February 2015 by PHAM News

Volume 53 | Issue 2 | February 2015

Report highlights flaws with fuel poverty strategy A new study into fuel poverty suggests that there is a significant disconnect between the Government's ambition to reduce fuel poverty and the amount currently being spent to address the problem. 'Warmer Homes' is the title of a new report produced by centre-right think tank Policy Exchange that looks at the issue of fuel poverty and the effectiveness of current Government policies to deal with the issue. According to the study, more than 1 million households are not able to afford to heat their homes to a comfortable level, despite being in work. It also argues that households living in the least energy efficient properties would have to spend as much as £1700 extra a year to heat their home to a suitable temperature (between 18 and 20° C). Other statistics highlighted by the report show that 10% of all households in England are in fuel poverty, but this rises to 19% of households living in private rented accommodation. Although fuel prices have reduced in recent months, consumer gas prices increased by 128% over the period 2003 to 2013. The same paper also suggests that only 33% of fuel poverty funding actually benefits the fuel poor and that the UK's housing stock remains woefully inefficient compared to other European countries.

The report calls on the Government to refocus its energy efficiency and fuel poverty spending on improving the nation’s inefficient housing stock. It suggests that subsidies should be more focused on fuel poor households and that the Government needs to focus on the kinds of long-term building efficiency improvements that permanently tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions. Any move to invest in raising the level of energy efficiency in UK homes is likely to win the backing of the heating industry. Baxi has pledged its full support for the report, saying that the next Government needs to take it seriously. UK Marketing Director Andrew Keating comments: “We are fully behind this initiative to stamp out fuel poverty in the UK. The Government needs to acknowledge that fuel poverty is no longer limited to the elderly and vulnerable, and should pledge financial backing to help subsidise energy efficient products and solutions for those households in most need.”

Fuel poverty affects 10% of all households

Author of the report, Richard Howard, says: “Most people assume that it’s the elderly who are most at risk of not being able to heat their homes, but the facts paint a startling picture. Many working households are struggling to afford their energy bills and living in underheated homes. Fuel poverty can severely affect people’s health and also puts a strain on the NHS, so it is absolutely critical that the Government prioritises support to those households most at risk. Improving energy efficiency is clearly the most cost effective way to tackle the problem.”

Charity issues new CO poisoning figures New figures relating to carbon monoxide poisoning in the UK have been released by CO-Gas Safety which this year marks its 20th anniversary of reporting statistics and supporting victims and their families. According to the charity, around 36 people every year die from CO poisoning, which means that it has caused more than 670 deaths since 1995. The charity estimates that there have been more than 4700 near misses in the same time period and suspects that many incidents go unrecorded. This is because GPs almost never diagnose CO and that there

is no automatic testing of dead bodies for CO, even in cases of unexplained deaths. Charity President Stephanie Trotter OBE argues that more needs to be done to cut deaths from this invisible gas: “For the last 20 years we have run a series of initiatives and lobbied Government to raise awareness of this silent killer, but still people are dying and suffering from this invisible killer.” She said the charity continues to demand prime time TV public health information warnings and urges the Government, industry and politicians to join forces to reduce tragedies. ‘’Victims tell us that they

didn’t even know what CO was, let alone how to prevent it. If the gas emergency service carried and used equipment to test gas appliances for CO to identify the appliances emitting CO, it would be a great start.’’ CO-Gas Safety has no official funding and is a victim-based independent registered charity run by directors and trustees who are all volunteers, with a small amount of part time paid help for the data work. It collects CO incidents and deaths from all fuels and logs all fatalities, together with the faulty appliance, on its website (www. co-gassafety.co.uk/deaths). 1st September 2014

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February 2015

NEWS Review

Inside this issue Peter Thom gives Editor’s Ecobuild Preview We round up some of the key exhibitors and events to be staged at this year’s Ecobuild show

See page 27 t

Special Needs Bathrooms Products and ideas to help design bathrooms that will meet the needs of an ageing population

See page 38

Oil Heating Improvements in efficiency will ensure that oil remains a popular choice for many rural households

See page 43

Chimneys & Flues Tips and advice on how to minimise fire risks when installing or maintaining chimney and flue systems

See page 49

The Technical Magazine for the Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement Industry

Incorporating: Plumbing & Heating News Plumbing & Heating Equipment News

Green Deal the thumbs down Campaigning installer Peter Thom, MD and founder of Cambridge based energy efficiency specialist, Green Heat Ltd, has announced that his company will no longer be participating in the Green Deal as a result of his disillusionment with the scheme. In an open letter to the Prime Minister, he explains that contrary to the Government’s promises and a commitment to improve the energy efficiency of UK homes, the scheme’s changing qualification criteria and prohibitive costs have left customers and installers frustrated, confused, out-of-pocket and, ultimately, misled. “I have been one of the greatest supporters of this flagship initiative,” says Peter. “We have tried very hard to make it work over the past two years, but despite regularly raising our concerns, there is still too much red tape that prevents smaller installers like us from delivering the improvements our customers can benefit from.” Green Heat has been providing energy surveys and installing condensing

Viewpoint by Chris Jones

Doing more for the fuel poor

Peter Thom pictured outside DECC making a statement about the amount of red tape

boilers for 25 years, so has a good track record of helping customers save energy, but Peter says that small installation companies have lost out to the big energy suppliers, despite a substantial investment in training and accreditation. “Sadly, the input from industry appears to have been ignored,” he adds. “Removing all the red tape and added costs so small installers can engage with the Green Deal fully is key to making this work. Then and only then will the true value of the Green Deal be realised by those who should benefit from it most – the customer and, of course, the environment.”

With most consumers currently benefitting from a modest reduction in their heating bills, it might not seem the best time to try and energise the Government into moving fuel poverty up its list of priorities but the recently published Warm Homes report makes a convincing case for devoting more resources to the problem. The unexpected drop in wholesale gas and oil prices may have brought a welcome respite to hard pressed household budgets, but the long-term upward trend of energy costs is unlikely to change direction. Although the report suggests that there is a significant funding gap that needs to be met if the Government is serious in its aim of improving the energy efficiency rating of fuel poor homes, it also highlights the fact that current subsidies could be far more focused on addressing the needs of those who need it most. The study points out that only 10% of Winter Fuel Payment recipients are actually deemed to be in fuel poverty and that refocusing the ECO scheme on poorer households would raise an extra £375m a year. The most effective way to ensure that energy takes up a smaller chunk of the average household’s expenditure is to improve housing to a level where significantly less energy is required to keep the home warm. As the report says, improving the nation’s inefficient housing stock should be considered a priority by whichever party or parties come into power after the May General Election. With the short-term nature of British politics though, our politicians may conclude that there are not enough votes in taking up the challenge of reducing energy usage when prices are falling – at least until next winter. Follow us on MV_Fluids_qtr_A3_Aug05

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@PHAMNews 11:06 AM Page 1

Raising a smile

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ABC Audited circulation Jan-Dec 2013 | 28,488 Subscription Rates United Kingdom £60.00 Overseas (Surface) £80.00 Overseas (Air) £95.00 ISSN 1368-9061 Printed by: Precision Colour Printing Ltd. Origination by: www.italicauk.com

© Copyright 2015 | Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement News All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without written consent from the publisher. Attributed articles represent the views of the Author(s) and are not the necessarily those of the Editor. The publishers accept no responsibility for claims made by manufacturers or advertisers. This magazine includes a number of colour editorial photographs paid for by suppliers.

As part of a campaign to raise its profile and engage with homeowners, Vaillant looked to bring some warmth and cheer to London commuters on ‘Blue Monday’ (19th January). The company installed a smile-activated vending machine at Victoria Station where passers-by were able to grab a free coffee or hot chocolate dispensed when they smiled. A team of helpers were on hand to bring warmth and spread smiles to busy commuters by undertaking random acts of kindness, and consumers were encouraged to share their experiences through social media channels using the company’s hashtag #keepsmiling. On the same day, Vaillant also ran its latest TV advert on screens in train stations of major cities and towns across the UK.

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February 2015

News Review

Installers can get B&ES unveils a manifesto for business better connected

A new customer loyalty scheme has been launched by Keston Boilers, the manufacturer of twin flue boiler solutions. Installer Connect offers a range of personal and business-related benefits, with points collected for every Keston boiler fitted. As well as work-related items such as workwear and training courses, the company offers a range of household and luxury items in exchange for points, including high street vouchers, supermarket vouchers, city breaks and more.

After registering online at www.keston.co.uk or via the Installer Connect app, installers can earn £24.75 for every heat only boiler they install and £14.85 for each combi or system boiler they install. Scheme members will also receive free Gas Safe notification for every boiler installed and gain access to Keston’s Marketing Toolbox on the Installer Connect portal, specially designed to help installers expand their business and win new customers.

With campaigning for this year’s General Election under way, the Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) has published its own Business Manifesto in order to highlight the issues it believes the next Government must address if UK construction is to remain genuinely fit-for-purpose in the years ahead. Speaking at a press briefing in January, B&ES president Andy Sneyd explained that the manifesto has been designed to address the commercial issues that impact member businesses and focuses

B&ES President Andy Sneyd

on three key areas: the iniquity of late payment, the elimination of waste from the procurement process, and the maximisation of efficiency throughout the supply chain.

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challenges of an increasingly complex industry.” The final strand of the manifesto refers to the perennial debate that continues to surround sustainability, energy efficiency, emissions reduction and the low-carbon economy. Andy Sneyd added: “Given that as much as 60% of UK carbon emissions are from buildings, it follows that B&ES members have a key part to play in working with their public and private sector clients in ensuring the intelligent use of the technologies that are crucial to this process.”

Grant for training Sporting chance Open to all bona fide plumbing and heating companies, APHC Training is offering £100 training grants to member and non-member companies that are keen to keep an existing qualified employee up-to-date on their training. The Training Grant will be limited to the first 100 applicants and companies who have received grants in previous years are still able to apply. Interested businesses are asked to email info@aphc. co.uk, adding ‘Training Grant’ in the subject line. They will then be emailed a form to complete and return for initial grant approval and will also be provided with the schemes’ terms and conditions.

Tamworth installer lands big prize The year-long Fernox 50th Anniversary Promotion has culminated in Rob Nicholls, of Nicholls Heating and Plumbing in Tamworth, walking away with the grand prize of £50,000 worth of heating and plumbing products. To enter the prize draw, installers just had to purchase any special promotional pack from the company’s range of system cleaners and filters. Each month one lucky winner won £600 worth of Fernox products, but 23-yearold Rob, from father and son business Nicholls Heating and Plumbing, was ultimately named the winner of what is probably the largest ever prize fund in the plumbing and heating industry. Nearly 10,000 entries were in the hat for the final draw, which was made by Woking Mayor Tony Branagan in December.

The Association’s proposals include the setting up of an online procurement and payment portal for public sector projects and a commitment by the next government to set a target of a return to pre-recession training levels within three years. The President said: “It also highlights the growing importance of vocational education and training – at every level of the workforce – in ensuring that we employ the required calibre and the required number of highly skilled and highly motivated individuals who are fully capable of meeting the

Francine Wickham from Fernox congratulates Rob Nicholls

Self-employed plumber and gas fitter Jamie Graves is hoping to fulfil his football coaching potential after receiving a grant from the BPEC Sport Awards. Jamie, from Anytime Plumbing & Heating in Rotherham, played football competitively until a car crash meant he was no longer able to take part himself at such a level. Still passionate about the game, he undertook his Level 1 Coaching Certificate and currently coaches Millmoor Juniors under 11s.

After successfully applying to the BPEC Sport Awards, the grant has allowed Jamie to invest in the equipment he needs to improve his coaching sessions. The scheme is designed to provide support to individuals or teams connected to the industry that are involved in sport and would benefit from a financial grant to assist them attaining a higher level of knowledge, skill and achievement in their chosen field. To find out more please visit: bpec.org.uk/the-bpec-charity/

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RAPIDE, speed, quality, and performance. WIN an Aston Martin driving day and experience the power of RAPIDE With every purchase of either MC1+ or MC3+ RAPIDE, you could win a fabulous Aston Martin driving experience. Visit www.adey.com/PHAMAMARTIN for more information and how to enter with proof of purchase. Terms and conditions apply. Offer valid 1st January - 30th June 2015 inclusive.

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February 2015

ISH is the world’s leading trade fair focusing on the combined themes of water and energy. Only here will you find future-oriented technologies that offer maximum user comfort and convenience. Visit the leading event for sustainable sanitary solutions and innovative bathroom design as well as energy-efficient heating, air-conditioning, cooling and ventilation technologies in combination with renewable energies. www.ish.messefrankfurt.com info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83

Marking its 25th anniversary this year, Aico – the manufacturer of domestic fire and carbon monoxide (CO) protection products – has launched a new training and demonstration facility at its premises in Oswestry, Shropshire. The Centre of Excellence is a two storey building designed to provide customers with the latest training and meeting facilities. On the ground floor the company has recreated a furnished home with typical room layouts including a lounge, kitchen and bedroom. Aico alarms and accessories are fitted within the rooms to demonstrate which products are best suited for these settings. To add a bit of extra character, each room has been designed and furnished from a specific decade from

Water + Energy Elements of Success.

Aico’s centre of excellence

the 1960s to the present day. The rooms use infographics to explain the potential fire and CO risks, while an applications boards shows how Aico products can be interlinked with third party systems such as warden call systems and gas shut-off valves. The ground floor is also home to a hands-on training room where the company will be able to conduct various training courses

Southern based independent merchant group, Heating Plumbing Supplies (HPS), has announced the opening of its 31st branch in Bracknell, Berkshire. The new branch will be run by John Munro (far right of picture) and will include a fully fitted bathroom showroom within the facility. HPS started trading in October 2001 and recorded a turnover of £48m last year. The company has branches in London, Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire and Dorset.

Introducing UBE Uponor has renamed its commercial installation business, formerly known as Velta, to Uponor Building Energy (UBE). The company acquired Velta in 2009, helping to establish the business as a leading provider of bespoke embedded heating and cooling solutions. Lee Tebbatt, Managing Director at Uponor Building Energy, comments: “Uponor has a rich heritage in the commercial built ENQUIRY

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for customers, including its Aico Fire Products Trained Installer Scheme (AFPTIS). A large modern meeting room is located on the first floor, which can accommodate up to 50 people, and a break-out area with seating and desks. The Centre of Excellence was officially launched in January following a ribbon cutting ceremony by Michael Guinee, MD of Aico and parent company Ei Electronics.

Bracknell branch Rugby opens for business prize for R22 data DU: 28.11.2014

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environment, both here in the UK and in mainland Europe. The full integration of Velta into the Uponor brand is testament to its continued success and that of the team who continue to develop unique heating and cooling solutions for a wide variety of iconic buildings. Now being seen as an integral part of the Uponor Group will provide the large company backing that is so essential when dealing with large construction schemes.”

Toshiba Air Conditioning is launching an R22 data collection initiative to assess the number and type of R22 systems still operational in the UK and Ireland. The company is aiming to encourage feedback from contractors, installers, end users and consultants by offering participants the chance to win tickets for this year’s Rugby World Cup. General Manager David Dunn says: “We believe there are a significant number of air conditioning systems still operating on R22 across the country. The aim of the data collection initiative is to provide an objective measure of the scale of the problem and enable us to support users whose equipment – which may be cooling critical infrastructure as well as buildings – is effectively obsolete and could present a major problem in the future.” There will be three ticket draws, one at the end of January, February and March, and each monthly winner will receive two tickets for one of the games. An entry form is available to download from the news section of Toshiba’s website: www.toshiba-aircon.co.uk

28/01/2015 15:18

The NEW Greenstar Comfort intelligent heating controls

Controls that everyone will be comfortable with. Our new easy to use, simple to install controls have a range of advanced features including: Load compensation* which adjusts the flow temperature from the boiler, to meet the heating demand and provide significant fuel savings. No wiring requirements* as the control communicates with the boiler via a reliable radio frequency signal. 5 year guaranteeâ&#x20AC; when purchased with a Greenstar boiler. To find out more, visit our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/worcesterboschgroup

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February 2015

News Review

Adey to the rescue for charity Giving back to Cancer Trust The Children’s Air Ambulance is £4000 better off thanks to the fundraising efforts of Adey Professional Heating Solutions. The company sponsored a charity golf day at the Woburn Golf and Country Club in Milton Keynes with the support of Ideal, Quinn, Mira, Kingspan, Grundfos, Coram Showers and Danfoss Controls. The event continued into the evening with a charity gala and auction. Darran Burrage, Area Sales Manager at Adey, said after the event: “This is just one of the charity events

(l-r) Darran Burrage with pilot Howard Roe and Stuart Wilkins, fundraising co-ordinator at the Children’s Air Ambulance

we’ve held this year with colleagues, customers and partners, and we’re very grateful for the support we’ve had from other

manufacturers, as well as the trade merchant PTS. I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came and supported the event.”

CORGI moves into bathrooms CORGI Bathrooms is the latest division of CORGI Services, the provider of services to homeowners and the heating and plumbing industry. The new division becomes the 12th business in the group and will sell a wide range of bathroom products including showers,

taps and pumps. It operates through a new website (www. corgibathrooms.co.uk) and is supported by a dedicated customer service team. The business is led by MD Andrew Scales who has 20 years experience in the plumbing and retail sectors. He says: “I’m

delighted to be joining the CORGI Services community because I share its core values of professionalism, quality and trustworthiness. Consumers are searching for a wide range of good value bathroom products, which we will deliver without compromising on quality.”

City Plumbing Supplies has extended its fundraising partnership with Teenage Cancer Trust and is aiming to raise its total contribuion to £1 million by the end of 2015. This year began with the North West Annual Charity Night which added £14,000 to the charity fund. John Frost, MD of CPS, says: “Since the partnership

began in January 2012, City Plumbing Supplies has raised a phenomenal £660,000 for

Teenage Cancer Trust and now we are aiming to raise enough next year to take our fundraising grand total to £1 million.” Amongst the more notable fundraising events carried out by CPS have been a charity sky dive, climbing Britain’s highest mountain Ben Nevis and a 24 hour overnight cycle on two exercise bikes.

Chance to win a track day With the launch of its new cashback cylinder promotion, Worcester is giving installers the chance to win a day at the track. When heating engineers buy a Greenstore high-efficiency unvented cylinder, they will be able to claim £100 cashback and will also be entered into the prize draw to win one of 18 Silverstone Challenge Days, where they will get the chance to drive some of the world’s fastest, and most iconic cars.

The cashback offer applies to Greenstore unvented cylinders purchased before 30th June. For more information on both

the cylinder promotion and Silverstone competition, visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/ cylinder100

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Grey Matters

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February 2015

10 News Review Longer Consumers trust in the mark Taking the fuss out of refrigerant sales cover on combis The warranty coverage on EcoBlue Advance combis has been increased from seven to 10 years by Baxi. Gas Safe engineers can activate it by registering the boilers online within 30 days of installation on the website (www. baxi.co.uk/warranty). In addition, the homeowner will need to have the boiler serviced annually. Dave Cook, Sales Director at Baxi, says: “We are extremely proud of what we’ve achieved with EcoBlue. To show just how confident we are in our product, we are extending the warranty on the Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi to 10 years. The result is a stand-out, easy-sell for the installer for 2015.”

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TrustMark, the government endorsed quality mark for tradesmen, has recorded its highest number of tradesmen details displayed on its website. More than 7.2 million search results were provided to homeowners who used the website and telephone helpline to find expert tradesmen to carry out work on their homes

during 2014, an increase of 38% compared to the same period in 2013. Specialists in underground waterproofing and in damp proofing and timber treatment saw the largest rise, but numbers were also up for roofers (70%), builders (67%), plumbers and heating engineers (61%) and electricians (41%), which

together represent 47% of all the searches across the trades during 2014. All TrustMark firms work to government standards and are checked for three things – trading practices, customer service and technical skills. To find out more about the scheme, visit the website at www. trustmark.org.uk

Apprentice takes top award Andrew Ingham was named Leeds College of Building’s student of the year last month at a ceremony in Leeds Town Hall. Andrew, who is from Leeds, has now completed the Level 3 plumbing apprenticeship and works for ACH Plumbing Solutions. Leeds College of Building’s Principal Mr Ian Billyard comments: “Andrew is a shining example of someone who knew what he wanted and just went for it. He has forged ahead with his dream, worked hard and never given up on his ultimate goal of becoming a plumber. He is a valuable asset to ACH Plumbing Solutions and he embodies everything our College stands for – perseverance, talent and an unwavering commitment to his trade.”

Andrew Firth from Sir Robert McAlpine presents Andrew Ingham with the award

Refrigeration and air conditioning supplier HRP has launched a campaign to alert installers to the new requirement to show F-gas certification when purchasing refrigerants. It has created an information website and the character, F-Gasman, to drive the message home. The redclad hero will be on show at trade counters to encourage engineers to register their details so they can buy refrigerants with the minimum of fuss. HRP Group MD Mandy Pilgrim explains: “We are now required to check that purchasers of refrigerant have the necessary F-gas certification and are registered with Refcom or an equivalent body. We take our responsibilities under F-Gas regulations very seriously and aim to help contractors keep to the letter of the law.” To get the information you

need on the new regulation, and to claim a free key fob marked with your name and registration number, visit the official website at www.fgasman.co.uk. HRP engineers will answer questions from online visitors and post technical data from BOC and other industry bodies, creating a central information resource.

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February 2015

PEOPLE on the Move Smith’s Fan Convectors has appointed Steve Boggis as its new Commercial Director. Formerly Southern Sales Director for Ideal Boilers, Steve has 30 years experience in heating and plumbing sales. He began his career in the sector with a four year plumbing and heating apprenticeship. In his new role, Steve will provide advice and support to the national sales team.

Exclusive to Westco

Bryan Clark has joined the CIPHE as Technical and Education Manager. Bryan completed his plumbing apprenticeship at the Army Apprentice College, Chepstow and served for 16 years. He began his teaching career in 2008, most recently working at Prospects College in Basildon, where he was involved in the college becoming a CIPHE Approved Training Centre. Sentinel Commercial has welcomed two new technical sales engineers to its team. Adam Purnell (pictured) and Craig Milner will cover the South and Midlands areas, respectively, and bring to the company a combined 35 years experience in the water treatment and heating industries. They will be responsible for delivering specialised technical sales services and advice. DAB Pumps UK has expanded its Commercial and Residential Building Services to include Justin Springhall (pictured), Product Manager for Commercial Building Services team, central region; Janine Horsfield, Product Manager for Residential Building Services, northern region; and Leon Wilton, Product Manager for Residential Building Services, southern region. Andrews Water Heaters has named Chris Meir (pictured) as its new Sales Director. Chris has worked in the industry since 2002, having previously worked at Lochinvar and, most recently, at Remeha Commercial where he served as National Sales Manager for five years. MD Andrew Maclagan says: “We are confident that Chris can drive sales and increase turnover, and assist in providing support for our customers.” Fernox has appointed Calvin Pope as its new Sales Director for the UK and Ireland. Calvin has over 30 years of experience in the plumbing and heating sector and has held a number of previous sales roles. He began his career working on the plumbing and heating counter at his local builders merchant. Calvin joins Fernox after eight years as Director of Sales at Grundfos Pumps. New to ACV UK is John McKenzie, who has come on board as Business Development Manager covering East and West Midlands. John brings to the new role a wealth of experience gained in his 30 plus years within the industry. A British Gas trained engineer, he has performed in senior sales positions with Myson and Ideal and was most recently Regional Sales Director at Vokera. The PJH Group has announced the appointment of Martin Voisey as National Sales Manager for its Retail Division. Based in Bristol, Martin will be responsible for heading up the PJH Retail Sales Team, servicing independent bathroom, kitchen and appliance retailers throughout the UK. He brings over 21 years experience in the KBB industry to the new role. Potterton Commercial has named Neville Small as its new Sales Director. Neville has worked in the heating industry for 30 years, spending the last seven with Baxi Commercial, firstly as Business Development Manager and then as Head of Business Development. His new remit will be to grow the company’s commercial boiler market share and brand awareness.

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February 2015

12 News Review Installers offer advice to the Treasury Filters in demand The finalists of Screwfix’s ‘Britain’s Top Tradesman’ competition were recently invited to meet with Chancellor George Osborne at the Treasury to discuss the current picture for UK tradesmen and what could be done to encourage further business growth across trades. Plumber and winner of the 2014 competition, Raymond McKnight, joined with other finalists from across the UK to share his thoughts with the Chancellor on how the

Government can help to keep business booming for the trade’s professionals.

He says: “Last year was a busy year for me and I expect this was the case for many

other tradesmen as well. It was a great opportunity to be invited to meet with the Chancellor and to talk about our thoughts on what might help small businesses to remain successful in 2015 and beyond. I know that there have already been some initiatives put in place which have helped us over the last couple of years, but I think there is more which could be done which would make it easier for small businesses to remain successful.”

A recent survey of installers by Inta suggests that the market for magnetic filters is continuing to expand. The survey found that an increasing number of plumbers and installers are regularly using magnetic and air separation filters to increase boiler longevity, with 84% claiming to have installed these devices in the past year. On top of this, over 70% said that they have received direct enquiries about filters from customers.

New housing target

Commercial gains Kill zombie boilers! Bosch Commercial and Industrial Heating has reported a 28% increase in sales last year, with record levels of demand for the company’s combined heat & power (CHP) modules, steam boilers and district heating solutions. Geoff Hobbs, Business Development Director, says: “2014 was a successful year for our business and demand for our vast portfolio of technologies has never been higher. With the Bosch brand now firmly established in the UK commercial and industrial heating sectors, 2015 looks set to be another successful and exciting year, as we have a number of new products coming to market to expand our portfolio even further.”

The UK gas boiler market saw modest growth last year with 1.66 million units sold compared to 1.65 million the previous year (an increase of 0.8%) according to figures released by the HHIC. Responding to the news Roger Webb, Director of HHIC, called for more to be done to encourage the replacement of old boilers. “We estimate

that the number of inefficient boilers still being used by UK households is approximately 12 million. Inefficient boilers cost consumers more and emit higher levels of carbon dioxide than modern condensing boilers. A plan is needed to get rid of old and inefficient ‘zombie boilers’, so-called because they don’t die they just keep chugging away.”

Government and industry must collaborate to build at least 200,000 homes a year by 2020 in order to tackle the housing crisis, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, says: “Regardless of which party or parties take the reins in May 2015, the next government must work with industry to develop a robust housing strategy and commit to building at least 200,000 new homes a year by 2020. This is a realistic target and one that can be achieved if we remove barriers to small local builders.”

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February 2015

14 YOUR Views

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engi neer’ go to a tech nica l college and I write in response to Mr Watt’s letter serve an apprenticeship? Or did he pay (published in the November/December to go through one of the many private issue). I am a 67 year old retired plumbing companies who will ‘fast track’ anybody lectu rer who did a six year plumbing with the cash through any qualifications apprenticeship and has spent most of his that is commercia lly viable to render a working life in the plumbing, heating and quick profit? gas industry. I trained as a teacher and Why did Mr. Watt not chal lenge the spent three years as a Craf t Desi gn and n(s) who set ‘supposed ly new Tech nolog y teacher in a comprehensive institutio he found qualify you whether that s’ bing, exam plum school and the last 30 years as a you are proficient? heating and gas lectu rer, so I feel I can or not Mr. Watt might find it usefu l to visit a comment on Mr. Watt’s views. college and speak to the plumbing/gas The college(s) he criticises are governed local teach ing staff who would glad ly explain by the curriculum set by the exam boards, the whole system to him. At the college with a rigid syllabus to follow which sets where I worked we would always respond down ‘chapter and verse’ what is taught, to such enqu iries. how it is delivered and time scales. The to time Finally, is Mr. Watt criticising the English content of courses has changed over try. indus the system? If he is Scottish and works in meet the modern demands of does he know how the (Some skills were removed, but I thin k Scotland, how English system works? The system here in they were worth retai ning.) England has regular monitoring meeting Colleges are now stand-alone institutions where lectu rers from regional colleges with, unfortunately, the bottom line being meet the exam board representatives to profit. No profit = bank ruptcy. The old ‘thra sh out’ problems that are common system of colleges bein g funded by the , to all institutions. local authorities has gone (unfortunately Internal verifiers monitor students and in my opin ion). check the quality of technology, portfolios The testi ng of students is ‘on-li ne’, and practical tasks. External verifiers multiple-choice papers at Level 2 and from the exam board carry out monitoring multiple-choice plus written assignments at visits to look at the overall qual ity and Level 3. The problem with multiple-choice efficacy of each course delivered by every papers is that it is difficult to ‘get a handle’ institution. on the weak areas of each candidate. When I don’t feel ‘kick ing out politicians’ they press the exam finished button, the concerns. Most politicians questions disappear into the ether and the will help his ed crafts people and are skill tions are not lecturer cannot know what the ques are of the level of skills unaw Some lly sed. usua were and how they were phra . and comm itment our industry comm its students struggle with abstract questions to the serv ice sector. It might help his In the past, I used to set internal exam concerns if he visits his local Member of papers at Christma s and Easter. These Parliament’s surgery and writes a letter were written papers, plus students had to to Parliament. draw pipe circuits on schematic layouts as d boar I do not wish to disrespect Mr. Watt’s a precursor to the year end exam ne s but I do feel he needs to do more on-li view the n external questions. Whe t this complex problem – we multiple-choice questions arrived, I was research abou what is the ideal solution to told to stop setting internal exams due to need to ask trained and tech nica lly welll g Leve ucin prod the time scales of the courses. The people. s y craft stud ified of se qual cour 2 went from a three year ts. train cons time the e, e John How to two years. Henc Did Mr Watt’s ‘supposed ly gas safe Telford

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The down-slide in solar water heating (SWH) take-up began when the banking crisis started, followed by the property recession, followed by the introduction of the Feed-in Tariff (£0.43p per kW solar PV) which the Coalition decided to kick start at a time when the bank interest rate was ½%. What followed from that period was the total destruction of the solar water heating industry along with heat pumps. The delayed RHI and Green Deal is also never going to reinstate the substantial take up that my SWH business had, along with hundreds of others across the country, with 2007 our best year ever. Two weeks ago I had an e-mail from a homeowner in Hampshire asking me if his Powertech SWH installation needed servicing since the installation by one of our installers in 2008. His decision to contact me was because a mechanical zone valve stopped working and caused some overheating in the Apricus branded heat pipe tube collector designed by me in 2004, exported today worldwide. I explained to him that my simple low cost design, with 50% less parts compared to what is being sold today under the RHI government scheme, does not need any servicing. He agreed to pay me a fee to drive over to see him, as he wanted to be assured the system was working okay, although he had no complaints for the past six years. The Thermix design used the existing vented hot water tank converted to a solar heated water tank at a cost in those days installed with a 10 year warranty of £2560 (including the 5% VAT and installation). In one year I sold over 250 of these service and freeze free designs. This of course upset the big hot water tank manufactures as well as expanding the life of the gas boiler back up. The same system was also installed in my own house 12 years ago, but my SWH system supports space heating (banned by RHI).

Two UK companies importing my low cost evacuated tube heat pipe collectors are offering the choice of an RHI government red tape scheme at £5000+ for an unvented

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Andy Buchan (Point of View column in the January issue) is correct in saying renewables will have a tough year for many reasons, already explained by him as he sees it from the current position this country has managed to find itself in.

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The RHI and sales of solar water heating

200 litre tank of hot water heated by solar to 65°C only, plus servicing. In comparison, our no-RHI scheme system, supplied and installed by ex MCS registered installers, is available for under £3000. The system is winning over more and more homeowners through the use of eBay and direct targeting of homeowners by the plumbers, who just want to earn a living outside all the red tape. With hundreds of SME PV seller/installers groups also leaving the renewables industry, what we now have left are the big wealthy bank-financed companies who are in this for the long term guaranteed profits available from all energy paying homeowners. We will have a busy year in SWH, but for those following the RHI it’s going to be a tough year. Anyone looking to sell heat pump central heating and hot water systems, make sure you guarantee the homeowners that the UK will never suffer from weather induced power cuts or shortages in years to come. Eric Hawkins Renewable Energy Consultant Via email

Regulation warning

Plumbers beware! As we head to ‘low flow’ taps, showers, etc, we must take into account the Water Regulations requirement to be able to achieve 50°C within 30 seconds at point of use (regulation 18.7). These taps will alter the length of draw off pipe and the requirement of a second return leg or trace heating. That means in most cases the second return will have to be taken right to the point of use. On another matter, how long before we see legionella form in the ‘cooler’ leg from a blending valve to the draw off? Michael Raine Regulations Inspector Jersey Water

Bath mixers illegal too?

The comments by Robert Chambers in your January issue regarding kitchen taps with hoses being illegal were interesting and potentially contentious, as this regulation will then also presumably apply to bath mixers with flexible shower handsprays, particularly in respect of ‘new builds’ and with the majority being unvented mains fed systems. John Procter, Director Aquaflow

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The Editor welcomes letters from readers on all aspects of the industry. Letters can be sent by email or post but must have a return name, phone number and address (not for publication).

Please address your letters to: The Editor, PHAM News, 1b Station Square, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1DP

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February 2015

16 Point of View

How to attract new talent into building services Recent research has suggested that the UK building services industry is facing a skills gap. Phil Copolo, founder and CEO of building services company P&R Installations, explains how businesses in the sector can benefit by investing in youth and giving young people an important foot on the working ladder.

he UK’s recovering economy is a cause for celebration across all sectors. However, it seems that the road to recovery is not all plain sailing. More money is being invested in the building services sector than at any other time since the financial crisis – creating more work for building services firms, but a recent CBI survey found that employers within the gas, plumbing and building services sectors are having real difficulty taking on new employees. Research from recruitment firm Manpower published at the end of 2014 describes the lengths to which building services companies are willing to go in order to secure work and complete it. In this case, the need for skilled workers was so great that it led to one particular company paying overseas temporary staff a sky high salary of £1000 per week – double the usual wage. Although this may seem crazy, it highlights just how grave the labour shortage situation has become.

Out of favour There are a number of reasons for the lack of new talent entering the building services industry. One of them is simply that university has become a more popular and fashionable choice, resulting in vocational apprenticeships falling out of favour with students. This is something of a counterintuitive choice, seeing that university debts can now average something in the region of £44,000.

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JTL Training to offer five rolling apprenticeships to those who need a helping hand. Many businesses believe that organising the whole process of taking on apprentices costs a lot of time, and therefore money. There is some truth to this, apprentices are called so for a reason, they require training and our experience has shown that it is in the interest of your business to invest time and money into them.

Best and brightest Phil Copolo, founder and CEO of P&R Installations, based in Sidcup, Kent

Compounding the issue is today’s common attitude amongst youngsters that a university education is better than on the job training – something we feel is not always the case. This is supported by a recent study by the Sutton Trust which demonstrated that the returns on an apprenticeship are much higher than the returns of many university courses when taking into account entry costs and subsequent starting salaries. Bearing in mind the deepening skills of this shortage issue against the increased investment in the industry, it is vital that companies within the sector take steps to remedy the current situation.

On the lookout P&R Installations – the South East-based building services that I founded in 1977 – is always on

the lookout for people to join our growing team, not only to expand but also to futureproof our business. We believe our housing association and local authority customers want to see us invest in the future and that our commitment to do so contributes to our long term client relationships. We are a company which prides itself on grass roots experience. I myself was, and still am, a qualified gas fitter, as are the majority of people on my senior team and in our head office. We have done the job on the ground before moving to a role in our head office. This makes a huge difference as we have a better understanding of some of the challenges facing young people as they start to take on work. As such, we are keen to give those who are just starting a first foot on the ladder. We do this by working with

So why take on apprentices? We find that the benefits are obvious. Our apprenticeship scheme gives us access to a pipeline of the best and brightest budding industry professionals. It is an important lifeline for us and ensures that we are constantly keeping abreast of new technologies, training techniques and securing future employees. It also has a positive effect on existing employees, who feel pride and responsibility for training up new generations of the industry. Together, these two things result in a fantastic work culture and ethos of inclusion. So how does it work exactly? P&R works alongside JTL training, an organisation that was created by the Electrical Contractors’ Association and the Union to manage the sector’s training, and has done so for close to a decade. We collaborate with JTL to fill five rolling apprenticeship spaces on an ongoing basis.

P&R employee Jack Henderson

We offer two types of apprenticeships, one lasting three years and one lasting four. Each apprenticeship ensures that each trainee gains measureable skills in maintaining electrical, heating and ventilation and plumbing systems. The four year apprenticeship scheme that we offer also includes training in gas distribution systems. Our philosophy can be demonstrated by one P&R employee: Jack Henderson. After Jack made us aware of his interest in the building services industry at the age of 14, we took him on as an apprentice at the age of 15. Working alongside experienced tradesmen and learning a number of disciplines on the job, Jack’s career has since flourished. Not only that, Jack has now been with the company for over eight years. He is a valued member of our team and an integral part of our business. There is no better satisfaction for a business than watching talent grow. We believe that, given the chance, the industry would wholeheartedly agree.

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28/01/2015 14:26

February 2015

INDUSTRY Insight

How safe is safe? Continuing his regular column in PHAM News, industry expert John Griggs takes a look at some of the safety factors that help to determine industry guidance notes and regulations – and their inherent variables and limitations.

and 500 years) along with a e all assume figure for a ‘maximum’. that by following To select which map to use, instructions we a choice then has to be made will be safe. However, most as to the ‘category’ of the rules, guidance, regulations or building in question in relation design methods incorporate to how much protection some form of safety factor, and from rain is required. This it is rare for it to be explicitly introduces a multiplication stated. Problems can arise factor of up to 4.5 for the where the importance of the storm’s return period. So, safety factor, or device, is not by selecting the correct map, understood by the installer. and interpolating between the The determination of contours, a value for ‘r’ can performance of a system is John Griggs MSc FCIPHE IEng be found. The Standard also usually carried out under ideal or worst case laboratory conditions, hence offers an alternative method using rainfall some allowance is needed when such results depth producing a different value for ‘r’ without are transferred to the field. Although it is a safety factor. If the value for ‘r’ can not be normal for most tests to be conducted with based upon historical data and probabilities, a tolerance of ±10%, other safety factors can another alternative method is suggested that be used. Virtually all systems that feature requires a selection of rainfall intensity, from water will have safety factors of some type. a table of eight values, to be multiplied by a For example, in determining the amount Risk Factor of up to 3. of water that can be absorbed by soakaways, Multiple choice tests can be carried out that will have an accuracy of ±50-400% due to the immense So, from one Standard at least three different variability of soil characteristics and the rates answers are possible that may incorporate of water absorption, even within a small area safety factors of such magnitude that makes of land. The guidance on safe temperatures for precise estimation pointless. With such a Legionella control are based upon laboratory variable commodity as the weather this is not tests in the 1980s under ideal conditions unreasonable, but also explains why during that showed a 90% reduction for Legionella very intense storms many rainwater systems would occur at 60°C after a period of around exceed their capacity. The simplest way to prevent such surges of two minutes, but at 50°C they can live for rainwater in pipes is to introduce attenuation hours. So in real plumbing systems with dirt, or diversion. The disconnection of rainwater biofilms and scale, attaining perfect bugpipes from the sewer systems is increasingly killing conditions becomes impossible and forming part of sustainable drainage system temperatures may need to be held higher and design (SuDS) and water sensitive urban design for longer periods to ensure effectiveness. (WSUD). When the pipes are disconnected, Rainwater systems items such as water butts, green roofs and A common example of the use of safety factors walls, and rainwater harvesting tanks can is rainwater system design. Most designers be installed to provide additional benefits. will refer to the current British Standard BS However, all such items only work well if EN 12056-3 (Gravity drainage systems inside there has not been rain for at least a few buildings – Part 3: Roof drainage, layout and days. This makes calculating the benefits of calculation). The basic design equation is very such attenuation difficult. Systems that use simple and calculates the rate of flow of water evapotranspiration and infiltration can reduce from a roof at steady state conditions: Q=rAC, the surface water loads considerably, but, as where r = rainfall intensity, A = effective roof with Legionella in water supply systems, it is area and C = a runoff coefficient. Currently, impossible to build a totally flood proof system. the value ascribed to C is one, so it has no So safety factors can give us some confidence impact on the calculation. with a design, but it is helpful to know For the ‘r’ value in the equation there are their magnitude, especially in situations a number of options. The stated preference where a design is close to a suggested limit. is for ‘adequate statistical rainfall data’ and By understanding where the doubts or most people will use the meteorological assumptions have been made in a design, data provided from the Met Office. This is greater confidence can be given when reproduced in the Standard’s Annex NB in the amendments are needed or circumstances form of five maps of the UK showing contours change. With any specification, you should of probable rainfall intensities for a two minute ask: ‘what are the safety factors that have storm with various ‘return periods’ (1, 5, 50 been included?’ John Griggs has worked in water supply and drainage research for over 30 years and represented the UK on various European and International Standards committees. He is a Director of JPJN Partners Ltd, a company that links together a growing number of construction, water and plumbing experts who provide consultancy services to UK and international clients. The company is based in Hertfordshire and has a website at: https://sites.google.com/site/ jpjnpartnersltd. John can be contacted by phone 07910 456314 and email jpjn99@gmail.com.

17 (WAS 15).indd 1

www.advanceappliances.co.uk Advance Appliances has an excellent reputation for developing innovative thermal store products. The SFUTS Multi Fuel Thermal Store is a major development as it links all fuel types and is pre wired and pre plumbed. The new EnergyManager is a sealed system thermal store for use with underfloor heating and operates at only 65 degrees. In addition, the Electric Thermal Store is very popular for apartments without gas. All of this as well as our Standard Thermal Stores - all stores are stainless steel, made in the UK and carry a ten year guarantee.

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ADVANCED JAN 2015.indd 1

18/12/201414:28 14:04 28/01/2015

February 2015

18 Green Matters Biomass certification added

RHI now on tour Sustainable Building Solutions (SBS) has announced that it will be lending its RHI knowledge and expertise to a number of Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) regional roadshows throughout February and March. Each event will provide guidance on how installers can expand their business, whilst educating consumers on how to get the most from the RHI. Installers are invited to the trade event from 4pm until 5:30pm where they will discover how they can make the most of renewables, receive guidance on the most relevant training courses and discuss any potential projects with the SBS technical sales team. For details of dates and venues and to register for the event visit the SBS website www.tpsbs.co.uk

Stroma Certification has announced that it has secured approval from UKAS to extend the scope of its Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to now include biomass. The scheme currently provides certification for solar PV and solar thermal, plus ground and air source heat pumps.

Approval is also pending for a new wind turbine measure which should be available to members in the spring. Andy Sharp, Commercial Manager, comments: “We’re delighted to announce that we can now offer biomass as a new measure under our MCS scheme. The RHI is a big deal for the industry

and its funding has given new impetus to customers. We want to put our members and other tradespeople in the best possible position to tap into this potential new business.” You can apply to become an MCS member with Stroma Certification by completing an online application form (www. stroma.com/certification).

Solar PV demand New technical support team The latest statistics on smallscale solar PV installations show that over 125,000 UK homes put solar on their roof last year. The numbers released by DECC also show that a total of 700MW of solar was installed on buildings and in ground-mounted solar farms. Larger solar PV installations between 10 and 50kW – often on schools, village halls or business units – grew by over 50% between October and December 2014 compared to the previous three month period.

The growth in demand for residential solar has meant that for the first time since 2012 the tariff paid out for that size of system will reduce not just because of the automatic reduction every nine months but because of the growth in the number of installations. David Pickup from the Solar Trade Association comments: “These latest statistics show that the FiT solar PV market is seeing healthy growth, with plenty of solar going up on domestic and commercial roofs as well as small solar farms.”

UK renewable technology distributor, Waxman Renewables, has set up a new inhouse Technical Support Team. The three member team have backgrounds in plumbing and heating and have been trained in the latest renewable heat installation techniques so that they will be able to assist installers with technical issues and offer advice to those requiring further assistance before purchase. As well as technical support the service extends to providing bespoke training,

The Technical Support Team (l to r): Andrew Sims (Technical Manager), James Steadman and Luke Helliwell

based at the company’s West Yorkshire headquarters, to those who require further product knowledge. This service is available free of charge and gives installers

hands-on practice in working with renewable heat products, while meeting the team faceto-face. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.waxmanrenewables.co.uk

105

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27/01/2015 12:21:12 27/01/2015 13:24

February 2015

20 Green Matters The UK domesticThe UK domestic renewables landscape renewables landscape

More awareness of Bone up on ground source heat pumps renewable products

AWARENESS OF RENEWABLES AS AN LTERNATIVE METHOD FOR DOMESTIC HEATING

61%

HAVE HEARD OF AT LEAST ONE OF THESE:

• air-to-water heat pumps ground source heat pumps • solar thermal • solar PV • hybrid heating systems

AWARENESS BY PRODUCT...

• air-to-water heat pumps • ground source heat pumps • solar thermal • solar PV • hybrid heating systems

air-to-water and ground source heat pumps

solar thermal

solar PV

hybrid systems

Aware of dRHI

Not aware of dRHI

familiar but don’t fully understand

BUT

fully aware but not taken advantage

solar thermal

have already applied

hybrid systems

42%

31%

25%

BARRIERS TO AWARENESS OF THE ADOPTION ACCORDING DOMESTIC RENEWABLE TO THOSE WHO HAVE HEAT INCENTIVE (dRHI) EVALUATED RENEWABLES SCHEME AS AN OPTION

aware but don’t know anything about it

BUT

air-to-water and ground source heat pumps

53%

New research from DIRECT EXPERIENCE DIRECT Daikin EXPERIENCE AWARENESS OF AWARENESS OF THE OF RENEWABLE OF RENEWABLE RENEWABLES AS AN RENEWABLE has shedMETHOD light DOMESTIC onTECHNOLOGIES people’s TECHNOLOGIES ALTERNATIVE HEAT INCENTIVE (dRHI) &FOR INTENTION &SCHEME INTENTION DOMESTIC TO HEATING INSTALL and experience TO INSTALL of awareness renewable technologies and the domestic Renewable 65% Heat Incentive scheme (RHI). % % 35% 1000 The survey of 17 17% 61 HAVE HEARD OF AT OF HOMEOWNERS OF HOMEOWNERS homeowners indicates ONE OF THESE: HAVELEAST INTERACTED WITH A HAVE INTERACTED WITH A RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY that general awareness of JUST JUST and of those...is renewable technologies reasonably high,14with 61% % AWARENESS HAVE ONE OF THEBY HAVE ONE OF THE TECHNOLOGIES IN they have TECHNOLOGIES IN of PRODUCT... saying that heard THEIR HOME THEIR HOME % 10 at least one form of renewable ... Only 36% of8%... technology. the sample claim they have no 4% knowledge whatsoever. More people say they are 53 AWARENESS IS HIGHER IN aware42 of heat pumps OFF-GAS THAN(53%) ON-GAS PROPERTIES than any other renewable 31 25 5% 5% technology, followed by 44% VS 32% solar ON-GAS OFF-GAS 8% thermal (42%) 8%and solar PV (31%). A quarter (25%) of those questioned are also familiar with hybrid systems combining a renewable energy with a boiler. Awareness of the RHI however is modest, with just over a third (35%) acknowledging any form of % (900,000 households) say they plan to install% renewable tschnology in the next 12 months

(900,000 households) say they plan to install renewable tschnology in the next 12 months

(1.3 million households) say they plan to take the plunge at some point in the future

4665%% cost

35%

0lack of Aware of Not aware of dRHI dRHI knowledge

BARRIERS TO REACTION ACCORDING TO dRHI ADOPTION ONCEHAVE TOSCHEME THOSE WHO EXPLAINED EVALUATED RENEWABLES AS AN OPTION

4246% 42% %

cost

46%

OF HOMEOWNERS THINK IT’S Alack GREAT ofIDEA

knowledge

and of those...

14%

% 21 poor ROI

aware but don’t know anything about it

% HOW10EV ER!

familiar but don’t fully understand

45% fully aware but not taken advantage

have already applied

HOWEVER!

45%

OF THOSE WHO SAY THE COST IS TOO HIGH ARE UNAWARE OF dRHI

AWARENESS IS HIGHER IN

25%

18%

OFF-GAS THAN ON-GAS

PROPERTIES OF THOSE DISMISSING THE ROI HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE dRHI SCHEME

44% EDUCATION 32%

OFF-GAS

ON-GAS IS KEY!

18%

of off-gas properties. We could therefore confidently show installers that ground source heat pumps offer a lucrative opportunity along with the added customer incentive presented by the RHI.”

Kensa is also using the events as a platform to launch its new Underground Network of installers of ground source heat pumps, which allows installers to tap into ongoing training, support and qualified

new business leads, whilst providing end users with a platform to engage with Kensa approved installers. The next date to catch Kensa on the road is 10th February at Plumbase in Worcestershire, starting at 8:30 am. Go to www.kensaheatpumps.com/ events to see the full line up of events, which includes, Fife, Haslemere, Bristol and Carmarthen. The roadshow is supported by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and NAPIT. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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25%

OF THOSE DISMISSING THE ROI HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE dRHI SCHEME

SAY IT WILL ENCOURAGE THE ADOPTION OF EDUCATION RENEWABLE IS KEY! TECHNOLOGIES

www.daikin.co.uk awareness. Of these, 14% say they’re aware of the term but don’t know anything about it; one in ten say they’re familiar but don’t fully understand; 8% are fully aware but haven’t taken advantage of it; and 4% have already applied.

CE: THE QUANTITATIVE STUDY OF 1,000 BRITISH HOMEOWNERS WAS SOURCE: COMMISSIONED THE QUANTITATIVE BY DAIKIN STUDY UKOF AND 1,000 COMPLETED BRITISH HOMEOWNERS BY DYNAMIC MARKETS WAS COMMISSIONED IN SEPTEMBER BY 2014. DAIKIN UK AND COMPLETED BY DYNAMIC MARKETS IN SEPTEMBER 2014.

February will see the continuation of Kensa Heat Pumps’ national REACTION TO dRHI as the company roadshow SCHEME ONCE EXPLAINED tours the country with the aim of dispelling myths about renewable heating technologies and helping engineers to unearth the OF HOMEOWNERS commercial opportunities THINK IT’S A GREAT IDEA through ground available source heat pump systems. Kensa’s Technical Director Guy Cashmore comments: “We strategically planned this roadshow to visit areas that we know have the right geology for ground source technology and a high number

Dwindling need for subsidised solar

SAY IT WILL ENCOURAGE THE ADOPTION OF Solar power will prosper RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES without subsidies in Britain

as early as www.daikin.co.uk

2020 – so says a report which used the experience of Germany to project the outlook for solar costs in Britain and impacts on utilities. According to the authors of ‘In sight: unsubsidised UK

solar’, published by Geman think-tank Thema1, 2015 will see solar photovoltaic power globally overtake both gas and coal to become the number one power generation technology in terms of annual installations. Solar hardware costs have fallen over the last decade,

and the British market is set to benefit from a maturing supply chain, which will see full system costs converge with Germany. The report found that solar power would be competitive without subsidies as soon as 2020 in the British commercial rooftop market,

including schools and offices. The domestic rooftop and large-scale solar markets would also be economic within the next 10 years. “We are firmly convinced that solar will become the bedrock of the global power system going forward,” says report author Gerard Reid.

“Wireless products are EASY to install and really RELIABLE”

Des Fry BPS Plumbing

20 (WAS 18).indd 1

Made in Great Britain

Hear all the news ﬁrst @DraytonHeating

www.draytoncontrols.co.uk

Get involved /DraytonTrade

See our products in action /DraytonControls

+44 (0) 845 130 5522 29/01/2015 09:56

February 2015

Green Matters 21 Link boilers with Ensuring efficiency Testimonials for renewable options of biomass systems air source units A guide outlining the business opportunities for installers available in the boiler season has been produced by Greenworks. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Boiler Breakdown Business Guideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; provides essential information on schemes such as the Green Deal, RHI and the ECO Affordable Warmth Scheme, which have been subject to changes in recent months. The guide has been created to help installers communicate the benefits of other energy efficient measures when they are called to do boiler repair. Marcus Jefford of Greenworks says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is vital that installers understand the facts and are able to provide in-depth information about energy-efficient technologies in order to enhance their business opportunities and provide a more valuable service for customers.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The energ y-efficient marketplace opens many

Boiler Breakdown Business Guide For installers

Now the weather has turned, homeowners across the country will begin to WXUQ RQ WKHLU FHQWUDO KHDWLQJ IRU WKH Ć&#x2039;UVW WLPH VLQFH VSULQJ 7KH $VVRFLDWLRQ RI 3OXPELQJ DQG +HDWLQJ &RQWUDFWRUVĹ&#x161; $3+& UHFHQW UHVHDUFK VWDWHG WKDW just under half of UK homeowners have failed to have their boilers serviced LQ RYHU PRQWKV DQG VRPH IRU RYHU WZR \HDUV In light of this, Greenworks has created a Boiler Breakdown Business *XLGH IRU 8. WUDGHVPHQ DQG LQVWDOOHUV ,Q WKLV JXLGH ZH ZLOO HTXLS \RX ZLWK HYHU\WKLQJ \RX QHHG WR NQRZ RQ WKH UXQ XS WR Ĺ&#x2122;ERLOHU VHDVRQĹ&#x161; WR SURYLGH D EHWWHU DQG PRUH YDOXDEOH VHUYLFH WR \RXU FXVWRPHUV

doors for installers as Britain heads for Zero Carbon 2020. Installers can embrace this movement and really contribute to the overall energy-efficiency of the UK,â&#x20AC;? continues Jefford. Greenworks has also created a downloadable â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Top Tipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; guide, outlining the ways homeowners can save money and energy. Both are available for free download on the web address below. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.greenworks.co.uk

107

Following a recent report from DECC which questioned the efficiency of biomass boilers, Rural Energy is calling for greater emphasis on training and correct system design to ensure biomass heating installations perform as expected. The company argues that a better understanding of the variables that contribute to the real-life performance of biomass heating systems would eliminate many of the inefficiencies highlighted in the DECC report. According to Rural Energy, lower than expected boiler performance can often be attributed to poor system design and maintenance, issues that can be avoided easily by working with a reputable biomass partner. Common problems include inadequate fuel feed design, lack of operator knowledge in regards to the control

systems and substandard boiler commissioning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of which can be rectified with proper specialist advice. Paul Clark, Rural Energy MD, says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Establishing a well-trained and highly skilled workforce is critical to protecting the reputation of the industry as a whole, as well as ensuring the distribution network has the capability to deliver the standard of installation that is expected.â&#x20AC;? Rural Energy recently opened a ÂŁ150,000 training facility at its headquarters in Leicestershire. The fully equipped 1800ft2 training space allows students to obtain practical experience of operating and commissioning a range of Austrian-made Herz biomass boilers, of which Rural Energy is the only UK supplier. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.ruralenergy.co.uk

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Mitsubishi has produced a video series of testimonials for Ecodan

Three new videos have been added to Mitsubishiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of testimonials, designed to highlight the benefits of Ecodan renewable heating in real world situations. The latest videos feature the views and experience of a social housing tenant from Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, a heat pump installer and the project Manager from Red Kite Community Housing

in High Wycombe. They join several other testimonials currently available on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, where the company is building up examples from Ecodan users around the country. Upcoming videos will feature testimonials from Shropshire and Scotland. To view the videos, go online to the following web address: heating.mitsubishielectric. co.uk /downloads/Pages/ Customer-Testimonials.aspx

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29/01/2015 09:57

AVAILABLE FOR WORK! George Taylor ge Chichester Colle

Do you need a helping hand? There are lots of plumbing students around the country looking to gain some valuable work experience and with the help of HIP! Magazine – the magazine for students and apprentices – we aim to put some enthusiastic job-seeking students in ‘the shop window’. This month we talk to George Taylor, who is currently studying at Chichester College for Plumbing Level 2. George prides himself on being a perfectionist and the fact that he has other skills in addition to plumbing.

The interviewee:

George Iain James Taylor, aged 17

Which course are you studying? Plumbing Level 2 Which College do you go to? Chichester College

The Caspian Universal fan convector. It’s an education. Caspian Universal goes straight to the top of the class, or the ceiling, or the floor for that matter. The ideal solution for schools, colleges and other sites where flexibility, low surface temperature, good controls and great heat are compulsory on the curriculum.

Caspian Universal ● Plumbs into the central heating system ● One heating solution for a variety of applications high, low or ceiling-mounted installation ● Free five year parts and labour guarantee ● Made in the UK ● Next day delivery from stock ● EC motor technology

What do you most enjoy about plumbing? Bending and soldering What are your plans for the future? To have my own business Have you had any work experience? Yes, lots of previous work experience Why would an employer choose you over another student? Because I can do more than just plumbing What are your strengths? Being a perfectionist How would your lecturer describe you? Good worker, but easily distracted Tell us something interesting about you. I keep quiet and crack on with my work!

Quick fire Q&As What do you like to have for breakfast? Double sausage and egg McMuffin What’s your favourite film? War of the Worlds If you could have dinner with a celebrity who would it be? Cheryl Cole If you could be anyone in history who would it be? Al Capone Who’s your favourite band? Arctic Monkeys What’s your favourite football/rugby/sports team? Brighton & Hove Albion Where would your ideal holiday destination be? Australia

Call the Smith’s sales office on: 01245 324900

MAKING CONTACT Think Fan Convector, Think Smith’s www.smiths-env.com/commercial ENQUIRY

If you are interested in finding out more about George Taylor or would like information about any other young plumbers looking for work experience please email jobs@sng-publishing.co.uk. Equally, if you’d like further details of the benefits of offering an apprenticeship, please get in touch via the same email address.

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February 2015

Gadgets & Tools 23 Mobile that takes the temperature Protect your data Thermodo is a tiny electrical thermometer for your mobile device that lets you measure the temperature, right where you are. Its high precision sensitivity allows you to measure the temperature in any given environment through the audio port on your device – just plug in and read what’s going on around you. The device consists of a passive temperature sensor built into a 4 pole audio jack enclosed by a sturdy housing. It works

by sending an audio signal through the temperature sensor to accurately extract the temperature around you. It plugs discreetly into the

audio port of your smartphone and allows you to measure the temperature in any given environment. Just pair it up with the free app and

watch the instantaneous live readings rise and fall. It also includes a function that compensates for the heat your device and body give off. For the most part, it’s a novelty, just a way to win a bet with your friends or prove to your significant other that it’s not nearly as cold in the house as they claim and there’s no need to turn the heat up. It might even save you money on your energy bills. Thermodo is available online: www.firebox.com

Kits offer better value on power tools If you are thinking about getting some new tools, Makita says your best bet is to buy them in kits. Its Combo kits offer multiple tool packages which are said to give value for money in a useful combination of tools. Makita’s two latest Combo kits offer a variety of battery options from the 18v lithium-ion range including 3, 4 and 5.0Ah batteries. The DLX2040 two-tool Combo kit features the new DHP481 2-speed combi drill and the DTD129 18v impact driver. The twin-pack kit is delivered

complete with DC18RC charger and case. The RMJ version of the kit includes two 4.0Ah batteries whilst the RTJ version comes with two 5.0Ah batteries For a bigger piece of kit, the six piece DLX6017 includes a jigsaw, rotary hammer drill, combi drill, circular saw, impact driver, torch, fast charger and three 3.0Ah lithium-ion batteries. It’s supplied in a rugged carry case. www.makitauk.com

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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from falls and theft The LaCie Rugged Key is a combination key chain/ USB stick built to withstand accidental drops from heights up to 100m and is ideal for installers who may find themselves up ladders and on roofs as part of their day to day routines. Its rubber construction provides the ultimate protection for your key and your data files. It’s also heat and cold resistant as well as being IP54 certified for resistance to damage from dust and water. With the USB 3.0 interface, you’ll get speeds up to 150MB/s for fast file transfers. Hardware rugged and software secure, the gadget protects your data from the inside with AES 256-bit encryption. Easily create a password-protected area on the key to securely store all of your confidential information. LaCie makes it easy to integrate secure

cloud storage from Wuala into the RuggedKey, making storing and sharing your files, photos or videos easier than ever. You get a year of storage ratio with Wuala (16GB RuggedKey comes with 16GB of Wuala Secure Cloud Storage), allowing you to back up your key’s contents or double your storage capacity. The LaCie Rugged Key is currently available from Amazon for £29.99.

• COB (Chip On Board) inspection lamp, ﬁtted with an additional 7 LEDs on the end plate; giving a multitude of uses • Manufactured with integrated magnet and swivel joint enabling the light to be used in any 360º position

FOUR COLOURS Blue - Stock No. 43121 Green - Stock No. 43246 Orange - Stock No. 43215 White - Stock No. 43375

To ﬁnd a stockist visit drapertools.com ENQUIRY

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28/01/2015 10:30 14:42 12/01/2015

February 2015

24 Training Update Expanding education with students

Retrain in biomass Now open in Leicestershire is Rural Energy’s Biomass Training & Skills Centre, open to engineers from across the heating and renewables sector to equip them with the knowledge and hands on experience needed to deliver high quality biomass installations. Rural Energy has fully equipped the 1800ft2 training space with a range of Herz biomass boilers to give practical experience of operating boilers from this brand, which Rural Energy is the only UK supplier. Supported by a large teaching classroom and a mechanical and electrical

training area, the facility is positioned to deliver in depth training on all aspects of biomass design, installation and commissioning. Courses have a strong practical element and address the operation of the boiler, fuel feeds, augers and grates. Also covered are control systems, fuel feed options and fuel quality. Mechanical and electrical aspects of installation and operation, commissioning, maintenance, servicing and the RHI are also included. For more information or to book a place on one of the training courses, email training@ ruralenergy.co.uk

Anti-scald bathroom product manufacturer Inta is supplying City & Guilds accredited colleges and training providers with a range of its products and educational tools. In partnership with expansion vessel manufacturer Zilmet, Inta has tailored the starter packs for those beginning their plumbing and heating courses, providing expert learning packages to several colleges in London, Sheffield, Birmingham and

Essex. Valued at around £200 each, the packs feature the Intamix, a 15mm pressure

reducing valve, a booklet entitled ‘Everything you need to know about anti-scald’, and a Zilmet expansion vessel complete with a sizing calculator. The products will be used in practical lessons and assessments at the colleges, with the view of acquainting budding plumbers with Inta’s products early on in their education. Another aim is to ensure students understand the importance of anti-scald products and

can get to grips with Part G building regulations. Inta also provides online learning modules for plumbers and installers (at www.intatec. co.uk/intalearning). Stuart Gizzi, Director at Inta, says: “We’re thrilled that colleges are taking advantage of our free starter packs and hope our resources will go some way in producing a cohort of highly skilled and conscientious plumbers.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

110

www.intatec.co.uk

Brush up on boilers by going online Hull manufacturer Ideal Boilers is urging installers to take every opportunity available to update their knowledge and skills, including the e-learning modules available through the company’s website. The company has two dedicated Training Centres of Excellence

serving installers in the South East at the Reading centre and those in the North in Leeds. There are also satellite centres in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. In addition, for those installers who are unable to get to these centres, Ideal also has a mobile

unit which it can take to customers’ premises free of charge. Training Manager Scott Young comments: “Our online training module is designed to give installers an awareness of the technologies available from Ideal and guidance on how to progress through our

other free courses. These free training sessions offer installers an opportunity to gain valuable updated technical training in a workshop atmosphere, where they can talk to their peers and share knowledge.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.idealboilers.com

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Get to Know How. New dates for Geberit installer training now available. Taking place at our purpose built training academies in Warwick and Dublin, the Geberit training is for installers wishing to learn the very latest in bathroom design and piping technology. The Sanitary day includes hands on interaction with the Geberit Duofix range for wall-hung sanitaryware and the Piping day introduces the Geberit Mapress pressing system.

Sanitary UK dates → 11 March → 18 March → 09 September → 23 September → 07 October → 21 October

Piping Dublin dates → 26 March → 14 May → 16 September → 26 November

UK dates → 12 March → 19 March → 10 September → 24 September → 08 October → 22 October

Dublin dates → 25 March → 13 May → 16 September → 25 November

.uk rit.co

→ ENQUIRY

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For more information or to book your place visit our website or call 01926 516800 → training.gb@geberit.com → www.geberit.co.uk/installertraining

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February 2015

Training Update Upskilling in the South East Plumbers looking to update or learn new skills can now benefit from 20% off specialist short courses at Central Sussex College. The offer is available on courses booked before the 31 March and taken by 30 April and covers a range of electrical, gas, oil, plumbing, renewable technologies and health and safety training (excluding AM2 Assessment) at the College’s Crawley campus. The offer is suitable for individuals needing to update their knowledge, refresh their competency,

or update their certification to comply with current regulations. Central Sussex College says it provides high quality

and affordable training at one of the largest training centres in the South East. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

centralsussex.ac.uk/quidsin

112

Roadshow covers repairing boilers Mr Combi is hitting the roads again this April to bring training to Gas Safe and ACS engineers closer to home. George Staszak has been running the roadshow for the past seven years showing installers everything they need to know about basic diagnostics, fault finding and how to use a multimeter. Trainees will have a chance to do live and dead electrical testing, using a multimeter to check good

and faulty pumps, fans, sensors, stats and more. Training covers expansion vessels as well as Danfoss and Honeywell controls, 2/3 port valve systems, magnetic filters and removing air to stop sludge, and how to stop ‘pumping over’, as well as tips on improving business. Mr Combi will be visiting the following cities: Manchester (14 April), Bradford (15 April), Bristol (6 May), Cardiff (19 June)

You get more from Baxi on our free hands-on product training days* and Bridgend (15 July). Most venues have only 12 places available. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.mrcombi.com

Hands-on Nest product training

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Passivhaus ventilation skills A new partnership between Zehnder and the Passive House Academy offers a certified Passivhaus tradesperson course at the National Construction College in Glasgow. The first course teaches the practical skills required for achieving the Passive

House energy standard.  Trainees at the Glasgow facility will also have the opportunity to familiarise themselves with Zehnder MVHR units, which are also installed at the Academy, as well as their associated components as part of their course.

Free work boots** Technical Pack (including fault finding information)

The next five day course that Zehnder will be collaborating on will be held at the Scotland facility from 2-6 March. For more information on the Passive House course in Glasgow, visit the website: www. passivehouseacademy.com

Additional Baxi branded items

Get up to speed from the van The Online Training Academy from Worcester focuses on keeping installers up-to-date with the latest product features, installation tips and troubleshooting advice. The facility has been available on the internet for four months, and in that time more than 2000 people have signed on. In addition to e-learning, the front page of the Online Academy features an area where installers can view any recent YouTube videos from Worcester as well as news

Contact us to find a course at your local Baxi training centre and receive practical hands-on training, delivered by experts.

alerts concerning new training courses. Within a personalised area, installers are able to review their training progress and also download a printable certificate upon completion of each course. Phil Bunce, Training Manager, says: “We are delighted with such a high level of early uptake amongst installers and believe that this shows the enthusiasm for development among industry professionals.” www.worcesterbosch-academy.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 114

0844 848 8281

baxi.co.uk/training *

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ENQUIRY

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Free product training is only available to Gas Safe registered engineers. **When you attend during February, March and April 2015 subject to availability.

045381_Baxi_Q1 Training ad_PHAM News_389x145mm.indd 1

06/01/2015 28/01/2015 16:11 14:47

tues 03 - tHuRs 05 maRcH 2015 - excel loNdoN

See uS again aT

PRaCTiCal inSTalleR

Visit Ecobuild 2015 and get expert advice on how to profit from renewables and energy efficiency

• Over 10 product demonstrations and seminars each day • See our system designers in action • Plumb Center ‘business clinic’ giving you the tools to grow your business

• Speak to our renewables support team Featuring:

Heat PumP aReNa • eNeRgy efficieNcy tHeatRe • Biomass aReNa Take advantage of all the renewable industry experts in one place Register online at ecobuild.co.uk or email renewables@wolseley.co.uk

plumbcenter.co.uk ENQUIRY

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February 2015

Exhibition Preview 27

Education at the heart of big show More than just an exhibition, this March will see Ecobuild in London bring together the big names in sustainable design, construction and the built environment. To help you make the most of your time, PHAM has put together this handy guide to the show’s main attractions.

Opening Times in March: Tuesday 3rd 10.00 – 18.00 Wednesday 4th 10.00 – 18.00 Thursday 5th 10.00 – 16.00

perennial favourite on the exhibition calendar, Ecobuild returns to London’s Excel, providing a venue for hundreds of exhibitors showing off their products and services across all aspects of building and construction, plumbing and heating, and renewable and conventional technologies. Whatever the sector of the market you fall in, you’ll find lots to investigate, from roofs that produce electricity to ground source heat pumps that harvest energy from the earth – and everything in between. This is the place to find the latest technologies that could help your company provide the best solutions in heating, cooling, ventilation and a myriad of other building services. Low and zero carbon technologies will be a highlight of the show, giving installation companies an opportunity to find out how these products can enhance their business and serve their customers better. Ecobuild aims to educate and inform visitors on the latest products – and not just from the exhibition of manufacturers and suppliers, but also with seminars, conferences and themed attractions. With such an array of exhibitors and events, it’s a good idea to plan your visit well. To point you in the right direction, we have compiled a summary of some of the key exhibitors most relevant to plumbing and heating engineers. Read on to discover why a visit to Ecobuild may well be worth a day or two off the tools.

Practical Installer This exhibition area, sponsored by Plumb Center, is well known for the live demonstrations carried out by experts on a wide range of plumbing and heating equipment, but this year will see the addition of a ‘business clinic’. A team will be on the stand to offer advice on optimising sales and marketing channels, policy, finance and best practices to integrate energy efficiency measures and renewable technologies into new and existing client projects. From ‘quick wins’ to full solution installations, renewables experts will deliver tailored business advice to all installers – from the seasoned MCS accredited installer to gas installers looking to break into the green energy market. Renewable technologies in the spotlight include the latest innovations from across the sector including biogas/ anaerobic digestion, biomass, CHP, geothermal, energy from waste, heat pumps, solar thermal, solar PV and wind. Products taking a bow on the stand will be supplied by a number of leading manufacturers including: Mitsubishi Electric, Dimplex, Grant, Trianco, Honeywell, Fernox, Wilo, Heatrae Sadia, Pumphouse, Adey and Pegler. Tim Pollard, Head of Sustainability for Plumb Center, comments: “We are fully committed to helping gas and oil installers transition from fossil fuel technologies to renewables, and supporting those who are already MCS accredited, every step of the way. Practical Installer 2015 will focus on providing the information installers need throughout their journey. “The renewables market is already presenting a significant business opportunity for installers, and the size of the prize is significant. We don’t want our customers to miss out which is why we have put in place people and services to support them 100% of the way. Plus, they can see the products they are likely to be installing firsthand and actually working. It really will be the place for installers to go for all-round renewables and energy-efficiency advice.”

Seminars and Conferences Each year Ecobuild stages an extensive line up of seminars aimed at shedding light on the policies and regulations that affect the heating and plumbing market as well as the wider energy sector in the UK. This year, organisers have gone one step further and made it possible for visitors to access formal CPD opportunities by attending any of the 80+ official Ecobuild seminar sessions. This free to attend programme will be split across seven key themes including Building Information Modelling (BIM), building performance, designing better buildings, water, green energy, solar, and refurb and retrofit. The Green Energy theatre may be of particular interest to PHAM readers. Sponsored by Innasol, this programme covers the specification and delivery of low and zero carbon energy technologies to homes and other buildings. It also looks at energy supply at the community level. Topics will include determining the most cost-effective technology for specific applications, meeting regulations and making the most of the Feed-in Tariff and Renewable Heat Incentive.

Before going to Ecobuild, it’s a good idea to visit the website (www.ecobuild.co.uk) so you can take in the big picture of all that the show has to offer. A full listing of the exhibitors is on the site, so make sure you check them out so you don’t miss talking to the suppliers and manufacturers you’re interested in. You’ll also be able to see the complete seminar schedule that will give further details on some of the hot topics in the spotlight. Finally, there is a section dedicated to Practical Installer where you’ll find full details of the live demos taking place on the stand over the course of three days.

Getting there Ecobuild will once again be staged at London’s ExCeL Exhibition Conference Center in the Docklands and is accessible by the DLR. As in years past, Ecobuild is free to attend, but online registration is recommended. The following pages contain a summary of exhibitors likely to be of most interest to plumbing and heating engineers, with brief descriptions of what they will bring to the show.

Take full control of heating your home with myComfort The innovative heating control app that allows you to control and simply adjust your Windhager biomass heating system everyday from any smartphone or tablet.* Easily integrated with existing Windhager systems with MES Plus controls. Flexibility in adjusting heating temperatures from any location via your smartphone. Receive push messages from your boiler (service reminders, pellet refill, boiler status) Pre-programmed functions available for automatic adjustments. Scan and download the demo version onto your smartphone today. Apple

Android

Windhager UK, Marshfield, SN14 8SR Telephone: 01225 892211 www.windhager.co.uk

* Only applicable for Windhager systems fitted with MES Plus Controls

Email: info@windhager.co.uk ENQUIRY

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28 Exhibition Preview To make your trip to Ecobuild a productive one, we’ve put together an exhibitor guide that covers the manufacturers operating in the plumbing and heating sectors. This list is by no means exhaustive, however, so make sure you go online and visit ecobuild.co.uk to check out the complete list. And if you have the time, make sure you drop by stand 6180 in the North Hall to meet the PHAM News team.

Adey (in the Practical Installer arena) The magnetic filter manufacturer will be highlighting its range of domestic and commercial magnetic and nonmagnetic filters, alongside its high performance chemicals. The company will also be unveiling a new addition to each of its chemical and domestic filters ranges. Drop by to find out more about Adey’s extended range of MC chemicals. The MC1 was the first inhibitor on the market to be accredited as Energy Saving Trust (EST)

Altecnic (N3140)

Recommended and it’s the only range in the industry to carry the Queen’s Award for Innovation.

Filters will also be in the spotlight, with Professional2 and the Micro2 representing some of the latest entries.

NovaMix Com pact 50 TMV2

The manufacturer and supplier of plumbing equipment is inviting visitors onto its stand to find out more about central plant systems, heat interface units and the benefits this new technology can offer. Visitors will be able to see the company’s latest HIU (pictured below), a compact and lightweight unit with electronic controls, compensated heating temperatures and insulated covers. The Dirtmag, a dirt separator, will also be on show. The device features a removable external magnet designed to enable fast and effective particle release without shutting down a system. Alongside the Dirtmag, Altecnic’s Renewables Division will be displaying a full range of fully accredited solar products and its European ‘A’ efficiency rated TRV, Ecocal.

e lv a v g in ix m ic t a t s o Therm ed water temperature ensures a constant mix at the outlet

Non-stick coating -up to prevent scale build

Approval for potable water

Aquabion (N1190) Find out how Aquabion can help to beat limescale with its water treatment system. It’s a fit and forget device that doesn’t need power, chemicals or salt and is suited to both domestic and commercial applications. It’s also guaranteed for five years. To tempt installers to its stand, the company is also running a competition that will see one lucky visitor winning a remote controlled helicopter, so stop by and put your name in the hat!

Tamper proof

Info: tacotherm.co.uk

Full protection against scalding

Available from: Tacotherm Ltd, sales@tacotherm.co.uk ENQUIRY

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Alutec (S2110)

As well as promoting its sustainable range of aluminium rainwater products, Alutec will be on hand at Ecobuild to give expert technical advice on the specification process and BIM, encompassing its full turnkey service offering. Technical staff will be on hand to share practical advice from recent case studies from across public and private sectors and will provide opportunities for architects and specifiers to further their professional development by attending its RIBA accredited CPD seminar. Alutec will also be promoting its comprehensive range of BIM components. Visitors looking to increase their understanding around the 3D modelling program and, in particular, designing associated rainwater systems, can take the chance to talk to Alutec’s technical team who will explain the process and provide examples.

Buteline (N805)

This supplier of Polybutene-1 (PB-1) plumbing solutions will provide hands-on demonstrations of the ClampSeal system, showing how easily it works and explaining its key benefits over conventional copper and plastic plumbing systems, highlighting the fact that it doesn’t need O-rings, grab rings or pipe inserts and has no moving parts. Buteline says the ClampSeal system is being used by many of the UK’s national and regional housing developers for its ease of installation and the fact that the system eliminates the risk of costly leaks from installer error due to its simplistic installation process.

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Johnson & Starley, Where you can find the most advanced, affordable and innovative Heating and Ventilation systems ‘Under one Roof’. At the forefront of some of industry’s most significant recent innovations such as the QuanTec HR28C the smallest boiler on the market with integral Passive Flue Gas Heat Recovery. The WarmCair range of Condensing high efficiency Warm Air Heating, and bespoke Heat Interface Units and Ventilation for almost any application.

Products

High Efficiency Boilers with PFGHR Condensing Warm Air Heating Heat Interface Units

Whatever your needs you can be sure that Johnson & Starley will have a solution.

Ventilation including Heat Recovery Hot Water Cylinders

Visit us at Ecobuild on stand N 3092 Call us to see which solution is right for you.

01604 762881

www.johnsonandstarley.co.uk ENQUIRY

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Exhibition Preview Baxi Commercial (N5160)

The home of progress We take the environment seriously, that’s why Specflue is at the forefront of renewables technology. Focusing on sustainability, efficiency and economy, our extensive range of pellet burners, solar panels and thermal heat stores bring you renewable solutions for every room in the house, making it easy for you to make a difference.

The familiar name of Baxi Commercial is set to relaunch at Ecobuild under three distinct brands: Potterton Commercial, Andrews Water Heaters and SenerTec, the combined heat and power (CHP) specialist. Each of these brands will be exhibited on the stand in its own right, with Baxi Commercial continuing to operate as the parent company of all three brands. Drop by to find out more about gas-fired commercial water heaters under the Andrews name, high efficiency commercial floor standing boilers by Potterton Commercial, and combined heat and power units from SenerTec. Chris Meir, Sales Director at Andrews Water Heaters, comments: “Ecobuild has always been a great show for us, and this year it’s more exciting than ever as we look forward to showing off a new look that better represents the quality and performance of our products and our people.”

Bentley Fire Shop (N3174) The focus here is the E-Classic outdoor biomass boilers from Central Boiler. Bentley, the exclusive UK distributor, will be looking to highlight its position as a supplier of outdoor wood burning gasification boilers with a selection of products on the stand. Sue Bennett, MD at Bentley Fire Shop, says: “This is our fourth year at the show, and we’re really looking forward to highlighting the benefits to a wider audience at this year’s event.”

Elta Fans (N5172)

Fernox to unveil the TF1 Delta Filter for commercial projects

Ecodhome (N5131) Come to find out about Ecodhome’s newest home automation system – MyVirtuoso Home. It allows users to remotely monitor heating and energy use as well as a host of additional applications such as security and remote IP camera controls. Ecodhome’s UK Director Simon Redmond says: “Ecobuild represents a tremendous opportunity to widen the awareness of the Ecodhome brand in the UK. Our success in Europe demonstrates the quality and functionality of the product for both domestic and commercial environments and we’re looking forward to demonstrating to visitors exactly why our automation system rivals other products on the market.” The company will also be unveiling a new application, available in March, for integrating PV production into the energy management system for the home.

Visit us at Ecobuild Stand N6140

0800 90 20 220 01787 880 333

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Fernox (N6150) Presenting its comprehensive range of chemical water treatments at Ecobuild, Fernox will also introduce its new commercial product, the TF1 Delta Filter, which will be complemented by a new range of commercial chemicals that are soon to be released. The TF1 Delta Filter is designed for commercial applications and is suitable for large volume, low temperature heating and cooling systems. It protects vital components from magnetic and non-magnetic debris as well as removing any trapped air in the system. The filter delivers contaminants to a magnet assembly to remove and contain it from circulating system water.

Flir (N3122)

RENEWABLE HEAT PRODUCTS FLUE & CHIMNEY PRODUCTS WOOD BURNING STOVES TRAINING

www.specflue.com/phamr

The emphasis on this stand is ventilation for domestic applications. The residential division of Elta Fans is looking to promote the Mori dMEV (decentralised mechanical extract ventilation) and the extensive design and product testing it has undergone over the past three years. Colin Hone, UK Sales Manager, comments: “The incredibly energy efficient Mori dMEV unit has achieved exceptional performance results in independent third party testing by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) which concluded that the Mori dMEV outperformed anything currently available on the market.”

Outdoor biomass boilers to showcase on Bentley’s stand

This thermal imaging specialist will use the show to launch its latest generation of the T-Series infrared cameras. These models are the first to feature UltraMax, an image processing feature that significantly improves IR resolution and sensitivity. The resultant images have four times the thermal pixels, twice the resolution and 50% greater sensitivity than standard unprocessed images. The technology allows users to zoom in on smaller heat anomalies and see more detail than ever before.

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Unrivalled quality and reliability, with added peace of mind.

Exhibition Preview Grant (N3030/ N2030/ N5140) Grant will be taking the opportunity to display its Spira biomass boiler – a condensing wood pellet boiler which is available in single units with outputs of 6 to 26kW and 9 to 36kW. It is said to be the only MCS approved condensing self-cleaning wood pellet boiler on the market. The model combines easy installation with straightforward operation and low maintenance, and provides a convenient way of heating a property. Grant experts will be available to explain how the technology works and how it is installed. They will also provide information on the company’s other renewable heating products, such as the Aerona range of air source heat pumps, Grant solar thermal systems and the latest ThermaWave thermal store, which allows multiple heat sources to be connected in a number of different ways.

Up to 10 years warranty

The Spira condensing wood pellet boiler from Grant

runs competent persons schemes for installers, as well as approval schemes for products, retailers and fuels. Information is available in its annual guide, which contains over 1000 approved products and services, acting as a specification and reference tool for anyone in the industry. New consumer advice leaflets will also be available on the stand.

Newer additions to the company’s heating products include a choice of HIUs (Heating Interface Units) for district heating installations and renewable energy sources such as biomass boilers and heat pumps. The HIUs are available with or without domestic hot water.

JG Speedfit (N2180) C

This year JG Speedfit will be promoting its extensive plumbing and heating product portfolio as well as its latest heating controls range, JG Aura. Aura allows for a more flexible and efficient remote regulation of any underfloor and central heating system. The range also enables wireless radiator control, which is made possible by a new TRV, also part of the Aura range. The system provides the capability of controlling multiple zones, enabling the homeowner to set heating time and temperature within each individual room. You can also find out about Speedfit Support, a comprehensive after-sales service aimed at clarifying UFH technology to even a first time system installer. JG Speedfit says it will also be making announcements on the opening day of the show about its JG Layflat pipe. M

The Vitodens 100 range of combi, system and open vent boilers, with unique stainless steel Inox-Radial heat exchanger and award-winning MatriX cylinder burner, have a 5 year manufacturers guarantee as standard, plus a 10 year warranty on the primary heat exchanger.

CMY

Honeywell (N6132) Domestic heating controls specialist, Honeywell, is to exhibit its full portfolio of connected homes products. Visitors will be able to learn more about the company’s latest wireless controls, including the recently launched Single Zone thermostat along with the multi-zone heating system, Evohome. Also on stand will be a voice-activated thermostat. A team of specialists will be on hand to offer advice to installers, demonstrate the benefits of zoning and multifunctional thermostats, answer questions and give on-stand demonstrations.

Johnson & Starley (N3092) For solutions to heating and ventilation jobs, make sure you visit Johnson & Starley’s stand where the company will display its QuanTec gas boilers including models with PFGHR (passive flue gas heat recovery). You can also see the range of WarmCair high efficiency condensing Warm Air Heaters, suitable for new and refurbishment projects.

HETAS (N3186) To get advice on training, certification and registration with HETAS, visit the stand where representatives will be on hand to answer your questions. This government approved body specialises in solid fuel and biomass, and

Plumbing systems from JG Speedfit to show alongside controls

Viessmann Trained Installers also have exclusive access to warranty packages of up to 10 years, to provide complete peace of mind to their customers.

Viessmann Limited • Telford • Telephone 01952 675000

Connected home heating products from Honeywell

To find out more, contact your ABM; or to become a Viessmann Trained Installer email us at: academy-uk@viessmann.com or call 01952 675032

ENQUIRY

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32 Exhibition Preview Nu-Heat (N1174) As a supplier of underfloor heating and integrated renewables, Nu-Heat will be emphasising its range of acoustic UFH solutions this year. The company offers several acoustic UFH systems that have been used in the commercial sector, helping housebuilders and developers to comfortably meet acoustic requirements with minimal height buildup. The product is designed to deliver a luxurious and efficient heating system in one single solution. The acoustic range includes acoustic UFH solutions that comfortably exceed Part E;

systems that are simply installed directly over a level screed section or structural working deck; and low height acoustic solutions, saving around 70mm compared to typical acoustic batten solutions.

Pegler Yorkshire (N6160) ‘Connect and Control’ will be Pegler Yorkshire’s main theme at this year’s show. The company will display a range of technologically advanced products designed to connect and control flow for various plumbing and heating applications. “Our stand this year will demonstrate how via the right connections and controls you can not only

save time and cost on a project but ensure the building’s performance is fully optimised in both user comfort and energy efficient terms,” says Phill Jackson Business Development and Marketing Director at Pegler Yorkshire. “Products in the spotlight include our newly launched range of Heat Interface Units, Terrier TRVs and the latest products to join our commissioning valves range.”

Potterton Commercial (N5160)

Acoustic underfloor heating systems on display by Nu-Heat

Using Ecobuild to launch its extended range of high efficiency commercial floor

standing boilers, Potterton Reliance Water Controls will highlight the Sirius (N3100) range, which now includes outputs from 50 up to 525kW, This specialist in thermoincluding new outputs for static water technology single floor standing boilers will focus on its range of SharkBite plumbing fitof 400 and 525kW. Designed with a dual tings and their new range burner configuration, the of Radiance Thermal Interrange offers a modulation face Units (TIUs). Two models from the new ratio of 10:1. The stainless Radiance TIU range – Rapid steel, triple pass heat The Sanicubic XL and Spirit – will be on display, exchanger and demonstrating typical in- Saniflo (N7141) compact design stallation systems. Making its debut at Ecobuild make it an energy It is designed to be is Saniflo as it looks to efficient, cost used as part of a promote its latest product, effective heating community heating the Sanicubic XL. This solution for large pumping station, which can system. projects, such as handle 40m³ of grey water You can also schools, hotels, find out about waste per hour, offers waste care homes and the SharkBite solutions for commercial leisure facilities. projects. See this along with plumbing soluFor light comthe wider range of Saniflo tion, which remercial applicaproducts used for large quires no solder, tions, such as applications. flux or heat to shops and offices, Featuring alongside the create a waterthe range is availnew Sanicubic XL will be tight joint. The Kinemagic cubicles. The able in outputs Reliance Water range of ultra- design requires no silicone from 50 to 110kW Control’s Thermal low lead DZR as a single boiler, and up and grout in its installation Interface Unit brass push-fit and the internal opaque to 440kW using cascade pipework kits. The new range plumbing solutions encom- panels eliminate the need will be showcased under Pot- passes a diverse array of 15- for tiling, meaning that a terton Commercial’s new 54mm pipes, fittings, valves new cubicle can be up and branding, to be unveiled at and flexible suitable for do- running in just a few hours mestic and commercial jobs. in a prepared area. the show.

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Combustible Gas Leak Detector micro CD-100

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FULL RANGE OF TEST AND MEASUREMENT Digital Multimeter micro DM-100

Temperature Humidity Meter micro HM-100

Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer micro IR-100

Laser Distance Meter micro LM-100

Digital Clamp Meter micro CM-100

Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser micro CL-100

T: +44 (0) 808 238 9869 • ridgid.gb@emerson.com • www.RIDGID.eu

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EXHIBITION Preview 33 Salus (N2170)

Specflue (N6140) Heating interface units from Thermal Integration will be the focus on Specflue’s stand. These units have been designed for better performance and ease of use while delivering all the same benefits of the traditional heating interface unit. Built using the latest technology in embedded electronics, full features will be revealed at the show, where visitors will also have the chance to preview one of the new units. As well as the opportunity to talk to representatives from Thermal Integration, you can chat to the technical team behind Specflue’s renewable heating range.

Stop by Salus to see its lineup of heating controls, with iT500, an internet enabled thermostat, taking centre stage. A new version will be unveiled, featuring a redesigned and upgraded app for smart phone, PC and tablet usage. The iT500BM control which is installed without any wiring will also be on display, together with a wide range of thermostats, magnetic filters, timer controls, TRVs and underfloor heating controls. “With new and improved products, we look forward to the opportunity to showcase our superior design, ease of installation and energy saving features,” says Salus Pham_News_February PRINT_single_pages.pdf MD Dean Jepson.

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Stiebel Eltron is focusing on its new ground source heat pump

Travis Perkins will be planning to take centre stage at the show

Stiebel Eltron (N4170)

Surestop (N3126)

The company’s next generation of ground source heat pumps will be Stiebel Eltron’s focus. The new brine-water WPF and WPC heat pumps are intended to replace current versions available on the market. Benefits include a higher coefficient of performance (CoP) of 5.0, quieter operation, easier installation and transportation. Stiebel will also be demonstrating its WPL 15/25 air source heat pump, which it describes

as a highly efficient ASHP with the highest CoP on the market. Also on show will be the company’s HM Trend – a hydronic module which reduces the installation time for ASHPs because it comes pre-plumbed and pre-wired. Stiebel will also be showcasing its latest solutions in solar thermal and solar PV technology. Meanwhile, its Home Comforts team will be demonstrating the SNU..HOT under sink water boiler and three-in-one tap.

Find out more about this handy little device that lets you turn off your mains water at the flick of a switch, protecting the property from the risk of water damage. The Surestop can be fitted above the worktop or inside a cupboard and is a simple, user friendly way to give the homeowner control of their mains water if they were to ever suffer a burst pipe. Operating solely on water pressure, this product is designed to prevent the potential financial damage.

Travis Perkins (N2030) Alongside its Sustainable Building Solutions (SBS) brand, Travis Perkins plans on showing visitors how they can benefit from initiatives that provide end-to-end solutions for builders and installers. Drop by to see some new products from the likes of Daikin, NIBE, Solfex, Uponor, Grant and Vaillant. Also represented on the stand will be the Travis Perkins names City Plumbing Supplies, PTS, CCF and Keyline.

Everything I need to know – in pocket size. The Wilo Assistant app supports you in your daily tasks. Quick information on the go: fault signal assistant, replacement guide, product data and savings calculator to name but a few. Even when you‘re ofﬂine. Comprehensive information on various pumps all in one app? Wilo makes it easy! C

Go to www.wilo.co.uk/installer for the full story. T:01283 523000 E:sales@wilo.co.uk

CMY

The Wilo Assistant app, the convincing one: ƒ The fault signal assistant provides information on fault signal remedies ƒ Interactive replacement guide for heating and domestic hot water pumps ƒ Online catalogue with quick and easy access to all product information ƒ Savings calculator for potential savings in terms of energy costs and CO2 emissions ƒ Pump conﬁguration with recommendations for suitable Wilo pumps

Just scan the code and walk into the world of Wilo!

ENQUIRY

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34 Exhibition Preview company will be on stand to explain how burning wood or wood pellets for a couple of hours slowly heats the soapstone, allowing it to release a comfortable heat gently and evenly into the room space over many hours.

Viessmann (N3130)

Testo (N1140) Visit this stand to have a look at Testo’s range of hand-held test instrumentation. One of the highlights will be the new 870 thermal imager. It has a number of useful features, including the ability to recognise hot and cold spots for quick diagnostics. The 870-2 variant incorporates a built-in digital camera so a visual image is automatically taken and stored in parallel with the thermal image. Flue gas analysers will also be at the show. The Testo 320B lets users quickly determine and eliminate malfunctions, monitor legal limit values and spot check in daily work on servicing heating

systems. The Testo 320B has colour graphic display and built-in memory, making it fast and highly accurate. Also on show will be the Testo 310, which combines simple functions with high level measurement accuracy for basic measurements on heating systems.

The company will be giving pride of place to a new domestic fuel cell system – the Vitovalor 300-P. The first one to be installed in the UK was fitted last year at

Tulikivi (N3170) Putting Scandinavian style in the spotlight is Tulikivi, the maker of wood fired storage heaters that warm a room using radiation rather than convection heating. Drop by to find out about the heat-retaining properties of soapstone to store the heat of a fire rather than sending it straight up the chimney. The

The Vitovalor 300-P is a new domestic fuel cell system

a home in Wolverhampton. Viessmann says the energy created by this CHP system – approximately 4500kWh per year – is equivalent to that generated by 30m2 of solar PV panels, which in practice would involve covering both sides of a large roof in its entirety. According to Viessmann, the fuel cell unit just takes up the space of a fridge freezer without any impact on the external aesthetics of the property.

Vectaire (N2182) Low energy, high performance whole house heat recovery and ventilation units are the star of this stand. Vectaire says these units reduce energy consumption and cost through their economic operation. The newest entry to Vectaire’s line-up is the EVO250DC, which can be fitted in ceilings and lofts. The unit controls condensation and air pollution in a kitchen and up to six wet rooms, including bathrooms and utility rooms, while offering as much as 79% heat exchanger efficiency. The unit is only 250mm deep for

Tulikivi soapstone stoves warm the room via radiated heat

ease of installation and its sophisticated controls allow for variable adjustment, timer, frost-stat and summer bypass.

Waxman (N4121) The independent distributor of renewable heat solutions will be highlighting some leading manufacturers on its stand. Technologies from names such as WES and LaNordica (both pellet boiler manufacturers), TiSUN (solar thermal systems) and Dimplex (heat pumps) are set to take a bow.

Technical staff will be available to provide advice and information on the products on offer, giving visitors the opportunity to meet the in-house support team in person and discuss the benefits of using renewables. Waxman Renewables will also be joined by sister division Waxman Energy, specialists in the design and distribution of solar PV, which itself will be presenting a number of solar solutions on the stand.

The Push-fit People

Layflat Pipe LAYS FLAT - STAYS FLAT - ULTRA FLEXIBLE info@johnguest.com

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EXHIBITION Preview 35 Windhager (S2040) Making its debut on Windhager’s stand is the new DuoWIN combination biomass boiler. With hybrid technology, the DuoWIN combines heating with wood and pellets in one unit. This sophisticated system also features an intelligent fuel switching function which is able to detect when the wood gassifier is in burnout and then switches to pellet operation. Also being launched is Windhager’s new app – ‘myComfort’ – a remote

heating control mobile app for all biomass boilers in the Windhager range installed with MES Plus Controls. The BioWIN 2 will also feature prominently on the stand. Other products to join the show include the BioWIN Excel for larger heating applications, the LogWIN Premium and the FireWIN, a wood pellet boiler for the living area with full automation for heating and hot water. All can be used with the company’s MES (modular energy system) control solution.

Wilo (N2130)

DuoWIN biomass from Windhager

Whilst visitors to this stand will be able to get up close and personal with the wide range of Wilo’s products, the emphasis will be on the support it provides to customers. Drop by to discover the Wilo Assistant, an app that features a simple to use conversion chart and easy to access high efficiency pumping solutions. A highlight

Wilo will be demonstrating its high efficiency glanded pump

of the app is an interactive replacement guide for heating and secondary hot water pumps. The Wilo team will be on hand to introduce visitors to the full range of pumps available from this European manufacturer, with choices spanning high efficiency small circulating pumps through to products for the water management and industrial sectors. Watch out for the WiloStratos GIGA, the high efficiency glanded pump. Compared to conventional uncontrolled pumps, this

model is said to offer up to 70% energy savings per pump per year, which adds up to 8 tonnes of CO2.

Xylem Lowara (N2174) Stop by to find out about the latest entry to Xylem’s range of pumps, the e-series. These in-line and endsuction pumps exceed the strict 2015 European Ecodesign requirements that have now come into effect (Minimum Efficiency Index > 0,4). The new series includes the e-NSC high performance end-suction pumps, the e-LNE vertical in-line pumps,

and the e-SH stainless steel end-suction pumps. These models will be supplied with IE3 high efficiency motors in accordance with the European Union motor performance standards. This water technology company is a specialist in enabling customers to transport, treat, test and efficiently use water in public utility, residential and commercial building services, and in industrial and agricultural settings.

Zero (N2160) Looking for advice on the renewables market? Then Zero may have the answers you’re looking for. This company was created in 2011 to support the emerging technologies involved in renewable energy and to develop new expertise within the sector. Zero provides a one-stop shop for biomass, heat pump and solar thermal installers, supplying everything from the equipment from the market leaders in the sector through to high quality spare parts and essential supplies.

Zip Heaters (N3126) This is the stand to visit if you’re interested in the growing use of instant boiling water taps in businesses and homes across the country. Zip will put its latest innovation, the HydroTap G4, centre stage to show off all its capabilities. It’s a single source drinking water tap delivering boiling, chilled and sparkling filtered water instantly. The low energy, air-cooled ventilation system reduces standby energy consumption by up to 53% over the previous models. Staff will be on hand to explain the instant boiling water tap market to installers and how to get training.

WPF E | Ground source heat pump

Fully equipped and highly efﬁcient as standard.

WPF E | Ground source heat pump

One of more than 30.000 system solutions from STIEBEL ELTRON. Efficiency even in the tightest of spaces | The WPF E, with HE circulation pumps, ensures excellent overall efficiency. Integral expansion vessels and anti vibration pipework for reduced installation time and space efficiency. STIEBEL ELTRON. Heat pump specialists for more than 35 years.

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Products in Action Stylish bathrooms Roca’s bathroom products have been used across a range of apartments being built in Cardiff Bay. Dixie’s 43 apartments are designed to appeal to young professionals and includes Roca’s sanitaryware, brassware and bathroom furniture. The extra wide shower cubicles feature Roca’s Essential Shower Column with hydro massage function,

Kalahari and Element basins, and Meridian-N Compact back to wall WCs to help make the best use of space. L20 brassware was also specified, which includes an eco-disc cartridge to minimise water wastage, as well as two faucet mixer taps, Loft Elite. Roca also supplied a range of bathroom furniture from its The Gap Unik and Kalahari ranges, providing storage.

When it comes to quality, and performance...

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Fitting treatment for students Sanha’s press fitting system has been specified in a major new build to Manchester Metropolitan University’s student union building. Building services engineers CM Oxendale says that it chose Sanha because of the company’s experienced technical assistance and application training. More than 3000m of pipe was used, including Sanha’s stainless steel gas pipes up to 108mm and copper press fittings up to 108mm. Work at the new student facility included the installation of

heating, plumbing, ventilation, air conditioning and control systems, and Sanha’s comprehensive application process provided an efficient and effective end product.

The integrity of all the press connections was guaranteed after an initial training programme with the fitters. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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New build opts for Gaia UFH

their houses because of the convenience, comfort and energy efficiency.

“We always work closely with the client and contractor to ensure that the system is trouble-free from initial installation through to customer satisfaction,” adds Joshua. “For most customers, a central controller linked to a separate thermostat in each room is normally ideal,” says Joshua, “but Riverdale likes the extra control that the individual controllers offer.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Monastery moves to biomass A BioWIN Excel wood pellet boiler from Windhager has been installed at the Monastery of the Holy Trinity in Crawley Down, West

Sussex to provide a greener heating system. The 60kW BioWIN Excel boiler is in the plant room of the community building and provides heating

and hot water for properties within the complex. The system includes a solar thermal buffer to supplement the thermal store of the main plant room and increase efficiency. Two separate eight ton external wood pellet stores were supplied, which only need to be refilled once a year. The installation also qualifies for the nondomestic RHI. Control of the heating system is managed by Windhager’s Modular Energy System (MES) control solution. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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...don’t take our word for it. Quality standards speak for themselves. It’s what you’d expect to see on our products and it’s why you can specify Conex Bänninger with absolute confidence.

For further information, please visit www.conexbanninger.com, Tel: +44 (0)121 557 2831 or email: sales@ibpgroup.com ENQUIRY

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Housebuilder Riverdale Developments has installed Gaia’s wet underfloor (UFH) system and DEVIreg Touchtimer control units in nine new homes in a private culde-sac in Burgess Hill, West Sussex. “Our wet UFH system was installed in the ground floor screed of each of the new houses,” says Gaia’s Joshua Martin Demetrescu. “We do a lot of work with Riverdale, who tend to install UFH in all

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February 2015

SPECIAL NEEDS Bathrooms

Designed with dementia in mind With an ageing population, experts are predicting that more people are likely to be suffering from dementia and memory loss in the years ahead. What difference should that make to bathroom designers? Keith Jobson, Insight Manager at AKW, has some answers.

guidance should be taken id you know that into consideration. it costs no more to It could be argued that install a dementiaevery future adaptation friendly bathroom than in a home where there a standard bathroom is an older person living adaptation? Healthcare and should be made dementiabuilding design experts have friendly. Meaning that if the agreed certain best practice unfortunate should happen guidelines that installers and a resident did develop should adhere to in order to dementia, the bathroom area maximise the suitability of would be readily equipped an adaptation. and not need any further It is estimated that around adaptation. 20% of those aged 80+ have It’s imperative that, in dementia or some form of Keith Jobson from AKW order to provide suitable severe memory loss, and by 2020 it is predicted that there will be advice for clients, installers understand the over 3.6 million people aged 80+ in the UK, considerations behind dementia-friendly making it clear to see the growing trend for design. A dementia-friendly adaptation dementia-friendly bathroom adaptations. goes beyond simply installing one or two More than 800,000 people in the UK are grab rails, and installers may need to already living with dementia and with recommend additional products to optimise around 163,000 new cases diagnosed in the adaptation. Hazards in the bathroom are numerous England and Wales each year, it is likely that installers will increasingly be called and include trip points, slippery floors, hot upon to fit safe and easy-to-use bathroom water and confusing layouts. What was once facilities. With the above statistics creating a comfortable and familiar room can become a compelling case, it stands to reason that a challenging and sometimes frightening when it comes to bathroom adaptations place that can cause upset, frustration and in the home, dementia-friendly design a reluctance to use the bathroom.

Wider choice of options The Larenco Glass Screen range from AKW has been enhanced with the addition of its Modular Glass Screen System, offering more than 800 configurations and a variety of door types for both trays and wet floor installations. There is also a an array of options to create a highly functional space. The new addition provides greater access and more options to ensure there is a model to suit all requirements. Through its fixed panels and shower doors, both of which are available to be configured within an enclosure, the range enables the creation of additional space within the bathroom and the option for inline or side panels. Three door types have been developed, with each new model compatible with other Larenco doors, fixed inline and side panels. The single door offers the clean look of a single glass door, while the bi-fold door splits vertically and folds in on itself, allowing unobstructed access and easy installation in small spaces.

A dementia-friendly bathroom need not cost any more to design than a standard bathroom

Key points When it comes to designing a dementiafriendly bathroom, installers should take into consideration the following key points: 1. Protection against scalding – Someone with dementia may progressively lose safety awareness and as a result they will become more vulnerable to scalding. By simply using thermostatically controlled products, such as taps and showers, this issue can be resolved. Using LST (Low Surface Temperature) heating products will also help. 2. Fall protection – People with dementia are twice as likely to fall than their peers, and these falls result in significantly higher mortality rates than for others in the same age group. With the likelihood of a fall so high, reducing the consequences of these falls is important. Try to reduce the amount of floor standing furniture and ensure radiators have smooth or curved edges.

The Duo and Duo Care Door split horizontally, making them suitable for those requiring easy access for carers, and the springoperated Duolinx handles provide an easy open and close action. Both the Bi-Fold and the Duo Care glass screens feature strong magnetic seals to aid water retention. Additionally, the Duo Care glass screen includes a 6mm toughened glass for added safety. Larenco Glass Screens come with the company’s Stay Clear treatment, which reduces water spots caused by limescale and mineral deposits and keeps bacteria

growth to a minimum, resulting in the pristine finish of the screen being retained. Stuart Reynolds of AKW says: “Design is an important aspect for our bathrooms and we have ensured that the latest additions retain cutting-edge features, yet still provide functionality for users across the mobility spectrum.” To support its customers further, AKW has introduced the Larenco Configurator app, offering an easy-to-use guide that helps the user to select the right glass screen configuration. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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3. Memory loss – Short term memory loss can lead to a risk of flooding if the shower or tap is not turned off after use. A simple and cost effective solution here is to use a shower with auto shut-off function, together with flood-proof plugs for the basin. 4. Retro memory – Most people with dementia have good long-term memory but poor short-term and so are more comfortable with familiar fixtures and fittings from the past. Simple touches such as cross-headed taps can make the user feel more comfortable using the bathroom. 5. General confusion – For some people with dementia, the reflection of their own face in a glass shower screen or mirror can cause distress and may lead them to believe another person is using the bathroom. By installing a roller blind above the sink, the mirror can be covered as and when required. 6. Floor colour perception – A change in floor colour (in a room or between adjoining rooms/corridors) can lead a person with

dementia to believe there is a step up or down, which on a level surface can cause trips or falls. In some cases individuals with dementia can perceive a dark colour floor as a gaping hole, while the speckled effect seen commonly in safety flooring can be seen as flecks of dust or dirt which can cause people to fall trying to pick them up. A light, uniform colour flooring should alleviate these issues. 7. Visual confusion – Contrasting colours should be used to clearly define the showering and toilet areas so the user can safely and effectively locate and use them. Remember a contrast can be created with a light product on a dark background or vice versa. A LRV (Light Reflective Value) difference of +/- 30 will create a sufficient contrast. There is no set colour preference for dementia sufferers which means the bathroom can be modern and stylish in design yet safe, familiar and inviting. The installation of products designed for users with dementia doesn’t cost any more than a standard adaptation, nor are they more difficult to work with or install. However, they can have a significantly positive impact on the life of the user and so it is imperative that the right products are selected to maximise safety and comfort for individuals with dementia. Installers who can follow the recommendations closely are ideally placed to advise on additional adaptations to create a safe and suitable bathroom environment.

Find out more For further information on how to create a dementia-friendly bathroom please enter the number below on the freepost reader enquiry card inside this issue or download AKW’s dedicated guide, developed with leading healthcare and building design experts, from the wesbite. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.akw-ltd.co.uk/dementia

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February 2015

Special NEEDS Bathrooms 39

Taking care of residents Choosing safe equipment is a paramount concern for care homes, so when Stanton Manor decided to install a new bathroom, staff turned to Triton Showers for a solution that met all their needs.

howers from Triton have been specified for a care home in Derbyshire to provide an even safer bathroom environment for the home’s 28 residents. Staff at Stanton Manor Care Home took the decision to install a new shower room to cater for those who find it difficult to use the stairs leading to the property’s existing upstairs showering area. Triton’s new Safeguard+ thermostatic electric shower was thought to be the best option for its combination of safety, ease of use for both carers and users, and its stylish appearance. Key to the design of the Safeguard+ was the input of occupational therapists (OT) to ensure quality and safety. The shower also carries the CE Mark, Kitemark and BEAB Care certification to deliver compliance along with the additional safety and performance requirements of products used in the care industry. Incorporating Triton’s Tri-Therm technology, the shower delivers a constantly regulated water temperature within +/-1°C and shuts off automatically if the cold water supply fails. This in particular was a key selection criteria for staff at Stanton Manor.

With the majority of residents requiring help with personal care, showering unaided tends not to be an option. For this reason, the care staff made the decision to enhance their new shower installation with Triton’s grab riser rail kit. The new grab rail is capable of supporting up to 150kg if intentionally or accidently grabbed. This feature has already given residents the freedom to lift themselves into the showering area with only limited support from their carer.

Ensuring safety The Safeguard+ thermostatic electric shower

The Safeguard+ also offers RNIB endorsement thanks to the cool grey and white colour scheme which creates suitable levels of visual contrast, making it safe and suitable for those residents with varying degrees of sight difficulties. Since the installation, staff have been able to set the maximum water temperature for showering to either 41°C (BEAB Care setting), 43°C or 47°C, with the added benefit of a timer prompting the shower to automatically stop after 5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes if needed.

Commenting on the new installation, Priya Soni, Director at Stanton Manor Care Home, says: “Since installing the new shower, we’ve been able to offer our residents safer showering than we were previously, which is thanks to the variety of features offered by the product. We have a responsibility for ensuring the products we use with our residents comply with quality and safety standards, and the Safeguard+ certainly ticks all the boxes.” Steve Saunders, Senior Technical Manager at Triton, adds: “When staff at Stanton Manor contacted us with the requirements of their new bathroom, it was clear the Safeguard+ was

the perfect fit for them. We’ve been mindful of the ever-changing needs of care home residents who need every possible safety assurance without compromising the appearance of their bathroom. For this reason, we’ve developed the Safeguard+ to be as stylish as it is functional. “We have no doubt other care homes will follow Stanton Manor’s lead and allow their residents to benefit from the ultimate in safe showering, particularly given the involvement of occupational therapists in the product’s development.” www.tritonshowers.co.uk

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Anti-slip tray

Thermostatic control

The stunning Kinemagic shower cubicle fits perfectly into the same space as a bath. Its innovative design requires no silicone or re-tiling, meaning it can be installed in just a day.* The ‘Cristal Plus’ glass panels can be configured for a right or left-handed installation and are completed by a high quality grab rail and folding seat, creating the ultimate safe shower experience. For more information or to request a brochure visit kinedo.co.uk.

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All it takes to transform a bathroom is a little Kinemagic. 39 (WAS 45).indd 1

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February 2015

SPECIAL NEEDS Bathrooms

Solutions for the whole family The growing ageing population means accessible sanitaryware suitable for all ages is more relevant than ever. Nick Gontar, Designer at Ponte Giulio, explains that changing design does not have to come at the cost of style.

esigning a bathroom so it works for everyone as well as being creative and stylish is important to the ageing population in the UK. Generally, a bathroom will be designed with accessibility and safety in mind, with style falling fairly low on the agenda. Very rarely are all these factors considered equally. Simple changes when designing new bathroom Designer Nick Gontar products can make a big difference for homeowners who wish to stay in their homes for many years to come. Unfortunately it’s not uncommon for manufacturers to instinctively or deliberately discriminate in favour of style and against differently-abled users’ needs and requirements. This process restricts the ability to design and develop products that are accessible for everyone.

For everyone When designing our Family range of accessible bathroom products, we were dismayed by the number of products on the market that addressed the safety aspect and functional needs while completely ignoring any considerations when it came to style. Most accessible bathrooms today are functional but

look sterile and unattractive. Style is normally completely forgotten about and is modelled around similar bathrooms you see in care homes, hospitals or the same disabled WC you see in every public building you’ve ever been to. Safety doesn’t have to affect the style of a bathroom design. Ponte Giulio offers luxurious walk-in bathtubs, comfortable shower seats and sophisticated grab rails, helping to create that impressive, safe bathroom for all to use. Minimising safety risks in the bathroom can be prevented by investing in assisted bathing products. The bathroom is often considered a place of comfort and luxury, but bathroom safety is very important. Ponte Giulio offers bathroom products that do not compromise style for function but treat them both as equal considerations.

Supporting role When redesigning your bathroom, one of the key elements of safety is to ensure that users have the ability to support themselves. Inclusively designed bathroom products can significantly improve the quality of life for everyone within a household. Designing and manufacturing bathroom products that are both stylish and comply with safety regulations is our number one priority. Another important requirement for modern bathroom design is

the need for products to be future-proof. A good designer will create a space that incorporates beautifully designed products to assist the everyday needs of the owner; assisted aids do not need to be obvious. Our bathroom ranges are specially designed to offer a safe bathroom for the entire family to use. Having a bathroom inclusively designed enables the home owner to create a bathroom environment which caters for the whole family both now and in the years to come, thus avoiding future expense.

Find out more Ponte Giulio is continuously manufacturing and testing new design principles which can help improve an older or disabled person’s quality of life, allowing them to live comfortably and securely in their own homes for as long as possible. To find out more, enter the number below. www.pontegiulio.co.uk

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Wall covering for Entry level inclusive sanitaryware a water-tight fit Nuance Waterproof laminate wall panels from Bushboard are suitable for level access wetrooms, making them useful in designing bathrooms for the less-abled. Five different panel options are available to suit a range of applications, including around baths and enclosures. The panels are 2420mm high in a range of widths, can be fitted from floor to ceiling and are bonded and sealed using the specially developed BB Complete adhesive, which validates the 15 year guarantee. Nuance panels are waterimpervious as they are not made from wood, but from a patented polyurethane core board. Another feature is that the panels can be jointed and finished without any extrusions, creating a seamless and visually superior look. There are two choices of panels that include a slim postformed edge that can be used to create a neat finishing solution, which is more aesthetically pleasing than an extrusion.

The e100 range of sanitaryware from Twyford features toilets specifically designed for inclusivity, recognising people of all ages and ability levels and the trend towards multi-generational living. The range also includes the dual benefits of being entry-level priced and backed by a 25 year guarantee. The range features a wall-hung toilet and seat with a longer 700mm projection and a raised height (460mm) toilet, both providing improved access and greater comfort for the user. The long-projection toilet is available with the hygienic Rimfree option, and many of the models also incorporate Flushwise water-saving technology. They are available with a varied seat

With 25 designs available, including ‘True Scale’ granite and marble designs, Nuance can cater for virtually any bathroom interior style. The range is described as an ideal alternative to tiles offering large expanses of decorative surface with no grout lines to clean. The panels combine high performance with easy installation using simple joinery skills. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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selection including a new range of ‘quick release’ soft close seats complete with antibacterial finish.

The complementary e100 wall hung washbasins also provide ease of access, with a shallower washing depth. The range is complemented by other Twyford products including easy-access baths, grab rails, support rails and shower seats to ensure all needs are catered for. It offers modern design with both round and square washbasins which are available with either full pedestal, semi pedestal or as a counter-top option. Part of Twyford’s Energy Collection, the e100 sits alongside two other ceramic ranges – e200 and e500 – plus two shower enclosures, es200 and es400. twyfordbathrooms.com ENQUIRY No. 129

Shower screens with easy access Offering premium shower enclosures and screens to suit all ages and physical abilities, Aqata’s Spectra SP440 Double Entry shower screen is suited for the whole family (pictured with the NymaSTYLE Slimline contemporary shower seat with back rest). Access is available from both sides of the shower and it is suitable for use in a wetroom or with an

Aqata low level shower tray, which can be fitted flush to the floor ensuring there is no awkward step

up into the shower. As with all Aqata shower screens and enclosures, the Spectra SP440 can be ordered

with all-over etching as an optional extra, which can serve as a modesty screen or simply as a stylish decorative feature in the bathroom. Sliding door enclosures are also available in the Spectra range, featuring an easy opening and closing mechanism for use by those of varying abilities. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.aqata.co.uk

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February 2015

Special Needs Bathrooms 41

Inclusive design – making the right choices Barbara Osborne, Product Manager at Methven UK, discusses the implications of an ageing population and the role played by technology and design in the creation of more inclusive bathrooms which can be used by all members of the family.

ith one in three people projected to be aged 55 and over by 2030, the Lifetime Homes and Neighbourhoods government strategy has identified the bathroom as a key area that should be designed to embrace all ages and abilities and has urged the bathroom industry to evolve to support inclusive living. Members of the BMA (Bathroom Manufacturers Association) have looked to address this by establishing the Designing for Life Committee, tackling the challenges facing the ageing population and using this information to aid members in making their own commercial decisions. Manufacturers are continuing to work hard to develop products that improve accessibility and safety, ultimately helping designers to create bathroom spaces which are usable throughout a person’s life.

Over half of elderly respondents to a recent survey (conducted by Shelter) stated that they currently live in properties that require their bathrooms to be modified or re-planned to make them more accessible and easy to use. Whilst design is important, technology plays a key role in the future proofing of bathrooms for the elderly. Recent advancements have seen more products adapted to suit the needs of older users. Simple product enhancements such as longer, more ergonomically designed lever handles make showers and taps easier to operate and can make a positive impact on the overall bathroom experience. Often, the needs of the elderly are dismissed simply as mobility challenges, which can be resolved with the creation of walk-in showers or baths. However, this is an over simplification and showering can provide wider issues. For example,

The easy to use Methven Tahi Twin-Lever Tapware (wall mounted basin mixer)

temperature, flow and spray pattern are all things that can impact upon older people, who can suffer from delicate skin, so products with softer spray patterns could be the best option.

Better understanding It is paramount that installers provide consumers with the information to ensure they make the right choice for their individual requirements. This means an installer must be knowledgeable and have up to date information on the latest products and technologies available. Likewise, an understanding of how these apply to each consumer’s needs is essential too. For instance, if a customer has sensitive skin, then an installer should know to suggest showers with a softer flow, such as our Satinjet shower. This utilises twin jets of water that collide and turn into thousands of

Wavy grab rails add some style

Designed to bring an extra bit of style to bathrooms designed for the less-abled, the new Wave grab rails from Barwood are manufactured from polished stainless steel and feature a mirror finish for a glossy look. There are three sizes – 366, 479 and 600mm (each 32mm diameter) – all with concealed fixings for a seamless installation. The Luxury Range now consists of Luxury Wave, Contemporary and Traditional grab rails complete with a range of complementary accessories and a matching, luxury

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www.barwoodproducts.com

tiny droplets, creating a soft, yet stimulating shower with a sense of warmth and luxury. In addition, elderly customers who have thinner skin and are therefore more susceptible to burns can benefit from cool to touch bar technology, which ensures that the temperature of the bar shower never exceeds that of the mixed water. Due to this, users can rest assured that they won’t scald themselves if they accidentally touch the shower body. With the ageing population likely to be a challenge for years to come, the more preparation undertaken now, the fewer problems will be faced in the future. Whilst this applies across many aspects of dayto-day life, ensuring that homes are safe and suitable for the elderly is of paramount importance. www.methven.com/uk

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Providing a safe shower solution

friction hinge support arm to complete the solution. Part of the HSIL Group, Barwood manufacturers and supplies a range of bathroom equipment to the special needs and disability sectors, for both domestic and commercial applications. The company’s product range includes Doc M Packs, walk-in baths, grab rails, hinged support arms, WCs for comfort height and anti-ligature products. All WC flushing products come with a 10 year guarantee. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

Methven’s Maku cool to touch bar shower will help to avoid any risk of scalding

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Extended range Saniflo has extended its range of Kinemagic shower cubicles with the new Serenity, Design and Style units. Said to be ideal for less able people, Serenity (pictured) fits in the same space as a bath and features integrated thermostatic shower control, a fold-down seat, anti-slip flooring and secure grab bars. Design features a 30mm shower tray threshold for easy entry and a cool-touch thermostatic shower with two height options for the overhead rain shower. Style is an attractive glass cubicle that can be customized to suit any home. With an antislip shower tray, secure grab bar and optional fold-down seat, Style can be fitted with any shower valve. www.kinedo.co.uk

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The Selectronic Premier electric shower range from Redring provides a safe and stylish solution for a wide variety of applications. Fully thermostatic, the showers can be pre-programmed to provide hot water at a constant and safe temperature, with various lock mode options to prevent any accidental temperature increases. The showers are controlled via large, easy-to-press buttons with tactile button coding and a conveniently located large LED display ensures easy visibility of settings. Designed in conjunction with the RNIB, the shower also features audible feedback response to push-button commands, making it suitable for the blind or partially sighted. The Selectronic Premier Plus models come complete with a 1m riser rail and 2m hose which allows for the

shower to be installed and operated at a lower height. The latest addition to the range is the Selectronic Premier LAP, which offers an integral Level Access Pump. This feature quickly removes waste-water even when a gravity drain is not available, particularly beneficial for users that require seated showers. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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February 2015

OIL Heating 43

Good reasons to stick with oil Oil remains a popular choice in off gas areas as high efficiency boiler technology continues to move forward. Anna Wakefield, Marketing Manager for Grant UK, highlights some of the recent advances that have helped to ease installation and improve efficiency levels.

The plug and socket has been requested by service engineers to aid the removal of the burner during annual maintenance, making the job both quicker and easier. The latest Grant Vortex Combi models also feature internal frost protection, neon diagnostic indicators and a factory fitted internal condensate trap (this can be sited externally if preferred), all designed for easier installation and servicing.

he market for oil-fired boilers has in recent years been under pressure from other technologies and a lack of government support for greener oil alternatives, like bio-fuels. However, whilst in some cases renewable products are an option for off-gas users, there is no doubt that for the majority of homes, upgrading to a modern oilfired condensing boiler from a standard efficiency model is a good solution which would vastly reduce oil consumption and lower carbon emissions. Oil-fired boilers are no longer the inefficient, un-ecological machines of the past. New condensing appliances can operate at almost half the cost of a typical 25 to 30 year old boiler, providing an instant return. The products we see today are more efficient in energy delivery, cleaner, easier to maintain and have the option to be installed as part of a bivalent system providing further savings.

Right at home

Efficiency drive Given that most installations are boiler replacements for older inefficient products and are often distress purchases, in our opinion the oil heating market is likely to remain strong for the foreseeable future. Indeed, the Grant name is synonymous with highly efficient oil-fired boilers. At the time of their launch, designs like the Multi Pass boiler achieved efficiency levels far in excess of any UK or European Standards and have helped thousands of homes to reduce their annual fuel bills. The launch of our first Vortex boiler, 12 years ago, was not only ahead of its time, but well ahead of any change to legislation. Today, this highly efficient range features 39 different model variations, with outputs from 12 to 70kW (50,000 to 240,000 Btu/h) and around one in every two oil-fired boilers installed in the UK is now a Grant Vortex (source: SBGI). With SAP2009 efficiencies up to 93.3% gross, the Vortex range not only significantly lowers fuel usage but also considerably reduces carbon emissions and lessens the environmental impact of domestic hot water and heating systems. Our commitment to oil-fired technology remains strong. We recently made some innovative upgrades to the combi

Vortex boilers have been designed with the installer in mind

models within the Vortex range. Most oil-fired combination boilers are supplied with a 12 litre expansion vessel and it’s the installer’s responsibility to provide any additional expansion for the system, but the Vortex combi now includes a factory fitted 24 litre expansion vessel, as well as a new plug and socket connection for the Riello RDB burner, as standard. This upgrade will ultimately reduce extra installation time and cost, as in most cases a 24 litre vessel should more than cope with expansion for both the boiler and heating system and remove the need for an additional external vessel.

With the end user in mind, oil fired boiler design and noise performance has moved on too. Our white cased Vortex models can be placed in kitchens rather than utility rooms or garages as they are very quiet when operating. This is important for homeowners when they come to choose the type of boiler and the fuel they will use, and many will notice the difference in noise when replacing older models with new ones. So not only do homeowners benefit from more efficient products, but quieter ones too. This September will see the introduction of the Energy Related Products directive (ErP). Products that have an impact on energy use will be governed by a new set of regulations establishing minimum EU efficiency standards. For heating, this will include everything from domestic/ commercial boilers, through to cylinders, controls and even renewables and it is designed to help Europe meet its 2020 energy reduction target. It will be mandatory in all EU countries. Any product that does not comply with the new legislation can no longer be imported or sold in Europe. To coincide with this legislation, energy performance labels (similar to what you may have already seen on fridges, televisions, etc) will start to appear on Grant boiler cartons this year. Additionally the Energy Using Products (EuP) legislation surrounding circulating pumps (introduced in January 2013 for stand-alone pumps) will become applicable to pumps integrated in oil-fired combination and system boilers from August. All relevant Grant Vortex boilers will make the change to high efficiency pumps in time for this. PHAM JAN 15_Layout 1 28/01/2015 11:46 Page 1

www.grantuk.com

Condensing range gets an upgrade An upgraded version of the Enviromax kitchen boiler from Firebird now features a digital control panel giving the end user more control over the boiler settings and enabling them to easily view the boiler’s performance and temperature. Digitising the control function also brings in self-diagnostics and helps to identify any remedial action in the event of the burner not firing. Available in outputs up to 100kW, the condensing boilers feature built in pump overrun and a low pressure switch on system models. Firebird has also introduced an all-plastic corrosion proof plume dispersal kit which is easy to cut on site, reducing the number of joints required and effectively eliminating nuisance pluming.

Designed with the replacement market in mind, Firebird has also made life easier for the installer by incorporating four BSP tappings which allow the installer to retrofit a new replacement boiler without the need for major pipework alterations. Together with a multi-directional balanced flue system, Firebird says that this should ensure that there are virtually

no situations where an Enviromax cannot be installed. For ease of servicing, the single door access allows full scope to all the internal baffles and exchangers, and a condensate trap at the base of the appliance allows the flue ways and secondary exchanger to be washed through without compromising any internal components.

When Firebird first introduced the Enviromax oil fired condensing boilers in 2007, rather than adapting an earlier non-condensing model the company’s R&D team designed a completely new model that would help to maximise efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. “More and more installers are recognising and appreciating the huge benefits of the Enviromax,” says Debbie Coley, UK General Manager. “It is a genuinely true condensing boiler because it was purpose designed and built, starting from a blank piece of paper on the drawing board and then based on extensive research from around the world.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.firebird.ie

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44 OIL Heating

Price drop is boosting demand The falling price of oil is welcome news for the oil heating industry as it looks to hold on to its dominant share of the off-grid market. PHAM News talks to OFTEC Marketing Manager Malcolm Farrow about the prospects for the oil heating sector this year and beyond.

here may be a question mark about the longterm future of the UK oil heating industry, but there’s no doubt that the recent drop in fuel prices has given the industry a welcome boost at a time when the Government is doing all it can to encourage users to consider renewable alternatives. Many experts have predicted the demise of oil heating, with incentive schemes such as Green Deal and the RHI designed to alleviate the costs of switching to more environmentally friendly technologies such as heat pumps, but it seems that few homeowners are going to be in any hurry to abandon their oil heating system when fuel prices are at their lowest level for five years.

that there will be a slower transition to renewables and I think prices are likely to stay low for at least another couple of years,” he says. “Those installing, servicing or using oil heating can feel confident that oil will remain an efficient and very competitive fuel.”

Energy saving

Malcolm Farrow from OFTEC

Malcolm Farrow, OFTEC’s Marketing and Communications Manager, acknowledges that renewables will play an increasingly important role in providing energy to rural homes but points out that demand for oil heating remains high. “Lower fuel prices are likely to mean

A modern oil-fired heating system with condensing technology and more sophisticated controls will provide the homeowner with a system that is significantly more efficient than that which might have been installed 20 years ago. However, while there has been an increase in sales of condensing boilers over the last couple of years, there are still huge numbers of properties that are reliant on

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less efficient non-condensing boilers. With that in mind, Malcolm Farrow argues that some relatively simple measures could make a difference to reducing the cost of heating in rural areas. “We need to take smaller steps to raising energy efficiency levels in the home, starting with the installation of a condensing boiler and better controls, and then perhaps moving on to renewable technologies, such as solar, as part of a hybrid system.” OFTEC argues that as well as looking to introduce more efficient sources of energy, there needs to be more emphasis on reducing demand for energy itself. “That’s why we’re backing the Energy Bill Revolution campaign,” says Malcolm. “It’s a campaign that aims

to persuade the Government to launch a more ambitious energy efficiency campaign that will prioritise the homes of the fuel poor. It’s a scandal that each winter we have thousands of people in the UK who die from not being able to keep their homes warm enough.” The campaign has received the support of charities such as Age UK and Shelter, plus the backing of a number of public bodies, utility companies and manufacturers. “Fuel poverty is often of more concern in rural areas, with many properties suffering from poor insulation,” says Malcolm. “That’s why we think Government initiatives should be more focused on providing help for those who need it most.”

With the aim of helping oil users save money and become more fuel efficient OFTEC launched the Oilsave website (www.oilsave.org. uk) last year which offers impartial advice to help people get the best from their oil heating systems. Oilsave provides guidance on how to improve energy efficiency and buy heating oil at the lowest price, as well as promoting the benefits of combining oil with renewable heating options. “More people are seeking information about how they can reduce their oil heating bill,” says Malcolm. “We want to ensure oil consumers are well equipped to make the best choices for both their pockets and peace of mind,” he concludes. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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February 2015

OIL Heating

Opportunities to win new business The oil-fired boiler market is often overlooked due to its minority market share, but for many homeowners without access to a gas supply an oil-fired boiler remains an efficient and reliable heating solution says Martyn Bridges from Worcester.

hen you consider the market share for oil-fired boilers in comparison to the UK market for gas-fired boilers it makes up a much smaller part of the overall domestic heating market. For instance, current annual sales of oilfired boilers amount to around 60,000, which is small percentage of the circa 1.4 1.5 million total boilers sold in the UK every year. However, the oil-fired market still has potential, as proven in 2013 when oil-fired boiler sales reached their highest levels for five years. Additionally, with a degree of uncertainty surrounding renewable technologies, oil remains one of the best fuels for domestic heating and hot water in off-gas mains areas and continues to present a number of business opportunities. The challenge for manufacturers and installers is identifying the potential for servicing and upselling in this area of the market, whilst helping homeowners improve the energy efficiency of their homes at the same time. In previous years, we have seen a slowing down of the oil-fired boiler market, which is due to a variety of reasons. For starters, there is the tendency for oil-fired boilers to be victims of their own success. Having proved durable and long-lasting, replacement instalments can be few and far between and many older boilers will be operating at lower efficiency levels than their modern equivalents. Secondly, a new installation typically only takes place if an oil-fired boiler becomes unreliable or develops an irreparable fault. Often we have found homeowners haven’t understood the money saving benefits of an energy-efficient condensing boiler, leaving them reluctant to pay for a new model until something goes wrong with theirs. However, this is an

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Martyn Bridges, Worcester’s Director of Marketing and Technical Support

opportunity for installers who can emphasise to homeowners that a boiler can be replaced to improve efficiency rather than just because it has broken down. This in turn can lead to new business opportunities and repeat business in the way of regular service checks, for example.

Incentives In recent times, government initiatives such as Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and Green Deal have had the potential to affect the number of homeowners who turn to oil-fired boilers to heat their off mains gas properties. However, through conversations with consumers we feel installers can help change this mindset and any preconceived ideas that oil-fired heating is inefficient. Today’s generation of oilfired boilers can certainly be counted upon to deliver high efficiency levels, not least when installed alongside a renewable technology in a hybrid arrangement. Whilst challenges exist there genuinely is huge opportunity in the oil-fired heating sector for installers. From Worcester’s point of view, we have worked closely with installers over the years to gain feedback from them in order to develop more ‘installer friendly’ boilers. Efficiency and

space, for example, are key considerations for installers and this has led to the development of primary heat exchangers and component layouts that make servicing as straightforward as possible. In these instances, serviceability is improved as installers are able to gain access to the boiler’s interior components even more easily than before. Consistency of installation and servicing is another important issue. Installers are under increasing pressure to keep on top of accreditation courses and training courses, so consistency throughout a product range can help to lift some of the pressures that affect them on a daily basis. Once installers have mastered a certain type of installation, it should not be too difficult for them to apply this to another installation across the same range of products. It would be fair to say that homeowners are becoming more adept at using different technologies around the home, yet boilers have typically always been an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ product. Installers can play a part in helping to reduce their customers’ bills by educating them on the impact a wellrun heating system can have. Electronic control systems fitted alongside modern oil-fired boilers allow for more precise temperature control than before, as well as reducing unnecessary cycling of the burner. Ultimately the industry’s commitment to product development should reassure installers that manufacturers regard continued investment in the oil-fired boiler market as worthwhile. The way the installer goes about educating their customers on the products available and how they can improve efficiency levels may be the key to tapping into this market. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Grant Vortex. Oil-fired boilers have never looked so good. With 39 different model variations and outputs ranging from 12 to 70kW (50,000 240,000 Btu/h) this versatile condensing boiler range provides a tried and tested, low cost heating and hot water solution for homes of all sizes. As well as providing unbelievable performance and reliability, the Grant Vortex is also highly efficient, stylish and whisper quiet.

• 39 different models • Outputs from 12-70kW • Internal and external, floor and wall hung options • 89.5 - 93.3% Gross SAP2009 annual efficiency • Whisper quiet operation • 5-year heat exchanger guarantee

It’s time to bring off-gas heating out of the utility room and into the kitchen!

neering i g n E t n ing • Gra k n i h t t a e r cts • G Green produ ENQUIRY

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For further information visit: www.grantuk.com or call our sales team: +44 (0)1380 736920

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February 2015

46 OIL Heating Bigger expansion Right part at the right place vessel for oil combi The Vortex Combi oil fired boiler now comes with a 24 litre expansion vessel as well as a plug and socket connection for the Riello RDB burner, as standard. These upgrades were made following feedback from installers within the company’s G-One network. Grant says this upgrade will reduce extra installation time and cost, as in most cases a 24 litre vessel should more than cope with expansion for both the boiler and heating system and remove the need for an additional external vessel. The plug and socket has been requested by service engineers to aid the removal of the burner during annual maintenance, making the job both quicker and easier. These models also feature internal frost protection, neon diagnostic indicators and a factory fitted internal condensate trap (this can be sited externally if preferred), all designed to make installation and servicing easier.

Aimed at installers working in off-grid areas, Plumb and Parts Center’s new Oil Engineers’ Guide boasts a listing of more than 1000 essential products from the industry’s leading manufacturers. All products can be ordered online via smartphone or tablet, in any Plumb and Parts branch around the country or by using the merchant group’s dedicated hotline.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

“Getting the right part quickly and efficiently is vital to installers and home or business owners, sitting in the cold,” says Colin McGregor, the company’s Category Development Director. “This essential guide will help our customers boost their reputation and stay ahead of the competition.” To download or order a copy please visit the website.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Giving oil heating installers a lift

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For extra peace of mind, Parts Center is now also able to offer Parts Direct – a premium delivery service that ensure that customers will be able to get what they need as early as 10.30am the next day (provided it’s ordered by 8pm via the company’s call centre). The company says that it currently offers 60,000 product lines, 35,000 of which are available for next day delivery.

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Can a heat pump help grow your business?

Installing an oil lifter or oil up feeder can sometimes be a time consuming job for even the most experienced oil heating engineer. As a safety measure it is recommended that oil lifters should always be installed with either a return to the tank or a leak detection device to shut off the flow of oil in case of a rare failure. To make the installer’s life easier, Anglo Nordic

now offers the OUF 88 Oil Up Feeder (Oil Lifter), wired complete with a leak detector and drip tray – saving time and providing a protected installation where a return to the oil tank is not practical or possible. The company is also able to offer a leak detector and drip tray for existing OUF88 installations that may not be protected with a return to the tank.

In addition, Anglo Nordic is able to supply the oil lifters with or without the drip tray in an IP66 rated weatherproof enclosure to enable the oil lifter to be mounted on an outside wall if it is unable to be installed inside the property. All products are available for next day delivery anywhere in the UK. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Recognised as a renewable technology, Ecodan is MCS approved and now qualifies for the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive, making it even more viable. Becoming a Mitsubishi Electric heating partner will enable you to supply one of the most advanced, efficient and renewable heating systems available today.

To find out how Ecodan can help grow your business, and for more information on the RHI or help with obtaining your MCS installer accreditation:

Call 01707 278666 email heating@meuk.mee.com or visit heating.mitsubishielectric.co.uk

For information on attending one of our free Ecodan Seminars please contact us at heating@meuk.mee.com ENQUIRY

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February 2015

COMPANY Spotlight 47

Increasing volumes of hot water delivery Founded in Belgium over 90 years ago, ACV may not be a new name in the UK water heating market but the company believes that there are many more customers who could benefit from its innovative tank-in-tank technology. We recently spoke to UK MD Stephen Wilson to find out more about the company’s products and plans for growth.

ppointed as MD of ACV UK in March last year, Stephen Wilson is clearly enthused by the challenge of converting more customers to the advantages of the company’s key selling point – its tank-in-tank technology. Although the concept has been a core part of the ACV product range since the 1970s, he believes that the company’s success lies in promoting its benefits to a wider audience. So what exactly is tank-in-tank technology? “Traditional hot water cylinders have a coil in it, whereas we’ve got a small tank in a bigger tank which gives a faster heat transfer,” he explains. “It has a greater surface area so the heat transfer is up to three times quicker than a traditional coiled cylinder. It is tried and tested technology that is at the heart of most of our products.”

Global player The UK operation, based in Fife, Scotland, is a subsidiary of the ACV International Group that has been manufacturing products for heating and hot water generation since 1922. Over the last 40 years the Group has grown to a level where it has a presence all over the world, with its products available in five continents via 15 subsidiaries and a network of specialist distributors. The ACV range has been available in the UK since the mid-eighties when plumbing engineer John Marshall recognised the potential of the product range and opened ACV-UK in 1991. John headed up ACV UK until his retirement in 2012, expanding the business to a level where the company was able to move into its current purpose built offices, warehousing and training facility 10 years ago (pictured top, right).

The boiler assembly line at ACV’s factory in Seneffe, Belgium

Stainless steel cylinders on the tank-in-tank test bay

Despite such success, new MD Stephen Wilson believes that the business is yet to realise its full potential, suggesting that the company had become reliant on the existing loyal customer base and now needs to do more to raise its profile. “We started to rely too much on those customers that we’d already established a good relationship with,” he explains. “That’s fine when things are going well, but if their business starts to slow down then so does ours. What we’re trying to do now is appeal to a new audience and be more active in looking for new customers.” Over the last few months the company has embarked on a recruitment drive to ensure that it gets the right people in place to help raise the company’s profile with merchants and installers. “We’re now looking to work closer with merchants,” says Stephen. “When ACV products first became available to installers in the UK it was a question of introducing a specialist product with different technology.The concept had to be sold and the specification gained, so it was important to be involved with a project all the way through. Now we need to be focusing our efforts on getting more installers to try our products because experience shows that once they try our products they tend to stick with them.”

property expert Sarah Beeny. Sarah incorporated ACV Tank-in-Tank technology in the hot water system at Rise Hall, the refurbished 97-room East Yorkshire wedding venue that was featured in her TV series. When it came to replacing the boiler system in her own family home, she was confident that the HeatMaster TC would serve their heating and hot water needs. “With a large family there’s clearly going to be plenty of demand for hot water and I think that’s where we have a market from a domestic point of view – bigger houses which require high volumes of hot water,” says Stephen. “We call it TC (Total Condensing) because it condenses in heating and hot water mode. The tank-in-tank technology, combined with a passive flue heat recovery unit, means that it is able to deliver efficiency levels of over 98%.”

Master class

A plasma cutter gets to work on one of the HeatMaster TC units

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The ACV product line-up is targeted primarily at the commercial and large residential markets and includes large capacity cylinders, condensing gas boilers and high efficiency electric boilers. One of the company’s biggest sellers is the HeatMaster TC range of condensing storage combination boilers, available in capacities to suit both domestic and large commercial applications. “The HeatMaster TC is our flagship product,” says Stephen. “Based around our tank-in-tank technology, it’s basically a commercial storage combi boiler with a built in passive flue heat recovery unit which can also be used as a stand alone water heater. It spans both domestic and commercial markets because it goes down to 25kW and right up to 120kW. It’s a floor standing unit, so it won’t fit into every domestic application, but where we’re finding a lot of up take for it is in London where there is a lot of hot water demand and properties with space to house it. The product is capable of delivering up to 2000 litres of hot water an hour in a floor space of just half a square meter – so that’s a big selling point.” Recent projects for the HeatMaster TC have included an installation at the family home of TV celebrity and

Sales growth The commercial heating market may not have recovered as quickly from the recession as the domestic sector, but ACV was able to record some very positive figures last year and Stephen is optimistic about the prospects for further growth over the next 12 months. “It’s still a tough market, the commercial boiler market has been particularly flat, but last year we managed to grow the business by almost 15%,” he reports. “We set out to grow all the products in our portfolio and we managed to do just that – increasing demand for every single product line, from our smallest domestic tank to our biggest electric boiler.” Ambitious targets have been set for 2015 as ACV looks to build on last year’s success. As well as capitalising on increasing interest in the HeatMaster products, the company is looking for significant growth in its SmartLine domestic cylinder range and expanding demand for its E-Tech range of floor-standing and wall mounted electric boilers. “One of the reasons we have so many loyal customers is that we’re not box sellers, we’re solution providers,” says Stephen. “We’ve got a technical team that helps to design a system to ensure that it meets a particular project’s hot water and heating requirements. We’ve also got a good stock of spares because hot water is crucial to most of our commercial customers, such as hotels and schools, who can’t afford to be without it for long. “We know we’ve got good products, we know we’ve got good back-up, it’s just a question of getting out there and telling people about it. We’ve got a good news story to tell.” www.acv.com

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February 2015

48 Product Spotlight

Why take a chance on counterfeit spares? Using a non-genuine part may save a bit of money, but is it worth taking a risk? Head of Genuine Parts, David Willets, explains how quality can differ between parts produced and approved by boiler manufacturers and those supplied from elsewhere.

s installers will know, there is an array of rules and regulations surrounding gas heating appliances – a number of which apply to boiler parts. And yet, sometimes fake spare parts slip through the net, having serious consequences for both customer and engineer. To keep costs down, counterfeit spares are typically manufactured from poor-quality materials, David Willets from Baxi resulting in a substandard product. Where manufacturers will use rigorous testing and approval processes to test parts to ensure their safety, reliability and performance, non-genuine parts lack credibility – and fitting them, even unwittingly, can have serious legal repercussions.

Installer views In a recent survey of installers carried out by Baxi, 20% of respondents said that they think counterfeit parts are on the increase, with nearly one fifth (17%) having come across non-genuine parts. Yet, while the majority of respondents (73%) said they were aware of their obligations to provide customers with a manufacturer’s genuine part, more than half (56%) said that they weren’t aware of the consequences they would face if found to be using non-genuine parts. The rise in non-genuine parts coupled with cash-strapped homeowners continuing to demand best-priced goods and services, and a lack of awareness of the legal implications, is a perfect storm for installers falling into the trap of using 11227 Talon Landscape adverts_Layout 1 31/03/2014 13:30 Page 1 fake parts. Our investigations have found that

The UK’s

customers are starting to order parts themselves after obtaining a quote from an installer. Without necessarily understanding that they are not the genuine article, householders are sourcing seemingly like-for-like, but cheap, alternatives, and asking installers to fit those instead. As a result, heating installers may be put in the difficult position of either fitting a non-genuine part or not getting the job. So when being questioned on costs, it’s worth taking the opportunity to educate customers by highlighting the risks counterfeit parts pose.

Taking risks There are in fact legal and reputational risks to fitting a non-genuine part that make sourcing spares a businesscritical issue. Should poor-quality products be to blame for a system failing or, in a worst case scenario, becoming dangerous and causing an accident, the ultimate responsibility lies with the service and repair engineer. At the same time, the upheaval caused will probably put an end to future custom from that homeowner, and most likely anyone in their social circle. In addition, should a nongenuine spare be found to be the root of any issue, the customer could end up losing their warranty. If a claim is made, it could be argued that the cheaper substitute affected the product’s performance and could have brought about the failure – even if it does not appear to be directly connected to the cause of the problem.

Approved stockists When selecting a spare part, the simplest and best advice is to always ask an approved stockist for a genuine part from a boiler manufacturer, which they have a legal responsibility to honour.

Genuine spares will always state that they should only be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. They will normally come complete with proper, detailed instructions and will be associated with specific gaskets, seals and sealants. Most importantly, genuine parts will fit properly – which is, needless to say, essential for a gascarrying part. Parts from a reputable manufacturer will have been tested in the most demanding conditions, both in-house and in independent laboratories, to make sure they meet and exceed expectations and work with the whole heating system.

Tried and tested For example, Baxi’s process includes testing the parts individually to ensure that they meet specifications, as well as in the boiler as part of the heating appliance. At the same time, the boilers are tested in the field as part of a complete heating system. This new product introduction process is completed over several months and can cost millions of pounds, but is vital to ensure each and every spare is fit for the job. As an industry, we must take a more vigilant approach to spares. The campaign from the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) encouraging installers to ‘stay fake free’ this winter was a welcome move, however given the threat non-genuine parts pose, more still needs to be done. Together, we can stamp out fake parts. Should installers come across any fake heating components, they should call their local Trading Standards office. www.baxigenuineparts.com

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Using genuine parts means they have been tried and tested

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0845 095 2828 29/01/2015 16:26

February 2015

CHIMNEYS & Flues 49

Don’t take risks with chimneys Any installer carrying out work on a combustion appliance connected to a domestic masonry flue system should be fully aware of the gravity of undertaking such work, says Howard Cane, Chairman of the National Association of Chimney Engineers (NACE).

here are a number of legal as well as mechanical criteria that continue to be missed, ignored or completely misinterpreted by installers when installing a combustion appliance connected to a masonry flue system. To minimise fire risks and ensure the safety of building occupants, the following points of execution should be observed and considered.

clouds often referred to as ‘particulates’. This dust type debris if breathed in quantity and over a period of time could prove fatal to anyone suffering with a respiratory illness, heart disease or chest complaint. Open fireplaces with a grate are many times more likely to cause a health related issue. The combustion chamber of a closed appliance (stove) is less likely to emit the level of such by-products.

• All domestic masonry chimneys and the flue systems that serve them are considered a ‘Controlled Environment’ according to Building Regulations. Any attached combustion appliance irrespective of the fuel used is considered a ‘Controlled Appliance’, therefore where an appliance or just a replacement liner is installed the entire installation becomes the liability of the installer.

• Solid fuel appliances burning wood and/or coal products produce carcinogenics, CO (carbon monoxide) as well as variant pollutants that can be readily identified as particulates, a fine misty dust that is often confused with smoke. It is in the interest of the installer of any appliance to identify if a consumer has a current heart condition or suffers from respiratory issues such as asthma, as any of these health conditions can be dangerously exacerbated in an environment where combustion related particulates are likely to be created.

• All controlled environments must be ‘structurally sound’ and without defect throughout. Remove bituminous material and loose and/or defective sand and cement render where identified within the flue shaft and before any re-use is considered. Either material if present represents a potential fire hazard and a risk to the property occupants. • Installers should carry out a definitive fire risk assessment and pre-installation inspection before connecting any appliance to a domestic masonry chimney and/or flue system and make any subsequent report available to the consumer. • Where any work above gutter level on a domestic environment is likely to occur it is a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirement that installers are either certified in accordance with the Working at Height Act or follow the minimum guidance found within HSE ‘Working on roofs’ and HSE ‘Health and safety in roof work’. • Installers should issue a copy of the Party Wall Act and make this available to the consumer as well as a Method Statement explaining procedure along with a list of approved components. Where a flue system is shared with a neighbouring property or where a fireplace and flue system terminates in a shared masonry stack and access is required between two properties, such information should be readily accessible to any interested party. • Lining materials should carry Conformité Européenne (CE) documentation and guarantees. These products should be recognised under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) 2013, as well as be ‘fit for purpose’. Flexible lining systems must be installed the correct way up and within structurally sound chimney systems and terminated in accordance with manufacturers’ directions. • Chimney terminals (pots) should be structural sound and without defect properly bedded into a sound masonry stack and adequately haunched so that the terminal cannot fail. Where an alternative ‘pot hanger’ system is to be employed it is essential (due to the load bearing requirement of the hanger) that the chimney terminal is capable of continual use/stress and that any heat transference to this area will have little impact on safety or operation. • Generally 316 and 904 spun twin wall flexible stainless steel liners are suitable for use with combustion appliances burning gas, oil and solid fuel. Single spun stainless steel liners must only be used in conjunction with gas appliances. The use of coal based products as a heat source should only be considered where either a masonry, clay or ironstone sectional lined flue has been installed. • Installers should be aware that life span guarantees of any product reflect unused shelf condition. Misuse, long periods of burning, low temperatures and/or fuel abuse will have a dramatic effect on any liner as well as the appliance and associated components. Metal liners have a recognisable shelf life from the point of installation. Such life spans are considerably shortened when any of the above are experienced.

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Poor flue draughts can result in a direct fire hazard

• Coal and timber fuel abuse (overloading), burning at incorrect temperatures, burning appliances overnight with reduced combustion air flow, as well as incorrect use of appliance controls are likely to cause poor ignition, uncontrollable temperature increases, poor or incomplete hydrocarbon dispersal and poor flue draught. Any of these may result in a fire hazard. • A live masonry chimney stack where it terminates above roof/ridge level must be vertical, structurally sound and without any of the following: bowing, staircase cracking, heat related masonry failure or tar staining. These defects are indicative of serious system failure and should be properly investigated by a registered Chimney Engineer prior to any intended re-use. • The installation of a metal bird guard cowl to a system burning solid fuel should only be considered on the basis of a qualified mechanical test (under full load) having been undertaken to demonstrate that positive up draught has been achieved. • Very few installers consider the benefit of a camera inspection with regard to the suitability of a masonry flue system before re-lining with either a metal or thermal setting material. Some may purchase such equipment without any ability to interpret what they are in fact viewing. Subsequently, incorrect advice could be issued to the consumer and wrong decisions arrived at. • Often installers fail to identify dangerous components and materials such as: live domestic water pipework, live electrical cable, gas supply pipework and timber structures that may have penetrated an internal masonry flue system. Any one of these supplies if not safely removed could have a direct impact on either the fabric of the building or the health and safety of the occupants. • Where re-lining (flexible) of an external gable end flue system is to occur, insulation of the liner is imperative. An air pocket left around the length of a liner cannot be construed as a thermal barrier because heat transference from a liner within an air filled void will create ‘thermal shock’. Super-heated air is likely to permeate uninsulated and/or defective masonry causing the metal flue system to cool dramatically, thus creating the potential for ‘dew point’ to occur and the risk of corrosion or heat triggering a fire. • Variant barometric pressures can impact upon the operation of any flue system as well as differences in flue gas speed (design) or external air temperature changes. In the worst case scenario these may cause potential failure of the appliance to operate properly and within safety limitations. It’s important to understand local area weather conditions in order to design a flue system at an appropriate height and dimension. • The health of occupants should always be taken into consideration. Combustion appliances, in particular those burning oil and solid fuel products, produce minuscule dust

• Change of fuel use as well as change of appliance is notifiable work in accordance with statutory Document J and must be registered with a Local Area Building Control office or such work undertaken by a registered Competent Person and duly certificated. • Fireplace opening dimensions as well as overall masonry flue height will, when properly calculated, result in correct liner-to-appliance sizing. For closed appliances (stoves) a slightly different approach is taken, for instance when installing a flexible metal liner serving a solid fuel appliance (stove) the requirement is no less than 150mm diameter. This can be reduced to 125mm diameter where a manufacturer’s appliance states ‘smoke exempt’ and further confirms the suitability and use of a 125mm diameter liner. All open fireplaces with a minimum builders opening of 500 x 550mm must be re-lined with a product no less in dimension than 200mm, a clay or non-porous sectional flue system square or rectangular no less than 175mm. • Inspections of flue systems should be undertaken by a qualified Chimney Engineer whenever a gas, solid fuel or oil fired combustion appliance is attached to an existing domestic masonry chimney and flue system. Sectional lined flue systems should be identified as having been installed socket uppermost and jointed with refractory heat resistant material, not intumescent mastic that will expire under load within four hours. • Sectional flue elements must be vertical, undamaged and in alignment throughout. Overhang sections and sectional areas out of alignment are likely to cause flue gas friction and a reduction in flue draft. • Installers should make themselves aware of their legal and administrative responsibilities in accordance with the following: Statutory Documents, Building Regulations, Approved Document 7 (Material and workmanship), BS and/or EN directives, Consumer Protection Act, Goods & Services Act, Party Wall Act, HSE directives and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. All these guidances and directives will impact upon the day to day working activities of an installer.

Find out more NACE is the UK’s recognised authority with regard to domestic structural chimneys and masonry flue systems. Each year the Association issues technical guidance and advice directives to a broad section of industry as well as providing a real support network to installers and access to a recognised directory of qualified and registered Chimney Engineers. To find out more, please visit the website (www.nace.org.uk) or call the technical guidance and helpline number: 0843 713 6223.

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February 2015

50 CHIMNEYS & Flues

Answers to end user questions The popularity of wood burning appliances has risen in recent years, which means that heating engineers are more likely to be quizzed on wood burning issues by their customers. David Ebbs, Technical Sales Support at Specflue, offers some answers to typical questions.

wood is treated. Painted or stained wood should also be avoided as the paint and preservatives can give off aggressive chemicals which attack both the flue and appliance.

ith over 25 years of experience in the flue, chimney and wood burning industry, we are often asked questions around their installation and use. Here are a few of the most common:

What is ‘seasoned’ wood? This is wood which has Can I burn coal as well as been cut down and left for wood? This depends on several weather ‘seasons’ the appliance. Some are to dry out. Different wood pure wood burners, some types take longer than others are multi-fuel. Most wood to season; most pine woods burners do offer a multi-fuel take around a year, whilst kit, so they can be converted hardwood elm and oak can to burn coals as well. In take three years. How it is essence, wood burns best David Ebbs, Technical Sales Support at Specflue stored also influences how on a solid base, with a small covering of ash. Coals need to be lifted off it dries and the only accurate way to know this base, to allow air to pass below the fuel. if it is ready to use is by using a moisture How often should the flue be swept? The flue meter and looking for figures under 20%. manufacturer should specify this in their It’s often possible to tell that wood is near literature, but as a rule it is twice a year; to the 20%, as cracks develop across the once after the winter burning season in late grain and it feels lighter than expected. spring and again before the burning season starts in October. Spring cleaning removes corrosive deposits so they don’t attack the flue during the summer. The autumn clean ensures any blockages are removed. Who can sweep the flue? A qualified chimney sweep who is a member of a chimney sweep association must do this job. The sweeping certificate must be kept, as this will be requested if the liner fails or the property has a fire. Can I burn any wood? No, only seasoned firewood should be used. You shouldn’t use timber offcuts from building sites as this

How is it best to store logs? Outside, under cover, lifted off the ground on a pallet so the air can circulate. The logs should be on their side, not upright. How is it best to store coal? In a coal bunker. Weather will not hurt the fuel, but to attain maximum efficiency, you need to ensure its dry when taking indoors to burn. If bought in plastic bags and stored in a garage or shed, it’s best to open the bags to allow any moisture to evaporate and avoid the fuel sweating. Do I need a flue terminal? If it’s a twin wall system, it needs a termination fitting. This

Solutions to most chimney problems Following a rise in demand for log fires and wood burning stoves, Chichester based Colt Cowls has reported a 300% rise in sales of its chimney cowls in recent years. The company has been manufacturing chimney terminals since the 1930s and prides itself on ensuring that whenever there is a fire in the hearth there is a cowl to suit any problem that might arise. Over the years, Colt Cowls has been able to design a terminal to solve most chimney problems, including downdraught, lack of draw, rain entry and bird or vermin entry. The company also supplies a twin wall flue

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system, flexible chimney liner, vitreous enamel and stainless steel flue pipe and has just introduced a new range of flue installation accessories along with flue and stove cleaning and hearth maintenance products. All the new products are available with the company’s standard next day delivery service. For the 2015 season the

could be a rain cap style, or be an open stub. If it’s flexible liner within a chimney stack, it can have a rain cap fitted, or could be left open. Naturally the hot flue gases want to rise and escape, so any type of rain lid obstruction isn’t great for the system. Any type of approved meshed terminal on wood and solid fuel must be regularly removed and cleaned to prevent blockages, so access is required. Is an air vent needed? If the appliance is rated at 5kW or above, then regulations require an air vent into the room. If less than 5kW, then regulations do not call for a vent, but may be needed for the appliance to work efficiently. Is a CO alarm required? Yes, it is mandatory to install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in every room with a wood or multi fuel appliance. Special CO alarms with flashing lights and pillow vibration pads can now be installed for the deaf or hard of hearing. How is it best to use my appliance? You should follow the manufacturers’ instructions. Learn how the air wash vents work to keep the glass clean, etc. Never attempt long periods of slumber, (such as overnight burning), as the low flue gas temperature can damage the flue and will invalidate warranties. Always start each period of use with a roaring fire for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep the flue gas temperature at the suggested levels (a stove pipe thermometer can advise temperatures). I live in a thatched property – can I use my chimney? Different regulations exist for thatched properties, so check the HETAS thatch regulations literature. Heat transfer

from the stack to the thatch is a concern, so a distance of at least 200mm must be allowed between the thatch and flue outer. The termination height must also be 1.8m above the thatch. Will a twin wall flue get hot to touch? Yes, obviously different manufacturers products will vary, but for a ‘standard’ 25mm insulated twin wall flue on a wood burning stove, you could expect the twin wall outer to heat to temperatures in excess of 90°C. Can I burn the appliance with the stove door open? Generally no. Only a few appliances on the market allow this; the vast majority are ‘closed’ appliances, so whilst alight, the door should be kept shut, apart for refuelling. What diameter flue can I use? Refer to the manufacturers’ literature. Usually a standard small to medium sized wood stove will need 125 or 150mm diameter flue (125mm is only to be used if the appliance has Defra approval). You should not reduce the flue diameter, so a 150mm flue can not reduce down to an existing 125mm flue. Increases can occur, so long as it isn’t too much. My proposed flue route does not meet regulations. Do I have any other options? Possibly, as flue top fans can help and most flue suppliers can calculate flue resistances. However, it might be worth thinking about another position for the appliance and flue. Can I use chemical cleaners in the flue? Some chemical cleaners are approved by the flue manufacturers, but always check before using them. Chemical cleaners are not a substitute for chimney sweeping. www.specflue.co.uk

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Investment ups production

company has published a new 36 page catalogue of chimney cowls and flues in the distinctive orange and black colours for which Colt Cowls has become known. For a copy of the catalogue please enter the number below on the freepost reader enquiry card inside this issue, or visit the company’s website. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.coltcowls.com

146

Midtherm Flue Systems is a family run company that specialises in the production and distribution of Class 1 chimneys, vitreous enamel and flexible liners for the heating industry. Based in Dudley, West Midlands, the manufacturer produces flue and exhaust products for commercial and industrial applications, distributing nationwide and regularly exporting to the Middle East and Hong Kong. Last year Midtherm invested in a new roll forming machine from Germany, thought to be the first of its type in the UK. On average one thousand flue lengths in various sizes are now being manufactured daily using the new technology, increasing production by 300%.

During 2015 the company says that its design team will be working on developing a number of new products and tweaking existing ones using feedback from their customers. Contracts Engineer John Eddowes says: “We appreciate feedback from our customers, as they use our products daily. Most recently our team

have developed an SW to Flex Register Adaptor designed for an easier install, improving the installation process. Regularly developing new products allows us to be at the forefront of the industry by constantly striving for the best products with the best results.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.midtherm.co.uk

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29/01/2015 08:48

Flexible Liners

Remove the unknown with the Tecnoflex installation kit Check product fit quickly and easily Re-usable Extra Strong Extra Flexible Available now

Even with the most flexible chimney liner you sometimes don’t know what’s around the corner. The Tecnoflex Installation Kit from Schiedel Chimney Systems is the simple, cost-effective way to check for difficult to spot kinks and blockages before going to the expense of a full installation. Re-usable on all your projects and quick and easy to assemble, it’s unquestionably the best way to plan ahead. To find out more about Flexible Liners, visit us at www.schiedel.co.uk Part of the BRAAS MONIER BUILDING GROUP

EN 1856-2 TUV 0036 CPD 9195 035 ENQUIRY

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February 2015

CHIMNEYS & Flues

A natural choice for chimneys With terracotta enjoying a resurgence in popularity as the preferred material for chimney design, Paul Wydell of Hepworth Terracotta makes the case for this durable and proven heating solution.

Expertise, service & reliability Wherever you are, we’re here to bring you everything you need in a trusted partnership. Specflue combines unrivalled experience and knowledge of the market with unbiased technical and installation advice, helping you to deliver on your promises. With outstanding stock levels and free next day delivery, we’re always here when you need us.

Visit us at Ecobuild Stand N6140 RENEWABLE HEAT PRODUCTS FLUE & CHIMNEY PRODUCTS WOOD BURNING STOVES TRAINING

0800 90 20 220 01787 880 333

www.specflue.com/phams ENQUIRY

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fireplace can be a beautiful, traditional focus for the living space of a home. However, the fireplace, flue and chimney must be properly constructed to ensure that the potentially harmful products of combustion are safely vented to the outside of a building and do not pass into habitable spaces. As well as ensuring the long-term durability, structural integrity and proper functioning of a chimney, the internal components used to build it must withstand the effects of these corrosive combustion products. Equally, the external components of a chimney or flue must not only resist the assault of acids and high temperatures but also resist the effects of weather and atmospheric pollution. The prevention of rainwater penetration is important as it can increase the corrosive effects of combustion products. To ensure the correct choice of flue terminal is made, local wind conditions should also be considered in case strong downdraughts affect the efficient dispersal of flue gases.

Ideal liner A chimney’s flue liner must help maintain a warm temperature all the way up the chimney. Terracotta makes an ideal chimney

gas fires or closed heating appliances fuelled by solid fuel, gas, oil or biomass. With a range of internal flue sizes suitable for conveying flue gases from most types of heating appliance, our terracotta flues are manufactured to tight tolerances for easy and accurate assembly.

Pot luck Paul Wydell, Product Manager at Hepworth Terracotta

liner to help insulate the chimney and keep it warm, reducing the opportunity for condensation to form. Combustion by-products from burning wood tend to attach themselves to condensation, creating dangerous creosote – the leading cause of chimney fires. Also, since terracotta is a slow conductor of heat, it minimises the danger of overheating structures surrounding the lining, such as masonry and wood. At Hepworth we have over a century of expertise in harnessing these properties through the manufacture of terracotta heating solutions. Flue liners consist of a range of terracotta components that line a flue way and protect the enclosing brickwork/ masonry from the corrosive action of flue gases and moisture. They are designed to serve all types of open coal fire, decorative fuel effect

Along with flue liner terminals, chimney pots are used to terminate a flue lining above roof level. Sitting on top of a chimney, their shape allows them to perform the important function of improving fireplace draught but they also add character to homes and buildings. Resistant to frost and the freeze / thaw cycle, our chimney pots are available in a range of colours and internal sizes which are suitable for conveying flue gases from most types of heating appliances. Whether for new build or refurbishment projects, our chimney pots will enable a flexible and appropriate response to be made to the context of the building. The construction and application of both chimneys and flues are covered by UK Building Regulations in conjunction with the relevant European and British Standards. The choice of material blend means that the product meets the A1N2 requirement of BS EN 14571:2012 while the principles to create a safe and efficient flued appliance are laid down in Building Regulations Approved Document J: Combustion appliances and fuel storage systems.

Find out more To find out more about domestic flue and chimney systems from Hepworth Terracotta please visit the website or enter the number below on the freepost reader enquiry card inside this issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.hepworthterracotta.co.uk

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February 2015

WHAT’S New 53 Heating harmony with dynamic valve Recover energy from flue gasses

With a 2-in-1 design, the new Dynamic Valve from Danfoss is said to deliver optimal temperature control and automatic hydronic balancing of two-pipe heating systems in a single product. Designed for installation at the radiator, this product combines a thermostatic radiator valve (TRV) with a built-in differential pressure controller. The latter eliminates pressure fluctuations, uneven heat distribution and high levels of energy waste. Described as offering trouble-free installation and faster commissioning, the valve is suitable when installing or commissioning a heating system for a refurbishment or new build project, and its hydronic balancing contributes to increased energy efficiency

and user comfort. It reduces heat loss and provides full control of the system delta T, resulting in better boiler performance. Furthermore, less water circulates through the system, making it possible to optimise pump settings or reduce pump size. A small, built-in differential

pressure controller ensures constant pressure across the control valve. Using an industry-standard 1 to 7+N scale, each valve can be set to any maximum flow between 25-135 litres per hour. Once the valves are installed and commissioned to the correct preset value, normal pressure

fluctuations no long affect flow through the radiators. The system balance cannot be disrupted, even if building occupants adjust the radiator thermostat or valve settings. The valve is said to offer a cost-effective alternative to the company’s ASV valves and provide an economic choice for a wide range of buildings using two-pipe radiator systems. Summing up, Danfoss Marketing Director Bjorn Sejr Nielsen says: “With fewer components that need dimensioning and no Kv or authority calculations, our new 2-in-1 Danfoss Dynamic Valve is a quick and easy way to achieve the benefits of automatic balancing in two-pipe heating systems under all load conditions.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.heating.danfoss.co.uk

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Fan is quiet and economical to run With the private and social housing sector in mind, Airf low Developments has launched the high performance iCONstant, a decentralised mechanical extract ventilation (dMEV) fan. It is a continuously running axial fan using an electronic flow sensor to ensure that installed performance is maintained and that user adjustable air flow rates remain constant. Quiet in operation, the fan achieves noise levels from just 10 dB(A) and is said

to be economical to run, providing annual running costs of a little over £1 per year on its lowest speed. It features a 24V DC motor, drawing 1.07W at 6 litres/

sec and low Specific Fan Power rating, which meets SAP Appendix Q eligibility requirements. A humidity sensor activates to provide preventative ventilation in advance of moisture forming on cold surfaces. There is also a ‘Self Proving’ diagnostic sequence, so in the unlikely event of a fan failure an LED warning light illuminates behind the cover. The iCONstant is said to be the only IPX5 rated fan on the market that can

be both wall and ceiling mounted in new build or retrofits. Steve Bergh, Product Manager at Airflow, says: “Quite simply, iCONstant is the most outstanding dMEV fan available today and represents the quietest, most highly specified, low running cost fan for continuous ventilation. It is an ideal solution for RSLs to prevent the degradation of their housing stock.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.airflow.com

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EcoFlo is Worcester’s new flue gas heat recovery unit, developed to address the requirements of specifiers and housebuilders for a cost effective method of achieving SAP target emissions rates. The EcoFlo works by connecting to the flue outlet of an eligible Greenstar boiler and extracting residual energy from the flue gases using a bespoke heat exchanger. This energy is then used to pre-warm the water that is fed into the combi boiler, reducing the amount of gas required to reach the desired hot water temperature. The device is said to deliver benefits for the specifier, installer and end user. Thanks to enhanced efficiency levels, the installation of an EcoFlo may lead to lower fuel bills. With no additional training required, the device is installed as a simple accessory. EcoFlo is compatible with Worcester’s latest range of Greenstar CDi Compact and Greeenstar Si Compact boilers. It is only suitable for use with Condensfit II 60/100mm flues, and the maximum flue length permitted for the boiler should be reduced by 3m when an EcoFlo is fitted. Worcester has also developed a new high level horizontal telescopic flue kit.

The 60/100mm kit consists of the flue and a 900 elbow. “The popularity of Flue Gas Heat Recovery units has grown over the last year, largely as the technology was one of the 12 measures eligible for Green Deal funding. However, it can also improve SAP ratings on new build installations,” says Worcester’s Martyn Bridges. “We hope this product will open up new business ventures for installers as homeowners seek out opportunities through the Green Deal.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

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Hydronic module is on trend Simplify CO and fire safety With the launch of its new hydronic module, Stiebel Eltron says it has significantly reduced the installation time on its range of air source heat pumps. The HM Trend is a pre-plumbed and pre-wired hydronic module which links the hot water cylinder to the heat pump. The module incorporates the controller, 24 litre expansion vessel and 3-2 way diverter valve. Made from sheet steel with an EPP insulation core, it has been created for internal wall mounting. Mark McManus, MD of Stiebel Eltron, comments: “The HM Trend is our latest initiative which aims to

53 (WAS 57).indd 1

make the installation of Stiebel Eltron heat pumps even easier for our installers. The development of the HM Trend will make the installation process

seamless, significantly reducing the installation time of the heat pump – allowing installers to plug and play.” Stiebel Eltron has also recently launched its Installer Packs and Internet Service Gateway. The Installer Packs make it easy for installers to decide which of its air source heat pump products would work best for a particular project. The Internet Service Gateway allows domestic users to adjust the settings of their ground or air source heat pumps. They can do this on their smartphones, tablets or desktop PCs. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.stiebel-eltron.co.uk

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With the launch of the Sona range, Sprue Safety Products is offering a simple way to specify and install fire and carbon monoxide systems. The range comprises three alarms – smoke, heat and carbon monoxide (CO) – with a control unit, diagnostic capability and wireless options to offer full protection in a single, low-cost system. Thermoptek technology built into the smoke alarm combines optical sensing with thermal enhancement, providing fast reaction to both slow smouldering and fast flaming fires in a single alarm. Its resistance to false alarms also makes the units less likely to be

removed by the user. This sensing technology removes the confusion between ionisation or optical sensors and what type of alarm to fit and where, making specification easier. The Class A1 heat alarm features sensing technology that monitors the rate of temperature increase to alert occupants to the danger of fire quicker. The Wi-Safe 2 option removes

the need for channelling and trunking, allowing wireless interlinking of up to 50 alarms in a single network within seconds. The 10-year batterypowered alarm incorporates an electrochemical sensor and is resistant to false alarms. The control unit, also battery powered, completes the Sona product suite. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.sonasafety.com

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February 2015

COMPETITION

Win

a Triton

shower

and get in the fast lane! Five chances to win a Triton T80Z Fast-Fit shower – plus a £200 Virgin Experience Day voucher Triton’s T80Z Fast-Fit has continued to hold its own as the original and best replacement electric shower on the market. Providing installers with the ideal retrofit shower, the T80Z Fast-Fit has become Triton’s best selling product thanks to its array of innovative features. The T80Z Fast-Fit is the eighth generation of Triton’s T80 range and the expanding product family is evidence of the company’s commitment to provide installers with a quality replacement electric shower supported by excellent customer service. Installers can confidently recommend the T80Z Fast-Fit to suit a wide range of sites and customer requirements. The latest T80Z Fast-Fit models incorporate both ‘Swing-Fit’ and ‘Swivel-Fit’ technology providing eight water entry points and six electric cable entry points to eliminate installation challenges caused by existing pipework or cabling. Additionally the sleek unit, available in either chrome or white, has a large footprint so it can be positioned neatly over existing holes for an attractive finish and used to replace any electric shower – even competitor shower models.

The Prize One lucky reader will win the main prize of a Virgin Experience Day voucher worth £200 plus a Triton T80Z Fast-Fit 8.5kW electric shower in white. Four runners-up will each receive a Triton T80Z Fast-Fit 8.5kW model in white.

How to Enter

Simply read the question below and then write your answer on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this month’s issue. So, for example, if you think the answer is ‘four’, you should write 101 on the card. Only one entry will be allowed per person and the winner will be drawn from all the correct entries received before the closing date of 2nd March 2015.

How many electrical cable entry points does the T80Z Fast-Fit have? Four....................101 Five.....................102 Six......................103

Find Out More

For more information on Triton’s range of electric showers, visit

www.tritonshowers.co.uk Also download Triton’s free of charge smartphone app for handy tips and advice whilst on the go or, for the latest promotions and information, follow @tritonshowers on Twitter or like TritonShowers on Facebook.

54 (WAS 58).indd 1

WHat’s New Minimalist chic for designer look The flat-fronted Niva Stainless by Vasco is now available from MHS Radiators. This model is characterised by a minimalist appearance, with an optional aluminium towel rail also available. The new radiator measures 1820 x 520mm and blends in with any modern interior, plus its slender design ensures comfortable levels of heat can be supplied from the slimmest of wall spaces. Equally at home in a kitchen or bathroom, the Niva Stainless offers heat outputs up to 1.6kW, operates up to 10bar and benefits

from a 10 year guarantee as standard. Commenting on the new radiator, Gareth Charles, National Sales Manager at MHS Radiators, says: “The Niva Stainless is a fine addition to our range of designer radiators. Its brushed finish lends itself well to the range’s distinctive and sophisticated style, while its steel structure ensures longevity and versatility.” Niva Stainless is part of MHS Radiators’ extensive collection of designer, multicolumn and traditional radiators and towel rails.

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www.mhsradiators.com

Infrared tap Pipe comes in has benefits handy packs New from Bristan is an infrared timed flow tap range designed to offer a costeffective, entry-level non-touch option for light commercial applications. It saves water by switching on when a human presence is detected and staying on for a set amount of time. The non-touch mechanism alleviates the risk of cross-contamination, making the range suitable for use in commercial premises seeking to optimise hygiene levels and ensure duty of care to the public. The new taps are designed for a quick plug-and-play install, without the need for earthing. www.specifybristan.com

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Mibec, an independent supplier of preinsulated pipes for district heating applications, has added an Easy-Pack kit that gives flexibility when needed for use on a single, small scale insulated pipe project. It comes in pre-cut pipe coils of 10, 15, 20 or 25m lengths together with pipe couplings, dust-caps and fitting instructions, and is suitable for biomass or thermal storage, AD or biogas systems. www.mibec.co.uk

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Biomass at home in gardens Aiming at the domestic market, Euroheat has launched a small version of its Energy Cabin. The company says the ‘size 1’ version gives customers looking to take advantage of the domestic RHI a hasslefree and speedy way to install a biomass boiler. This total biomass system includes pellet or split log boilers, accumulator and fuel store. It is delivered ready to plumb and wire in its own ‘house’. Resembling a well-built garden shed, the Energy Cabin 1 has a small footprint and can fit discretely into most

back gardens. It arrives on site ready to connect to existing heating and hot water facilities, providing a reduction in installation time that takes days rather than weeks to fit and commission the system. Available in a range of external finishes with a

heat output between 10 and 30kW, the Energy Cabin 1 is suitable for applications in small homes up to light commercial properties, making it a viable solution for businesses as well as domestic dwellings. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.euroheat.co.uk

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February 2015

RHI is driving demand for Renewables

WHat’s New

Get MCS approved and oﬀer heat producing renewable technologies

TMV 3 and 2 in one device Pegler Yorkshire has unveiled a new thermostatic mixing valve range that conveniently combines both TMV3 and TMV2 capabilities in one single device. Traditionally, the company makes antiscald valves with enhanced performance for the healthcare market (Type 3) and a separate valve for general and domestic applications (Type 2). The new more compact Pegler PEG402 series of valves meet the requirements of BS and EN standards, are WRAS

approved and have the BuildCert certificate for both TMV3 and TMV2 schemes. Product Market Manager

Barrie Plant says: “The availability of our PEG402 thermostatically controlled anti-scald valves meet the needs of hospitals, care homes and domestic markets in a combined valve. Commissioning the valves differs depending on the application, so an installation instruction and user guide is included with each valve, explaining the installation, commissioning and servicing regime for both TMV3 and TMV2 requirements.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

159

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

Replace left sided showers with Mira Made for both new build installations and for replacing ‘left-handed’ Mira electric showers, the latest generation of Vie electric showers from Mira Showers features a wholly redesigned shower engine and casing that simplifies installation. Now the top fixing point for the casing is outside the seal and the fixing slots are easy to access, while a plastic stub connect replaces the swivel connector found in the previous model so

there is far more room in which to work. The Vie also benefits from Clearscale technology, which reduces limescale by up to 50% and can double the shower’s working life. The DualElement heater tank has two heating elements that are wrapped around each other so that the heat is distributed more evenly. Although intended as an entry-level electric shower, the Vie comes complete with pressure stabilized

Say goodbye to bubbles The Inta-Vent Daerator by Inta extracts air bubbles from sealed heating systems using a powerful vortex filtration system. It has been designed to address the common problems in commercial and domestic heating appliances, such as noisy pipes, increased wear on system components, cold spots in radiators and corrosion. The filter works by forcing water in the system to pass through a tight coil of stainless steel mesh, generating a vortex within the filter body. This action exposes and captures micro bubbles, which then combine and rise before being discharged. The device also increases fuel efficiency by ensuring systems are operating within optimum conditions, increasing both their longevity and day-to-day performance. With a sturdy solid brass construction, it’s available in 22 and 28mm and is said to be quick and easy to fit, with full 360° installation. www.intatec.co.uk

ENQUIRY No.

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temperature control to maintain the temperature selected. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.mirashowers.co.uk

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Pumping up the pressure A solution to low mains water pressure issues in residential buildings has been developed as a complete, compact modular package by DAB Pumps. The NBB Booster Box pressurizes potable water in residential applications and can be set up and installed in a variety of ways to suit the needs of the building and its occupants. Its installer friendly, modular components include a WRAS approved 280 litre tank, choices of a submersible or surface mounted pump, both of which can be fixed speed or a more energy efficient variable speed pump. The range also includes a twin pump duty standby option and a tank extension kit. The dimensions of the Booster Box have been designed to be as compact as possible, with a height of 895mm, depth of 747m and width of 581mm, making the product easier to site. www.dabpumps.co.uk

ENQUIRY No.

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Sponsors of

Technical Tips VOLTAGE OPTIMISATION Combining technologies such as voltage optimistation (VO) with Solar PV can deliver energy savings for homeowners and a profitable income for installers. Mick Greensmith, National Sales Manager of VO4, explains how the two technologies can work together. What is VO technology? A VO unit is designed to reduce the voltage entering a site to address the imbalance between the voltage supplied by the National Grid, often as high as 242V, and the voltage required by modern electrical appliances and equipment, which operate efficiently at 220V. VO technology has been used in larger business premises for several years now. This easy to install and maintain technology has proven its ability to significantly reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions and wear and tear on electrical appliances. Is this technology available for smaller businesses? Until recently these benefits were only being enjoyed by larger businesses operating from sizable premises. However, VO4 has now taken this tried-and-tested technology and adapted it for use in smaller business premises. It’s also extremely popular in the domestic market. These systems are offered in both single phase and 3-phase units, up to 100A per phase. The 3-phase units are ideal for businesses with an annual energy use of up to 300,000kWh (or electricity bills of up to £30,000), such as convenience stores, hotels, pubs, restaurants offices and even healthcare facilities. All VO4 products adhere to the current wiring regulations and will comply with amendment 3 when this comes into force. What savings can a client expect? The installation of a VO4 unit can reduce energy consumption by an average of 10 to 12%. This can save a business thousands of pounds a year. It also equates to an impressive 0.5kg of CO2 saved for every kWh used. For example, a business that uses 10,000kWh per annum could save up to 1000kWh each year, a reduction of 500kg in carbon emissions. Is VO technology compatible with other green technologies? The installation of a VO unit does not have to be seen as an alternative to other green technologies, such as solar PV or wind power, because it is complementary. By offering a range of technologies that work together, all bringing additional benefits, installers now have so much more to offer their clients. In fact, the installation of both VO and Solar PV systems not only delivers greater

financial, environmental and operational benefits, but it also solves one of the main challenges faced by solar PV systems. No longer does the inverter need to step up the voltage to above the existing mains supply to allow the electricity generated through the Solar PV system to be fed into the National Grid. This requirement has always placed unnecessary strain on appliances and equipment through high and fluctuating voltages as well as nullifying the revenues generated from the Feed-In Tariffs. Instead a VO unit will ensure that energy supplied by the Solar PV system is used first and then it will intelligently control the amount of electricity imported from the grid How does this benefit customers? By combining several green technologies a customer can enjoy a greater reduction in payback periods and improved return on investment. They will lower their energy consumption, and as a result their energy bills and environmental impact, whilst also being less reliant on the National Grid. Electrical appliances and equipment will also be protected from high and fluctuating voltages and the potentially detrimental impact of power surges, which can cause product failure. This can be especially problematic for businesses that require a constant and reliable power supply, night and day, such as healthcare facilities or hotels. Through the provision of a constant voltage the lifespan of electrical equipment will be extended and maintenance requirements reduced. This gives additional savings to the client. All these benefits can be achieved without any change in behaviour or compromise in working conditions or living standards, and it’s not necessary to change your energy supplier. By offering customers the opportunity to install a VO unit at the same time as solar PV, installers can give their customer a much better deal, helping them reduce their energy consumption, carbon emissions and provide protection from power surges for their electrical equipment. The work only adds an hour to the overall installation time so it really is a ‘win-win’ opportunity for everyone. For more information on voltage optimistaion please visit: wwwVO4home.com

Discuss aﬀordable monthly payments with our fully trained team Give them a call today on

02380 517 069 55 (WAS 51).indd 1

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February 2015

WHat’s New

Put a stop to mould Adjustable control on tubular heater growth in the home The distinguishing feature of Dimplex’s range of tubular heaters is its adjustable thermostatic control, which the company says delivers low-cost background heating and frost protection without the need for continuous operation. Suitable for domestic and commercial applications, the range includes six models from one foot (40W) to six foot (240W). Each has a dedicated frost setting, only

A new mould removal treatment that is claimed to be highly effective at preventing future mould growth in homes has been launched by ventilation specialist Envirovent. Mould Guard Plus kills microbes within minutes of contact by permeating into the walls of a property. It also prevents mould returning for up to 90 days, giving the homeowner or tenant time to provide a permanent solution to their mould issue through effective ventilation. Available in easy to use 750ml spray bottles, the product is formulated from a combination of biocides and antimicrobial technology. It is safe to use without protective clothing and can be used on any plastered, painted, wallpapered or timber surface.

“Most other mould treatments currently available are based on combinations of bleach, caustic soda and detergents, which wash away and kill surface moulds, but do not prevent further mould growth,” says Phil Harrison from EnviroVent. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.mouldguardplus.com

Tectite Sprint, the metal push-fit plumbing system from Pegler Yorkshire, is now available in three new sizes: 35, 42 and 54mm. They have been added to the existing options of 15, 22 and 28mm. Designed to be as slim and attractive as possible, the copper and brass jointing system consists of only a handful of components. It

163

Break

for chance to win £50 cash Beauty Wordsearch

Beauty Wordsearch Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?

Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?

A J S N N L E P E N I D N A L W C S

E I S I A K N H E V S E O Y A S T A N G E G A T S A E L B S T U L L I A P U C I Z S R E G E P S W C M L M U L T L E A C T E T T E M T I G R R S C I G A Q E K A H I N H R H H L I C A L U O H W M X N L N S O Baking L GWordsearch M B N

N E S N N N O G R O I O S S M E E I

F N L A T C I S N V A A U R I T S M

Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?

S E P E E E E M I S G G E I N G T B

R E M R

M I L L N O X L L E A D

N H E V Advantage O S T I N G E T Allure S A E K T U T L Attraction V N R I E O O E W C L I Beauty L T L S T U I T Charm T V N R E I G E Cosmetics K A P I

Baking Biscuits Bread Butter Cakes Dough

A S U M B A Z P R I E R Q O R H N B

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N E S I N N I G R T I D U S M T E I

Eggs Flour Icing Knead Oven Pastry

F N I T P S T S U V A O O R I T S M

G L B Y A T E R A O L M B N M A S D

R P O S S L E S A F M D A X B I O A

E D L W T T L N I Y E S K N E A D W

G L X V E T E Y A B F M A R M K S D

T P O D T L H S E N M D M X C I O S

R D L A T T R A C T I O N A A M L W

O H A I E R U I H N T E R S K E T P

F H T U R T G K A C M G T S D E E N

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Last Month’s S E U E Keats Winner Elegance A F L S E I L G and Answers Make-up Fashion Y O H D R Y O I Winner: Mr J DentModels from Sheffield Glamour F U O S G T A U Baking Eggs V I H G Pulchritude Rolling-pin Glory Biscuits Flour Souffle C B E A Bread Icing Sugar M U L R Skincare Grace Q L O L Butter Knead Temperature N G I U Cakes Oven Trays Truth Harmony S S S P Dough Pastry Yeast

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Rolling-pin Souffle Sugar Temperature Trays Yeast

Word not in the grid: Biscuits

Please email your answer, including your name and address to: info@phamnews.co.uk The closing date for the February 2015 issue will be 23/02/2015

Missing word - Biscuits

56 (WAS 60).indd 1

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

164

www.dimplex.co.uk

requires no hot work, flux or specialist tooling, making it clean, simple and up to two and a half times faster

to install than traditional joints. Rotatable joints make the system suitable for use in tight spaces and awkward corners, as do the compact design and low profile. Electrical continuity is assured by a continuity clip or a grab ring (depending on the size). Commenting on the latest

release, Tectite Product Manager Janette Henwood says: “Not only is it a robust, high-performance system with a long working life, but it is also quick and easy to install. Thanks to the new sizes introduced by Pegler Yorkshire, more contractors than ever can benefit.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

165

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

The power of the magnet

Take a

S S K I N C A R E W A L I S N G T R

which makes it suitable for use in greenhouses, and a linking kit is also available

Tackle more applications with new sizes

PHAM NEWS WORDSEARCH No.171

A J S N E L E P E N I D N A L W C Y

powering the product when the temperature is very low. Each heater is IPX4 rated,

for the banking and wiring of multiple heaters. They are also suitable for garages, cupboards and caravans. Dimplex’s Shaun Hurworth says: “The addition of a fully adjustable thermostat with added frost protection setting will ensure lower running costs and more efficient use, with an unbeatable payback period of less than 12 months.”

Now available from City Plumbing Supplies is the Boss Magnetic Filter. Designed to extract and dissolve all sludge and iron residue, the new filter can be used in all heating systems and installed on pipework in any position. For best results, it is recommended that the product be installed on the return leg of the system, between the last radiator and the boiler. The filter can withstand temperatures of up to 90ºC and working pressures of 3bar and includes a fully removable magnet to ensure a simple cleaning and maintenance service.

Available with 22mm and 28mm connections and carrying a two year guarantee, the Boss Magnetic Filter is described as a hard-wearing and reliable product that will extend the boiler’s lifespan and ensure the system operates smoothly. This is also said to reduce homeowner expenditure on boiler servicing fees. To find out more, enter the number below on the reader enquiry and registration card inside this month’s issue. www.cityplumbing.co.uk

ENQUIRY No.

166

Italian design in the home The Samoa and Diapason radiators from Aestus are part of the Designer Italian collection by Graziano. The Samoa vertical radiator (pictured) features visually strong lines and 20mm square heating tubes, creating an eye catching focal point in any contemporary setting, whereas the subtle Diapason vertical design complements a minimalist aesthetic with 16mm tubes. Samoa is available in white, anthracite, quartz and ancient bronze and measures H 1800 x 96 x 56 mm. Diapason comes in white and is available in three widths measuring 300, 450 and 600mm. Each model had a height of 1800mm and a depth of 49mm. Both designs are suitable for closed circuit systems and come with a 10 year guarantee. Samoa retails from £646.80 including VAT and Diapason is priced from £184.80 including VAT.

www.aestus.co.uk

ENQUIRY No.

167

29/01/2015 10:37

February 2015

WHat’s New

RECRUITMENT

Colour coded lever New to the Reliance Water Controls (RWC) product portfolio is a range of nickelplated lever ball valves. They are distinguished by easy-to-use lever handles which are colour coded to designate usage, and the range is available in ¼–2in FBSP (rated to PN40), or 15–54mm compression connections (rated to PN25). With 36 options, there is a ball

www.rwc.co.uk

valve for even the trickiest of plumbing requirements. The ball valves are fully WRAS approved. This new range also sees the company’s first product for use in gas installations, as the yellow handle ball valve is EN33 CE compliant. Koert Munnik, Commercial Director at RWC, comments: “We are pleased to be extending our flow control solutions to the gas market this year. We are always looking at how our product s benefit our customers, offering this product for both water and gas is an exciting step for RWC.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

168

VAILLANT GROUP Vaillant Group are the global leader in heating technology, employing over 8,200 people across Europe. The UK established brands include Vaillant and Glow-worm. Due to continued business growth, opportunities now exist for suitably qualified and experienced Gas Service Engineers.

We are currently focusing our recruitment in the following areas: Inner M25 along with S, SO, TA & PO Post Codes. However, national applications will also be considered for any future vacancies that may arise.

How suite it is!

Applicants will be expected to have a minimum of three years service/breakdown experience in the heating industry and hold ACS qualifications elements CCN1, CEN1 & WAT1.

Now available from Lecico are the Senner and Roxton, part of its Style Collection. Senner (pictured) is a contemporary collection with a soft square design. The range comprises a choice of 43, 54 and 60cm basins with one or two tap holes and full pedestal. A 54cm semi-recessed basin is available for furniture installations. The close coupled WC is offered in a round or square design (or a

Fault-finding skills and a basic electrical knowledge would also be a requirement. However, comprehensive and continuous training will be provided for all successful candidates.

square wall mounted option). The ceramic cistern offers a dual 6/4 litre or 4/2.6 litre water saving flush. The Victorian styled Roxton features period detailing on the basin and stepped design around the rim. The collection includes a 53cm two tap hole basin with full pedestal, and a low level or close coupled pan option. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.lecico.co.uk

Working in the Group Service team you will enjoy excellent career prospects, as well as an attractive remuneration package as follows: • Basic Salary - £31,488 - £34,781 (dependant on area) (OTE £46,781 in Inner M25) • Life assurance, medical cover and pension option • 33 days annual holiday (including statutory days) You will also be provided with a fully equipped company vehicle (with private use), tools, work wear and all mobile communication devices. If you consider yourself to be a team player who cares about customer service, then please email - recruitment@groupservice.co.uk

169

DIRECTORY Controls

Controls

Magnetic Filters

Underfloor Heating

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www.idhee.org.uk The professional body We are not a trade association, and we the the Domestic require our members to be qualified through Heating Engineer. recognised forms of study and achievement. IDHEE

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www.idhee.org.uk We are not a trade association, and we require our members to be qualified through recognised forms of study and achievement. 29/01/2015 18:52

February 2015

58 DIRECTORY Training & Assessment

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Training

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Get ‘quids in’ this New Year!

For all your Construction and Building Services training choose Central Sussex College. Get 20% OFF short courses at our fully equipped training facility in Crawley, when booked by 31 March 2015 and taken by 31 May 2015 (excludes AM2).

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ENQUIRY

ACS Domestic Gas

OFTEC Oil

BPEC Water Regs

Electrical (17 Ed, 2394/5/6)

Plumbing

PAT Testing

Solar PV/Solar Thermal

Unvented

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CENTRAL SUSSEX COLLEGE

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HYCO

Advertiser’s Index

GOTEC

ENQUIRY

• • • •

Domestic Core & Appliances Non-Domestic & Appliances Commercial Core Catering & Appliances Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG)

SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD

DIRECTORY & INFO FEB 2015.indd 3

ACV UK Ltd Adey Innovation LLP Advance Appliances Ltd Anglo Nordic Burner Products Ltd ATAG Heating UK Ltd Baxi Heating UK Ltd BES Ltd CMR Controls Ltd Conex Universal Ltd Draper Tools Ltd Drayton Controls Ecobuild 2015 Firebird Heating Solutions Ltd Ford Motor Company Geberit Sales Ltd

18 5 17 43 12 25 1 16 37 23 20, 21 42 44 2 24

Schiedel Chimney Systems Ltd (Rite Vent) 51 Screwfix 60 22 Smith's Environmental Products Ltd Specflue Ltd 30, 52 Stiebel Eltron UK Ltd 35 Tacotherm (UK) Ltd 28 Talon Manufacturing Ltd 48 Viessmann Ltd 31 Warmup plc 19 Westco 11 Wilo (UK) Ltd 33 Windhager UK 27 26 Wolseley (Plumb Center) Worcester Bosch Group 7 Wunda Group plc 15

Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd 45 Intergas Heating Ltd 36 John Guest Speedfit Ltd 34 Johnson & Starley Ltd 29 Kamco Ltd 10 MV Fluids Handling Ltd 3 Messe Frankfurt GmbH - ISH 6 Mitsubishi Electric Europe 46 Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd 13 Polypipe 9 QMSA 4 32 Ridge Tool UK Rems Werk Inserts Salamander Pumped Shower Systems Ltd 8 Saniflo Ltd 39

•

OFTEC Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e 600a)

•

Swimming Pool Boilers

•

Renewable Energy Courses

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Unvented Domestic Hot Water/ Legionella/Water Regulations

•

LPG & LPG Generators

•

Courses designed for your specific needs

•

Electrical Part P & City & Guilds Electrical Courses

•

Static, Touring Caravans & Boats

•

Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266

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29/01/2015 19:06

February 2015

INFORMATION Centre 59 MASSIVE DISCOUNTS

Central Heating combination boilers fault finding & repair

on Electrical Products at

1000’s of items at Below Trade Prices!

John Reginald has released his easy to read, easy to understand book that takes the reader through the background and operation of each major component within combi boilers past and present. The comprehensive fault finding logic guides provide professional solutions helping you to achieve professional standards. Priced at £26 inc P&P www.combiboilerrepair.co.uk Also available from High Street and Online Book Stores COPPER JOB

ENQUIRY

371

Biomass Heating CIBSE's guide to biomass heating (AM15) is available as a free download to members and non-members of the Institution. The guide provides fundamental engineering principles and practices necessary to design, install and operate safe, effective and economic biomass systems. It covers biomass boilers with outputs from 50kW to 5MW burning wood chips or wood pellets. AM15 is just one title from a range of publications belonging to CIBSE. Members can download any title for FREE with membership starting from as little as £9.83 a month. For more information visit www.cibse.org/knowledge CIBSE

ENQUIRY

372

Toolstation launches Crown Contract Paints in New Catalogue

TOOLSTATION

ENQUIRY

373

Celebrating 30 years with a brand new website and 60 new products Dickie Dyer's 30th Anniversary Dickie Dyer is proud to introduce 60 additional quality product lines at great prices to celebrate 30 years of premium service. Details of these products can be seen on our brand new website. The additional products complement an already broad range of specialist plumbing tools and consumable products. Please keep checking our website for further updates. Visit our new website www.dickiedyer.com DICKIE DYER

ENQUIRY

374

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IDHEE

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375

QVS ELECTRICAL WHOLESALE

ENQUIRY

379

Snickers XTR Shield – Redefining Modern Workwear

New website for JG Speedfit

The pioneering XTR Shield Jackets, Trousers and Kneepads are super-light working clothes that act as a lightweight protective shield around your body, allowing you to move seamlessly between indoor and outdoor work. With advanced technology fabrics, these clothes deliver great comfort and limitless functionality. Check out this amazing workwear – you’ll be able to count on superior protection all day, every day, all year round! For more information call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788, checkout the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk or enter the PHAM No.

JG Speedfit are delighted to announce the launch of their brand new website. speedfit.co.uk is now easily accessible from a mobile phone or a tablet and is full of installation videos, showing how to best use JG Speedfit's products. The website reflects the company's philosophy of making the life of the installer a lot easier as speedfit.co.uk now has more examples of best installation practices, technical advice and product specification. To find our more visit the website www.speedfit.co.uk or enter the PHAM No.

SNICKERS

ENQUIRY

376

Saniflo unveils new website for Kinedo

Toolstation has launched an exclusive new range of Crown Contract paints in the new Toolstation catalogue 58. Look out too for 10% off radiators, a new range of Stuart Turner shower pumps and macerators and an enhanced range of Milwaukee power tools. To see all the latest prices and over 200 new products, pick up the new Catalogue 58 from one of Toolstation’s 180 plus sales counters across the UK, or order on freephone 0808 100 7211, on “mobile friendly” 0330 333 3303, or at www.toolstation.com or enter the PHAM No.

CALL FOR A

‘AURA’ 4 inch Shower Fan with Integral Low Voltage Light Fitting

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NEW Catalogue From Colt Cowls Available Now!

Saniflo has unveiled a new website for its popular range of Kinedo shower cubicles. The website includes information about the new Kineprime and the new Kinemagic designs of Serenity, Style and Design. Other features include a new Testimonial section, installation manuals, and a section which compares the time to install a Kinedo cubicle versus the time to install a shower enclosure with tray and 1 tiles. For further informationpham_JAN15_copycat-1.indd visit www.kinedo.co.uk In addition the Kinemagic website offers information specifically for the Kinemagic range www.kinemagic.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. SANIFLO

JG SPEEDFIT

ENQUIRY

377

380

Better Quality Better Value

The new 36 page catalogue of chimney cowls and flues in the distinctive orange and black colours for which Colt Cowls has become known and instantly recognised is now available.

Prices reduced on many products

Colt Cowls + Flues

The Chimney Cowl range is available from Builders Merchants, Fireplace Centres and many hardware shops throughout the country.

2015

Trade Terms Booklet available 0870 241 1041

The new catalogue can be obtained by calling Head Office on 0870 241 1041 visit www.coltcowls.com or enter the PHAM No. COLT COWLS

ENQUIRY

381

Hultafors Tools New Product Catalogue

New Residential Heating Control Selection Guide

This full colour brochure is now available FREE to professional tradesmen around the UK. It’s packed with details of loads of innovative Hand Tools and accessories for working effectively wherever you are on site. Everything you find in the Hultafors Tools range bears the hallmarks of a company that has over 100 years experience in knowing what it takes to get a job done efficiently, effectively and safely and proof of Hultafors’ quality and innovation can be found in every Hand Tool. For more information on Hultafors Tools range call the Helpline on 01484 854788 check out www.hultafors.co.uk and download a digital catalogue or enter the PHAM No.

Siemens Building Technologies has introduced a new selection guide for its wide range of residential heating controls. The products include: n Time controls n Programmable room thermostats n Wireless thermostats n Cylinder, pipe and frost thermostats n Motorised valves n Thermostatic radiator and by-pass valves

HULTAFORS

ENQUIRY

378

The new publication also includes a product interchange wiring guide to aid more efficient and timely installation. For more information visit: www.siemens.co.uk/buildingtechnologies SIEMENS

ENQUIRY

382

Features appearing in MARCH 2015 issue

Radiators & Towel Warmers

DIRECTORY & INFO FEB 2015.indd 4

Heat Pumps

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