Volume 54 | Issue 3 | March 2016
Research highlights the issue of indoor air quality
Best foot forward Treat your feet to a new pair of safety footwear
A recent report has raised concerns about the health risks of potentially harmful pollutants in the home, including open fires and gas heaters, highlighting the need for improved ventilation. Exposure to indoor air pollution from household products is causing health problems and putting lives at risk, says a new report by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). The report claims that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) could have caused or contributed to 99,000 deaths across Europe in just one year. Air pollution has been linked to cancer, asthma, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and dementia. The report also points out that unborn and young children are particularly susceptible to air pollution and suggests that the drive to reduce energy costs by creating homes with tighter ventilation could be making the situation worse. It points to emissions from faulty boilers, gas cookers and heaters as well as irritant chemicals from new furniture, air fresheners and household cleaning products as contributing to rising health problems inside well-sealed buildings. House dust
mites, mould and dander from pets can also damage health. Wood burning stoves are also claimed to release a significant number of polluting particles. Demand for such stoves is said to have tripled over the last five years, but research suggests that although they are viewed as being environmentally friendly, they may be worse than gas when it comes to air quality. It is estimated that in London nearly 10% of wintertime particle pollution
comes from wood burning, with the fumes also leaking into neighbouring properties. The report’s findings have been welcomed by BESA (the Building Engineering Services Association). The Association’s Head of Sustainability, David Frise, comments: “The building engineering services industry has been waiting a long time for the medical profession to acknowledge the seriousness of the air quality problem inside buildings. There is no shortage of research looking at outdoor pollution, but as the situation worsens outside, so does the impact on human health inside where we spend 90% of our time. “Building engineering services contractors have a range of techniques available for mitigating the impact of poor IAQ – what we need now is compelling evidence to encourage building owners and managers to face up to their responsibilities in this area. “This new report and follow-up research may be just what we have been waiting for.”
Several major bodies in the UK heating industry have joined forces to urge the Chancellor to roll out a countrywide boiler replacement scheme. The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC), The Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC), the Federation of Petroleum Suppliers (FPS), and the UK LPG Association (UKLPG) have written to George Osborne calling for him to introduce such a scheme in this month’s Budget. The organisations have welcomed the introduction of the London Boiler Cashback Scheme (see page 4) and in a letter to the Chancellor they have outlined the case for a similar initiative to be introduced across England to encourage the replacement of
ageing, standard efficiency boilers. With close to 19 million homes in England heated by gas, over 800,000 heated by oil and a further 200,000 by LPG, and an estimated 60% of these boilers (11.9 million) in need of replacement, it is claimed that a new boiler incentive scheme would have huge potential for carbon savings and also help consumers to reduce their fuel bills. OFTEC’s Chairman Nick Hawkins comments: “Boiler replacement is an approach that OFTEC has championed for a long time and one which we know works following similar schemes previously run in the UK and still running in Northern Ireland. “We believe Boris Johnson’s London
initiative will be fully subscribed well before the April closing date, especially with manufacturers offering to support the scheme by offering similar price reductions, which demonstrates strong consumer demand for this simple, cost-effective idea.” HHIC Director Stewart Clements adds: “A universal boiler replacement scheme would make a significant contribution to tackling three difficult problems simultaneously: making domestic heating more climate friendly, cutting fuel bills, and reducing the number of cold related health issues which contribute to the unacceptable level of excess winter deaths occurring each year, especially amongst the elderly.”
See page 58
Cosier kids Industry unites behind new boiler scheme at the club
The Evolution of Heating
Members of the Double Six Youth Club in Sheffield have struck it lucky thanks to a new heating and hot water system donated by Potterton Commercial and sister company Andrews Water Heaters. After responding to an appeal to help reduce the club’s spiralling heating bills, the two Baxi Commercial companies arranged for the installation of a Sirus Two 60kW boiler and a FASTflo condensing 56kW water heater. Double Six celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and, according to club volunteer Richard Hay, the donations have helped to give it a new lease of life.
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March 2016
NEWS Review Inside this issue Growing water
Editor’s Viewpoint
saving market
Exhibition Preview Ecobuild opens its doors again this month and we preview some of the events and exhibitors at the show
Starts page 27
Radiators & Towel Warmers Why installers are ideally placed to help end users make the best radiator purchasing decision
Starts page 35
Heat Pumps Opportunities to get involved in the developing market for ground and air source heat pumps
Starts page 42
Test & Measuring Instruments Why regular calibration is essential to ensure that instruments retain their accuracy
Starts page 53
The Technical Magazine for the Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement Industry
Incorporating: Plumbing & Heating News Plumbing & Heating Equipment News
The sales of water saving bathroom products have risen by 25% according to a new report by MTW Research. The report suggests that demand has been boosted by an increase in house building and domestic refurbishment projects, plus a continued emphasis by manufacturers on water efficiency. Based on data from 130 manufacturers and retailers, MTW found that water saving products account for around 30% of the UK bathroom market in 2016. The 250 page report highlights how water saving features are increasingly being used by manufacturers to add value to their products and, with over half the average water bill attributed to bathroom use, consumers are seeking ways to reduce their bills as household metering increases. According to MTW, new water recycling technology could provide an extra boost for the bathroom market. However, the current trend for ‘luxury’ in the bathroom, does present some challenges for the water saving market, with some consumers expressing a preference for large baths and shower mixers with high flow rates. This presents a hurdle for
3
by Chris Jones
Incentive to replace old boilers
bathroom manufacturers to develop bathroom products that reduce water usage whilst not compromising on performance, says the report. The report also found that despite sustained efforts by manufacturers, there remains a lack of water usage labelling and advertising in many distribution channels, including bathroom retailers. Despite this, overall market conditions are positive, with 74% of water saving product manufacturers experiencing sales growth last year. Although water saving may not be top of consumers’ lists during specification, there are clearly signs that it represents a key driver for growth and is set to become increasingly important for the UK bathroom market. The full report is available now for £595 from: www. marketresearchreports.co.uk
Chancellor George Osborne is not exactly known for his generosity with the public purse, so the chances of him setting aside some funds for a national boiler replacement scheme look slim at best. The heating industry may have put forward some sound arguments for their proposal (see this month’s cover story) but when Mr Osborne opens up his red box on March 16th it’s more likely to contain plans to cut spending than to cut carbon emissions. It’s also doubtful that he would want to be seen taking a lead from the London Mayor, his chief rival for the top job. Boris Johnson has been busy demonstrating his talent for grabbing newspaper headlines in recent weeks, but it was the announcement of a boiler cashback scheme for the capital that has most excited manufacturers and installers. The £2.6m scheme is only available for the first 6500 respondents, so it’s not going to be long before the funds run dry, but hopefully it will help to raise some awareness about the potential benefits of upgrading an ageing appliance with an ‘A’ rated model. According to industry figures, around 60% of boilers currently in use are in need of replacement – representing nearly 12m boilers. Many of these boilers would have given long years of reliable service, so the industry needs to make a convincing case as to why they should look to replace them. The prospect of some extra cash in the pocket will undoubtedly help to entice those consumers who are already close to making that investment, but many more will take a bit more persuading. Cashback schemes come and go, but more ambitious plans are needed if the country is serious about improving the efficiency of its housing stock. MV_Fluids_qtr_A3_Aug05 Follow us on
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© Copyright 2016 | 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.
The Gas Safe Register has launched a campaign designed to raise public awareness of gas safety and the Gas Safe Register brand. The Trust the Triangle campaign will be using images of gas appliances and the yellow and black triangle to remind the public that they should only trust a Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out gas work in their homes. Over the coming weeks, the adverts will appear on billboards, in shopping centres, at bus stops, on trains, the London underground and online. The Trust is calling on installation companies of all sizes to get behind the campaign by spreading the word on Twitter and Facebook using the hashtag #TrustTheTriangle. Registered engineers should check their emails for a social media pack that includes web banner adverts to be freely used.
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News Review
Boris unveils London scrappage scheme Early last month, Mayor Boris Johnson launched the London Boiler Cashback Scheme, which offers residents a £400 rebate when they replace an old, inefficient boiler with a more efficient model. The Greater London Authority scheme, which is open to homeowners and private landlords, could see up to 6500 households benefit. The scheme will be marketed via the existing referral mechanisms of local London boroughs to ensure that those in fuel poverty and with seasonal health needs are targeted. It also means that Gas Safe registered installers will be able to undertake the installation work without the need for any further accreditation.
To be eligible, homeowners must live within one of the participating London boroughs and replace a boiler of less than 70% efficiency for one that is 90% efficient or above. The heating industry has warmly welcomed the ‘Boris Boilers’ scheme, which many see as a worthy successor to 2010’s boiler scrappage scheme. Neil Schofield,
Head of External Affairs at Worcester, says: “It’s extremely encouraging to see that boiler scrappage is back on the agenda. This is a simple policy with clear benefits for everyone involved.” Paul Hardy, MD at Baxi, points to the potential benefit for tenants. “With over 50% of the population in London living in rented
accommodation, the scheme is a valuable opportunity for tenants to encourage their landlords to upgrade their heating system,” he argues. “The fact that replacement must be installed by a Gas Safe installer also means that the scheme will play a significant role in highlighting to consumers the importance of choosing an accredited installer for any gas boiler work.” Peter Thom, MD of Green Heat, describes the new scheme as sensible and costeffective because “it is open to all accredited heating installers – whatever the size of their business – avoiding any monopoly of the big energy suppliers, which has hindered take-up of the schemes in the past.”
Hire an apprentice Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) Sajid Javid MP (pictured, centre left) visited a Screwfix store in Brixton last month to launch a new guide created by the retailer to help tradespeople understand how easy it is to hire an apprentice. The free booklet – Your Guide to Hiring an Apprentice – is available in Screwfix stores across England. It is designed to expose many of the myths surrounding apprenticeships and includes everything those in the trade need to know – from the benefits of taking on an apprentice to where to go first and the help available. Download the guide at: www.Screwfix.com/apprenticeguide
Security of data in Welsh plan to promote energy efficiency controls a concern Installers of internet-enabled heating controls need to be aware of how information is collected by these devices when advising homeowners – so says Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester. Martyn notes the growing concern among homeowners when it comes to the increasing number of products offering internet connectivity. “There is a reluctance among homeowners when it comes to the purchase of any kind of internet-connected device for their property due to fears about this information being accessed by a third party, and the example which perhaps springs to mind quickest within the heating industry is that of smart controls,” says Martyn. “One of biggest barriers installers face when talking to their customers about heating controls is the potential danger involved in opening up one’s home to the worldwide web. It should be made clear that there is a distinction between the information collected by heating controls and other personal devices.” Martyn points to a recent report by Which? that analysed the security of data within these devices and found that, in certain cases, the information such
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as a person’s postcode or living patterns may not be accurtely encrypted. This may leave them vulnerable to revealing to the outside world when they are away from home or on holiday.
Best practice Martyn recommends that all installers familiarise themselves with how the heating controls they are recommending collect data. “Many heating engineers will have already noticed a trend for homeowners to ask for further assurances about their heating controls and, at the very least, I would advise them to make sure they are aware how information is being stored in the devices they are installing. The most prudent course of action, however, would be for heating engineers to make sure they are recommending controls that guarantee no information leaves the home, or even the device itself.”
The Welsh Government has launched the ‘Energy Efficiency in Wales’ strategy, which aims to play a major role in both addressing energy issues and driving economic growth by supporting green jobs and skills throughout the country. The recently published document sets out the increasing need to: recognise the benefits of energy efficiency and take action to reduce pressures on consumer bills; tackle fuel poverty; support the development of a sustainable energy efficiency supply chain; and improve the energy efficiency of housing stock.
The strategy also outlines how increasing energy efficiency will make Wales a more prosperous nation by creating new jobs, skills and a flourishing supply chain. It states that for every £1m spent on energy efficiency, 23 jobs are directly supported in the energy efficiency industry. Stewart Clements, Director
of the HHIC, says: “The strategy recognises that ‘one size will not fit all’ and that different groups will require different approaches. It also has the provision to allow a range of financial support mechanisms to be developed, which I believe will help ensure its success. The strategy goes beyond seeing
energy efficiency as a tool for reducing bills and energy use and looks at the negative impact living in a cold home can have on health.” Tim Pollard, Head of Sustainability at Plumb Center, says successful delivery will depend on the Welsh Government encouraging its UK counterparts to stop altering targets and schemes that disrupt the market. “While we welcome any initiatives that promote a more sustainable future, we maintain that the market is dependent on stability, and with the rising costs of training we must ensure installers can be confident in investing in the future.”
Loyality benefits World plumbing day Two new loyalty schemes have been launched to offer installers attractive rewards and business-related benefits. AlphaOne is the name of Alpha Heating Innovation’s scheme, which acknowledges customer loyalty at all levels. Installers who sign up and register their boiler installations will earn points that they can redeem for items ranging from home-wares to electronics and DIY equipment. In addition, they can take advantage of business benefits such as exclusive trips and invitations to VIP events, free Gas Safe notifications, marketing support and free workwear. To sign up, visit www.alphainnovation.co.uk/alphaone Installers of Salamander Pumps can earn points for every pump they register which can then be exchanged for a range of retail vouchers (including love2shop, iTunes, M&S and Amazon). As few as two pump purchases could qualify an installer for a voucher. Membership of the scheme also gives exclusive access to useful work support activities such as eLearning modules, online pump registration, product selection and information links. Visit www.salamanderpumps.co.uk/loyalty to sign up.
Each year 11 March marks World Plumbing Day, and this year the CIPHE is calling on industry to celebrate the important role plumbers play in ensuring everyone has access to a safe water supply. The CIPHE has issued a call to action that includes: • Ensure all customers, and especially the vulnerable, are protected from rogue plumbers and heating engineers • Equip plumbers and heating engineers with skills and support to deliver safe and high quality work in the home • Strengthen the education route from apprentice to professional in the plumbing
and heating industries • Raise the profile of plumbing and heating as an attractive career path for school leavers and those looking to change careers • Promote safe plumbing and heating systems and minimise problems such as Legionnaires’ disease and hot water scalding. CEO Kevin Wellman says: “Events such as World Plumbing Day not only highlight the fact that many parts of the world still suffer immensely from the consequence of lack of access to basic plumbing systems, but also remind us of the work that there is still to be done here in the UK.
29/02/2016 17:09
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News Review
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Millionth fan for Stabilising boiler market Council customer Recently released figures from HHIC have shed some light on how the boiler market performs without short term distortions, according to Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical support at Worcester. The market report showed a drop in sales in 2015, but Martyn believes that installers should still have faith in the stability of
the market in the absence of the government-funded Green Deal and ECO. “While the Green Deal and ECO did an extremely effective job of generating boiler sales in certain sectors,” he says, “once an initiative such as these slows or stops, the consequence is a drop in boiler sales the following year, one we are able to anticipate. If we
ignore sales attributed to ECO from 2014 and then do the same for the following year, what’s left is a fairly consistent, undistorted market – possibly even showing signs of marginal growth. “Hopefully, we’re now close to being back in a position where we’re seeing a true reflection of the market’s organic performance without any misrepresentations.”
Brits happy with the trades (l-r) Andy Makin, MD of EnviroVent, presents the gold coloured fan to Judy Hamilton and Keith Brown, both of Fife Council
In celebration of the production of its millionth Filterless Fan, EnviroVent created a special gold version for one of its biggest customers, Fife Council. The Council has installed over 25,000 of these units in its housing stock to reduce the issues of condensation and mould growth. Andy Makin, MD at EnviroVent, says: “We are delighted to be celebrating the anniversary of the millionth Filterless Fan and to be sharing this occasion with one of our customers whose tenants have benefited the most. Local authorities and other social housing providers like the fan as it offers low maintenance, low long term life cycle costs and reduced energy usage, which is what it has become renowned for.”
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Recent research commissioned by Toolstation reveals that 65% of Brits were ‘very happy’ with the tradesperson’s work the last time they used one and would definitely hire the same person again. The North East and Scotland came out the highest, with 71% and 70% homeowners respectively giving them a resounding ‘thumbs up’. Plumbing and window installation shared first
place on the list of the most common jobs commissioned by homeown-
ers, with 75% saying that these were jobs for which they would use skilled tradespeople for. It was also revealed that a reliable professional can, at times, be hard to find – 27% said they find it difficult to find a plumber, 21% said electricians were few and far between, and 22% said finding a general builder had been a challenge – so once they found one, they tended to hang on to them.
Jackpot sponsor In a deal that aims to reach an audience of over 12 million sports lovers in the UK, Geberit has extended its sponsorship of darts champion Adrian Lewis for a further three years. Ranked number three in the world, Adrian ‘Jackpot‘ Lewis will wear the Twyford logo on the front of his shirt for all matches played in the UK, with the Geberit logo on his shirt for matches played outside of the UK.
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Skills shortage vacancies up The UKCES Employer Skills Survey 2015, released earlier this year, found that vacancies for skilled workers have grown significantly in the last two years, with a shortage of 43% in the trades. The building industry in particular was feeling ‘heightened difficulties’ in recruiting staff, with over a third of vacancies for electricians, plumbers, gas engineers and construction workers being termed as ‘skill
shortage vacancies’. CIPHE’s CEO Kevin Wellman says: “This report highlights a problem that has existed for a long time. Although the Government is now actively promoting apprenticeships for all trades, it is playing catchup. Too many years have passed where the younger generation were led to believe that a university education was the only way to achieve a good career.”
Master Plumbers
John Pashley (centre left) and Shaun Burrows (right) received their Master Plumber certificates at a ceremony in London
The annual Liver y Companies Skill Council awards ceremony, held last month in London, honoured two members of the CIPHE with Master Plumber Certificates. Shaun Burrows EngTech MCIPHE RP and John Pashley EngTech MCIPHE RP received their certificates from The Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of London. Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer of the CIPHE, attended the ceremony, where he said:
“The Master Certificate Scheme was introduced in 2001 and the first recipients were plumbers. Since then 178 of our members have achieved this status. Today’s event celebrated the achievements of people who are dedicated to their trade and who strive to be the best in their profession.” The Lord Mayor of London added: “The recipients of these awards should be proud of what they have achieved.”
Julia Evans, Chief Exec of BSRIA, adds: “The increase in the number of skills-shortage vacancies since 2013 presents cause for concern, when construction sector employers were the most likely to cite a loss of business or orders to competitors resulting from skills-shortage vacancies. What industry needs is for government to promote the STEM subjects as early as possible in schools.”
Rebrand Coinciding with plans for new products, Kingspan Environmental has refreshed its branding to focus on the company’s heritage, with a clear range identity and naming for stainless steel and copper cylinders. The Wakefield based company says that Kingspan Albion, aimed at plumbers, will specialise in stainless steel unvented technology, while Kingspan Range will target housebuilders and contractors with both stainless steel and copper products for vented and unvented systems.
Dutch boiler brand In brief relocates to Essex
• Kensa Heat Pumps and Trent & Dove Housing have scooped the ‘Best Client’ award at the National Housing & Maintenance Forum in recognition of a retrofit ground source heat pump project providing a ‘micro’ district heating system for 193 dwellings.
Following a company restructure, ATAG Commercial has relocated its UK headquarters to Basildon, Essex. The move follows the acquisition of ATAG by the Ariston Thermo Group, which already bases a number of its UK companies from the same offices. The company will continue to supply its Q Series and XL Series of commercial units to the market. The A Series will form a key part of the company’s activities in the new build sector. The nationwide sales team will remain unchanged, with all enquiries for existing and future ATAG Commercial
orders to be directed through the usual channels. Paul Martin, Business Development Manager at ATAG Commercial, says: “This is an exciting time for ATAG Commercial, especially as we have the backing of a world leading manufacturer in the Ariston Thermo Group. Our change of premises is going to be a great benefit to us, as it improves logistics, while enhancing after-sales and technical backup.” For all commercial and domestic new build contract enquiries, please call 01268 546700 or email enquiries@ atagcommercial.co.uk
Complete system coverage Two years in the making, the Warranty Plus initiative from Pegler Yorkshire has been created for contractors looking for a warranty on the complete system rather than just the individual components. The scheme is designed to ensure more efficient installations and provide extra reassurance. It is also said to save overall time and cost spent developing and commissioning a complete system.
The three stage process offers support for projects over £250,000. It begins at the initial design stage which offers expert advice, with stage two covering installation and training, and the final stage covering commissioning and aftercare. This whole process is then backed up by a maintenance programme with a full support maintenance manual and optional ongoing package for up to 25 years.
• Following the launch of the London Boiler Scrappage Scheme, Viessmann is topping up the Mayor’s £400 cashback with a free Vitotrol controller worth £190 for applicants who purchase a Vitodens 100W combi boiler. • Installers can now get their hands on the ‘2016 Official HETAS Guide to Approved Products & Services’, which is being launched at this year’s Ecobuild in London. • The Edinburgh Albert Street branch of City Plumbing Supplies has become the 200th CPS branch to open a ne w-lo ok bat h r o om showroom. • OFTEC Director General Jeremy Hawksley has announced that he will be retiring from the post this summer after nine years at the helm. The recruitment of a suitable successor is currently underway. • Over 41,000 competent electricians are now listed by Registered Competent Person Electrical (RCPE), the listing of full scope Part P registered firms in England and Wales.
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10 News Review Smart Homes Group gets ready for IoT Association marks 75th anniversary
The Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA) has launched a Smart Homes Group. The new group brings together members from across EUA’s five divisions that all have a commercial interest in the development of Smart Homes, Smart Grids and the Internet of Things (IoT). Commenting on the new development, Stewart Clements, EUA Divisional Director, says: “The concept of the ‘Internet of Things’
is not a new one and we recognise that we need to understand the detail and undoubtable impact. Figures from networking specialist Cisco suggests there will be 25 billion devices connected to the internet by 2015 and 50 billion by 2020. We have already seen the emergence of apps that allow homeowners to remotely control their heating, and as end users demand more benefit from
smart technologies, we as an industry need to be ready.” The new group includes members involved in the development and manufacture of everything from smart meters to smart heating appliances. They will look at how industry can improve interfaces and inter-operability of this technology to give greater control to individuals to manage their environment. “It is also likely that the
drive for more efficient buildings and carbon reduction will give rise to legislation,” adds Stewart Clements. “Energy and technology have changed the way buildings are both constructed and managed and we need to be ahead of the curve.” Those interested in finding out more about the Connected Homes Group are invited to email comms@ eua.org for information.
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This year the British Pump Manufacturers’ Association marks its 75th anniversary, having begun in 1941 during the throes of WWII. Through the decades, the BPMA has weathered the vagaries of economic development and the changing legislative landscape, providing a constant source of support, guidance and information. To celebrate 75 years of unbroken service to both its members and the wider pump industry, the BPMA will be staging a special 75th Anniversary Gala Dinner. It will be held at the De Vere Heythrop Park Resort in Oxfordshire on 6 October. BPMA members, along with their clients, partners, friends and colleagues, are all invited to attend this event. Members can reserve their place by emailing hannah@ touchwavemedia.co.uk.
BPMA President and MD of Grundfos, Peter Reynolds
BPMA President and MD at Grundfos Pumps, Peter Reynolds, comments: “Being elected as President of the BPMA is a great honour and one which has been heightened by the added good fortune of my term in office coinciding with its 75th Anniversary. We have a number of activities planned throughout the year, all of which will highlight this impressive milestone.”
Discount rewards Members of the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) can now benefit from a new discount scheme, APHCoffers4u. Members will receive a free 12 month subscription to the Vectis Card when they renew their membership during 2016. This enables members to save money on purchases at a range of participating retailers, including Tesco and Marks & Spencer, as well as getting cashback at Asda and hundreds of other brands. Users will also benefit online with discount codes. In addition, APHC is also offering APHC member organisations the chance to purchase additional Vectis Cards as an employee incentive for their workforce at a specially negotiated rate (once they have renewed their APHC membership).
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A Danfoss Elite installer from Skipton has won a weekend in the city of Copenhagen. Tom Spencer (pictured, centre) of Spencer Services Ltd entered Danfoss’s free prize draw when he visited the company’s stand at PHEX Manchester. He says that he couldn’t believe his luck when he found out he’d scooped the top prize of a trip for two to see the famous attractions of the historic Danish capital, from the statue of The Little Mermaid to the Tivoli Gardens amusement park.
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PEOPLE on the Move Remeha Commercial has announced the appointment of James Porter as Sales Director. Since joining in 2012, James has worked in multiple roles at the company, most recently as National Sales Manager. As Sales Director, James is tasked with using his expert knowledge and understanding of the Remeha product range to drive the strategic growth of the company’s market share across the UK. Saniflo has appointed Steve Woolsey as Area Sales Manager for the South East. Steve will look after London and Greater London, including Surrey, Sussex and Kent. With a commercial background in the roofing and UFH sectors, working closely with merchants, Steve will look to grow the company’s presence in the refurbishment and renovation sectors. Renewable heating manufacturer NIBE has promoted Robin Adderley to the role of Sales and Marketing Director. Robin first joined the company in 2009 as a technical sales engineer, before taking on the position of National Sales Manager three years ago. In his new role, Robin will head up NIBE’s eight-strong technical sales team to promote the company’s heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal collectors. Keston Boilers has appointed Danny Mistry to the role of Business Development Manager for Central London, further strengthening the company’s sales force to meet the demand in this busy region. Danny is responsible for liaising with a wide range of customers including local authorities and developers as well as one-off installers, assisting them in the selection of Keston twin flue boilers. New to Stelrad is Matt Raybould, who has joined the radiator manufacturer’s Brand Specialists Team responsible for the Midlands area. Matt will work with eight other team members to meet builders and plumbers merchant branch staff as well as heating installers at their local merchant branches, introducing new products and concepts for the use of radiators. QRL Radiator Group – formerly Quinn Radiators – has made three new senior appointments: Mark Derbyshire (pictured) as Commercial Managing Director for its panel radiator ranges (hi-lo, Barlo and Warmastyle); Lee Kenney as Commercial Managing Director for Design by QRL and custom heating and cooling specialist Merriott; and Maura McCabe as General Manager for Ireland.
The Caspian Universal fan convector. Believe. Caspian Universal is the answer to your prayers, if your church is cold, or has lots of people using it at different times during the week. It’s the ideal solution for any place of worship where flexibility, low surface temperature, good controls and great heat are not just a matter of faith.
Caspian Universal l Plumbs into the central heating system l One heating solution for a variety of applications high, low or ceiling-mounted installation l Free five year parts and labour guarantee l Made in the UK l Next day delivery from stock l EC motor technology
Ideal Standard has appointed Steve Breen as UK Sales Director. Steve has worked across the kitchen retail and house-builder channels with a high profile client portfolio and joins from Electrolux, where he served as Head of Kitchen Retail & Contracts. In his new role, Steve will be responsible for the bathroom company’s overall UK sales performance and activities. The latest addition to the sales team at Intergas is Gavin James, who joins the company as Area Sales Manager. Gavin’s sales area will cover the North East, including Newcastle, Tyne and Wear, Durham, Teeside, Hull, York and Sheffield. He joins an expanding sales force for the Dutch boiler manufacturer and will report to UK Sales Director Jim Boyce. Ideal Commercial Boilers has appointed Paul Ballard to the role of Business Development Manager. Based in Letchworth, Paul’s territories include Oxford, Slough and across into London. Paul will be responsible for liaising with a wide range of Ideal’s customers including contractors, M&E consultants, merchants and developers, helping ensure that the correct heating solution is selected for each of their projects.
Call the Smith’s sales office on: 01245 324900
Think Fan Convector, Think Smith’s www.smiths-env.com/commercial ENQUIRY
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12 YOUR Views
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I just love reading letters from people saying their Ideal Mexico boiler is 35 years plus. I have been installing since the 70s and that is all we were installing in those days. Some of them are now being replaced, but one thing all my customers say is: “I hope the new wall mounted one will last as long as my old one.” My throat starts to seize up and I just smile. Kevin Thorpe Via email
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£100 Star Letter The cost of hidden leaks I read the letter from Peter Leonard in the February issue with great interest. Many years ago I reca ll attending a semi nar in London where the general consensus was that reducing the WC flush shou ld not be a major issue. Like Peter, my humble plumbing knowledge made me sceptical, particularly with older prem ises. I say this because prior to the introduction of PVCu pipe, the frictiona l resistance in old sewers was much greater; one also has to take into account changes in lifestyle. Today there is much greater use of hygienic wipes and disposable clean ing cloths, the likes of which do not brea k down as read ily as ordinary toilet paper. I also agree with Peter on the issue of syphons vs drop-valves. It is true that WRAS approved valves must be subjected to a 200,000 cycle test, but the problem is that WRAS approval is not mandatory and there is nobody policing what can and cannot be sold. Until there is, things can only get worse.
Perhaps a bigger concern is that not only does a leaking drop-valve discharge into the pan, so does the overflow, even with a syphon! When we had external overflows which were visible they tended to be repaired reasonably quickly. In permitting internal overflows the argument was put forward that with the increase in water meters people would still repair leaks quickly because they were paying for the water. However, this is not always the case. Leaks start off very slowly and, in the case of drop-valves and internal overflows, it’s not until the leak is running quite fast that it is even seen. The problem in non-domestic premises is even greater as one has to rely on someone else to report the leak. Another concern is the financial burden put on customers. I personally know of customers that had bills of as much as £700 for a half year due to a leaking drop- valve and there could be many leaks out there that are being classed as normal consumption – which customers are paying for! Rob Chambers, Weston-super-Mare
Please address your letters to::
The Editor, PHAM News, 1b Station Square, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1DP
or email to: editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk
ENQUIRY
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At Alpha we like to reward our customers. With our new loyalty scheme, installers earn points for every boiler registered to spend on a choice of hundreds of items, plus are invited to attend VIP events and claim business-related benefits. If that wasn’t enough, to celebrate its launch, we have increased the warranty on our InTec2 XE and CE models to 4 and 6 years to June 2016.
www.alpha-innovation.co.uk/alphaone
0844 871 8760 ENQUIRY
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14 Point of View
Why we need to invest in a smarter workforce These are exciting times for the building services sector and the next three years will see a dramatic shift in the number and type of skills the industry needs – says Jim Marner, President of the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).
O
ur industry will do well just to keep pace with what is about to happen over the next three years. The technical and financial market drivers we have faced up to now will be magnified by a factor of 10 as workloads and the type of work really picks up. Skills shortages, labour costs, movement of resources, modern methods of design, project risk, procurement and quality control will all become even more significant. It is a very exciting time and the next three years will be full of opportunity, but are we ready? Wages in the construction industry rose by 6% last year, which was three times faster than the average across the rest of the economy, according to research carried out by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This was fuelled, at least in part, by skills shortages, and RICS warned that this could hamper the industry’s ability to deliver major projects, including the Government’s housing and infrastructure schemes. It is great that skilled workers in our sector are getting the financial rewards they deserve, but if wage growth is unchecked as a result of the skills gap then that is not good for the long term prospects of the sector.
Crucial issue There is no more crucial issue affecting our industry than tackling skill shortages. This is critical to supporting business growth and higher technical standards. The problem our industry has – in common with many others – is that every time we suffer a recession, training comes to a shuddering halt. As a result, the flow of new blood into the sector dries up, but the out-flow of retiring workers goes on. The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) carried out an in-depth study of the industry’s labour market last year and published its findings in the report ‘Future Manpower and Skills Availability’. This revealed that over 500 trained building services professionals were due to retire this year, with only 65 new apprentices entering the sector at the age of 16 to take their place. This means we are not only losing numbers; we are also losing a lot of management level experience. The research also supported the Association’s view that many workers, who came into the sector during the recession, have missed out on formal training and could now be offered apprenticeships or the opportunity to upskill. It also showed there was an imbalance in training provision, with the number of plumbing apprenticeships far exceeding the sector’s needs.
Lack of skills Another problem is that there has been widespread ‘deskilling’ going on. Analysis of the Engineering Services SKILLcard system, which has been used to register operative training and professional qualifications since 2001, shows that in recent years many employers have simply trained their workers up to Level 2 in order to get them onto work sites as quickly and as cheaply as possible. As a result, there are people working in the sector with good, basic skills who could be ‘upskilled’ via an apprenticeship or other formal training route to start plugging some of our skills gaps – and that could be done relatively quickly. This is an opportunity for existing employees to significantly enhance their earning potential and job satisfaction in return for doing a bit more training.
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Trailblazer scheme In the longer term, the Government-backed Trailblazer apprenticeship programme aims to deliver three million new apprentices in the next four years with funding from the Apprenticeship Levy, which is expected to raise £12bn from large employers. Currently just 12% of businesses employ an apprentice despite the fact that 72% of businesses that do employ apprentices report improved productivity as a result. The most common reason given by those reluctant to invest in apprenticeships is cost (or the perceived cost). However, the beauty of the Trailblazer scheme, which goes live in September 2017, is that all employers – large, medium or small – can get more out of the system than they pay in. The BESA is heavily involved with shaping the new scheme and we are currently developing five new Trailblazer apprenticeships, including industrial and commercial pipe fitting and ductwork at level 2 (installer) and level 3 (craftsperson), along with service and maintenance at level 3. There are also higher and degree level apprenticeships in development in response to shortages identified by business leaders like the CBI. Its research showed that 73% of contractors find it difficult to recruit staff with the high level skills they need to keep up with growing demand for modern, sophisticated buildings.
Better prospects
BESA President Jim Marner is Business Director at Shepherd Engineering Services (SES) and has more than 30 years experience within the industry
shifting landscape for specialist engineering contractors. Therefore, we either need to recruit a different type of person or re-skill those we already have in increasingly large numbers. In fact, we really need to do both – as well as attracting people from other industries to come in and share their expertise and knowledge with us. There are great career prospects across construction and building engineering these days, so we have a stronger ‘sales’ message to people thinking about mid-career changes. The key is that we need ‘new’ skills, not just more skills. While the Government is developing the funding model for apprentice training, the BESA and its member employers have been working on the skills model to make sure revitalised training approaches produce people with skills that are appropriate for our rapidly changing and modernising industry.
The Government estimates that someone who trains up to a Level 4 qualification can earn an extra £150,000 over their working life, but there is more to this than money – the new apprenticeships will also give many workers the chance to improve their career prospects and sense of self-worth. However, while traditional building engineering skills remain vital, we also have a growing requirement for ‘new’ skills in line with technological shifts. The new Complex services apprenticeships, along with other training and education Technological change – the wider use of BIM in particular routes, must reflect these new priorities. – will lead to greater adoption of off-site manufacturing For example, the Government’s deadline for Building of building engineering services packages. Because we Information Modelling (BIM) Level 2 to be used on are designing more elements earlier in the process, we all of its projects is upon us. BIM has the potential to are better placed to assemble complex services away transform the way we from the construction site. have traditionally gone Effectively the process about our work. It is a great needs to change by splitting “We should all rise to the challenge of opportunity to simplify into at least three fully embracing change and working smarter” and streamline project integrated parts: design and business processes, for off-site manufacture; avoiding the continual re-designs and changes that add off-site manufacture for assembly; and assembly on site cost and delays. With BIM, we have a better chance of with proper commissioning to deliver a quality life cycle actually giving the client what they want and expect product. from a project. This does not mean fewer jobs, but rather the ability It is also a great way for contractors to improve the to do more with what we already have so we can build efficiency of their own processes by migrating more of a smarter work force with a different set of skills. their activities online and via digital platforms, which This is absolutely NOT a deskilling exercise as we will should also improve profit margins. However, BIM need a workforce capable of delivering design, offrequires a ‘culture’ shift that has not quite happened site manufacture, on-site assembly, commissioning, yet across the building engineering supply chain as it maintenance and decommissioning. depends on full collaboration between team members, These are exciting times and we should all rise to the and slick communications and information exchange at challenge of embracing change and working smarter, each step of the project. but we will have to make our own luck by supporting Add to this that we haven’t really scratched the surface training for apprentices, up-skilling existing workers and of what the ‘Internet of Things’ and wider building encouraging people from other sectors to join us and automation can deliver, and you are looking at a rapidly share their skills.
26/02/2016 09:48
THERE’S A BATHROOM FOR EVERYONE IN THE NEW 2016 BATHROOM COLLECTION.
Inspiration to suit every style and budget. Please pick up your copy in-branch today.
plumbcenter.co.uk a ENQUIRY
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16 Green Matters Calculate biomass Biopropane could help LPG households savings online Rural Energy has launched a handy online tool to help users quickly calculate the expected return on their RHI projects. The Non-Domestic RHI Calculator provides a quick reference guide to expected savings and payback periods, as well as estimating the cumulative cash flow throughout the RHI period. Users can select the size of boiler, the expected usage level, the fuel type (i.e. wood chip or wood pellets) and the current fuel, such as gas, oil, LPG or electricity. The cost of the project is also selected using a simple slider tab. This information is then used to estimate the payback period, the net cash benefit over 20 years, and the internal rate of return. Paul Clark, MD at Rural Energy, says: “The RHI makes accessing biomass energy simpler and more affordable for a wide variety of largescale applications, but it’s
The annual carbon emissions from the residential LPG sector could be slashed by 83% by 2025 if heating was switched to biopropane, according to a new report published by the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA). ‘Biopropane for the off-grid sector’ considers the impact that introducing biopropane, a green gas, would have on carbon emissions and homeowners alike. “There are currently 171,000 homes in the UK
Rural Energy MD Paul Clark
not always immediately clear what the cost implications and savings might be. “Our aim with the RHI Calculator was to create a handy reference tool that could give a quick insight into these questions, but of course there’s no substitute for proper professional advice and guidance, which we are more than happy to provide.” To try the RHI Calculator visit: www.ruralenergy.co.uk/ rhi-calculator
using LPG for heating,” says Isaac Occhipinti, Head of External Affairs at EUA. “If this were replaced by biopropane, then carbon
that it directly replaces LPG, meaning homeowners would not have to change or upgrade their heating system. There would be no up front cost involved, unlike installing other renewable heating systems. Biopropane could be rolled out to off grid homes with minimal disruption and minimal fuss.” EUA says it will be asking the Government to consider including biopropane in the Renewable Heat Incentive to incentivise uptake.
emissions would be slashed. Biopropane is a highly environmentally friendly and renewable product. “A benefit of biopropane is
There are still Green Deal opportunities According to independent consultant David Mooney, the Green Deal is making a comeback. With many Green Deal Providers exiting the market when the Green Deal finance was stopped suddenly in July last year, several other finance parties have now entered the market, seeing an opportunity in 2016 as the Green Deal framework still remains intact.
“The Green Deal simply enables the customer to finance energy measures,” explains David. “This unique pay as you save finance product requires a consumer credit license and authorisation, which is where I can help.” David will help installers become a Green Deal Provider and thereby gain access to ECO funding by completing
the application on their behalf and answering any questions. One company to benefit from David’s expertise is Oldham based MW Heating & Plumbing Ltd, run by two brothers Mike and Marc Wrigley. They decided to engage his services about 18 months ago and have since seen their small business go from strength to strength. Mike Wrigley says: “We
were just two lads working on the tools and through hard work and David’s help we are now a fully authorised Green Deal Provider delivering ECO through a network of installers, offering finance through our own consumer credit license and looking to take on more staff.” For more information, please contact David Mooney on 07887 552 442.
Altecnic is the UK’s leading independent supplier of the highest quality, precision plumbing and heating solutions
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Head Office Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire ST16 1GW
altecnic.co.uk
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Who’s 100% committed to manufacturing to the highest standards?
OSMA. Obviously.
BS EN 1401 BS EN 13476-2 2007 BS EN 13598 - 1 & 2 BS 4660: 1989/2000
OSMA. An exceptional range of above ground pipe and fittings you can rely on. No one in the industry invests more in manufacturing standards than us. And it shows. The OSMA range is Kitemarked where appropriate to the highest possible British industry standards. It means whatever you use from the range, you can rely on OSMA. Obviously. www.wavin.co.uk ENQUIRY
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18 Gadgets & Tools Power revved up in new range Gel gets the grime Described as tougher, faster and more advanced, the new range of cordless power tools from Hitachi are powered by 6.0Ah lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. The new 18V 6.0Ah range includes the DV18DBXL/ JX 18V Combi Drill with brushless motor (pictured below). This ultra-powerful drill has a class leading hard torque of 136Nm, complete with 22 stage torque settings. The drill’s compact body is just 204mm long, making it easily portable, and with a fast charging time, it’s ready
To help get your hands spick and span, Big Wipes has launched Power Gel. Designed to quickly shift tough grime, it’s described as an all-in-one multi-purpose skin cleaner with special ‘power scrub’ granules which enable it to reach ingrained dirt faster than smooth gels. Just a small amount of the Power Gel can easily remove uncured paint (oil, water and
to go to work fully charged in just 38 minutes. If using two batteries, it means the user need never run out of power. With its two 6.0Ah Liion batteries and Multiplex protection circuit, it has a practical robust aluminium gear case, an LED work light, low battery indicator and a fan-cooled charger for tackling the toughest, longest jobs. It is also supplied with a detachable and moveable side handle, which helps users safely control the drill’s
powerful performance. Along with the new Combi Drill, the 6.0Ah range also includes the following 18V power tools: band saw, circular saw, grinder, impact driver, impact wrench, multi cutter (pictured above) and two drill drivers. All of the 18V cordless tools come with Hitachi’s three year warranty, as long as they are registered online within four weeks of purchase. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
hitachi-powertools.co.uk
hammer finish), adhesives (including adhesive and tape deposits), silicone, epoxy, PU foam, oil, grease and much more. The fresh citrus scent means hands smell good too, which is important for those tradespeople who may have to eat lunch on site or meet customers after handling materials. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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How to banish cord chaos
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For clearing workstations of messy power cords – and removing the frustrating task of getting your power tool back in the box after use – Dremel has introduced the EZ Wrap tool holder with a dedicated area for attachments. The lightweight EZ Wrap tool holder comes as standard with the company’s new corded 3000, 4000 and 4200 Multi-tool EZ product kits. Designed to store your Multitool so you can find it easily, the built-in cord channel means you can simply wrap the cord around it when finished. This handy addition to the range can also be wall-mounted. As well as the new EZ Wrap tool holder, each EZ product kit comes complete with a storage case. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.dremel.co.uk 106
Now with a 5 year warranty... The best has just got even better!
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With the quality and operation of the ESZV222L Zone Valve, we are now offering a 5 year warranty.
For more information about our complete range of products call 01280 816 868 or visit www.esicontrols.co.uk ENQUIRY
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Gadgets & Tools 19 Put the freeze on pipe maintenance
Slide battery option Makita has launched a fresh CXT range of 10.8V tools featuring a new slide battery as an addition to its current 10.8V tools featuring the cluster style batteries. The new 10.8V lithiumion slide battery, similar to the 18V Li-ion battery used in the heavier tool range, has multi-contact terminals to ensure stable contact even under extreme work vibration conditions. The slide battery fits easily into the tools and new chargers and has the same
high level of structural strength as well as having built-in protection to prevent overload or over discharging. The slide batteries have protection overload circuitry, will operate down to -°20C and have a four-stage LED fuel indicator. The latest CXT range includes a combi drill, drill driver, impact driver, reciprocating saw and 85mm circular saw. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.makitauk.com
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Qwik-Freezer is a new portable CO2 pipe freezing system from the Pipestoppers Division at Huntingdon Fusion Techniques HFT. Said to be quick and easy to use, the kit requires almost no set-up time and is capable of freezing up to 8in diameter pipe. Even for smaller diameter freezes, Qwik-Freezer produces ice plugs that are said to be more reliable and robust, capable of withstanding far more pressure than smaller plugs. A specially designed flexible jacket is wrapped around the pipe at the
point where the freeze is required. A nozzle in the jacket is then coupled to a cylinder of liquid carbon dioxide by means of a high pressure hose. When
the CO2 is injected into the space between the jacket and the pipe, at a temperature of -78ºC, the pipe contents freeze and a secure ‘ice plug’ is formed, which seals the pipe. The ice plug forms only in a section of the pipe covered by the jacket, so the resulting rise in pressure is very small and there is no damage to the pipe. The technique can be used safely on iron, lead, stainless steel, copper, brass and plastic pipe. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
108
www.huntingdonfusion.com
Toolbox can take the stress Plenty of space and solid, secure protection for your tools while on the move are top considerations when choosing a toolbox, and pliers specialist Knipex has got it covered with the introduction of its new Robust Tool Case. The Knipex Robust Tool Case is a tough, roomy tool bag made from impact resistant polypropylene, which will protect precious
tools from collisions and blows. The case is dustproof, air and watertight for extra protection and is resistant to temperatures from -40°C to +80°C. It is also ‘fit to fly’, meaning it can be used to transport tools in the holds of aeroplanes. Space is also in abundance – there is a document compartment for instruction manuals and notes; a total of 35 pouches which can
be filled with tools; and two aluminium dividers so the bottom tray can be customized to suit the individual customer. It also allows for a substantial 30kg maximum load. To find out more, enter the number below on the freepost reader enquiry card in this month’s issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.knipex.com
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20 Business Matters
Young people need work experience The latest research undertaken by City & Guilds reveals a worrying lack of knowledge amongst young people about the best routes into a job. City & Guilds commissioned YouGov to look into how well-informed young people were about the realities of the workplace and discover what they were looking for in a job. Amongst the 3000 14 to 19 year olds surveyed, many were found to be misinformed about the best route to their dream job, with the majority believing that university is the only route to a good career. Despite 70% of people claiming to already possess the information necessary to pursue
their future career, only 28% considered work experience to be an important factor in securing a job. These findings contrast significantly with recent City
& Guilds research, which shows that 78% of employers view work experience as essential in this respect. John Thompson, Chief Executive at APHC, says: “These findings reveal an urgent need to emphasise to young people the value of apprenticeships as routes into a rewarding lifelong career. “With skills gaps experienced across many of the trades, we also need to do more to communicate to the next generation the great salaries and huge number of career opportunities offered by sectors such as plumbing and heating, which will always require a skilled workforce.”
Accounting misdeeds lead to ban The Government’s Insolvency Service has issued a warning to plumbing and heating companies following the banning of a company director in Scotland. Gary Carcary, Director of BAUR, a Glasgow based plumbing and heating firm, has been disqualified as a director for five years. He was found to
ENQUIRY
have breached his duty to the company by causing it to undertake accounting transactions that benefited him, reducing the balance he owed to the company on his overdrawn Directors Loan Account to nil. His actions resulted in an additional liability of £267,126 to HMRC, at a time when
the company had ceased trading. As a result of these transactions the company’s financial position became significantly worse and the company had no reasonable prospect of being able to pay additional liability, as it had ceased to trade. Robert Clarke, Head of Company Investigation
at the Insolvency Service, says: “This ban should serve as a warning to other directors tempted to help themselves first. You have a duty to your creditors and if you neglect this duty you could be investigated by the Insolvency Service and removed from the business environment.”
Sugar’s sweet deal BBC’s ‘The Apprentice’ winner 2015, Joseph Valente, has selected BigChange’s JobWatch platform to drive the growth of Impra-Gas, the plumbing business he owns 50:50 with Lord Sugar. The paperless app JobWatch system allows Joseph’s management team to manage the entire operation, from quotation all the way through to invoice, with integrated planning, management, job scheduling and realtime vehicle and resource tracking. The system also ensures consistent service
quality and compliance with an app that guides plumbers through critical checks and procedures. BigChange CEO Martin Port says: “We help ambitious businesses like Impra-Gas scale quickly, giving them everything they need to run a profitable and customer focused operation. We’re excited to have Joseph as a customer. His team will be receiving the same five star service that is there for every one of our customers.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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One fitting, multiple tubes.
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22 PROUD to be a Professional
Taking more pride in your work In the first of a new series of regular columns from the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), the Institute’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Wellman, explains why he is aiming to encourage more installers to say they are ‘Proud to be a Professional’ and the reason he believes this is so important for the future of the UK plumbing and heating industry.
S
ince joining the CIPHE in the 1980s, I’ve been fortunate enough to have met and talked to hundreds of domestic installers across the length and breadth of the UK who spend every day of their working lives helping make a difference to the lives of others. While I might be at risk of sounding melodramatic here, what I mean is that installers have the ability to provide people with the most basic of comforts including heating and hot water, without which many of us would struggle to keep warm, clean, healthy and happy for that matter, if the truth be told. All too often though, the vital role of the domestic installer seems to go overlooked. For example, over the past decade careers in the plumbing and heating industry really haven’t been promoted effectively Kevin Wellman, CEO at the CIPHE as I would like by schools and sixth form Our four well-known ambassadors colleges. Instead of showing the range include Richard Soper, who was formerly of career opportunities that a practical the CEO of Bosch Thermotechnology Ltd, plumbing and heating apprenticeship can which incorporates the Worcester, Bosch lead to, jobs that involve some element Group brand; Roger Webb, who retired of manual labour or ‘getting your hands as Director of the Heating and Hotwater dirty’ have instead been Industry Council (HHIC) presented as a second last year after 12 years class option, with there; Paul Massey, “All to often the vital university being the currently the CEO of role of the domestic pathway young adults AKW Ltd; and Yvonne installer seems to go are advised to aspire to. Orgill, Chief Executive This year, along with of the Bathroom Manuoverlooked” my colleagues at CIPHE facturers Association HQ in Hornchurch, (BMA), to ensure Essex, our aim is to work at changing plumbers and installers working in the these perceptions. The good news is that bathroom sector are fully involved at we’ve already started to make a move in every opportunity. the right direction. Towards the end of Together, this team will be helping 2015, we appointed a wider team of four the CIPHE develop stronger links with well-known industry leaders, each in a manufacturers and merchants, as well voluntary capacity, to help spread the as colleges and training providers, while word about the many pathways a practical also representing the Institute and wider apprenticeship can lead to in what is industry at Government level. actually a vibrant and rewarding industry Beyond this team though, we want to to work in. hear more from our members, of which
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the CIPHE currently has around 7500 in the UK, and non-members, too, about what makes them ‘Proud to be a Professional’. Over the coming months, we have devised a programme of activity to help achieve this, which revolves around a number of areas including: • Apprenticeships: Like me, many people I work with today joined the plumbing and heating industry via an apprenticeship route and are fiercely proud to have done so. While the trade has a lot to offer young people today, we need to face the challenge of presenting jobs in plumbing and heating as an attractive alternative to university. Clearly, there’s a lot to be done to change the situation, but by emphasising success stories and showcasing the incredible amount of value installers can bring to people’s lives, every little helps. • Education and CPD: As the saying goes ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’. Through the CIPHE, professionals have access to the very best training facilities and technical support in the industry, including our e-learning academy, discounted training courses from around 170 leading Industrial Associates and the latest CPD packages. Experience is knowing what questions to ask and having the foresight to anticipate the unknown. • Identifying and protecting vulnerable people in society: Heating and plumbing engineers are often the first port of call when things go wrong. However, there are still many unscrupulous installers out there who compromise the good name of others by association. By using the CIPHE’s website, homeowners can find reputable tradesmen they can trust. By appointing a CIPHE member, consumers also know they have selected someone who adheres to the Institute’s Code of Professional Standards and has all the right credentials
to carry out work that will keep them and their family healthy, happy, safe and warm at home. • The value of CIPHE membership: By making a personal commitment to join the industry’s Chartered Body and agreeing to abide by the aforementioned Code of Professional Standards, plumbing and heating professionals can quickly gain a competitive advantage. Thanks to the CPD, technical and training support we provide in conjunction with our Industrial Associates (IAs), our members are perfectly positioned to promote their credentials as being some of the best in the business. They can also feel confident that behind them is an organisation dedicated to promoting the excellent work they do on a daily basis – from lobbying and advising the Government right through to encouraging consumers to look for the CIPHE logo.
Get in touch Through this regular column we’re keen to give installers a voice relating to any of the above issues. So if you count yourself as someone who is ‘Proud to be a Professional’, then we want to hear from you!
Membership drive The CIPHE has embarked on a membership drive and educational campaign with the aim of promoting individual professionalism and best practice while also highlighting the breadth of work carried out by the Institute. To get in touch, simply contact Kevin Wellman and his team at CIPHE HQ via email: info@ciphe.org.uk or by phone: 01708 472791. For more regular updates please follow the Institute on Twitter @CIPHE or take a look at the website: www.ciphe.org.uk
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24 TRAINING Update Boiler and controls training awarded Trainer enters the matrix standard
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has awarded the status of Approved Training Centre (ATC) for Vokèra’s facilities in London Colney, Glasgow and Bradford. Neil Mattock, Marketing Director and Head of Training at Vokèra, says this award proves the hard work it has put into developing its training programmes: “The company has always put a great emphasis on training
Neil Mattock (left) with CIPHE President Terry Stephenson
and we are constantly adding new courses to fulfil the needs of installers. We have recently
Course on PICVs Learn more about pressure independent control valves (PICV) with Marflow, which has added a new date to its training calendar. The CPD course is being held in Birmingham on 4th May and is free for anyone to attend. The half day session provides delegates with knowledge on how PICVs work, pipe
layouts and how to make systems more economical, including the introduction of electronic balancing. It’s aimed at consultants, designers and specifiers who want to learn more about the products, improve their skills to specify, purchase and commission a PICV. To register visit www. marflowhydronics.co.uk/events
introduced a Controls Course and New Entrants Course, which have proved to be
extremely popular,” he says. “As an Industrial Associate, Vokèra has been working with the CIPHE for many years and having our training centres approved by the Institute cements our relationship and commitment to training.” Terry Stephenson, National President of CIPHE, adds: “We are thrilled to have Vokèra join our list of ATCs. Training new and existing installers is vital and Vokèra has demonstrated a clear commitment to the industry.”
Wetroom tuition Following the success of its wetroom installation training sessions earlier this year, Impey is inviting installers to join them on its We Are Wetrooms tour. Held at sporting venues around the country, the course is a one-day programme that covers everything an installer needs to know, from understanding wetroom
installation to drainage, waterproofing and tiling on a former floor. There is a registration fee of £15 to secure a place, which includes a full day of wetroom training, lunch and refreshments. To find a venue near you, and to reserve your place, visit: www.impeyshowers.com/ wearewetrooms
Training provider Building Engineering Services Training (BEST), a subsidiary of BESA, has achieved accreditation to the matrix standard. Matrix is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver training information, advice and guidance in support of individuals in relation to their career choices, learning programmes and work goals. It consists of four elements that fit around an organisation’s business themes. These are: leadership and management, resource, service delivery, and continuous quality improvement. In congratulating BEST on its success, BESA Chief Executive Paul McLaughlin pointed out that much of the assessment had been based on feedback from learners and employers. “Accreditation is not just about getting written
Paul McLaughlin, Chief Executive of BESA
procedures right. It is also about effective engagement and interaction with customers. “The BEST team should be proud to have secured independent evidence of its excellence in this important regard,” Paul McLaughlin concludes. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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March 2016
TRAINING Update Free courses cover controls Free one day training on heating controls is available from Danfoss at a number of different venues around the country, including local colleges, hotels and golf clubs. The courses, which cover all aspects of
domestic central heating controls techniques, both theory and practice, also highlight current regulations relating to domestic heating installations and recommend compliant solutions from the Danfoss range.
Installers who attend the training sessions will be guided through the various heating systems and different control options by an experienced instructor. In addition, each training day includes a useful heating controls workshop, which gives installers the chance to gain hands-on experience of wiring and fault finding. A certificate will be issued on completion of the course and, as a further incentive, members of the Danfoss Elite Installer Loyalty Programme will be able to earn points which can be converted into a range of rewards. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Legionella
Open house
APHC’s one day course Cold Water Risk Assessment and Disinfection course is aimed at installers who wish to learn how to properly design and maintain water systems to minimise the risk of legionella bacteria growth and Legionnaires’ Disease. Costing £200 for members of APHC and £250 for non-members, it looks at how to safely disinfect a water system and perform a risk assessment associated with cold and hot water systems. Successfully completing this course alongside a full plumbing qualification meets one of the criteria to join the PHCA Legionella, Risk Assessment and Disinfection Scheme. The course is scheduled to run at APHC’s Solihull offices on the following dates: 9th March; 4th May; 6th July; 5th September and 9th November. For more information or to book a place, please email training@aphc.co.uk or call APHC on 0121 711 5030.
Steve Willis Training will be throwing open the doors for National Apprenticeship Week from 14 – 18 March at its Burgess Hill and Portchester Training Centres. At Burgess Hill visitors will have an opportunity to find out more about the range of training programmes on offer in gas, plumbing and electrical, with gas and electrical at Portchester. Would-be apprentices will be able to learn what the training organisation has to offer, and potential employers will see the benefits that apprenticeships can bring to their business. Steve Willis Training Centres has over 15 years experience in training for gas, plumbing and electrical apprenticeships and short courses, and offer one of the largest ranges of Gas ACS Assessment programmes in the South. To arrange a visit to either centre during Apprenticeship Week call 01444 870860. For more details and the latest information check the website: www.stevewillis.com
Mind the performance gap The fifth series of Daikin UK’s Future Thinking CPD-accredited seminars will tackle the challenges faced by building services engineers and engineering consultants in closing the building performance gap. The company points out that operational energy use in buildings can be up to five times higher than predicted at the design stage. With climate control systems responsible for nearly half of non-residential building energy consumption, more accurate analysis, design, installation and control of these systems can have a significant impact on improving a building’s energy performance.
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Daikin UK’s ‘Mind the performance gap’ seminar series will explore why the energy performance of buildings rarely matches design calculations and the positive impact engineers can have in helping to reduce energy consumption, environmental impact and running costs.
The seminars will be hosted from 6pm and include buffet, drinks and networking. Seven events are set to take place in March in Manchester, London, Cardiff, Bristol, Southampton, Birmingham and Nottingham. For details of locations, please visit: www.daikinfuturethinking.co.uk
Getting to know you In a new series, PHAM News is shining the spotlight on installers around the country to get a picture of what life is like for them at work and at play. NAME: Eddie Carr COMPANY: EC Plumbing & Maintenance FROM: Preston
At work...
At play...
Do you work at weekends? “Occasionally. If an emergency call comes in, I will attend.”
Can you cook? What’s your best dish? “From one to ten: zero. I am the world’s worst at cooking; I’ve just never done it. I can do cornflakes, that’s about it. I’d probably burn beans on toast.”
Have you ever visited a trade exhibition – if so, was it worthwhile? “I haven’t been to one for a while, but when I have been they’ve been fairly beneficial. The issue is finding the time to go. You also tend to get companies more interested in selling you their wares, rather than educating the industry, so that can be a downside.” Do you belong to any industry association? “Obviously we’re Gas Safe registered, and we’re part of the Safe Trader Scheme, which is in partnership with Lancashire Council and Trading Standards.” What’s the best part of the job you do? “The best parts of the job are being out and about, meeting different people and being able to give customer satisfaction.” What’s the worst part? “Probably spending time compiling estimates and not being successful. You can’t win everything but if you’re pricing fairly and not getting the work it can be frustrating, especially if your knowledge and information is then used elsewhere.” Do you do any renewable work? “We have done in the past. We could do and would do, if the demand was there. One of the problems we find is that people want the cheap energy, but they don’t want to pay for the technology they need to get it.” Do you have an apprentice? If not, would you consider taking one on? “No, we don’t. I’m a bit disillusioned with apprenticeships, to be honest. We haven’t been impressed by training agencies; they’re just interested in getting people on their books. We would be open to doing it again if the structure changed, but it would have to be a proper apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are down to learning. When I did mine, it was a full day and two nights a week and it took me four years to qualify – very different to the condensed courses you see advertised now.”
Do you buy a newspaper? If so, which one? “Not really. I buy Motorcycle News and that’s about it.” What do you do outside of work? “I’m part of a gun club, so I go target shooting once or twice a week. I got into it four or five years ago. It’s relaxing and helps me unwind from my daily jobs.” What was your favourite subject at school? “I’m going to have to say Art. I didn’t really like school. I’m very hands-on. During my apprenticeship, I did a lot of drawing and I still do in my job now – it helps me to understand things better.” What’s the best country you’ve visited? “We’ve been all over Switzerland. It’s clean and tidy. I’ve been in the summer and in the winter and it’s always nice. You can be in a city and travel an hour and be in a beautiful landscape.” Do you do much DIY work at home? “Yes, I do DIY round the home. I’ve just recently built a shelter for my hens and ducks.” If you could have any superpower, which would it be? “I’d like to fly – that’d be nice. You wouldn’t get stuck in any traffic jams!”
Eddie Carr was speaking after taking advantage of Worcester, Bosch Group’s installer cash-back promotion by installing a Wave Smart Thermostat in his own home. To find out more about Worcester’s installer cashback promotion, visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk
26/02/2016 09:52
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March 2016
Exhibition Preview 27
Sustainability in the spotlight Ecobuild is the marketplace for sustainable building solutions and this March will see hundreds of exhibitors, visitors and delegates head to London’s ExCel to find out about the latest industry trends, challenges and opportunities. Read on to see what’s on offer at this year’s event.
Opening Times in March: Tuesday 8th 10.00 – 18.00 Wednesday 9th 10.00 – 18.00 Thursday 10th 10.00 – 16.00
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ith an emphasis on reducing carbon emissions in buildings, Ecobuild returns to London’s ExCel this month with a full conference programme and 800 exhibitors. The UK’s largest show dedicated to construction and energy will provide visitors with access to invaluable industry insights and projections relating to all aspects of the construction sector through a mix of a high-level conference, CPD-accredited learning hubs and more than 800 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of new products, materials, solutions and services. Attracting more than 40,000 industry professionals from across the whole supply chain each year, Ecobuild can lay claim to being the leading exhibition and conference for the UK construction and energy market. It attracts a broad range of visitors from architects to manufacturers, facilities managers to installers.
Ecobuild is expected to attract thousands of visitors
Tony Pidgley, Chairman of Berkeley Group; David Sheridan, Chief Executive of Keepmoat; and Rowan Moore, Architecture Critic for the Observer. All three will be offering their own ideas as to what makes good housing. The second day focuses on architecture and looks at the changing role of the architect, the importance of architecture across the built environment, the need for change and some Installer interests of the most interesting and inspiring architectural projects. Speakers include Sadie Morgan, Founder of dRMM and The HVAC industry has always been well represented at Ecobuild and this year looks set to feature a diverse range chair of the HS2 Design Panel; Simon Allford of Sterling Prize of leading names, with confirmed exhibitors including winners AHMM; Xavier de Kestelier of Foster & Partners; Altecnic, Johnson & Starley, Pegler and writer, journalist, essayist and filmYorkshire, Viessmann and Wilo. maker, Jonathan Meades. Ecobuild has also partnered with The Next Generation day looks to the UKDEA to create the UKDEA District future: how smart technology, changing Energy Pavilion, at which a group of sector demographics and wellness will drive design experts and leading equipment and service and construction in the future as well as providers will be gathered in one place. how to address the skills gap and attract The Pavilion will also play host to a series young talent to the industry. of seminars throughout the show to cover Among the speakers, David Hancock, Head all aspects of the concept, procurement, of Construction, UK Cabinet Office will talk design and delivery of a district energy about how to inspire talent and nurture scheme. the next generation of skills while Richard Organisers have also created a dedicated Francis, Principal, The Monomoy Company area for networking. The Discover bar is will deliver a speech entitled ‘What’s good the place to meet with colleagues while for the next generation of buildings?’ grabbing a drink. It will also be home Each stream will include input from the UK to a display of innovations which are Stephen Fry will be speaking in Green Building Council (UK-GBC), Ecobuild’s coming to the construction industry to a special appearance on 9 March lead partner for 2016, which will address the future of the built environment. Following meet future needs. the agreement of a new global deal at the Conference programme recent climate conference in Paris, UK-GBC will explain Ecobuild 2016’s conference is split into three daily streams. the role the private sector can play in helping ensure the The first day’s stream of Homes explores the most pressing pledges made are delivered. and important decisions that the industry must take to UK-GBC Chief Exec Julie Hirigoyen will pose five future deliver comfortable, sustainable, resilient buildings and challenges for the construction industry on each of the three homes. What do new build and retrofitted homes and conference days to a panel of industry leaders, inviting them communities need to deliver, and at what cost? to respond with practical ideas on delivery. UK-GBC will Chaired by broadcaster Cathy Newman, speakers include also provide more bite-sized content at the UK-GBC Lounge.
A lively conference programme covers three days of the show
Smart technology The three central streams are supported by a number of initiatives, including SMART @ Ecobuild, an area dedicated to exploring how smart technology is bringing people and the environments we inhabit closer together. Smart specialists including Vanti, Redstone and Steljes will showcase a collaborative, multi-discipline approach to solving the Smart Building conundrum, with expert demonstrations of the integrated technology that can transform your next project.
Special appearance Stephen Fry, the erudite writer, actor and campaigner joins a lineup of industry visionaries, leaders and experts. Stephen will be interviewed by broadcaster Will Gompertz at the culmination of the day’s conference programme on Wednesday 9 March. The audience can expect to hear Fry’s forthright and entertaining views and insights around issues close to his heart – areas that will resonate with the Ecobuild audience. The session will afford audience members a rare opportunity to ask questions in a Q&A session. Martin Hurn, Director of Ecobuild, says: “Stephen personifies the spirit of Ecobuild to inform, entertain and inspire the industry. He is the most exciting speaker we have welcomed in Ecobuild’s history of thought leadership. We couldn’t have hoped for a better conclusion to what promises to be a fascinating day on the Ecobuild Arena.” After the discussion, Stephen will host the BD Architect of the Year Awards dinner held at ExCeL that evening. Recognising excellence across 13 categories, the awards celebrate the very best practices currently operating in the UK.
Getting there Ecobuild takes place at London’s ExCeL Exhibition Conference Centre in the Docklands and is accessible by the DLR. The show 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.
PHAM News exhibiting at Ecobuild 2016! Members of the editorial and Visit advertising staff will be PHAM News on stand at the show, E2206 so come along and meet the teams!
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Exhibition Preview
You want a wide range of pumps. You can trust Wilo.
Daikin (E2050) The following is a brief summary of exhibitors likely to be of most interest to plumbing and heating engineers, but there are many more stands to look out for when you visit Ecobuild. Check out the website to see the complete list: ecobuild.co.uk
Altecnic (E3254) The next generation of centralised, intelligent water management systems is set to be showcased on this stand. Altecnic will show its central plant systems and electronic HIUs as well as the DirtMag range of dirt and air separators for commercial and domestic applications.
Aquabion (E1190) 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.
Bentley Fire Shop (E3292)
The Wilo-Yonos PICO delivers great efficiency integrating proven technology, backed by a 5-Year Warranty. You can trust Wilo.
Integrated LED display Tool-free electrical Wilo-Connector Unique pump venting function Simple adjustment with pre-selectable speed stages
Biomass is the theme here, with the range of E-Classic outdoor biomass boilers taking centre stage. Bentley is the exclusive distributor of this range from Central Boiler and will be looking to promote its position as a supplier of outdoor wood burning gasification boilers, with a selection of products on display.
Danfoss (E5291) Focusing on commercial heating and cooling control, Danfoss will be showing off the NovoCon digital actuator. This multi functional actuator makes it possible to connect an HVAC system to the Building Management System (BMS) via the BACnet communications protocol, adding advanced levels of hydronic balancing and control while also saving time.
Exhibiting on the Travis Perkins stand, Daikin will be focusing on renewable heating, showcasing its range of Altherma heat pumps. The team will be on hand to explain the design and installation process for domestic properties. Also featuring on the stand will be the Altherma Hybrid heat pump, which combines a high efficiency gas combi boiler and air to water heat pump.
Emmeti (E3210) Exhibiting at Ecobuild for the first time, Emmeti will show off its new Gerpex Multilayer Composite Pipe (MLCP) product range alongside its existing heating controls, underfloor heating, wall hung radiator and sanitary manifold systems. Gerpex MLCP offers the advantages of both plastic and metal pipes and should be used with Gerpex press fittings, which have been developed to be used with MLCP as a clean, simple and more efficient alternative to traditional jointing methods.
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Hitachi’s high temperature Yutaki-S80 generates domestic hot water at up to 80ºC
The T1K finds hot spots quickly, measures them precisely and streamlines the entire work process.
Grant (E3050) Heating specialist Grant will be displaying its third generation heat pump – the Aerona³, a new inverter driven air to water unit that has an ErP rating of A++. Staff will be on hand to explain how the Aerona³ produces a consistent heat output while being compact in size, increasing installation choices for engineers. With three outputs (6, 10 and 16kW), the unit combines design features such as weather compensation and a base tray heating element to stop ice formation in cold weather conditions.
HETAS (E3232)
EnviroVent (E2290) A visit to this stand will reveal EnviroVent’s new energiSava 200 heat recovery system. The company will also be showing its new Aug Vent app, which uses ‘augmented reality’ to enable an interior designer or specifier to clearly visualise what an extract fan would look like in the home. The app features a visualisation marker which displays the chosen ventilation unit as an image on the wall.
Flir (E3290)
For more information visit www.wilo.co.uk or call 01283 523000
EnviroVent’s energiSava 200 heat recovery system
As experts in building thermography technology, Flir Systems will be demonstrating its top of the range T1K thermal imaging camera, the new high definition model described as providing exceptional measurement performance, outstanding image clarity and a highly responsive user interface.
Drop by this stand to get the 2016 version of the Official HETAS Guide to Approved Products & Services. The Guide contains listings of approved appliances, ancillary equipment and products for use with biomass, wood and solid mineral fuels. A resource for appliance designers, retailers, installers and end users, it includes efficiency figures which help to determine whether a particular appliance is suited to a property.
Hitachi (E3264) Completely redesigned, Hitachi is launching its expanded Yutaki air source heat pump range on its stand. Using common components and outdoor units as well as a simplified design, the lineup includes 70 new models which are more compact and lighter weight for easier handling and installation. Streamlined components and controls mean easy maintenance and less need for multiple spares. Performances have also been improved with higher CoPs, better seasonal efficiencies and higher capacities.
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‘Hands build houses, Johnson & Starley make them Homes’ 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, not only the smallest boiler on the market with integral passive flue gas heat recovery, but also the only ‘Fully Condensing’ boiler available. Now also available as an LPG model. All QuanTec Boilers come with a 5 Year Parts and Labour Guarantee The WarmCair range of condensing high efficiency warm air heating, and bespoke heat interface units and ventilation for almost every application.
Whatever your needs you can be sure that Johnson & Starley will have a solution. Come and see us at Ecobuild on stand E3244
Call us to see which solution is right for you.
01604 762881
www.johnsonandstarley.co.uk MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN
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30 Exhibition Preview Johnson & Starley (E3244) Stop by this stand to see Johnson & Starley’s range of warm air heating, gas boiler and ventilation products. Taking centre stage will be the QuanTec HR 28C (PFGHR) condensing combi boiler, offered as a combined package with the Aquair heating interface unit (HIU). Another star product will be the QuanTec 28kW LPG combination condensing boiler. Offering efficiency in LPG consumption thanks to the integral passive flue gas heat recovery (PFGHR) device, this product is designed for off-grid applications such as holiday homes and residential parks.
Magic Thermodynamic Box (E3262) A visit here will reveal the Solar Assisted Heat Pump, which works night and day with the thermodynamic panels and the so-called magic box working together to produce hot water for homes from latent heat. The company will also exhibit its Central Heating Management
System, designed to optimise a system to make it work more efficiently. It reduces problems related to air, vibration, slow circulation and poor boiler performance.
NIBE (E3050) Sharing the space on the Travis Perkins stand, NIBE will be showcasing its ground source, air source and exhaust air heat pumps. In the spotlight will be the Nibe F2040, an outdoor unit for residential use, with an update to the programmer.
Pegler Yorkshire will focus on greater building efficiency
Nu-Heat (E3276)
Pegler Yorkshire (E2250)
Reflex (E3252)
If you’re looking for UFH solutions, go see Nu-Heat’s new acoustic UFH solution, produced in partnership with Knauf and Thermal Economics. The AcoustiPanel 14 comprises a pre-routed gypsum board over a high performance IsoRubberUFH-NH base, into which the 14mm Fastflo tube is neatly installed. The combination of tongue-and-groove panels and self-levelling skim offers high thermal conductivity, allowing a quick transfer of heat into the room as well as a stable and level floor.
The theme here is ‘Connect & Control’. Products under the spotlight include Pegler Yorkshire’s range of commissioning valves, HIUs, Terrier TRVs and the latest products to join its taps range. On the stand, there will be focus on valves which support specifiers with delivering a more efficient building via energy and water management. To simplify selection, the company has re-categorised its range into application solution areas: Source, Network and Zone.
Unveiled on the Reflex Winkelmann stand will be the Easyflow Cascade Module, a primary and secondary distribution in one component with an output up to 600kW for use in heating circuits. The manifold construction for the secondary distribution is a prefabricated module which makes it almost a plug-andplay solution.
Rehau (E4289) Part of the UK District Energy Association’s District Heating Hub, Rehau will be
showing its Rauthermex and Rauvitherm solutions in single sizes from 25 to 160mm and in double sizes from 25 to 75mm. These pipes are suitable for use with district heating and biomass systems and offer a practical alternative to steel. A special focus will be on communicating to visitors the impact the design and specification of the pipework layout can have on the cost and efficiency of any district heating scheme, and encouraging them to work with Rehau at the design stage of their project.
RWC (E3234) The main feature here will be the new Hygiene unit, a system that manages and regulates the flow and temperature of water in healthcare, leisure and other facilities. Designed to support the requirements of each facility, the Hygiene unit helps nursing, estates and housekeeping teams to keep water moving to prevent stagnation and reduce the risk of bacterial growth such as Legionella. The module is placed at the
end of the water supply and set to self-regulate the flow and temperature of hot and cold water in line with each sector’s own parameters. The SharkBite range of metal push-fit fittings will also be on display.
Salus (E2210) Smart home technology is the attraction here, with the launch of the new ‘Smart Home’ range of internet enabled products. On stand will be a universal gateway, smart plugs, an electric monitor and door/ window sensors. The range will also feature a new iT530 thermostat, smoke alarm, CO2 alarm, camera, smart switch and smart button.
Saniflo (E5270) Visitors to this stand will be able to see Saniflo’s Kinedo range: the Horizon shower cubicle, Kinemagic Design shower cubicle and Sanifloor shower pump. The cubicle does not require any silicone or grout, and the internal opaque panels eliminate the need for tiling. The Sanifloor pumps water away from wetroom installations or ultra low-level showers.
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March 2016
Exhibition Preview Solar Speedflex Vistors will be able to find out about the company’s vented thermal store solar water heating systems. Founder Eric Hawkins will be at the show to talk about the cylinders, designed by to be installed with the Speedflex Solar Heat Pipe Tube brand of collectors. Eric says the use of vented thermal stores allows daytime solar thermal heat output to be used to assist the space heating of all new homes.
Stroma (E2292) Installers looking for electronic data capture software are invited to visit Stroma Certification, which will highlight its Tracker and Formation software. It will also demonstrate the benefits of its new Group Competency Scheme (GCS) and ISO certification schemes. The popular beach bar themed stand invites attendees to meet the Stroma team and gain industry insight whilst enjoying a complimentary refreshment.
HERO / H-Piece AB-QM Connection Set
Vaillant (E3050)
Windhager (E2140)
Joining the team on the Travis Perkins stand, Vaillant will be showing visitors the flexoTHERM, a multi-source high efficiency heat pump, part of its new Green iQ range. It is available in both domestic and commercial outputs and comes in a choice of three collector options – air, water and ground source. All models come complete with the VRC 700 weather compensating system controller and VR 900 internet gateway as standard.
At this yea’s Ecobuild, Windhager will focus on new developments in controls for its range of biomass boilers. Stop by the stand to see the smart controls with touch screens for the latest BioWIN 2 and LogWIN Premium biomass boilers. Windhager will also be introducing its new MES Infinity, a modular energy system which continually coordinates all sources of heat such as the boiler, solar system and buffer tank for optimum operation, performance and output. Complementing these systems and available on all the company’s boilers with MES Plus controls is the myComfort app, a remote heating control mobile app which allows users to quickly guide their individual heating system from any smart phone or tablet at home or away.
Viessmann (E3280) Launching five new heating products at the show, Viessmann will unveil the Vitodens 100-W and 200-W boilers for domestic applications, both with improved modulation ranges. The 200-W Cascade is for commercial applications. Also covering renewables, Viessmann will show the Vitosol 200-FM solar thermal flat panel and a new split heat pump, the Vitocal 250-S.
Wavin (E4160)
Viessmann is set to launch new versions of the Vitodens
Testo (E1254) Smart work is the theme on Testo’s stand where it will show off its new Smart Probes, comprising eight measuring instruments that can be operated by a smartphone or tablet. Designed for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration contractors, they are suitable for temperature, humidity, pressure and air flow velocity measurements. The company also plans to exhibit its growing range of thermal imagers and FGAs.
Uponor (E3050) This provider of plumbing and indoor climate solutions for residential and commercial applications will be showcasing its underfloor heating and controls solutions on the Travis Perkins stand.
Fast and easy installation with low space requirements
Xpelair’s Stratum 120Q heat recovery unit will be a highlight on the Travis Perkins stand
The main focus on Wavin’s stand is Revit – a new Building Information Modelling (BIM) content package for plumbing and drainage. It’s an intelligence based system that removes uncertainty in pipe design and helps to make the specification of Wavin’s plumbing and drainage systems even more accurate, cost effective and efficient.
Wilo (E2230) The emphasis here will be on Wilo’s ability to provide support to its customers – helping them to select the right pumps easily and to access straightforward information on replacements. The latest version of its online information service for M&E consultants (Wilo – Select) will be demonstrated by staff on the stand. The latest pump planning software, Wilo-Select 4, enables installers to select the right pump in seconds. It documents the life-cycle costs for all the company’s pumps, and even those of other manufacturers.
HERO Flushing By-pass Manifold for Terminal Units is a compact and time saving configuration – designed for creating optimal hydronic balance in cooling and heating applications with variable flow.
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Xpelair (E3050) Exhibiting on the Travis Perkins stand, Xpelair will be on hand to share expert advice on improving air quality through ventilation. Visitors will be able to see how Xpelair’s range of installer friendly products, such as the Stratum 120Q heat recovery unit, can help tackle rising fuel costs and poor indoor air quality. Installers will also get the opportunity to find out about Xpelair’s product range of extractor fans, mechanical extract ventilation (MEV), mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) and positive input ventilation (PIV).
Zero (E4288) Heating solutions company Zero is set to unveil its new range of smart heat interface units, which the company describes as representing a huge leap forward in the technology. MD Finian Parrick says the advanced operational characteristics of its new range of smart HIUs have been proven in the field, and the company is looking forward to introducing the products to the market.
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Radiators & Towel Warmers 35
Consumers need installer advice Consumer buying habits have seen the introduction of designer radiators and towel warmers that combine both style and functionality. David Relihan, General Manager (Design) at QRL Radiator Group, looks at how installers can help their customers make the right decision.
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ith new and increasingly highspec models being introduced into the market every day – in a raft of shapes, colours and sizes – demand for designer radiators continues to expand. From premium panels right through to vertical column radiators and curved tubular towel warmers, consumer appetite for feature heating in every room of the house is rising. For the trade, this has created a growth sector which is set to keep expanding, so it pays for installers to get to know and understand the market and the products on offer.
Designer appeal The rapid rise of the designer radiator is due in large part to a change in the way we seek out and buy products for the home. Thanks to social media channels and 24/7 online shopping, today’s consumers can find product inspiration, compare prices and even generate bespoke room plans, all at the touch of a button. These homeowners want to find easy ways to give their properties a designer look and feel – often without the designer price tag. Enter feature radiators. Offering sophisticated aesthetics and extensive colour palettes, designer radiators let styleconscious consumers take their heat emitters from functional fitting to focal point. As well as their visual appeal, greater flexibility in terms of size and shape mean feature radiators are growing in popularity amongst customers looking to make the most of limited space or an unusual floor plan. As the trend for stylish and unconventional heating solutions has grown, so has their affordability. Manufacturers are rushing to make the most of the demand for designer radiators by developing products to suit a host of tastes and budgets. As a result, prices have become increasingly competitive, making designer radiators an even more attractive prospect all round.
The Plaza is a tube-on-tube feature radiator
Navigating the market With so many homeowners self-specifying designer radiators, some might argue that installers have less of a role to play when it comes to choosing products. However, the opposite is true. As a trusted source of advice and technical expertise, more often than not it falls to the trade to step in and make sure customers don’t allow aesthetic concerns to stop them making the right choice for their home. So, in a market where style is everything, how can installers be sure they’re balancing striking looks with a radiator that does the job it’s meant to do? For heating engineers working with feature radiators, the most important step is to look beneath the surface. It’s still crucial that the product is engineered to deliver the best possible heat output – and when it comes to guaranteeing performance, it’s all about knowing what’s out there. Nowadays there are designer radiators on the market that allow installers and their customers to opt for a better-looking product, without compromising on output.
but deliver the added advantage of taking up less wall space. As they rise upwards rather than outwards, they are also a good alternative for spaces where a horizontal radiator would be hidden from view (e.g. behind furniture). These enhanced logistical benefits are a great selling point, but it’s only the installers who really know the market who will be equipped to make customers aware of the potential on offer. The same is true with bathroom radiators. Consumers often make the mistake of buying on looks alone, expecting their striking towel radiator to do more than just warm their towels – and then end up disappointed when it ultimately fails to heat their bathroom. However, this doesn’t have to be the case – it could just be a question of finding the right finish. For example, whilst a popular choice, chrome actually has a detrimental, insulating effect on radiator performance, causing the wattage to drop. Opting for the same towel warmer, but with a standard white finish, could provide around 50% more heat. It’s this kind of information that installers should be relaying to their customers to ensure they get the most out of their
bathroom radiator. Once they’ve found the right shape and heat output, colour can be a finishing touch. For example, chrome-effect (silver) paint finishes are a straightforward and popular option, and have no negative impact on performance.
Advice matters Yes, it’s true that today’s consumers are more tuned in than ever before to the visual role radiators can play in their home. However, when you take into account the importance of technical knowledge, it’s still installers who are ideally placed to advise on products that fit the bill for performance as well as style. This will not only ensure long term customer satisfaction, but because designer radiators often deliver larger profit margins, it makes business sense too. The good news for tradespeople looking to make the most of the feature radiator opportunity is that in such a flourishing market – one that’s seeing marked development and growth – with the right insight, it’s easy to make a better choice. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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www.qrl-radiators.com
Ready to replace
The Topaz warms both towels and bathrooms
Advancements in radiator technology have meant that with certain products it’s possible to make an almost like-for-like performance comparison between leading pressed steel panel radiators and more visually appealing models. For example, despite their marked stylistic differences, replacing a standard T22 Round Top panel from the QRL hi-lo range with a Design by QRL H22s Slieve feature radiator of the same type and size would deliver a difference in output of just 3%. With modern radiator technology, it’s not just like-for-like, standard-shaped design radiators that offer comparative performance, but the more stand-out ones too. For instance, some of today’s most cutting-edge vertical column radiators offer a heat output that’s on a par with the best compact panels. This means they not only make an eye-catching focal point and meet a room’s heat demand, ENQUIRY
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36 Radiators & Towel Warmers
Multicolumn could be the answer Modern multicolumn radiators offer a versatile heating solution, combining an authentic design with high outputs and robust construction. Chris Gotts, UK & Ireland Retail Manager at MHS Radiators, argues that they are ideal for a wide range of applications.
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In contrast, the modern ith today’s radiators steel multicolumn radiators available in a wide of today are far lighter than range of styles and cast iron, making them easier options, there is a danger to transport and put into of being spoilt for choice. position, aiding both delivery Indeed, with such a plethora and installation. For example, of shapes and materials a cast iron radiator with an available, selecting emitters output of around 1100W that provide adequate levels weighs 100kg, whereas its of heat while remaining steel multicolumn counteraffordable can be quite an part, with the same output, effort. However, this task is just over 20kg. Steel is has become much easier also an excellent material thanks to the emergence of Chris Gotts, MHS Radiators for providing high outputs, multicolumn radiators, which make replacing old products and adding as well as reacting quickly to changes in style to a room more straightforward and temperature. Plus, with minimal waste in terms of raw material, steel is more cost affordable. The origins of multicolumn radiators lie effective when compared to the majority in cast iron – a great material in itself for of alternatives on offer. providing a period look and feel, but it is Tubular sales also heavy, relying on a strong, sturdy floor for support. Latent heat can also be an issue In terms of construction, multicolumn with cast iron, with the material remaining radiators consist of sections of robust warm for a long time after the heating has and durable steel tubes, supplied as fully been switched off. It can also take a little assembled blocks. Each section is then while to reach operating temperature, which welded together, resulting in the finished isn’t ideal in instances where heat is required product. Radiators at the top end of the spectrum in terms of quality will actually quickly. be laser-welded and so well-finished that it is virtually impossible to see any joins. Multicolumn radiators also provide great flexibility, thanks to almost infinite variations in depth, width and height (achieved by simply increasing the number of sections used). As a result, these elegant and efficient products provide highly versatile heating without compromising on style. As with their cast iron counterparts, multicolumn radiators can either be wall mounted or have floor-standing feet. With a radiator’s size being dictated by the amount of heat it is required to generate, multicolumn products offer a variety of sizing options, as they can range from being tall and skinny or short and wide. Undoubtedly, the vertical columns bestow Multisec Loft features a polished metal finish these radiators with excellent heating set beneath a deep lacquer
THE RADIATOR COMPANY
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The Multicolumn Anthrasec from MHS
The Multisec Wall is available in many colours
capabilities by creating a greater surface area, providing more effective convection in contrast to standard panel models. When it comes to sizing multicolumn radiators, the amount of kilowatts (or BTUs) needed to heat the room needs to be calculated. This will then determine how many sections the multicolumn radiator will need to comprise, which will of course vary depending on the number of columns in each.
Blending in
Heating demand The first consideration is usually the radiator’s depth (i.e. the distance from the wall), which is determined by the number of columns – usually between two and six. Two columns will be employed when a low output is required, as this option has the least amount of surface area from which to distribute heat. Not surprisingly, the more columns there are, the higher the heat output and, generally, the larger the room, the larger the emitter tends to be. Multicolumn radiators with the highest outputs tend to be installed in large, open plan areas in order to satisfy temperature demands. It’s also worth noting that radiators with two or three columns are also good when space is at a premium, as they do not protrude too far from the wall.
Another aesthetic benefit of multicolumn radiators is they can be painted in a wide variety of colours, enabling them to blend in with any interior design or theme. This means they are as equally at home as an attractive feature in a modern room as they are in the traditional environments associated with cast iron models. Our Multisec range, for example, is available in an extensive range of custom colours and textures, resulting in the perfect fusion of the modern and the classical. Plus, no matter what the finish is chosen, heat outputs will remain unaffected. So, whatever the application or interior design, multicolumn radiators provide a good-looking, economical and high quality means of heating. They have proven to be extremely versatile, due to their ability to be tailored to a variety of sizes, depths and heat outputs. Practical and finely manufactured, and available in a wide palette of colours and finishes, these radiators really do offer the best of both worlds and look set to be household stalwarts for the foreseeable future. www.mhsradiators.co.uk
UK’s widest selection of designer radiators and towel rails.
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38 Radiators & Towel Warmers
A solution for every application Towel radiators have undergone some radical design changes over the years, leaving householders with difficult choices to make among a vast array of styles. Louisa John, Marketing Manager at Zehnder Radiators, provides a guide to making the right selection.
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he towel radiator is a fundamental part of most bathroom designs, and in fact it was in 1980 when the very first one – the Universal – was launched by Zehnder. This means the towel radiator has benefitted from almost four decades of development, and growth in this market has been impressive. There is now a diversity of heated radiators for bathrooms that would previously have been unimaginable. The challenge today is keeping on top of the game – knowing what towel radiators are available, how they differ, which is best for where, and how to add value to the overall job. When Zehnder launched the Universal, it was trendsetting not only for its functionality, but also
The Ax Spa is available in single or double tube options
for its style. Today, that’s a bigger consideration than ever. Householders expect the towel radiators in their home to be high performing and good looking. Coloured towel radiators are also a great way to introduce the ‘wow’ factor into a bathroom design. They can be chosen to blend with
tiles and sanitaryware, or to stand out to create a focal point. As an added bonus, they also give an output that is about 30% higher than their chrome counterparts. Style also makes economic sense. Good looking bathrooms have a lasting value, as they can help add to a home’s sales appeal and
The Balmoral in chrome
The Stellar fits in small spaces
market value in the future. Bathroom radiators also have different styles to suit different applications and different room types – there is a world of choice in the towel radiator sector. For smaller bathrooms, there are a range of towel radiators with proportions especially suited for smaller
spaces, and there are matching larger versions for other bathrooms in the house.
Wet look According to the latest AMA Research Study, the wetroom market is set for huge growth over the next few years. With the cost of installing a wetroom
becoming more affordable and a rise in popularity amongst the ageing population and households with second bathrooms, it is worth remembering that stainless steel towel radiators are perfect for these environments where corrosion is always a risk. And let’s not forget energy efficiency. This is a priority and particular types of heating systems demand particular types of towel radiators. Electric-only is great for apartments and for where there’s UFH, while a dual fuel model will warm towels in the summer when the heating is turned off. To find out more, visit the website or enter the number below on the reader enquiry card inside this issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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115
A ladder in the bathroom IT’S NOT BIG. BUT IT IS CLEVER. AND POWERFUL.
THE THIRD-GENERATION HI-LO RADIATOR:
The latest entry to JIS’s Sussex range of heated towel rails is the Rye, inspired by the traditional library ladder. Suitable for larger bathrooms, the Rye leans casually and lightly against the wall to create an elegant atmosphere. The rail consumes just 500 Watts and the range is available as electric-only, dual fuel and central heating only versions. There is also a choice of either satin or highly polished steel finish. Pressure tested to 12 bar, each one is manufactured with standard 1/2in BSP
tappings and comes with a built in thermostat. The rail measures 1800 x 520mm, tapering to 300mm at the
top, and is 100% recyclable at the end of its life. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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www.sussexrange.co.uk
Lightweight and quick to heat up
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New products have been added to the collection at The Radiator Company. The Kura, Grandi Ovali and Extro towel rails are all made from aluminium, making them lightweight and with low water content. The Kura (pictured) is a rectangular tube radiator and is available in four horizontal and six vertical models. The wide oval tubes of
the Grandi Ovali provides quick heat distribution and is in eight horizontal and six vertical models. The Extro is a contemporary aluminium alternative to the classic steel ladder rail. With lower water content and plenty of hanging space, this towel rail is available in one size, 1500 x 500mm, and comes in the RAL colour white.
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Radiators & Towel Warmers 39
Warming to the benefits of a radiator upgrade Modern radiators are much more efficient than their older predecessors, so why not update the radiators in existing systems when replacing a boiler? Kelly Smith, Product Manager for Myson Radiators, puts forward the arguments for upgrading the whole system.
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are now, of course, legally hen planning required to be built to much a new heating higher standards of energy system, no-one efficiency from the outset. would choose to fit an older With a better insulated radiator with higher water home, we have the potential content and a smaller heat to run a heating system emitting surface rather than at a lower temperature a new one. When it comes to and still deliver sufficient replacing a central heating warmth to be comfortable. boiler in an existing system, In response to the prospect however, most end users are of a better insulated housing not even asked to consider stock, manufacturers have changing their radiators in developed newer radiators order to maximise efficiency with lower water content and – and perhaps this isn’t surprising. Kelly Smith, Myson Radiators a greater surface from which to emit heat within roughly Normally a new boiler is a distress purchase and is often, therefore, the same footprint. This has ensured that quite difficult to afford, so updating radiators radiator replacement does not have to equal as well can seem to be an added burden disruption in an established home. that end users can ill afford. In the winter Meeting expectations months, especially, installers are very aware that the end user simply wants their heating Once the new boiler is installed, it can be a back on at the minimum cost, so it can be bit of a shock for the end user to find that difficult even to ask if they want to replace their energy bill is not as reduced as they had the radiators as well as the boiler – but there hoped. This is usually because turning the system temperature down has not delivered are good reasons for doing this. Many established homes have systems the warmth that the end user is used to, or which were first installed in the 1960s or requires, and so the system temperature is 1970s. The boiler has probably been replaced turned back up. The higher temperature two or three times since then, but unless does not allow the boiler to work in full the radiators have leaked or failed to heat condensing mode, so it does not run at its up, the householder may never have given most efficient. It is therefore, well worth explaining to any thought to replacing them. However, as energy prices have risen customers that these savings they have dramatically over the years, end users seen advertised are in part dependent on naturally want to lower their bills as much the entire system being energy efficient, and as possible. Large numbers have taken up that only when used with lower temperature offers to improve their insulation, installing radiators will a boiler deliver the level of cavity wall insulation and loft insulation. savings anticipated. This will also help to cushion them Most will have had double glazed windows ELCO THISION S+_PHAM 110x292_2.qxp_Layout 1 29/02/2016 12:26 Page 1 against further energy cost installed at some point. New build homes increases in the future.
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Myson’s Fowey radiator features a classic flat tube design and is suitable for either horizontal or vertical installation
the boiler, which may be very costly to repair. If the damage is caused by matter from a very old radiator, this may compromise the boiler warranty and result in the end user needing yet another replacement.
Visual appeal
The striking Jarua towel rail from Myson
Research has shown that radiators designed for use with lower system temperatures can help to reduce energy consumption by up to 15% compared with older radiator models with higher water content and less radiating surface. Added to that, because they allow the boiler to operate in condensing mode, they allow it to deliver the savings which its higher efficiency design promises. If the existing radiators are very old, replacing them is also a sensible move in terms of protecting the new boiler while in use. If the interiors of the old radiators are degraded and have begun to disintegrate, there is a possibility of loose material breaking off and travelling around the system. If it reaches the new boiler, a foreign body in the water flow can cause damage to
GREAT DESIGN • Built-in energy saving pump • Class-leading A/A+ energy efficiency rating • Easy access to control board • Low NOx and CO emissions
The progress achieved in radiator design over several decades has included aesthetics as well as efficiency, so for a relatively modest additional cost the entire home can also have a visual upgrade. Replacing the radiators can also offer the opportunity for your customer to rethink their space. They may wish to install a vertical model in order to free up wall space for fitted storage or for repositioning free-standing furniture. We also now have lower profile horizontal options which allow us to install radiators beneath a low set window sill, instead of taking up space either side of a window. If the boiler replacement is due to an irreparable breakdown, the end user can see it as a crisis that they want to have dealt with as quickly and cheaply as possible. However, some may later regret not taking the opportunity to upgrade the system as a whole. Indeed, this summer could be the ideal time to start to explain the bigger picture on both energy efficiency and good looks to a house-proud nation. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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40 Radiators & Towel Warmers
The place where style meets performance Homeowners used to be willing to compromise on style as long as their radiators and towel warmers delivered the heat. Now they expect them to deliver good looks as well. That’s just as it should be, says Sarah Macfarlane, Product Manager for Purmo Towel Warmers.
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e no longer have to make a choice between good looks and good performance when it comes to towel warmers. Neither do we have to use guesswork when it comes to specifying decorative radiators. CE marking has made life easier for the installer, meaning that they can be certain that a product will provide the output claimed. However, we Sarah Macfarlane, Purmo do now have a few additional choices these days, most notably with regard to colour and, more recently, texture. The days of choosing between white or chrome towel warmers in one basic ladder style are long gone. Installers can specify from a huge variety of models, outputs and sizes, as well as a wide range of RAL colours, and a surprising selection of finishes. So how do you know what to advise?
Good recommendation Gone are the days when the installer selected every element of the heating system, including radiators, and homeowners did their best to disguise the looks of the ones they found least attractive by installing radiator covers or painting over them to match their wall colours. The good news is, as long as you buy from a manufacturer which uses exacting manufacturing standards, top quality materials and offers a ten year guarantee, you can give the customer scope to choose what they find aesthetically pleasing.
The Leros from Purmo in a matt black textured finish
The Analfi is an example of the basic ladder style with a twist
We now see towel warmers featuring in family bathrooms, en-suites and cloakrooms as standard in new-build properties. Almost all have them – the style and price may vary according to the property price, but there is no doubt that prospective buyers expect to see them, sometimes in kitchens and utility rooms too. Bathrooms in particular are an area where homeowners are open to replacing the radiator when redecorating. This change of perception of the radiator as an attractive appliance has led to a huge range in styles and designs. With the trend towards open living, kitchen, dining and living areas are often combined, so heat emitters in each area need to be both attractive and efficient. Refurbishing and extending a house often gives a greater opportunity to rethink the heating system than merely redecorating, so it is well worth suggesting an audit of the entire system and an update of the radiators. Even if they are not changing the layout of the home, but are simply updating the bathroom, for example, the consumer needs good advice on selecting the right heat emitter.
temperatures in order to save on fuel bills. Changing the existing radiators as part of refurbishing the home ought to be a priority, just as a new kitchen or bathroom will be. In many properties, the boiler will have been replaced several times, but in too many, the radiators will not have been changed at all. When central heating systems were first installed in the vast majority of domestic properties some 40 to 50 years ago, panel radiators were the only option used to heat each room, and models installed then will not be anywhere near as efficient as models sold now. Updating the radiators allows the homeowner to include towel warmers and more attractive designer styles without compromising on energy efficiency. The new choices that we can offer go beyond simply colour, although recently we can already see a huge take up of colour. Most RAL colours are available to order, the most popular in our experience being grey, in a range of shades from light to dark.
Take on texture
We are able to offer new textures as well as colours, particularly in this popular grey palette. We have mostly seen glossy or satin sheen radiators but can offer matte finishes as well. Newer Long lasting coating techniques mean that we can Bathrooms and kitoffer these textured anodised finishes and even glittery or sparkly finishes. chens are no longer This greater freedom allows the purely functional rooms. homeowner to complement the In the established property décor of the new room with a in particular, choosing to complementary texture, reflecting install a new heat emitter is more urban and utilitarian a considerable commitment. The Purmo colour wheel, featuring a wide range of influences and the greater choice Many bathrooms are decorated RAL colours, as well as metal, matt, fine texture and of materials used in kitchen and entirely with ceramics, so they anode finishes, has been designed to help installers bathroom design. are a long term investment. The advise their customers on all the available options The foundational work that we as a manufacturer have heat emitter needs to be equally durable and long lasting, making high quality manufacture and great performance done in producing towel warmers and designer style a must, and choosing a product which carries a ten year radiators that are impeccable partners in low temperature heating systems means that you don’t have to choose style guarantee will provide added peace of mind. Towel warmers can easily be designed into a lower over substance. Installers can offer their customers the best temperature heating system, being a good option for use of both worlds – great quality, a ten year guarantee and with renewable heat sources. Consumers understand the just about any colour and finish they desire – all without importance of insulating existing properties more effectively compromise on warmth. and many have now added loft and cavity wall insulation Find out more along with better insulated double glazed windows. For more information on the radiator and towel rail options from Purmo, enter the number below on the reader registration Lower temperature and enquiry card inside this issue. With the increase in domestic fuel prices, end users are PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.purmo.co.uk 120 more open to the concept of reducing their heating system
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Radiators & Towel Warmers 41 Electric means year-round heating Described as being competitively priced, the new Creda CLR is an electric ladder towel rail range said to offer cost-effective, year-round towel warming without compromising on style or safety. The range includes four sizes, with five, seven, 10 or 12 rails. Each is available in a high quality chrome or white finish and outputs ranging from 60 to 250W, according to the model. Said to be easy and quick to install, the Creda towel
rails provide quick and convenient towel drying without the need to turn the wet central heating system on or extend pipework from an existing system. The new range is also compatible with the FSCC and FSCW runback controls, giving extra control and efficiency. For added peace of mind, all models are IPX5 rated and come with CE Mark and BEAB approval. rails are fluid filled for even heat distribution and offer
safe surface temperatures of below 60°C. These
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Moving up a level Viola a symphony of minimalism
The Time towel rail is part of Aestus’s Designer Italian Collection by Graziano and is designed with 20mm square horizontal tubing. The towel rail is available in four colours including white, quartz, ancient bronze and anthracite (pictured). Designed to take towel drying to the next level, Time offers generous hanging
space to warm fluffy bath towels while evoking a sense of luxury and indulgence. Crafted in high quality mild steel by Graziano, the Time towel rail is suitable for installation over a bath or large vanity unit. It’s designed for closed circuit heating systems PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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The Viola range of horizontal and vertical steel radiators from MHS Radiators feature bold, straight lines which combine with a flat-tube façade to make an artistic statement that complements any interior. The horizontal range has 11 models, each blending minimalistic design and an attractive top grille with impressive heating performance. Radiators are available in heights ranging from 360 to 578mm, with widths spanning from 600 to 1600mm. Outputs for horizontal models begin at 624W, up to 1843W. The Viola Vertical designer radiator shares the aesthetic appeal, versatility and contemporary class of its horizontal cousin. There are six models in the vertical range, suitable for both traditional and modern interiors, offering outputs from 683 to 1507W. Widths
Takes the abuse A new variation of Stelrad’s Planar radiator has been launched. The Heavy Duty Planar is designed for commercial applications and is particularly suited to situations where a more robust radiator is needed, such as in corridors where trolleys or wheelchairs are used and a more durable solution is required. The new heavy duty version offers the same slim, flat fronted good looks and performance as the standard Planar, but this heavy duty Planar is supplied with a one-section, 2mm thick integrated steel fascia, with side panels and top grille, designed to survive in a busy commercial area. “By making the casing more robust and able to take impact in its stride, but still continue to provide heat as designed, we are meeting the requirements of a wider potential marketplace,” says Marketing Manager Chris Harvey. www.stelrad.com
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Compact comfort
of 215, 360 and 433mm are available, while heights range from 1200 to 2000mm. All Viola radiators come with a 10 year guarantee as standard. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Compact spaces will benefit from the Comfort towel warmer by Vogue. Sure to make a statement, Comfort offers designer appeal for bathrooms, ensuites and kitchens and, because it is electric, it is simple to integrate into these rooms. Designed with 25mm diameter tubing, the towel rail’s E-shaped design maximises on hanging space to ensure efficiently warmed towels. Comfort is available in chrome, which is then hand polished to a mirror finish.
With a height of 719mm, 545mm width and 103mm depth, the Comfort towel warmer offers 120W from a sealed electric format. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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26/02/2016 09:58
March 2016
42 HEAT Pumps
Gaining a better understanding With the Government’s announcement that it will continue to fund the RHI, the UK market for heat pumps looks set to rise. Here, Heather Oliver, Product Development Manger at Nu-Heat, looks at how they are installed and how to meet MCS requirements.
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unit is unlikely to be efficient and could eat pumps are a popular end up costing the homeowner more to renewable solution for many run than a traditional gas or oil boiler. An types of property, both large experienced and reputable supplier will and small. They appeal to homeowners refuse to quote if there’s any doubt that for a range of different reasons, offering the heat pump will be suitable. a sustainable and eco-friendly way of heating, as well as the opportunity MCS and RHI to save on bills when compared to an It’s unfortunate that MCS, put in place electric boiler and average long-term to ensure high-quality installations, puts prices for gas and oil boilers. many installers off of installing renewable As the demand grows, so too does the technologies due to the paperwork and number of installations. And whilst a additional cost involved. However, if heat pump may seem like a real step your customer plans on applying for the away from ‘the norm’ if you have never Renewable Heat Incentive tariff payments, worked with one before, the practical Heather Oliver, Nu-Heat Product the heat pump system must be installed installation of either a ground or air Development Manager to strict MCS guidelines. source heat pump is actually no more In reality it is not difficult to install a heat pump to difficult than installing a traditional gas or oil-fired this high standard provided you are working with a boiler. reputable supplier. The more challenging elements, Making a choice involving complex calculations such as accurate heat There are two main types of heat pump: ground source losses for the building, can be handled by an MCS (GSHP) and air source (ASHP). GSHPs require ample free accredited supplier, and you can expect the following land for the ground collector loops, whereas an ASHP as standard: can be installed in properties with little outdoor space. • An MCS-compliant, detailed quotation for the project. Both units come in various sizes and can efficiently and • Full heat loss calculations for the property. This effectively supply heat to both small and large properties ensures that a heat pump is a viable and efficient that are insulated to building regulation solution and it also enables the supplier standards. to accurately size the heat pump to “The more challenging meet the required heat load. When approached about installing a heat pump, it’s likely that your customer elements can be • Mechanical and electrical layalready has the type of unit they require out drawings along with detailed handled by an MCS in mind. It’s useful to know their buying installation manuals for a smooth accredited supplier” motive before approaching a supplier install. so you know exactly what they are • Expert installation support. At the hoping to get out of the system. Is it because they purely very least you should have access to technical support want to apply for the RHI, and if so, do they understand over the phone to help with installation queries or the scheme? Or is it because they want to move away troubleshooting. It’s also worth checking if there are any from fossil fuels to create a greener home? With this on-site support options such as field service engineers information, along with the basic project details, you who can cover commissioning and double-check that can then approach an you have met MCS requirements. experienced supplier to • User instructions for your customer, helping them check if a heat pump is the to operate the system. right solution to meet their System commissioning needs and expectations. If the property’s insulation Most established MCS accredited suppliers can help is up to current building you with system commissioning and checking over regulations, your supplier the installation to ensure it meets MCS requirements can then provide you before providing the MCS Certificate for you to hand with a detailed quote. You to your customer. This type of MCS support is vital on should always be wary of your first few installations, helping you to get started installing a heat pump in with renewables before deciding whether to become a renovation project where accredited in your own right. insulation is poor, as the Commissioning support often encompasses all of the relevant MCS paperwork, too, and for the cost of a few hundred pounds is a worthwhile investment for installation peace of mind.
Get started
NIBE ground source (l) and air source heat pumps available from Nu-Heat
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As there’s no need for additional or expensive training to install a heat pump, you can get started! As mentioned earlier, it’s worth spending some time researching various suppliers and asking a select few for some examples of their installation manuals, design outputs and support options along with costs. Once you have this information it won’t take long to pick out the right supplier so that you can begin your venture into the heat pump market.
Nu-Heat provides installation and commissioning support
Understanding the Renewable Heat Incentive The Government’s financial support scheme, the Renewable Heat Incentive, is a big bonus for any homeowner looking to install a heat pump. It’s a simple concept that is easy to put across to a customer: they opt for a renewable heat pump over a traditional boiler, and the Government then rewards them via a tariff payment, paid over a seven year period, which aims to offset the initial cost of installing the technology. Here’s a basic breakdown of the RHI and what it means for you and your customers: • The current tariff rates are 19.1p per k/Wh for a GSHP and 7.4p per k/Wh for an ASHP – considerably more than biomass which has just been lowered to 5.1p. Based on this, an average two bedroom house could expect to receive around £14,000 from a GSHP and £5000 for an ASHP over the seven year payback period. • Once a homeowner is accepted for a tariff, it remains fixed at this rate for the full seven year period. This means that even if the tariff rates went down the following month, it would not affect their payments, as they are ‘locked in’. • In order to successfully apply for the RHI the heat pump system must meet strict MCS design and installation requirements to ensure it will operate efficiently. An experienced MCS accredited supplier will be able to provide you with all of the MCS compliance paperwork and certificate as part of their quote package. www.nu-heat.co.uk
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26/02/2016 09:57
NEED HELP SOLVING THE RENEWABLES PUZZLE FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS? The NEW Partner Distribution Portal from Ice Energy can hep you do just that. Access Heat Pumps from leading manufacturers including Mitsubishi Electric, Floor Heating kits for both boilers and heat systems as well as genuine replacement parts - all with generous trade discounts.
No MCS? No problem! We’ll help you deliver products which qualify for the latest renewable energy grants and use our MCS registered status to take care of all the paperwork so you don’t have to. And if you’re new to heat pumps, you can join us for one of our FREE installer training days at our Oxfordshire base. Enhance your business and boost your earning potential with this FREE-touse service by calling the number below or registering online today.
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44 HEAT Pumps
GSHPs: what you need to know Ground source heat pumps are suitable for a diverse range of applications. Here, Alison Harding and Darren Veal, Technical Support Engineers for Kensa Heat Pumps, have compiled a list that introduces the essential information for interested installers.
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ith the Renewable Heat Incentive extended to 2021, the opportunities for installers in this industry are strong. Familiarisation with the strengths of each renewable heat technology ensures wider scope and profitability. To help installers considering venturing into ground source heat pumps, we’ve devised a list of 10 things you need to know.
1 Energy Sources One of the first and most important things to remember about ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) is that your heat source options are not limited to just the ground. You can utilise water sources too, including lakes, rivers, ponds, streams, aquifers and even the sea. If the property that requires heating is next to any of the above water sources, then subject to volume and flow rate, they could support very efficient and cost effective ground source heat pump installations. Having a clear understanding of your energy source options and how to apply them could be the difference between winning and losing a job. Think outside the box and, if in any doubt, speak to your manufacturer.
2 Application GSHPs are traditionally used for heating and hot water in domestic buildings. However, awareness of their flexible applications and heat sources have opened up a number of emerging markets, including: holiday parks, lodges, forest retreats, care homes, B&Bs, schools, hospitals, golf clubs, farms, offices, lighthouses, house boats, boat sheds, swimming pools, green houses, wood drying facilities, subway stations, community centres, sports centres – as you can see, the list goes on!
3 District heating In addition to commercial applications, new build installations and, significantly, district retrofit installations are also able to access payments for 20 years through the non-domestic RHI. District systems replacing electric heating in existing housing stock GSHPs are also able to tap into are well capital subsidy support suited through the Energy Com- to district heating schemes pany Obligation (ECO). District heating provides each home with its own ground source heat pump, ensuring heating and hot water independence. The heat network is created by linking multiple properties to a communal ground array, designed to deliver an efficient, reliable and durable source of heat for the life of the property. This system overcomes the need for a central plant. The efficiency is not compromised by heat loss from distribution pipework, and there is no need to meter and apportion energy bills between dwellings – avoiding the need to comply with Heat Network (Metering & Billing) Regulations. The key to district heating and getting the non-domestic RHI for non-commercial properties is that each property heated by the ground source system must have its own EPC – opening up a wealth of opportunities from flats to large estates.
4 Location Some GSHPs can be bulky units which take up space in a utility room or kitchen. It’s entirely possible to site a heat pump outdoors, as long as you can provide a weatherproof enclosure. This can be a good way to maximise space indoors
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GSHPs can work well with the right water sources
Controls for GSHPs can be simple with touch-screen interfaces
and eliminate nuisance noise. Smaller units on the market are designed to be installed inside the property, typically in a kitchen or airing cupboard, and are exceptionally quiet, such as Kensa Heat Pumps’ Shoebox range.
you can guarantee that 25% of the system volume is left uncontrolled (i.e. no zone valves or actuators). Your hot water cylinder needs to be specified to account for that lower flow temperature as well. The surface area required to transfer heat will be bigger than a standard unvented cylinder’s coil. Some manufacturers use tank-in-tank cylinders, which is one way to overcome this issue. Alternatively, look at heatpump-specific cylinders – make sure the coil size is appropriate though, and check that the coil diameter and tapping sizes are OK, especially for larger output heat pumps.
5 Controls are easy Much like a boiler, you can use traditional controls with a heat pump. The controls that come with your underfloor heating can be easily integrated as well, so you can go from traditional and simple, right through to advanced touch-screen controls. Pick a control type that suits the end user. Once the heat pump is commissioned and correctly set up, it should be a matter of ‘fit and forget’ – the end user shouldn’t need to change any of the settings on the heat pump, and any adjustments for comfort or timing can be made using the proprietary control system. Some people have the idea that using a heat pump is complicated and confusing – it shouldn’t be!
6 But it’s not a boiler It can be tempting to explain heat pumps as just another heat source, ‘just like a boiler’. That’s fine for explaining in basic terms, but for the installer, it’s worth remembering that there are a few differences. The lower flow temperatures mean that a bit of forward thinking is needed when specifying a system, especially for retrofits.
7 System design This point cannot be stressed enough! It’s such a big part of installing a heat pump. Get the heat emitter sizing correct. Remember that those lower flow temperatures do make a difference to how big the radiators need to be, or how tight the pipework spacing should be in your underfloor system. Room by room heat losses have got to be done in order for your installation to qualify for MCS approval, so make use of them to size your emitters! Sometimes installers who are new to heat pumps after fitting gas or oil boilers for years struggle with getting used to going into this much detail. If you have an underfloor specialist doing a design for you, get them to work from the heat loss calculations rather than making assumptions. By the time the underfloor system is in, it’s too late to change it. You will almost certainly require a buffer tank, unless
8 High temperature DHW For a long time, heat pumps just weren’t especially good at handling hot water demands because they didn’t generate very high temperatures to start off with. For some, this meant reliance on direct electric heating to top-up whatever the heat pump could provide – defeating the object of using a heat pump to begin with. Luckily progress has meant that using different types of refrigerant within the compressor allows higher temperatures to be achieved. High temperature heat pumps are increasingly common and can provide flow temperatures high enough that you can even do away with legionella prevention routines in the hot water cylinder. No more immersion heaters required!
9 Maintenance There aren’t many serviceable parts in a heat pump. They actually need very little in the way of servicing; just a check over once a year, making sure the pressure in the heating system and the ground loops is as it should be, and that the antifreeze is at the right concentration. Clear out any strainers fitted to the ground array and if there’s a filter on the heating system, check that too. Of course, an unvented cylinder should be checked annually too, so you can always kill two birds with one stone and do this check at the same time.
10 RHI here to stay The RHI has helped to widen the heat pump market in the UK. But householders remain sceptical because they worry that the funding rug will be pulled from under their feet. After seeing solar PV and biomass hit their tariff degression points comparatively quickly, end users are asking if and when it could happen for heat pumps. The answer is ‘it’s miles off’! Due to the spike in installs for PV and biomass because of their former high tariffs, the sales of heat pumps compared to other renewable technologies are that much lower and far from the degression points that it seems extremely unlikely that a degression would be triggered in the near future. www.kensaheatpumps.com
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29/02/2016 08:26
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March 2016
46 HEAT Pumps
Opportunity knocks Chris Stammers, Product Marketing Director at Dimplex, considers how renewables installers can add value and maximise profits with heat pump installations.
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ith the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) now in place until at least 2021, installers can move forward with confidence that air and ground source heat pumps remain a viable, effective heating source for many householders. The technology is proven, with strong case studies across the industry showing how households have cut their heating bills. Despite some initial concern over potential funding cuts in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, tariffs are cost effective and the funding is in place to provide payments
over a seven year period after installation. For installers, the trick is getting to the right people. Air source heat pumps provide a great example of how some installers can target their marketing efforts more effectively in order to optimise sales. It may seem like common sense, but by taking a step back and asking yourself ‘who is going to buy this technology?’ you can quickly identify who you should be talking to about the products and services you can offer. Homeowners with large detached properties not connected
TacoSet ter Bypass
to mains gas stand to benefit from the greatest savings on their heating bills with domestic heat pumps. Often this means they will be in rural locations, with four or five bedrooms and a number of reception areas to heat, as well as more than one bathroom to supply with hot water. This ‘typical’ customer will be looking to replace old or inefficient LPG or oil boilers as their main fuel source for heating and hot water. In addition to this group of homeowners, think Grand Designs too – people who are building their dream home in an area of natural beauty or renovating an old barn or listed ruin. Often these self-builders will have factored the use of renewables into the very heart of their project, and heat pumps are an ideal choice.
Target audience None of the above will be a surprise – but how can you target this type of customer? For heat pump customers, county and rural shows would be a great place to start. At Dimplex we’ve worked closely with our network of installers to visit a number of such shows in the past and the response was fantastic. Of course there will be some promotional wastage – but far less than more conventional marketing routes like direct mail or local press advertising. Armed with the knowledge of your niche market’s ‘typical’ property, you can improve your marketing materials and sales pitch too by including relevant facts and figures best suited to their type of property along with the energy generation and cost savings story they could expect.
t, n e m e r u s a e m Flow e lv a v f f o t u h s & g in c balan ns up to 100 °C, atio for water & glycol appulipc to 185 °C . for solar applications Continuously variable and precise setting of the flow rate
The Dimplex A-Class air source heat pump
Added value
Simple operation
Most heat pump installations will also present an opportunity for add-ons. From pipework and fittings to hot water cylinders and heat emitters, there is much more to a heat pump system than the heat pump itself – and it all provides an added value proposition for installers. One of the biggest opportunities lies in the provision of hot water cylinders. Many leading manufacturers will offer a range of pre-configured system packages, carefully specified for both new build and existing homes, with all the ancillary parts needed for a quick and hassle-free installation. Some packages may also include heat emitters, such as low temperature radiators which can optimise the performance of a heat pump and further drive down running costs for the customer. The key is to look at the whole project from day one – and create the opportunity for add-on purchases.
Commercial break
Direct display of flow rate in l/min
Info: taconova.co.uk Available from: Tacotherm Ltd, sales@tacotherm.co.uk
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Despite the inevitable focus on the domestic heat pump market, there are significant rewards to be gained in the commercial sector too. In the constant drive towards energy efficiency, there is more pressure than ever on commercial buildings to reduce their carbon emissions, and heat pumps are becoming far more appealing in the commercial new build sector. Unlike the domestic sector, where we rely on homeowners to understand the benefits before they consider investment, many commercial organisations are being pushed towards renewable heat because of stringent regulation or planning requirements. For example, The Building Regulations Approved L2A document makes it mandatory to consider the economic feasibility of heat pumps – and give a good reason why they haven’t been selected. The inclusion of heat pumps in a project can also earn up to 12 credits alone under the BREEAM scoring system, providing specifiers with easy credit.
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29/02/2016 11:16
March 2016
Quality and innovation at the heart of our boilers.
Heat Pumps
Technology will boost demand John Bailey, Commercial & Renewable Systems Director at Vaillant, discusses the latest developments in heat pump technology and how this may help to generate growth in the market.
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Vaillant’s flexoTHERM heat pump has an output range of 5, 8 and 11kW
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unit overcomes some of the reservations that customers may have previously had.
Train for success
John Bailey from Vaillant
by self-builders or small scale developers who may initially have specified a ground source heat pump but find that changes to the project budget later on may mean they have to compromise on the heating technology. With flexoTHERM this is no longer the case as they can choose to specify an alternative energy source such as the air collector, eliminating the need for substantial design changes to the property.
Leaky buildings On the other end of the housing spectrum are older properties where retrofitting a heat pump requires a more powerful output to ensure comfort levels are delivered for dwellers. This is because this type of property is generally more leaky, evident in the heat loss calculations where between 75 – 80W of heat energy is needed per square metre compared to a new home which only requires 40W heat energy per square metre (Passiv House is as little as 10W per square metre). This demonstrates that if the UK is to adopt heat pumps into more building stock, their performance needs to address a wide range of heating demands. Also, a customer’s satisfaction can be greatly influenced by comfort levels in the home. With its Quiet Mark rating, the flexoTHERM is the quietest heat pump on the market. At only 42 decibels, which is as quiet as a domestic fridge, such a
Installers of renewable technology know that the effectiveness of a heat pump depends largely on the correct system specification. The approach required differs greatly to that of a gas-powered heating system, which is why gas installers would do well to take advantage of the extensive training options available before embarking on a renewable installation. While it is not currently a legal requirement, by pursuing accreditation schemes like MCS, installers can help to boost the reputation of the entire industry by setting a precedent for installation quality standards. Furthermore, it will give customers the possibility of claiming government incentives such as RHI, as well as giving them peace of mind that their installer is sufficiently qualified.
Stainless steel is, without doubt, the best material for primary heat exchangers in condensing boilers. One of the unique design features of all Vitodens boilers is the Inox-Radial heat exchanger made from high grade stainless steel. We are so confident in our heat exchanger that we guarantee it for 10 years against corrosion. Designed for long-term reliability, high performance and self-cleaning 100% corrosive resistance Exclusive to Viessmann For more information please see our website or email us at,
What next?
info-uk@ viessmann.com www.viessmann.co.uk
To encourage more heat pump specification, at Vaillant, we would like to see a revision to the current carbon ratings, which are built into the SAP assessment. As it currently stands, heat pumps are rated at around 500g per kWh, whereas the reality is closer to 400g per kWh. On paper this makes a heat pump a less appealing option than supposedly carbon-neutral alternatives such as biomass boilers. The UK renewables market, and in particular the heat pump market, faces a number of barriers to growth, but with the industry working together heat pumps can become a core part of the heating and hot water options that installers discuss with their customers. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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10 Year Warranty on all stainless steel heat exchangers for gas condensing boilers up to 150 kW
Vitodens 200-W gas condensing boiler Viessmann Limited • Telford • Telephone 01952 675000
he UK heat pump industry has faced many challenges recently – the dramatic slump in oil prices, the uncertainty surrounding the RHI and the small number of skilled and motivated installers have all had an impact on demand. So how can we generate more interest in heat pumps? Regardless of cuts to the RHI outlined in the 2015 Spending Review, businesses and homeowners can be assured that manufacturers will continue to innovate renewable systems to drive competition in the market and excel the performance of the technology. This is why at Vaillant we have developed flexoTHERM, a new generation in heat pump technology which makes for easy specification as its modular design means customers can choose from either an air, water or ground source collector added to the innovative pump unit. So if customers really want to embrace a renewable technology but don’t either have the land space for a ground source collector, either through borehole or trenches, they can still enjoy the running savings of a heat pump by opting for another energy source. Further benefits of a modular design can be felt
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26/02/2016 09:56
March 2016
48 HEAT Pumps
Laying the grounds for growth Despite the success of thousands of heat pumps in the UK, the market remains one struggling to grow. Robin Adderley, Sales and Marketing Director at NIBE, shares his insight on the status quo of the heat pump market and takes a look at what the future holds.
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he UK is moving, slowly but surely, towards reducing its dependency on fossil fuels. A key part of this process is finding greener ways to meet our heating and hot water needs – and as a costeffective renewable heating solution, heat pumps have what it takes to tick that box. However, despite thousands of successful installs, they are still relatively unknown in this country, and their full potential is a long way from being realised – even with government backing in the form of the RHI. Although the market for heat pumps is gradually growing, more work must be done if we’re to see it flourish. We need a strategy that fosters long term market
Subsidy success
Robin Adderley, Sales and Marketing Director, NIBE
growth – especially given that the UK has set itself the challenge of deploying 6.8m domestic heat pumps by 2030. This is no easy feat when you consider there are currently only around 110,000 units installed in our buildings. But what should our plan of action be?
Ideally we’d like to see a market that didn’t need a subsidy, but we need to use financial incentives like the RHI to our advantage. The scheme is a powerful tool in driving uptake. Although the RHI has had reductions in funding, it’s certainly not the end. It is set to continue until at least the end of this Parliament, and the budget for it will be a substantial £1.15 billion annually until 2021. We don’t know exactly what the reforms will be, but we expect heat pump technology to remain a part of the RHI. The RHI may be a short term driver, but in the long term industry needs to put significant resource into making heat pump technology mainstream and build-
ing a substantial workforce of skilled installers. They are best-placed to spread the word about heat pumps to consumers, and more qualified installers mean more high quality installs. At the moment, there are only around 1200 MCS accredited heat pump installers, so it’s not surprising that installation numbers are still much lower than we’d like them to be. Manufacturers need to offer training packages that encourage installers to see heat pump fitting as an untapped career opportunity. Installers themselves should be proactive about recognising the commercial opportunity and seek out the qualifications to make the most of it. That’s why we’re calling for the MCS process to be simplified and cost-effective.
The industry also needs a long term commitment from Government. As part of our vision, we want to see legislation that allows low-carbon heating to compete with fossil fuelbased systems on a level playing field. For this reason, we are looking to campaign for certain efficiency measures to be made mandatory when gas boilers are installed in new builds.
Simple Changes For instance, we want to see every new build incorporate a modulating heating control (for example, weather compensation) in line with ErP guidelines. Additionally, given that boilers can only operate at optimum efficiency if the system flow temperature
is below 55°C, we are also calling for this to be set as a legal maximum. Simple changes like these would help lay the foundations for future heat pump installations by making today’s heating systems ‘low carbon technology-ready’. They would also help to dismantle the market barriers that currently only unfairly challenge the low-carbon heating industry, and not the gas boiler industry. Coupled with a motivated, wide-reaching installer base and the support of short-term subsidies like the RHI, this would give heat pumps the stepping stone they need to become a central part of the UK’s future energy mix. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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The perfect solution for convenience and efficiency
WPC (S) – compact in size, BIG on efficiency
Powerful for maximum convenience in the home | As one of the most efficient heat pumps available, the WPC (S) delivers satisfaction not only because of a COP of up to 5, but also because of its compact size and high level of integration. The unit even incorporates a 200l DHW cylinder. › Excellent coefficient of performance (COP) of up to 5.0 › Extremely quiet in operation › The range now includes a powerful 13kW single phase option WPC (S) Brine | water heat pump
Hot water and space heating solutions the STIEBEL ELTRON way With a comprehensive range of ground and air source heat pumps, we always have the right solution for your project. Contact us directly for our free of charge design service. STIEBEL ELTRON UK Ltd | Telephone: 0151 346 2300 | www.stiebel-eltron.co.uk ENQUIRY
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Our complete range of ground and air source heat pumps from 2kW to 160kW
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Specialising in heating systems, we supply domestic and commercial Alpha Innotec heat pumps with some of the highest COPs, using some of the lowest GWP refrigerants. OMNIE provides a full MCS support scheme for your installation with design and commissioning support. Remote access from a PC or smartphone comes as standard enabling the heat pump to be monitored all year round.
Ground & Air Source Heat Pumps â&#x20AC;˘ Underfloor Heating Systems â&#x20AC;˘ Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery 01392 36 36 05 | www.omnie.co.uk | projects@omnie.co.uk ENQUIRY
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Heat Pumps
Continuing to meet demand
BLUE IS THE NEW GREEN Grant has been developing and trialling a new generation of clean burning, low emission and high efficiency oil condensing boilers. The all new ‘VortexBlue’ features a new compact Riello blue flame burner and is available in outputs from 21-36kW across a variety of models. The boiler and burner combination is easy to install and set up, and what’s more, the VortexBlue is compatible with all of Grant’s EZ-Fit flue systems. Think green. Install blue.
Specifications: • ERP rating = A • Market leading Riello Blue Flame Burner • 89-5 – 93.3% Gross SAP2009 annual efficiency • Internal, external and combi models available • 15 outputs from 21 – 36kW
Green Products. Great Thinking. Grant Engineering.
For further information visit: www.grantuk.com or call our sales team: +44 (0)1380 736920 ENQUIRY
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A growing number of projects – both for existing historical properties and new build projects – have demonstrated how heat pumps from Stiebel Eltron UK can help to reduce energy use.
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hose who think that demand for green technologies is slowing in the UK will be interested to learn that Stiebel Eltron UK has reported a 38% increase in sales compared with its previous financial year. Over recent years Stiebel Eltron has established a reputation for installing heat pump technology in historical properties and the company’s experience has helped the National Trust to embark on a ten year plan to cut its energy use by 20% and acquire half of its energy from renewable sources. During the last 12 months, the company’s renewables division has completed a range of installations in heritage sites and luxury residential developments. Last year saw Stiebel Eltron ground source and air source heat pumps installed at historic farmhouses near Beddgelert, Snowdonia, and also Castle Howard Estates in Yorkshire. But it’s not just historical sites that have benefitted from reduced energy bills. The company has also increased the number of installations in the luxury
Mark McManus, Managing Director of Stiebel Eltron UK
residential market. Air source heat pumps have been installed in a new high-end housing development created by Clayland Estates Ltd in Saham Toney, Norfolk – a total of 29 properties.
Self-build project One other interesting application has helped a North West self-build architect to keep his energy bills to just £15 a year. Colin Usher, an architect and Director at Liverpool-based John McCall Architects, incorporated the company’s heat pump technology in his new-build property – a four bedroom house in West Kirby that he designed himself.
The new-build property has been designed as an eco-home, with solar panels, heat recovery ventilation and Stiebel Eltron’s WPL15 air source heat pump helping to minimise energy use. The heat pump range has been optimised to suit UK demands and is claimed to offer the best seasonal performance on the market in its class. The £15 yearly energy costs is one of the reasons why the project was recently hailed as the winner in the Domestic New Build category of the Buildings and Energy Efficiency Awards 2015. Commenting on the energy savings reaped by installation of the Stiebel Eltron heat pump, Mr Usher says: “The property is very comfortable to live in and its appearance is not incongruous with surrounding houses. This is helped by Stiebel Eltron’s air source heat pump – which is unobtrusive and makes barely any operation noise. Our home dispels the myth that an eco-driven home needs to be expensive and radically different in appearance.”
Growing network Speaking about the company’s success, MD Mark McManus says: “We’ve had a tremendous 12 months and have benefitted from a surge in demand for our products across our renewables and non-renewables divisions. “Our renewable division continues to experience success across heritage and new build markets, and over the last 12 month period we have installed more than 400 heat pumps. Our reputation continues to grow and as more property owners choose to move away from traditional oil heating, we are able to work with our network of installers and supply some of the world’s leading heat pump technology.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
Proud air source heat pump owner, Colin Usher
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Heat Pumps 51 Made for large capacities Low heating requirements, higher hot water demand production buildings. The Gapsal IKS 60T and 100T versions are suitable for use in buildings with greater heating requirements. As well as providing a sustainable, standalone heat source, Gapsal IKS T inverter heat pumps can also be used in conjunction with existing central heating boiler plants, where the existing boiler plant equipment is due for replacement or in need of repair.
Gapsal large capacity heat pumps, distributed in the UK by Zero, are designed to be a fitand-forget solution and are said to deliver virtually maintenance-free renewable heating. These ground source heat pumps are suitable for buildings with higher heating requirements, such as flats, factories, schools and public buildings. Multiple heat pumps can be cascaded for use in small boiler plant, and the range can be used in the construction of heating and cooling systems with a choice of configurations that can deliver up to 1MW capacity. The IKS 40T version is designed for larger single-family homes and smaller office and
Targeting new-build homes, Mitsubishi recently launched the 4kW Ecodan air source heat pump, a system that matches the hot water requirements, whilst still meeting the lower heating demand of well insulated properties. They are designed for modern homes that differ from previous ones because the requirement for hot water is likely to exceed the demand for heating. A reduction in fabric U-values and thermal bridging has reduced the energy requirements for heating and also allows for smaller plant. The Ecodan QUHZ unit is MCS-approved and delivers water at 70ºC to a packaged 200 litre thermal store. From this thermal store, mains water is heated directly up to 65ºC via a plate heat exchanger, meaning the homeowner receives hot water on demand. The fundamental design,
Inverter compressor Zero MD Finian Parrick believes one of the outstanding features of these heat pumps is the inverter compressor. He says: “In traditional models, the refrigerant stops being transferred once the air in the building reaches the required temperature, and starts again when the temperature deviates from this. This means that the heat pump requires energy to restart this process each time the temperature changes. “The inverter compressor featured in the Gapsal range monitors and adjusts the amount of refrigerant transferred according to temperature conditions and heating requirements, removing the need for the system to continuously stop and start, and thereby reducing energy consumption. On average the system will only need to operate at approximately 50% capacity, making the compressor highly efficient and economical.” www.zerocarbonfuture.com
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application and control of the Ecodan QUHZ is exactly the same as the rest of the range, with advanced control logic within the thermal store allowing the system to deliver the high efficiency levels that the market has
come to expect from the Ecodan brand. In addition to high efficiency levels, with a SCOP 3 for hot water and 2.9 for heating, the Ecodan QUHZ poses no risk of legionella because it does not store hot water. At the same time, it is still able to provide a variable hot water capacity, with water heated directly as required. The system also includes automatic in-built in energy monitoring, using the company’s MELCloud, internet based system, which allows for full control and monitoring from anywhere in the world. The QUHZ model also offers exceptional noise levels with a whisper-quiet 41.2 dB(A) at 1.5 metres from neighbouring properties, making it suitable for almost any new build scenario. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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52 Products in Action Instant hot water on board the bus
Infinity LPG water heaters from Rinnai have played a role in Channel 4’s ‘Amazing Spaces’, which covered a unique kind of accommodation. Bedroam was created by Ollie Kemp, a motor racing competitor who wasn’t happy with the lack of onsite accommodation at events that would allow competitors to stay close to their expensive racing gear. Ollie dreamed up the Bedroam bus, complete with 18 Japanese-style pod bedrooms and two fully-equipped bathrooms with shower, toilet and sink. The sinks and showers are supplied with safe temperature controlled hot water from Rinnai Infinity LPG water heaters, complete with MC91 controller, via motion sensor-operated taps. Two Rinnai Infinity 17e external units fitted to the back of the bus draw water from a bespoke tank designed and supplied by Barratt Tanks of Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire. www.rinnaiuk.com
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Guests feel the benefit of a new system Global hotel chain Marriott International has selected Strebel to provide a reliable and more efficient heating and hot water solution for its Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel & Country Club. The new heating solution involved the installation of three Strebel RU2S-10 sectional 698kW boilers, each powered by Baltur TBG 120MC gas burners producing a total output capability of 2.1MW. The burners were
supplied by EOGB based in St Neots, Cambridgeshire. The improved heating
system provides heat and hot water for the three-floor, 214room luxury hotel and spa.
By replacing the existing boilers with boilers powered by EOGB/Baltur burners, the hotel now benefits from increased efficiency and lower CO2 and NOx emissions. The units also provide superior reliability and reduced fuel consumption. The EOGB/Baltur commercial gas burner range is available with outputs from 50 to 10,850kW. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Fan convectors support air source Miller Installations, Norfolk, says it has found the perfect heat emitter for solid wall homes using air source heat pumps: the EcoPowerad fan convector from Smith’s. On one particular project, the client’s home had an oil-powered boiler and radiators that struggled to keep the solid wall home sufficiently warm. The owners were looking for an alternative heating system that would improve the quality of their lives and reduce their heating bills. Miller Installations recommended
an air source heat pump paired with Smith’s EcoPowerads in all downstairs rooms and traditional radiators upstairs in the bedrooms. The solid wall home already had reasonable insulation and double glazing. Once the heat pump was installed, it was able to operate at the lower water temperatures required to achieve its optimum efficiency because it was paired with the Smith’s fan convectors. www.smiths-env.com ENQUIRY No. 138
Ensuring CO safety in housing stock Ventilation fitted in the Olympic Park Knightstone Housing Group, a housing provider in the South West, has announced a major programme to install the latest Aico mains powered smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms throughout its 11,000 homes across Somerset and the West of England. The installation work will be carried out by Emmdee Electrical Services. These properties have a range of alarm types installed, but in order to meet the requirements of BS5839 Part 6 – the standard
for domestic smoke alarm installation – the decision was made to standardise on mains powered smoke alarms with lithium battery back-up, using Aico’s new Ei160e Series. In addition, Aico Ei262 mains powered
CO alarms will be installed to meet the housing association’s duty of care to its tenants. The alarms are being interconnected using Aico’s RadioLINK+ wireless alarm interconnection technol-
ogy. The housing association specified RadioLINK+ because it reduces disruption to properties, is quicker and more cost-effective to install and prevents tenants from potentially damaging wiring, as there is none between alarms. Furthermore, it provides them with a future proof system because alarms can be easily added or removed depending on tenants’ needs, and the system also allows data extraction. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.aico.co.uk
Boilers deliver Prestige to food halls Following an energy consumption and carbon audit of all the M&S Simply Food stores throughout the UK, a decision was made to replace all the units which ran on electric heating systems to condensing gas boilers. Working with Emerson Climate Technologies, ACV specified its latest Prestige boilers, 50kW and 75kW models according to demand, to satisfy the heating requirement of these premium food outlets. Featuring a heat exchanger with stainless steel flue, the Prestige range of wall-hung gas-fired condensing boilers are equally capable of meeting both individual needs and the demands of tertiary applications. They can be cascaded to increase available output or installed in combination with HeatMasters or ACV water heaters for maximum stability of hot water supply. www.acv.com
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139 Polypipe Ventilation has been awarded a substantial order for its ducting systems for the new Glasshouse Gardens development in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Contractor Lendlease is building 333 residential apartments across two contemporary 30 and 17 storey residential tower buildings offering studio, one, two and three bedroom homes. Each apartment incorporates an array of modern technologies including Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR). Polypipe’s range of Domus rigid ducting is also being
installed into the apartments and forms an integral part of these highly efficient MVHR systems. In total, 1300m of Domus Supertube 204x60mm rigid ducting will be used in the first apartment block, along with new Domus Flow Control Plenums and High Efficiency Green Line bends. Polypipe says the Domus 204x60mm ducting is recommended by specifiers and contractors because of its low pressure losses, lightweight, ease of installation, low profile and precise joints. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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TEST & MEASURING Instruments 53
Calculating the benefit of accurate calibration Sending instruments for a calibration service may sometimes be a costly and inconvenient exercise, but regular calibration is essential to maintain reliable and accurate measurements. Paul Jordan, Testo Service and Calibration Manager, offers an insight into what’s involved.
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is transparent as we state exactly what nstrument manufacturers are continually reference equipment was used to perform the developing new and innovative products, calibration on the certificate. The customer but even though the technology is can select calibration points to satisfy their advancing, the price of these exciting new requirement, and a measurement uncertainty products is reducing. With lower pricing in is documented. mind, one of the more frequent questions contractors ask us at Testo is: why is the cost UKAS calibration certificates - UKAS of calibration high compared to the price of calibration certificates are another level the instrument? up from the ISO certificates. Any accredited The answer to this question is not simple as calibration laboratory, not just in the UK, is there are different factors which contribute, accredited against the international standard but essentially the process of delivering ISO17025:2005 ‘General requirements for a technically competent calibration has the competence of testing and calibration inherent costs associated with it. In other Paul Jordan from Testo laboratories’. In order to achieve accreditation words, the cost of the instrument is not to this standard a laboratory is assessed by directly related to the cost of the calibration, and as explained an accreditation body; in the UK this is UKAS. Audits can be below, it depends on the level of calibration chosen. rigorous, but because Testo conforms to the standard we can Things that can contribute to the overall cost might include provide assurances that a calibration certificate we issue is equipment purchase price, other testing apparatus required of a high level both from a technical and qualitative aspect. (such as a wind tunnel), on-going equipment maintenance including re-calibration, maintaining good quality processes Calibration Points and, of course, manpower. The simplest temperature calibration, for instance, may These costs exist whether calibrating a high end reference involve the instrument being checked against a single instrument or a typical budget instrument and therefore the reference temperature. However, this does not check that question of cost is more a consideration for the instrument the instrument is accurate across the range, therefore most and its application rather than the calibration. If you need calibrations are carried out over a range of temperatures. to make a measurement, particularly in industries where Most HVAC/R standards are vague regarding the level of you need to demonstrate compliance or have to comply with calibration required or the measurement points. Generally, an internal or external quality standard, then calibration the standard requires that the instrument is calibrated ‘to the should be important. This is not only a consideration when manufacturers recommendation’ or similar. Organisations purchasing a new instrument but also for subsequent need to consider whether a minimal calibration will suffice calibration at a defined period thereafter. or if the additional confidence afforded by a more detailed Any laboratory offering calibration services will need calibration is needed. to adopt robust processes. Any credible laboratory, and particularly one which is accredited to ISO17025 such as Testo’s calibration laboratory, will spend time maintaining the calibration processes and accreditation. This can include initial analysis, measurement uncertainty calculation, and ongoing performance checks and in some cases inter laboratory comparisons (checks against other laboratories reference equipment) which further enhance confidence in the laboratory’s ability to produce meaningful measurements. Of course, these activities also require analysis and supporting documentation which is required to demonstrate the laboratory’s competence during an audit.
Measurement uncertainty One key element of any calibration is the laboratory’s ability to assign a measurement uncertainty to any measurement performed. This is essential as absolute accuracy does not exist, and therefore any measurement will have a degree of uncertainty. The amount of measurement uncertainty can vary and many factors can contribute or effect this key element depending on the type calibration being carried out. If the measurement uncertainty is not documented on a calibration certificate, the measurement cannot be quantified and therefore the measurements can be considered meaningless. Measurement uncertainty is commonly overlooked when comparing calibration prices between one laboratory and another and quite often is the reason a calibration can be cheap. If calibration is important to you, and to your client, there is a responsibility to ensure the calibration you purchase will stand up to the rigours of any inspection, audit or possible HSE investigation.
Accuracy counts So the calibration question needs to be considered not just in the context of cost but in what standards are you trying to meet and how important it is that the measurements you make for your customers are accurate. At Testo we continue to optimise processes and look for ways to reduce the price of calibration services without compromising quality. When a customer sends their instrument to us for calibration, regardless of the initial cost of the instrument, they can be confident in the service we provide. www.testolimited.com
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Levels of calibration Good quality instrument manufacturers deliver new instruments with a document called a Protocol or Certificate of Conformity (C of C). For some customers and applications this is sufficient. It states that the instrument was checked and is within stated tolerance limits. The results are fixed and cannot be adapted to suit a customer’s individual requirement. The protocol also states: ‘Measurements are traceable to a National Standard’. Sometimes customers require new equipment to be delivered with a calibration certificate rather than a C of C. More often organisations require their instrumentation to be calibrated periodically. In both cases Testo offers two recognised standards of calibration. ISO calibration certificates – Testo supply these, when requested, from our own accredited calibration laboratory in the UK. These certificates are fully traceable to a national and/or international standard(s) and the route of traceability ENQUIRY
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54 TEST & MEASURING Instruments
FGAs are getting smarter Engineers who embrace technology are likely to find that their work proceeds much more efficiently. Here, Damian Cairns, Sales Director at Anton, looks at the advancements in wireless connectivity in flue gas analysers.
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luetooth techthat can determine gas rate, pipe size nolog y has requirements, ventibeen available lation requirements, in Anton flue gas radiator output needs analysers for over in BTUs and also 10 years, but until energy conversion recently it was only calculators. Plus it can the largest fleet users now be used to create with the resources quotes, invoices, to take advantage of receipts and credit wireless connectivity. notes, all of which can What Anton realised be emailed directly to was that most of the Damian Cairns, Anton the customer. market was missing When an engineer invests in the out on all the advantages that Bluetooth technology can bring. Bluetooth enabled Sprint eVo3, in That’s why we developed our addition to all of the above features, own app, Sprint Mobile, to make it they can also create PDF reports that can be emailed to the customer accessible to the wider market. for all of the following: flue gas App advantages analysis, pressure (including let-by The app is free to download and has and tightness tests), CO room safety lots of useful features to assist the tests, gas rate, landlord certificates heating engineer at work, even if and domestic gas safety certificates, they haven’t invested in a Bluetooth warning notices and temperature analyser yet. It has several calculators differential tests.
ENQUIRY
Easy reporting These reports are in a PDF format, so they can’t be tampered with. They’re personalised to your business with all your company details and your Gas Safe Register/OFTEC number. You can even add your own logo, presign all reports and get the customer or tenant to sign the reports too. They’re far more comprehensive than the ‘receipt’ type report the industry is accustomed to using. This capability also helps to create a more professional impression on customers. The reports all reference the analyser serial number used to create the reports and also show the calibration expiry date of the analyser used, so they’re an excellent traceable record of the testing undertaken, which gives you unrivalled proof of the quality of work carried out, of the validity of the results and test equipment used. In today’s working world this kind
of proof is increasingly important. The app also has a feature that can help engineers to book repeat annual service appointments with their customers. When a flue gas report is created for a customer the app can automatically set a reminder for 11 months time to highlight to you that you need to contact the customer to arrange the upcoming annual service. Who has time to go back through last year’s diary? Now you don’t need to and you’ll still retain that all important and lucrative ongoing annual service business.
Good investment The investment in a new Bluetooth analyser is not insignificant, but the Sprint Mobile app is free and the benefits to the engineer are multiple. Once familiar with the operation of the software, it’s not uncommon for engineers to win back two to three hours a day
due to the speed and efficiency of electronic reporting and quotes/ invoicing sent direct from the app. Plus, going paperless is good for the environment, as well as the pocket. Existing Anton Sprint eVo2 users can upgrade their analysers to the eVo3 (Bluetooth version) at the time of the routine annual service for an additional £100. To find out more about the benefits of wireless connectivity in flue gas analysers, enter the number below on the reader enquiry card inside this issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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TEST & MEASURING Instruments 55 Digital smart probes For temperature, humidity, pressure and flow velocity measurements, Testo has launched the competitvely priced Smart Probe range. These pocket-sized professional measuring instruments can be intuitively operated by smartphone or tablet via a free app. The app works with iOS or Android devices and offers practical functions, including clear measurement value readout and curve display of the measurement data in graph or tabular form. The data can then be saved as a PDF report or Excel file. More applicationspecific measurement menus allow measurements from up to six Smart Probes to be combined. Heating engineers will be able to balance radiators through checks of flow and return temperatures on thermostatic mixing valves by using a clamp or an infrared thermometer.
Landlords needing to survey properties for risk of mould can use the dedicated mould test in the Smart Probe app. It uses temperature and humidity measurements to highlight areas at risk of mould. Running on a tablet or phone provides the Smart Probes app with access to customer address details. Once measurements have been completed, a simple import function in the app allows customer details to be automatically added to reports, which can be saved and emailed. The Smart Probes are said to provide a practical solution for measurement professionals who do not wish to carry all their equipment with them at all times. They come with a hard shell case with a soft foam rubber inlay and fitted compartments for the individual instruments.
Laser that lets you cross your lines Expanding its laser measuring instrument range, Makita has introduced a new laser distance measure and an additional cross line laser. There are now three laser distance measures in the Makita range providing operational capacity for 30, 50 and 80m reach. The cross line laser extends this sector to three easy to use instruments with a wide variety of useful functions.
Laser distance
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Measurement that goes the distance With the aim of enabling installers to work smarter with the latest measuring technology, Hyde has added two Stabila compact laser distance measures to its lineup of instruments. Said to be simple to use and offered at a competitive price, the Stabila LD220 and LD250 laser distance measure feature the latest measuring technology in a compact format, about the size of a tape measure. Producing quick results to ensure efficiency when measuring out any job, the handy laser measure has a large display to make the
results easy to read and overcomes the tricky juggling act of measuring distances or carrying out estimations
when working alone. Compliant with Standard ISO 16331-1, the LD220 has a range of 0.02m – 30m and
Detect the moisture level The 7000 series of Moisture Meters from ETI are compact hand held digital moisture meters designed specifically to detect the moisture content in a variety of construction materials, such as timber, concrete and plaster. The series incorporates a 20-LED colour-coded scale
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which is synchronised with the unit’s LCD to display current moisture levels using a traffic light system. Five different measurement scales are included – wood 1, wood 2, plaster, concrete and a reference scale, measuring moisture over the range 0.1 to 40%. Two models are available, the 7000 with a remote probe, and the 7250 with an integral probe. Readings are instant, precise and specific to the contact area of the two pins. Each unit is housed in a robust ABS case and is powered by three AAA
batteries that provide a minimum of 350 hours battery life. These moisture meters are available directly from www.etiltd.com PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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offers four basic functions: single distance, volume, area and tracking, while the LD250 can be used to measure distances of up to 50m, with an accuracy of +/- 2.0mm. With accuracy assured, the laser measures are extremely easy to use, with no tricky technology to learn or weighty user manual to read through. The Stabila LD250 also enables measurement data to be transferred wirelessly thanks to its Bluetooth Smart (4.0) technology, which is said to be simple to use even for those not tech savvy. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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The Makita LD030P laser distance measure is designed for indoor applications with a range from 2 to 30m. This three function device enables a single measure or distance tracking function and full area calculation. The Class 2 laser generates a marker point that is clearly visible at 30m and gives a point diameter of 6mm at 10m away from the measure. The typical measuring tolerance is +/2.0mm at 10m. Comfortable for hand-held measuring, the device is operated by two AAA batteries, has IP54 protection, and meets ISO16331-1 certification.
Cross line The newest cross line laser, the SK104Z, has clear line visibility up to 15m and will reach 60m in pulse mode. The main characteristic of this model is the increased return of the cross lines in
both vertical and horizontal directions. This means the projection of the lines is not only visible to the front surface, but they are projected back across the ceiling area, floor area and side walls of a room, suitable for stud work or pipework applications. The SK104Z laser includes a pendulum lock for safe transport which also allows lines to be fixed at preferred angles if required. The unit will self-level and the beam accuracy is +/- 3mm at 10m range. The SK104Z weighs just under half a kilo, is operated by three AA batteries, and has a ¼in tripod thread in the base. The laser has two cross lines and is supplied as a complete kit with magnetic holding adaptor, target plate, carry pouch and full operating instructions. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Spotting thermal anomalies Thermal imaging has become essential technology for diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults and also for spotting energy loss and other building problems. Not every application, however, needs to be pursued with a fully featured infrared camera, says Flir, which is why the company developed the TG130. Priced at £181 (ex VAT), this new Spot Thermal Camera features the company’s Lepton core that is the size of a smartphone SIM card. This makes the new TG130 lightweight, ergonomic and pocket portable so it is always available for instant troubleshooting. Simply aim the instrument at a target object or surface
to measure the temperature, then click the trigger to freeze and view the image. The TG130 is made for spotting thermal anomalies which can then be flagged for more detailed thermal
inspection. The same unit can be used for looking at heat loss, electrical connections, HVAC performance and water leaks. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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56 PRODUCT Spotlight
The benefits of a hybrid solution The new Hybrid VRF solution from Mitsubishi Electric is said to combine the comfort levels normally associated with chiller technology with the flexibility and efficiencies of a VRF system. Mark Grayston, Mitsubishi’s VRF Product Manager, explains how it works.
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ast year’s BSRIA World Air Conditioning study revealed that the VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) market grew rapidly in 2014 and reached 1.3 million units – corresponding to a value of US$9.7 billion. The report also predicted that this upward curve in use of VRF would continue “due to its attractive features of ease of installation, compact size, Mark Grayston, from one-stop-shop approach”. The Mitsubishi Electric 18% growth for the VRF sector was the biggest increase BSRIA saw recorded in the sector. VRF is clearly a very popular option for installers and end-users looking for a reliable and robust air conditioning system that is simple to install and run. However, 2016 may be the year to re-think VRF because new legislation on leak detection may be adding costs that some building owners could find irksome.
Office refurbishment project One of the first installations of the Hybrid VRF system took place in August last year at the two-storey offices of Cardiff based consulting engineering company Hoare Lea. The system was installed by Cool Solution Ltd, a Business Solutions Partner with Mitsubishi Electric, who worked closely with the company’s product development team during design, installation and commissioning. “The Hybrid VRF is an amazing concept with a system which helps us blend in with the mechanical contractors, so it’s not just a pure AC orientated system, it also has a wet side as well,” says Tony Williams, Director at Cool Solution. “I think it’s got great potential to really take on the market and especially against four-pipe systems.”
ENQUIRY
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British and European Standard BS EN 378 (Refrigeration systems and heat pumps – safety and environmental requirements) has a potentially significant impact on the costs of installing VRF. The Standard limits the usage of refrigerants in buildings in order to minimise potential risks to occupants and property that might be caused by refrigerant leakage. This is especially significant in the hotel and large office sectors. The Standard states that the leakage of a refrigerant-based air-conditioning system’s F-Gas into a single room could go well beyond the levels set out in BS EN 378. The guidelines therefore state that leak detection must be a part of the package in instances whereby a concentration of 0.44 kg/m3 of R410A refrigerant could be exceeded if the entire refrigerant from a system were to leak into just one room. In general terms, this confines air conditioning systems to keep the volume of R410a to below 20kg in a typical hotel scenario. Otherwise the addition of leak detection systems must be added – an extra cost to the installation and operation figures. One potentially feasible alternate route to investigate is to divide larger systems into smaller segments, but it is highly unlikely avoid inevitable cost increases for clients and will most certainly do nothing to improve the simplicity of the job. It is a situation that requires innovation, and that is exactly why we’ve introduced a solution called Hybrid VRF (HVRF).
Removing the problem In simple terms, the best way to avoid the need for leak detection is to not use refrigerant. This equates to lower costs, less risk and compliance with EN 378. It is exactly what HVRF offers for commercial applications such as offices and hotels that would otherwise have to bear the additional costs of large leak detection requirements. HVRF combines the heat recovery benefits of VRF with the functional advantages of a four-pipe fan coil system, while using only two pipes. The simultaneous heating and cooling remains, but it is now achieved via a simplified two-pipe design. And most significantly, the use of water rather than refrigerant in occupied spaces like hotel rooms and offices means that leak detection is
not required because refrigerant does not circulate near occupied spaces. The HVRF system can use the same controls and network as the traditional VRF approach, and by utilising decentralised plant, existing systems can be updated in phases, reducing business disruption or down-time. At the heart of the system is an HBC (Hybrid Branch Controller) box (pictured left), connected to an outdoor City Multi unit via traditional refrigerant piping. Between the HBC and the indoor fan coils, the system uses water piping. Load capacity control is achieved through the use of inverter driven pumps and flow control valves which are built into the HBC. Heat exchange and inverter technologies mean that HVRF achieves high levels of energy efficiency.
Comparative costs Understanding the benefits that HVRF can bring to a building is best illustrated through a true comparative representation against a traditional four-pipe fan coil system. We undertook such a comparison using a typical new build office with a 1400m2 floor area. From a cost perspective, the results were significant. Equipment costs came in a £66,529 for HVRF versus £42,486 for the four-pipe fan coil system. Installation, however, was just £54,000 for HVRF versus over £115,000 for the more traditional system, delivering a total cost reduction by using HVRF of just over £38,000. Running costs also see HVRF compare favourably, with the annual figure coming in at £1349 against £2733 for the four-pipe system – a 5% saving. In terms of CO2, HVRF produced an annual amount of 6508kg, less than half the 15,126kg emitted by the four-pipe system. Further benefits to HVRF include easier maintenance over the long term and smaller mechanical components housed in the hybrid branch controller. Legislation may pose a challenge, but it also presents the chance to improve and develop. HVRF is a case in point – meeting a legislation-driven challenge and devising an answer that not only meets compliance issues, but also brings significant cost and energy savings to the end user. www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk
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WHat’s New 57 Alarm range provides full protection Designed to deliver enhanced levels of user safety, the new Sona range from Sprue Safety Products consists of a mains-powered Thermoptek multi-sensor smoke alarm, Thermistek heat alarm, carbon monoxide (CO) alarm and an alarm control unit, all offering faster detection of smoke, heat and CO to help alert householders to danger more quickly. For integrated whole house protection, the entire range can be wirelessly networked using Sona’s Wi-Safe 2 RF communication technology.
In the event of any one single device being triggered, all other alarms in the network will sound with the same
alarm pattern, so that occupants will be alerted anywhere in the property. Up to 50 alarms can be meshed
in one network, with the option of hard-wiring the alarms also available. The CO alarm (pictured) features a tamper proof 10 year lithium battery and an advanced electrochemical sensor to accurately measure levels of carbon monoxide. Lightweight and easy to fit, it provides multiple mounting options and can also be freestanding. It is said to be resistant to false alarms and comes with a five year warranty. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Flexible solution for multi-dwellings The Hiper is a high performance heat interface unit (HIU) from Inta, designed to deliver heating and hot water whilst improving energy efficiency and minimising costs in multi-dwelling developments. Installed in shared residential buildings, the HIU distributes heating and domestic hot water from a central plant system to individual properties. By removing the need for each area to have a conventional boiler, gas flue and hot water cylinder, the interface units are said to dramatically reduce build costs for developers. Inta’s HIU boasts a factory-set, nonelectric temperature control valve which prevents risk of scalding in the
event of a power supply failure, as well as an advanced dual-speed PID control, intelligently controlling the heat into the plate heat exchangers by
electronic modulation of a PICV (pressure independent control valve). Designed with serviceability in mind, its two heat exchange plates have been built to the front of the HIU, fixed with four Allen key bolts. This means that the plates can easily be removed and replaced in seconds should they need maintenance. A large strainer mesh at the primary connections, four times larger than a conventional strainer, will prevent blockage and ensure the HIU continues working efficiently, even if the unit has not been regularly cleaned. Renewable energy sources can be integrated into the system if desired. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Blue Flame burner delivers efficiency Available in 15 internal, external and combi models with heating outputs from 21 to 36kW, the new VortexBlue oilfired boiler from Grant UK combines the company’s existing condensing boiler technology with a new Riello ‘Blue Flame’ compact burner. Using this burner reduces the NOx levels from the boiler to below the new European limit of 120mg/kWh, to be introduced in 2018. Grant says that the boilers will also meet even lower NOx emission limits to be introduced in 2020. Compatible with all Grant EZ-Fit flues, the VortexBlue has been designed to give heating engineers an easy-to-install product that will provide years of reliable heating with minimal emissions. The heat exchanger comes with a five year guarantee, and the boiler itself has earned an ‘A’ ErP (Energy-related Products) rating. “The introduction of the Grant VortexBlue epitomises how modern oil-fired burner technologies can deliver and sustain cleaner, reliable heating,” explains Anna Wakefield, Marketing and Corporate Communications Manager for Grant UK. “Our products, including the Vortex oil-fired boilers and renewable technologies, have been market leaders in efficiency, and the VortexBlue is another product which we believe will quickly set the standards in the marketplace.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.grantuk.com 152
High efficiency, low emissions Smarter boiler management for commercial environments New from Elco is the Thision S Plus range of highly efficient and technologically advanced boilers. The completely new unit offers extremely low NOx and CO emissions, thanks to a specially configured heat exchanger which optimises flue gases. The boilers are available as 34, 45 and 53kW models – each of which has an A/A+ energy efficiency rating, making them suitable for a variety of new and replacement projects. The compact units (680 (h) x 385mm (d) with widths between 500 and 660mm) have been designed for simple installation and maintenance, with the control board mounted on a hinge-open enclosure. The boiler also features an advanced heat exchanger configuration, which ensures continuous automatic de-aeration. In addition, there is a down-firing premix burner system constructed from ceramic plaques capable of modulating from full output to as low as 1:6, thanks to a highly accurate fan speed
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control. This low turndown ratio makes the Thision S Plus suitable for well insulated buildings where the heating demand is low throughout the year. All boilers in the range benefit from an overpressure of up to 90 Pa at the flue connection, allowing the appliances to be exhausted over considerable distances, with or without a room sealed air supply. In addition, the boilers are supplied with a weather compensation kit builtin to the boiler. Another feature is a thermostatic room unit, as well as time and temperature scheduling. Sales Director Gavin Watson says: “The technology packed into this boiler is superb, making it an excellent option for large domestic and light commercial projects. Plus, features such as the built-in weather compensation and room thermostat make this a seriously competitive package.” ENQUIRY No. 154 www.elco.co.uk
Installers of Vaillant ecoTEC domestic boilers can now offer their customers the vSMART intelligent control and mobile app. Key features include inbuilt weather compensation and the ability to store multiple heating profiles, enabling homeowners to have individual comfort settings for the heating and hot water levels. Over time, it also adapts to users’ living habits – when
they are at work, what time they get home – altering its output accordingly to reach
desired temperatures at the right time. In addition, energy and gas consumption can be monitored through the app to identify where cost savings could be made. Any significant changes will be flagged to the customer via push notifications so issues can be identified before any unnecessary energy costs are incurred. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Gateway to control Ariston has launched a new service which allows end users to remotely control their heating and hot water any time, from any location. Ariston Net is compatible with Ariston’s current evo boilers, as well as a Sensys advanced thermostat which comes with the unit. It simply requires a ‘gateway’ device to be installed and connected to a wifi or GPRS network. The Ariston Net app can then be downloaded to a compatible
tablet or smartphone, enabling real time control through a user-friendly interface. The app offers greater adjustment of the boiler, due to its ability to set the desired temperature in real time, eliminating lengthy waits for the heating and hot water system to warm up. There is also a ‘weekly’ mode that allows bespoke programming for each day of the week. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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COMPETITION Best foot forward 10 pairs of safety boots to be won! This month, we’ve teamed up with Hyde to offer readers the chance to win a pair of boots or trainers from the great new range of safety footwear from Base. There’s 10 to be won and a choice of three styles to choose from. It goes without saying that it’s important to wear safety boots in order to protect your feet while working, but by the end of an average eight or ten hour shift, where you’ll probably take at least 12,000 steps, fatigue can really start setting in. According to the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, over the course of their career, the average installer will walk the equivalent of five times around the Earth – that’s a lot of walking and makes investing in a comfortable pair of work boots essential. While much of the focus when purchasing new footwear tends to be on the safety aspects, with steel toe caps being a priority, few of us give much of a thought Be-Free Top to comfort. Taking some time out to try the boots on and being willing to invest in a quality brand will pay off in the long run, particularly at the end of a 12,000 step day. Designed to let the footwear take the strain, rather than your feet, Base protection footwear fits like a glove, with the latest patented technology delivering an unrivalled level of comfort in boots and shoes that you can barely feel on your feet. Combining design and performance, Base safety footwear, available in the UK through Hyde, is lightweight and flexible, featuring the latest innovative technology to leave feet feeling less Geldof tired than standard safety boots and shoes. Toe caps are slim to avoid pinching and the majority of boots in the range have composite rather than metal ones. Comfort is guaranteed because of the innovative TPU-Skin, which makes the soles on many of the shoes and boots in the range ultra-flexible, so they cushion your foot and bend with you as you work. The TPU-skin sole is also tough and slip resistant. Rather than a metal strip in the mid-sole, Base footwear also offers an anti-ballistic, Kevlar style strip, which is lighter and more flexible. With comfort taken care of, there are times throughout an installer’s working day where it’s polite to take your boots off – it saves treading dirty footprints through a customer’s home, but can leave you red faced with embarrassment when you realise those tired feet are giving off a bad odour. Base workboots help here too – with all their safety footwear having a patented SmellStop system, meaning shoes and boots can be taken off with confidence that they won’t leave a nasty Beethoven niff behind! This doesn’t just stop smells but ensures that your feet keep healthy too, reducing the risk of infections such as athlete’s foot. For more information on Base products, please visit: wwwbrianhyde.co.uk How to Enter: The 10 winners will be able to choose from the three styles of footwear illustrated above: Be-Free Top, Geldof and Beethoven. 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 ‘Frank Sinatra’, 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 4th April 2016.
‘These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ was a hit single for which singer in 1965? Frank Sinatra 101
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WHat’s New Low profile ventilation unit The H200 Q Plus MVHR unit is the latest addition to Titon’s range of ventilation systems. Designed for installation into shallow ceiling voids, the low profile unit boasts a depth of only 200mm, making it suitable for apartments and multiple occupancy applications, such as student accommodation. The new unit includes a thermal summer bypass, low specific fan power and high heat recovery efficiency, all as listed in the Product Characteristics Database (PCDB) used by SAP. It also incorporates the latest forward curved centrifugal EC fans to minimise noise levels, which is often a key requirement for horizontally mounted MVHR systems. The low specific fan power (SFP) of 0.55 W/l/s and a heat exchanger efficiency of up to
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allow. The summer bypass ensures thermal comfort, as well as exceptional energy efficiency, throughout the whole year.” Units measure 1004mm wide (excluding ports) x 203mm high x 604mm deep and accept 204mm x 60mm rectangular ducting, as well as 150mm or 160mm diameter ducting, without the need for adaptors. They come with a three year parts and labour guarantee. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Logic combi offers Space saving better SAP rating solution
The new Linton compact vanity unit, complete with sit on ceramic basin, is said to provide an ideal solution where space is at a premium. The floor standing furniture range offers a choice of gloss white or dark elm finishes and comes in a 600mm wide two-door option. A compact alternative (pictured above), measuring 450mm wide by 255mm in depth, is also available. Here the basin unit is complemented with the Geo Atlas WC pan with an added water saving feature, allowing adjustment down to 4 and 2.6 litre flushing. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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83% are combined with features such as intelligent humidity control, frost protection and summer boost to help alleviate summer overheating. Paul Cowell, Senior Technical Manager at Titon, says: “Not only does the H200 Q Plus boast a low profile, it is also quick and easy to commission, thanks to the intelligent control options available, while there is also a setback facility to reduce ventilation in circumstances where local regulations
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Ideal’s new Logic Combi ESP has been designed to combine product reliability with higher SAP efficiency ratings, enabling easy compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations. The latest model will supersede the Logic Combi ES and is listed in the SAP Product Characteristics Database (PCDB). It is tested and approved to the EN13203 Pt Standard for gas boiler energy consumption and comes complete with a built-in filling loop, automatic bypass and boiler frost protection. The boiler fits into any standard kitchen cupboard and also complies with a wide range of flueing options. Adam Foy, Head of Product and Marketing, comments: “Our Logic platform continues to be a premier choice for housebuilders and installers. With Logic Combi ESP we have retained the features that our customers know and love, whilst enhancing SAP and DER efficiencies. “Our aim is to always make it easy for our customers
to choose Ideal. This was the principal factor in the development of Logic Combi ESP and we are pleased to have one of the best SAP efficiency scores in the industry.” Ideal installers will not need to attend further product training, as Logic Combi ESP retains the installation features of its predecessor. To complement the launch, customers can benefit from Ideal’s dedicated design service which looks at fabric changes, U-value calculations, thermal bridging and ventilation. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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March 2016
WHat’s New Wrist control
Sponsors of
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Technical Tips SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS Heating system contamination can be a costly affair, for both domestic and commercial projects. Kevan Peaker, UK National Sales Manager for Spirotech, highlights some of the root causes, the symptoms to look out for and the best preventative solutions.
White brassware White finish brassware is now part of the Claret lineup from Bristan. The White Claret range was created in response to the trend for white bathroom accessories seen in minimalist and industrial style bathrooms. According to Bristan, consumers are now choosing white finish brassware and accessories, such as towel racks and shelving, to create a more co-ordinated aesthetic alongside white sanitaryware. Mark Stratford, Head of New Product Development at Bristan, comments: “We’ve put a white twist on our popular Italian inspired Claret bathroom tap to create the ultra-slick Claret White range. The white-finish body of the tap blends with white sanitaryware to create a unique floating mirror effect. It’s set at an affordable price point which makes on-trend brassware accessible for a wide range of consumers.” www.bristan.com/showers
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Users of the miGenie internet connected heating control from Drayton can now access the device with an Apple Watch. The miGenie ‘Wish’ heating control packs utilise the iOS app to view the status of all heating and hot water zones, adjust the temperature, and turn hot water on or off. Simon May, Product Manager, says: “The miGenie Apple Watch app is easy to use, simple and intuitive so users shouldn’t need lengthy instructions. Best of all, it offers the ability to override the heating and hot water schedules without the need to reach for a smartphone or tablet.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Controlling retail air con MelcoRetail by Mitsubishi is a dedicated air conditioning controls interface designed for the retail environment. It features a simple wallmounting design to ease installation and remote maintenance and updating to minimise disruption in store. The system can control up to eight M-Series and Mr Slim indoor units, and 50 City Multi indoor units, which are the most
commonly-used Mitsubishi air conditioning products in the retail environment. It also offers users the ability to control third party
equipment, including air curtain control, as well as two-stage lighting control. Occupancy sensing can be added via the store’s intruder alarm-disarm or occupancy switch signal. Further features make use of Melcoretial’s web capabilities. These include a built-in weather feed so no outdoor temperature sensors are required. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
mitsubishielectric.co.uk
Hybrid sealants stick to it The Pro range of sealants from Bond It is said to combine the benefits of silicone and polyurethane in one hybrid product. Each of the four new Pro products feature a different formulation specifically tailored to deliver enhanced performance characteristics that are suited to different applications. Power Pro is a general purpose grab adhesive, while
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Mirror Pro is specifically formulated for use on mirrors, glass and ceramics as well as for hot, humid environments. Wood Pro is designed for fixing wooden floors directly onto common substrates, eliminating the need for battens. Astro Pro bonds artificial grass surfaces to a variety of substrates or jointing tapes. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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Preventing heating system contamination gives the end user confidence that their system will be running efficiently and effectively, reducing the likelihood of increased energy use and the need for costly call outs. Identifying and correctly diagnosing system contamination is an essential skill for ensuring the problem can be dealt with quickly and accurately. Whilst modern systems are dramatically improved in terms of design and efficiency compared to their older counterparts, they are more sensitive to dirt and air contamination within the system water, which will lead to them slowing and malfunctioning more noticeably. With so much emphasis placed on the core products, such as boilers or chillers, the most crucial system element – water – is too often not given enough consideration. By not properly caring for system water quality, installers and end users are setting themselves up for a host of long-term problems and unnecessary costs in the shape of higher energy bills and component replacements. So what are the issues that can occur as a direct result of poor system cleanliness? How can you diagnose them and what’s the best way to prevent these problems? Increased noise levels One telltale sign of a contaminated system is an audible increase in noise when in operation. Air pockets, produced because of a build-up of air particles, cause clanging. If these sounds become noticeable, take action to remove air pockets and prevent future build-up of air bubbles. Manual venting often provides a temporary fix but it will only ever be a short-term remedy for problems that are, in most cases, being caused by air circulating and congregating within a system. The expansion and contraction of air bubbles generates many of the annoying noises householders’ experience, while the collection of air bubbles in a radiator corner or pipe bend leads to the formation of air pockets that will block system flow, reducing radiator performance. Higher energy consumption All of the components in today’s heating systems, especially modern domestic boilers, will likely have an ‘A’ or ‘B’ energy label from day one of installation, but no
matter how good the core system units are, you will notice that the level of energy efficiency will rapidly decline if the water isn’t treated correctly. System imbalance The end-result of a dirty system is imbalance. You will be able to determine a system is imbalanced by decreased pump performance, as well as the possibility of increased breakdown periods, excessive wear and higher energy consumption. Ultimately, all of these issues cost the end-user more money in the long run and inevitably result in a more arduous maintenance programme and costly call outs for installers. There is also the chance that system components will have to be replaced more frequently, which if they are not under warranty could create further issues. Excessive wear on parts With regular checks essential to maintain a healthy heating system, pay close attention when key components are deteriorating at a much faster rate than anticipated, whilst not performing at their optimum level. If the boiler’s pump is contaminated with magnetite, it will work harder to try to achieve the same output, inevitably decreasing the product’s expected life span. System breakdown The ultimate symptom of an imbalanced and dirty heating system is a breakdown of the system itself. Products that remove dirt and air have been proven to reduce system breakdowns by as much as 27%, dramatically reducing the emergency repair cost and system downtime. Preventative solutions There is a comprehensive range of dirt, air and chemical solutions on the market for both domestic and commercial applications to minimise contamination. If you successfully identify one of the issues above, it is of paramount importance to deploy the right product for the job, whether that be a dirt separator, deaerator, a chemical treatment programme or most likely a combination of all these measures. Best practice is to avoid the strains on a heating system by treating the system fluid before these symptoms arise, to save time, energy and maintenance costs. www.spirotech.co.uk
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60 WHat’s New Filler takes on the cracks New to the Pro Décor range from Dunlop is Hydroloc, a rapid-drying filler useful as a quick fix or emergency repair solution. Available in handy 1kg bags, Rapid Rescue helps decorators sort out the multitude of problems often faced before applying paint or wallpaper – all without having to wait hours or days to complete a job. Fully dry and hard in 90 minutes, whatever the temperature or conditions,
large cracks and holes. It can be used internally or externally, on the majority of backgrounds from plasterboard to concrete steps, to reliably fill and repair damage up to 50mm deep. The product dries evenly, regardless of thickness, and after 20 minutes the product starts to harden and can be easily cut or carved – such as for repairing a missing piece of skirting board.
Rapid Rescue is perfect for filling chases, cracks around doors and coving,
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Less weight, same quality “It offers an alternative to our slightly larger Aquaflow 3 tap, while maintaining the same high quality. As with all our taps, the Aquaflow 35 is robust and affordable, making it an excellent entry level product,” says John Peter, Trade Sales Director.
ideal for both the domestic and contract markets, the Aquaflow 35 is 140mm high with a spout exit reach of 217mm, and 117mm spout exit height. The tap is also capable of operating at water pressures up to 5.5 bar and will suit any 35mm tap hole.
A lightweight single lever tap is the latest addition to the range of WRAS approved taps from
Leisure Sinks. Said to be
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.leisuresinks.co.uk
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Suite has curves Citronella is the name of the latest suite to join PJH’s ‘Bathrooms to Love Collection’, offering stylish solutions for any size of bathroom. The new sanitaryware range is described as blending minimalist lines and curves, and includes a 580 x 420mm basin with full pedestal and semi pedestal, and a 550 x 435mm semi-recessed basin. The WCs are available as close coupled, wall mounted and back-to-wall models and include a soft close seat or a
slim seat option. Teamed up with the company’s Venetian freestanding bath, the new Citronella suite comes with a lifetime quality guarantee and is said to offer the latest look for today’s styleconscious consumer. PJH’s Moods bathroom brand is said to offer all the elements to help your customer create their ideal bathroom, from baths to enclosures, and bathroom furniture to brassware. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
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A Universal Flush Adaptor attachment has been added to the BoilerMag lineup from Eclipse Magnetics. The adaptor enables installers to easily perform routine system flushes by attaching flushing equipment to the BoilerMag boiler filter, using the filter as the access point. The adaptor is compatible with either screw fit or female cam lock hoses, and can be attached to the back of the BoilerMag port block in just a few seconds, without fully removing the BoilerMag from the pipework. This allows use of flushing equipment from other manufacturers to be used. www.boilermag.com
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Installers can now order genuine spare parts and accessories directly from Salamander. In addition to access through approved online stockists, the new website (shop. salamanderpumps.co.uk) offers service kits that contain genuine electrical and mechanical parts for the current Salamander range, as well as end of line CT and Force pumps. By providing these packs, the company says it can guarantee that installers will be able to offer a repair service using parts that are tested and approved to work with a Salamander pump. Also available online will be a range of accessories including the new Salamander pump mat, S flange, AV couplers, replacement pressure vessels, anti-vibration pump feet and body O-rings. Supporting the spares offering is a selection of how-toservice videos along with fitting instructions. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.salamanderpumps.co.uk
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Advertiser’s Index Adey Innovation LLP Alpha Heating Innovation Altecnic Ltd Anton Industrial Services Ltd BES Ltd CMR Controls Ltd Conex Universal Ltd Danfoss Ltd Drayton Controls Esi Controls Ltd Elco UK Firebird Boilers Flir Systems Ltd Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd Ice Energy Heat Pumps Ltd Intatec Ltd JIS Europe Ltd JTL John Guest Speedfit Ltd Johnson & Starley Ltd Kamco Ltd Kohler Mira Ltd MHS Radiators MV Fluids Handling Ltd Maincor Ltd
9 13 16 53 8 56 21 33 23 18 39 2 54 50 43 10 40 24 12 29 6 7 35 3 51
Nerrad Tools Ltd 19 NICEIC Certsure 20 64 Nissan Motors Nu-Heat UK Ltd 31 QMSA Ltd 22 Quinn Radiators (QRL Radiator Group) 38 The Radiator Company 36 Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd 26 30 Ridge Tool UK Smith’s Environmental Products Ltd 11 37 Stelrad Stiebel Eltron UK Ltd 48 Supplies 4 Heat 41 Tacotherm (UK) Ltd 46 Timoleon Ltd 49 1 T R Engineering Ltd (Trianco) Viessmann Ltd 47 Vokera Ltd 5 Wavin Ltd (OSMA) 17 Wilo (UK) Ltd 28 Wolseley (Plumb Center) 15, 32 Worcester, Bosch Group 45 Wunda Group plc 34
Missing word - Oats
60.indd 1
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dy the the Engineer.
can help mbitions, 8900 for ation pack.
March 2016
DIRECTORY 61 Accreditation
Heat Pumps
Radiators
46798apo Cover.qxp_46798tpd COVER 09/12/2015 14:53 Page 1
GROW YOUR COMPANY
Partner Distribution Portal
... all with generous trade discounts Register for FREE today 2 Madleaze Trading Estate Bristol Road Gloucester GL1 5SG
extranet.iceenergy.co.uk
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ICE ENERGY
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Underfloor Heating
Heating Controls
Give me a call to explain how I can help you.
Underfloor Heating Systems
Tel: David 07887 552 442
made in the UK and Europe
Made in the UK and Europe
Access Heat Pumps from leading manufacturers Boiler and heat pump floor heating kits Genuine replacement parts
Win more business as a Green Deal Provider with your own ECO and green deal funding
Elegance & Style 2016 www.apolloradiators.co.uk
made in the UK and urope
APOLLO RADIATORS
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AEL
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Total project design High quality products New wireless controls Trade only prices Fast delivery
I have been working with installers for several years helping them stay one step ahead of their competitors ENQUIRY
made in the UK and Europe
made in the UK and Europe
Win more business with your own Consumer Credit License and finance home improvements
GREEN DEAL SPECIALIST
www.apolloradiators.co.uk
January 2016
HEATING CONTROLS ENQUIRY ONLINE
www.gaiacs.com 0845 434 9488
06
To Advertise HERE Contact 01889 577222 or classified@phamnews.co.uk 01
Biomass Boilers
GAIA
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07
Magnetic Filters
www.ecoangus.co.uk 01934 862642
Simple solutions for greener heating suppliers of MCS accredited wood burning boilers
3 Offer the complete range of wood log boilers 3 Products fully MCS certified 3 Two complete ranges Angus Super and Angus Orligno 200 3 Output range 18kW, 25kW, 40kW, 60kW, 80kW, 96kW and 130kW 3 Grants available under Renewable Heat Incentive 3 92% Heat Efficiency 3 Significantly reduce heating costs 3 Incorporate into existing heating system ECO angus
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Controls Banico A2 Banico Landscape_Layout 1 11/12/2012 16:22 Page 1
0161 946 0088
www.banico.co.uk
SCAN FOR BROCHURE JOHNSON MAGNETIC FILTERS
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Radiator Keys
BANICO CONTROLS
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To find out how we can help you to further your ambitions, telephone 023 8066 8900 for information and application pack.
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
ENQUIRY
04
Personalised Radiator and Meter Keys
www.radiatorfactory.net
British design and Manufactured to IS0900:2008 That won’t break or rust! Printed to your own specification Ideal to highlight your Company Name Phone Number and Website A functional business card Available to BUY ONLINE www.radkeys.co.uk Ring 01628 484202 or 07795 999262 Email: keys@radkeys.co.uk RADKEYS
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FOR ALL TYPES OF DESIGNER & ECO-ALUMINIUM RADIATORS
Tel: 0116 260 9257 THE RADIATOR FACTORY
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To Advertise HERE Contact Sharon on 01889 577222 or classified@phamnews.co.uk
org.uk
sociation, embers to ecognised hievement. DIRECTORY & INFO MARCH 2016.indd 2
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March 2016
62 DIRECTORY Water Heating
Safety Switch (Water)
Training & Assessment
Mr Combi Training
®
Learn to repair Boilers/Combies
Protecting property from the risk of water damage
BOOK NOW
A modern solution to an age old problem
Danfoss & Honeywell NEW
HYCO
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Sheets (Dust)
Wilkinson Industrial Textiles
It is now easier than ever to install, thanks to Polypipe’s PolyFit fitting.
’s DVD
'Hands on' learn how to use a Multimeter and Easy Fault Finding
APPS FOR ANDROID PHONES
Already protecting over 850,000 houses in the UK from water damage.
Wiring & Controls Course
APPS FOR APPLE PHONES
NEW
01234 84 11 22 www.mrcombi.com MR COMBI
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STEVE WILLIS TRAINING & ASSESSMENTS
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Good Quality Indian Cotton Dust Sheets 4’ x 4’ - £1.25 I 8’ x 4.5’ - £2.00 I 12’ x 8’ - £4.00 I 12’ x 11’ - £6.50
Large amounts of 6’ x 4’ off cuts - £1.00 Stair sheets (1mt x 7mts) - £5.00 Plus carriage and VAT Unit 8 Copenhagen Road Hull HU7 0XQ Phone/Fax: 01482 226 265 Email: info@dustsheetshop.co.uk www.dustsheetshop.co.uk
For more information - visit www.surestop.co.uk
wilkinson
www.surestop.co.uk SURESTOP
GAS SAFE REGISTERED & ACS only
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To Advertise HERE Contact Sharon on
01889 577222
13
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PS-16-006 Surestop PHAM Ad 178 x 135mm.indd 1
26/02/2016 14:38
Safety Products
or classified@phamnews.co.uk
For open courses and bespoke training across
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Electrics Example courses: 7189 Diploma in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration 10 day Intro to Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
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Basic or Advanced Essential Refrigeration Electrics Course 2382-15 17th Edition update ME12 & ME18 Conversion Electrics Plumbing Diplomas and Fast-track courses Health & Safety
14
Training 1st TRAINING LTD ASSESSMENT & TRAINING CENTRE ACS, NG, LPG Domestic, Commercial, Industrial Water Regs, Legionella Un-vented Hot Water
for further information call or visit our website:
01453 899101 www.sanctustraining.co.uk
TEL: Huntingdon (01480) 450 872 www.1st-training.co.uk 1st Training Ltd info@1st-training.co.uk 1st TRAINING LTD
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Domestic Core & Appliances Non-Domestic & Appliances Commercial Core Catering & Appliances Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG)
SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD
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Balancing air or water systems FGas category 1/2/3/4
info@sanctustraining.co.uk Sanctus House, The Waterfront, Stonehouse Park, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 3UT
15
SANCTUS
•
OFTEC Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e 600a)
•
Swimming Pool Boilers
•
Renewable Energy Courses
•
Unvented Domestic Hot Water/ Legionella/Water Regulations
•
LPG & LPG Generators
•
Courses designed for your specific needs
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Electrical Part P & City & Guilds Electrical Courses
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Static, Touring Caravans & Boats
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Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266
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29/02/2016 14:50
March 2016
INFORMATION Centre 63
COPPER JOB
What we do: • Gas Training • Oil Training • Solid Fuel Training • Industrial Boiler Assessment (IGAS) • Commercial Boiler Assessment (BOAS) T: +44 (0)1242 662121 F: +44 (0)1242 676506 E: training@kiwa.co.uk www.kiwa.co.uk/training
KIWA
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MIDLANDS GAS ASSESSMENTS
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0121 333 3903
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Written by the industry’s Domestic Building Services Panel, endorsed by CIBSE
Domestic Heating Design Guide Solar Heating Design & Installation Guide Underfloor Heating Design & Installation Guide Rainwater Harvesting Design & Installation Guide Purchase online at www.dbsp.co.uk
The award-winning SOLiC 200 offers your surplus solar power to the immersion heater circuit instead of exporting it to the grid. Why install the SOLiC 200?
373
Snickers’ Patented On-Site Knee Protection With long term knee injuries all too common among professional tradesmen, Snickers patented knee protection system delivers the ideal solution – to the most stringent EU standards. The NEW D30 Kneepads deliver the most advanced knee protection available today. With superior cushioning and protection, they’re made from D3O® LITE - a high-tech material that’s flexible, durable and cut-resistant that complies with CE standard EN14404.
SNICKERS
IDHEE
ENQUIRY
371
ENQUIRY
374
9
10
H-Series Motorised Valve
L N E PUMP
7
3
2
ATC CYLINDER STAT
6
N E L BOILER
4 3
4 1 2
L N E
TIME CONTROLLER
230V 3amp fuse
1
2
BLUE
RMT230 ROOM STAT
5
BROWN / WHITE
1
377
• Includes 10-year return-to-base warranty • Made in Britain • Saves up to £250 pa on water heating • Easy to install • Proactive sales and marketing support • Retail price £199 Visit www.earthwiseproducts.co.uk or call 01235 818122 for trade prices or enter the PHAM No. EARTHWISE PRODUCTS
ENQUIRY
378
Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant has launched its latest Green Book - listing trade prices for over 10,000 products. The new book features the latest in smart technology, renewable energy solutions suitable for both domestic and light commercial applications as well as new products from Honeywell and Stelrad. Also included is the ‘Always Available’ range backed by the Graham Pledge, which means that these products will always be in stock, or customers can claim a £10 voucher against their next purchase. Copies of the new Green book are available in Graham branches nationwide. To download the PDF, or further information, visit www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. GRAHAM
ENQUIRY
379
4-In-1 Kitchen Tap From Abode
Polypipe Surestop has unveiled a newlook for its existing range of stopcocks, following its acquisition by Polypipe last year. The product is now fitted with Polypipe Polyfit fittings. This well-established and popular push-fit technology continues to support a simplified installation process offering a practical and easy-to-fit alternative to the brass stopcock.
PRONTEAU Project 4-in-1 boiling water kitchen tap - the latest innovation from Abode is just one of five new designs of taps offering all the benefits of a normal kitchen mixertap with the addition of filtered cold drinking water and 80-98º filtered, steaming hot water, allowing optimum water temperature for teas, coffees and speciality drinks from one single tap, with no extra handles. The boiling water function can only be used with the unique Abode Hotkey, for added safety. Visit the Abode website www.abode.eu to view the complete range or enter the PHAM No.
Surestop is a modern solution to the challenges faced with the brass stopcock, providing homeowners with an easy and effective method of controlling mains water.
SURESTOP
ENQUIRY
375
08/01/2016 09:02
ABODE
ENQUIRY
380
Baxi’s Online Trade Area Gets a New Look
A new website has been launched to make it even easier for technicians to sign up and enjoy the benefits of OFTEC’s leading competent person registration scheme which now includes Part P electrical, solid fuel and renewables, as well as oil. www.joinoftec.com offers all the information covering OFTEC’s expanded range of registration services, plus an online application form to make joining as simple as possible. Amongst the many benefits of OFTEC registration, which include free technical support, technicians can self-certify installations in accordance with building regulations in England, Wales, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, avoiding the time and expense of going through local authority building control. Displaying the OFTEC logo provides customers with assurance of a professional service and, as an extension of this, a new range of logos has been launched so businesses can emphasise the heating technologies covered by their registration. For more information visit www.joinoftec.com or enter the PHAM No.
DIRECTORY & INFO MARCH 2016.indd 4
ENQUIRY
Surestop launches new-look product range
New OFTEC Registration Website Goes Live
OFTEC
George Staszak
New Graham Green Book
For further information please call 0845 643 1800 enter the PHAM No. or visit www.surestop.co.uk DBSP Advert 90x48.indd 1
MR COMBI
FREE to professional tradesmen and women, Hultafors Tools new product catalogue is packed with details of the world’s most innovative Hand Tools and accessories for working effectively - wherever you are on site. Hultafors’ ingrained quality and innovation is found in every Hand Tool. Ergonomically crafted with built-in Fisco technology, there’s a host of Tools for Measuring and Marking, Chopping, Striking and Levelling – as well as the new range of Saws and Clamps. For more information call the helpline on 01484 854788 check out www.hultafors.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. ENQUIRY
L N CH HW ON HW OFF
Please order from www.mrcombi.com or enter the PHAM No.
Free hot water from the sun
Checkout Snickers Website and download a digital catalogue www.snickersworkwear.co.uk Or enter the PHAM No.
Design & Installation Guides. • • • •
372
01/02/2016 15:59
Unit 1, Mainstream Way, Nechells, BIRMINGHAM B7 4SN email: mgabrum@tiscali.co.uk www.mgabrum.co.uk Domestic Natural Gas & LPG Changeover, Energy Efficiency and Water Regulations. Un-vented, Part P Electrics, Training & Assessments.
MIDLAND GAS ASSESSMENTS
ENQUIRY
Mr Combi® Training has developed a fantastic set of easy to follow coloured wiring diagrams for Danfoss and Honeywell Controls, 2 / 3 port systems, Faults, Frost stats, testing components, everything you need in one handy A5 book.
Hultafors Tools New Product Catalogue
HULTAFORS
®
8
Available online at www.centralheatingrepair.co.uk Price £26 inc P&P Also available from High Street and Online Book Stores.
At Our New Training Centre
• Bespoke Training
For years electricians and heating engineers have commented that wiring heating controls is a difficult subject to learn, existing diagrams are not always easy to follow.
This 200 page book written by John Reginald, is designed to help the reader understand central heating and hot water systems. Offering a step-by-step guide to the fault finding and repair process of systems and components enabling the reader to achieve professional solutions to professional standards.
Kiwa Training courses
Mr Combi Training GREY
Danfoss & Honeywell Book of Wiring
‘Central Heating fault finding & repair’
ORANGE
DIRECTORY
Baxi has relaunched its online trade area to make finding information on training, technical support and promotions on its website fast and fuss-free. At the same time, Baxi has unveiled a new look home page designed to drive more consumers to the ‘Find an Installer’ directory, with the aim of better supporting its loyal heating engineers. With customer service a key focus contact information is now more readily available, with phone numbers for Technical Support and Customer Support located at the top of each trade and consumer page respectively. For more information please visit www.baxi.co.uk. Or enter the PHAM No. ENQUIRY
376
BAXI
ENQUIRY
381
29/02/2016 14:49
ENQUIRY
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