Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue71 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

EE Y FR OP C

ISSUE 71 - APRIL/MAY 2016

25-26 MAY 2016

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contents

In this issue...

Issue 71 - April/May 2016

NEWS AND VIEWS 4 New contracts and jobs at CTS Projects

Finalists revealed

9 New code of practice for home renovations 12

Flogas sponsors Irish Amateur Open Golf Championship

42 PTS and BSS set to host joint trade show 72

NINGA scores with five-a-side

81 Lack of skilled trades still a major concern

93 All the Action Renewables Award winners

INDUSTRY LATEST

date for your diary!

masterTEC app workshop

Trip down memory lane with Baxi

Stelrad celebrates 80 years in

business 41

C&F Quadrant delivers savings

66-67 Official opening of Beggs & Partners

in Ballymena

Train up with METAC

Ferroli loyalty scheme launched in

Ireland

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

7 John J. Doyle to open new HETAS Centre

27-35 Case study – Waterfront Exhibition

14-15 Plumbmaster launch events

45-60 Underfloor heating

High energy for Saturn

and Conference Centre

e d i u p TO VISIT REGISTER NOW AT… g w n flie plumbingmag.com o sh o sid

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Director Jacqui Fairley | RoI Consultant Mairead Hendry Managing Editor, Print & Digital Adam Hassin Editorial Diane Day and Denise Maguire Head Designer Julie Anne Guiney | Design & Digital Jo Wilson Accounts Michelle Owens Photography Gordon McAvoy | Printed by W&G Baird

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: phini@kmpltd.co.uk www.plumbingmag.com

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

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 3

news

PTS appoints new sales representative

Celebrating new contracts wins for CTS Projects are (from left), Andrew Lamont, Triangle Housing; Stephen Woodrow, Fold Housing Association; Connaire McGreevy, CTS Projects; Sean McGrath, Alpha Housing; and Scott Thompson, Habinteg Housing Association.

New contracts lead to more jobs at CTS Projects CTS Projects, has announced the creation of 32 new jobs in the last 18 months, almost doubling employee numbers to 70. The company, which is headquartered in Warrenpoint, has generated the jobs as a combined result of winning £14million in new contracts with four housing associations, plus a strategic diversification into private sector boiler servicing. “Thanks to substantial new contracts with four housing associations, Alpha Housing, Fold Housing, Habinteg Housing and Triangle Housing and existing contracts with several other associations, nearly 40% of Northern Ireland’s social housing

heating maintenance and upgrades are now carried out by CTS Projects,” said Connaire McGreevy, Managing Director, CTS Projects. “We have invested more than £80,000 to introduce an innovative software system that offers real-time updates on boiler repairs. CTS is the only heating installer to offer this service. As you can imagine, this is particularly important within social housing given the proportion of homes we’re called out to in which the elderly and vulnerable live.” T: 028 4175 2299 E: info@ctsprojects.co.uk W: ctsprojects.net

SEC calls for more cash flow security for SMEs The Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group Northern Ireland has set out the list of priorities in its manifesto for the construction industry, to be addressed by policy makers in the next Northern Ireland Executive. These priorities are aimed at removing wasteful practices in order to make the industry more efficient; enabling SMEs to realise their full growth potential; and improving standards across the industry. SEC Group’s Northern Ireland National Executive Officer, Alfie Watterson said, “The overriding priority for the next Northern Ireland Executive, as far as construction is concerned, is to put in place effective measures to ensure that SMEs have cash flow security.” W: www.secgroup.org.uk

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Gareth Smyton has been appointed the new sales representative for PTS, covering Enniskillen, Derry-Londonderry and Newry. Gareth previously worked on the trade counter at PTS Enniskillen so many customers will already be familiar with him. “Working on the trade Gareth Smyton, PTS counter has given me a great grounding and after 10 years with PTS I’m looking forward to this new challenge,” he explained. “I know a lot of our customers but I have spent the first weeks since my appointment getting out to meet as many people as possible and getting to know what their requirements are. “The fact that we have such an extensive product range is a major selling point and having worked on our trade counter I know that we can stand over our promises when it comes to service and delivery.” T: Gareth Smyton on 078255 82749 E: gareth.smyton@ptsplumbing.co.uk W: www.ptsplumbing.co.uk

Bassetts reaches new milestone in support for Macmillan Following a two-year charity campaign, Bassetts has presented Macmillan Cancer Support NI with a cheque for £25,534.23. “This was an extremely successful charity partnership, raising our highest total Presenting a cheque to Macmillan Cancer Care’s Emma Ewings (second left) are (from left), Colin so far,” said Brenda Hall, Warnock, Bassetts Portadown Branch Manager, Brenda Hall, Charity Co-ordinatorand Klaire Charity Co-ordinator, McCann Bassetts Portadown Showroom. Bassetts. “Customers, staff, their families and suppliers joined in with a variety of activities, such as competitions, breakfast mornings, and our annual coffee morning, to help raise vital funds for Macmillan. All our branches across Northern Ireland played their part with regular charity events and collections, having great fun along the way, and we would like to thank everyone who helped us achieve this fantastic total for a very worthy cause.” W: www.bassettsonline.com or www.macmillan.org.uk

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COME VISIT US AT STAND 28 PLUMBEX TRADE EVENT, CITY WEST HOTEL, DUBLIN - 25 & 26 MAY

For supplier and technical details, please contact: Firebird heating Solutions Shean, Forkhill, Newry, BT35 9SY T: +44 (0) 28 3088 8330 E: firebirdproducts@hotmail.co.uk

training

John Doyle, Managing Director, (centre), marking the agreement to open a new HETAS training centre in Belfast, with Bruce Allen, CEO, HETAS, and Mike Harvey, Training and Technical Support Manager, HETAS.

Leading training organisation will offer solid fuel, plumbing and biomass courses at new premises in Belfast…

John J. Doyle Ltd to open new HETAS training centre

ETAS is set to open its third approved training centre in Ireland this summer following the announcement of a new partnership with John J. Doyle Ltd. The two companies have worked closely together for many years with John J. Doyle Ltd hosting a series of training workshops for customers. However, with the company currently in the process of moving to new premises at Duncrue Place in Belfast, it now has additional capacity to incorporate a complete HETAS training centre into the new facilities. The new centre will offer courses for those working on solid fuel, wood and biomass appliances in Northern Ireland and will be equipped with the latest plumbing and solid fuel appliances. All the courses offered by John J. Doyle Ltd will be HETAS approved and will be delivered by HETAS approved trainers. “This is another exciting development for our company,” said Managing Director, John Doyle. “We have enjoyed a strong working relationship with HETAS for many years and we are looking forward to building on that with the opening of this

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new, approved training centre.” HETAS is a leading training provider in England and Wales where it manages the compulsory Competent Persons scheme for installers. As such, it sets the highest training standards, with John J. Doyle Ltd having to go through a rigorous inspection process before it will be permitted to deliver training courses. Bruce Allen, CEO, and Mike Harvey, Training and Technical Support Manager, both from HETAS, recently visited Northern Ireland to discuss the training centre plans. “We are delighted to be opening our second approved training centre in Northern Ireland and our third in Ireland,” said Bruce. “We believe that installers want to learn new skills and improve what they offer to customers, so that leads to an appetite for training – a demand that this new centre will help to meet. “John J. Doyle Ltd has a strong reputation in the industry but, just as importantly, the company is committed to ensuring installations are completed to the highest standards, which is what our training courses set out to achieve. “With a relationship already in place with

John J. Doyle Ltd we are excited about the opportunities for training that the opening of this new centre will bring to installers in Northern Ireland.” Mike explained that the HETAS model is based around partnership and that they are looking forward to working closely with installers in a bid to raise standards. “In Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland we have trained around 500 people in recent years and we want to build on that further. From our recent discussions with different people within the industry, we have been encouraged by the desire to raise standards within the industry in Northern Ireland. For that we reason there is a possibility of introducing a voluntary Competent Persons scheme here. “Heightening consumer awareness of the need to employ competent installers works really well in Great Britain and, in conjunction with centres such as John J. Doyle Ltd, we want to create that in Northern Ireland.” For more information on HETAS training courses at John J. Doyle Ltd, telephone (NI) 028 9024 7864 or visit the website www.johnjdoyle.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

COVER STORY

The new EMBER app from EPH Controls offers both installers and home-owners a wide range of advantages, including: • Control your heating and hot water zones via your smartphone from anywhere in the world. • Home-owners have the ability to control up to four different zones in one home. • Users can also control multiple homes from one app – perfect for holiday home-owners and landlords. • Convenient boost function will switch heating on for 1, 2 or 3 hours without affecting your heating schedule. • Easy to navigate user interface. • New two-way RF components offer far greater penetration of walls and a greater transmission distance.

Convenient boost function will switch heating on for 1, 2 or 3 hours without affecting your heating schedule.

The new EMBER app will set the standard by introducing a user-friendly interface for smart heating controls...

EPH Controls launches a new app to warm you up

et to hit the market in June, EPH Controls’ new EMBER app is the latest in high-performing, intelligent energy- management systems. Unlike similar products on the market, the EMBER app allows the user to do so much more than just change the temperature of their heating and hot water zones. Paul Mulcahy is Manager at EPH Controls and he highlighted how the team has been working on the app for the past 18 months. “This is the first app we’ve launched and we’re extremely proud of how it works,” he said. “We think buyers will find it extremely easy to use. We’ve been

conceptualising and developing this project for more than a year; we feel we’ve gotten all the components right.” Users of the app will be able to log into their heating system and control their heating zones and hot water, via their smartphone, from anywhere in the world. Currently, up to four zones can be controlled by the app through integrating a four-zone RF programmer, four RF thermostats and a WiFi gateway. RF thermostats are available from EPH Controls in room thermostat and cylinder thermostat versions, with a cable sensor. This is set to expand to 16 zones over the coming months with the introduction of individual radiator controllers. This will give

“The EMBER app’s user interface is simple, allowing the user to easily navigate through the various options.” 8 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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COVER STORY

Key benefits...

users even more choice when it comes to controlling their home heating options. All of the radio frequency (RF) components in the house talk to each other and to the internet gateway. It is the gateway that makes communication with the outside world possible via your internet router. The reason we went with RF components in the house is that RF has far greater penetration of walls and a far greater transmission distance than WiFi.”

MULTIPLE HOMES Unlike other apps on the market, EMBER also allows the user to control multiple homes at the same time. “So if you have a holiday home or a rental property, you can control these while also controlling your own home,” said Paul. “If you want to keep an eye on the temperature of your mother’s house at the same time you can, while limiting the functionality of the app to particular users means only certain people will have permission to change the set heat schedules. “For example, parents in the home could be admins, meaning they have all the privileges and rights when it comes to controlling the heating and hot water. The kids might be given permission to boost the heating but

they can’t change set schedules.” According to Paul, the app could prove particularly useful for landlords with multiple apartments, allowing them to keep an eye on their properties and turn the temperature down if needs be. An activity log keeps account of all changes made so admin users can keep track of temperature changes etc. The EMBER app’s user interface is simple, ensuring that the user can easily navigate through the various options. Set-up is also very easy, as the gateway will automatically identify the RF components in the house and populate the app accordingly. The user can then rename the zones and control both times and temperatures. No previous knowledge of computers or firewalls is needed to set the system up in a typical household environment. A few simple button presses is all it takes to pair the whole system up. The company recently introduced a new boost button on their thermostats meaning that, if the programmer is timed off, the boost button on the face of the thermostat will allow the user to boost the heating for one, two or three hours directly from the thermostat. This function was added based on market feedback from users and,

according to Paul, since its introduction the response from users and installers alike has been very positive. The EMBER app is available for use with EPH Controls’ new generation of RF products. “We refer to them as our WiFi-ready products,” he added. “We’ve just finished all our in-house testing, so we’ll be launching EMBER in June.” The company also aims to launch a radiator controller in the autumn. “Via the app, you’ll be able to control every radiator in your house and have individual temperature control in every room. Up to 16 battery-operated radiator controllers can be controlled via a single EMBER app, giving home-owners a very thorough level of control in their home, with the subsequent energy-saving benefits this will provide. “That’s the next step, and we’re hoping that our extremely accessible user interface will translate to this controller, making the entire process very easy for the end-user.” Complete packages will also be available and will include motorised valves so the installer will have all of the components required to upgrade a home’s heating controls in just one box.

EPH Controls, Sitecast Industrial Estate, Pouladuff, Cork, Ireland T: (RoI) 021 434 6238 or (NI) 00353 21 434 6238 – E: sales@ephcontrols.com www.ephcontrols.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Dr Neil Watson, Global Technical Director at ADEY, Europe’s largest water treatment manufacturer serving the heating industry, offers policy-makers some practical solutions to help Government overcome some of its toughest challenges…

Taking the heat out of the domestic energy-efficiency debate

n a typical UK household, more than half the money spent on annual energy bills goes towards heating and hot water, according to the Energy Savings Trust. Boilers account for 83% of household energy consumption and make up 55% of what consumers spend on energy at home. Approximately 60% of carbon emissions are generated by the domestic boilers we rely on to generate the heat to keep us warm and our showers hot. Given the Office for National Statistics’ figure of 27 million households in the UK, this has to be a primary area of focus if the Government is to achieve its objectives of decarbonising energy systems; improving domestic energy efficiency; and reducing the four million households in fuel poverty. As failures in the Green Deal highlighted, this is a vast and complex challenge. There are no simple solutions when it comes to transforming the performance of what has been identified among the least energyefficient housing stock in Europe.

Simple steps However, one cost-effective and practical measure could deliver significant returns in reducing carbon emissions, domestic heating energy consumption and associated energy bills. This could be achieved through the introduction of regulated best practice central heating system maintenance using effective magnetic filtration for new build and retrofitting existing systems; premium system inhibitors; and annual water tests. Taking simple steps like installing a magnetic filter and effective chemical water treatment to ensure boiler efficiency is maintained, as part of an ongoing programme, could have a significant impact when it comes to reducing energy consumption and saving money on energy and maintenance bills. Black iron oxide sludge is recognised as the biggest threat to boiler and heating system performance. Untreated, contamination causes noisy boiler operation, radiator cold spots, low heat levels, slow operation, leaking valves, deteriorating performance,

10 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Boilers account for 83% of household energy consumption, but taking simple steps can save energy.

and ultimately the breakdown of the system. According to research, just 5kg of sludge in a system, which is not uncommon, reduces radiator heat output by up to 36%. Installing an effective filter, which removes virtually 100% of suspended black iron oxide from the system making it more efficient, in just one million UK households could save in the region of 225,000 tonnes of CO2 annually. That’s equivalent to removing 72,000 cars from the road at a fraction of the cost of the previous boiler scrappage scheme. The most effective filters have been independently proven to save up to 6% on household carbon emissions and energy bills year-on-year. The Energy Saving Trust also estimates that using a premium inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by 3% and prevent up to a 15% reduction in the effectiveness of radiators, bringing further significant contributions.

Test to ensure efficiency A simple means of ensuring long-term boiler efficiency is to adopt a compulsory annual water test. This would confirm if the inhibitor

level in the system is adequate and form part of the overall best practice approach which could contribute to an energy saving of up to 15% a year and help extend the life of a domestic boiler beyond the 12-year lifespan. Comprehensive tests undertaken in accredited laboratories on a broad range of parameters already determine whether any ongoing corrosion or scale deposition is occurring; pH is under control; contaminants have been removed; and inhibitor levels are correct. Landlords already have to conduct a mandatory annual boiler safety check, so an additional water test taking a couple of minutes while on site, imposes no additional burden or call-out cost. The Heating and Hot Water Industry Council (HHIC) is considering such a development in conjunction with its existing Benchmark scheme. The simplicity and logic of this approach to testing system water has immediate appeal. T: Noble Distribution Ireland (NI) 07980 983708 or (RoI) 0044 7980 983708 E: info@adey.com W: www.adey.com

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news

Carillion and Ideal sponsorship boost

Local runners who took part in this year’s London Marathon receive their running vests from Gary Cranney and Damian McGreevy of Plumbmaster at Haldane Fisher, and Jacqueline McAteer, Staff Nurse at Southern Area Hospice Services.

Running in style for Southern Area Hospice Services Sixteen local runners who took part in this year’s Virgin London Marathon to help raise funds for Southern Area Hospice Services, were given an extra boost by Haldane Fisher’s new plumbers’ merchant brand, Plumbmaster. With the support of Plumbmaster, Southern Area Hospice Services was delighted to present the runners with a special running vest at a ‘Good Luck’ night which took place at Southern Area Hospice prior to the marathon. Speaking about its sponsorship, Stephen Rooney, Haldane Fisher, said, “We have a long standing relationship with the Southern Area Hospice and were delighted to once more sponsor their running vests for the London Marathon, this time under the Plumbmaster brand, our new specialist division for the plumbing and heating sector.” W: www.plumb-master.com or www.southernareahospiceservices.org

Iveagh United FC are set to turn up the heat on the opposition thanks to a new sponsorship deal with Carillion and Ideal Boilers. Thomas Burns, who plays for Iveagh United FC and is a member of staff at Carillion said, “We are a local Northern Amateur Intermediate football club who appreciate the support from two organisations who work together to deliver heating solutions to a number of clients in Northern Ireland.” Kieran Adams, Senior Contracts Manager at Carillion, added, “We were delighted to have the opportunity to boost a local team and offer our support.” Ian Anderson, Area Sales Manager for Ideal Boilers, continued, “We have a strong working relationship with Carillion so when they approached us about offering support to Iveagh United FC we were more than happy to help.”

Thomas Burns, Iveagh United FC, (centre) is presented with their new kit by Kieran Adams, Carillion, (left) and Ian Anderson, Ideal Boilers.

Flogas sponsors Irish Amateur Open Golf Championship Flogas has joined forces with the Golfing Union of Ireland to become the new title sponsor of the Flogas Irish Amateur Open Championship, Ireland’s premier men’s amateur golf tournament. A Championship which has witnessed victories by the greatest names in Irish amateur golf during its 124-year history, the Flogas Irish Amateur Open Championship took place at Royal Dublin in May. Flogas has agreed a three-year sponsorship deal, beginning with this year’s tournament at Royal Dublin and continuing into 2017 and 2018, when the Irish Amateur Open Championship will be staged at the world-famous links at Royal County Down. John Rooney, Managing Director of Flogas

12 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Ireland, said, “Flogas has a long and rich tradition of supplying golf clubs and their members with LPG or Natural Gas requirements, so it felt right that we should invest something back in this great game. We operate on an all-Ireland basis, just like the Golfing Union of Ireland, and we are the only energy company that can offer all the benefits of gas to our commercial customers, whether they are on or off the natural gas grid.” Flogas also recently announced the company’s sponsorship of touring professional Cormac Sharvin, a former Ireland international who was runner-up at last year’s Irish Amateur Open. W: www.flogas.ie or www.flogasni.com

Flogas brand ambassador, Cormac Sharvin, with John Rooney, Managing Director, Flogas at the announcement of the Flogas Irish Amateur Open Championship at Royal Dublin Golf Club.

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company news

Haldane Fisher’s new-look plumbing and heating merchants starts to take shape across Northern Ireland…

Plumbmaster customers are on the road to added incentives

ustomers at Plumbmaster – Haldane Fisher’s specialist division for the plumbing and heating sector – are already enjoying the change. As the rebranding of Haldane Fisher’s plumbing departments continue to take shape, customers are benefiting from new incentives. To begin with, all Plumbmaster account holders can now benefit from favourable trading terms on the entire Haldane Fisher product range, including timber, building materials, hand tools, power

Tiny Weatherill, Branch Manager, and David Haldane, Managing Director for Northern Ireland, cut the ribbon on the new Plumbmaster Conlig branch.

tools – even bathrooms, doors and floors! The introduction of a new 40ft lorry in September will be another addition to the existing dedicated Plumbmaster delivery fleet, with additional vans already on the road in Coleraine, Bangor and Belfast and more to come for Ballymena, Lisburn, Portadown and Newry. By the end of May, all Haldane Fisher branches in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man will boast the new-look Plumbmaster brand and the company will also have

Tiny Weatherill, Plumbmaster Manager, David Haldane, Managing Director for Northern Ireland, and Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director, Plumbing & Heating, officially open the new Plumbmaster at Conlig.

launched a new website which will bring added benefits to customers. Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director for Plumbing & Heating at Haldane Fisher, said, “The reaction to the launch of Plumbmaster has been superb and we are delighted at how it has been received by the trade. “As branches go live we have been hosting events for suppliers and customers across the branches to introduce them to Plumbmaster and highlight the specific focus we are offering the plumbing and

The Plumbmaster team at Conlig - from left Neil Stewart, Stephen Adams, Tiny Weatherill and Gordon James.

“As part of a national buying group, we are able to offer the right products at competitive prices.” 14 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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company news

Taking some time out to play table football courtesy of Rothenberger.

Mark Eccles, Grant Engineering (centre) is welcomed to the new Plumbmaster branch at Conlig by Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director, Plumbing & Heating at Haldane Fisher (left) and David Haldane, Managing Director of Haldane Fisher in Northern Ireland.

Neil Gaffney, Managing Director, Vokera, pictured with Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director, Plumbing & Heating at Haldane Fisher at the opening of Plumbmaster.

Richard Harrison, Harrison Joinery, tucks into a bacon butty during a recent Plumbmaster breakfast morning.

Dougie Burrows, T.McCleave P&H, (centre) at the opening of Plumbmaster Conlig.

The opening of Plumbmaster in Conlig attracted a lot of customers.

Tiny Weatherill, Plumbmaster Manager at Plumbmaster Conlig gets another bacon butty ready during the recent breakfast morning.

heating industry. With our own dedicated trade counters, staff and delivery fleet across 11 branches in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, many of which will have their own dedicated Plumbmaster entrance, we are able to offer customers even more than before. “We continue to extend our product range to introduce the latest plumbing and heating solutions and, as part of a national buying group, we are able to offer the right products at competitive prices.”

Eamonn added that the cosmetic changes at every branch are being backed by service. “Given the fact that we already have an established customer base and experience in this sector, we are working from very solid foundations, and customers are the ultimate winners,” he said. “We have been involved in the plumbing and heating sector for 50 years, so we have developed a great team of experts. “In addition to experienced personnel at the trade counter who can deal with plumbing

and heating queries, we also have experts in our bathroom showrooms and an underfloor heating specialist who can design and specify UFH systems.

“As a locally-owned business, we are flexible enough to react quickly and effectively to the needs of our customers.”

Plumbmaster’s Paul McDowell and Eamonn McCarthy with some of the company’s customers who enjoyed a night at the races as part of the official launch of Plumbmaster in Newry.

Plumbmaster, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, BT35 6QQ Branches at Newry, Bangor, Portadown (Castle Street), Lisburn, Belfast (Ladas Drive), Belfast (Balmoral), Coleraine, Larne and Ballymena. www.plumb-master.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 15

news

Successful installer events at PTS

A new route for Chartered Engineers

Baxi has hosted a series of installer events at PTS branches to give customers a chance to learn more about its new Tool Kit app and impressive warranties. Danfoss and EPH Controls also took part in separate events at PTS branches in Lisburn and Belfast - all aimed at keeping installers up to date with the latest developments. As Sharon English, Baxi, said, “Our free Baxi Toolbelt app is a great addition and has impressed installers. It available on iPhone and Android and includes tools such as an error code look up tool to help with fault finding, a gas flow rate calculator and single and multi-drop gas pipe sizing calculators. “We were also highlighting the 10-year warranty we are offering on our Platinum range and the 7-year warranty on the Duotec as well as the many other solutions we can offer. Installers continue to be impressed with our product range and service.” James Pollock, Danfoss, was recently appointed as the company’s first dedicated sales rep for Northern Ireland and he said, “The Danfoss name is well known in Northern Ireland and having a local point of contact is helping to provide additional peace of mind in terms of service on top of the superb quality of our products.”

The CIPHE’s technical credibility has been enhanced with a license to award Chartered Engineer status. It means that even more members can benefit from professional registration. As a licensed professional body, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has been registering suitably qualified members at Engineering Technician (EngTech) and Incorporated Engineer (IEng) levels for 43 years. After undergoing a license review by the Engineering Council the CIPHE will now be able to offer a route to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng). The Institute has been granted a license for IEng and EngTech candidates for a further five years and a license for one year for CEng. For further information on registration with the Engineering Council, contact Gemma Hooker on 01708 463107 or e-mail her at gemmah@ciphe.org.uk

Barry Lowe, Area Sales Manager, PTS, (front centre) with PTS staff and speakers following the installer event at PTS Belfast.

EPH Controls introduced installers to the company’s new EMBER app ahead of its official launch in June. Barry Casey, EPH Controls, said, “We have been developing the app for the past 18 months so it is great to be in a position to finally be able to show it to installers. The feedback has already been fantastic.” T: Sharon English, Baxi, on 07966 595902; James Pollock, Danfoss, on 07896 266787; or EPH Controls on 00353 21 434 6238.

Beggs & Partners race for Tearfund

Installers who attended the installer event with Baxi and Danfoss at PTS Lisburn.

PTS staff with installers who attended the installer event in the Belfast branch with Baxi and EPS Controls.

16 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Beggs and & Partners recently raised money for Tearfund by entering relay teams into the Belfast marathon. The intrepid runners included Robert Best, Steven Bryans, Julie Hassin, Steven Meek, Deborah Hyndman, Conor Mulholland, Michelle Wilkins, Lauren McClean and Fiona Nicholl.

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2016

THURS

WED

SEPTEMBER 0708 BELFAST 4-9PM 10-4PM TITANIC

exhibition Centre

A new industry event for mechanical, electrical and plumbing solutions

HEATING SYSTEMS

The busy Saturn Heating stand at the Energy Show.

After successfully attending The Energy Show 2016, Saturn Heating is again set to meet and speak with plumbers, merchants and heating professionals at this year’s PlumbEx in Dublin…

High energy for Saturn!

when you think that most of the condensing oil boilers on the market today use a combination of mild steel and stainless steel to produce their heat exchangers. “All condensing boilers produce a condensate or vapour that is highly corrosive and so not generally suited to mild steel. The Saturn NHC uses an all stainless steel high efficiency heat exchanger that is designed to handle the corrosive condensate. The NHC is also the only boiler to include a neutralising filter and trap to treat the corrosive condensate.” According to the company, an exciting network has been established throughout Ireland with the help of regional merchants. The Energy Show also The unique downward helped Saturn Heating build on firing burner is a many successful breakfast mornings popular feature. that were held up and down the country. Another extremely popular feature within the Saturn Oil Boiler is the unique downward firing burner and this feature garnered a lot of attention in the RDS in April. “This feature makes the installation and service even easier to Irish plumbers. The burner is top mounted and therefore you’ll no longer be on your knees during installation or servicing. It’s simplistic, reliable and robust. With over 800,000 of these

aturn Heating has continued strong growth throughout Ireland in the first quarter of 2016, with nationwide interest generating continuous growth with regional merchants all around Ireland. The Energy Show 2016 provided the perfect platform to showcase the technologies that separate the Saturn Oil Boiler NHC range from any other boiler in the Irish market. Saturn Heating is now set to build on that success when the company takes part in the PlumbEx Trade Event at the Citywest Hotel, Dublin, on May 25-26. Speaking at the show, Stephen Duffy of Saturn Heating said, “It is quite incredible

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unique downward firing burners made annually, all Irish plumbers can trust in their design,” explained Gary Connolly of Saturn Heating. Saturn Heating Technologies is confident that the NHC range will deliver a long service life and that it will save Irish home-owners money and energy throughout. The firm also believes it will inspire people to think about this type of product before they have one installed in their home. The NHC Boiler uses an all stainless steel condensing heat exchanger, the only one of its kind available on the market today. With unique characteristics to the boiler build, you couldn’t be blamed for thinking that spare parts would be an issue but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The company has a comprehensive stock level of spare parts throughout Ireland so rest assured that any spares you may need will be held either by your local merchant or in Saturn Heating’s headquarters in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. Full technical support is available from the team in Carrickmacross while the oil boiler range is available in independent merchants nationwide. T: (RoI) 042 9692032 (NI) 00353 42 9692032 E: info@saturnheating.net W: www.saturnheating.net

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BOILERS, SERVICING AND PARTS

Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales, with some of the installers who attended the recent Advance workshop.

Loyalty scheme offers a range of advantages and, thanks to workshop event, more installers are now enjoying the benefits…

Installers Advance thanks to Vaillant workshop

aillant recently hosted a workshop for installers to highlight the wide range of advantages they can enjoy by signing up to the Advance loyalty scheme. “When I have been talking to installers they were all very interested in signing up to the Advance loyalty scheme but many said they didn’t have the time or that they didn’t like to use the technology,” explained Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales for Vaillant. “We thought the workshop was a great way to bring them together and show installers just how easy it is to sign up to Advance and enjoy a wide range of benefits. “The feedback has been great and I know that our installers are now not only saving time but are also clocking up loyalty points by using Advance.” Through Advance, installers can enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, which can not only be earned via purchases of Vaillant products but by also generating end-user feedback, completing Vaillant training and e-learning courses, using Vaillant signage and sharing experiences on

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Vaillant’s social media channels. Credits can then be redeemed in Vaillant’s vCORE online store against a host of items which can be used to enhance an installer’s business, whether it’s workwear, stationery, tool boxes or marketing support. Cashback is offered via the Advance VISA debit card, which can be used anywhere that accepts VISA, giving installers the freedom to purchase at their leisure. Selected retailers also offer rebate on the card. Furthermore, installers who join the scheme have the potential to earn cashback and credits to advance through the scheme and enjoy additional benefits such as extended guarantees on product purchases and a listing on Vaillant’s ‘Find an Installer’ tool. Catherine added, “Using the app on your phone is really easy and it helps to make our installers’ lives easier by saving them time on paperwork. “It allows installers to save time, as they can simply scan the product barcode and upload the details of the installation direct to Vaillant, enjoy access to technical manuals and

source spares and the stockists near them. “It is great to know that we now have so many installers using Advance and, if anyone missed the workshop but still needs helps getting set-up with Advance, we will be happy to help.” The success of the Advance loyalty scheme is just one element of Vaillant’s superb service. Vaillant Advance members in Northern Ireland can take advantage of the enhanced masterTEC app. Vaillant’s masterTEC app works in conjunction with the Advance loyalty scheme and gives installers everything they need to advance their knowledge, earnings and business. Installers in Northern Ireland can download the masterTEC app from the Apple App Store or on your Android phone by searching for ‘Vaillant masterTEC’. T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (NI) 07767 377670 or (RoI) 0044 7767 377670 W: www.vaillant.co.uk

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Company news

Baxi is 150 years in business this year and, to kick off the celebrations, the boiler manufacturer has started a nationwide search for special Baxi memories…

Trip down memory lane with Baxi

o celebrate its 150th year in style, Baxi is asking heating engineers, consumers, employees, merchants, suppliers and partners from across the UK to share their special memories of the company. Baxi was launched by iron moulder Richard Baxendale in 1866 and a controllable underfloor draught system for solid fuel heating, launched in 1935, was the first product to bear the Baxi name. Throughout the 1950s, the company became increasingly focused on the domestic heating sector and Baxi became a familiar household name. Today, Baxi is a leading UK boiler manufacturer employing nearly 1,600 people. The company has a factory in Preston, close to where the company began 150 years ago, where it makes over seven million components each year. It is the only UK boiler manufacturer with its own foundry and its paint shop has been benchmarked by Mitsubishi. As part of Baxi’s 150th anniversary celebrations, people are being invited to

share happy memories of the company by e-mailing a message and photograph of themselves to mybaxistory@baxi.co.uk. Each story will be entered into a commemorative online book, to be hosted on the Baxi website, and each photograph will become part of a 150-shaped montage of images, to be completed by the end of 2016. Paul Clancy, MD Baxi Ireland, said, “Our business has reached an incredibly important milestone; very few businesses have been around for as long as we have and it’s a remarkable achievement. We are proud to be

celebrating 150 years of Baxi – especially as in 2016 we are stronger and more successful than ever. “We will be marking the company’s anniversary – and future – with a variety of events and activities throughout the year and are kicking off the celebrations by launching My Baxi Story. Being around for such a long time means there are millions of people who have had experiences and have built relationships with us. “My Baxi Story is about giving anyone with happy memories of Baxi – whether they are a heating engineer, consumer, former or current employee, merchant, supplier or partner – an opportunity to share their story. Everyone that gets involved will become part of a special commemorative online book and image.” Anyone with a Baxi story to tell should e-mail mybaxistory@baxi.co.uk with a message and a photograph. Alternatively, they can write to Jocelynne Rowan, PR Manager, Baxi, Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL. W: www.baxi.co.uk

My Baxi Story... To start off the My Baxi Story campaign, Plumbing & Heating Magazine asked some of the Baxi team in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland for their memories… Paul Clancy

Sharon English

vincent broderick

Richard louth

Managing Director, Baxi Potterton Myson “150 years is indeed a great brand heritage, one we are all very proud of. We intend to celebrate this milestone with a number of customer events throughout Ireland .Over the 150 years we have added more market leading brands to our portfolio such as Potterton, Heatrea Sadia and Andrews Water Heaters. Only by creating innovative products and solutions around customers needs have we been able to grow over these 150 years. Baxi Potterton Myson is looking forward with great optimism.”

Area Sales Manager, Northern Ireland “I am privileged to be working with the company for the past 16 years and have been delighted to see the business grow from strength to strength. This includes from our appliances to the stateof-the-art training facilities now available to installers across Ireland.”

Sales Director “My history with Baxi goes back to when Baxi acquired the assets of Blue Circle Heating in 1999. Since then I have seen the company increase its diversity in heating and hot water products moving from a domestic boiler supplier to one of the leading suppliers of heating and hot water solutions in the world. I am looking forward to seeing this continue in the next decade as the market moves into renewables and combined solutions such as Heat Interface units as we continue our progress with market leading products and services.”

Area Sales Manager “I’m very proud to be associated with a company of this heritage. Our long term commitment to the Irish heating industry is reflected by the massive investment undertaken in installer training and new state-of-the-art training centre in Calmount Park HQ. Very shortly we will have new Combined Heat and Power interlinked with our latest additions to our commercial range. It is our intention to invite all interested specifiers and mechanical contractors to visit this new installation.

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Metal Push-Fit

The beauty of the tried and tested Tectite system is that it provides installers with versatility…

Metal Push-Fit – the system of choice for installers worldwide

volving push-fit technology is now becoming more widely accepted in the commercial sector. With increased bore sizes of up to 54mm and a variety of fittings suitable for differing pipe types and application requirements, these high quality and robust systems deliver evergreater performance. In terms of operating performance, some products will work to continuous temperatures from -24oC to 114oC and maximum continuous working pressure of 20 bar. Other features include tamper-proof fittings and complementing products such as service, domestic and radiator valves to commissioning and check valves. Pegler Yorkshire, a leading manufacturer in the plumbing and heating industry, has developed a range of instant jointing systems which incorporate all of the benefits mentioned above. To help you decide which system is most suited to a particular application Pegler Yorkshire’s Tectite range is shown below. Tectite, a tried and tested system, provides versatility giving the installer a choice of one fitting to suit numerous tube/pipe variants. The range includes: • Tectite Classic - The original Tectite fitting has been proven in the field for over 15 years. Manufactured from gunmetal and DZR brass, Classic is demountable and can be used with copper tube, PB and PEX pipe or chrome plated copper tube. Available in sizes 10mm to 28mm it is suitable for use on hot & cold potable water services, heating applications and low temperature hot water services. A select range of Classic components are available in a chrome finish. • Tectite Air - The Air range of products is designed specially to be used for pneumatic applications and is not recommended for use with fuels, spirits, explosive gases and petroleum. It has been specially developed to be used on compressed air systems, it is demountable and re-usable and available in a DZR brass body. • Tectite Sprint - A tamper-proof fitting ideal for fast and efficient heat free jointing, Tectite Sprint offers a visually appealing, low

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profile design which can be easily installed in confined spaces. It is manufactured from copper or machined DZR brass, which can be used with copper or chrome plated copper tube. Sprint is available in sizes 10mm to 54mm and is suitable for use on hot and cold potable water services, heating and chilled water applications and low temperature hot water services. It also provides electrical continuity and includes a chrome finish option. • Tectite Pro - Developed for the rigorous demands of the mechanical services sector, Tectite Pro offers enhanced performance over an extended size range from 15mm to 54mm. This demountable fitting is manufactured from gunmetal and DZR brass, it can be used with copper / chrome plated copper tube, PB and PEX pipe. Tectite Pro offers guaranteed electrical continuity. It is designed for use on hot & cold potable water services, heating and chilled water applications. • Tectite 316 - Tectite 316 is a stainless steel system which has been developed for potable water applications where water quality and hygiene are key considerations. It incorporates a stainless steel grab ring which has been specifically developed to grip stainless steel tube without the need for it to be scribed. Manufactured from 316 stainless

steel, it is demountable and available in sizes 15mm to 54mm. Tectite 316 also guarantees electrical continuity. • Tectite Carbon - Tectite Carbon comprises tube and fittings from 15 to 54mm, making it ideal for domestic and commercial applications. Manufactured from galvanised carbon steel, Tectite Carbon is lightweight and features a low profile body. It is designed for use with unvented closed circuit heating and chilled water services (closed loop). Compared to traditional screwed steel systems, Tectite Carbon provides up to 70% cost saving benefits. For both Pegler Yorkshire and the plumbing industry as a whole, push-fit systems are flagship products for advancements in plumbing technology. The latest pushfit products from Pegler Yorkshire are responding to the increasing demands of the industry, while at the same time delivering tangible benefits. With its mix of innovation and cost effectiveness, installers are embracing the benefits of metal push-fit systems for a variety of projects. T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, (NI) 07912 406101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406101 W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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radiators

QRL’s brand new warehouse facility in Dublin.

Opening of new warehouse facility is the latest positive development from this leading radiator manufacturer…

QRL demand heats up!

RL Radiator Group - formerly Quinn Radiators - has just opened a brand new warehouse facility in Dublin to meet its expanding customer base. With capacity for up to 2,500 radiators, the new facility will provide impressive product availability and even shorter lead times, with same-day collection on selected models. Servicing around 80 merchants in the surrounding area, the Dublin warehouse will carry stock across all of QRL’s domestic and commercial heating range. This includes the hi-lo Compact and Barlo panel radiators which, says QRL, boast the best heat output and efficiency on the market. The popular Design by QRL portfolio will also be available while the facility will also hold stock for commercial heating and cooling specialist Merriott (part of the QRL Radiator Group). Maura McCabe, QRL’s General Manager for Ireland, said, “With such a strong

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market standing and heritage here, our Irish customers are at the very heart of QRL’s operations so we’re very pleased to be bolstering our presence with the new Dublin warehouse. “QRL radiators are well known for delivering the best performance, the best efficiency and the best value, so it’s crucial that we continue to evolve our service offering to match. The Dublin warehouse will help us do just that: letting customers benefit from more stock on the ground and a quicker, more efficient service overall.” David Kerr, Chief Executive at QRL, continued, “After a full company rebrand earlier this year, we’re committed to positioning QRL firmly at the forefront of the heating industry and the launch of the Dublin site is an important part of our ambitious long-term growth plans for the Irish market. “We’ve seen a significant increase in demand of late and having more local stock will not only help us respond effectively,

Maura McCabe, General Manager QRL Ireland.

but will also support our valued customers in growing with us as this demand continues.” Based at the Kylemore Business Park in Inchicore, the new QRL warehouse is now open for collections between 7am and 3.30pm, Monday to Thursday, and between 7am and 1pm on Fridays. It is the second Irish facility for QRL, complementing a 20,000-radiator-capacity warehouse in Co Cavan. T: (RoI) 1800 882 332 or (NI) 0800 38 999 80 E: info@qrl-radiators.com W: www.qrl-radiators.com

“With capacity for up to 2,500 radiators, the new facility will provide impressive product availability and even shorter lead times, with same-day collection on selected models.”

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case study - waterfront

Mechanical excellence at the new Waterfront Exhibition and conference centre...g

A welcome return to the Waterfront

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case study - waterfront

M&E Contractor Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast 20 years since the company provided an innovative solution at the waterfront hall, harvey group again simplifies a complex M&E installation for the new world-class exhibition and conference centre…

Harvey Group’s encore at new Waterfront Hall extension

hen it comes to Design & Build (D&B), HG (Harvey Group PLC) is the company to turn to. Almost 20 years after Harvey Group PLC first installed the mechanical building services to the original Waterfront Hall, the company has once again returned to deliver the M&E design and installation of the new Waterfront Hall extension. The new £30million Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, which was contracted under an NEC Option A form of contract, enabled Harvey Group to showcase the company’s ability to manage the full design and installation of the £11million building services installation. Aiming for - and attaining - a BREEAM Certification of ‘Very Good’, Harvey Group, through its r design development partnership

with White Young Green, was able to increase the energy efficiency of particular aspects of the building by introducing higher efficiency LED lighting and heating systems. Working closely with the integrated supply team, the company also undertook to produce 3D co-ordinated drawings to marry the old and new services together and produce subsequent operational information for the client. This innovative approach to building services integration is something that Harvey Group has fully incorporated into the company’s standards and Harvey Group has recently been accredited with industrial recognition for its BIM Level 2 implementation – the first M&E supplier in Northern Ireland to have been so.

Being able to work closely with the main contractor and other subcontractors to create a BIM model allows us to be as precise as possible. 28 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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case study - waterfront

M&E excellence... The mechanical and electrical installation by Harvey Group at the Waterfront extension included:

Mechanical • Domestic services including sanitary ware • New ultra-efficient Hoval Ultragas boilers • Underfloor heating to reception areas • Variable temperature heating system • CHP integration • Fan coil installation • New ultra-quiet chiller installation • Chilled water installation • Ventilation installation including high efficiency AHUs • Smoke ventilation and fire control • Kitchen and banqueting installations • VRF AC to comms rooms • Trend BMS system

Electrical Commercial Manager, Ryan McLernon, commented, “The new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre allowed us to demonstrate a few of our Unique Selling Points (USPs) in a competitive marketplace. Design and Build is one such USP. “We contracted M&E consultants and were wholly responsible for the effective design and installation of the building, successfully meeting all targeted performances and, in some instances, bettering them. “Also, we were able to add to our growing portfolio of NEC projects, which require full team buy-in to maximise the benefit for the client and ensure value for money. We share in the ethos of NEC, in that, we wish to partner other parties in the supply

team and carry out the works in a team environment, where trust and co-operation are key ingredients. “We find our experience in these areas, along with our tried and tested experience with projects of this size, aids in a successful completion and a building that the client is happy with.” During a recent visit by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Arder Carson, said, “I’m blown away by what we’ve been shown today and firmly believe that business delegates travelling to Belfast will feel the same, once they step inside this outstanding space.” The Waterfront Hall extension is hailed as the most significant and exciting project for tourism since the opening of Titanic Belfast, which Harvey Group also completed.

• HV distribution • Sub mains/LV distribution • Generator set • Lightning and surge protection • High efficiency LED lighting installation • Emergency lighting installation • General/mechanical/technical power installation • State of the art audio visual installation • ICT/data installation • WiFi installation • Fire alarm installation • Aspirating system • PA/VA • CCTV • Infrared induction installation • Associated Infrastructure installation

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

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case study - waterfront

SANITARY WARE SUPPLIER Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast

Some of the stylish sanitary ware supplied by Beggs & Partners.

some 20 years after the two companies worked on the original, Beggs & Partners returns to the Waterfront and utilises its strong relationship with Ideal Standard to meet specific demands…

Beggs proves the Ideal partner for Harvey Group

ike many of the sub-contractors and suppliers, Beggs & Partners made a welcome return to the Waterfront Hall for the addition of a new extension. The company worked with M&E contractor, Harvey Group, on the original Waterfront Hall in 1996 and the pair teamed up once again for the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre. As one of the most experienced suppliers of commercial sanitary ware in the province, the commercial team is well respected for its ability to meet specific demands. At the Waterfront extension, it was a case of having to balance this within a strict budget. “This was a design and build project, so we worked closely with Harvey Group from the early stages to ensure everything was agreed before the project moved on site,”

explained Alastair Scott, Contracts Manager at Beggs & Partners. “We had to work within a set budget while still meeting a precise specification set by Harvey Group, and we were able to meet all their targets. “We enjoy a superb working relationship with Harvey Group, built up over many years, so we know the standards they set out to achieve. We were delighted to again be working closely with them, particularly on another such prestigious project.” The partnership with contractors such as Harvey Group is matched by the partnerships Beggs & Partners enjoys with world-class suppliers from across the plumbing and heating sector. For the Waterfront, the company’s strong relationship with Ideal Standard was on show, with all the sanitary ware supplied for

the new exhibition and conference centre coming from Ideal Standard’s Armitage Shanks range. “The quality of the Ideal Standard range provides additional peace of mind, and it is so extensive that we were able to select practically everything that we needed from Ideal’s Armitage Shanks brand,” added Alastair. “As a public building, we had to ensure that all the sanitary ware met Doc M standards and were capable of enduring a high volume of usage – all of this is easily delivered within the Ideal Standard range. “We tried to incorporate as many watersaving elements into the system as possible while including safety elements such as Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs). It was all about finding the right balance for the practicalities of the project while also

“This is a world-class venue, so we had to ensure that all the products not only functioned well, but looked good.” 30 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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case study - waterfront

Beggs & Partners had to meet a specific brief for the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre.

ensuring that it met the aesthetics. “This is a world-class venue, so we had to ensure that all the products not only functioned well, but looked good.” In addition to the Armitage Shanks range, Beggs & Partners supplied products from Inta and the company’s own-brand Instinct range. The work at the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre was a welcome change for the commercial team at Beggs & Partners, as the company has been focused on the healthcare centre in recent months. Work is continuing at the new Omagh Enhanced Local Hospital, the new radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin Hospital and the new phase of the Ulster Hospital. Beggs & Partners also supplied sanitary ware for the recently completed Northern Ireland Hospice. “These three hospital jobs are some of the biggest healthcare projects in Northern Ireland and we are delighted to be involved with them,” added Alastair. “We take pride in our ability to service a wide range of commercial projects and while the focus is on healthcare at the moment, we are also working on hotels, leisure facilities and much more.”

“The quality of the Ideal Standard range provides additional peace of mind and it is so extensive that we were able to select practically everything that we needed from Ideal’s Armitage Shanks brand.” Range meets project’s precise requirements Working within a strict budget, Beggs & Partners supplied the following products to the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, with the majority coming from the Armitage Shanks range: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Armitage Shanks Sandringham back-to-the-wall HO pan Armitage Shanks Orion Plus seat and cover Armitage Shanks Conceala SIIO dual-flush cistern Armitage Shanks contemporary stainless steel dual-flush plate Armitage Shanks Contour 21 Round under-counter-top basin with overflow Armitage Shanks Sanura white urinal bowl Armitage Shanks Monaco Doc M close-coupled pack Armitage Sandringham 21 counter-top basin Instinct low profile shower tray Instinct Fusion thermostatic exposed dual control shower slide rail kit Instinct pivot door disabled shower suite Inta Vista exposed thermostatic sequential lever shower valve top and bottom outlet Inta chrome longer sliding rail kit Vado Mono Lever thermostatic basin mixer TMV3 approved

Beggs & Partners, Great Patrick Street, Belfast, BT1 2NX T: (NI) 028 9023 5791 or (RoI) 048 9023 5791 www.beggsandpartners.com

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case study - waterfront

Radiators, radiant panels, trench heating and fan coil units Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast

Philip, Andrew, and Billy Treacy, at a launch in the magnificent Waterfront Hall, Belfast.

The quality of Versatile’s heating solutions sees the company make a welcome return to Waterfront Hall…

Complete package

Versatile feels the heat

The products supplied by Versatile for this project include:

specialist in designing and supplying innovative heating solutions, Versatile supplied a significant range of high performance products to this project. Asked by White Young Green in conjunction with Harvey Group to get involved with the project, Versatile met the challenge set. “What was most interesting about the project for us was the array of products required for the job. Normally, we’d have one or two products specified but with the Waterfront, numerous products and elements were needed to make it work,” said Philip Treacy, Director at Versatile. “Units were required for the floor, some areas needed ceiling-mounted units, some required radiators, radiant panels, air con units or fan coil units. Offices, comms rooms and open spaces had different requirements again and needed larger heating outputs.” The project did present specific challenges for the Versatile team. Philip added, “There were a number of areas where there was a large glass façade looking out over the River Lagan. These areas had very definite restrictions when it came to floor

Zehnder Nova Radiators

depths. High output trench heating was the perfect solution, so we supplied Jaga Mini Canal DBE, a fan-assisted trench which is only 65ml deep but gives a very large output of well in excess of 3.5kW per 2m length. It’s a fairly unique product and proved the ideal heating solution for this particular area.” Space and depth restrictions cropped up in other areas of the project too. “We needed to supply a number of fan coil units but we had space restrictions there also. We ended up using some very slimline units with big outputs – Quartz Amethyst fan coils – which again provide an extremely large output but are also very slim at only 175ml depth.” This range features a flush panelled, extra rigid casing and a free flow drain pan along with a new filter arrangement which means greatly extended service intervals. Significant output was also required in the front lobby but with the team once again hampered by limited space, they had to get creative. “We used Zehnder Excelsior, an ideal product for this area as we can achieve them anything

Zehnder Excelsior Radiators Zehnder Carboline Radiant Panels Jaga Mini Canal DBE Quartz Sapphire and Amethyst Fan Coils Quartz CD3 Close Control AirConditioning Units Herz Valves

up to 6m long and 6m high. We ended up being able to get a very large output for that glazed area.” In a nice example of history repeating itself, the original radiators that were replaced in that area were previously supplied by Billy Treacy from Versatile when the original Waterfront Hall was built! Philip concluded, “We are hugely proud of our continued association with such a magnificent building.”

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

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case study - waterfront

DIFFUSERS Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast ADVANCED AIRFLOW SOLUTIONS DELIVERS TOP RESULTS AT WATERFRONT WITH KRANTZ DIFFUSERS…

Efficiency and innovation from Advanced Airflow Solutions

dvanced Airflow Solutions supplied a wide range of Krantz diffusers to the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre. Adjustable swirl outlets, type RA-V2, were supplied to the double heights multi-use areas. “The RA-V2 diffusers have the capability to change the direction of discharge, depending upon whether cooling or heated air is being supplied, thus ensuring that draught-free conditions are maintained at all times, whilst also ensuring that heated air is delivered to the occupied zone during the heating cycle,” explained Rick Lees, Internal Sales Manager at Advanced Airflow Solutions. “For low ceiling areas, adjustable inductive slot diffusers, type IN-V2, ensure that uniform temperatures and low room velocities are maintained throughout the heating and cooling cycles. For larger spaces, long throw nozzles, type DW-V2 were supplied, some of these having twist inserts to adjust the throw length whilst maintaining a uniform physical appearance.” Advanced Airflow Solutions is the exclusive distributor of Krantz air distribution and heating and cooling equipment for the UK and Ireland.

Managing Director, Ian Lees, said, “We are very proud to have made such a significant contribution to such a high profile building in Belfast. The Krantz range of products is ideally suited to this kind of project due to the variance of requirements.” Amongst some of the other notable projects completed by Advanced Airflow Solutions in Northern Ireland in 2015 were the Girdwood Community Hub, Belfast, the new SPACE campus at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) in Bangor and University of Ulster.

OPTIMISED PERFORMANCE Krantz designs, builds, operates and maintains intelligent and energy-efficient solutions for buildings and industries. Its aim is to ensure business continuity, safe and comfortable conditions, optimised performance and cost-control for its clients. The company has been manufacturing air distribution equipment since the 1960s

and has gained a well-earned reputation for high quality products and innovative solutions to a wide range of applications, from commercial offices, industrial halls and multifunction sites to theatres, airports and swimming pools. In addition to its wide range of air distribution equipment, Krantz has also developed a range of water-based comfort cooling solutions, active and passive chilled beams, ceilings, high capacity panels, and architectural cooling sails. All products have been developed and tested in the extensive Krantz R&D facility in Aachen, Germany, which is regularly made available for project specific studies. The latest addition to the ever expanding product portfolio is the company’s facade mounted, decentralised heating and cooling units which are rapidly gaining in popularity throughout Europe due to the flexibility of design and plant space-saving features.

Advanced Airflow Solutions, Gatehead Business Park, Delph New Road, Oldham, Lancashire, OL3 5DE T: (NI): 01457 876262 or (RoI) 0044 1457 876262 E: sales@advancedairflowsolutions.com www.advancedairflowsolutions.com

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case study - waterfront

BUILDING ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast STANDARD CONTROL SYSTEMS PROVIDES BESPOKE BEMS AT WATERFRONT TO MINIMISE ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND ACHIEVE ACCURATE CONTROL OF TEMPERATURE, HUMIDITY & PRESSURE…

Energy under Standard Control

he Building Energy Management System (BEMS) at the Waterfront was installed by Standard Control Systems, which worked closely with the Harvey Group Project Manager and team to design a detailed and complex control solution to meet the requirements of the client. “We used a BEMS manufactured by Trend, one of the world’s leading BEMS manufacturers, which provides bespoke and innovative control of HVAC systems,” said Sam McCoubrey, Senior Engineer with Standard Control Systems. “Its fully integrated control solutions are able to meet the most complex requirements of modern buildings.

INTEGRATION “The Waterfront project called for integration to third-party controls using open protocols including Modbus and BACNET,” continued Sam. “This allows us to send/receive information between different systems, giving the client more flexibility and control. “The Trend BEMS included air-handling unit integration, VAV control, fan coil unit control, underfloor heating control, chilled water, weather compensated radiator

control, extract fans and Dhw. The metering of energy was an essential part of the project, with gas, electric, heat and water all being metered and recorded. “Part of the overall project included upgrading of the existing the Trend Boilerhouse, CO2 control of the existing AHUs, and pressure control of new pumps supplying the existing plant. As well as manufacturing the control panels we also managed the BEMS mechanical electrical installation with our sub-contractor, BP Electrics. “Access to the system for the client is via the Trend 963 supervisor - a client/serverbased software package. Supervisors are used to graphically display monitored inputs and outputs, change control parameters and perform a wide range of energy analysis and maintenance functions,

simplifying the user’s interaction with the BEMS. “Working with Harvey Group and the client, our commissioning team, led by Senior Engineer, Colin Massey provided a key role in ensuring all BEMS control specification and design was met and completed on time,” said Sam.

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE Standard Control Systems is one of the largest providers of integrated building energy management systems in Ireland, the UK and Europe. A Trend TTC (Trend Technology Centre), services include the engineering, supply, installation and commissioning of control panels, field controls, process controllers, bespoke GUI (graphical user interface) mimics and software programming.

T: (NI) 028 9560 8528 or (RoI) 01 4291 800 E: info@standardcontrol.ie W: www.standardcontrol.ie

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case study - waterfront

UNDERFLOOR HEATING Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast Alternative Heat designed and installed the underfloor heating system at the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre in Belfast...

Compact UFH by Alternative Heat

ollowing the successful completion of the stunning Girdwood Community Hub in the city, Alternative Heat again linked up with M&E contractor, Harvey Group, to deliver a complete underfloor heating system. “The underfloor heating was for the main foyer of the new extension to the Waterfront Hall,” explained Gary Lavery, Design Manager at Alternative Heat. “We were given a very specific brief to ensure that certain heat outputs could be met and we used our own HT2000 software to provide a detailed design report in line with BS EN 1264. “We were delighted to again be working with the Harvey Group, particularly on such a prestigious project.” As specialists in the design, supply, installation and maintenance of Compact Underfloor Heating systems, Alternative Heat has over 13 years’ experience in the industry. Having completed a wide range of underfloor heating solutions throughout the UK and Ireland – ranging from small industrial to large-scale commercial applications as well as residential projects – Alternative Heat offers unrivalled experience.

COMPLETE PACKAGE “We pride ourselves on the care and attention we give to every contract, ensuring the highest standards of build and installation quality,” said Gary. “The

company operates a Quality Management System in accordance with BS EN 9001, which helps to ensure that our designs, installations and office processes are implemented throughout each and every project.” Alternative Heat provides a complete package from conception, through the design phases to comprehensive commissioning and overall completion. The company boasts a highly skilled and experienced team which allows Alternative Heat to cater for all clients’ requirements. In addition, the Alternative Heat design team has an excellent reputation for collaborative working. Through early involvement of each member of the team, the company can ensure maximum potential is obtained from each project it engages with. Alternative Heat operates with the latest 3D CAD design software packages in line with BIM standards to provide co-ordinated perspective layout drawings so that clients have a full understanding for each project well in advance of works taking place onsite. Thanks to the signing of a new partnership

“The Alternative Heat design team have an excellent reputation for collaborative working.” deal, Alternative Heat’s Compact Underfloor Heating System is now available at every Macnaughton Blair branch in Northern Ireland. Customers can order the range from any of Macnaughton Blair’s 14 branches across the province.

Alternative Heat, 11 Burrenreagh Road, Castlewellan, BT31 9HH T: (NI) 028 4377 0700 or (RoI) 048 4377 0700 www.alternativeheat.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 35

Finalists announced for Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards RECORD NUMBER OF ENTRIES GIVES THE JUDGES A TOUGH TASK TO SELECT THIS YEAR’S WINNERS…

he finalists for Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards have been announced, with all the winners set to be revealed at the Gala Awards Night at the Hilton Hotel, Belfast, on June 9. Recognising the province’s top plumbing and heating installers, contractors, merchants, people, projects and products, the prestigious awards will showcase the plumbing and heating industry’s commitment to excellence. With a record number of entries, this year’s independent panel of judges faced a

36 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

daunting task of selecting the winners from an exceptional list of applications. Jacqui Fairley, Publication Director at Plumbing & Heating Magazine, which hosts the biennial awards, said, “This is the third time we have hosted the awards and we were astounded not just by the quantity, but also the quality of this year’s entries. “All the judges commented on the high calibre of entries this year. They had a tough time selecting the winners and given the high standard of entries, to be even shortlisted can be seen as a major

achievement. “We established these awards to recognise the high standards that our industry delivers in Northern Ireland and a look at the shortlist of finalists proves that we have achieved this. “Like everyone in the industry, we are looking forward to a great night on June 9 to find out who all the winners will be.” This year’s panel of judges are Peter Clarke (Chair of the judges’ panel); David Blevings; Anthony Mulligan; and John Leonard.

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Plumbing and heating awards 2016

Finalists revealed ·· Aaron Corr, Dowds Group

·· JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd

·· Adey Professional Heating Solutions

·· KD Plumbing & Heating

·· Altecnic Ltd

·· Maitiu Cole, CTS Projects

·· Antrim Electrical & Mechanical ·· Bassetts

·· Kildress Plumbing Supplies

·· Mark Eccles, Grant Engineering ·· Maurice Stevenson Ltd

·· Baxi

·· Michael Nugent Ltd

·· Beam Vacuum & Ventilation ·· Beggs & Partners

·· Moffitt & Robinson Construction ·· Norman McNaught, NDi

·· Brian Harvey, Harvey Group PLC ·· CHC Group Ltd

·· Nu Tech Renewables ·· O’Kane Plumbing Services

·· Classic Marble

·· OkoTech

·· CTS Projects

·· Paul Harley Plumbing & Heating

·· David Lindsay Plumbing & Heating

·· PJ Mullan & Son

·· Des Keenan, Kildress Plumbing Supplies

·· PTS

·· Potterton Commercial

·· Dowds Group

·· Quinn Mechanical Services

·· Ecoerne Consulting

·· R&F Mechanical

·· Enda McLaughlin Plumbing

·· Richard Beattie, CHC Group Ltd

·· Fintan Murray, Francis Murray and Son Heating and Plumbing

·· Reliance Worldwide Corporation

·· Gary Knight, KM Gas & Services Ltd.

·· Ryan McNaught, ADEY Professional Heating Solutions ·· Safegas NI Ltd

·· GasTech

·· Sprue Safety Products

·· George McGuire, Pegler Yorkshire

·· Stephen Meneely Gas and Plumbing

·· George Nelson, George Nelson Plumbing and Heating

·· Stuart Harron, Reliance Worldwide Corporation

·· Glenn Forsythe, Safegas NI Ltd.

·· Systemlink

·· Grant Engineering

·· Thomas Hanna & Co

·· GT Gas Works

·· Trevor Beggs, Glen Dimplex NI

·· Handley Heating Services ·· Hanna Mechanical

·· V&J Harkness Plumbing & Heating

·· Harvey Group PLC

·· Walls & Reid

·· Heat Hero

·· Warmflow Engineering

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 37

Radiators

The popular Radical is saving home-owners 10.5% on heating bills.

No.1 in the radiator marketplace and still more to come…

Stelrad celebrates 80 years in business as industry’s No.1

s Stelrad celebrates its 80th birthday in 2016, it is also celebrating the fact that it has independently been acknowledged as the No.1 radiator manufacturer in the radiator marketplace in the UK and Ireland. With its impressive past and it’s even more impressive present, it’s the future that excites the team at Stelrad. There’s always more to come. Stelrad’s first-ever panel radiators - the company was called Steel Radiators Limited back in the day - were manufactured in Southall in West London in 1936. They were called ‘the Standard’ and were made with the help of Swedish company AGA. And Stelrad has set the standard ever since. In 1960, Steel Radiators Limited bought a 10-acre site in Dalbeattie in Scotland and, from 1961, the steel radiators were pressed in Southall and then trucked to Scotland for assembly. In 1971, the company changed its name to Stelrad Group. In 1994, Stelrad House was built in Mexborough in South Yorkshire. All production moved to Mexborough in 1999, with the closure of the Dalbeattie site. In 2003, the National Distribution Centre (NDC) was officially opened and as this has developed over the years, it has been

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hugely instrumental in the company’s growth and success. Products have advanced by leaps and bounds, and the introduction of new radiator concepts has seen Stelrad taking huge strides in the last decade. The K3 - three panels and three fins - was launched within the Compact range in 2011, and the Radical made its first appearance in 2012. The now hugely successful Vita Series was launched in 2014, and the dedicated kitchen and bathroom designer and decorative radiator range - the Aqua Series - in 2015. The company has recently launched a marketing campaign to remind the heating sector across the UK and Ireland that it is indeed ‘number one’ in radiators for a number of reasons that together, back its claim to be the leading radiator manufacturer in the UK and highlight the fact that it offers the widest range of radiator styles and sizes in the UK and Ireland. The Stelrad Compact is still the UK’s bestselling radiator, and it is consistently the number one choice for plumbers and heating installers. Stelrad also leads the marketing in LST – low surface temperature – radiators. The company offers an award-winning, energy-saving, serial feed radiators that can save up to 10.5% of home-owners’ heating

bills – its popular Radical radiator. Stelrad offers the best range of colours available for those who opt for coloured radiators to brighten their lives – and it was the first company to offer a 15-year warranty on all its flat fronted radiators. Over the past 80 years, Stelrad has seen huge change and much development as the company has grown and discovered ways of providing products that the heating sector wants. It’s fascinating to stand in front of the timeline on the wall as you enter the Stelrad factory in Mexborough. You can almost feel the change happening in front of your eyes. Eighty years ago no one would have imagined Stelrad or anyone else selling coloured radiators. No one could have envisaged LST’s. Radicals would have been a step too far, while the innovative new shapes and designs for the Aqua Series would have been as unlikely as ever seeing a man stand on the moon. But there is no doubt that the strength of the business, the ideas of so many people, and the technical ability of even more, have brought Stelrad to where it is today. T: (NI) 0844 543 6200 or (RoI) Brian Hennessy, on 087 2102530 Email: info@stelrad.ie W: www.stelrad.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 39

Unical ®

MODULEX EXT.

THE NEXT GENERATION IN CONDENSING GAS BOILERS

Inimitable efficiency: • Deep modulation • Maximum Saving and Efficiency 109% Certified • Guarantee of operation • Compactness • Low Acoustic Impact 49 dBA • Outdoor Installation Protection Degree IPX5D • High reliability with multi burner composition in one casing • Patented Technology This is the DNA of MODULEX EXT.

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case study

Michael Clarke, C&F Quadrant, (right) and Michael Crymble, Geoff Castles Boiler Services, check one of the Unical Modulex boilers that have helped Nazareth House, Belfast, save 20% on its heating bills.

ONE year after an energy audit prompted the installation of two Unical boilers by Geoff Castles Boilers Services Ltd, the savings stack up for Nazareth House…

C&F Quadrant delivers 20% savings for Belfast care home

boiler replacement project carried out last year by C&F Quadrant and Geoff Castles Boiler Services Ltd is continuing to make a difference for a Belfast care home by delivering annual savings of 20% on its heating bills. Geoff Castles Boiler Services was asked to carry out an energy audit at the Nazareth House Care Village based at Ravenhill

Road in Belfast. Like most care homes, the 70-person capacity care home accommodation facility set within its own spacious grounds has its heating on 24/7. However, as part of the energy audit, Geoff Castles Boilers Services was asked to put forward ideas on how to cut the spiralling fuel costs. The company called in long-time partners C&F Quadrant and the final result has been an outstanding 20% saving. “This project again proves how investing in a new heating system can actually save money,” explained Michael Crymble from Geoff Castles Boiler Services. “We are delighted at the final results and that our energy audit has made such a significant difference.” Michael Clarke, Technical Manager at C&F Quadrant, added, “We have a superb relationship with Geoff Castles Boiler Services and worked closely with them to find the right solution for Nazareth House Care Village. It is great to see the savings that have been created, particularly given the high level of demand on the system.” The former system at Nazareth House was a cascade system consisting of 12 108kW atmospheric boilers. This was replaced with just two Unical Modulex 660kW gas condensing boilers from C&F Quadrant, with

Geoff Castles Boiler Services carrying out the installation without a break in service to the care home. While the initial feedback was that the changeover had generated savings, the final results have been more than impressive. Michael Clarke added, “Our energy team has continued to monitor the system and we have been impressed by the savings it has generated. We would encourage companies to have an energy audit carried out. As this project proves, it can make a significant difference.” The two Unical Modulex boilers – each 660kW with both casings including six multi-burners - are fuelled by natural gas and provide full modulation between 22kW to 1,320kW. This project continues C&F Quadrant’s successful partnership with Unical and perfectly balances a quality product range with industry-leading experience. C&F Quadrant is Unical’s sole distributor in Ireland, with the company distributing the leading Italian manufacturer’s well established range of commercial boilers in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Unical’s range has already been proven across Europe, USA and America in some of the harshest environments, including Siberia.

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

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 41

PTS and BSS EVENT

This event takes place on May 19, 2016 from 12pm-9pm at the new Waterfront Conference Centre, Belfast.

THREE RIBA-APPROVED CPDs included in new event that will showcase plumbing, heating, renewables and mechanical solutions for light commercial and commercial projects…

PTS and BSS host combined trade show

rchitects, specifiers, consultants, mechanical companies and contractors are invited to find out about the latest developments in the plumbing, heating, renewables and mechanical sectors at the joint PTS and BSS Trade Show. This event takes place on May 19, 2016 from 12pm-9pm at the new Waterfront Conference Centre, Belfast and also includes three RIBAapproved CPDs in the seminar area. PTS is a leading plumbers’ merchant that operates across the UK and Ireland, including six branches in Northern Ireland and one in the Republic of Ireland, while BSS, which operates across the UK and has offices in Belfast and Dublin, is an expert in commercial mechanical solutions. As both companies are part of the Travis Perkins Group PLC, they can provide a complete solution – as the impressive range from over 35 leading manufacturers at the event will showcase. Barry Lowe, Area Sales Manager at PTS, said, “We are extremely strong in the domestic plumbing, heating and bathroom markets but we have noticed that larger domestic contractors are now getting involved in commercial projects. This event will show that PTS and BSS can offer the complete package for those involved in light commercial and commercial projects.” The importance of energy saving in commercial buildings is high on the agenda for architects, specifiers and consultants, and this will be addressed by BSS, as Declan Small, BSS Branch Manager, explained. “In some cases the mechanical spend on a

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commercial project is nearly 50% of the overall budget and it is vital to find the right solution. Our comprehensive product range reflects the specialist nature of the mechanical sector and covers the likes of drainage; heating and hot water; controls, metering and firefighting through to pumps and pumping equipment; renewable energy solutions; site services; valves and filtration; and water treatment. “We back this up with our specialist team who covers every stage of the process, starting from quotations and tenders through to delivery direct to site and customer support.” For more information on the event or details of the three RIBA CPD seminars, contact PTS on 028 9027 1600 or BSS on 028 9078 4000.

CPD seminars The seminar area will include three RIBA-approved CPDs: 12.30pm High efficiency with radiators and low temperature heating John Kelly, The Rettig Group. 4.30pm

Pipes and frames Lucas Vogan, Geberit.

7.00pm

Specifyling commercial showers and washroom controls Geoff Heyes, Rada

Exhibitors... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Adey Altecnic BOSS Clarehill Plastics Copper Industries Drayton Controls Durapipe EPH Controls Fernox Ferroli Flamco Geberit GF Grant Engineering Grundfos Honeywell Hydrotech Ideal Boilers Ideal Standard Inta John Guest Speedfit Kingspan Mira Showers Myson Oventrop Pegler Yorkshire Polypipe Quinn Radiators Roca Twyford Uponor Vaillant Warmflow Wavin Worcester, Bosch

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Free entry to fabulous prize draw for ÂŁ2,000 holiday voucher Refreshments Available

JOINT TRADE SHOW RIBA approved CPD presentations in seminar area

Thursday 19th May 2016 12pm-9pm New Extension Waterfront Hall

For all Architects, Specifiers, Consultants, Mechanical Companies and Contractors

Engage with leading manufacturers in the light commercial and commercial markets

107-127 Grosvenor Rd, Belfast, BT12 4GT 36-38 Duncrue Rd, Belfast, BT3 9BP Springtown Ind Estate, Derry, BT48 0LY 1 Ballinderry Bus Pk, Lisburn, BT28 2SA45 Carnbane Bus Pk, Newry, BT35 6QJ 131 Sligo Rd, Enniskillen, BT74 7JZ Unit 1, Block K, Ballymount Ind Est, Dublin 12

T: 028 9027 1600 T: 028 9078 7700 T: 028 7130 6000 T: 028 9263 5330 T: 028 3083 1340 T: 028 6632 3888 T: 00 353 1456 8530

36-38 Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: 028 9078 4000 White Heather Ind Est, 301 South Circular Rd, Dublin 8 T: 00 353 1416 5100

oftec ireland news

Update:

Plumbing & Heating Magazine provides an insight into OFTEC Ireland’s work on behalf of the oil heating and cooking industry in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland…

OFTEC warns home-owners of the dangers of self-fixing home heating systems

New Chief Executive for OFTEC

To coincide with Home Improvement Month in April 2016, OFTEC launched a consumer awareness campaign throughout Ireland to reveal the most shocking DIY ‘fails’ seen by technicians across the country. The campaign aimed to demonstrate the potential dangers associated with homeowners attempting to fix or update their own home heating systems, OFTEC technicians have witnessed an increasing number of risky DIY repair jobs carried out by householders, potentially causing great risk to their homes and their neighbouring area, thus prompting the safety warning. The most common bodged heating repair jobs seen by registered local technicians include attempting to fix or replace a boiler; incorrectly redirecting flue pipes when extending or renovating; attempting to fit new radiators; installing a new oil tank or moving an existing one; locating an oil tank close to gas cylinders; and balancing an oil tank on an unstable makeshift stand. OFTEC launched the campaign this April when many home-owners take advantage of the spring weather and bank holidays to complete odd-jobs and do-it-yourself projects around the home. Home sellers also typically complete upgrades or renovations during this time, ahead of the spring property sales surge. David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager commented, “Oil is a very safe fuel, provided

OFTEC has recently appointed Paul Rose as its new Chief Executive, and he will take over from Jeremy Hawksley on August 1, 2016. OFTEC wishes Jeremy all the best in his retirement and thanks him for his years of great service and hard work. Currently Technical Director for OFTEC, Paul Rose has worked in a number of technical roles for the organisation since 2005. He was appointed as Chief Executive following a competitive selection process during which external candidates were interviewed. Commenting on the appointment OFTEC Chairman, Nick Hawkins, said, “Paul is very well known in the oil heating sector, having been Technical Director at OFTEC since 2011. He represents OFTEC on a number of national and European technical panels relating to heating. Paul is a member of the Chartered Management Institute, Institute of Domestic Heating and Environmental Engineers (IDHEE), and is a UKAS technical assessor in the area of ‘certification of persons’, a route to registering with a competent person scheme.” The OFTEC Board is confident that Paul is the right person to take OFTEC forward and ensure that the oil heating and cooking industry has a bright future.

that it is installed, stored and maintained correctly, and we were keen to share that message with home-owners. “However, our technicians have responded to numerous cases where they have had to repair damage caused by attempted DIY jobs. Quick fixes carried out by handymen, technicians not in a competent persons scheme or by home-owners themselves often create more problems, resulting in a more expensive and time-consuming professional repair job.” With the majority of households throughout Ireland using oil as their main heating source, OFTEC is keen to alert property owners about the potential dangers of trying to fix, repair, move or install their own heating systems. OFTEC is advising technicians to show their ID badge when visiting a consumer’s premises to give the consumer confidence in their work and reminding them that they are a competent person.

New OFTEC registration website goes live A new website www.joinoftec.com has been launched to make it even easier for technicians to sign up and enjoy the benefits of OFTEC’s leading competent person registration scheme which now includes Part P, solid fuel and renewables. The new website offers all the information covering OFTEC’s expanded range of registration services, plus an online form to

make joining as simple as possible. Free technical support, competent person identification, discounts at OFTEC’s online shop, and free listings on OFTEC’s online consumer search are also available to registered technicians. OFTEC has also announced a new range of logos to enable businesses to emphasise the heating technologies covered by their registration.

David Blevings, OFTEC Ireland Manager on T: 028 9186 2916 Sean McBride, Ireland Representative on T: 087 241 7041 www.oftec.org

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underfloor heating

focus on

underfloor heating A comprehensive feature that covers everything from quick drying screed that perfectly complements UFH to the latest developments in underfloor heating design and innovation. ..

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 45

underfloor heating

Alternative Heat and Macnaughton Blair agree new underfloor heating partnership…

Compact quality now available at Macnaughton Blair

lternative Heat’s Compact Underfloor Heating System will now be available at every Macnaughton Blair branch in Northern Ireland. The two companies recently agreed a new partnership that will enhance the underfloor heating offering at the leading plumbers’ and builders’ merchant. Thanks to the move, customers to Macnaughton Blair’s 14 branches across the province will now be able to order the Compact Underfloor Heating range. In addition, customers can also avail of a design service and full technical guidance, with key Macnaughton Blair staff receiving training on the Compact range from Alternative Heat. Gary Lavery, Design Engineer at Alternative Heat, explained, “We are delighted to be working with such a well-respected merchant as Macnaughton Blair and to be starting out on what we are sure will be a positive partnership. “We have over 13 years’ experience in the underfloor heating sector, so the Compact range is already tried and tested. In addition to being a quality product, customers at Macnaughton Blair will also benefit from the complete service we can provide, including full design and heat loss calculations that incorporate CAD loop layout drawings and full M&E schematics.” Daniel Doran, Group Category Manager for Plumbing & Heating at Macnaughton Blair, added, “We have targeted underfloor heating as an area of potential growth but in order to maximise this we needed a strong partner. “Alternative Heat were actually recommended to us by a key trading partner, which shows the good reputation they enjoy in the industry. The Compact Underfloor Heating range is a quality product but what will give us the edge is the cost-effective price and the full design and support services provided by Alternative Heat. “Alternative Heat’s technical expertise in underfloor heating combined with our ability to deal with customers from across the plumbing and heating sector makes this the perfect partnership.” Suitable for domestic, commercial and industrial applications, Compact Underfloor

46 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Marking the new partnership between Alternative Heat and Macnaughton Blair are (from left) Oran Fletcher, Underfloor Contracts Manager, Alternative Heat; Richard Carvill, Plumbing Supervisor Macnaughton Blair’s Bangor Building Supplies; and Gary Lavery, Design Manager, Alternative Heat.

“Alternative Heat’s technical expertise in underfloor heating combined with our ability to deal with customers from across the plumbing and heating sector makes this the perfect partnership.” Heating offers the complete premium underfloor system. One of the key advantages of using the Compact Underfloor Heating is the fact that the manifold is just one pre-assembled unit, which cuts down on installation time. In addition, the Compact Underfloor Heating range comes complete with market-leading Heatmiser controls. Easy to use, the Heatmiser range also incorporates wi-fi connected technology that allows users to remotely access their heating controls from their phone or PC anywhere in the world. A highly efficient system, Compact has been used on projects ranging from oneoff residential homes and apartments to commercial jobs such as schools, offices and community facilities. “Proper design is essential to ensuring that an underfloor heating system can

work to its optimum level which is why we provide this service,” added Gary. “With our experience on working on such a varied range of projects, we will be able to provide tailored solutions to Macnaughton Blair’s customers.”

Alternative Heat T: (NI) 028 4377 0700 or (RoI) 048 437 70700 E: info@alternativeheat.co.uk www.alternativeheat.co.uk

Bangor Branch T: (NI) 028 9127 1792 or (RoI) 048 9127 1792 For a full branch listing visit www.macblair.com

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underfloor heating

WIN a holiday of a lifetime worth £15,000

Purchase any coil of JG Layflat® for your chance to win a holiday of a lifetime…

G Speedfit is delighted to announce the company’s 2016 national promotion ‘ain’t no Pipe Dream…’ featuring the ultra-flexible, easy-to-handle JG Layflat® pipe. By purchasing any coil of JG Layflat®, installers will have the opportunity to win a holiday of a lifetime worth £15,000. Whether it’s a touch of the exotic in a tropical paradise somewhere in the Caribbean or an epic adventure involving the Great Wall of China, the lucky winner can tailor their holiday and go anywhere they wish. Additionally, all entrants will automatically be added to one of JG Speedfit’s fortnightly prize draws for a chance to win a city break or a fun day out. To enter the prize draw, installers simply need to complete and return the competition entry card found inside the promotional

48 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

‘ain’t no Pipe Dream…’ with JG Layflat® Layflat® coil packs or register online at speedfit-dreams.co.uk With many prizes for installers, rewards for participating stockists and impactful Point of Sale display material, this campaign is expected to be JG Speedfit’s most exciting to date. JG Layflat® allows greater control and ease of movement, making it possible for a single person to meander and route the pipe through joists and tight spaces. Transporting the JG Layflat® pipe is hassle-free in comparison to other copper equivalents, as it is very light to carry and compact enough to be loaded into a small space whilst moving from the shop to the construction site. Regardless of whether you are using a 25m or a 150m JG Layflat® coil, the pipe is consistently easy to remove from the packaging.

Thanks to the inbuilt barrier layer, which prevents the ingress of air, as well as the smooth inner surface of the JG Layflat® pipe, a permanent, unrestricted flow through the system can be assured as no limescale or corrosion will occur within the lifetime of the product. The promotion to win a holiday of a lifetime runs for 24 weeks starting on April 4, 2016 and ending on September 26, 2016. For further details on the national promotion and T&Cs, as well as more information on the benefits of using JG Layflat® pipe, please go to the dedicated competition page at speedfit-dreams. co.uk For more information on JG Speedfit, contact T: (NI) Mark Mills 07753 832 211 or (RoI) Ian Kelly 086 173 4027 or visit the website at www.speedfit.co.uk

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underfloor heating

IMPROVE UNDERFLOOR HEATING EFFICIENCY USING ULTRAFLO® LIQUID FLOOR SCREED SUPPLIED BY RTU…

Faster heating and faster installation with RTU

nderfloor heating (UFH) is fast becoming the preferred heating source in many modern homes. However, the historical preconception of underfloor heating systems is that it can take an exuberant time to heat the home, effecting long-term fuel consumption. A key influence on heat efficiency is the type of screed installed with UFH. Advances in floor screed technology enables RTU Ultraflo® to be installed at 50mm thickness with UFH systems unlike traditional sand:cement screed which requires a minimum 75mm thickness. Reduced screed depth coupled with Ultraflo®’s liquid state and its ability to completely encapsulate the pipe network means the responsiveness of the underfloor heating system is greatly improved.

SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN University of Ulster conducted a study comparing the heat responsiveness of RTU Ultraflo® liquid floor screed with traditional sand:cement screed and the results were quite outstanding. Ultraflo® liquid screed is shown to have much faster heat responsiveness with underfloor heating than sand:cement screed, with the room air temperature increasing by 10°C within 3 hours as opposed to the 9½ hours it took for traditional sand:cement screed.

cracking and potential floor failure is greatly increased.

INSTALLATION

EFFICIENCY Due to the earth-like consistency of sand: cement screed at installation, air pockets are contained within the screed. Air is a poor conductor of heat and this adds to the slow responsiveness of the underfloor heating system. Due to the liquid consistency of Ultraflo®, it is self-compacting thus containing no air pockets, ensuring maximum heat transfer.

DRYING The benefit of Ultraflo® not being a cement based material means it can be force dried after 7 days to help speed up the drying process rather than being solely dependent on ambient conditions. Unlike sand:cement screed, the underfloor heating system can be turned on after 7 days to aid the drying process because of its material property make up. Alternatively if the sand:cement screed floor was forced dried, the risk of excessive

The installation process of Ultraflo® is also beneficial for any project with improved speed, tidiness of installation and less traffic over the unprotected pipework compared with traditional sand:cement screeds. The labour-intensive installation process involved with sand:cement screed means that Ultraflo® in comparison can be installed at a rate 10 times faster than the traditional method.

BENEFITS RTU Ultraflo® liquid floor screed is a calcium sulphate, hemihydrate liquid floor screed designed to comply with BS EN 13813: 2002. It is a pump applied, non-cement based material, virtually selflevelling with self-compacting qualities. It also has the advantage of allowing light traffic after 24 hours enabling other trades to continue with the project. As Ultraflo® is not a cement based product there is minimal drying shrinkage creating a reduced risk of cracking, with the need for movement joints greatly reduced. For a smooth, level and heat efficient floor we recommend using RTU Ultraflo® liquid screed.

RTU, Cloughfern Avenue, Newtownabbey, County Antrim, BT37 0UZ T: (NI) 028 9085 1441 or (RoI) 048 9085 1441 www.rtu.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 49

underfloor heating

LK ROOM TEMPERATURE CONTROL ICS.2 OFFERS HIGH DEGREE OF COMFORT AND ENERGY-EFFICIENCY…

Precision control

hen it comes to rebuilding or expanding an underfloor heating system, LK Room Temperature Control ICS.2, offers great flexibility. This control system - which was designed for LK Floor Heating and is distributed in Ireland by Precision - also boasts straight, stylish lines in an ageless design - the thermostats are available in gloss white, gloss black and silver grey, are fitted with a backlit display. LK Room Temperature Control ICS.2 is suitable for small, medium or large building installations and has been designed to provide high levels of comfort and energy-efficient heating systems, thanks to its advanced selfmodulation technique. Comprising a receiver unit and thermostats, which can be connected through a wireless or wired connection, the system - like all the thermostats from Precision - works naturally with self-modulation technology. Another energy-saving function of LK ICS.2 is its in-built adaptive weekly programme for night reduction of the temperature. The adaptive function means that the system learns when it needs to switch on the under floor heating to attain the desired temperature at the desired time. If you are going on holiday you can reduce the temperature in your underfloor heating system while you are away. This can easily be done from an optional thermostat in your system by activating the in-built holiday function; LK ICS.2 then keeps track of how many days your

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“The system learns when it needs to switch on the underfloor heating to attain the desired temperature at the desired time.” system should have a lower temperature, and ensures that the house is nice and warm when you return home after your holiday. In addition to this, LK ICS.2 has many other smart functions which you can benefit from, such as fire place function, bypass, function, logging and analysis. LK ICS.2 is also easy to install and even easier to programme. Using LK webserver ICS.2 you can easily control your installations remotely via a mobile phone, tablet or computer. The user interface is simple and intuitive and provides a good overview of the underfloor heating system. All the system settings can easily be made through this user interface. The system can also communicate using the Modbus protocol RS485/RTU for connection to the general building automatics. T: (NI) 00353 1 8091571 or (RoI) 01 8091571 E: info@precisionheating.ie W: www.precisionheating.ie

At a glance… System features include:• Self-modulation technique • Internet via the LK Webserver ICS.2 accessory • Room thermostat in high gloss white, high gloss black or silver grey • Adaptive week programme • Holiday function • Logging/analysis function • Wired or wireless communication between thermostat and receiver • Valve exercising function • Pump logics • Control of heat source • Fire place function • By-pass function • Temperature range limits

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underfloor heating

After 20 years of success, the latest improvements to this popular system ensures GLO+ remains the benchmark in underfloor heating…

Bassetts best just got better with GLO+

he benefits of GLO underfloor heating have just got better with the introduction of GLO+ by Bassetts. Combining expert technical design with the highest quality components and controls, GLO+ is the new and improved underfloor heating system that again sets the benchmark for this sector. Bassetts has been supplying GLO underfloor heating for 20 years and further improvements to pipe, the system design, the shunt, manifold and controls ensure that the improved GLO+ floor heating system is the best choice for comfort, efficiency and performance. Flexibility is a key component of GLO+. The system is fully compatible with gas condensing boilers, oil condensing boilers, air-source heat pumps, biomass boilers and geo-thermal heat pumps, making

it perfect for new builds, extensions and renovations in both the domestic and commercial sectors. It can also be installed across a range of flooring types – including solid floors; suspended, joist floors; and floating floors.

features The main features of the control system are: • Self-modulating technology • Internet control via the GLO+ web server • Adaptive week programme • Holiday function • Wired or wireless control option • Valve exercising • Pump logics • Fire place function • Bypass function • Temperature range limiter

Good design is an essential element to effective underfloor heating, and Bassetts offers a design service to installers, with a full AutoCAD drawing now available for commercial projects. The availability of 16mm pipe to the GLO+ range along with a new, pre-assembled shunt delivery system, adds to this flexibility, as does the option of both wired and wireless controls. This flexibility also makes for easier installation, with installers also benefitting from a printed schedule that provides a breakdown of each of the manifolds (eg room type, number of circuits, pipe spacing etc). GLO+ also boasts one of the most advanced control systems for underfloor heating on the market. Self-modulating technology combined with an easy-to-use interface puts the user in complete control. Now

“Good design is an essential element to effective underfloor heating, and Bassetts offers a design service to installers.” 52 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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underfloor heating

As well as the domestic sector, GLO+ provides underfloor heating solutions for commercial installations

with the option of internet controls, users can operate the system via their iPhone, iPad, windows PC, Mac, and many more applications.

GUARANTEE All this is backed by a high quality product. GLO+ uses only best quality PeX-A pipe which is not only manufactured to DIN EN 4726 with an EVOH oxygen diffusion barrier to DIN EN 12318 but it also comes with a 50-year guarantee. As a minimum, the system provides individual temperature control in every room, but it also offers a range of weather compensation control systems to suit most buildings. Since floor heating is installed under the floor surface, there are no hard edges or high temperature surfaces to bump into or fall against. These features have resulted in floor heating being the system of choice in nursery schools and homes for the elderly, where ‘low surface temperatures’ on heating appliances are a legal requirement. Again with safety in mind, GLO+ floor heating system uses low voltage controls, eliminating risk of electrical injury at room thermostats and manifolds.

What’s improved… Bassetts has made a number of improvements to the GLO+ floor heating system, including:

Design System Bassetts uses the latest design software provides a detailed breakdown of all room circuits. Full AutoCAD system drawings now available for commercial projects.

Controls Offering the most advanced controls on the market, with set up and operation via an iPhone, smart phone, iPad, Mac or PC. This fully programmable, internet compatible, wireless functionality, is simple to set up and to use.

Shunt and Manifold The new shunt delivery system comes fully assembled and is easily connected to the manifold, saving installers time and money.

Pipe GLO+ pipe is now also available in 16mm for ease of installation.

To find out more or to recieve a quotation for your next project, telephone Matthew Gilpin on 028 3833 9438 or e-mail mgilpin@bassettsonline.com www.bassettsonline.com

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underfloor heating

ENERGY-EFFICIENT UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS FROM MYSON FOR NEW BUILD AND RENOVATION PROJECTS…

Heating through innovation

yson Floortec is one of the most energy efficient and versatile heating systems on the UK market. As well as being designed to work with all floor types, including solid, suspended, and floating floors, Myson’s new Microboard fixing system also allows underfloor heating to be retrofitted in existing properties. Myson Microboard is the small board that gives you more. As a retrofit, lowprofile underfloor heating system, it can be installed over an existing floor or as part of a new-build project, making it Myson’s most flexible fixing system yet. At only 18mm in depth, it allows underfloor heating to be easily installed in older and existing properties, without the need for expensive and disruptive excavation. The system has been used in a diverse range of projects in Ireland and England. For example, Myson recently supplied Sylvester Burke of Burkes Hardware of Rathnew in County Wicklow with its Microboard system and touchscreen stats as a retrofit job in his house. The company also recently started supplying to major apartment renovations in London at Bromley (through Bassetts) and Rye Lane in Peckham (supplied by Beggs & Partners) - using the Microboard system. “These have been specified by ISD (integrated services design) consulting engineers,” explained Sean Leonard, Regional Sales Manager for Myson. “The main contractor on both jobs is EHA Group, Eglinton and our system is being purchased and the mechanical installation carried out by Lear Mechanical for Bromley apartments, and by SPE Contracts (Parr Group) for Rye Lane, Peckham.”

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PEXcellent 5, that will not only give installers added confidence that they are providing a quality product, it will also provide a long-lasting system for end users. PEXcellent 5 is manufactured without chemicals and solvents for greener production and end-of-life-cycle disposal and is covered by a 10year system guarantee, although it has a successful track record of use over more than 25 years.

COMPLETE SYSTEM GUARANTEE

FLOORTEC Last year, Myson Floortec Microboard was also supplied to an innovative shipping container house in Northern Ireland which featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. For extension and renovation projects Myson offers Floortec single room heating packs, which contain everything needed to provide additional warmth in rooms of up to 40m², in one box. In addition, the recentlyintroduced 20m2 and 40m2 punch packs are competitively priced and include everything needed for the installation in one box. This allows single room extensions in places such as the kitchen or conservatory, where wall space can be at a premium, to be easily provided with comfortable warmth. The company has also recently developed a new range of underfloor heating pipe,

“We have also introduced a Complete System Guarantee for the Myson Floortec that offers installers and end users peace of mind,” said Sean. “Not only do you get a bespoke system with a tried and tested component compatibility and full system design, but you call get a 10year warranty on the system. “The Complete System Guarantee provides guaranteed component compatibility, system performance and quality standards, and can be enhanced with ServicePlus which offers benefits such as technical support, training and reputation.” T: Alun Coulter on (NI) 07766 730684 or (ROI) 0044 7766 730684 or Sean Leonard on (NI) 07766 730559 or (ROI) 0044 7766 730559. W: www.myson.co.uk

The perfect Touch The launch of Touch 2 WiFi thermostats is another example of the quality products that Myson can deliver, giving home-owners great heating control from anywhere in the world. The app-controlled room thermostat uses its own hub, making the initial set-up simple, and allowing home-owners to control and view their heating from any location via their smart phone or tablet.

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One screed to rule them all

Benefits of Rapidur® FE 678 Self Levelling Screed • Foot traffic in 3 hours - ready for tiling in 24 hours • Self-levelling and pumpable – efficient application • Unrivalled performance in combination with underfloor heating • Can be polished to achieve polished concrete / terrazzo finish • Ultra-low shrinkage • Premix, just add water Full specification, technical and site support services Made in Germany | EN ISO 9001 | CE | SFV | TUM | TZW

bringing european innovation

underfloor heating

Rapidur FE 678 Self Levelling Screed is a polymer-modified, ready-to-use dry mix for the production of rapid-set screeds, allowing early flooring installation.

Rapidur FE 678 can be used as a base for all types of floor coverings or can be polished to achieve a highly desirable concrete / terrazzo finish.

Rapidur FE 678 – is rapid-set (walkable within three hours) and offers unrivalled performance in combination with underfloor heating.

SOPRO RAPIDUR FE 678 FROM SMET IS A READY-TO-USE DRY MIX FOR THE PRODUCTION OF RAPID-SET SCREEDS…

SMET launches exciting new fast drying screed

MET has responded to the demand for fast-drying screed with the launch of a high-performance, innovative flooring solution, Sopro Rapidur FE 678. This rapidset, self-levelling screed is walkable within three hours and is ideal for underfloor heating systems. Joris SMET, Director of SMET Building Products Ltd, said, “It’s not often we see a game-changer in this longestablished industry. However, our German manufacturing partner, Sopro, have really done it this time. The unique properties of this pumpable, rapid-set screed really set it apart, and it is particularly useful for thin UFH systems, fast-track and tightly scheduled screed laying.” Rapidur FE 678 Self Levelling Screed is a polymer-modified, ready-to-use dry mix for the production of rapid-set screeds, allowing early flooring installation. At Grade CT-C25-F5 to DIN EN 13 813, it’s suitable for heated screeds, bonded screeds and unbonded screeds (on separating or insulation layer). It can be used as a base for all types of floor covering (eg ceramic, natural stone, textile and elastic flooring), and is particularly suitable for a wide range of thin-coat heating systems. Uniquely there’s also the option of final polishing to a

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contemporary, visually appealing terrazzostyle surface. Conveniently, no extra sand needs to be added on site, and the pumped screed offers excellent workability and hardened mortar properties, thanks to Sopro’s Mikrodur technology.

UNRIVALLED PERFORMANCE Rapidur FE 678 Self Levelling Screed has minimum shrinkage and therefore does not curl. It fully encapsulates the underfloor heating pipes, has a high thermal conductivity and can be installed in significantly reduced thicknesses. This allows thicker insulation to be used under the screed, resulting in better thermal insulating values or U-values. The screed gains heat rapidly and transports heat to the surface of the screed into the air, resulting in an efficient response to room temperature changes. Thin floating self-levelling screed is more energy efficient, responding quickly to changes in room temperatures. Traditional thick screeds cannot respond as efficiently to, for example, solar gain in the afternoon or when a fireplace is lit in the winter. This ineffective response (heating/cooling) often leads to a room being too hot or too cold, a problem which is eliminated by the

application of a superior screed such as Rapidur FE 678. T: (NI) 028 3082 5970 or (RoI) 048 3082 5970 E: info@SMETbuildingproducts.com W: www.SMETbuildingproducts.com or www.SMET.ie

Benefits... The main benefits of Rapidur FE 678 are: • Ready for tiling - after approximately 24 hours • Self-levelling • Ready to use - dry mix • For fast-track or tightly scheduled screed laying • Working life: 60-90 minutes • Walkable - after approximately three hours • Ideal for renovation and refurbishment • Suitable for floor heating systems • Pumpable - efficient application on large projects • Polish to achieve polished concrete/ terrazzo finish • Extra-low shrinkage • Low-chromate to Regulation 1907/2006 EC, Annex XVII • CE Marked.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 57

Polytherm Heating Systems 17 years of bespoke Underfloor Heating design and supply Using DEAP software a 1300ft2 house using a heat pump as the primary heat source was able to achieve an A3 BER rating simply by using Polytherm underfloor heating.

underfloor heating

POLYTHERM HEATING SYSTEMS HAS 17 YEARS OF BESPOKE UNDERFLOOR HEATING DESIGN AND SUPPLY…

Polytherm at the forefront of design and innovation

olytherm Heating Systems was formed in 1999 from the success of the underfloor heating division of its parent company, Hevac Ltd. Since then Polytherm has continued to be at the forefront of underfloor heating design and innovation. For Polytherm staff, customer satisfaction is the primary goal. When the company receives plans from a home-owner, an installer, mechanical contractor, merchant, consultant engineer, or architect, Polytherm’s design engineers and CAD technicians will respond with an initial design and open a dialogue to find out what will best suit the project at hand. Once the team know these requirements, they produce mechanical and electrical drawings to match the final design. If assistance is required prior to installation, a site visit can be easily accommodated. Polytherm’s engineers are also available over the phone, if technical support is required, or if a customer has any questions about underfloor heating. Once the system is installed, a commissioning engineer is available to call out to the project.

ENERGY SAVING Since the introduction of the Building Energy Rating certification, everyone buying or renting property has become aware of the costs of heating that property. Using Polytherm Heating System’s custom designs, homeowners and building operators can benefit from reduced running costs. Using DEAP software, a 1,300ft² house using a heat pump as the primary heat source was able to achieve an A3 BER rating simply by using Polytherm underfloor heating. The same

Polytherm’s Heattrack low profile panel system.

house using a standard radiator system would attract a 25% efficiency penalty for space heating and fail Part L compliance. Polytherm systems get the most from your wet central heating systems, including oil, gas or solid fuel boilers and are excellent for typical installations where a mix of heat emitters are used, such as underfloor heating on the ground floor and radiators on the first floor. Polytherm’s underfloor heating system comes into its own when used with lowgrade temperature sources, like condensing boilers and heat pumps. As the system only requires a low-flow temperature between 35°C and 45°C, Polytherm can exploit the higher efficiencies that condensing boilers and heat pumps can achieve. Further savings can be achieved by using Polytherm controls. The company’s extensive range and knowledge of controls means that your home or place of business will always be at the temperature you desire. From dial thermostats to internetready smart controls, Polytherm has got the product for you. Its intelligent controllers learn the characteristics of your building, meaning no more cold floors in the morning, or high energy bills. In fact, using smart controls can save you up to 30% versus standard controls. For underfloor heating in existing buildings

where floor to ceiling height may be an issue for traditional systems, Polytherm offers Heatrack – a low profile panel system. This enables installation on joist floors and existing concrete floors, increasing the useable area within rooms by removing radiators from external walls.

Key factors for underfloor heating design • Polytherm’s Multilayer pipe is specifically manufactured for underfloor heating applications. • Polytherm’s engineers will select the correct manifold set-up for your heat source. • Polytherm’s engineers will design a solution based on the thermal resistance of the floor covering. • Polytherm’s underfloor heating takes advantage of radiated heat transfer so that lower, more comfortable room temperatures are utilised. • Polytherm’s underfloor heating system components are backed by the company’s guarantee, working together for ease of operation.

Polytherm Heating Systems Ltd, Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12 - T: (RoI) 01 419 1990 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1990 Furry Park Industrial Estate, Santry, Dublin 9 - T: (RoI) 01 842 7037 or (NI) 00353 1 842 7037 South Ring West Business Park, Tramore Road, Cork - T: (RoI) 021 432 1066 or (NI) 00353 21 432 1066 E: info@polytherm.ie - www.polytherm.ie

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underfloor heating

STEVEN ROONEY, SALES DIRECTOR AT GAIA UNDERFLOOR HEATING EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF A SOLUTION-DRIVEN SERVICE TO DELIVER TRUE VALUE TO THE CLIENT...

Underfloor heating ticks all the boxes!

hen it comes to heating, the emphasis is now on looking at the whole project design and mixing and matching various systems to achieve the most appropriate overall solution. This is being driven by the building regulations which, in turn, are taking account of the sustainability agenda, energy use and reduction of CO2 emissions in buildings. As a consequence, suppliers that provide total designed solutions rather than individual products are in a winning position. Underfloor heating (UFH) - whether wet or electric â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is well placed to be part of a holistic design solution. Simple to install and control, it scores well in terms of environmental performance and is regarded as economical, ultra-efficient and comfortable. The market for UFH continues to rapidly expand. Whereas once systems were predominately specified for apartments, they are now increasingly used in houses and seen as a selling point. Indeed, hybrid

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installations with a wet system in the main living areas and an electric system in the kitchen and bathroom to warm the tiles, managed by seamless central control, are increasingly common, and mean that suppliers able to specify total solutions are even more important. Gaia offers total solutions for any sized project. The long established Gaia solution approach is one that includes design and installation of wet and electric underfloor heating, along with comprehensive specification advice.

T: (NI) 01359 242 400 or (RoI) 0044 1359 242 400 W: www.gaia.co.uk

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news

plumbers’ merchant offers support to the homeless by backing a new project set up in memory of colleague’s sister...

PTS team on the run in aid of the Katie Project

ive members of staff from PTS in Belfast took part in the Belfast Marathon to raise money for a charity that is very close to their hearts. Barry Lowe, Mark Sheridan, Karl Heagney, Gerard Dobbin and Connor Barnes formed a relay team to raise money for ‘The Katie Project’ – a new project launched by the Welcome Organisation in memory of Catherine Kenny who died earlier this year. Catherine was the fifth homeless person to die in Belfast. Catherine’s sister, Lee-Maria Hughes, a Sales Representative for PTS, is supporting the initiative and, on hearing this, her colleagues rallied around to help. Barry Lowe, Area Sales Manager at PTS, explained, “At these difficult times it is hard to know what is the best way to help your colleagues, so when the Katie Project was launched we started to talk about how we could raise money. “Entering the team in the Belfast Marathon is just the first of a number of events that we will be supporting to raise money for the Katie Project, and already we have to thank everybody for their generous donations and support.”

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The PTS marathon relay team who raised money for the Katie Project - Connor Barnes, Mark Sheridan, Karl Heagney, Gerard Dobbin and Barry Lowe.

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Case Study – Air-to-Water Heat Pump

Catherine Russell, Vaillant, and Gareth Mullan, PJ Mullan & Sons, with Michelle Scullion and her children, who are enjoying the heat and hot water generated by Vaillant’s first air-to-water heat pump installation in Northern Ireland.

Catherine Russell, Vailliant, and Gareth Mullan, PJ Mullan & Sons, with the Vaillant air-to-water heat pump ihat is generating significant savings for the Scullion family.

Vaillant and PJ Mullan & Sons complete the company’s first air-to-water heat pump installation in Northern Ireland…

Heat is pumped up for Scullion family

aillant has worked with PJ Mullan & Sons to complete the company’s first installation of an air-to-water heat pump in Northern Ireland. The beautiful five-bedroom home in Moneyglass is home to John and Michelle Scullion and young family. The family didn’t want to install oil or gas and explored various renewables options before settling on the Vaillant aroTHERM air-to-water heat pump. For Gareth Mullan of PJ Mullan & Sons this was also a first, but he was full of praise for the advice and support offered by Vaillant to ensure a smooth installation. “John and Michelle wanted something that was low-maintenance and cost effective so the heat pump ticked all the right boxes,” he said. “When John and Michelle decided to also include solar PV panels, that was an added benefit, as the electricity they generate more than offsets the costs of running the heat pump. “We have worked with Catherine Russell at Vaillant in the past and we know how reliable they are, not only with their products but also with their support service. Catherine put us in touch with her renewables team and we couldn’t be happier with the level of support we received.” Vaillant provided a complete system design to ensure adequate heat pump sizing to adequately heat the home and also arranged

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for delivery via PTS. “There is underfloor heating across the ground floor but radiators on the firstfloor so we worked closely with Vaillant and Myson to make sure everything was properly sized,” added Gareth. “Vaillant also provided us with a lot of support, with Simon Melbourne regularly visiting us on-site and Andy Ireland always at the end of the phone if we had any queries. “We were supported every step of the way but the one thing that amazed us was just how simple the installation was. We had a few teething problems but nothing major and no more than we would have faced had we installed oil or gas. “Now we know how straightforward it is, we will be happy to take on more projects like this and will be suggesting heat pumps as another alternative to gas and oil.” The success of the installation has been matched by the success of the system. A year on since it was installed and John and Michelle are delighted with just how easy it is to use while the family have also enjoyed significant savings of around £1,000 a year compared to oil. “When you take into consideration the additional payments they receive for generating their own electricity, the whole system is, at the very least, self-sufficient.

Vaillant T: Catherine Russell, Ireland Director of Sales on (NI) 07767 377 670 or (RoI) 0044 7767 377 670 W: www.vaillant.co.uk

PJ Mullan & Sons Ltd T: (NI) 028 7086 8736 (RoI) 048 7086 8736

At a glance… The aroTHERM air-to-water heat pump from Vailliant offers a range of advantages, including • Available in 5, 8, 11 and 15kW versions • Blue fin coated evaporator as standard • Monobloc hermetically sealed air-to- water heat pump • Can produce up to 63°C flow temperatures for hot water • Ready for future European legislation • 7 year parts and labour guarantee

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 63

The Grant Vortex Blue Max.

OIL-FIRED CONDENSING BOILER

Grant’s new state-of-the-art oil-fired condensing boiler provides a much cleaner combustion process combined with easy installation and reliability…

Grant NI launches the Vortex Blue Max

eading boiler manufacturer Grant NI has launched a new state-of-the-art oil-fired condensing boiler range – the Grant Vortex Blue Max. This new range of boilers incorporates a blue flame Riello compact burner and provides a new generation of clean burning and low emission boilers. The award-winning Grant Vortex condensing oil-fired boiler uses a Riello Blue Flame compact burner, creating a market-leading combination that give customers an easy-toinstall, reliable product with all-important low emissions. As indicated by the product name, the flame produced is blue, rather than the usual yellow colour of the standard burner fitted in the current Grant Vortex range, which results in a much cleaner combustion process. The product’s innovative design demonstrates how modern oil-fired burner technologies can deliver and sustain cleaner, reliable heating, with a high efficiency rating which will meet EU emission requirements in future years. Grant has invested heavily in the research and development of the Vortex Blue Max to ensure the product range is economical and

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environmentally-friendly. By incorporating the successful design features of the award-winning Grant Vortex, the manufacturer has created a sophisticated heating system that is not only compact, but offers customers cost and carbon savings. Due to its suitability for social housing, the compact nature of the product and its appeal to a mass market, the Vortex Blue Max will benefit a range of property sizes. The cutting edge Vortex Blue Max range consists of 15 models with heating outputs ranging from 21kW up to 36kW. Available in internal, external and combi models, the boilers are compatible with all Grant EZ-Fit flues. Sealed System models of the Vortex Blue Max are also available which include a factory-fitted expansion vessel, filling loop, pressure gauge, automatic air vent, pressure relief valve and high efficiency circulating pump enabling the boilers to be installed without the need for a feed and expansion tank in the loft. Sealed System variants of the Kitchen/Utility range are available in outputs of 21kW, 26kW and 36kW.

“This new range of boilers incorporates a blue flame Riello compact burner and provides a new generation of clean burning and low emission boilers.”

Key features… Key features of the new Grant Vortex Blue Max include: • Award-winning Grant Vortex condensing heat exchanger • Outputs ranging from 21-36kW • Market-leading Riello Blue Flame burner • Familiar burner technology • Exceptionally quiet when in operation • Sleek white casing • Neon diagnostic indicators T: (NI) 0800 2794 796 or (RoI) 057 9120 089 W: www.grantni.com or www.grantengineering.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 65

EVENT

The impressive new bathroom showroom at Beggs & Partners, Ballymena.

Beggs & Partners hostS grand opening of refurbished branchâ&#x20AC;Ś Brian Beggs, Director, with Steven Alloway, Aqualla Brassware.

Official opening of new Ballymena branch

B Sam Foster, Ballymena Manager with Brian Beggs, Director and Alex Smyth.

Clifford Worthington, Nichola Flynn, Group Sales and Marketing Manager Beggs & Partners, Brian Beggs and Stephen Cairnduff, builder in charge of the refurbishment.

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eggs & Partners has hosted the official grand opening of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new bathroom showroom in Ballymena. A number of leading manufacturers were on hand to talk to customers about some of the many bathroom ranges on display at the newly refurbished and extended showroom. Reflecting a retail-driven approach, the complete remodelling includes a variety of room sets that showcase a wide range of designs, styles and budgets. That wide variety includes baths, showers, wetrooms, bathroom furniture, storage solutions, designer radiators and a range of accessories. For the first time, new tile displays have also been included. Each room set includes a listing of how much each item costs, providing customers with a simple-yet-effective way of finding a solution that meets their budget. In addition to an extensive product range, customers will benefit from the guidance of expert staff, with Beggs & Partners also offering a complete design planning service. T: (NI) 028 2564 5121 or (RoI) 048 2564 5121 W: www.beggsandpartners.com Opening Hours: Mon-Wed 9am - 5pm Thurs 9am - 5.30pm, Fri 9am - 3.45pm Sat 9am - 12.30pm

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EVENT

Michael Moore, Paul Thompson, Trevor Waterworth and James McGuire.

Customers enjoying the event, David and Heather Wilson.

Sam Foster with customers Bill and Lisa Hamill.

Karl Simpson, Aqualisa and Alan Adair, Hansgrohe.

Enjoying the evening are Francis Jackson, Doris Robinson and George Robinson.

Glenn Leech, WH Leech & Sons, John Mawhinney and Wayne Evans, Mira Showers.

David Kelly with Stuart Latimer, Aqualla and Michael Shannon, Ideal Standard.

Geoff Meldrum and Paul Watson with Willie Griffin of WHG Mechanical.

Peter Hanratty, Duravit, Victoria Forsythe, Vado and Harry Stone, Neptune

Stuart Du ncan and Andrew Fa rr, Geberit .

hroom Total Bat Phillips, , Multi Panel. re Stephen o o M l hae and Mic

The complete remodelling includes a variety of room sets that showcase a wide variety of designs, styles and budgets.

ss,

kne imon Har a and S

qualis pson, A Karl Sim ess. kn ar H J V&

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Solution

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 67

filters

THANKS TO AN INNOVATIVE DUAL SEAL DESIGN FEATURE, SENTINEL’S ELIMINATOR AND ELIMINATOR NANO FILTERS REMAIN LEAK-FREE ONCE FITTED…

Sentinel Eliminator filter boasts leak-free design

s well capturing both magnetic and non-magnetic system debris, thanks to Quadra-Cyclone technology, Sentinel’s Eliminator and Eliminator Nano filters have once again surpassed the limits of traditional magnetic filter technology by eliminating filter leaks. The secret behind this class-leading innovation is Eliminator’s dual seals, a design feature that Sentinel has perfected over years of meticulous product development and rigorous testing. It means that plumbers and heating engineers can rest assured that Sentinel Eliminator filters, once fitted, will remain leak-free. The development is sure to please heating installers who, when interviewed by Sentinel, cited leakage to be one of the most common problems with some other magnetic filters on the market. In such instances, plumbers often face the inconvenience of replacing filter parts or the entire filter, as well as complaints from the home-owner. Leaks from a system filter can also cause more serious problems, such as a dilution of circulating inhibitor, which in turn can lead to corrosion and limescale build-up.

QUADRA-CYCLONE TECHNOLOGY The Sentinel Eliminator filter is the first filter to use Quadra-Cyclone technology to remove all types of debris from the system flow. In addition to the four true cyclones, the filter features four magnets that are positioned strategically in the collection chamber to aid the capture and retention of separated particles. The Eliminator Nano compact filter, which also boasts a leak-free design, relies solely on Quadra-Cyclone technology to remove system debris. As a result, it not only has an installation area 30% smaller than the Eliminator filter, but is also able to collect more magnetic debris than other similar sized compact filters on the market. As well as a leak-free design, Eliminator

filters possess a number of installer-friendly features. For example, the Eliminator filter boasts a blockage prevention design, while in addition the Eliminator Nano has a brass T-piece for robust connection and a sealed bin construction for safety and ease of servicing. Time spent on site is minimised, as the units are simple to fit and can be installed on any orientation of pipework. Both filters are constructed from tough materials and manufactured in the UK.

heating systems from circulating debris for the long term,” said Daniel Cheung, UK Marketing Manager for Sentinel. T: (NI) Gary Campbell 07738 416 735 or (RoI) John Lynch +44 7973 810 743 W: www.sentinelprotects.com

SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE Removing debris from the filters is easy and can be achieved via the drain valve for a quick flush or be fully dismantled for a complete clean. To reduce the chances of direct exposure to hot water, the unit is sealed and cannot be opened which, as well as preventing the opportunity for burns and scalds, also reduces the potential for leaks. In addition, an anti-tamper drain valve is featured so users cannot turn the valve to release water when cleaning the filter. “We spent a long time developing a filter series that not only properly meets the needs of installers to solve common issues such as leaks and ease of installation, but also offers superior performance, hence the use of Quadra-Cyclone technology to capture both magnetic and nonmagnetic debris. The result is the Eliminator and Eliminator Nano, two exceptional-quality filters that installers can rely on to do a proper job at protecting

Sentinel Eliminator filter

The Sentinel Eliminator filter is the first filter to use Quadra-Cyclone technology to remove all types of debris from the system flow. www.plumbingmag.com

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BOILERS

WORCESTER OFFER SEVEN-YEAR GUARANTEE ON THEIR AWARD-WINNING GREENSTAR RANGE...

Super seven from Worcester

he award-winning Greenstar range from leading manufacturer Worcester, Bosch Group, is now available with a seven-year guarantee, offering peace of mind to installers and home-owners alike. Having been awarded Which? Best Buy for the sixth year running, the Greenstar boiler range is widely regarded as one of the best performing gas-fired boilers on the market, supplying high levels of efficiency and longlasting durability. The extended guarantee of seven years is available on Worcester’s award-winning Greenstar Si or CDi boilers when installed with compatible controls and accessories. The promotion, now running until December 31, 2016, helps installers offer premium efficiency with long term reliability assurance to their customers. Developed to deliver improved water performance in small to medium-sized properties with one bathroom, the Greenstar 30i combi boiler features a 30kw output and combines a range of specifically crafted components in order to enhance performance levels. The Greenstar range is fully compliant with the latest Energy related Product Directive (ErP) requirements and has subsequently achieved 94% efficiency rating, or an A rating under the new legislation. Resulting from installer feedback, the Greenstar 30i has been engineered with easy installation and servicing in mind. The boiler includes high performing technology

Worcester’s Greenstar range is now available with a seven-year guarantee.

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encased in a compact design, specifically engineered to fit in variety of locations where available space is often limited. For trouble-free installation and servicing, all products from the range are supplied with a wall mounting jig providing pre-plumbing and rear piping as standard. Additionally, all major components within the boiler are located at the front of the boiler for easy access. One of the major benefits of the i series is the ‘non-Freeze’ design of the condensate siphon. It is permissible to install an uninsulated pipe external to the property, to the maximum length of 3m, which has been proven not to freeze even at temperatures as low as -15oC. The entire Greenstar range has been designed to be as straightforward for home-owners to operate as possible. An upgraded Heatronic control panel presents an all-improved interface, and contains simple boiler controls as well as a clear information display for text descriptions and error codes. Meanwhile Worcester has also made accessible an optional ‘plug and play’ weather compensation kit, adding a simplistic yet effective level of climate control to the system. In the latest Which? Boiler report, the Greenstar range was awarded with an overall rating of 79% and achieved the maximum star rating in five of the six categories. With participants in the survey consisting of 10,779 home-owners and, for the first time, 110 Which? Trusted Trader heating engineers, the results prove the range is not just popular with installers, but with home-owners too. Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, Bosch Group, commented, “With more and more home-owners looking to replace their existing boilers with one that delivers maximum efficiency, the Greenstar 30i combi boiler is a first class option which provides a high value for their money. “The Greenstar range has been credited by

The Greenstar 30i Combi.

“The extended guarantee of seven years is available on Worcester’s awardwinning Greenstar Si or CDi boilers when installed with compatible controls and accessories.” Which? as the most reliable on the market, with the report showing it remains fault free for longer compared to all other competitors, making it a great choice for both installers and home-owners alike. “Our Greenstar i Junior was the UK’s bestselling boiler and through our commitment to producing the most energy efficient options available on the market, we’ve created a worthy successor, with the latest indications showing the Greenstar i has proved every bit as popular.” T: Ray McClay on (NI) 07767 432567 or (RoI) on 0044 7767 432567. For more information on Worcester, Bosch Group’s Greenstar 30i Combi visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/professional/

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news

Beggs & Partners Galacticos took the runner-up spot.

The winning PTS UTD team.

Event raises over £3,000 for Energy for Children charity…

5-a-side fever sees win for United!

t was a day of highs and lows as 16 teams battled it out on the pitch in a physically punishing 5-a-side football tournament on March 20 in aid of Energy for Children. The group stages sorted the men from the boys with the top two teams from each group entering into the cup finals and the bottom two finishers entering the plate finals. It was all to play for in both finals, with the

thrilling decider in the plate competition confidently won by Beggs & Partners Galacticos. Overall Cup Champions were PTS UTD who also had the Player of the Tournament on side, Dougie Moore. A competitive Sunday saw almost £3,000 raised for Energy for Children, which will go directly towards helping local disadvantaged children. The organisers want to issue a big

WIRELESS REPORTS FROM YOUR FGA TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE.

thank you to everyone for their generosity and also to the event sponsors - Baxi, CCTS, Plumbmaster, Ideal, Plumb Center and Vaillant.

Specialists in the repair and calibration of test and measurement equipment Fast efficient and professional service. Fully trained engineers and service centre is equipped with the latest calibration instrumentation. HAMILTON GAS PRODUCTS LTD 2 Balloo Place - Balloo Industrial Estate - Bangor. T: 028 9146 1111 - E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk www.gasproducts.co.uk AUTHORISED DISTRIBUTOR AND CALIBRATION CENTRE FOR

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news

Start dates needed for Cork infrastructure projects

Brendan Robinson receives his award as the Brecan Mooney Domestic Installation of the Year winner, Domestic Category.

Geothermal Association of Ireland award winners The Geothermal Association of Ireland has announced the winners of this year’s Brecan Mooney Installation of the Year Awards. Wicklow-based Brendan Robinson was presented with the “Installation of the Year Award” in the Domestic Category for his installation of a geothermal heating system in his home in Blackrock. Neil McDaid and Noel McGonigle, from Daigon received the award in the Non-Domestic Category for their installation of a geothermal heating system in Kelly’s Toyota Showroom in Mountcharles, County Donegal. The winners were announced at the SEAI Energy Show in the RDS, Dublin in April. Brendan’s system demonstrated innovative application of heat pump technologies to the extraction of heat from the residence’s well water supply. Variable speed controls of the well pump provide sufficiently heated water at pressure during the day to meet washing and food preparation needs. At night, the pump speed ramps down to maintain a low pressure, low flow supply to transfer waste cooling energy away from the heat pump. The system replaced an oil boiler in the home, saving approximately €1,000 every year in energy costs, and lowering the amount of CO2 emissions by 2.8 tonnes. W: geothermalassociation.ie

The Limerick branch of the Construction Industry Federation hosted a discussion on the future of the construction sector in the Cork region on April 6 in the Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick. Topics included how the industry is likely to develop over the coming decade and what needs to happen for the region to continue to recover. According to Regional Director, Conor O’Connell, a lack of commencement dates for critical infrastructural projects in the region is threatening further development. “It is most welcome that works have begun on the new courthouse building in Limerick, with works also commencing on the Primary Care Centre in Limerick. Nevertheless, we need to see more action from Government in terms of projects such as the Limerick Northern Bypass.” The CIF has called for commencement dates for the N69 Foynes Road/Adare Bypass; the Limerick Maternity Hospital; and the refurbishment works at Limerick Prison. The Federation is also calling for a boost in residential construction activity to increase the region’s attractiveness to job seekers and FDI. W: cif.ie

Vayu signs deal with Iarnród Éireann Irish energy supplier, Vayu has signed a €2.4million deal with Iarnród Éireann to provide natural gas for heating in its buildings across the rail network. The latest deal with Vayu Energy will include heating for 13 key sites across Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Kilkenny, Louth, Laois and Waterford. The deal covers heating for staff and some 38 million passengers a year who use the network. T: (RoI) 01 884 9400 or (NI) 00353 1 884 9400 W: vayu.ie

Facebook breaks ground at Clonee Data Centre Construction has begun on Facebook’s newest data centre at Clonee, County Meath. Development of a second building at the same site was also confirmed, bringing the total size of the facility to 621,000sq ft. The new data centre will be supplied with 100% renewable wind energy from Brookfield Renewable’s Irish operations. Brookfield owns and operates a portfolio of renewable wind energy projects across Ireland, totalling 465MW. Its Managing Partner, Ralf Rank said, “With over 10,000 megawatts of operating hydro and wind capacity and a 7,000 megawatt renewable development pipeline globally, we are uniquely positioned to offer consumers long-term, carbon-free renewable power.” W: www.brookfieldrenewable.com

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TMVs

Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd® supports safety call for TMVs to be installed in every home…

RWC UK wants to see TMVs installed in every home to improve safety.

A burning issue R

eliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd® (RWC UK), is continuing to call on plumbing professionals to employ best practice on every installation and raise awareness of the need to install Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs) in every home across the country, to help prevent the thousands of scalding injuries that happen every year. As part of the ‘Hot Water Burns Like Fire’ lobbying campaign and in support of the Children’s Burns Trust and the Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), RWC UK wants to see an end to costly accidents which have left so many scarred for life. Figures from the Government highlight that almost 600 people in the UK suffer the devastating and enduring effects of severe scalding injuries every year and threequarters of these victims are thought to be under five-years-old. Around 500 children are admitted to hospital and a further 2000 attend A&E departments every year as a result of bath water scalds. In fact, research estimates that an average of 13 children a day under the age of four will suffer a severe injury from a scald. Older people are also at particular risk of dying as a result of hot tap-water scalds. Specifically, an average of 15 pensioners die each year as a result of such accidents.

Raising the alarm Unfortunately, most scalding accidents are entirely preventable and there are various common-sense steps that everyone can take to try to safeguard against their occurrence. RoSPA recognises TMVs as being a critical solution to the prevention of scalds from household taps, baths and showers. RWC UK also believes that installing TMVs in the home to limit the temperature of hot tap water should be considered akin to having a smoke alarm fitted to help protect against the risk of fire. However, although TMV technology may

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RWC UK’s Ausimix® TMV.

now be considered commonplace by the plumbing industry, most home-owners are still unaware of the benefits TMVs brings in, ensuring household hot water safety. This is why RWC UK is calling on trusted plumbing installers to help us raise awareness.

Providing the solution RWC UK is a pioneer of thermostatic technology and water safety is at the heart of everything the company does. The Reliance Water Controls® range includes a huge number of temperature control solutions, from separate TMVs for behindthe-wall installations to those incorporated within the outlet such as a tap or shower, suitable for all types of domestic and commercial applications. For example, the Ausimix® TMVs are designed to meet the requirements of the Buildcert TMV2 scheme which certifies valves for domestic use, as well as the more stringent Buildcert TMV3 scheme for use in high-risk healthcare environments.

By blending the hot and cold water supply to a ‘safe’, controlled outlet temperature (a maximum of 46°C* for bath water, TMVs ensure the temperature of the water will not exceed the set point. Most TMVs will have a failsafe mechanism so if there is a failure with either the hot or cold water supplies, the valve will close off, allowing no water to pass through thus protecting the user and allowing them to identify that a problem has occurred. Therefore RWC believes that the widespread adoption of TMVs would be a simple and cost-effective way to ensure greater water safety in UK homes and help to protect the lives of young, old and vulnerable people. T: Stuart Harron, Sales Director for Ireland, on (NI) 07909 532133 or (RoI) 0044 7909 532133 E: stuart.harron@rwc.com T: Garth Walsh, Regional Sales Manager, Northern Ireland, on (NI) 07881 274917 E: garth.walsh@rwc.com W: www.rwc.co.uk

Bringing the message home The benefits that TMVs bring are also really simple for installers to explain to customers.

* Maximum temperatures should always be set on the basis of a risk assessment and consideration given to the people likely to use the hot water.

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POWER FLUSHING

The ultimate power flushing filter utilises the power of two rare earth magnets to snatch the maximum amount of debrisâ&#x20AC;Ś

The CombiMag Twin.

CombiMag has twins

amco has launched the ultimate power flushing filter, the CombiMag Twin, for use with top-end power flushing pumps, such as the Clearflow CF90 and CF210, when cleaning large domestic or small commercial systems. The CombiMag Twin has two powerful, rare earth magnets, positioned in sequence so that moving debris is located for an extended time within a powerful magnetic field. This snatches the maximum amount of debris from the circulating water, which runs clear much more quickly. Less water is needed to clean a heating system, and large amounts of corrosion debris are prevented from circulating through the waterways and heat exchange surfaces of boilers. Used in conjunction with a power flushing pump to provide the motive force, the CombiMag Twin filter is an incredibly effective way of removing debris from heating systems. Each 400mm rare earth

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magnet - rated at 11,000 gauss, with a surface area of 320 cm2 - is capable of removing more than 3.7kg of magnetic sludge before it needs cleaning. The CombiMag Twin can be used with any power flushing pump or heating system, but is especially useful when flushing systems off the main drainage network when it is necessary to minimise water usage to avoid overflow of septic tanks and soakaways. The twin cylinders are transparent so that engineers can see when the magnets need cleaning without removing them first, and they provide a visual aid to demonstrate to customers how much debris is being removed. When cleaning is required, a by-pass enables engineers to do so without interrupting the power flush.

CombiMag Twin is supplied in a tough waterproof storage crate which can be used as a bund during the power flush, as well as providing convenient storage for hoses. T: (NI) 01727 875 020 or (RoI) 0044 1727 875 020 E: info@kamco.co.uk W: www.kamco.co.uk

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STOVES AND FIREPLACES

Trevor Reid, Regional Sales Manager for BeModern, and Michael Dennison, Business Development Manager for John J. Doyle Ltd, which is set to open a new showroom for BeModern products.

New John J. Doyle Ltd premises in Belfast will include a a new range of products…

BeModern and John J. Doyle Ltd agree new partnership

new partnership has been formed between John J. Doyle Ltd and BeModern, a leading manufacturer of cast iron stoves and elegant fireplaces. John J. Doyle Ltd is set to officially open new premises at 5 Duncrue Place, Belfast, this summer which will incorporate a new showroom area displaying the BeModern, Broseley and Elgin & Hall ranges to trade customers. As a leading flue and chimney specialist, John J. Doyle Ltd, is already dealing directly with a wide range of installers and distributors who would be interested in this impressive product range. “It is a great match between the two companies and we are looking forward to establishing a strong partnership with John J. Doyle Ltd,” explained Trevor Reid, Regional Sales Manager for BeModern. “John J. Doyle Ltd is a family company with a long history and that matches our own company, which was started in 1964 and remains family owned and run. That is an important synergy between the two companies, and, as we aim to further

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establish our range in Northern Ireland and to create a presence for the first time in the Republic of Ireland, we know we can build on the same ethos of value for money and service.” Michael Dennison, Business Development Manager for John J. Doyle Ltd, added, “This is the perfect way to complement our range of flues and chimney systems and, with the opening of our new premises at Duncrue later this year, we are now able to offer even more to our customers. “Many of our customers are involved in installing stoves and fireplaces, so it makes sense to highlight these fantastic products. Also, they will also be able to talk to our experts about the right flue systems to go along with these stoves and fireplaces. “While we won’t be selling the BeModern, Broseley and Elgin & Hall products directly to the public, we will be able to direct them to the official distributors in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.” From cast iron stoves to elegant fireplaces, BeModern offers a brand for most rooms in the home and for every taste and budget.

This impressive product range is matched by the highest standards of quality. BeModern manufactures a world class product and, with continuous investment, continues to be recognised as an industry leader. “All our products are designed and manufactured in the UK, which means we can stand over the quality and craftsmanship,” added Trevor. “When I started with the company a year ago there was no BeModern presence in Northern Ireland but the response has been fantastic and that is down to the quality of our product range. “Now we are hoping to build on that success by expanding into the Republic of Ireland and given that John J. Doyle Ltd already has a strong presence there, this new partnership will help us develop this further. These are exciting times for both companies and we are looking forward to a bright future.” T: (NI) 028 9024 7864 or (RoI) 0044 28 9024 7864 W: www.johnjdoyle.com

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training

Enda Gilroy, Product of Show Awards judge; with Dominic Dunne, Managing Director, METAC Training; and Declan Meally, Head of Department, Emerging Sectors, SEAI.

Installer training at METAC.

Highlighting its commitment to quality and consistency in training, METAC scooped ‘Best Services Provider’ at the 2016 Energy Show for the second time in recent years...

Upskilling at METAC

roviding a wide variety of energy training, the latest addition to METAC Training’s portfolio is the solid fuel awareness course, a one-day training programme aimed at providing participants with the knowledge to enable them to assist customers in choosing the correct solid fuel appliance and to recognise the accompanying installation and fuel requirements. The dry solid fuel stove installer course is a five-day training course for construction professionals and aims to provide participants with the knowledge and understanding to enable them to install dry stoves to meet requirements of customers, building regulations and standards. On successful completion, candidates will receive an OFTEC 18-108-IRL (Dry) certificate. The wet solid fuel stove installer course is a further three days for plumbers with an OFT15-108 IRL certificate; this course includes open heating systems and interlinking heating systems. These courses

State-of-the-art facilities at METAC.

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are designed to meet current demands as advised by industry leaders who were directly involved in the development of all three courses. The OFTEC Commercial Oil course at METAC is the only one of its kind in the country, with the facilities where candidates train simulating a real working environment. Similar to the registration process for the gas industry, OFTEC offers a competent person’s scheme of registration for oil and now offers the same registration for solid fuel installers who have successfully completed and are certified with the relevant qualifications. Electrofusion training for both water and gas equips trainees with the relevant knowledge and technical competence to join polyethylene pipe safety using Electrofusion techniques. The benefits of this technique include less breaks in pipes due to the flexibility of the polyethylene pipe and fittings. METAC continues to provide on-going training in the electrical field with its electrical

verification and certification course and assessment that is certified by City & Guilds with an Ireland 2407 qualification, a recognised accredited course by CER for the fulfilment of qualifying certifiers. METAC is also introducing certified PAT testing for electricians and suitable competent persons in the industry. Solar PV is currently being offered with QQI Certification. T: (RoI) 057 87 56540 or (NI) 00353 57 87 56540 E: info@metac.ie W: www.metac.ie

“The OFTEC Commercial Oil course at METAC is the only one of its kind in the country, with the facilities where candidates train simulating a real working environment.”

Installers benefit from hands-on training delivered by expert trainers.

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company news

Work starts on new showroom and trade counter at Duncrue Place ahead of official opening this summer…

John J. Doyle Ltd moving to new premises

ohn J. Doyle Ltd, Ireland’s leading flue and chimney specialist, is set to move to new, larger premises at Duncrue Place, Belfast. The company has been based at Great Patrick Street for many years but, with new products and services being added, it necessitated a move to larger premises. Work has already started on converting the premises at 5 Duncrue Place to meet the requirements of John J Doyle Ltd ahead of an official opening in the summer and, in the meantime, the company has put measures in place to ensure its high level of service isn’t affected. All stock has been moved to the new premises at Duncrue Place with a temporary trade counter in place alongside a fully functional warehouse.

A rated

Managing Director, John Doyle, said, “We are excited about the new opportunities that this move will bring and that customers will now have more straightforward access to our premises. We are set to add a new HETAS Training Centre and a new stoves and fireplaces showroom for the BeModern range, both of which will complement our industry-leading range of flues and chimney systems. “We are working hard to make the transition as smooth as possible and we appreciate the patience of our customers during this time. With the temporary trade counter already in place, we are set-up to meet orders as fast and efficiently as before.” T: (NI) 028 9024 7864 or (RoI) 0044 28 9024 7864 www.johnjdoyle.com

John Doyle, Managing Director, John J. Doyle Ltd.

Find out more about the latest developments at www.johnjdoyle.com

COOL

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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tender prices

SCSI REPORT SHOWS A RISE IN TENDER PRICES WHILE SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON A LACK OF MECHANICAL SUBCONTRACTORS IN THE INDUSTRY…

Lack of skilled trades still a major concern

he latest Construction Tender Price Index has revealed tender prices increased by 2.8% in the second half of 2015. According to the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), tender prices for building projects increased by 5.5% during 2015, a rise that shows an upward trend in tender prices since 2011. This increase is down to lots of factors, one of which is the lack of mechanical and electrical specialists, particularly in the Greater Dublin Area. Commenting on the news, Chairman of the Quantity Surveying Professional Group at the SCSI, Micheál Mahon, said, “As activity levels in the construction sector have increased so also have costs, due to material cost increases and capacity constraints. This is occurring in a number of regions, but is a particular issue in the Greater Dublin Area. Here the shortage of skilled trades/specialist sub-contractors and professionals - such as mechanical and electrical, curtain walling and joinery - who are available to take on the increased level of construction activity, is a real issue.” He added that the rise in tender prices also comes down to a question of supply and demand. “A lot of companies have not scaled up over the past couple of years and are limited in the amount of work they can physically undertake. “Accordingly, they are only taking on a select number of contracts from an increasing supply of work. Overall, while the continuing economic recovery is having an impact on tendering/pricing levels the market remains very competitive with tender prices currently at 2000 levels.” Tender prices peaked in the first half of 2007 and fell rapidly for the following four years before levelling off in the second half of 2010/first half 2011 when prices were down 33% from peak. The Society expects the index to show an increase again in July as suppliers increase their prices and capacity constraints continue. “The sector needs to create a more stable environment with the appropriate level of construction output for a country this size,” said Micheál. “Recently the President of the SCSI, Andrew Nugent called on the parties which will form the next government to appoint a Senior Minister with responsibility

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for Planning, Property and Construction. This would be a way of recognising the importance of the sector to the national economic recovery and also enable the drawing up of a cohesive plan for the long term sustainability of the sector.” The Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland (ACEI), Engineers Ireland and the SCSI said the country won’t have enough graduates to meet the future demand of the construction sector. All three bodies warned that the lack of college-leavers has become a “critical concern”. A lack of apprenticeships in the industry also remains a serious issue, with CIF Director, General Tom Parlon recently calling on the new Irish Government to

create a policy framework that will allow the industry to forge ahead with development and continue its current levels of growth. Key to this growth is skills and employment and a big element of this is apprenticeships. Tom said, “Numbers in plumbing have increased from 318 in 2014 to 330 in 2015 - a healthy enough increase, but there’s scope to do more. The CIF is working with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, ETBs and SOLAS to come up with ways around this difficulty.” T: The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland on (01) 644 5500 or visit www.scsi.ie T: Construction Industry Federation on 01 406 6000 or visit www.cif.ie

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Loyalty Scheme

Ferroli’s loyalty scheme is now open to Republic of Ireland engineers…

Join the club! F erroli recently announced that engineers from the Republic of Ireland are now welcome to join its online loyalty scheme Installersmate.co.uk By creating a profile on the Installersmate website, professional gas engineers can keep all their Ferroli boiler installation records in one place and take advantage of business-boosting annual boiler service reminders, easy warranty registrations, competitions and exclusive rewards. All new members will also receive a free Ferroli branded black polo shirt. The only feature that Republic of Ireland members won’t be able to use is the notifications facility which is for UK-based Gas Safe registered engineers only. “A great boiler depends on a great installer so we have created a club that will support the engineers who put their trust in us and our fantastic boilers,” said Ferroli’s Sales Director John Moran. “We’ve made it straightforward and easy to use so that busy installers can quickly and easily complete the essential task of registering their customers’ warranties and retain those customers by receiving e-mail reminders to contact them when their annual boiler service is due. “By entering the customer’s e-mail address, Installersmate will send an e-mail alert to both the installer and the customer six weeks before the anniversary of the installation, reminding them that it’s time to arrange a date for an annual service. “This takes the onus of the paperwork off the installer and helps to prevent losing business to a rival. Of course, it still works if the customer doesn’t give their e-mail

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address; instead the reminder will just be sent to the installer. “If you install Ferroli boilers you’ll want to become a member of Installersmate,” said John. “Installersmate will save you valuable time and money; it keeps all your Ferroli boiler installation records safely in one place; it helps to maintain your relationship with your customers, and it could reward you with a nice freebie. There’s everything to gain and nothing to lose.” Installersmate is just one of the advantages of teaming up with Ferroli – with the company’s impressive boiler range another reason to choose Ferroli. The Italian boiler manufacturer has been at the leading edge of heating appliance design and development for more than half a century and now operates in 14 countries throughout Europe and Asia. Ferroli’s range of domestic and commercial boilers and renewable energy products – which are manufactured in Verona, Italy - are as technologically advanced by today’s standards as they were in 1955 when the company was founded. As such, they can be relied upon to deliver a cost-effective, energy-efficient and dependable source of heat and hot water.

The Modena HE boiler range reflects this perfectly. The range comprises 27kW, 32kW and 38kW combi and an 18kW, 25kW and 32kW system models, all available in natural gas and LPG and all available with a five, seven or ten-year warranty. T: (NI) 0843 479 4790 or (RoI) 0044 843 479 4790 E: sales@ferroli.co.uk W: www.installersmate.co.uk

“Installersmate is just one of the advantages of teaming up with Ferroli – with the company’s impressive boiler range another reason to choose Ferroli.”

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FLUES

A trusted flue supplier in Ireland, Oriel Flues Industrial is now supplying industrial flues to the market…

Catering for industrial and domestic customers

ased in Ardee, Co. Louth, Oriel Flues manufactures and distributes a complete range of flue components for the domestic and industrial market. The company was founded in 2000 and has quickly established itself as one of the leading and most trusted flue suppliers in Ireland. Its promise is to provide the customer with the highest quality flue components, best customer service and efficient dispatch times. Oriel Flues Industrial has an extensive team who bring experience and knowledge to every project. Customers are assured that the chimney system the company offers is safe, durable and aesthetically pleasing. It’s guaranteed with certificates of the most stringent European Institute test houses. Customers will receive a full and professional service that includes: • Oriel Flues prepares full documentation - chimney matching and design including

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static and resistance calculations. • Technical advisors and the R&D department assure the highest quality of services in the field and the optimal use of chimney systems. Oriel Flues’ R&D department continuously monitors the development of the chimney market and promotes innovative solutions. • Oriel Flues designs supporting constructions which allow for the installation of chimneys without the necessity of attaching them to building walls. The company works in conjunction with the design office and assures supporting construction projects. All high quality systems are confirmed by the Quality Management System ISO EN 9001 and Environmental Management System ISO EN 14001 Certificates. All products can be ordered by calling the number below or by emailing the sales department.

T: (RoI) (041) 6856924 or (NI) 00353 41 6856924 E: info@orielflues.com W: www.orielflues.com

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TRAINING

Ireland’s first HETAS-approved training academy is raising industry standards…

Solid training in solid fuels at Oriel Training Academy

eading the way for training and safety within the fuel industry, the Oriel Training Academy HETAS Centre is the first official training centre for HETAS-approved courses in Ireland. According to Oriel Flues, a laissez-faire attitude towards the safety of people in their homes exists in Ireland, with no actual regulations regarding who can work in the solid fuel industry in force. In addition, installers are not required to hold qualifications to work in a person’s home, unlike when working with gas or electric for heating. This self-regulating market is dangerous. There are many life-threatening and dangerous situations being created in homes in Ireland due to the lack of education, training and regulations when people decide to install or modify their fires. A fire used for heating a home carries as many similar dangers as the above home heating methods. Oriel Flues says that, when a tradesman is hired by a private individual, they are putting their lives in their hands. With so many variations and rules to consider, how does an untrained person know what is right and what they are doing is safe? Solid fuel is the most uncontrollable heat source available. Government policymakers are now acutely aware of these dangers and the necessity to tighten up this industry. There is an acute need for trained, regulated people working with solid fuel fires. With this in mind, Ireland

now has its own training academy, based on the UK model, to ensure the solid fuel industry becomes safer. The Oriel Training Academy provides training for personnel to understand the theory and practicality of installing flues systems for solid fuel domestic heating and Twin-wall systems. The Academy looks forward to the day when all installers/ engineers have completed the new HETAS training courses. These courses will increase professionalism and will mean that all solid fuel installers are installing to current standards, ensuring installations comply with the relevant building regulations and guidelines. Oriel Training Academy has to date trained over 300 installers whose details can be found by viewing the map on the HETAS training section of the Oriel Flues website. All courses at the centre are tutored by Will Bowen who has worked in the solid fuel industry for 44 years and whose knowledge is irreplaceable. If you have any queries or would like to book a HETAS course, contact a member of the Oriel Training Academy team.

T: (RoI) (041) 685 6924 E: info@orielflues.com W: www.orielflues.com/HETAS-training

Course Tutor Will Bowen and the late Minister Shane McEntee at the official opening of the Oriel Training Academy on October 30, 2012.

Oriel Training Academy HETAS Centre is the first official training centre for HETAS approved courses in Ireland.

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Courses on offer... Training courses available at the Oriel Training Academy HETAS Centre include: H002 - Introduction to Solid Fuel and Solid Fuel Regulations & Standards This is a theory awareness course that is designed to introduce candidates to the processes of solid fuel installations. The course is targeted at showroom staff, surveyors, building control officers and architects who need updates on regulations. H003 - Dry Appliance Installer Course This includes both theory and practical assessment. Successful completion leads to certification that can be used to show to customers on completion of a stove being installed. This course is targeted at candidates who have relevant work experience. They should have a knowledge and understanding of building regulations and working experience in the construction/heating industry. H004 - Wet Appliance Installer This includes both theory and practical assessment. Successful completion leads to certification that can be used to show to customers on completion of a stove being installed. This course is aimed at candidates who have relevant plumbing/heating work experience and have already completed the H003 course. H006 - System Chimney This course provides training that is suitable for the correct installation of stainless steel twin-wall insulated rigid flue systems into residential properties. The objective of this course is to deliver appropriate training for the design and safe installation of internal system chimneys, but may also be appropriate for external systems too. The course discusses system components and how they are installed in relation to the various elements of a domestic structure.

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hot topics

Air in HVAC systems F

Mark Mogey, National Sales Manager, Altecnic, discusses how water contaminated by air and impurities is the common cause of a range of heating system problems...

illing a system for the first time or even topping up, can trap air in niches or the top of radiators, or even in pipes installed with a counter-slope. Air can also be sucked in from areas with negative pressure or it can be dissolved in the water filling the system. There is also air that has not been ejected during filling. Before being started up, every HVAC system is obviously full of air but poor design or ineffective installation can promote the build-up of air on first fill in: • The upper part of the heating bodies and risers; • Pipe sectors that have to go round an obstacle; • Long horizontal runs of pipes that turn downwards. Air also enters during system operation. The most common cause of this is air entering

the system through gaskets and fittings. If the system is working at low pressure, particularly in the higher parts of the system, negative pressure can result. The simple test is to open the valve on the highest radiator and see whether water comes out or air goes in. Henry’s law declares that the amount of air that can remain dissolved in water depends on pressure and temperature. Air dissolved in the cold water used for filling or topping up is released when the water in the system is heated. For example, in a 1000L system when the water is heated from 20°C to 80°C, at a constant pressure of 2 bar, 17 to 18 litres of air are released! This air appears in the system in the form of microbubbles. In HVAC systems there are also specific points where this micro-bubble formation process takes place continuously, typically boilers and areas of cavitation.

T: Chris Reilly, Country Manager, on (NI) 07825 393605 or (RoI) 0044 7825 393605 - E: chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk W: www.altecnic.co.uk

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hot topics

The Solution... Robocal.

Automatic air vents collect air until a float causes a valve to open. The water level rises as the air is released and the valve closes. No hassle, no leaks!

Discal.

Problems linked to the presence of air include: •

Noise in the system Air bubbles in the system cause noise in pipes, radiators and regulating devices especially when starting flow in the pipes.

•

Insufficient flow rates or total circulation blocks Circulation can be partially or totally blocked by air bubbles present in some points in the system. This is especially serious in systems with radiant panels.

•

Inefficient heat exchange Air in exchange batteries or radiators reduces the efficiency of heat transfer to the environment. A lower efficiency of the heating bodies can cause serious thermal imbalances, reduce comfort levels and greatly increasing running costs.

•

Corrosion Oxygen present in air bubbles causes oxidation of iron, steel and even rubber seals, leading to failure of pipes, radiators and boiler heat exchangers.

Problems linked to the presence of dirt include: •

Corrosion In water, a layer of dirt on a metal surface leads to the formation of two zones (water/dirt and dirt/metal) with a different oxygen content. This creates low-level electric current flows that corrode the metal surfaces.

• Irregular operation of the valves Dirt sticks to valve seats and causes deformities in regulation and leaks. • Blocking and seizing pumps Dirt circulates through the pumps and can build up in them, due both pump design and magnetic fields they generate. •

Deareators continuously separate dirt and air down to micro-bubbles. This ensures optimum system performance for large house or semicommercial installations Dirtmag IQ.

Magnetic dirt separators trap dirt and rust flakes from old components preventing damage to precision components including boilers. Dirtmag IQ Quattro.

Lower heat exchanger efficiency Dirt deposits greatly reduce flow rates through and the effective surface area of heat exchangers.

ALTECNIC HAVE THE SOLUTION...

Multi-function dirt separator strainer are the ideal solution giving a one-stop solution to separating magnetic, non-magnetic dirt and air from a system.

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. The company also enjoys successful relationships with IMIT mechanical thermostats and Reflex Winkelmann GmbH.

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awards

Sasha Wiggins, CEO, Barclays Bank Ireland PLC; Alan Hogan MD, Heat Merchants Group and Brendan Jennings, Managing Partner, Deloitte at the presentation of the award for Best Managed Company.

Heat Merchants Group has been declared one of Ireland’s best managed companies...

Simply the best! H eat Merchants Group has been named as one of Ireland’s ‘Best Managed’ companies in the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme. The company, which demonstrated superior business performance to scoop the award, was recognised at an awards event in Dublin’s Convention Centre, marking the eighth year of the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme in association with Barclays Bank Ireland. The awards were attended by over 800 people from the Irish business community. Frank Ryan, Chair of the independent judging panel, was keynote speaker on the night. The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme recognises indigenous Irish companies across Ireland that are operating at the highest levels of business performance. The network of 115 Best Managed Companies now employs over 47,000 people around the country and has a combined turnover of almost €10billion. Commenting on the award, Alan Hogan,

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MD, Heat Merchants Group, said, “We are delighted to have been selected to receive this accolade, and it is a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone at Heat Merchants Group.” He added, “The award endorses our management strategy of building a fundamentally strong business which will allow us to continue to grow and be more resilient into the future by investing in our infrastructure, our people and the offering to our customers.” Sixteen companies from around Ireland were awarded ‘Best Managed’ status for the first time this year. This followed a lengthy qualification and judging process in which the complete performance of a business was assessed, moving beyond finances to areas such as operational excellence, strategy and human resource processes. Heat Merchants Group is the first company in the HVAC or plumbing and tiling industries to have been recognised. Brendan Jennings, Managing Partner of Deloitte and judging panel member

commented, “Congratulations to all the 2016 winners. All the companies here tonight are at the end of a long process of evaluation which makes their Best Managed designation even more rewarding and valuable as a marketing tool for their business. It is clear that these companies make an invaluable contribution to the Irish economy – employing 47,000 people and generating a turnover of €10billion.” T: (RoI) 090 644 2300 or (NI) 00353 90 644 2300 W: www.heatmerchants.ie

“The award endorses our management strategy of building a fundamentally strong business which will allow us to continue to grow and be more resilient into the future.”

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Thermostats

Vokèra launches the new BeSMART Wi-Fi enabled thermostat – the smarter way to control home heating…

Vokèra is made of smart stuff

okèra is delighted to launch the new BeSMART Wi-Fi enabled thermostat, an easy-to-install, internet-connected device, specifically designed for heating control. This smart thermostat allows home-owners to change and adapt their heating systems at their own convenience through the BeSMART App. Easy to set up and install, the new control package is intuitive to use and is compatible with the Vokèra technology as well as systems from the vast majority of main heating brands. “The BeSMART thermostat is going to revolutionise heating control for home-owners and installers,” commented Neil Mattock, Marketing Director at Vokèra. “People will have more control over their heating than ever before – they can programme individual settings, manage different zones and even control the system remotely. “Installers will be able to apply BeSMART to deliver these benefits across a huge number of new and retrofit projects. The future of the home is all about connected systems, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this

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transformation.” on both iOS and Android and also works on Installing BeSMART is especially quick and a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer simple when replacing an old thermostat. No via an internet browser. Users can adjust additional wiring is required. BeSMART has the temperature, programme in settings and been designed to specifically complement even check the boiler operating conditions, the Vokèra boiler range but it will also work providing new levels of control over their with the majority of heating system. residential boilers with BeSMART achieves “Easy to set up and ON/OFF control, making up to Class VIII control it an ideal replacement under ErP (+5% in install, the new control for old thermostats. heating efficiency) package is intuitive to use space The smart thermostat when combined with an and is compatible with can be set up for single OpenTherm compatible or multi-zone control, Vokèra boiler. Using the Vokèra technology, with an impressive eight BeSMART, installers will as well as systems from zone maximum. It can have access to a protected the vast majority of major technical menu that gives also be connected to Vokèra boilers with them power to adjust the heating brands.” OpenTherm to allow boiler parameters and, interaction with weather depending on the set up, conditions; meaning that on milder days, end-users can have an online connection to it will automatically adjust to the ambient Vokèra’s service centre, which will flag up temperature. problems straight away. Home-owners can also programme up to T: (RoI) 056 775 5057 or three comfort levels to suit their needs and (NI) 00353 56 775 5057 save energy and money. The App is available W: www.vokera.co.uk/besmart

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Just some of the many market-leading brands available from MD Ireland

Ireland’s No. 1 Distributor of high-quality brand names in Plumbing, Heating and Bathroom products

Contact:

✆ +44 (0)28 9262 0400 : +44 (0)28 9262 2939 e: sales@mdireland.com Mark Crawford - Area Sales Representative ✆ +44 (0)7764 634144 e: mark.crawford@mdireland.com SALES OFFICE:

AWARDS

Northern Ireland’s top ‘green’ organisations announced at 2016 Action Renewables…

Green awards success

ocal businesses and organisations who are paving the way for a ‘green’ future for Northern Ireland have received commendations from Action Renewables at the leading renewables industry awards, the annual Action Renewables Awards. Now in their seventh year, the prestigious Action Renewables Awards were sponsored by Vayu Energy, Tughans Solicitors and the Department of Environment, who joined this year’s awards in a show of support for the local renewables industry. Speaking on behalf of Action Renewables, Director Michael Doran, said, “Renewables are no longer looked at as only an option for local businesses they are quickly becoming a necessary part of forward-thinking business practices. “Based on the growing interest in our annual awards, it is evident that more and more local organisations are harnessing the power of renewables, and we are delighted by the increasing popularity of our annual awards, which recognise those who are taking advantage of renewable technologies.” Following the launch of their business into Northern Ireland, Mary Rossiter, Vayu Energy said, “As a supplier of 100% green electricity, we encourage all local businesses to seek ways of cutting costs, reducing carbon emissions, and decreasing their reliance on imported fuel sources by ‘going green.’” Maria O’Loan, Planning and Environment Partner, Tughans, added, “Tughans has been a sponsor of the Action Renewables Awards for a number of years and has witnessed the shift in entries to include more and more community groups and the third sector. Renewables are quickly becoming

Noel Rice of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive celebrates his Outstanding Award for Work in the Renewable Energy Sector in Northern Ireland at the 2016 Action Renewables Awards. Pictured are (from left) Ciaran McConville, Action Renewables; Mary Rossiter, Vayu; Michael Doran, Action Renewables; Maria O’Loan, Tughans; Noel Rice, NI Housing Executive; Angus Kerr, Department of Environment; and Jamie Delargy, event compere.

the go-to solution for responsibly fuelling Northern Ireland.” Reflecting on their sponsorship of the awards, Angus Kerr, Director of Planning Policy Division, Department of Environment, said “The level of entries this year has been outstanding, and we would like to acknowledge all of the local organisations who are taking the future of our environment into their own hands by switching to renewables.” Winners were chosen by an independent judging panel of industry experts and leaders in the renewables field across Northern Ireland including 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. T: (NI) 028 9072 7760 or (RoI) 028 9072 7760 W: www.actionrenewables.co.uk

This year’s winners… Outstanding Award for Work in the Renewable Energy Sector in NI • Noel Rice, NI Housing Executive Most Successful Renewable Electricity Installation • NI Housing Executive Most Environmentally Sustainable Construction Project • Green Energy Store Ltd Best Planning for a Sustainable Project • Choice Housing Ireland Best Energy-Saving Large Organisation • Queen’s University • South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust Best Renewables Installation within the Education, Healthcare & Public Sector • Northern Ireland Assembly Most Successful Renewable Heat Installation • Bryson Energy

Terry Waugh, Action Renewables, with Nigel Brady, Bryson Energy, winner of the category of Most Successful Renewable Heat Installation.

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Neil Collins, of sponsors, Glen Dimplex, presents Stephen Welsh, Northern Ireland Assembly, with the award for Best Renewables Installation within the Education, Healthcare & Public Sector.

Best Community Renewable Energy Project • Northern Ireland Community Energy Co-Operative Best Energy Saving SME • Ballylagan Organic Farm

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news

new social media page for installers puts you closer to the technical team and the chance to win anything from workwear to appliances...

Find Worcester on Facebook

orcester, Bosch Group has launched a brand new Facebook page. The new installer Facebook page adds to the list of reasons why heating engineers and home-owners alike can rely on Worcester for the latest industry news, as well as promotions and product updates from the leading manufacturer. As well as putting installers just a few clicks away from its award-winning technical support team, the dedicated page will see news and pictures from its community of heating professionals shared each month. Exclusive competitions will also give followers of Worcester’s installer profile the chance to win anything from workwear to appliances and accessories from across its Which? Best Buy accredited product range. Meanwhile, Worcester has also launched a separate home-owner Facebook page to serve as a hub for everything related to heating and hot water comfort. Installers can direct their customers to the page with

any questions or queries, as well as tips and advice. Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, Bosch Group, commented, “Not only will Worcester’s growing presence on social media allow us to communicate with heating engineers as and when we are needed but,

in building our profile among home-owners, we hope it will also help installers to sell the benefits of owning a Worcester boiler in the long term.” To join Worcester’s installer Facebook page, search ‘Worcester Bosch Professional’; alternatively, to follow its home-owner page, search ‘Worcester Bosch’.

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Repair Shop NI Unit 22A Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland BT42 3HB

T: 02825 650 847 M: 07850 360 480 E: repairshopni@hotmail.co.uk

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company news

Restructured heating and ventilation division will provide technical expertise backed by an extensive product range…

Two new appointments at Glen Dimplex NI

len Dimplex NI has restructured the company’s heating and ventilation division with the appointment of two new Technical Sales Representatives in Northern Ireland. As a local heating and ventilation supplier, Glen Dimplex NI now has new Technical Sales Representatives based in Northern Ireland, providing greater coverage to support its existing customer base. Gary Swann joins the company from Firmus Energy while Chris Taylor arrives with many years’ experience within the ventilation and specification sector. Gary will cover counties Antrim, Derry-Londonderry and Tyrone, while Chris will be responsible for Down, Armagh and Fermanagh. Jamie Boyd, Heating and Ventilation Sales Manager at Glen Dimplex NI, welcomed the introduction of the two new sales representatives. “We have had success in the past with specification work, and the intention is to do more of that to create activity for our

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customer base,” he explained. “Through Gary and Chris, we can provide complete heating and ventilation solutions for many existing and new applications. This not only ensures the correct product selection but also places us in a position to support this process.” Glen Dimplex NI’s new Technical Sales Representatives – Gary Swann and Chris Taylor. As part of the company’s heating world and focuses on ‘air quality innovation’. and ventilation solutions, Glen Dimplex For more information, contact one of NI offers a range of Dimplex and Xpelair Glen Dimplex NI’s new technical sales products. Dimplex, the global market leader representatives - telephone Gary Swann in electric space and water heating, offers a on 07880 740 957 or e-mail gary.swann@ range of renewable solutions to fit new build glendimplex.com; you can contact Chris properties. Xpelair – which is part Taylor on 07917 544 334 or e-mail of the Redring Xpelair Group - is one of the chris.taylor@glendimplexni.co.uk most recognised ventilation brands in the

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news

Actavo receives top installer honour

Majella Kelleher, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), with Paddy Sweeney of Enprova, this year’s new title sponsor of the Energy Show Awards. Pic by Naoise Culhane.

New code of practice for home renovations A new national code of practice on energy efficiency home renovations has been officially launched in Ireland. S.R. 54 Code of Practice is a free technical guide for all contractors involved in home renovations. The standard is now a requirement when tendering for state retrofit schemes, such as local authority upgrades, or SEAI’s Better Energy Homes With over 800 million euro worth of renovations carried out in over 35,000 homes in Ireland since 2013, NSAI (National Standard Authority of Ireland) wants to ensure all contractors are not only aware of this document, but use it, in order to ensure best practice . The new code of practice was launched at the Energy Show 2016, where the Product of the Show accolade went to Solar Electric Ireland for its product sonnenBatterie - a high tech energy storage solution which also won Best Innovative Product. Other category winners included MCC Energy, winner of Best Renewable Product for its Hybrid Power Charging Station; Metac, winner of Best Service Provider for its energy training courses; Origen Energy winner of Best Energy Efficient Product for its Robur gas absorption heat pump; and Best Product of the Future went to Rexel Energy Solutions for its battery energy storage system. T: 01 808 2100 - W: www.seai.ie

Pictured at the Scottish Energy Efficiency Awards are (from left) Stephen Condon, Gill McDonald, Erin Stewart, Paul Campbell (sub-contractor), Ashley Brankin, Shannon Shields and David McLafferty.

Irish company Actavo Network & In-Home Solutions, a global provider of outsourced solutions for the energy, power, telecommunications and civil engineering sectors, has won the ‘Boiler and Heating Installer of the Year’ award at Scotland’s annual Energy Efficiency and Retrofit Awards 2016. This accolade recognises the efforts of fully-qualified boiler and heating installers that provide excellent customer service and demonstrate a high standard of quality workmanship and best practice within their local community. Welcoming the award win, TJ Malone, CEO of Actavo Network & In-Home Division, said, “Energy efficiency has to be at the forefront of any supplier’s mind when delivering essential services to homes. I’m delighted that Actavo’s team in Scotland, led by our UK Operators Director for Home Energy, John Kelly, has been recognised for its hard work with the top award on the night, and it is particularly sweet given that it’s a decision made by one’s industry peers. This award-winning team has shown true grit in establishing a loyal customer base and doubling our business in the last two years.” T: (RoI) 01 9059700 or (NI) 00353 1 9059700 E: info@actavo.com W: www.actavo.com

New Construction Contracts Act comes into force The new Construction Contracts Act is set to regularise cash-flow for construction companies and reduce costs by providing for rapid resolution of disputes. CIF President, Michael Stone, explained, “This Act will benefit the entire supply chain by bringing more certainty to contracts and dispute resolution in the industry. The sector is in recovery mode and this Act will help companies plan, budget and invest more accurately in meeting Ireland’s increasing economic demands. I’d like to thank the Minister on behalf of the

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industry for his efforts in bringing this important piece of legislation into being.” Phillip Crampton, Chairman of the CIF’s Procurement, Tendering and Contracts Committee, added, “The Act is positive news for construction sector and will mean more certainty of payment for all in the supply chain. This certainty will improve the competitiveness of the sector facilitating growth and the delivery of quality public and private construction projects. The new legislation will also reduce the amount of management time and expense currently

CIF President, Michael Stone

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product news

BSS welcomes marketleading pumps to product range n BSS is now offering a comprehensive selection of quiet, reliable and robust pumps from Salamander. Whether mains or gravity-fed, for individual items or for a whole system, the new range provides pumps to boost water pressures for both light commercial and domestic installations. The range will contain the full suite of Salamander products, including HomeBoost mains water pump; ESP Super Boost packs; CT Force pumps: and the CT Xtra shower pump. The entire range can be provided by next day delivery. W: www.bssindustrial.co.uk

Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cm now faster and simpler to fit n The market-leading Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cm framing system is faster and simpler to fit than ever, thanks to a number of improvements that ensure it continues to meet the needs of installers. With the re-designed frame now more closely aligned to the rest of the Geberit Duofix Sigma family of products, fewer modifications are needed when installing multiple frames. The new Geberit Duofix Sigma 8cm framing system has self-impeding feet to increase the height capability of installation, enabling it to be used on sub floors up to 20cm. W: www.geberit.co.uk

Energise your business with Glow-worm n Heating installer, Glow-worm is giving one installer the chance to give their business a boost and energise profits, with its ‘Energise My Business’ competition. The lucky winner will receive £2,500 worth of business support that will be kicked off with an expert marketing consultation to discuss the best ways to use their winning budget to support their business aspirations. Open to Gas Safe registered installers, the competition requires participants to submit a video, photos or a short written entry explaining how they would benefit from the support. Closing date is Friday, May 20. To enter, visit www.glow-wormclubenergy.co.uk/EnergiseYourBusiness or Tweet @glow_wormclub

Euro 2016 installer promotion from Spirotech

Xylem’s new Waterdrop loyalty programme

n There’s still time to take part in Spirotech’s fantastic installer giveaway, but you need to hurry! To celebrate the forthcoming Euro Championships, Spirotech UK is giving away a series of must-have prizes until June 10, including five pairs of tickets to Lens for England’s grudge match against Wales on June 16, five 50” widescreen TVs, and a host of goodies. To enter the prize draw, simply visit www.spirotech-offer.co.uk and follow the instructions. Each week, winning entrants are announced live via Spirotech’s Twitter feed and on the Spirotech website.

n Xylem has launched Waterdrop – a first-of-its-kind loyalty programme that enables consulting engineers to bring safe, clean water to communities in need through their daily work. Waterdrop participants collect water drops, or loyalty points, by learning about, selecting or specifying Xylem products and services for Commercial Building Services (CBS) applications. For every drop, Xylem will donate $1 dollar (USD) to build water towers for people who lack access to a water supply. Each drop also serves as an entry into the draw to win the experience of a lifetime – a volunteer trip to construct and install these water towers. W: buildings.xylem.com

Pegler Yorkshire award recognises commitment to quality n Pegler Yorkshire has received recognition for being one of only two companies in the world to have held the BSI Kitemark for over 70 years, in addition to being the first UK business to receive the much coveted recognition. The company was awarded the Kitemark in 1945 for its copper pipe fittings and since then has remained unswerving to producing products of exceptional quality and pioneering new technologies and products in the plumbing and heating sector. W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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Phill Jackson, Marketing and Business Development Director, Pegler Yorkshire (left) receives the BSI award from Gary Fenton (right), Global Product Certification Director, BSI.

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