March 2023

More funds needed to boost heat pump incentive scheme

A report critical of the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme has triggered calls for unspent funds to be rolled over, investment in a consumer publicity campaign and more generous financial incentives for ground source heat pumps

The report from the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee concludes that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is “seriously failing” to deliver on its objectives.

The £450m BUS scheme, which provides £5000 grants to UK households to upgrade gas boilers to heat pumps, has only used a third of its £150m annual budget so far, with just £49.7m issued in vouchers.

The report identifies a number of conditions that have led to the scheme’s poor performance. These include low public awareness of both the BUS scheme and the technology it funds, an undeveloped workforce, inaccessibility to low -income households, and inadequacies of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating system.

The committee has called for more practical benefits for households installing heat pumps, such as improved certificate ratings for energy efficiency, thereby making properties more desirable to buy at a later date, and

a public information campaign about the benefits of heat pumps. High running costs are also putting people off in making the switch to heat pumps. Market reform, says the report, could go some way in narrowing the price gap between gas and electricity, and ensuring the cost of running a heat pump is affordable.

Price rebalance

A number of manufacturers have long called for energy reform, reducing carbon levies and making electricity more competitive with gas. Welcoming many of the conclusions from the review, Mark Wilkins, technologies and training director at Vaillant, comments:

“We urge government to rebalance energy prices by moving energy levies away from electricity to gas to make heat pumps a more attractive solution for low carbon heating, alongside working closely with local authorities to raise awareness of the properties that are already suitable for heat pumps and recognise those who make the

“For those properties that are unsuitable today, government should look to offer fabric upgrade grants so that homeowners and end users can immediately reduce the heat loss and energy usage in their property, while readying it for a heat pump in the future.”

Vaillant has also called for more market certainty and a clearer government strategy that will help to address common misconceptions about heat pumps.

Henk van den Berg from heat pump manufacturer Daikin UK agrees that more needs to be done to promote the benefits of heat pump technology to potential buyers: “It’s disappointing there hasn’t been more uptake in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, but the government must do better at properly communicating the benefits of heat pumps versus fossil fuel systems.

“Clearer training support for installers – particularly sole operators – will be key to meeting this target, too. Daikin currently trains 3000 engineers to fit low carbon heat pumps every year, but

we have the capacity to double this number. The government needs to support our industry in shouting about the opportunities that jobs in the green economy offer.”

Ground source

The Lords Committee’s report has also highlighted the fact that very few installations of ground source heat pumps are happening because the grant level is not high enough to match the higher relative cost. As ground source heat pumps can deliver greater energy efficiency, it is argued that they should also be incentivised appropriately.

Commenting on the findings, the Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA) argues that significant changes must be swiftly made to give the heat pump industry the opportunity to deliver on the original policy intent.

Laura Bishop, chair of the GSHPA, says: “We are pleased the enquiry has recognised the strategic benefits of ground source and networked heat pumps. We are calling for the underspend in this financial year to specifically increase support for ground source deployment to match the demand proven under the previous Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive.”

Dr Matthew Trewhella, CEO of The Kensa Group, adds: “We propose that grant levels should be related to carbon savings, as ground source heat pumps are the most energy efficient heating and cooling technology. They should also be reflective of the impact on the grid and the longevity of the infrastructure – both of which are more beneficial with ground source technology.”

Editor’s Viewpoint

by Chris Jones

Confusion abounds

The latest report on the performance of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme has highlighted a number of issues which need to be addressed if the industry is to get close to realising the government’s stated sales targets (some 600,000 installations a year by 2028). A lack of awareness and general consumer confusion are two of the major obstacles which the release of some extra funds could go someway to rectifying. It’s now a little too late to put things right, but perhaps a more appropriate name for the scheme might also have helped when it comes to clarity.

Who decided to call it a Boiler Upgrade Scheme when the core objective is to encourage consumers to invest in air source or ground source heat pumps? If there was some concern that heat pump unfamiliarity might not do much to encourage initial interest, then what was wrong with ‘Heating Upgrade Scheme’?

Not surprisingly, Ofgem has confirmed that it has received a number of inquiries from disappointed householders who thought that the scheme would provide them with money to purchase a new, more efficient gas boiler.

Rather than being rolled over to the second year, or being used to support a promotional campaign, it seems that the unused funds from the first year are to be clawed back by the Treasury. As it stands, it is reported that only £300,000 has been allocated for a targeted campaign in the early part of this year, which probably rules out any radio and television activity and will rely heavily on social media. It seems that the government is hoping manufacturers, energy suppliers and installers will take up the slack. Much is already being done on that score by some of the bigger players, but without more certainty about how quickly the market will evolve, then you can understand why some companies might be reluctant to invest in an uncertain future.

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Six-figure sum for injured plumber

A plumber has received hundreds of thousands of pounds in compensation after he sustained life - threatening burns when a boiler exploded.

Survey highlights interest in heating improvements

Many UK householders have a strong appetite for investing in more sustainable forms of home heating that will reduce energy bills and be better for the environment, according to a nationwide survey commissioned by Wolseley.

The survey of 1000 homeowners and tenants found that more people (34%) intend to spend their money changing their heating system over holidays or other experiences (31%) this year. Almost half (48%) believe it is important for their energy source to be environmentally friendly, while 52% will consider the environment when they next renew their heating system.

When asked about the type of heating system they would be interested in, 72% of people said that they would seek a heat pump, hydrogen or other non - gas/oil boiler to deliver cheaper long-term energy costs.

However, the survey also identified challenges that need to be overcome to make sustainable forms of heating more accessible:

55% cite high expense as the main barrier to installing more sustainable forms of home heating, while 60% admitted that they had a lack of knowledge on the issue.

36% want to wait until government funding/subsidies become clearer before switching to more sustainable heat sources, and 24% said that they did not understand

the benefits/advantages at all. Only 14% of people trust the government to provide clear and fair advice about their future heating options

The extent to which homeowners depend upon specialist heating engineers and merchants to advise them on their heating options and system costs was also clear (74%).

Across the UK, 23% of people had already discussed options for a heat pump or a hydrogen/hybrid boiler as a more sustainable alternative, rising to 28% in Scotland, but with the south coast region seeing a far lower figure of 10%.

“Transforming the way that UK homes are heated to reduce environmental impact will take time,” says Wolseley group CEO Simon Oakland. “There are big hurdles to overcome around cost and reskilling of existing heating engineers. Specialist merchants, like Wolseley, will be critical in providing the support, training and advice needed to increase the number of installers able to provide these new technologies.

“It is clear that the government and the home heating sector need to be working together more closely to accelerate this transition by making the available grants and subsidies clearer, and the options more understandable,” he adds. “The appetite for more sustainable home heating is clearly there across the country.”

The unnamed employee, who was in his early 20s, was working at a house in Essex when, without warning, the boiler exploded, filling the enclosed space with jets of super-heated steam, causing lifechanging injuries to the plumber.

Ellisons Solicitors was appointed to act on his behalf with the case proceeding to trial late last year.

Bernice Spurgeon, senior associate at Ellisons Solicitors, says:

“The claimant suffered horrific injuries. He was an in-patient in hospital for four weeks and required wide-ranging care when he was eventually discharged.

“He was unable to return to work due to not being able to tolerate steam and the effects this would have on his scarring. The claimant has required extensive laser treatment for burns, as well as counselling to deal with the longlasting psychological effects of the

Trades working longer hours

Almost two in five (39%) UK tradespeople are working extra shifts or doing longer hours because of the cost of living crisis, and nearly a quarter (23%) say they can’t afford to take any days off.

The new research by ElectricalDirect surveyed workers across the nation to reveal how many are at risk of burnout, and found that almost two in five (39%) have upped their hours in recent months. A similar number (43%) now regularly work more than eight-hour days, nearly a fifth (18%) do more than five days a week, and over a quarter (26%) even work while feeling unwell.

Furthermore, tradespeople are taking very few days of annual leave, largely for financial reasons. On average, they take just 11 days off a year, but almost a third (32%) take less than a week of holiday every 12 months. In fact, a staggering 92% take less than 28 days off a year, which is the statutory annual leave requirement.

Plumbers were found to take just 12 days holiday per year, which is one day more than the average builder or electrician.

Self - employed tradespeople are considerably more likely than employed individuals to work long days (51% vs 40%), work while ill (34% vs 23%) and work at weekends (38% vs 18%). They are also nearly twice as likely to work over five days a week (27% vs 14%).

To help tradespeople avoid or deal with burnout, ElectricalDirect has partnered with Liz SebagMontefiore, co - founder of HR consultancy 10Eighty, to share some expert advice:

Prioritise – “Take a hard look at your priorities. Get clarity on what really matters. Is there a real deadline? Is it urgent because of who is asking for it? Will it impact productivity or profitability? Where can you adjust, what can you decline, who can help?”

Take breaks – “Take breaks from work. Be sure to use any annual

permanent injuries and trauma of the incident.

“During the case, the owner of the company received a criminal prosecution and the insurers admitted liability but not until over two years after the accident had occurred.”

Despite no settlement offers being made the solicitors obtained interim payments in order to assist with the claimant’s loss of earnings, his treatment and much needed expert support from a specialist case manager.

The case proceeded to a Joint Settlement Meeting (JSM), but agreement was not reached as the defendant’s solicitors continually sought to discredit the integrity of the claimant, including allegations of fraud. The case was resolved a few weeks after the JSM, and the defendant’s solicitors agreed to a six-figure sum, which also factored in the claimant’s ongoing treatment needs.

leave and leave work behind when you’re off – don’t work in your downtime! Try not to check work emails when you are off and say if you are not contactable.”

Pace yourself and relax – “Try to pace yourself and reward yourself for what you can do. You could try mindfulness to relax and reconnect with self, purpose and wellbeing.”

For more expert advice on how to deal with burnout, see the online reader link below:

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/04

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Part F needs enforcing

The Property Care Association has seen a record increase in the number of condensation-related claims made by householders across the UK. Cold weather snaps, inflation and increases in heating costs are all thought to be behind the surge in damp and mould. The PCA says ventilation is critical to tackling problems in humid homes but believes the current system is failing to address the issue.

Pointing to Approved Document F of the Building Regulations, PCA technical manager James Berry comments: “Part F does not get the attention it deserves and is not enforced to the same extent as other areas of the Building Regulations, but the effects of failing to provide adequate ventilation should be taken much more seriously. This was one of the core reasons we set up our Residential Ventilation Group to promote greater compliance with Building Regulations when installing ventilation systems.”

New department dedicated to energy

The industry has been responding to the announcement that there will now be a new government department for energy – the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), which will be headed by Secretary of State Grant Shapps. The move effectively dissolves the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

The UK last had a separate Energy Department in 2016 when it was merged with the Business Department by Theresa May.

“Putting net zero and energy security together makes sense,” says BESA’s technical director Graeme Fox. “They go hand-in-hand and one of the quickest ways to achieve both is to step up efforts to improve the energy performance of the built environment through a national programme of building retrofits. Investing in energy efficiency measures, scaling up the roll -out of heat pumps, and driving investment in training to plug our green skills gap can all be done at speed.”

The new dedicated department will be key to a fair energy transition, according to Jeff House, Baxi’s external affairs & policy director: “By returning to a smaller and more focused

department we hope to see government continue to work with industry on heat decarbonisation in a pragmatic and consumer-centric fashion. Security of supply, customer affordability and decarbonisation all need to be considered in conjunction to ensure fairness in the energy transition.” The news has also received a positive response from Martin Fahey, head of sustainability at Mitsubishi Electric. He says: “This move should help to drive investment and business opportunities around renewable forms of energy. Critically, it will also support the goal of decarbonising our country and moving to more sustainable technologies, like heat pumps, that can be applied at the pace required to buildings in all their forms which account for such a large part of the emissions generated as a country.”

Members Day to focus on ground source industry

The Ground Source Heat Pump Association’s Members Day is set to take place at the NEC in Birmingham on 23rd March.

The day is free to attend for everyone and will bring together individuals from the world of renewables, business, and energy for a full schedule of lively debates and presentations on the renewables sector in the UK.

Diversity is key to increasing recruitment and retention

Women and ethnic minorities represent an untapped talent pool that could address the UK’s labour and skills shortage, says a new report from Energy Systems Catapult. But urgent action is needed to encourage more of these entrants to the workforce.

The report, ‘Increasing diversity in the heating sector to address the skills shortage and meet net zero’, states that women account for only 2% of the heating industry workforce, and only 5% of those in the heating sector have an ethnic minority background.

Topics under discussion include training, ground source versus air source, and standards in the industry.

There will also be panel presentations, covering topics such as the importance of the electrification of heat, and where the industry is heading in both the domestic and commercial sectors. Each panel will open up the floor

for questions from the audience. In the afternoon, visitors can attend an exhibition of stands, giving them the opportunity to network. The day begins at 9am and closes at 4pm. The event is free to attend but tickets are limited – for more information and to reserve your place at the event, use the reader link below.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/05

Long-time plumbing and heating industry figure, politician and businessman, Bernard Bateman MBE, passed away peacefully on 26th January at the age of 78, following a year-long illness. He will be remembered for his largerthan - life personality, his enthusiastic support for the UK plumbing and heating industry, his life-long charity work, and political contributions.

and inclusive environment. Such steps, the research asserts, can spur on individuals from an untapped talent pool to enter the sector.

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The research focuses on the problem of recruitment and retention, identifying the key needs for women and ethnic minorities to enter and stay in the heating sector. These include increased availability and awareness of fair job opportunities, options to train and work flexibly, and providing an inclusive environment where they feel a sense of belonging.

The report makes a number of recommendations for employers, industry bodies and training providers, such as increasing availability and awareness of fair job opportunities and tackling discrimination to achieve a healthy

Dr. Vivien Kizilcec, consumer research manager at Energy Systems Catapult and co-author of the report, says: “By employing a more diverse workforce, organisations can gain knowledge and extra skills that can help them reach new customers and offer additional services, as well as drive down implicit bias. Increasing the diversity of the workforce will therefore be crucial in the transition towards low carbon heating.”

The researchers interviewed men, women, and ethnic minorities for the report, including tradespeople, professionals with recruitment responsibilities, and industry experts. Read the report using the link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/06

In his early career he worked at plumbing and heating merchants OBC in South Wales, later to be part of Wolseley Hughes Plc. He went on to being sales and marketing director of Yorkshire Heating Supplies. Bernard also played an important role in the renaming of the brand to Plumb Center in the 1980s and continued to run the sales and marketing function for Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland until 1993. He then joined merchants Harcross as MD, taking them to sale in 1997, and established Geberit in the UK, where he oversaw the purchase of Caradon Terrain in 1999.

Bernard was awarded an MBE in 1988 for his services to the plumbing industry, and twice held the post of national president at the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering. He is survived by his wife Linda, their two sons, Liam and Nicholas, and four granddaughters.

Making home heating greener

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We’re committed to helping you and your customers choose the right product today, while also providing you with the necessary training and knowledge to prepare your business for the future. Visit our website to discover the five key future technologies worcester-bosch.co.uk/future-industry

Franchising opportunity

A new national electric and solar heating group is on the lookout for the next generation of franchisees to join its growing operation at ground level. Heat Electric launched on 14th February and has a limited number of franchises available to suitably qualified businesses. David Lukeman created the business after his 10 - year - old company was rebranded from Northwest Heating Solutions to Heat Electric. With a network covering the UK and Ireland, and more franchises rolling out in the coming months, there are a limited number of Heat

Toshiba provides more incentives to installers

The Rewards installer incentive programme from Toshiba has been updated to include three enhanced accredited partner tiers above the basic membership level, with silver, gold and platinum accreditation reflecting the level of customer spend over a year. The tiered approach is designed to support installers to build their businesses by incentivising progress through the levels, with each successive stage providing higher levels of support, technical training and incentives. Installers can also earn points to be redeemed for gift vouchers, tools, equipment and branded merchandise. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/07

Phone it in for a prize

As part of its Winter Heroes campaign, Resideo is launching an interactive online game that could win a lucky installer a new iPhone. Now available to play through Resideo’s dedicated heating season website, one winner will pick up an Apple iPhone 14 this month (March).

The game compares the potential impact and savings of updating different elements of a heating system. The questions all link back to Resideo’s Honeywell Home products and BEAMA statistics. Installers who get the correct answers and complete the game will be put into a prize draw to have a chance of scooping an iPhone 14.

To test your knowledge and be in with the chance of winning an Apple iPhone 14, visit the website using the reader link below.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/08

Electric franchise areas available for £20,000 plus 6% of turnover.

“We are looking for similar ambitious and like - minded partners who want to take this group forward,” says David Lukeman. “Having built my own business over a decade I take great pride in our reputation for reliability and service. We are profitable and have been fortunate to attract nothing but great reviews in 10 years. That level of success indicates our level of commitment.”

Franchise packs are available on request by sending an email to: hello@heatelectric.uk

Supermarket vouchers added to Loyalty Club

At a time when food prices are climbing, Stelrad Radiators has added supermarket vouchers to its installer Loyalty Club offering. Members can earn points by buying Stelrad products and exchange those points for the vouchers or any of the other rewards, like branded clothing or tools.

Marketing communications manager Sarah Baker says: “With the cost of living rising by the week and products on the shelves getting more expensive, the supermarket voucher option seemed like a good option for installers and their families to

help with the weekly shop or maybe buy a few treats.

“We hope this will be seen as a good option by installers, but we are also offering installers the option to donate the vouchers they qualify for to charity instead. We have a few installers who are members of the Installer Loyalty Club who already do this and like to see the value of their vouchers go to Cancer Research UK for children and young people charity and Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.”

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/09

Major milestone for Mancunian firm

A Greater Manchestermechanical and electrical contractor has achieved a major milestone as it targets further growth and expansion in 2023.

Atherton-based ASH Integrated Services, which was founded in 2019, increased turnover to £4m in 2022 and aims to hit £5.5m in its current financial year.

A key part of its plans includes securing further contracts within facilities management and maintenance, and the firm has attained ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 to support this goal. The firm, which was awarded the certificates in just four months following significant investment, counts Lancashire County Council, a hotel chain, and a university as clients in its maintenance division.

ASH was founded by Antony Grace, Howard Jackson, and Sean Jackson and employs 45 engineers and office support staff, delivering M+E projects across the UK in industries including education, hospitality and the public sector. Its maintenance work is predominantly in the North West, North Wales, and the Midlands.

Antony Grace, co - founder and director, says: “To secure the certification in just four months is a testament to the foundations already in place at the business as well as how every employee bought into the journey and played a vital role.

“We have already received positive feedback from current and potential clients, and I’m excited about the opportunities ASH Integrated Services will now have.”

Lecture focuses on routes into the trade

The annual Worshipful Company of Plumbers’ lecture will take place on Monday 15 May at the Royal College of Physicians in London, hosting a number of high-profile industry leaders for a lively debate on the different routes people can take to start a career in the plumbing and heating business.

Titled ‘Who needs university when apprenticeships are better?’, the discussion will focus on the benefits of paid apprenticeships versus university, and the variety of pathways that are available to those who begin their careers by gaining hands-on work experience alongside additional training.

Keynote speakers taking part in the discussion include: Carl Arntzen, CEO of Worcester Bosch; Kevin Wellman, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering; and Neil Collishaw, CEO at BPEC. All three participants are passionate about encouraging more young people, and anyone who is keen to retrain, to consider a future in the Building Services Engineering sector.

The event will start at 5pm, with presentations and debate taking place from 6pm onwards. Tickets are £25 for the lecture only or £85 for lecture and dinner.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/10

Podcast for efficiency

A new podcast has been launched by Drayton. ‘The Heating Efficiency Podcast’ is hosted by Clare@ Drayton, who will be joined by industry experts to discuss various topics on heating system efficiency. Season one of the series airs between January and May of this year with a new episode every other Wednesday. Each episode will discuss different ways to optimise heating systems, covering topics such as system balancing, heat loss

calculations, low boiler flow temperatures, heat pumps, water quality and more.

The content comes from the

control manufacturer’s 2022 Facebook Live sessions, previously only available to members of The Drayton Community. Each episode will include expert opinions and advice from the likes of Richard Burrows from Mid Wales Plumbing & Heating Supplies; The Heating Hub’s founder Jo Alsop; Kimbo Betty, owner of Heating Academy Northampton, and Rob Berridge of Rob Berridge Heating Design Consultancy, with the bi-weekly instalments running for up to an hour for a detailed round-up of the hottest topics in heating.

Episodes are now live on Spotify and Amazon Music.

(l-r) Howard Jackson, Antony Grace and Sean Jackson

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HORROR SHOW

NEW APPOINTMENTS

People on the Move

Roca Group UK has welcomed Anthony Walker as its newest business development manager. With over 20 years in the bathroom industry, Anthony will be covering the North West and North Wales. Prior to joining Roca, he spent the first 18 years of his career with SmithsBriten before moving on to Ideal Bathrooms.

Walsall-based Advance Appliances has announced the appointment of Richard Prince as business development director. With 18 years experience in the industry, Richard has worked in various roles, from the supply of water heating parts to the design and introduction of bespoke OEM solutions.

Trust Electric Heating has appointed former National Energy Foundation chief executive Dr Kerry Mashford OBE to the board as non-executive chair to support the company’s next growth phase and further expansion into the commercial sector. As a chartered mechanical engineer, Kerry brings a wealth of experience to the new role.

The Heat Pump Association (HPA) has welcomed Charlotte Lee as its new chief executive. Currently head of external affairs at NAPIT, Charlotte will take the reins at HPA in April this year. She brings a wealth of experience to the role, with a background in leading on policy development and government affairs for heat pumps and energy efficiency.

The new renewable sales manager at Warmflow is Niel Rumbold, who brings nearly 20 years of experience to the role, including time as a renewables engineer. Niel says his on-the-tools background gives him a deep understanding of the company’s Zeno air source heat pump range and controls.

Formerly part of Grant UK’s technical team, Gareth Grinsell returns to the business as the new areas sales manager for South West England. Gareth will be working with installers, merchants and other heating professionals throughout the counties of Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset and Avon.

Toilet technology and water management solutions manufacturer Fluidmaster has announced the recruitment of a new campaign manager. Laura Jenkins joins the company’s UK marketing department and will be looking to play an integral part in Fluidmaster’s new product launches and marketing campaigns.

With a remit to lead the global commercial team, Louise McCann has been named group commercial director for A-Gas. Louise joined the company in 2005 and has held a number of senior roles, including MD of A-Gas Australia and subsequently MD of the Canadian operation. Louise returns to Australia as she begins her role as group commercial director.

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The Tweet Spot

This month’s £100 letter

Why is our domestic heat pump market going backwards?

We are celebrating 15 years of installing heat pumps mainly in the domestic off-gas grid market. But we’re not breaking out the bubbly just yet.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant was launched last April replacing the Renewable Heat Incentive and it is significantly under-performing – just over £38 million has been paid out, with over £100 million left in the budget pot to end of March this year.

There’s been so much press coverage about heat pumps over the past year or two, so why is the retrofit heat pump market going backwards?

Consumer demand seems to have been hit by a lethal combination of moderate heating oil prices, uncertainty over rising electricity prices and a grant that, at £5K, barely covers the recent price rises in heat pumps and all the components needed for a system.

I did a follow-up call to a potential customer this week and what he said illustrated the issues clearly.

I asked him what he felt about the guide estimate for ground and air source heat pump systems for his planned chalet renovation project. He said that once he’d picked himself off the floor, shocked by the potential cost of the ground source system, that even with the deduction of the BUS, the complete system and all plumbing comes in at around £38K.

He said that he’s thinking of installing an oil boiler and keeping the rest of the money in the bank. He explained that he doesn’t really ‘trust’ air source systems as he has friends who had an air source installed in their self-build and the system is not keeping them warm. Therefore he is not attracted by the somewhat less expensive air source option we are offering. He also agreed with me that the current price of electricity is a big disincentive and that he has no trust that now electricity prices have risen they will reduce again.

It is depressing that almost everyone we speak to has a personal horror story of friends or acquaintances with air source heat pump systems that have been poorly designed in terms of heat pump size or heat emitter sizing and/or poorly installed.

How is the industry ever to move forward? We’ve been working hard building up the credibility of heat pump

Shortfalls in a skilled workforce

After reading the editor’s viewpoint in the latest issue of PHAM news, I was moved to contact you regarding the very same subject. In particular regarding our ageing workforce.

I myself am approaching 70, and I can’t see myself working for many more years ‘on the tools’, as it were. However, many of us oldies have a lifetime’s skillset and experience which may be going to waste if we are not careful.

Most of us would love to pass on some of our knowledge, but don’t want to take on employees or apprentices as such. But we could perhaps be available to help out in colleges or training centres. I may be doing just that later on this year, but there are no guarantees.

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systems for 15 years and our systems often exceed our customers’ expectations, but to achieve these results we use top quality products, employ skilled people and train staff, and of course all of this comes at a price.

I’m not sure why we have a fixation in the UK for heat pumps to be somehow ‘brought down to’ the cost of a gas boiler. Considering the system upgrades required in terms of new radiators and pipework improvements needed, in addition to the units being more expensive in themselves, it is blatantly ridiculous. Some 537,000 heat pumps were installed in France in 2021 and they cost the same as they do in the UK –these supposed volume discounts simply do not exist. Heat pumps are a globally traded product, so they’re not somehow going to be magically available at bargain basement prices to the tiny UK market.

I am also concerned that this ‘cheap’ approach is causing a very sub-optimal situation in the new build market. On rural housing estates air source heat pumps are being installed in a very ‘unsupported’ way. To keep costs down builders buy a package of the cheapest possible heat pump and cylinder. The popular manufacturers working in this market sell a heat pump system like a TV, with little or non-existent technical support for installers and ultimately for the homeowner. Imagine moving into a house with an unfamiliar heating system and having no-one to be able to call for advice on settings, for maintenance or servicing because the manufacturer doesn’t price these services into their infrastructure as a result of extreme price sensitivity in the building trade. We are looking to extend our servicing department to cover as many of these cheaper brands to reduce the ‘bad press’ that will almost inevitably ensue from these unsupported end customers. It is worlds away from our follow-up calls and system tweaking that we offer our installation customers.

I can’t draw any other conclusion than that something needs to shift in the external environment – the grant provision, introduction of affordable green home improvement finance, lower electricity prices compared to gas and oil, implementation of the planned ban on oil boilers in new builds from 2025. In the meantime, the reality is that in off-gas grid areas people are incentivised to replace an old oil boiler with another oil boiler. We will never move towards carbon zero targets with this state of affairs.

Louise Howlett Commercial director RA Brown Heating Services Ltd Norwich

There would have to be a quantum leap in training provision and a greater public awareness created, but I fear that youngsters have been brainwashed into believing that if they don’t go to university and get a degree in something (it is not important what), then they have somehow failed themselves and their families. It’s a sad state of affairs!

Ian Andrews Via email

Let

think...

Records broken for renewable installations

A record number of renewables were installed last year, with 2022 having the highest number since 2015. Solar PV was the most popular technology, followed by heat pumps. The latest data from MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) shows a 65% increase in renewable installations in 2022 compared to 2021.

A total of 163,341 MCS certified installations were registered last year, over 80% of which were electricity generating technologies – mainly solar PV. With 130,596 solar PV installations throughout the year, there was an overall increase of 114% when compared to the number of installations in the previous year.

Heat pumps are the second most popular technology type behind solar PV and accounted for 19% of total installations last year.

Battery storage is a newcomer in the registered installations for 2022, with the first MCS certified battery storage installation being registered in April 2022. Since then, battery storage has seen a steady growth, finishing the year with 50 certified contractors and 269 installations – this was up from only two contractors registered in 2021.

became MCS certified in 2022 which is more than double the net increase from 2020 to 2021. This makes 2022 the highest annual increase of certified contractors in over a decade. Of these new contractors, 67% are certified for electricity generating technologies, evidencing further the increasing appetite for solar PV on UK homes.

Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, says: “We had an incredibly busy 2022 and the data confirms the progress we’ve made. The future of small-scale renewable installations is becoming increasingly important, and we continue to play a crucial role in the

“Looking ahead, we need to drive this momentum and upward mobility at pace and continue to ensure consumer confidence across all technology types. To support this and ensure government targets are met, more skilled contractors are needed. As such, we will launch the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship later this year. We are confident this will attract young people and career-changers to the industry, creating a more diverse workforce that meets the demands of the industry while providing future-proof careers in the green sector.”

Energy Matters

New report backs the case for diverse net zero solutions

The Sustainable Energy Association (SEA) and Partners have published a report that advocates a technologyagnostic approach to decarbonising buildings and tailoring solutions that achieve the best outcomes.

The report brings together expertise from across the industry to explain why incorporating a diverse range of low-carbon technologies into heat and buildings policy is crucial to delivering Net Zero.

The SEA has been a longtime promoter of a ‘fabric first’, holistic approach to decarbonising buildings, and argues that government policy should be based on an evidence-led, data-driven, bottom-up and technology-agnostic route to net zero. This means deploying the best technologies, in the right circumstances, for the best results.

The report also delves into issues beyond the fabric, which includes the heating system, onsite microgeneration, flexibility and

of the most appropriate and effective low-carbon technology.

Jade Lewis, chief executive of the SEA, comments: “The SEA is steadfast in its commitments to deliver living and working spaces fit for future generations. To help us realise this vision, government policy for heat and buildings needs to be long term and joined-up, taking a fabric-first, holistic and technology-agnostic approach. This report lays the foundations as to why these policies should take into consideration a wider range of technologies, so that we can provide homes and buildings with the best solutions for net zero.”

Gadgets & Tools

Quick way to measure up

The new compact class of HVAC measuring instruments from Testo have been designed for a wide range of HVAC tasks, from servicing heating systems to installing and maintaining air conditioning and ventilation systems. Instruments in the range can take a variety of measurements, such as temperature, pressure, CO2, illuminance, and humidity.

Measurement values are determined and displayed quickly via the user-friendly Testo Smart App. Not only does the app ensure all measurement menus are available, it also allows a practical second screen function, measured value storage, analysis and documentation in the smart assistant at any time.

With the temperature measuring instruments – Testo 922, 925 and 110 and probes TE Type K, NTC, Pt100 – extremely high and low temperatures can be measured precisely and easily in almost any medium. Meanwhile, the new differential pressure measuring instruments (512-1 and 512-2) can be used to measure low and high pressures, when checking heating systems for example.

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Shedding light on the dark corners

Part of the M18 Packout series from Milwaukee, the Light/Charger unit delivers all day multi-directional lighting and charging. It can be used as part of a Packout stack (as pictured) or on its own. This portable light delivers 3000 lumens of TrueView high definition output and is fully compatible with the Packout modular storage system.

Three independent rotating light heads allow for complete control over lighting direction. Users can manage output and runtime on this portable work light with three different modes (All Lights, Main Panel, or Back/Front Lights), each including high, medium and low settings for up to 31 hours of runtime with one M18 RedLithium 5.0Ah battery.

There is a 240V AC input for all day runtime

and M18 battery charging. This light also allows for charging devices with the 2.1 Amp USB output and storage for small items inside the intgrated compartment.

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Rapid adjustment pliers

Suitable for a wide range of maintenance and plumbing jobs, the new rapid-adjustment water pump pliers from Laser Tools are designed to hold pipes, components and fixings with a strong grip that won’t let go. Three sizes are available: 180, 250 and 300mm. They all feature a rapid-adjust, push-button mechanism that locks the pliers in position. A quick press will adjust them again for the next job.

The 180mm version features 20 set positions that adjust from 0-42mm; the 260mm pliers have 16 positions and adjust from 0-50mm. The larger 300mm pliers feature 29 set positions and adjust

right up to 70mm.

Manufactured from high carbon steel for wear-resistance, the adjustable jaws feature directional serrations that bite into the job. Combined with grippy texture-dipped handles, these pliers are designed to not slip.

See the new rapid-adjustment water pump pliers in action on YouTube using the link below.

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Avoid drilling in the wrong place

Helping you ‘see’ what’s behind the wall before drilling though, the GMS 120 Professional from Bosch can detect materials up to a depth of 12cm. It offers precise detection, automatic calibration, and an alert system, making it easy to use. The product comes with a number of detection modes, including metal, live wire, and stud. Users can quickly and easily switch between the different modes, depending on the specific task at hand. The LCD screen displays a range of information such as the type of material detected and the approximate depth of the object. It also includes a Centre Finder indication to make it easier for users to locate the object precisely. The LED ring around the center marking hole turns red for a detected object, yellow for a nearby object, and green when no object has been detected.

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Spoilt for choice in woodscrews

The multi-purpose woodscrew range from Spectre has been enhanced with the addition of two new sizes to include 6.0 x 200mm and 6.0 x 240mm woodscrews and will shortly also include 8.0 x 180, 200, 240 and 280mm versions too. Suitable for use in roof insulation applications, these longer screws provide a more secure grip and help to penetrate the full depth of the insulation. As with all Spectre screws, the product size is included on the packaging to make clear what’s inside.

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DK0114G204

Brush up on your maths for energy efficiency

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has announced plans to develop educational maths resources to equip professionals and apprentices with clearer knowledge of household utility bills, including energy and water. This project was introduced following the launch of the government’s £560 million Multiply programme in spring 2022, which set out to improve numeracy skills.

Working with colleges and approved training centres across

the UK, the resources will involve applying a range of calculations to manage water and energy usage, with the aim of achieving financial savings for system users. Resources are being developed in two parts. Training resources

UFH knowledge a click away

are in the works for those already qualified, while the curriculum at colleges is being reviewed for those entering the industry. Educational establishments across the south of England have invited the CIPHE to collaborate

Live online training for wetrooms

Continuing its virtual ‘We Are Wetrooms’ training seminars, Impey has announced the full line-up of dates for 2023. There will be nine sessions taking place from March to November aimed at installers, plumbers and tilers as well as retailers and merchant counter sales staff.

Free online training on Grant UK’s underfloor heating range is now available to complete via the company’s eLearning Academy. The on-demand course provides an introduction to Grant’s Uflex underfloor heating range and includes an overview of the systems, accessories and controls.

The course is approximately 20 minutes in duration and includes a general introduction to the range before taking a closer look at the Uflex, Uflex MINI and Overlay Board underfloor heating systems available from Grant . It also provides an overview of the core components and accessories within the Uflex range as well as covering the controls and wiring centres. A brief summary of the company’s underfloor heating design and support services is also included.

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Stamp of approval from BPEC

Officially opened in January, Ideal Heating’s new National Training and Technology Centre in Bridgehead will focus on low carbon heating, offering BPEC-accredited training courses and qualifications. The courses are part of Ideal’s Expert Academy.

The centre aims to support the industry as the UK works to upskill its installer base to meet net zero targets. In the last year alone, the Ideal Expert Academy has trained 165 people for their BPEC heat pump qualification.

The training sessions are led by Shaun Hunt, Impey’s technical and trade marketing manager, and delivered from a specially designed studio that allows for tailored online courses, blending pre-recorded videos with live Q&A opportunities.

Each session is presented via Zoom and lasts a couple of hours, covering: wetroom installation and floor formers; installation into a wooden or concrete floor; how to achieve the perfect wetroom gradient; drainage (gravity fed and pumped waste); and leak-free

BPEC is an industry leader in providing qualifications, assessments, courses and learning materials to ensure installers receive high standards of training. This is combined with hands-on practical equipment, such as a fully functioning live heat pump training suite.

Andrew Johnson, training director at Ideal Heating, says: “The investment in our training centre, and longstanding relationship with BPEC, will help our heating engineers continue to thrive as the industry moves towards low carbon heating solutions.”

Ideal offers courses throughout the UK. To find out more about content and locations, please use the link below.

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on their maths curriculum to provide practical skills that learners can use in a plumbing or heating career.

Jerry Whiteley, technical manager at the CIPHE, says: “In a plumbing and heating capacity, identifying ways to help individuals attain real world skills is something we’re passionate about. The goal through our project is to increase the confidence of qualified engineers and to make the journey for industry newcomers that bit easier.

“Currently we’re exploring ways to establish the volume of energy and water used through different household activities, but this is likely to evolve and expand further as we continue. By working with colleges, local authorities and curriculum leads we’ll be able to ensure the educational content meets the needs of all involved.”

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Everything you need to know about heat pumps

NIBE is highlighting the comprehensive range of heat pump courses available at its newly refurbished Chesterfield Training Academy, where installers can get training on installation, commissioning, and service/maintenance.

Installers registered with NIBE Pro can also sign up for Ofqual regulated training and technical support. The RQF Level 3 Award in Heat Pump Technology fulfils the requirements for MCS, is recognised by NAPIT and is LCL Awards-approved.

Other courses available in Chesterfield include a one-day session on air source installation and commissioning. It covers the theory of air source heat pumps, NIBE’s product range, applications and sizing, mechanical and electrical installation, docking diagrams, control systems, system commissioning, and basic fault finding. This can be followed up with a course dedicated to service and maintenance of air and ground source heat pumps.

water proofing.

Attendees are encouraged to ask questions about their current projects, discuss Impey’s product installation requirements and tailor the course to their level of understanding.

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Free to take renewables

Existing plumbers and gas engineers in the UK are invited to take advantage of free renewables training from Options Skills.

Recognising the demand for comprehensive renewable heating training, Options Skills invested in developing its renewable heating hubs in Birmingham, Manchester and London. The trainer has secured government-backed funding to deliver this training, allowing tradespeople to futureproof their careers.

“With the increase in demand for low carbon heating, there is a need for qualified heat pump engineers to carry out the upgrades and changeovers to air and ground

In all, seven courses are offered out of Chesterfield, covering not just air and ground source, but also exhaust air heat pumps as well as training in low temperature heating and hot water design. Find out more about the courses on offer as well as prices and dates using the reader link below.

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source heat pump technologies,” comments Dave Judge, director of compliance at Options Skills. “So we’re delighted to offer this training to existing tradespeople. Upskilling is a hugely important aspect of any career, both in terms of personal development and longevity.”

These free courses are available until March 31st.

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Shaun Hunt, technical and trade marketing manager at Impey

WE ARE RECRUITING WITHIN THE FOLLOWING POSTCODES: SW, SM, KT, TW, HA, NW, W, UB, WD, TN, DA, BR, ME, SL, WC, GU, AND RG

If you’re a qualified Plumber or Water Softener Engineer, get in touch today! We are the UK’s No.1 Water Softener company, selling Water Softeners, Taps, Water Filter Systems, and more. We’re committed to providing high-quality service and products to our huge network of customers.

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PROCESS25 DAYS HOLIDAY

Planning for the Future Looking forward to a good year

For anyone involved in the UK heat pump market, the next few months should present plenty of opportunities to raise public awareness and increase sales – Phil Hurley from NIBE highlights some of the reasons for positivity.

Following the recent re-opening of our training centre in Chesterfield, we are looking forward to training engineers to install heat pumps through our NIBE Pro courses this year. We’re also excited about several new product launches across our range, but there are still many decisions to be made if we are to progress towards net zero.

The Future Homes Standard (FHS) will set the energy efficiency standard for new homes built from 2025. As we await the technical consultation this year, there is much anticipation of how far the final specifications will go to lower energy bills for consumers and maximise heat pump performance. And with the average household energy bill rising to £3000 from April, proposals expected on rebalancing gas and electricity bills this year will complement the FHS by driving down the already competitive running costs of heat pumps, through cheaper electricity.

Key policy decisions

Despite the expectation of continued heat pump growth this year globally, the UK has historically lagged behind other countries. In Poland alone, heat pump sales increased by up to 140% in 2022 compared to the same period in 2021, meaning that heat pumps account for 30% of all heating devices sold.

In the UK, there are still around 1.7 million gas boilers installed every year, with approximately 60,000 heat pump installs this year. In contrast, French heat pump sales in 2021 were over 500,000 – if we are to catch up to our European colleagues, it is clear there is some way to go.

Policy will play a crucial role in accelerating UK heat pump progress and the government’s flagship Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) now has just over two years left to achieve its targets.

More publicity is needed to raise pubic awareness of the scheme. Employing the methods used to raise awareness of the Green Homes Grant could be something to follow. With the Scottish Government recently announcing a £7500 grant for heat pumps, rising to £9000 for rural homes, on top of an interest free loan for homeowners, there is a clear precedent for greater ambition. And I expect to see sales increase over the coming months across the industry.

Business Matters

Taking measures: what are your KPIs?

KPI stands for Key Performance Indicators and they are exactly what they say on the tin. They are key metrics of information which indicate how your business is performing.

Fully converted

Moving forward

When the French government committed to phase out all boiler sales within 10 years, there was a surge of interest in heat pump installer training by 264% in 2019. Similar decisiveness confirming boiler phase out dates in the UK has been a missed opportunity to power action from installers and homeowners to accelerate the inevitable move to heat pumps. A decision on this will give the confidence needed to those sitting on the fence.

With new builds being heat pump ready in the run-up to the FHS, the next step is to tackle the larger more complex area – the existing housing stock. Lower flow temperatures are a foundation for creating more opportunities for heat pumps in the existing housing stock, but also result in lower running costs, less damage to the heating system, and less noise for the consumer. This change can be achieved in a short space of time through educating consumers and installers on the role of low flow temperatures.

It was good to see this recognised in the improving boiler standards and efficiency consultation, which aims to deliver low flow temperatures across the existing housing stock.

No time to waste

Despite the above being a relatively quick fix, one thing is for certain: wasted time is something we don’t have the luxury of if we are to transform the heating industry to meet net zero.

I think it is fair to say that the political turmoil of recent times has delayed progress, but I hope we can now expect a revised impetus to drive heat decarbonisation over the months ahead.

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KPIs should be used by business owners to regularly assess how their business is performing. They don’t need to be complicated; in fact – the simpler the better. The key to success when using KPIs is carefully selecting the metrics that are most relevant for a specific company’s goals. What do you want to achieve? Increased turnover? New customers? More five star reviews? Convert more quotes?

You could use information taken from your accounting data or other key metrics within your business. I would always only suggest having a handful of KPIs which you constantly measure, tweak and report on because if you have too many they won’t get done and too few doesn’t really give you a feel for how the business is going.

It’s good to start with a metric that is easily measurable: you have the data to hand and you can calculate with ease on a periodic basis.

An example of KPIs that a plumbing and heating business could measure is gross profit %. Goss profit % is calculated by:

By knowing what your current GP% is, and having a KPI to monitor and increase this periodically, this can drive your performance.

For example, what can you tweak within your business to achieve your desired GP%? You could increase prices, request discounts from merchants, and promote products and services which have higher gross profit margins. The results of these examples will all increase GP%.

Money matters

Maybe you have a target for what you want your turnover to be by the end of the year. In that case, break it down over 12 months so you can easily measure if you are on track to achieve your goal. The monthly turnover target will then be a KPI. You can then ascertain whether you are on track to your year end target or not by looking at your monthly turnover. If you are not on track, ask why not? Look into your business and establish what you can tweak to get back on track.

Another metric you could track readily within your plumbing and heating business is your quote conversion rate. What percentage of your quotes do you win? To calculate this metric is simply a case of (total quotes won / total quotes sent out) x 100 = Quote conversion rate.

You could track this over a period of time. Now lets say that you want this metric to be at 40% but it is currently at 30%, what can you do within your business to ensure you win more quotes?

This is where the KPIs come in. It is a case of having key information on your business which ultimately leads to the overall business goals. If you want to convert more quotes, establish what your quote conversion rate is, what you want it to be, and then react accordingly to make sure you win more quotes. What do you need to do to get to your desired performance?

KPIs and record keeping

If you are new to KPIs start by choosing simple metrics to measure for your business. Once you are in the habit of keeping the records up to date you could introduce KPIs for staff. For example, you could set a target to get X customers a month on a maintenance plan, reduce the number of call return visits, increase the number of same-day fixes, or receive a certain number of 5-star reviews.

Taking the long view

Whatever you choose to measure, they should compliment your long term business goals and plans.

When properly used, KPIs can offer visibility of progress towards your business goals, help create focus points, drive improvement and monitor customer satisfaction levels. They can also be invaluable in measuring overall organisational wellness and ensuring longterm sustainability.

Phil Hurley Managing director of NIBE Energy Systems

If you can’t measure it, then you can’t manage it, the old saying goes, which is why Aaron McLeish argues that business owners need to get familiar with their key performance indicators.

Aaron McLeish Director at Together We Count

Business Matters

Plumbers benefit from record earnings

Self-employed plumbers earned record weekly earnings last year, according to construction payroll company Hudson Contract. Their average pay during 2022 was £1068 per week, which was 8.5% higher than 2021

The highest - earning month for plumbing subcontractors was March 2022 when they were paid £1139 per week in the run-up to the end of the financial year. January 2022 was the lowest at £956, in keeping with the seasonal slow start to the new year.

MD Ian Anfield says: “Our figures show the increasingly attractive earnings on offer for people who are prepared to put in the time and effort to learn the skills needed to succeed in the plumbing trade.”

Commenting on the wider construction industry, he

Get better customer reviews on Google

adds: “Huge infrastructure schemes like Hinkley Point and HS2 entered new phases and created extra demand for skilled labour.

“With Brexit, we have said the impact would be felt gradually over time and now we are seeing the supply of skilled tradespeople from Europe wither on the vine. Europeans would always come here to work and then go home again but now nobody is replacing them. The routes for working visas are not practical for most construction companies and smaller businesses.

“These are the forces driving up labour rates. They are creating plenty of opportunities for the self-employed to earn a handsome living as the most productive and flexible part of the labour market.”

To help trade businesses become more competitive during the cost of living crisis, IronmongeryDirect is offering advice on how to stand out from the crowd by creating a strong Google Business Profile.

The online retailer has partnered with My Local Toolbox to analyse thousands of Google Business reviews and reveal exactly what it takes to improve an online presence.

According to a recent analysis of 10,000 reviews by My Local Toolbox, the traits customers talk about most in reviews are professionalism (42%), quality of work (34%), punctuality (13%), tidiness (7%) and perceived value (4%).

Climbing the charts

Here is the guide they came up with to help improve your reviews and climb the rankings:

1. Relevance – Make sure your profile closely reflects what you offer, as Google is all about relevance. If you’ve set your profile up properly (and in detail), you should be sending all the signals Google needs to understand what you offer and which searches to show your profile for.

2. Distance – Be specific about the areas you serve in your profile, so that you appear in the correct local searches.

3. Reviews and ratings – You will appear higher in the rankings if you have a large quantity of positive reviews, so be proactive in asking customers and give them a polite nudge if they don’t leave a review the first time you ask.

4. Engage with customers – Reply to customers when they leave a review, even if it’s just to say thank you. Acknowledge shortcomings and criticism in a professional and courteous manner. Remember your future customers may read the comments, so it’s important to show yourself in a good light.

Building a great review profile on any platform takes time, tradespeople are advised. Persistence and consistency are key to building a high number of reviews and climbing the rankings. If you stick with it, you should have a steady stream of enquiries coming through, which will bring lots of benefits to your company.

For more advice on how to market your trade business online, visit:

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How best to promote heat pumps to UK consumers

Heat pump technology has been widely used in Europe for decades, but new research from Vaillant suggests that many UK consumers have concerns about their potential installation and have gaps in their knowledge about how they work. Mark Wilkins looks at how the industry can better communicate their positive benefits.

Recent research carried out on behalf of Vaillant has revealed there are still many questions surrounding heat pump technology – often preventing UK homeowners from taking the first step to fitting one. Our analysis of online articles surrounding heat pumps found that although 79% presented the technology as a sustainable and alternative heat source, questions around how heat pumps work and the need for additional insulation remained amongst the most frequently asked – and on which an internet search often gives polarised answers.

Heat Pumps

Mark Wilkins Vaillant technologies and training director

Changing the language

The language used when describing or talking about heat pumps could be part of the issue. The principle of drawing in cold air on a frosty morning and extracting the heat energy from it can be difficult to visualise. Add the low temperature heating label to the mix, and it often suggests a cold feeling in the home. Looking at different ways to explain how the technology works could be key to unlocking this. For installers speaking with customers, discussions on how the technology moves energy from one place to another and talking about the delivery of consistent heat, could be an alternative approach. To help installers

Vaillant launches Heat Pump Challenge

In a new initiative to promote the benefit of heat pumps, Vaillant has teamed up with Kevin McCloud to highlight the installation of heat pumps in a wide variety of homes across the UK.

The partnership sees the launch of the Vaillant Heat Pump Challenge, which is looking for installers to help showcase how and when heat pumps work at their best. It is hoped that challenging the industry to share their heat pump projects and demonstrate the wide variety of homes for which heat pumps are possible will open the debate surrounding heat pumps and shed light on their use and ownership.

Vaillant is looking for installers to submit the most interesting and challenging

residential heat pump installations they have been involved in, where many may have initially thought it wouldn’t be feasible or effective. The winning projects will have the chance to film with the British property expert and presenter.

How to enter

To enter a project, installers simply need to create a 30-second video describing their heat pump project and share it on Twitter or Facebook using #VaillantHPChallenge and tagging @VaillantUK in the post, or on Instagram, using #VaillantHPChallenge and tagging @vaillant.uk to ensure your entry is received. Alternatively, projects can be submitted by emailing heatpumpchallenge@vaillant. co.uk with details of the project

and the solution put in place, or by visiting www.vaillant. co.uk/heatpumpchallenge to enter using the online form. All entries should be for UK homes, either in the process of or having completed the installation stage, and use a Vaillant heat pump as the main source of hot water and heating. Shortlisted entries will then be reviewed by a panel of industry judges, including Kevin McCloud. The three winning projects will then be filmed, giving entrants the opportunity to discuss the heat pump system in more detail with Kevin.

The closing date for entries is 17th March 2023. For more information and full terms and conditions, please visit: www.vaillant.co.uk/ heatpumpchallenge

enhance homeowner knowledge and understanding, we have added advice to our website on how heat pump technology works and how to look after your heat pump in the winter, to move the conversation in this direction.

Tackling the cold

Indeed, when we delved into the questions regularly asked by consumers, the ability for heat pumps to work efficiently in colder UK climates featured in 20% of conversations regarding the technology. This was coupled with a belief that a backup system is required for the chillier months. Scandinavian countries, where heat pump technology has been used successfully for many years, are regularly faced with temperatures of -20°C. The UK is more likely to see lows of -7°C, even in the coldest months. However, the belief that heat pumps will underperform in winter and an auxiliary system is required to heat water and the home is one that needs to be addressed.

If the system is designed accurately with correctly sized radiators and insulation in place, a heat pump will fulfil the same hot water and room temperature requirements as a boiler set up. A UK heating system is likely to be designed to cope with outdoor temperatures of -1°C to -3°C.

At Vaillant we carry out ongoing testing of our products at our R&D Centre in Remscheid, Germany, subjecting products to extreme cold temperatures to ensure they continue to function effectively should a cold snap hit.

Insulation levels

Insulation was mentioned in 13% of discussions, with many seeing it as a good investment to make the most of the fuel they are

using. However, it is interesting to look at the level of insulation people felt was needed for a heat pump to work. Many felt a ‘high level’ of insulation was required, otherwise the technology wouldn’t deliver as expected.

Taking a fabric first approach and ensuring insulation is up to standard is essential when looking to maximise efficiencies in any property, and insulation will inevitably conserve energywhether you have a heat pump or a boiler in place.

The use of ‘high-level’ is perhaps the distracting phrase here. Each property needs to be assessed on an individual heat-loss basis, but making sure the recommended loft, cavity wall, draft-proofing and double glazing is in place may mean it already reaches adequate levels to support a heat pump. Our research also showed that homeowners with heat pumps fitted in properties with solid walls felt they also worked effectively.

Case study challenge

Our new Heat Pump Challenge (see text box) aims to explore some of the common opinions revealed in the research, while shining a light on some of the projects where heat pumps have provided an effective solution, even where a boiler may have been the more obvious choice.

There are many different properties successfully having heat pumps installed every day and the Heat Pump Challenge is looking for installers doing just that to help showcase how and when heat pumps work at their best, sharing their heat pump projects and demonstrating the wide variety of homes for which heat pumps are possible.

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Heat Pumps 24

Keeping the noise down

Noise levels are one of the biggest concerns that consumers have about heat pumps, so what can installers do to ensure that they’re not going to be left with an unhappy customer? One easy solution is to look out for products with the industry-recognised Quiet Mark, but what does it mean and what are manufacturers doing to ensure that their products meet requirements?

In a recent survey of gas and heating engineers, plumbers and other industry professionals, almost half (47%) of respondents said that, other than price, noise level was the biggest obstacle for consumers to switch to heat pumps.

The survey was undertaken on behalf of Samsung Climate Solutions and the company reveals that operational noise was therefore a major concern in the development of the company’s latest range.

“We understand just how important quiet is in the home,” says the company’s heating product manager Joseph Raftery. “Therefore, noise levels were a top priority in the R&D of our new product, so much so we called it the HT Quiet. This unit operates with a four step quiet mode at decibel levels as low as 35dB, without compromising on performance. We have achieved this through innovative precision engineering including a custommade insulation jacket on the compressor, spring grommets and multi-serrated larger fan blades.”

As technology continues to develop, installers should have the flexibility to install heat pumps in more built-up areas. For example, one of Samsung’s

ABOUT THE MARK

When consumers see the distinctive purple Q logo on a product, they can be confident that the product is one of the quietest of its type on the market.

Quiet Mark is an independent global certification programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. Rigorous acoustic testing and third party verification and assessment of declared technical data enables Quiet Mark to identify the quietest products in multiple categories spanning many sectors, including home appliances, building sector materials and commercial sector products. The awarded lownoise products of over 80 global brands are displayed on the website: www.quietmark.com

installer partners, Your Energy Your Way, has recently installed one of the first HT Quiet units on the flat roof of a semi-detached 1900s property in Winchester. This heat pump more than meets regulatory noise requirements, allowing it to be placed on the flat roof, without compromising on garden space or comfort within the home. The heat pump cannot be heard from inside the house or the surrounding area.

Stuart Campbell, the homeowner, has commented: “One of the main reasons for choosing the HT Quiet was the low noise levels and we are very pleased with the outcome. We haven’t found it to be intrusive at all, and it has helped us to move away from gas which is our ultimate aim.”

Quietly does it

Vaillant is another company to recognise the importance of sound levels, and noise reduction was a top priority when developing its aroTHERM plus air-to-water range. The heat pump underwent extensive development and testing to ensure it produced the lowest possible sound. When in operation the aroTHERM plus has a sound power of just 54dB, which in real terms is slightly more than the sound of a refrigerator, and has seen the aroTHERM plus achieve Quiet Mark certification.

“For homeowners considering a heat pump as their heating technology of choice, noise can be an important factor,” says Mark Wilkins, technologies and training director at Vaillant.

“When it comes to system design, installers can look to further minimise the noise

impact for homeowners by addressing factors such as the installation site, clearance surrounding the unit, and any materials or structures which may cause noise to be reflected.

“To reassure homeowners even more, MCS accredited installers can also carry out a noise impact assessment ahead of installation to establish the ideal location for the heat pump to be sited, further minimising sound levels of the unit,” he adds.

Easy to live with Worcester Bosch has Quiet Mark certifications for both its 7400i and 7000i heat pumps, which were achieved with noise levels of 38 and 46dB respectively.

“The customer experience is central to our products’ development,” explains Martyn Bridges, director of technical services. “Our products are designed to be easy to use and easy to live with, which is demonstrated by our Quiet Mark certifications.

“Quiet Mark’s scientific testing and assessment identifies the quietest appliances on the market, with certified brands being amongst the top 20% of quietest performers.”

To further aid noise reduction, the 7400i model benefits from a sound diffuser, and the 7000i can also be fitted with a sound insulating hood.

“Power levels of air-to-water heat pumps are controlled under planning regulations, which means noise levels must not exceed 42dB one meter away from your next-door neighbour’s home,” adds Martyn.

Assessment procedure

Poppy Szkiler, Quiet Mark CEO and cofounder, explains how the company makes its assessment of heat pump noise levels: “While we are aware that a heat pump can produce different levels of noise depending on a number of factors, it is the dB level as declared on the

energy label which we take into consideration when making our assessment, reflecting the testing parameters of the ISO standard.

“The Quiet Mark market-wide databases are split into different sub-categories to ensure product models are compared on a likefor-like basis. Heat pumps are split into air source and ground source models. They are then broken down further into kW outputs, for example, air source heat pumps are sub-categorised into 4-6kW, 7-9kW, 10-12kW, etc outputs for comparison. Only between 10% to 20% of the quietest, best performing products are awarded Quiet Mark certification. Each product category is re-evaluated annually to reflect changes in the market.”

Information source

In December 2021, Quiet Mark announced a partnership with NBS, a leading construction data and specification platform, to empower architects to specify ‘acoustics first’, by providing a short-cut for specifiers to source responsible products.

Heat pumps listed on NBS Source can now be narrowed down to those with a Quiet Mark certification, using the Quiet Mark search filter.

“The partnership enables the 3600+ practices that use NBS to create specifications, to easily source Quiet Mark certified products and materials. The aim is to elevate the aural design of buildings, optimising the overall level of acoustic comfort for occupants,” says Poppy Szkiler.

Find

out more

For further information about Quiet Mark certification please use the online reader link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/27

 The 7400i heat pump from Worcester Bosch operates at noise levels of just 38dB. For context, a refrigerator is around 40dB and bird song is approximately 42dB

 Samsung’s HT Quiet unit on the roof of a semidetached property in Winchester

 The Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump is only slightly louder than a typical refrigerator

Heat Pumps

Providing the skills to meet future demand

The technology already exists to provide low carbon heating solutions for UK homes, but are there enough skilled installers to meet demand? Martin Passingham from Daikin argues that more HVAC companies should be looking to take advantage of the training support offered by manufacturers.

Currently, residential properties account for around 35% of all energy usage and approximately 20% of CO2 emissions in the UK. In order to achieve the ambitious goal of net zero by 2050, all homes in the UK must be transitioned to low-carbon heating. Under the new Approved Document L standards that came into force in June last year, CO2 emissions from new build homes must be 30% lower compared to 2013 standards. This will be increased further with the introduction of the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, which will require homes built from 2025 to have a carbon footprint that is at least 75% less than one built to 2013 requirements. However, it is not just new properties that must be addressed. In fact, 80% of the

homes that we will all be living in by 2050 have already been built, which means that the overwhelming majority of the UK’s 27 million homes must be upgraded to low carbon heating solutions. Of all the emerging technologies, heat pumps will undoubtedly play a major part in these upgrades, generating between 3 and 4 kilowatts of energy per single kilowatt of electricity used. This means that heat pumps are as much as 400% more energy efficient when under optimum conditions than traditional gas boilers.

Skills shortage

Demand for heat pumps has grown and will continue to grow exponentially over the next few years, which generates another issue – the shortage of heat pump installers. Estimates from the Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN) show that there are currently less than 4000 heat pump installers in the UK, which is dwarfed by the 130,000 Gas Safe Registered engineers. While there is a clear shortage of heat pump installers, the huge number of Gas Safe engineers presents an incredible opportunity for heating installers to increase their business offerings by upskilling in heat pump installation.

Of course, there are some key differences between heat pump technology compared to traditional heating systems. However, it is relatively straightforward to apply the skills already attained by experienced heating engineers to gain the knowledge and qualifications required to install, commission and maintain heat pumps. While heat pumps

 Hands-on product training is available to installers at a number of Daikin facilities throughout the UK

 Installers are invited to take advantage of Daikin’s pre-sales and project support service

contain refrigerant that must be managed carefully, monobloc air source heat pumps do not require F-gas certification to install as the refrigerant is sealed within the unit. This means only water pipe connections are required between the heat pump unit and the property’s heating system pipework.

Free training

For any heating professionals that want to take advantage of being one of the early entrants into the heat pump installation market, locating an appropriate training provider is the first step. As such, it is crucial that HVAC companies are making these training courses available to ensure the longevity of their business.

At Daikin, for example, we offer free product training sessions that provide an overview of how the heat pumps work, installation, set-up and system controls. There is then the option to complete further training sessions to gain more advanced knowledge. These courses are available through our nationwide network of training centres so installers can access the training at a location that is convenient to them, with as little disruption to their current business as possible.

Over the next three years, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will be providing funding which helps to reduce the cost of heat pump installations, and the scheme is open to all homeowners in England and Wales, with a grant of up to £5000 towards the cost. This means that there will be an increased demand for heat pump installers in the short term as well as the long term. However, in order to be eligible for the grant, the heat pump must be installed by an MCS-certified installer. There is also a scheme available in Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan, that helps with the cost of installing heat pumps and energy efficiency systems. The grant funds up to £9000 for the improvements, and the remainder of the cost can be funded through an interestfree loan.

Industry support

The increased adoption of heat pump systems as the UK pushes towards net zero offers many opportunities for heating installers to grow their businesses. The training and support offered by manufacturers can help make the move into this new area easier and more profitable.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/28

Martin Passingham Department manager product and training at Daikin

TO

HELPING YOU TO DELIVER NET ZERO

As more and more homeowners choose air source heat pumps, now is the time to invest in your business and partner with Mitsubishi Electric for success.

Heat Pumps

The domestic heating sector will be going through a genuine revolution over the next few years.

As the new Future Homes Standard comes into force, the government is regulating a shift away from the traditional gas boiler, taking us all into a low carbon future.

Domestic heating installers will already be well aware of options such as electric heat pumps available on the market. But while new homes can be designed for heat pump systems, it’s a different story for the millions of existing UK homes –and not all of them are suitable for a heat pump-only approach. Householders will undoubtedly be looking to installers to help them decide what the future of heating could look like in their homes. At Alpha, we’ve been working with installers to help them understand the latest heating technologies, so that they can advise their customers when it comes to making the right choices. We also like to offer our insights into the challenges that householders are facing – and the questions they’re asking too.

Bivalent solutions

One option available to installers is a hybrid approach to heating and hot water provision. A heat pump is installed to provide space heating, with a boiler retained (or updated) to provide hot water. The hybrid system works equally well with a heat pump and combi, LPG or oil boiler, so it’s a good option for off-gas grid homes too. This approach has several benefits for householders. Larger or older homes (with lower insulation levels), or properties with a high heating demand, can benefit from retaining a boiler to provide a boost to the heating system during times of peak demand, in cooler months for example, giving them more certainty of comfort. And the boiler can continue to provide hot water, reducing the size of heat pump needed.

Spaced out

What’s more, taking out a gas boiler to replace it with an electric heat pump is a significant project for many homeowners. As installers will be aware, if the heat pump is also providing hot water, then a hot water cylinder is required.

Households with a combi boiler will have to find a space large enough for that equipment, which is not always easy in smaller, modern homes. Retaining a combi to provide

Hybrids deliver on all fronts

The government is making a big push to fit heat pumps in the majority of UK homes, but many existing properties might not be suitable for just this one single heat source. That’s where a hybrid approach comes in, explains Dan Wilden from Alpha, who says that a boiler and heat pump combo can deliver on energy efficiency and carbon reduction as well as comfort and reduced heating bills.

hot water means that the householder benefits from low carbon heat pump heating, with on-tap hot water from the gas boiler.

Best price pick

Dan Wilden Renewable product manager at Alpha Heating Innovation

Perhaps one of the most important benefits of a hybrid boiler/heat pump approach is that the system can be set up to switch automatically between fuels, selecting the most efficient option. Given the current situation with energy price rises, most homeowners will benefit from a system that provides their hot water and heating at the best price all the time.

A further welcome factor will

be that they can retain the use of their existing radiators when installing a hybrid option –whereas switching entirely to a heat pump heating system can require an upgrade to larger and more efficient radiator models to ensure that the system operates effectively.

The UK government has set a goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps per year from 2028 onwards. We can’t achieve this number through installations in new homes alone. As a result, installers on the front line of the domestic heating sector will be helping to deliver on this tough objective. An approach that can introduce new technology

alongside the familiar boiler should make this easier to achieve.

Well informed

With the hybrid boiler/heat pump approach, it is vital for installers to understand the requirements of this sort of system; they will need to ensure that it is set up correctly for optimum performance. Alpha is providing installers the information and advice they need to help homeowners embrace the new technologies and their benefits. Our website provides useful FAQs to help answer common installer questions, and our experts are here to provide technical advice. Although switching away from the gas boiler is a challenge, it also provides an opportunity for installers to extend their business into new areas. ◼

While new homes can be designed for heat pump systems, it’s a different story for the millions of existing UK homes, and not all of them are suitable for a heat pump-only approach

THE GAME CHANGER THE WORLD NEEDS

Our award-winning aroTHERM plus has transformed the way we heat homes. Developed through extensive research, the aroTHERM plus operates using R290 refrigerant and is ultra-quiet in operation, providing highly efficient and reliable heating for your customers.

Plus, with technical support at every stage, and a complete range of training courses available, you can develop your expertise - whether you’ve installed heat pumps before or are looking to move into the heat pump sector. We’ll help you take your place in the low-carbon revolution.

Discover how you can change the game at vaillant.co.uk/gamechanger

Be ready for the energy transition. Follow us on YouTube and be inspired by our installer stories. @VaillantUK

Heat Pumps

Regulations and skills underpin progress on net zero buildings

As businesses set out to make early gains towards net zero, Chris Caton from Ideal Heating explores how the deployment of heat pump technology can help drive the low carbon transition in the UK.

Heating and hot water in buildings are responsible for a fifth (21%) of total carbon emissions in the UK. It’s clear then that an increased adoption of low carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, in commercial properties will be a significant step towards decarbonisation and improved energy efficiency – as well as helping businesses cut costs and hedge against volatile energy prices.

However, the successful uptake of heat pump technology depends on a number of factors, including the availability of funding and incentives, government policy, and the right education for heating engineers and installers.

Big potential to save

When fitted in commercial buildings, heat pumps can lead to a 65-70% reduction in carbon emissions, compared to traditional gas or electric boilers, although the exact reduction depends on factors including the efficiency of the heat pump, and size and fabric of the building.

Regulation changes are pushing the UK towards more energy efficient technology like

The mighty monobloc helps buildings raise energy efficiency

Designed for commercial installations, Ideal Heating’s new Ecomod range of monobloc air source heat pumps can help improve a building’s energy efficiency and reduce its reliance on natural gas.

Available in six outputs and seven models (14, 18, 26, 32, 50 and 70kW), the range provides a minimum A++ Energy related Products (ErP) efficiency rating and a coefficient of performance (COP) rating of up to 4.85. Use of R32 refrigerant ensures a low global warming potential (GWP).

The heat pumps also include an inverter-controlled compressor that can control the building temperature based on specific requirements of the space, further enhancing the efficiency of a building.

These heat pumps can be used alone or cascaded to

heat pumps, helping to drive decarbonisation.

For example, changes to Part L require new buildings and renovations to meet higher building fabric standards, and where possible sets minimum energy efficiency standards. It also paves the way for the Future Homes Standard that is set to come into effect in 2025 and will require all new homes to have low carbon heating technology installed.

All about skills

The introduction of new regulations also means that up-to-date training for heating engineers is vital, so they are aware of the latest regulations and are able to install, maintain and repair low carbon heating technologies to ensure businesses are compliant. We here at Ideal Heating are opening a £1 million facility near Hull dedicated to training engineers on heat pumps, to play our part in upskilling the industry.

Regulation can be a lever to drive change, while training can facilitate it. But some organisations’ appetite or ability to invest in low carbon heating can represent a barrier.

Plans and schemes

Fortunately, there are some government funding schemes to help offset these costs and make heat pumps more affordable. For example, there is the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), which provides government grants to public sector bodies to help fund heat decarbonisation and increase uptake of low carbon technologies, including heat pumps.

Many businesses are also seeing the cost-benefit of investing in low carbon heating in the long term. Gas prices have been volatile over the last year, and heat pumps can partly help in shielding them against these costs.

Indeed, a recent survey by the Federation of Small Businesses

found that 63% of businesses surveyed said energy costs had increased in 2022, with almost half (44%) reporting a double, triple or even higher increase. Heat pumps can also help keep costs down thanks to their long lifespans, often lasting more than 20 years. They also have fewer moving parts than traditional heating systems, further reducing replacement and maintenance costs for businesses.

Our recently launched Ecomod range (see tinted box below) of commercial heat pumps have been developed to help businesses with buildings of various sizes decarbonise their heating systems and improve their energy efficiency.

Way ahead

However, we know that to achieve net zero a combination of low carbon heating technologies will be needed, as well as keeping legislation, government funding, and training at the centre of change.

Ideal says the range output models are light and compact units, in comparison to similar products, making installation and delivery easy. All products also come with a five-year warranty, when commissioned by Ideal Heating, and offer noise levels as low as 68dB(A) – the equivalent of a quiet refrigerator.

Chris Caton, product director – commercial product management for Ideal Heating, says: “The Ecomod range launches at an important time, as businesses accelerate their decarbonisation efforts to work towards net zero targets, meet new standards for Building Regulations, and reduce their exposure to volatile energy prices. With high COPs our new heat pumps enable businesses to reduce a building’s carbon footprint and improve heating efficiency.

meet the heating requirements of larger commercial buildings. They can also be installed alongside other Ideal solutions, such as the Evomax 2 and the Imax Xtra 2 commercial condensing boilers, to build a low carbon hybrid heating system.

“What’s more, the range of outputs available means we can cater for many commercial buildings. For example, our 14kW single phase unit is suitable for sites without access to three phase electricity, such as care homes or community halls, while all units can be cascaded to meet the needs of larger spaces, making them a versatile and cost-effective choice.”

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/30

Chris Caton Product director – commercial at Ideal Heating

INNOVATIVE, RELIABLE, EFFICIENT.

WARMLINK APP CONTROL

Remote control & diagnostic capability through the cloud based app.

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Covering all aspects of heat pump and system control

www.warmflow.co.uk

HIGH TEMPERATURE OUTPUT

Flow temperature up to 60ºC means domestic hot water (DHW) can be produced without the need for additional heat sources.

3 MODELS

Zeno 8kW, 12kW & 20kW

Heat Pumps

Despite the vast number of challenges already facing the construction industry, from labour shortages to rising material and energy costs, businesses and individuals alike continue to implement new strategies to reduce their own carbon emissions, with the overall aim of working towards the UK government’s 2050 net zero goal. In particular, ground source heat pumps (GSHP) have emerged as a front-runner in sustainable energy solutions within the last few years.

From sustainably-sourced raw materials, to the rise in green buildings and clean energy solutions, the construction industry – despite heavy criticism for its contribution to environmental degradation – has made considerable progress in the pursuit of sustainability. Whatever the project, both cost control and sustainable practices will remain important

John Rodgman MD of Borehole Solutions

 A bit of extra work is required to lay pipe in the earth for ground source heat pump installations

topics – especially when considering the state of the UK’s energy situation. But what is causing more and more developers to switch away from more traditional sources and towards GSHPs?

Know the difference

Air source and ground source heat pumps share a considerable number of characteristics with each other. They both offer an effective, energy efficient way of heating your home by making use of the environment’s natural warmth to produce hot water.

In fact, the main difference is simply where they source this heat from.

As you would expect, air source heat pumps (ASHP) absorb this from the surrounding air, whilst ground source heat pumps tap into sub-surface geothermal reservoirs to strike heat.

Because GSHPs tap into geothermal pockets within the ground, the temperature doesn’t fluctuate –something which gives them a significant advantage over ASHPs. In winter especially – when the air temperature is far colder than that of the earth’s core – ASHPs often suffer from a drop-off in efficiency throughout the colder months. More energy is required to operate the heating systems and monitor the build-up of frozen condensation, something which GSHP avoid entirely.

As such, even on the coldest day of the year, the source temperature for a GSHP can be as much as 15 to 20°C warmer than an ASHP, meaning no unexpected spikes in energy usage throughout the most expensive months of the year.

ASHPs also experience accelerated running costs due to their inability to fully make the most of time-of-use tariffs, as the air temperature is far cooler during off-peak times; it will therefore take a greater quantity of energy to run these units to the same efficiency as it would throughout the

day, negating any benefits a time-ofuse tariff should offer.

Comparative costs

In the majority of scenarios, the initial cost of an ASHP is typically lower than a GSHP, as the latter require the additional cost of drilling and groundwork prior to installation. The cost of installing a GSHP, for example, ranges between £10,000 and £20,000 depending on the scale and complexity of the project, while ASHPs typically cost between £7000 and £14,000. While this cheaper price may seem appealing in the short term, the prospect of higher running costs and lower efficiency can quickly eliminate any savings.

As GSHPs are installed safely within a building, they require minimal maintenance compared to ASHPs. Due to an ASHP’s constant exposure to the elements, units typically last for an average of 10 years before needing to be replaced – a figure which drops even further should it be installed in an undesirable location, such as on the coast. GSHPs, on the other hand, are designed to last as much as 20 years, with the actual buried pipe system remaining efficient and operational for over a century.

Efficiency competition

The coefficient of performance (CoP) of a heat pump is a figure which describes the efficiency of the system, in terms of the relationship between the power that is drawn out of the pump as heat, and the power that is supplied to the unit. The higher this value is found to be, the more efficient the heat pump system is. On average, the COP value of a GSHP ranges from between 3.5 to 4.5, meaning that for every kilowatt of power that is supplied to the GSHP, between 3.5 and 4.5kW of heat energy is produced. For ASHPs, however, this figure is a far lower– 2.5 to 3 –primarily due to the GSHP’s ability to tap into a constant temperature source and remain unaffected by adverse weather conditions.

phamnews.co.uk/323/31

They both have their pros and their cons, so what separates air source heat pumps from their ground source cousins? John Rodgman, MD of geothermal drilling firm Borehole Solutions, compares their viability and cost effectiveness.

Filter works with air and ground source

Now available from Fernox is a dedicated filter for air and ground source heat pump systems. The TF1 Sigma HP Filter’s shape allows for the efficient capture of system debris and the settlement of particles within the main body of the filter. Manufactured from engineering-grade polymer, the TF1 Sigma HP Filter is said to provide excellent strength and hydrolysis resistance.

Key to its performance is Fernox’s flow and filtration technology, which allows the filter to be effective at capturing all types of debris, including magnetite, hematite and scale – at high flow rates (up to 80 l/m) typical of heat pump installations.

The Fernox TF1 Sigma HP Filter is supplied with 22 or 28mm full-bore valves as standard. The design of these valves is crucial as it means that there is no restriction of flow through the filter assembly, ensuring the heat pump can maintain the required CoP.

The sealed unit comes without a lid for greater integrity and security, reducing any potential for leaks. Fast and simple to service, unlike lidded filters, there is no need for replacement ‘O’ ring seals, minimising ongoing maintenance costs.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/32

Software integrates solar PV

Designed to aid in planning and designing heat pump systems, GeoT*SOL is a professional software tool that offers a choice between different heat sources, operating modes and system configurations. Based on a dynamic minute simulation, electricity consumption, annual performance factors, operating costs and other system data can be calculated, taking into account blocking periods and tariffs. In the newly released program version, GeoT*SOL 2023, the trend towards sector coupling is covered with the integration of a photovoltaic system. The annual simulation of the PV system is based on the calculation core

Heat Pumps

Hot water monobloc

The Amicus Aquastore is a powerful heat pump water heater from Lochinvar. With an output of 8kW and 455 litres of hot water storage capacity, the appliance comes in a compact monobloc package combining heat pump and storage vessel. It can deliver up to 65°C hot water in both efficiency and hybrid modes and up to 490 litres in a peak hour with a 50°C temperature rise.

of the sister program PV*SOL and provides detailed results on self-consumption and the degree of self-sufficiency. Heat pump, heating rod, source-side pumps and solar circuit pumps can be selected as electrical appliances for the generated energy of the PV system. Optimisation of self-consumption is possible by optionally increasing/decreasing hot water storage temperatures.

The simulation of the heat pump and PV system provides dozens of simulation results on an hourly basis. In GeoT*SOL 2023, these can now be displayed and evaluated as dynamic, configurable diagrams.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/33

The new product is aimed at the low carbon replacement market for gas-fired water heaters in commercial buildings and is designed to minimise disruption by avoiding the need for wholesale changes to existing heating and hot water systems. Its space-saving monobloc construction means it is easy to manoeuvre into position and offers plenty of options for positioning . It is also a straightforward ‘plug and play’ process to set up and commission.

◼ phamnews. co.uk/323/34

Heat Pumps

Reducing energy costs for tenants Sustainable solution for new build

A housing association in Wales has been helping to demonstrate how heat pumps can cut carbon emissions and reduce energy bills for its tenants. The ClwydAlyn housing association has been providing social housing in North and mid-Wales for over 40 years. With almost half of all households in Wales currently suffering from fuel poverty due to the energy crisis, according to National Energy Action (NEA), finding ways to cut energy bills, while promoting sustainability, has been vital.

ClwydAlyn designs its new properties with sustainability in mind and has been using Mitsubishi Electric’s Ecodan air source heat pumps for a few years to decarbonise its housing stock and help residents save on their heating costs. Most of the association’s newly built properties use heat pumps rather than any fossil fuels and, most recently, 63 properties built by developer Williams Homes Bala on the new ClwydAlyn Glasdir site in Ruthin have been built with Ecodan air source heat pumps to provide heating and hot water to each individual home.

The properties are of various types and sizes – from

apartments and adapted bungalows to semi-detached and detached homes – and the heat pumps are able to meet the needs of every different space.

Working in partnership with the Welsh government and Denbighshire County Council, ClwydAlyn has been able to offer its tenants not just warmth and comfort, but with the economical nature of the heat pumps, they also provide reassurance that it will generate annual savings on their energy bills.

For housing associations providing affordable housing,

investing in sustainable heating technologies is an effective way to keep tenants comfortable at the same time as keeping both energy costs and usage low. ClwydAlyn housing association has shown that a large-scale installation of heat pumps across a range of properties can make a significant impact on tenants’ bills, while keeping environmental impact at front of mind.

For further information and to see a video about the ClwydAlyn Glasdir site development, please use the online reader link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/35

Successful installation for Grade II property

No noise in the library

Frome Library in Somerset has transformed its heating system, thanks to the installation of a new air source heat pump from ELCO Heating Solutions. Delivering zero emissions, increased energy efficiencies and reduced operating costs, the new AEROTOP L 88kW unit has replaced two ageing gas boilers as part of Somerset County Council’s drive to decarbonise its estate. It is estimated that the switch from gas fired boilers to electric heat pumps has resulted in a 71% reduction in the energy required to heat the property.

M&E contractors for the system upgrade were Bristol-based F P Hurley, which delivered full design and installation services. Commenting on the new heating equipment from ELCO, project manager Adam Robinson says: “We had originally planned to install two smaller heat pumps, but after speaking to ELCO and getting the details of their AEROTOP range, it was clear that this wasn’t necessary, and we could meet all requirements from a single unit. Having specified ELCO products on previous projects, we knew the quality would be great and the AEROTOP is no exception. We were also impressed with how quiet it was, an important factor given its location outside the library and close proximity to neighbouring buildings.”

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/37

The installation of a Zeno air source heat pump from Warmflow has helped to significantly boost the energy efficiency of a new build house. Installer Richard Bentley recommended the heat pump to the property owner as one of the most intelligent and efficient heat pumps on the market.

“The customer wanted the heat pump installed alongside a Warmflow Nero Hot Water Cylinder – this solution provides both heat and hot water,” explains Richard. “I selected the AS03 model of the Zeno heat pump range in order to meet the size demand of the property. The unit was dead easy to install and commission with the very clear, easy-to-use touchscreen controller. The unit itself also looks really well and suits the house perfectly.”

With outputs of 20kW of heat energy, providing hot water temperatures of up to 60˚C, the Zeno AS03 has proved to be an ideal solution for the 300m2 home (with 240m2 of heated living space) and underfloor

heating throughout the whole ground floor.

Sustainability is literally at the heart of this new build because, in addition to the natural wood cladding and renewable heating solution, a tree has been planted in the heart of the building . The building work was completed by Best Little Building Company.

“The Zeno air source heat pump units are a brilliant heating solution for new builds,” says renewables sales manager Niel Rumbold. “In this case, the homeowner wanted a more energy efficient and environmentally friendly heating solution for her home, and she has expressed her delight at the results.”

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/36

Sheffield-based ground and air source heat pump installation company IMS Heat Pumps were recently brought in to install an air source heat pump in a 400-yearold, Grade II listed home in Matlock, Derbyshire.

The client was eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and the company installed a 7kW aroTherm+ and a 200 litre Vaillant uniSTOR cylinder.

The property had been converted from a barn to a dwelling in 1977 and features thick stone walls which had to be drilled through for the pipework to the external unit. The heat pump itself has been clad in vinyl to resemble the stone walls. Rooms are of a fairly standard size and height across approximately 100m2. However, the kitchen is 18 feet high to the apex.

The client, John Taylor, had installed new larger radiators throughout, with an extra-large

one fitted in the kitchen.

Expressing his satisfaction with the installation, John says: “The new air source heat pump is working very well indeed and during the cold snap of weather last December the temperature outside dropped to -7°C and the house was kept plenty warm enough.

“The outside air pump is very quiet, although it made slightly more noise when the temperature was very low, as it had to work harder.

“The running costs seem very much on par with gas – during the cold spell we used around £10 per day of electricity and now with warmer weather between

£6-7 per day. I expect this cost to reduce significantly from spring onwards. The electricity costs indicated cover all of the power used. This includes charging my electric car from home, so I am very pleased with that.”

IMS Heat Pumps have been installing heat pumps since 1997 and have installed the aroTHERM+ heat pump across a variety of what might be called ‘hard to heat homes’.

“There are many myths about installing heat pumps in only new or highly insulated homes, but heat pumps can be suitable for most homes,” says general manager Emma Bohan.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/38

Lifting station pulls its weight

The former headquarters of British retailer Woolworths on Marylebone Road in London is currently being transformed into mixed use properties, and Saniflo is playing its part in the site’s welfare facilities, including several WC blocks, for the construction workforce.

Initially, the WCs relied on gravity drainage to discharge the waste to a soil and vent pipe some 40m away. However, blockages occurred and there were concerns that the situation would worsen.

An enquiry for a solution was lodged with the Saniflo technical team who swiftly visited the site

Flame free jointing earns school an A*

The £22m new-build Devenish College in Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, features >B< Press fittings from Conex Bänninger, selected by Thomas Hanna & Co Ltd as its pipework jointing solution.

The new secondary school is designed over three floors and can accommodate up to 800 pupils. The accommodation includes science labs, home economics rooms, art rooms, IT

Products in Action 35

and meet with our requirements for the project.

“As with every project, using the right products for the job is vitally important. Conex Bänninger regional technical sales manager Tom Dickson visited us on site a couple of times to discuss the product and we were happy with the support he gave us.”

to scope out the requirement and recommended a Zehnder Kompaktboy Duplex lifting station.

The unit was able to be installed below the WC blocks, in the basement, allowing for optimum gravity fall and pumping the waste back to the main sewer. The powerful, 3-phase pump, which can be integrated into the building management system if required, has two vortex pumps as a fail-safe precaution. This feature provides continuity of operation, critical to the building works.

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suites, general teaching rooms, staff rooms, and toilet facilities.

Company director Martin Hanna says: “We were impressed with the quality of the >B< Press fittings and the fact that they were ideally suited to the task,

The fact that the >B< Press fittings are flame-free and provide a secure and leak-free joint was a crucial factor in using them for the pipework joints, and they were fitted on the domestic services for the hot, hot water return, and cold-water circuits. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/40

HIUs a perfect partner for district heating system

Heat interface units have been supplied by Modutherm for a Linen Quarter development in Dunfermline, Fife. The MTA HIUs provide a highly efficient heating and domestic hot water solution to 112 two- and threebedroom apartments, as well as a single commercial unit. The installation is part of the regeneration of Dunfermline’s last remaining Grade A-listed linen works, creating a mixed-use neighbourhood.

The new apartment block has been connected to Dunfermline’s district heating system, which supplies heat from a central source generated at the Dunfermline Recycling Centre. The system facilitates the use of renewable energy sources to benefit the environment and significantly reduce residents’ carbon footprint.

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Keep heat pumps efficient & protected

108 Anti-Freeze Valve

Prevents ice from forming in the system, avoiding potential damage to the heat pump and to the pipes.

Light Commercial Heating

How schools can step up

By installing more energy efficient heating and cooling systems, schools and universities can take big steps in cutting costs and reducing their carbon footprint. Martin Fahey from Mitsubishi Electric explains more.

Energy bills are rising across the UK, and everyone from schools to universities are under pressure. A recent poll found headteachers anticipating a 106% rise in energy costs, and some schools are even reducing spending on teaching staff and cutting school hours to combat costs. The picture is similar for universities, with 56% of students having to borrow money to support their energy bills.

Schools and universities also have fi nite budgets to spread across multiple areas – including sustainability. As inflation and energy bills rise, there is a risk that less budget can be set aside for improvements to energy efficiency and supporting carbon reduction – but this is exactly what is needed if we are to meet vital environmental goals.

In order to combat rising costs while also meeting increasingly stringent environmental regulations, and keeping students and staff comfortable and healthy, schools and universities should reconsider how they heat, cool and ventilate spaces.

Sustainable solutions

For both schools and universities, there is an ongoing drive towards sustainable operations in everything they do. A recent NUS survey found that 86% of university students feel that sustainable development is something that universities should actively promote, and universities have made public commitments to achieving net-zero carbon by 2050 – or sooner – in response.

There is also more pressure than ever for universities and schools to commit to reaching net-zero – for example, Students Organising for Sustainability is calling on all universities to commit

CUT TO THE CHASE

 Reducing carbon emissions and saving on running costs go hand in hand

 86% of students feel that sustainable development is something that universities should actively promote

 Modern heat pumps are ideal for a variety of buildings across a range of sizes

 Engineering teams should be able to spend less time on maintenance and fixing broken systems

 Modern air conditioning systems also offer heat recovery capabilities, diverting energy to provide heat where needed

to reaching the goal by 2030

Due to these demands, from both students and regulatory boards, hitting carbon emission goals will only become more important for educators, so taking action now is key.

Heating and cooling are large drivers of carbon emissions. In fact, 40% of the UK’s emissions come from heating and hot water – so decarbonising the heating systems on education estates will make a significant impact on the overall sustainability of a school or university. It’s also worth remembering that when the right technology is chosen, reducing carbon and saving on running costs can go hand in hand.

Heat pumps

Heat pumps require very little energy to run, and can be a more cost-effective option for schools and universities than carbon-intensive gas or oil. The technology relies on electricity, which will support schools and universities in their drive to reduce their carbon output and put them on track to meet the government’s net-zero targets.

Modern heat pumps offer a flexible and modular design which make them ideal for a variety of buildings across a range of sizes. This flexibility is a perfect choice for the education sector’s wide variety of spaces, from small offices

and classrooms in schools, to large student accommodation blocks and lecture halls at universities. Schools and universities are made up of a diverse mix of buildings, including facilities such as gyms, canteens and sports halls, and need solutions which can address different occupancy levels and uses. Requiring only water and an electricity connection, heat pumps are also a lowmaintenance technology that will reduce pressure on stretched school and university engineering teams and result in a lower number of callouts. By installing more reliable hardware, engineering teams will have more time to improve the school’s sustainability measures and spend less time fi xing broken appliances.

Adding air conditioning

Keeping students cool, particularly through the summer, is vital. Last year’s heatwave caused more than 70 school closures in high alert areas, and in some cases, air conditioning may now be a requirement to keep students safe and learning productively.

Modern air conditioning systems use refrigerants with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) such as R32, which also make it is possible to lower overall carbon emissions.

With a lower GWP refrigerant, up to 20% less

refrigerant is used than in the equivalent systems, so schools and universities can keep the total amount of refrigerant used across their estate down, and hit overall sustainability targets.

Modern air conditioning systems also offer heat recovery capabilities, so that heat energy used to cool a gym or a server room, for example, can be diverted to spaces that need heating or even to the hot water supply. This not only reduces the overall energy needed to heat and cool individual spaces, it can help lower the carbon emissions of the whole system.

Climate goals

Reducing the carbon footprint of schools and universities is more important than ever. Many households in the UK have made changes to their lifestyle to help tackle climate change, and with ambitious government targets, the education sector must also play a role in making sustainable changes.

If we are to achieve our climate goals it is vital to move towards more efficient heating and co0ling systems – while at the same time keeping costs down and students comfortable and safe. By optimising these technologies, educators can provide full occupant comfort and be both environmentally and economically conscious.

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Martin Fahey Head of sustainability at Mitsubishi Electric

LightCommercial Heating

Responding to demand for low temperature systems

With a readily-available range of heat pumps, HIUs and aluminium radiators, Modutherm is in high demand for its package of low temperature heating solutions. PHAM News recently visited the Basildon-based family business to find out more about what the company has to offer.

As the UK commercial heating market continues to evolve in response to concerns about carbon emissions and the impact of fossil fuels on the environment, the most successful companies are going to be those that can combine the right product solutions with speedy delivery and reliable service.

Modutherm, which alongside sister company MHS Radiators makes up the Modular Heating Group, has enjoyed rapid growth since launching just three years ago. A major element in its success has been its ability to swiftly respond to customer requirements and a product offering that has been designed to provide its clients with the most cost-effective and energy efficient solution.

“One of the biggest issues that people face is making various different bits of new technology work well together,” explains commercial director Alex Bradley. “Heat pumps want to run at super low temperatures, but users still need hot water and good comfort levels. So what we’re trying to do is offer a packaged solution designed to fi nd a happy medium across all the components of a system.

“It’s almost impossible to have a situation where every bit of technology is performing at maximum efficiency levels, but there are ways to fi nd a satisfactory medium across all of the technologies, where the heat pump, HIUs and radiators are all working well together.”

Family ties

Alex represents the third generation within the family business, working alongside his father and MD Ian Bradley, who followed in the footsteps of Alex’s grandfather, John Bradley, who founded the Modular Heating Group in 1980.

Over the years, the business has thrived on strong, longlasting relationships with both suppliers and customers, establishing ties that have enabled the company to compete with bigger and more global brands.

“We’re passionate about what we do and the nature of the business is that we can make swift decisions and react quickly to the requirements of the market,” says Ian.

“We’re doing very well with commercial heat pumps at the moment because the market leaders are on 18 to 20 week lead times. There are not many projects that can afford to wait 20 weeks. By contrast, we can deliver our heat pumps in just two to three weeks.”

The company currently offers three models in the AW Monobloc commercial heat pump range: 30, 45 and 90kW. Up to 16 units can be used in a cascade system to produce a combined output of 1440kW. The company also offers a domestic range of heat pumps, from 6 to 19kW, but these are primarily designed to supplement the commercial range, such as for use in a school extension.

“The integration of heat pumps into commercial buildings is crucial if the UK is to meet the challenges of net zero,” says Ian. “It is fast becoming the primary choice for a variety of applications, from offices and schools, to hotels and hospitals.”

The heat pumps are just a part of a full product package that the company is looking to promote – with HIUs and aluminium radiators helping to make up a total low temperature system solution.

Material gains

Alex explains why aluminium radiators offer a number of benefits for any development that is seeking a low carbon solution: “They are better conductors of heat, so work best with low temperature systems. Another key thing about our radiators is that they are made from 100% recyclable aluminium and are therefore also 100% recyclable, which feeds into the net zero low embodied carbon message. When you’re building a block of flats, do you want to put in many tonnes of new steel radiators, or do you want to use a radiator that’s been made out of wheel alloys and coke cans – where the environmental impact is of course so much lower.”

Ian points out that structural engineers are starting to take an interest in what radiators are being used in a project: “If you imagine a 400 apartment development that’s got large steel panel radiators going in, and the size they would need to be to achieve those low temperatures, then the weight is going to be quite excessive.”

Plus points

Modutherm’s range of heat interface units are another key component of the company’s packaged solution.

Last year saw the launch of the MTA Plus HIU, featuring larger heat exchangers and specifically designed to work alongside heat pumps and low temperature heat networks. Boasting some of the best test results on the market, it is capable of delivering up to 75°C of hot water while keeping return temperatures down.

“We own the mould for the HIU which has proved to be a very good investment,” says

Alex. “It means we have been able to develop eight different models, but the frame size remains the same for each. They are designed for a quite simple ‘plug and play’ installation with easy access to all components.”

The composite backplate reduces mechanical water connections and any risk of internal leaks, while a userfriendly touch screen interface provides easy access to key settings and parameters.

Well travelled

With heat pumps manufactured in Sweden and Germany, aluminium radiators from Italy and the HIUs produced in France, the ability to source the best products for the UK market has long been a key factor in the success of the operation.

“When we do get involved with factories we take a very long-term strategy,” says Ian. “We don’t get into bed with factory suppliers lightly – we look at what the market needs over the next five years and beyond.”

Products may be sourced far and wide, but the business itself is very much focused on meeting the needs of its UK customers. While the company has supplied products for projects throughout the country, many of its biggest contracts are in London and the South East, close to its Basildon home.

“I think our location helps, says Alex. “One of the biggest developments that we are currently working on is just 20 miles away, which of course helps with distribution and service – if they want somebody to pop down to site, then it’s not an issue because we can get there in half an hour.”

So, while continuing to invest in the latest high-performance heating technology, it seems that Modutherm is not about to forget the importance of a personal and responsive customer support.

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 The MTA Plus heat interface unit features two high performance heat exchangers to maximise the performance of low temperature systems

 The Basildon offices and warehousing facility includes a showroom displaying the extensive range of radiator options from MHS Radiators

 Alex and Ian Bradley with the AW Monobloc heat pump and range of other commercial heating solutions

HVO case study: school upgrade

PROJECT DETAILS

EQUIPMENT Grant Vortex Boiler House 46-58kW oil boiler, which was then converted to HVO operation

INSTALLATION COMPANIES

Jose and Blacker installed the boiler and Mitchell & Webber Ltd converted it to HVO

JOB LOCATION

Gwinear Primary School in Hayle, Cornwall

the first school in the UK to make the swap to HVO biofuels with their heating,” comments John Weedon, director of Mitchell & Webber Ltd. “We have been involved in the HVO field trials for many years now, converting the first home to HVO in 2020 and also converting the first school and furthermore the first village to this low carbon liquid fuel.

“The new Grant Vortex boiler has created a lovely warm school for all the children,” continues John. “The boiler and the system are well insulated and controls are in place to ensure that the system can be managed and monitored to operate at its highest efficiencies. Since converting to the HVO fuel, Gwinear School has saved up to 90% net greenhouse gas carbon dioxide emissions so they are not only enjoying the warmth, but they are also reducing their environmental impact. Furthermore, the investment the school has made in renewing their oil-fired boiler to operate on HVO has been at considerably less expense than other low carbon heating systems would have cost.”

Warmly received

“As a school, we are striving to meet and exceed the targets set in the Green Charter for schools,” comments a spokesperson from Gwinear Community Primary School. “Alongside the solar panels on our roof producing almost all of our electricity, we also wanted to be as carbon neutral as possible with how we were heating our building and we wanted to achieve this in the greenest way possible. We are delighted to be the first school in the country to pilot the use of HVO biofuels in our heating and we are extremely pleased with how well the new HVO system and boiler is performing for us.”

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Gwinear Primary School in Cornwall has upgraded its heating system and switched to renewables by installing a Grant Vortex oil boiler which is using HVO biofuel, becoming the first school in the UK to use this fossil-free liquid fuel.

In early 2021, Gwinear Primary School in Hayle, Cornwall, made the decision to change its central heating system. The school had an oil-fired boiler which was approximately 15 years old and they wanted to upgrade the system to a more efficient solution while also reducing their carbon footprint.

Gwinear School turned to Mitchell & Webber Ltd, a local fuel distributor and installation company, who are involved in the field trials researching the use of hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO) in UK heating systems.

Quick conversion

For the school, it was vital that any changes to their heating system would cause minimal disruption to the school’s day-to-day running, and they were also keen to minimise any changes to their building which is over 100 years old. Consequently, Gwinear School did not want to follow the electrification route but instead they wanted a different low carbon

solution. Mitchell & Webber worked closely with the school to show them how HVO biofuel could fulfil their requirements, improving the efficiency of their heating, lowering their carbon emissions and by taking part in the field trials, they would become the first school in the UK to have their heating system running on this low carbon liquid fuel.

Being part of the official field trials, the installation to convert the school from traditional kerosene to HVO operation commenced in May 2021 with the system being closely monitored until it was completed in the autumn of 2022. A Grant Vortex Boiler House 46 to 58kW oil boiler was first installed by Jose and Blackler, replacing the old boiler, and ensuring that the school was always with heating and hot water. Mitchell & Webber then converted the Vortex Boiler House oil boiler to HVO operation, a process which took less than a day to complete.

Minor changes

As with all of Grant’s floor standing Vortex boilers, the Vortex Boiler House range is HVO compatible which means it can be changed from kerosene operation to HVO with a few minor changes to the burner and nozzles. The school was also able to use their existing oil tank which was drained of any remaining kerosene and then filled with HVO.

“We were very excited to work with Gwinear School to help them become

• 4 models: 35kW

Since converting to HVO fuel, Gwinear School has saved up to 90% net carbon emissions so they are not only enjoying the warmth but also reducing their environmental impact

Light Commercial Heating 40

Bespoke boiler rig saves on downtime

A boiler rig system from Remeha with insulated pipework and pumps has been fitted to provide heating and hot water for a Yorkshire social housing estate, with minimal disruption to services.

Wakefield and District Housing (WDH) has improved the reliability and efficiency of the heating and hot water service at its Smirthwaite housing estate with the installation of eight new Remeha Gas 220 Ace boilers using a Remeha prefabricated cascade arrangement.

For residents at one of the UK’s largest social housing providers, heating and hot water are critical services, so ensuring that the system operates reliably is a top priority for the WDH technical services team. In line with its wider sustainability commitments, WDH also works to mitigate rising energy costs wherever possible for its tenants.

The project challenge

The Smirthwaite Estate in Normanton consists of 192 twobedroom maisonettes, 70 threebedroom houses and 14 onebedroom bungalows. Previously, three 25-year-old boilers had served two district heating circuits which in turn feed heat interface units (HIUs) within the individual dwellings to provide heating and hot water services. When the old boilers came to the end of their serviceable life, the WDH technical services team installed temporary plant to maintain the service while they evaluated the feasible options. A major concern was to avoid disruption to the residents wherever possible. This included

keeping downtime to a minimum and avoiding the need to enter properties.

Practical solution

Rob Wilson at Building Services Solutions was asked to carry out an appraisal and his recommendation was to install modular, energy-efficient boilers with a plate heat exchanger to

deliver long-term improved heating reliability while reducing energy consumption and carbon and NOx emissions.

“This was the most practical, cost-effective and reliable approach to improve outcomes for residents on the Smirthwaite estate,” Rob continued. “It met all of WDH’s requirements, providing a more energy-

efficient heating and hot water service, minimising disruption to residents, and enabling easy future maintenance by their in-house technical team.”

Rob specified the installation of eight Remeha Gas 220 Ace 300 boilers in a back-to-back arrangement using a Remeha off-site fabricated cascade system with a Plate Heat Exchanger (PHE).

Remeha is part of Baxi Commercial Solutions and the manufacturer’s team worked with Rob and WDH to prepare CAD and 3D drawings of the boiler cascade arrangement. In addition to the boilers, pumps and plate heat exchanger, the packaged solution included a pressurisation unit, a dosing pot and an expansion vessel.

“I’ve used the Remeha preassembled rig systems before,” Rob comments. “The products, design and customer service from the Baxi Commercial Solutions team are all excellent. WDH’s technical services team are also familiar with Remeha products and have a great relationship with the sales and technical support teams, so it was a logical selection.”

Complete package

In addition to the boilers, pumps and PHE, the packaged solution included a pressurisation unit, a dosing pot and an expansion vessel.

The detailed CAD and 3D drawings provided early visualisation of the layout. Through subsequent collaborative discussions with the group, revisions were considered and implemented to reach a final design that met all the site constraints and requirements. Production then took place in a factory environment, with comprehensive end-of-line testing.

The equipment was delivered to site in clearly numbered pallets with a reference drawing for guidance. The WDH technical services team then bolted the

boilers together and connected them to the existing system.

“It is very unusual for an in-house team to be able to carry out a project of this scale,” says Stephen Dumbrell, WDH assistant mechanical services manager. “One of the many benefits of using the rig was that it provided a good structure for our engineers and saved a significant amount of installation time.”

The switch to the new boilers took around four hours, allowing WDH to achieve the key goal of minimal downtime and disruption to residents.

“The whole process was seamless,” Stephen adds. “It says a lot that the residents weren’t even aware that we were refurbishing the heating system!”

Commissioning was carried out by Baxi’s commissioning engineers who safety tested the installation in conjunction with the WDH site team. Baxi Commercial Solutions will also provide WDH’s technical services team with onsite training on the new boilers to ensure ongoing high performance.

Big improvement

Jason Male was one of the WDH engineers on the project. So how did he find working on the installation?

“This was a great project to be involved with and everything ran very smoothly,” says Jason. “The rig is outstanding and looks really impressive. The support we received from the Baxi team throughout was top notch. They were brilliant to work with and really helpful – we couldn’t have asked for better!”

On both an operational and aesthetic level, the outcome is ticking all the boxes.

“The plant room has been completely transformed,” Stephen adds. “We now have a very well organised plant room that makes the best use of space and provides good accessibility to all the boilers for future maintenance to optimise efficiency and reliability.”

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Ventilation & Heat Recovery

Sustainability offers real opportunities

The HVAC industry has an important role to play in helping to promote the benefits of a circular economy, reducing the level of plastic waste and transforming recycled materials into useful products. Alex Finch from S&P UK explains why the company has pledged to invest in sustainability.

The HVAC manufacturing industry has an essential role to play in helping to solve our biggest sustainability challenges and setting a clear example to inspire businesses, customers and the wider economy.

Set against the landscape of rising costs for energy and raw materials, finding the time and resources to invest in the research and development required to help the UK reach its net zero goals with eco-friendly and innovative products is itself a difficult challenge.

But rising to the challenge – especially one so vital – and finding the right solutions can be, and must be, a top priority for everyone – from manufacturers, distributors and merchants to architects, specifiers and installers.

Sustainability must become a badge of honour. Taking your first step towards responsible plastic usage and building momentum across your product and accessory range is the most important step you can, and should, take in 2023

Circular economy

The scene has been set. The UN is warning that every year more than 400 million tons of plastic are created in the world but less than 10% of the waste is recycled.

Today, the consumption of certain materials such as plastic and cardboard is an everyday reality. But that should not be harmful to the environment.

Some 79% of plastic rubbish created ends up in tips or is thrown away in natural environments.

This plastic, when not handled in the correct way, causes environmental problems, such as the emission of greenhouse gases and the presence of microplastics in the oceans.

CUT TO THE CHASE

 Some 79% of plastic rubbish ends up in tips or is thrown away in natural environments

 We need to move to a circular economy that can transform rubbish into useful products

 85% of the materials used to produce S&P’s new in-line ventilation solution are from recycled plastics

 The HVAC industry can be a flag-bearer for sustainability by playing an active part in driving change

That is not a reason to stop using it, but to do so in a responsible way.

This means following a process of manufacture, consumption, recycling and a return to the starting point in order to give plastics a new life.

After all, the UK is legally bound to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases to net zero by 2050, while government goals under the Environment Act 2021, being refreshed every five years, include maximising our resources, minimising waste, and using resources from nature sustainably. Instead, we need to move to a circular economy that can transform rubbish into t-shirts, bicycles, artificial limbs and, of course, in-line ventilation units.

Natural evolution

At S&P UK we are looking to lead the way with our new ‘planet-friendly’ in-line ventilation solution for the residential sector.

The energy efficient TD EVO PF ECOWATT is a natural evolution of our existing TD range of in-line, mixed-flow duct fans that are designed to produce higher working pressures and rigorous standards of safety,

performance and reliability within demanding environments.

The performance is exactly the same. The design, efficiency and effectiveness remains unchanged.

What is different, however, is that 85% of the materials used are from recycled plastics – drink bottles, milk cartons, and laundry detergent containers that would have otherwise ended up in landfill or our oceans.

The TD EVO PF ECOWATT features sealed rubber gaskets designed to prevent air leakage between the appliance and ducts. It includes functionality to set the required airflow rate as well as a brushless EC motor that features the option for 100% speed adjustment.

The range comprises seven diameters and covers a flow range from 190 to 1780 m3/h, while the optimised design of the impeller, guide vane and outlet diffuser aims to increase performance and lower acoustic levels.

Big opportunity

Sustainability offers real opportunities for the HVAC manufacturing industry. The collection and transformation of plastics has to move from simply being the latest fashion trend to becoming an entrenched obligation for everyone.

We have seas, oceans and natural environments

swamped with plastics, and it seems we are not going to solve the problem in the short term. We need real projects and actions to prevent those tons of plastic waste from harming our planet and natural environment.

That’s why we’re excited and proud to be launching our inaugural sustainable, energy efficient in-line ventilation unit into the UK marketplace, while at the same time helping to establish the HVAC industry as a flag-bearer for sustainability that makes a real, immediate and longlasting difference.

We recognise that we are only taking our first steps on the vital journey to becoming a more sustainable HVAC manufacturer, but we pledge to continue to invest in leading research and development to further improve our green credentials and play an active role in driving real change across our ambitious and responsible industry.

Find out more

Operating nationally, S&P UK is a leading fan, air movement and ventilation systems provider offering over 10,000 products along with technical sales support and consultancy. It is a subsidiary of Spanish owned S&P Group, whose global operations span over 90 countries. For more information please use the online reader link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/323/46

Alex Finch Managing director of S&P UK

Ventilation & Heat Recovery

Ticking all the boxes

Energy efficiency and low operational noise were just two of the reasons why Vent-Axia’s Multivent MVDC-MSH units proved ideal for providing a ventilation solution for new student accommodation in Manchester.

Low energy and noise levels were key factors in the decision to install over 60 VentAxia Lo-Carbon Multivent MVDC-MSH units at a new nine-storey student accommodation scheme in Manchester. Church Inn, on Higher Cambridge Street, has 62 studio apartments with a VentAxia ventilation unit installed in each flat.

The Multivent MEV unit proved to be the ideal solution for the BREEAM VG scheme, with energy efficiency and sound levels very important in achieving this credit. The accommodation also meets Manchester City Council’s zerocarbon ambitions by establishing student accommodation close to educational establishments, reducing the need for travel and minimising emissions.

Built in the south of the city centre on a site previously occupied by the disused Church Inn public house, the nine-storey building will provide much needed new accommodation for Manchester’s growing student community. Watt Energy & Consulting Engineers were the consultants on the project, and the ventilation was installed by

Whole Ventilation Services Ltd.

“We found Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon MVDC-MSH MEV installed neatly and easily and operates extremely quietly with best-in-class SFP,” says Alan Johnson, director of Whole Ventilation Services. “They also provide simple and accurate commissioning thanks to the built-in fully variable digital screen, so we’re really impressed with them.”

Accurate control

The Multivent MVDC-MSH unit features three fully variable speeds – normal, boost and purge – and can extract up to 118 l/s. The digital display allows installers to accurately set airflow, ensuring exactly the right ventilation rate, while accurate speed control helps minimise noise and energy consumption, which made the Multivent MVDC-MSH ideal for the Church Inn project. It also features a built-in humidity sensor so that the unit boosts when humidity reaches a certain threshold, combatting excess moisture and thus helping provide good indoor air quality.

The unit is part of VentAxia’s Multivent MEV family, a new range of mechanical extract ventilation (MEV) and decentralised MEV (dMEV). With a choice of nine MEV and eight dMEV models, both the MEV and dMEV units are said to offer an easy-to-operate control platform and extremely low operating noise. Additional benefits include increased ventilation rates, compact design, easy installation, as well as simple and accurate commissioning.

With a common digital control platform throughout the range and smart accessories for use in the home, the MEV and dMEV range are claimed to be a breeze

to install, commission and control. They also come with a number of control and switching options across the range, providing a solution for any newbuild scenario.

Multiple solutions

Designed for the simultaneous ventilation of separate areas in the home, the Multivent MEV units can service a kitchen and up to six wetrooms. With nine models to choose from, installers can select the model to meet the needs of each home, with airflows from 118 to 159 l/s and demand control. To further improve IAQ, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Multivent models are available with integral and adjustable CO2 and humidity sensors, which increase ventilation rates in proportion to pollutant levels.

The units are available with (model dependent): demand control to set precise ventilation rate; app enabled for easy commissioning and monitoring; an integral LCD display to select appropriate speed to meet demand; manual and automatic control options; plug-n-play automatic sensor

detection; switched live and SELV connections; and optional wired or wireless controllers.

Continuous operation

The other half of the Multivent family is the Lo-Carbon NBR dMEV range of continuous running, constant volume units, designed to deliver a specific fan power of 0.12 W/l/s.

Installation is made easier by a digital display and UKAS calibrated airflow sensor, plus an in-built spirit and fault light for any trouble-shooting. In addition, the range’s IPX5 rating allows for siting flexibility.

The NBR dMEV is available in both 100 and 125mm options. The larger surface area of the 125mm model allows more airflow through the fan and there are almost no restrictions in terms of duct lengths and bends used in the system. This means fewer fans are required to achieve whole house ventilation rates.

The NBR dMEV range includes both fixed and variable speed models, with the humidity control units incorporating an adjustable (40% - 90%) ambient response humidistat.

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p Vent-Axia’s Lo-Carbon Sentinel Multivent MVDC-MS MSH unit

We found they installed neatly and easily and operate extremely quietly... we were really impressed with them

The Church Inn in Manchester (picture © Matt Clayton)

Meeting the latest regulations in style

Described as efficient and stylish ventilation solutions for the modern home, the iCON and QuietAir from Airflow provide installers with an effective way to meet the latest requirements of the Building Regulations (as illustrated above).

Part F Volume 1 of the Building Regulations, updated in June last year, stipulates the regulations for ventilation rates in dwellings. If a kitchen has a cooker hood over the hob, a separate extractor fan is not a necessity when this is extracting a minimum of 30 l/s. However, the change in regulations means that when a kitchen is fitted with a recirculating cooker hood, or does not have a cooker hood, an extractor fan is now required with an extraction rate of a minimum of 60 l/s.

Ventilation & Heat Recovery 43

Energy saving heat recovery solution for the social housing sector

The iCON60’s shutter design helps reduce external noise ingress. Ideal for kitchens, it can be recessed or surface mounted into a wall or ceiling and there are a variety of coloured covers available to complement different surroundings.

One of the standout features of the QuietAir QT150 is its particularly low noise level. The VS model also offers various speed control when combined with the company’s speed controller dial.

“While the air quality of a home is of the utmost importance, the aesthetics can be too,” says marketing manager Grace Fraser.

“The iCON and QuietAir are part of a range of fans that have similar design features allowing for consistency across different rooms.”

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New from Vent-Axia is the Lo-Carbon Calido, decentralised mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (dMVHR) unit, designed to help social housing landlords tackle condensation and mould while reducing energy bills. Offering up to 80% heat recovery, the Calido is designed for retrofit properties, allowing landlords to install discrete decentralised mechanical ventilation with heat recovery in existing homes.

Providing continuous ventilation, the new dMVHR unit is designed to remove stale air from any habitable room and replace it with fresh filtered air. Ducting enables the Calido to benefit more than one room at a time. If installed in a bathroom, for example, stale and moist air can be extracted and fresh filtered air then supplied to other habitable rooms.

The unit’s integrated cross-flow heat exchanger helps reduce the amount of heat lost from the property, as well as lowering carbon emissions. It recovers heat from the stale air that is being extracted to warm up the air that is coming into the property.

With changeable filters, the Lo-Carbon Calido can help provide clean air all year round. The unit comes with a replaceable filter that can be changed depending on the selected interval (three to 12 month options are available). A filter replacement indicator helps ensure continuous good indoor air quality.

With three air flow options, the Calido can be installed in many types of properties and its compact design means it will ventilate and recover heat quietly in the background. It can also be wall or ceiling mounted depending on space availability, making it ideal for many retrofit applications.

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Installing radiators to work with heat pumps

While underfloor heating might be considered an effective way to maximise the performance of a heat pump system, modern radiators can also work very well – provided they have been sized correctly. Steve Alldritt from Energy Efficiency at City Plumbing explores the key things that installers need to consider when fitting heat pumps combined with radiators.

Homeowners across the UK are increasingly turning towards more efficient heating solutions. With several policies and incentives set to create higher demand for heat pumps, the number of retrofit projects is likely going to increase. This will no doubt be compounded by gas prices as they continue to rise.

Unlike gas boilers, heat pumps work at lower flow temperatures, typically ranging from 40°C flow up to 50°C flow depending on the application. This temperature makes it the optimal partner of underfloor heating which works best at flow temperatures of between 35°C and 50°C, but not every home is suitable for underfloor heating, and not every homeowner will have the budget to incorporate it into the project. Laying screed floors can be timely and disruptive, and while there are overlay options that are quicker to install, sticking with radiators can still be preferred.

Key considerations

Specifying radiators for use with heat pumps is practically the same as specifying them with gas boilers but it’s crucial that installers carefully consider heat loss to avoid costly mistakes further down the line. First, consider the position of existing radiators and whether there is space to replace these

CUT TO THE CHASE

 The calculation of heat losses is critical before the installation of radiators

 Radiators will not be suitable if microbore pipework drops are present in the existing system

 To achieve the same output on a heat pump system, it is likely that existing radiators will need to be replaced with a bigger size

 Triple-panel radiators deliver a high heat dispersion but take up less wall space

 High-temperature heat pumps could be an option to consider

with larger units if necessary. Also, examine the size of the wall cavities, the level of insulation within them, and ensure the loft insulation is 200mm thick or more as standard.

Pipework will also be a key consideration – if microbore pipework drops are present in the existing system, radiators will not be suitable.

The quality of the building’s glazing and window profi les will also make a huge difference to whether radiators can be used with the system. Single glazing is a defi nite no-no, and in some cases upgrades to the existing double glazing may also be required.

Sizing up

Once the building has been deemed suitable for radiators, it’s time to look at replacing the existing ones with options that will be suited to the lower flow temperatures associated with heat pumps.

In some cases, the property’s thermal performance may mean that the existing radiators are suitable for the job. In these instances, it is advisable to power flush the system to remove any sludge or debris that might impact the performance of the new system.

Where radiators do need replacing, it’s important to apply the manufacturer’s Delta T correction factors when sizing. For example:

• For a 75°C flow temperature, a typical 600mm H x 700mm L Single Panel Single Convector radiator will give approximately 0.656kW of output.

• If we put 45°C flow through the same radiator, a correction factor of 0.365 needs to be used.

• 0.656 x 0.365 = 0.251kW.

• To achieve the same output, the radiator would need to be replaced with a bigger size. (In this instance a 600mm H x 1100mm L Double Panel Double Convector radiator would need to be installed, providing approximately 0.656kW).

Available options

Where the existing radiators aren’t suitable, installers may choose to install fan assisted radiators, although the radiator will need an electrical connection. Fan assisted radiators are a modest way to blow warm air around the room and distribute heat more evenly while keeping energy consumption low.

For radiators with no electrical connection nearby, another option is to choose deeper, triple-panel radiators which have a high heat dispersion but take up less wall space. Vertical feature radiators can also be a stylish way for homeowners to balance aesthetics with a higher output.

Other considerations

Heat pump installations, even with the help of government subsidies, are a heavy investment for many, and sometimes customers may insist on keeping their existing radiators despite recommendations for a resize. At this point, it may be worth exploring high-temperature

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 Vertical radiators can be a stylish way to balance aesthetics with a higher output heat pumps that can run up to 75°C. These heat pumps run at similar temperatures to boilers and, as such, there would be less of a need to upsize radiators.

As with all heat pump installations, the pump unit needs to be located as close to the building as possible and with a metre clearance on all sides. It’s also crucial to avoid mounting the unit on north-facing walls. These considerations help to put less strain on the system and help it to operate more efficiently.

While it won’t affect the performance, it’s also important the installation doesn’t take place close to bedroom windows, as the unit can produce a little noise, which may disturb at night.

Space for a heat pump-ready cylinder, buffer tank (usually between 20L and 50L), a volumiser and the relevant control equipment are other elements that also need to be considered.

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City Plumbing Supplies offers a wide range of essential products from boilers and circuit breakers to heat pumps and bathroom suites. This includes a dedicated team of specialists with over a decade of expertise in renewable technology who can help installers design and specify renewable systems and can recommend the best products for every application.

Energy Efficiency at City Plumbing has also opened a new Energy Efficiency Centre after agreeing on a partnership with GTEC Training to provide accredited training courses for installers. The Centre, based in Farnborough, will focus on showcasing renewable energy home heating technologies and providing training for engineers to install them.

Steve Alldritt Technical director for Energy Efficiency at City Plumbing

 The Compact Softline K3 radiator from Stelrad features three sets of convection fins and has been designed for use with low temperature systems

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All Stelard radiators are fully compatible to meet with the requirements of the newly updated Part L Documentation, with the intention of reducing carbon emissions, increasing the energy efficiency of both domestic and commercial properties, and future proofing for low carbon technology.

Stelrad’s range of high output radiators are aesthetically designed to meet your needs, now and in the future.

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Radiators & Towel Warmers

approaching their home, and it will lower the temperature as they move away.

All controls can be accessed using the Haverland app, enabling users to turn the radiators on and off remotely, adjust the temperature, set the day and hours, and control electricity consumption in real time in order to save on energy bills.

Taking control of smart electric radiators

As a specialist in electric heat emitters, Spanish company Haverland offers energy efficient electric radiators for all applications, from domestic and commercial to the public sector. A choice of smart radiators are available for customers looking for ultimate control over their heating. They work through a Wi-Fi connection, giving users

control from a smartphone, tablet or computer in real time, at anytime and from anywhere in the world.

One of company’s latest smart models is the RCTT Connect, which continues to work even if the Wi-Fi connection is lost. It also incorporates GPS which acts like a geolocator so that the radiator can detect when users are

RCTT Connect is available in various sizes and includes 24/7 programming, open window detector, consumption indicator and four operating modes: comfort, economy, anti-freeze and off.

Keeping it simple

Another highlight in the smart range is the Simply Bluetooth (pictured, right). The models in this range have a simple manual dial that can fully control its functions, or it can be fully programmed via the app. Five outputs are available, from 600 to 1200W.

Finally, the Ultrad smart is capable of programming itself, thanks to a built-in motion sensor. Because this radiator

‘knows’ when someone is in the room, it intelligently sets itself to a comfortable temperature. If no movement has been detected for a predetermined period of time, it automatically reduces the temperature to an economy setting, minimising energy consumption and reducing costs.

Setup is simple. There’s no need for programming. During its first week of operation, Ultrad recognises patterns when each room is in use, creating daily programs and then automatically adjusting its settings so that each

room is at the perfect temperature before it is occupied. It then learns continuously, repeating its automatic daily and weekly cycles, while adapting to changes in lifestyle.

Ultrad includes three different operating modes: sensor, self-learning and manual, and does not require any specific configuration or programming. Like the other smart radiators available from Haverland, the Ultrad can be controlled by the app from any location.

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Comfort in the commercial quarter From A to Z in quirky towel rails

Stelrad has supplied 108 of its flat fronted Planar radiators and 19 of its Concord style radiators in grey for a new business space development in a refurbishment project at Newark Works on Bath Quays South Development, in Bath.

“We’re delighted our radiators were specified for this important new development,” says Tony Hildrow, Stelrad’s southern sales director. “The creative treatment given to the building demanded outstanding finishing touches and the radiators chosen provide a modern and aesthetically attractive addition to the building, proving that a heating system can be both attractive and functional,

offering the warmth and comfort that business premises require.

“It’s a stunning building that illustrates a huge amount of creativity, from the treatment of the walls in the building to the wonderful entrance lobby with leisure facilities and a modern café area, to the work areas

Cast iron in small rooms

themselves – it’s a privilege to see our products part of the refurbishment.”

These radiators will be a part of Bath Quays, a regeneration project that creates a new, commercial quarter in the heart of Bath Enterprise zone.

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The Pimlico cast iron model from Paladin Radiators is based on a design first produced in the late Victorian era, later becoming popular in Edwardian homes. This slimline cast iron radiator is designed for smaller rooms, or tight spaces, having only two columns and a 110mm depth. It will fit nicely into a traditional cottage setting and in modern bathrooms.

Available in three heights (460, 660 and 760mm) as well as lengths ranging from around 200mm to 2.5m, there is a suitable model for a variety of requirements.

Customers can choose from a wide range of finishes, including Farrow & Ball colours that are created to enhance heritage decor. Paladin also has a range of its own paint colours, or alternatively customers can choose a metallic finish. The company can also cater to almost any bespoke request.

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For customers looking for something a bit different to the standard ladder-style towel rail, Gloucester-based Apollo Radiators offers a number of models that deliver on personality as well as performance. These decorative models are crafted from polished stainless steel to create a contemporary aesthetic.

The Guarda Z designer towel rail (pictured, right) is made from marine grade 304 stainless steel and measures 953mm high and 500mm wide. Output is 370W and features plenty of room to hang and warm up wet towels.

Another unusual option is the Genova Wave (pictured, left). This model is suitable for bathrooms or kitchens where extra towel hanging space is required. Like the Guarda Z model, the Genova Wave is made from marine grade 304 stainless steel and is polished to a mirror shine. Measuring 600mm wide, it is available in two different heights: 1000mm with a 382W output, and 1500mm with a 550W output.

Both of these towel rails are available as electric-only or dual fuel and can be purchased from stock in two days.

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Single control system integrates the whole home

The Clivet Smart Living Solution is an integrated comfort and energy management system for residential applications. The package includes: heat pumps for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production; an air renewal and purification system; electrical energy storage; intelligent thermostats; control thermostats; room terminals; a centralised management and control system and Clivet Eye App for remote management via smartphone. The company’s heat pumps use refrigerant R32 for heating, cooling and domestic hot water production and include hybrid options such as the Sphera EVO 2.0 EASYHybrid. Products are available in cased, uncased, split and monobloc versions.

Clivet’s ELFOFresh EVO air renewal and purification system comes with active thermodynamic recovery and electronic filtration, and was recently awarded Domestic Ventilation Product of the Year 2022 at the Energy Saving Awards.

Other elements of the integrated solution include Sinergy electrical energy storage, which can be connected to PV solar panels to power the system

and supply energy to all domestic utilities for a 100% renewable energy home.

ELFORoom2 room terminals, as well as smart thermostats, can be positioned in each zone/ room, while Ciovet’s CONTROL4 NRG centralised management and control system enables full synergy management of all connected elements to maximise comfort and efficiency.

Finally, for convenient remote management of the entire system via smartphone, the user need simply download the Clive Eye app.

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Filter system helps recycle rainwater

Designed to aid rainwater harvest and provide a continuous, sustainable supply of filtered, nonpotable water, Resideo has launched its Braukmann FF60 Triplex water filter for use in larger buildings such as schools, universities, and office buildings, where an efficient water supply can form part of an effective energy management system.

This water filter is made up of three different filter cartridges in one housing, which can easily be replaced every six months. Once installed, access to the filters remains straightforward, meaning minimal downtime is required when filters need changing. Rainwater is collected in a large tank, usually located at ground level, and filtered through the

Dual outlet power shower takes a bow

The latest addition to the Vigour range from Mira Showers is the Vigour Thermostatic Dual, claimed to be the first dual power shower on the UK market.

This model features the same connections and screw holes as older Mira power showers and includes a flexible diverter for minimal adjustments, meaning that this latest addition is not only easy to install, but a simple and effective upgrade for those looking to replace their showers.

With two statement showerheads – including a 200mm overhead deluge for greater coverage and an adjustable hand showerhead – the model offers users double the experience, giving them the opportunity to use both at the same time. The Vigour Thermostatic Dual comes with easy-to-use controls and uses Mira’s intelligent thermostatic technology to help control the shower temperature, preventing the risk of scalding to ensure user safety without compromising on quality.

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FF60 Triplex to provide filtered water for washing clothes, flushing toilets, and other such applications. The washable prefilter and the fine mesh filter trap dirt and particles on the outer face of the filter. The activated carbon cartridge then filters out fine particles, eliminating unpleasant odours and chemicals caused by chlorine or other organic substances.

Capable of operating with a maximum water temperature of 45°C, the filter can be applied to rainwater treatment across a range of specifications and comes with a variety of benefits, including a large filter surface, easily replaceable filter cartridges, simple installation process, plus easy access and servicing for on-site teams.

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Cylinder range covers many applications

The Nero hot water cylinders from Warmflow are designed to provide efficient and reliable hot water supply for a variety of applications.

Available in a number of sizes, from 110 to 290 litres, these cylinders are available in indirect, twin coil, triple coil, direct and heat pump models. They also benefit from a duplex steel construction and grey leather grain casing, with high performance rigid coils. The tanks are equipped with a range of safety features, including a pressure relief valve and an immersion heater cut-out switch.

The heat pump cylinder model is designed to work in tandem with Warmflow’s Zeno range of air source heat pumps. They come in four sizes from 170 to 290 litres to suit a majority of heat pump systems. Thanks to their large surface area and high performance plate heat exchanger, the heat pump models boast impressive heat-up times, with the 170 litre model taking just 25 minutes to reach 60°C from cold. Like the rest of the range, these cylinders are designed to be fed directly from the mains water supply via the inlet group supplied, which is capable of receiving incoming water at pressures up to a maximum of 16 bar.

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Electric heat system

Mapeheat is the name of a new underfloor electric heating system from Mapei. Designed for commercial and residential applications, the new system provides a rapid-fit solution and energy saving benefits. Its thin profile and waterproof construction make it suitable for all internal environments – in new builds, renovations and remodelling projects, including kitchens, bathrooms, steam rooms and other spa environments.

The product can receive various types of floor finishes such as ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles, wood and laminate flooring, and sheet vinyl. The three components – membrane, cable and mesh – can be used in conjunction with Mapeheat’s three thermostat options: Thermo Basic, Thermo Touch and Thermo Connect.

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The membrane is a lightweight uncoupling antifracture and waterproof membrane that prevents transmission of in-plane substrate cracks up to 3mm wide and eliminates the need for a second layer of plywood or concrete backer board in most tile installations.

The cable is a free-form, twin coil floor heating cable which provides comfortable radiant heat. The mesh – the self-adhering, pre-wired floor heating mesh – is compatible with all subfloor types.

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Integrated for more control Warranty bumped up to seven years on Vitodens

Users of Honeywell Home evohome tech will benefit from a collaboration between Resideo Technologies and Homey, a smart home platform, with the ability to integrate the smart heat zoning device with other smart home products and services.

The collaboration benefits both Resideo and Homey customers. Users of Resideo’s evohome smart zoning thermostat will be able to simplify their smart home experience, while also increasing energy awareness, efficiency and creating custom flows (automations). Homey users will be able to integrate a

The standard warranty for Viessmann’s entire Vitodens boiler range has been increased to seven years. This applies to models with up to 35kW output. Customers will also be given the option to purchase an even longer warranty period of 10 or 12 years.

These gas condensing boilers are available as 050-W, 100-W, 111-W and 200-W wall-hung models and as a 222-F floor standing model.

Chris Johnson, UK director of sales at Viessmann, comments: “This warranty promise reflects the confidence we have in our products and it is in addition to the 10 year guarantee on the Inox-Radial stainless steel heat exchanger in all our Vitodens boilers. It makes Viessmann boilers a wise choice for consumers and will hopefully be welcomed by our loyal installers. The standard seven-year warranty marks an increase in cover across all models, and by as much as four years in some cases. With these standard warranty improvements across the Vitodens range, we aim to provide greater peace of mind for consumers that their investments will be both safe and worthwhile.”

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high performing multi-zone heating and cooling controller into their smart home. Honeywell Home evohome products are compatible with both the Homey cloud-based service as well as the Homey Pro hub.

Aldo D’Ingeo, business development manager EMEA for Resideo, explains: “Innovation is in our DNA and we already offer a wide range of smart heating controls that can reduce gas consumption and save on heating bills. Therefore, collaborating with Homey to offer our customers a more connected smart home experience makes sense. Our European launch will initially focus on the Netherlands, as well as other European markets where Homey is currently available.”

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Kit will convert oil boilers over to HVO

HVO conversion kits are now available for Worcester Bosch’s oil boiler portfolio, as part of an ongoing commitment to ensure all homeowners have access to practical and viable low carbon alternatives to fossil fuels.

The kits will be made available for general sale later this year and will be suitable for the manufacturer’s Heatslave and Danesmoor oil fired boiler ranges. They will enable the company’s Heatslave or Danesmoor products manufactured after September 2018 (or September 2019 for outputs between 35-70kW) to be converted to operate safely and efficiently on HVO.

Worcester says that oil users who purchase an HVO conversion kit will be able to significantly reduce the carbon output of their existing heating system without the need of moving to an alternative technology, which can be costly and disruptive.

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Touchless tap delivers on sustainability

The IXMO Sensor series of touchless taps from Keuco are designed to increase hygiene in the bathroom while also being more sustainable.

The flow rate is set at 5 litres per minute but is adjustable, with a flow time of one second to a maximum of 10 seconds until switch-off, enabling economical and resource-saving water consumption. The water temperature is adjusted via a small lever on the back of the free-standing model. If permanent temperature control is not desired,

especially in public areas, the adjustment pin can be removed after the initial setting and a special blanking plug fitted to cover the access. For the wall-mounted fitting, the temperature is adjusted in the under-sink box.

The taps are available in chrome plated or matt black, as either a freestanding or wall mounted variant. They have dual feed fittings but are suitable for use as single feed with blended water delivered from a TMV.

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Show your colours

Over 60 new finishes have been added to the furniture range from Mereway Bathrooms, offering flexibility and individuality to customers. Free swatches can be ordered to aid the selection process. Pictured is one of the new options, Antique Rose in a matt finish.

The 64 colours are available in Mereway’s Bathroom Colore brand, which includes stylish bathroom furniture ranges, including the Arco and Simplicity, which deliver a totally hygienic construction with sizes to suit any space.

Sales and development manager Ed Norris says: “The Bathroom Colore collection from Mereway Bathrooms provides an opportunity for customers to create the bathroom that mirrors their personality and reflects their tastes.”

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Make a big impression with a deep blue statement

With the many shades of blue continuing to influence contemporary bathroom design, PJH has added a new blue hue to its Bathrooms to Love furniture collection –Matt Deep Blue ‘Statement’ Furniture range.

The deep blue modular Statement range has a tactile super matt finish and a choice of three sleek 20cm handles in brushed brass (pictured), matt black or polished chrome.

The Statement range offers practical storage space as

well as design flexibility with a stylish range of choices to suit individual taste. The basin comes as both wall-hung and floor-standing units that can take an incorporated basin or a work top version. The laminate worktop is available in White Slate, Matt Latte or Urban Black – as well as vessel basins (the Deep Blue Luxey Washbowl is pictured above), so a bespoke look is easily achieved. A tall wall-hung unit completes the Deep Blue Statement range.

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Give them 10 years peace of mind

Members of Grant UK’s G1 installer scheme can now get their customers a 10-year guarantee when they fit a Grant Vortex Pro oil-fired boiler. The offers applies to all Vortex Pro internal, external and combi models installed on or after 1st February.

The Vortex Pro oil boilers have outputs from 15 up to 70kW and the range consists of five internal, white cased heat only and sealed system models; three external, powder coated heat only models; and seven combi boilers which include internal, external and a slimline combi option as well.

“When G1 Installers install a Vortex Pro Internal or External heat only or combi boiler, they can give their homeowners complete peace of mind as well as giving them the option to convert to HVO operation in the future,” comments Paul Wakefield, MD at Grant UK.

To activate this decade long guarantee, G1 Installers simply need to fit a Grant Mag One filter and register the boiler within thirty days of installation via the online G1 Portal or G1 Click app.

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No-touch taps for hand washing

Available in deck mounted and built-in versions, both available with a long or short spout, the tap is available in 16 special finishes in the Ritmonio Finishes Selection. Diametro35 E-flow can be connected to the main power network or powered by battery. The sensor activation distance is adjustable, while pre-mixing can be done remotely through a special valve and centralized for all outputs.

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Said to offer the benefits of better hygiene and reduced water consumption in shared spaces, the Diametro35 E-flow from Ritmonio is a touch-free tap dedicated to the contract and hospitality sectors. An integrated infrared sensor enables contact-free activation to ensure the health and safety of users.

External combi keeps minimal footprint

The Envirogreen Slimline Combipac is part of the sustainable product range from Firebird. The oil boiler is designed with two circulation pumps – one for domestic hot water and the other for central heating, eliminating the need for a diverter valve. At only 570mm wide, it is claimed to be the smallest external combi on the market, with multidirectional flue options.

It features an HVO-ready, low-NOx liquid fuel burner, surpassing European NOx levels, with results as low as 60mg per kW/h. Available in three outputs – 20, 26 and 35kW – these units are said to deliver excellent hot water performance.

Gary Davies, national sales manager with Firebird, comments: “The external combi market is flooded with bulky

With a water flow rate of 5 l/min, this tap can help to achieve high levels of sustainability while minimising waste. Thanks to an automatic closing function and the ability to set the temperature, the E-flow also contributes to reducing consumption and saving energy.

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Protecting against the elements

Specially made for hard-working tradespeople who have to keep going, no matter what the elements throw at them out on site, the Super Dux Jacket collection from Carhartt has got their back. Carhartt is the authentic workwear brand founded in 1889 in Detroit, Michigan, USA. For more than 130 years, the company has been known for its rugged construction, innovative designs, and exceptional quality standards. Every jacket in the Super Dux collection features Carhartt’s Rugged Flex, Rain Defender and Wind Fighter technology, which allows for optimal

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comfort and movement with extra protection against the elements. The jacket blocks the wind, repels light rain and has a sherpa lining for extra warmth. Its relaxed fit allows more flexibility on site without compromising on strength or comfort.

The super duck fabric of this jacket is 35% lighter than traditional duck material and the 3M Thinsulate™ also provides extra warmth. The nylon is also stronger than usual, providing the necessary durability and comfort for those days when you’re out and about.

designs. Taking that fact and feedback from installers into consideration, our product development team have designed the Envirogreen Slimline Combipac to reduce obstruction in customer’s gardens and provide installers with an easy installation.”

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PHAM News has teamed up with Carhartt workwear to give readers the chance to win a Super Dux Active Jacket or one of the company’s iconic beanies

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Our courses include:

• Hydrogen training

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Snickers Workwear’s NEW Stretch Trousers

It’s the innovative design and sustainable fabric technology in the newest Work Trousers for men and women from Snickers Workwear that really set them apart from other brands. Delivering comfort and safety features when they’re needed most, these slim-fit Trousers are Class 1 and Class 2 certified and made from innovative Sorona® sustainable performance fibre. They also come with the patented KneeGuard® system and CORDURA® reinforcement in the knees and pockets. Checkout www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or enter the code shown below.

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The NCB700 and NCB500

Putting hot water first.

Delivering endless potential, the NCB700ON and NCB500ON combi crossover boilers are setting new standards. Reducing gas consumption by up to 38% and supplying up to three showers simultaneously. Plus, with no need for a cylinder, homeowners can reclaim valuable space. With Navien ON, performance is transformed – reliably, reassuringly, repeatedly.

Discover more about our training: Discover more about our range: navien.co.uk/training navien.co.uk