven, highly motivated and results orientated • Proven experience of prospecting and delivering new business • Good reporting skills • Excellent presentation skills This post is full time and based at/from our Head Office at 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, BT67 0JR. If you like the sound of a career in this creative and ambitious business please email hr@kmpltd.co.uk to receive an application pack.

Closing date for applications Friday 10th April 2015 Waiting Lists for the above post for similar vacancies that occur in the following 12 months may be compiled.

Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd is committed to its equal opportunities policy and all applications will be considered strictly on the basis of merit.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

TRADE PROMOTION

Want to get away for free?

Plumb Centre at Chadwick’s and Heiton Buckley in partnership with Great National Hotels have launched their new customer promotion.

Trade Extra GETAWAYS • Purchase selected products from a range of Heating, Plumbing and Spare Parts • Collect Points on your purchase • Redeem points and reward yourself with free holidays in Ireland or the UK!

ENDS

31ST MARCH 2015

Heating Contractors ARE YOU CASHING IN YOUR CARBON CREDITS? See in store for more information or contact Emmet Boylan on 087 691 8153 or email: emmet.boylan@gmroi.ie

16 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Emmet Boylan from Plumb Centre and David Collins, Great National Hotels, team up to promote the Trade Extra Getaways promotion.

EXCLUSIVE TRADE EXTRA GETAWAY PROMOTION ENDS ON MARCH 31, 2015…

Hundreds of Plumb Centre customers reach their target

T

ime is running out to make the most of the ‘Trade Extra Getaways’ promotion at Plumb Centre.

Plumb Centre has partnered with Great National Hotels to offer this exciting new customer loyalty promotion. It has been running since October, 2014 and will close on March 31, 2015.

Getting involved is simple. By buying selected products from a range of heating, plumbing and spare parts through the Plumb Centre nationwide branch network, credit and cash customers have been generating purchase points on familiar brand names.

During the offer period, Plumb Centre, on your request, will convert the points you have earned into Trade Extra Getaway Breaks vouchers, which you can then use towards a fantastic break in a choice of three and four-star Great National hotels and resorts, across Ireland and throughout the UK. Hundreds of customers have already reached their target.

Commenting on the promotion, Business Development Manager, Emmet Boylan, said, “With just over a month left in the promotion period, we are urging customers to review their current points balance and do their best to get over the first points threshold.

“Remember you only need 120 points to reach our first getaway threshold. If you have, you’re one of hundreds of our customers who will enjoy a luxury break from Plumb Centres this year.”

For more information visit www.plumbcentre.ie

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBEX NORTHWEST DUBLIN BELFAST

JUST LAUNCHED… THREE INDUSTRY BACKED TRADE EVENTS FOR THE PLUMBING AND HEATING SECTOR 2

WEEKS TO GO!

PLUMBEX

Everglades Hotel Derry/ Londonderry

NORTHWEST

PLUMBEX DUBLIN

PLUMBEX BELFAST

19 March 2015 3pm-9pm Citywest Hotel Dublin 27 May 2015 - 4pm-9pm 28 May 2015 - 9.30am-4pm Ramada Plaza Shaw’s Bridge 16 Sept 2015 - 4pm-9pm 17 Sept 2015 9.30am-4pm

FOR FLOORPLAN AND PRICES CONTACT T: Karen (NI) 028 9261 2990 (RoI) 01 696 8319 E: karen@kmpltd.co.uk

Trade Events By Plumbing & Heating Magazine

PLUMBEX NORTH WEST A TRADE EVENT BY PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

WHEN: Thursday 19 March WHERE: Everglades Hotel, Prehen Rd, L’Derry, BT47 2NH TIME: 3pm until 9pm

Plumbing & Heating Magazine is delighted to personally invite you to join us at PLUMBEX NORTH WEST. This is an excellent opportunity to meet over 30 LEADING MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS. Don’t miss out on many event discounts and offers!

TO VISIT register now at www.plumbingmag.com or telephone: 028 9261 2990.

LOTS OF PRODUCT DEMOS & OFFERS

FREE BUFFET TEA AND COFFEE

FREE GIFTS

FOR EVERY VISITOR INCLUDE TECTITE SAMPLE PACKS

AN INDUSTRY BACKED TRADE EVENT FOR THE PLUMBING AND HEATING SECTOR

PLUMBEX

THURSDAY 19 MARCH EVERGLADES HOTEL, L’DERRY

NORTH WEST

3PM UNTIL 9PM

REGISTER NOW FOR THIS INDUSTRY-BACKED TRADE EVENT FOR THE PLUMBING AND HEATING SECTOR…

Build your knowledge at PLUMBEX North West

A

ttracting a mix of exhibitors, including world-class manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and training providers, PlumbEx North West is your chance to meet the experts, take part in hands-on demonstrations of the latest innovative products and avail of a range of giveaways and promotions.

This dedicated trade exhibition for the plumbing and heating industry in the North

West of the province is an all-new trade event which will showcase leading plumbing and heating manufacturers and services.

Providing a wealth of new information and networking opportunities, PlumbEx North West is aimed at bringing the wide-ranging plumbing and heating industry together in an environment that promotes new business relationships and encourages innovation.

PRE-REGISTER TO VISIT… THE FASTEST WAY TO PREREGISTER IS ON OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.PLUMBINGMAG.COM YOU CAN ALSO E-MAIL GEMMA@KMPLTD.CO.UK OR TELEPHONE 028 9261 2990.

REGARDLESS OF YOUR CHOICE, A BADGE WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU AT THE REGISTRATION DESK. DON’T FORGET, IF YOU DON’T PRE-REGISTER YOU CAN STILL COME ALONG – SIMPLY FILL IN A FEW DETAILS AT THE REGISTRATION DESK.

YOUR TRADE SHOW www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW GUIDE | 19

PLUMBEX

THURSDAY 19 MARCH EVERGLADES HOTEL, L’DERRY

NORTH WEST

3PM UNTIL 9PM

A-Z EXHIBITORS LIST… ADEY STAND 22 Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, GL51 8NR T: Noble Distribution (NI) 07980 983708 or (RoI) 0044 7980 983708 E: info@adey.com W: www.adey.com Products: Large range of magnetic filters including MagnaClean Micro2, MagnaClean Professional2, and MagnaClean Commercial.

Along with advanced formula chemicals.

ALTECNIC STAND 1 Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1GW T: (NI) 01785 218200 or (RoI) 0044 1785 218200 E: sales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk Products: World-class manufacturing business Altecnic, supported by parent company Caleffi, will be showcasing its ‘Authentic Accredited Altecnic’ product range, including market-leading Thermostatic Mixing Valves, Pressure Reducing Valves to the IMIT range of Mechanical Thermostats.

BAXI STAND 12 Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL T: Sharon English 07966 585902 E: sharon.english@baxi.co.uk W: www.baxi.co.uk Products: Baxi manufactures innovative, energy efficient gas boilers, with warranties up to 10 years. Baxi makes it easy with free training, Baxi Customer Support and Baxi Genuine Parts.

CALOR GAS (NI) STAND 30 Airport Road West, Belfast, BT3 9EE T: (NI) 028 9045 5588 or (RoI) 01 8508 12450 T: Andrew Sands, Northern Ireland Domestic Sales Representative, (NI) 07702 368074 E: Andrew.Sands@calorgas.ie W: www.calorgas.ie Products: The LPG supplier provides a range of incentives to installers.

20 | PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW GUIDE

CCTS (COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION TRAINING SERVICES) STAND 21 Unit 4-6 Tamar Commercial Centre, 25 Tamar Street, Belfast BT4, 1HR T: (NI) 028 9073 9418 or (RoI) 048 9073 9418 W: www.cctrainingservices.com Products: Training, assessment and certification in gas ACS, oil OFTEC and renewable energy, from fully accredited training centre.

COPPER INDUSTRIES (IRELAND) STAND 3 Toome Business Park, 21 Hillhead Road, Toome, Co Antrim, BT41 3SF T: (NI) 028 7965 9736 or (RoI) 048 7965 9736 E: mail@copperindustries.co.uk W: www.copperindustries.co.uk Products: Standard and bespoke hot water cylinders, calorifiers and combination units.

C-TEC STAND 8 Unit 36 Lisburn Enterprise Centre, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn, BT28 2BP T: (NI) 028 9262 9999 or (RoI) 048 9262 9999 E: gavin@ct1ltd.com W: www.ct1ltd.com Products: Best known for its range of sealants, including CT1, The Snag List Elminator, which is a unique sealant and construction adhesive designed to replace numerous products from just one tube.

EPH CONTROLS STAND 18 Unit 4, Doughcloyne Court Doughcloyne Industrial Estate, Wilton, Cork T: (NI) 00353 21 434 6238 or (RoI) 021 434 6238 E: sales@ephcontrols.com W: www.ephcontrols.com Products: Specialist heating controls, serving both the residential and commercial markets.

FERNOX STAND 5 Forsyth Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 5RZ T: Mark Harris, Sales Executive, (NI) 07796 613643 or (RoI) 087 633 2272 W: www.fernox.com Products: Cleansing, protection and filter products for domestic central heating systems.

FIREBIRD HEATING SOLUTIONS STAND 2 Shean, Forkhill, Newry, Co Down, BT35 9SY T: (NI) 028 3088 8330 or (RoI) 048 3088 8330 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail.co.uk W: www.firebird.ie Products: High-efficiency oil-fired boilers, renewable energy systems and combined efficient heating systems.

FIRMUS ENERGY STAND 9 firmus energy, A4-A5 Fergusons Way, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, BT41 4LZ T: 0800 032 4567 E: furtherinfo@firmusenergy.co.uk W: www.firmusenergy.co.uk Products: firmus energy supplies natural gas to 70,000 homes and businesses in more than 25 towns and cities across the province and has a wide range of incentives and opportunities for installers.

HAMILTON GAS PRODUCTS STAND 23 2 Balloo Place, Balloo Industrial Estate, Bangor, Co Down, BT19 7BP T: (NI) 028 9146 1111 or (RoI) 048 9146 1111 E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk W: www.gasproducts.co.uk Products: Specialist in the repair and calibration of test and measurement equipment. Leading supplier of gas fitting and equipment. Exclusive distributor of Rinnai and Gastite.

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBEX

THURSDAY 19 MARCH EVERGLADES HOTEL, L’DERRY

NORTH WEST

3PM UNTIL 9PM

A-Z EXHIBITORS LIST… and heating products include brands like Performa, Terrier, XPress, Yorkshire, Tectite and Prestex.

HEALTH & SAFETY WORKS NI STAND 13 Longbridge House, 16-24 Waring Street, Belfast, BT1 2DX T: 0300 020 0030 E: hswni@detini.gov.uk W: www.healthandsafetyworksni.gov.uk Products: The small business advisory service of the Health & Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, will help you draw up your health and safety policy, risk assessments and methods statements.

JG SPEEDFIT STAND 29 Horton Rd, West Drayton, Middlesex, UB7 8JL T: (NI) Mark Mills on 07753 8332211 W: www.jgspeedfit.com Products: Extensive range of plumbing and heating products, including easy-touse, plastic push-fit piping system and Aura underfloor heating controls.

MYSON STAND 14 Unit F 5&6, Calmount Park, Calmount Road, Ballymount, Dublin 12, T: Alun Coulter on (NI) 07766 730684 or Sean Leonard on (NI) 07766 730559 or (ROI) 0044 7766 730559 W: www.myson.co.uk Products: Market-leading range of underfloor heating, radiators and heating controls that include the latest energy saving and time saving innovations.

PEGLER YORKSHIRE STAND 10 St Catherines Avenue, Balby, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN4 8DF T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 E: george.mcguire@pegleryorkshire.co.uk W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk Products: Pegler Yorkshire’s range of valves, taps, mixers, showers, fittings

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PTS STAND 20 107-127 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 4GL T: (NI) 028 9027 1600 or (RoI) 045 887190 E: ptsbelfast@ptsplumbing.co.uk W: www.ptsplumbing.co.uk Products: Leading plumbing and heating supplier, with branches province-wide and in the Republic of Ireland.

QUINN RADIATORS (IRELAND) STAND 31 Imperial Park, Newport, NP10 8FS T: (NI) 0800 389 9980 or (RoI) 1800 882 332 W: www.quinn-radiators.com Products: Panel radiators, including the market-leading Round Top, energy-efficient Quinn Compact and high-performance Quinn LST radiators.

RELIANCE WORLDWIDE CORPORATION (UK) LTD STAND 15 Worcester Road, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4RA T: Stuart Harron, Regional Sales Manager for Ireland (NI) 07909 532133 or (RoI) 0044 7909 532133 E: stuart.harron@rwc.com T: Garth Walsh, Product Manager, Northern Ireland (NI) 07881 274917 or (RoI) 0044 7881 274917 E: garth.walsh@rwc.com W: www.sharkbiteplumbing.co.uk Products: SharkBite connection system, a versatile, easy-to-fit, watertight brand of push-fit plumbing fittings and valves.

STELRAD STAND 16 Stelrad House, Marriott Road, Mexborough, Rotherham, S64 8BN T: (NI) 01709 578950 or (RoI) 0044 1709 578950 W: www.stelrad.com

Products: Stelrad Radiators is the UK’s leading manufacturer of steel panel radiators, offering classic, traditional radiators to sophisticated, stylish models to the domestic and commercial heating sectors, with 200,000 radiators always in stock.

SYSTEMLINK LTD STAND 7 Unit 1, Greenhills Business Park, Greenhills Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 T: (NI) 01 2444 57818 or (RoI) 01 403 1200 E: info@systemlink.ie W: www.systemlink.ie Products: Heat zoning solutions (plumbing, wiring and control) for domestic and commercial buildings.

VAILLANT STAND 19 Vaillant Ltd, Nottingham Road, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1JT T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (NI) 07767 377670 or (RoI) 0044 7767 377670 or Derek Hunter on (NI) 07534 469419 or (RoI) 0044 7534 469419 W: www.vaillant.co.uk For over 140 years, Vaillant has led the way in developing and manufacturing sustainable heating and hot water solutions for homes across the globe. Vaillant offers awardwinning domestic and commercial boilers, air-to-water and ground-source heat pumps as well as a full range of intelligent heating controls and passive flue gas heat recovery devices.

WARMFLOW STAND 26 Lissue Industrial Estate, Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 2RF T: (NI) 028 9262 1515 or (RoI) 048 9262 1515 E: sales@warmflow.co.uk W: www.warmflow.co.uk Products: High performance renewable energy heating appliances, boilers, hot water cylinders, solar products, air heaters and flue systems.

PLUMBING & HEATING TRADE SHOW GUIDE | 21

HOT TOPICS

hot topics GARY PERRY, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, ALTECNIC, SIMPLIFIES THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BACK FLOW PROTECTION PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET AND WHERE THEY SHOULD BE USED…

Use the Matrix for backflow protection F

or many people when they think of The Matrix, the sci-fi movie starring Keanu Reaves comes to mind. But in the real world of backflow protection, the ‘Protection Matrix’ is the perfect tool for designers and installers to help them select the right backflow protection device.

With legal requirements regulating water installations in domestic, commercial and healthcare premises, it is essential that those responsible the maintenance or the refurbishment of existing water installations and those responsible for the design of new installations are up to speed on the importance of backflow protectors.

To help the designer and/or the installer of the water installation, the water industry has produced the ‘Protection Matrix’.

This indicates the type of installation or application where a ‘BA’ or backflow protection device is considered to offer an acceptable level of protection to prevent the contamination of the wholesome water supply.

Just as importantly, the matrix also identifies high risk installations and applications where a ‘BA’ device is not considered to give sufficient protection and where it will not be allowed to be installed.

Being familiar with the appropriate legislation and the risks that can occur from the backflow and back siphonage of a contaminate is essential, but you can also utilise the matrix as a vital tool in helping you make the right choice.

However, before you look at the matrix, it is important that you consider some of the key areas surrounding backflow protection.

Using a ‘BA’ backflow preventer will help meet the required legislation and deliver the required system protection, but it is important that you make the right choice.

The types of water contained in water systems are classified in this standard according to the degree of risk to health.

22 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

• Category 5 - Fluid that presents a serious health hazard due to concentrations of ‘pathogenic organisms, radioactive or very toxic substances’.

You have to select the appropriate backflow prevention devices that need to be fitted in water systems on the basis of these classifications. Backflow preventers (BA type) can be used to protect against the risk of pollution from backflow for types of water up to category 4 while, for the types of water in category 5, an air gap separation must be used.

When a ‘BA’ device is installed to provide zone or whole site protection, the Water Undertaking will not regard the water downstream of the device as water supplied for domestic purposes. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the owner or occupier of the premises to ensure the water is suitable for its intended use.

These include: • Category 1 - Water used for human consumption provided by a water company.

• Category 2 - Fluid which does not present a health hazard, as in category 1, whose quality has been compromised as a result in changes to its temperature, taste, odour or appearance.

• Category 3 - Fluid which presents a slight health hazard due to concentrations of ‘low toxic’ substances.

• Category 4 - Fluid that presents a significant health hazard due to concentrations of ‘toxic substances’.

g Altecnic has been successfully operating in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for over 25 years, delivering well-manufactured, high quality products for the plumbing and heating industry. Altecnic’s parent company, Caleffi, is recognised as being the marketing-leading manufacturer within the HVAC market, while the company also enjoys successful relationships with IMIT mechanical thermostats and Reflex Winkelmann GmbH to nitrogen-filled expansion vessels.

T: (RoI) 0044 1785 218200 or (NI) 01785 218200.

E: mark.mogey@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

TRAINING

SOUTHERN REGIONAL COLLEGE APPRENTICES BATTLE IT OUT FOR TEAM UK SPOT AS RACE HOTS UP FOR FINALS IN BRAZIL…

Shane and Gary bid for place on Worldskills Brazil squad

T

wo plumbing apprentices from Southern Regional College, Greenbank campus, have made it to the final two of the selection process for this year’s Worldskills finals in Brazil.

Shane Branagan and Gary Doyle will go head-to-head after making it to the final stage of the selection process to see who will represent the UK in the plumbing pipework finals in Sao Paulo this August.

The pair recently spent a week training in Brazil, followed by another trip to Germany, as part of their preparations for the final stages of the selection process, ahead of a final decision in June.

Gary is employed by Kieran Trainor Plumbing and Heating, and Shane served his time with Martin Johnston Plumbing and Heating but has recently started his own business, working as a subcontractor for Martin.

They have beaten off competitors from across England, Scotland and Wales to become the first two apprentices from Northern Ireland to reach this stage of the selection process. This proud achievement for Southern Regional College is even

Road to success – SRC apprentices Shane Branagan and Gary Doyle along with their lecturer Ronnie Ferris pictured with their UK Gold and Silver medals. The pair are now in the final two for this year’s Worldskills competition in Brazil.

more impressive, as Alan McCombe – another SRC apprentice – made it to the final three of the competition.

But for Ronnie Ferris, the plumbing lecturer at SRC who has mentored Gary and Shane, it is a case of mixed emotions.

“It’s a great achievement for Southern Regional College and, personally, I’m very proud to have three of my students get so far,” he said. “But, as I found out when Alan was eliminated by just one point, it also has its downside.

“I’m delighted for both Shane and Gary, but obviously one of them will be disappointed and that will be a real shame, as they both deserve their place at Worldskills.”

Ronnie added that, despite having to very different personalities, there is very little separating the pair.

“We could see from very early on that both of them were very talented and, to be fair, they have worked extremely hard to develop that. They are like chalk and cheese personality-wise but when it comes to talent, there’s very little between

“Although we’re supposed to be rivals, Gary and I always try to help each other out as much as we can and if he’s selected then I know it will be on merit and I’ll be cheering him on in the finals.”

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

them. I certainly wouldn’t like to be on the judging panel.”

For Shane and Gary it is a case of simply putting in as much training as they can to try and impress the judges.

Gary commented, “It’s a lot of hard work but it’s all worthwhile. Whether I get picked or not, going to Brazil and Germany will be a great experience, and I’m looking forward to it.”

Shane added, “You learn so much by taking part in the competitions and it has definitely helped me have the confidence to go out on my own.”

Both Shane and Gary are full of praise for the support and guidance given to them by their lecturer, Ronnie and, regardless of the outcome, each will be right behind whoever is selected to represent the UK in Brazil.

“Ronnie has been fantastic and I wouldn’t have made it this far without him,” said Shane. “The fact that Gary and I have made it to the final two shows just how good he is.

“Although we’re supposed to be rivals, Gary and I always try to help each other out as much as we can and if he’s selected then I know it will be on merit and I’ll be cheering him on in the finals.”

Gary continued, “I get on well with Shane and I know how good he is, so if he gets picked I’ll be delighted to support him in the finals. Ronnie has taught us both well and put in a lot of extra time, so he deserves a lot of credit too.”

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 25

HEATING PRODUCTS

26 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

HEATING PRODUCTS

FROM MYSON AND PURMO THROUGH TO RADSON AND VOGEL & NOOT, REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU ARE IN IRELAND YOU CAN EASILY ACCESS THESE MARKET-LEADING PRODUCTS FROM RETTING ICC…

Rettig brands thrive in Irish heating market

R

ettig ICC’s four well-known and trusted brands continue to grow in the Irish market as, over the years, installers have found them to be excellent products, supported by expert advice and aftersales support.

Myson products, such as the i-Vector and the ULOW-E2 convector radiator and the recently launched Pico, are gaining in popularity due to their high efficiency and versatility.

Purmo, meanwhile, also continues to offer one of the market’s favourite radiator ranges, with new products such as the Leros about to launch and the recent addition of

the Purmo FLOORTEC underfloor heating range being well received.

Many installers favour the Vogel & Noot brand, with its high quality energy efficient radiator range, while others are loyal to the Radson brand, also a comprehensive range of radiators for both the commercial and domestic heating markets.

Thanks to significant investment in research and development, the highest standards of manufacture and generous product guarantees, all four of these tried and tested brands from the Rettig group continue to give Irish installers a competitive edge.

latest product news…

Purmo’s new Leros is ‘green’ and black

P

urmo has launched the Leros, a distinctive and stylish new bathroom ladder style radiator.

It comes in standard white, but is also stocked in a radical textured matt black. With excellent green credentials, the highly energy efficient Leros is also perfect for use with low temperature heating systems.

Leros also has larger than average 28mm diameter tubes and gaps to allow for easy towel placing.

Myson’s ULOW-E2 proves an asset with renewables

D

ue to its ability to switch between static and dynamic operation, the ULOW-E2 produces impressive outputs from compact sizes, making it one of the most efficient heat emitters on the market, helping to reduce both energy bills and carbon footprints in domestic and commercial buildings.

Designed specifically to work with lower system temperatures, the ULOW-E2 has proved to be perfect

RETTIG BRANDS DISTRIBUTED IN ROI BY…

Baxi Potterton Myson T: 01 4590870 E: sales@potteronmyson.ie www.baxipottertonmyson.ie

www.plumbingmag.com

Keen Radiators, Brian Kelly T: (090) 9673006 M: 087 – 4168790 www.purmo.com

FOLLOW US ON:

for use in combination with underfloor heating and renewable heat sources.

Myson’s ULOW-E2 makes it possible to reduce the operating temperature of condensing boilers from 70oC to 60oC, allowing them to work at maximum efficiency in condensing mode, whilst maintaining the same level of comfort. Similarly, the system temperature of heat pump systems can also be reduced from 45oC to 38oC.

NI SALES CONTACTS...

Heatwise Michael Daly T: 057 9351207 www.heatwise.ie

Alun Coulter T: 07766 730684 Sean Leonard T: 07766 730559 www.myson.co.uk www.purmo.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

PROJECT PROFILE

PROJECT PROFILE CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

A bird’s eye view of the pipework installed by R&F Mechanical at Craigavon Area Hospital showing the newly constructed gantry and the pipework traversing from the Energy Centre to the various levels of the main hospital block.

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT HOW THE TEAM BEHIND AN EMERGENCY UPGRADE OF CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL’S HEATING INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGED TO OVERCOME A SERIES OF COMPLEX CHALLENGES...

Patience is key for R&F Mechanical

I

n theory, the upgrading of the heating infrastructure at Craigavon Area Hospital sounds like a straightforward replacement of an existing high pressure system with an upgraded version that focuses on energy efficiency.

The reality for R&F Mechanical, however, was very different, with various elements creating a perfect storm of practical, logistical and health and safety challenges.

As principle contractor, R&F Mechanical sought to successfully deliver the challenging scope via close engagement with the client, design team and sub-

contractors.

To begin with, this complex upgrade had to be carefully co-ordinated and meticulously planned to avoid any undue disruption to the hospital’s operations.

Then there was the practical aspect of identifying the most advantageous routing for pipework over existing roofs and courtyards.

There was also the fact that, due to strict time constraints, R&F Mechanical only had around 4-6 weeks between securing the tender and starting work on site.

“In the early stages of the project our

thoughts were directed at the logistics of the installations on a fully operational site,”explained John Logan, Technical Director at R&F Mechanical. “But looking back we can be very proud of what we have achieved on a highly complicated project that required such a high level of detailed planning and co-ordination.”

One of the first tasks carried out was to have four mobile plant rooms fully equipped and ready to go. These would have provided heat and hot water to critical hospital departments, such as the maternity ward and critical care unit, in the result of

“Looking back we can be very proud of what we have achieved on a highly complicated project.”

28 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PROJECT PROFILE

The new gantry which takes the pipework over a main road at the hospital and into the main building.

The new Energy Centre which is the hub of the heating and hot water system at Craigavon Area Hospital.

The team from R&F Mechanical had to manually move these sizeable pipes into position.

a system failure. This was just one of a range of contingency measures in place throughout the project.

The creation of a new ‘Energy Centre’ proved the most straightforward aspect of the project, with the latest technology adding a range of energyefficient measures to meet the hospital’s substantialheating and hot water requirements. This has resulted in significant fuel savings but, just as importantly, provided the hospital with the ability to effectively monitor energy usage.

Four 12-inch pipes formed the core of the heat and hot water distribution network but the real challenge was how to connect this from an energy centre on one side of this sizeable hospital site to the 10 remote plant rooms located across the grounds.

A new gantry formed an inherent part of the overall design, taking these sizeable pipes across a main road within the hospital to the main building. Even this was not

without its problems, with R&F Mechanical having to limit any road closure, while the creation of the sub-structure for the gantry was complicated by the close proximity of a number of live services, including HV cables.

ACCESSIBILITY From the new gantry, the four pipes then traverse their way over various rooftops, around buildings and across courtyards, with a cladding system integrated into the latter to create an attractive aesthetic combined with simple accessibility.

A high degree of off-site pre-fabrication helped save time but that was offset by an onerous installation process.

“We were working with 12-inch pipework which isn’t the easiest to manoeuvre at the best of times,” explained John. “But in many places it wasn’t feasible to use a crane, so we simply had to do it the old-fashioned way and manhandle the pipework into position. It took between 8-10 men to move each length

Just one of the tight spaces that R&F Mechanical had to contend with.

of pipe, so it was tough work.”

R&F Mechanical then worked closely with the hospital to co-ordinate a gradual phasing in of the new system, ensuring that any downtime of heating and hot water systems was minimal at the very least.

In effect, there were three systems running simultaneously – the old system, the newly installed system and a temporary back-up in case of any issues that occurred during the changeover.

This attention to detail helped the lengthy, complex project run as smoothly as possible, with John highlighting the co-operation of the hospital as an essential element.

“By working directly with the clinical teams, the Estates Department made our lives so much easier.

“Taking this off our shoulders, allowed us to focus on all the other aspects of the project.”

R&F Mechanical Services Ltd, 13 Seymour Street, Ballymoney, BT53 6JR T: 028 2766 2627 – E: info@rfmechanical.com www.rfmechanical.com

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

PROJECT PROFILE

HEATING COILS CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

EXPERIENCED ENGINEERING SPECIALIST BRINGS IN HOSPITAL JOB ON TIME AND WITHIN BUDGET…

Whitehouse Engineering keeps cool under pressure

M

allusk company, Whitehouse Engineering, supplied and installed the low temperature hot water heating coils into the existing air handling plant at Craigavon Area Hospital.

“This element of the project involved the selection of the LTHW coils and the modification of the existing air handling units in order to facilitate the installation of the new coils,” explained Managing Director, Stephen Dawson. “There were tight constraints around access, and the work had to be scheduled around the hospital’s operational requirements.

“On the plus side, this project gave us the opportunity to demonstrate our ability to perform well in the demanding health sector, and we completed on time and within budget.

We’ve carried out a lot of work for R&F Mechanical Services at Craigavon Hospital on other projects, so we were very familiar

with the environment and their systems of working.”

Whitehouse Engineering has extensive experience on contracts in both the health and educational sectors, carrying out work on projects in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, as well as in England and Scotland.

The company was established in Belfast in 1968, under the name Whitehouse Metal Fabricators, and over the years has expanded substantially. The early 1970s brought a name change to Whitehouse Sheetmetal & Engineering Company Ltd, along with a move to a 2,230sqm purpose-built factory at Mallusk, due to the increasing activities of the firm. In 1987, it changed its name a second time, to Whitehouse Engineering Company.

Today, the firm’s Mallusk base handles a wide variety of engineering projects. The facilities at the plant reflect both modern-day

industrial demands and the increased range of activities undertaken by Whitehouse Engineering. An in-house design and drawing office is the centre from where the company’s computerised manufacturing (CAM) process is controlled. One of the areas of expertise at Whitehouse Engineering is the production of 3D modelled drawings for the fabrication and installation of HVAC ductwork systems. Drawings are produced using the latest Autodesk FABmep software, which enables the ductwork systems to be co-ordinated with other services within the building environment. From these drawings, production data is generated using the company’s CAM system, which is processed and downloaded to the production equipment for manufacture. Whitehouse has always updated its equipment to keep pace with modern technology, and with the addition of CGF roll–on flange system equipment, spiral tube and bend forming machines, virtually all of the company’s ductwork manufacture, including the manufacture of the Flameshield non-coated fire rated ductwork system, is in-house.

The company also has heavy and light fabrication departments which enable it to manufacture a wide range of metal assemblies to suit its customers’ requirements.

Whitehouse Engineering Co Ltd, 14 Trench Road, Mallusk, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 4UU. T: (NI) 028 9084 8311 or (RoI) 048 9084 8311 E: info@whitehouse-eng.com www.whitehouse-eng.com

30 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PROJECT PROFILE

THERMAL INSULATION COVERS CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

JENKIP’S GOT IT COVERED WITH BESPOKE SOLUTION TO THERMAL INSULATION ON MECHANICAL INFRASTRUCTURE…

Jenkip proves value of good design

A

leading local manufacturer and supplier of thermal insulation covers, heated covers and flexible insulation systems, Jenkip has once more showed the benefits of properly designed thermal insulation covers.

“R&F Mechanical Services demand a particularly high standard of workmanship and finish,” said Jenna Wagner of Jenkip. “It was satisfying, therefore, for Jenkip to be asked to continue a long-standing relationship with the company, as part of this project at Craigavon Area Hospital.”

Jenkip designed and installed almost 2,000 high specification, bespoke thermal covers at a number of plant rooms across the hospital, including the new Bluestone Unit, a separate building which is also part of the hospital complex.

“Close liaison with other contractors on site was imperative in order to co-ordinate the work,” explained Jenna. “Being last on site can mean working to extremely tight deadlines in order to meet general completion dates, but our team have a vast amount of experience in

the insulation and textile trades and were up to the job.”

Jenkip’s products are installed right across Ireland and the UK in hospitals, schools, colleges, universities, shopping centres, leisure centres, government buildings, ships, chemical and pharmaceutical labs, plastics factories, food processing plants, breweries and bottling plants, creameries, hotels and more.

The company measures, designs , manufactures and fits removable thermal covers and flexible insulation systems which are used to insulate a wide range of valves, separators, heat exchangers, calorifiers, cylinders, exhausts, silencers, tanks, boiler ends, gensets, plant and equipment for hot and cold systems.

Thermal covers and flexible insulation systems are especially requested in cases where traditional forms of insulation are not feasible. Jenkip’s heated covers and heat-tracing products are increasingly in demand where temperature retention or frost

protection in severe conditions is required.

“Because of our attention to detail and design expertise, we are repeatedly asked to perform the role of trouble shooter, removing and replacing badly designed, ill-fitting covers from other sources because these products do not fulfil the function for which they were purchased,” added Jenna. “Most of these problems are down to incorrect material specification, bad fit or flawed design.

“We offer a complete package, from site survey to installation, ensuring a quality finish, on time. This includes a full survey, design, manufacture and fitting service, offering material specification to meet individual requirements, from chilled water to exhaust and boiler temperatures.

“Our bespoke items are designed and manufactured from measurements taken on site by experienced members of the Jenkip team, headed by Chris, our Chief Designer.

Quality workmanship and excellent service ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.”

Jenkip Ltd, Unit D3, Ards Business Centre, Jubilee Road, Newtownards, BT23 4YH T: (NI) 028 9122 6006 or (RoI) 048 9122 6006 - E: jenna@jenkip.com www.jenkip.com

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 31

PROJECT PROFILE

MECHANICAL SUPPLIER CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

SUPERB WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH R&F MECHANICAL IS PUT TO THE TEST DURING CAREFULLY CO-ORDINATED PROJECT…

Quality products, service and support from BSS

I

n every aspect of business, reliability is key and, for R&F Mechanical, having a reliable supply partner proved essential for this complex project at Craigavon Area Hospital.

BSS and R&F Mechanical already have a long-standing working relationship, but it was put to the test during this project.

Starting in July 2013 and finishing in early 2015, this lengthy project was not only complex in terms of installation but was also meticulously planned, placing a greater emphasis on BSS to deliver on time, every time.

The high level of co-ordination required to keep this project running smoothly was down to the fact that R&F Mechanical was working on a live hospital site and, as such, various shutdowns had to be carefully planned with the clinical teams.

Due to the strict time factors involved, R&F Mechanical was also under pressure to have

the new heating and hot water system up and running as quickly as possible.

But for a company that has been in business for over 110 years, BSS knows a little something about combining quality and service.

“Our ability to find the right balance between having the right products in stock and delivering them when required is what our business is based on, but this project put that to the test,” explained Declan Small, Branch Manager at BSS Belfast. “Thankfully, our superb relationship with R&F Mechanical made a real difference and our Assistant Manager, Sandra Newell, played a key role in co-ordinating this project with R&F Mechanical to order products and have them delivered exactly when and where required.”

The products supplied by the Belfast branch of BSS ranged from Grundfos pumps and

spares, Tata black iron pipe and fittings and Oventrop valves through to Geberit pipe and fittings, Nabic butterfly valves, Boss butterfly valves and Conex fittings.

This list showcases just some of the comprehensive products the company is able to provide for the mechanical sector.

“We have a huge amount of products on offer and, with the majority aimed directly at the commercial sector, we have a highly specialised range,” added Declan. “While many of the products we supply are hidden from the building’s end-users, they are critical elements of the project, so having a reputation for reliability is essential.”

BSS works with contractors of all sizes and, as well as providing a superb service across Northern Ireland, in recent years the company has also been supporting the increasing number of contractors from the province expanding into the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The company operates across 62 locations in the UK and also has an established base in Dublin, so is perfectly positioned to export the high level of service for which the Belfast branch is renowned.

Regardless of the size of the contractor or the project, however, customers can be assured of receiving a service that is quality driven from start to finish.

“Price will always be a factor but the market is once again more focused on the complete package you offer,” added Declan. “We have an unrivalled product range but as well as quality products we also have service that is second to none.

“Our technical support team is made up of heating and hot water mechanical service engineers, while our application engineers can provide problem-solving skills to answer mechanical problems on a wide and varied range of products.

“Our team in Belfast also possesses a wealth of industry knowledge, with many having worked for the company for 10, 20, 30 or so years. This is experience you just can’t buy, and with the strong relationships we have built up we are confident in the service we can provide.”

36-38 Duncrue Road, Duncrue Industrial Estate, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: (NI) 028 9078 4000 or (RoI) 048 9078 4000 – E: 1910.sales@bssgroup.com www.bssindustrial.co.uk

32 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PROJECT PROFILE

INDUSTRIAL INSULATION CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

Quality insulation from McCaig Collim

M

cCaig Collim provided insulation for the upgrade of the entire heating system at Craigavon Area Hospital.

The company has a long-standing relationship with R&F Mechanical coupled with extensive experience working within the commercial industry and, specifically, the healthcare sector.

For the Craigavon Area Hospital project, McCaig Collim supplied phenolic foams, as well as pipe sections and lags, slabs, jacjets and pipe supports.

Neil Collim, Managing Director, commented, “We stock an extensive range of insulation products, including mineral fibre, phenolic foam and Armaflex for the HVAC and industrial markets.

“In addition, our full technical advice service

is assured with over 45 years’ experience in the insulation industry.”

Insulation is just one aspect of what McCaig Collim can offer. Formed in 1968, the company has established itself as the leading independent supplier to the mechanical, heating, ventilation, pipeline and insulation industries in Northern Ireland.

McCaig Collim’s 40,000sqft facility stocks an extensive range of pipeline, climate control, pumps, heating and ventilation products which are supplied either at the company’s two trade counters or through its fleet of lorries that deliver throughout Ireland daily.

Neil concluded, “We are dedicated to supplying superior products at competitive prices.”

McCaig Collim, 92-94 Dargan Crescent, Belfast, BT3 9JP T: (NI) 028 9077 7788 – E: sales@mccaig-collim.co.uk www.mccaig-collim.co.uk

WATER SYSTEM TREATMENT CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

Chempar provides benchmark of quality

W

ater treatment company Chempar was commissioned by R&F Mechanical to supply corrosion inhibitor chemicals for the newly installed heating systems at Craigavon Area Hospital.

Chempar carried out all necessary chemical additions and analytical monitoring until the heating system circuits were chemically treated in accordance with the relevant standards for closed water systems. After commissioning, the systems were routinely checked to ensure that chemical levels were being maintained correctly.

Chempar’s corrosion inhibitor product for heating systems, ‘Polyhib CH’ is a neutral pH product. It protects all metals typically found in heating water systems, including steel, cast iron, copper, brass and

aluminium. ‘Polyhib CH’ has BuildCertTM approval. This approval means that the company’s ‘Polyhib CH’ product has been independently tested and approved as being fit for its intended purpose – as a corrosion inhibitor for heating systems.

Chempar is an ISO accredited company, with vast experience of heating systems (both new and old) in both the public and private sectors.

Chempar Technical Director, Dr Ronnie Houston, said, “We have a highly qualified and dedicated team covering the whole of Ireland. We specialise in the design, supply, installation and commissioning of bespoke water treatment programmes for industrial systems including steam boilers and cooling tower systems.”

Chempar Ltd, 1 Marshalls Road, Belfast, BT5 6SR T: (NI) 028 9040 3341 – (RoI) 0044 9040 3341 – E: enquiries@chempar.com www.chempar.com

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 33

PROJECT PROFILE

THERMAL INSULATION CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

MIC Contracts provides specialist thermal insulation service

W

ith a wealth of experience, the job of insulating all the pipework at Craigavon Area Hospital was given to Toomebridge company, MIC Contracts.

“We supply and fit insulation systems from leading manufacturers such as Saint-Gobain

Isover, BetaPlus, Paroc and Armacell Armaflex, but the system specified for this particular job was Phenolic pipe sections from BetaPlus,” said Jason Carey, MIC Contracts.

BetaPlus Phenolic pipe insulation is supplied with a factory-applied Class O aluminium foil

vapour barrier and a chemically-applied bore coating. It can also be provided in plain or other facings. Each section is cut from a solid block using the latest state-of-the art machinery, ensuring that all circular sections are concentric and precisely matched for thickness.

“We also applied a PIB sealant and then fitted cladding to complete the job,” said Jason. “With so much piping involved it was one of the biggest jobs of its kind that we have tackled. R&F Mechanical Services did a superb job co-ordinating everything, so there were no unforeseen problems.”

Jason concluded, “As a specialist thermal insulation contractor with some 40 years’ experience, we get contracts across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland and England, working not only on hospitals but a wide range of sectors.”

MIC Contracts Ltd, 17 Cloghogue Road, Toomebridge, Co Antrim, BT41 3PW T: 028 7965 0163 - E: info@miccontracts.co.uk www.miccontracts.co.uk

COMMISSIONING SERVICES CRAIGAVON AREA HOSPITAL

A total service from Total Fan Services

T

otal Fan Services carried out the testing and balancing of the water distribution systems at Craigavon Area Hospital.

The experienced team set the various flow rates for the entire system, ensuring it works to an optimum level. The company has a strong working relationship with R&F

Mechanical, spanning almost 30 years, and that made for a straightforward job from Total Fan Services’ perspective.

Michael Reid, Managing Director of Total Fan Services, said, “Once again, this was a well-designed and well-engineered system

by R&F Mechanical, which meant that our work went smoothly.”

Established in 1975 - long before building services commissioning was taken seriously by most contractors - Total Fan Services pioneered successful commissioning techniques in ventilation, heating and cooling systems.

The company has continued that pioneering focus over the years and has also developed

this further to become adept at troubleshooting under-performing systems.

Michael added, “We have worked on prestige projects as far apart as Siberia and North Africa and most places in between, with our projects including work on hospitals, office blocks, pharmaceutical labs, amongst others.”

Central to this success is a well-qualified, trained and experienced staff able to offer advice from the early stages of a contract and then liaise closely with other members of the commissioning team to create a clear, methodical approach to precommissioning checks, testing, balancing and commissioning.

Total Fan Services

Total Fan Services, 1 Upper Braniel Road, Belfast, BT5 7TS T: (NI) 028 9070 3785 or (RoI) 048 9070 3785 E: totalfanservices@btconnect.com

34 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

heating replacement parts and controls...

...just part of what we do

n Seven trade counters provincewide n Dedicated spares distribution centre n 5pm order cut off time n Fully trained staff n Branch stock profile to suit local needs

Our unique product identification system available to all our customers Ask at trade counter for more details

www.ptsplumbing.co.uk or text ‘SPARES’ to 83332 for your nearest branch NORTHERN IRELAND n BELFAST 107-127 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, County Antrim BT12 4GL. n DUNCRUE 36-38 Duncrue Road, Belfast BT3 9BP. n ENNISKILLEN 131 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT74 7JZ. n LISBURN Unit 1, Ballinderry Business Park, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn BT28 2SA. n DERRY Unit 11a, College Business Park, 40 Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry BT48 0LY. n NEWRY Unit 8, Carnbane Business Park, Tandragee Road, Newry BT35 6QJ.

T: 028 9027 1600 T: 028 9078 7700 T: 028 6632 3888 T: 028 9263 5330 T: 028 7130 6000 T: 028 3083 1340

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND n DUBLIN Unit 1, Block K, Ballymount Drive, Ballymount Industrial Estate, Ballymount, Dublin 12. T: 01 456 8530

F: 028 9043 9903 F: 028 9037 1037 F: 028 6632 6901 F: 028 9263 5331 F: 028 7126 6222 F: 028 3026 2006

F: 01 429 8700

OFTEC NEWS

OFTEC IRELAND NEWS...

OFTEC IRELAND WORKS HARD ON BEHALF OF THE OIL HEATING AND COOKING INDUSTRY. PLUMBING & HEATING PROVIDES AN INSIGHT INTO WHAT THE TEAM HAS BEEN UP TO...

Stove safety advice

F

Minister Mark H Durkan alongside David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager, and Kevin McGrady, Senior Scientific Officer at NIEA, as they launch the ‘Tank Safe’ campaign.

New campaign to encourage householders to be ‘Tank Safe’

I

n February, OFTEC, in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) and Minister Mark H Durkan, joined forces to launch a campaign on oil tank safety awareness for householders.

The campaign highlighted the importance of safe oil storage tank usage and maintenance, setting out some simple steps to ensure both secure storage and protection for the environment from spillages.

Minister Durkan said, “Pollution from spillages of oil can be very damaging to the environment and to the aquatic environment in particular. I welcome this joint ‘Tank Safe’ campaign, driven by my Environment Agency

and OFTEC, to help reduce the number of oil-related water pollution incidents throughout the North through a ‘best practice’ approach.”

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager, added, “Steel and plastic oil tanks provide safe and sound storage for home heating oil throughout the year. However, they sit in the garden and endure rain, frost, snow and even some sunshine. It is important for technicians to remind householders that, like all products, they have a definitive lifespan and should be visually inspected regularly and annually serviced by competent persons.”

Oil now cheapest fuel for home heating

L

atest industry figures show that heating oil is now the cheapest fuel for home heating.

According to the Sutherland Tables* - a recognised independent source of data on comparative UK domestic heating prices - oil is now the cheapest of all the major heating fuels, costing just £18.60 per week for a three-bedroom house with a condensing boiler.

“This is good news for oil users locally”, said David Blevings. “This makes oil a very competitive heating option for consumers. We have seen a huge increase in applications for the boiler replacement scheme where c.70% of the funding has been used to install modern condensing oil appliances. Alongside this, we expect to see an increase in oil-fired installations in the rejuvenated new build market as builders recognise the economical heating option oil now presents.

“OFTEC has developed an information sheet for builders, demonstrating how to comply with current building regulations.”

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

ollowing serious incidents involving multi-fuel stoves, OFTEC has issued important advice for stove owners to prevent future dangerous incidents.

OFTEC has recognised that many of its technicians are now installing and servicing solid fuel appliances, and has now launched a new registration class for solid fuel operatives.

Anyone who has completed a recognised solid fuel training course can now register as a solid fuel installer under OFT 15-108 (Wet and Dry) – installation, commissioning and servicing of solid fuel burning appliances.

METAC is currently developing a training course that will enable solid fuel operatives to register with this accreditation and it will be available from Easter.

“If you wish to demonstrate your competence to consumers, now you can do it with a solid fuel accreditation from OFTEC” added David.

Merchants in Ireland are being asked to promote the use of registered technicians by placing a new OFTEC sticker in their showrooms.

Any technician seeking further information should contact OFTEC’s registration services team on (NI) 0845 658 5 080 or (RoI) 01 8645771 and choose option 1. You can also e-mail registration@oftec.org

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager on 0845 6585 080 www.oftec.org Sean McBride, Ireland Representative on 087 241 7041

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 37

NEWS

Installer rewards from Sentinel and Ideal Boilers

W

Neil Stewart, MD, Dimplex Renewables and Sean O’Driscoll, Chairman, Glen Dimplex.

Glen Dimplex leads pan-European consortium

A

European consortium with world-leading Irish expertise has received the first phase of approval for a €12million (£9.5million) grant from the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 fund.

The research and innovation grant will bring to fruition a large scale pilot study into the future of small-scale energy storage, and will see thousands of Portadown-manufactured Glen Dimplex Quantum energy systems installed throughout Europe.

The 12-strong RealValue consortium is unique in that it encompasses the entire energy supply chain, including many of the major players in the Irish energy sector - Glen Dimplex, SSE Airtricity, ESB Networks, EirGrid, Intel and the Electricity Research Centre at University College Dublin.

Starting in April, RealValue will involve the installation of Glen Dimplex Quantum energy systems into 1,250 homes, 100 of which will be in Northern Ireland. The study will also include 700 homes in Ireland with the

38 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

remaining pilot homes situated in Germany and Latvia.

Replacing traditional storage heaters, the Quantum energy system combines efficient, high-performance electric space and water heating with thermal energy storage capability. It was launched in 2013 as a result of the biggest-ever investment by Glen Dimplex in one piece of technology, and research and development for Quantum was driven by Glen Dimplex subsidiary – GDC Portadown.

With RealValue, the Quantum systems will be linked to energy providers via highly-advanced technology, developed by Intel.

The smart system will also interpret data to forecast heat demand and consumer comfort preferences, and it will interact with the grid to manage supply and congestion.

The RealValue project will continue until 2018.

T: (NI) 028 3833 7317 or (RoI) 048 3833 7317 W: www.glendimplexni.co.uk

ater treatment specialist, Sentinel, and leading boiler manufacturer, Ideal Boilers, have teamed up to reward installers with £5 worth of Installer Connect points every time they register a Sentinel Eliminator filter alongside an Ideal boiler.

Installers can accrue significant reward points to redeem against a wide range of personal and work-related offers, from high street vouchers and gadgets to branded workwear and training courses.

Installer Connect members can also benefit from double points when using Ideal’s online Marketing Toolbox.

Earning reward points is easy; installers simply need to log-in to the members’ area of Ideal’s Installer Connect website, and then register the Ideal boiler and Sentinel Eliminator filter. What’s more, filter warranty registration is included automatically in the scheme, as are free Gas Safe notifications, making the process quick and easy.

T: (NI) T: 0800 138 1153 or (RoI) 0044 800 138 1153 W: www.installerconnect.com Installers will be rewarded with £5 worth of points every time they register a Sentinel Eliminator® filter alongside an Ideal boiler in the Installer Connect scheme.

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

MD IRELAND’S NEW BATHROOM COLLECTION

SHOWROOM COLLECTION

BY F&P

OFFERING AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF INNOVATIVE AND DESIREABLE PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO SUIT ALL OF YOUR BATHROOM NEEDS.

Contact…

HEAD OFFICE: Portman Business Park, Lissue West Industrial Estate, Rathdown Walk, Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 2RF. T: +44 (0)28 9262 0400 - F: +44 (0)28 9262 2939

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

BATHROOMS & SHOWERS

IT’S BATHROOM BLISS AS PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE SHOWERS YOU WITH THE LATEST INFORMATION FROM THIS SECTOR …

Chronos makes a splash in style stakes

I

nta is introducing its slickest showering range to date, with a family of beautiful Italian-crafted, highly polished chrome products that give users the most emotive and desirable bathroom experience yet.

The stylish Chronos range boasts patented technology that enables users to exercise complete control over the temperature and flow of the products, which includes a thermostatic bath tap, a bidet tap and a host of aesthetically appealing showers.

Alongside game-changing design, quality and control, the Chronos range also has green credentials, with an in-built eco button that can override settings to deliver energy-conscious flow rates and temperatures.

The new products, which Inta is hailing its most desirable bathroom range yet, are designed to meet the style requirements of high-end, boutiqueinspired bathrooms, while retaining all of Inta’s famed anti-scald features, with cool-touch bodies being standard across the entire range.

T: (NI) or (01889 272180 or (RoI) 0044 1889 272180 E: sales@intatec.co.uk W: www.intatec.co.uk

ggg

Mira breathes new life into Vie

P

erfect for new build installations and for replacing ‘left-handed’ Mira electric showers, the latest generation of Vie electric showers from Mira Showers features a wholly redesigned shower engine and casing that simplifies installation.

The top fixing point for the casing is outside the seal and the fixing slots are easy to access, while a plastic stub connect replaces the swivel connector found in the previous model so there is far more room in which to work.

The Vie also now benefits from Mira’s investment in research and development, as it comes equipped with Mira’s patented ClearscaleTM technology, which reduces

limescale by up to 50% and can double the shower’s working life. The shower’s patented DualElementTM heater tank has not one, but two heating elements that are wrapped around each other – like a DNA helix – so that the heat is distributed more evenly.

Fitted with left-hand water and cable entry points, the Vie is supplied in white only and in just two models - 8.5kW and 9.5kW. T: (NI) 0844 571 5000 or (RoI) 01 531 9337 W: www.mirashowers.co.uk

Aqualisa redefines electric showering with Lumi and Lassi

B

ursting with light, colour and original, British design, Lumi and Sassi Electric showers are brand new from Aqualisa this spring.

Developed in-house by Aqualisa’s designers, they deliver luxury showering that is innovative and individual. Lumi features a band of adjustable light across its mirrored glass and chrome trimmed body. Sassi, meanwhile, brings an eye-catching pop of colour in the form of a choice of interchangeable coloured glass mosaic inlays.

A sensory touch start/stop and contemporary brushed stainless steel temperature control mean Lumi and Sassi are both intuitive and simple to use.

When it comes to installation, Lumi and Sassi are straightforward and are ideal for every bathroom scheme from a new en suite to a

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

family bathroom. They come complete with 105mm, 5 spray Harmony Electric shower heads and are available as 8.5kW, 9.5kW and 10.5kW units.

T: (NI) Karl Simpson on 07917 098284 (RoI) 0044 800 652 3669 W: www.aqualisa.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 41

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

Steven Allaway, Managing Director, Aqualla, (third from right) with his team at the company’s headquarters in Newtownards.

Steven Allaway, Managing Director, (right) and Noel Daly, Sales Director, discuss the company’s expansion plans.

Patrick Murray at work in the busy warehouse.

WITH A PORTFOLIO THAT COMBINES DISTINCTIVE PRESENCE WITH PRACTICALITY, AQUALLA’S UNIQUE RANGE OF BATHROOM COMPONENTS AND ACCESSORIES CONTINUES TO GENERATE SUCCESS…

Brilliant brassware from Aqualla E

very success story starts with a good idea, and for Aqualla, that good idea continues to generate success.

After looking at market research that showed plumbers’ merchants moving from established brands to distribution products, Aqualla hit upon the idea of setting up a company offering all the USPs of a brand, yet competing on price with the distributors.

In effect, Aqualla offers the best of both worlds.

The idea has proved right and since the company was formed in 2011, Aqualla has sold in excess of 50,000 products in just over three years of trading.

But the business world never stays still, and the ambitious team behind Aqualla continues to retain that forward-thinking focus that has made the company such a quick-fire success. This year will see continued growth in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, not only in terms

of new products being available but also in streamlining and improving an already excellent service.

Steven Allaway, Managing Director of Aqualla, commented, “We are delighted at how the company is progressing and we will continue to build on that success. We have recently expanded by moving into a second unit at our base in Newtownards, while we have also reacted to feedback from customers to expand our product range, so

“We are delighted at how the company is progressing and we will continue to build on that success.”

42 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

Product range expands

Bob McGowan-Smyth, Finance Director

g After a year’s research, Aqualla launched its own range of heated towel rails and traditional bathroom radiators in 2014.

The company views the heated towel rail market as becoming more of a commodity and, as such, wanted to offer something different. Key factors in this range include:

Aqualla Drift

Stuart Latimer, Business Development .

Joan Emery, Administration Officer and Jade King, Administration Assistant, with Steven Allaway, Managing Director.

Aqualla Merge

these are exciting times for the company.

“In Northern Ireland we have enjoyed great success. Now our aim is to further develop our business in Ireland, where Sales Director Noel Daly is working hard, and we also have a long-term plan to launch in Great Britain.”

Aqualla is the only company based in Ireland to focus on the product group of brassware.

This means the company is uniquely placed to provide a depth of range and product offering with unique designs and features.

“We provide next working day deliveries and hold a comprehensive range of spare parts in stock,” added Steven.

The company is also committed to growing awareness of its brand and has made a significant investment in quality literature and marketing materials.

“With the support of local merchants, we’ve been able to invest in and grow our brand,” continued Steven. “Aqualla has seen

dramatic growth since we began trading, with sales more than doubling in 2014 from 2013.

“The success is based on our focus for the best possible customer service and always considering our customers requirement when making strategic decisions. We have over 300 product lines in stock and we now offer 18 ranges of bathroom taps; 18 showering configurations with many more possibilities, thanks to our extensive range of showering components; 4 ranges of bathroom accessories; and 7 kitchen taps.”

As well as an impressive product range, Aqualla also provides a superb service, with the company’s eight staff committed to delivering the highest standards.

An extension of this is the Aqualla website which offers support to the company’s customer network and their consumers. The website now includes technical drawings, flow rates, CGI images and all product details.

• Aqualla heated towel rails include up to 39 cross bars, all of which are 25mm in diameter to maximise the heat output.

• All heated towel rails are etched with the Aqualla logo. This promotes the company’s brand and allows for traceability.

• Boxes are shrink-wrapped and printed to include brand, weight range and CE stamp.

• Aqualla is the licence holder for the UK and Ireland design rights for the ‘Aromawell’ feature. This is a small well located at the top of the upright bar on the opposite side to the bleed key (where the plug is normally fitted). This well can hold aromatherapy oil that will scent a bathroom when the heating is on.

The unique Aqualla Aromawell

Aqualla Brassware, Unit 5, Kiltonga Industrial Estate, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 4TJ T: (NI) 028 9182 8000 or (RoI) 048 9182 8000 – E: info@aquallabrassware.com www.aquallabrassware.com

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 43

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

WIRQUIN SCORES WITH INSTALLER COMPETITIONS, PROMOTIONS AND EVENTS LINED UP FOR 2015…

Win with Wirquin

M

acdee Wirquin is offering some exciting incentives to installers this year.

The leading manufacturer of cisterns, flushing mechanisms, frames, wetrooms, traps, wastes and connectors, is offering the chance to convert two of its plumbing products into Rugby World Cup Final tickets.

With every purchase of the Motion dual flush siphon or Slim shower waste, you will find a unique code inside a promotional box, offering the chance to win a VIP rugby package, worth £2,700.

All you have to do is enter the unique code on the Macdee Wirquin competition webpage to be entered into the prize draw and also have the chance to win hundreds of spot prizes. Simply register every unique code you find inside each promotional box to increase your chances of winning.

The VIP package includes a pair of Rugby World Cup Final tickets, accommodation,

return match-day travel, merchandise vouchers and a Canterbury England World Cup 2015 jersey.

The offer is available when purchasing either the Motion or Slim flagship products.

The award-winning Macdee Motion universal dual flush siphon is the only siphon you will need in your van to quickly and easily fit all known lever-operated cisterns, thanks to its compact design and wide range of adjustable features.

This WRAS approved product has a large selection of height options and flush volume settings, allowing the end user to save water and enjoy the fastest flush rate on the market.

The Slim shower waste is specifically designed to fit extra flat Ø90 shower trays, thanks to its under-tray depth of only 40mm. The silicone membrane trap enables higher than standard flow rates (33.6 L/min in 15mm water), acts as a vapour barrier and air admittance valve, and is easy

for the end user to clean.

Look out for promotional stickers on promotional boxes of the Motion and Slim, available at all good stockists until the end of September 2015, and visit the website www.macdeeworldcup.co.uk to try and convert your plumbing products into winning a VIP weekend.

125th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

T

o celebrate its 125th anniversary, Celmac Wirquin is running a variety of promotions and events throughout 2015.

The renowned brand is one of the leading toilet seat manufacturers in the UK, historically renowned for the 1930s black crescentshaped school seat with the gap in the front (Crescent), as well as setting the BS1254 Type 1 (Sonata) and the BS1254 Type 2 (Emerald), which are still manufactured at the Doncasterbased plant.

Celmac, originally known as Robert McArd Ltd, after its founder, has been producing toilet seats since 1890. Over one million pieces are now produced each year to meet a wide range of design and technical specifications. The innovative technology ensures that the thermoset and thermoplastic

44 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

seats are resilient, universal fitting and easy to install.

Just for fun, and as part of the anniversary celebrations, installers are being asked “Have you seen the oldest Celmac toilet seat around?” Send your photos and details of where you’ve spotted it to communications@ wirquin.co.uk. A 1970s Saxon seat has already been spotted in a local home but have you seen older ones?

T: (NI) 0844 412 2029 or Jim Brennan, Business Development Manager (Ireland) on +44 (0)7772 662615 E: sales@wirquin.co.uk W: www.wirquin.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

THE NEW 2015 BATHROOM COLLECTION FROM MYLIFE HAS SOMETHING TO SUIT ALL TASTES…

Flexible shower options from MyLife N ew for 2015, MyLife Distribution has taken delivery of a comprehensive new range of showering products, offering stylish design options for both contemporary and more traditional settings.

The Aqua Series offers a sleek, modern design with wide appeal and comes in a variety of options – exposed or concealed valve, round or square valve, round or square wall outlet/handset holder, two-way valve, three or five-function adjustable head, fixed arm, sliding rail kit and easy fix shower kit.

As the name suggests, the Traditional Series offers an equally attractive alternative for more conventional tastes, also supplied in a variety of options.

The new ranges are part of the latest MyLife Bathroom Collection for 2015. Available in both sterling and euro versions, the collection covers everything from showers, baths, taps and accessories, to heated towel rails, mirrors, cabinets and ceramics, and is available to download from the MyLife website.

“We are very proud to launch our new ranges, all carefully designed and manufactured to high specifications, using quality raw materials,” said Andrew O’Brien, of the Newry-based company.

“Representing the ultimate fusion of form

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

and function, not only does our range contain diverse aesthetic styles to suit all tastes, but it also has the flexibility in its design to fill any space beautifully.

“As no two homes are the same, we have created this flexible, comprehensive bathroom collection to meet individual needs. From the carefully considered ergonomics of our taps and handles to the silky smooth glide of our shower doors, every product places superior quality at your fingertips.”

Bathrooms T: (NI) 028 3025 6392 or (RoI) 0044 28 3025 6392 E: sales@mylifebathrooms.com W: www.mylifebathrooms.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 45

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

CONTECH SUPPLIES INNOVATIVE SEALING, BONDING AND CLEANING SOLUTIONS WITH POPULAR 7 SERIES…

The professional’s choice

P

ioneers of the innovative 7 Series range of products - including the renowned Tec7 MS polymer-based glue that bonds, seals and mounts , even under water - Contech supplies to builders’ merchants and independents throughout the UK and Ireland.

With a limited assortment and a wide range of uses, the 7 Series is a range of quality products for professionals, creating a number of possibilities that are so varied, many professionals are able to use the products in highly creative ways. As a result of this versatility, the series was awarded The World Trade Centres’ Association Trophy in March 2011.

The successful product range includes innovative adhesives and sealants, cleaners and degreasers, expanding foams (that stop expanding when they meet resistance), and penetrating oils that are ideal for use in the construction, production, repair and maintenance sectors.

The focus of the 7 Series range is ‘innovation and quality’, with the backup of an excellent customer service.

Providing a smaller range of products alongside excellent product

knowledge, Contech has a strong emphasis on developing the brand itself, in contrast to other companies with a wider range of products.

Following its successful Irish model, Contech now has a network of agents in the UK, with staff directly employed for merchandising within each area. As the exclusive distributor of Tec7 and the 7 Series range of products, Contech offers a 24-hour technical and customer support service.

Understanding the importance of assisting the merchant in selling the products, Contech’s emphasis on support is extremely high. By offering a prompt delivery service, in-store product demonstration days - offering training to both customers and staff - special offers and comprehensive marketing support, Contech’s main aim is to establish a core customer service within the UK and Europe to support its distribution network.

For more information, telephone Contech Building Products on 00353 1 6292963, e-mail info@contechbuildings.ie or visit the website at www.tec7.ie

Getting the job done Tec7 has become the Number 1 choice for those working in the construction trades because they know it gets the job done, ‘first time, every time’.

Because of its overall strength, flexibility, sealing and mounting quality, Tec7 sticks to almost all building materials (including most plastics), and with each cartridge containing 310ml of product, customers are getting better value compared to most other MS polymers on the market.

With customers expecting high quality from the Tec7 range of products, the newer Multi-Clean has proven to be a favourite with trades’ people. This unique, all-purpose fastacting foam spray cleaner is ideal for professional use, for cleaning up after any job, on tiles, counter tops and glass to name just a few applications.

“The focus of the 7 Series range is ‘innovation and quality’, with the back-up of an excellent customer service.”

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 47

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

Peter Kinkead, Sales Director, Modern Plant.

Grohe RED from Modern Plant.

CUSTOMERS SET TO BENEFIT FROM A NEW ADDITION TO DUBLIN SHOWROOM, STAFF TRAINING AND AN EXCLUSIVE RANGE OF GROHE PRODUCTS FOR THE DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL SECTORS…

Modern Plant appointed Grohe exclusive distributor

M

odern Plant Ltd was recently appointed exclusive distributor for all Grohe commercial products along with access to the Grohe residential and hospitality products.

Peter Kinkead, Sales Director, Modern Plant, commented, “Over the next month, Modern Plant are designing a new element of their showroom on the Naas Road, Dublin to house their state-of-theart Grohe range of showers, taps and accessories. During this time, our staff will be undergoing technical training on the new range.

“The new showroom will display an extensive range of Grohe showers and bathrooms accessories as well as a full range of Grohe taps for commercial kitchens, hotels and public washrooms.”

All Grohe products allow reduced water and energy consumption. Technologies such as Grohe EcoJoy® and the new Grohe SilkMove® ES permit even greater economy – naturally without compromising comfort or convenience in any way.

Other Grohe products now available from Modern Plant include:

• Cool Touch shower technology - Next time you are asked to supply

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

or install a shower where the young or old are involved, you can now choose a shower unit that, no matter how hot the water gets, the unit is still cool to the touch.

• Bar valves - The Grohe Bar Valve is now a great alternative if you want to supply a stylish, long-lasting unit that is easier to install, saving up to 66% on installation time!

• Tea in a second - As part of the range of kitchen taps Modern Plant will be demonstrating, the Grohe RED delivers kettle hot water in an instant. This high quality and stylish tap delivers water at a constant temperature of 99OC. Giving your customers instant boiling hot water as well as the ability to make a tea or coffee in five seconds flat!

If you would like to talk to Modern Plant about how your company can benefit from supplying a premium quality plumbing product range at a much more reasonable price bracket than you would expect, call (RoI) 01 461 4300 or (NI) 00353 461 4300.

Cool Touch shower technology.

Over 60 years of success g Modern Plant Ltd has been servicing the plumbing industry in Ireland for over 60 years and has established itself as market leading stockholders and distributors of a vast range of showers, taps and accessories.

Modern Plant has an expert team of over 50 people who work to assist clients by phone, in the company’s showrooms or at the trade counter.

For more information on Modern Plant’s large range of Grohe products - or any other plumbing product - call the customer service team.

T: (RoI) O1 461 4300 or 00353 1 461 4300 W: www.modernplant.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 49

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE LATEST ADVICE AND NEW PRODUCTS AVAILABLE VIA HEAT MERCHANTS…

Making washroom facilities accessible, easy-to-use and safe for all Chris Tranter, Product Manager at Bristan, offers some advice on making washroom facilities accessible, easy-touse and safe for all…

I

31

branches across Ireland

The Heat Merchants Team can provide support for specifications and design of safe and accessible washroom solutions.

n accordance with Part M of the Building Regulations (Access to and Use of Buildings), all non-domestic buildings should offer ‘reasonable access’ so that people with disabilities can use the facilities.

Businesses which provide a service have a duty to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to any physical barriers.

So, when specifying washroom products for commercial and public sector applications, including leisure centres, swimming pools, hotels, hospitals, offices, schools, universities and colleges, it’s important to always consider people with disabilities – even if the products are being fitted in standard facilities rather than those that comply with the Disability Discrimination Act. When selecting showers, taps, baths, basins, WCs and even accessories such as towel rails and toilet roll holders, it’s important to think about whether someone with reduced eyesight, grip, mobility or intellectual capacity would be able to access and use them easily, as well as safely.

In terms of accessibility and ease of use, products should always be positioned for optimal comfort, with adequate space provided.

Visibility is another factor to consider. Grab rails and seating – essential for anyone with mobility problems – need to be clearly visible in line with the Disability Discrimination Act. Bristan’s products are available in white and blue, so they can be seen against dark and light backgrounds respectively.

We also offer a grab rail/slide bar shower kit, where the shower bar has been cleverly designed to double up as a hard-wearing, secure grab rail. Combined grab/towel rails can be very useful too.

Shower and tap solutions include leveroperated products, with sequential control for temperature and flow. These can be

Push button controls are easy to use as they provide a set, timed amount of water after a button is pushed.

50 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

Also available at Tubs & Tiles Hansgrohe EcoSmart

Bristan shower solutions include lever operated products

easily operated, even with an elbow or fist.

Other options include simple dial shower controls with a maximum temperature stop, and push buttons.

Push button controls are easy to use as they provide a set, timed amount of water after a button is pushed. The shower or tap will switch off after a specific time, depending on requirements. These timed controls are also useful for saving water, and minimise the risk of flooding caused by showers and taps being left running.

Washroom facilities must be safe too.

Third degree burns can occur in just five seconds, but less-able people, as well as the elderly and children, are considered more susceptible to scalding.

The risks can be significantly reduced by fitting products with inbuilt TMVs (Thermostatic Mixing Valves), or, alternatively, ancillary TMVs, which allow water to be stored and distributed at a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria, but reduce it to a safe temperature at the point of use by mixing it with the cold supply.

The recommended safe temperatures for baths, showers, washbasins and bidets range between 37oC and 46oC, but can differ depending on the application and who is using the facilities. A TMV will maintain the preset, safe temperature even if the water pressure fluctuates when other appliances are used, and will completely shut down the outlet flow if the hot or cold water supply fails.

It is now considered best practice to install a TMV in all cases, unless a risk assessment has established that it is absolutely safe not to do so. The type of TMV (2 or 3) depends

on the application. TMV3 valves are tested in line with NHS Model Engineering Specification D08 – making them suitable for use with the most vulnerable in society.

Current legislation makes the use of TMV3 approved valves a must in healthcare and education; they are required (by legislation or authoritative guidance) for baths, basins and showers in NHS hospitals and care homes for young people and baths and showers in schools (including nurseries).

In addition to the scalding risks associated with hot water temperatures, exposed shower bodies can also cause a safety hazard, especially if users don’t understand the risks, or are more likely to lose their balance and inadvertently touch or grab the shower to steady themselves.

Our grab rail/slide bar shower kit can provide a solution, or there are showers available that remain cool to the touch.

When selecting products that will be used by people with varying needs, it’s vital to ensure they offer accessibility, ease-of-use and hot water safety. And this doesn’t have to mean compromising on performance, style or design either.

Bristan believes that well-designed products should be accessible to all; our showering and changing room solutions - including Doc M approved products offer the highest levels of accessibility, ease and safety, yet still offer aesthetic appeal. The Heat Merchants Team can provide support for specifications and design of safe and accessible washroom solutions.

Hansgrohe mixers and showers, which are fitted with EcoSmart technology, require up to 60% less water than conventional products – and without any loss of comfort. Lower hot water consumption means lower energy requirements and lower costs.

The Raindance EcoSmart overhead and hand showers dispense only 9.5 litres of water per minute. It does not matter how high your water pressure is; a ‘precision O-ring’ reacts flexibly to the water pressure and adjusts the water quantity.

If the pressure is high, the ring makes the opening smaller. If it is low, it expands the opening.

Meryln’s frameless shower enclosures Glass by Merlyn is a luxury range boasting luxurious 10mm toughened glass at heights of up to 2400mm. Its frameless minimalist design is available in four glazing options - Standard, Opti White, Satin or Smoked Black Glass and a choice of two handle options. This range features Mershield stayclear glass and offers a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee.

Glass by Meryln includes a range of bespoke options which can be custom designed to suit your space.

Heat Merchants Group, Athlone, County Westmeath, T: (RoI) 090 6442300 or (NI) 00353 90 6442300 – E: customersuppor@heatmerchants.ie www.heatmerchants.ie

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 51

BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS

STEP 1 Align the horizontal and vertical shower door profiles together.

STEP 2 Slide the pre-assembled screws into place on the vertical profile, using the guide rails.

STEP 3 Tighten the screws into position through the punched access port.

Hydro Express Quadrant

Hydro Express Slider with frameless side panel

Hydro express bifold door

HYDRO EXPRESS FIT SHOWER DOORS ARE DESIGNED TO MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR INSTALLERS…

Express fit in just three easy steps

F

lair Showers has a reputation for making life easier for installers and endusers alike, and the Hydro Express Fit range is the perfect example of this.

Designed to work in any space, Hydro Express Fit comes with an array of options to suit any home.

Shower doors styles are available in slider, corner entry, offset corner entry, quadrant, offset quadrant, pivot door and bi-fold door options.

The success of Flair Showers has been based on installation innovations and, as the name suggests, Hydro Express Fit follows that strong tradition.

A simple and clever feature in the shower door design, the inclusion of the Express Fit mechanism means that Hydro is now a oneman installation job.

Pre-assembled screws in the horizontal profile leave them ready to slot into place, while the punched access port and screw guide rail in the vertical profile makes it easier for the installer to access and secure

52 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

the screws into position.

In addition to these simple-yet-effective designs, Hyrdo also has a 25mm profile adjustment on each side and is reversible for left or right-handed installation. Hydro Express Fit also provides installers with the additional option of 30mm compensating wall profile for non-standard installations.

All these features combine to allow the installer to fit Hydro in just three quick and easy steps.

Of course, a quick installation is not the only attractive feature about Hydro Express Fit. As with all products in the Flair range, quality is also of the highest order. The Hydro Express Fit range is 1,850mm tall and boasts 5mm and 6mm toughened glass, certified to European Standards EN 12150-1.

Hydro Express Fit also comes with a 10year product guarantee and a complete aftercare service that includes a full-time service team and readily available spare parts.

GREAT FIT Express Fit allows for quick installation

GREAT DESIGN Designed to suit your space and built to last

GREAT VALUE Hydro delivers high quality at exceptional value

GREAT CHOICE It’s the professional’s choice and the right choice for you.

T: (RoI) 042 966 5294 or (NI) 00353 042 966 5294 E: sales@flairshowers.com www.flairshowers.com

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

NEWS

BAXI POTTERTON MYSON DESIGNS NEW, IMPROVED WEBSITE THAT’S SIMPLE AND QUICK TO NAVIGATE…

Baxi Potterson Myson makes it easy with new website

A LOOK AT THE LATEST NEWS FROM GRANT ENGINEERING…

Keeping the industry informed Grant NI has been working hard to keep the industry informed about the latest developments – here is a look at some recent events:

B

axi Potterton Myson Ireland, part of BDR Thermea, has launched a brand new website to make life even easier for installers.

In keeping with the wider Baxi brand ethos of ‘make it easy’, the smart new Baxi Potterton Myson website has been designed to make heating and boiler specification and care as accessible for its customers as possible.

In addition to a modern new look, the website – compatible with both mobile and tablet devices, as well as PCs - makes the user journey more efficient, simple and quick to navigate, with easy search facilities and a comprehensive product profile. In addition, installers can continue to benefit from sales and customer support information, along with access to training schedules; all in a much more user-friendly format.

Paul Clancy, Managing Director for Baxi Potterton Myson, commented, “Baxi Potterton Myson has been trading for over 40 years and during this time we have prided ourselves on bringing the newest and most innovative technologies to the Irish market, all backed up with a truly first-class customer service.

“It is therefore important that our website, as the typical first port of call in today’s modern market, accurately reflects this, while also helping to improve our interaction with home-owners, engineers and specialist contractors alike.

“The new website has been redesigned utilising the latest web standards and technology, ensuring it is more efficient and easier to navigate, while clearly showcasing our corporate ethos of quality and professionalism. For us, it is all about making life easier for our loyal customers, and our new and improved website will go a long way in aiding this.”

T: (RoI) 01 4590870 or (NI) 00353 1 4590870 E: sales@pottertonmyson.ie W: www.potterton-myson.ie

54 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Mark Eccles, Grant NI with Andy McAllister who won the prize draw at Plumb Center, Bangor.

John Sword and Johnny Berry from Plumb Center, Bangor

PLUMB CENTER, BANGOR Plumb Center in Bangor recently hosted an information evening and invited Grant NI to participate.

Guests had the chance to meet Grant NI representative Mark Eccles and hear first-hand how the company’s home heating products are leading the way with their condensing technology in Northern Ireland.

George Wilson and Graham Huddleston from Bangor who attended the event at Plumb Center.

SELFBUILD & IMPROVE YOUR HOME SHOW, BELFAST Grant NI exhibited at the recent Selfbuild & Improve Your Home Show in the Kings Hall Pavilion, Belfast, where the team was on hand to meet and greet home-owners and self-builders from across Northern Ireland. The event also gave Grant NI the opportunity to showcase the latest range of Grant heating products and demonstrate how these technologies are helping households reduce heating bills and reduce carbon footprints.

PRACTICAL ON-FARM RENEWABLE ENERGY EVENT, CAFRE ENNISKILLEN CAMPUS – This event offered a great platform to showcase the award-winning Grant Spira condensing wood pellet boiler and Mark Eccles from Grant NI was on hand to explain key features of this boiler range to those in attendance.

PTS – Grant NI took part in a trade evening at PTS in Enniskillen in February to help inform the trade about the company’s latest products. Mark Eccles from Grant NI also provided a presentation at this event.

Efficient, Affordable, Reliable

Think engineering excellence www.grantni.com

Hotline: 0800 279 4796

FOLLOW US ON:

THINK GRANT. www.plumbingmag.com

BOILER & PLANT ROOM ENCLOSURES

“BUILT to LAST” Solutions include...

• Control rooms • Electric modem control • Hot water storage • Cooling • Plant rooms • Boiler plant rooms

NOW OFFERING FULL RANGE OF CHP PLANTS, ELECTRIC, GAS AND WOOD CHIP ENCLOSURES

GENERAL CABINS & ENGINEERING LTD 21-25 Corr Road, Killyman, Dungannon BT71 6HQ. Tel: +44 (0)28 8774 7566 - Fax: +44 (0)28 8774 6866 Email: info@generalcabins.com www.generalcabins.com - www.generalranges.com

RENEWABLE HEATING SCHEME

INSTALLERS PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ENSURING CUSTOMERS CAN BENEFIT FROM THE DRHI SCHEME, SAYS STUART GADSDEN, PRODUCT MANAGER, DAIKIN UK…

What dRHI means for installers

W

hile the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (dRHI) scheme is now open to applications from all households in Northern Ireland, those set to benefit the most are those not connected to the mains gas network.

This is particularly important for the province, as a large proportion of homes are reliant on oil, LPG or electric systems (an estimated 68% of households are reliant on oil systems alone).

A key advantage of the Northern Ireland scheme, compared to the scheme in the rest of the UK, is that it combines both an upfront payment to help off-set investment costs and a tariff paid over seven years.

Both components vary, depending on the chosen technology. Using air source heat pumps as an example, the upfront payment is £1,700, while the tariff rate is 3.5p/kWh. This means that when combined with the running cost savings which can be achieved from a heat pump compared to an oil boiler installation, the return on investment will be very attractive. The unique upfront payment will be especially attractive to home-owners, as Daikin’s own recent survey of home-owners revealed that 46% of those who have considered, but not yet installed, a renewable system blamed the initial financial outlay as a reason that was holding up their decision.

While dRHI is an important and positive scheme for Northern

56 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Ireland, and the upfront payment is certainly attractive, without a high-profile Government marketing campaign, consumer awareness will inevitably remain low.

Experience from the other parts of the UK suggests that many home-owners may find the scheme complex to understand. This is why Northern Ireland’s installers are crucial to the success of the initiative, as they are the link between the home-owner and the technology. Their advice and expertise will be invaluable to homeowners.

It also makes good business sense for installers to fully understand the scheme, as the renewables sector offers considerable potential for growth.

One important lesson from other schemes is that installers have a crucial role in preventing their customers from falling into the trap of having made the effort to invest in renewable heating technology but not having bothered to apply, so the tariff is not claimed.

A good understanding of the scheme’s rules will help installers speak confidently with customers and advise them correctly.

Knowledge of how to help them complete the application form, ensuring customers have an MCS installation certificate number, a domestic EPC number and a Green Deal assessment is vital. Also, before applying for the scheme,

Stuart Gadsden.

“Installers are crucial to the success of the initiative, as they are the link between the home-owner and the technology.”

households must install loft and cavity wall insulation and get an updated EPC as verification.

But, installers are not alone.

Manufacturers, such as renewable heating technology manufacturer, Daikin UK, are available to support them.

Daikin offers installer training on its complete range of domestic RHIeligible heat products, along with two training courses for the awardwinning Daikin Altherma hybrid heat pump system. A one-day course is open to Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredited installers already trained on the Daikin Altherma Low Temperature Split system, while a two-day course is offered to MCS installers wishing to train on both the Hybrid and LT Split systems.

Ultimately, dRHI will help Northern Ireland home-owners reduce their energy usage and lower their bills, as well as earn money from the heat they generate. Additionally, it will increase the number of properties switching to renewable technologies, with the upfront payment being a vital incentive. It will also help the province to achieve its target of 10% renewable heat by 2020.

Installers will play an important part, and Daikin is on hand to offer them the necessary support.

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

RENEWABLES

SOLAR THERMAL PACKAGE FROM APRICUS AND COPPER INDUSTRIES WILL HELP INSTALLERS MAKE THE MOST OF DOMESTIC RENEWABLE HEAT INCENTIVE…

Solar thermal solutions for dRHI

S

olar thermal has lost its shine to solar photovoltaic over the past few years, due to the attractive tariffs available to householders and businesses for PV installations. However, there is now an opportunity for installers to once again look at solar thermal.

The low capital cost compared to other forms of renewable heat, such as biomass, make it an affordable solution. Indeed, it can be combined with a heat pump or biomass and the householder can claim both tariffs.

The space required for a solar thermal system is much smaller than that required for a PV system, making installation possible in thousands of properties which are not suitable for PV, due to space restrictions.

Solar thermal can also be installed in an eastwest configuration, widening the potential for the number of homes suitable for a solar installation.

With the dRHI offering home-owners both an upfront payment and a tariff paid over

seven years, the payback and energy savings over the lifetime of the system makes solar thermal an attractive option for homeowners. Depending on the type of heating used, as well as the number of people in the household, payback can be anything between 4 and 7 years, with an excellent return of between 16 and 20% (on average) on investment over an expected lifetime of 20 years.

Installers can combine these advantages with a superb solar thermal package from Apricus and Copper Industries that incorporates vacuum solar collectors and a Hothead ™ hot water cylinder.

The Apricus vacuum tube solar collector is a highly efficient solar hot water heater, particularly suitable for northern climates such as the UK and Ireland. The curved absorber inside each vacuum tube means that the Apricus system collects energy from early morning until evening, maximising the potential of this collector in our climate

conditions. This is known as the Incident Angle Modifier (IAM) and makes the Apricus collector one of the most efficient products available.

The Hothead ™ tank uses a thermosyphonic action to send hot water to the top of the tank, providing an instant source of hot water for users – ideal for those days when the sun doesn’t shine all the time. The Hothead action means that the householder can benefit from almost immediate hot water from the solar system.

As well as quality products, installers can also benefit from a free of charge technical design and specification service for all specifiers and installers.

T: (NI) 028 9182 9470 or (RoI) 048 9182 9470 W: www.apricus.com or www. copperindustries.co.uk

TM

HIGH PERFORMANCE SOLAR THERMAL PACKAGES Useable hot water within minutes & S APRICU YLINDER DC A E H T HO GE PACKA I TARIFF H LENT R BLE L E C X E AVAILA

For further information on how to take advantage of the RHI or to get advice on MCS Certification, phone or email us on :

Telephone +44 (0) 28 91 829470 Email: office-uk@apricus.com

www.apricus.com • www.copperindustries.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 57

PLUMBING & HEATING

a night

races AT THE

IN AID OF

NI Registered Charity No.XR92281

FRIDAY 24TH APRIL La Mon Hotel, Castlereagh, Belfast

For Tickets, sponsorship and advertising opportunities please contact a NNGA committee member :

Stephen Kane 07771 653939 | Mark Harris 07796 613643 Catherine Russell 07767 377670 | Davy Frew 07720 555331

WIRELESS REPORTS FROM YOUR FGA TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE.

SPECIALISTS IN THE REPAIR AND CALIBRATION OF TEST AND MEASUREMENT EQUIPMENT FAST EFFICIENT AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICE. FULLY TRAINED ENGINEERS AND SERVICE CENTRE IS EQUIPPED WITH THE LATEST CALIBRATION INSTRUMENTATION. HAMILTON GAS PRODUCTS LTD 2 Balloo Place - Balloo Industrial Estate - Bangor.

T: 028 9146 1111 - E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk www.gasproducts.co.uk AUTHORISED DISTRIBUTOR AND CALIBRATION CENTRE FOR

58 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

OBITUARY

Colleagues pay tribute to Kenny Edwards

T

he picture opposite of Anton’s Kenny Edwards – who passed away in December – does not seem an obvious one for an obituary. But the fact that it was specifically chosen by his friends and colleagues at Anton speaks volumes about the zest for life that he will be remembered for.

Kenny passed away on December 9, 2014 after a long and hard fought battle with Leukaemia.

He was the company’s North West Area Sales Manager and was a regular on the Anton stand at the Plumbing &

Described by his colleagues at Anton as a true and very good friend, he was an inspirational guy with a zest for life and relentless positivity.

SkillPLUMB call for entries

T

alented apprentice plumbers are being encouraged to register for this year’s SkillPLUMB 2015 competition.

The application window is now open and runs until March 20.

During the competition, entrants will be judged on a series of challenging practical tests in a bid to be named the 2015 SkillPLUMB champion. The event, designed to promote and showcase high standards and skills across the plumbing industry, is organised by BPEC and has the Copper Initiative as its premier sponsor.

Between April and June there will be a number of regional events across the UK. Those who score most highly will progress to a UK final held in November at the

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

prestigious Skills Show, the UK’s largest skills and careers show with over 80,000 visitors. Competitors may also have the chance to represent their country and compete at international level at future WorldSkills events.

“Each year the quality demonstrated by our industry’s young people is astounding,” said Neil Collishaw of BPEC. “I encourage all budding apprentices to enter the competition and we look forward to the excellent standards we’ll be witnessing from competitors again this year.”

The application window closes on 20 March. Call 0800 612 0742 or visit https://worldskillsuk.org/ or more information.

Heating Trade Shows in Belfast over the years. A popular figure within the plumbing and heating industry, he was also a wellrespected voice at the end of the phone for a wide range of customers across the province.

Described by his colleagues at Anton as a true and very good friend, he was an inspirational guy with a zest for life and relentless positivity. Kenny embraced his illness with courage and dignity, and never complained. As a result, his infectious personality will be forever embedded in the hearts of all who knew him.

He leaves a wonderful wife, Julie, and two boys, Thomas and James, who are a credit to the person Ken was.

He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by all who ever had the pleasure of knowing him.

More energy efficient measures needed

A

consultation paper on energy affordability in the Republic of Ireland has stated that making homes more energy efficient is the best way to address energy poverty.

However, ‘Towards a New Affordable Energy Strategy for Ireland’ published by Energy Minister, Alex White - also noted that the funds dedicated to this area are a fraction of what’s spent on energy-related income supports.

“Retrofitting homes is the best way to help people out of energy poverty,” said the Minister. “This case for energy efficiency is underpinned by evidence from the Economic and Social Research Institute, the Vincentian Partnership for Social Justice and the International Energy Agency.”

The consultation paper also noted that, while oil remains the most prominent heating method for Irish homes, oil consumers do not currently have the statutory protections that govern the electricity and gas markets.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 59

PROJECT PROFILE

PROJECT PROFILE CENTRE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES

Thomas Hanna & Co SHOWCASE SUSTAINABILITY S

MECHANICAL DESIGN AND INSTALLATION PLAYS A CENTRAL ROLE AT ONE OF THE MOST SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS IN THE UK AND IRELAND…

outhern Regional College’s Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies (CREST) has already been heralded as a benchmark in sustainable construction and at the very heart of this is the mechanical installation carried out by Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd. Located in Enniskillen, CREST is one of the most sustainable buildings in the UK and Ireland and is the first education building in the province with PassivHaus Certification.

The facility comprises of three areas – the Hub, the Research and Development Lab and the Pavilion – and it is a sustainable technology research facility that provides demonstration and testing facilities

to showcase innovative products and processes and the use of renewable technologies in construction.

It is also a building that practices what it preaches. The Pavilion section is a demonstration building which showcases the pioneering design principles and construction methods adopted within it. This part of the centre is designed to engage local industry through experiencing new sustainable technologies and materials.

These design principles and construction methods includes the Pavilion meeting three sustainable credentials – namely, to be PassivHaus Cerfified for the energy-efficient envelope and ventilation system; BREEAM

“Underfloor heating in strategic areas of the building is supplied by an air-source heat pump.”

60 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PROJECT PROFILE

excellent in terms of the BRE sustainable benchmark for UK commercial buildings; and Zero Carbon, ie the building can provide its own source of heat and lighting through renewable energy.

The mechanical aspect of the project was central to meeting all these standards and Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd installed all the relevant mechanical elements of the design.

“Our Building Management System (BMS) is linked to the external weather station, and provides relevant information based on both internal and external readings, which allows us to optimise the performance and the operation of the building,” explained

Director, Martin Hanna.

“By using actuator-controlled windows we are able to allow night-time cooling in summer conditions, along with the fresh air requirements, controlled via the CO sensors, while underfloor heating in strategic areas of the building is supplied by an air-source heat pump, to provide the relevant heating requirements.

“Ventilation is catered for by using two heat recovery units, linked through our building management system. To ensure maximum efficiency, these are speed variable to provide the relevant duties suitable for the requirement.

“A grey water system, complete with

internal storage, provides reclaimed rainwater for usage such as flushing the toilets.

“Monitoring devices are fitted on incoming and internal water supplies, and heat meters are also fitted on the underfloor heating, all linked to the management system, allowing data to be externally exported onto the centre’s visual displays, showing real time usage.

“We worked alongside the main contractor and the design team to deliver a building which has achieved firsts of its kind in the UK and Ireland, something that we as a company are proud to have been involved in,” concluded Martin.

Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd, 74 Main Street, Brookeborough, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 4FA T: 028 895 31373 - F: 028 895 31363 – E: info@thomashanna.co.uk www.thomashanna.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 61

PROJECT PROFILE

SANITARY WARE CENTRE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES

SPECIALIST SERVICE FROM LEADING INDEPENDENT PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT SHOWCASES ITS ABILITY TO PROVIDE A TAILORED SERVICE TO LARGE PROJECTS…

Stevenson & Reid’s contract team deliver once again

W

ith such an extensive product range, meeting the needs of the CREST was a straightforward affair for plumbers’ merchants, Stevenson & Reid.

The award-winning company was tasked with supplying water-efficient sanitary ware, brassware and general plumbing supplies for the project, working closely with mechanical contractor, Thomas Hanna & Co to keep the project running smoothly.

CREST is one of the most sustainable buildings in the UK and Ireland and is the first education building in the province with PassivHaus Certification. To fulfil these demands, it had to meet some specific energy-efficient standards, with water efficiency the focus for the contracts team at Stevenson & Reid.

“We selected products from the Ideal Standard range for this project,” explained Sam McCammond, Stevenson & Reid. “This

product range is well known for its energy efficient credentials and this proved the perfect fit for this project.”

This ability to source tailored solutions for customers is one of the reasons why Stevenson & Reid continues to be such a success.

Much of this is down to the fact that Stevenson & Reid is a family business and one of the leading independent plumbers’ merchants in Northern Ireland. With this independence comes an unrivalled degree of flexibility when compared to the multinationals.

The company can also boast over 30 years’ industry experience and also benefits from having seven branches across the province.

But, as well as offering a high level of service at competitive prices to installers, the company also has the expertise to offer contract support for large domestic and

commercial projects, such as CREST. The contracts team specialises in distributing quality, cost-effective solutions to meet all contract requirements, regardless of the project size or demands of the specification.

With an experienced team to provide advice and guidance, the company also utilises its long-standing relationships with some of the leading manufacturers in the industry.

Based in Belfast, the contracts team has worked on projects across Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, including schools, hotels, hospitals, leisure centres, shopping centres and social housing.

Adding CREST to its list of prestigious projects will be another feather in the cap for this specialist team, once again highlighting that they can meet even the most stringent of standards.

Stevenson & Reid, 15 Prince Regent Road,Belfast, BT5 6QR. T: (NI) 028 9040 2225 or (RoI) 048 9040 2225 Branches at Ballymena, Ballymoney, Bangor, Belfast, Cookstown, Newtownabbey and Omagh www.stevensonandreid.co.uk

62 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PROJECT PROFILE

AIR-SOURCE HEAT PUMP AND UFH CENTRE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES

Muckamore Abbey Hospital

CAFRE College

CREST

ALTERNATIVE HEAT HELPS REDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINT AT CREST, USING LATEST RENEWABLE HEATING TECHNOLOGIES…

Energy-efficient heating system from Alternative Heat

A

lternative Heat carried out the design, supply, installation and commissioning of the air-source heat pump and underfloor heating system at CREST. The County Down-based company worked closely with the consultants and contractors on this project to deliver a heating system which best suited the build and enabled savings through the RHI scheme. The design allowed the building to have a lower environmental impact and carbon footprint.

“We were delighted to be offered the chance to work on such a prestigious project,” said a spokesman for Alternative Heat. “CREST, which is linked with South West College (SWC), is a huge boost to our installation portfolio, especially given that it is a purpose-built facility, providing state-of the-art demonstration and testing facilities for the use of renewable technologies within construction.

“The building surpasses basic energy standards set out in Building Regulations and is viewed as sustainable building design, which works closely with BREEAM Standards.

We believe we were chosen for the contract because we could offer a renewable heating system which would increase the sustainability of the build. We feel proud to have been chosen to assist in the design, supply and installation of the heating system, as we recognised what an exciting and pioneering build this was, and we now have an invaluable link to the build and its future.”

Alternative Heat Ltd was established in 2003 and, with extensive experience in the renewable and mechanical services industry, has rapidly developed into one of the leading MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) registered suppliers and installers of renewable heating systems throughout the UK and Ireland.

The company specialises in the design, supply, installation and commissioning of renewable heating systems for the commercial and industrial sector and its installations are not only sustainable and cost-effective, but also help reduce carbon emissions.

Key to the continued growth and expansion of Alternative Heat in a challenging sector, over the last number of years, has been the company’s highly skilled design team, offering top-of-the-range renewable heating systems, complemented by the integration of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

This expertise and experience has enabled the team at Alternative Heat to develop systems to cater for the needs of the modern built environment, recognising that efficiency and functionality are essential elements of any renewable heating system together with capital costs.

Alternative Heat Ltd, 11 Burrenreagh Road, Castlewellan. Co Down, BT31 9HH T: (NI) 028 437 70700 or (RoI) 048 437 70700 E: info@alternativeheat.co.uk www.alternativeheat.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 63

PROJECT PROFILE

HEAT RECOVERY UNITS CENTRE FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES

PASSIVHAUS CERTIFIED UNITS FROM ZEHNDER MEET THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF THIS ENERGY-EFFICIENT BUILDING…

The new Zehnder ComfoAir 180.

A Versatile heat recovery unit

V

ersatile once again proved the importance of offering a complete service, with the delivery of two heat recovery units to the CREST. Teaming up with Zehnder – a manufacturer the company has worked with for over 15 years – Versatile not only supplied the heat recovery units for this new facility but also provided a complete service that ranged from the initial consultation through to commissioning.

“This was vital to meet the PassivHaus standards of this project,” explained Tony Kennedy, Versatile. “The MVHR ducting is embedded into the fabric of the structure, so this had to be considered from the very beginning of the design process.

We then followed this right through to the commissioning stage.”

Tony believes this is vitally important, adding “By being involved at every stage we can ensure a design that is tailored to the needs of the project and that the product is installed as intended.

“Supply is an important aspect of any job, but we also provide a full consultation and design

The Zehnder ComfoAir XL 800 at CREST.

service in the initial stages of the project and then follow this up with on-site support for installers and after-sales support.

“We are proud to offer some of the best products around but, without proper design and installation, then no-one will be able to take full advantage of them.”

CREST placed a significant emphasis on energy efficiency, with the project team’s focus on achieving PassivHaus certification hinged on the success of the MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery) system.

MVHR systems will quietly and efficiently provide warm filtered air in cooler months, and cooler filtered air in the summer, improving the indoor air quality and reducing dust and allergen levels.

For the CREST pavilion, a Zehnder Comfoair XL 800 was selected while the Zehnder Comfoair 550 Lux was utilised in a smaller section of the building.

Both units have been tested and approved by the Passivhaus Institut in Germany, which allowed the unit’s efficiency levels to be inputted directly into the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) software. If the units had not been tested and approved, then the project would have received a 12% penalty.

The Zehnder MVHR systems supply air to areas such as demonstration halls, reception and lecture hall while corridors and the service areas above the toilets and kitchen are utilised for the air to move from the supply to the extract.

They are both controlled by a digital panel connected to the building management system. This offers automatic control over the internal environment, meaning that, if the temperature gets too warm in the summertime, for example, then a touch of a button can cool it down again. It also has a useful ‘boost’ function which speeds up the fan speed.

New heat recovery system g The Zehnder ComfoAir 180 heat recovery ventilation system is the latest new product available from Versatile.

An ultra-compact unit which is highly suited to new build and renovation projects for flats or apartments, its compact dimensions mean it can be installed in a kitchen or bathroom cupboard, if required.

The Zehnder ComfoPipe Plus Twin Duct modular system provides the perfect solution for apartments and flats, where space is at a premium. Its unique, clever, low profile design also makes it ideal for refurbishment projects where heat recovery has been identified as the best answer to ventilation issues in the home.

The CA180 works around the clock to extract air from wet rooms (kitchens and bathrooms) and combines maximum comfort with simple operation and high efficiency. It extracts the heat energy which would otherwise have been lost during the extract process and transfers this to the fresh, filtered supply air which is drawn in from outside.

Combined supply/exhaust ducting solution for apartments.

Versatile, Beechmount Home Park, Navan, County Meath T: (RoI) 046 9029444 or (NI) 00353 46 9029444 E: sales@versatile.ie www.versatile.ie

64 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE KEEPS YOU UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST NEWS IN THE COMMERCIAL HEATING SECTOR…

Andrews Water Heaters appoints new sales director

ggg

A

The London 2012 Velodrome features a Uponor radiant heating system, now part of the UBE offering.

Introducing Uponor Building Energy for the commercial building sector

U

ponor has renamed its specialist installation business (formerly known as velta), to Uponor Building Energy (UBE), emphasising its ongoing focus on the commercial built environment.

UBE provides a complete design, supply and installation service for the commercial building sector.

Uponor acquired velta in 2009, establishing itself as one of Europe’s leading providers of bespoke embedded heating and cooling solutions, which includes Thermally Activated Building Structures (TABS).

Lee Tebbatt, Managing Director, at Uponor Building Energy said, “The full integration of velta into the Uponor brand is testament to its continued success and that of the team who continue to develop unique heating and cooling solutions for a wide variety of iconic buildings.”

www.plumbingmag.com

dding to the company’s growing team of experts, Andrews Water Heaters has appointed a new Sales Director.

Chris Meir has worked in the industry since 2002, having previously worked at Lochinvar for three years and, most recently, Remeha Commercial, as Chris Meir.

National Sales Manager, for five years.

“My aim is to apply my industry experience and drive the business forward,” said Chris. “Andrews is a well-recognised and respected brand in the industry, with a comprehensive range of products, so I’m excited to further improve the brand awareness and success that the company already enjoys.”

Andrew Maclagan, Managing Director at Andrews Water Heaters, added, “As we all know, the challenges for the modern business are very real, and we are confident that Chris can drive sales and increase turnover, and assist in providing support for our valued customers in the ever changing industry.”

T: (NI) 0845 070 1055 or (RoI) 0044 845 070 1055 W: www.baxicommercial.co.uk

In the last five years alone, the Uponor radiant heating system has been installed in the Olympic Velodrome, Birmingham Library (recently shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling prize for best new building) as well as a number of other buildings, such as schools and university campuses.

Offering an unrivalled expertise in embedded radiant heating and cooling, UBE has a dedicated team of experts, providing comprehensive support from building design through to aftersales support.

T: Warren Smyth, BDM Ireland, on (NI) 07824 435216 or (RoI) 0044 7824 435216 or Jeff Smyth, Area Sales Manager, on (NI) 07885 482741 or (RoI) 0044 7885 482741.

E: warren.smyth@uponor.com or jeff.smyth@uponor.com W: www.uponor.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 65

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING

PERFECT FOR RETROFIT PROJECTS, THE LAUNCH OF THIS UNIQUE TMV OFFERS MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY IN TIGHT SPACES...

Ausimix® Compact TMV.

RWC’s telescopic TMV will get you out of a tight squeeze

F

low control solutions have long been a specialty of Reliance Water Controls (RWC), which is renowned for leading the way with innovative new products and a range that spans nearly every sector of the plumbing industry.

The company has once again confirmed this with the launch of two new products - a new and very compact Thermal Balancing Valve (TBV) for use in hot water systems with a secondary return and a range of compact and versatile Ausimix® Thermostatic Mixing Valves.

As the brand at the forefront of Thermostatic (TMV) technology, RWC has introduced the Ausimix® Compact range of thermostatic mixing valves.

These high performance TMVs are made from nickel-plated DZR brass, with high quality internal fittings for durability and longevity.

RWC’s new Thermal Balancing Valve (TBV).

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

As you would expect from a RWC product, safety is paramount with the Ausimix Compact range, which offers a stable mixed water temperature and features a rapid failsafe for supreme protection against scalding or thermal shock on either hot or cold supply failure.

Approved by BuildCert, under both the TMV2 and TMV3 schemes, the range is ideal for both domestic and healthcare environments being Part G and NHS MES D08 compliant. The range is also WRAS approved.

Ausimix is available in two versions, the 2-in-1 and the 4-in-1, both in a choice of 15mm or 22mm pipe sizes. The compact body of the Ausimix valve assists with installation, even in restricted spaces, and the additional option of a unique 2-in-1 model with Telescopic Union Connectors gives even greater flexibility for retrofit applications, permitting 10mm of flexibility on both inlets. Furthermore, there are also 2-in-1 and 4-in-1 versions available with SharkBite pushfit ends for even quicker installation.

Each valve is factory set at 38°C with a temperature setting range of 38°C-46°C. The Ausimix is designed to work at flow rates as low as 4lpm and to withstand maximum working pressures of up to 10 bar.

In addition to this, the launch of the new TBV balances the temperature in the system by automatically regulating the flow. It will restrict the flow as the temperature rises to its set point, but at 70°C a built-in bypass will open, allowing a higher flow rate for disinfection to protect against legionella.

Available in ½” and ¾” sizes, the compact valve is pre-insulated to save time and cost upon installation. Female connections allow for simple adaptation

“Ausimix telescopic provides greater flexibility for retrofit applications.” to a wide range of fittings, while the option of SharkBite push-fit ends enables even faster installation. Features include easy tamperproof set-up, which is easily adjustable between 40 - 65°C, with a clear indicator to show set temperature. A dryfit, push-in thermometer is also included and eliminates the need to drain the system. The valve comes with a compact and handy insulation case, which saves additional insulation time and cost.

The body of the TBV is made from DZR brass with high quality internal fittings for durability and longevity. The valve has a maximum working pressure of 10 bar and is accurate to within +/- 2°C. Available spares include a dry-fit pushin thermometer, service kit and spare insulation case.

T: Stuart Harron, Divisional Sales Manager, on (NI) 07909 532133 or (RoI) 0044 7909 532133 E: stuart.harron@rwc.com T: Garth Walsh, Product Manager, Ireland, on (NI) 07881 274917 or (RoI) 0044 7881 274917 E: garth.walsh@rwc.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 67

Unical ®

MODULEX EXT.

THE NEXT GENERATION IN CONDENSING GAS BOILERS

INIMITABLE EFFICIENCY: • DEEP MODULATION • MAXIMUM SAVING AND EFFICIENCY 109% CERTIFIED • GUARANTEE OF OPERATION • COMPACTNESS • LOW ACOUSTIC IMPACT 49 DBA • OUTDOOR INSTALLATION PROTECTION DEGREE IPX5D • HIGH RELIABILITY WITH MULTI BURNER COMPOSITION IN ONE CASING • PATENTED TECHNOLOGY THIS IS THE DNA OF MODULEX EXT.

FOR ENQUIRIES UNIT 15 ABBEY BUSINESS PARK, MILL ROAD, NEWTOWNABBEY BT36 7BA

tel: +44 (0)28 9036 5555 e-mail: michaelc@cfquadrant.com

EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING – PROJECT INSIGHT

Michael Clarke, C&F Quadrant (right) and Michael Crymble, Geoff Castles Boiler Services Ltd, and one of the new Unical Modulex boilers installed at Nazareth House, Belfast.

SUCCESSFUL PROJECT TO CUT FUEL BILLS AT BELFAST CARE VILLAGE…

C&F Quadrant delivers high efficiency savings

C

&F Quadrant has worked closely with Geoff Castles Boiler Services Ltd to complete a boiler replacement at the Nazareth House Care Village in Belfast.

Located at Ravenhill Road, Nazareth House Care Village is a 70-capacity care home accommodation facility set within its own spacious grounds.

As with many care homes, heating demands are 24/7 at Nazareth House but, following an energy audit, Geoff Castles Boiler Services was asked to put forward ideas on how to cut the home’s spiralling fuel costs.

The system at that time included a cascade system consisting of 12 108kw atmospheric boilers but this has now been replaced with just two Unical Modulex 660kW gas condensing boilers from C&F Quadrant.

“Our goal was to introduce a more energy efficient heating system and we were delighted to again be working alongside the team at C&F Quadrant to identify the best options,” explained Michael Crymble of Geoff Castles Boiler Services.

“Heat is essential aspect of a care home and we were asked to ensure this wasn’t interrupted, so one of the main challenges we faced during the installation was to keep everything up and running. C&F Quadrant worked closely with us to make sure the new boilers were delivered on schedule, which allowed us to meet these demands.”

The installation of the new Unical boilers has already created a substantial change in heating bills at Nazareth House.

Michael Clarke, Technical Manager at C&F Quadrant, explained, “The system has only been in a place for a matter

of months, but the early feedback on fuel savings has already been very good.

“Our energy team will continue to monitor the running costs and we expect to deliver on the promised savings.”

He added, “At the moment, there is a real focus on energy efficiency as more companies and facilities such as care homes look to cut their fuel bills and we continue to prove that our product range can make a significant difference.”

The two Unical Modulex boilers – each 660kW with both casings including six multiburners - are fuelled by natural gas provide full modulation between 22kW to 1,320kW. This project continues C&F Quadrant’s successful partnership with Unical that perfectly balances a quality product range with industry-leading experience.

C&F Quadrant is Unical’s sole distributor in Ireland, with the company distributing the leading Italian manufacturer’s proven range of commercial boilers in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Unical’s range has already been proven across Europe, USA and America in some of the harshest environments, including Siberia.

C&F Quadrant, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT36 7BA T: 028 9036 5555 W: www.cfquadrant.ie

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 69

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING – PROJECT INSIGHT

SANIRISH WEIGHS IN WITH SWIFT INSTALLATION OF NEW PUMPING STATION AT BUSY DUBLIN GYM…

Sanicubic XL pumps it up at Dublin Gym

A

pumping station that was only launched by Saniflo at the end of 2014 has already proved successful in its very first installation in Ireland, at the Educo Gym in Pearse Street, Dublin.

The international fitness centre caters to hundreds of regular members and so, when the existing pump (which services the gym’s toilet and shower facilities) stopped working properly before Christmas, it was imperative that a swift replacement was found.

Step forward Sanirish, which had just taken stock of the newest and biggest Saniflo in the range - a Sanicubic XL, capable of pumping 40 m3/hr of black waste water from multiple appliances. In the case of the Educo gym, the pump had to be able to service two WCs, six showers and four basins, all from a basement in the car park beneath the building.

The Sanicubic XL pumping station installed at the Educo Gym, Dublin.

Gym owner, Jamie Myerscough, is very happy with how quickly the situation was resolved.

“The support from the team at Sanirish has been second to none,” she said. “There was no stock of spares available in Ireland for our previous pump and we weren’t able to wait, so we looked for an alternative.

“Our installer, Drain It, organised a very quick site visit and brought along the team from Sanirish to survey the application. It proved to be the perfect spot for the new XL, which was thankfully in stock, and it has proved to be perfect for our use.

“It has plenty of power to pump the waste from the appliances into the unit and then out to the existing soil stack located above the gym floor level. We literally enquired on a Friday and we were back up and running on the Saturday, thanks to the swift installation. We also know we can easily get spares for this unit, which is clearly beneficial.”

PIONEERING

The Educo Gym in Dublin, which has benefited from the swift installation of a Sanicubic XL pumping station.

70 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

The Sanicubic XL has a 120-litre tank capacity to ensure it can function efficiently when connected to several waste water sources at a time. It incorporates pioneering vortex technology which powerfully discharges waste through 80 or 100mm discharge pipes with the help of two 2kW pumps. Easy and inexpensive to install, the unit simply stands on the ground, avoiding the need for costly excavations. It is also IP68 rated to give it protection against submersion in water.

“The Sanicubic XL can function efficiently when connected to several waste water sources at a time.”

The new unit offers both plumbers and merchants the opportunity to provide powerful waste water solutions for large commercial projects where new facilities are required, but where traditional drainage sources aren’t readily available.

Robin Jackman of Sanirish commented, “Here at Sanirish we have a knowledgeable team who can provide technical advice before, during and after Saniflo installations.

We carry a huge stock of reasonably priced spare parts too, because we understand that continuity of service is highly important.

“There are tens of thousands of products reliably working throughout the UK and Ireland in a variety of sectors, which highlights just how useful a Saniflo macerator pump can be when extra bathroom, kitchen or other facilities are required.”

T: (RoI) 046 97 33077 or (NI) 00353 46 97 33077 E: info@sanirish.com W: www.saniflo.ie

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING – PROJECT INSIGHT

C&F Quadrant worked with mechanical contractor, T.Bourke & Co, to supply boilers and burners for the project.

COMPANY PROUD TO BE INVOLVED IN SIGNIFICANT RESTORATION PROJECT OF ICONIC BUILDING DESTROYED IN CHRISTMAS DAY FIRE…

Singing C&F Quadrant’s praises at St Mel’s Cathedral

C

&F Quadrant is proud to have been involved in the beautiful restoration of St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford.

The iconic neo-classical style building was originally built in the 1840s and is named after the nephew of Saint Patrick but it was completely gutted in a Christmas Day fire in 2009 which left this beautiful cathedral as a burnt out shell.

However, the local community rallied round and five years later – on Christmas Day, 2014 – Mass was celebrated for the first time following the completion of a painstaking €30million restoration.

The cathedral was unveiled by the Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise, who said it had been a story of transformation “from a shell to the beautiful and elegant sacred place”.

The majority of the €30million cost was funded by an insurance settlement,

while €1 million was raised from voluntary contributions. Among the many notable features of the restored building are a Carrara marble altar sculpted by Tom Glendon and a silver tabernacle created

by Imogen Stuart and Vicki Donovan.

The cathedral also holds a pipe organ, consisting of 2,307 pipes, built by Fratelli Ruffatti, of Padua, Italy and stained glass windows designed by Paris-based artist Kim en Joong, a Dominican priest.

UPDATE While the main focus was on restoring as many of the original elements of the building as possible, architect FKP Architects also took the opportunity to update the electrical and mechanical systems within the cathedral.

C&F Quadrant worked with mechanical contractor, T.Bourke & Co, to supply boilers and burners for the project. The

company supplied two Buderus 315-9 boilers with Riello RL34 burners, a wellproven boiler/burner partnership.

Buderus, part of The Bosch Group, is one of the largest heating brands in Europe and worldwide and enjoys a marketleading position in sales of commercial heating solutions. With very high efficiencies, the Buderus 315-9 boiler is a leading boiler in their range.

Complementing the Buderus range is the RL series of burners, whose operation is single or two-stage and fitted with a microprocessor for use in low or medium temperature hot water boilers, hot air or steam boilers, and diathermic oil boilers.

Conor Quigley of C&F Quadrant, said, “This is a real good news story that shows the strength and resolve of the local community of Longford and we are delighted to have been involved in this project.”

C&F Quadrant, Unit L40, Cherry Orchard Industrial Estate, Ballyfermot Road, Dublin 10, Ireland, T: 01 630 5757 W: www.cfquadrant.ie

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 71

Prestige - A new generation n High quality components n Efficiency and modulation n Stainless steel heat exchanger n ACVMAX® Electronics n Integrated cascade control

n Graphical user interface

n Easy installation set up menu covers 80% of standard installations n Easy diagnostics with full text error messages and problem solving information n Control cascades of up to 4 boilers without an additional controller

Further innovation in the new generation of Prestige boiler is the all new ACVMAX® system control, which has been designed to be flexible yet easy to use. The new control panel with integrated manometer and LCD provide all the necessary information with the simple push of a button. As well as monitoring the boiler to ensure optimal efficiency, the ACVMAX® offers many advanced control options, including control of up to 4 boilers in cascade without the extra expense of an additional controller, and native support for open protocols such as OpenTherm® 3.2 and Modbus® enabling easy integration into Building Management Systems (BMS).

Operating the Prestige in cascade offers a modulation ratio of 1:73 a highly flexible output from the minimum output of one unit to 100% of the combined

of wall hung boilers The new generation of Prestige wall hung boilers from ACV are now available. With an extended range of 4 models in sizes 50kW, 75kW, 100kW and 120kW there is a prestige boiler suited to almost every commercial application. At the core of the Prestige is ACV’s unique, self-cleaning stainless steel heat exchanger, developed and improved after intensive research and laboratory testing. The use of stainless steel provides unparalleled resistance to corrosion and the additives used in modern heating systems; we believe the durability of the material makes it a reliable and efficient choice. power of all the boilers. Prestige boilers can be installed in a cascade from 2 to 8 units with a maximum combined output of 920kW. A cascade installation greatly improves the system efficiency and fuel usage resulting in reduced running costs and helps keep emissions to a minimum. The prestige boiler also now comes with an integrated non-return flue valve to make fluing options easier when considering a cascade system.

The new prestige boiler has been developed for ease of installation, maintenance and efficiency which will benefit the installer and end user. All parts are serviceable from the front of the unit by removing the front cover, which cuts down on service time. The improved ACVMAXÂŽ system control also has an easy menu structure which covers up to 80% of standard installations, easy diagnostics and full text error messages and problem solving information.

The connections on the underside of the prestige give easy access during installation with the added benefit of being in the same position as the previous models. All the accessories required for a cascade installation are available from ACV.

If you would like more information on the new generation of ACV Prestige wall hung boilers, please call C&F Quadrant on Dublin: 01 630 5757 Belfast: 028 9036 5555 or visit www.cfquadrant.ie

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING

LOCAL EXPERIENCE COMBINED WITH WORLD-RENOWNED MANUFACTURING EXPERTISE MAKES A WINNING COMBINATION… The Innovens Pro MCA high technology condensing boiler, shown as cascade.

De Dietrich excellence from Hevac

W

hen first established in 1974, Hevac gained an immediate reputation for the diversity of its product portfolio, and especially for the quality of the products from the marketleading brands the company represented.

Over the years this reputation has been further strengthened because of the continuous addition of new product lines and additional suppliers.

De Dietrich, the world-renowned manufacturer of pioneering heating technology solutions, is a typical example.

A symbol of quality since 1778, De Dietrich is committed to the development of Sustainable Comfort®, the objective of which is to create innovative heating systems that consume less energy and preserve the environment.

As exclusive De Dietrich distributors in Ireland, Hevac has forged a very strong relationship with the company, thereby making a wealth of innovative product, and technology, available on the Irish market.

As part of that knowledge transfer process Hevac runs regular in-house training seminars for both installers and consultants, and also takes them to the De Dietrich Training School in Mertzwiller, France.

The objective is to enhance their general boiler knowledge and skills but, more specifically, to improve their understanding of condensing systems, condensing applications, and water treatment for condensing boilers.

Innovens Pro MCA.

energy-use for commercial installations. The total premix modulating burner guarantees: • Optimal combustion quality across the entire output range thanks to a system of integrated mixing for a constant air/gas ratio; • A boiler output range of 56 kW to 1303 kW which can be adapted to a wide variety of needs; • Very low polluting emissions; • Annual operating efficiency of up to 109% at 40/30°C. Now with the Diematic iSystem controller added to the ECO range the system can be programmed to enable the management of external safety devices, modulating pumps, systems combined with solar energy and heat pumps and the programmed control of heating circuits with mixing valves. It is also possible to connect and control up to 10 boilers in cascade.

The Innovens Pro MCA is a high-technology wall-hung gas condensing boiler. Using the

latent heat of the steam that is contained in its vapours, condensing provides additional heating while using less energy.

Additional features include the Diematic iSystem control panel that is capable of adjusting boiler functioning to the most precise needs, and a modulating gas burner that reinforces the benefits of the condensing effect while guaranteeing very low emission levels. It is also capable of providing large volumes of domestic hot water.

T: Paul Devereux, Hevac on (RoI) 01 419 1919 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1919 E: pauldevereux@hevac.ie; T: David Doherty, Hevac. (RoI) 086 833 2141 or (NI) 00353 86 833 2141 E: daviddoherty@hevac.ie W: www.hevac.ie

Key benefits of the The Innovens Pro MCA include:

NEW RANGE Among the latest De Dietrich models to be introduced are the ECO commercial gas condensing boiler range, and the Innovens Pro MCA wall-hung modulating condensing boilers.

The ECO range of gas condensing boilers has a silicium aluminium heat-exchanger and a modulating burner which maximises the

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

• Boiler output range of 8.9 kW to 114 kW which can be adapted to a wide variety of needs • Optimised for energy savings and ecology • A system that is complete, flexible and intelligent • Customised domestic hot water output at high levels of comfort • Maximum performance in minimum space • Complete hydraulic cascade systems available with full cascade control for connection of 2 to 10 boilers, over 1000 kW.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 75

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING

FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION MEANS IT CAN BE SET UP IN A VARIETY OF WAYS TO SUIT THE NEEDS OF THE BUILDING AND ITS OCCUPANTS…

NBB Booster Box provides complete potable pressure solution

T

he solution to low mains water pressure issues in residential buildings has been developed as a complete, compact modular package thanks to leading pump manufacturer, DAB Pumps.

Known as the NBB Booster Box, it pressurises potable water in residential applications and can be set up and installed in a variety of ways to suit the needs of the building and its occupants.

Its installer friendly, modular components include a WRAS approved 280 litre tank, choices of a submersible or surface mounted pump, both of which can be fixed speed or more energy efficient variable speed pumps.

The range also includes a twin pump duty standby option and a tank extension kit.

The dimensions of the Booster Box have been designed to be as compact as possible,

with a height of 895mm, depth of 747m and width of 581mm, thus making the product easier to site within the space commonly available in residential applications.

“Mains water pressure continues to drop across the country and with only a mandatory requirement by the water companies to provide a minimum of 1 Bar into a property, water pressure around a building is becoming an issue,” explained Adam Ferneyhough, UK Sales and Marketing Director at DAB Pumps.

“The NBB Booster Box provides installers with the the definitive solution for tackling low water pressure.”

T: (NI) 01279 652776 or (RoI) 0044 1279 652776 W: www.dabpumps.co.uk

NBB Booster Box

The distinction between leaders and followers is innovation High efficiency commercial hot water solutions • Energy efficient - up to 107% net efficiency* • Saves space, water, energy and time • Limitless application • Future proof against future regulations

• Renewables ready when you are Suitable for use as a temperature booster for solar thermal and heatpumps

* In accordance with BS EN 677

DISTRIBUTED BY HAMILTON GAS PRODUCTS LTD 2 Balloo Place - Balloo Industrial Estate - Bangor.

T: +44 (0)28 9146 1111 E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk www.gasproducts.co.uk

76 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

COMMERCIAL PLUMBING & HEATING

CONTINUOUS FLOW GAS-FIRED WATER HEATING EXPERT, RINNAI REVEALS NEWS OF THE COMPANY’S MUCH ANTICIPATED INFINITY LOW NOX SERIES…

Rinnai = ultra efficiencies, ultra economy and ultra performance

R

innai’s forthcoming launch of the lowest (NOx) rated infinity water heating appliance available in today’s market, is set to revolutionise the industry.

The new state-of-the-art Infinity 1600i condensing Low-NOx water heater has been tested to below 20 ppm (NOx).

In commercial test areas incorporating flow and return systems, the units have recorded NOx levels as low as 7ppm, due to the incorporation of Rinnai’s innovative down-firing pre-mix burner and continual optimisation of gas input, utilising intelligent integral controls and a modulation range of between 56kw to 4kw.

The heater can also demonstrate thermal efficiencies of 105%. Returning figures such as these, specifiers, installers and end users can be assured that these units are future-proofed against lower NOx regulations that are inevitable in forthcoming years as the Government steps up its fight to cut harmful emissions and save energy.

The Infinity 1600 i/e low nox series is available with an output of 54 kw, producing 37 litres of temperaturecontrolled hot water per minute.

This premium product joins Rinnai’s stable of technically advanced Infinity continuous flow water heating products.

The use of advanced condensing technology, combined with Rinnai’s new down-firing pre-mix burners, ensures every cubic metre of natural gas or LPG is utilised to the maximum.

The units are also renewables-ready and suitable for use as a temperature booster for solar thermal and heat-

www.plumbingmag.com

pump installations. This is welcome news in a climate where energy prices are steadily rising and new energyefficient technologies are fast coming into use.

The Ultra Infinity range is a premier product, the flagship of Rinnai’s range which includes – non-condensing Infinity water heaters, ideal for the replacement market, and the heavy-duty condensing range (Infinity HDC1500 and HDC1200), providing excellent efficiencies for commercial operations of all sizes, whether used to stand alone or in Infinity Plus form, where banks of HDC units are combined to satisfy the high peak time demands of larger operations.

The new Ultra Infinity range is available now.

Rinnai products are available via all-Ireland distributor, Hamilton Gas Products.

T: (NI) 028 9146 1111 or (RoI) 048 9146 1111 E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk W: www.gasproducts.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

Commitment to quality

“The Ultra Infinity range is a premier product…”

g Rinnai water heater technologies are backed with extensive warranties and expert design support.

As a global leader in gas appliance manufacturing, the company strives for reliable and consistent quality, and in order to supply innovative heating appliances that make its customers’ lives more comfortable, Rinnai continually develops and provides appropriate products, while paying close attention to modern demands and problems. This requires advanced developmental and technological capabilities and a quality assurance system that reflects these features in each and every product. Rinnai endeavours to deliver quality to meet future requirements and is committed to making even more sophisticated appliances.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 77

NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY

94%

of installers believe that consumers have benefitted from the introduction of supply competition into the NI energy market.

61%

Believe the regulator’s role has been significant in the development of the natural gas industry.

Guest speakers at January’s NINGA event in Belfast (from left) Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales for firmus energy, Jonathan Martindale, Business Development Manager from Phoenix Natural Gas, and Tanya Hedley, Director of Compliance and Networks from the Utility Regulator.

56%

The January NINGA night proved popular.

SURVEY AT SUCCESSFUL NINGA EVENT PROVIDES AN INSIGHT INTO HOW INSTALLERS FEEL THE NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY COULD BE BOOSTED…

Installers want to see incentives to offset installation costs

I

nstallers in the natural gas industry want to see the Utility Regulator focus on incentivising new gas customers to offset what is seen as the biggest barrier to new business.

A number of industry-related questions were put to the audience of January’s well-attended NINGA event in Belfast, with those using an electronic system to vote.

Over half of respondents (56%) said the Utility Regulator should focus on providing incentives to new gas customers to help stimulate the natural gas industry.

The audience also highlighted what they see as the biggest barrier to attracting new customers to the natural gas network – the price of installation.

Over two-thirds (70%) of the audience felt that the price of installation was preventing new customers switching to gas. This was in contrast to just 7% who stated that that the price of gas was a barrier.

Interestingly, the respondents have backed the impact of competition

www.plumbingmag.com

in the industry and the introduction of the Utility Regulator.

Practically the entire audience (97%) agreed that consumers have benefitted from the introduction of supply competition in Northern Ireland, with 61% stating that the regulator’s role has been a significant part of the development of the natural gas industry in Northern Ireland.

The survey results were released following one of NINGA’s most successful events, which provided the perfect start to the 2015 NINGA calendar at the La Mon Hotel.

The evening, sponsored by Phoenix, attracted a number of first time visitors and included presentations from guest speakers Tanya Hedley, Director of Compliance and Networks from the Utility Regulator, Paul Stanfield, Director of Sales for firmus energy and Jonathan Martindale, Business Development Manager from Phoenix Natural Gas. Tanya Hedley provided a

FOLLOW US ON:

Feel the Utility Regulator should focus on incentivising new gas customers to help stimulate growth in the natural gas industry.

70%

fascinating insight into the role of the regulator and its core responsibilities as well as an overview of best practice regulation.

Paul Stanfield explained the growth of the distribution network in the firmus licence area, known as the ‘Ten Towns’, and discussed the challenge of making the network ‘work’ by connecting as many new customers as possible to existing assets.

Jonathan Martindale concluded the presentation with an overarching review of 2014 as well as looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities of 2015.

Jonathan also focussed on the branding techniques installation companies can use to promote their business. For further tips and ideas on this area you can visit the Promoting Your Business section of the NINGA website.

For more information on NINGA (Northern Ireland Natural Gas Association), visit www.ninga. co.uk or contact Jonathan Martindale on 07800 626071.

Highlighted the price of installation as the biggest barrier to new customers connecting to the natural gas network.

50%

See effective marketing and promotion activity from gas utility companies as the most likely factor to influence growth this year.

55%

Feel the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive won’t have a significant effect on the continued development of the gas industry.

Next NINGA dates – April 1, Ideal May 6, Vaillant.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 79

£200 Now you can enjoy all the benefits of Calor Central Heating in your home. Switch today and get a new boiler free, along with the peace of mind that comes with Calor’s 12 month price freeze promise.* What’s more, this March, there’s an extra warm welcome with £200 bonus credit* on your account when you switch to Calor.

028 9045 5588

GAS NEWS

INSTALLERS SET TO BENEFIT AS LP GAS COMPANY LAUNCHES NEW PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN…

New boiler incentive from Calor

C

alor has launched a new incentive campaign which will see homeowners receive a new boiler when they make a switch from oil.

Home-owners making the switch to Calor Central Heating can get a FREE boiler, or they can also opt for boiler support to the value of £500. Alternatively, they can also opt for 1,200 litres of free gas instead giving the customer choice.

In addition, until March 31, 2015, Calor is offering a Quick Switch bonus of £200 credit to any customer who switches before that date.

While home-owners will benefit from these new incentives, Calor’s installers are also set to take advantage of an increase in business due to this new deal.

Calor is respected for its strong working relationship with installers and work extensively within the industry to promote

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

the enormous potential of LP Gas in Northern Ireland as more and more people enjoy the instant benefits of gas.

Installers will benefit not only from new work, but also from installer incentive schemes, as Andrew Sands, Domestic Sales Representative for Northern Ireland, explained.

“We enjoy a partnership approach with installers, enabling us all to grow our business,” he said. “More people are weighing up their options in a bid to reduce their fuel costs and we are seeing that the LP gas message is making an impression.”

Andrew deals with home-owners to guide them through the switch-over process and, in turn, works with Calor’s recommended installers to arrange the full process, working in partnership to ensure a seamless switch for the customer. Installers can also benefit from training and engineering support, as required.

Leads from new jobs are generated both from Calor and through installers themselves, bringing benefit to both parties.

“It doesn’t matter where the sales call originates from us or an installer; at the end of the day we are all aiming to provide our customers with the highest standards of service,” added Andrew. “We have the expertise of explaining all the benefits of switching to Calor while installers have the experience and technical know-how to make the switch possible.

“It is the perfect balance and means everyone is a winner – Calor, the installer and, most importantly, our customers.”

T: (NI) 028 9045 6688 or (RoI) 01 8508 12450 T: Andrew Sands, Northern Ireland Domestic Sales Representative, (NI) 07702 368074 W: www.calorgas.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 81

ERP DIRECTIVE

NEIL MATTOCK, MARKETING DIRECTOR, VOKÈRA, LOOKS AT WHAT THE LEGISLATION BEHIND THE ERP DIRECTIVE MEANS FOR THE INDUSTRY…

ARE YOU READY FOR ErP?

E

nergy efficiency remains a top priority for heating manufacturers, installers and their customers.

The ErP (Energy-related Products) Directive will be introduced across the EU for heating and hot water systems in 2015, with the aim of improving efficiency and environmental performance.

According to Department of Energy and Climate Change figures, space heating accounts for 66% of all energy usage in the home.

As a result, the EU is focused on driving through improvements in the efficiency and environmental performance of space heating appliances and systems.

The ErP is a mandatory piece of EU legislation which, from September this year, will create minimum efficiency standards for heating and hot water systems, by ensuring that manufacturers meet energy-labelling and eco-design requirements. It is designed to help achieve a targeted EU reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

In essence, the ErP will ensure that specific design requirements are met and that products are labelled with their energy-efficiency ratings, named the Labelling Directive. The energy performance labels are rated from G to A+++, in a similar way to the ratings already found on domestic white goods.

The Directive will address product performance by categories or lots.

Product Lot 1 covers heat pumps, CHP (Combined Heat and Power) and boilers and will include minimum NOx (nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide) and product efficiency levels which need to be attained. The latest information provided suggests that permitted NOx levels will be set at 70mg/kW for gasfired boilers and 120mg/kW for oil.

Overall, the aim is to drive change and

82 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

encourage the uptake of more energy efficient boilers, allowing installers and consumers to compare the respective performances of different products in a clearly labelled, easily recognisable way. After the introduction of ErP, manufacturers will not be able to produce boilers below a particular efficiency.

Of course, improving efficiency continues to be a very important goal for manufacturers, ahead of the ErP introduction, and there is much that has been done to help installers reduce fuel bills and carbon emissions for their customers.

Boiler modulation is one significant area of innovation. In simple terms, this is the boiler’s ability to reduce its maximum output to its minimum output. A wide modulation range will provide a good output ratio, whereas a narrow modulation will give a poor ratio.

For example, if a boiler has a maximum output of 30kW and a minimum output of 7.7kW, its modulation ratio is less than 4:1. Meanwhile, an appliance with a maximum output of 30kW and a minimum output of 3kW has a wider modulation ratio of 10:1. This will both improve comfort levels and significantly reduce the wear and tear of the boiler itself, consequently improving the overall efficiency of the boiler.

Another important development in recent years has been better boiler control.

Linking the boiler to an intelligent thermostat control can contribute to efficiency improvements. For example, Vokèra has recently introduced its OpenTherm protocol RF programmable room thermostat to improve boiler operating efficiency still further.

Simple to install, this product

“The introduction of ErP will have a big impact on the boiler industry and will help to inform consumers about the energy efficient boilers available.”

modulates the boiler’s outlet flowtemperature in line with the internal temperature to substantially reduce a home’s energy consumption by as much as 10%. As well as modulating controls that work in alignment with internal conditions, there are control systems that will regulate the boiler according to the outside environment. Weather compensation technology aligns the heating system flow temperature to the outside temperature, where the flow temperature increases or decreases in response to external weather conditions.

The introduction of ErP will have a big impact on the boiler industry and will help to inform consumers about the energy efficient boilers available.

Installers have an important role to play in advising consumers how they can make the best choices to keep their fuel bills as low as possible, so they need to understand and be ready for the ErP by September.

T: (RoI) 056 77 55057 or (|NI) 00353 5677 55057 W: www.vokera.ie

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC) PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE BRINGS YOU THE LATEST NEWS ON ENERGY EFFICIENCY PRODUCTS IN THE DOMESTIC SECTOR…

Burst pesky system bubbles with Inta-Vent

ggg intavent brass air separator

I g

nta is making trapped wind a thing of the past with a new tool that automatically extracts air bubbles from sealed heating systems using a powerful vortex filtration system.

The Inta-Vent Daerator puts paid to common problems in domestic as well as commercial heating appliances, such as noisy pipes, increased wear on system components, cold spots in radiators and corrosion.

The filter works by forcing water in the system to pass through a tight coil of stainless steel mesh, generating a vortex within the the filter body. This action exposes and captures micro bubbles, which then combine and rise before being discharged.

As well as reducing the risk of system wear and tear, Inta-Vent increases fuel efficiency

JG Speedfit

New Eliminator Nano is most effective compact filter on the market

g

Page 87

Worcester, Bosch Page 89

Get smart with the Warmup 4iE WiFi thermostat

g

T

Saturn Heating Page 91

feature highlights... www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

by ensuring systems are operating with optimum conditions, increasing both their longevity and day-to-day performance.

Boasting a sturdy solid brass construction and available in 22 and 28mm, the filter is quick and easy to fit, with full 360° installation.

T: (NI) 01889 272 180 or (RoI) 0044 1889 272 180 W: www.intatec.co.uk

rade professionals and installers looking for new ways to differentiate their businesses, grow market share and increase profit in a crowded and competitive market should look no further than the 4iE smart WiFi thermostat from Warmup – the UK’s best-selling floor heating brand. The Warmup 4iE thermostat is the only ‘smart stat’ on the market that acts both like a personal energy adviser by showing home-owners the best ways to optimise heating usage. Once installed, the 4iE can be controlled from its touchscreen or through smartphones, laptops and tablets via the MyWarmup web portal.

T: (NI) 0845 345 2288 or (RoI) 0044 845 345 2288 W: www.warmup.co.uk

P

roven to collect almost 20% more debris than the nearest compact filter competitor products, the new Eliminator Nano from Sentinel is a compact filter for heating systems, that doesn’t compromise on performance.

Thanks to its unique Quadra-Cyclone technology, the Eliminator Nano removes both magnetic and non-magnetic debris from system water, and overcomes the usual problems associated with smaller sized magnets to offer unrivalled protection from circulating sludge.

T: (NI) 01928 704330 or (RoI) 0044 1928 704330 W: www.sentinelprotects.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 85

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

IRISH COMPANY, FIREBIRD, RANKED BEST IN EUROPE FOR BOILER EFFICIENCY WITH ENVIROMAX SUPREME OIL BOILER…

Firebird rated No.1 in Europe

Firebird’s

ENVIROMAX SUPREME is the most efficient boiler available as rated No.1 by SEAI

For supplier and technical details, please contact: FIREBIRD HEATING SOLUTIONS Shean, Forkhill, Newry, BT35 9SY T: +44 (0) 28 3088 8330 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail.co.uk

www.firebird.ie

86 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

F

irebird Heating Solutions, a leading heating solutions provider in Ireland and the UK, has been officially rated No.1 for boiler efficiency in Europe by Harp and Sedbuk.

“We are absolutely delighted to be officially rated No.1 in Europe. It is such a great achievement and means we are definitely doing something right,” said Francie Rafferty of Firebird. “The company is Irish owned but has grown internationally over the years, and the expansion into other countries worldwide has definitely paid off for us now.

“We are thrilled, as we work hard to make sure we deliver the best standards to the end customer, and it’s nice to be recognised for that work.”

The company is positioned as a brand leader in domestic heating systems in the UK and Ireland and guarantees the highest quality product and service through its dedicated sales, technical and after sales teams.

Established in 1979,

FOLLOW US ON:

Firebird Heating Solutions is celebrating 35 years in business this year. To complement its experience and expertise in householder heating solutions, the company has a research and development team which continuously works on developing new products and improving existing products, with a focus on efficiency and performance.

The Firebird Heating solutions product range includes oil condensing boilers, biomass boilers, solar thermal systems, oil fired and multi-fuel range cookers, multi-fuel back boiler and dry inset stoves.

The latest new addition to this already extensive product range is the Enviromax Supreme - the most efficient oil boiler in Europe, which promises to save customers even more money on their heating bills.

T: (NI) 028 3088 8330 or (RoI) 026 45 253 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail. co.uk W: www.firebird.ie

www.plumbingmag.com

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

JG Aura heating controls.

NORTH LODGE HOME BENEFITS FROM THE LATEST INNOVATIONS FROM JG SPEEDFIT, INCLUDING THE RECENTLY LAUNCHED JG AURA APP…

Gavin Thomas of GT Heating testing the new JG Aura heating control system.

Comfort with JG Aura and JG Underfloor

B

uilt by GPC Services, the recently constructed North Lodge house is well located in the heart of the picturesque Welsh capital, right next to the colossal site of the gorgeous Cardiff Castle.

The house has a total quadrature of 121.09m2 and comprises of a master bedroom, kitchen, lounge, hall and a utility room.

With a view to being as energy efficient as possible, underfloor heating was chosen as the ultimate solution for heat distribution throughout the house. The UFH concept alone offers great system control, concentrates warmth where needed for comfort and efficiency, and allows for further energy bill cuts. Naturally, to boost the energy-saving advantages of such a system an efficient heating controls technology was also required.

Supplied by JG Speedfit, the UFH system for the North Lodge house was installed with the JG staple technology.

The staple system is among the several alternatives JG Speedfit offers for solid floor installations. It is suitable where large areas need to be covered and is ideal for rooms with an irregular shape. Using the screed as a heat diffuser, the pipe was secured with staples to rigid insulation panels placed over the concrete subfloor.

The system installer, Gavin Thomas of GT Heating, was delighted with the after-sales support JG Speedfit provided. This was the first time he had installed a UFH system and he commented that the CAD drawings he received and the on-site visits from the JG technical team helped him immensely during all stages of the project. Gavin was also impressed with how easy it was to

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

uncoil and handle the JG Layflat® pipe, describing it as “a wonderful product saving time and hassle”.

Efficient system control throughout the North Lodge house is ensured by JG Aura - the new heating controls range by JG Speedfit.

The system provides the capability of controlling multiple zones, enabling the home-owner to set heating time and temperature within each individual room, resulting in considerable energy savings.

This is enabled by JG Aura’s capability to simultaneously manage underfloor heating circuits, hot water supply and individual radiators.

The set-up of the JG Aura network at the North Lodge house took minutes, as the JG Coordinator scanned and paired most components instantaneously - both of the large UFH manifolds downstairs as well as the upstairs radiator circuits were paired in minutes.

For the added benefit of controlling the system through a smart device, the JG Hub was installed providing an internet enabled system. The only thing left to do was to download the JG Aura App on the home-owner’s smart phone and tablet, which allows for swift system control from anywhere and at any time of the day.

As Gavin pointed out, having the JG Hub installed and the JG Aura App downloaded means it is less expensive and more convenient than having to purchase a dedicated controller at an unreasonable price.

T: (NI) Mark Mills on 07753 832211 or (RoI) Ian Kelly on 0861 734027 W: www.jgspeedfit.com

JG Aura App

g JG Speedfit has launched a brand new app. Available free for iOS, Android and Windows phone users, the JG Aura App gives complete control of a heating system from the palm of your hand.

Now home-owners can remotely regulate both radiators and underfloor heating zones, no matter where they are. This gives them the unparalleled convenience of determining which zones to be heated, at what temperature and at what time - all done from their work place, from the airport, or even when on a holiday - as long as they have access to the internet it will work.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 87

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

KAMCO’S NEW SYSTEMSURE CONCENTRATES RANGE BOASTS A HIGH-PERFORMANCE CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEM POWER FLUSH…

Hyper-flush concentrate

T

he new Kamco SystemSure Concentrates range of water treatment products features HyperFlush Concentrate, a high-performance chemical cleaning and power-flushing liquid that removes accumulated corrosion debris and light scale from heating and chilled water systems during normal operation.

The product works at a near neutral pH, so there is no ‘gassing’ during cleaning, and no need to bleed radiators during the process.

Hyper-Flush Concentrate is a blend of proven chemical additives; an anionic wetting agent ensures that the contaminated surfaces are hydrophilic, allowing cleaning additives to reach and loosen deposits from the surface.

The unreactive magnetite debris (black iron oxide, otherwise known as sludge), which cannot be dissolved, is lifted

88 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

into suspension by special dispersant polymers, for easy removal during the final system power flushing process.

Red iron oxide (haematite) is converted into a water soluble iron complex that is swept away with the water flow.

Specific corrosion inhibitors are included in Hyper-Flush Concentrate to give temporary system protection between the period of cleaning and the addition of Kamco SystemSafe-DM Concentrate corrosion inhibitor.

The self-neutralising and passivating properties of Hyper-Flush Concentrate mean that there is no need to neutralise after use, and metal surfaces are left clean and corrosion-free.

Hyper-Flush Concentrate may be used with all metals commonly found in heating systems, including steel, cast iron, brass, copper and aluminium, and a 500ml pack is sufficient to treat a

“There is no ‘gassing’ during cleaning, and no need to bleed radiators during the process.” system with up to 12 radiators.

T: (NI) 01727 875020 or (RoI) 0044 1727 875020 W: www.kamco.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

BY EQUIPPING ITS MOST ADVANCED CONTROL SYSTEM TO DATE WITH BOTH LOAD AND WEATHER COMPENSATION, WORCESTER, BOSCH GROUP OFFERS A SOLUTION NO OTHER MANUFACTURER IS ABLE TO PROVIDE…

A new Wave of boiler control W

orcester, Bosch Group has unveiled a whole new generation of intelligent controls which offer far more than typical room thermostats or timers.

Leading the way, Worcester’s Wave device is an exciting addition to its market-leading Greenstar range of gas-fired boilers. Crucially, the Wave has been developed to offer a solution no other manufacturer is able to provide, by equipping its most advanced control system to date with both load and weather compensation.

This, combined with presence detection, simple connectivity and a whole array of other features gives installers the opportunity to fit a control unrivalled by any other on the market.

Compatible with a wide range of Worcester’s award-winning Greenstar gas-fired boilers, the sophisticated device allows heating to be adjusted from a smartphone or tablet using a wireless internet connection. The sleek, black glass wall-mounted panel is simple to install and connects to the boiler using a low voltage two wired connection directly to the boiler PCB. Through an easy-to-use free App, homeowners can take complete control of their heating and hot water, whether at home, at

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

work, or on holiday. The App not only allows remote adjustment of heating and hot water performance, but also provides valuable information on gas consumption for both heating and hot water, helping home-owners to manage bills during a time of rising energy costs. Intuitive and easy to use, the Wave can show the home-owner the current temperature of their home, their desired settings and whether the heating is running at its most efficient – all at-a-glance.

Unlike many other smart controls on the market, the Wave smart thermostat boasts load compensation; taking into account the current room temperature and only firing the boiler at the necessary level for more efficient use of fuel, to maintain peak efficiency levels. A weather compensation feature, meanwhile, boosts efficiency even further by referencing the property’s postcode to determine local weather conditions. This negates the need to install am external north-facing sensor, making installation simple.

The control can also use presence detection via smartphone location to adjust heating levels in line with attendance at home and the desired personal comfort settings.

“

Visit Worcester’s dedicated YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/ worcesterboschgroup for video guides on its new controls range.

”

For those in need of additional luxury and simplicity, Worcester’s new family of Greenstar Comfort controls has been designed to make life comfortable for both installers and their customers.

Each of the three programmable controls includes an intuitive dial-controlled menu which allows smooth navigation of all heating and hot water functions. This makes it even simpler and more efficient to control the heating because of the ability to programme different times as well as a number of other energy saving abilities.

Like the Wave, Worcester’s Greenstar Comfort I and Comfort II controls offer wireless load compensation which, by having an intelligent conversation with the boiler, can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Ensuring there is a Greenstar Comfort control available for every requirement, the new Worcester range boasts three different options the Greenstar Comfort twin channel programmer, Greenstar Comfort I RF twin channel programmer and Greenstar Comfort II RF programmable room thermostat.

T: Ray McClay, Regional Sales Manager, Worcester Bosch Ireland on (NI) 07767 432567 or (ROI) 0044 7767 432567 W: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 89

NEW! NHC STAINLESS STEEL CONDENSING BOILERS

• Condensing Efficiency of 101% • CE, SEDBUK & HARP Certified.

• High efficiency stainless steel heat exchanger that prevents corrosion from condensate and ensuring a longer life expectancy.

• Remote Control with multiple management functions to control the boiler from within the home.

• Built in remote switch function by phone • Built in neutralising filter and trap to convert acidic condensate to neutralised water.

• Easy service and maintenance capability.

• Self Diagnostic function with digital display to identify boiler function.

Eco Friendly and Highly Efficient Condensing Boiler will save your Energy and Money…

The Saturn Range is distributed exclusively in Ireland by Saturn Heating Limited Shercock Road, Carrickmacross, Co.Monaghan

Tel +353 (0) 42 9692032

www.saturnheating.net

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

SATURN HELPS REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION WITH NHC STAINLESS STEEL CONDENSING OIL BOILER…

Installers enjoy superior service with Saturn

S

aturn Heating is continuing to create business for installers on the company’s approved network.

To start with, the company’s new website is now offering an even smoother user experience to provide installers with easy access to information about its marketleading range of stainless steel condensing oil boilers.

The redesigned website also boasts an even better, user-friendly experience, with improved navigation and functionality, including access to detailed product information through easily downloadable PDFs. Saturn is also helping raise the profile of installers who fit Saturn Heating products, with a full list of registered oil boiler plumbers, trained to install Saturn boilers in Ireland, featured on the website.

“All our installers have been trained on safety and installation techniques,” said Stephen Duffy of Saturn Heating. “On our new-look website, potential customers can easily find out where their nearest installer is by trying out our quick ‘find’ section. Once they enter the area in which they are requesting, they just hit search and a pinpointed map

of installers in their area will appear. It’s something that benefits both Saturn and our installers, so we were happy to include the facility on the revamped website.”

Saturn Heating products are exclusively distributed through a network of approved professional installers throughout the UK and Ireland. The range is not sold through conventional channels, such as local hardware or plumbing supply stores, and is only fitted by installers who are part of the Saturn Approved Installer Network.

This system offers definite advantages to installers, with leads generated by Saturn Heating passed on to local installers. It also allows Saturn to control and maintain the high standards the company is renowned for, not only in its product range, but also in installation and servicing, which also benefits home-owners.

To become an installer on the Saturn Approved Installer Network, a specific training course must be completed. On qualifying, they will then be approved to install, commission and service the Saturn NHC stainless steel oil boiler range.

“Saturn Heating products are exclusively distributed through a network of approved professional installers throughout the UK and Ireland.”

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

“By insisting on our own training, we can offer added assurance to homeowners that they will receive a high quality installation service that we can stand by, and also a full service back-up throughout the life of the product,” said Stephen. “As part of a global organisation, Saturn Heating has been making its mark with heating professionals since 1978, manufacturing for markets across Europe, Asia, America, Canada and Russia.

“Eco-friendly and highly efficient, it’s no surprise the NHC stainless steel condensing boiler is popular on such a global scale,” concluded Stephen.

A key selling point for installers, when it comes to choosing Saturn Heating products, has been the company’s launch of Ireland’s first range of all stainless steel condensing oil boilers. The NHC Boiler uses an all stainless steel condensing heat exchanger – the only one of its kind available on the market today.

Other innovative features include intuitive remote control with multiple management functions to control the boiler from within the home, providing simple and efficient management.

“Our NHC Boiler is unique,” said Ciaran.

“We are confident that it will save homeowners money and energy, in addition to enjoying a long service life.”

T: (RoI) 042 969 2032 or (NI) 00353 42 969 2032 E: info@saturnheating.net www.saturnheating.net

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 91

THINK BOILERS.

THINK GRANT. The Grant Vortex Ireland’s award-winning condensing oil boiler .

Helping homeowners save up to 30% on heating bills* Cost effective home heating solutions from Grant including condensing oil and condensing wood pellet boilers, solar and solid fuel.

Reliable. Efficient. Affordable.

Grant Vortex boilers are available from all leading plumbing and heating merchants in NI.

www.grantni.com Hotline: 0800 279 4796 *

Depending on age and efficiency of oil boiler Subject to terms and conditions

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

GRANT CONTINUES TO LEAD THE WAY IN INNOVATIVE HEATING APPLIANCES…

THINK engineering excellence THINK Grant NI

B

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

Stephen Grant, Founder, testing the company’s latest innovation.

inside the system as long as possible to pull out as much energy as possible and ensure optimum performance.

In its history of innovation, the jewel in Grant’s crown of achievements and contributions to the heating industry has been its development of the patented Grant Vortex condensing technology, which first appeared in the range of Grant Vortex condensing oil boilers released in 2001.

The unique Vortex condensing feature makes Grant’s range of condensing oil boilers super-efficient, as they use less oil during operation and therefore emit less carbon dioxide than traditional oil boilers.

They also offer significant savings of up to approximately 25% over the cost of a traditional oil boiler.

RENEWABLES With the future in mind, and anticipating the growing interest in renewables across the UK and Ireland, Grant developed and released its first renewable heating appliances in 2008 with the launch of its range of solar thermal products, including Grant solar panels and an extensive range of stainless steel and copper Grant cylinders. Offering up to 70% savings on annual domestic water heating bills, the Grant solar system offers the most efficient solar panels on the market.

Grant Spira Wood Pellet Boiler.

orn from the ingenuity of its founder Stephen Grant and his desire to create state-of-the-art, reliable heating solutions, Grant has been the leader in developing and manufacturing innovative heating appliances since 1978.

Each appliance is designed and manufactured with these principles in mind, reinforcing the Grant reputation for providing efficient, affordable, innovative and reliable heating appliances for generations.

The first forward-thinking heating product manufactured by Grant included a squared twin-flue back boiler, which successfully doubled the surface area on which heat could concentrate, and delivered a highoutput for home users. This innovation later led to the production of Grant’s first patentable back boiler, the Grant Triple Pass back boiler, which remains the most efficient solid fuel open-fire product on the market today, at 77% efficient. The more easily cleaned Triple Pass and Twin Pass back boilers came shortly after this and continue to be popular sellers from the Grant collection over 30 years later.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Grant saw further expansion of its high-efficiency heating appliances, with a range of new products launched, including the innovative Multipass range of oil boilers and the first Grant Slimline Boiler. From studying the principle of the flow of flue gasses, Stephen led Grant in developing a product that made the flue gas passage as torturous as possible, keeping the gases

“The jewel in Grant’s crown has been its development of the patented Grant Vortex condensing technology.”

Following years of research and development, in 2011 Grant launched its first wood pellet boiler - the revolutionary Grant Spira condensing wood pellet boiler.

Incorporating Grant’s patented condensing technology, the Spira was the first condensing wood pellet boiler in Europe, and includes an integrated pellet store and low-maintenance, self-cleaning design, perfect for domestic use. Performing at up to 97% efficiency, the Grant Spira also enables households across Northern Ireland to take advantage of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which can provide an initial payment of £2,500, followed by an average of £700 per year for seven years thereafter.

Nearly 40 years after launching its diverse range of user-friendly and super-efficient products, Grant continues to lead the way in producing innovative heating products that are efficient, affordable and reliable.

When thinking of heating systems, think engineering excellence – think Grant!

T: (NI) 0800 279 4796 or (RoI) 057 912 0089 E: info@grantni.com W: grantni.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 93

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCTS (DOMESTIC)

INSTALLERS CAN HELP HOME-OWNERS SAVE MONEY WITH REGULAR SERVICES ON BOILERS AND HEATING SYSTEMS…

45% of NI home-owners admit to turning up the heat instead of putting on a jumper

40% of NI households admit they disagree about turning the heating up

11%

39%

Just 11% of homes have a magnetic filter fitted, yet fitting one can save up to 6% on energy bills

ADEY research reveals home-owners’ wasteful ways

Just a third of homeowners eventually make a joint decision about turning the heating up

45% of NI households had to adjust their spending habits to pay energy bills

11%

1 in 3 homeowners have had to adjust their spending habits to pay energy bills, but few are taking advantage of simple ways to save

20% are wasting money heating a home when it’s empty

turn up the heating without telling others in the house

34% Not even half of those surveyed had a boiler service in the past 12 months

A

fter the warmest year on record, arctic temperatures hitting the UK recently have been causing home-owners to finally crank up their home heating.

With thoughts turning to boilers and radiators, it’s the ideal time for installers to help generate more business by reminding home-owners of some simple steps they can take to ensure their heating system is working to full capacity and in an energyefficient, cost-effective way.

New research from ADEY Professional Heating Solutions warns that wasteful behaviour could cause unexpectedly bigger energy bills, as households turn up the heat to counter any cold snaps during the long winter months.

Home heating is a bone of contention for many Northern Irish households, with 40% admitting that they disagree with those they live with about when they should turn the thermostat up. While more than a third (39%) claim they eventually make a joint decision, one in ten (11%) still admit to turning it up without telling the others in the house, because they’re worried about cost implications.

Almost half (45%) of the Northern Irish home-owners surveyed said they’ve had to adjust their spending habits to pay their energy bills, but ADEY also found that few are taking advantage of the simplest ways to make their homes more energy efficient and save money.

Only 34% have had a boiler service in the past 12 months, so many homes could be at risk of relying on an inefficient system. Many could also be wasting a significant amount of money by leaving the heating going when no one’s at home, with a fifth of homeowners saying they don’t turn the heating off when they’re out. A further 45% also admit that they turn the heating up instead of putting on a jumper.

94 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

MEN

WOMEN

RESULTS OF ADEY SURVEY OF 2,000 UK HOME-OWNERS

32%

Concerned about how much home heating costs

49%

33%

Have adjusted spending habits to afford home energy bills

41%

52%

Put a jumper on instead of turning heating up

65%

51%

Turn the heating off while out at work

58%

10%

Had a magnetic filter fitted to protect and maintain the heating system

22%

Leave the oven door open after cooking to heat the kitchen

30%

28%

Use the right size cooker ring for the right size pan

36%

43%

worry about being able to afford heating when they retire

54%

The Energy Saving Trust (EST) estimates that households can save as much as £75 a year by turning the thermostat down by just one degree, yet according to ADEY’s research only half (55%) of home-owners turned down the dial.

The EST also estimates that households could increase their boiler efficiency by around 3% by using a cost-effective chemical inhibitor in their system. ADEY also suggests that a further 6% on energy bills could be saved year on year by installing an effective magnetic filter to protect their heating system from corrosion, ensuring it works as efficiently as possible. ADEY’s research found that just 11% of those surveyed had one fitted.

ADEY’s Managing Director, Kelvin Stevens, said, “There are many small changes that everyone can make to save money and ensure that we’re not paying over the odds for our home heating. From reaching for a jumper before the thermostat, to checking the

5%

boiler’s efficiency with a yearly check and making sure its performance is protected, all of these little things can add up to big savings.”

The Energy Saving Trust’s latest consumer attitudes poll, the UK Pulse, found 73% of consumers are worried about the cost of heating their homes. According to Tom Lock, Certification Manager, Energy Efficiency at the Energy Saving Trust, “The Energy Saving Trust is committed to providing consumers and the supply chain with independent and trusted information about products that will help them improve the efficiency of their heating system and improve the comfort of their home. Our Endorsed Product standards highlight products that will help householders use less energy and cut their energy bills.”

T: NDi (NI) 07980 983708 or (RoI) 01 485 4325 W: www.adey.com

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

BALANCING VALVES

AUTOFLOW® DYNAMIC BALANCING VALVES TAKE OUT THE TIME-CONSUMING PROCEDURES OF MANUALLY BALANCING A SYSTEM…

Dynamic new valve from Altecnic A

ltecnic has introduced a new range of valves with the launch of AutoFlow® dynamic balancing valves that eradicate the time-consuming procedures of manually balancing a system.

Traditionally, hydraulic circuits are balanced using manual balancing valves, with the system balanced or commissioned using established procedures by specialised commissioning engineers.

But this process is very time consuming, as multiple visits to each commissioning valve/ double regulating valve are required as each adjustment affects the system as a whole.

As the engineer moves through the system, this dictates that multiple visits have to be made to the same valve/commissioning set.

Even then, the system is only balanced under one set of conditions; if something changes the system will no longer be balanced.

The AutoFlow® dynamic balancing valve will change this.

This Dynamic device will automatically balance the hydraulic system, ensuring each terminal receives the specified design flow rate. Even in the case of circuit closure by means of the control valve, the flow rates in the open circuits remain constant at the design value.

As such, the system always guarantees the greatest comfort and the highest energy savings.

The commissioning process is also drastically reduced as all that is required is a verification of the correct pressure drop at the dynamic device, with no additional adjustment or rechecking required.

Using the AutoFlow® automatic balancing valve or constant flow regulator provides the

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

“This Dynamic device will automatically balance the hydraulic system, ensuring each terminal receives the specified design flow rate.” perfect solution to avoid the issues of an unbalanced system. Circuits should never be left unbalanced, as the characteristics of the system would create problems in distributing the design flow rates to the terminals.

The AutoFlow® automatic balancing valve or constant flow regulator incorporates a flow cartridge which is specifically designed to give a specific flow rate when operating within a specified differential pressure range.

This specified range is fixed and must be selected from a table which indicates the range of single available values. But while the system does not allow any adjustment

to be made to the field, the flow cartridge in the AutoFlow® can be changed to one with another flow rate.

Altecnic can offer stainless steel flow cartridges to suit three differential pressure ranges - 7 to 100kPa; 22 to 220kPa and 35 to 410 kPa - and polymer flow cartridges with the differential pressure range of 15 to 200kPa. The cartridges have three distinct differential pressure ranges - prior to start up; the working range; and differential pressures above the final pressure.

T: (NI) 01785 218200 or (RoI) 0044 1785 218200 E: sales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 97

DIGITAL NEWS

GREENER, BRIGHTER... BETTER!

WATER PUMPS

“B” RATED 5M, 6M, 7M, 8M STILL AVAILABLE www.polariswp.com 86-88 Dargan Crescent, Belfast.

T: 028 9039 6945 - F: 0191 4999626 E: info@polariswp.com

98 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

DIGITAL NEWS

DIGITAL NEWS BYTES PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE’S REGULAR LOOK AT DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN THE INDUSTRY’S DIGITAL WORLD, INCLUDING NEW WEBSITES AND APPS…

Inta’s installer survey gives maintenance app-spiration

I

nta is developing an app to help installers keep on top of easy money-makers, such as maintenance visits, after finding that many are overlooking opportunities to boost their business by failing to schedule in routine checks with customers.

A survey by the bathroom product, plumbing and heating manufacturer found that, although most customers currently fail to book in maintenance visits, 84% believed they would do so if they had a service that reminded them when checks are due. As a result, Inta is develoing a service reminder app that will allow plumbers and installers to easily schedule in and keep track of customer checks, enabling them to secure more business from new, existing, and loyal customers.

The survey, which also looked at the growth of filters in the heating world, found that

S

plumbers and installers are increasingly using magnetic and air separation filters to increase boiler longevity, with 84% claiming to have regularly installed these devices in the past year.

T: (NI) 01889 272 180 or (RoI) 0044 1889 272 180 E: sales@intatec.co.uk W: www.intatec.co.uk

App-ly yourself with Worcester’s product registration app

W

Surestop launches new responsive website

orcester, Bosch Group has a new way for busy installers to register heating and hot water appliances quickly and easily, with the launch of its Guarantee Registration app.

The new app has been designed to ensure simple product registration on all Greenstar gas and oil-fired boilers, Greenstar System Filters,

and Wave smart controls while on the job, thanks to an innovative built-in product code scanner.

Additional features include ‘find my location’, ‘postcode look-up’, and an ‘offline save function’.

T: Ray McClay on (NI) 07767 432567 or (RoI) 0044 7767 432567 W: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

urestop has launched a new responsive website, as it looks to drive consumer engagement and increase brand awareness.

The website has a new look and feel and also includes a number of innovative features.

Surestop Ltd manufactures a range of stopcocks and water switches that allow home-owners to turn off their water at the flick of a switch, protecting their property from the risk of water damage.

Mark Vurlan, Director and General Manager of Surestop, said, “The new website supports our new consumerfocused marketing strategy. We have worked closely with our partners to create a website which is both striking in terms of design and which also provides consumers with the userfriendly functionality they want.”

T: (NI) 0845 643 1800 or (RoI) 0044 845 643 1800 E: enquiries@surestop.co.uk W: www.surestop.co.uk

New website for JG Speedfit

J

G Speedfit has launched a brand-new website, designed to give a particularly visual focus on the functionalities of the brand’s product ranges.

The new speedfit.co.uk website is now easily accessible from a mobile phone or a tablet, and is full of installation videos, showing how to best use JG Speedfit’s products.

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

The website reflects the company’s philosophy of making the life of the installer a lot easier, as it now has more examples of best installation practices, technical advice and product specification.

T: (NI) Mark Mills on 07753 8332211 or (RoI) Ian Kelly on 0861 734027 W: www.jgspeedfit.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 99

Fifty Shades of white vans

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6JA. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

VANS

FOLLOWING THE UNVEILING OF A NEW NAME, TRUST FORD DEMONSTRATES ADDED INVESTMENT TO CREATE A DEDICATED NEW VAN CENTRE…

New Trust Ford Transit Centre opens in Mallusk

T

rust Ford has unveiled its new Transit Centre in Mallusk, providing customers with an unrivalled service on new and used vans.

Unveiled last year, TrustFord is the new name for Lindsay Ford and this latest development further enhances an already respected service.

Lindsay Ford is part of Ford Retail, the world’s largest dedicated Ford dealership group which recently changed its name to TrustFord as part of a drive to provide a joined-up experience across the group.

The team at the Trust Ford Transit Centre in Mallusk can provide help and advice on the latest new and used vans from Ford, as well as servicing, repairs and parts on site.

TrustFord stocks a full range of new Ford Vans, including the entire Transit family, and also offers thousands of used vans for sale.

Every used used is fully checked and approved by the company’s Ford-trained technicians, whatever the make or model.

What’s more, the team at the Trust Ford

Transit Centre in Mallusk can offer you a range of finance options, part-exchange deals and business solutions for your company.

If you already have a van on the road – and want to keep it that way – then TrustFord offers a complete range of services to ensure that it stays in great shape. This includes servicing and MOT, on any make or model, as well as vehicle health checks and tyre checks. What’s more, Ford trained technicians only use genuine Ford parts, so you know your vehicle will get the best care and attention.

All these services are what customers have come to expect from the team in Mallusk and despite the name change, the unveiling of the new Transit Centre demonstrates a strengthened commitment to customer service.

The change of name coupled with significant investment also speaks volumes about the company’s focus on going the extra mile to meet customer needs and ensure that you can trust in Ford.

Trust Ford Transit Centre, 31 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey, Mallusk, BT36 4PP T: New Van Sales on 0843 318 3466 - Used Van Sales on 0843 318 3466 – Service on 0843 318 3466 www.trustford.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 101

VANS

THE INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR 2015 IS NOW AVAILABLE IN NORTHERN IRELAND FROM NI TRUCKS..

NEW DAILY an exceptional range of light commercial vehicles

T

he third generation of the Iveco Daily – which secured the fiercely contested International Van of the Year Award 2015 – is now available across the UK and Ireland, delivering the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

New Daily is the work companion of choice for the light commercial vehicle sector, being convenient and practical to use whilst continuing to offer maximum reliability, efficiency and versatility.

Some 80% of the components on the new van have been redesigned, improving

102 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

ergonomics, driving comfort and handling. The capacity of the van has also been enhanced with the creation of the new 18 and 19.6m3 models (offering the best load space in their category) and the 10.8m3 version (the best in its category for load efficiency).

The brand new vehicle design stands out for its distinctive styling and, thanks to its longer wheelbases and reduced rear overhang, the New Daily guarantees excellent driveability without compromising its agility in confined spaces. The cab interior has also been completely revamped to make it an even

more pleasant environment for the driver and crew, including increased visibility, ergonomics and sound.

The third generation of the Daily offers a considerable reduction in fuel consumption and a significant improvement in vehicle running costs. In addition, NI Trucks is offering a free Eco Pack containing Eco Switch and Stop Start on all New Dailys bought and registered by 31 March 2015, offering fuel savings of up to 14%.

T: NI Trucks on 028 9083 3040 W: www.ni-trucks.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

VANS

VAN INSURANCE TEAM CELEBRATE FIRST YEAR OF SUCCESSFULLY PROVIDED A DEDICATED SERVICE TO VAN DRIVERS…

AXA Van Team celebrates milestone

W

ith van insurance remaining a top priority for Northern Ireland van drivers in 2015, AXA Insurance continues to provide a great service through the company’s dedicated Van Team which has now been operating for one year!

The team was set up to respond to the specific needs of drivers which often involved cover for workrelated activity and other specific requirements. All enquiries come through this dedicated team, which allows van drivers to benefit from a knowledgeable and helpful staff.

The team is now regarded as the centre of excellence within the company for dealing with these types of enquires.

Kerry Graham, who leads the Van Insurance team in AXA, said, “It’s

been a busy year as more van drivers are contacting us to find out how much we can save them on their insurance and also what additional support we can offer.

“We know that drivers appreciate speaking with someone who understands their requirements and know that their cover is often important to their business.”

As well as a great deal of van insurance, AXA is also offering free breakdown assistance with all new van insurance policies.

This will help drivers to keep their costs down while also being reassured that they can keep their van on the road.

For further information or to talk to a member of the AXA Van Team call (NI) 028 9002 0419 or visit www.axani.co.uk

The team at Axa’s Belfast office (from left), Kerry Graham, Branch Manager, with insurance advisors, Roberta Kennedy and Kerry Scott.

FREE BREAKDOWN ASSISTANCE

with AXA Van Insurance AXA Insurance limited is authorised by Central Bank of Ireland, and authorised and subject to limited regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details about the extent of our authorisation and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority are available from us on request.

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 103

City

BUILDING SUPPLIES

C BS BS C

Serving the Plumbing & Heating Industry With…

• Boilers • Sanitaryware • Copper Pipes • PVC Plumbing System • Showers • Pumps and much more

City

BUILDING SUPPLIES

4 Curzon Street South, Circular Road, Dublin 8

TELEPHONE: 01 454 2633

HEATING & BOILER SPARES SPARES & ACCESSORIES FOR OIL BOILERS AND BURNERS, DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL Check our prices online at www.heatingboilerspares.com or

Sales - 087 6644888 Office - 074 91 26629 Free Delivery when you spend more than E200 net.

NEXT DAY DELIVERY

WHEN ORDERED BEFORE 1PM DELIVERING THROUGHOUT IRELAND

Ballymaleel, Letterkenny, Donegal, Ireland.

Email: heatingandplumbingsolutions@eircom.net

www.heatingboilerspare.com

104 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

NO.1

MERCHANTS

PLUMBING & HEATING DIRECTORY

IN THE WEST, EXCELLENT SELECTION OF BOTH BATHROOM AND PLUMBING SUPPLIES.

Our Staff, experience, hold of large stock including parts and supplies, combined with our delivery service on time, anywhere will offer you the best experience possible.

HURST HEATING & PLUMBING LTD MONEEN ROAD, COUNTY MAYO TEL: +353 94 9023453 F: +353 94 9024314

www.hurst.ie

Plumb Centre is the new specialist Plumbing and Heating division of Grafton Merchanting in Ireland.

Why Chose Plumb Centre for Gas and Oil spare parts this heating season

?

• 34 branches nationwide holding the top 250 gas and oil spare parts.

• Registered Gas installers parts policy. Plumb Centres only sell gas spare parts to RGI installers.

• New spare parts App available to download now from i-Tunes or Android stores . Every technical manual for every boiler on the Irish market and live stock feeds to all branches • Dublin Parts warehouse stocking 2,500 lines of product.

• UK Network Holding 50,000 lines of product.

• I - basis spare parts identification system in all branches.

• Daily logistics to all branches.

• Drop box solutions for engineers.

TO LOCATE YOUR NEAREST PLUMBCENTRE BRANCH AND AVAIL OF OUR WINTER SPECIAL OFFERS VISIT US @ www.plumbcentre.ie OR FIND US ON FACEBOOK.

CPS

CLADY PLUMBING SUPPLIES LTD 37 Glenone Road, Portglenone, Co. Antrim

www.cladyplumbing.com SUPPLIERS OF: • Gas Boilers • Solar Panels • Solar Cylinders • Woodburning Stoves • Underfloor Heating • Flexible S.Steel Flue Tel: 028 2582 1448 Fax: 028 2582 2363 Email: sales@cladyplumbing.com

“heating,

oil and gas spares” • Ariston

• Vokera

• Baxi

• Worcester

• Ferroli

• Biasi

• Glow worm

• Halstead

• Ideal

MANY MORE PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS AT TRADE COUNTER PLUMBING | BATHROOMS | FIREPLACES

www.glenhill.co.uk t: 028 9066 9444

STOCKMAN’S WAY, BELFAST

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com

PLUMBING & HEATING DIRECTORY

Manufacturers of the Instantor® brand of Compression fittings and superior plumbing & heating products since 1934.

JOHN D McCLELLAND MANUFACTURERS AGENTS AND DISTRIBUTORS OF:

Conex Works, Santry Avenue, Santry, Dublin 9, Ireland.

Contact our sales team on Tel: 00353 1 8426255 Fax: 00353 1 8426134 Email: sales@sanbra.ie Web: www.sanbra.ie

1 Brookview, Castle Lane, Comber

log boilers Two complete ranges Angus Super and Angus Orligno 200 Output range 18kW, 25kW, 40kW, 60kW, 80kW, 100kW, 130kW Products fully MCS certified Grants available under Renewable Heat Incentive

MAINS PRESSURE CYLINDER RANGE

WATER TREATMENT LEGIONELLA RISK ASSESSMENTS (L8) WATER TANK CHLORINATIONS WATER FILTERS/ SOFTNERS/ UV UNITS

OVER

Offer the complete range of wood

10,000 CYLINDERS INSTALLED

T: +44 (0)28 9187 2449 F: +44 (0)28 9187 2953

WATER TESTING LAB

92% Heat Efficiency Significantly reduce heating costs Incorporate into existing heating system

Copper Industries (Ireland) Ltd, Shivers Business Park, 21 Hillhead Road, Toome, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SF.

T: (+44) 028 7965 9736 F: (+44) 028 7965 0000

01934 862642

www.ecoangus.co.uk

www.plumbingmag.com

FOLLOW US ON:

E: info@copperindustries.co.uk www.copperindustries.co.uk

T: +44 (0)28 68658406 E: sales@britewatertreatment.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 105

MERCHANTS

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS

NEW PRODUCTS

CLEAN, SLEEK LINES WITH BLANCO JARON XL 6 S-IF SINK

WIN A DAY IN THE FAST LANE WITH WORCESTER’S CASH-BACK TITLE PROMOTION

n For architects and home-owners who favour clean lines, symmetry and a minimal look, the new Blanco Jaron XL 6 S-IF sink is the ultimate in cutting-edge design.

Part of the Blanco SteelArt series, it features angular lines and a square main bowl and drainer with wide tap ledge in the centre.

The Jaron sink design also creates a new look for the IF flat rim, which has the appearance of being flush-mounted into the worktop.

T: (NI) 01923 635 200 or (RoI) 0044 1923 635 200 W: www.blanco.co.uk

n Worcester, Bosch Group has launched a cash-back cylinder promotion, which also includes the chance for installers to win a trip to Britain’s most famous race track.

Heating engineers can claim £100 cash-back upon purchasing a Greenstore high-efficiency unvented cylinder. At this point, installers will also be entered into a prize draw to win one of 18 Silverstone Challenge Days, where they will get the chance to drive some of the world’s fastest, and most iconic cars.

W: www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

EVEN MORE HOT WATER FROM DAIKIN ALTHERMA HYBRID HEAT PUMP n Daikin UK has unveiled a new addition to its award-winning Daikin Altherma hybrid heat pump system, suitable for properties with high hot water demands.

The award-winning Daikin Altherma hybrid heat pump can now be installed together with a hot water cylinder by using a connection kit.

Consisting of a 3-port valve and necessary cylinder sensors, the new kit means that the system can be combined with hot water cylinders, which is ideal for those homes that need greater volumes of hot water.

W: www.daikin.co.uk

TITLE POWER UP YOUR ADMIN n Powered Now is the business admin app for iPhones/ iPads that’s designed to help plumbers, heating engineers and other tradesmen to manage their businesses while on the move.

It provides a comprehensive admin toolkit for every step, from preparing an estimate through to taking payment.

The latest version of the software adds a diary, integrated with existing estimating/ quoting, note-taking, invoicing and payment features. It also boasts automatic route planning between appointments, for more efficient scheduling, and can alert customers via text message/e-mail from the app.

Featuring an improved user interface, the app also has more templates to make paperwork look professional, and provides Apple AirPrint support.

T: (NI) 0800 011 9036 or (RoI) 0044 800 011 9036 W: www.powerednow.com

106 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

POLYPIPE LAUNCHES NEW DOMUS DUCT PRODUCTS n Polypipe Ventilation has added two exciting new products to its Domus range of ducting systems - high efficiency 90° bends and a new inlet/ outlet plenum with integral flow control device.

Part of the Green Line range of energy-efficient ventilation systems and accessories, the new Domus 90° bends provide up to 60% reduction in resistance to air flow, significantly lowering a duct system’s total pressure loss and therefore overall energy usage.

T: (NI) 08443 715523 or (RoI) 0044 8443 715523 W: www.polypipe.com/ventilation

FOLLOW US ON:

www.plumbingmag.com