Plumbing and Heating Magazine Issue72

EE Y FR OP C

ISSUE 72 - JUNE/JULY 2016

INSIDE THIS ISSUE n NI’s P&H Awards n Commercial Heating n Heating & Ventilation n Bathrooms n Case Studies

THE ORIGINAL & BEST CRITICAL PRESSURE CONTROL

COMPLETE RANGE OF CALEFFI PRESSURE REDUCING VALVES • EN Certified • WRAS Approved Products • Static & Dynamic Control Altecnic Ltd - Caleffi group Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 1GW, United Kingdom For further details go to: www.altecnic.co.uk or email: oemsales@altecnic.co.uk +44 (0) 1785 218208 or +44 (0) 7825 393605 Chris Reilly, Country Manager NI & RoI email: chris.reilly@altecnic.co.uk

• Gauges, Ported, Unported • Commercial or Domestic

CONTENTS

In this issue...

Issue 72 - June/July 2016

News & Views

37

45

4

Win a dream holiday with

JG Speedfit

45

Company profile –

Thermoparts Ltd

66

Sentinel agrees distribution deal with MT Agenices

13

RWC UK product launch and

football tournament

69

Bangor Building Supplies is at

14

Tour de Inishowen raises money

your service

for charity

70

Heat is on with Solflex underfloor

18-19

The future is bright at Mercury

heating range

42

Grant supports a range of events

105

Saturn Heating is in a class

52-53

Pipe Center golf day

of its own

109

PTS and BSS Trade Show

107

Win more business with WorkPal

Products and Company News

117

New Irish appointment for

Sanbra Fyffe

7

Top marks for firmus installer

8-9

Cover story – Altecnic

Feature Highlights

17

Grant announces innovative

product expansion

20

Vaillant and C&F Quadrant

27–39

Commercial Heating

57-61

Case Study – Thriving Life

Church, Newtownards

partnership

73-103 Northern Ireland’s Plumbing &

23

Positive reponse to Plumbmaster

Irwin launches new mechanical

112-115 Heating and Ventilation

26

Heating Awards 2016

123-127 Bathrooms

division

18-19

73

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Publication Director Jacqui Fairley | RoI Consultant Mairead Reid 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

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

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 3

NEWS

HARVEY GROUP UP-SKILL AT SERC

Mark Mills, JG Speedfit, highlighting the Pipe Dream competition at Beggs & Partners (above) and Plumb Center (below).

WIN A DREAM HOLIDAY WITH JG SPEEDFIT JG Speedfit has been promoting 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 holiday prize draw, installers simply need to complete and return the competition entry card found inside the promotional 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. At the trade counters, customers have also been taking the chance to have their picture taken to win a £25 voucher.

For more information on JG Speedfit, contact T: (NI) Mark Mills 07753 832211 or (RoI) Ian Kelly 086 1734027 or visit the website at www.speedfit.co.uk

In line with its collaboration values, South Eastern Regional College (SERC) is working with Newtownabbey-based Harvey Group PLC to upskill employees thanks to funding from the Department for the Economy’s Skills Focus training programme.

A building services engineering firm specialising in mechanical and electrical installation and maintenance, Harvey Group PLC has availed of specialist, high level training to raise the skill base of the company’s project managers in the areas of legionella, water regulations and unvented training.

Speaking about the training, Harvey Group PLC Mechanical Operations Manager, Sam Glass, explained, “Harvey Group is committed to continual investment in our workforce and we are thrilled to avail of the training opportunity offered by SERC. The training was designed to give the engineers the latest skillset to meet the needs of our company. Keeping abreast of the latest rules and regulations and enhancing skills development is crucial to ensure we provide the best service and products possible.”

T: SERC on 028 9262 6778 - W: www.spiceni.com

Marking the new training at SERC by Harvey Group PLC are Mechanical and Electrical Project Manager, Conor Martin; Operations Manager, Sam Glass; Site Supervisor, Craig Smith; SERC Business Account Manager, Emma Finney; and Harvey Group PLC Contracts Administrator, Stephen Bertuccelli.

CTS PROJECTS £10K PARTNERSHIP WITH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

Jenny Williams, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland, and Connaire McGreevy, Managing Director of CTS Projects, launch a new partnership worth £10,000 with Habitat for Humanity.

4 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Award-winning plumbing and heating installer, CTS Projects Ltd, has launched a new partnership worth £10,000 with Habitat for Humanity.

The company will donate ten pence for every boiler the company services to the charity, which helps the poorest and most vulnerable people around the world lift themselves out of poverty. CTS Projects will also fund a trip for two members of staff to Ethiopia later this year to help improve the living conditions of families in some of the poorest communities. To launch the new partnership, CTS Projects hosted a breakfast at Habitat ReStore in Lisburn.

T: (NI) 028 4175 2299 or (RoI) 048 4175 2299 W: ctsprojects.net

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NATURAL GAS

JOHN IS BOOSTED BY BECOMING A REGISTERED FIRMUS ENERGY INSTALLER WHILE MAJOR PLANS FOR THE ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE AND CRAIGAVON AREA ARE UNVEILED…

Top marks for McCusker’s 75th customer connection

S

ince becoming a registered firmus energy installer just over a year ago, John McCusker of McCusker Gas Appliance & Oil Boiler Services of Newry has connected 75 customers in and around the Newry area to natural gas.

With 2016 marking 25 years in the plumbing business for John, the boost from the additional 75 firmus energy connections has given him even more reason to celebrate.

John commented, “Since I became a registered firmus energy installer, the additional gas connections coming in have been great. With efficient boilers and many practical advantages, converting to natural gas is continuing to be a popular choice for people in the area.

“We are very busy in and around Newry and I am extremely happy about that as I know many businesses have not been as fortunate since the recession hit.”

Retired teacher, Ronnie Hollywood from Newry, recently had his house converted to natural gas by John.

He commented, “The conversion to firmus energy was extremely easy and John did a great job of the work in my home. I am particularly enjoying having instant hot water as my family all love showers and it is great not having to wait for the water to heat. I also love knowing that I will never run out of fuel and no oil tank gives me a bit of extra room in my garden. My house is cosier than ever, which has been lovely during the colder months.”

Gavin Twamley, from firmus energy, added, “We are delighted that, as well as customers benefiting from the many advantages of

John McCusker from McCusker Gas Appliance & Oil Boiler Services (centre) with Ronnie Hollywood (left), one of the 75 customers he has connected to natural gas in the last year, and Gavin Twamley of firmus energy.

natural gas, local installers are also reaping rewards from firmus energy.

“In Newry alone, almost 2,000 customers have switched to natural gas so far and with more than 8,000 additional homes and businesses with the potential to connect over the next five years, John may find himself busier than ever!”

The information sessions have also been continuing, with one of the latest events held in The Stables Bar, Lurgan.

With more than 6,000 customers in the Armagh, Craigavon and Banbridge Council area and a further potential 44,759 properties that will be able to connect to natural gas in the next five years, the event, which was open to homeowners, businesses and elected representatives, allowed attendees to find out more about how and when they might be able to access the fuel source. firmus energy has major plans for the area, intending to lay an additional 430km of gas mains across Armagh,

At the recent information session in Lurgan are (from left) Ian Anderson of Ideal Boilers, with Michelle Coleman of firmus energy and Kieran Downey of KD Plumbing and Heating.

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Banbridge and Craigavon by 2021, which equates to an infrastructure investment of £24.4m.

Michelle Coleman of firmus energy, explained, “We would like to thank the local elected representatives, home-owners and businesses from the area that came along to find out more about the development of our network and how properties can connect to natural gas.

“Our fuel brings many benefits including the convenience of a constant supply of energy, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, no need for storage facilities or the worry of ordering or running out of natural gas. Available to both commercial and residential customers, the fuel also helps to increase energy efficiency and is environmentally-friendly.”

To find out more about natural gas and how to connect, visit www.firmusenergy. co.uk. For further information on McCusker Gas Appliance & Oil Boiler Services, visit their facebook page at www.facebook.com/McCuskerboilers.

“We are delighted that, as well as customers benefiting from the many advantages of natural gas, local installers are also reaping rewards from firmus energy.”

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 7

COVER STORY – ALTECNIC

THE NEW H RANGE OF HIGH TEMPERATURE PRESSURE REDUCING VALVES IS BASED ON CALEFFI GROUP’S ALREADY SUCCESSFUL RANGE OF RELIABLE, PRECISE AND INSTALLER FRIENDLY PRVS…

NEW FOR

2016 T

here is a common misapprehension that high pressure water systems are desirable. Certainly, low-pressure can be unsatisfactory, for example, in showers that dribble instead of drenching!

However, too much pressure puts unnecessary load on plumbing installations including joints, taps, washers and greatly increases the risk of leaks and burst hoses on everything from dishwashers to water heaters and other appliances.

Additionally, the well-known ‘water hammer’ effect is exacerbated with attendant risk of damage to major components including boilers.

Pressure control in all plumbing systems is therefore critical.

Devices such as pressure reducing valves, usually installed on the cold mains inlet, reduce and stabilise the pressure entering a network from a public supply. But what if the inlet is high temperature and high pressure?

New for 2016, the H range of high temperature pressure reducing valves is based on Caleffi group’s already successful range of reliable, precise and installer friendly PRVs. The H range of

“Caleffi’s H range of valves has been designed and built with superb reliability offering superior flow rate with minimal noise levels.”

8 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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COVER STORY – ALTECNIC

The H range of PRVs offer the same standard of excellence without compromising on temperature or flow control performance.

PRVs offer the same standard of excellence without compromising on temperature or flow control performance. Critical to the safe and efficient functioning of PRVs is both stable downstream pressures and importantly in household installations, low noise.

Caleffi’s H range of valves, as with the standard range, has been designed and built with superb reliability offering superior flow rate with minimal noise levels, key in domestic and commercial arenas.

The H range is an ideal choice as a premium performance PRV, as it is perfectly suitable for use on both hot and cold water high pressure systems, boosted mains and closed circuits. Caleffi has meticulously developed the valve to meet the highest standards, no matter the application, providing the same quality assurance the plumbing industry has come to expect as standard from the Caleffi group.

Unlike other PRVs of similar appearance, the Caleffi 533 and 535 H ranges are designed for higher temperature applications up to 80°C and are certified under the stringent EN1567.

Following on from Altecnic’s drive for authentic, assured and accredited products, the company now provides the same level of excellence seen in the existing range of pressure reducing valves, but with the service and back-up expected from a market leader. Thanks to this, specifiers, original equipment manufacturers and the whole HVAC industry can be assured of an industry leading valve in both manufacture and support.

Caleffi manufactures the H range from brass bar and pellet plastic in the company’s own factories in northern Italy. Caleffi’s dedication to high-quality manufacturing is second-to-none as can be seen in the company’s attention to detail, even down to a stainless steel strainer, integral to guard against external damage to the diaphragm and stainless steel stem housing.

This also makes servicing and maintenance of the valve easy, reducing on going lifetime costs for both the installer and end-user.

Inferior valves may look similar but the

“Unlike other PRVs of similar appearance, the Caleffi 533 and 535 H ranges are designed for higher temperature applications up to 80oC and are certified under the stringent EN1567.”

Caleffi H range of valves utilises premium materials in construction and allows trouble free installation, commissioning and servicing. This ease of use is paramount, making the H range quick and simple for installers to adjust and set.

So, when you’re installing or specifying a PRV, fit the best and ensure that your installation has full WRAS approval and EN1567 compliance with the new Caleffi H range from Altecnic.

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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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 9

PLUMB POWER HEAT LIGHT EXPO

INVITING PLUMBING AND HEATING INSTALLERS, BATHROOM FITTERS, M&E CONTRACTORS, M&E CONSULTANTS, MECHANICAL ENGINEERS AND FACILITIES MANAGERS TO THE INDUSTRY’S LARGEST GATHERING IN IRELAND…

Work smarter, not harder with Plumb Power Heat Light

T

he adage ‘Work smarter, not harder’ is perfect for the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo, which takes place at the new Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast, on September 7-8, 2016.

Ireland’s largest gathering of the plumbing, heating, mechanical and bathroom sectors has been designed to provide visitors with access to all the latest products and technologies from a diverse range of manufacturers and suppliers.

The emphasis of the 150 exhibitors at this unique event is on providing visitors with an insight into new innovations that will save you time and money, both in terms of energy-efficient products and product developments that will reduce installation times. This will include exhibitors representing the oil, gas, renewables and bathroom sectors.

The array of world-class exhibitors will be enhanced by a series of free seminars and complemented with specialist areas such as a dedicated heat zone, room sets that will showcase commercial and domestic applications, a business section, tool area and a van/4x4 zone.

Plumb Power Heat Light will also help

your company to foster closer working relationships with experts from a diverse range of specialist areas as well as giving you the opportunity to network with attendees ranging from architects, building contractors, M&E contractors and consultants through representatives of Government, public and private sectors, including those in agri-food, education, health, leisure, manufacturing, social housing and tourism.

Overall, this is an excellent event where partnerships between the mechanical, electrical and building industries can materialise, helping everyone involved in the wider construction industry to excel in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain.

As well as plumbing and heating installers, bathroom fitters, M&E contractors, M&E consultants, mechanical engineers and facilities managers, Plumb Power Heat Light will attract a range of fellow construction professionals. Basically, if you are involved in designing, specifying, maintaining or managing a building then you will benefit from attending the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo.

GAIN ACCESS TO ALL THE LATEST PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES FROM A DIVERSE RANGE OF MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS

• Air conditioning • Climate control • Energy monitoring equipment • Energy saving products • Heating and ventilation • Plumbing • Pipes and fittings

REGISTER NOW TO VISIT www.plumbingmag.com For more information contact T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

10 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

• Sanitary ware

2 DAY EVENT

• Solar power • Tools and testing equipment • Training • Wind power • Vans/4x4’s

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A BRAND NEW

EXHIBITION SHOWCASING PLUMBING, HEATING & MECHANICAL SOLUTIONS

EXPO

2016

THURS

WED

PLUMB POWER HEAT LIGHT

0708 4-9PM 10-4PM

SEPTEMBER TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE

BELFAST

To visit go to www.plumbingmag.com

or T: +44 (0)28 9261 2990

1

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

www.ptsplumbing.co.uk NORTHERN IRELAND • BELFAST • DUNCRUE • ENNISKILLEN • LISBURN • DERRY • NEWRY

ER SE TOM RV US I C

SPARES AVAILABLE Our unique product identification system available to all our customers.

Ask at trade counter for more details. www.mispares.com

107-127 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, County Antrim BT12 4GL. 36-38 Duncrue Road, Belfast BT3 9BP. 131 Sligo Road, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT74 7JZ. Unit 1, Ballinderry Business Park, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn BT28 2SA. Unit 11a, College Business Park, 40 Springtown Industrial Estate, Derry BT48 0LY. Unit 8, Carnbane Business Park, Tandragee Road, Newry BT35 6QJ.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND • DUBLIN Unit 1, Block K, Ballymount Industrial Estate, Dublin 1

WINNER

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The trade’s local plumbing and heating supplier

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

T: 00353 (1)456 8530

EVENTS

RELIANCE WORLDWIDE CORPORATION UK (RWC UK) LTD IS NOW OFFERING RIBA-APPROVED CPDs…

Seminar highlights the benefits of the award-winning Radiance®

R

WC UK recently held a seminar to highlight the benefits of the company’s award-winning Radiance® Thermal Interface Unit.

Hosted at Malmaison Belfast, customers heard from Carsten Schlemm, Senior Engineer for TIUs, and Stuart Harron, Sales Director, Ireland, about the high energy and performance levels of this range.

Manufactured for use as part of a community heating network to control the delivery of domestic hot water and heating (or cooling) to individual properties, the Radiance range offers six different types of base units.

These are suitable for instantaneous or storage systems, as well as a cooling unit, although most products are manufactured to meet customers’ specific project requirements.

Unlike alternative products on the market which are adapted from European designs, Radiance® TIUs are designed and built in the UK to meet the specific requirements of UK hot water systems and are WRAS approved.

The Radiance range of TIUs is backed up by RWC UK’s Construction CPD Service and RIBA approved CPD scheme, and covers all aspects of TIU selection and installation for community heating networks. Radiance was recently Highly Commended in the Innovative Product of the Year category at Northern

Ireland’s Plumbing and Heating Awards and was shortlisted for the H&V News Awards.

The units are ‘demand controlled’ which ensures water only flows through the unit when there is a requirement for heat or hot water. Radiance TIUs also incorporate a unique, patented spring loaded expansion vessel, which is maintenance-free and offers unrivalled extended lifetime high performance.

All Radiance TIUs are fully traceable with a unique serial number marked on every unit, making routine maintenance or repairs easy to track.

RWC UK offers a complete system design, backed by expert technical support and accredited CPD courses. Manufactured in the UK, to UK specifications, Radiance TIUs can be relied upon to meet the requirements of any job.

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 07881 274917 E: garth.walsh@rwc.com T: Ray Buckley, Regional Sales Manager, Republic of Ireland, on 00353 879 195 569 E: ray.buckley@rwc.com W: www.rwc.co.uk

RWC UK’s Garth Walsh, Stuart Harron and Carsten Schlemm hosted the Radiance seminar.

Brendan and Kevin McElhenna, Newline Services.

Carsten Schiemm, RWC UK, (left) with William Broadhurst, Clanmill Housing Group.

Garth Walsh, RWC, (back) with Steve Houghton, Power Group, and Mervyn Smyth, University of Ulster.

Football fever boosts Children’s Burns Trust charity

All the competitors at the inaugural RWC UK football tournament.

Plumb Center - the winning team!

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The Plumbmaster team finished second.

The inaugural football competition hosted

by RWC UK Ltd has raised £500 money for the Children’s Burns Trust (CBT) - a national charity dedicated to providing rehabilitation support for burned and scald injured children and their families.

Plumb Center won the competition ahead of Plumbmaster. Other teams taking part at the competition at Seaview included Beggs & Partners, PTS,Glenhill Merchants, Bassetts and Clanmil Housing Group.

Stuart Harron, Sales Director for Ireland, said, “We want to thank everyone for a great day and for supporting CBT. We hope after this success that we can now make this an annual event.”

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 13

NEWS

PEGLER YORKSHIRE REWARDS LOYALTY

I

Paul Clancy, Managing Director at Baxi Potterton Myson, (front row, second from left) with colleagues who raised €3,000 for charity during the Inishowen 100.

TOUR DE INISHOWEN RAISES €3,000 FOR CHARITY Paul Clancy, Managing Director at Baxi Potterton Myson, played a big role in organising a charity cycle around the Inishowen 100 recently.

Held by Inish Cycling Club - Paul’s own club of which he is the chairperson - on May 14, conditions were perfect for the 40 cyclists who took part from various cycling clubs in Cavan and Belfast, with light winds and sunny weather.

Although it was the same weekend that filming for the new Star Wars movie was taking place around Malin Head, none of the cyclists managed to catch a glimpse of the cast. A very difficult cycle with lots of hills along the 160km route, participants set off at 9am that morning and completed the cycle at about 4.30pm.

Approximately €3,000 was raised for two charities – Alzheimer’s Unit Carn and Zest Mental Health. Paul and some colleagues from Baxi also recently took on the Ring of Kerry on July 2. At 180km this was an even longer route than the Inishowen 100 but thankfully with a lot less hills to scale!

T: 01 4590870 www.baxipottertonmyson.ie

n an era of consumerism, surprisingly very little is offered for brand loyalty, even for products purchased day in day out.

Pegler Yorkshire, however, leading plumbing and heating products manufacturer, recognises the need to support small, independent installers and has launched its own PY Installer Club that simply rewards each and every purchase from its entire range of brands.

The Pegler Yorkshire Installer Club has been entirely developed with today’s busy installer in mind. Based around the use of an app, the club provides a simple, save and redeem system offering a cash value or free product to the value of points collected.

By registering with My PY on the company’s website, installers are able to directly download the app which is compatible with a range of smart phones including, android, iPhone and Windows. Once this is complete the money saving process can begin.

The process works by using the smart phone’s camera, installers take a photograph of their invoice which includes a Pegler Yorkshire product, click, submit and the job is done! The invoice will be verified by the team at Pegler Yorkshire and once approved the points will be added to your account. Installers are able to track and redeem the points at any time.

After the verification of the submitted invoices installers can choose to transpose the value of their points to either cash back which equates to 2.5% of points earned or free product which equates to 5% of points earned.

All Pegler Yorkshire products and brands are included in the scheme including the popular Tectite push-fit range and renowned Terrier TRVs. For further information regarding Pegler Yorkshire and to register for the Installer club visit www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk and click the My PY link.

CSO SAYS ELECTRICITY USED TO HEAT 62% OF BUILDINGS IN Q1 Electricity was the most prevalent heating system for buildings in Ireland during the first three months of the year, according to latest figures from the Central Statistics Office.

A total of 62% of all buildings were heated using electricity, while mains gas was next with 25% coverage. Heating oil was used in 10% of buildings as the main source of heating. In addition, four out of every five retail units were heated using electricity in the first quarter of the year.

Recent figures from Vayu Energy showed the average wholesale price of electricity in the Irish market was down 30% compared with the same month last year, while wholesale gas prices are 37% lower than they were this time last year. In relation to energy ratings, the CSO figures show a high proportion of ‘G’ ratings.

Learn more about these statistics by visiting www.cso.ie

14 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

“The Pegler Yorkshire Installer Club has been entirely developed with today’s busy installer in mind.”

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NEW PRODUCT

REINFORCING ITS POSITION AS AN INDUSTRY LEADER, GRANT ENGINEERING HAS ANNOUNCED A SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT INTO THE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW STATE-OFTHE-ART NEW HEATING APPLIANCE, THE GRANT VORTEXAIR OIL BOILER HEAT PUMP HYBRID…

Grant announces innovative product expansion

S

et to revolutionise the heating industry, the Grant VortexAir Hybrid combines the trusted attributes of Grant’s patented Vortex technology with the green advantage of an Aerona³ inverter driven air-source heat pump, which Grant has sold for many years as a standalone heat pump in the UK. The unit comprises of the Grant Vortex Blue Max condensing oil boiler and the latest Grant air-source heat pump. By using two heat sources to maximise system efficiency, the VortexAir Hybrid offers an innovative solution to homeowners off the gas grid when seeking a sustainable alternative to boiler replacements with minimal disruption to the home. It also helps those building a new home to meet renewable obligations as required under building regulations.

Grant Engineering Founder, Stephen Grant, said, “The launch of our new technologies signals the rapid growth that Grant is currently experiencing, as demand for our high quality, reliable, and innovative heating solutions continues to increase both locally and on an international level.

“These new lines also demonstrate our proactive approach to maintaining marketplace competitiveness and upholding Grant’s leading position at the forefront of heating and energy technology manufacturing in Ireland.”

The new Grant VortexAir Hybrid will be available from plumbing and heating merchants throughout Ireland from September 2016.

T: (NI) 0800 2794 796 or (RoI) 057 9120 089 W: www.grantni.com or www.grantengineering.ie

Key Features...

KEY FEATURES OF THE NEW GRANT VORTEXAIR HYBRID INCLUDE: • Designed by Grant Engineering • Easy to install • 16kW Oil Boiler / 16kW ASHP • The boiler can be installed as a stand-alone unit • The heat pump can be fitted at a later date • Householder always has back-up heating • Offers householders a choice of fuels • Very latest blue flame technology • Heat pump ErP rating A++ • Oil boiler ErP rating A

“These new lines also demonstrate our proactive approach to maintaining marketplace competitiveness and upholding Grant’s leading position at the forefront of heating and energy technology manufacturing in Ireland.” www.plumbingmag.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 17

TRAINING

SOME COMPANIES AREN’T RELYING ON THE GOVERNMENT TO SORT OUT THE SKILLS SHORTAGE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY. WE SPOKE WITH MERCURY ENGINEERING ABOUT THE VARIOUS INITIATIVES THAT HAVE BEEN PUT IN PLACE TO ENCOURAGE TAKE-UP OF APPRENTICES AND GRADUATES...

The future is bright at Mercury

I

t seems that the training issue within the construction sector is finally being tackled.

The CIF is being proactive by engaging with Solas on several innovative approaches to upskill people and get them on sites as quickly and safely as possible. The “Shared Apprenticeship Scheme” which has been rolled out in Wexford lets apprentices work with a number of companies whilst developing essential skills. A new website - www.apprentices.ie - that aims to match employers and job seekers to suitable apprenticeships across the country has also been launched. Solas is aiming to replicate the success of the apprenticeship model in Switzerland, where 70% of all 15-19-yearolds participate in an apprenticeship.

Whether Solas is entirely successful or not with its plan to replicate the Swiss apprentice model, construction firms at home are forging ahead with their own

schemes to ensure they have enough apprentices to carry out work. Mercury Engineering runs a number of schemes and scholarships that are intended to develop careers within the firm and create the foremen and project managers of the future that will continue to drive the company and ensure it remains at the top of its game.

One such scheme is a recognition award system says Joanne Cluxton, Human Resources Manager at Mercury Engineering, a programme that’s been running for the past five years. At the end of each year, a nomination form made up of seven categories is sent out to all foremen who have the opportunity to nominate an apprentice of their choice. Categories include overall electrical apprentice, overall mechanical apprentice, safety quality performance, productivity, most improved apprentice, newcomer in the past year

who’s made the greatest impact and finally, apprentice who fully endorses Mercury’s values. Nomination forms will be assessed by a committee in head office and winners will be chosen once exam results from Solas and other criteria such as attitude and attendance are taken into consideration.

“We hold an awards ceremony every December where winners are presented with a certificate by CEO Eoin Vaughan along with a One4all voucher. It’s a really worthwhile scheme and we’ve found that our apprentices really engage with it.”

Mercury also runs an apprentice scholarship scheme, whereby the successful applicant will continue their apprenticeship while doing a part-time course in the evenings or weekends in their chosen field. “At the end of their apprenticeship they won’t be just a qualified tradesperson; they’ll also have a higher certificate in their chosen area. At

“We want to ensure they’re the best in the business and that we retain them after their apprenticeship.”

18 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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TRAINING

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE SPOKE WITH A PLUMBER AND A PACKAGE LEAD WHO COMPLETED THEIR APPRENTICESHIP WITH MERCURY ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES

the end of their course, we guarantee to offer the apprentice a contract in their chosen area as a junior.”

Currently in his third year of an electrical apprentice at Mercury, Sean O’Sullivan applied for the scholarship scheme in the planning category. “My application was successful so I’ll be starting in September. I’m really delighted, it’s such a good opportunity. I’ve always been interested in the business aspect of things so I chose the planning category as it involved scheduling and budgeting etc. I’ll be starting a higher certificate in building services in DIT in September on a part-time basis.” Mercury will pay for all of Sean’s college fees and will also offer him a full-time salaried position in his chosen category, once he passes all his exams. “Mercury is going to invest money, time and training in me.

The company doesn’t want to invest this money and have me walk off when I have my degree so it makes sense to offer me a role once I’m fully qualified.”

Throughout his apprenticeship so far, Sean has had the chance to work on a range of projects across several sectors. He started off on Intel in Kildare and he’s currently working on the new incinerator in Ringsend. “I’ve never been on temporary lay-off, Mercury has seen me through my whole apprenticeship with solid work. I’ve never had any reason to worry.”

Mercury has just started to recruit electrical

apprentices for the first time in two years. “We don’t take on too many when we know we won’t have the work for them. We take enough apprentices so that we can keep them in employment on an ongoing basis,” says Joanne.

Other initiatives at Mercury include a workshop training scheme for apprentices, currently in planning. This will involve upskilling apprentices who aren’t on a scholarship and ensuring they’re rotated across several different sites and sectors.

Mercury’s two-year graduate programme has been running since 2009. This year, the firm is looking to take on 25 third level graduates.

“Selected graduates are given a group project to work on which is chosen by senior management within Mercury. At the end of six months, they present their project to senior management over three days. Six months later they come back for another block of training which is all put together through Engineers Ireland.”

“Bringing apprentices through for four years and then finishing with them isn’t the goal at Mercury.

We want them to finish their apprenticeship with us and bring them into other roles within the business, whether that’s in an engineering capacity or in a trade capacity. We want to ensure they’re the best in the business and that we retain them after their apprenticeship. In time they’ll become our foremen or project managers and continue to progress within the company.”

Paul O’Brien, Package Lead, Mercury UK After completing his apprenticeship with Mercury, Paul worked as an electrician, a chargehand, a foreman and is now working with Mercury in the UK as a package lead.

“I did my apprenticeship from 2001 to 2005. If you’re good and if you show a bit of initiative, Mercury will keep you on. I started on the Corrib project in Mayo as a chargehand and then went to Intel as a foreman.

I’m now in the UK having taken up another new role as a package manager. This project will last six months but there’s plenty of other work around; I’m confident I’ll end up somewhere else.”

Ciaran Bissett, Pipefitter/ Plumber, Mercury Ciaran completed his plumbing apprenticeship with Mercury and is now working as a pipefitter/plumber. “With Mercury, you get your travel expenses, your entitlements and pension. That’s not to mention the opportunities you’re offered. I’m just back from Israel where I was working on a Mercury project for the past two months.

I’m now in Bristol-Myers Squibb in Blanchardstown.

If the work is there, you’re guaranteed a job when you finish your apprenticeship and there’s a lot to be said for that. I was let go for a few months when work was scarce but it’s looking good at the moment.”

Mercury Engineering, Mercury House, Ravens Rock Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate, Dublin, D18 XH79 T: (RoI) 01 2163000 or (NI) 00353 1 2163000 - E: info@mercuryeng.com www.mercuryeng.com/ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 19

COMPANY NEWS

Personnel from C&F Quadrant, Vaillant Group (from left) Tadhg Moriarty, C&F Quadrant; Ray Keen, Tim Nichols, Catherine Russell and Stevie Gray, all from Vaillant Group; Fintan Kennedy and Conor Gaffney, both from C&F Quadrant; and Jonathan Cluskey, Vaillant Group.

ALREADY IN DEMAND AND CREATING A STIR IN THE INDUSTRY, VAILLANT BOILERS ARE NOW EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE IN IRELAND THROUGH C&F QUADRANT…

Vaillant boilers - proudly stocked by C&F Quadrant

A

lthough C&F Quadrant has always distributed Glow-worm boilers (part of Vaillant Group) and can boast a 40-year partnership with the brand, this partnership has recently been strengthened with the addition of Vaillant domestic and commercial boilers to the C&F Quadrant portfolio.

Glow-worm’s heritage spans 75 years in the heating business and today, the brand’s heating solutions include not just domestic gas boilers but also hot water cylinders and intelligent domestic controls.

The Vaillant brand is a worthy addition to C&F Quadrant’s range and will satisfy the entire heating and plumbing trade in domestic and commercial heating products.

A premium brand, Vaillant offers domestic boilers, renewable solutions and a portfolio of intelligent heating controls, including the vSMART heating control that allows users to control their heating and hot water requirements at any time, from anywhere using their smart phone.

The domestic range includes the ecoTEC plus range of high-efficiency boilers which combines impressive efficiency levels and high performance with great usability,

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coming in combination, system and open vent models.

Thanks to continuous modulation and real combustion control by a multi-sensor system, they achieve high efficiency at the lowest emissions.

Benefits of the German engineering include reliable, proven components, including stainless steel heat exchanger, and built-in two-stage frost protection, ensuring optimal performance all year round and a wide modulation range of up to 1:6. A Quiet Mark accreditation and a step-by-step wizard to ensure easy installation also help to make these boilers the most premium in the market.

The products within the Vaillant Group portfolio are underpinned by C&F Quadrant’s dedicated warranty and technical support network for both brands.

Comprehensive training courses are also available at a new state-of-the-art training centre for both Vaillant and Glow-worm products in C&F Quadrant’s head office in Ballyfermot. Courses are available free of charge to installers.

“We’ve always had a lot of interest in training courses on our Glow-worm products and

we’re already noticing a surge in enquiries about classes dealing specifically with Vaillant boilers,” says Ray Keen, Vaillant Group National Sales Manager in Ireland.

C&F Quadrant also has display centres at various stockists around the country, allowing the merchant to carry out local and focused training to suit those outside the Dublin area.

According to Ray, once the company began supplying Vaillant commercial boilers and renewable solutions, it was a natural progression for C&F Quadrant to also take on the domestic portfolio.

“We’re delighted that C&F Quadrant is sustaining the excellent relationship that already exists with Vaillant Group.

Not only will the company continue to stock the Glow-worm brand but it will now extend that relationship with our extensive range of Vaillant boilers. Going forward, we’re hoping for and expect great things as the Vaillant brand becomes available on the mainstream marketplace throughout Ireland.”

T: Ray Keen, Vaillant Group National Sales Manager in Ireland, on (RoI) 0044 7803 079023 www.vaillant.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 21

COMPANY NEWS

St Mary’s Newtownabbey U8 coaches and players receiving their new kit from Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director, Plumbmaster.

Celebrating the official launch of Plumbmaster Lisburn.

Newry City Runners are presented with their new Plumbmaster sponsored vests.

One of the Newry City Runners in his new Plumbmaster sponsored running vest.

Staff from Plumbmaster pictured during a recent visit to the Worcester Bosch factory.

PLUMBING AND HEATING INDUSTRY AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS ARE ALL BENEFITTING FROM THE NEW-LOOK PLUMBING AND HEATING MERCHANTS…

Positive response to Plumbmaster

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ustomers are continuing to respond positively to the launch of Plumbmaster – Haldane Fisher’s new specialist division for the plumbing and heating sector.

The complete rebranding of every Haldane Fisher plumbing and heating department will be completed by the end of July. The physical changes in each branch have included new vans, signage and uniforms but this is being backed by a new fleet of Plumbmaster vans. In addition, a new 40ft curtain sider lorry and a new website are set to be unveiled later this summer.

Eamonn McCarthy, Associate Director of Plumbing & Heating at Plumbmaster, said, “We are delighted that the launch of Plumbmaster has brought such a positive response, both from our suppliers and, just as importantly, our customers.

“Even though we have been successfully operating a plumbing and heating division for many years, the launch of Plumbmaster

has put a real focus on the many benefits we can offer plumbing and heating customers.”

One of the benefits of Plumbmaster is that account holders can now enjoy favourable trading terms on the entire Haldane Fisher product range, including timber, building materials, hand tools, power tools, doors, floors and much more.

“An old adage of Haldane Fisher was ‘One call covers all’ and that has never been more relevant than now,” added Eamonn.

“Being able to benefit from the Haldane Fisher product range on improved terms is a real bonus while the addition of our seventh Plumbmaster van and the new curtain-sider to our fleet will all help to further enhance our service.”

He continued, “As each branch has been completed we have hosted an official launch event and these promotions will continue as we move forward. We are adding to our product range all the time

and the launch of Plumbmaster has also re-energised our staff, who have really got behind the whole process.

“We recently took part in a factory visit with Worcester Bosch and our training on new products has continued with manufacturers. All this will add to the considerable expertise and experience our staff already have and, in turn, benefit our customers.”

The company has also been supporting the local community, with Plumb Master sponsoring a team of 16 local runners who took part in the Virgin London Marathon, the Newry City Runners and St Mary’s Newtownabbey Under 8 football team.

Plumbmaster has also teamed up with Rothenberger for a Euro 2016 promotion that has included table football in each branch alongside a sweepstake. This promotion will see a donation made to the Energy for Children charity alongside the donation of the football tables.

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 | 23

BOILERS

The Technical Services & Specification Team at Heat Merchants.

UNDER THE ENERGY SAVING CREDIT SCHEME, HEAT MERCHANTS CUSTOMERS CAN NOW EARN UP TO €460 CREDIT TO THEIR ACCOUNT EVERY TIME THEY REPLACE A BOILER...

Claim credits with Heat Merchants when you replace a boiler

H

eat Merchants is operating the Energy Saving Credit Scheme in partnership with Bord Gáis Energy to help installers and customers avail of the incentives which were put in place to help Ireland reach the Energy Saving targets set by the EU. To avail of the €460 credit to their account every time they replace a boiler, participants must register with Heat Merchants and submit a claim form from each installation detailing the customer’s MPRN number.

This is then submitted to the SEAI for approval and payment is issued via a credit to the installers trade account.

Credits are awarded for upgrades to existing dwellings only.

TECHNICAL SERVICES & SPECIFICATION TEAM The Heat Merchants Technical Services & Specification team has been extended, with eight engineers and estimators now available to provide a heating and plumbing system design service for both domestic dwellings and commercial buildings.

The team, headed up by Paul Kane, has full professional indemnity insurance and can provide ancillary certification for projects. Pat Smith has recently been appointed National Technical Service Engineer who will be available to offer commissioning, on-site technical support and after sales service.

Technical design services available from Heat Merchants include: • • • • • • • •

Mechanical services system design Renewable Energy Specification Ventilation & Air Conditioning Equipment specification and sizing Commissioning service Ancillary certification Technical support for installers Estimation service for commercial and multi- residential projects

If you are interested in signing up for the Energy Saving Credit Scheme or to speak to the Technical Services and Specification Team, contact the Heat Merchants Customer Support centre on (RoI) 090 6442300 or (NI) 00353 90 6442300 or e-mail customersupport@heatmerchants.ie.

Alternatively, visit www.heatmerchants.ie

“Heat Merchants is operating the Energy Saving Credit Scheme in partnership with Bord Gáis Energy.” www.plumbingmag.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 25

COMPANY NEWS

Irwin’s new mechanical division will provide the complete M&E service

The award-winning 5G Innovation Centre for the university of Surrey an example of the M&E services now available from Irwin M&E Limited.

MECHNICAL, ELECTRICAL AND INTEGRATED FM SERVICES NOW AVAILABILE FROM IRWIN…

I

rwin Electrical has marked the company’s 20th anniversary by expanding into the mechanical sector and now offering a complete M&E service.

Now known as Irwin M&E Limited, the company has officially launched a mechanical division that will build on its growing success in this area.

Richard Megarity, Operations Director at Irwin M&E, explained, “This was a logical next step for us and we are now offering mechanical services alongside our established expertise in the electrical and integrated FM sectors.

Both in terms of new build and maintenance contracts, the industry is now moving towards a more integrated approach with regards to M&E, so it is important that we are now able to react to this demand.

“We have already completed a number of mechanical contracts, including the Cadogan Place Apartments in London, the award-winning 5G Innovation Centre for the University of Surrey; and 4-5 Park Place, London, while we are two years into the Education Authority Western Region M&E term service contract, so we have a proven track record.”

Heading up the new mechanical division at Irwin M&E is Glenn Coburn, Senior Mechanical Contracts Manager, who has been appointed recently alongside a number of new

mechanical personnel.

“I am really looking forward to the new challenge at Irwin M&E,” said Glenn. “The company’s past success in the mechanical sector has provided us with a solid foundation to build on and we are already very busy, which is a great sign.”

The mechanical division will enhance an already impressive service from Irwin M&E, which now includes mechanical and electrical installations for new build and restoration/ refurbishment projects alongside maintenance and compliance testing services. Irwin M&E Limited has also integrated BIM into its services and has combined this with the latest 3D software and CAD technology.

The company prides itself on building strong relationships with clients and, according to Managing Director, Keith Stewart, that will continue.

“In the electrical sector we are known for going the extra mile and that will continue with our mechanical services,” he said. "It is that personal touch sets us aside. We are competitive on price and we provide high quality services, but we also think long-term to ensure we are in a prime position to look ahead confidently.”

T: (NI) 028 028 3839 7990 or (RoI) 048 3839 7990 www.irwinm-e.com

New website launched To coincide with the company’s 20th anniversary and the launch of the new mechanical division, Irwin M&E has unveiled the company’s new website.

“As we secure more work outside Northern Ireland it is important that we get our corporate message out there and the easiest way to do this is via our website,” explained Keith Stewart, Managing Director. “It coincides with the unveiling of our new name and logo and provides an insight into our company and our projects.”

Visit the new website at www.irwinm-e.com

THE LAUNCH OF IRWIN M&E LIMITED IS SUPPORTED BY THESE COMPANIES -

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COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

focus on

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING THIS IN-DEPTH FEATURE INCLUDES CASE STUDIES AND TIPS ON SELECTING THE RIGHT WATER HEATING TO CONTRACTOR SUPPORT AND THE BENEFITS OF BOILER CASCADES... g

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 27

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

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

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

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

WORKING WITH MAURICE STEVENSON LTD, C&F QUADRANT SUPPLIES THE IMPRESSIVE ACV HEATMASTER TO TWO SCHOOL PROJECTS IN BELFAST…

C&F Quadrant is top of the class!

C

&F Quadrant and Maurice Stevenson Ltd (MSL) have received top marks for their work on two education projects in Belfast.

The two companies worked together on recent projects at both Castlereagh Nursery School and Largymore Primary School, with the ACV HeatMaster 85TC again proving it is top of the class!

C&F Quadrant prides itself on the company’s ‘can-do’ attitude and this was again in evidence during these two projects.

Gavin Smyth, Contracts Manager at MSL, commented, “The team at C&F Quadrant are very straightforward to work with and also very reliable. We went to them with a detailed specification of what was required on both projects and they provided a bespoke solution that met this perfectly – and all at a competitive price.”

One of the main reasons why C&F Quadrant can offer complete solutions is the fact that the company only supplies products from leading manufacturers.

The Heatmaster TC (Total Condensing) range from ACV is the perfect example of this and, as C&F Quadrant has proved in recent years, it perfectly meets the requirements of a school where dependability is essential.

The HeatMaster TC not only features exceptional efficiency, but it is designed to cope with hot water demands for larger properties and commercial applications.

This means superb mains pressure hot water delivery which is unrivalled in a boiler of this output, giving high volumes, fast recovery times and quick response to demand. These exceptional hot water outputs include in excess of 40-litres- per-minute.

In fact, the HeatMaster TC is actually the only storage combination boiler to fully condense during the hot water and heating modes. The secret to this success is the specially designed new stainless steel heat exchanger.

Maintenance is also an important consideration for contractors, and from this perspective the HeatMaster TC is clearly on the low category. The stainless steel heat exchanger is self-cleaning, ensuring that the boiler continues to function at maximum efficiency throughout its life, and, therefore, maintenance requirements for the heat exchanger are reduced.

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These various features all combine to provide a high-efficiency output. The stainless steel heat exchanger flue tubes are designed to reach an optimal heat exchange over their entire length. The HeatMaster TC reaches an exceptional continuous output throughout the lifespan of the boiler, since no oxidation occurs in the heat exchanger. Furthermore, the fuel consumption of the boiler is improved thanks to the reduced pressure loss in the flue tubes.

The HeatMaster TC is perfect for both new build projects and retrofit applications.

This is because this range of stainless steel gas condensing combination boilers is not a low water content boiler, meaning it performs admirably when connected to older, existing heating systems, therefore making an excellent choice for upgrades.

Key Facts...

Projects: Castlereagh Nursery School and Largymore Primary School Product: ACV Heatmaster 85TC

Supplied by: C&F Quadrant, Belfast.

T: 028 9036 5555 W: www.cfquadrant.ie

Contractor: Maurice Stevenson Ltd (MSL) T: 028 3832 7636 E: mech@mauricestevenson.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 29

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

A TOTAL OF 1,200M OF WAVIN TIGRIS K1 PIPE AND ASSOCIATED FITTINGS ARE INSTALLED DURING FAST-TRACK DUBLIN SCHOOL BUILD…

Top marks for the Wavin Tigris K1 30 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

AT A GLANCE The Esker Educate Together National School in Dublin was financed and constructed as part of the Department of Education and Skills’ Rapid Build Programme. The twostorey build consisted of 16 classrooms, six support teaching classrooms, a hall, library, staff room, two ball courts, a play area and associated ancillary accommodation.

Construction was completed within the planned 34-week and more than 1,200m of Wavin Tigris K1 pipe was installed during a 16-week period.

THE CHALLENGE This project was one of four newbuild school contracts awarded to ABM Construction by the Department of Education and Skills’ Rapid Build Programme. The design and build consortium planned a fast-track on-site construction duration of just 34 weeks to ensure the two-storey school – with a total area of 2,524sqm – was completed and operational in time for the start of the 2015/2016 academic year. A plumbing

solution that was quick and easy to install, cost effective and reliable was required – leading contractors to specify Wavin Tigris K1.

THE APPROACH A total of 1,200m of Wavin Tigris K1 pipe and associated fittings were installed on site. Sizes ranged from 16mm to 63mm.

In the larger sizes, namely 50mm and 63mm, Metal Bodied Fittings were supplied to accommodate the connection of K1’s plastic fittings with brass fittings. As Wavin Tigris K1 is a press-fit system, it features a lightweight, safe installation method that allowed the plumbing, soil and waste installation works to be completed in just 16 weeks.

THE BENEFITS With the design and build consortium planning such a fast-track construction programme, speed of installation – without compromising performance – was of particular importance. Wavin Tigris K1 has been specially designed with such

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requirements in mind. The flexible pipe means fewer fittings and faster, lower cost installations. Its quick, safe and proven press-fit system means no hot works insurance – and no soldering, welding or thread cutting – is needed.

The patented hexagonal nose reduces pushin force and will hold 2m of pipe unpressed, so installers don’t need to hold the pipe in position. Furthermore, the defined-leak window and visual connection checks give installers the peace of mind that secure connections have been made every time. It is for this reason among others that Wavin offers a 10-year guarantee that covers not just product replacement but the costs incurred during the process of repairing any damages, plus personal injury and any third party damages. This is unrivalled in the industry.

WHAT THEY SAY: Frank Lovett, Contracts Manager at Laurence Mechanical - “On successfully securing the contract, our experienced contracts managers and project managers

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took a look at the time scale on the project and it was very quickly determined we needed to look at alternative products to speed up this installation. Reviewing the products available on the market, our contracts managers could clearly see the benefits and quality that the Wavin Tigris K1 system offered. All of our employees were demonstrated the product, and the feedback from our employees was extremely positive in relation to the ease of use and speed of installation.

“We would highly recommend this product to any prospective installers or project design teams, we found Wavin to be very helpful and they have always made themselves available to us if required. We have no doubt that Wavin Tigris K1 will become a market leader within the industry and its use will become common place, with same trusted quality Wavin products provide.”

ABOUT WAVIN TIGRIS K1 Widely specified throughout Europe, Wavin Tigris K1 is proven and perfected to deliver

high performance and significant cost savings in a wide range of commercial plumbing and heating projects.

Its patented design has been relentlessly engineered to optimise all the benefits of a composite metal-plastic press-fit system and deliver the optimum solution for sanitary, potable water and heating applications, including re-circulating systems.

For more information about Wavin visit www.wavin.ie or email: ie.info@wavin.com

Key Facts...

Project: Esker Educate Together National School, Lucan, Co. Dublin, Ireland Product: Wavin Tigris K1 Contractor: Laurence Mechanical & ABM Construction Stakeholders: Department of Education and Skills

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 31

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

The Maxxflo from Andrews Water HEaters combines maximum performance with economic running costs.

Chris Meir, Andrews Water Heaters.

SALES DIRECTOR AT ANDREWS WATER HEATERS, CHRIS MEIR, PROVIDES SOME TIPS ON HOW TO SELECT A WATER HEATER THAT WILL STAY THE COURSE…

Worth the risk?

I

rish tourism is on the up and up. The latest figures show that the number of overnight trips by domestic and external visitors to Northern Ireland was up 11% to 4.5million1 in 2014, while reports suggest the Republic of Ireland had one of the highest occupancy rates in Europe last year2.

Building on these increased visitor numbers will be vital to the strengthening economy.

In part, success lies in ensuring the provision of essentials such as a reliable hot water system, and here, contractors can play a key role by helping customers to choose plant that will perform as required.

As with any application, if the system is to run efficiently and cope with demand, it is essential that the hot water system is sized correctly. It’s an approach that will help ensure that equipment operates as intended, and that subsequent maintenance is kept to a minimum.

One of the best ways to help ensure correct sizing of the system is to separate hot water from the heating system. Best practice is to position water heaters as close to the points of use as possible in order to both reduce the amount of energy required to pump hot water around the system, and limit heat losses from distribution pipework.

When building contingency into a hot water system, contractors have two main options – either to install multiple units, or to seek out a product with built-in redundancy.

Where there is space for multiple units, single-burner gas-fired storage water

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heaters can be a good solution, as they offer high rates of recovery.

However, where space or funds are limited, a model with multiple burners could be a better option, as each burner can work independently if the others fail.

The safety of customers and staff remains a priority for any commercial operation, and so business owners will be keen to know that certain water heaters can help to combat the risk of life-threatening Legionnaire’s disease.

Some offer an anti-legionella programme as standard, ensuring that the stored water is regularly heated to a temperature at which bacteria cannot survive. At the same time, some tanks are designed to prevent legionella colonisation, as water at the bottom of the tank reaches at least the same temperature as the rest of the stored water, avoiding the cultivation of cooler ‘layers’ where legionella would be able to thrive.

Features that increase turbulence to reduce thermal stacking are also a huge benefit, without which a de-stratification pump would normally be required.

From April this year, contractors tendering for centrally procured public projects in the UK will be required to use Building Information Modelling (BIM) Level 2. And while the same level of mandated use has yet to be seen in the Republic of Ireland, reports indicate that there is an appetite for standardisation3. Given that as a way of working it can pay dividends across the private sector too, it makes sense for contractors to choose a brand of water

heaters that offers the appropriate files in an easy-to-use format.

The plentiful supply of safe water is a business critical issue for many commercial organisations, especially in the leisure industry, and its loss can pose a serious reputational and health risk. Contractors can make an important difference by selecting water heaters that are built to perform and which remove risks to health and safety.

NI: Colin Kirkwood, ASM. Northern Ireland, T: 07717 896820 E: colin.kirkwood@baxi.co.uk W: www.andrewswaterheaters.co.uk RoI: Baxi Potterton Myson on 01 4590870 E: sales@potterton-myson.ie W: www.baxipottertonmyson.ie 1. https://www.detini.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/ deti/2014-Annual-publication.pdf 2. http://pdf.euro.savills.co.uk/ireland-research/market-inminutes/hotel-market-in-minutes-q1-2016-8pp-lr-final.pdf 3. http://www.ukconstructionmedia.co.uk/features/19788/

About Andrews Water Heaters g Andrews Water Heaters, part of Baxi Commercial, offers the widest range of products in the commercial water heater sector, and is the first choice for energy efficient water heating solutions for commercial, industrial and large residential properties.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 33

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

The Bassetts Commercial and Sanitaryware Sales Team.

DEDICATED COMMERCIAL AND SANITARYWARE TEAMS MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR M&E CONTRACTORS WORKING ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND AND BEYOND…

Fast and efficient contractor support at Bassetts

L

ast year’s decision by Bassetts to centralise the company’s dedicated commercial heating and sanitaryware teams has proved to be a superb success.

The two teams are now based at the company’s head office in Portadown, providing services such as estimating, project design and technical support to key clients working across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Alan Wright, Managing Director, Bassetts, said customers have benefitted from the change.

“Both the relocation and the addition of new members to these teams have further enhanced our efficiency and our customer service. By centralising our three sales teams, introducing new uniforms and refurbishing our head office building we have experienced a positive effect which has been passed on to our customers.

“A fast turnaround on estimates and quotes is as important as ensuring agreed delivery schedules are met and having the relevant commercial, sanitaryware and estimating staff in the same offices, along with staff who offer complementary services, makes this process simpler for everyone.”

Like the company’s domestic plumbing, heating and bathroom range, the commercial offering at Bassetts is exceptional.

Amongst others, commercial products at Bassetts include underfloor heating, Viessmann boilers, Grundfos pumps, Presstite MLCP pipe systems and the Pegler press Xpress pressfit system as well as products from Myson, Polypipe, Worcester and Kingspan.

Having such recognisable brands available is one thing, but backing that up with superb service is another. It is this aspect that Bassetts prides itself on.

The company works with leading M&E contractors across the province to help them develop bespoke solutions for a wide range of commercial projects.

Time is the biggest pressure that M&E contractors face and that is particularly evident in the commercial sector, where tight deadlines are a certainty of every project.

That is where the new streamlined service from Bassetts can make all the difference.

Alan added, “Having dedicated teams for commercial heating and sanitaryware along with specialists in renewables means contractors can work with one company to

cover a wide range of requirements.

“As we work closely with the manufacturers we represent, we can keep them up-to-date with the latest product developments that can help speed up the installation process.

Additional services such as estimating, project design and technical support can also help to highlight potential problems before contractors get on site.

“Overall, our entire service is based around making life easier for our customers and I hope these changes, along with ongoing initiatives, will continue to achieve this.”

Project success...

Recent commercial projects that Bassetts has been involved in include: • • • • • • • •

Tandragee Nursery School Dungannon Council offices Dungannon Park Creations, Belfast Carnmoney Church All Saints, Omagh Courthouse Bar, Lurgan Tuscanna Dentist

Bassetts (Head Office) 4 Mahon Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT62 3EH T: 028 3833 9438 – 14 branches across Northern Ireland www.bassettsonline.com

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COMMERCIAL PARTNERS Y O U R P R O J E C T I S O U R PA S S I O N

2016 PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR

bassettsonline.com

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

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

T: 028 9146 1111 - E: sales@gasproducts.co.uk www.gasproducts.co.uk

WIRELESS REPORTS FROM YOUR FGA TO YOUR MOBILE DEVICE.

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

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

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COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

More and more dairy farmers recognise the advantages of a Rinnai system.

IDEAL FOR THOSE WHO NEED HOT WATER ON DEMAND, RINNAI HOT WATER HEATERS ALSO SAVE ON ENERGY COSTS MAKING THEM THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR DAIRY FARMERS…

Rinnai proves perfect for dairy farmers

C

ontinuous hot water at a high temperature for a lower cost, whenever it’s required – that’s the promise Rinnai makes when it comes to its hot water systems.

Proving ideal for dairy farms, Rinnai hot water heaters have been installed by Calor Gas at farms up and down the country for the last few years.

“They really are ideal for dairy farmers who have to be mindful of heating their water overnight at 9.9 cents per kilowatt hour which they’ll then use in the morning. Once that water is used, they’ll need to heat more hot water and they’ll pay 18 cents per kilowatt hour for that privilege, whereas our solution would run continuously for about 8 cents per kilowatt hour. There’s a significant fuel saving there,” says Damien Shirkie at Calor Gas. Four Calor powered Infinity Rinnai water heaters were installed at Kilmurry Lodge Farm, Ballyneale, Co. Tipperary recently. An established dairy farm with a 210 head herd, the expansion required an upgraded water heating system for the farm’s new milking parlour.

Their pre-existing electrically powered installation wasn’t capable of providing

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enough hot water at a high enough temperature; the new solution provides consistently hot water at 85 degrees C which is required to wash milking lines up to twice daily and the bulk storage tank every second day. There’s also no such thing as hot water storage costs with the new system as water is only heated when required.

According to Damien, about 90% of the dairy farms in Ireland currently have electric storage.

“These farmers would have a 200 or 150 litre vessel that’s heated with an electric immersion. Dairy farms would normally hot wash the bulk storage tank every day and they also need to wash down the milking equipment. The problem is that when that 150 litre of hot water is gone, the recovery time to get another 150 litres could be three or four hours. With the Rinnai system, hot water is available continuously, on demand.”

Electric heating can also pose a problem wherein the dairy farmer might want to heat his hot water up to 70 or 80 degrees but as the water is run off the store, the temperature decreases.

“They’re unable to flush with water as hot as they would like. The Rinnai system allows

for temperatures of within one degree of what you require.”

With dairy farms now testing for thermoduric bacterium (bacteria which can survive, to varying extents, the pasteurisation process), it’s more important than ever to have hot water available at all times.

“Hot water helps to clean the system thoroughly and reduces the need for any chemicals being used on the site, helpful when dealing with thermoduric organisms.”

System installation is also straightforward.

Heaters can be fitted either as an internal unit or an external unit. Damien says the numbers of dairy farmers opting for Rinnai systems is increasing, partly because the cost is so competitive. “Retrofitting can be a bit more difficult and may end up being more of a cost to the farmer but we’re finding that there’s a lot of investment in milking parlours at the moment and it’s at that early stage that you tend to get a lot of enquiries. As more and more dairy farmers recognise the advantages of the Rinnai system, we expect installation to increase in 2016 and beyond.”

T: For more information on Rinnai, contact Hamilton Gas Products on +44 (0)28 9146 1111 or Damien Shirkie on 087 241 2837 www.gasproducts.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 37

COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

Cascade systems respond efficiently to changes in heating and hot water demand.

COMMERCIAL BOILER CASCADES OFFER A STRAIGHTFORWARD, EFFICIENT SOLUTION THAT SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE INSTALLATION TIMES AS WELL AS THE SPACE AND EQUIPMENT REQUIRED. IN ESSENCE, AS POTTERTON COMMERCIAL HIGHLIGHTS, THEY PROVIDE THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR UNDER PRESSURE CONTRACTORS...

Why boiler cascades are code for efficiency

O

ver the last few years, the commercial heating industry has been undergoing a shift in focus from how heating systems are designed to perform, to how they actually perform and the efficiencies they achieve over their operating life. As a result, contractors are facing three key challenges.

First, ensuring that a heating system has been closely matched to the predicted demand of the building has never been more important. Second, savvy commercial clients expect to end up with a system that is flexible enough to respond swiftly, accurately and efficiently to changes in heating and hot water demand. And third, within all this, contractors are expected to

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work within build budgets by specifying a system that can be installed easily and efficiently.

Boiler cascades are rapidly emerging as an ideal way to deliver these performance benefits. They marry the best in modern heating technology with controls that ensure the boilers operate at maximum efficiency, respond rapidly to changes in usage patterns, and extend the operating life and reliability of the equipment.

Usually, contractors face the challenge of combining a wide range of system components from various suppliers to create a system that meets the needs of the end user. But, as boiler cascades are supplied by one manufacturer, contractors can be

confident that the various components included can be integrated and will work seamlessly together as one product.

They are provided within a compact, modular framework that saves space and dramatically reduces installation time – in many cases by between one and two days – while also simplifying the installation and commissioning.

They are suitable for a wide range of commercial building applications and, by accommodating up to six boilers in series, can be very accurately sized to meet specific demands of the building occupants.

Individual boiler modulation adds further flexibility to this approach by ensuring that each boiler can also adjust its operating

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COMMERCIAL HEATING & PLUMBING

Boiler cascades are suitable for a wide range of commercial building applications, including churches.

capacity in line with the overall strategy.

For instance, Potterton Sirius two wall hung boiler has a modulation of 9:1. For every additional boiler added to a system, the modulation range improves by a multiple of nine. Three boilers can attain a modulation range of 27:1, which delivers unparalleled efficiencies and low flue gas emissions.

When choosing a boiler cascade, look for adjustable mounting feet so that the kit can be fitted on uneven surfaces, robust insulation kits to cut heat losses, and quick and easy jointing to save time and effort on pipe fitting.

It’s worth remembering that a controls strategy will be fundamental to this approach, so commissioning must be

planned and prioritised to ensure the boiler firing sequence and modulation is properly set up from the start.

Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, a calculated assessment looking at building requirements and future heating demand is crucial. Along with efficient installation and minimised downtime, a well-engineered decision will ensure that systems can deliver the best performance

Potterton Sirius new cascade frame.

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possible in each unique setting. This will result in an installation that is in tune with the building’s needs, providing output that not only satisfies current demand, but can also cope with future growth.

For more information in Northern Ireland please visit www.pottertoncommercial. co.uk or call 0345 070 1055. For Ireland, please visit www.baxipottertonmyson.ie or call 00353 (0) 1 459 0870.

“Boiler cascades marry the best in modern heating technology with controls that ensure the boilers operate at maximum efficiency.”

About Potterton Commercial g Potterton Commercial, part of Baxi Commercial, develops and manufactures a comprehensive range of gas and oil fired boilers for commercial applications in the UK. With a heritage that spans 100 years, Potterton Commercial continues to develop high efficiency boilers with condensing outputs from 30 to 600kW and pressure jet outputs from 105 to 4000kW. For more information, visit www.pottertoncommercial.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 39

RADIATORS

Stylish radiator solutions from Stelrad are available across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

DISTRIBUTION OF FIRST-CLASS RANGE AVAILABLE ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND AND THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND WHILE NEW APPOINTMENT ALSO BOOSTS THE BUSINESS…

Stelrad steps up the pace in Ireland

T

he no.1 radiator manufacturer in the British Isles has certainly stepped up the pace in the past twelve months - and with distribution now available throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and with a dedicated business development manager covering the territory, the heating industry across Ireland is benefitting from the largest range of high quality radiators you can buy, in the widest range of sizes.

This ensures that there is a Stelrad radiator for every application – whether it’s in a home or in a business – from Portrush to Killarney!

Now with new websites at www.stelrad. com and a dedicated Irish website at www. stelrad.ie – there’s plenty to have a look at when you’re considering radiator options.

As well as ensuring that distribution is in good shape across Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, the company has engaged the services of a well-respected man in the Irish heating industry as its Business Development Manager - Brian Hennessy.

Brian joined Stelrad from Heat Merchants

Stelrad offers a range of coloured radiators.

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where he spent 12 years, having progressed from Senior Sales Assistant to Branch Manager. As a Heat Merchants Branch Manager with over 20 years of extensive sales and management experience in the heating industry, Brian is already playing a vital role in the Stelrad team in Ireland, driving the business forward.

Alongside Brian’s arrival, 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, backs its claim to be the leading radiator manufacturer in the British Isles.

It is consistently the number one choice for plumbers and heating installers, confirmed by the merchant partners with which Stelrad currently works.

As well as offering the leading sellers in the marketplace in the steel panel radiator sector – its popular Compact models - it has introduced its new and exciting Vita series, which offers designs from an entry level radiator through to a top of the range designer option.

The new Aqua range includes bathroom radiators and towel warmers.

Stelrad also offers the leading range of specialist ‘safe to touch’ LST – low surface temperature – radiators, and it is still the only company to offer genuinely energy saving serial feed radiators that can save up to 10.5% of homeowners heating bills – its popular Radical radiator.

Stelrad also provides the best range of colours available for those who opt for coloured radiators to brighten their lives – and it has a huge and vibrant range of decorative and designer radiators – and is the first company to offer a fifteen-year warranty on all its flat fronted radiators. Its new Aqua range offers a stunning selection of bathroom radiators and towel rails which has taken off hugely since it was launched in 2015. All this is available to the Irish marketplace at surprisingly cost effective prices.

So whether you are building a new home – or new homes – renovating one, replacing a heating system in a home or commercial property, or just upgrading radiators in a bathroom or living room – there’s a radiator design for every opportunity. And because of the quality of the design, they are more energy efficient than elderly radiators, quicker to heat up than older ones and quite simply look much better than older ones – so feel confident of recommending Stelrad radiators to your customers – they’ll be delighted by the warmth and you’ll be ecstatic by how simple they are to fit.

T: (NI) 0844 543 6200 or (RoI) Brian Hennessy, on 087 2102530 E: info@stelrad.ie www.stelrad.com or www.stelrad.ie

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 41

NEWS

GRANT IS SUPPORTING LOCAL EVENTS THIS SUMMER

T

he summer is off to a busy start for Grant with the company showing its support for a number of industry trade events across Ireland.

Sponsoring the Balmoral Show 2016 cob classes, Grant NI attended this year’s event to award winners of the equestrian competition as well as showcase its latest product range at the company’s fully equipped Grant marquee where the team of experts were on-hand to offer advice on heating solutions to visitors.

New products such as the Grant VortexBlue Max were on display at Grant NI’s stand at the PTS Plumbing Trade Supplies trade show at the newly opened event space in the Belfast Waterfront’s extension.

Proudly sponsored by Grant NI, the launch of the Haldane Fisher’s new division, Plumbmaster Lisburn got underway with clientele of the stockist attending to show their support for the company’s expansion.

Grant NI Manager, Mark Eccles, said,

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Mark Eccles, Grant NI, marking the opening of Plumbmaster Lisburn with the company’s Paul McDowell.

“We believe actively participating in local industry events is essential for strengthening our relationship with our existing stockists and expanding business networks within the sector. Grant NI are looking forward to sponsoring a number of key events throughout the summer and supporting the industry as much as possible.”

Grant NI was also delighted to support the

inaugural ASGM Gas Safety Management Conference at the La Mon Hotel and Country Club on Tuesday June 14. Aimed at professionals involved in Gas Safety Management in Northern Ireland, this industry event provided informative sessions and technical updates with leading industry experts.

To keep up-to-date with future events, follow Grant NI on Twitter @mygrantni

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NEWS

RINNAI’S LATEST INNOVATION IN THE ENERGY-EFFICIENT FAST DELIVERY OF INSTANTLY USEABLE HOT WATER IS THE INFINITY SOLO RE-CIRCULATOR WATER HEATER…

Rinnai goes solo for continuous flow with a store

T

he Rinnai Infinity Solo condensing and low NOX water heater is the first of its kind in the UK to combine the advanced technology of wall-mounted continuous-flow water heaters with a stainless steel storage cylinder, all in one compact footprint.

The design parameters of this product empowers specifiers, designers, installers and engineers to benefit from unique Rinnai technology in applications which were not previously possible. For instance, the Infinity Solo will have both 35kW and 54kW-sized appliances, ensuring that sites with a smaller gas meter can readily use this technology.

The larger Infinity Solo model will also act as a high-efficiency alternative to gas-fired storage appliances that exist in today’s market.

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The cylinder is stainless steel, which reduces the weight, compared to glasslined models, making transportation and installation a lot easier. As well as the difference in weight, the cylinders also have extremely low heat loss figures (as low as 1.41kW/h day), so the user pays less to maintain the heat within the tank.

The Infinity Solo range is also renewables compatible and supplied pre-fitted with a coil, meaning that the primary energy source will always be from renewable gains, and the complementary Rinnai water heater will only apply the precise amount of gas to boost the difference in temperature.

T: (NI) 01928 531870 or (RoI) 0044 1928 531870 W: www.rinnaiuk.com

The Infinity Solo will have both 35kW and 54kW-sized appliances.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 43

HEATING MARSHALLING BOX KHMB4W The KHMB4W Heating Marshalling Box removes the need for the complicated wiring of heating controls and confusing wiring centre connections. This means the installer does not need to create multiple wiring steps for motorised valves and other controls that are necessary to achieve boiler and heating controls interlocking.

Electrical Standards Compliance This system greatly facilitates mandatory loop impedance and RCD testing. Also provides actuator isolation.

Designed with ease of installation and safety in mind.

Before‌Typical 3 zone wiring connection

After‌ KHMB4W wiring connection

Continued success to Thermoparts from Chronotherm Controls suppliers of Flash, CTC, Danfoss, Pegler and Sangamo plumbing and heating controls.

CHRONOTHERM CONTROLS LTD Unit E2, Clonlara Road, Baldonnell Business Park, Dublin 22. T: 01 - 410 5756 E: sales@chronotherm.ie

www.chronotherm.ie

COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD

Company founder, Glenn Clabby, (centre) with staff David Blakemore, David Clarke, Alan O’Reilly and Suzanne Clabby. Pictured below is Greg Byrne.

THE PLUMBING, HEATING AND BATHROOM SPECIALIST IS LOOKING AHEAD WITH A HUGE DEGREE OF POSITIVITY…

Super service at Thermoparts Ltd

I

f you need it you’ll probably get it at Thermoparts Ltd, a plumbing, heating and bathroom specialist based in Clondalkin, South Co Dublin where service is king.

A true success story to come out of the recession, Thermoparts was set up in 2011

by Glenn Clabby. Now in its sixth year, the company has defied all expectation to become a supplier synonymous with quality and customer service.

Experience amongst staff members isn’t in short supply at Thermoparts. Glenn worked for 13 years for a builders’ merchants in town and before that he worked for another building material provider for four years.

“David worked in the sector for 10 years before joining Thermoparts. Greg was 13 years with a company in the sector before joining us, Alan was about 11 years selling heating and plumbing products before coming to us and our driver probably has around 15 years’ experience in this sector as well.”

The company delivers all over Leinster but has gone as far afield as Limerick and Cavan.

“Really, we’re all over Ireland. If that’s what the customer needs, then that’s what we’ll do,” added Glenn.

Deliveries are free of charge and if an order comes in before 12pm, delivery will be made before 12pm the next day. If it’s after 12pm, it’ll be after 12pm the next day but, according to Glenn, the customer will generally receive their delivery more often than not on the same day that they place the order.

“Guys often ring us and say they need something delivered in an hour, so there’s a lot of that as well. At 4.30pm every day we put all the deliveries on the board downstairs in order of the times they’re to be delivered. Our driver can’t deviate from that list and must deliver in that order. That gives certainty to our customers.”

Thermoparts Ltd, Unit F10 Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01456 9930 or (NI) 00353 01456 9930 – E: www.thermoparts.ie www.thermoparts.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 45

COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD ASSOCIATES

AVAILABLE THROUGH

Thermoparts Ltd, Unit F10 Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01456 9930 or (NI) 00353 01456 9930 – E: www.thermoparts.ie - www.thermoparts.ie

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COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD

STARTING OFF A NEW BUSINESS DURING THE RECESSION HASN’T STOPPED THERMOPARTS LTD CREATE A STRONG FOUNDATION OF SUCCESS…

Success is a long way from humble beginnings Company founder, Glenn Clabby.

T

he initial success of Thermoparts Ltd is a long way from the origins of a company that started off trading out of a van.

“I always wanted to go out on my own and start a company,” said company founder, Glenn Clabby. “I was actually doing quite well in my job at the time and thought I could do this myself, so in 2011 I decided to do exactly that.”

Despite going out on his own in the thick of a recession, Glenn says the fact that the company had no old debt was a huge help.

“It didn’t dawn on me that taking such a risk could have had such negative repercussions. I was probably lucky that the recovery was and is happening in Dublin that bit quicker than the rest of the country.”

Glenn didn’t go down the road of

borrowing money to set up the business - “No-one wants to give you money in 2011” - and instead spent six months researching the sector and the products he would stock.

Initially, the idea was to specialise in heating parts.“In the end we decided not to restrict ourselves.”

After approaching all his suppliers and letting them know he was branching out on his own, Glenn picked a date to hand in his notice.

Glenn spent a year-and-a-half in the van that he fitted out with little drop-down boxes.

“It was like an ice-cream van for plumbers. Of course no-one knew that I had radiators stored in the hall at home, pipes down the side of the house etc.

After a year and a half I was finding the 80 hours a week very difficult so I took David on and also took the premises over.”

A sales counter which has recently been extended was put in, along with a showroom for sanitary ware.

“We weren’t getting the footfall when it came to the sanitary ware so we decided to get rid of it. Our sanitary ware sales haven’t dipped because of it as we have no problem selling out of the brochure,” he concluded.

Thermoparts Ltd, Unit F10 Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01456 9930 or (NI) 00353 01456 9930 – E: www.thermoparts.ie www.thermoparts.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 47

COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD ASSOCIATES

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COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD

EXPERIENCED TEAM AT THE PLUMBING, HEATING AND BATHROOM SPECIALISTS HAVE THE INDUSTRY AT THEIR CORE…

Passion is the key for Thermoparts

A

genuine interest in heating and plumbing products and an enthusiasm when it comes to providing the best possible service to customers is what drives the team at Thermoparts Ltd. “Back in 2011, I saw a niche in the market for service and I still see that niche today. Glenn says he knows there are other companies out there providing excellent service but is keen to point out that Thermoparts is also providing an excellent, second to none service to the industry.

“We try and pay specific attention to specific details like, for example, the time we’re going to be on site. There’s nothing

Extensive product range.

Thermoparts provide excellent customer service.

worse than hanging around waiting for someone to arrive with materials. When we get an order in here it’ll be processed within an hour of receiving it and we’ll know if we don’t have something off that order.

“We would often ring guys to let them know a specific order is going to be more expensive than they originally thought. All those little details are very important and add up to excellent customer service.”

Turnover has increased every single year since setting up.

“We’ve had a very manageable expansion over the past six years and I think that increase is down to how we relate to our client base.”

“If we get a customer in, we generally hold onto that customer. Of course, you might not win everybody over but we’re not looking to take over the world. We know we’re a small business but we’re looking to provide an elevated service and I genuinely think that with the range of products we do and the prices we have, there’s no real reason for guys not to deal with us.”

Glenn might say the company might not win every order but, the truth is, they win most.

“It’s not all down to price. Downtime on site can equate to an awful lot of money. If you’ve got guys sitting around on €30 an

“We want people to be able to come in here, ask for what they need and receive the best possible service.” hour and they’re waiting four hours for materials and this continually happens, they’re at a loss. If we’re a little bit more expensive on product but we’re always on time, that means a lot. Again, it comes down to service.”

“We can get our hands on basically anything - hard-to-get products are actually our speciality.”

Every month, Glenn and the team include a product in the stock order that may be considered obscure or might not sell that often.

“We’ve built up a range of these products and we’re known for that now.”

The Thermoparts team doesn’t shy away from training up on new products and ensuring their knowledge on products equals their suppliers.

“We want people to be able to come in here, ask for what they need and receive the best possible service. If we can supply a product for you at a reasonable, competitive price then we’ll do it.”

Thermoparts Ltd, Unit F10 Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01456 9930 or (NI) 00353 01456 9930 – E: www.thermoparts.ie www.thermoparts.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 49

COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD ASSOCIATES

MT AGENCIES I R E L A N D

LT D

SUPPLIER OF PREMIUM SHOWERING PRODUCTS

MT Agencies Ireland Ltd, Fearn House, Unit 4, Jamestown Business Park, Finglas, Dublin 11.

T: +353 (0)1 864 3363 E: sales@mtagencies.ie www.mtagencies.ie

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COMPANY PROFILE - THERMOPARTS LTD

Thermoparts keep a huge range of stock.

THERMOPARTS LTD EMBRACES THE DIGITAL AGE WHILE PLANS ARE IN PLACE TO MATCH THE COMPANY’S GROWING AMBITION…

Expansion plans point to a bright future

E

xpanding operations and opening new branches at strategic locations around the country is the next natural step for Thermoparts Ltd. In an effort to boost its social media presence, the company recently outsourced that side of the business to Juvo, a digital firm based in Thomas Street, Dublin 8.

Glenn says the company is now benefitting from an effective marketing campaign and although sales aren’t being generated from the company’s website just yet, it’s only a matter of time.

Like the digital media side of things, the product range carried by Thermoparts changes all the time. At the moment, press fittings and heat pumps are selling well.

“In order to create more space for stock we’ve just taken on another premises, two doors down from this one. We’ve effectively doubled the amount of area that we have.”

Opening branches around the country is

the next logical step for a company like Thermoparts that is excelling in its field.

“Based on the ethos we all share and our commitment to service, I think that country-wide branches would work.” Steps haven’t been made until now as Glenn is understandably reluctant to disrupt the sustainable growth that’s currently pushing turnover and profit levels. “A manageable expansion of the company is what we want; if we can support the expansion of the company ourselves then it will be more of a long term expansion and that’s the plan.”

Turnover might currently be up substantially on this time last year but when there are cashflow issues, Glenn isn’t afraid of making the hard decisions.

“At the start of last year, cashflow was a litle tight so I decided to take on another member of staff. I felt that if I took someone on that had a clientele that would attract some cash sales, it might help the

business. I was lucky and that’s exactly what happened. This year we’re not having the same problems but I decided to take another guy on anyway and I think that has attributed to our increase in turnover.”

If you want to grow, says Glenn, you need to surround yourself with guys that are better than you. With such an experienced, dedicated staff and with everyone on the same page when it comes to customer service and going the extra mile, Thermoparts is set for success.

“We have a huge range of stock at our premises and perhaps, more importantly, we have access to a huge range of stock. Service is key and getting the project across the line is everything. Once the project is complete, we’re committed to an effective after sales service. We don’t just take the customer’s money and run. A happy client is a repeat client and we strive to ensure our customer’s satisfaction every step along the way.”

Thermoparts Ltd, Unit F10 Riverview Business Park, Nangor Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 12 T: (RoI) 01456 9930 or (NI) 00353 01456 9930 – E: www.thermoparts.ie www.thermoparts.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 51

GOLF DAY

Kenny Craig, CHC, Damian O’Neill, AEM, Paul Dobbin, Willis Heating and Plumbing, Jack Gourley, Dowds Group, Ronnie McReynolds, CHC.

Pipe Center’s Eric Newell, (second right) with (from left) Brian Rae, Davy Patterson and Brian Patterson of Vaughan Engineering..

CUSTOMERS SWAP PIPES FOR GOLF CLUBS FOR A DAY ON THE FAIRWAYS…

Adrian Allen, Hutton Mechanical is set to hit the fairways with reprsentatives of Clearwater.

Pipe and Climate Center’s annual golf day another success

P Colin Swan, Wilo, Neville Small, Potterton Commercial, Shaun Foster, Potterton Commercial and David Taylo, Taylor Heating & Plumbing.

Bernie O’Hagan, Searle, Alan Devenny, Martin Ives, Fijitsu and Lucas Vogan, Geberit, are all set.

ipe and Climate Center customers across Northern Ireland, enjoyed the company’s annual golf day in June, which was once again held at the stunning Carnalea Golf Club.

The splendid 18-hole Par 69 course provided a real challenge for those taking part, with Eddie Gray, of J&E Gray & Sons, taking the overall prize on the day while Jack Gourley from Dowds Group won both the longest drive and nearest the pin awards.

The team award went to Gary Lennox, Brian Taggart, Paul Fearon and Mark Dunlop.

As well as enjoying beautiful

Preparing for a great day of golf are Glen Meakle, WJM Building Services, Derek Houston, Ashley McLernon, Grundfos, and Trevor Boyle, Hinds Heating.

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panoramic sea views as a backdrop to the course, golfers were also distracted by the opportunity to win a new car, sponsored by Sauermann UK. The car was on offer to anyone who fired in a hole-in-one but no-one managed the feat on the day.

In addition to Sauermann UK, Pipe and Climate Center wishes to thank all the sponsors for the event, including Wilo, Geberit, Potterton and Pegler Yorkshire and customers who took the time out of their busy schedule to support us on the day.

T: Pipe and Climate Center, Belfast on (NI) 028 9079 1222. www.pipecenter.co.uk

Chris Morrison, Geberit with Harvey Group’s Conor Martin, Herbie Harvey and Ryan McLernon.

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GOLF DAY

Simon Daly takes it easy along with (from left) Liam Daly, Andy Smyth and Kenny Pollin..

Brian Taggart, Gary Lennox, Paul Fearon and Mark Dunlop looking forward to a great round of golf.

A great shot from Conor Martin, Harvey Group.

A couple of ‘shady’ characters get ready to hit the fairways.

Stephen McGarry, Aircon, Lee Moules, Global Cooling, Mark Dunning, Aircon and Justin McCleary, Global Cooling.

Davy and John from Cool Air with Rab Elliott and Glenn Taylor.

Peter O’Prey, Shilliday Refrigeration, Davy Willis and Jim Britton, BL Refrigeration.

Colin Mochan, Wilo, Gary Emerson, IHS, and Adrian Murray, Murray P&H.

All smiles ahead of the Pipe Center Golf Day at Carnalea Golf Club.

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Overall winner Eddie Gray (second right) pictured with (from left)Adam Sands, Vaughan Engineering, James Forsythe, Pipe Center, and George McGuire, Pegler Yorkshire.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 53

SYSTEM PROTECTOR

INSTALLERS ENCOURAGED TO ADOPT THE ADEY BEST PRACTICE™ APPROACH OF CLEAN, FLUSH, MAINTAIN, PROTECT AND TEST…

ADEY tackles ‘zombie’ boilers

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urope’s largest water treatment manufacturer serving the heating industry, ADEY Professional Heating Solutions, is encouraging installers to employ best practice as the most effective weapon to eliminate the millions of ‘zombie’ boilers residing in homes in the UK and Ireland.

While often marvelled at by their owners because they just keep chugging away and refuse to die, the underlying cost of owning a ‘zombie’ boiler and its accompanying dirty heating system is higher energy and maintenance bills. It also impacts detrimentally on the environment with higher carbon emissions.

By encouraging their replacement with a modern condensing boiler and a programme of best practice maintenance, installers can help their customers take the first step towards reaping significant savings while protecting the environment.

While some efforts have been made to support the scrapping of ‘zombies’, such as the recent implementation of the London Boiler Cashback Scheme and the extension of a similar scheme for homes in Northern Ireland, ADEY believes a great deal more can be done to secure the success of these schemes for the long-term.

“To deliver the energy savings that government schemes promise and ensure ongoing boiler efficiency, they need to be supported with effective system protection,” said ADEY’s CEO, John Vaughan. “If new boilers are fitted to dirty systems and aren’t properly protected by effective magnetic filtration and chemical water treatment, their performance will quickly deteriorate.

“Instead of focusing solely on the replacement of ageing and inefficient systems, the industry needs to support every new boiler installation with ongoing protection, if we’re to ensure that the ‘zombies’ won’t rise again.”

By adopting the ADEY Best Practice™ approach of clean, flush, maintain, protect and test, home-owners will maximise the ongoing efficiency of their heating system and help extend boiler life. Total energy savings could amount to as much as 15% a year and help extend the life of a household boiler beyond the average lifespan of 12-15 years.

Meanwhile, ADEY has agreed a management buyout (MBO) as part of its continued growth

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in the UK and expansion internationally.

Led by ADEY’s Chief Executive Officer, John Vaughan, with the full backing of the Board, the MBO has been conducted with the support and investment of LDC, part of the Lloyds Banking Group.

The multi-award winning firm pioneered magnetic filtration technology more than ten years ago, when the MagnaClean® filter was invented. Since then, ADEY has continued to innovate, establishing a total system best practice approach and creating a family of products designed to clean, flush, maintain, protect and test heating systems.

The MBO sees members of the existing management team, with investment support from LDC, buy the company.

Commenting on the buy-out, John Vaughan said, “This investment marks the next chapter in our growth journey and will help us to achieve our goal of providing all our customers, in the UK and around the world,

with the best possible preventative solutions in the heating systems’ market.

“ADEY has innovation in its DNA, and we will continue to launch new products that assist heating installers to serve their customers’ needs with the most effective tools. More than three million MagnaClean filters are installed in the UK, and the scope for more households, businesses and local authorities to benefit from our low cost energy saving products drives the Board’s ambition for continued growth.”

Currently supplying its products in the UK and mainland Europe, ADEY is planning to expand into new markets including the USA, Asia and Eastern Europe, as well as investing in new product development.

For more information on ADEY, contact Noble Distribution Ireland (NDI) on (NI) 07980 983708 or (RoI) 0044 7980 983708, e-mail info@adey-com or visit www.adey.com

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 55

NORTHERN IRELAND GAS INDUSTRY AWARDS

ACCOLADES PRESENTED TO GRAHAM WALLACE PLUMBING & HEATING AND PAUL DARBY PLUMBING & HEATING AS WELL AS MOURNE FIRES…

Three companies honoured at the Northern Ireland Gas Industry Awards

T

hree companies have won a prestigious Northern Ireland Gas Industry Award for their work and commitment to the sector.

Belfast-based gas installation companies Graham Wallace Plumbing & Heating and Paul Darby Plumbing & Heating were both recognised for their work in the gas industry alongside the family-run, Carryduff-based business, Mourne Fires.

The awards, held at Robinson & Cleaver department store-turned-restaurant in Belfast, recognise and reward individuals and companies who are judged to have made a significant contribution to the growth of the natural gas industry locally.

Michael McKinstry, Chief Executive of Phoenix Natural Gas, said, “It is the hard work and commitment of the local independent industry that provide the foundation for the remarkable growth in the sector. Graham Wallace Plumbing & Heating strives to promote best practice in the industry, maintaining high levels of customer service and constantly innovating to establish itself as one of the leading gas installation companies in the domestic sector.”

He added, “Paul Darby Plumbing & Heating is over 25 years established and has continued to grow in reputation by providing high levels of customer service to a loyal customer base in North Belfast.

Paul Darby’s commitment to high quality workmanship and his standing amongst industry peers has led his business to being recognised as a leading installation company within the domestic sector.

“Mourne Fires has established itself within the marketplace with over 30 years’ experience.

This family-run business enhanced their offering a few years ago with a move to Carryduff and has since gone from strength to strength, showcasing one of the finest live gas fire displays in the province.

“The team at Mourne Fires has invested in knowledgeable, experienced staff in their showroom and continues to explore new opportunities by extending their brand to the retro fit marketplace.

“Natural gas is now the dominant and preferred heating source in Greater Belfast, and we are delighted to be presenting an Achievement Award to extremely dedicated companies such as Paul Darby Plumbing & Heating, Graham Wallace Plumbing & Heating, and Mourne Fires.”

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Michael McKinstry, Chief Executive of Phoenix Natural Gas, presents Paul Darby with his Achievement Award.

Michael McKinstry, Chief Executive of Phoenix Natural Gas, presents Graham Wallace with his Achievement Award.

Michael McKinstry, Chief Executive of Phoenix Natural Gas, presents Fidelis Stranney from Mourne Fires with her Achievement Award.

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CASE STUDY – THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW CORE M&E SERVICES AND ITS TEAM COMPLETED THE SECOND PHASE OF THE THRIVING LIFE CHURCH PROJECT IN NEWTOWNARDS... g

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A project that is

FULL OF LIFE PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 57

CASE STUDY – THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

OVERVIEW THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

A YOUNG COMPANY WITH A MATURE APPROACH, CORE M&E SERVICES PUTS COMMUNICATION AT THE HEART OF THRIVING LIFE CHURCH PROJECT…

Core M&E Services help put life back into church building

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hriving Life Church in Newtownards has been singing the praises of Core M&E Services, which has successfully completed the mechanical and electrical installations during Phase 2 of the construction project, which resulted in the building opening to the community in June after a 12-month build.

A young company with a mature approach, Core M&E Services was established by John Funston, Stephen Hollinger and Philip Miley. John McCorry came on board to set up the mechanical division and is now the company’s Operations Director.

“Our primary trading areas are Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, but we have the capability to carry out international contracts too and recently completed an 18-month £3million project in Sri Lanka for the refurbishment of the British

High Commission,” said John.

“We do everything from large scale commercial projects to retail, new-build and fit-out, offering a range of contracts, from specification and drawings to design and build.”

John Funston added, “What makes Core M&E Services unique is the level and scope of experience we can bring to any job. We have the practical skills, industry knowledge and professionalism to deliver the highest quality end product. Many of our team developed their skills as tradesmen so we can offer an unparalleled understanding of our clients’ aims and objectives.”

John continued, “We are dedicated to seeing that all our clients’ needs are met.

From the moment we receive a job to the hour of handover, we review the process along the way, and our packages are

tailored to suit expectations. As a result, Core M&E Services is getting an increasing amount of repeat custom from satisfied clients, and new clients from word of mouth recommendation.

“So that we can have continued company development, feedback is very important to us. We always strive for quality and want to know what we can do better so that, if we are fortunate enough to work with a client again, we can do an even better job for them.”

CLIENT CONSULTATION Having already completed Phase 1 of the Thriving Life Church build project - when the existing building was stripped back and Core carried out a full M&E design and build installation, in partnership with Par Works Solutions - the team once again won the

“We continually tailored the design to meet the requirements of the building’s planned use.”

58 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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CASE STUDY – THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

tender for the Phase 2 building situated beside it on the Crawfordsburn Road.

“Phase 2 was procured under a specification and drawings contract but there was also design development with client consultation,” explained John. “Phase 2 of Thriving Life Church is more of a support building for the church, and includes offices, educational rooms, children’s play areas, crèche facilities, lounges and breakout areas, a large kitchen and coffee dock, and more. It’s a very impressive two-storey, 3,200sqm building with a large atrium and an auditorium with stage and seating for around 700.

“For Core, the mechanical services side of project included the connection of a biomass boiler system with gas-fired backup, and a packaged plant room, complete with a LTHW system installed throughout.

“Due to the high 9m ceiling in the atrium, a full air system was needed to keep the area cool and temperate, so we installed a new heating and cooling ventilation system with air handling units and DX coils.

“The auditorium air system was very onerous, due to the height of the space, so particular attention to the space air characteristics was required to ensure that

the fresh air gets down to the people sitting in the auditorium. The crèches are also very large rooms with high ceilings, so a lot of specific factors had to be taken into account with the M&E services. With the sanitary ware installation, everything was very high spec, concealed for a neater, tidier look and with smart sensors installed throughout for automatic flushing and water saving.

“The level of client input on this project was high and required continual consultation,” said John. “They attended the majority of

design team meetings and we kept them informed all the way through. We continually tailored the design to meet the requirements of the building’s planned use but we understand that clients’ needs can and do change, and the fact that we had a sound understanding of their basic needs from the Phase 1 project made this process easier.

“We were able to meet with the client on site regularly and physically review queries and questions as they arose, which helped ensure that the client got the building that was most suitable for functionality.”

Info...

THE MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION BY CORE M&E AT THRIVING LIFE CHURCH INCLUDED: g

MECHANICAL

ELECTRICAL

• • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

Internal hot and mains water services Packaged plantroom installation Air conditioning installation Heat recovery installation Ventilation installation LPHW heating installation Soils and wastes installation Sanitary ware installation Gas system Building management system

Lighting installation Containment works Earthing and bonding Mains power distribution Data cabling Fire alarm and detection installation Final circuits, small power and lighting Emergency lighting installation and signage

Core M&E Services, 31 Regent Street, Newtownards, County Down BT23 4AD T: (NI) 028 91 800 998 or (RoI) 048 91 800 998 – E: hello@coreconnections.co www.coreconnections.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 59

CASE STUDY – THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

VENTILATION SYSTEMS BALANCING AND COMMISSIONING THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

EXPERIENCED TEAM MEETS THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF THIS PROJECT WHILE ALSO OFFERING A BESPOKE SOLUTION...

Atlantic Air takes to new heights

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tlantic Air reached new heights as the company carried out a complete balancing and commissioning of all the new ventilation systems installed

by Core M&E Services at Thriving Life Church, including the air handling unit in the main atrium, two heat recovery ventilation systems in the childcare facilities and also smaller units in the bathroom areas.

Due to the 9m high ceiling, the logistics of accessing the air handling unit in the atrium proved to be the biggest challenge.

However, the team from Atlantic Air has extensive experience and worked around these access issues to ensure a smooth commissioning process overall.

The success of the Thriving Life Church job is another example of the growing stature of Atlantic Air in the commercial sector.

The company is well established within the domestic sector but in recent years has expanded its services, with a recent project the new offices for Lissan Coal Company in Cookstown and also a range of work McAleer & Rushe in Great Britain.

The company offers a range of services including the design, installation and commissioning of both domestic and commercial heat recovery ventilation; air tightness testing and surveying; Energy Performance Certificates (EPC); Design SAPs; As Built SAPs, Appliance Spillage Testing; and Building Acoustic Testing.

For each service offered by Atlantic Air, the company takes a bespoke approach to each project.

For domestic ventilation, a good mechanical

ventilation system will remove cooking smells, condensation, allergens and other irritants. It will make a home a more pleasant, healthy and comfortable place to live. Depending on the size/ type of project, Atlantic Air can provide a ventilation strategy tailored specifically to the project’s needs, incorporating the likes of Heat Recovery Ventilation, Positive Input Ventilation or Mechanical Extract Ventilation, amongst others.

Every commercial and industrial property also needs effective and reliable ventilation. Insufficient fresh air can cause tiredness, fatigue and headaches, which will impact negatively on employee concentration and performance. By installing mechanical ventilation from Atlantic Air you can guarantee a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air throughout the premises, resulting in a healthier more productive working environment.

Complementing these systems is Atlantic Air’s ability to test a building’s performance.

The company is able to measure the effectiveness of your systems through air

tightness testing and surveying as well as EPC and SAP testing.

Achieving a good level of airtightness is important for the energy efficiency of the dwelling and the comfort of occupants while an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of a dwelling from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient).

The Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) is the method used to determine a dwelling’s energy performance. All new domestic dwellings will require Design SAP calculations, As Built SAP calculations and an EPC prior to final completion.

Atlantic Air, 101 Dunamore Road, Cookstown, County Tyrone, BT80 9PF T: (NI) 028 8675 1025 or (RoI) 048 8675 1025 – E: info@atlanticairtesting.com www.atlanticairtesting.com

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CASE STUDY – THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

RADIATORS AND FITTINGS SUPPLIERS THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

A first for Beggs & Partners

R

egardless of the size or needs of the project, the commercial team at Beggs & Partners is able to meet the challenge.

At Thriving Life Church, Beggs & Partners worked with Core M&E Services for the first time, supplying Myson LST radiators and a number of plumbing and heating fittings for the project.

“We work across a wide range of projects and with contractors of all sizes,” explained Lawrence Wallace, Estimator at Beggs & Partners. “Regardless of the project, we work closely with the contractor to ensure we can deliver a bespoke solution at a competitive price.”

A perfect example of this was the

company’s work on the recently opened Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre in Belfast where Beggs & Partners supplied a complete sanitary ware package. The company is currently working at the new Omagh Enhanced Local Hospital, the new radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin Hospital and the new phase of the Ulster Hospital.

Alastair Scott, Contracts Manager at Beggs & Partners, said, “Healthcare is a focus at the moment, but next month that might change to another sector.

However, it doesn’t matter if it is a hotel, leisure facility, church or factory, we have the resources to meet these challenges.”

Beggs and Partners, Great Patrick Street, Belfast, BT1 2NX T: 028 9023 5791 www.beggsandpartners.com

PUMPS THRIVING LIFE CHURCH, NEWTOWNARDS

First-class performance from Wilo

C The Wilo Stratos family of small circulators are the best selling pumps in Northern Ireland.

hurch events in Northern Ireland are well known for their generosity, with tea, sandwiches – and more recently, coffee – a staple of these get togethers.

Modern-style churches such as Thriving Life in Newtownards have taken this to a new level with the inclusion of a coffee dock alongside a large kitchen. To deliver the efficiency required for hot water, the water supply and heating, a reliable pump is required and the team at mechanical contractors, Core M&E Services, selected Wilo.

Colin Mochan, Area Sales Manager, Wilo, said, “We are delighted to forge a new relationship with Core M&E Services and

to work on such a superb project. Noone using a building will recognise the importance a pump plays but they are vital components within a mechanical system.

“Customers want reliability and robust performance from every aspect of a commercial project and Wilo pumps are key to the smooth running of the heating and water systems.”

“Wilo pumps are key to the smooth running of the heating and water systems.”

Wilo, Second Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton upon Trent, DE14 2WJ T: (NI) Ian Moore, Regional Sales Manager (North) on 07836 362031 or (RoI) 01 426 0000 www.wilo.co.uk or www.wilo.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 61

NEW WEBSITE

NEW EASY-TO-USE WEBSITE ALONGSIDE A NEW APPOINTMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND FURTHER BOOSTS THE COMPANY’S SERVICE…

Reliance Water Controls unveils new website

A

new easy-to-use website has been launched by Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd (RWC UK) for its Reliance Water Controls brand at www.rwc.co.uk.

The new site brings together the complete Reliance Water Controls range of water control systems and plumbing solutions with comprehensive product information including features and benefits, approvals, spares and accessories, brochures, images and downloadable specification sheets.

An enhanced search function now enables users to carry out a bespoke search or to search by product category, brand or type, or by industry application such as healthcare, education, multi-occupancy buildings, secure facilities, residential and retail/commercial washrooms. There are also new and innovation sections, where users can keep up to date with the latest product launches and new technology from RWC UK. Customers visiting the site also have access to the latest company news and can find details about the events and exhibitions where RWC are participating, so they can get hands on with the products as well as talk to the team.

There are a host of other helpful resources including details of CPD courses, product training, and access to RWC UK’s BIM Objects via a link to the BIM Store website. In addition, an interactive map helps sales contacts to be easily found.

QUALITY AND EXPERTISE Stuart Harron, Sales Director for Ireland, says, “For more than 30 years, Reliance Water Controls has provided the market with thermostatic mixing valves, taps and showers, pressure reducing valves, backflow prevention products, timeflow controls and other plumbing and heating control products.

“The website has been redesigned to give our customers quick and easy access to comprehensive product information and resources. The new site is also fully optimised for mobile devices, maintaining a high quality user experience whether on a desktop, mobile or tablet.”

He added, “In addition to a wealth of product, technical and training resources,

62 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

visitors can also find information on our industry accreditations including WRAS, Buildcert and TMV2/TMV3 schemes, affiliations to industry and sector groups such as the BMA, IHEEM, CIPHE and APHC among others.

Overall, we really hope that the new website demonstrates our commitment to delivering quality solutions to our customers and the industry at large.”

RWC UK is keen to keep its customers at the forefront of the industry with the latest product and technical developments, so the new website enables them to sign up to receive updates via the homepage.

The site also links to RWC UK’s SharkBite website and the company’s Facebook and Twitter profiles.

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 07881 274917 E: garth.walsh@rwc.com T: Ray Buckley, Regional Sales Manager, Republic of Ireland, on 00353 879 195 569 E: ray.buckley@rwc.com W: www.rwc.co.uk

New appointment strengthens Ireland sales team g Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd (RWC UK), the leading manufacturer of water control systems and plumbing solutions, has appointed Ray Buckley as Regional Sales Manager for the Republic of Ireland.

Joining the company with almost 20 years’ experience in the industry, Ray has previously worked for Irish International Trading, Vokera and Image Showers.

“In various past roles, I’ve covered the whole of the Republic of Ireland,” says Ray. “Combined with my experience working on the merchant counter, I feel this puts me in a great position to further build customer relationships and help drive RWC UK forward.”

Stuart Harron, RWC UK Sales Director for Ireland, agrees, “Having Ray on board is great news for the company; we’re really excited to work alongside him to grow the business and our team here in Ireland.”

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WATER TREATMENT CHEMICALS

COMPLETE RANGE PROVIDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED FROM A WATER TREATMENT CHEMICAL…

SystemSure Concentrates range offers the complete package

T

he Kamco SystemSure Concentrates range of water treatment chemicals features a reformulated scale and corrosion inhibitor, neutral flushing chemical, pre-commission cleaner and boiler noise silencer.

SystemSafe-DM Concentrate gives several levels of inhibition, and includes components which displace chloride ions in existing pitting and form an inert protective layer to halt the corrosion process.

SystemSafe-DM Concentrate has passed the Buildcert/DWTA performance standard required by Building Regulations, and also provides excellent protection for systems filled with artificially softened water.

For a corrosion inhibitor to work effectively it is essential to thoroughly clean existing systems, and pre-commission clean new systems, to ensure that all metal surfaces are available for complete contact with the inhibitor.

Kamco’s Hyper-Flush Concentrate is a high performance power-flushing chemical

64 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

that also removes accumulated corrosion debris and light scale from systems during normal operation. Working at a near neutral pH, there is no ‘gassing’ and no need to bleed radiators during the cleaning process.

For new central heating systems, System Pre-Clean Concentrate removes installation debris and residues of solder fluxes, jointing compounds, copper swarf, oil, grease and even casting sand from within boiler heat exchangers. A hot water flush without an effective pre-commission cleaner is unlikely to neutralise and remove these undesirable contaminants, which may lead to serious future heating problems.

Some systems are susceptible to noise problems caused by baked-on corrosion and limescale deposits on boiler heat exchangers. Power flushing may cure this, but some continue to be noisy. The addition

The Kamco SystemSure Concentrates range.

of System-Hush Concentrate boiler noise silencer is recommended to cleanse the heat exchanger during normal operation.

System-Hush Concentrate may be left in the system without draining and can be used in conjunction with SystemSafe-DM Concentrate inhibitor.

The compact 500ml bottles give even better performance than existing 1 litre packs and may be utilised with all metals used in heating systems, including aluminium.

T: (NI) 01727 875 020 or (RoI) 0044 1727 875 020 W: www.kamco.co.uk

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REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONS

GUARANTEED NOT TO CLOG THE SYSTEM, THIS NEW SOLUTION SEALS WATER LEAKS IN ENCLOSED SYSTEMS, UNDERFLOOR HEATING, RADIATORS AND CENTRAL HEATING…

Leakfix - the instant sealer for water leaks

N

ew Leakfix from Solvall is the perfect addition to your toolbox, providing super value and superior quality.

Solvall specialises in the highest quality, cost effective range of repair and maintenance solutions aimed at professionals in the construction, plumbing, electrical, automotive and industrial markets.

Leakfix is a unique water-based formula containing non-clogging particles that have been designed to instantly repair and seal all leaks in enclosed re-circulating water heating and cooling systems.

It contains rust inhibitors and special synthetic lubricating additives that protect and maintain a healthy heating or cooling system and is compatible with all

anti-freeze and coolants, meaning it can be safely used in all alloy cooling systems.

Leakfix will quickly and permanently seal water leaks in central heating systems, underfloor heating systems and radiators and it has proven to seal leaks anywhere water re-circulates in an enclosed system.

Leakfix is part of the range of solutions from the team at Solvall, delivering quality, affordable technology.

Solvall is now looking for new stockists and distributors in the Republic of Ireland, so get in touch now for more information.

T: +44 (0)28 9002 0580 E: office@solvall.co.uk www.solvall.co.uk

‘Solvall is now looking for new stockists and distributors in Ireland - telephone 048 9002 0580 for more information.’

LEAKFIX IS AN INSTANT

W E N

SEALER FOR WATER LEAKS

• Permanently seals water • Central heating systems leaks in enclosed systems • Automotive cooling systems • Treats up to 80 litres per • Engine blocks system • Underfloor heating • Cylinder heads (coolant to air) systems • Handy toolbox - storage size • Radiators

GUARANTEED NOT TO CLOG THE SYSTEM For enquiries: T: +44 (0)28 9002 0580 E: office@solvall.co.uk - www.solvall.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 65

WATER TREATMENT

THE SENTINEL RANGE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE WATER TREATMENT PRODUCTS IS AVAILABLE FROM MT AGENCIES IN THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND…

Get your Sentinel water systems from MT Agencies!

I

n 2015, MT Agencies became Sentinel’s new distributor in the Republic of Ireland.

An established supplier of heating, showering and associated products, MT Agencies supplies both builders’ merchants and retail bathroom showrooms.

The company is located on the north side of Dublin city within easy reach of the M50 motorway and Dublin Airport and boasts an impressive portfolio of high quality brands, including the premium Sentinel range. MT Agencies distributes all of the products within the Sentinel range.

“We are delighted to welcome MT Agencies as a new Sentinel distributor,” says John Lynch, Director of Sales in Ireland for Sentinel. “We have a growing presence in the Republic of Ireland and working with MT Agencies this will help to boost this further.”

Ciaran Timmins, Director at MT Agencies, adds, “We recognised Sentinel as a premium brand that satisfies a particular sector of the heating market. As it’s a premium range, it’s priced as such so we’re in the process of getting the message out there to plumbers that Sentinel has an excellent range of high quality products.”

Ciaran says one of the most popular products with plumbers is the Installer pack which consists of a litre bottle of X100 Inhibitor and a litre bottle of the X800 Fast Acting Cleaner. The X100 Inhibitor provides protection for clean central heating systems against limescale and corrosion.

Suitable for use in all types of indirect central heating system, Sentinel says the product will extend the life of the system, ensuring maximum efficiency and minimising fuel usage. The company also says that limescale and corrosion are the two main causes of central heating inefficiency, leading to radiator cold spots, boiler inefficiency, a noisy system and a multitude of other problems. Once a system has been prepared using one of the cleaners from the Sentinel cleaning

66 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

range, it should be protected with Sentinel X100 Inhibitor to prevent the occurrence of limescale build up or corrosion.

The X800 product is a heavy-duty, multi-purpose cleaner that removes corrosion deposits and scale from older systems.

Developed especially for use with powerflushing machines to provide a more rapid and effective clean, it restores circulation to old, dirty heating systems and prepares new systems for the addition of Sentinel X100 Inhibitor. According to Sentinel, 1 litre of the X800 Fast Acting Cleaner is enough to clean a typical system of up to 10 radiators.

For larger systems, 2 litres should be used.

Sentinel’s product offering has grown over the past few years to address the needs of both domestic and Ciaran Timmins of MT Agencies – Sentinel’s new distributor commercial central heating in the Republic of Ireland. installers and engineers, strengthening its range of product so you’re not just getting a product products for traditional boiler systems and that meets the minimum requirements. expanding into products for renewable You’re getting a product that well surpasses energy systems and potable water systems. the minimum requirements and performs on A very varied range of high quality products a different level to the majority of competing for central heating systems, hot water products currently on the market.” systems and renewable energy systems is available, covering every possible water MT Agencies – T: (RoI) 01 864 3363 or treatment requirement.

00353 1 864 3363 MT Agencies is proud to distribute the E: sales@mtagencies.ie Sentinel range in the Republic of Ireland.

W: www.mtagencies.ie “Sentinel has deservedly won several awards over the years,” adds Ciaran. “It Sentinel - T: (NI) Gary Campbell 07738 416 comes highly recommended by experts 735 or (RoI) John Lynch 0044 7973 810 743 in the heating industry. It also far exceeds W: www.sentinelprotects.com the minimum build cert requirement for the

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COMPANY PROFILE

Billy McAuley, Branch Manager, Bangor Building Supplies, (left) with the plumbing and heating team (from left) Ian Sterritt, Richard Carvill, Plumbing Supervisor, Chris McAuley and Harry Sterritt.

PLUMBING AND HEATING BRANCH CONTINUES TO ENJOY SUCCESS THANKS TO THE PERFECT BALANCE BETWEEN STOCKS, SERVICE AND PRICE…

Service is at the heart of Bangor Building Supplies

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t the heart of every merchant is service and at the plumbing and heating branch based at Bangor Building Supplies, the high level of service on offer is something the team takes great pride in.

The experienced team works hard to keep customers up-to-date with the latest developments within this ever-changing industry, but service is the one constant that customers enjoy.

“We have a very loyal customer base and that is growing all the time,” explained Billy McAuley, Branch Manager at the Bangor Building Supplies branch. “With today’s tight deadlines on projects, no-one can afford to be waiting for the products they need to come in, so if they can’t get it from us, then they’ll go elsewhere.

“That’s why we feel it is so important to

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maintain our stock levels. Once you get a reputation for that, customers make you their first port of call to source products.”

Price is, of course, also viewed as an important aspect of the business and being part of the Macnaughton Blair group means that Bangor Building Supplies offer competitive rates.

The plumbing and heating branch at Bangor Building Supplies is one of six Macnaughton Blair plumbing and heating branches across the province.

“Everyone wants to find the right balance between price and service and I believe we consistently deliver that for our customers,” added Billy. “Being part of a builders’ merchant is also an added extra, as our customers can pick up a few extras such as timber, hand tools, power tools and much more.

“But we’re more than just an add-on to the builders’ merchant – we offer a complete plumbing and heating service. Aside from that, we are also able to tap into our network of branches across Northern Ireland. Gone are the days when our customers are only working in and around their local area.

More and more are extending their reach across the province but, in doing so, want a plumbers’ merchant they can trust. That is a major advantage of working with us.”

The diverse product range available is another plus point, and Bangor Building Supplies has developed this to meet the different needs of customers. The plumbing and heating branch in Bangor works with everyone from DIYers and self builders through to plumbing and heating contractors of all sizes.

The diverse product range is matched by experience at the trade counter, with the team benefitting from strong relationships with all the leading manufacturers, meaning customers know they can get answers to their questions and queries.

A perfect example of this was the recent agreement with Alternative Heat which sees the Compact Underfloor Heating System now available at every Macnaughton Blair branch. This partnership not only gives customers access to a superb underfloor heating system but also to services such as full design and heat loss calculations that incorporate CAD loop layout drawings and full M&E schematics.

T: 028 9127 1792 www.macblair.com

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UNDERFLOOR HEATING

LOOKING FOR A GREAT SOURCE OF UNDERFLOOR HEATING? THEN LOOK NO FURTHER…

WARM-BOARD is one of the thinnest systems on the market.

Heat is on with Solfex underfloor heating range

S

OLFEX energy systems has been supplying renewable and high efficiency products for over a decade and is well known for its excellent level of customer support and wide variety of solutions.

The company’s extensive underfloor heating range is no exception, with systems designed to suit every floor construction - from your traditional staple and screed systems to highly efficient aluminium heat plate systems ideally suited to suspended floors.

The patent-pending WARM-BOARD system from SOLFEX is an innovative floating floor solution which uses a high density dry screed board and a multifunctional end support which acts as both a pipe retainer and return.

SOLFEX products and services are available through your local PTS – Plumbing Trade Supplies; ask in branch for more information.

The WARM-BOARD end support features multiple fixing and snapping points, allowing it to adapt to the size you need and maximise the heat emission area. Available in thicknesses of 15mm and 18mm, WARMBOARD is one of the thinnest systems on the market, making it ideal for retrofit installations where floor height comes at a premium. Best of all, WARM-BOARD offers a quick, one-man installation workflow, thanks to its modular components and simple fixing.

SOLFEX has recently introduced its own range of electric underfloor heating solutions - the SOLFEX Undertile Heating Mat, which is the perfect solution for bathroom and en suite installations; the Underwood Heater, which is ideally suited for installation directly under a finished hardwood or laminate floor;

and an Underfloor Heating Cable, based on the same technology as the heating mat, for more complex room layouts. The SOLFEX electric underfloor heating range is focused on being quick and easy to install and features a market-leading lifetime warranty scheme.

MANIFOLDS In addition to having systems to suit any floor construction, SOLFEX offers manifolds that are built to last.

If there is a demand for heat within that relevant zone the manifold evenly distributes the primary warm heating water from your boiler, heat pump, buffer tank or thermal store into each underfloor heating circuit.

SOLFEX Underfloor heating manifolds are available from 2-12 ports and are manufactured from high-grade 304 stainless steel.

Installation and commissioning couldn’t be any simpler. Isolation valves are provided on both flow and return and each individual circuit can also be isolated without disruption to the balancing setting. In addition, the manifold also incorporates a wall-mounting bracket, in-built air bleeding vents and drain off valves. SOLFEX mixer packs are also built to the same standard and have recently been updated to include the new high efficiency Grunfos UPM3-Auto 25/70 pump, as standard, for lower energy use and running cost.

ELEGANT CONTROLS SOLFEX offers a fully indemnified design and CAD service.

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No underfloor heating system would be complete without the ability to manage the room temperature, but often traditional

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UNDERFLOOR HEATING

thermostats could be described as ugly and clunky.

SOLFEX thermostats that are refreshingly different, with full featured programmable modes which are operated via a simple interface. The majority of SOLFEX room thermostats are designed to be flush mounted, resulting in a slim profile on the wall after installation.

These slimline thermostat models have proven highly popular because of their ease of use and the SOLFEX Neo option is the preferred choice for those looking to control their heating system from their smart phone. Thermostats are available for 230v, 12v and wireless setups, with SOLFEX also offering a range of easy to install wiring centres to accompany the controls and allow multizone control.

WARM-BOARD system from SOLFEX is an innovative floating floor solution.

EASY INSTALLATION As experts in underfloor heating, the team at SOLFEX are always more than happy to help with any technical queries you may have.

For SOLFEX this service is very much about how the company can make your installation as smooth as possible and, as part of this, SOLFEX offers a fully indemnified design and CAD service which includes underfloor heating designs according to BS EN 1264. Professional CAD drawings will also be supplied with every system detailing all circuit information and manifold positions.

For customers specifying their own systems, SOLFEX also caters for customers looking for a solid supply of components, with a huge range of manifolds, mixer packs, controls, actuators, multilayer pipe, fittings and accessories in stock.

If you would like more information on how SOLFEX can help you with your next underfloor heating installation, call 01772 312847, e-mail underfloorheating@solfex.co.uk or visit www.solfex.co.uk

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Users can use their smart phone to control their heating through SOLFEX Neo.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 71

INSTALLER SUPPORT

New viewing galleries have been added to the redesigned factory tour at Worcester.

Engineers can meet the experts on the new Worcester tour and also utilise the new selfie zones.

LAUNCH OF NEW TECHNICAL SUPPORT VIDEOS AND A REDESIGNED FACTORY TOUR BOOST THE EXPERTISE AVAILABLE TO INSTALLERS…

Worcester once again puts installers at its heart

W

orcester, Bosch Group has once again placed the focus on installers with the launch of new technical videos and a redesigned factory tour.

The company recently released a collection of technical videos on its YouTube channel in support of the new Greenstar System Filter while the redesigned factory tour is aimed at giving installers the opportunity to get even more of the VIP treatment while they discover what it takes to manufacture the boilers they regularly fit.

The selection of ‘How To’ video tutorials for heating professionals will provide further guidance on installing and servicing the new

Worcester’s new Greenstar System Filter has been designed to make installation and servicing simpler than ever before and the recently launched new technical video will enhance this further.

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Greenstar System Filter. In creating this exclusive online content, Worcester turned to its dedicated training engineers as well as its award-winning technical support team to provide installers with expert advice, no matter where they are. The new tutorials add to the suite of videos already available on Worcester’s YouTube channel, providing a range of mobile friendly content that installers can access on the go.

The new Greenstar System Filter has been designed to allow a bi-directional flow, enabling it to be installed anywhere along the return circulation pipework between the last radiator and the boiler. Available in both 22mm and 28mm variants, the filter also features isolation valves that can be activated using a single 90° turn, with red and green indicators specifying when the filter is in operation.

Installers can also get an insight on Worcester products on the factory tour.

With over 400 process steps and 600 parts required to produce a typical Worcester appliance, the new tour has been designed so installers, specifiers and merchants can observe the level of care and rigorous testing that is carried out on all of its leading products.

Tours will be conducted by one of the manufacturer’s expert Technical Trainers, who are able to field any questions that may arise as visitors make their way around the factory, providing an altogether more interactive experience.

Offering more access than ever before, the new route covers all key areas and takes visitors along the four lean assembly lines designed to cope with seasonal customer

demand. Visitors will gain insight into the heat exchanger build, copper shop, press shop, paint shop, sub-assembly line as well as the quality testing department.

At each section, an area expert will present a practical overview, demonstrating the level of skill involved in producing every Worcester boiler. Every department also includes dedicated viewing areas, with designated selfie points giving engineers the chance to share their best #WorcesterSelfie on social media.

In the afternoon, guests take part in a thorough product training session, where they will have time to get hands-on with the latest models and technologies, and experience the personal development sessions offered by Worcester.

At the end of their day, visitors will receive a Worcester jacket and an exclusive cash-back voucher to take home, along with a greater understanding of the detail and precision that goes into making every Worcester product.

T: Ray McClay on (NI) 07767 432567 or (RoI) on 0044 7767 432567.

To view Worcester’s collection of technical support videos visit https://www.youtube.com/user/ WorcesterBoschGroup

“Offering more access than ever before, the new route covers all key areas and takes visitors along the four lean assembly lines.”

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PLUMBING & HEATING AWARDS 2016

2016 UNVEILING THE WINNERS OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S PLUMBING & HEATING AWARDS 2016… g

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 73

PLUMBING AND HEATING INDUSTRY’S LEADING INSTALLERS, CONTRACTORS, MERCHANTS, PEOPLE, PROJECTS AND PRODUCTS ARE RECOGNISED AT GALA AWARDS NIGHT…

Staff from the Harvey Group celebrate a double success at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016, where the company won the Commercial Project of the Year Award with company founder, Brian Harvey (centre) receiving the Overall Achievement Award.

A night of excellence for the plumbing and heating industry

T

Bassetts celebrate a hat-trick of winning the Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year title.

Staff from Warmflow following Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016. The company was a finalist in the Overall Achievement Award category and won the Energy Efficient Product of the Year Award for the company’s Ground Source Heat Pump.

Staff from PTS celebrate the company’s Best Customer Service Award in the Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year category.

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he best that the plumbing and heating industry has to offer was celebrated at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016 in Belfast.

The biennial awards, which were once again sponsored by Flogas, attracted a record number of entries this year as it recognised the best projects, people and merchants in the industry.

Harvey Group founder, Brian Harvey, received the night’s main award when he was presented with the Overall Achievement Award after the judges recognised him as someone who best exemplifies the dedication to the pursuit of excellence in the plumbing and heating industry in Northern Ireland.

In a new category Des Keenan of Kildress Plumbing Suppliers and George Nelson of George Nelson Plumbing & Heating received an Unsung Hero Award for their tireless charity fundraising work while 21-year-old Gary Doyle was also recognised with a special award for becoming the first apprentice from Northern Ireland to win a Gold medal for plumbing and heating at the WorldSkills Finals – just two days before it was announced that he is set to receive a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to skills as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Jacqui Fairley, Publication Director of Plumbing & Heating Magazine, thanked everyone who entered the awards and congratulated the winners.

“Our independent panel of judges faced a daunting task of selecting the winners from an exceptional list of applications. These awards were established to recognise the excellence within the plumbing and heating industry and all the winners as well as those who received a highly commended award or made the final shortlist proves the high standards within our industry.

“We want to thank everyone who took the time to enter and also all our sponsors who helped make this happen.”

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AWARD WINNERS… OVERALL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD • Brian Harvey, Harvey Group plc

PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR • Winner - Bassetts • Best Customer Service - PTS • Best Family/Independent – Beggs & Partners • Best Family/Independent Highly Commended – Kildress Plumbing Suppliers

COMMERCIAL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR • Winner – Hanna Mechanical • Highly Commended – Maurice Stevenson Ltd

DOMESTIC OIL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR • Winner – CTS Projects • Highly Commended – O’Kane Plumbing Services

DOMESTIC GAS CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR • Winner – GT Gas Works • Highly Commended - Safegas NI Ltd

DOMESTIC OIL INSTALLER OF THE YEAR • Winner – David Lindsay • Highly Commended - V&J Harness P&H

DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLER OF THE YEAR • Winner – Stephen Meneely Plumbing and Gas Ltd • Highly Commended - V&J Harness P&H

DOMESTIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR • Winner – Handley Heating for Services for Chester Terrace, London • Highly Commended – Quinn Mechanical Services for Grillagh Water House

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COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR •

•

Winner – Harvey Group for Queen’s University Belfast Highly Commended – JBE Mechanical Electrical for Lews Castle

GREEN TECHNOLOGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR •

•

Winner – Moffitt & Robinson Construction for Corick House Highly Commended – Thomas Hanna for Crest Pavilion

Anthony Mulligan from sponsors Flogas was also one of this year’s judges.

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR • •

•

Winner – Grant for Grant Vortexair Highly Commended – Reliance Worldwide Corporation for Radiance Thermal Interface Units Highly Commended – Classic Marble (Showers) Ltd for CM Seal Tanking for Shower Trays and Baths

The team from Handley Heating Services celebrates the company’s success in the Domestic Project of the Year category.

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCT OF THE YEAR • Winner – Warmflow for its Ground Source Heat Pump • Highly Commended – OkoTech for Heatboss

MANUFACTURER’S REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR • Winner – George McGuire, Pegler Yorkshire • Highly Commended – Mark Eccles, Grant Engineering and Trevor Beggs, Glen Dimplex NI

Staff from JBE Mechanical Electrical mark the company’s Highly Commended win in the Commercial Project of the Year category.

BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN •

•

Winner – Grant for Think Boilers, Think Grant Highly Commended – Beam for Beam Vacuum & Ventilation

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR •

• •

Alison Stevenson (centre) with Anne Kelly and Colin McElhinney, marking Maurice Stevenson Ltd’s Highly Commended Award in the Commercial Contractor of the Year category.

Special Recognition Award – Gary Doyle for his Gold medal success at WorldSkills in Brazil Winner – Aaron Corr, Dowds Group Highly Commended – Maitiu Cole, CTS Projects

UNSUNG HERO • George Nelson, George Nelson Plumbing & Heating, and Des Keenan, Kildress Plumbing Suppliers

George McGuire (left) is congratulated by his Pegler Yorkshire colleague, Billy Ritchie, on winning the Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year Award.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 75

NEW INITIATIVE LAUNCHED BY THE WELCOME ORGANISATION IS BOOSTED BY THE INDUSTRY’S GENEROSITY…

Nearly £3,000 raised for The Katie Project

Pamela Thompson and Gareth Thompson of GT Gas Works with Louise and Andrew Sands from Calor Gas.

Jamie Dyas and Declan Small, BSS, with Scott Coliins, Willis Heating & Plumbing, Robert Watson, BSS.

From Grant are (from left) Peter Darcy, Mark Eccles, Stephen Grant and Joe Conroy.

Paul Clancy and Sharon English, Baxi with John Miskelly and Sean Miskelly, O.Miskelly & Sons.

Flogas was once again the main sponsors of this year’s awards. Pictured from the company are (from left) Martin Loughran, Deirdre Dempsey, Shane Phelan, Joanne Wray and Kirsty Chapman.

Pictured representing Flogas, this year’s main sponsors, are (from left) Brian Hermin, Martin Loughran and Shane Phelan.

T

he plumbing and heating industry showed amazing generosity in raising nearly £3,000 for the Welcome Organisation’s Katie Project.

A leading homeless charity based in Belfast, the Welcome Organisation adopts a nonjudgemental approach to addressing homelessness issues, with all of its services based on the principles of harm reduction delivered through lowthreshold services. The Welcome Organisation is recognised for accepting people ‘where they are at’ as opposed to where others think they should be.

Specifically, the money raised at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards will go towards The Katie Project’. This new initiative was launched by the Welcome Organisation in memory of Catherine Kenny who died earlier this year. Catherine’s sister, Lee-Maria Hughes, is a Sales Representative for PTS and she has already been humbled by the support of the wider plumbing and heating industry for The Katie Project.

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Catherine Russell, Vaillant, (second right) with guests (from left) Colin and Sylvia Nixon and Davy Patterson.

The team from Altecnic – (from left) Darren Shaw, Gary Perry, Marta Frosi, Mark Mogey and Chris Reilly.

Oliver Cormican, Director, (second left) and staff from Warmflow.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 77

PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR WINNER: BASSETTS

CONTINUED EXPANSION AND COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMERS IS RECOGNISED FOR THE THIRD TIME IN A ROW, AS BASSETTS WINS THE TOP TITLE...

Hat-trick for Bassetts Alan Wright, Bassetts, receives the Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year Award from Mark Eccles of sponsors, Grant.

B

assetts claimed a hat-trick of Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year titles to mark another year of expansion and growth.

The company was formed in 1982 and had enjoyed marginal growth, with five branches and 55 staff by 2004. However, backed by parent company, Saint-Gobain Group, the company has expanded significantly and now has 14 branches in Northern Ireland.

The latest addition to the branch line-up is the new Simply Bathrooms showroom at Boucher Crescent, Belfast, while this year has also seen extensive branch expansions in DerryLondonderry and Coleraine. The company has also invested in cutting edge design technology with the Bassetts Visualiser – a state-of-the-art interactive touchscreen based software that is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland and that allows users to choose from over hundreds of wall and floor tiles.

The creation of a new centralised commercial and sanitary ware sales team has boosted the business and is complemented by the company’s two dedicated Regional

Sales Managers, a dedicated Bathroom Sales Manager a tile specialist and highly experienced and loyal staff across all 14 branches.

All these changes have inevitably generated increased sales but the success of Bassetts is not reliant on a particular customer for any significant chunk of business, demonstrating the company’s diversity in the market and its ability to service the needs of all customer types – from the large mechanical specialists to domestic plumbers.

Managing Director, Alan Wright, said, “This recognition is something everyone at Bassetts should all be very proud of, having been awarded this title for a third, successive time. It is a testament to the dedication, and commitment of our colleagues who provide excellent standards of sales and customer service every day at branches right across the network.

“Each and every person employed by Bassetts plays a significant role in achieving and maintaining these award winning standards. A massive well done to you all.”

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges praised Bassetts on their professionalism, recent company growth and glowing customer testimonials.”

Bassetts (Head Office) 4 Mahon Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT62 3EH T: 028 3833 9438 – 14 branches across Northern Ireland www.bassettsonline.com

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OVERALL ACHIEVEMENT ACH WINNER WINNER: BRIAN XXXXX HARVEY, FOR XXXXXX HARVEY XXX XXXX GROUP

SINCE SETTING UP BUSINESS IN 1978, BRIAN HARVEY HAS GROWN HIS COMPANY TO BECOME A MAJOR FORCE IN THE BULDING SERVICES SECTOR…

Brian brings vision and drive to Harvey Group

F

rom humble beginnings when he founded Harvey Heating Ltd in 1978, working from home in Ballyclare, Brian Harvey has been the driving force behind a company that has grown to be one of the major players in the building services sector in Northern Ireland, and is now also operating on the GB mainland. It is for these achievements that he received the Overall Achievement Award.

From those early days, Brian was always there to help his team, working with them right through the night if necessary to get a job completed.

On April 4, 1985, the company changed its name to Harvey Group PLC, reflecting the ability to provide a one-stop M&E installation and maintenance facility.

Quality installations and customer satisfaction have always been Brian’s passion and, to help realise these objectives across the company, he has always been at the forefront in developing the systems and procedures to allow the company to obtain third party accreditation

Brian Harvey, Harvey Group, is presented with the Overall Achievement Award

by Sean Phelan of sponsors, Flogas.

for its core activities.

As a result, Harvey Group gained Independent British Standard certified quality, health and safety. Environmental management systems have been in place since 1993, and Investors in People followed in 2000. This reflects Brian’s commitment to the company’s greatest asset – its workforce - and a culture of continual development, training and excellence in all its staff.

In March 2016, Harvey Group became the first UK M&E company to obtain an independent third party accreditation for BIM modelling through the BSI. It has also embraced, and actively promotes, the minimisation of energy consumption and associated carbon emissions in the systems it designs develops, installs, commissions and maintains.

Harvey Group enjoys a sound reputation for delivering projects on time, on budget, safely, to a first-class finish and commissioned throughout, and this is in no small part down to the vision and dedication of Brian Harvey.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “Brian Harvey has been the driving force behind a company that has grown to be one of the major players in the building services industry.”

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

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 79

DOMESTIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR WINNER: HANDLEY HEATING SERVICES FOR CHESTER TERRACE, LONDON

A PASSIONATE APPROACH TO PROJECTS PAYS DIVIDENDS FOR HANDLEY HEATING SERVICES…

Handley sets the bar high

H

andley Heating Services won the Domestic Project of the Year for completing a total strip-out and refurbishment of Chester Terrace, a sixstorey luxury terraced property in London.

The challenge was to provide a highperforming plumbing and heating system within the constraints put upon the design by the regulating authority, Crown Estates.

A sizeable factor was the insistence on using ‘like for like’ materials and technology when replacing the existing systems within the 100-year-old property.

Finding a number of significant shortcomings on what could be installed, and always looking for innovative ways to solve problems, HHS took the initiative to make some proposals on what products could be used. Where other companies had failed in this, HHS’s in-depth knowledge of the products and how they would relate to each other within the system as a whole was a major factor in getting them passed for approval.

The team also had to learn how to work

Ryan Handley, Handley Heating receives the Domestic Project of the Year Award for the company’s work on the Chester Terrace project in London from Catherine Russell of sponsors, Vaillant.

with more traditional methods and materials in areas where compromise could be made with the regulators.

One of the most challenging aspects of the job involved fitting all the mechanical plant into two small chambers beneath the sidewalk at the front of the property, so, HHS commissioned custom-built horizontal water heating equipment linked to a plate heat exchanger.

The team also liaised with all other contractors and a controls engineer to ensure the heating system had a simple user interface but one which was also capable of managing all eventualities/ combinations of heating and cooling which might arise, to ensure that there would be no adverse effects from one element on another.

One of the more unique complications was having to crane a large outdoor tub onto the rooftop. The project has since led to two more luxury properties and a six-storey block of luxury apartments in London.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “This was a very competitive project.

Handley Heating Services’ project was of a very high standard and completed to the deadline.”

Handley Heating Services, 30 Edenordinary Rd, Banbridge BT32 4HA T: 028 9269 3588 – E: info@handleyheating.com www.handleyheating.com

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PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR – FAMILY/INDEPENDENT WINNER: BEGGS & PARTNERS

BEGGS & PARTNERS TAKES PRIDE IN PROVIDING A HIGH LEVEL OF SERVICE TO ALL ITS CUSTOMERS…

Customer care is central to Beggs & Partners offering

B

ack in 1960, William Beggs and his partners realised the potential of the market and set about establishing a merchant business, initially in Belfast, and then in Ballymena. The aim was crystal clear from day one – to provide innovative, highquality and true-value plumbing, heating and bathroom products to the Northern Ireland marketplace.

The award of the Best Family/Independent Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year accolade has proved the strength of William’s foresight.

In addition to Belfast and Ballymena, Beggs & Partners has branches in Newtownards, Portadown, Maghera and Lisburn, meeting the needs of a wide variety of customers, from trade to home-owners, and are staffed by a highly skilled workforce, who are dedicated to finding solutions for every application.

In order to provide the best service possible, Beggs & Partners offers massive stock availability, credit accounts, daily deliveries, a ‘call and collect’ service, spare part order and tool sales. The company has recently increased opening hours from 7.30am on

Richard Robinson, Beggs & Partners, receiving the Best Family/Independent Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year Award from Mark Eccles of sponsors, Grant.

week days (Belfast) and is also open on Saturday mornings.

The introduction of the company’s own brand, Instinct, has added edge to its range, providing quality engineered and expertly designed products at real value price points.

Contract and commercial divisions have seen very strong growth in the past ten years, both in the supply of sanitary ware and industrial scale heating systems. Beggs & Partners is now the preferred supplier for many large developers, contractors, M&E consultants and fit-out specialists. Its key account managers offer technical expertise and logistical solutions both in Northern Ireland and across the UK, regularly being awarded contracts for hotels, schools and hospitals.

Major renovations to the company’s bathroom showrooms have helped Beggs and Partners achieve consistent retail growth over the past few years and the company counts architects, interiors designers and home renovators among its expanding client base.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “A very strong business based on solid family foundations that is delivering quality plumbing, heating and bathroom products.”

• Belfast: 0289023 5791 • Ballymena: 028 2564 5121 • Newtownards: 028 9182 6680 • Maghera: 028 7964 5599 • Portadown: 028 3839 2000 • Lisburn: 028 9262 1133 www.beggsandpartners.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 81

MECHANICAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR – COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND PUBLIC SECTOR WINNER: HARVEY GROUP FOR QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY BELFAST

WELLCOME-WOLFSON INSTITUTE FOR EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE SHOWCASES HARVEY GROUP’S BIM PROCESSES…

Excellent achievement

by Harvey Group

H

arvey Group and the WellcomeWolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine continue to win awards with this Mechanical Project of the Year title being added to accolades such as the Overall Award at CEF’s Construction Excellence Awards and the Project of the Year at the RICS Northern Ireland Awards.

This purpose-built healthcare building for scientific research is situated in the grounds of Belfast City Hospital.

The project has become yet another example of the high quality, highly serviced buildings that Harvey Group has become associated with, and this latest one required a high degree of specialist systems. These included: combined heat and power units, VAV systems, cold room installations, biological safety cabinets, fume cupboards, mist fire suppression, rainwater harvesting, borehole extraction, a chemical treatment system for potable water, medical gas system and many more.

The challenge for Harvey Group was to incorporate a lot of complex services into

Robert Hall, Harvey Group, is presented with the Commercial Project of the Year Award for the company’s work at Queen’s University Belfast by Shaun Foster of sponsors, Potterton Commercial.

the building; achieve BREEAM Excellent; address concerns about the choice of pipework for chilled water and heating; and carry out the complex commissioning process within a tight timescale.

To help meet these challenges, Harvey’s developed a full BIM model for the building services. It is Northern Ireland’s largest Level 2 BIM project and the model is being used by Queen’s University to inform its BIM strategy for design, construction and building maintenance.

The desired BREEAM Excellent was achieved by the use of several novel design features, including passive heating and the use of waste heat recovery to contribute to the underfloor system. Stainless steel pipework was accepted for the chilled water and heating systems in order to overcome concerns about carbon steel.

Other factors that speeded up the project included ongoing system precommissioning, whenever possible, direct relationships with the client and planned phasing.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “Harvey Group’s entry stood out as a complex project that was carried out to a very high standard.”

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

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CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR – COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, PUBLIC SECTOR WINNER: HANNA MECHANICAL SERVICES

A TALL ORDER FOR MECHANICAL SERVICES AT DANSKE BANK PROVES NO OBSTACLE FOR HANNA MECHANICAL SERVICES…

Hanna Mechanical rises to the challenge

A

major project at Danske Bank in Belfast city centre entailed the installation/modification of mechanical services.

Hanna Mechanical Services prefabricated a containerised boiler house, complete with all the relevant pumps, boilers etc housed within a steel container which was then shipped to site at Danske Bank’s branch in Donegal Square West. From there it was lifted by crane onto the rooftop of the building.

Hanna Mechanical had to organise an early morning road closure, crane hire, and all the relevant health and safety requirements to carry out such work.

Once in position, the final connections were carried out between the newly fabricated boiler house and the existing pipework to the building. A new 4” gas line was installed to supply the new boiler house, which ran up the side of the building from ground level to the boiler house. Upon completion of the new installation, Hanna Mechanical filled,

Gary Hanna, Hanna Mechanical Services, receives the Commercial Contractor of the Year Award from Billy Ritchie of sponsors, Pegler Yorkshire.

vented and commissioned the new boiler house and fired up the boilers before removing the redundant boilers from site.

Recognising the challenges of the project to install a heating solution on the roof of the building and integrate this into existing heating systems, the judges agreed that Hanna Mechanical had delivered a smart, turnkey solution for the project.

Ian Downes, Engineering Services Manager, Danske Bank UK said that he was very impressed with Hanna Mechanical’s cleanliness, particularly carrying out normally dirty work, replacing old pipework during evening and weekends in live, occupied sites, with bank staff returning to work not knowing that the work had taken place.

Established in 2003, Hanna Mechanical Services has gained a wide range of experience in all aspects of mechanical services installations, through the large number and variety of projects with which it has been involved.

Hanna Mechanical Services, Emerson House, 14b Ballynahinch Road, Carryduff BT8 8DN T: 028 9081 7841 – E: info@hannamechanical.com www.hannamechanical.com

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AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “As a young company, we were impressed by Hanna Mechanical’s quality and uniqueness of the heating solution provided for Danske Bank.”

HANNA

MECHANICAL SERVICES

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 83

GREEN TECHNOLOGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR WINNER: MOFFITT & ROBINSON CONSTRUCTION

ENERGY EFFICIENT APPROACH AT CORICK HOUSE HOTEL BY MOFFITT & ROBINSON CONSTRUCTION IS RECOGNISED BY THE JUDGES…

Praise for team behind energy efficient hotel extension

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he superb extension at Corick House Hotel in the heart of the Clogher Valley is this year’s Green Technology Project of the Year.

The mechanical aspects of this project were led by Moffitt & Robinson Construction with Ian Short Plumbing & Heating the mechanical contractor on site.

The extension included a threestorey extension to the existing hotel, comprising 24 bedrooms over two floors, and leisure facilities on the ground floor.

Yet, despite this, the focus on energy efficiency by Moffitt & Robinson has resulted in any increase in energy costs being kept to a minimum.

Central to this was the introduction of a range of energy efficient measures for the heating and water requirements of the hotel.

The heat recovery ventilation system is one of the most successful aspects of this as it recovers waste heat from

Willie Moffitt, Moffitt & Robinson Construction, is presented with the Green Technology Project of the Year Award by Declan Small of sponsors, BSS.

the swimming pool and spa as well as the guest bedrooms to heat the hotel.

Motion sensors and thermostatic controls prevent over and under heating in the bedrooms while the inclusion of a wood chip boiler has also reduced the cost of heating the building.

As a result, the use of electric water heating has been eliminated in the spa and pool areas.

A borehole now provides the hotel with all the water it requires while all the new bedrooms have been fitted with low-flush cisterns to save water.

These aspects of the mechanical installation were mirrored by energy efficient methods used in the design and construction of the building fabric and also further energy saving measures in the electrical installation. This holistic approach has resulted in significant savings for the hotel.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges acknowledged the challenges the team faced in designing solutions within an existing operational build. This was a good project which focused on sustainability and efficiency.

A very worthy winner in this increasingly significant environmental category.”

Moffitt & Robinson Construction, 40 Blacksessiagh Road, Omagh, BT78 1SU T: 028 8224 3656 or 07803 189 303 - E: info@moffittandrobinson.co.uk www.moffittandrobinson.co.uk

PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR – BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE WINNER: PTS

THE ABILITY TO MEET THE VARYING NEEDS OF A WIDE RANGE OF CUSTOMERS PUTS PTS AHEAD ON THE CUSTOMER SERVICE FRONT…

Customer service success for PTS Barry Lowe, PTS, is presented with the Best Customer Service Award by Mark Eccles of sponsors, Grant.

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very merchant prides itself on delivering the highest standards of customer service so PTS is rightly proud of the company’s success at this year’s awards.

The company is the proud winner of the Best Customer Service Award in the Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year category, with the judges highlighting how PTS meets the needs of a variety of customers.

As one of the 21 trading brands of Travis Perkins Group PLC, PTS provides all the benefits of working with a multinational while, at the same time offering the personal touch of an independent.

Barry Lowe, Area Sales Manager at PTS, said, “Plumbers’ merchants are judged on their customer service so we are delighted to be recognised by the judges for our exceptional service.

“We work hard to deliver the highest quality of service, carry the greatest range of stock, be consistently professional and offer effective communication. We take pride in these areas and believe that is

why we have such a strong base of loyal customers.”

The PTS philosophy is based around the going the extra mile for all customers and the company continues to prove this in all six branches in Northern Ireland and its one branch in Dublin.

This is illustrated through the strength of the PTS contract business which sees the company working closely with the province’s leading contractors as well as the strength of its business relationships with smaller, independent plumbers.

The strength of these customer relationships is mirrored by the partnerships PTS has created the industry’s leading manufacturers, allowing the company to deliver the latest product innovations or to give customers access to one of the best spare parts offerings in Ireland. The fact that the company has a 45,000sqft regional distribution centre based in Lisburn also ensures PTS can keep stocks replenished across all branches.

PTS Head Office – 102-127 Grosvenor Road, Belfast, BT12 4GT T: 028 9027 1600 – E: info@ptsplumbing.co.uk www.ptsplumbing.co.uk

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges commented that PTS’ excellent customer service and extensive product knowledge made them worthy winners of this category.”

DOMESTIC OIL CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR WINNER: CTS PROJECTS

THE AWARDS – AND NEW CONTRACTS – JUST KEEP COMING FOR WARRENPOINTBASED HEATING INSTALLATION COMPANY…

More success for CTS Projects

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TS Projects has won yet another award, with the title of Domestic Oil Contractor of the Year at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016 joining a growing list of awards.

The leading Warrenpoint-based heating installation company, has also been named as Northern Ireland’s Heating Installer of the Year 2016 by Installer Magazine while the company’s Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy, was named as both the Business Person Of The Year at the 2016 Aer Lingus Viscount Awards in London and the Young Business Person of the Year, sponsored

by ALMAC, at this year’s Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Business Awards.

The company’s apprentice, Maitiu Cole also made it a great night at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards when he won a Highly Commended award in the Apprentice of the Year.

Connaire established his first business heating specialists CTS Projects back in 2005 when he was just 23. Under Connaire’s leadership, the business has grown and

Connaire McGreevy, CTS Projects, is presented with the Domestic Oil Contractor of the Year Award by Richard Thompson of sponsors, Warmflow.

he has invested significantly in bespoke, innovative technologies to ensure the home-heating systems provided by CTS are second to none.

Despite the challenging economic climate, the company has continued to experience a steady increase in growth in recent years. Following a recent increase in its workforce, the company now employs over 70 people to fulfil a demanding schedule of requirements for work in both Northern Ireland contract and the Greater Dublin area.

This increase in the workforce was required after CTS Projects won three new housing association maintenance contracts. This included a £4million maintenance contract with Abacus Housing Consortium, and two further significant contracts with Clanmil Ireland and OakleeTrinity.

Earlier this year the company enhanced its existing premises at Milltown East Industrial Estate in Warrenpoint as well as purchasing a 70-acre site in Rostrevor on which to plant, harvest and grow willow as a renewable energy source to meet continued growth.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges praised the technical and detailed approach to the CTS project which clearly recognised the unique circumstances of the project it put forward.”

CTS Projects Ltd, Milltown East Industrial Estate, Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint, BT34 3PN T: 028 4175 2299 – E: info@ctsprojects.co.uk ctsprojects.net

86 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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DOMESTIC CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR – GAS WINNER: GT GAS WORKS

GT GAS WORKS IS A CONTRACTOR TO BE RELIED ON FOR FORWARD THINKING AND SERVICE…

GT Gas Works finds a solution

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complicated conversion of a domestic oil-fired heating system was enough to impress the judges at this year’s awards, with the company named as the Domestic Gas Contractor of the year.

The project that impressed the judges was the conversion of a domestic oil-fired heating system in a house in Templepatrick to gas.

However, the work was complicated by the fact that the house had originally been built with two separate heating systems and, as part of the conversion, the home-owner wanted to re-zone the house so it could be controlled and operated as one system, from one heat source.

As the job was to be completed in December and would potentially mean a period with no heating or hot water, while the family were still living in the house, the home-owner was concerned that the project would take longer than the five days that had been quoted.

GT Gas Works rose to all these challenges.

The existing system was of three different

Gareth Thompson, GT Gas Works, receives the Domestic Gas Contractor of the Year Award, from Andrew Sands of sponsors, Calor Gas.

types – a back boiler and open-vented system; a one-pipe radiator system openvented underfloor system; and two oil boilers and two hot water cylinders. Carefully planning how to split these systems with minimum amount of damage to the property, Gareth Thompson, of GT Gas Works decided on a high-flow combi instantaneous hot water and two-zone system, one underfloor and one zone radiator, re-piped and rewired to suit.

The project was completed on schedule and within budget, and although the work impacted on every room in the house, all was left tidy at the end of each day. The family were kept updated daily on the progress of the work and, for such a major job, they never went without hot water or some form of heating at any stage due to the excellent planning and execution of the project by the team from GT Gas Works.

The system designed and installed is extremely efficient and convenient and the results go far beyond the customer’s initial expectations.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “This was an intricate project. GT Gas Works seamlessly delivered a solution to a difficult project involving two old systems.”

GT Gas Works, 32A Knappagh Rd, Killylea, Armagh BT60 4PD T: 028 3756 9610 – E: gareth@boilerdoctors.com www.boilerdoctors.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 87

DOMESTIC OIL INSTALLER OF THE YEAR WINNER: DL PLUMBING & HEATING

DL PLUMBING & HEATING USES AWARD-WINNING SKILLS TO ADD VALUE TO CUSTOMER OFFERING…

Skilled team at DL Plumbing David Lindsay, DL Plumbing & Heating, receives the Domestic Oil Installer of the Year award from David Blevings of sponsors, OFTEC.

T

his year’s winner of the Domestic Oil Installer of the Year title is proof that a good grounding as an apprentice can make all the difference.

A small, but enterprising company, based in County Fermanagh, DL Plumbing & Heating was established in May 2007 by David Lindsay, a gold medal winner in SkillBuild NI 2004, and a bronze winner of the UK finals. Former apprentice, now employee, Alex Rooney also achieved a silver medal at SkillBuild NI last year, and was highly commended in the 2015 SkillPLUMB UK final.

The business has built up a reliable reputation in the local area, enjoying a steady increase in its customer base for both general plumbing and heating and for renovations. DL Plumbing now offers customers full bathroom refurbishments, taking care of all aspects of the work, from arranging relevant trades to complete tiling, PVC panelling, joinery etc. Over the years, the company has also completed a number of NIHE oil-fired boiler replacements and the

more recent Affordable Warmth Scheme.

The residential project submitted for judging showed David going that extra mile in the supply and installation and commissioning of a system that included Myson underfloor heating, a Grant Vortex boiler, an Aqua Gold Thermal Store hot water system, fully pumped oil-fired central heating/log burner with a solid fuel stove, convection radiators, above-ground drainage, soil vents, and sanitary ware.

As the hot water system was designed and installed before the enforcement of new Building Control regulations, DL Plumbing had to go back over the completed work and fit thermostatic mixing valves in the hot press, draining the hot and cold water supply system and then refilling it again, while checking for leaks. David also spotted that the accumulator tank specified for the log burner was too small for the size of the system. After calculating what was required, he sourced a suitably sized F&E tank, disconnected the existing tank and replaced it with the larger one.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The entry clearly demonstrated how the installer overcame several problems associated with using mixed technologies to deliver a smart solution.”

DL Plumbing & Heating, 69 Corraglass Rd, Brockagh, Florencecourt, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT74 9BD T: 07706 347270 – E: davidlindsay27@hotmail.co.uk

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DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLER OF THE YEAR WINNER: STEPHEN MENEELY GAS & PLUMBING LTD

STRONG TESTIMONIALS AND HIGH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP RESULT IN WELL-DESERVED AWARD WIN FOR STEPHEN MENEELY GAS & PLUMBING LTD…

Stephen goes the extra mile for customers

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ith over 30 years’ industry experience, the judges were impressed by heating engineer, Stephen Meneely’s sound reputation in the Belfast area for top quality domestic plumbing services at affordable prices, awarding him the Domestic Gas Installer of the Year title.

Tackling all sorts of plumbing jobs, large and small, Stephen’s proud boast is that, within his working capacity, he has never been unable to find a solution to a problem, from central heating repairs and burst pipe fixes to servicing boilers of all makes and models.

Stephen is also willing to help his customers out, no matter what time they need his services or advice, and this was something that was highlighted in the job put forward for his award’s submission. Stephen installed a new gas system and combination boiler at a house in Belfast and was highly praised by the family of the customer, who suffers some ill health. Not only was he

Stephen Meneely, Stephen Meneely Gas & Plumbing Ltd, is presented with the Domestic Gas Installer of the Year Award by Ray McClay of sponsors, Worcester Bosch.

able to offer advice and information on the new system, but he was also able to carry out the work around the family’s work schedule.

For Stephen, it was all in a day’s work.

He has risen to many challenging projects over the years, ranging from specific design requirements on boiler installations to deciding on the routes for condensate pipes, flues and gas pipes so that they are aesthetically pleasing and perform with the utmost safety.

When he meets a new customer who is hesitant about converting to gas, Stephen spends time making them aware of the benefits and advantages of the changeover and putting their minds at ease about the installation work. For older customers who are sometimes unsure if they can cope with the disruption, this reassurance goes a long way towards their decision in employing Stephen to take on the work.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “Stephen demonstrated a good range and high standard of work, coupled with evidence of high customer satisfaction through strong testimonials.”

Stephen Meneely Gas & Plumbing Ltd, 656 Oldpark Road, Belfast BT14 6QN T: (NI) 028 90 391792– E: stephenmeneely@aol.com www.stephenmeneelyplumbingandgas.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 89

UNSUNG HEROES WINNER: DES KEENAN, KILDRESS PLUMBING SUPPLIERS LTD AND GEORGE NELSON, NELSON HEATING

THIS NEW CATEGORY RECOGNISED THE CONTRIBUTION MADE

BY TWO UNASSUMING CHARACTERS WHO HAVE HELPED RAISE SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF MONEY FOR CHARITY…

Des and George’s charity work celebrated

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es Keenan of Kildress Plumbing Suppliers and George Nelson of George Nelson Plumbing & Heating were both recognised for their fundraising feats with special Unsung Hero Awards.

Both have devoted their lives to helping others and have raised significant sums of money for various charities.

For around the last 10 years, George has regularly organised a day at the races that has brought family, friends, customers and suppliers together to enjoy a day in Navan to raise over £90,000 for the NI Children’s Hospice.

As just £30 enables the Children’s Hospice to provide one hour of specialist nursing care to a life limited child and their family living in Northern Ireland, George’s tireless

fundraising has raised enough money to pay for over 3,000 hours of Children’s Hospice care. This has made a real difference to the lives of the special families that attend the hospice.

Des has also been working hard for local charities. His feats include a 200-mile walk around Northern Ireland and a 100-mile ‘cooker push’.

These and other events have generated not only fun, but an impressive amount of money (over £200,000 to date) raised for charities such as Action MS, St Vincent de Paul, Kildress Health Matters and many more. With a firm belief in the investment of youth and the locality, KPS has also been the main sponsor of the GAA club, Kildress Wolfe Tones.

Kildress Plumbing Suppliers, 244 Drum Rd, Cookstown BT80 9HP. T: 028 8675 2000 www.kildressplumbing.com

90 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

Des Keenan, Kildress Plumbing Suppliers, receives his Unsung Hero Award from Catherine Russell of sponsors, Vaillant.

George Nelson of George Nelson Plumbing & Heating, receives his Unsung Hero Award from Catherine Russell of sponsors, Vaillant.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENTS… “Des has made it his mission to ensure the company invests in the locality and also young people in the community.”

“George has been a dedicated supporter and true friend of Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice for more than 13 years and has made a real difference to the lives of special families that the charity cares for.”

George Nelson Plumbing & Heating, 43A Tates Avenue, Belfast, BT9 7BY T: 028 9050 2800

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ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNER: WARMFLOW FOR THE GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP

ONE OF THE MOST EFFICIENT APPLIANCES IN ITS CLASS TAKES THE TOP AWARD IN THIS COMPETITIVE CATEGORY…

Impressive efficiency of Warmflow’s Ground Source Heat Pumps

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he hotly contested Energy Efficient Product of the Year Award was won by Warmflow for the company’s new Ground Source Heat Pump.

This category saw a record number of entries, but it was the efficiency and innovation of the Warmflow Ground Source Heat Pump that put it ahead of the rest.

When Warmflow started to develop the Ground Source Heat Pump, the company’s original goal was to design a heat pump that is one of the most efficient appliances in its class.

Independent tests have shown the efficiency of the Warmflow Ground Source Heat Pump to be 508% at B0W35. This means that for every 1kW of electricity consumed, 5.08kW of heat are produced. Under the new ErP Directive, the Warmflow Ground Source Heat Pump also has a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCoP) of A+++.

Unlike most other heat pumps which

Niall Dolan, Warmflow, is presented with the Energy Efficient Product of the Year Award by Ian Megahey of sponsors, WorkPal Solutions.

produce heat at a fixed output, the Warmflow Ground Source Heat Pump makes use of the latest variable speed compressor technology to produce heat at the required rate. This gives the heat pump a wide output range and it automatically modulates within this range depending on the heat demands.

To optimise the efficiency of the appliance, it is equipped with the latest EC motor variable speed circulating pumps, which matches its speed to the hydraulic resistance and the heat demand of the system and extraction rate of the ground loop.

In addition, for ease of installation, all pumps and sealed heating system components are conveniently housed within the heat pump casing. This speeds up installation and minimises wiring and plumbing needed on site. The unit also has an inbuilt monitoring system, which monitors flow temperature, flow rates and system temperatures for easy commissioning.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “Warmflow are deserved winners of this category for their heat pump which is one of the most efficient and low emission appliances in its class. Designed and built in accordance to EN14511, the judges acknowledged that it is officially the most energy efficient product in the EU.”

Warmflow, Lissue Industrial Estate, Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 2RF T: +44 (0)28 9262 1515 – E: sales@warmflow.co.uk www.warmflow.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 91

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR WINNER: AARON CORR, APPRENTICE WITH DOWDS GROUP

THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE AND LEARNING NEW SKILLS DRIVE AARON ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS FOR CAREER IN PLUMBING INDUSTRY…

Aaron’s an exceptional apprentice

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his year’s Apprentice of the Year is Aaron Corr of Dowds Group. Having completed his Plumbing and Heating Level 2 in just one year, Aaron is currently studying for his Level 3 at Northern Regional College in Ballymena and is employed as an apprentice at Dowds Group.

James Dowds, Managing Director, Dowds Group, commented, “What struck me immediately was that Aaron was a young, articulate man who wanted to make a career for himself. Since then, in everything he has done he has surpassed our expectations and he has completed it all without issue and with the same pleasant nature. I believe Aaron has a very bright future ahead.”

Dowds’ Mechanical Contracts Manager, Karl McFalone, added, “Aaron is a very competent apprentice with high productivity and drive. He can complete tasks easily that some fully qualified plumbers would struggle with. He always has a willingness to learn and used his own

Aaron Corr, Dowds Group, is presented with the Apprentice of the Year Award

by Maura McCabe of sponsors, QRL.

initiative when presented with tasks.”

Working for Dowds, Aaron has had the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a number of different areas. His first placement was on a boiler house replacement for Queen’s University at Elmwood, which gave Aaron the opportunity to learn more new skills and knowledge than he may have done on a more conventional apprentice placement.

Further jobs included learning more traditional plumbing skills on the larger scale award-winning Finnebrogue factory job, and a major school project in London which gave him experience of the Yorkshire Tectite piping system, further broadening the range of his practical skills.

Aaron’s aim is to continue to learn as much as he can about the practical side of the mechanical industry so that he can transfer this experience into other areas such as AutoCAD, estimating and pipeline design, with an overall goal of being able to design heating and domestic piping systems.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “Aaron has a breadth of experience in various types of projects. He has shown dedication and is a worthy winner.”

Dowds Group, Milltown Rd, Ballymoney BT53 6LE T: 028 2766 2789 – E: info@dowdsgroup.com www.dowdsgroup.com

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MANUFACTURER’S REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR WINNER: GEORGE McGUIRE, PEGLER YORKSHIRE

THE INDUSTRY’S HIGH REGARD FOR PEGLER YORKSHIRE’S AREA SALES MANAGER FOR NORTHERN IRELAND IS REWARDED…

George goes the extra mile for customers

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he customer-focused attitude of Pegler Yorkshire’s George McGuire impressed the judges as he was named the Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards.

Well-known in the industry, George is currently Pegler Yorkshire’s Areas Sales Manager for Northern Ireland and he works closely with companies involved in all aspects of the domestic and commercial sectors in the province.

This ranges from plumbers’ merchants and M&E contractors and consultants to plumbing and heating contractors and installers.

George exemplifies the Pegler Yorkshire philosophy of connect and control, which focuses on working closely with consultants and contractors to design and build not just the cheapest job, but the best job.

George said, “This often involves offering a different way of thinking and thanks to the extensive and regular

George McGuire, Pegler Yorkshire, is presented with the Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year Award, by Jonathan Martindale of sponsors, Phoenix Natural Gas.

training we receive at Pegler Yorkshire we are able to offer this.”

This training keeps George up-to-date with the extensive Pegler Yorkshire product portfolio which, in turn, helps keep his customers informed.

This appetite for information has proved significant in recent years as George has continued to put his expertise to the test, in particular for the many contractors from Northern Ireland who are involved in projects in Great Britain.

Initial design services are complemented

by George working within the wider Pegler Yorkshire network to source suppliers close to the GB projects and ensure assistance is available on the ground, if required.

This was backed by George’s entry form, which highlighted how he helped a Northern Ireland contractor overcome challenges on a project in Aberdeen as well as customer testimonials which praised him for the high regard he is held within the industry.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges were impressed by George’s strong entry and liked his customer-focused attitude and how he is prepared to go the extra mile.

With an extensive knowledge of both the domestic and commercials markets, George is a worthy winner.”

Pegler Yorkshire, St. Catherines Avenue, Balby, Doncaster, DN4 8DF. T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, Northern Ireland, on 07912 406101 E: George.McGuire@pegleryorkshire.co.uk www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 93

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR AND BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN WINNER: GRANT

DOUBLE SUCCESS FOR LEADING MANUFACTURER AS THE COMPANY’S VORTEXAIR BOILER AND MARKETING CAMPAIGNS TAKE THE TOP PRIZES…

Think Boilers, Think Prizes with Grant

G

rant’s boilers received a double boost by winning the Innovative Product of the Year title alongside the Best Marketing Campaign.

The company’s VortexAir boiler, which is one of the most energy-efficient boilers on the market, was named the Innovative Product of the Year in a highly competitive category, while the campaign ‘Think Boilers, Think Grant’ was named as the Best Marketing Campaign.

The Grant VortexAir is a revolutionary new product from Grant’s in-house design team, and is a combination of the award-winning Grant Vortex condensing oil boiler with its latest in ‘blue flame’ technology, and the A++ Aerona inverter driven heat pump.

This hybrid product allows the householder to benefit from the two most cost-effective forms of fuel oil and heat pump – to ensure that they will never be without heat. The

Stephen Grant is presented with the Innovative Product of the Year Award for Grant’s VortexAir boiler, by Barry Lowe of sponsors, PTS.

innovative design also offers the householder the best of renewable heating technology on one side and the Grant Vortex Blue Flame boiler on the other.

Grant developed the product after recognising that there was a gap in the market for a renewable energy heating system with the trusted attributes of the Grant Vortex condensing oil boiler to meet the growing demand from off-gas customers, and the industry call for cleaner heating solutions. Customers can purchase the new VortexAir from this summer, through all key plumbing and heating merchants.

The effective ‘Think Boilers, Think Grant’ campaign incorporated a fully integrated advertising campaign covering print, radio, television and online adverts alongside Grant’s firstever TV advert. This has all helped to further cement Grant’s place as a market leader with home-owners.

Mark Eccles, Grant, receives the Best Marketing Campaign Award from Alan Wright of sponsors, Bassetts.

AWARDS SPONSORED BY

JUDGES’ COMMENT… “The judges acknowledged Grant’s innovation in being the first manufacturer to come to market with this product.”

Grant Engineering, Unit 117, 21 Botanic Avenue, Belfast, BT7 1JJ. T: 0800 279 4796 - E: info@grantni.com www.grantni.com

94 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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DOMESTIC OIL INSTALLER OF THE YEAR AND DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLER OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: V&J HARKNESS

STRONG CUSTOMER SUPPORT HELPS MAKE THE CASE FOR TWO AWARD WINS

BY V&J HARKNESS...

Double awards success for V&J Harkness

AWARD SPONSORED BY John Harkness, V&J Harkness, is presented with Highly Commended Domestic Oil Installer of the Year Award by David Blevings of sponsors, OFTEC.

V

&J Harkness is celebrating two awards recognitions, having been Highly Commended as Installer of the Year in both the domestic gas and domestic oil categories.

The judges commented on the company’s strong testimonial support and praised its comitment of the trade and young apprentices through continuing contact with Northern Regional College.

John Harkness and his son Simon carry out a lot of work through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and for the award’s entries cited a case in which they installed an open-vented oil-fired heating system linked to solid fuel and an open-vented hot water cylinder. This included organising other trades, installing and commissioning the system within one working day, completing all paper work and instructing the client on how to use the new system.

AWARD SPONSORED BY John Harkness, V&J Harkness, is presented with Highly Commended Domestic Gas Installer of the Year Award by Ray McClay of sponsors, Worcester Bosch.

V&J Harkness, 67 Ballynashee Road, Ballyclare, Co Antrim, BT39 9TG T: 028 9334 1232 - M: 07885 433202 E: john_harkness@btinternet.com

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PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT OF THE YEAR – BEST FAMILY/INDEPENDENT HIGHLY COMMENDED: KILDRESS PLUMBING SUPPLIERS LTD

Impressive approach to business by KPS

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he embodiment of a family-owned business (with a son and daughter involved) Kildress Plumbing Suppliers is a company with great understanding of design and detail, combined with quality merchandise.

From baths, showers and tiles to fireplaces, hearths, stoves and cookers (many of them working models) the company’s showroom is stocked full of quality brands such as Laufen, Lefroy Brooks, Roca, Hansgrohe, Jacuzzi, Morso, Charnwood, Rayburn, Stanley, Heritage Bathrooms and tiles from Arcana and Unicom Starker.

Customers can rest assured that staff have a wealth of experience, and the company has been built around the core beliefs of quality products, innovative displays, competitive prices, extensive product knowledge and commitment to customer service. Its showroom is a prime example of those core beliefs in action, with a friendly environment that draws customers from near and far.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Feargal Keenan, Kildress PlumbingSupplies Ltd, is presented with his award by Mark Eccles, of sponsors Grant NI.

Kildress Plumbing Suppliers Ltd, 244 Drum Rd, Cookstown BT80 9HP T: 028 8675 2000 – E: feargal@kildressplumbing.com www.kildressplumbing.com

BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN HIGHLY COMMENDED: BEAM VACUUM & VENTILATION

Marketing strategy helps establish brand

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rior to introducing mechanical ventilation systems 10+ years ago to the residential market, Beam was originally known as the market leaders in central vacuum systems. However, as the business grew and diversified into mechanical ventilation, it needed to position itself as a specialist in both central vacuum and ventilation, with a need to communicate the key benefits of the synergy that exists between both products.

To achieve this, a significant marketing investment was made to deliver this message to the company’s target audience. A new visual ‘pollen’ theme running throughout all promotional activity contributed to consistent brand recognition. The diverse use of offline and online marketing activities has also played an important role in Beam’s continuing success and earned the Highly Commended Award in the Marketing Campaign.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Paula Osbourne, Beam, is presented with the Highly Commended Best Marketing Campaign Award by Alan Wright of sponsors, Bassetts.

Beam Vacuum & Ventilation, Opus Business Park, 35 Aughrim Road, Magherafelt BT 45 6BB T: +44 (0)28 7963 2424 – E: info@beamcentralsystems.com www.beamcentralsystems.com

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CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR COMMERICAL, INDUSTRIAL & PUBLIC SECTOR HIGHLY COMMENDED: MAURICE STEVENSON LTD

Can-do attitude from MSL

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he repair and refurbishment of Mount Stewart House presented all the challenges normally associated with a Grade A listed building, but these were magnified by the need for the property to remain operational throughout the project.

Maurice Stevenson Ltd (MSL) took the lead in services’ coordination and, through the use of the company’s 3D modelling software, mitigated any issues before work commenced on site – two aspects of the project that impressed the awards judges.

The team had to deal with the presence of asbestos and associated contamination, which affected the programme schedule. This further complicated a complex job overall due to the age of the pipework and other fittings, plus the limited space for pipework, duct-work routing and electrical services.

However, a combination of expertise, quality workmanship, best practice techniques, and a ‘can-do’ attitude ensured that MSL delivered a bespoke, quality service.

Alison Stevenson, Maurice Stevenson Ltd, receives the Highly Commended award in the Commercial Contractor of the Year category from Billy Ritchie of sponsors, Pegler Yorkshire.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

Maurice Stevenson Ltd, 32 Annesborough Industrial Estate, Lurgan, BT67 9JD T: 028 3832 7636 E: mech@mauricestevenson.co.uk

MECHANICAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR – COMMERICAL, INDUSTRIAL & PUBLIC SECTOR - LEWS CASTLE, PHASE 2 HIGHLY COMMENDED: JBE MECHANICAL ELECTRICAL

JBE rises to the challenge

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he M&E installation on Phase 2 of the £10million Lews Castle project on the Isle of Lewis presented many challenges for JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd and how the company overcame these issues certainly impressed the judges.

The addition of a modern museum and cultural centre, along with works to repair and restore the interior of the Victorian era castle meant that JBE had to ensure that their works within the castle enhanced and complemented the existing building while also meeting the needs of the modern services installation.

The geographical location meant that, to ensure key programme dates were achieved, JBE had to implement a delivery strategy to source and select equipment and fitments, giving careful consideration to distribution strategies and routes. With a policy of engaging with the local community where possible, JBE offered local employment and recruited local apprentices on the project to complement its own experienced team.

Colum Sheppard, Operations Director, JBE Mechanical Electrical, receives the Highly Commended Award in the Commercial Project of the Year category for the company’s work at Lews Castle from Shaun Foster of sponsors, Potterton Commercial.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

JBE Mechanical Electrical Ltd, Lamont House, Braid River Business Park, 105 Railway St, Ballymena BT42 2AF. T: 028 2565 8522 – E: email info@jbeme.com www.jbeme.com

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 97

DOMESTIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR GRAND DESIGNS RURAL CONTAINERS HIGHLY COMMENDED: QUINN MECHANICAL SERVICES

Can-do attitude wins acclaim for Quinn

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uinn Mechanical Services received a Highly Commended Award for the plumbing services provided on an exceptional house build in County Derry-Londonderry that was constructed using a base of shipping containers, and that featured in Channel 4’s Grand Designs programme.

Quinn Mechanical had to install a Myson PEXcellent 5 low-profile underfloor heating system to achieve required ceiling heights. For the bathroom, a Hammock wall-to-wall hanging bath, complete with bath filler and overhead shower, also required specialist plumbing installation. Steel anchors hidden within the stud wall provided bath supports, while all pipework and wastes for bathroom and kitchen sinks were concealed in the fabric of the building.

Commending Quinn Mechanical on the high profile nature of this project, the judges said they were impressed with the company’s ability to work within a tight area and to meet a strict project deadline.

Quinn Mechanical S E R V I C E S

AWARD SPONSORED BY

John Kelly, of sponsors Rettig Ltd, presents Seamus Quinn with his award.

Quinn Mechanical Services, 65 Longfield Road, Desertmartin, Magherafelt BT45 5LS T: 0790 465 4191 E: quinnmechanicalservices@hotmail.com

GREEN TECHNOLOGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: THOMAS HANNA & CO FOR THE CREST PAVILLON, ENNISKILLEN

A benchmark in sustainability

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homas Hanna & Co was Highly Commended for the company’s role in the exceptional Centre for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technologies (CREST) in Enniskillen.

The building was designed using the principles of PassivHaus design and guidelines set out by BREEAM to achieve an excellent rating, with Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd appointed to install all the relevant mechanical elements of the building, which is also Zero Carbon rated.

In order to achieve maximum BREEAM points and PassivHaus certification, Thomas Hanna & Co incorporated the green technologies and methods of air-source heat pump, heat recovery units, and grey water recovery and distribution. Its building management system now constantly monitors the entire building to achieve the design set points, ensuring maximum operation of all incorporated elements of the mechanical installation.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

Sponsor, Stuart Harron, RWCUK, presents the award to Martin Hanna.

Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd, 74 Main Street, Brookeborough, Co Fermanagh, BT94 4FA T: 028 8953 1373 or (RoI) 048 8953 1373 - E: info@thomashanna.co.uk www.thomashanna.co.uk

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DOMESTIC CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR - OIL HIGHLY COMMENDED: O’KANE PLUMBING & ELECTRICS LTD

High level of service from O’Kane

O

’Kane Plumbing & Electrics was responsible for two and three-zone installations and the installation of retro-fitted air-source heat pumps for an SEAI community-based

project.

Recently introduced charges to this type of works by Building Control had to be taken into account and added to O’Kane’s processes in terms of making applications, notifying local authorities of completion, and Building Control requirements in relation to scheme specification etc.

After a project set-up meeting, each area of work was set up incrementally until the work was completed. This allowed O’Kane to monitor the process and make any improvements in the process before it was rolled out to all teams.

The judges commended O’Kane Plumbing & Electrics for its proven ability to provide solutions in highly challenging conditions with an evident high level of customer service.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Damian Kelly collects the award for O’Kane Plumbing & Electrics from Michael McGirr of sponsors, Warmflow.

O’Kane Plumbing & Electrics Ltd, 50a Dunamore Road, Cookstown BT80 9NT T: 028 8675 1049 – E: info@okaneplumbingandelectrics.com www.okaneplumbingandelectrics.com

DOMESTIC CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR – GAS HIGHLY COMMENDED: SAFE GAS NI LTD

Safe Gas goes the extra mile

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utstanding service and professionalism demonstrated on a difficult project led to Safe Gas NI Ltd being awarded the Highly Commended Award in the Domestic Gas Contractor of the Year category.

The company supplied and fitted all the plumbing and heating requirements, including sanitation, full electrical installation and tiling, for five new-builds in Lisburn.

Due to changes by the client, after work had already commenced, Safe Gas NI went the extra mile to accommodate the client’s wishes, removing and relocating radiators that had already been fitted, removing and refitting bathroom tiles, and even bringing in extra plumbers to ensure the work could still be carried out in the same time frame. Having a management structure in place and through site meetings, Safe Gas agreed a deviation plan with all parties involved and also a time frame to bring in the job as close to the agreed budget as feasible.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Paul Scott, SafeGas NI, is presented with the Highly Commended Award in the Domestic Gas Contractor of the Year category from Andrew Sands of sponsors, Calor Gas.

Safe Gas NI Ltd, 14a Carnmoney Road, Belfast BT36 6HN T: 028 9034 3665 – E: info@safegasni.com www.safegasni.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 99

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: RWC UK FOR RADIANCE® THERMAL INTERFACE UNITS

RWC UK radiates success

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WC UK (Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd®) has a long history of supplying product to the UK plumbing and heating market, and has designed its Radiance® Thermal Interface Units (TIUs) for high energy efficiency and performance.

Manufactured for use as part of a community heating network to control the delivery of domestic hot water and heating (or cooling) to individual properties, the range offers six different types of base units. These are suitable for instantaneous or storage systems, as well as a cooling unit, although most products are manufactured to meet customers’ specific project requirements.

Unlike alternative products on the market which are adapted from European designs, Radiance® TIUs are designed and built in the UK to meet the specific requirements of UK hot water systems and are WRAS approved.

The judges praised RWC UK on its innovation in addressing community-based heating solutions.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Stuart Harron, RWC (UK) Ltd receives the award for Product of the Year from Jonathan Martindale, Phoenix Natural Gas.

Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd, Worcester Road, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4RA. www.rwc.co.uk T: Garth Walsh, Regional Sales Manager, NI on 07881 274917 - E: garth.walsh@rwc.com T: Stuart Harron, Sales Director, Ireland on 07909 532133 - E: stuart.harron@rwc.com

INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR - CM SEAL TANKING KIT FOR SHOWER TRAYS AND BATHS HIGHLY COMMENDED: CLASSIC MARBLE (SHOWERS) LTD

Seal of approval

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ighly Commended in the Innovative Product of the Year category, the innovative CM Seal tanking kit has been designed by Classic Marble (Showers) Ltd to ensure that the shower enclosure or showering area above the bath remains 100% waterproof, regardless of any movement that occurs.

Manufactured from non-woven polypropylene and polyethylene, the product seals the ledge of the shower tray or bath, as well as waterproofing the entire wall above the shower tray or bath, ensuring that any water ingress in the showering area finds its way into the tray or bath.

CM Seal is available in three different kit sizes. The physical membranes of the kit are applied to the walls with tile adhesive.

The process takes no more than one hour, and tiling is able to begin immediately after. The product has received extremely positive reviews, with many repeat customers in Northern Ireland.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Christopher Hackett receives the award from Jonathan Martindale of sponsors Phoenix Natural Gas.

Classic Marble (Showers) Ltd, 185 Omagh Road, Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, BT70 2AL T: +44 (0)28 8556 8081 – E: info@classic-marble.com www.waterproofyourbathroom.com

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD WINNER: GARY DOYLE

Another honour for Gary

J

ust days before it was officially revealed that Gary Doyle was to receive a British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to skills, his success at the WorldSkills Finals in Brazil was recognised at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards.

Gary became the first person from Northern Ireland to win a WorldSkills Gold medal for plumbing and heating when he took part in the competition in Sao Paulo last year. WorldSkills is the skills equivalent of the Olympics, and Gary was up against competitors from all over the world. In the end he shared the Gold medal with Germany’s Nathaniel Liebergeld, with competitors from France, Australia and Japan sharing the bronze medals.

Since his success in the competition, Gary has started his own business and is currently working extensively in Great Britain.

In addition, Gary’s former tutor at Southern Regional College, Ronnie Ferris, was also recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, with an MBE.

Hillview Plumbing Ltd

AWARD SPONSORED BY Gary Doyle receives the Special Recognition Award from Chris Reilly of sponsors, Altecnic.

Hillview Plumbing Ltd, 29 Kinallen Road, Ballyward, Castlewellan, County Down, BT31 9QU T: Gary Doyle on 07857176647 or Shane Doyle 07710 561718 E: garydoyle01@hotmail.com

ENERGY EFFICIENT PRODUCT OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: OKOTECH LTD FOR HEATBOSS

Intelligent heating from heatboss

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ntelligent wireless heating management system, heatboss, that tackles the heat waste issues that arise with conventional heating controls in existing non-domestic buildings, has been recognised at this year’s award.

It works by allowing you to control radiators independently, so that you only heat when and where you need to, and to a temperature that suits the needs of each room. This results in an average saving of 30% - which has been independently verified by University of Ulster’s Centre for Sustainable Technologies. heatboss is easily scalable for buildings like schools, offices, care homes and hotels, with no wireless signal degradation, and easily integrates with BMS or simply replaces the existing controller. It offers secure remote access to buildings and room level heating controls from any web-enabled device, via a simple, intuitive and user-friendly web application. The heatboss software and electronics have been designed, developed and tested in Northern Ireland, and are also produced here.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Gary O’Hagan receives the award from Ian Megahey of sponsors WorkPal.

Okotech Ltd, 1 Ballygore Rd, Antrim, County Antrim BT41 2RN T: 028 9422 8141 – E: janette@heatboss.co.uk www.heatboss.co.uk

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 101

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: MAITIU COLE, CTS PROJECTS

Maitiu makes his mark

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former student at Southern Regional College, Greenbank Campus, Maitiu Cole gained work experience at CTS Projects as is now employed by the company as a Response Team member.

Maitiu assisted the CTS team on its Clanmil Housing Association Curzon complex project. This major job formed part of a boiler replacement scheme and involved replacing 60 boilers and flues with new cupboards and casings.

Site Manager, Tom McGreevy commented, “Maitiu was a huge part of the success story of this project. He brought excellence to each job he carried out and played a huge part in helping us to give back to the community and build invaluable trust with our customers. It was Maitiu’s entrepreneurial idea to present each of our customers with a £10 voucher to use on their gas as a gesture of good will.”

AWARD SPONSORED BY

Maitiu Cole, CTS Projects, receives his award from Chris Reilly, of sponsors Altecnic.

CTS Projects Ltd, Unit A Milltown East Industrial Estate, Upper Dromore Rd, Warrenpoint BT34 3PN T: 028 4175 2299 – E: sales@ctsprojects.net www.ctsprojects.net

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: FINTAN MURRAY, APPRENTICE WITH FRANCIS MURRAY & SON

Fintan Murray continues winning form

F

intan Murray has equalled his previous success at the Plumbing & Heating Awards by being Highly Commended again this year.

Demonstrating his commitment to studies at South Eastern Regional College and employer, Francis Murray & Son, Fintan has never missed a day at college or work in four years.

Now working on the new Level 4 Gas Higher Level Apprenticeship in Gas Safety Management, he is building on the great depth of gas knowledge and understanding that he has already developed throughout his career.

Training and achievement in NI SkillBuild has enabled Fintan to show his competence in applying underpinning knowledge to practical activity. Additionally, his work with Francis Murray & Son, attending local trade fairs and building relationships with suppliers has increased his knowledge in the latest technology and industry appliances.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Fintan Murray, Francis Murray & Son Plumbing & Heating, is presented with the Highly Commended Apprentice of the Year Award by Chris Reilly of sponsors, Altecnic.

Francis Murray & Son Plumbing & Heating, 43 Greens Road, Saintfield, BT24 7EE T: 07790 447 304 – E: francis_murray1@btinternet.com www.francismurrayandson.co.uk

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MANUFACTURER’S REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: TREVOR BEGGS, GLEN DIMPLEX

Commitment and dedication earns recognition for Trevor

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ighly Commended in the Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year category, Trevor Beggs, Water Heating Manager at Glen Dimplex NI, is renowned in the industry for his longserving commitment and dedication to the promotion and business development of the Redring brand for Glen Dimplex over the past 15 years.

His vast industry knowledge is supported not only by sales but also through technical support and staff training, along with a strong understanding of the differing needs of merchants and end users.

Trevor is particularly known for his work ethic and is very quick to respond to queries and sales enquiries, earning the respect and trust of merchants and installers across Northern Ireland.

Positive feedback from merchants included his reputation for always returning a call and visiting sites, if required, and his skill at resolving technical issues.

Trevor Beggs.

David Wells, Glen Dimplex NI, receives the Highly Commended Award on behalf of Trevor Beggs, from Barry Lowe of sponsors, PTS.

AWARD SPONSORED BY

Glen Dimplex NI, 5 Charlestown Avenue, Charlestown Industrial Estate, Craigavon BT63 5ZF T: 028 3833 7317 – E: marketing@glendimplexni.co.uk www.glendimplexni.co.uk

MANUFACTURER’S REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR HIGHLY COMMENDED: MARK ECCLES, GRANT ENGINEERING

Making his Mark

H

aving been associated with Grant for the last 30 years, Mark Eccles has played an essential role in representing and developing the Grant brand in Northern Ireland and supporting the company’s relationship with key stakeholders here.

Manufacturer’s Representative, Mark has achieved exceptional sales in the last 12 months, organising a series of a highly successful ‘Grant Product Information Evenings’ throughout Northern Ireland.

He represented the company at a number of trade shows and is the official spokesperson for the company in Northern Ireland, as well as providing commentary on industry matters.

Other achievements include organising the installation of Grant Vortex boilers for competition winners, and managing the network of warranty/service engineers throughout Northern Ireland, dealing personally with any customers requiring assistance.

Mark was commended by the panel on his strong testimonials and high levels of customer satisfaction.

AWARD SPONSORED BY Mark Eccles, Grant NI, is presented with the Highly Commended Award in the Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year category by Barry Lowe of sponsors, PTS.

Grant Engineering, Unit 117, 21 Botanic Avenue, Belfast, BT7 1JJ. T: 0800 279 4796 – E: info@grantengineering.ie www.grantengineering.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 103

BOILERS

Stephen Duffy (centre) following another successful training event by Saturn Heating.

THE RECENT PLUMBEX SHOW GAVE SATURN HEATING AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET AND SPEAK WITH PLUMBERS, MERCHANTS AND HEATING PROFESSIONALS AND ALSO PROVIDED THE PERFECT PLATFORM TO SHOWCASE THE TECHNOLOGIES THAT SEPARATE THE SATURN OIL BOILER NHC RANGE FROM ANY OTHER BOILER ON THE IRISH MARKET…

In a class of its own S aturn Heating has continued strong growth throughout Ireland in the second quarter of 2016, with nationwide interest generating continuous growth with regional merchants all around Ireland. With increasing interest since the Plumbex show, the company held multiple successful training mornings in June at company headquarters in Carrickmacross.

These training mornings catered for plumbers who are interested in installing the company’s long life oil boilers as well as a view to becoming regional service engineers, backing up Saturn’s merchants and plumbers nationwide.

The busy Saturn Heating stand at PlumbEx, Dublin.

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Any plumbers interested in attending the next training event at Saturn Heating HQ can register their interest by contacting the company on the phone number below, at info@saturnheating.net or by making contact through its Facebook page.

Speaking at PlumbeEx, Stephen Duffy of Saturn Heating, said, “It is quite incredible 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.”

Another popular feature of the Saturn Oil Boiler is the unique downward firing burner, something that garnered a lot of attention at PlumbEx in May. “This feature makes the installation and service even easier for 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 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, but that it will also inspire people to think about this type of product before they have one installed in their home.

SERVICING, SPARE PARTS AND AVAILABILITY 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. This couldn’t be further from the truth; Saturn Heating has a comprehensive stock level of spare parts throughout Ireland. Rest assured that any spares you may need will be held either by your local merchant or in the company’s headquarters in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan.

T: (RoI) 042 9692032 or (NI) 00353 42 9692032 E: info@saturnheating.net W: www.saturnheating.net

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 105

WORKFLOW SYSTEMS

BARCLAY COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKPAL MD, BRITT MEGAHEY, EXPLAINS HOW WORKPAL IS HELPING LOCAL BUSINESSES STREAMLINE THEIR WORKFLOWS AND THE BUSINESS BENEFITS ITS BRINGING THEM…

Reduce your costs and win more business with WorkPal WHAT IS WORKPAL? WorkPal is a mobile and desktop app that allows our customers to easily manage their entire workflows from job management, tracking, reporting and invoicing, all from the palm of their hand.

The app also allows for important checks to be completed such as vehicle checks for your field-based staff.

WHY WAS IT DEVELOPED? WorkPal was developed in 2013 as a response to the growing need for a more efficient way of managing field-based staff.

Many of our Barclay Communications customers in the renewables, electrical, plumbing, and heating and facilities management trade where approaching us and asking if the was a workflow system out there that could streamline their workflows and improve business process.

HOW DOES IT WORK? It allows mobile workers to access customised job sheets from a mobile app where they are guided through their

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task and report back instantaneously on progress. Once completed, there is enough information to allow speedy invoicing, even from out in the field. That end-to-end process management is key, and makes sure that the accounts department is totally integrated with the people in the field and everyone in between.

HOW DOES IT HELP LOCAL BUSINESSES? There are many benefits of utilising the WorkPal technology. For starters, it means the whereabouts of field operatives can be tracked from starting to finishing work, meaning it’s easier for the boss to keep control, no matter where they or their workers are. And, of course, it does away with the need for endless reams of paper records.

One advantage our product has over the competition is that it is a lot more userfriendly. Uniquely, it can be integrated with a company’s own internal systems making it much more effective. We now have a diverse range of clients from winter

maintenance suppliers, plumbers, electrical engineering contractors, renewable energy contractors and ventilation contractors.

There are a few other systems available out there, but they are non-customisable, off-the-shelf products. WorkPal is very flexible as the product was wholly developed in-house at Barclay Communications. We’re finding many customers are now winning more business and tenders thanks to the traceability of job tracking and reporting that WorkPal provides.

On average, we’re saving our customers £12,000 per year in administration costs which means the savings can be invested into other areas of their business. The app can cost as little as £15 per user/per month and we’ve now scrapped our standard set up charges, meaning customers are able to see a further return on their investment within the first 12 months. It has become a game changer for a lot of our customers. In this day and age when costs only seem to be increasing, a product like this which can drastically reduce your cost base is a no brainer.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 107

NEWS

THE SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AUTHORITY OF IRELAND APPOINTS NEW CEO

EPS STAFF PARTICIPATE ENERGY UPGRADE SCHEME Cork-based EPS Group has become the first company in Ireland to implement incentives for employees to make their homes more energy efficient.

Specialising in water and wastewater treatment systems, the company established a home salary incentive in collaboration with SEAI which was achieved by making energy upgrades more affordable and accessible through free home energy audits and advice, interest-free loans and grant subsidies.

Under the pilot scheme, EPS Group co-ordinated energy audits which were carried out at employees’ homes to identify energy upgrades in areas such as insulation, boilers, controls and heating systems, windows and doors and solar panels.

On average, each employee who participated received approximately €6,000 worth of energy upgrades. To finance the cost of the upgrades, EPS Group provided a tax and interest-free loan to its employees.

According to Declan O’Riordan, the company’s energy manager, an added benefit is that every participant received a BER along with oil monitors to measure and verify the savings achieved.

“As a result of the success we achieved having completed this pilot programme, a number of companies throughout Ireland are now in the process of implementing similar schemes.”

T: (RoI) 022 31200 or (NI) 00353 22 31200 - www.epswater.ie

EXEED WITH NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT GRANTS The recently launched EXEED (Excellence in Energy Efficient Design) Certified Program is a new management framework which complements the Irish Energy Efficient Design Standard I.S.399.

Up to €250,000 per applicant has been made available in 2016 for businesses or organisations undertaking a building retrofit, facility or process upgrade which follows the EXEED principles to maximise energy efficiency.

John O’ Sullivan, Head of Development at SEAI, said, “EXEED helps the owners and operators of facilities to continuously achieve energy savings.

It also benefits investors by helping them identify projects with valuable green credentials and lower financial risks. At the same time service suppliers can adopt an innovative approach to boost their quality and profitability.”

For further information on EXEED and how you can apply for a grant, please visit www.seai.ie/exeed

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The Board of the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has announced the appointment of Jim Gannon as CEO to lead the development and delivery of the Authority’s new five year strategy.

SEAI Chair, Julie O’Neill, said, “Jim Gannon is an energetic and widely respected energy Jim Gannon, new CEO professional with a wealth of the SEAI. of experience across all aspects of energy policy implementation. Working with the executive team, he will build on the successes of recent years and lead the organisation into the next phase which demands a rapid decarbonisation of our entire energy system.”

Speaking on his appointment, Jim said, “The new White Paper and recent commitments made at COP21 in Paris provide Ireland with both challenges and significant opportunities over the coming period. I look forward to leading SEAI as it plays a central role in our transition to a more economically, socially and environmentally sustainable energy future.”

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

THE KEY TO SOLVING HOUSING CRISIS? REDUCING CONSTRUCTION COST A CIF forum has heard that the housing crisis will not be resolved until there is a reduction in the cost of Government levies and taxation, estimated to be 36% of the value of a new home.

Hubert Fitzpatrick, Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director Director of the of the Irish Housebuilding Irish Housebuilding Association, CIF. Association, CIF, said, “Due to the cost of construction, many Irish homebuilders are finding residential development unviable. In many parts of the country, the cost of construction is so high relative to asking prices of existing houses they would be building at a loss. As a result, housebuilding activity outside the Greater Dublin Area is stalled.”

T: (RoI) 01 406 6000 or (NI) 00353 1 406 6000 www.cif.ie

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EVENT

The EPH Controls team talked to visitors about the EMBER app.

Norman McNaught, NDI, highlights the advantages of ADEY Professional Heating Solutions to Martin Collins, H&A Mechanical, and Sean McGeogh, SP Plumbing & Heating Specialists.

THE FIRST COMBINED TRADE SHOW BY THE TWO COMPANIES SHOWCASES SOLUTIONS FROM OVER 35 MANUFACTURERS…

Yung Cheung learns about the latest developments at Warmflow from the company’s Richard Thompson.

PTS and BSS on the Waterfront

Paul Scott, SafeGas NI with Catherine Russell, Vaillant.

P George Fisher meeting new customers at the PTS and BSS Trade Show.

Paddy McGlone, Drayton Controls, who was promoting the MiGenie.

TS and BSS joined forces to host their first-ever trade show that showcased plumbing, heating, renewables and mechanical solutions for the light commercial and commercial sectors.

The event took place at the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre and included an impressive range of over 35 leading manufacturers as well as three RIBAapproved CPDs. Visitors included architects, specifiers, consultants and mechanical contractors who all took the opportunity to meet a range of experts as well as taking time to learn about the services available from PTS and BSS. Visitors also had the opportunity to win a number of prizes, with Paul Scott of Safe Gas the lucky winner of a £2,000 holiday voucher.

For more information on PTS telephone 028 9027 1600 or BSS on 028 9078 4000.

Staff from Green Energy Technology who attended the PTS and BSS Trade Show.

John Kelly, Myson, delivers his RIBA-approved CPD on high-efficiency radiators with low temperature heating.

Visitors to the PTS and BSS Trade Show had the opportunity to meet representatives from a range of world-class manufacturers.

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 109

JOB VACANCIES ORIGEN ENERGY LIMITED HAS AN IMMEDIATE VACANCY FOR A TECHNICAL SALES ENGINEER. The candidate’s role and responsibilities are as follows: 1. Design and quotation of building services projects (Mechanical & Electrical), including, but not limited to the following technologies and systems: • Heat pump systems (electric and gas fired) • District heating systems, • Hot water storage systems, • Micro and CHP plants.

• Solar PV plant 2. Process orders for customers and liaise with procurement division.

3. Provide internal technical support and assistance to clients & Consultant Engineers 4. Work within a team to achieve sales and specification targets.

5. Manage a portfolio of projects.

Candidates will have the following requirements: • A Building Services engineering qualification.

• Ability to work in a busy environment where capability to multitask is imperative.

• The ability to work within a team and on own initiative.

• Good telephone manner and Customer focused skills.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with a market leading Company at the cutting edge of Commercial, Industrial and Residential Heating System Design. They will also have the satisfaction of working for a dynamic and growing Group.

To apply please forward a cover letter complete with your CV to the Managing Director, Hevac Ltd, Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12 or email to amyegan@origen.ie Only applicants with relevant qualifications will be contacted.

WAREHOUSE OPERATIVE HEVAC, NAAS ROAD, D12

TRADE COUNTER ASSISTANT - HEVAC SANTRY

Job description: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a warehouse operative to join a dynamic Irish group of companies in our Head Office in Dublin 12, the position is initially a 6 month contract which is to be reviewed thereafter with a view to a permanent position. You should be confident and enthusiastic, with the ability to self-manage.

Job description: We currently have a job opportunity in our Santry branch for a trade counter assistant, the position is initially a 6 month contract which is to be reviewed thereafter with a view to a permanent position.

The role will involve: • Dealing with customers.

• Pulling orders for deliveries • General warehouse and admin duties

The role will involve: • Dealing with suppliers • Compiling quotes for customers • Pulling orders for deliveries • General Admin Duties

Assistance from agencies is not required at this time

You must meet the following requirements: • Be friendly, well organised, enthusiastic individual • Be comfortable dealing with customers on the trade counter and by phone • Good customer service skills • The ability to work under pressure • Basic computer and numeric skills • Fluent English speaking • Good team player • Knowledge of Heating and Plumbing trade

Please forward your CV to amy.egan@hevac.ie

Assistance from agencies is not required at this time

Only candidates meeting our criteria will be contacted

Please forward your CV to amy.egan@hevac.ie

You must meet the following requirements: • Be friendly, well organised, enthusiastic individual • The ability to work under pressure • Basic computer and numeric skills • Fluent English speaking • Good team player • Previous warehouse experience is essential

Only candidates meeting our requirements will be contacted

T: +353 1 4191919

www.hevac.ie

HEATING & VENTILATION

focus on

HEATING & VENTILATION THE LATEST BRANDS, INNOVATIONS AND SOLUTIONS FROM THIS IMPORTANT SECTOR... g

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 111

HEATING AND VENTILATION

Robatherm offers unrivalled versatility in unit sizes.

STRONG INNOVATIVE BRANDS, REPRESENTED BY A LOCAL AND RELIABLE DISTRIBUTOR, OFFERING A COMPLETE PACKAGED SOLUTION…

Hevac Ventilation goes from strength to strength

I

n March 2015, Hevac established a dedicated ventilation division to meet customer requirements and complement the company’s existing product offering. Over the last year this division has grown significantly, helping Hevac strengthen its position as a market leader in the industry.

Hevac Ventilation is headed up by Barry Naughton and Stephen Martin, both widely known and respected in the industry.

“The addition of ventilation equipment to the Hevac portfolio has enhanced our ability to offer a full mechanical package on projects.

Working with Hevac’s large customer base, the Ventilation Division offers a complete solution, from specification and supply through to commissioning and after sales support,” says Karl Carrick, Hevac Director.

Hevac Ventilation has teamed up with some of the most reliable and trusted brands in the ventilation industry, including:

FANS AND HEAT RECOVERY UNITS Nuaire is a market leader in energy-efficient ventilation solutions. From its main production plant in Cardiff, the company manufactures innovative heat recovery units and fans with world-class performance in quality, delivery and service. Hevac Ventilation offers a complete service that includes design, support and software, installation advice and excellent aftersales care.

AIR HANDLING UNITS robatherm manufacture Eurovent-certified Air Handling Units (AHUs) in Germany to the highest standards of quality, safety and sustainability.

The company offers unrivalled versatility in unit sizes, components and controls tailored to the project including HTM, pharmaceutical and ATEX applications. robatherm’s highly automated and state-of-the-art manufacturing

SUPPLIERS OF

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HEATING AND VENTILATION

Hevac have teamed up with some of the most trusted brands in the industry including Robatherm.

ensures impressive lead times with excellent characteristics as standard. These include; • Thermal Bridge: TB1, • Leakage Class: L1 (M), • Thermal Transmittance: T2, • Casing Deflection: D1/D2 (M) FIRE DAMPERS AND VCDS Advanced Air has been supplying fire/ smoke, fire and volume control dampers and the associated control systems to the Irish market for more than 20 years. Manufactured in the UK, all the company’s fire dampers are CE marked according to EN15650:2010.

They’ve also been fire tested to EN13662 and classified to BS EN 13501-3. Fire dampers have been tested horizontally, vertically and from both directions (inside and outside of the furnace).

DIFFUSERS AND GRILLES GRADA is a well-known manufacturer of diffusers and grilles. Headquartered in Belgium, the company has developed a vast array of products including swirl, slot, multi-directional diffusers, wall and floor grilles, louvres, valves, VAV units and plenum

Stephen Martin

Barry Naughton

boxes. Grada offers free access to its FACT Software (Flow and Air Comfort Tool), which allows the easy computation of air velocity profiles and is an excellent support tool for engineers, installers and architects.

OZONE GENERATORS The Airmaid Ozone generators are some of the most innovative air treatment systems on the market. Designed and developed in Sweden to successfully tackle odours and grease, they are perfect for applications such as commercial kitchens/restaurants, cleaning plants and pumping stations, refuse storage rooms and waste compactors.

Darragh Cullivan

Hevac Ventilation welcomes enquiries on any of these exclusive product ranges.

Hevac Ventilation • Muirfield Drive, Naas Road, Dublin 12.

T: 01 419 1919.

• Unit 1, Furry Park Industrial Estate, Dublin 9.

T: 01 842 7037.

• South Ring West Business Park, Tramore Road, Cork.

T: 021 432 1066.

E: vent@hevac.ie W: www.hevac.ie

T: Stephen Martin, Hevac on (RoI) 01 419 1919 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1919 E: stephen.martin@hevac.ie T: Barry Naughton, Hevac. (RoI) 01 419 1919 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1919 E: barry.naughton@hevac.ie T: Darragh Cullivan, Hevac. (RoI) 01 419 1919 or (NI) 00353 1 419 1919 E: darragh.cullivan@hevac.ie

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 113

HEATING AND VENTILATION

WITH INCREASING AWARENESS OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) AND BUILDING REGULATIONS, IT’S IMPORTANT THAT THE CORRECT TYPE OF VENTILATION IS INSTALLED…

BPC Ventilation sets the standard

A

s a designer and distributor of leading ventilation manufacturers such as Vent-Axia, Airflow and Xpelair, BPC Ventilation can provide a bespoke design, ensuring that the correct ventilation solution is specified and supplied in new and existing houses.

“As ventilation specialists, we supply and, if required, install the highest quality home ventilation systems to the trade and selfbuilders in any location in Ireland and the UK,” said Company Director, Gary Burns.

“From our new large premises at Larne harbour, we aim to provide the best possible ventilation solutions and customer service, as well as a low price guarantee.”

BPC Ventilation can supply everything from bathroom fans to whole house heat recovery systems, with an extensive range of heat recovery kits available off-the-shelf, ready for next day dispatch. Other services include home ventilation system design, technical support, commissioning, repairs and

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maintenance.

Sales Manager, Gavin Millar, commented, “We are just completing our new showroom, which will have the largest range of Vent–Axia heat recovery and ventilation systems on display in Ireland, plus the latest products from Airflow, Xpelair and Sach-Vac.” Heat recovery systems are now the most popular choice for new energy-efficient homes and BPC Ventilation has one of the largest ranges of MVHR units and types of ducting, from rigid PVC pipe to the latest crushproof radial ducting systems which can save up to 50% on installation time and provide a quieter and more efficient ventilation system.

Also available is a range of high quality central vacuum systems from Sach-Vac that combine the latest advances in vacuum design and performance at very competitive prices.

Contact BPC Ventilation for a free quotation on 028 2827 5150 or visit www.bpcventilation.com

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HEATING AND VENTILATION

FAIRHAVEN H&V SERVICES EXPANDS AN ALREADY IMPRESSIVE PRODUCT WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF MANDIK AS AIR-HANDLING UNITS...

New air-handling unit range for Northern Ireland

F

airhaven H&V Services has strengthened its ventilation product range with a new partner in the air-handling sector. Mandik AS is a longestablished manufacturer of high quality airhandling units, based in the Czech Republic.

Mandik units are constructed using a proprietary frameless design, which offers several advantages over the commonly-used ‘pentapost’ aluminium frame AHU. These include lighter unit weight, improved thermal insulation and lower thermal bridging. Unit airflow capacities range from 0.15 to 28 m3/ sec, and are available with integral controls, based on the Siemens Climatix range.

Casings are available in a choice of two

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aspect ratios: square or low profile. An ultra-low profile range is also available for ceiling void mounting, with an overall height of 380mm.

Fairhaven’s sales engineers have been fully trained in the use of AHUman, Mandik’s own AHU selection and design software. The package allows for a fast turnaround of unit selections and quotations, providing detailed specifications and 3D models to

consultants and contractors. For consulting engineers and other system designers who are interested in learning more about the technical aspects of AHU selection, Fairhaven is now offering a CPD seminar on AHU design, including a guide to the latest ERP Ecodesign regulations.

Contact Fairhaven H&V Services, 3 Glenavy Rd, Moira, Craigavon, BT67 0LT T: 028 9261 1648 W: fairhavenservices.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 115

ELECTRIC HEATING

COMET ELECTRIC BOILER AND CYLINDER PACKS OFFER ALL THE CONTROLLABILITY THAT A GAS OR OIL-FIRED CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEM OFFERS‌

Comet electric boiler takes a starring role!

T

he Electric Heating Company (EHC) supplies a comprehensive range of electric boilers and hot water cylinders that have been designed to incorporate all the necessary components - with the exception of radiators, radiator valves and pipework - for a complete electric heating and hot water system.

The Comet Electric Boiler on a wet central heating system presents all the controllability that a gas or oil-fired central heating system offers.

Using standard pipework, conventional steel radiators and thermostatic radiator valves, the boiler, being 100% efficient and fully modulating, will take the same amount of time to heat the property.

As no flue is involved and no gas analysis is required the installation of the system will be a lot quicker than that of a gas or oil boiler.

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When an electric boiler is used for heating a property there will also be a requirement for domestic hot water.

Although electric instantaneous water heaters are available, if the property has a bath then it is likely that a hot water cylinder is required.

EHC offers competitively-priced PrePlumbed Cylinder Packs with the company’s range of Comet Electric Boilers. The Pre-Plumbed Stainless Steel Unvented Cylinders, which can save up to 70% on installation time, incorporate pre-wired controls, with an automatic by-pass, auto air vent, wiring centre, combination valve, temperature and pressure relief valve, tundish, 2x2 port valves, filling loop and circulating pump, where required. They are designed with the busy installer in mind as all plumbing and electrical connections are

The Comet Electric Boiler and pre-plumbed cylinder from EHC.

prepared for an instant fit.

The packages are available with electric boilers consisting of 9, 12 and 14.4kW outputs with a choice of Indirect PrePlumbed Cylinder ranging from 150, 180 and 210 litres.

For more information on these popular products contact EHC on 01698 820533 or visit www.electric-heatingcompany.co.uk

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NEW APPOINTMENT

AS ONE FAMILIAR FACE JOINS THE TEAM ANOTHER MOVES ACROSS TO A NEW ROLE…

Sanbra Fyffe appoints new Area Sales Representative in Munster

S

anbra Fyffe Ltd, a market leading plumbing and heating wholesale distributor and manufacturer, is delighted to announce a key new appointment to its team.

Mark Fahy has been appointed as the company’s new dedicated Area Sales Representative for Munster and South Leinster. Mark will be a familiar face to many in these areas. A customer focussed, dedicated sales professional, he has more than 15 years’ plumbing and heating experience.

With a growing product range in excess of 4,000 products, this is a significant appointment for Sanbra Fyffe, and highlights the company’s commitment to providing excellent sales service to its existing and growing customer base.

For 20 years, John O’Sullivan has divided his time acting as a Sales Representative for both Sanbra Fyffe and its sister company,

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RT Large Ltd. Over the coming months, Mark will work alongside John covering the Munster and South Leinster Regions and, at the end of this period, John will then hand over part of this area to Mark allowing John to focus more on RT Large.

Commenting on the new appointment, Noel Conroy, Commercial Manager of Sanbra Fyffe Ltd, said, “We believe these changes are essential to allow both Sanbra Fyffe and RT Large to provide for greater sales penetration while also allowing greater focus on our ever expanding product portfolio. We believe the timing could not be better for such changes to occur, we look forward to working with Mark and welcome him to our team.”

T: John O’Sullivan on 087 236 6828 E: John@sanbra.ie T: Mark Fahy on 087 603 2972 E: MarkFahy@sanbra.ie T: Sanbra Fyffe on (RoI) 01 842 6255 or (NI) 00353 1 842 6255 – E: sales@sanbra.ie

Mark Fahy, Sanbra Fyffe’s new Area Sales Representative for Munster and South Leinster and John O’Sullivan who will be looking after RT Large customers in this same area.

PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 117

PUSH AND PRESS TECHNOLOGY

GEORGE MCGUIRE, AREA SALES MANAGER AT PEGLER YORKSHIRE, LOOKS AT HOW A COMBINATION OF PUSH AND PRESS TECHNOLOGY IS BECOMING A SYSTEM OF CHOICE…

Like two peas in a pod – push and press offer a combined approach

I

t is clear that today’s installer is much more likely to opt for a system that provides cost and time saving benefits over traditional forms of jointing. Both quality metal push and press systems offer these benefits in abundance!

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

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

These range from education and tradition through to time and cost saving and no heat requirements. Quality and the reduced risk of system failures still remains the main priority and as such metal push and press fittings are leading the way.

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

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

On the other hand push-fit is relatively new in comparison – introduced back in the 1980s it was originally classified as a light domestic solution used in conjunction with

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plastic piping. But today’s metal fittings have advanced so much that push-fit is now being used on a full range of projects from small domestic to large scale commercial, including The Shard. The technological improvements of quality push-fit fittings means they are now compatible with a variety of pipe materials and their range can easily dovetail with a wide choice from plastic to flexible metal, copper and even carbon steel.

Compared to traditional methods the flameless installation offered by metal push or press fittings eradicate fire risk during the jointing process. It negates the requirement for a hot work permit and eradicates localised annealing from high temperatures.

As well as potential fire hazards, traditional methods use flux and solder which can run inside the fitting. A metal push or press fit system does away with the need for additional substances in order to create the seal, therefore eliminating any flux deposits which can cause a corrosive build up and shorten the lifespan of a system. Plus, with no solder on the internal walls of the pipe and fitting, the system operates with a full bore and less time is required to rigorously flush the system on completion.

Another reason as to why these two complementary methods of jointing have been preferred is the issue of working in confined spaces. It can be almost impossible to ensure a joint is made

correctly, when using traditional techniques, if access to it is restricted. If the blowtorch for example, cannot be passed around the fitting completely there is a risk that jointing is incomplete and a corresponding risk of leakage.

Highly engineered quality modern systems now incorporate easily identifiable fail safe features such as Pegler Yorkshire’s XPress unique Leak Before Press design allows installers to instantly identify unpressed joints and Tectite’s patented TectSEAL, directional seals pre-lubricated for reduced insertion force and the provision of a reliable seal.

Every installation will bring its own challenges but the key is being able to adapt.

Today’s systems allow easy adoption of differing methods and products and offer a reliable and robust conclusion.

Manufacturers are tuning into this combined approach and, according to the research

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

T: George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, (NI) 07912 406 101 or (RoI) 0044 7912 406 101 W: www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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PLUMBEX 2016

INDUSTRY COMES OUT IN FORCE TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR UNIQUE TRADE EVENT, ORGANISED BY PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE…

Interested in PlumbEx 2017?

Register your interest now by contact Jacqui Fairley on 01 696 8319 or e-mail jacqui@kmpltd.co.uk

PlumbEx 2016 pulls the crowds

T

he 2016 PlumbEx trade event has proved to be a huge success - even bigger and better than last year’s show, which itself was widely lauded by exhibitors and attendees.

Conveniently located and with excellent facilities, the Citywest Hotel in Dublin was once again the chosen venue, and the increased numbers attending bore testimony to the huge popularity of this unique trade event.

“PlumbEx 2016 was a fantastic event. It exceeded all our expectations and we are already looking forward to planning next year’s show,” said Jacqui Fairley, Publication Director of Plumbing & Heating Magazine, which organises the event.

Known as the only local trade magazine dedicated to providing news and information to plumbing and heating installers, engineers,

contractors and their industry, Plumbing & Heating Magazine has been the driving force behind this unique annual industry event, which is now in its third year.

“It was great to see such large numbers through the doors on both days,” continued Jacqui. “Those attending were from a wide cross section of the industry, ranging from plumbing and heating installers and engineers to M&E contractors and consultants, plumbers’ merchants and distributors.

“In the three years that we have been running this show we have worked hard to ensure it is not only a ‘go-to’ event for those working in the industry but also highly relevant for architects, facilities management personnel, training centres and representatives from Government departments and County Councils.

“It provides great opportunities to join industry colleagues and learn, network and connect – this year we had over 65 exhibitors, covering a wide range of plumbing and heating specialisms. And, of course, the show provides an excellent platform from which manufacturers and businesses can showcase their latest products and services.

“There was an exciting mix of brand new product launches, practical demonstrations, show deals and offers covering everything from filters and system treatment to energy efficiency and renewables, tools, testing and accessories.

“We got some really positive feedback from people afterwards. It showed there is an appetite for this type of trade show and we intend to grow on that success and make next year’s even better!”

MORE PHOTOS FROM PLUMBEX ARE NOW ONLINE, VISIT - WWW.PLUMBINGMAG.COM

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COMING SOON!

hot topics

MARK MOGEY, ALTECNIC NATIONAL SALES MANAGER, DISCUSSES HOW SOLID IMPURITIES CAUSE A RANGE OF HEATING SYSTEM PROBLEMS – AND HOW TO FIND EASY SOLUTIONS…

Dishing the dirt on separators

S

olid particles in central heating systems come from the external supply, installation debris, component corrosion, and limescale.

Mains water is generally pure, but on first fill sealing residues, lubricants, grease and construction by-products can enter general circulation. As a result, systems will suffer metal corrosion from: • Differential oxidation – Dirt builds up on metal surfaces and in the presence of water, leads to the formation of two zones of water/dirt and dirt/metal with different oxygen contents. This then creates a cathode anode and current flow.

• Oxidation – Air and water is a recipe for corrosion. While a thin film of oxidation can protect metal below, it deteriorates allowing the corrosion to continue.

These issues cause a range of problems, including: • Dirt adhering to valve seats causes problems in operation and leaks.

• Reduced flow rate causes lower efficiency of heat exchanging surfaces.

• Dirt accumulating in the lower part of the radiator reduces flow and heat transfer.

• Pumps fail due to straining of the motor caused by dirt build up.

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• Weakening and failure of corroded boilers, pipes and radiators.

• Limescale build-up in pipes reduces the flows of water.

THE SOLUTIONS: Separating impurities presents difficulties especially the smallest particles of sand, rust and magnetite. To alleviate the risk of damage to the most important part of water systems, it is advisable to install high-quality dirt separators on the return line immediately prior to the boiler. Solutions include: • Y-strainers - metal mesh baskets filter and collect dirt. The mesh size indicates the minimum dimensions of the particles captured.

Altecnic’s range of Y-pattern strainers with a mesh size of 0.4mm (400 μm) is able to capture dirt particles from that size.

• Dirt separators - Allow gravity precipitation of dirt particles into a collection chamber. Net-like surfaces in Caleffi’s DIRTCAL offer lower resistance to water flow than separators while removing impurities larger than 5μm.

• Magnetic dirt separators – DIRTMAG includes an external magnetic collection ring with a larger surface area than simple probes, collecting ferromagnetic particles preventing recirculation. Caleffi dirt separators can completely remove impurities in the circuit larger than 5μm after as little as 50 recirculations.

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. 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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BATHROOMS

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BATHROOMS NEW INVESTMENT IN BATHROOM SHOWROOMS IS HIGHLIGHTED IN THIS SECTION ALONG WITH THE LATEST SHOWERS AND PUMPS... g

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PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE | 123

BATHROOMS

Perfect blend of form and function Brass pump confidence - the new Flair Frameless Range from Salamander

R

ecognising the trend towards minimalist design, Flair Showers has launched the Flair Frameless range of shower doors.

A unique 6mm offering, each door style is reversible for both left or right hand installation and comes with Easyclean glass as standard. Flair frameless is also an easy access walk in shower door range with no bottom frame to hinder access.

Flexibility is key to the Flair frameless concept. The door options are extensive, with corner pivot doors, offset corner pivot doors, saloon doors, pivot doors, inline panels and side panels available in a wide range of sizes to suit your space. The inline panels are also available with a shelf option and ideal for the busy bathroom where storage is a priority. With attractive aesthetics and practical application, the Flair frameless range is already proving popular with today’s design conscious consumers.

This range is available in leading bathroom showrooms across the country.

T: 00353 (0) 42 966 8000 - E: sales@flairshowers.com www.flairshowers.com

W

CT Force ith brass still a favourite for has given many installers, shower pump installers a credible manufacturer, Salamander alternative at an Pumps is now offering an outstanding affordable standard five-year warranty on its high price in the brass quality and robust brass market. range, CT Force.

Innovative and patented technologies have been used throughout the CT series to develop a new generation of shower pumps that stand out for their compact size, exceptional quietness, higher performance and improved efficiency. With solid brass impellers and robust brass ends, the reliability and longevity of CT Force is reflected in this extended warranty period, which signals the manufacturer’s confidence in the product. A continuously-rated motor allows the pump to run indefinitely to boost hot and/or cold supplies to a wide range of showers, taps, cisterns and whole house applications.

Giving installers a credible alternative at an affordable price in the brass market, Salamander believes that CT Force’s quality, coupled with its competitive pricing, could help installers win more business, helped by a five-year guarantee that says it’s a reliable product.

“When an installer recommends and fits our products, it’s not just our reputation at stake, and the warranty is a strong vote of confidence in the outstanding design and engineering of CT Force that customers can rely on,” said Chris Vallance, Sales and Marketing Director, Salamander Pumps.

For further peace of mind Salamander still recommends that you call Pumpwise to register any installation.

T: (NI) 0191 516 2002 or (RoI) 0044 191 516 2002 W: www.salamanderpumps.co.uk

Aqulisa’s all new Mida 110 and 220 ranges

T

he all new Midas 110 and 220 ranges from Aqualisa offer sleek new styling made from high performance quality materials, including all-brass valves and designed specifically with British bathrooms in mind.

The company’s new Midas 110 and 220 ranges also benefit from family friendly feature such as safe touch controls, temperature override button and a patented, pinch grip slider for effortless head height adjustment.

You can of course still opt for one of the company’s popular classics within the Midas 100 range. The allnew Midas models come in shower, shower column or bath shower mixers variations.

T: Karl Simpson (NI) 07917 098284 W: www.aqualisa.co.uk

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Taking a shower today?

Choose KUDOS, showering solutions you can trust from MD Ireland...

Since 1999, KUDOS has been designing and manufacturing innovative showering solutions and during that time MD Ireland has been bringing this fit-for-purpose, stylish and great value products to plumbers’ merchants and bathrooms showrooms across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Backed by a lifetime guarantee, the KUDOS range includes Shower Enclosures, Walk Ins and Shower Panels, Bath Screens, Shower Trays and Wetroom systems. No compromise is made in their production and each are hand built by a skilled team. This approach delivers the very best showering solutions suitable for all types of installations.

These high standards are what customers have come to expect from MD Ireland - Ireland’s No.1 distributor of high-quality brand names in plumbing, heating and bathroom products.

AVAILABLE DIRECTLY FROM IRELAND’S NO.1 DISTRIBUTOR, MD IRELAND.

✆ +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:

BATHROOMS

Noel Duff, Showroom Development Manager.

CONTINUED FOCUS ON THE COMPANY’S BATHROOM SHOWROOMS PROVIDES A BOOST FOR CONTRACTORS OF ALL SIZES …

Investment continues at Haldane Fisher

C

ontractors are continuing to benefit from the continued investment in Haldane Fisher’s bathroom showrooms.

Haldane Fisher boasts impressive bathroom showrooms across Northern Ireland that provide an added selling point for plumbing installers and contractors.

Noel Duff, Showroom Development Manager, said that the new focus on the company provided by the launch of Plumbmaster - the company’s specialist division for the plumbing and heating sector - has also helped boost the bathroom side of the plumbing and heating division.

“We have continued to invest in our showrooms and we recently completed the refurbishment of our bathroom showrooms in Newry and Larne while we are also in the process of a refurbishment of the Ladas Drive branch.

“This is in addition to some new partnerships we have formed to represent

a number of leading manufacturers – something that will give our customers even more choice.

“It is all part of the many positives that the launch of Plumbmaster has provided and we are continuing to build on this.

“The investment that has been put into our showrooms highlights the importance of this side of the business.”

Noel believes the company’s ability to work closely with plumbing and heating installers working on home refurbishment jobs up to contractors installing bathrooms across a housing development is one of Haldane Fisher’s main strengths.

“We have a vast bathroom range on offer, meaning we can meet a wide range of requirements,” he explained.

“Our showrooms are the perfect place for plumbers to bring home-owners to and let them pick a style that suits them at a competitive price.

“Our showrooms have been specifically designed to showcase the variety of our

bathrooms both in terms of style and price. This ranges from bathrooms for starter homes up to mid-level and top-end products.

“This variety is also popular with larger plumbing contractors as well as building contractors and architects, particularly as they look to add an element of individual style to the housing developments they are creating.”

Noel joined the company last year and his experience across the retail, commercial and distribution sectors of the business has helped boost Haldane Fisher’s service.

“We have forged a lot of new relationships while also improving our service for existing customers. I would encourage builders, architects, consultants and plumbing and heating contractors and installers to speak to me and find out how we can help them.”

For more information, contact Noel Duff on 07969 130101 or visit www.haldane-fisher.com

For further information, contact, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, Co. Down, BT35 6QQ. T: 028 3026 3201 - F: 028 3026 8101 - www.haldane-fisher.com • NEWRY • BANGOR • PORTADOWN • LISBURN • BELFAST • COLERAINE • LARNE • BALLYMENA

126 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

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BATHROOMS

AWARD-WINNING TECHNOLOGY HAS BEEN COMBINED WITH AN EASY FIT, SPA-STYLE SHOWER WITH PRECISION DIGITAL PERFORMANCE…

The new Aqualisa Infinia digital shower.

Infinia - Aqualisa’s new digital shower

A

qualisa Infinia is the new digital shower that combines designer spa style with advanced precision performance based on Aqualisa’s award-winning technology.

Infinia raises the bar for easy fit with the Aqualisa pattress box. This gives a smart, flush look and allows a concealed shower valve to be fitted without installing a heavy brass mechanical valve in the wall. It is suitable for both solid and cavity walls and the way in which it sits on the outside of the tiles is perfect for first or second fit installations.

Made in the UK from chrome coated brass, Aqualisa Infinia offers a choice of shower heads and control dials and comes with a fiveyear parts and labour guarantee.

T: Karl Simpson on (NI) 07917 098284 W: www.aqualisa.co.uk Twitter @AqualisaShowers

Smart showering at a smart price Creating intelligent showering for 15 years, Aqualisa’s smart shower systems are quick and easy to install.

From July 1st to September 30th, 2016 Aqualisa is running promotions on its Quartz range, one of their smart showering solutions.

For more information please visit our website www.aqualisa.co.uk or contact Karl Simpson on (NI) 07917 098284.

NI SALES REPRESENTATIVE FLAIR SHOWERS LTD. COMPANY INFORMATION & JOB DESCRIPTION Founded in Cavan in 1952, Flair is Ireland’s leading shower enclosure & bath screen manufacturer. Flair have been supplying high quality showering products with top class customer service to the leading merchants of Northern Ireland for many decades.

Flair are currently looking to recruit a sales representative to cover the Northern Ireland market.

The Sales Representative will be responsible for maintaining and growing sales to a long established customer base of bathroom showrooms and builders merchants.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA • Excellent people skills (customer-focused) • Previous Business-2-Business sales experience necessary • Technical skills and general awareness of shower enclosures desirable • Ability to work autonomously and on own initiative • Strong computer skills • Full Clean Driving License • Above all, a flexible team-player with drive and a passion for sales and delivering first class customer service.

flairshowers.com

128 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

This is a permanent full-time role with an attractive salary and commission package in a well- established forward thinking company.

Please forward your CV to hr@flairshowers.com

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165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6JA. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

DIRECTORY

PLUMBING & HEATING DIRECTORY

Plumb Centre is the new specialist Plumbing and Heating division of Grafton Merchanting in Ireland.

GREENER, BRIGHTER... BETTER!

WATER PUMPS

Why Chose Plumb Centre for Gas and Oil spare parts this heating season

?

www.polariswp.com

• 34 branches nationwide holding the top 250 gas and oil spare parts.

• Registered Gas installers parts policy. Plumb Centres only sell gas spare parts to RGI installers.

• New spare parts App available to download now from i-Tunes or Android stores . Every technical manual for every boiler on the Irish market and live stock feeds to all branches • Dublin Parts warehouse stocking 2,500 lines of product.

• UK Network Holding 50,000 lines of product.

• I - basis spare parts identification system in all branches.

• Daily logistics to all branches.

• Drop box solutions for engineers.

86-88 Dargan Crescent, Belfast.

T: 028 9039 6945 - F: 0191 4999626 E: info@polariswp.com

TO LOCATE YOUR NEAREST PLUMBCENTRE BRANCH AND AVAIL OF OUR WINTER SPECIAL OFFERS VISIT US @ www.plumbcentre.ie OR FIND US ON FACEBOOK.

“B” RATED 5M, 6M, 7M, 8M STILL AVAILABLE

CPS

CLADY

“heating,

oil and gas spares”

PLUMBING SUPPLIES LTD

TO ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES HERE CONTACT JACQUI FAIRLEY T: Moira +44 (0)28 9261 2990 T: Dublin 01 6968319 or email jacqui@kmpltd.co.uk

130 | PLUMBING & HEATING MAGAZINE

37 Glenone Road, Portglenone, Co. Antrim

www.cladyplumbing.com SUPPLIERS OF: • Gas Boilers • Solar Panels • Solar Cylinders • Woodburning Stoves • Underfloor Heating • Flexible S.Steel Flue

• Ariston

• Vokera

• Baxi

• Worcester

• Ferroli

• Biasi

• Glow worm

• Halstead

• Ideal

MANY MORE PLEASE ASK FOR DETAILS AT TRADE COUNTER

Tel: 028 2582 1448 Fax: 028 2582 2363 Email: sales@cladyplumbing.com

PLUMBING | BATHROOMS | FIREPLACES

www.glenhill.co.uk t: 028 9066 9444 STOCKMAN’S WAY, BELFAST

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