Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue69

EE Y FR OP C

ISSUE 69 - december 2015 / january 2016

INSIDE THIS ISSUE n Trade Shows n Boilers, Servicing and Parts n Company News n SPACE Campus at SERC n Plumbing & Heating Awards

TM

Stratifying Cylinder ISO 14001 certified

ISO 9001 certified 078

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Copper Industries (Ireland) Ltd (NI) T: +44 (0)28 7965 9736 www.copperindustries.co.uk

contents

2016 events now released

Plumbex TRADE EVENT DUBLIN 2016

Plumb power heat Light

EXPO

Gala Event 9 June 2016 Hilton Hotel, Belfast Entry forms are now available…

Telephone 028 9261 2990 or e-mail karen@kmpltd.co.uk for more information.

contents...

THE TEAM

ISSUE 69 - DEC 2015/JAN 2016 Karen McAvoy

NEWS AND VIEWS

IN FOCUS

Action Renewables Awards launch Insightful report from Glow-worm New pipefitting apprenticeship scheme Alternative Heat expansion Latest news from OFTEC Ireland Q&A with Dominic Dunne, Metac Heat Merchants hosts conference Hot Topics advice column SEAI report on energy Parish power in Tipperary

5 7 9 11 20 33 37 52 61 66

Go zonal with Vokera Focus on AJP Renewables Pegler Yorkshire TRV range Boilers, servicing and parts Grant backs oil campaign Significant growth for Bassetts Stainless steel and Sanha Project – SPACE campus at SERC Gas Safe Register’s winter message De Dietrich excellence from Hevac

15 16-17 19 25-31 35 38-39 51 54-56 57 65

Adam Hassin

Gordon McAvoy

Managing Director

Karen McAvoy

RoI Consultant

Mairead Hendry

Editor

Adam Hassin

Editorial

Diane Day

RoI Correspondant

Denise Maguire

Head Designer

Julie Anne Guiney

Designer

Jo Wilson

Accounts

Michelle Owens

Business Support

Gemma Sheppard

Photography

Gordon McAvoy

Printed by

W&G Baird

CONTACT US

16

The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR t MOIRA: +44 (0)28 9261 2990 t DUBLIN: 01 6968319 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

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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

For all your plumbing, heating, sanitaryware, renewable energy products and spare parts n

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An unrivalled local level of service backed up by a national support network Friendly, knowledgeable staff Fast and efficient delivery service Industry leading brands

www.ptsplumbing.co.uk

Our unique product identification system available to all our customers

Ask at trade counter for Scan the QR code more details for more info

Text PTS or SPARES to 83332 to find your local branch** **Cost of the text is your usual network rate.

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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

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news

Gas Weld wins Energia’s ‘Kickstart Your Business’ competition

Pictured at the launch of the 2016 Action Renewables Awards at Titanic Belfast are Ciaran McConville, Action Renewables; with sponsors, Mary Rossiter, Vayu; and Maria O’Loan, Tughans.

Action Renewables set to celebrate Northern Ireland innovation in renewables

Dublin business, Gas Weld has won the recent ‘Kickstart Your Business’ competition.

Leading business energy provider Energia sponsors the feature on The Right Hook Show on Newstalk, and runs a dedicated information resource for Irish business at www.energiahub.ie.

The site offers essential information and practical advice for SMEs on how to reduce energy usage and costs, as well as a host of business-related podcasts and videos.

The joint sponsorship gives Irish businesses an opportunity to win €1,000 every month, via energiahub.ie, to invest in business growth and/ or energy-efficiency programmes, culminating in a €2,000 prize.

T: (RoI) 01 836 6142 or (NI) 00353 1 836 6142 E: sales@gasweld.ie W: www.gasweld.ie

Action Renewables annual awards luncheon will take place at Titanic Belfast on Thursday, March 31.

Ciaran McConville, Business Development and Marketing Assistant, Action Renewables, said, “We’re delighted to welcome back event host, Jamie Delargy and our esteemed panel of judges for 2016, which includes industry experts Carol Forster, Operations Manager, NIEL; Jim Kitchen, Director, Sustainable NI; Dr Robin Curry, Queen’s University Belfast’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; and Andy McCrea, Renewable Energy Consultant.”

This year will include the addition of a new awards category, ‘Best Energy Saving Large Organisation’.

The deadline for entry to the 2016 Action Renewables Awards is 5pm, Monday, February 15. Winners will be announced at the flagship industry awards event at Titanic Belfast in advance of a gourmet lunch and afternoon networking event.

To download an entry pack or book a place at the awards, visit www.actionrenewables.co.uk

Josephine Sheridan, Gas Weld, with the €1,000 competition winner cheque from Jason Cassidy, Energia.

Cork heating control company announces 30 new jobs Cork company Accuflow, a global manufacturer of wireless technology, has announced a €1million investment, with the creation of 30 new jobs.

The company hopes to transform home energy bills through a new home heating controls product called Smartzone, which it says will save consumers an average of €300 a year. The Togher-based company is planning a major three-year global expansion which will increase its workforce from 10 to 40 people. These 30 new jobs will be filled across sales, administration, marketing computer programming and

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software development roles.

The company said that for a once-off installation cost of €199, Smartzone will enable consumers to manage their heating and hot water independently at the touch of a button from any smartphone, tablet or PC. Accuflow founder, Justin McInerney said, “Up until now, smart home technology was limited to a very niche audience, mostly trade – but at Accuflow, we want to transform the home heating and water market by making it easy and affordable for everyone to see this incredible connectivity technology at work.”

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 5

LEAK LOCATOR Acoustic Sounding and Thermal Imaging

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news

It’s all about the money for installers!

It seems that installers are keen to make hay while the sun shines, as the latest insight from Glow-worm has revealed they’re focused on upselling, upskilling and recruiting.

Keen to grow their business, 39% wished they had more work - and to find it, a third (34%) want to get to grips with renewables. A further third want to make more effort to upsell on installations, and a quarter (26%) want to be better at following up on previous installations.

As part of business expansion plans, overall 35% of installers want to increase the number of people they employ. This sentiment was strongest felt by 25-34 year olds who were more concerned with growing their workforce than older respondents, with 37% of 25-34 year olds saying they would be looking to employ an apprentice (versus just 8% for 35-44 year olds) and 56% saying they would increase the number of employees they have (26% for 35-44 year olds).

Neil Bunning, Commercial Director for Glow worm commented, “We have been listening to installers and want to help them address these issues. This is why we have refined our product range, but at the same time enhanced the range of services and support tools available to installers to help them grow their business in whatever form that takes. We have already started to boost the support we offer with our

Awareness for Carbon Monoxide Month Phoenix Energy Services has been raising the awareness of gas safety in the community as part of Northern Ireland’s Phoenix Natural Gas helps to spread Carbon Monoxide the safety message during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month.

Awareness Month in November.

The Phoenix Energy Services team took the opportunity to remind home-owners that the best way to protect themselves and others is to make sure all their fuel burning appliances are serviced at least annually by a registered engineer.

In other news, a business skills event hosted by Phoenix Natural Gas was held recently at Eddie Irvine Sports, Bangor, for the wider natural gas industry. A number of new gas installation companies attended the event, which covered a range of business skills from marketing and brand advice, to customer service and general business advice.

Attendees also took the track for a competitive session of karting to discover the fastest installer in Greater Belfast, with James Templeton lifting the crown.

W: www.phoenixenergyservices.com

award-winning, free Club Energy loyalty programme which features valuable business support tools and our Plumbing Toolbox app, which provides installers with everything they need to do the job in hand using the technology already in their pocket.”

The research was undertaken

by Atomik research in May 2015 among 500 installers across the UK. W: www.glow-worm.co.uk

Enjoying the business skills event hosted by Phoenix Natural Gas.

Heat Merchants and Stelrad ‘Hit the Heights’ competition winners

Ivan Colleran, of Heat Merchants and Johnny Goode from Stelrad, make the prize draw.

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Winners of Heat Merchants ‘Hit the Heights’ prize draw promotion, designed to introduce the Stelrad Savanna radiator range to a wider audience across Ireland, have been announced.

The prizes for which entrants qualified was defined by the number of Stelrad Savanna radiators purchased over a

specified time period.

Robert Lynch from Drogheda won a hot air balloon ride, Anthony Coughlan from Blackpool, Cork earned a two-night spa break at Aghadoe Heights is, and Glenview Green Energy, from Turners Green won a helicopter ride.

W: www.heatmerchants.ie W: www.stelrad.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

news

Altecnic appoints new Country Manager for Ireland

Minister Damien English TD; Councillor Oliver Tully, Chairperson of Louth Meath Education and Training Board; Paul O’Toole, CEO, SOLAS; and Peter Kierans CEO of Louth Meath Education and Training Board, pictured with Phase 2 Pipefitting Apprentices at the launch of the Pipefitting Apprenticeship in Dundalk.

New pipefitting apprenticeship scheme A new apprenticeship programme, which will see apprentices working with the latest technologies in commercial and industrial piping systems, was officially launched by Minister for Skills, Research and Innovation, Damien English in Dundalk recently.

Developed by SOLAS, in partnership with industry and trade union representatives and the Education and Training Boards, the programme was created in direct response to an identified industry need.

The growth of the pharmaceutical and chemical industries in Ireland has introduced a range of new technologies to the construction and engineering sectors, which in turn has generated a need for an apprenticeship training programme to cater for these new skills and processes.

So far, 37 apprentices have been registered to

the craft of pipefitting while 23 apprentices are currently on their Phase 1 on-the-job training.

The other 14 apprentices are on their Phase 2 off-the-job training in the Regional Skills and Training Centre.

T: (RoI) 01 533 2500 or (NI) 00353 1 533 2500 W: www.solas.ie

Altecnic Ltd has announced the appointment of Chris Reilly as the company’s new Country Manager for Ireland.

The Queen’s University graduate is originally from Bangor, County Down, and moved to Dublin to take up a Sales Engineer role within the HVAC industry in 1998. Chris brings over 17 years’ experience in the plumbing and heating sector in Ireland and will take up his new position in January 2016.

Mark Mogey, OEM National Sales Manager for Altecnic, is delighted to add Chris to the team.

“To continue to grow the Caleffi and IMIT brands together with our complete range of HVAC products shows our long-term commitment and investment in the very important Irish market.

“This new venture will give us a full-time employee based in the country, working directly with our customers. We look forward to a very exciting time for Altecnic Ltd in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland and continuing to build our customer base with high quality products backed by great service.”

W: www.altecnic.co.uk

Rinnai’s comprehensive space heater range covers all options Rinnai Energysaver fanned convection powered flue gas fired space heaters are designed specifically for use in schools, community centres, libraries, conservatories and churches and other large spaces, where they have earned themselves a considerable fan base over the past 30 years.

Now, with a new super energy efficient addition to the range in the form of the Rinnai

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Energysaver 559FT with sleek good looks, and a matching new streamlined look for the popular Energysaver 309FT, Rinnai is leading the field in large interior space heating.

W: www.rinnaiuk.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

MD irelanD’S New bathroom collection by bemodern

showroom collection

bemodern 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. E: sales@mdireland.com - T: +44 (0)28 9262 0400 - F: +44 (0)28 9262 2939

news

A LOOK AT THE LATEST NEWS FROM GRANT NI…

Success for CHC

Grant NI’s new advert premiers!

Grant NI prepared for its close-up this month as the company’s debut television commercial premiered. The campaign is designed to strengthen and build relationships between Grant and its large nationwide customer base.

Grant NI also attended the Royal Ulster Winter Fair to showcase the award winning range of Grant home heating products.

Think Boilers THINK GRANT. Efficient, Affordable, Reliable

www.grantni.com

Hotline: 0800 279 4796

Alternative Heat ignites expansion plans in Castlewellan Castlewellan-based Alternative Heat is planning to expand its manufacturing facilities and create 23 new jobs with support from Invest Northern Ireland.

The expansion is aimed at providing the company with the capability to Marking Alternative Heat’s expansion are Damian McAuley, Invest NI (left), with Connell McMullen, Alternative Heat. Image win and fulfil increased

by Harrison Photography. contracts for biomass boilers, service and maintenance of biomass boilers and open loop heat pump solutions.

Invest NI has offered Alternative Heat £85,000 to support the development of its site at Burrenreagh Road, Castlewellan, which involves building a new warehouse and associated yard facilities. Alternative Heat specialises in the design, supply, installation, commissioning and service of renewable heating systems for domestic, commercial and industrial applications and provides an extensive range of renewable heating systems throughout the UK and Ireland.

T: (NI) 028 4377 0700 or (RoI) 048 4377 0700 W: www.alternativeheat.co.uk

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Dale Poole and Brenda Regan, CHC Ltd receive a certificate to mark the company’s shortlisting in the SNIPEF Business of the Year Awards from SNIPEF President, John Leonard.

Craigavon-based CHC Ltd was one of three companies shortlisted for the inaugural SNIPEF Business of the Year Awards The leading trade association for plumbing and heating firms lost out in the end to LW Haddow Ltd of Perth but can still be content with being recognised in an award that recognises technical skills and ability, excellent customer service and a commitment to raising standards in the industry.

Robert Burgon, SNIPEF Chief Executive, said, “We are delighted to be able to recognise professionalism, commitment and innovation in the plumbing industry with our first annual awards programme. Too often the reputation of the industry is blighted by those who are neither qualified nor licensed. We, like our award winners, represent the very best in plumbing skills and seek to uphold the highest of standards in all aspects of domestic and commercial work.”

W: www.snipef.org

JG Speedfit is in the fast lane JG Speedfit is delighted to officially confirm their 2016 title sponsorship of the GBmoto Kawasaki team, competing in the 2016 MCE British Superbike Championship. After an incredibly successful debut year, which saw the JG Speedfit Kawasaki team secure victory in their very first race, going on to win a further two races and take seven additional podium finishes, the team managed to finish third in the MCE British Superbike Championship Showdown.

With the JG Speedfit squad becoming the official factory supported Kawasaki team in the British Superbike Championship for 2016, coupled with an all-new ZX-10R Ninja, the team are confident of being able to challenge for the title.

To learn more about the team, visit www.gbmoto. com. To find out more about the JG Speedfit brand, you can visit www.speedfit.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 11

2016 Events

Plumbex TRADE EVENT DUBLIN 2016

THURS

WED

25- 26

MAY

CITYWEST HOTEL, DUBLIN

A 2016 date and a new name for Dublin trade event

A

new date and a new name have been announced for Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Trade Event.

Now known as PlumbEx, this successful trade-only event is now in its third year and will take place at the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Dublin on May 25-26, 2016.

Once again, this event will build on the success of previous years, bringing visitors the latest innovations and developments from right across this diverse sector. This will include renewable and low carbon solutions; commercial and domestic plumbing and heating products for gas, oil and biomass; heating controls;

bathrooms and showers; testing and inspection equipment; underfloor heating; radiators and valves; filters and pumps; and chemical protection and wastewater treatment solutions and much more.

The core of visitors will be made up of plumbing and heating installers and engineers but the event will also attract large numbers of plumbers’ merchants, distributors, consultants and architects, as well as facilities managers, training centres and representatives from Government and the Public Sector.

PlumbEx will once again prove to be the perfect arena in which to promote your products and services direct to the trade.

For More information contact T: (RoI) 01 696 8319 T: (NI) 028 9261 2990 E: info@kmpltd.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com

#Plumbex2016

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2016 Events

Plumb power heat Light

EXPO New expo to hit Titanic Exhibition Centre

07- 08 THURS

electrical and plumbing and heating sectors. This will include those from within specific trades, including electrical contractors, gas engineers, plumbing and heating installers, electrical wholesalers and plumbers’ merchants.

However, by combining the mechanical and electrical specialisms, this expo will also be essential for M&E contractors and M&E consultants not to mention architects, builders, facilities managers, purchasing managers, and representatives of the Government and Public Sector.

WED

A

new concept in trade shows has arrived with the launch of the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo at the new Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast on September 7-8, 2016.

The largest plumbing, heating, electrical and lighting exhibition in Northern Ireland, this event will showcase innovative designs, sustainable products, energy efficient technologies and renewable energy all under one roof.

With interactive product displays and dedicated zones, this unique expo will attract visitors from right across the construction,

SEPTEMBER TITANIC

exhibition Centre

BELFAST

For More information contact T: (NI) 028 9261 2990 T: (RoI) 01 696 8319 E: info@kmpltd.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com www.plumbingmag.com

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heating controls

It’s Time to go ZONAL David Iszchak, Technical Trainer at Vokèra, examines the benefits of a zoned heating system‌

H

ome-owners are increasingly looking for better ways to heat their homes and, with convenience being a priority, the system also has to work for them in the most efficient way possible. One way of ensuring the heating is in sync with the home-owner is turning it up and down or off in unoccupied areas. An obvious example is varying the room temperatures in downstairs rooms compared to the bedrooms during the daytime. To achieve this balance a zoned controlled heating system is a viable option.

Originally, zoning was interpreted as the separation of hot water and heating circuits - one temperature control for domestic hot water and one for space heating. However, the maturing heating market and customer base has started to look for something more, in particular zoning or separate control of areas within the space heating system itself. Initially, this was the creation of a separate ground floor and first floor area in two storey buildings or the dividing of a property into living and sleeping areas. It was also included in some energy efficiency legislation in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

By using zone valves and separating supply circuits, heating schedules and differing temperatures could be achieved with time clocks and thermostats. It is not an easy or

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cheap option as duplication of pipework is expensive and time consuming, particularly in properties with two storeys and a solid ground floor. The lowest radiators in such a property would be supplied with pipework from above, which would mean two circuits run beneath the floorboards as opposed to one if zoning was not required.

When zoning was first introduced, an additional difficulty was the extra wiring and the lack of availability of a master three channel (one hot water and two heating) programmer. This situation has now changed, as master heating programmers are now readily available and the problem of extra wiring has been overcome by the availability of wireless room thermostats.

Having two or more heating zones is now made even easier with the advent of programmable radiator thermostats. These were available 15 years ago but were local control only, i.e. each radiator fitted with a programmable thermostatic radiator valve would have to be programmed individually and they were not interlocked or connected back to the boiler, they simply offered time and temperature control to the room in which they were located. The latest battery powered versions can be linked by radio signal to a master controller that can be used to programme individual radiator, zone or room schedules and temperatures

from one central point (as well as at each zone individually).

The additional benefit is that the master controller is interlocked to the boiler via a relay, thereby turning the burner off when demand ceases. What is more, some master controllers can be configured to communicate with a compatible boiler directly. This involves not simply turning the boiler ON or OFF but directly adjusting its flow temperature by aggregating the demand from each zone or sensor and running at as low a flow and return temperature as necessary while maintaining comfort levels for the user. This offers an improvement in operation as condensing boilers operate more efficiently the cooler they run so a control system that can directly affect the boiler flow temperature should be an improvement to its operating efficiency.

The above is related to heating by radiators, but zoning has always been possible and desirable with the increasingly popular underfloor heating systems. The multi-zone master heating controllers can also be used to regulate such systems by means of remote wireless room thermostats acting on valves at the underfloor heating manifold.

T: (NI) 00353 5677 55055 or (RoI) 05 677 55055 E: sales@vokera.co.uk W: www.vokera.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

COMPANY PROFILE - AJP RENEWABLES

The AJP Renewables team – (from left) Michelle Irwin, Administration/Sales; Kieran Kelly, Commissioning Engineer; Jamie Byrne, Renewable Development Manager; and Chris O’Hare, Commissioning Engineer.

With quality brands and an experienced team, customers are benefitting from the all-round service and long-term view of this leading renewables company…

AJP Renewables - a name you can trust

A

JP Renewables Ltd, based in the Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry has quickly grown within the last two years to become one of the main renewable companies in Northern Ireland.

The company is MCS registered for pellet boilers, heat pumps and solar thermal panels, so customers can avail of the substantial Government financial incentives currently available with the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

The company is part of the AJ Plumbing group and was created to offer renewable heating options to its customer base. The company focuses on product quality and staff expertise to ensure all its customers receive reliable, efficient and cost effective systems.

Jamie Byrne, Business Development Manager at AJP Renewables, said, “Historically, the main issue with the renewable sector has been the general perception that renewables do not work and are too much hassle. This is not true, but I understand this perception as there has been a lot of companies entering and existing the market over the last 10 years.

“Unfortunately, a lot of these companies had no longevity and were focused on short-term sales without looking at the long-term. This is where AJP Renewables differs. Customer satisfaction is critical and you need referral business. These might sound like typical clichés but Northern Ireland is so small and bad news travels fast. Because of our renewable experience we are confident in

our systems and their performance.”

That experience is backed by quality products.

Jamie added, “We represent NIBE, Daikin, Solarfocus and Domusa - all brands synonymous will quality and experience and that have been in the market for a considerable time. That combined with our technical experience gives us the edge over some of our competitors.”

Between them Jamie along with Kieran Kelly, the company’s Commissioning Officer, have over 20 years’ experience in the sector and, to date, the company has hundreds of satisfied customers.

But even with the financial benefits of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) it is important that systems perform to the

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COMPANY PROFILE - AJP RENEWABLES

“Unfortunately, a lot of renewables companies had no longevity and were focused on short-term sales without looking at the long-term. This is where AJP Renewables differs.”

expectations of the customer. As well as offering a design and commission service, the company provides excellent 24-hour warranty and maintenance support.

“No product is 100% fault-proof and the ability to react and rectify the problem within 24 hours is important,” added Jamie.

“Spares on all product ranges are carried in stock and the engineers vans to ensure this is feasible.”

AJP Renewables has considerable storage facilities in Newry and, unlike some other renewable companies, it carries good stocks of its complete product range.

The Domusa pellet boiler brand is a product that is selling and performing very well in the domestic and small commercial markets.

With boiler sizes from 10kw to 43kw it satisfies all domestic requirements. Domusa has just released the 16kw outdoor module with the 25kw and 43kw to follow early in 2016. The weather-proofed modules are complete with 200kg hopper and a high efficiency system pump and pressure vessel. These are an ideal solution for retrofit installations where there is no garage or

housing for the pellet boiler.

All the company’s products are of a high specification with some unique features, for example the Solarfocus Therminator 11 is a combined log/pellet boiler up to 60kw with automatic ignition and switchover.

Daikin offers hybrid gas and air-source heat pumps that can operate on airsource when temperatures are mild and gas when cold. The intelligent controller system automatically operates the most economical option.

AJP Renewables can offer a solution for all its customers and tailors a package to meet their individual requirements. Pellet and log boilers tend to be the preferred option for retrofit whilst heat pumps are the ideal solution for modern, well insulated homes.

Growth expectations are high for 2016 with the company currently recruiting new staff.

Jamie concludes, “We anticipate 2016 to be another year of continued growth.

There is still considerable potential with the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for domestic and commercial customers.”

AJP Renewables Ltd, Ramport Road, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry, BT34 2QU T: (NI) 028 3026 3348 OR (RoI) 048 3026 3348 - E: enquiries@ajprenewables.co.uk www.ajprenewables.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 17

HEATING CONTROLS

Installers urged to heed TACMA research and encourage home-owners to benefit from savings generated by better heating controls…

Control, efficiency and style – Pegler Yorkshire’s range of TRVs

W

ith over 70% percent of UK households still not benefitting from the savings offered by Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs), leading UK manufacturer Pegler Yorkshire is, this winter, encouraging installers to heed the research by TACMA and encourage more home-owners to take control of their energy consumption and fuel bills.

The research confirmed that, with the installation of heating controls, energy bills can be cut by up to 40%*. A huge saving, and one in which installers can impart, when advising home-owners on how to reduce their energy consumption.

Sindar Singh, Climate Control Market Manager for Pegler Yorkshire, commented, “Our own research showed that homeowners, if prompted to purchase radiator valves, have in the past opted for the more aesthetically pleasing manual valves, which, whilst they may look the part do not offer any energy saving benefits.

“We have looked at the most popular designer radiators out there and developed a range of TRVs that compliment styles and materials whilst providing all the benefits found with thermostatic radiator valves.”

The range of three Décor valves manufactured under the renowned Terrier brand are great designs with a twist, and have been created to incorporate

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the most popular finishes of decorative radiators including white, anthracite and chrome. They are sympathetic to the needs of both consumer and radiator style and provide a compact design incorporating all the attributes found by regular Terrier TRVs. As one of the most recognisable TRV brands on the market, the Terrier is very user friendly, with clear settings for efficiency and boasts an operational temperature range of 7°C to 28°C. A positive shut off has been incorporated to enable removal of radiators for decoration or maintenance - without the need for removing the thermostatic head and replacing with a manual cap.

The Terrier Décor range of TRVs also carries Kitemark approval from the EN215 Standard for quality and performance and an ‘A rating’ from the TELL scheme provides a further European seal of approval.

Sindar concluded, “We believe it is important for installers to have knowledge and understanding of how to save energy and integrate devices, products and systems with whatever central heating system they are installing. It is essential for the future of energy

reduction in the UK! “In support of this, BEAMA has launched the ‘Control Your Home’ campaign that encourages the heating industry to work together to help consumers reduce their heating bills through better control of their heating. The campaign offers information that will support installers when advising their customers to fit controls, whether they be practical or décor solutions.”

Pegler Yorkshire has also recently launched a new Terrier heating solutions brochure which gives installers an overview of its full range, including manual, thermostatic, programmable and decorative valves. There is also a section on BEAMA’s research that shows tangible results on the use of TRVs over manual valves, plus a section on how using controls can make a difference.

Further information regarding Pegler Yorkshire and its products can be found by visiting www.pegleryorkshire. co.uk. To know more about the BEAMA ‘Control Your Home’ campaign visit www. controlyourhome.org.uk T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 * http://www.beama.org.uk/en/utilities/document-summary. cfm/docid/10170869-0D20-4FE8-A9BBBC9E9E5A9508

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 19

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...

Highlighting Carbon Monoxide Month OFTEC was well represented during CO Awareness Month in Northern Ireland.

Led by OFTEC Ireland Manager and spokesperson, David Blevings, the organisation achieved strong awareness in the media across the region, including BBC Radio Ulster, with interviews and articles promoting the use of OFTEC registered technicians David Blevings pictured with DETI Minister, Jonathan Bell and HSENI Chief Executive, Keith Morrison at the launch of Carbon Monoxide Month.

Solid fuel course The new course for installers commenced at METAC in Ireland on November 9.

The new designations of OFT15-108(D) and OFT15-108(W) are now available, and other centres are registering their interest.

A number of counter hand courses have been held at METAC, and plumbers’ merchants and solid fuel retailers are now ready to promote OFTEC registered solid fuel installers.

The course is designed to give current and potential installers a firm knowledge and understanding of how a solid fuel appliance should be installed correctly, and to demonstrate the requirements for flueing, ventilation and how to meet the current building regulations. The wet course is only available to technicians completing the dry

Two technicians in Ireland who have already added the 108D scope to their registration are Christopher Carey and Damian Finnegan.

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course (and meeting the existing prerequisites) and will show technicians how to connect a stove to an existing heating system.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager, commented, “The course should be of huge benefit to any installer wanting to demonstrate their competence to consumers. A key benefit to installers who register as a solid fuel operative with OFTEC will be their inclusion on a new solid fuel register of technicians.

This list will be available online and, more importantly, the merchants in Ireland have indicated that they will be handing lists of competent installers (OFTEC registered) to consumers purchasing stoves in Ireland.

“Merchants clearly recognise the benefit of using a competent person to install a solid fuel appliance and want to make sure their customers get a satisfactory installation that meets current building regulation requirements and is safe.

OFTEC is also in discussions with SOLAS, who have expressed an interest in adopting the OFTEC solid fuel course for plumbing apprentices.”

Technicians who already hold a recognised solid fuel qualification can add this scope to their existing registration from as little as €65 (£50).

SEAI and Domestic Fuel Price Indicator The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) publishes a quarterly domestic fuel price indicator in the Republic of Ireland (similar to Sutherland Tables). OFTEC queried the apparent high price of kerosene and, on investigation, it appears SEAI has been quoting ‘scheduled prices’ instead of ‘retail prices’ for kerosene for almost 20 years.

OFTEC has written to the CEO and board members of SEAI to voice its concern and demand that the compilation of data is changed immediately. OFTEC also asked all the Ireland OFTEC members to write to SEAI and to support its call for action.

The reality is that oil is at a six-year low and, according to October 2015 Sutherland Tables, is the cheapest form of home heating on the island.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager on +44 (0)28 9186 2916 - www.oftec.org Sean McBride, Ireland Representative on 087 241 7041

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plumbing & Heating awards 2016

Award categories now released…

Showcase your industry excellence and achievements by entering the only plumbing and heating awards in Northern Ireland.

Apprentice of the Year This award seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contribution of a leading apprentice.

Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year Your chance to nominate a sales representative who goes the extra mile.

Best Marketing Campaign This category will look at how well a company has marketed a new service and/or product across a number of platforms.

Best Digital Marketing Campaign An entry to this category must include significant use of online or digital technology to promote a product or service

Green Technology Project of the Year Open to M&E consultants and/or contractors, this category will look at the use of ‘green’ technology to enhance the energy efficiency and sustainability of a project.

Innovative Product of the Year This category looks at product development, innovation and visibility in the marketplace.

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plumbing & Heating awards 2016

For further info…

FOR AN ENTRY FORM OR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT :

Karen on 028 9261 2990 or e-mail karen@kmpltd.co.uk

ENTER NOW!

GALA EVENT: June 9th, 2016, Hilton Hotel, Belfast

Mechanical Project of the Year This category is open to M&E consultants and/or contractors. Entries will be judged on a presentation of how they worked positively throughout a project to deliver high standards and meet strict deadlines. Categories include: • Domestic • Commercial, Industrial or Public Sector

Unsung Hero of the Year This new category will recognise an individual within the plumbing and heating sector who makes a substantial contribution to their company, local community or charity.

Contractor of the Year This category is open to all plumbing and heating/mechanical companies. Entries will be judged on the presentation of how you have provided a solution to a recent challenging project(s) within either or both of the following sectors: • Domestic - Gas • Domestic - Oil • Commercial, Industrial or Public Sector

Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year Nominate your favourite plumbers’ merchant across four categories in this category: • Best Trade Counter

• Best Family/Independent • Best Customer Service

• Overall Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year

Deadline Monday 11 April 2016

Overall Achievement Award This category will recognise an individual or a company that has enhanced the plumbing and heating industry through their dedication and tireless hard work.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 23

Boilers, servicing and parts

With the majority of boilers already highly efficient, Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, Bosch Group, discusses what steps heating engineers can still take to maximise performance...

Taking efficiency to the next level

D

espite attempts to direct the UK’s homes toward renewable technologies, we remain in a position whereby a boiler remains the most effective way to heat a property.

While a boiler may be widely regarded as a distress purchase for the home-owner, regular servicing should be considered a vital part of the whole-house approach to warmth and efficiency.

With annual boiler servicing not currently a legal requirement for home-owners, a good deal of education is needed to ensure that they recognise the long-term benefits for their heating system. That is why many manufacturers now stipulate that an appliance must undergo a service each year in order for any warranty to remain valid.

By carrying out frequent check-ups, heating engineers can proactively change any component of the boiler which looks like it is wearing, extending the lifespan of the appliance and helping to mitigate ever-rising energy bills by ensuring optimum efficiency – and this is certainly the message I would encourage installers to continue giving to their customers.

system to clog up or restrict the waterways in a modern condensing boiler. As a result, the importance of performing a full system cleanse to keep an appliance running as efficiently as possible can scarcely be understated.

Once the initial system flush has been carried out, however, adding a system filter will complement this process; assuring the long-term protection of an appliance by collecting any contaminates that may not have been removed at the time.

Worcester’s brand new Greenstar System Filter has been designed with feedback from over 200 heating engineers, meaning it is as attractive from an installation point of view as it is to the discerning home-owner.

Available as a 22mm model or 28mm variant compatible with larger boilers and systems, the Greenstar System Filter boasts a larger, more powerful internal magnet which safeguards the boiler and wider system components. Meanwhile, installation and servicing have been made simpler than ever thanks to a bi-directional flow, a wide top opening, and a detachable body.

High efficiency controls Flushing and filtering More refined components and smaller water passages mean that it does not take too much sediment from an unclean heating

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One other way that high efficiency appliances can be coaxed into delivering even better performance is through the use of equally sophisticated accessories which

will offer complete control over the operation of a heating system.

With new control classifications having been introduced under the Energy-related Products (ErP) Directive, it is now even easier than ever for installers to explain a heating system’s rating and demonstrate the potential benefits of different products.

Worcester’s new Greenstar Sense controls make the most of this opportunity, offering an uplift of up to 4% in the energy efficiency of a heating system through their use of load and weather compensation. Comprising two wired heating controls, as well as a solar module, the Greenstar Sense I and Sense II combine premium efficiency and a sophisticated design to create a range of high comfort, lowmaintenance heating controls for homeowners.

Although manufacturers have worked hard to make the latest generation of gas boilers ever-more efficient, there remain several ways to maximise the efficiency of a heating system. At Worcester, we are committed to making it as easy as possible for installers to take advantage of the various systems and strategies on offer.

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 | 25

Boilers, servicing and parts

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MAKE REPAIRS QUICKLY AND SIMPLY WITH SLIP COUPLINGS FROM THE SHARKBITE RANGE OF PUSH-FIT PLUMBING SOLUTIONS…

Fix burst pipes fast!

H

ow many times has a customer called you out to a leak because they have put a nail or a screw through a pipe, or a pipe has split during the winter freeze?

Whatever the cause, repairing such damage permanently and reliably is now possible in a matter of minutes, thanks to the simple, yet ingenious Slip Couplings from the SharkBite range of push-fit plumbing solutions.

SharkBite Slip Couplings are the UK plumbing industry’s only ultra-low lead, brass push-fit repair solution that can be used on five different types of pipe.

Compatible with copper, chromed copper, carbon steel, PEX or polybutylene pipe, SharkBite Slip Couplings do not require heat for installation. The simple push-fit ends enable quick, permanent repairs, even in wet conditions, so, there is no need to waste time looking for the stop tap and draining down the whole system.

Slip couplings are available in sizes 15mm to 54mm and, thanks to their slim-line body design, they are the ideal solution for

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repairs in confined spaces, such as ceiling voids or behind walls.

SharkBite Slip Couplings are the essential pipe repair solution to keep in the van in case of an emergency call.

To watch a video of how to make a repair using SharkBite Slip Couplings visit www.sharkbiteplumbing.co.uk/howto Extending existing pipe systems is quick and easy too, with SharkBite Slip Tees. Available in sizes 15mm to 54mm, these unique fittings incorporate an extended run (slip end) that enables a retrospective system extension to be installed in just minutes.

All SharkBite fittings are pressure-rated up to 10 bar at 120oC, WRAS approved and guaranteed for 25 years.

T: Stuart Harron, Regional Sales Manager for Ireland, on (NI) 07909 532133 or (RoI) 0044 7909 532133.

E: stuart.harron@rwc.com T: Garth Walsh, Product Manager, Northern Ireland, on (NI) 07881 274917 or (RoI) 0044 7881 274917.

E: garth.walsh@rwc.com W: www.sharkbiteplumbing.co.uk

Making a repair is quick and simple g Locate the hole in the pipe.

Isolate the water if a dry repair is necessary, or conduct a wet repair as shown: Step 1 - Cut either side of the leak and remove the damaged section pipe*. Deburr the two pipe ends or insert pipe liners (as appropriate to the type of pipe). Mark the insertion depths on both pipe ends*.

Step 2 – Identify the slip end of the slip coupling and slide onto one of the pipes (slip end first) until it reaches the stop (indicated by a line of the coupling body).

Step 3 – Align the second pipe to the fitting socket and use the appropriate colour coded disconnecting clip or tongs to squeeze the collar whilst sliding the slip coupling over the other pipe until it reaches the insertion depth mark.

The repair is now complete and watertight. * To watch a video of how to make a repair using SharkBite Slip Couplings visit www.sharkbiteplumbing.com/howto

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

BOILERS, SERVICING AND PARTS

Designed by engineers, for engineers, the masterTEC app is everything a professional installer needs to get the job done using the technology already available in their pocket ….

Vaillant enhances masterTEC app to make life effortless for installers

L

eading heating and hot water specialist, Vaillant has enhanced its industryleading masterTEC app to make it easier for installers in Northern Ireland to comply with installation best practice, as well as making it accessible to more installers.

Now available with Gas Safe capability, Vaillant’s masterTEC app helps eliminate the burden of paperwork, making it effortless for installers to process Gas Safe registration details as well as register the boiler for its guarantee. Furthermore, Android users can now enjoy all the features of the app, including Gas Safe notification.

Specifically developed for Vaillant’s Advance members (currently available in Northern Ireland), the masterTEC app is free to download and provides instant and easy access to a range of tools and documents, including: • Advance and guarantee - The ability to register an install for its guarantee and Advance credits by simply scanning the boiler’s barcode. Connectivity at the point of registration is not necessary, as data is

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automatically uploaded as soon as the phone has a 3G/4G signal or a Wi-Fi connection.

• Knowledge base - A hub of technical information and documents, including product information, technical tables, and optimised user, installation and spare parts manuals. Through the app, installers can also find the nearest spare parts stockist so they can deal with any issues efficiently.

• The savings calculator - A helpful sales tool for all Vaillant installers to use when discussing upgrading an existing boiler installation. The calculator allows the installer

to demonstrate the fuel and carbon savings which can be achieved with a new Vaillant boiler according to the house type, size, age and the heating source being replaced.

The masterTEC app also includes an area where installers can sign up to the Advance programme. Additional functions include the ability for Advance installers to keep track of and use their credits and full contact details for key Vaillant departments.

Gregg Cole, Commercial Director at Vaillant, commented, “With installers becoming more tech savvy and looking for ways to reduce burdensome paperwork, we are meeting their expectations head on with the enhancements to our industry-leading masterTEC app.

“Designed by engineers, for engineers, the masterTEC app is everything a professional installer needs to get the job done using the technology already available in their pocket.

From complying with best practice via Gas Safe registrations through to accessing technical information, useful sales information and managing their Advance account, we have provided everything an installer needs to work efficiently and maintain a professional image.”

Currently available for those in Great Britain and Northern Ireland, installers looking to get ahead can download the app for free by searching ‘masterTEC’ in the App Store or on Google Play.

For more information about the Vaillant Advance Loyalty Scheme, visit www.vaillant.co.uk/installers/vaillant-advance.

T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (NI) 07767 377 670 or (RoI) 0044 7767 377 670 or Derek Hunter on (NI) 07534 469 419 or (RoI) 0044 7534 469419 W: www.vaillant.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

BOILERS, SERVICING AND PARTS

SUCCESSFUL SYSTEM CLEANING WITH KAMCO’S CLEARFLOW CF90 QUANTUM2 POWER FLUSHING PUMP…

Is ‘hydro-lethargic’ flushing of heating systems the way forward?

W

ith the rapid growth of magnetic filter technology now being used to protect domestic properties, some engineers are asking, “Do we still need to power flush? Why can’t we just use a magnetic filter?”

This presumption seems plausible, but it ignores the fact that system water has been circulating in one direction since installation, and that standard system pumps are designed for relatively low circulation speeds, which can only move small particles. Heavier debris has little incentive to move, so it settles and compacts in areas of low flow, ie radiators.

Magnets can only collect passing debris, so accumulated deposits will remain static within radiators and pipework, diminishing the efficiency of the system, until forcibly encouraged to move.

Kamco’s own research has confirmed that successful system cleaning is best achieved

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by moving water as fast as possible through a system to mobilise and transport debris to a point where it can be discharged to waste, ie hydro-dynamic cleaning (better known as ‘power flushing’). The higher the velocity, the better the effect.

Conversely ‘hydro-lethargic’ flushing, using only a magnetic filter and the systems own pump, might seem tempting as a cheap, labour-saving proposition, but it is simply no substitute for the proven technique of hydro-dynamic flushing when it comes to a thorough and effective system cleanse.

Kamco’s Clearflow CF90 Quantum2 power flushing pump boasts double the flow rates of most pumps on the market, removing more debris in less time. Optional accessories, such as Kamco’s range of CombiMag magnetic filters, can reduce flushing time and provide an excellent visual aid to show householders exactly what is being removed from their system.

“Kamco’s Clearflow CF90 Quantum2 power flushing pump boasts double the flow rates of most pumps on the market.”

T: (NI) 01727 875020 or (RoI) 0044 1727 875020 E: info@kamco.co.uk W: www.kamco.co.uk

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BOILERS, SERVICING AND PARTS

Manufacturer warranties are important for helping home-owners avoid expensive repairs, but they can also hold the key for installers looking to ensure a steady revenue stream...

Help yourself with servicing

A

s installers know, there are a number of requirements that must be met for a warranty to maintain its validity. For instance, usually a boiler must be serviced annually and registered within 30 days of installation.

However, most householders won’t think about the warranty until a problem occurs, leaving the onus on the installer to raise awareness of the requirements.

Explaining what the warranty covers and its requirements in full will leave the homeowner feeling confident that they have been provided with all the information they need to ensure it remains intact, while also giving installers the opportunity to highlight what support they can offer for the duration of the warranty period, and beyond.

When explaining servicing requirements, it is important to stress that customers should only ever allow a Gas Safe (Northern Ireland)

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or RGII (Republic of Ireland) registered engineer to carry out any work on their boiler.

It is also important to underline that regular servicing is crucial for their safety. Carbon Monoxide poisoning poses a deadly risk, so reinforcing the message is a must.

Another key issue to point out is the importance of making sure only approved genuine parts from the manufacturer are used during any servicing and maintenance work.

Most large manufacturers will send their approved or loyal installers a notification when their customer’s boiler is due its next service, helping to ensure their relationship with the customer continues. With this in mind, joining a manufacturer loyalty programme will pay dividends.

Whilst manufacturer warranties can be crucial for installers in securing installation work and future business, it is important that helping customers to understand their obligations

remains the key focus. That way, installers can ensure their customers remain safe and covered financially, which should naturally lead to a strong and trusted relationship on which to build in the future.

T: Sharon English (NI) 07966 585 902 or Baxi Potterton Myson (RoI): 01 459 0870 E: sharon.english@baxi.co.uk or (RoI) sales@potterton-myson.ie W: www.baxi.co.uk or www.baxipottertonmyson.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 31

training

P&H

DOMINIC DUNNE

meets

DIRECTOR DOMINIC DUNNE TALKS ABOUT NEW COURSES AT METAC AND WHAT SETS THEM APART FROM SIMILAR FACILITIES…

Top trainer!

M

etac holds the enviable position of being the largest energy training and assessment centre in Ireland and

the UK. Around 2,700 people walk out of the Laoisbased facility every year with skills that are recognised by SOLAS, Bord Gáis, City & Guilds and OFTEC. Improvements are constantly being made to both the state-ofthe-art training facility and to the courses that are run there; in September 2010, a 16 metre 6KW wind turbine and accompanying photovoltaic system was installed at the centre, allowing Metac to expand its renewable energy training to incorporate wind training. In recent times courses have also been expanded to incorporate business, computers, vocational and hobby courses.

Metac trainers work both nationally and internationally in the industries in which they train, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest technologies and issues that participants may face on a daily basis.

“They’re constantly bringing fresh knowledge into the facility and they understand what’s happening out there, whereas people in other training facilities may not be as familiar with what’s happening in the industry,” said Director, Dominic Dunne. “We relate to the people who come to us.”

Dominic knows only too well what’s required of professionals in the industry. As an exfitter plumber himself, he recognised the need for a high quality training facility like Metac.

“I set up Metac in 2005, having worked for a number of UK and European firms for years.

It took us a little while to get established, but having renewable energy grant aid available at the time gave us a leg up and allowed us to cement our reputation.”

Metac customers are trained at the Laois

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“Whether they’re in the workshop or the classroom, the trainer stays there and is on hand to answer questions and offer advice.” facility through a combination of theory and practical hands-on practice.

“Customers are very comfortable with the hands-on side, so we ensure there’s plenty of practical experience in each course,” explained Dominic. “Something else that sets us apart is the fact that our trainers are with the class at all times. Whether they’re in the workshop or the classroom, the trainer stays there and is on hand to answer questions, offer advice etc. People often come back to us to say our courses are far superior. Everyone who goes out of here says we’re top class.”

When it comes to marketing, Dominic and the team rely on word of mouth.

“A good example of that would be a couple of years ago when Grafton Group and Waterford Stanley came to us and asked if we’d do something about solid fuel training.

We’ve been working on it now for two years and thankfully a new course has just got off the ground. This is the first solid fuel course provided by an independent training body in Ireland and is badly needed. We hope the course will result in an increased understanding about solid fuel stoves installation. The number fitted incorrectly

and without ventilation is unbelievable.”

Dominic began his own career as an apprentice fitter in 1971 with Bord na Mona.

“There wasn’t really anyone in the family in the trade, although my grandfather was a blacksmith. I was welding from the age of four! I always wanted to be in the trades so I went for it.”

When he’s not at work (which doesn’t happen too much), Dominic’s a keen golfer.

“I try to get out on a Sunday, weather permitting. I’ve been going up to the course in Mountrath for years, it’s a fantastic course. I’ve been up and down in my handicap figures over the years but have stayed at it!”

So what makes Metac the premier go-to training facility?

“The state-of-the-art facility, the location and the trainers. There’s nowhere comparable in Ireland or indeed the UK. It’s a friendly relaxed environment that’s conducive to learning and it’s a place that people leave with skills recognised by all the relevant bodies.”

T: (RoI) 057 8756 540 or (NI) 00353 57 8756 540 E: info@metac.ie W: metac.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 33

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

BOILERS, SERVICING AND PARTS

Low oil prices and a reputation for high performance boilers makes Grant NI a household favourite…

Oil and Grant NI – the first choice for home heating

G

rant NI is delighted to support the new OFTEC Ireland campaign – ‘Oil – Your first choice’.

The campaign highlights the important message that oil prices are at a five year low and home-owners can save money if they stay with oil, as it is the cheapest way to heat your home when compared to natural gas or LPG. The most recent independent Sutherland figures (October 2015) which illustrate comparative heating costs in Northern Ireland, also reinforce this message and clearly state that condensing oil fired boilers are in fact the lowest cost way to heat your home.

Mark Eccles from Grant NI commented, “The OFTEC campaign and the Sutherland figures are both welcoming and very reassuring for homeowners. The price of oil has been low for quite a while now and it is our understanding that prices are expected to stay low for the foreseeable future.”

Earlier this year, OFTEC released a news piece which highlighted that oil users with condensing boilers are now paying £201 less per year to heat their homes than their urban counterparts on mains gas.

With this in mind, the Grant Vortex is a sure-fire way to save money.

As oil prices remain low for the foreseeable future, interest in the Grant Vortex Condensing Oil Boiler range has surged.

With a track record for designing and manufacturing high-performance and

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affordable heating solutions for over 37 years, Grant NI has vastly become a household favourite.

Highlighting the range’s popularity, the Grant Vortex Condensing Oil Boiler is one of Grant NI’s key achievements and contributions to the heating industry. Its integral signature features are a testament to the company’s design process and commitment to reducing the heating bills and carbon footprint of home-owners and businesses.

In addition to helping home-owners capitalise on the current fuel climate, the Grant Vortex Condensing Oil Boiler models possess a variety of high-efficiency features that will fortify heating expenditure whatever the economic conditions.

T: Grant NI on 0800 2794796 E: info@grantni.com - www.grantni.com

At a glance…

• Each Grant Vortex boiler has a received an ‘A’ efficiency rating and is up to 97% efficient – one of the most efficient on the market.

• Every Grant Vortex boiler comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty with a five-year warranty on the boiler heat exchanger.

• Each boiler is simple to install with no complicated wiring.

• The Grant Vortex Indoor boiler also comes in a utility model – a smaller designed specifically designed to fit in most kitchens.

• All Grant Vortex boilers feature whisper quiet operation and full-front service access.

• All Grant Vortex boilers are fully compliant with ErP directive.

• The test-switch function allows the boiler to be fired from outside, supporting easy servicing and maintenance.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 35

CONFERENCE

NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONFERENCE PROVES A SUCCESS WITH HIGH PROFILE SPEAKERS AND PACKED ATTENDANCE…

Heat Merchants hosts National Construction Conference

A

n informative and engaging day, the National Construction Industry Conference took place on November 17 in Croke Park Conference Centre.

The full-day seminar was hosted by Heat Merchants and featured several high profile speakers including Jeff House, Regulatory Marketing Manager, BAXI; Paul Cronin, Architectural Specialist, Ardex/ BAL; Conor Taaffe, Managing Director, HomeBond Building Control; and Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director, Housing, Planning & Development, CIF. A packed house ensured conversation and debate flowed throughout the day, when the industry’s key topics were kept to the fore.

The importance of being ErP compliant and how ErP actually works was explained by BAXI’s Jeff House. Since September 2015,

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the Energy Related Products Directive (ErP) applies to all domestic and commercial heating and hot water products throughout Europe, and so this proved a particularly interesting subject on the day.

The fundamentals of combined heat and power were covered by Will Johnson, Large Scale CHP Sales Manager, and Alex Parkinson, CHP Commercial Manager, Bosch Commercial. Typical projects, financial savings and legislative benefits were explored in full.

The practical implementation of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 was presented by Conor Taaffe, Managing Director at HomeBond Building Control, while Philip Lee, Managing Partner and Founder of Philip Lee, gave an interesting session on the regulatory environment. Philip discussed the Energy

Performance of Buildings Directive and the requirement since July 2013 for new buildings and major renovations to meet national minimum energy performance requirements. ‘Problem solving with tiling solutions’ was the focus of Architectural Specialist, Paul Cronin’s presentation on the day, while the consequences of the new broadband-related rules for the construction industry were set out by Edel Hartog, McCann Fitzgerald Solicitors.

Heat Merchants has been supplying heating and plumbing trade professionals with an extensive product range since 1978 and so is well placed to organise a national conference for the industry. A resounding success, the event was enjoyed by both delegates and exhibitors alike.

T: (RoI) 090 6442 300 or (NI) 00353 90 6442 300 W: www.heatmerchants.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 37

COMPANY NEWS – BASSETTS

At the opening of the new Bassetts Simply Bathrooms are (from left) Alan Wright, Managing Director, Bassetts; Leeann McDowell, Miss Northern Ireland; rugby legend, Steven Ferris along with the Simply Bathrooms team - Darren Perry, Ryan Smith, Showroom Manager, and Giles Strutt.

New Belfast Boucher Road showroom and L’derry expansion are officially opened, with new coleraine unveiling set to come...

Bassetts celebrates significant growth

B

assetts, Northern Ireland’s largest bathroom, heating and tile company, has officially opened a new showroom within the heart of the thriving Boucher Road retail area in Belfast, alongside showroom expansions in two of its local branches in County Londonderry, following a period of significant growth for the company.

The new Boucher Road showroom is open seven days a week and it will exclusively

showcase Bassett’s high quality range of bathroom and tile designs in a unique designer showroom setting.

This beautiful showroom experience not only provides customers with inspiration through a wide range of displays but gives them the ability to visualise their own designs, using the unique Bassetts Visualiser. This state-of-the-art touchscreen technology enables customers to choose from hundreds

of wall and floor tiles and then visualise them in photo-realistic settings, including bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms.

The opening of Bassetts Simply Bathrooms is in addition to expansions to the North West. The anticipated opening of a newly extended showroom in Coleraine branch, located on Cloyfin Road, will see the branch double in size to showcase its growing range of bathroom and tile designs.

“Our bathroom, plumbing and heating business has gone from strength to strength.”

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COMPANY NEWS – BASSETTS

Officially launching the redesigned Bassetts Bathroom Showroom at Victoria Road in L’Derry are (from left) Deputy Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Thomas Kerrigan; Leeann McDowell, Miss Northern Ireland; Alan Wright, Managing Director, Bassetts; and Kevin Kelly, Branch Manager.

This is one of two extensions within the Bassetts network in the North West, with the Derry-Londonderry branch now offering new bathroom displays and the launch of the first ever tile studio for the company.

The growth has been fuelled by recent positive movements in the local home improvement and housing market in Northern Ireland, with Bassetts maintaining a strong position; as it did during the challenging recession period.

Managing Director of Bassetts, Alan Wright, commented, “We are delighted to open our new Boucher Road showroom, alongside extensive branch expansions in DerryLondonderry and Coleraine.

“Despite the difficulties that many national retailers may be facing in the home

improvement market, our bathroom, plumbing and heating business has gone from strength to strength. In recent months, we have seen an increasing number of home-owners choosing to renovate or improve their homes, with 44% of homeowners fitting a new bathroom in the last three years.

“A further half of all home-owners in Northern Ireland are also predicted to renovate their homes this year and that is a key reason why we are expanding our showrooms and opening a new Belfast showroom to meet an increasing demand for exclusive, high quality, affordable products.

“The number of new homes being built across Northern Ireland is also up by almost 50% and we are committed to offering our trade customers an expanded range of options

and to plug the gap in offering stylish and affordable heating and plumbing solutions for new builds.”

Bassetts is all encompassing and caters for every bathroom, plumbing and heating need, ranging from bathrooms, showers and tiles through to radiators and boilers.

Its extensive branch network provides residential and trade customers with bathroom solutions from the leading local and international manufacturers.

Bassetts has branches in Bangor, Belfast, Coleraine, Downpatrick, Dungannon, Lisburn, L’Derry, Mallusk, Greencastle, Newry, Portadown and Omagh. For further information, visit www.bassettsonline.com or telephone head office on 028 3833 9438.

HEAD OFFICE: 4 Mahon Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT62 3EH T: 028 3833 9438 F: 028 3833 8813 Visit us at bassettsonline.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 39

HeatMaster TC (Total Condensing) A simple and effective concept delivering outstanding performance Using over 90 years of manufacturing experience, ACV have developed a product with the installer and end user in mind, When it comes to performance, energy saving and space saving, the benefits of a tank-in-Tank system out perform a traditional coil installation on almost every occasion.

• Six outputs from 25kW to 120kW, there is a HeatMaster TC boiler to suit almost every installation • Stainless steel heat exchanger • Combination direct fired heating and hot water unit • Condenses in heating and hot water mode - up to 99% efficiency using passive flue heat recovery technology • High Performance DHW - almost 2000 litres of hot water in the first hour @ 60C • Small Footprint 0.5m2 - High output • Fast recovery – from 10C to 80C in 23 minutes (HM120TC) • Anti Leigonella due to high storage temperature • Unrivalled resistance to scale HeatMaster TC boilers have been successfully installed for many years in hospitals, sports centres, schools and indeed anywhere high volumes of safe hot water are an absolute must.

FOR ENQUIRIES (NI) C&F Quadrant, Unit 15 Abbey Business Park, Mill Road, Newtownabbey, County Antrim BT36 7BA T: +44 (0)28 9036 5555 - F: +44 (0)28 9036 5565 - E: michaelc@cfquadrant.com

COMMERCIAL HEATING

popular range available from C&F Quadrant is the only sotrage combination boiler to fully condense during the hot water and heating modes…

ACV’s 120TC is still the HeatMaster!

T

he ACV HeatMaster 120TC, available from C&F Quadrant, continues to tick all the right boxes for M&E consultants and contractors, not to mention end users.

The combined heating and hot water boiler has been successfully supplied

by C&F Quadrant to a diverse range of projects across Northern Ireland, illustrating why the new HeatMaster 120TC continues to be the perfect choice for commercial heating projects.

It comes with an MCBA electronic control fitted as standard, meaning that by managing boiler and burner functions, the stop/start cycle can be reduced significantly, ultimately saving fuel and component wear and tear.

While the HeatMaster 120TC is already a proven product, recent additions make it even more reliable. With a new power of 115kW and

“

DHW Performances of + 25% versus the HeatMaster 85TC, the new 120TC has also been given an hydraulic upgrade, with the size of the safety valve being increased to 164kW. A low-energy Class A integrated pump reduces electrical consumption by 80% while also improving the reliability of the boiler. The pump is connected to the exchanger with a copper tube, making it is easy to remove and leading to easier maintenance of the condense dish. This focus on ease of maintenance is further enhanced, with the top of the boiler casing being split into two parts to improve the accessibility.

The HeatMaster 120TC is not the only boiler in this range to receive an upgrade.

The HeatMaster 25TC and the new 35TC, 70TC and 85TC boilers have all been improved, with an electrical upgrade approved by external laboratory Kiwa, a locked front panel, an hydraulic upgrade, and an increase in the size of the safety valve to above 50kW in all new additions.

But what hasn’t changed is the fact that the HeatMaster TC is the only storage combination boiler to fully condense during the hot water and heating modes. The secret of this success is the specially designed stainless steel heat exchanger, with the combustion gases passing downwards through it to condense in the lower circuit of the HeatMaster TC. This makes maximum use of the energy available from the combustion process.

T: C&F Quadrant (NI) 028 9036 5555 or (RoI) 01 6305757.

W: www.cfquadrant.ie

C&F Quadrant is renowned for quality, commercial solutions.

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”

New features...

• •

•

•

•

•

New power: 115kW DHW performances: +25% vs HM85 TC Hydraulic upgrade: Size of safety valve increased to 164kW. Now delivered in a cardboard box, to be connected to the rear of the boiler by the installer.

Low energy Class A pump integrated: Electrical consumption reduced by 80%, and, reliability of the boiler improved (if the pump fails, the boiler stops). The pump is connected to the exchanger with a copper tube, easy to remove, leading to easier maintenance of the condense dish.

Top of the casing is split in two parts to improve the accessibility for maintenance.

The new HM120TC has the same footprint as the 85TC, with much more performance.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 41

water efficiency

CALFLOW PLUS FROM ALTECNIC COMBINES FILTRATION AND ISOLATION VALVE AND A FLOW RESTRICTOR IN ONE COMPACT DESIGN...

Conserving natural resources, saving money

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ltecnic has developed a number of products which are aimed at helping conserve our water resources. As a result, delivering water efficiency in both domestic and commercial applications has never been easier using the company’s innovative water-saving products, in which fit/function and easy installation are paramount.

This range includes Calflow Plus - a combined isolation, filter and flow regulation valve - and flow regulators, which are proprietary flow regulators mounted in brass housing for ease of install.

The Calflow Plus flow regulating ball valve features a ball isolating valve, strainer and

flow regulating valve, combined into one valve body to save assembly time and space.

Flow regulation is achieved by pre-selecting the appropriate flow cartridge to maintain a constant flow of water to a tap, mixer, shower or thermostatic mixing valve. By pre-selecting the flow cartridge to match the desired flow from the outlet, savings in water consumption are easily achieved.

BENEFITS Amongst the many benefits of the Calflow Plus when used in hot, cold and mixed water supply pipes is the ease of isolation of outlet fittings, either to carry out future

maintenance or when the strainer element requires cleaning.

The generously proportioned strainer element collects debris without continually becoming clogged and restricting the water supply, while the automatic flow cartridge allows a continuous and constant flow of water at the desired flow rate and prevents overflow from occurring. The flow cartridge is also easily replaced.

The body of the Caflow Plus is constructed from brass, with the compression ends complying with BS EN 1254-2. The cartridge is made of high-resistance polymer to withstand a wide range of temperatures while the strainer screen is manufactured

“Restricting the flow of water to various appliances throughout the home can save the end-user money and energy.”

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water efficiency

1

4

2

5

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A step-by-step guide to installing Calflow Plus g Calflow Plus combines filtration and isolation valve and a flow restrictor in one compact design. Restricting the flow of water to various appliances throughout the home can save the end user money and energy. Calflow Plus is easy to install - simply follow this basic guide for a trouble-free installation.

1. Choose the flow rate needed for your application, for example a four litre per minute for a wash hand basin.

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2. Isolate and drain the supply, then mark the area of pipe that needs to be removed (52mm).

3. Make sure the water supply is off, then use a suitable cutting tool to remove the pipe, taking care to leave room for installation and future servicing.

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4. Fit the nut and olive over the now open end of the tube using a suitable sealing compound around the olive.

5. Insert the Calflow Plus body into the supply pipe, taking care to make sure the tube reaches the ‘stop’ points in the valve body. Check the direction of flow.

6. Having measured and cut the correct amount of tube, install the nut and olive for the outlet connection.

from 316 stainless steel.

Other features include a ball valve with PTFE seals for reliable isolation, a hard chromeplated ball for increased wear resistance, and nitrile rubber ‘O’ ring seals.

By selecting the appropriate cartridge, significant savings in water consumption can be achieved. Additional savings can also be made when the appropriate cartridge is used in conjunction with timed or electronic taps, controllers and showers.

INSTALLATION The Calflow Plus is very simple to install with just two compression joints to make.

The flow through the valve must follow the

direction of the arrow on the valve body, and the valve should be installed with the ball valve lever uppermost, for maximum efficiency of the strainer.

Sufficient clearance must be allowed for the removal of the strainer cap (20mm A/F) and removal of the strainer element for cleaning.

The only recommended maintenance is that periodically the strainer element is removed and cleaned.

Altecnic’s products have been designed and manufactured to meet the industry standards of best practice and the requirements of BREEAM, the Water Technology List and the Water Efficient Product Labelling scheme.

7. Isolate and turn the water on to check the inlet connection for leaks. Reinstate the water supply and check the top connection for leaks. Isolate again and remove the plug over a suitable container.

8. Allow the valve to drain and then flush through any installation debris.

9. Remove the strainer and cartridge, and clean. Check the filter for any remaining debris.

10. Reinstall the filter and flow regulator.

11. Tighten the cap, turn on and check for leaks.

12. Check the outlet at the tap and note the now reduced flow rate.

Altecnic Ltd, Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1GW T: (RoI) 0044 1785 218208 or (NI) 01785 218208 E: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 43

GAS INDUSTRY NEWS

With more than 76,000 natural gas customers across the firmus energy network, this highly efficient fuel is becoming increasingly popular among households and businesses across Northern Ireland…

Eric Cosgrove, Engineering Director of firmus energy, (left) and Cormac O’Donnell, Head of Operations McNicholas Construction.

Become a firmus energy gas installer

C

ustomers are quick to realise the benefits of having a fuel that never runs out, is piped directly to their property and you only pay for the energy you use – when you use it!

Why not consider becoming a natural gas installer for firmus energy and the company can help you grow your business. firmus energy can do this by passing you direct opportunities in your local area and inviting you to the company’s installer briefings where firmus energy will bring you up to date with the latest information and where you will also have the opportunity to network with other installers and share best practice. firmus energy also offers practical support and will help you promote your business through advertising and free literature. The company’s professional marketing team is

also on hand to give you hints and tips on ways to bring your business to the attention of even more potential customers. firmus energy has already connected over 25 key cities, towns and villages across Northern Ireland, and this network area is growing every day, particularly as the company moves into more and more new locations. See the advertisement opposite for details of the company’s natural gas supplied areas and where firmus energy has more than 1,000 km of pipework laid.

In addition, firmus energy has recently received approval from the Utility Regulator to extend its natural gas network to Moy and the surrounding areas of Benburb, Blackwatertown and Charlemount in a £2 million investment programme. Work on extending the pipeline has now started, with

Ciaran Brennan, Project Engineer, firmus energy, and Angeline Murphy, Marketing Manager, firmus energy, marking approval from the Utility Regulator for firmus energy to extend its natural gas network to Moy and the surrounding areas in a £2million investment programme

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the first customers due to be connected in 2016. firmus energy recently held an information session in the area and has been out talking to potential customers and interest has been very strong.

Many more homes and businesses will now be able to enjoy the benefits of natural gas, including up to a 30% reduction in carbon emissions compared to oil, the convenience of a constant supply of energy, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, no need for storage facilities or the worry of ordering or running out of fuel. firmus energy also knows that when you are working, you see many boilers which are around 10-15 years old. These could be costing your customers money, as boilers of this age tend to be inefficient and can waste significant amounts of energy. If you know of any residential areas where the oil boilers are likely to be around 10-15 years old, and that are near the firmus energy gas network, then get in touch. The team at firmus energy can carry out an assessment to see if the homes are suitable for connection, and you’ll have the opportunity to provide the installation service. firmus energy already supplies natural gas to around 76,000 homes and businesses across Northern Ireland and has invested more than £100 million in the last ten years.

Becoming a firmus energy installer is a straightforward process and there is no cost to you. The company currently provides employment for more than 300 local contractors, installers and agencies across Northern Ireland.

Interested? Contact the firmus energy Energy Advisors today on 0800 032 4567 to find out more.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 45

CIRCULATORS

Take a closer look at the ErP compliant, highly efficient circulators with patented Anti-Block technology from Xylem…

Affordable efficiency with the Lowara ecocirc BASIC and ecocirc PREMIUM

I

mpressively simple, the Lowara ecocirc BASIC and ecocirc PREMIUM, made by Xylem, provide affordable efficiency.

Approximately 10%-15% of the electricity consumption of an average household is caused by domestic heating circulators, with the overwhelming majority of these consisting of fixed three speed standard circulators.

The recently implemented ErP Directive has changed this and Lowara ecocirc offers the perfect solution. The purpose of the Directive is to reduce the energy consumption significantly. Previously, installers only had the choice of purchasing an inexpensive inefficient standard circulator with high energy consumption or selecting a modern, high efficiency pump which was quite costly but delivered energy savings.

The new Lowara ecocirc made by Xylem strikes the balance between these two options - a modern, electronically controlled high efficiency pump, which pays for itself within a short period of installation.

Xylem now offers two options and both focus on a quick payback time - the Lowara ecocirc BASIC, a highly efficient circulator, and also the ecocirc PREMIUM, which also offers a multi-display, a plug for a quick and easy installation and even one more control option.

Both versions feature a shaftless spherical motor design that requires only one single bearing which is self-realigning but does not require any shaft at all. This significantly reduces the number of costly and complicated parts.

With the evolutionary Anti-Block-

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Technology, the ceramic bearing ball is now encapsulated inside in the centre of the rotor/impeller unit and is used to effectively separate magnetite and sludge.

Found in the pumped liquid, magnetite and sludge are both magnetic. This can accumulate at the permanent magnetic parts of a high-efficiency pump and therefore block and damage it or decrease the pump‘s efficiency.

Xylem’s new Anti-Block Technology separates the main flow of the pumped media completely from the permanent magnetic part and, thanks to this new pump design it is impossible for even very old, open systems to get blocked up.

As standard, Ecocirc circulators come with an internal temperature sensor which measures the temperature directly at electronic components. Electronic temperatures from 105°C to 115°C make the pump reduce its speed continuously.

The pump stops automatically at 125°C and restarts again after cooling down at 115°C. In addition, the inrush-current limitation of 6,5 Amp also protects older external heating controls that may be installed on site.

However, this high level of technology comes with easy to use settings. One single knob serves all needs - stepless control options, automatic air purge and maximum hydraulic performance.

Xylem Water Solutions Ireland Limited T: (RoI) 01 452 4444 or (NI) 0044 7990 706 933 E: lowara.ireland@xylem.com www.xylemwatersolutions.com

ecocirc BASIC Winner of the Plus X ‘Best product of the Year 2013 Award, the Lowara ecocirc BASIC focuses on quick amortisation and short payback times with no compromise on reliability and high efficiency.

It’s two stepless control options include: - stepless fixed speed - automatic proportional pressure control Δp-v

ecocirc PREMIUM All Lowara ecocirc PREMIUM products come, as standard, with three control options, a plug that does not require a tool for assembly and even a multidisplay mounted on the end cap.

Features include: Multi-Display - The automatically alternating display shows either the currently consumed power, the pump head or the flow rate.

Three stepless control options – These include the stepless fixed speed; automatic proportional pressure control Δp-v; and automatic constant pressure control Δp-c Plug – No tools are required for assembly and the female plug is also compatible with male plugs from previously installed third-party circulators. By turning the stator via the screw ring, the plug can be fixed in any position, making an installation, even in the hardest and tightest environment, easy.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 47

INSTALLER INCENTIVES

Installers and home-owners can both benefit from making the switch to LPG…

Powerful incentives from Calor

I

nstallers bringing domestic home-owner leads to Calor are being offered an attractive range of incentives when the customer makes the switch to Calor LPG central heating.

“Relationships with installers are a very important part of our business”, said Kevin Donnelly, Sales Director at Calor. “Installers are often the first person to talk to a customer about Calor products.

They are trusted, skilled professionals whose opinion is valued by the customer. Calor works tirelessly to build our relationships with plumbers and installers, offering marketing support and incentives to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to bring Calor to their customers.”

There are exciting benefits for the home-owner who makes the move to Calor too, with compelling switching offers available this winter, including a brand new free boiler and a 12-month price freeze. Installing a new LPG boiler can help a home-owner make improvements to their home energy efficiency, as well as enabling them to enjoy all the comforts of living with gas - from instant hot water, fast-response central heating and controllable cooking.

Calor’s installers also benefit from the extensive experience and knowledge of Calor’s team, and support throughout the switching process. Installers who want to help their customers make the switch to Calor can be sure of support from one of Ireland’s leading LPG suppliers.

A trusted brand, with an unrivalled commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Calor is one of Ireland’s leading LPG suppliers and an ideal partner for your business.

T: (NI) 07702 368074 or (RoI) 1850 812 450. www.CalorGas.ie

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commercial heating

premium range enhanced by rinnai’s lowest NOx-rated Infinity water heater...

Ultra-efficient Infinity 1600i

R

innai’s new Infinity 1600i – available from Hamilton Gas Products – is the lowest NOx rated Infinity water heating appliance available in today’s market.

The new state-of-the-art Infinity 1600i condensing Low-NOx water heater has been tested to below 20ppm (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 futureproofed 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-pump installations. This is welcome news in a climate where energy

prices are steadily rising and new energyefficient technologies are fast coming into use.

Rinnai products are available via all-Ireland distributor, Hamilton Gas Products.

T: (NI) 028 9146 1111 or (RoI) 048 9146 1111 W: www.gasproducts.co.uk

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

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 49

PIPEWORK

Broad application scope for stainless steel STAINLESS STEEL PIPEWORK AND FITTINGS CAN OFFER A RANGE OF BENEFITS TO DESIGNERS AND INSTALLERS, SAYS BARNY PARKS, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SANHA UK & IRELAND…

I

t is just over 100 years since metallurgists first added carbon and chromium to a melt of steel to produce a new kind of metal that resisted acid attack and was corrosion resistant.

This new wonder steel was initially used in the manufacture of cutlery. The story goes that, because cutlery made from metal did not stain in vinegar it acquired the name ‘stainless steel’. However, one of the most advantageous uses of stainless steel is for pipes and fittings.

Stainless steel has significant advantages as a piping material, particularly when compared to plastic and copper pipework.

It is hygienic and easy to clean, durable and robust, it is not subject to patination and it does not require painting, it is also maintenance free and it will not rust. And, when it does eventually reach the end of its useful life, it is fully recyclable.

For larger pipes (those with a diameter of 108mm for example), the cost of stainless steel is comparable with the cost of copper, particularly when the installation utilises press-fittings.

For smaller diameter pipes the initial capital cost may be higher than copper but its robustness and lack of maintenance means that the economic benefits of using stainless steel will increase over time, particularly for larger installations.

Stainless steel is also more durable than

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copper and it will withstand more aggressive cleaning methods.

SELECTION PROCESS When selecting stainless steel for a pipework project, it is important to understand that stainless steel is not a single alloy but part of a large family of alloys and that each member of this family has different properties, making it suitable for different applications.

Sanha is the only pipework system promoter to manufacture its own stainless steel pipes and fittings at its plants in Berlin and Dresden, Germany (available under the NiroSan brand). The range has been developed to provide a stainless steel solution for almost every piped application.

Austenitic stainless steel is the most popular stainless alloy because of its ductility and ease of working, combined with good corrosion resistance. For this, Sanha developed its Series 9000 grade stainless steel.

Where resistance to chlorine is not an issue, a more economical alternative is to use a stainless steel alloy containing less nickel.

Sanha’s NiroTherm is the answer.

Stainless steel is available with different wall thicknesses. For less demanding applications, contractors may consider using stainless steel pipework with a reduced wall thickness, such as Series 9600 tube,

which could make the installation more cost effective. Ferritic stainless steels are manufactured without nickel. Sanha NiroSan F allows for the same corrosion resistance properties of Series 9000 but can be used for drinking water installations.

Sanha’s NiroSan fittings, when installed in conjunction with either its Series 9000 or Series 9600 tubes have Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) approval.

One hundred years after its invention, it would appear that there are more and more applications where stainless steel for piped systems are appropriate – proof that things really do get better with age.

T: (NI) 01628 819245 or (RoI) 0044 1628 819245 E: uk@sanha.com W: www.sanha.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 51

hot topics

hot topics

GARY PERRY, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, ALTECNIC, HIGHLIGHTS THE BAD HABITS SURROUNDING FILLING CLOSED CIRCUITS…

Going loopy over filling loops

F

illing loops are something that many plumbers regularly install but it is amazing how many are installed wrongly, contrary to regulations.

It is an issue that we have been working hard to raise for some time, not only with installers but plumbers’ merchants too. Unfortunately, this simple message doesn’t seem to be getting through.

That is why we are delighted that this subject is now being looked at by Northern Ireland Water to help raise awareness of the issue.

At the end of the day, without education and, in particular, enforcement (or at least the threat of it), the regulations which have been put in place for a reason become null and void.

Overall, the issue is very simple and is covered in Water Regulations G24.1 and G24.2. These regulations cover the filling of closed circuits using a flexible hose – a simple process of adding water from the main cold water supply.

However, the problems arise when the flexible hose is not connected properly, meaning there is a risk that the water in the central heat system can backflow into the mains supply and contaminate the drinking water.

Regulation G24.1 states that ‘no primary or other closed circuit should be directly and permanently connected to a supply pipe, unless it incorporates an approved backflow prevention arrangement’.

Regulation G24.2 goes further, stating ‘a connection may be made to a supply pipe for filling or replenishing a closed circuit by providing a servicing valve’.

G24.2 outlines further provisions on how to make the connection compliant, including

52 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

completely disconnecting the connecting pipe once the filling or replenishing procedures have been completed. In addition to this, the regulations allow the connection between the backflow prevention device and the closed circuit to include a device which, in addition to the backflow prevention device, incorporates an air gap or break in the pipeline that cannot be physically closed while the primary circuit is functioning.

Further still, installers can include an approved backflow prevention arrangement which, again, will ensure the installation is fully compliant.

The type of preventative valve will depend on the risk arising from the category of fluid contained within the closed circuit, but, above all, it is the presence of a preventative valve that is the main issue.

That is why installers must request flexible hoses that incorporate a double check valve with integral isolation – a simple device that avoids making the wrong connection and, more importantly, ensures your installation is fully compliant.

The overall responsibility to rectify this issue lies with installers, but Altecnic is working closely with plumbers’ merchants to help pass on this important issue. The work of Northern Ireland Water on this matter is also welcomed.

These issues are simply down to installers getting into bad habits and, in many instances, they have never been shown the correct procedures to follow. Thankfully, it won’t take complex training to remedy, just a different choice of product.

Better still, choosing a flexible hose with a

double check valve won’t hit installers in the pocket either. In many instances, the price difference between a regulation-compliant hose and the standard versions that installers have been using can be as little as 50p!

With all that in mind, there’s no reason not to make this straightforward chance.

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 market-leading manufacturer within the HVAC industry. The company also enjoys successful relationships with IMIT mechanical thermostats and Reflex Winkelmann GmbH. T: (RoI) 0044 1785 218208 or (NI) 01785 218208.

E: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

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project profile

Overview space campus, south eastern Regional College, Bangor

Leading M&E contractor meets noise and space challenges to install energy efficient and innovative system…

Superb performance by Harvey Group in SPACE!

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s a unique facility, the new £12million SPACE campus at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) in Bangor required a unique M&E solution. This challenge was met head on by Harvey Group working collaboratively with M&E consultants, Bennett Robinson and main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern.

The new 3,650 m² facility was funded by the Department for Employment and Learning and is aiming to boost education and training across three areas – creative industries, computing and engineering – by providing bespoke accommodation for the Schools of Manufacturing and Electrical Engineering, Computer and Software Engineering and Performing and Creative Arts.

The heart of the Performing Arts Centre is the theatre, around which rehearsal and production studios are located. The theatre

has all the attributes of a professional auditorium and, in addition to being suitable for staging professional productions, it provides first-class rehearsal, recording and performance facilities for the students of Bangor and the surrounding area.

The Technology Innovation Centre provides a business quality learning environment that further enhances the College’s existing capacity for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology and Engineering sciences.

As Paul Stevenson, Contracts Manager at Harvey Group, explained, the company faced a range of challenges across the project.

“The plant rooms were small and spread out throughout the building, while the ceiling void space was tight and had to incorporate a number of services as well as the

steelwork. To combat this, all the services were well co-ordinated with the various parties involved to ensure that everything fitted perfectly and that we didn’t face any clashes during the installation process. A lot of time and thought was also put into the design of the plant rooms to create the best possible arrangement.”

The team was also challenged with maintaining critical noise levels.

“The music rooms and recording studios had to achieve an NR25 noise rating, meaning that certain aspects of our mechanical installations could have affected this. Again, we had to put a lot of thought into this along with the design team, with all the plant carefully selected and positioned within the building to avoid any issues.”

The M&E installation on this new build project was extensive, yet the overarching feature of

“We go into these projects aiming to build relationships and work as part of a wider team and we are delighted with the end result.”

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project profile

Supply to commissioning…

Harvey Group displayed the company’s array of skills at the SPACE campus, carrying out the supply, delivery, connection, testing and commissioning of the mechanical and electrical systems.

This included:

the job was the focus on energy saving.

As a result, this BREEAM ‘Very Good’ project is a shining example of what can be achieved when all the parties are focused on an exemplary end result.

Harvey Group also had to comply with the new Energy-Related Product (ErP) Directive that focuses on the eco-design and energy labelling of space and water heaters.

As part of this process, Harvey Group designed and installed the latest technology to ensure the SPACE campus was as energy efficient as possible, with the emphasis not only on reducing energy usage but also monitoring it in the future.

Paul Stevenson, Contracts Manager, explained, “From a mechanical perspective we installed a number of renewable systems, including air-source heat pumps and a rainwater harvesting system. Aside from the

renewable systems, we carefully selected all the rest of the mechanical plant with energy efficiency in mind and, where relevant, ensuring it met the new ErP Directive.”

While all the M&E technology is of the highest energy-efficient standards, an added advantage of the installation is the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) that will be used to monitor energy usage and allow the client to react to various demands. This monitoring process includes water and gas as well as the RWH and heat usage of the air-source heat pumps.

Paul concluded, “The building itself is state-of-the-art and our work reflects that.

We go into these projects aiming to build relationships and work as part of a wider team and we are delighted with the end result.”

MECHANical: • Gas-fired LPHW heating system • Gas-fired domestic hot water system and sanitary ware • Air-conditioning system • Automatic opening windows • Automatic opening stairwell vents • Rainwater harvesting • Heat recovery ventilation system • Compressed air system • Natural gas and gas detection system Electrical: • Main switchboard • Distribution switchboard • Fire alarm • CCTV • Intruder alarm • Disabled refuge • Lighting • Emergency lighting • Nurse call system • Data network • Door access • Lightning protection • TV system • Music system • Sound systems

Harvey Group, 14 Glenwell Park, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim. BT36 7RF T: 028 9034 2444 – E: info@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 55

project profile

Air-conditioning systems and air-source heat pump space campus, south eastern Regional College, Bangor

Quality that is crystal clear!

C

rystal Air Services Ltd utilised the company’s expertise to meet some very specific demands at SPACE. The company installed a complete airconditioning package for the newly-built campus alongside an air-source heat pump which powers the underfloor heating system.

Crystal Air Services also incporated a central touchscreen controller that allows every room to be individually controlled, but the biggest challenge on the project was meeting the strict noise restrictions for the music rooms and recording studios.

“We worked closely with Harvey Group to ensure we met the NR25 noise rating in these areas,” explained Mark Mawhinney, Director at Crystal Air Services Ltd. “We installed a high

efficiency Hitachi system as it was the only one capable of meeting the noise rating and also the BREEAM requirements.”

Crystal Air Services offers a complete service for air conditioning, ventilation, refrigeration, heating and renewable technology and has worked on commercial projects such as schools, offices, factories and hospitals, amongst others, in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as well as Great Britain and even into mainland Europe. As well as being an approved Hitachi installer, the companhy is a D1 Approved Installer for Daikin and also represents Vortice.

Mark concluded, “With our product range and experience we can tailor a solution to meet any commercial requirements.”

Crystal Air Services Ltd 205 Belfast Road, Ballynahinch,BT24 8UR T: (NI) 028 9756 1404 or (RoI) 048 9756 1404 – E: info@crystal-air.com www.crystal-air.com

Ventilation space campus, south eastern Regional College, Bangor

Top quality ventilation services from F3

F

3 Engineering Ltd was appointed by Harvey Group to manufacture and install ventilation systems as part of its overall M&E package at the SPACE campus.

Works included the supply, installation and testing of ventilation systems, which included AHU systems for classrooms and offices, CNC workshop, theatre, auditorium and stage; canopy extract for the café kitchen, comprising canopies, fire-rated ductwork, fans and roof terminals; local and central extract systems for WCs; and AC cassette linked to the VRF system for the IT comms room.

F3 worked in partnership with the Harvey Group to co-ordinate the ductwork along with other services.

Ductwork was fabricated and installed across

all three floors,” explained Jim Gray, Contracts Manager. “This was consummate with the design of the building and manufactured to fit within the reduced void spaces and risers around the building.”

Within the performing arts zone, specific criteria had to be met in terms of attenuation, to avoid the noise of music travelling between rooms and throughout the building. F3 worked closely with Harvey Group and the project acoustic consultants during the design stage to ensure that all ventilation systems eliminated the transfer of noise. A lot of thought went into the layout of the system in order to reduce noise while, at the same time, maintaining temperature levels throughout the building.”

F3 Engineering Ltd, 35 Seagoe Industrial Estate, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT63 5QD T: 028 3833 9770 www.f3-eng.com

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safe safety

THE WINTER MONTHS PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNE TIME TO REMIND YOUR CUSTOMERS OF THE IMPORTANCE OF ANNUAL GAS SAFETY CHECKS…

Stay gas safe and don’t be left out in the cold this winter

I

ncreased use of gas boilers and gas fires over the winter months can put pressure on appliances and could lead to them breaking down when needed most.

It is vital, therefore, that the 23 million UK homes heated with gas should get their appliances safety checked every year to ensure they are working safely during the cold winter months.

Left unchecked, gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. Not only can these kill people, they can also cause damage – from black staining on walls to explosions – that can cost thousands of pounds to repair. There is also an added risk of CO poisoning going undetected during the winter months. The symptoms are very similar to those of cold and flu – severe headaches, dizziness, nausea,

breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness.

In the past five years, Gas Safe Register has found dangerous gas appliances lurking in one in six of the 142,000 homes it has inspected. Last year alone, six people died and more than 300 were injured in gas-related incidents.

Yet 5.5 million people in the UK are still putting themselves at risk, both financially and physically, by not getting their gas appliances checked every year.

When you are out and about this winter, why not remind your customers that spending as little as £60 on a safety check can keep them warm and safe in their homes for another year.

Also, encourage them to sign up for the free reminder service at www. staygassafe.co.uk – they will receive

an email when they need to get their annual safety check, meaning they never need to worry about their gas appliances becoming a hazard.

The increased demand for your services over the winter months could make it more likely that you encounter illegal gas work performed by cowboys who are not on the Gas Safe Register. If you come across shoddy gas work, help the Register crackdown on illegals by anonymously reporting anything suspicious at www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/ ReportIllegal or by calling 0800 408 5577.

T: (NI) 0800 408 5500 W: www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk

COOL

A rated

ENERGY EFFICIENT AND ERP COMPLIANT FOR

Copper Industries (Ireland) Ltd (NI) T: +44 (0)28 7965 9736 www.copperindustries.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 57

GRAB RAILS

WITH BESPOKE MANUFACTURING FACILITIES, BARWOOD PRODUCTS CAN MAKE GRAB RAILS TO ANY SIZE, SHAPE, LENGTH AND FINISH…

Add some vibrancy with multi-coloured grab rails

S

pecialist manufacturer of bathroom products for the inclusive sector, Barwood Products, stocks a wide range of grab rails in popular, standard colours and sizes to satisfy quick delivery requirements. Made in the UK from UKsourced steel that is powder coated and polished to ensure excellent quality and durability, these rails are available in a wide range of standard sizes and can also be custom made to order.

Recently, the company has been fulfilling orders for its special order rainbow range of grab rails and hinged arms, which were designed to add a dash of colour to rooms designed to help people with mobility issues and even dementia.

The attractive, brightly coloured rails are made to order in any RAL colour and to any size, thanks to the bespoke manufacturing capability of the Staffordshire-based business. The rails not only offer a vibrant design solution, but some colours are proven to help customers with specific conditions.

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Sharon McKenna, Sales and Marketing Director, is passionate about supplying well-designed products to customers with specific accessibility requirements.

“Stylish designs should not just be reserved for non-disabled customers,” said Sharon.

“We make coloured rails available to give specifiers the choice of something brighter, for spaces such as children’s wards in hospitals, nurseries and assisted bathing spaces for younger people, but they are also popular for other reasons.

For example, red products are increasingly being used more widely for dementia patients as it is a colour that represents danger or hazards - even with short term memory loss.”

The products are manufactured at the

company’s headquarters in Staffordshire and can be made to any size, shape, length and finish.

So, if your next project demands lilac, pink or lime grab rails you know who to ask.

T: (NI) Tel: 01782 561 814 or (RoI) 0044 1782 561 814 W: www.barwoodproducts.com

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radiators

Following a company takeover earlier this year, leading manufacturer Quinn Radiators has rebranded to become QRL Radiator Group...

Quinn Radiators rebrands as QRL Radiator Group

S

pearheaded by the new management team, the rebrand and new identity is part of an ambitious growth strategy and fresh vision for the company – one that will position it at the forefront of the industry for the long term. It also marks QRL Radiator Group’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of heating performance and innovation, ensuring its panel and design radiators remain the better choice for trade customers and end users alike.

David Kerr, Chief Executive at QRL Radiator Group, said, “We’re very proud to officially unveil our new identity as QRL Radiator Group. Our new name and look are backed by five core brand values, which form the heart of the QRL offering - unbeatable service, unrivalled quality, exceptional value for money, first-rate environmental credentials and market-leading product performance. This is where our unique, thirdgeneration technology comes in – offering the highest heat outputs available, matched with the very best efficiency and energy savings.

“With a 35-year heritage, the company has longstanding experience as a leading player in the heating industry, and this rebrand marks an important step forward. As QRL Radiator Group, we want to make sure that our service is about more than just the radiator on the wall, which is why our new strapline is ‘Making people warmer’.

“We want every experience our customers have with our products and our people to exceed expectations, with our brand values filtering through everything we do. As part of this, we’re looking forward to rolling the QRL identity out across all areas of the business and our communications.”

The rebrand will also span the company’s flagship panel radiators, the hi-lo range, as well as its designer portfolio, which will be called Design by QRL. The launch of the QRL Radiator Group identity has seen the company unveil a new-look website at www.qrl-radiators.com.

Part of the QRL Radiator Group, commercial heating and cooling specialist Merriott has also undergone a brand refresh. Merriott’s bespoke solutions are custom-designed to meet the heating and cooling needs of a host of commercial applications. With absolute flexibility of specification, Merriott offers a growing portfolio of premium quality radiators and radiant panels.

For more information on QRL Radiator Group, or any of the products in its market-leading domestic and commercial ranges, please visit qrl-radiators.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 59

SEAI

SEAI REPORT REVEALS ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY MEASURES ARE HAVING A REAL IMPACT IN IRELAND…

A lot done, but more to do

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igures released from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) show that Ireland is making good progress in the move to a lowcarbon economy.

A new report entitled ‘Energy in Ireland 1990-2014’ highlights how, for the second year running, Ireland’s economic growth has been achieved with an overall reduction in energy use and confirms that energy efficiency and renewable energy measures are having a real impact in Ireland - reducing energy usage and helping to decarbonise our energy system.

Key points of report show that GDP grew by 5.2% in 2014, energy use fell 0.5% and CO2 emissions fell 1.2%.

Transport remains the largest energy consuming sector at 42%, followed by residential at 23% and industry at 21%.

Ireland’s import dependency is 85%, costing the economy €5.7billion.

The use of renewables in electricity generation avoided energy imports of €255million and reduced CO2 emissions by 2.6 million tonnes.

Alongside statistics relating to CHP, transport energy and commercial and public services, the report also examined the residential sector in great detail and found that, thanks to a mild 2014, energy use fell by 8.1%.

Some anecdotal evidence from suppliers pointed to a certain amount of stockpiling of coal by householders ahead of the introduction of the carbon tax on solid fuels in May 2013. As these stocks were used during 2014, part of the reduction in

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household energy use may be accounted for by this.

Direct renewables usage in households was the only energy source that increased in 2014, growing by 1.2% to 65 ktoe, while its share increased to 2.6% from 2.3% in 2013. Oil usage increased by 120% over the period 1990 – 2014 to 857ktoe, and its share in the residential sector grew from 17% to 34%.

There was a 6.5% fall in oil consumption in households in 2014. The report also found that electricity consumption fell by 3.1% in 2014 to 663ktoe (7,709 GWh) and natural gas usage fell by 11.6% in 2014 to 536ktoe, accounting for 21% of residential energy use.

Coal usage increased by 13% and it is thought that some of this increase is due to the extended cold spell during the first half of the year, which continued until May. During this time, oil and gas prices were high and there may have been some fuel switching to coal and other solid fuels, purchased on a week-to-week basis to supplement central heating systems.

Peat usage fell by 8.2% in 2014 while peat briquette usage decreased by 19.9%. Total peat consumption was 200ktoe in 2014, while the peat and briquette share in household energy was 10.7% in 2014. Overall fossil fuel use in households fell by 10.1% to 1,812ktoe in 2014 and accounted for 71% of household energy use.

In 2014 residential sector energyrelated CO2 emissions (including upstream electricity emissions) were 9,103kt CO2, representing 25% of the total energy-related CO2 emissions. The residential sector total was the second

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largest after transport (37%).

Excluding upstream electricity emissions, direct CO2 emissions from the household sector were 5,586kt and were 10.3% lower in 2014 compared with 2013.

Commenting on the report, Dr Brian Motherway, outgoing CEO of SEAI, said, “The analysis shows us clearly where we are still too dependent on fossil fuels, and where we are becoming less so. It has been so positive to see economic recovery in Ireland, and it is hugely encouraging to see that

this growth has been achieved with an overall reduction (albeit modest) in energy use, demonstrating the impact of energy efficiency actions across the economy.

“We must increase momentum to reduce the overall energy intensity of our economy, which will deliver cost savings, energy security and reduce environmental impact.”

T: (RoI) 01 808 2100 or (NI) 00353 1 808 2100 E: info@seai.ie W: www.seai.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 61

project profile

M&E CONTRACTOR BALLYMENA HEALTH AND CARE CENTRE After completing Northern Ireland’s first combined health and social care centre, Harvey Group works on the province’s largest facility of its kind…

Harvey Group showcases healthcare expertise

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hen it comes to the specialist healthcare sector, Harvey Group has more than proved the company’s wide-ranging expertise.

The new £25million Ballymena Health and Care Centre encompasses the new look of healthcare provision in Northern Ireland, with a wide range of medical and social care services now housed within this impressive building.

While Harvey Group can point to the company’s successful involvement in the award-winning Wellcome Wolfson Centre of Experimental Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast as a reflection of its attention to detail, the work carried out at The Portadown Community Treatment and Care

Centre is of more relevance.

When it opened in 2009, Portadown CTCC was the first facility of its kind in Northern Ireland, providing a ‘one-stopshop’ for both primary and community care services. In contrast, Ballymena Health and Care Centre is now the largest facility of its kind in the province, with the team from Harvey Group utilising the experience of Portadown on this latest project.

That was evident in one aspect of the mechanical installation where a combination of aesthetics and practically had to be met.

Stewart Mitchell, Mechanical Contracts Manager on the project, explained, “The design team made it clear at the beginning of the project that they wanted the radiant

“Through teamwork, co-ordination and communication on site, we achieved the successful coordination of services.”

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project profile

panels to form part of the building structure, effectively blending in unnoticed.

“In order to achieve this, they were installed to full room width and cut around rising steelwork with a ‘dead section’ of panel at one end, specifically allowing future access in order to fulfil maintenance requirements. It was an unusual challenge, but one we were able to solve quite easily.”

As an in-house Level 1 BIM project, Harvey Group utilised both Building Information technology alongside AutoCAD to effectively design the system and avoid any clashes with other services.

As M&E installations become more prevalent, so the need for more innovative methods of housing these services becomes a necessity.

Stewart added, “In an effort to increase the amount of daylighting in the perimeter rooms, the architect specified sloped ceilings on the project, which, although

they looked the part, came with their own challenges. This left us with the difficult task of co-ordinating services within an ever-decreasing space within ceiling void.

“However, through teamwork, coordination and communication on site, we achieved the successful co-ordination of services.”

With a target of a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, the M&E team also had to take energy efficiency into consideration for this project. Mechanically, rainwater harvesting, major leak detection and solenoid point-ofuse detection was installed to keep energy use as efficient as possible.

All this was done while keeping in mind the eye-catching aesthetic of the new health and care centre that is being seen as a perfect example of the changing face of healthcare in the province.

Rather than creating a cold, clinical atmosphere, the collaborative architectural team of Keppie Design and Gareth Hoskins Architects have created a welcoming environment for patients in a facility that brings together a wide range of primary, intermediary, diagnostic and community health facilities under one roof. This includes rehabilitation and diagnostic services, such as physiotherapy, podiatry and community dental; a children’s department; six GP practices; a GP out-ofours service; acute outpatient clinics and mental health clinics. A Boots pharmacy has also relocated to the new centre.

M&E Services g Harvey Group’s M&E installation at Ballymena Health and Care Centre incorporated: • Gas-fired LPHW heating system • Gas-fired domestic hot water system and sanitary ware • Air-conditioning system • Fume extract system • Automatic opening windows • Automatic opening stairwell vents • Rainwater harvesting • Heat recovery ventilation system • Dental vacuum system • Dental compressed air system • Natural gas and gas detection system • Medical gas detection system Electrical: • Main switchboard • Distribution switchboard • Fire alarm • CCTV • Intruder alarm • Disabled refuge • Lighting • Emergency lighting • Nurse call system • Data network • Door access • Lightning protection • TV system • Music system • Sound systems

Harvey Group, 14 Glenwell Park, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim. BT36 7RF T: 028 9034 2444 – E: info@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 63

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

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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

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• 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 | 65

energy saving project

The Energy Team helping to make homes in Tipperary more energy efficient.

Community volunteers with Energy Communities Tipperary Cooperative help make homes more energy efficient…

Parish power!

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hanks to an innovative local scheme, 150 houses in North Tipperary will benefit from wide-ranging retrofits by the end of the year.

Funding from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to the tune of €1.4million and an unwavering commitment from Energy Communities Tipperary Cooperative Ltd has seen almost 300 homes retrofitted over the past three years in North Tipperary.

An initiative driven by local community activists, in co-operation with North Tipperary LEADER Partnership (NTLP), Energy Communities is an effective way of driving economic activity in rural areas.

“The programme started in Drumbane which is about 10 miles from Thurles. We wanted to see if we could start some kind of initiative for the parish; we began by exploring energy and eventually arrived at the idea of retrofits,” said Gearóid Fitzgibbbon, Community Development Worker at North Tipperary LEADER Partnership.

The aim of the scheme was to convert homes in the area to high energy performance so that peoples’ homes would be warmer, huge bill savings would be made and local jobs would be created to carry out the work.

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A survey carried out by local volunteers found that €1million was being spent on energy in a parish of just 450 homes.

“The survey showed that if we could reduce that figures by 20%, we would be creating an investment of €200,000 in a small rural parish, an investment that the state isn’t going to provide,” added Gearóid.

A local ‘Energy Team’ was formed to coordinate a cluster of home owners, apply for SEAI grants and select the most suitable contractors for the work.

In 2012 and 2013 60 houses were upgraded. In 2014, the initiative was replicated in 4 communities, while this year, another 4 have joined. A massive voluntary involvement has ensured the success of the project.

“We rely on our community as we don’t have independent resources. Bridging finance from Clann Credo has also been invaluable; without their support nothing would have happened.”

Gearóid said, “Our communities would like to see a viable community sector in Ireland which would see people in the community mobilised to either carry out retrofit projects or small renewable projects on a community scale.

“That’s what we want to see. We want to

see less reliance on fossil fuels and we also want to see a development of small scale community energy as opposed to big scale utilities.

“Support from SEAI, local energy agencies, and development companies is required, if we are to develop genuine community energy based in local areas. While our retrofit schemes have benefitted hugely from SEAI’s Better Energy Communities scheme, there needs to be support for longer term community energy planning, if volunteers are to get behind it.

“Irish communities have huge capacity to be drivers of an energy efficient economy, as part of the solution to make Ireland a low carbon economy. It is one of the few things that can bring badly needed jobs and investment into rural areas. We are hoping that the relevant agencies will put the funding and supports in place to achieve this. Energy Citizenship is not just about informed individuals changing their behaviours, but also the collective action of those citizens. Ireland’s communities have a long tradition of doing things themselves.

We just need state actors to meet that potential.”

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Electric Shower

THE NEW CLASS LEADER Features & Benefits • SmartFit™

2 technology

Improved working access and 8 cable and 6 pipe entry points to replace virtually any electric shower

•S leek

styling

Elevated dials and a smooth finish

• Separate

dials

For power and temperature/flow control enables easy operation of settings

•P ush

button start/stop

Offers simple ‘set and forget’ convenience to allow users to leave the shower at their preferred temperature and flow settings

Com

ry

h Pus fit shutdown

C

Flushes residual hot water at switch off to ensure a safe starting temperature for the next user (Plus models only)

• Inlet

filter

Can be easily changed without the need to remove the shower cover

•A ll

chrome FlexiKitTM accessories

1.25m hose, 580mm riser rail, soap dish, 6 mode shower head and adjustable fixing brackets •2

year UK warranty

For extra peace of mind

AVAILABLE FROM LEADING NI PLUMBERS’ MERCHANTS

e abl ent

•P hased

8 6

ssion pre

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ce pa s ing k r wo ed v pro Im

HEATING

EHC LAUNCHES WI-FI-READY ECOSAVE ELECTRIC HEATER – THE LATEST IN HEATING TECHNOLOGY FOR THE SMART HOME…

I’m a Wi-Fi ready hAPPy chAPPy!

W

ith over 12 years’ experience in supplying electric heating and hot water products to the UK market, The Electric Heating Company (EHC) has announced the latest in heating technology – the Wi-Fi-ready ecoSAVE Electric Heater.

Manufactured from high-grade aluminium and housing high-performance heating oil and elements, the ecoSAVE is designed to meet the heating demands of the modern home.

Due to the modular construction and air flow outlets at the top of the heater, the ecoSAVE benefits from fast heat-up times and provides an even surface temperature with optimum convection.

The heater is fully programmable 24/7 and offers Eco, Comfort and Frost Protection settings with a mains power on/off switch located on the side of the radiator when heat is not required. The easy-to-use digital

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programmer is located at the top of the radiator for ease of operation and is easily accessible for future maintenance purposes.

The PCB is housed in an easy-to-remove cartridge system to avoid removing the heater from the wall if a repair is required.

The ecoSAVE is also supplied with a 10-year warranty on the body of the heater and two years on the electronics.

The ecoSAVE heater can be controlled by any Apple or Android Smartphone, tablet or PC through the Smart APP Wi-Fi kit controls and is simple to install when connected to the internet within the property. Once the app has been fully downloaded, heating can be controlled anywhere and at any time, 24/7.

The app has several menus, including time

and temperature settings, limiting power consumption, power and temperature statistical data, individual heater and system control and weather forecast.

The ecoSAVE Heater combined with the Smart APP Wi-Fi kit is ideal for hotels, student accommodation and properties for let, as all the heaters can be fully controlled remotely anywhere, anytime. In addition, the ‘Click & Fit’ brackets supplied makes the installation of the heater simple and easy.

T: (NI) 01698 820533 or (RoI) 0044 01698 820533 info@electric-heatingcompany.co.uk www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 69

product news

CONTECH BUILDING PRODUCTS OFFERS EFFECTIVE SOLUTION TO LEAKS WITH LAUNCH OF PLUMB7‌

Seal

them up!

P

lumb7 from Contech Building Products is the ideal solution for dealing with leaks in closed and open heating systems Contech Building Products has introduced its latest solution to the independent, DIY and builders’ merchants market throughout the UK and Ireland. Plumb7 can be used to seal leaks in closed and open heating systems in both household and industrial applications. The new product offers an effective solution to leaks in radiators, convectors, circulation pumps, central heating pipes and underfloor heating systems, amongst others.

It provides a quick and permanent seal that does not impair flow. Not only that, but in line with the innovative 7 Series, Plumb7 is

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simple to use, prevents rust and corrosion and enhances the pump lubrication.

According to Contech Building Products, it is perfect as either a fast and effective solution to stop a leak or as a preventative action to stop the occurrence of leaks in the first place. Plumb7 is extremely easy to use and one can is sufficient for use in a system containing 75 litres of water or 10 to 12 radiators. Always follow the instructions before adding to your heating system. Run the circulation pump and, if necessary, bleed the system and bring the water level up to standard.

Plumb7 is the latest addition to the 7 Series, with Tec7 respected as the Number 1 choice for those working in the construction trades. As the exclusive

distributor of Tec7and the 7 series range of products, Contech offers a 24-hour technical and customer support service.

T: (RoI) 01 6292963 or (NI) 00353 1 6292963 E: info@contechbuildings.ie W: www.tec7.ie

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PRODUCTS OF THE YEAR

BEST PRODUCTS OF THE YEAR a look at just some of the best products to have caught the industry’s attention this year.

Fast and efficient hot water thanks to the HotHead The HotHead hot water cylinder from Copper Industries has been designed with water efficiency in mind. The HotHead combines a traditional approach to hot water storage with an innovative new internal heat exchanger (patent pending) that has been designed to encourage thermal stratification in the stored water, providing the user with a faster response to their hot water demands. This is possible thanks to the innovative design from Copper Industries, the fastest-growing independent manufacturer of standard and bespoke hot water cylinders, calorifiers and combination units.

T: (NI) 028 7965 9736 or (RoI) 0044 7965 9736 W: www.copperindustries.co.uk

Sentinel’s SystemCare success!

SystemCare, a free service and maintenance initiative from leading water treatment specialist Sentinel, has been named as the Training Initiative of the Year at the AGSM Supplier Excellence Dan Wilson (second left) and Kevin O’Donnell, Awards 2015. both from Sentinel, (third left) are presented with the Training Initiative of the Year Award.

SystemCare has been proven to promote peak heating system performance. Customers receive one-to-one bespoke training (comprising product specifications, method statements and training programmes), quality assurance testing and ongoing support from Sentinel’s engineers. Importantly, SystemCare can play a key role in maintaining the energy rating as part of the recently introduced ErP directive.

T: (NI) 01928 704330 OR (RoI) 0044 1928 704330 W: www.sentinelprotects.com

MaxiPod, the innovative storage tank One of Copper Industries’ best-selling products, the MaxiPod has sold 10,000 units since its launch in 2009.

The superior quality of the MaxiPod has enabled Copper Industries to offer a 25-year warranty on the product. Its many benefits over traditional hot water systems include vented mains pressure, instant hot water and heating, increased energy efficiency, simple installation, fresh water at hot and cold taps and suitability for multi-fuel situations.

MaxiPod works by reversing the function of the primary (heating) and secondary (domestic) waters. The primary water is stored in the cylinder and heated by a boiler; the water can also be pumped from the thermal store around the radiator to provide space heating.

T: (NI) 028 7965 9736 or (RoI) 0044 7965 9736 W: www.copperindustries.co.uk

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2015

Myson FLOORTEC delivers on Grand Designs

Mira’s wireless Advance simplifies wetrooms Mira’s Advance Flex Extra Wireless offers wireless pairing to a waste water pump. This simplifies installing or retrofitting a wetroom in situations where a conventional gravity fed drainage system would not be feasible. The shower is designed to work with the Whale Instant Match Wireless Pump; the pump rate matches the shower flow for more efficient drainage and reduced noise. When the shower is off, the pump continues to clear water from the tray, while any pooled water is drained after 15 minutes by a purge function.

T: (NI) 0844 571 5000 or (RoI) 01 531 9337 W: www.mirashowers.co.uk

Myson FLOORTEC Underfloor Heating has been used in a home built from four shipping containers that was one of the nominees for Channel 4’s Grand Designs House of the Year.

The extraordinary home in County L’Derry was for architect Patrick Bradley, founder of Patrick Bradley Architects, and it is kept warm with Myson FLOORTEC Underfloor Heating fixed with Myson’s MICROBOARD. “Myson is a trusted brand, with a solid reputation, and the FLOORTEC products met needs of this one-off property perfectly,” explains Patrick.

T: (NI) 0845 402 3434 or (RoI) 01 459 0870 W: www.myson.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 71

WATCH YOUR WEIGHT with Bridge Commercials!

Weight restrictions aren’t just a New Year’s Resolution!

A number of drivers have been prosecuted for overloading their van or towing a trailer in excess of weight restrictions. At Bridge Commercials we listen very carefully to what you want from your van and give you the options to meet your needs! That includes ensuring you have a van that is capable of carrying the extra pounds you need – even if you have over-indulged!

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, bt26 6ja. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

vans

STAY SAFE ON THE ROADS THIS WINTER WITH AXA’S HANDY WINTER DRIVING TIPS...

AXA urges van drivers to stay safe this winter!

Y

ou should always keep your van in good driving condition, but during the winter months you need to take extra care to stay safe. Follow AXA’s helpful tips to help you prepare for driving this winter:

keep in your van during winter. This could include a torch, warm clothes, mobile phone and reflective warning signs.

1) Plan your journeys - If you have to drive in poor weather conditions make sure you plan your journey. Listen to local radio updates to find out if roads are open. Drivers should also stay on main roads which are likely to be gritted. You should also let other people know where you are and what route you will be taking in case you have an accident.

3) Prepare you vehicle - Over the winter months you may have to drive in a range of conditions including snow, ice and fog. Whatever the weather, be prepared by having good tyres fitted on your vehicle and fill your windscreen washer to help you see the road ahead. You should also drive slowly and if it has been snowing you should remove the snow from your vehicle before starting your journey.

2) Prepare an emergency kit - When you are driving in poor weather conditions you may break down or have an accident which will leave you stuck in your vehicle.

You should prepare an emergency kit to

4) Get the right insurance - It’s important to get the right cover for your vehicle in case you have an accident, particularly if you rely on your vehicle to keep your business

running. AXA offers optional extras to your insurance like Breakdown Assistance or Personal Accident cover which can be a great benefit to business owners For more details about van insurance contact the AXA Insurance Van Team on 028 9002 0419. AXA provides cover to van drivers across Northern Ireland and has a dedicated team based in Belfast to help get you the right cover for you and your van. AXA also has a local claims team and 15 branches across Northern Ireland, so you will never be far from someone to help if you need it.

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.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 73

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

No.1

DIRECTORY

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

4 Curzon Street South, Circular Road, Dublin 8

Moneen Road, County Mayo Tel: +353 94 9023453 F: +353 94 9024314

TELEPHONE: 01 454 2633

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

74 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

“heating,

oil and gas spares” • Ariston

• Vokera

• Baxi

• Worcester

• Ferroli

• Biasi

• Glow worm

• Halstead

• Ideal

Many more please ask for details at trade counter P lumbi n g | ba t hr o o m s | fir e pla c e s

www.glenhill.co.uk t: 028 9066 9444 S tockman ’ s W ay , B elfast

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PLUMBING & HEATING Directory

JOHN D McCLELLAND MANUFACTURERS AGENTS AND DISTRIBUTORS OF:

Manufacturers of the Instantor® brand of Compression fittings and superior plumbing & heating products since 1934.

Conex Works, Santry Avenue, Santry, Dublin 9, Ireland.

1 Brookview, Castle Lane, Comber

Contact our sales team on Tel: 00353 1 8426255 Fax: 00353 1 8426134 Email: sales@sanbra.ie Web: www.sanbra.ie

mains pressure Cylinder range

Over

10,000 cylinders installed

T: +44 (0)28 9187 2449 F: +44 (0)28 9187 2953

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

E: info@copperindustries.co.uk www.copperindustries.co.uk

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Primaflow is committed to supplying Merchants with quality products and a first rate service. The company specialises in tube fittings, valves, plumbers’ brassfoundry, taps, showers and related materials for plumbing and heating systems. Their sister company, Wednesbury, has a long and successful history as a manufacturer of copper tube.

Regional Distribution Centre Bangor (Northern Ireland) Tel: 0044(0)2891274883 Fax: 0044(0)2891472233 www.primaflow.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 75

DIRECTORY

celebrating 80 years

Unit 504B, Northwest Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15 T: +353 (0)1 8091571 www.precisionheating.ie