Volume 54 | Issue 5 | May 2016
Hydrogen gas could be in UK homes within 10 years Gas distributor Northern Gas Networks has revealed plans to convert the gas network serving the city of Leeds from natural gas to ‘green’ hydrogen gas within the next 10 to 15 years. Hydrogen gas could be used to provide heating in UK homes if plans to convert the gas network in the Leeds area prove successful. Northern Gas Networks (NGN), which is responsible for distributing gas across northern England, has received funding from energy regulator Ofgem to develop the idea. It is hoped that Leeds could be fully converted by 2025-2030 and that the model could then be replicated in other parts of the country. Hydrogen is more environmentally-friendly than natural gas because it produces only water and heat when burnt. NGN says that it is working to build a series of plants around the city that would take methane from the national gas grid and convert it into hydrogen by removing the carbon. The carbon would then be disposed of using carbon capture and storage technology. A new supply network would need to be constructed because the UK’s high-pressure gas distribution pipes are made of steel,
Leeds could be the UK’s first ‘hydrogen city’
which is thought to be unsuitable to transport hydrogen. However, this isn’t considered a major obstacle because old metal pipes are already being replaced by polyethylene and such an overhaul has happened before when the network was converted from town gas following the discovery of North Sea reserves. Switching to hydrogen would require changes to heating and cooking appliances as well as the gas network, mainly because the combustion velocity is higher for hydrogen
than for natural gas. Hydrogen ignites more quickly, so modifications to spark ignition and burner heads would be needed. A key driver of the project is the Climate Change Act which requires the Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 by 80%, relative to 1990 levels. Many argue that the use of ‘green’ gas is a relatively cost-effective way to achieve this target. Speaking after a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Energy Studies, Mike Foster, CEO of the Energy and Utilities Alliance, said: “The group were fascinated by the very real potential offered by hydrogen. We all know that decarbonising heat is tricky, but necessary if we are to meet our climate change obligations, and gas has a critical role to play in the process. The gas grid currently delivers gas into the homes of over 84% of the UK population and there is little appetite to simply abandon gas and start again with a new system, not to mention the costs involved.”
Win workwear with Snickers
One lucky winner will get fully kitted out in sharp style
Turn to page 50
On the ball
Guilty of fraudulent gas safety checks A businessman operating in Cornwall has been found guilty of illegally performing annual gas safety checks at tenanted properties despite not being a registered gas engineer. Sven Biesterfeldt, aged 41, who uses a number of other names including Tom Williams, potentially put tenant’s lives at risk by carrying out the safety checks and fraudulently filled out a landlord’s gas safety document using another company's Gas Safe Register number in May 2014. He was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) at Bodmin Magistrates Court after his work was investigated following a complaint from a landlord. The court heard that Mr Biesterfeldt used
the Gas Safe Register logo on his work vehicle and also told the landlord that he was a member of Gas Safe Register and could carry out the gas safety checks at the landlord’s tenanted property in Troon, near Camborne. The landlord became suspicious when he checked on the Gas Safe Register number that Mr Biesterfeldt had used on the safety certificate that he produced and discovered that it was for a company in Essex. Sven Biesterfeldt pleaded guilty to two breaches of gas safety legislation and was sentenced to eight months in prison, suspended for one year, and ordered to undertake 180 hours unpaid community work. He was also disqualified from being a company director for three
years and ordered to pay £4000 in costs. HSE Inspector Simon Jones, speaking after the hearing, said: “Mr Biesterfeldt should never have carried out gas safety checks and compounded this by fraudulently using the Gas Safe Register logo on his work vehicle and by using a properly Gas Safe registered company’s details on safety documents he produced. This was a calculated and deliberate attempt to deceive the public into believing he was competent and registered to undertake gaswork and this could not be further from the truth. “Mr Biesterfeldt put the lives of tenants at risk as he has no training or skills when it comes to gas safety and essential gas safety checks.”
If you've given up on dreams of becoming a professional footballer, then it could be time to rekindle them! Fiat Professional, official partner of the The Football League, has launched the Fiat Professional Tradesman Trials where the winner will receive a £2000 prize and a one month trial with a football league club. Geoff Horsfield (builder), Dean Windass (hod carrier) and Stuart Pearce (electrician) – pictured above – are just three former tradesmen who have previously hit the big time. If you think you have what it takes, then you have until 12th June to showcase your skills by submitting a video to www.tradesmantrials.co.uk
Hot Water Energy Storage
NEW ULTRASTEEL PLUS WITH BUILT-IN THERMAL EXPANSION SPACE
THE HOT WATER PEOPLE
FOR HASSLE FREE INSTALLATION AND SETUP To learn more about the Ultrasteel Plus, visit www.kingspanenviro.com/ultrasteel-plus or call 0345 260 0258 ENQUIRY
1.indd 1
301
28/04/2016 15:43
ENQUIRY
FORD 302.indd 1
302
21/04/2016 12:42
May 2016
NEWS Review
3
Inside this issue Consumers still Editor’s Gadgets & Tools Some of the latest gadgets and tools designed to make the professional installer’s life easier
Starts page 16
Pipes, Fittings & Valves The time saving benefits of push-fit fittings and an overview of some of the latest pipework systems
Starts page 23
Water Heating & Cylinders How the latest advances in hot water products and storage systems can help meet rising demand
Starts page 39
Solar Technology Why solar thermal technology has a big role to play in helping the UK to meet its renewable targets
Starts page 47
The Technical Magazine for the Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement Industry
Incorporating: Plumbing & Heating News Plumbing & Heating Equipment News
turn to plumbers Viewpoint Despite the advent of the digital world and increasingly savvy consumers, a new survey by Bristan has revealed that plumbers still play a key role in advising their customers on which products to go for. According to a survey amongst Bristan Connect installers, around three quarters (74%) said their customers will ask them for advice when choosing a product, while over one in ten (13%) said they usually make recommendations to clients. What’s more, an impressive 80% admitted that their customers prefer it when they are able to provide advice which will help with their interior design aspirations. This follows a third of respondents (33%) stating that today’s modern consumer is typically a lot more interior design focused. Further testament to the plumber’s pivotal role in purchasing decisions, a separate study carried out by WaterSafe has revealed that an impressive 98% think it is part of a good plumber’s job to provide advice on water efficiency, and 92% regularly talk to customers about which products can help save water.
by Chris Jones
Do we have an image problem?
The plumbing accreditation scheme carried out a survey of its plumbers to find out how much they talk about saving water with their customers and how often they recommend products to cut down waste. The appliances plumbers are most likely to offer advice on are toilets, taps and showers. Hayley Holland, Marketing Manager at Bristan, comments: “It is great to see plumbers take such an active role in helping their customers to choose the right products for their specific needs. After all, while a consumer may have a particular design idea in mind, it is the plumber who is typically best placed to recommend the products to make it a reality. This is why it is so important that plumbers keep up to date with the latest technologies.”
Editorial & Southern Sales Office: PHAM News | 1b Station Square, Flitwick, Bedfordshire MK45 1DP Tel: 01525 716143 | Fax: 01525 715316 Editorial Email: editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk Sales Email: nathan@phamnews.co.uk Northern Office: Pinede Publishing | Argyle Business Centre, 8 Leicester Street, Southport, Lancashire PR9 0EZ Tel: 01704 501090 | Fax: 01704 531090 Email: russ@phamnews.co.uk Subscription Enquiries: Tel: 01889 577222 | Fax: 01889 579177 Email: circulation@phamnews.co.uk
Circulation Manager Sue Bethell
ABC Audited circulation Jan-Dec 2015 | 29,011 Subscription Rates United Kingdom £65.00 Overseas (Surface) £85.00 Overseas (Airmail) £110.00 ISSN 1368-9061 Printed by: Precision Colour Printing Ltd. Origination by: www.italicauk.com
© Copyright 2016 | Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement News All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without written consent from the publisher. Attributed articles represent the views of the Author(s) and are not the necessarily those of the Editor. The publishers accept no responsibility for claims made by manufacturers or advertisers. This magazine includes a number of colour editorial photographs paid for by suppliers.
@PHAMNews
100,000 people chosen Aquabion® over a salt-based water softener?
Tel: 01889 577222 | Fax: 01889 579177 Email: info@phamnews.co.uk www.phamnews.co.uk Southern Advertisement Manager Nathan Wood Classified Sales Sharon Nutter Magazine Administrator Helen Green
Follow us on
On the right track Why have over
Published by: Pinede Publishing | 16/18 Hawkesyard Hall, Armitage Park, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1PU
Managing Editor Chris Jones Assistant Editor Carol Hitchcock Publishers Chris Evans Russ Jackson
Some might argue that you shouldn’t really care what other people think about how you look or how you conduct yourself as long as you are content with your appearance and you can look yourself in the mirror with a clear conscience. Life might be a lot easier if we never had to give a thought to the views and opinions of others, but there’s no getting away from the fact that the image you project can make a big difference to your fortune and future prospects. There’s no denying that many of the public view the plumbing industry in a less than positive light, but the battle goes on to change that perception and raise levels of professionalism. A recent report by TrustMark (see page 4) suggests that the old stereotypes of plumbers, electricians and other trades are no longer valid because technical competence, communication skills and customer service have all improved significantly in recent years. The Government backed accreditation scheme highlights the lengths that many companies go to build trust with homeowners, taking care with how they present themselves and deal with complaints. Despite such progress, it seems there is still a widely held opinion that a career in the building trade is not something to aspire to. A recent YouGov survey suggests that only 11% view the industry as ‘exciting’ and 67% would never consider it as an option. Reflecting such views, the current educational establishment continues to consider more practical trades as only something to fall back on if more academic studies prove too challenging. Only when such attitudes start to chance will there be any real chance of the industry being rid of those negative stereotypes.
Installers have the chance to get in on the action at one of the UK’s most popular motorsport championships thanks to Andrews Water Heaters. As part of its sponsorship of the Neil Plimmer and Geoff Faucett race teams, the commercial water heater brand is offering the opportunity to win VIP passes during the 2016 Fun Cup season. The Fun Cup is an endurance tournament which takes place at a number of renowned tracks including Brands Hatch and Silverstone. As well as getting up close to the action, six lucky winners will get the full VIP treatment, with access to the pit garages, cars and drivers. For your chance to win, simply send an email with your contact details and the event you’d like to attend, with ‘Fun Cup competition’ included in the subject line, to Joanne.Haddon@baxi.co.uk by 31st May.
Reason 1 of 21 Aquabion® is specified, supplied and installed by 100s of engineers like you every month. Visit the website to for 20 more reasons why you should specify and install us.
www.aquabion-uk.com/reasons/
Call 01380 609 391 ENQUIRY
3.indd 1
303
28/04/2016 15:53
May 2016
4
News Review
Time to rethink Growing interest in hybrid In brief industry’s image A poll commissioned by Baxi has revealed that demand for hybrid heating solutions is on the rise, as two thirds (66%) of heating professionals seek out a way to respond to the heating and hot water needs of varied property portfolios. More than a third of respondents said they were considering a hybrid system, while just under a third said they had already taken the plunge. Hybrid systems bring together a number of heating and hot water solutions in order to get the best out of different technologies. The respondents, which included installers, specifiers
The public image of the UK and safeguarding the cusplumber, electrician and tomer’s home, minimising builder is woefully out of date disruption and improving according to a new report by relationships. TrustMark, the GovernmentAccreditation is also endorsed scheme for all trades recognised as a mark of in and around the home. the tradesperson’s proThe aim of the study was to fessionalism, as it ensures define what a professional that technical competence, looks like in today’s industry, business processes and highlighting some of the service frameworks are in ways tradespeople go against place, helping homeowners negative stereotypes. to buy with confidence. The report showcases a Dirty work wide range of behaviours that are continuing to build Construction workers have trust, confidence and loyalty also suffered from a bad among homeowners. These reputation, as revealed in a include a commitment to YouGov poll of 2000 members excellent health and safety, of the public, commissioned training and skills develop- by Construction United. ment, and responsible waste The vast majority said they would never consider management. Those interviewed by Trust- a career in the construction Mark were seen to take pride industry (67%), with just 17% in smart branding, uniforms saying that they would give and van livery, as well as it thought. When asked about their professional quotations and detailed contracts. They in- perceptions of the industry, creasingly use digital tools, 68% of the respondents tablets and mobile technology described construction work to improve the way they com- as ‘strenuous’, and 58% saw municate with customers at it as ‘dirty’. Meanwhile, only every stage of a job, and also 11% think the industry is ELCO put THISION S+_PHAM 110x292_2.qxp_Layout 1 29/02/2016 12:26 Page 1 ‘exciting’. emphasis on respecting
The APHC is highlighting a new report by the House of Lords that has concluded that young people who do not go down the academic route are being ‘overlooked and left behind’. The research indicates that young people are let down by over-emphasis on higher education and a lack of training options. John Thompson, Chief Exec at APHC, comments: “We welcome this new report, which supports our recent findings about attitudes towards careers in trades. We hope that Government will take heed of this information by making it a priority to promote apprenticeships as an alternative to higher education in our schools.”
A gas-fired boiler range designed for contractors and installers with GREAT expectations
www.elco.co.uk
4.indd 1
ENQUIRY
and end users, identified that hybridisation offers more flexible system integration and lower risks, although they also recognised that
Youths Engineering route let down
THE ALL NEW THISION S PLUS
HEATING - HOT WATER - RENEWABLES
Baxi’s Andrew Keating
some technologies were not yet cost competitive. Andrew Keating, Marketing Director for Baxi Heating, says: “The findings in our poll demonstrate a huge appetite for hybrid systems, which are really taking centre stage in the decarbonisation debate. “It’s a trend that makes a great deal of sense, given that multi-technology solutions offer improved reliability through built-in redundancy, maximise overall seasonal efficiency, and are a practical, affordable route to upgrading existing heating systems in order to lower the overall carbon footprint.”
• A 10 year parts and labour warranty is now available on Grant UK’s VortexBlue oil fired boiler range, available through its G-One accredited installer network only. • The Glen Dimplex Group has acquired Poole based Ability Projects, specialists in the design, manufacture and supply of fan coil units and digital control technology. • Following an audit by independent certification company NAPIT, Kamco Ltd has been awarded Benchmark accreditation. • Kiwa Watertec has launched a certification scheme for manufacturers of thermostatic mixing valves and tempering valves. • Peter Thom of Green Heat has been crowned Regional Energy Efficiency Champion of the Year for the Eastern Region in the East of England Energy Efficiency & Retrofit Awards.
Following a license review by the Engineering Council, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering can now offer a route to become a Chartered Engineer (CEng). As a licensed professional body, the CIPHE has been registering suitably qualified members at Engineering Technician (EngTech) and Incorporated Engineer (IEng) levels for 43 years. Kevin Wellman (pictured), Chief Executive Officer of the CIPHE, was delighted to hear the outcome of the review. “This is excellent news for our members. As a Chartered Institute, it makes sense that we should be able to provide this route for those who are seeking Chartered Engineering status,” he comments.
GREAT DESIGN • Built-in energy saving pump • Class-leading A/A+ energy efficiency rating • Easy access to control board • Low NOx and CO emissions
GREAT POWER • Three powerful models: 36kW, 48kW and 57kW • Highly advanced heat exchanger for continuous automatic de-aeration • Turndown ratio up to 6:1
• Following BSRIA’s new test method for heat interface units, Giacomini’s 49kW twin heat HIU has become the first model in the UK to be tested in accordance with the new BSRIA Technical Standard. • Be Moder n Group has been awarded ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System and ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System.
GREAT VALUE • 5 year guarantee • Lifetime efficiencies from stainless steel heat exchanger • Free room thermostat and weather compensation sensor
304
28/04/2016 12:26
Whose waterless trap won’t leave you high and dry?
OSMA. Obviously. Silent operation, no gurgling.
HepvO Outlet provided with a universal compression connection, designed for use with PP, ABS or PVC-C pipe.
Elastomatic membrane prevents foul sewer air from entering the building.
HepvO hygenic self-sealing waste valve.
Smooth bore prevents blockages and risk of stagnating solids.
Connects to 1¼" and 1½" BSP thread.
In-line design, ideal for installation in confined areas.
EURO FANTASY FOOTBALL 2016
WIN A FANTASTIC HOLIDAY,
ATS 5200-047:2005
INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL SHIRTS AND LOTS MORE! REGISTER AT:
osmafantasyfootball.com
The unique HepVO waterless trap from OSMA won’t dry out due to siphonage, evaporation or movement. And, because there’s no water, it won’t leak, gurgle or crack due to freezing temperatures. HepVO can be installed vertically or horizontally, delivering exceptional performance where other traps could leave you high and dry.
STARTS 23RD MAY 10TH JULY 2016
www.wavin.co.uk ENQUIRY
51282_PHAM_389x292_May.indd 1 WAVIN A 305.indd 1
305
19/04/2016 12:47 16:35 21/04/2016
May 2016
News Review
6
Start collecting for Celebrating 70 years of BSI Kitemark Greenstar prizes Plumbing and heating manufacturer Pegler Yorkshire is highlighting its accomplishment of being one of only two companies in the world to have held the BSI Kitemark for over 70 years. The firm was awarded the Kitemark in 1945 for its copper pipe fittings. “The Kitemark symbol is something that we are particularly proud of as it is synonymous with our commitment to design,
Installers of Worcester products can now collect points for prizes in the Greenstar Rewards promotion, running until the end of this year. Points can be redeemed for a number of rewards, from branded clothing to Bosch professional power tools. To start collecting points, all installers have to do is sign up to Greenstar Rewards and then register either a Greenstar i, Greenstar Si Compact boiler or a Greenstore cylinder online via the new login area of Worcester’s website.
Using the website, installers can find out more about how the promotion works and how to turn points into prizes from their own personalised dashboard. As well as a rewards points tally, the dashboard also offers installers the opportunity to track online guarantee registrations and stay up to date with the latest news. To register for a Greenstar Rewards account and to start collecting points, please visit: worcester-bosch.co.uk/ Greenstar-Rewards
develop and manufacture quality products in all our market sectors,” says Phill Jackson, Marketing and Business Development Director. “It shows that our products have been independently tested and gives product reliability, safety and whether it is fit-for-purpose, and it is a great tool when sourcing a whole range of products, giving consumer confidence.”
Presentation to Phill Jackson (l) from Gary Fenton of the BSI
Queen’s Award
Heat pump deal
The annual Queen’s Awards for Enterprise has recognised Polypipe for its exceptional work in increasing export activity. Based in Doncaster, the company was recognised by the Queen’s Award team for its work in driving sales across the globe, including the Middle East, where Polypipe recently solidified several years of growth in the region with the opening of its first overseas Technical Centre.
A new partnership between Vaillant and Freedom Heat pumps will see the Southampton-based distributor selling Vaillant’s aroTHERM air-to-water heat pump range. Offering both pre and after sales support for end users, training and expert advice, the Freedom Heat Pumps team is expected to bring a wealth of knowledge to its Vaillant customers. John Bailey, Sales Director – Commercial and Renewable Systems, says: “Partnering with Freedom enables us to widen our distribution network and find new installers who do not use the usual plumbing and heating merchant channels. The Freedom team has valuable expertise in the heat pump market. I believe this partnership will be beneficial to both parties involved and make for a strong heat pump push nationwide.”
Instantaneous water heaters
The perfect solution for convenience and efficiency
Efficiency across the range | Since 1924, STIEBEL ELTRON has specialised in decentralised DHW heating, offering products geared towards maximum energy savings. No more high operating costs, thanks to innovative technology, reliable premium products and a first-class service from STIEBEL ELTRON. › Quality with a high level of innovation › Instantaneous water heaters for any application area › Convenience for kitchens, bathrooms and hand basins › Peace of mind with a 2 year on site parts and labour warranty DHE SLi | Instantaneous water heater DEL SLi | Instantaneous water heater
DCE | Compact instantaneous water heater DEM | Mini instantaneous water heater
Hot water and space heating solutions the STIEBEL ELTRON way. With a comprehensive range of electric space and water heating products we always have the right solution for your project. Contact us directly for our free of charge design service. STIEBEL ELTRON UK Ltd | Telephone: 0151 346 2300 | www.stiebel-eltron.co.uk ENQUIRY
6.indd 1
329
28/04/2016 09:09
ZIP INLINE
A NEW WAY OF DIRECTLY HEATING WATER ELECTRICALLY
COMPACT, NEAT DESIGNS
INSTANT HOT WATER ON DEMAND
EASY TO INSTALL
UNRIVALLED ENERGY EFFICIENCY – A RATED
NO STORED WATER
NO STANDING HEAT LOSS
NO NEED FOR TMV RATED VALVES
TANGIBLE WATER SAVINGS
Our point-of-use, instantaneous water heaters take the headache out of hot water supply. Whether you need to supply one wash basin or multiple basins and showers, our InLine range is compact, convenient and the most energy-efficient product on the market. For a FREE site inspection call 0345 6 005 005 or visit www.zipwater.com/uk to see our full range of energy efficient water solutions ENQUIRY
ZIP 307.indd 1
307
22/04/2016 11:14
May 2016
News Review
8
Combing the land Britain still a nation of water wasters for oldest combis Independent boiler manufacturer Ravenheat is in search of its oldest combi boiler in the country after installers discovered a 30year-old wall-hung combi. Bradford-based A Adams & Sons Heating attended a property in Calverley where they found a fully functioning RSF 820/20. It was installed in 1986 and was the 1225th boiler manufactured by the company for this particular model. The boiler was fully functioning and providing heat and hot water. It was taken out because the homeowner wanted a newer model. A Ravenheat combi condensing boiler WH90 was installed in its place. With the potential of up to 1224 such Ravenheat boilers out there, the company is calling on installers to join the search and report on
their oldest find on Twitter. Any heating engineer who encounters a Ravenheat combi boiler with a long life span is asked to get in touch via the company’s Twitter account @RavenheatUK.
A new report by water efficiency experts Waterwise has found that despite more of us making a bigger effort to save water, Britain unconsciously remains a nation of ‘water wasters’. The 2016 Water Saving Report, commissioned by Ideal Standard, aims to collect data on water usage habits in UK households in order to monitor water efficiency behaviours. The report found that while 86% of people don’t know how much water they use each day, 70% of respondents answered ‘yes’ when asked if they take actions to save water. However, the survey revealed that most people don’t estimate their water usage correctly. According to current estimates, each person uses around 150 litres of water per day, but just 14% of respondents named this figure. Over 40% thought it was less than 100 litres.
Tewkesbury trays on target Shower tray manufacturer MX Group, based in Tewkesbury, has opened the doors on its new shower tray production factory. Capable of producing 200 shower trays an hour, it will be manufacturing 12,000 shower trays a week during its first three months before stepping up to 16,000 a week for the last three months of the company’s financial year. Commenting on the new factory, MX Group Chairman Bernard Robinson says: “This impressive automated plant runs with a 42-man production
ENQUIRY
8.indd 1
team, with very limited manual intervention. We’ve responded to the demands of our major customers and made this investment in
our manufacturing plant here in Tewkesbury and the result is the most advanced production line of its kind anywhere.”
The top actions taken by conscious water-saving Brits were found to be turning the tap off when brushing teeth and waiting for a full load before using the washing machine – as well as taking more showers than baths. The average Brit now showers 25 times per month and takes fewer than two baths per week. 63% of people say they take showers instead of a bath to save
water – with a further 14% of Brits saying they happily share or re-use bath water. On average around one in ten Brits (12%) have a bath more than five times per week.
Down the drain Despite becoming a nation of showerers, nearly three quarters of people leave showers running for an average of 1 minute 41 seconds before getting in
– wasting up to 60 litres of water before every shower. The Water Saving Report also found a correlation between shower duration and the presence of a water meter in the home – those with a meter average under 4 minutes in the shower, while those without one double their time to just over 8 minutes. The main sources of water usage in the home come from appliances such as clothes washing machines and dishwashers, and in the bathroom, via showers, baths and toilets. We flush the toilet on average 6.4 times per day. The report also identified that the use of water-efficient washing machines (33%) and toilets (32%) are on the increase and are the water saving devices owned by the highest percentage of people. For more information on water saving, visit www. waterwise.org.uk
Saniflo roadshow underway Commencing this month, the Kinedo by Saniflo ‘Building better bathrooms’ roadshow will be touring the UK, making daily visits to merchant customers with the aim of inviting installers along to installation demonstrations and product showcases. Saniflo technical and sales teams will be on hand to answer questions and discuss how installers can improve their earnings by fitting Kinedo cubicles. A purpose-built roadshow truck will make its way
from the south to the north of the country over the next few months. The latest Kinemagic Serenity cubicle and a customisable Kineduo shower bath are permanently installed in the truck, whilst the team will demonstrate the simplicity and efficiency of installing a Kinemagic Design. A Kinedo jacket can be won at each event by entering a simple competition whilst all those staying for the full demonstration will receive a complementary gift bag full of goodies as
a thank you for their time. Refreshments will be served from the truck following the demonstration, giving customers further time to ask questions about the full range of Saniflo and Kinedo products. Any merchants wishing to book the truck for a day at their premises can contact their local Saniflo Sales Manager or ring Rajinder Ghatora on 020 8842 0033. For a full list of current venues please see the website (www.saniflo. co.uk).
306
27/04/2016 12:46
WIN
Stay ahead of the game. “I made the switch to Spirotech.”
tickets for England v Wales at the Euro’s. Plus loads of other prizes!*
Don’t forget to visit Stand F10 at INSTALLER Ricoh Arena, Coventry. May 10th-12th 2016. Stand 88 at PHEX Alexandra Palace. May 18th-19th 2016.
It’s really easy to enter our Free Prize Draw, just fill out your details online or visit us at Installer or PHEX.
www.spirotech-offer.co.uk
maximising performance *Terms and conditions apply see www.spirotech-offer.co.uk for details
ENQUIRY
27792 Euro 16 Ad (389x292mm).indd 1 SPIROTECH 309.indd 1
309
21/03/2016 12:45 10:06 21/04/2016
May 2016
10 News Review Plumber turns his Boiler sales up hand to modelling Welsh plumbing and heating engineer Gavin Orson has been named Model Builder in the new Welsh language TV series, Ffasiwn Bildar, which recently aired on S4C. The series was fronted by plasterer-turned-model Dylan Garner, who went on a nationwide search to try to transform the image of Welsh builders. Fourteen builders competed in various building and modelling challenges and the overall winner received a cash prize of £3500 as well as the opportunity to model for the Dickies’ 2016 Catalogue. Commenting on his win, Gavin says: “Even though I’m a plumber by trade, I was competing against a multitude of trades, so the practical challenges could be anything. As this was also a modelling competition, I had to try to look good at the same time. The judges were also looking at our team work and leadership skills.” Gavin had worked for Highgate Water Solutions for ten years as Head Plumbing & Heating Engineer, but says the competition has given him confidence to set up his own business, Sawel Plumbing and Heating.
Figures released by the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) have shown there was an increase in the number of gas boilers sold in the UK in the first quarter of this year. Sales grew by 1.9%, up to 435,612 units, when compared with the same period in 2015. “The increase may only be small, but it is positive news for the industry,” says Stewart Clements, Director at the HHIC. “Sales in January and February were very similar to 2015. The rise occurred in March, and whilst the fundamental drivers which impact on boiler sales have remained stable, the data available to date for ECO suggests that volumes have begun to pick up and so may help explain the increase.”
Pick up a boiler pack Call for memories for a chance to win Now in its 150th year of business, Baxi is marking the anniversary by asking the public for their special Baxi memories. From installers to merchants to customers, the company is calling for people to share their own Baxi story and become part of the company’s history. Each one will be entered
into a commemorative online book to be hosted on the website, and each photograph will become part of a 150-shaped montage of images, set to be completed by the end of this year. Anyone with a happy Baxi story is invited to email mybaxistory@baxi.co.uk along with a photograph.
Graham Give a Truck is the name of the merchant’s new competition which gives customers the chance to win a new Nissan Navara with every purchase of a Boiler Replacement Pack made in-branch. Available in branches nationwide, customers can choose from selected boilers, flues, filters and chemical water treatments. Each purchase is entered into a prize draw, with one winner receiving the keys to a Navara.
Marketing Manager Ian Kenny says: “Our Boiler Replacement Packs have proven popular amongst customers, offering a simple way of ensuring that replacement boilers are complete with all necessary components, whilst remaining compliant with legislation.” The promotion is open for entries until the end of August. For further details please visit: graham plumbersmerchant.co.uk
Fresh energy for bathrooms e100
e200
e500
The Energy Collection offers all round style and quality, all at great value prices. This great looking range includes a huge choice of products for every home and commercial application - from plain and simple to super stylish.It’s a collection that’s designed to suit today’s bathrooms and budgets. You can trust it to deliver the right results.
For a brochure call 0800 077 8365. Email: twyford.marketing@twyfordbathrooms.com www.twyfordbathrooms.com
BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN MANUFACTURERS OF BATHROOM & WASHROOM FITTINGS TWYFORD BATHROOMS STOKE-ON-TRENT
Transforming bathrooms since 1849 ENQUIRY
10.indd 1
310
27/04/2016 09:32
May 2016
NEWS Review Chance to win the Top title Now in its seventh year, the Britain’s Top Tradesperson competition is on the hunt for 2016’s winning candidate. Sponsored by Screwfix, entries are now open to those who excel in their field. Previous winners have included plumbers, joiners and electricians. Not only will this year’s winner carry the title of Britain’s Top Tradesperson, but they will also win the keys to a brand new Toyota vehicle worth £32,000, with all the gadgets they need. Last year Darren Lawton (pictured), an electrician from Newcastle, walked away with the crown after fighting off the competition from thousands of entrants. Darren impressed a judging panel with his passion and
PEOPLE on the Move 11 SummitSkills has appointed Janet Shelley MBE as Business Development and Skills Manager. Janet will manage skills projects as well as secure funding opportunities to support the employers that SummitSkills represents, and work on its standards, qualifications and apprenticeships. She has played a role in the industry over the years, primarily as founder of Women Builders. Bathroom mirrors and cabinets specialist, HiB, has appointed Sean Mannion to Area Sales Manager Scotland and North West England. Sean has many years of experience in retail sales working for a large furniture company. Sean’s remit will be to grow HiB’s product portfolio through its retail network throughout Scotland and the North West of England.
dedication to his trade. He says winning has had an amazing impact on his business, bringing him new customers and filling his diary for months ahead. Plumbers who think they have the right stuff have until 5th June 2016 to put their case forward and
enter. Regional finalists will go head-to-head later that month. The national final will be in July, with the overall winner being named Britain’s Top Tradesperson 2016. To enter, go into any Screwfix store or log on to screwfix.com/btt for further details of the competition.
Honouring talent Meeting greater demand
Two new appointments have been made at Wirquin. Simon Edwards (pictured) has been named National Sales Manager while Tim Heard has been appointed as Channel Director - National Accounts. Both come to their new roles with a wealth of experience. Simon has been in the industry for 27 years, with a focus on sales. Tim has spent the last 15 years in senior level Sales and Marketing roles. Hamworthy Heating is pleased to welcome two new Area Sales Managers to their team. Anthony Curry (pictured) is tasked with covering the regions of South & West Yorkshire, including Sheffield and Leeds. Dave Moulsdale will be responsible for looking after South West England and South Wales following the retirement of two Hamworthy Sales Managers. Herz Biomass has announced the appointment of Paul Brimble as an Area Sales Manager. In his role Paul will oversee business operations in the South West, maintaining relations with existing partners and creating new avenues for sales growth. Paul has worked for over 30 years in the heating and renewables industry and has held previous directorial roles at Windhager UK and Solar Thermal Ltd.
The Intergas team receive their award from Austin Healey (l)
A clutch of winners were unveiled at the recent H&V News Awards, where outstanding work was recognised before an audience of some 1100 guests at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. From small installation companies to market leading manufacturers, the awards are designed to recognise some of the best talent and contributions to the industry. Scooping the Domestic H&V Product of the Year award was Intergas Heating for its HRE Combi Compact boiler. From 11 finalists in this category, Intergas was selected as the winner because, in the opinion of the judges, it was “genuinely innovative, with a low maintenance configuration, innovative controls and imaginative design”. Speaking about the accolade, Stephen Zouch, MD of Intergas Heating, says: “We are a small manufacturer in the UK, but
11.indd 1
we have a very special range of boilers. We’ve always punched above our weight and we’re delighted that our product benefits have been recognised by the industry.” The Domestic Heating Contractor of the year went to TSG Building services, based in Potters Bar, while the prize for Energy Efficient Installer of the Year was presented to Western Air Ducts, based in Bath. Reflecting the growing presence of smart technology in the industry, judges singled out A.C. Wilgar for the Smart Installer of the Year award. The Orpington and Beckenham based business has been a regular winner at the awards since the business was first established in 1985. Not forgetting the importance of apprentices, H&V News recognised Richard Baron of Balfour Beatty Engineering Services with the Apprentice of the Year award.
Electric radiator specialist Electrorad has expanded its head office in Leeds to meet increasing demand for its heating products. Located in Clayton Wood Rise, the current office has now almost trebled in size to provide additional space for training rooms, stock, sales and warehousing. “Our new office space will allow us to expand our core teams to support the growth we are experiencing, whilst giving us sufficient space to support our future expansion plans,” says Richard Brown, MD at Electrorad. “The whole team is excited about the growth and this latest development follows the launch of our new and innovative touch screen control hub – which represents one of the first of its kind in our industry – and for which we have already experienced high demand,” Richard Brown concludes.
Elmhurst Energy, a specialist in energy performance assessment, has announced that Martyn Reed (pictured) will be appointed as its new MD. The announcement follows the decision by Stephen O’Hara to step down to serve as Chair of the Group of Companies, taking the lead on a number of related business ventures. Martyn was formerly the Operations Director for Elmhurst Energy. Pump manufacturer Wilo UK has named Jeff Mountford as National Account Manager, with primary responsibility for the industry segment. Previously Jeff worked within the building services and industrial segments for Grundfos for over 20 years, and 35 years in total within the pump and motor industry. He started in the sector in 1980 as an Export Sales Engineer for Crane Pumps. Expanding its sales team, radiator manufacturer Stelrad has announced the appointment of George Denton as Business Development Manager. He will be responsible for the East Midlands territory. George previously spent eight years in food retail management and, as a mature student, achieved a BSc in Business Studies, specialising in strategy, from De Montfort University in Leicester. Strengthening its sales team, Conex Bänninger has welcomed Ben Hampton as Regional Sales Manager for the central region. Ben will concentrate on developing key contractor and merchant relationships across the Midlands, East Anglia and Central Wales. With a wealth of technical knowledge in the HVAC fittings industry, Ben previously worked at Sauter Automation and Western Automation.
28/04/2016 09:15
May 2016
Each month, PHAM News shines the spotlight on installers around the country to get a picture of what life is like for them at work and at play. NAME: Steven Andrusjak COMPANY: Anders Plumbing and Heating Ltd. FROM: Wigan
At work... What does your average day look like? “Generally I start at around 8.00 – 8.30am and work through until 4.00pm. I try to avoid working weekends or late nights unless it’s a special request.” What’s the best bit about your job? “I really enjoy helping my customers secure a more economical system. Occasionally you can show all the potential savings to a homeowner but they sometimes remain unconvinced that a new system is worth the upheaval. It can be hard for customers to make that next step and trust somebody to advise them, so when I am able to help someone save a bit of money that’s a great feeling.” Are your children likely to follow in your footsteps? “I think there’s more chance that my threeyear-old daughter will go into the trade than my son. She’s more mechanically minded and is always putting things back together again or fiddling with something” Where’s your favourite trade counter? “Where possible, I like to support my local, independently-owned plumbing supplies shop. However, it often depends on where I am or where I can find the part cheapest. Delivery can also be important given how busy my day is, so if a chain can deliver, that can also play a role” What’s best – plastic or copper? “If I was installing a brand new central heating system, I’d fit plastic as I’d be able to hide the pipework under the floor. If it was an old pipe being connected to a new one, copper is realistically the best option – so it depends on what I’m doing. Copper can take longer but if it was going to be on show I’d use copper as it looks nicer.” Would you inform on an installer working on gas who wasn’t Gas Safe Registered? “I have informed Gas Safe in the past, but it really has to be the homeowner that puts the call in. I think there is the danger that nonregistered installers claim to be able to do the work cheaper, but I try to tell my customers that it just isn’t a risk worth taking. Maybe we need a bit more education for customers to stop what I imagine is an awful lot of people getting away with dangerous practices.”
At play... What’s your favourite breakfast? “On a weekend I do enjoy a Full English, but on weekdays I am on the go so I tend to grab some boring cornflakes.” How do you think England will fair in the Euros this summer? “I think we’ll do as well as we have done in any other Euro! I don’t hold out too much hope that we’ll win and I doubt England will be in it for long. I think the players would rather have the holiday time and it will show.” What mobile phone do you use? “I’m normally glued to my phone as it is a vital part of my business. I’ve just upgraded to an iPhone 6 and it’s constantly ringing. On the rare moment it is quiet, you can normally bet the house phone will start ringing!” Do you do much DIY? “I recently completed a large extension to my house. I got a builder in to do the shell and the outside work but I did the majority of the kitchen, bathroom, plumbing and some of the electrics myself. I can turn my hand to anything and enjoy doing it. I think that’s probably rare nowadays as more people prefer to employ someone else.” If you were a superhero, who would you be? “I’m a fan of Superman. I’ve not seen the new Batman vs Superman film yet because my other half hasn’t been swayed into coming with me – I may have to go on my own and have popcorn for one!”
Steven Andrusjak was speaking after taking advantage of Worcester, Bosch Group’s installer cashback promotion by installing a Greensource air to air heat pump in his own home. To find out more about Worcester’s installer cashback promotion, visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk
YOUR Views
Sponsored by
£100 Star Letter What’s the ErP done for us? So, we have had ErP now for around six months. As an installer, what changes do I see with the introduction of the ErP directive? Let me think... ah yes... none! No, tell a lie, we have a sticker that comes with the boiler. As many said before it even came into force, the whole ErP is just a waste of time and I see absolutely no benefit to anyone. If someone could explain to me what benefit the ErP has, I’m all ears. Are consumers saving lots of money on their fuel bills since its introduction? Not from my experience and feedback from customers. Are the heating systems and boilers any better than they were before ErP? No. Same boilers, same controls. Do installers have more work due to its introduction? Not from what I see.
to have no relevance or meaning to the public. What about the The National Measurement and Regulation Office (NMRO). These are the people who are supposed to police the ErP. Has anyone heard of them or from them? Has anyone been prosecuted for not handing over the ErP label? I doubt it. In fact, what are they supposed to police, how would they check and what can they do? The ErP is meaningless. You can install an ‘A’ rated boiler, with controls rated Class VIII, which as a system will get you ‘A+’ but the property could be draughty, with very poor insulation, meaning large fuel bills to keep the house warm, but the same system could be installed in a very well insulated property, with good air tightness, so how can both these systems have an ‘A+’? It’s a complete joke and does not benefit the industry in any way.
The whole thing is just bureaucracy for the sake of bureaucracy. When I have installed a heating system with controls and printed off a system label and given it to the end user, they look at me a bit strange, then usually ask, “How do I turn up the heating again?” The ErP seems
C. Flaherty via email
Spotted on Twitter BF Gas Services LTD @BFGas New @WorcesterBosch installed for a lovely old lady, makes you feel good the satisfaction on her face!
Simon Wann @SwannPlumbing Neighbours happy now that sewer break confirmed as wear & tear! Not because someone had been having a serious curry!
Celsius Heating @CelsiusHeating 3 properties water damaged, as person who removed the old washing machine was too lazy to cap off.
Henman Dunn Ltd @HenmanDunnLtd Londoners are getting an incentive to upgrade their boiler - when will it be extended to the rest of the country?
Chris Barrett @JABGasandHeat Why, despite warning notices on the door, do people insist on drying clothes in a compartment with a open flued boiler! #braindead
Twin_e1 @FixingIsTheGame You can train all you want but self pride is a different matter
@PHAMNews
PHAM News
Let us know what you think... The Editor welcomes letters from readers on all aspects of the industry. Letters can be sent by email or post but must have a return name, phone number and address (not for publication).
Please address your letters to:
The Editor, PHAM News, 1b Station Square, Flitwick, Beds, MK45 1DP or email: editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk
Easily one of our most reliable boilers ever
EcoBlue Advance Combi
Getting to know you
The Baxi EcoBlue Advance Combi now comes with an extended 10 year warranty*
PROVEN RELIABLE
TECHNOLOGY
BAXI
CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
BAXI
GENUINE
PARTS
FREE
HANDS-ON
TRAINING
WORKS ONLINE
LOYALTY SCHEME
For free hands-on training call 0844 848 8281 today baxi.co.uk/training *Available until 31st December 2015. Terms and conditions apply. Visit baxi.co.uk/warranty
12.indd 1
28/04/2016 15:37
Advertisement feature
Don’t miss your chance to win the Plumber of the Year title! Time is running out for outstanding plumbers to put their hat into the ring to win the title of 2016 Plumber of the Year in the competition run by JT, Bristan and Plumb Center. Read on to find out how to enter and what rewards will be showered upon the winner.
F
ollowing the 2016 UK Plumber of the Year competition opening for entries in April, the search to find the pride of UK plumbing will end shortly and we’re calling on you to enter now to win this unique competition. The brainchild of bathroom giants JT, Bristan and Plumb Center, the industry competition aims to recognise the remarkable level of talent from plumbers across the UK, with a massive prize fund awarded to the worthy winner. The competition was first launched last year where a nationwide search found Josh Colbert, a multi-skilled plumber from Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, as the worthy winner of the inaugural UK Plumber of the Year competition. After being inundated with entries, the judging panel selected 10 finalists based on their applications who then embarked on a voting campaign to get as much support as possible to make the final interview stage with the five plumbers who received the most votes making it through.
Impressive entries Stewart Norris from Boston, David Murray from Edinburgh, Paul Clarke from Billericay, Leigh Hattersley from Stoke-on-Trent and Josh Colbert from Huntington came to Bristan HQ for an interview session to impress the judges. Josh, 24, impressed the judging panel in the final session of the competition with his skill-set, passion for the trade, his ambition and forward-thinking, and was awarded with the title of the 2015 UK Plumber of the Year competition. Speaking of his win, Josh says: “Winning last year came as a complete shock. I couldn’t believe it when I got the call! I am so grateful for not only the reward itself and amazing prizes that came with it, but the fantastic media exposure I received which generated new opportunities for my business. This is something every plumber should get involved with in 2016.” Now in its second year, the UK Plumber of the Year Competition recognises the very best knowledge, service and passion in the industry and is calling for entries from plumbers and nominations from members of the public nationwide.
How to enter It couldn’t be easier. Simply visit www.ukplumberoftheyear. com and fill in the entry form either for yourself or for a person you are nominating and you will receive an application form by email straightaway. The competition will be judged by a panel of experts from JT, Bristan and Plumb Center. Plumbers will need to come armed with the tools and knowledge to show they’re worthy of being crowned the best in their field and winning the ultimate prize pot, which will be revealed in April. Deadline for all entries is midnight on Sunday 19th June 2016.
Big prizes l-r: Richard Redfern (Wolseley Category Director, Plumbing), Sarah Holey (Bristan Channel Manager, Trade Merchants) and John Schofield (Just Trays Sales and Marketing Director)
13.indd 1
Surely the title of the 2016 UK Plumber of the Year is enough to convince anyone to enter? Ok…This year the prize fund is bigger than ever including JT, Bristan and Plumb Center products and vouchers along
with products from Arctic, Big Wipes, CAT, CK Tools, Epson, Milwaukee, PayPal, Regin, Rothenberger and Toolbank. This year sees the addition of Plumb Center, the UK’s leading supplier of plumbing and heating products, join forces with JT and Bristan to become a partner for the 2016 UK Plumber of the Year competition.
Industry support Richard Redfern, Category Director – Plumbing at Plumb Center, says: “We are honoured to be part of the 2016 UK Plumber of the Year competition alongside JT and Bristan. We are looking forward to supporting the competition through our network of branches, sharing our knowledge and expertise and getting our broad network of plumbing customers involved in this great event.” Paul Crossley, Managing Director, JT, and competition founder, comments: “We are delighted that Plumb Center has signed up as a partner for this year’s UK Plumber of the Year competition. Having another fantastic partner on board will ensure the 2016 competition is an even greater success than last year.” Ian Hansell, General Manager of Bristan, adds: “We were delighted by the success of the launch last year and with the support of the UK’s leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products, this year will be even bigger and better.”
Keeping up with the competition This is an incredible opportunity for plumbers, so make sure you are part of the action!
@UKPOTY
Facebook.com/ UKPlumberoftheYear
www.ukplumberoftheyear.com
27/04/2016 09:35
May 2016
14 Green Matters Report highlights Consumer comfort the key to success Green Deal failure A report by the National Audit Office has concluded that the Government’s heavily criticised Green Deal scheme has not achieved value for money. The scheme, which cost taxpayers £240 million, including grants to stimulate demand, has not generated additional energy savings. It is suggested that this is because DECC’s design and implementation did not persuade householders that energy efficiency measures are worth paying for. The NAO report ‘Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation’ also found that DECC’s design of its Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme to support the Green Deal added to energy suppliers’ costs of meeting their obligations. The report finds that while the Department achieved its target to improve one million homes with the schemes, this is not a direct indicator of progress against the objective of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, because different types of energyefficiency measures save different amounts of CO2. The schemes have saved substantially less CO2 than previous supplier obligations, mainly because of the Department’s initial focus on ‘harder-to-treat’ homes, as its analysis showed that previous schemes had absorbed demand for cheaper measures.
Demand for Green Deal finance has fallen well below the Government’s expectations, with households only funding 1% of the measures installed through the schemes with a Green Deal loan. In the NAO’s accompanying investigation into DECC’s loans to the Green Deal Finance Company, it found that the Department expects that it will not recover its £25 million stakeholder loan to the finance company, plus £6 million of interest that has accrued to it. Amyas Morse, Head of the NAO, comments: “DECC’s ambitious aim to encourage households to pay for measures looked good on paper, as it would have reduced the financial burden of improvements on all energy consumers. But in practice, its Green Deal design not only failed to deliver any meaningful benefit, it increased suppliers’ costs – and therefore energy bills.”
Understanding more about the behavioural psychology of consumers will be just as important to reducing carbon emissions as innovative technologies – that was the message from Andrew Keating, Marketing Director UK and Ireland for Baxi Heating, who was speaking at last month’s Sustainable Thermal Energy Technologies for the Future conference. Hosted at Warwick University the conference was designed to discuss how companies can access support
Andrew Keating from Baxi
for growth, innovation, R&D and the development of products and services.
Andrew Keating said that while emission reductions are important to society and policy makers, research by Baxi has shown that the majority of homeowners prioritise affordable comfort over green issues. He argued that the primary driver for consumers to upgrade their heating was financial, with householders seeking to offset the cost of renewable technologies via the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). However, he said that with the RHI currently
under consultation, it will be increasingly important to make innovative technology easy to understand, operate and look after if wider take-up is to have the desired impact on carbon reduction targets. Keating concluded that the smart revolution will likely pave the way to greater engagement with energy efficiency, and that smart meters and the Internet of Things will lead to connected homes with more powerful data to aid persuasion and behavioural change.
Cumbria gets a taste for cheese fuel A new £10m plant that turns cheese residue into biogas, which can be supplied to the National Grid, has been built in Cumbria by British firm Clearfleau. The anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, which will supply Lake District Biogas’s creamery with up to a quarter of its energy needs, will produce 1000m3 of biogas per hour, with more than 80% upgraded for injection into the national grid, which Clearfleau claims is equivalent to the yearly gas requirements of 4000 homes. The plant creates gas from the feedstock from dairy giant First Milk’s Aspatria creamery site, comprising the residue from cheese production such as washwaters and whey. This will take over from the firm’s current aerobic plant,
generation, with the balance set to be used by local businesses and households.
Green gas
resulting in carbon footprint reductions, along with lower operational and energy and off-site disposal costs. Lake District Biogas will
operate the site for the next two decades. It is estimated that 60% of the bio-methane produced will be used in the creamery for steam
Mike Foster, CEO of the Energy and Utilities Alliance, argues that biogas can play a major role in helping to decarbonise heat in the UK. Speaking at a recent AllParty Parliamentary Group for Energy Studies meeting, he said: “We all know that decarbonising heat is tricky, but necessary if we are to meet our climate change obligations, and gas has a critical role to play in the process. The gas grid currently delivers gas to 85% of the UK population and there is little appetite to simply abandon gas and start again with a new system, not to mention the enormous costs involved.”
Working for woodfuel quality Metering and monitoring Woodsure, the woodfuel quality assurance scheme, and HETAS, the official body for approving heating appliances and services, have announced that they will work more closely together to handle the administration of the woodfuel scheme and to educate consumers about the importance of using the right fuel. Bruce Allen, CEO at HETAS, comments: “Woodsure has members across the UK and has reviewed the way it wants to administer the growing scheme. With HETAS operating the certification end of the scheme for the past few years, it seems natural that the increased administration required for the scheme could fall
14.indd 1
within the HETAS day-today activities. The Directors of Woodsure continue to operate the scheme with increased support from HETAS, which fully supports the long standing relationship between
the two organisations.” Both companies will work side by side in the HETAS offices in Tewkesbury. For more information on Woodsure, please visit www. woodsure.co.uk
A free CPD-accredited guide to metering and monitoring for the domestic RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) has been produced by Mitsubishi Electric. The company points out that monitoring is important on a number of levels because in addition to increasing RHI payments, it can help homeowners operate their heating more efficiently, enables the Government to gather more data on performance, and allows manufacturers access to ongoing diagnostics. Under the RHI scheme there are different criteria and tariffs for homes, businesses and public buildings. This guide looks at the criteria for the residential sector
and highlights the numerous reasons for households and social landlords to consider switching to renewable heat systems. M it s u b i s h i E le c t r ic ’s Ecodan heat pumps come with the option of a metering,
monitoring and service package to help homeowners and social housing providers gain extra RHI payments. To download a copy of the guide visit http://library. mitsubishielectric.co.uk/ and click on CPD Guides.
27/04/2016 09:37
ENQUIRY
NU HEAT 312.indd 1
312
21/04/2016 12:43
May 2016
16 Gadgets & Tools
Sealing it right Grab that grime The Ray is a sealant finishing tool that seals, smooths and removes silicone residue in a single pass and is said to produce the perfect finished seal every time. Launched by Batoidea Ltd, the Ray is described as a time saving device that reduces product wastage. When passed along the seal, the Ray simultaneously cuts away and collects the residual material, whilst smoothing the surface of the silicone for a beautiful, clean, mess-free finish. www.raytool.co.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
104
The all-new Abrasive Quad Fabric from Big Wipes is claimed to grip 40% more grime with every wipe, so you can mop up even the toughest dirt in the quickest time. The new wipes have increased strength and greater absorbency, which makes them tougher in use and
able to soak up extra grime. The enhanced scrubbing power of the abrasive surface drives the powerful Big Wipes 4x4 formula deep into the dirt to speed up cleaning. No chemicals or preservatives have been added and the fabric is recyclable. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.bigwipes.com
105
Noke padlock throws away the key Noke is a padlock you unlock with your smartphone, eliminating the hassle and frustration of lost keys and forgotten combinations. The device works with iOS, Android, and Windows smartphones that include Bluetooth 4.0. It’s useful for plenty of applications, from locking your bike to securing a
ENQUIRY
toolbox holding precious and pricy power tools. It’s so easy to use that you won’t need to launch the app or even remove your phone from your pocket. The lock activates when your app-enabled device is within 10 feet. All you have to do is press its shank and you’re good to go. If you ever forget your phone, you can
still unlock the Noke with a custom emergency code. The Padlock is safe to use in all weathers too. You can easily share access to your Noke with others via the app. It tracks who, when and where the lock was used. To find out more, visit the website (noke.com). The sticker price is £69.99, but red5.co.uk sells it for less.
Cut to the chase The multi-cutter range from Bosch has been enhanced with five new models. There are three professional corded tools, the GOP 5536 Professional, GOP 4030 Professional and GOP 30-28 Professional and in the professional cordless range, the GOP 18V-28 Professional and GOP 10.8V28 Professional. All tools are equipped with the new Starlock accessory mounting system, which is a uniform standard mounting system that allows users to snap accessories quickly
and easily onto their oscillating power tools. Using this system, Bosch makes it possible to change accessories tool-free and quickly within only three seconds. The five new models fall into three performance classes: Starlock, StarlockPlus and StarlockMax. These classes are used to help select accessories that match the machine’s power – for increased longevity of both tools and accessories. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.bosch.com
106
315
16 (WAS 19).indd 1 Magazine.indd 1 Firejet Release - PHAM
27/04/2016 09:42 25/01/2016 15:34:27
CR ED T R AV IT A AD AI CC E LA O BL UN E TS
BUY DIRECT - CUT OUT THE MIDDLEMAN
PAY LESS AT
WUNDATRADE.CO.UK YOUR ONE STOP FLOOR HEATING SHOP! PAY LESS FOR FLOOR HEATING! PAY LESS FOR PUSH FIT PLUMBING! EVERY POUND YOU SAVE IS A POUND YOU DON’T NEED TO EARN!
ENQUIRY
313
ORDER BEFORE 5.30PM FOR NEXT DAY DELIVERY
✆ WUNDA 313.indd 1
0800 083 2677 or 01291 634 149 (50 lines)
WUNDATRADE.CO.UK 21/04/2016 12:49
May 2016
18 Training Update Learn about water treatment Remote monitoring on the Net To learn more about the importance of water treatment for domestic heating and hot water systems, logon to Worcester’s latest training module. It looks at the benefits of clean heating systems as well as how to ensure a system complies with Building Regulations. The course, which concludes with an assessment, takes just 20 minutes to complete and covers the following areas: the need for water treatment; standards, legislation and regulatory bodies; common central heating problems; diagnostic measure; and water treatment methods. Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, comments: “Water treatment is an essential part of any new boiler installation or replacement procedure, so it is essential that installers
are familiar with what is required of them as well as how to comply with the UK Buildings Regulations. “This training course takes an in-depth look at water treatment and will allow installers to better relay the benefits of system filters and general water treatment methods to their customers.” The water treatment module is the latest in a range of training courses available via the manufacturer’s online training academy, designed to give installers an interactive platform from which they can explore specific topics in detail and improve their industry knowledge. To register for Worcester’s Online Training Academy, or for more information on water treatment, visit www.worcesterboschacademy.co.uk
Get into the continuous flow Gas fired continuous flow water heaters are in the spotlight as Rinnai launches its 2016 training programme. The company manufactures a comprehensive range of ErP labelled ‘A’ rated continuous flow units and is looking to support its offering with tailor made courses. Engineers will have the opportunity to get handson experience to familiarise themselves with the technology, from system design and installation through to maintenance.
On site training will take place on the following dates: 26 May, 23 June, 28 July, 25 August and 22 September. Bespoke courses are offered at the company’s technical academy in Runcorn. In addition, Rinnai offers a range of CPD courses designed by Technical & Compliance Officer, Ian Jenkins, for M&E consultants and specifiers, design and build engineers, facilities managers and contractors. For more information email ianjenkins@rinnaiuk.com.
To support the recent launch of Ariston Net, Ariston has introduced a training course that will help installers master the new remote diagnostic capabilities of this service. Ariston Net enables organisations, including servicing companies, councils and maintenance providers, to offer customers with Ariston boilers the best possible levels of support. The course will cover how to remotely monitor boilers in real-time and change any settings if required. The course will
also outline Ariston Net’s functions and capabilities, while explaining practical elements, such as how it is wired in and connected to the Bus BridgeNet system.
Thermal imaging CPD has finds the faults cooling covered
In a move to cover more regions of the country, Flir Systems has expanded its Level 1 and Level 2 training courses. The company says that in recent years thermal imaging technology has become more affordable for engineers looking to detect faults in buildings and electromechanical systems. The Infrared Training Centre, the training arm of Flir, will deliver the courses which are aimed at installers who want to deepen their knowledge and gain a formal qualification. Courses have now been confirmed for the following locations: Manchester (16th May and 27th June), Aberdeen (6th June) and West Malling, Kent (4th July) To book a place contact Jon Willis, ITC Manager North EMEA, by email: jon.willis@flir.uk.com. Details on the entire ITC programme for 2016 are online (www.irtraining.eu).
Commercial burner courses at Baltur facility in Italy
Donation after fire Swindon College has benefited from a donation from Polypipe after a fire destroyed the plumbing workshop earlier this year. The manufacturer of above and below ground drainage, plastic plumbing and UFH systems donated a range of plastic pipes, fittings and waste traps to enable the Plumbing Department to get back to teaching. It will also give students the hands-on experience they need to get back on course with their studies. Gill Mendham, the College’s Head of Construction, says: “We are grateful to the team at Polypipe. Their products will give our students the opportunity to get back to work and practicing their craft on real industry tools.”
18 (WAS 20).indd 1
The Ariston Net app is available through the App Store and Google Play. For more information on Ariston Net, visit: www.ariston.com/ uk/ariston-net
Italy is the setting for EOGB’s latest series of commercial training courses, which will be held at the Baltur R&D facility in Bologna later this year. The week-long courses cover single stage, two stage and fully modulating burners, oil, gas and dual-fuel, and electronic and mechanical operations. Each course is open to a maximum of 10 candidates, and will run in July and September to provide more opportunities for engineers to attend. The first course will run from the 11th to 15th July and the second from the 19th to 23rd September. Martin Cooke, Technical & Training Manager at EOGB, says: “This is the eighth year that we have provided commercial burner training, which is essential for engineers in order to learn about the reality of working on commercial plants. The Baltur facility in Italy provides an excellent environment for engineers to improve their knowledge and gain skills
through practical activity instead of just classroom-based learning.” Due to high demand, the July course is now fully booked. However, places are still available for the September intake. Email training@eogb.co.uk or call 01480 477066 for more information.
Heat i ng eng i ne er s , energy managers and facility managers are invited to attend the new Radiant Conditioning CPD at Zehnder, the indoor climate solutions specialist. The new course is part of a range of certified Continuing Professional Development training resources offered by the company that cover technologies used to heat, cool and ventilate buildings. Zehnder says the issue of cooling is gaining greater prominence in today’s society, as more buildings experience heating issues such as humidity, overheating and solar shading, which impact on the wellbeing of occupants. This Radiant Conditioning CPD looks at the different cooling solutions that are available, their limitations, capabilities and the benefits that can be gained from utilising radiant conditioning solutions. Good practice that can be adopted for system design is also discussed, as well as the application of conditioning solutions in varied environments. To find out more about the Radiant Conditioning CPD and to arrange for a presentation at a location of your choice, visit www. zehnder.co.uk/service/cpd
27/04/2016 10:18
T N EWVE N E
a
company
E AD TR
a
company
YOUR LOCAL
FOOD & REFRESHMENT · OFFERS & GIVE-AWAYS · TECHNICAL DEMOS · LATEST SERVICES
MEET, EAT AND FIND OUT ABOUT THE SERVICES THAT CAN SUPPORT YOUR BUSINESS Find your local Trade Talk event Tuesday 5th April
NOTTINGHAM East Midlands Conference Centre
Thursday 12th May
ABERDEEN Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre
Thursday 7th April
SWANSEA Liberty Stadium
Thursday 19th May
BRIGHTON Brighton Racecourse
Tuesday 12th April
NORWICH Norwich City Football Club
Tuesday 31st May
NEWCASTLE Newcastle Racecourse
Tuesday 19th April
EDINBURGH Edinburgh Corn Exchange
Thursday 2nd June
BIRMINGHAM Drayton Manor Hotel
Thursday 21st April
LEEDS Headingley Experience
Tuesday 7th June
SOUTH LONDON Sandown Park Racecourse
Tuesday 26th April
WATFORD Allianz Park
Thursday 9th June
EXETER Exeter Racecourse
Tuesday 3rd May
LIVERPOOL Aintree Racecourse
Tuesday 14th June
GLASGOW Hampden Park
Thursday 5th May
BRISTOL The Bristol Pavilion
LIMITED PLACES, DON’T MISS OUT...
See full list of venues and register now at myplumbcenter.co.uk plus get the chance to WIN an iPad on the day. Terms and conditions apply, please see website for details.
SUPPORTED BY:
ENQUIRY
WOLESELY 27738_TradeTalk_PHAM_389x292mm.indd 317.indd 1 1
317
21/04/2016 11/03/2016 12:48 15:54
May 2016
20 PROUD to be a Professional Why did you choose a career in the plumbing and heating industry? I wouldn’t say I actually chose a career in the plumbing and heating industry. My father was a carpenter and I always thought I would follow him into that trade. However, when I left school in 1974 it was really difficult to get on to an apprenticeship scheme. The country was in chaos and lots of people were on strike or working a three day week. As there were no carpentry opportunities available at the time, a friend of my father offered me an apprenticeship as a plumber and that’s how I started out. It was more luck than judgement I suppose, but once I got underway I kind of liked it. What’s been your career path? I attended the Isle of Wight Technical College and completed a four year apprenticeship, achieving the City & Guilds basic craft certificate followed by an advanced City & Guilds qualification. I remained with my first employer until 1980 and then decided to set up as a sole trader, with my business growing to around 12 members of staff at its peak. In around 1992, I decided to become a member of the Institute.
ENQUIRY
20 (WAS 18).indd 1
Jon Coleman Continuing our new series of columns from members of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, Jon Coleman, proprietor of JR Coleman and Co in the Isle of Wight, explains why he is proud to be a plumbing professional.
I was encouraged to do so by a former lecturer at the Isle of Wight College, Lawrence Fairweather. Lawrence was a college lecturer for around 30 years, so just about every plumber on the Isle of Wight will have passed through his classroom door at some point. Although now retired, he is still well known at the Institute for his passionate approach to helping young people train and qualify as plumbing and heating installers. Why did you choose to become a CIPHE member? I think it’s important for people to have confidence in the tradesmen they are inviting into their homes. The first time you work for someone you are obviously a complete
stranger to them, so I think it gives customers confidence to know you’re a member of a professional body. Anyone can claim to be a plumber, but only a true professional can be a registered plumber. That’s the difference. If you’re a member of the CIPHE you are a true professional. What do the words ‘Proud to be a Professional’ mean to you? All too often, the media – TV programmes in particular – focus on cowboy plumbers because it makes good television. It’s a shame someone hasn’t filmed a series yet that highlights the good work of professional plumbers, as opposed to continuing to showcase the clowns who single-handedly
manage to ruin the reputation of the industry. Fred Dibnah was my all-time hero and I wish someone could do for the plumbing trade what Fred did for interest in industrial heritage. Our sector needs someone to present a more positive image. On that note, I think there is scope to start a similar campaign to the one CORGI used to run some years ago. There was once a slogan that asked the general public to ‘Always use a CORGI Registered Installer’. It would be great if the CIPHE could start a similar campaign to encourage homeowners to ‘Always use a CIPHE Registered Plumber’, as this would help prompt people to make the right choice when appointing a reputable, professional installer. How do you think careers in the plumbing and heating industry could be made more attractive to young people? Clearly, something needs to be done to reach potential school leavers with the message that it’s not necessary for everyone to have a university education. In the past, I’ve actually heard a teacher say, “you’re unlikely to get into university, so perhaps you should consider a career in the building
industry instead”. I was really angry to hear this, as when I was at school people would aspire to be a tradesman. Back then, being a tradesman was something to be proud of whereas now it seems you would only be pointed in that direction if you weren’t considered clever enough for further studies. That’s just wrong and explains why there is a shortage of the right calibre of people entering the industry. When young people leave university at the age of 21, many still don’t know what they’d like to do and some will have wasted valuable time in the process of getting a degree. At that stage, they may have missed the boat to start a career in plumbing and heating. Better promotion of the apprenticeship route by schools would really help to counteract this trend. And finally, on a personal note, one of the proudest things I have ever achieved is to have had eight apprentices pass through my company over the years. Investing in the next generation of plumbing and heating engineers is something I am extremely passionate about, so I’m pleased to be doing my bit.
334
27/04/2016 10:21
18681_Stelrad No.1 PHAM News_389x282_Layout 1 20/04/2016 15:48 Page 1
There’s a reason STELRAD is the UK’s number one radiator brand Actually, there are quite a few Choose from a large range of colours to brighten up your home
The first to offer a 15 year warranty on all flat fronted radiators
Stelrad offers the widest range of radiator styles and sizes in the UK and Ireland
Energy saving radiators that can save up to 10.5% on your heating bills
Stelrad Compact is the UK’s best selling radiator
Stelrad is the number one choice for plumbers and installers
Stelrad leads the market in LST radiators
Find out more at Stelrad.com ENQUIRY
STELRAD 316.indd 1
316
Leading the way 21/04/2016 12:46
FOR A FASTER CONNECTION
PUSH OR PRESS WITH PEGLER YORKSHIRE
For a comprehensive range of quality, innovative plumbing and heating products backed by a superb technical support service, make sure you connect with Pegler Yorkshire.
FREE Phone: 0800
156 0010
email: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk
www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk ENQUIRY
PEGLAR 322.indd 1
322
21/04/2016 12:44
May 2016
PIPES Fittings & Valves 23
Legionella – prevention is better than cure The quality of our water is partly dependent on good pipework design and maintenance. Dave Dickson, UK & Australia Director for Conex Bänninger, discusses how choosing the right materials can help to minimise the risk of Legionella and other waterborne diseases.
I
t is well understood across the globe that Legionella, a bacillary germ with an eptiopathology similar to pneumonia, causes severe health issues for humans. The much more common but milder form we know as Pontiac fever presents lesser issues, but it is still a deeply unpleasant contamination. Recent cases of Legionella in Europe have prompted leading industry figures, Dave Dickson such as the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC), to once again speak out about the importance of quality materials and disease prevention training for those responsible for the control and maintenance of water systems.
Prevention plan
Copper fittings available from Conex Bänninger
A close up view of Legionella bacteria in water
which are in turn linked to the survival of waterborne bacteria. All piping materials naturally develop these biofilms over time, and current data shows that there is no substantial difference in the formation of biofilm between copper and many of the synthetic pipe materials commonly used for potable water systems. Where copper does come into its own, though, is its ability to withstand high thermal shocks whilst maintaining its installed and mechanical characteristics.
Findings from the investigations into the Reading case reported that a number of temperature checks were either inadequately performed or carried out incorrectly. The showers were also not descaled and disinfected on a quarterly basis as required, and the flushing of infrequentlyused outlets was dependent on one member of staff, with no procedure in place for this to be done in the absence of this individual. This specific case, and other reported outbreaks like it, is of course bad news for public health, but such outbreaks should act as a shot across the bows for the industry, reinforcing the importance of using the best materials, of the need for good system design and of thorough maintenance practices. To find out more about Legionella and ways to control it, please visit www.hse.gov.uk
This issue of prevention in fact runs much deeper – back to the initial system design stage. A fundamental part of good water network design is rooted in understanding how the choice of materials used can affect the health of a system. In such cases it is important to identify materials Personal duty that will assist with the reduction in waterborne diseases, The 1999 Control of Substances Regulations imposes a be it initial installation or ongoing maintenance. personal responsibility to ensure that all harmful bacteria The proliferation of bacteria such as Legionella in is minimised within the system. Filtration and reducing water systems can pose a major health risk, particularly the buildup of debris that can act as a nutriment source in for the vulnerable or those in poor health. Recognising water systems is an important step in minimising biofilm the seriousness of this issue, the EU in 2015 introduced in the system. regulations to ensure that there was a consistent water However, designers and operators should note that copper, quality policy for all member states. With updates due in whilst proven to have antimicrobial qualities and ongoing 2021 and 2027, the plumbing industry therefore has a huge mechanical benefits, should not be installed as a device for part to play in ensuring that quality control is maintained. sterilisation, as a disinfectant or as a means of improving Legionella is caught by the potability of the water humans through inhalation system. “Good design and construction of a pipe rather than by ingestion. The The enduring qualities of network is key to optimum safety” bacteria can present itself copper as a pipes and fittings in water circuits where the material continues to make temperature ranges between 25-45C°, mostly transferred it a favourite amongst installers, and its antimicrobial to the atmosphere by aerosol action such as water vapours qualities only enhance this. from air conditioning systems and faucets. Reducing risk The spread of this type of bacteria depends on certain key elements, such as: the nature of water, absence of Choice of material aside, good maintenance practice is circulation, ambient temperature, lack of on-going treatment paramount, and without it bacterial growth in pipes can and, perhaps less known, sometimes the choice of materials increase. A robust and rigorous maintenance programme used for pipework. It is therefore vital that these main must be implemented to ensure all breakdowns in the criteria are adhered to when helping to guard against network are minimised, which will in turn reduce the risk of bacterial growth developing in water that has been sat contamination of the water systems. in pipes for extended periods. Material gains Once installation is complete, it is essential that those Clearly, good design and construction of a pipe network charged with maintenance understand how to complete is key to optimum system functionality, yet the choice the checks and report any concerns. If we take these points of materials used has also been found to substantially on board as an industry, we can minimise the threat of improve the health benefits too. Numerous antimicrobial Legionnaires’ disease in our water heating systems. efficiency and mechanical studies have been conducted The recent case at a Reading care facility highlights over the past 10 years concerning copper’s ability to destroy precisely the importance of good long term maintenance a wide range of bacteria, including Legionella. practices and how important it is for those charged with According to the HSE – L8 approved code of practice and maintenance to be properly trained on how to safely guidance document – the growth of Legionella bacteria in disinfect a water system and perform the appropriate risk pipework can be linked to biofilms (nutriment build up), assessments associated with cold and hot water systems.
MV_Fluids_qtr_A3_Aug05
7/19/05
www.conexbanninger.com
● ● ● ● ● ●
11:06 AM
Page 1 PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
Simple & Rapid Installations - in Minutes Joins plain-end Pipe - No Prep Required Reusable in Pipework Dis/Assembly Stress-Free Joining with Misalignment Problem Solver in Restricted Spaces WRc/WRAS Approved for Potable Water
Email: info@mvfh.co.uk • www.mvfh.co.uk ENQUIRY
MV FLUIDS MAY 2010.indd 1
23 (WAS 25).indd 1
107
319
11/05/2010 17:01
28/04/2016 15:11
May 2016
24 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Debunking myths about push-fit The growing popularity of simple-to-use push-fit fittings has given rise to the belief that specialist knowledge is not required to install them, but this is far from the case. Lee Flood, Deputy Director of Quality at JG Speedfit, highlights why plumbing expertise will always be required.
T
here is no argument that plastic is growing in popularity within the plumbing industry, with more plumbers becoming equipped to use the durable material. However, some professionals often link the use of plastic with a lack of skill as they’re using easy-application materials. As a result, push-fit fittings are often criticised for not requiring the same skill as traditional methods, such as soldering, but this is not the case. While fixing pipes together – whether through soldering or using push-fit fittings – is one aspect of the profession, the wider job specification of a plumber mustn’t be underestimated or forgotten. Plumbers dedicate significant time in training and education, and as more young professionals are being taught with push-fit fittings, this doesn’t remove the skill. Understanding the building and concept of a plumbing system is just one of the required skills of a plumber.
Plumbing know-how When homeowners have a plumbing problem, the most important factor for selecting a plumber is undoubtedly the skills and knowledge they have of the building they are working in. Professional plumbers need to have the skill to know what a customer wants, which includes how to install in the most safe and efficient way. By using a push-fit fitting, plumbers aren’t losing this vision, but they are completing the work using the most suitable system for the application. Additionally, the push-fit fitting allows plumbers to complete their work more quickly. Providing added value to customers is at the forefront of all professions and offering a service that has the same reliability but at a quicker pace ensures that customers are receiving a better service. Having said that, using push-fit systems gives the plumber plenty of options when deciding on the plumbing layout of the dwelling due to the flexibility of plastic pipe that can be used with push-fit technology. The pipe can be meandered and utilised within joist set-ups very easily, providing a very practical solution. It is important, however, to acknowledge the role soldering will always have in the industry. There is no hiding from the fact that plumbers will always be required to solder some components in a plumbing system. However, taking
Why make life hard for yourself? A push-fit system enables work to be performed in the quickest and most efficient way
advantage of quicker and easier-to-install systems, like push-fit fittings, shows that the two products, or methods, are compatible.
Compatible systems Different buildings have different plumbing systems. For example, plumbers working on a new build will be dealing with a completely different water system than if they were working on an older home. Plumbing professionals may think that if working on an older system that requires repair, they cannot utilise modern systems such as the push-fit fitting. The design of a push-fit connector is not just compatible for joining plastic to plastic. Push-fit fittings are designed to lock any two pipes together – the material of the two pipes does not have to be the same. If the pipe is free of score marks, the push-fit fitting can twist and lock into position to ensure a secure connection, showing that the system is compatible with both plastic and copper. The durability of all plumbing materials is essential as professionals need to be assured that the equipment they
Every picture tells a story – the equipment needed to install a traditional plumbing system compared to a JG Speedfit toolbox
24 (WAS 26).indd 1
use is of a high quality. One of the common myths about push-fit fittings is that they aren’t durable and can break easily when under pressure. However, this is only the case for poor quality devices and it’s important that plumbers select products which demonstrate proven performance under testing.
Quality assured There are a number of steps that plumbers can take to ensure the products they use are of the best quality. Firstly, ensuring that they are approved by the British Standards Institute, British Board of Agreement or the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) means they have passed rigorous testing and are approved by independent bodies. WRAS approval, for example, ensures that products comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations, meaning the product doesn’t cause contamination of the water supply and has the appropriate quality and standard. Additionally, plumbers can check if the push-fit fittings they are using have been manufactured in the UK. While many products can claim they are made in Britain – which can simply mean that they’ve been assembled at the final stage of manufacturing in the country – not all products are. By utilising products where all components are manufactured in the UK, plumbers can be assured that their product is of the highest quality and has been tested in rigorous environments to meet British standards. All plumbing professionals have their own techniques and preferred tools and there is no doubting the growing popularity of push-fit fittings in the industry. Push-fit plumbing systems are reliable and do not remove some of the skill associated with plumbing. As with any profession, it depends on the product that is used. Different products bring different standards of quality, whether that is the testing it is put under, how it is manufactured or its durability. What is clear is that push-fit plumbing systems should not be discounted or seen as a basic option, but rather as a way to add value to both plumbers and the end user. speedfit.co.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
108
27/04/2016 10:26
SEE US AT INSTALLER LIVE, 10-12TH MAY & PHEX PLUS 18-19TH MAY
BOOST YOUR PROFITS WITH ENHANCED EFFICIENCY ONE range of Fittings, Valves, Pipe and Accessories Compatible with FIVE different types of pipe Up to FOUR times quicker to install than traditional fittings*
COPPER
CHROMED COPPER
PEX
CARBON STEEL
POLYBUTYLENE
* See a time trial comparison video at www.sharkbiteplumbing.co.uk/howto
www.sharkbiteplumbing.co.uk www.facebook.com/sharkbiteuk
T: +44 (0)1386 712400 @SharkBiteUK
MANUFACTURED AND DISTRIBUTED BY RELIANCE WORLDWIDE CORPORATION (UK) LIMITED ENQUIRY
RELIANCE 320.indd 1
320
21/04/2016 12:44
May 2016
26 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Save time and boost your income Time saving fittings and innovative products can help installers to work more efficiently and boost revenue, while improving customer satisfaction at the same time – so says James Bell, Brand and Marketing Director at Reliance Worldwide Corporation (RWC UK).
M
anaging to fit an extra job into an already hectic schedule could help reduce waiting times for customers and improve the level of service provided. This is one of the reasons why metal push-fit fittings have become increasingly popular with installers. While still favoured by some plumbing and heating professionals, traditional fitting methods are shown to take significantly longer to complete the joint time when compared with metal push-fit solutions. If we also take into consideration the risks associated with a naked flame and the extra time installers need to spend on site draining down systems or waiting for joints to cool down after soldering, these savings quickly start to stack up. One common criticism of metal pushfit fittings is that they are more expensive than their traditional equivalents. Whilst on paper this may seem true when comparing a single 90° elbow joint, when the costs of an entire job are factored in, this criticism can easily be disproved. In fact, what’s required is a different
Chrome plated SharkBite fittings used to connect carbon steel pipe
method of assessing how a job is costed. Most frequently a customer requesting a quote for a job will first and foremost want to know how much it will cost, followed by how long it will take. By quoting per job instead of per hour, installers could potentially complete more jobs while providing an improved service with less inconvenience to the customer, and actually increase their own earnings.
German expertise in manufacturing • Commitment to lead free materials • Family business of 50 years • Training and technical competence at our core • System specification service
For a copy of our New 2016 Product Catalogue, specfications, CPD's, installation training or more information, please visit www.sanha.co.uk, call our technical hotline on 01628 819245 or email uk@sanha.com ENQUIRY
SharkBite fittings can help to save time on a gas boiler installation
By using high quality metal push-fit solutions as the standard for a job, installers have the potential to finish jobs up to four times quicker than conventional end feed fittings, allowing them to move on to the next job and boost their productivity.
Bigger picture While metal push-fit may be more expensive than some standard fittings, products such as our SharkBite range enable installers to use just one type of fitting with five different types of pipe, therefore making other savings possible. For example, fittings can easily connect between copper and PEX to enable pipe to be used (where suitable) instead of copper pipe which will help save on material costs, enable easier handling, provide even more installation flexibility and thus bring the costs of a job down all while still using the same range of fittings. Another cost saving benefit is the ability to demount and reuse the fittings, thereby reducing waste. In real terms, using one type of fitting has been shown to save considerable time on a typical boiler installation, with a reported time savings of around three hours using metal push-fit versus conventional soldered f it t ing s. Shark Bite fittings can be used on the water connections right up to the boiler, as they are pressure rated at 10bar at 120°C. Considering that around 1.2 million boilers are fitted in the UK every year and there are around 123,000 engineers on the Gas Safe Register, a three hour saving per installation adds up to just under a week in a year for each and every installer.
Be prepared Homeowners will always complain at the frustration of a tradesperson who turns up and finds they don’t have the right part or fitting to complete the job. Not only tarnishing their reputation, but also wasting time if they have to sift through multiple types of different fittings in the van before resorting to a visit to the local merchant to purchase what they require. Having to hand one single system solution
for any application is an asset for every installer and their customers too. When an installer turns up to a job, they can be confident that they can deliver quality work first time no matter what configuration, type of pipework or situation they face when they arrive. The versatility and robust nature of metal push-fit valves and fittings can also reduce the need for repeat visits to make repairs.
The full range At RWC we have also applied these timesaving innovations to other products in our range, such as the Ausimix Thermostatic Mixing Valves (pictured below). Since 2009 it has been a mandatory requirement to fit TMVs on household baths in England and Wales (for new-build properties). The requirement comes under Part G of the Building Regulations and the amendment was largely due to the ‘Hot Water Burns Like Fire’ lobbying campaign, lead by the Children’s Burns Trust and supported by leading plumbing industry manufacturers. The addition of SharkBite metal push-fit technology to the Ausimix TMVs has made it even easier for installers to recommend and fit TMVs for their customers. The development of these metal push-fit fittings and valves is about providing installers with a robust product choice that is designed to save a considerable amount of installation time and boost earnings potential. While there is some debate in the industry about the benefits of modern versus traditional plumbing and heating skills, such innovations allow installers to focus their knowledge and skills elsewhere, such as ensuring maximum system efficiency. Additional benefits stem from a heat-free, flux-free installation, reducing the health and safety requirements, and the slimline nature of the fittings enabling easier installation in confined spaces. Used properly, these innovations will serve to enhance the efficiency of every installer’s working day while helping to deliver the best job possible for their customers every time. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. 109 www.rwc.co.uk
332
26 (WAS 28).indd 1
27/04/2016 10:31
A versatile range in flow, control and filter solutions.
Our valves range is suitable for multiple applications and has been designed to offer highly effective and durable solutions in flow control, filter solutions and system isolation. Conex Bänninger is a world leader in plumbing fittings and valves with a reputation for quality and innovation dating back over 100 years.
CB/UK/04.16
Excellence since 1909 For further information please visit, www.conexbanninger.com Tel: +44 (0)121 557 2831 Email: salesuk@ibpgroup.com
ENQUIRY
CONEX 321.indd 1
321
21/04/2016 12:41
May 2016
28 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Preventing carbon steel corrosion Carbon steel presents a strong, long lasting and cost effective solution in closed circuit systems, but care must be taken to prevent corrosion – so says Victoria Willis, Product Manager for Geberit, who argues that with good practice, installers can use this material with confidence.
B
ecause carbon steel can be manufactured at a reduced thickness compared with other piping materials, in the right application it can significantly cut project outlay. When used in a pressing system format, such as Geberit Mapress, these cost savings are amplified – our press system saves considerable time on site compared with traditional jointing methods (up to 30%) due to ease of installation. With fail-safe leak testing and reliability guaranteed, carbon steel plus pressing allows plumbers to provide a quality service at an affordable price. However, for its benefits to stack up and to reduce the risk of corrosion, carbon steel must be treated correctly – like anything, there is a right way and a wrong way to do things. With some simple steps, this product comes into its own for installers looking for an easy-to-use, in-budget solution.
Correct storage Corrosion is caused by the combination of oxygen and moisture. As such, reducing the risk begins with how the product is stored and transported – it must be kept clean and dry in a well-ventilated area. Covering pipework with foils is not recommended as this may promote condensation. An exception is our plastic coated Mapress Carbon Steel system pipe, which is delivered with a foil hose to protect against dust. Ideally pipes and fittings should be stored off the ground, as otherwise the surface may be scratched or damaged. Pipes of different materials (stainless steel and carbon steel, for example) should be stored separately to prevent contact corrosion. To ensure carbon steel is protected from corrosion, care must be taken to prevent oxygen ingress. Oxygen can enter closed circuits via glands, screw connections or quickaction air bleeds in cases where there is insufficient overpressure in relation to the atmospheric pressure. However, the oxygen that enters the circuit when it is being filled and topped up with water does not pose a risk of corrosion because the quantities involved are so small. Other points to consider include making sure pipe ends are kept covered and free from dust and debris. The
outer caps must only be removed just before installation. It is also important to make sure the inlet and return flow of heating elements are manufactured from carbon steel. To prevent condensation on the
circuit system has been put together properly, the need for dosing should be minimal – a one-size-fits-all solution is not the answer, and every application should have a tailored treatment plan. We consider the fitting of oxygen monitors to be a good option – when oxygen levels rise, a solution that tackles the specific issue can be found, leading to better maintained systems.
Best applications
pipe, we provide plastic coated carbon steel pipe with double zinc coating. When it comes to radiators, connections must not be routed up from the floor but rather directed via a wall inlet box. The rads should be filled only with drinking water, and oxygen levels and pH must be monitored. When working on existing heating systems, any signs of corrosion must be removed before fitting. Sealing tape, as supplied with Geberit Mapress Carbon Steel, will ensure complete protection once a connection has been made.
Commissioning Once installed, the system should not be left empty for more than 48 hours. Retrofitting connections to systems is unproblematic, provided the necessary measures are taken to keep the ‘open’ part of the system isolated. BSRIA guidelines call for chemical dosing as part of pre-commissioning cleaning, but installers need to be mindful of overdosing during this process. If a closed
It is important to remember that while it is a long-lasting and cost-effective material, carbon steel is not a solution for all piping applications. For example, it is not suitable for external purposes, such as on roofs or the outside of buildings, including where there is a risk of rainfall penetration through insulation. In short, carbon steel is best suited to closed circuit applications and can be used to extend existing systems. To ensure the system remains corrosion free, maintenance best practice is essential. Steps to ensure this include creating a maintenance plan and following it; monitoring oxygen levels; using the same materials when adding pipework into a system; and not leaving any part of the system empty whilst maintaining sections. Keeping building projects on budget while still keeping quality high can be a challenge, which is where, for the right application, carbon steel offers clear benefits. With care taken to keep it dry, proper installation and commissioning, problems with corrosion can be avoided. The Mapress Carbon Steel system pipes are made of non-alloy steel (BS EN10305) to high standards. There are three different types of system pipe: externally galvanised, internally and externally galvanised (for wet sprinkler systems), and plastic coated. The zinc coating makes carbon steel corrosion resistant in warm and dry atmospheres. Pipes are delivered without protection plugs to allow any condensation which may form in the pipes to dry, thus reducing corrosion risk.
Find out more We provide free installer training on the Mapress Carbon Steel system to make sure that when customers get to site they have the right information to get the most out of our plumbing solutions. For further information, please visit the website below or enter the number on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this month’s issue.
Available in dimensions from 12-108mm, Geberit Mapress Carbon Steel fittings are zinc-plated and also finished with a chromatised protective layer. 12046 Talon ad 110 x 292mm_Layout 1 26/04/2016 15:26 Page 1
www.geberit.co.uk
The UK’s
110
for fixing & concealing pipes
Plastic clips
Metal clips
• Hinged clips
• Copper saddles
• Nail-in clips
• Cast brass screw-on brackets
• Open clips
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
• Pressed brass screw-on brackets • Cast brass hospital bracket • Single ring and backplate • Single and double rings
PLUS ENQUIRY
28.indd 1
331
THE NEW RANGE OF TALON QUICK-LOCKING PIPE CLIPS
• Male and female backplates • Rubber lined clips
www.talon.co.uk
Call now for more information 0845 095 2828 27/04/2016 12:51
For speed, ease and reliability.
It must be Hep2O. Demounting made easy with the handy HepKey.™
Hep2O comes with the longest guarantee in the industry.
Secure joint recognition with In4sure™ technology.
Comprehensive range of fittings to suit every job.
Anything else is just a fitting. For a FREE test pack log onto hep2o.co.uk
www.hep2o.co.uk ENQUIRY
51195_PHAM_389x292_Gen.indd 1 WAVIN B 318.indd 1
318
17/03/2016 13:18 10:57 26/04/2016
May 2016
30 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Taking the stress out of soldering Soldering copper pipework is a tried and tested method of achieving a safe and secure connection, but how can you be sure that your work will stand the test of time? John Dabb, Sales and Marketing Director at Hyde, suggests ways to ensure some peace of mind.
D
espite other materials being readily available, a large number of UK plumbers still prefer to use copper piping for heating and hot water systems on domestic projects. It’s not difficult to see why when you think of all the advantages of this material – it’s durable, lightweight and safe. Plumbers also know what they’re getting with copper, as it’s been the material of choice for so many years. Latest regulations stipulate that the first metre of a heating connection has to be metal piping, with many plumbers therefore simply choosing to continue as they started, with copper piping throughout the install. While the majority of installers will put their trust in copper as a tried and tested material, even copper is only ever completely reliable, and as safe as it possibly can be, if the connections are totally secure against leaks. In order to achieve this and to give peace of
ENQUIRY
Copper remains the material of choice for many installers
mind, soldering has long been the preferred method of connecting copper pipework. While this does result in the secure connection that plumbers need, if carried out correctly, the soldering process itself can be prone to mishaps and inconsistencies, which is why a few essentials in a plumber’s tool bag are necessary.
Keep it clean To achieve a totally reliable soldering connection, it is essential that the surface of the pipework to
be joined is completely clean. This is why every plumber should have a pot or two of flux in his tool bag. However, not just any old pot of flux will do, especially when joining copper pipework for gas heating systems. An acid-based flux can cause corrosion to pipework from any residue, which is why investing in a brand that is guaranteed to be 100% non-corrosive on copper is particularly important in order to avoid the serious and difficult-to-fix problem of pinhole corrosion to pipework. Our LA-CO Regular Flux, for example, is non-acid, non-toxic and lead free. It is water soluble for faster flushing from pipes, while its super detergent action cleans as it solders to make the whole process quicker too. Essentially, a good flux takes the stress out of doing the job and helps ensure the best result.
Repairs to existing pipework are also notorious for throwing up obstacles for plumbers choosing to solder. On retrofit projects it is extremely difficult to avoid existing joists, pipes, valves, painted skirting boards or carpets, so these need to be protected from the naked flame. Soldering in confined spaces can not only cause heat damage to fixtures and fittings but also poses a fire risk, so it is crucial that care and time is taken.
Heat protection Many installers choose to use a heat mat to overcome this problem, but this can leave only one hand free for soldering, which is far from ideal, particularly when working in tricky positions like along the skirting, above carpets or next to joists. A
much simpler solution is to use a heat barrier spray such as LA-CO CoolGel, which will stick to any non-porous surface and protect it from the heat of the soldering flame. The gelled formula sticks to surfaces without dripping or running off, so it can be sprayed on to any non-porous surface to protect it from the soldering flame. Cool Gel is non-toxic and odourless, making it safe to use in any situation and as it is nonstaining and will wipe away or just evaporate within 48 hours, this means that there will be no damage to decorated surfaces and no lengthy clean-up required once soldering is complete. The popularity of copper piping may well date back decades, but by equipping yourself with modern tools and solutions you can ensure a safe, reliable connection that will last for years to come. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.brianhyde.co.uk
111
323
30 (WAS 32).indd 1
27/04/2016 10:34
May 2016
PIPES Fittings & Valves 31 Push-fit fittings made for multiple uses Balancing valve for heat interface units
The recently launched >B< Push fittings from Conex Bänninger are said to be ideal for most retrofit applications and also for use in confined and awkward spaces. The fittings offer speedy installation combined with easy demounting capability that enable them to be re-used up to 20 times on copper tubes. They are manufactured with a corrosion resistant lowlead DZR body and all the
fittings are compatible with various tube types including copper, PE-X and PB. The use of various tube types means that the >B< Push range can be
deployed in a wide range of applications, including drinking water, sanitary systems, heating and cold water systems. The issue of sustainability has also been
addressed, as the products can be recycled at the end of their life. Bill Barlow, UK Business Unit Director, comments: “No other product within the plumbing market, whether domestic or commercial, offers such an installer friendly solution that retains industry leading performance, quality and durability.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.conexbanninger.com
112
Easy to use pipe purging system PurgElite is a new range of low cost tube and pipe purging systems from Huntingdon Fusion Techniques, designed to suit pipe diameters from 25 to 600mm. The system is claimed to achieve a clean, oxidefree, zero colour weld and is manufactured from a special spinal tube that is resistant to hot metal up to 300°C and
31 (WAS 33).indd 1
is flexible enough to allow movement around 90° bends. To ensure accurate positioning inside the
tube or pipe, a centrepiece glow positioning ‘RootGlo’ indicator comes as standard for all sizes.
The company’s PurgeGate valve is also available as an accessory, a one-way valve that regulates the gas flow and pressure during purging. Other accessories include heat resistant covers to help protect the inflatable dams, which are held on with ties and have a temperature rating of up to 300°C. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.huntingdonfusion.com
113
A new balancing valve set has been introduced by Giacomini to support growing demand for the company’s heat interface units. The balancing valve set is made with multi-dwelling properties in mind, helping to optimise the efficiency of communal heating systems by carefully balancing the heating network throughout. Installed on each return branch of the main pipe network, the balancing valve will ensure that the correct flow can be set and regulated for each individual branch. There is also the option to include a bypass configuration, ensuring constant flow around the entire pipe system. MD Matt Lowe comments:
“We are constantly looking to evolve our product offering and our new valve sets are the perfect way to do that. Along with underfloor heating, our heat interface units form a considerable part of our business so we wanted to ensure that our customers have everything they could possibly need to ease installation, as well as boost the benefits of efficiency and end-user cost.” Giacomini’s HIU offering also includes a pre plumbing jig plus MBUS water and energy meters to help provide energy monitoring for consumption based billing and lower service costs. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.giacomini.co.uk
114
27/04/2016 10:37
May 2016
32 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Getting to grips with pipework With over 30 years of pipe clip manufacturing, Gillingham based Talon knows a thing or two about how best to keep pipes in place. Here, MD Don Theobold offers a guide to the clips and covers that can help to ensure a tidy finish to any pipework project.
A
cross the country, building contractors working in the perennially busy RMI sector regularly pull up floorboards or tear down plasterwork to discover old pipe runs fixed to timber joists and studs using an assortment of bent nails and brutal looking metal bands. Sometimes the plumber or heating engineer – probably retired by now – will have wrapped the pipe in a bit of hessian to try and cut down the creaking noises they make as they expand and contract. Like timber herring-bone struts and horsehair plaster, such anachronisms are gradually disappearing from our built infrastructure as the pace of refurbishment and redevelopment continues to accelerate, but the way the humble pipe clip has metamorphosed into something far more sophisticated and multifunctional is a reflection of just how much the building products industry has advanced in recent years.
ENQUIRY
Talon MD Don Theobold The pipe clip range covers 20 different pipe sizes
Properly securing the pipework is essential to ensuring a safe working system, while it may also need to be enclosed for health and safety or aesthetic reasons.
Clip choice For domestic installations there are generally three types of pipe clip available: hinged clips, open clips and nail in clips. It is universally recognised that the most secure way to hold a pipe is via a hinged clip, but when pipes are fitted to
timber, typically in a roof space or under floorboards, nail in clips are usually the best option for speed and efficiency. Open clips are perceived by most professionals as a DIY option and although they offer a good snap tight fixing for the pipe, the clip does not have a closed top and therefore is not as secure as a hinged clip. Existing pipe clips are suitable for both copper and plastic pipe, in the traditional sizes of 10, 15, 22 and 28mm. However, in recent
years the move towards barrier pipe has introduced some new sizes, mainly 16 and 20mm. In line with the introduction of new pipe sizes, we have developed a new range of ‘Flexi’ Pipe Clips. Also, for more robust environments such as public toilets and industrial premises, metal clips may be deemed necessary to resist vandalism or heavy usage, in which case there is a wide selection of copper, brass and chrome-plated clips available. Experienced tradesmen tend to be good at improvising, and where pipes are to be insulated it has been common to find a plumber has slipped an off-cut of copper pipe behind the clip as a ‘spacer’ for the screw fixing. It will allow room for pipe insulation to be fitted, but can look uneven and is a waste of copper when a simple but effective pipe clip spacer is available to slot into the base of a hinged or open clip, raising it by precise 12mm increments.
Exposed pipes are rarely attractive, while in situations such as schools or care homes they are considered a potential risk. A simple pipe cover profile which just snaps into place will address the situation. Where pipes are to be run beneath radiators, or around a room at skirting level, special brackets are available – including those with integral pipe clips – onto which the PVC-U profile is simply attached via a push-fit tooth mechanism. Where larger diameter pipe needs to be hidden, our sister company Pendock offers a range of bigger profiles.
Find out more Talon now offers a range of 14 hinged clips that cover 20 different pipe sizes from 10 to 35mm. To find out more, please visit the website below or enter the number on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.talon.co.uk
115
338
32 (WASAdvert 34).indd 1 Buteline 198x292mm.indd 1
27/04/2016 26/04/2016 10:39 13:33
“ Once it’s on, it’s on!”
PolyMax is an extremely secure range of plumbing fittings. Once installed, they cannot be removed without our handy release tool, meaning no one’s going to mess with them. An ideal choice for surface-mounted installations, PolyMax is easy to use, easy to install and easy to get excited about. • Suitable for most hot and cold water supply and heating applications • Sleek, attractive white design is perfect for exposed use • Leak-proof – giving you complete peace of mind • Compatible with our sealed stiffener for added security
ENQUIRY
337
Find out more at www.polypipe.com/polymax
PBP-15-271Ad A4 Tug POLYPIPE 337.indd 1 of war_389x292 (PHAM-AD-MAY-POLYPIPE).indd 1
22/04/2016 25/04/2016 15:17 15:38
May 2016
34 PIPES Fittings & Valves
Safe for use with food EU legislation sets down clear rules governing materials that come into contact with food and beverages, but some manufacturers seem to have a blind spot when it comes to valves. Jason Curral, Marketing Manager of BSS Industrial, highlights some of the issues.
I
t is important for all food, beverage and pet food manufacturers to ensure that any component, including valves, that is fitted as part of the process does not contaminate the food or beverages. The ‘FoodSafe’ logo appears on the packaging of many food and drink products (such as water bottles, milk, tinned food, hot beverages, orange juice, etc) yet the equipment used toTACONOVA fill these bottles or packs often isn’t compliant with FC:Layout 1 29/07/2014 10:02 Page 1 relevant regulations.
The central piece of legislation that applies to valves in this context is the Food Contact Regulation (EC) No. 1935/2004, a framework regulation that provides rules governing all the materials and elements that will come into contact with food. The overarching aim of this regulation is to ensure that a product does not endanger human health, bring about an unacceptable change in the composition of the food or cause deterioration of the taste and texture of the food.
Manufacturing the Flowserve Worcester FoodSafe valves
Missing link There is, however, one important area which is not covered by the Food Contact Regulation – the regulation doesn’t specify cleanliness and hygiene procedures during the manufacture of the valve. Our research leads to the belief that this is a serious omission, and one which manufacturers should address by setting up their own stringent procedures. As well as setting down general requirements, EC 1935/2004 also lists materials that must comply with additional regulations. These include the PTFE used for the balls in ball valves and polymeric materials used for seats and seals. Such materials must come from suppliers who are working to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 Legislation for Food Contact Plastic Materials & Articles, more commonly known as the ‘Plastics Regulation’. The Plastics Regulation lists authorised monomers, additives and starting substances that can be used to produce plastics which come into contact with food. It also sets ‘migration limits’ – the maximum permitted amount of material that can be released into a food. Valve manufacturers must also heed the Good Manufacturing Practice Regulation (EC) No. 2023/2006. This calls for the establishment of quality control and quality assurance systems along with supporting documentation. Every item should be properly catalogued and stored to give traceability in the event that any materials have to be recalled or investigated.
Keeping it clean A well-defined and controlled cleaning regime is a vital step in supplying valves that are safe for use with food or drink. Contamination from elements such as cutting fluids is a very real possibility that must be considered and the risk eliminated. Having established a list of possible contaminants, researchers developed a cleaning process for the Flowserve Worcester FoodSafe range of valves, available from BSS, which sees all the components washed at a minimum of 70°C. The efficacy of this process was confirmed by independent tests which demonstrated that the level of any contaminant was below that present in drinking water. The assembly and then testing of valves must also take place in a clean area, away from the possible contaminants present on the factory floor. Care must also be taken in selecting the type of lubricant used for assembly, and the way it is used, and demineralised water should be used for testing. Packaging must also be right. For instance, the ball valves could be protected with plastic caps – also subject to the rigours of the necessary legislation – and then the whole unit packed in food-compatible protective polyethylene.
Beyond labelling Any valve produced to comply with EC 1935/2004 should be labelled accordingly. FoodSafe valves, for instance, are all marked with the glass and fork food contact logo on the valve nameplate. Additionally, manual valves have a white wrench sleeve marked with the food contact logo for ease of identification. It’s also important to check that all the right documentation is in place when sourcing valves. Expect a declaration of compliance for both the valve as a whole and for the specific materials that make up some of its elements. www.bssindustrial.co.uk ENQUIRY
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
116
333
34 (WAS 36).indd 1
27/04/2016 10:52
May 2016
PIPES Fittings & Valves 35 Meeting monastery’s needs The flexibility of the Tigris K1 press-fit plumbing system from Wavin has been demonstrated at a restoration project in Northern Island. Designed for potable, sanitary and heating applications, the multilayer system is ideally suited for installation on commercial projects such as schools, apartment blocks, health facilities and hotels. It is also suitable for use in multi-residential buildings. The Tigris K1 system was installed at the Tobar Mhuire Monastery in County Down. The restoration project required a new heating system to be installed throughout
the building with as little disruption to the live-in religious order and visitors as possible. In addition to the requirement of a speedy installation was a system that would require minimal on-going maintenance.
Happy customer Dermot Hinds, Contractor, says: “Having used many different press-fit plumbing systems in the past, I am always interested in new innovations that can make installation easier, or maximise a system’s functionality. The press-fit system required no soldering,
welding or thread cutting. “It also bends with ease, whilst retaining its form, reducing the number of connections required. It’s quick to install and once in requires very little maintenance – all attributes which save time and money.” Kate Armstrong, Product Manager at Wavin, adds: “The multilayer system provided the perfect solution for the monastery’s requirements. Its quick press-fit system meant that assembly and installation significantly minimised the disruption of day-to-day life during the restoration process. “The system is also designed to accommodate heavy daily usage for the long term. The flexible pipes are lightweight, resilient and ensure there is no contact between metal and water, meaning it resists scaling and is corrosion free. “The high-performance PPSU fittings with stainless steel sleeves are designed to perform under greater
Plastic plumbing for any application
pressure and temperature fluctuations. For restoration projects such as this, the ability to couple a fast-fit installation with reliability is essential. The Tigris K1 system will provide the Monastery with a no-fuss system for many years to come.”
Free sample For more information about Wavin Tigris K1 and to receive a free sample pack, please visit www.tigrisk1. co.uk or enter the number below on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this issue. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.tigrisk1.co.uk
117
In order to meet the needs of a range of applications, Polypipe has designed four different plumbing systems. Available in push and press fit, and 10, 15, 22 and 28mm diameter, each range allows the right solution to be specified for any plumbing project. PolyPlumb (pictured) is the company’s original, durable push-fit grey plumbing system. High performance stainless steel grab rings ensure joint integrity with a time-efficient, one-step jointing process. PolyMax is a streamline push-fit plumbing system, ideal for surface mounted applications and retrofit projects. Easy to use and easy to install, the white fittings can only be removed with the Polypipe handy release tool. PolyFit features a one step jointing operation for quick and easy installation and can be quickly demounted by hand, or by using the release tool. PolySure, featuring tamperproof jointing technology, is particularly suited to high frequency use applications and buildings with high levels of public access, where security and jointing technology are paramount. www.polypipe.com
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
118
TRUST MULTIKWIK TO GIVE YOU MORE The Multikwik range also includes sanitary frames, concealed cisterns and flush plates – all of the hidden things that offer reliability when designing modern washrooms. For more information on the complete product range, visit the new Multikwik website.
multikwik.com E4570_MA Sanitary Ad_178x274_P1.indd 1
35.jpg 1
ENQUIRY
324
21/04/2016 16:36
27/04/2016 12:18
May 2016
36 PIPES Fittings & Valves Self seal insulation Solution for thin wall stainless steel saves time on site
To enable a simple and fast installation, NMC has introduced a pre-slit, flexible pipe insulation with a self adhesive fixing. Climaflex XT self seal has been developed for easy, clean and precise fitting of pipe insulation without the cost, mess or waste of traditional adhesives. The self-adhesive strips are especially beneficial for application in inaccessible areas or on pipe bends where a neat and seamless finish can be easily achieved.
In trialling Climaflex XT self seal across a range of applications, NMC identified that time savings of up to 50% could be made on a typical 60m installation. For the installer, the product is said to offer substantial thermal and acoustic benefits from an established, high per for mance insulat ion material where condensation control, frost protection and energy conservation are important factors. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.nmc-uk.com
119
Described as safer, faster and easier to install, Victaulic has launched the StrengThin 100 mechanical piping system. A grooved pipe joining system, the StrengThin 100 is designed for jobs utilizing thin wall (2 and 3mm) 304/316 stainless steel pipe. According to Victaulic, thin wall stainless steel pipe joining is often used across European construction markets, particularly for chilled water, cooling, air and potable water systems. It increases the efficiency of
on-site material handling and lowers costs from a total installation point of view. However, the company points out that welding thin wall stainless steel
isn’t without its risks. Overheating the pipe and the need for chemicals to pickle and passivate the pipe to restore its corrosion resistance are just two of the
challenges associated with the welding process. The StrengThin 100 system has been designed to address these challenges. “It will revolutionise thin wall stainless steel pipe joining,” comments DJ Wolbert, Victaulic Product Manager. “Contractors can still benefit from the efficiencies of using thin wall stainless steel pipe on their mechanical systems without the risks associated with welding.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.victaulic.com
120
Providing control over heat networks V-Flex is the name of a pre-insulated valve system for polybutene (PB-1) pipe applications. Developed by Flexenergy, a provider of district heating scheme pipe networks, the company says the V-Flex will enhance the ability of operators to control and service PB networks by delivering zonal control via pre-insulated valve technology that can be fusion welded directly to the main network. The valve includes a key-operated
steel ball valve inside a polyethylene casing, insulated by PUR foam, and incorporates PB tails for a fully welded connection to a PB pipe network.
This pre-insulated valve system is available for plastic pipe systems and will be useful to DHS designers for providing much greater control over heat networks. It means that the valves can be used to shut down entire networks or to isolate individual streets/ properties. This makes network maintenance much easier and can also facilitate network extension. www.flexenergy.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 121
NEW! NO MORE BEVELING ISSUES. INTRODUCING THE BETTER WAY
INTRODUCING THE RIDGID® B-500 TRANSPORTABLE BEVELLER
SEE HOW IT WORKS OR REQUEST A FREE ONSITE DEMO AT RIDGID.COM
Ridge Tool UK c/o Emerson Electric UK Ltd, 2nd Floor Accurist House 44 Baker Street, London, W1U 7AL T: +44 (0) 808 238 9869 UK T: +353 1 800 936 397 Ireland ridgid.gb@emerson.com
F: +44 (0) 808 238 9904 UK F: +353 1 800 936 240 Ireland www.RIDGID.com
©2016, 2016, RIDGID, Inc. The Emerson logo and RIDGID logo are registered trademarks of Emerson Electric Co. or RIDGID, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks belong to their respective holders. *Schedule 40 pipe with a diameter of 12” or less.
36 (WAS 37).indd 1
ENQUIRY
325
Produce high-quality bevels in less than two minutes* without flames or sparks. The compact design quickly mounts to pipes 4” and up with a maximum wall thickness of a ½” and creates consistent bevels in a single pass. 27/04/2016 11:01
May 2016
Product Spotlight 37
Small duct heating and cooling systems Air conditioning systems often force a compromise on aesthetics, with bulky indoor units on show in rooms. Rinus Groenewald, Technical Manager with Unico System distributor Quantum Group, explains how to achieve a discreet alternative.
H
omeowners and small businesses are increasingly expecting higher standards of comfort, in both summer and winter. For many, the traditional options of using a wet central heating system to keep warm in the winter and opening windows in the summer are no longer acceptable. At the same time, many building owners are keen to take advantage of low carbon technologies such as reverse cycle heat pumps for both heating and cooling. When they go down this route, though, they often find the need to mount indoor units forces a compromise with their carefully chosen décor. The ideal alternative in these situations is small duct heating and cooling systems. The benefits of such systems include minimal visual impact within the conditioned space (compared to conventional air conditioning), low noise operation and efficient comfort control with excellent temperature distribution. Also known as small duct high velocity systems, they use a central air distribution system, supplied with either cooled or warm air by a choice of energy sources that include reverse cycle heat pumps, boilers and chillers. They can also be used in bivalent mode with mixed sources (e.g. a heat pump backed up by a boiler). If required, they can be fitted with fresh air input for ventilation. The central air distribution system delivers conditioned air to small, discreet outlets in the conditioned spaces. As a result, the only visible elements in the conditioned spaces are small circular or slotted outlets. A flush mount circular outlet is also available, which is plastered in so that only a 50mm aperture is visible. The slotted outlets can be configured to create single linear slots. This discreet end product was essential for the refurbishment of a high-end apartment in London’s Belgravia. In this project two small duct heating and cooling systems were installed in the loft space with main ducts running to each of the four floors. The only visible elements in the rooms are the 50mm supply outlets.
Small duct heating and cooling systems can be discreetly installed in service areas to minimise the impact on interior rooms
As the interior designer for the project, Rod Pyke of Blue Interiors comments: “To see a design on paper is one thing, to actually fit it in and not see it is another. The supply outlets fit seamlessly into the space and the response of the system is extremely quick and impressive.”
How it works Conditioned air enters the space through very small jets, creating negative pressure and entraining room air at the outlet with minimal noticeable air movement. This entrainment of room air results in even temperature distribution and compares favourably with cassettes and wall-mounted air conditioners, radiators and underfloor heating. The system can be designed with outlets blowing down or horizontally from high level, or even at floor level blowing upwards, with no discernible difference in heating or cooling performance. Small duct heating and cooling systems are highly controllable so they can respond quickly and efficiently to changing conditions. Demand-controlled EC fans are combined with soft start and ramp down of the fan motor and the option of inverter driven heat pumps. Each system will have a room thermostat or, in the case of zoned systems, there will be multiple room thermostats. The fan speeds are usually programmable to match the thermostat demand and automatically ramp up or down as dampers open and close on zoned systems. Thermostat options range from basic digital units through to wifi-enabled smart thermostats that can be remotely controlled from a mobile device or computer. These systems can also be integrated with most building management systems.
Less noise
Unico systems are relatively quick and easy to install
37 (WAS 50).indd 1
Although air is introduced at high velocity, noise levels are low thanks to high levels of acoustic attenuation in these systems. Typical sound power levels of around 29 dB(A) may be achieved. This is better than the current night time target for bedrooms by BS 8233:2014, ‘Guidance on sound insulation and noise reduction for buildings’. Noise levels were certainly a consideration for the refurbishment of an ambulance control centre in Lewes, Sussex, where operators need to focus on their calls. Here, three small duct heating and cooling systems were integrated with heat pumps and heat recovery to
provide a complete demand-controlled HVAC solution. To minimise installation requirements, heating, cooling and ventilation are all delivered through the same acoustically lined ductwork system. In fact, these systems are relatively easy and quick to install, while the use of centralised plant makes maintenance very straightforward. At the heart of the system is an air handling unit (AHU), available in vertical or horizontal configurations to suit the space. In a residential project this would usually be the roof space or utility room. Most units are modular to allow different configurations and include a blower module, refrigerant coil module or water coil module for use with chillers, boilers or heat pumps and fresh air input modules.
Air movement Air is distributed from the AHU through a main plenum at a reasonably constant static pressure of around 300Pa. The main plenum is available in a rectangular section, 150mm high for reduced ceiling spaces, and incorporates acoustic insulation to provide attenuation of up to 5dB per metre. The main plenum can be branched off to serve multiple spaces – controlling each room individually with motorised dampers. From the main plenum, or plenum branches, air is distributed into small flexible ducts with 50mm internal diameter and 90mm external diameter. Each of these flexible ducts then connect to an individual room outlet using simple crimp connections. As with the main plenum, the flexible ducts are pre-insulated to reduce noise levels even further. Each system has a return air filter, with various grades of filtration available. Return air is usually ducted back to the AHU, or alternatively the system can use a ‘wild return’ with the filter on the back of the unit. When homeowners and businesses make a significant investment in interior design they don’t want to devalue it with intrusive indoor units. That makes small duct heating and cooling systems the ideal alternative without compromising on performance.
Find out more For more information on small duct high velocity systems, visit the website or enter the number below on the reader enquiry and registration card inside this month’s issue. theunicosystem.co.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
122
27/04/2016 11:03
May 2016
38 Products in Action
Yorkshire charity fits CO alarms
New system heats historic property One of Stokvis Energy Systems’ Econoplate plate heat exchangers has been installed within the plant room of a Devon hotel to provide its domestic hot water, following the failure of an oil-fired water heater, which has since been replaced with a new biomass boiler. Dartington Hall near Totnes is part of the historic Dartington Hall Trust estate which attracts thousands of visitors annually. Sherwoods Mechanical and Electrical decided to install an E3Ai119+1T Econoplate. This was supplied in combination with a transfer pump and a
500 litre stainless steel buffer vessel in order to ensure peak demands can be met throughout the year. The plate heat exchanger is set up to draw its primary energy from the Hall’s new biomass boiler, working efficiently and quickly to top up the buffer vessel when its temperature is depleted. The equipment has been in service for a number of months since installation and commissioning work was completed last year, keeping the Dartington Hall guests supplied with plentiful hot water. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.stokvisboilers.com
124
Camphill Village Trust (CVT) has installed Aico AudioLINK Ei208 Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms throughout its Botton Village properties in the North York Moors National Park. This is the Trust’s first centre supporting adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems and other special needs. CVT made the decision to fit these devices throughout all properties that have an open fire or stove, as well as in biomass sheds. This equates to up to four alarms per property. The Trust is currently evaluating installation to cover boilers also. The award winning AudioLINK
technology incorporated into the standalone 10 year battery powered CO alarm is said to have played a major role in the choice of alarms. Roger Fishburn, Maintenance Manager at CVT, explains: “We have a quick turnaround when it comes to vacant properties so the ability to test the alarms before new residents move in, and keep an audit of these tests, was important. Also, AudioLINK enables us to check any potential issues very quickly and allows us to deal with them immediately. AudioLINK also allows for real time data to be extracted via the alarm’s sounder.”
www.aico.co.uk
ENQUIRY No.
123
Rads keeping the worshipers warm A selection of radiators from Jaga has been specified for the recently renovated United Church in Bridport. The 19th century building features an expansive main worship area with high ceilings and two floors of seating which need high output radiators to maintain a stable temperature. The Jaga Maxi LST Continuous DBE was chosen as the primary heat source for the main area. Because the radiators are essentially joined together, it gives the visual appearance of one
long, sleek radiator lining the two main sides of the hall. The radiators are fitted with Jaga’s LST casing. The Maxi LST Continuous was specified to provide a minimum output of 65kW.
Then, for that extra heat boost as and when required – for example shortly in advance of a service – the company’s Dynamic Boost Effect (DBE) fan units were included.
In addition to the main hall, Jaga provided solutions for the church’s upper gallery. The Mini Canal DBE trench heater was installed into the floor – providing ample warmth without detracting from the visual appeal of the glass façade. Mini Freestanding radiators were also positioned underneath pews, specified in ‘chocolate brown’ to ensure they were in keeping with the gallery’s rustic wooden appearance. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.jaga.co.uk
125
Clearing the air in Aldwych Quarter Luxury hotel has An extensive range of air distribution products from Waterloo Air Products has been installed at Bush House, the former home of the BBC’s World Service. The 300,000ft2 landmark office is located in Aldwych Quarter in London. The redeveloped site provides offices and ancillary space constructed around a campus-style environment. Each building features contemporary finishes and services within the constraints of the site’s Grade II listed
building status. Waterloo supplied a number of CS linear slot diffusers, DF louvred faced diffusers and
plenums throughout each building. The small format continuous slot diffuser series delivers on aerodynamic
Hands-on ventilation Dunham-Bush has supplied Cambridge Regional College (CRC) with its latest Lynx Fan Coil Units and complete control systems, which have been installed in the college workshops by apprentices on their Heating & Ventilating Level 2 course. Working alongside employers, CRC provides training for apprentices who attend the college on a day release programme. A key part of the training is to offer simulated installation conditions, and this has been greatly enhanced by
38.indd 1
Dunham-Bush providing its products for full hands-on training. “It is well known that educational establishments do not always have the financial resources to equip their workshops as they would like,” says Martin Johnson, Programme Leader at CRC. “They often have to rely on the generosity of manufacturers such as Dunham-Bush to assist in supplying the equipment for apprentices to work with.” www.dunham-bush.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 127
and acoustic performance. The series offers excellent low flow rate air diffusion characteristics and high air handling capacity and is particularly suited to variable volume applications. The new HVAC system was installed comprising a combined heating and cooling system to all zones by a ceiling mounted fourpipe variable air volume fan coil system. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.waterloo.co.uk
126
hot water covered Dating back to the 12th century and once the Country Seat of Sir Christopher Wren, Wroxall Abbey is now a beautiful luxury hotel in Warwickshire. Given the hotel’s high demand for domestic hot water, the decision was taken to improve the circuit’s performance and efficiency. Based on previous product experience, Heatek Building Services proposed the removal of the existing direct fired units and the installation of indirect Extreme loading cylinders manufactured by Mikrofill. The Extreme combines the advantages of an instantaneous hot water heater and storage system, ensuring condensing boilers operate at maximum efficiency. The 85 bedroom hotel now benefits from the Extreme’s hot water production which is in excess of 4700 litres an hour and 1200 litres over a 10 minute period at 60ºC.
The cylinders also feature an on-board pasteurisation function. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.mikrofill.com
128
27/04/2016 11:19
May 2016
WATER HEATING & Cylinders 39
Delivery solutions for an impatient nation Today’s customers expect hot water delivery to be quick and reliable, so it’s good news that with the right technology and best practice installation, plumbers can meet this demand. Isaac Occhipinti of the Hot Water Association explains more.
I
n the past few decades we have become an impatient nation. The demand to ‘have it now’ is seeping into every corner of our lives. We want quick answers to complex problems, eat fast food, use self-checkout lines, tweet in 140 characters or less, take shortcuts. We’ve even become impatient with impatience! So how do we meet the impatient hot water demands Isaac Occhipinti of the HWA of today’s household? How do we ensure both bath and en-suite shower can run simultaneously, and the impatient nation can go about their day without having to wait?
Multi-tasking
for a typical domestic household, you should allow between 35 and 45 litres for every occupant. That said, a mains pressure system can use about 18 litres of water per minute at 40ºC if a decent quality shower head is used. Certain brands of shower can use up to 25 litres of water per minute.
Sizing matters However, it must be noted that personal habits also play a big part in total hot water use. Two households of the same size can use completely different amounts of hot water, with one of them using twice as much as the other! In determining how much hot water you require, you should always consult with the occupants and consider the following: • A bath uses 100 litres of hot water at 40 ºC (equating to 60 litres at 60ºC) • Showers can use about 18 litres of hot water per minute at 40ºC (equating to 11 litres at 60ºC) The following average consumption values can be used as a general rule (hot water requirements per person per day):
Fortunately advancements in technology mean we can. • Low consumption = 20 – 30 litres Why? Hot water storage tank solutions allow for someone • Average consumption = 30 – 50 litres to take a hot shower, whilst someone else runs a fast • High consumption = 50 – 70 litres filling bath. No one has to wait – a perfect On this basis, a typical four person solution for the hurried household. household would often use around 200 Unvented units work directly from the litres of hot water a day and this is the “Hot water storage mains supply of water, meaning that figure that will generally be used under tanks are the perfect providing the incoming mains pressure the new EU energy labelling scheme. is sufficient, which in the vast majority companion for This does not necessarily mean that a of cases it is. Hot water can be delivered 200 litre tank is required, as dependent renewable energy quickly via more than one outlet. on the heating system the tank may be sources” Many people remain under the partially reheated during the day. It is impression that hot water storage tanks up to the installer to match the correct size of tank relative to boiler input to mean that they will run out of hot water and therefore have to wait for the tank to heat up. If the tank avoid running out of hot water. So we have established that the hot water industry can meet is sized correctly according to the needs of the household, the needs of today’s household, now let’s look at how they this should not happen. Here’s a quick guide to sizing: Obviously larger houses will have larger tanks. When selecting also meet the needs of tomorrow’s. With renewable energy the size of the hot water tank, a simple rule of thumb is that heating sources receiving consumer buy-in and Government encouragement via schemes like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), it is clear that renewable technology is here to stay. The latest figures for RHI show that as at February 2016, 49,340 homes have applied for payments under the domestic RHI. Many new build housing developments feature hot water storage as standard also, enabling the homes to be ‘renewable ready’ should the homeowner wish to install a renewable heating system at a later date. Renewables partnered with hot water storage is the only practical solution to turning the energy produced into something useful, and banking A typical bath uses 100 litres of hot water at 40ºC, equating to 60 litres at 60ºC it for when it needs to be used.
39 (WAS 41).indd 1
Perfect pairing Hot water storage tanks are the perfect companion for renewable energy sources, which can be inflexible in terms of their energy supply. You are often at the hands of the weather (e.g. solar thermal and air source heat pumps). Hot water tanks can heat the water when your renewable source is generating energy, store it, and then people can use it when needed. The features of hot water storage tanks, which are purposely designed for use with renewables, allow maximum heat transfer of renewable energy into the stored water. Acting as the heart of an alternative energy system, there are tanks designed for use with one energy source available, as well as products which can take input from multiple heat sources. These include solar panels, biomass, heat pumps and other heat sources. In addition there are now also products available which come pre-wired and pre-plumbed to save on installation time, described in the industry as plug-and-play. Products come with single coils for use with one heat source, and twin coils for dual heat source, or plate to plate heat exchangers are also available. Hot water storage tanks are an efficient and environmentally friendly way of providing domestic hot water and cutting energy bills. They are also perfect for meeting the impatient demands of today’s households, with multiple instant results, leaving them free to identify other ways in which to hurry. It seems impatience has been a driving force behind progress. Impatience can be key to moving things along. As ever, HWA members will be pleased to offer advice on best practice. You can find member details quickly on the HWA website (www.hotwater.org.uk).
About the Hot Water Association The Hot Water Association (HWA) aims to be recognised as the leading body in domestic hot water storage and, through cooperation and partnerships, to support, drive and promote the sustained growth and improvement of standards within the entire domestic hot water industry. HWA is a division of the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA).
27/04/2016 11:56
May 2016
40 WATER HEATING & Cylinders
The right choice for renewables What are the best cylinder options for renewable applications? Jason Hobson, MD of Gledhill, explains the importance of selecting the right product and the options available for different energy inputs, even when space availability might be an issue.
T
wo years after the Renewable Heating Initiative scheme was introduced for domestic installations, we’ve now entered a consultation period, with the Government seeking feedback on proposed changes. Ongoing until next year, discussions are focused on ensuring that the RHI programme remains affordable, delivers tangible and sustainable carbon Jason Hobson, Managing savings and ‘promotes Director of Gledhill wide-spread access’ for households most in need of reducing energy bills. The outcomes of the consultation are, of course, yet to be seen but have the potential to change the mix of preferred technology from the consumer market. Proposals include increasing the tariffs for air source and ground source heat pumps, maintaining biomass tariffs at the same level and ending them altogether for solar thermal installations. In the meantime, the need for the heating and plumbing sector to reinforce the financial and environmental benefits of renewables remains. Selecting the right cylinder for individual installations is critical in this regard, both in terms of maximising energy inputs and achieving a best fit solution for properties and its occupiers. Opting for a trusted supplier with plenty of products designed specifically for a range of installations will ensure suitability for properties of all kinds, large and small.
Unvented solution The first question when specifying a cylinder for a renewables installation is whether the energy input needs to feed into the hot water system only or if it can be harnessed to feed into the hot water and heating systems. If the requirement is hot water only, an unvented cylinder is the ideal solution for solar, heat pump or combined solar and heat pump installations. However, it is vital that the model selected is designed specifically for the technology or combination or technologies specified. This is because the cylinder’s coil must optimise heat transfer from the energy source to the stored water. For example, solar cylinders should feature a dedicated high performance coil and boast excellent compatibility with the majority of solar systems available on the UK market so they can maximise dedicated solar volume. Similarly, for heat pump installations, the cylinder specified must have an internal coil designed to maximise
40 (WAS 42).indd 1
the lower energy inputs of heat pump technology. It’s important to select a model that is supplied with an immersion heater and thermostat to ensure that the temperature of the stored water is always raised above 60°C to avoid the risk of Legionella. For example, at Gledhill we have addressed the specific challenges of heat pump installations with the StainlessLite HP cylinder (pictured, right) which enables installation with immersion heater ‘on’ set at a temperature just below the heat pump maximum and ‘off’ set just above the safe 60°C level. The cylinders are fitted with an innovative multi-pass coil heat exchanger and are manufactured from corrugated stainless steel tube, which provides low pressure drop and high flow rates.
Thermal stores Renewable energy sources can also be used to feed into heat and hot water installations if a thermal store is specified. This provides the ideal solution for optimising energy inputs for multi-renewable installations. Simple to install and low maintenance, with no discharge pipework, no G3 qualification and no annual service or safety check requirement, thermal stores represent a significant growth area for the development of efficient and cost-effective renewables installations. Our range of Torrent Eco thermal stores (pictured, left) are open vented and, therefore, inherently safe for uncontrolled heat sources, such as wood burning stoves and solid fuel. As a result, the stores can be specified for use with individual renewable technologies and uncontrolled heat sources, with a 3kW immersion heater for boost, emergency heating and hot water back up. The range is not only safe, it is also efficient, with a high efficiency ErP ready pump fitted within each model and a flow sensor that provides a 75% reduction in hot water response times and higher store temperatures when solid fuel inputs are utilised. Thermal stores provide a safe and efficient means of capturing the heat from one or more renewable energy sources with energy being fed directly into the store for use when needed. On-demand heating and domestic hot water is generated using mains cold water, which passes through a plate heat exchanger. The thermal store then
acts as a buffer, allowing the heat pump to run longer without cycling, delivering both financial and carbon reduction benefits. The range includes models designed for use with a solid fuel burner in conjunction with either an open vented boiler, a sealed primary boiler, solar panels or heat pump in various combinations. There are often options of custom specification to create a bespoke solution based on the combination of energy sources and the size, layout and occupation of the property.
Sized to fit Correct specification of cylinders for use with renewable energy not only needs to consider the energy source or sources but must also be carefully matched to the needs of the individual property. One of the main drivers of Government policy is enabling households at risk of fuel poverty to reduce their bills by utilising renewable energy and this means ensuring that renewables can be safely installed in smaller homes and properties of all types. It’s a challenge that many manufacturers have taken very seriously. For example, we are able to offer a number of slimline cylinder options for use with renewables, as well as horizontal products that can be installed in the loft if space is restricted within the property. In addition to the size of the cylinder, the specifier should also consider the size of the property, which requires an understanding of the anticipated occupancy levels and the number of bathrooms and separate shower rooms, rather than simply the square area of the property. A cylinder supplier should be able to advise on the most appropriate model to meet requirements.
Cylinders for all While policy on renewables may change, the cost and carbon saving advantages of utilising renewable energy are here to stay. Smaller properties, retrofit installations and multi-fuel source requirements should be no obstacle to an optimised installation because there is a cylinder out there to meet all requirements. www.gledhill.net
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
129
Double success for cylinder company Gledhill has recently celebrated the double success of passing two audits carried out by independent certification company NAPIT. The Blackpool based manufacturer has been awarded both Benchmark accreditation and Hot Water Association Charter Status. Both schemes are designed to ensure best practice in the industry, specifically with regards to manufacturing, installing, commissioning, supplying and servicing domestic heating and hot water products. Jason Hobson, MD at Gledhill, comments: “We are delighted to have been successful in achieving both of these accreditations. We take great pride in manufacturing quality products on UK soil and receiving recognition like this is testament to the time and effort everyone, from the production line up to the senior management team, puts into going above and beyond to not only meet but exceed customer expectations.”
Welding a StainlessLite cylinder at the Gledhill factory
27/04/2016 11:57
Coming soon
Megaflo Eco Slimline
Megaflo Eco
Megaflo Eco Plus
Megaflo Eco Solar
Megaflo Eco SolaReady
Megaflo Eco SystemFit
Megaflo Eco SystemReady
Megaflo Commercial
Quality. Guaranteed.
Our wide range of Megaflo cylinders give outstanding and unparalleled levels of hot water performance, exceptionally fast recovery rates and energy-saving economy. Faster, simpler installation.
Lifetime warranty†
A solution for every home.
Supporting you.
£150 with every Megaflo
Lightweight duplex stainless steel construction with pre-plumbed and pre-wired solutions.
Including free on-site service support from our award winning customer support team.
A wide range of energy efficient cylinders including Solar and SystemReady, with powerful flow rates for outstanding performance.
Our very own specification and after sales team to assist you every step of the way.
Our Megacash offer means you get £150 cashback with every Megaflo you install.
For more information 01603 420220 | specifier@heatraesadia.com www.heatraesadia.com † 30 years in commercial installations *Terms and conditions apply, all enquiries to be directed to specifier@heatraesadia.com ENQUIRY
HEATRAE 327.indd 1
327
25/04/2016 10:07
May 2016
42 WATER HEATING & Cylinders
Homeowners driving hot water demand As the hot water requirements for the average household continue to rise, unvented cylinders are an increasingly popular way to provide a reliable supply. With a growing range of products on the market, Heatrae Sadia’s Technical Support Manager Alan Clarke explains how to ensure that the cylinder is the right match for the application.
F
or any homeowner looking to sell, the UK housing market continues to pose a serious challenge. While government initiatives like the Help to Buy ISA and most recently the Lifetime ISA are designed to jump-start the market by increasing the number of first time buyers, the reality is that many owners who want to make a move now face a highly competitive Alan Clarke, Heatrae Sadia battle for credible buyers. At the same time, those already on the housing ladder have been left to tackle house prices that, seemingly, are forever on the rise. As a result, homeowners who want to move to a bigger property are often faced with a gap between what their house is worth and what they need to make a new purchase. As a result, there remains a strong trend for homeowners to invest in their home and look to increase its value. Alongside loft conversions and extensions, a recent report from the Nationwide Building Society has identified that adding an extra bathroom remains an effective way to up the value to the tune of nearly £10,000 for the average home.
The UK housing market presents opportunities for installers
Before fitting a cylinder it’s essential to estimate hot water demand
struggle to manage. Furthermore, if the work on the house includes a loft conversion but the water tank is currently in the way, the flexibility in terms of siting an unvented hot water cylinder – whether in a garage or an under stairs cupboard – could be the answer. You could even discover that the homeowners are thinking of putting the house on the market. In such
cases the temptation can be to opt for a ‘quick fix’, but homeowners may not be aware that investing in the best suited system is likely to pay dividends when it comes to selling their property, instilling confidence in buyers looking for a ready-made home.
Opening doors For installers, that means an increase in the number of customers who require hot water in more than one bathroom at any one time, opening the door to new jobs where systems need to be upgraded or replaced. First on the list for any new enquiry should be to carry out a full survey of the property. This will provide the opportunity to take stock of the current system, the kitchen and bathroom fixtures and fittings, and the requirements of other appliances. For instance, while a homeowner may give you a rundown of the number of bathrooms in their house, they won’t necessarily provide the details which could indicate that faster flow rates are required. One example is whether the shower is electric or a luxury multi-jet model. Where the former is normally cold fed from the mains, the latter could indicate that a system boiler coupled with a highperformance unvented hot water storage cylinder is the best solution.
Future plans The survey is also an ideal time to talk to the homeowner about their lifestyle, and their plans for their home, both now and in the future. For instance, they may have two bathrooms, but on further investigation you may find one is very rarely used – meaning the more substantial investment of an unvented hot water cylinder may be overkill. Here, one of the combi boilers that has been developed to deliver higher flow rates for larger households could do the job instead. On the other hand, you may discover that the homeowner has plans to add an extension within the next couple of years, which may lead to conversations around another increase in the hot water demand which a combi may
42 (WAS 44).indd 1
Made to measure Once it has been established that an unvented hot water cylinder is the best fit, there remain three key questions which will help to decide what type and size of cylinder is most appropriate. Before any recommendation is made, it’s essential to calculate the maximum amount of hot water a household requires. Guides from British Standard BS8558, CIBSE and the CIPHE explain how to size a system using the information gathered during the survey, and Heatrae Sadia’s SpecPro sizing software (available as a CD or as a download online) can also help. The next question is whether fitting a solar thermal water heating solution would benefit the homeowner. Solar energy can provide all of a property’s hot water during the summer, and up to 60% year round – saving gas or electricity even on overcast or colder days. While the roof type itself shouldn’t pose any problems, a separate site survey should be carried out to ensure the installation is viable. It’s worth bearing in mind that if the homeowner wants to qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) the installer and product must be approved by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Lastly, if an unvented hot water cylinder seems like the right option but space is an issue, it’s worth being aware that there are now slimmer models on the market that offer the same volume of hot water on a reduced footprint. While unvented hot water cylinders normally need an external expansion system, the latest slimline models incorporate an internal expansion system for a quicker, neater installation.
Added value
Available in a range of sizes, the Heatrae Sadia Megaflo Eco cylinder has been produced in Norwich for over 25 years
With an ongoing trend for homebuyers to invest in extra bathrooms to add value to their home, there is a prime opportunity for installers to revisit the hot water requirements of their customers and explore the benefits that installing an unvented hot water cylinder can provide. www.heatraesadia.com
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
130
27/04/2016 11:59
May 2016
WATER HEATING & Cylinders 43
When storage works best Combi boilers offer many benefits, but they don’t always represent the best solution. Neil Mattock, Marketing Director at Vokèra, explains why stored hot water and cylinders are still an important part of the mix.
O
ver the last 10 years, the UK boiler market has changed dramatically. Combi boilers now make up around 80% of the market, compared to nearer 70% back in 2006. Combi boilers are energy efficient, easy to install and perfect for homes where domestic hot water demand is moderate and space is premium. However, they are not always the right solution and installers must be sure that the products they are fitting meet the needs of the heating system and the household. After all, one of the biggest problems for homeowners remains getting the right amount of hot water, at the right rate, when it’s needed. For single bathroom properties where the demand for hot water is not that great, a combi boiler often does the job perfectly well. In recent times we’ve seen a boom in home extensions, especially loft conversions, which have transformed many older properties,
Neil Mattock, Vokèra
bringing additional space and, in many cases, extra en-suite bath or shower rooms, washrooms and utility areas. For these newly enlarged properties, it’s common that families overlap in their demand for hot water. In these cases, the best solution is stored hot water via an unvented cylinder. This approach may not bring the quick and simple installation that a combi would, but
does deliver on the expectations of the homeowner and offers a number of other advantages. First of all, there is no need for a cold water tank. Instead the sealed hot water cylinder is fed directly by the cold water mains and, since it will be operating at mains pressure, it offers better flow rates and will improve the performance on the shower or bath. Secondly, since it is a sealed system with no water storage cistern, the cold water is not at risk from breeding legionella bacteria or contamination in any other way.
Comfort counts A heating and hot water system for the home is, ultimately, all about comfort. With a system based around an unvented cylinder, householders can be assured of instant hot water, even if there is a long draw off. Reheating and recirculating the hot water will also be very rapid.
Another advantage of an unvented system is a much lower operating noise over a vented solution because there is no cold water filling the water storage cistern. Using an unvented cylinder also makes positioning the equipment a much easier task for installers and gives more choice to homeowners. With no need for a hot water tank, it frees up space and eliminates having to rely on gravity to move hot water around the property. This means the cylinder can be positioned virtually anywhere in the home. So, when will unvented cylinders not be the right call? If the property has low mains water pressure and poor water flow rates, then the system may be unable to operate effectively. Homeowners can be left with no water storage in the unlikely event of a water mains failure. Price can also be a factor, and unvented cylinders come at a premium over vented cylinders, though that may well be offset by time and cost
Vokèra’s AquaFlow unvented cylinder is ideal when space is an issue
savings on installation. There are many benefits to using unvented cylinders and stored hot water in a home just like there are many benefits to using a combi system. The key is to use the right solution for the project, and if installers do that they can provide their customers with the best heating system for their needs. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
131
www.vokera.co.uk
Hot Water Energy Storage
NEW ULTRASTEEL PLUS WITH BUILT-IN THERMAL EXPANSION SPACE FOR A HASSLE-FREE INSTALLATION SETUP
THE HOT WATER PEOPLE
No need for an external expansion vessel, saving an average 2m of 22mm copper tube per installation
Improved reliability for a reduced risk of call back
WHEN THE WATER IS COLD
Quicker, simpler to fit; save up to 20 minute on a typical retrofit installation WHEN THE WATER IS HOT
ENQUIRY
43 (WAS 45).indd 1
340
To learn more about the Ultrasteel Plus, visit www.kingspanenviro.com or call 0345 260 0258 27/04/2016 12:15
May 2016
44 WATER HEATING & Cylinders
The benefits of a cylinder upgrade A modern hot water storage cylinder can play a significant part in helping to minimise heat losses and boosting overall system performance. Martyn Bridges, Director of Marketing and Technical Support at Worcester, argues the case for replacing older models.
T
he steady growth in the popularity of combi boilers over a number of years now may have impacted on hot water storage cylinders’ share of the spotlight, but demand for cylinders remains high in certain contexts. We know that there are around 23 million homes in the UK with central heating and that around 16 million of these have a combi boiler. What’s left is an encouraging market of around 8 million properties in the UK which are reliant on a hot water Martyn Bridges, Worcester cylinder installed in an airing cupboard or other location within the property. The modern hot water cylinder of 2016 is vastly different to those produced in past years. 15 years ago, it wasn’t unusual to find cylinders installed in people’s properties that were made from raw copper, with no insulation or just a very basic insulation jacket tied around them to prevent heat losses. By contrast, today’s cylinders are leaving factories with insulation built into the product composition, and a casing structure developed specifically to maximise heat retention. Many of the latest cylinders, such as our own Greenstore range, have been designed to comply with the Energy related Products (ErP) directive, which indicates that generally the
The high efficiency Greenstar cylinder from Worcester
maximum heat loss from a domestic cylinder would be no more than around 2kW/24hrs. Ultimately, this ensures the household benefits fully from greater energy efficiency and the potential savings this brings. It is a huge positive that today’s technology offers such improved performance, but in reality it will take some time to upgrade all UK homes to the level of cylinder prescribed by the ErP directive. Naturally new cylinders will only be installed as and when old ones get replaced. The poor insulation of old cylinders isn’t the only area of concern. The amount of heat required from the boiler input to raise the water temperature to the required 60 – 65°C in an older cylinder is also questionable. The heat exchangers
Plenty of hot water for listed property
One example of a cylinder being used to enhance the delivery of hot water throughout the property can be found in Wiltshire, where the owners of a Grade II listed house in Shrewton, near Salisbury, were keen to ensure that they were able to have a new heating and hot water system installed that would guarantee an accessible supply of hot water at all times. The result was the addition of a Greenstore 300L unvented cylinder alongside a Greenstar
44 (WAS 46).indd 1
Utility regular 50/70 oilfired boiler. Having been designed to offer high efficiency levels and low standing heat losses, the cylinder proved to be the perfect enhancement of the rural property, which has multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. The cylinder’s ability to quickly recover a vast supply of hot water was key to its specification, as it ensures the property’s occupants are never left short of hot water – even in the rare event that multiple
bathrooms are in use at the same time. Angus Heward of Flush Heating & Plumbing Solutions, who completed the installation, comments: “With a property so large, the primary focus was on guaranteeing an accessible supply of hot water at all times and as such a hot water storage solution seemed the perfect option. Worcester’s range of hot water storage cylinders is known for its recovery times so there was no need to look for any alternative.
The added benefit is that with every component of the complete system manufactured by Worcester, my customers only have one place to turn in the unlikely event that they experience any difficulties later on.” Robert Drummond, the owner of the property, adds: “Since having our new heating and hot water system installed, we’ve been able to benefit from nothing short of brilliant water pressure and access to hot water whenever we’ve needed it.”
Today’s hot water cylinders are significantly more efficient
fitted in modern cylinders can heat water in rapid time whereas older units often take significantly longer to heat their entire contents, so the system inefficiency is twofold.
Governmental support The Government may have invested a lot of time and money into the promotion of all types of property insulation, but they appear to have overlooked the role of the cylinder and the importance of updating this kind of insulation. While many homes in the UK will now have a high efficiency condensing boiler, too many of these are likely to have been fitted to an existing heating system and an existing, non-efficient hot water storage cylinder. There is an argument to suggest that it is time we turn our attention to this area in more detail, and focus on the efficiency of complete systems, rather than their individual components. To do this effectively, some form of cylinder scrappage incentive could well be the answer as we aim to reduce the number of older hot water cylinders. This would ensure more households have modern cylinders fitted alongside high-efficiency condensing boilers, thus reducing the amount of heat coming out of the airing cupboard and ultimately being emitted into the atmosphere. It may take some time to implement a scheme of this type, but in the meantime, installers could take the initiative and actively check cylinders performance and advise their customers on the benefits of regular servicing in the interim. If we can bring hot water storage to the forefront of more people’s thoughts, we can ensure cylinders won’t be sat in the airing cupboard for the next 20-30 years, operating at inadequate levels. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
132
Cashback promotion Heating engineers are now able to claim £100 cashback when they purchase a Worcester Greenstore highefficiency unvented cylinder and be entered into a prize draw to win a driving experience day with Palmer Sports Racing. For more details visit www.worcester-bosch.co.uk
27/04/2016 12:22
May 2016
WateR HEATING & Cylinders 45 New Ultrasteel makes it easy Under sink heaters Compact to meet demand
In response to the demand for higher levels of efficiency and the opportunity for more premium, flexible and added value cylinder solutions, the Ultrasteel Plus is the latest addition to the stainless steel
unvented cylinder range from Kingspan Albion. Available in sizes from 120 to 300 litres, the new cylinder features a built-in thermal expansion space and comes with a choice of three models – direct, indirect or solar indirect – to suit any type of property.
With no need for an external expansion vessel, it is estimated that an average of 2m of copper tube can be saved per job, and up to 20 minutes on the time it takes for a typical retrofit installation. It also helps to save space in the customer’s airing cupboard or loft space. The side-mounted hot water outlet also gives greater flexibility to the homeowner, as it allows the cylinder to be installed under shelving or other equipment. Neil Overton, Commercial Director at Kingspan Environmental, comments: “Together, Ultrasteel and Ultrasteel Plus provide a complete mid to premium range offer at attractive price points. The introduction of Ultrasteel Plus gives our customers the opportunity to trade up homeowners to a better hot water system with a market leading product.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.kingspanenviro.com
133
Described as an affordable option for light commercial applications, Redring’s TS range of high performance, compact and unvented water storage heaters come in 10 and 15 litre capacity models. They operate with a 2kW heating element that heats water to 60°C and are said to be ideal for under-sink installations in kitchens and multiple hand wash basin applications such as hairdressers or doctors surgeries, where point of use water heating reduces energy usage and reliance on centralised water heating systems. The new TS10U and TS15U units feature an on/ off switch with LED power indicator for easy operation and an adjustable thermostat with safety thermal cut-out protection. The ErP ‘C’ rated products also feature an easy access flange for magnesium anode and heating element replacement, glass-ceramic
tank protection and stainless steel water inlets for longterm performance. Nick Mawby, Redring Water Heating Category Manager, says: “There’s no doubt that under-sink water heaters are increasing in popularity. These water storage heaters are competitively priced entry level products, yet retain all of the key functionality and high levels of performance the other options in the market offer.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.redring.co.uk
134
A new size has been added to the buffer store range from Advance Appliances. The small and compact 20 litre stainless steel buffer store measures just 280 by 535mm, including foam insulation. The buffer has 1 inch female connections at each end and comes with wall brackets for vertical wall mounting. It is designed for use with a heat pump and can be used in sealed systems up to 3 bar pressure.
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
135
advanceappliances.co.uk
Prestige - A new generation of wall hung boilers n High quality components n Efficiency and modulation n Stainless steel heat exchanger n ACVMAX® Electronics n Integrated cascade control
n Graphical user interface
n Easy installation set up menu covers 80% of standard installations n Easy diagnostics with full text error messages and problem solving information n Control cascades of up to 4 boilers without an additional controller
The new generation of Prestige wall hung boilers from ACV are now available. With an extended range of 4 models in sizes 50kW, 75kW, 100kW and 120kW there is a prestige boiler suited to almost every commercial application. At the core of the Prestige is ACV’s unique, self-cleaning stainless steel heat exchanger, developed and improved after intensive research and laboratory testing. The use of stainless steel provides unparalleled resistance to corrosion and the additives used in modern heating systems; we believe the durability of the material makes it a reliable and efficient choice. Further innovation in the new generation of Prestige boiler is the all new ACVMAX® system control, which has been designed to be flexible yet easy to use. The new control panel with integrated manometer and LCD provide all the necessary information with the simple push of a button. As well as monitoring the boiler to ensure optimal efficiency, the ACVMAX® offers many advanced control options, including control of up to 4 boilers in cascade without the extra expense of an additional controller, and native support for open protocols such as OpenTherm® 3.2 and Modbus® enabling easy integration into Building Management Systems (BMS). Operating the Prestige in cascade offers a modulation ratio of 1:73 a highly flexible output from the minimum output of one unit to 100% of the combined power of all the boilers. Prestige boilers can be installed in a cascade from 2 to 8 units with a maximum combined output of 920kW. A cascade installation greatly improves the system efficiency and
fuel usage resulting in reduced running costs and helps keep emissions to a minimum. The prestige boiler also now comes with an integrated non-return flue valve to make fluing options easier when considering a cascade system. The new prestige boiler has been developed for ease of installation, maintenance and efficiency which will benefit the installer and end user. All parts are serviceable from the front of the unit by removing the front cover, which cuts down on service time. The improved ACVMAX® system control also has an easy menu structure which covers up to 80% of standard installations, easy diagnostics and full text error messages and problem solving information. The connections on the underside of the prestige give easy access during installation with the added benefit of being in the same position as the previous models. All the accessories required for a cascade installation are available from ACV.
If you would like more information on the new generation of ACV Prestige wall hung boilers, please call us on 01383 820100 or have a look at the product information on our website www.acv.com
ENQUIRY
ACV NOV 2014.indd 1
45 (WAS 47).indd 1
335
10/11/2014 09:50
27/04/2016 12:25
May 2016
46 WATER HEATING & Cylinders
Raising the energy efficiency bar Stuart Elsy, MD of cylinder manufacturer OSO Hotwater, comments on how the ErP Directive has changed the water heating market and how manufacturers are rising to the challenge of maximising consumer and installer confidence in efficiency ratings.
T
he water heating and hot water storage market has undergone its biggest shakeup for several years with the introduction last summer of energy labelling for boilers and hot water cylinders under the European Energy-related Products Directive (ErP). However, the dust cannot be allowed to settle because a tightening of the regulations is due to come into practice Stuart Elsy, OSO Hotwater in 18 months which will see many products, currently on sale, banned from use. Cylinders, boilers and other heating devices up to 400kW sold to the trade and public must carry an energy label at the present time. ErP sets minimum performance and environment criteria for energy related products and heralds the introduction of the familiar ‘A’ to ‘G’ energy labels found elsewhere. ErP is a game-changer for the cylinder industry. Cylinder efficiency is now obviously visible to the installer and, equally importantly, to the end user and experience in the boiler and white goods industries have shown that customers are looking, and prepared to pay for, superior energy ratings.
Efficiency challenge ErP cylinder ratings are measured on parameters heavily affected by insulation efficiency. Achieving an ‘A’ rating across a range of sizes is not easy for a cylinder manufacturer because simply adding more foam insulation is not enough. As cylinder capacity increases, it is increasingly challenging to achieve the highest rating, so a different level of technology is required to achieve an ‘A’ rating in the popular mid-range sizes and beyond. Installers should look at ratings across an entire range, as heavily promoted ‘A’ ratings may only be valid for 120 and 150 litres. Indeed it is possible that a range could drop two full bands between smallest and largest. An ‘A’ rated unit can save over 1.5kWh per day compared to a ‘C’ rated product and will lead to significant long term energy savings. Energy efficiency for indirect cylinders is calculated by measuring the standing heat loss. The domestic hot water is heated to 65°C in a controlled ambient temperature of 20°C and the energy required to maintain the DHW temperature is measured over time. The standing heat loss
is that measurement, calculated either in watts or kilowatt hours per day. ErP gives performance bands within which the heat loss of every cylinder will fit, thus determining the energy rating.
46.indd 1
bacteria. The weekly boost feature can be disabled or adjusted depending on the requirements of the homeowner and the installation. Hot water can be stored at any temperature between 25 and 60°C. The display shows the current water temperature and when adjusted, the set point temperature. “We’re providing installers and specifiers with a new range of quality heating controls that are already being met warmly by a number of
Next level
Direct cylinders
Whilst ErP demonstrates efficiency For direct electrically heated units, levels, it does not specify a ratings are determined by measuring the minimum standard. All that amount of energy used to deliver set hot water changes in September 2017, less draw off profiles over time. These profiles than 18 months away. All cylinders are designed to mimic typical use on a daily below band ‘C’ will be banned. basis, and combine small draw offs for a hand Many indirect cylinders, especially basin with larger ones to simulate a bath or in the larger capacities, will have to shower. Profiles vary for different sizes of improve their insulation to survive properties and manufacturers will test against as products with a commercial the profile which is closest to the intended future, however the plethora of ‘C’ usage situation of the particular cylinder. The rated products currently available reality is that a well-insulated cylinder will shows that this is all possible. perform a lot better than a poorly insulated A much more important situation one, and the draw off profiles are likely to to be resolved is the effect on direct favour these units. electrically powered water heaters. Electric direct cylinders will normally have The carbon multiplier represents lower grades than indirect units. The ratings an existential threat to many types for electric heating reflect the inefficiencies in of direct water heaters, especially fossil fuelled power generation across Europe. vented units which typically will A 2.5 times multiplier applies to electricity have a lower level of insulation usage in efficiency calculation. This means than unvented units and are often that a perfect cylinder, which never suffers manufactured to fit in tight spaces. any heat loss, could only get a 40% efficiency. The new ‘A’ rated Delta Coil VIP Most cylinders are indirect, but in The use of smart controls are encouraged and cylinder from OSO Hotwater off-gas areas and in apartment blocks will help to achieve ‘C’ and in some cases ‘B’ where threading gas supply and flue pipes is prohibitively ratings, but again, only on a well-insulated cylinder. expensive, an alteration to the rules as proposed or a Charter status fundamental change in product design will have to occur Under ErP regulations, manufacturers can self-certify their to allow the present market to continue. heat losses and energy efficiency, effectively allowing them Next year will also see the introduction of ‘A+’ ratings to self-declare their energy rating without third party for boilers and water heating, but with currently available approval. In order to maintain transparency and bolster technology most industry commentators would argue that confidence in the figures advertised by manufacturers, the ‘A+’ rated cylinders are likely to remain an aspiration rather industry trade body, the Hot Water Association (HWA), has than a reality. developed the HWA charter to demonstrate compliance Water heating efficiency has been improving for several to the regulations. years, and the introduction of ErP and increased demand Continued HWA charter marking to 2016 rules is critical to for highly efficient systems will improve this further for the companies to demonstrate that the commercially important future, meaning lower fuel bills for tomorrow’s consumer. efficiency ratings they declare are true and accurate. The PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.osohotwater.co.uk 136 reputation of the industry is only as good as the credibility of
Easy way to control water temperature Offered as a direct and economical replacement for traditional mechanical dual cylinder thermostats, a new thermostat from Esi is said to enhance energy efficiency with accurate temperature control and a clear and informative LCD display. It has the added advantage of a weekly automatic one hour boost that can be set at a time that lifts the temperature of the water in the cylinder to above 60°C to eradicate any legionella
its efficiency claims and it is expected that housebuilders, merchants and heating engineers will look to the HWA charter mark as conformation that a water heating product ‘does what it says on the tin’.
Energy saving solutions
new build and social housing providers,” says ESi MD Neil Ewings. “We’re introducing easy to use controls with unique features and offering keenly priced replacement units that are proving very attractive through the merchants.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.esicontrols.co.uk
137
Available from Rinnai is a range of ‘A’ rated energy labelled appliances with load profiles to cover domestic to large industrial applications. Recent additions to the range include the 24kW multipoint Rinnai Infinity 11i which is capable of delivering 8.4 litres per minute and joins the 16i (35kW/16 litres per minute) and the Rinnai Infinity 17e for external mounting (37kW/17 litres per minute). Also new is the Infinity HDC1600i which at 20ppm
NOx is claimed to produce the lowest emissions on the market. It features a downfiring burner for increased efficiency and joins the
established HDC1200 and larger Rinnai HDC1500 internal and external models. The Infinity Solo condensing low NOx water heater is the first Rinnai product for the UK to combine the advanced technology of its wall mounted continuous flow water heaters with a stainless steel storage cylinder in one compact unit, boosting recovery rates of as little as 19 minutes and low standing losses. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.rinnaiuk.com
138
27/04/2016 12:27
May 2016
Solar Technology 47
Real potential for a mass market From urban flats to industrial settings, solar thermal technology has the potential to make a significant contribution to the UK’s renewable energy targets. Isabella O’Dowd, Project Analyst at the Solar Trade Association, argues why we should #KeepSolarThermal.
T
he Government has proposed to remove support for solar thermal under the Renewable Heat Incentive. We think they are making a strategic mistake and we urge everyone involved in the heating and hot water sector to help put pressure on the Government via our #KeepSolarThermal campaign page to urge DECC to re-think. Solar thermal is one of the cheapest and most established renewable energy technologies able to contribute to the UK’s renewable heat targets. It is designed to work alongside the majority of heating systems and can provide roughly half of a household’s hot water requirements across the year and nearly all during the summer months.
Wide application Solar thermal ensures the widest possible number of homes, including smaller, urban and less-able-to-pay homes, will be able to benefit from the RHI, helping improve fairness and inclusivity in public funding. Solar thermal is also unique in not presenting ongoing fuel costs and future cost uncertainty, which is particularly valuable for vulnerable homes. Solar thermal’s potential for space heating, community heating and industrial process heating is tremendous and rather than dropping solar thermal, Government should be supporting the development of its full range of applications. The UK is off track on its 2020 renewables targets. In 2014 green sources provided only 4.8% of the UK’s heat, which puts the UK way behind its self-imposed target of 12% renewable heat by 2020. Solar thermal is a key renewable heat technology, with a potentially huge contribution to make to displacing fossil heating. Solar thermal has been operating in an extremely difficult environment due to a three year policy hiatus and the abandonment of the Zero Solar thermal links well Carbon Buildings agenda. with biomass pellet boilers
Homes off the gas grid will benefit from solar thermal input
Flat plate panels can be installed discreetly into slate roofs
Recent and major cuts to support for solar PV mean solar thermal is now an equally attractive investment – now is the time to build a mass market in the UK. The UK has significant manufacturing capacity in solar thermal, with almost all the cylinders being produced locally, which we strongly urge Government to support. To drop solar thermal will actively discriminate against it in the renewable heat market, leaving the UK even further behind internationally and costing manufacturing and technological development opportunities.
The UK is one of the poorest performers on solar thermal, not only in Europe, but internationally we rank 44th according to the IEA for installed capacity per capita. Government help is needed to catch up and develop a mass market for solar thermal in the UK. Solar thermal is also a very complementary technology; it improves the overall efficiency of other heating technologies such as boilers and heat pumps, which are at their least efficient in the summer when their only use is for hot water production. The Government needs to continue supporting solar thermal under the RHI in order to drive market uptake, cost-efficiencies and technological innovation. Solar thermal has huge potential to contribute to clean heat generation and emissions reduction now and in the future. The exclusion of solar thermal now could have far reaching and long term consequences.
Industrial potential The scope for solar thermal to displace fossil heating in industrial process heating is remarkable. Analysis by IRENA shows that solar thermal technologies could technically provide nearly half of heat demand in the industrial sector. Process heating accounts for two-thirds of total energy consumption in industry and half of this is for medium to low temperature processes. Solar thermal hot water can cut energy use in a typical home by at least 10%. But solar thermal doesn’t just do domestic hot water. Space heating, community heating and industrial process heating can all be done by solar thermal. The UK needs to embrace the full range of applications for this important technology.
Get involved Please search for #KeepSolarThermal and use the STA’s campaign page to spread the word on social media and raise your concerns with Ministers. Remember that you don’t have to be an expert to express your views. It is vital that we keep this key green heat technology. www.solar-trade.org.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
139
Solar ready thermal stores save energy Available from Thermaltricity is a new range of Thermal Store solar ready hot water cylinders. The open vented system can be heated directly by any hot water heating device, as the domestic mains supplied potable water is delivered through stainless steel corrugated coil configurations. “The cylinder’s design features two heat exchanger coils, as typically found in unvented pressure cylinders, but this is where the similarity ends and the future of solar thermal begins,” explains Eric Hawkins, founder of Thermaltricity. “In the case of our Thermal Store range where the hot water is delivered through the two coils, the heating of the store is direct from our solar thermal heat pipe range of collectors. The backup is
47.indd 1
The Thermal Store cylinders can be heated directly by solar panels
from a gas or oil boiler, also direct, because the water in the cylinder is non-potable water unlike other unvented and direct hot water cylinders.”
The Thermaltricity system incorporates a number of safety devices to prevent the cylinder overheating. The water expansion is open to the atmosphere through the small feed and vent tank built above the hot water store. A ball valve maintains the F&E tank level of water in the store. The delivery of indirect hot water at mains pressure starts with the cold water (5ºC in winter months until May) passing through the lower coil first. This increases the input from the solar thermal heat pipe collector. The pre heated cold water, now at +25ºC, passes through an insulated external 22mm pipe with a flow meter. The flow meter allows the flow of water to be controlled by the owner’s needs, subject to type of sanitation outlets. The pre-
heated water then passes into the top coil to achieve the hot water temperature requirement of 55ºC through a temperature mixing valve (for safety reasons) even if the store water is +80ºC due to solar thermal input. “If the secondary hot water heating device like a gas/oil boiler is programmed to switch on when the cylinder thermostat drops below 65ºC, the amount of hot water at mains pressure available can be endless,” says Eric. As well as being maintenance free, the thermal store system is claimed to be 30% more efficient than an indirect system. “It’s a proven fact that heating a cylinder or cold water tank of cold water direct is more efficient than being heated indirectly by internal coils,” adds Eric.
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.solar-speed-flex.com
140
27/04/2016 12:53
May 2016
48 Solar Technology
Commercial sense in leisure sector Energy costs in a typical sports centre are second only to labour, accounting for as much as 30% of total running costs – so says Paul Sands of Stokvis Energy Systems. Here, he explains how solar thermal water heating can help cut energy usage and fuel bills in the leisure sector.
A
ll the numbers relating to the sun are mind-numbingly large. For example, it’s ancient – 4.6 billion years old to be precise. It’s hot – with a surface temperature around 5500ºC and a core temperature of 15,000,000ºC. And it’s big – the sun’s mass is staggering – the Earth could fit inside it around a million times. But one of the most compelling statistics about the sun from a building Paul Sands, Stokvis Solar services perspective is that the solar energy received by the Earth in just 30 minutes is the equivalent to all the energy used by the entire human population in a year.
Big demand Harnessing just a fraction of this energy can cut fossilfuel derived energy output dramatically as well as shrink carbon emissions and slash fuel bills. And that is where solar thermal water heating comes in, especially when it comes to leisure centres and sports facilities. Leisure centres require enormous quantities of heat, not only to ensure a comfortable space, but also for hot water to service showers, cafés, swimming pools, and so on. Solar heating can supplement the water heating requirements. According to the Carbon Trust, UK leisure facilities could save up to £70 million each year and reduce carbon emissions
More efficient solutions
Solar can help supply the heat demand in leisure centres
by hundreds of thousands of tonnes simply by making a 10% improvement in the management of energy use. Solar panels have a significant part to play in achieving this improvement. Again, the Carbon Trust states that solar water heating can be very effective for swimming pools and is relatively easy to connect to a conventional heating system. Unglazed solar collectors perform well in summer and are generally the cheapest to buy and install. Glazed collectors provide more energy in spring and autumn and can give a substantial contribution to pool heating throughout the year, with the remainder provided by a conventional heating system. Many leisure centres are equipped with modern boilers running on gas or other fossil fuel to offer reliability of both heating and hot water. But employing even the latest modulating gas boilers to supply hot water to large buffer vessels is not the best option.
Stop stagnation
Complete kit with all components Designed for the UK’s varied weather, the solar thermal offering from Grant operates from both direct and diffused sunlight, achieving as much as a 70% saving in water heating costs. For ease of ordering, Grant provides these products in kit form complete with all the required components. Solar controllers automate the operation of the solar thermal system and the
solar pump station has been designed with the installer in mind, incorporating a
high efficiency (HE) pump, air eliminator and manual bleed screw for rapid air
removal from the system. Grant’s R&D team have also developed the CombiSOL, which enables installers to integrate a combination boiler and solar thermal. It controls the outlet temperature of stored water produced by the solar thermal and directs the flow to either directly to the hot water outlet or via the combi boiler. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.grantuk.com
Go pro with easy-to-install system The EnergyPro solar thermal system from Nu-Heat is described as an affordable solut ion t hat makes renewable technology more accessible to installers and homeowners. The EnergyPro range is able to produce approximately 60% of a property’s domestic hot water throughout a year. And, because the panels are MCS certified, the homeowner can also benefit from the RHI tariff
48 (WAS 52).indd 1
payments, providing ongoing savings. Nu-Heat says that the flat plate panels are made by a leading European manufacturer and utilise the latest collector technology to maximise performance. All components are designed, manufactured and rigorously tested to the highest possible standard. Installation is described as quick and easy in new build or retrofit scenarios, with
the majority of properties not requiring planning permission. Key features include: toughened safety glass, in-roof and on-roof panel models, 10 year warranty on parts and labour, MCS and solar Keymark certification. Flashing kits are supplied and it can be fitted independently or integrated with UFH and/ or a heat pump PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.nu-heat.co.uk/solar
143
Even well insulated storage vessels lose heat, causing the boiler to cycle on and off as the temperature drops. Even having solar coils connected into the system will not alter the situation. Maintaining the temperature will still waste fuel and this is exacerbated by the need to provide regular temperature boosts to kill potential Legionella bacteria in the water. It is far more efficient to have an array of solar panels storing the free energy collected within what serves as a preheat storage vessel. This way, the temperature of incoming water from the mains or a borehole can be raised. And, when the temperature of the water needs to be raised further, a boiler in conjunction with a plate heat exchanger (PHE) can achieve this efficiently and instantaneously. At Stokvis we supply plate heat exchangers which integrate well with solar technology. The combination of high performance tubular collectors and plate exchangers provides an effective solar preheat. We supply the DF100, featuring evacuated tube technology to minimise temperature losses, either by convection or conduction. The heat from the Ecotubes is best stored in a solar preheat vessel from where water is then drawn off via one of our compact Econoplate packaged plate heat exchangers, which provides the additional temperature rise if required. Marrying up our DF100 solar collectors with an Econoplate plate heat exchanger offers the ultimate in high efficiency hot water systems. An Econoplate can even be used to maintain a second buffer vessel at the required temperature for the domestic hot water supply. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.stokvisboilers.com 141
142
The new Vitosol 200-FM solar thermal flat panel collector from Viessmann has been designed to solve the problems of overheating and stagnation in a system. It features a ‘switching’ absorber layer that deflects heat when needed, preventing stagnation. ThermProtect is the intelligent absorber layer coating that uses a temperature-dependent change in its crystal structures to adjust automatically to changes in sunlight and heat absorption. The patented coating prevents further energy absorption when the plate reaches a certain temperature. The coating’s structure changes depending on the collector temperature. Above an absorber temperature of 75°C, the coating increases its emitting of incoming solar radiation and in effect ‘shuts down’. If the temperature of the collector falls below 75°C, the structure of the coating will return to its original state and 95% of the incoming solar energy is absorbed and converted into heat. The change of the coating’s structure occurs unlimited times so the flat panel is never at risk of stagnation. Christian Engelke, Technical Director, says: “ThermProtect on the Vitosol 200-FM makes solar a more attractive proposition for installers and homeowners for whom oversizing is no longer an issue. ” www.viessmann.co.uk
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
144
27/04/2016 12:56
May 2016
WHat’s New 49 Getting cosy with heating
Wall hung system even more versatile Said to be faster and simpler to fit than ever, Geberit’s Duofix Sigma 8cm framing system now features a number of improvements to meet the needs of installers. With the re-designed frame now more closely aligned to the rest of the Duofix Sigma family of products, fewer modifications are needed when installing multiple frames. The new framing system has self-impeding feet to increase the height capability of installation, enabling it to be used on sub floors up to 20cm. The height of the frame itself has also increased to 114cm, while the flush plate
centre line has been raised to 100cm to ensure the lid of the WC does not reach the flush plate. With a frame width of just 50cm, it is suitable for installation in compact bathrooms and cloakrooms, while L support bars make the system more versatile. The frame can be used with all styles of ceramic, from shallow pans to long projection WCs and the company’s AquaClean shower toilet range. As with all Duofix framing systems, it can be installed even in stud walls, with maintenance access via the flush plate.
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.geberit.co.uk
145
Bathroom glam with gloss The Fresco range of bathroom furniture from PJH Group has been enhanced with the addition of a new finish, Ivory Gloss. The new range offers a contemporary bathroom look with clean lines and a wide range of furniture options. Available with an integrated handle (pictured) or as a standard slab door with a choice of 12 handles, the furniture can be wall mounted or free-standing with designer legs or plinth. The range of options include vanity, WC, and mirrored wall as well as curved base units. Customers can choose from a variety of base and wall cabinet sizes, as full depth units or space saving ones. Adding to its flexibility, a range of complementing opt ions are available
Developed in Cambridge by Geo, the Cosy is a smart home control system. The Cosy 3 provides installers with an independent product that can be easily fitted to help customers control their energy use at home and remotely. This latest version offers the ability to work with a twin zone heating system. A second display can be paired with the system and will work as the ‘stat for the second zone. There is a choice of either a standard or limited edition display. Additionally, the solution offers hot water control which is suitable for homes that have a hot water tank. The installation of a hot water extension pack will allow users to switch their hot water on and off from their Cosy display or mobile app in the same way as their heating.
“We are very excited about the new functionality that Cosy 3 offers,” says Simon Anderson, Chief Strategy Officer at Geo. “Installers will have the opportunity to offer highly effective changes to their customer’s homes, which will simplify their heating control. And for the consumer they no longer need to heat their
homes when they don’t need to. “Cosy gives users full control over single zone and twin zone heating and their hot water systems from a stylish mobile display that will work with iOS, Android, or with our dedicated web application.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
146
www.geotogether.com
Non-concussive Performa
including coordinat ing ceramics and lighting and a large selection of laminate worktops and accessories. Fresco comes with a rigid, durable 18mm carcase as standard and German en-
gineered fittings such as soft-close doors and smooth action drawer runners. A five year guarantee is also provided. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
bathroomstolove.co.uk
147
The Performa range of commercial taps from Pegler Yorkshire has undergone a design overhaul to meet the latest water saving efficiency and design credentials. In addition, new models have been added to provide more options. The range now includes a nonconcussive high performance tap which benefits from a flow rating of 3.8 litres/ min whilst the auto shut-off function gives 12-15 seconds of free flowing water. The inner cartridge has been redesigned to provide a smoother operation and easier push mechanism. It also benefits from a multi-directional filter, providing a flow of water suitable for a range of sinks and applications. One of the design updates includes an integrated solenoid valve with filter. Available in two forms, Infrared and a Capacitive, they are said to utilise the
most advanced technology to give more controlled sensitivity. Other aspects to the range include healthcare sector specific taps with antimicrobial properties to aid in infection control, and lever handles to negate the need for dexterous operation. www. pegleryorkshire.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 148
ENQUIRY
49.indd 1
336
28/04/2016 09:20
May 2016
COMPETITION
D r e s s sh a r p w it h Sn ickers
Win a workwear package!
WHat’s New Fan convector fits discreetly The Caspian Skyline is a new ceiling fan convector, joining the commercial range from Smith’s. It’s been developed using EC motor technology, meaning it’s efficient, quiet to run and simple to maintain. The Caspian Skyline CT60 fits into a suspended ceiling within a standard 600x600mm ceiling tile, providing easy access for both installation and maintenance. It complements the rest of the ceiling tiles, with only the grille showing. The grille opens easily to allow complete access for maintenance or repairs to make it straightforward to install. It may be used alone or in series with other Caspian products. Like all Caspians, this model is hydronic and plumbs into
any existing wet central heating system. With heat outputs up to 5.1kW, it’s suitable for a range of projects, including schools, retail or food units, showrooms and offices or similar applications where the heating needs to be discreet. Smith’s Jim Bennett says: “The demand for our commercial Caspian range of fan convectors grows apace and we are continually
listening to our clients’ needs and responding accordingly. “The Caspian Skyline is one such product developed because a number of clients had responded favourably to one of our existing ceiling products and requested a more aesthetically sympathetic version that could be installed and maintained quite easily.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
149
www.smiths-env.com
Small on space, big on style
This month one lucky reader will win a suite of workwear items designed by Snickers, the experts in advanced working clothes for professional tradesmen and women. For over 40 years, Snickers Workwear has been pioneering the development of working clothes that unite functionality, comfort, protection and durability in a contemporarily styled product. The Snickers range is so comprehensive that it can kit out an installer from head to toe for everything needed to dress for success.
The prize The prize package consists of: • Merino LS T-Shirt • AVS Polo Shirt • Windstopper Soft Shell Jacket • Merino Long Johns • Logo Belt • D30 Knee Pads • Beanie • Flexi Trouser • Solid Gear Hyda Safety Shoes GTX • Merino Long Johns • Cordura Socks
www.lecico.co.uk
Additional models have been added to Ideal Commercial Boilers’ range of the recently launched IMAX EL. With new outputs from 715 to 1240kW, the condensing and floor standing boilers can be paired and installed side by
Who was voted Britain’s best dressed man in 2016 according to GQ magazine? Jeremy Corbyn
101
Eddie Redmayne 102 Jeremy Clarkson 103
side for greater flexibility in a compact and lightweight package. The boiler fits through standard doorways and, once installed, has a small footprint. The range extension outperforms the
2015 ErP requirements as well as offering very low NOx Class 6 performance for maximum points on the BREEAM scale. The Imax Xtra EL extended range is said to provide a solution to even the most challenging of commercial installations, and the range is supported with a two year parts and labour warranty. Said to be ideal for any commercial application in need of larger outputs in a smaller scale package, the boilers are available in 10 models with outputs from 320 to 1240kW. The Imax Xtra EL offers comprehensive control, up to 109.8% part load efficiency, and a robust aluminium silicon alloy heat exchanger. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 50 (WAS 54).indd 1
150
ENQUIRY No.
Compact commercial boilers
How to enter Entering couldn’t be easier and it won’t even cost you the price of a stamp! Simply read the question on the right and then write your answer on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this issue. So, for example, if you think the answer is ‘Jeremy Corbyn’, you should write 101 on the card. The winner will be drawn from all the correct entries received before the closing date of 3rd June 2016. Only one entry allowed per person.
The Lecico Space Saving range has been created for times when space is at a premium to maximise on functionality without compromising on design. In a choice of square, round or corner style basins, the Space Saver range of products is based on the philosophy of simple clean lines with practical options of different sizes and products to select from. At the heart of the new range is a close coupled WC with a total projection of just 614mm. It has been created to offer a streamlined modern design that takes less space and complements a number of Lecico’s short projection basins. The basins measure less than 380mm projection and feature alongside compact bathroom furniture as well. The entire collection can be seen in Lecico’s latest Space Saving brochure.
idealcommercialboilers.com
151
28/04/2016 09:40
May 2016
WHat’s New Tackle poor water pressure Large domestic properties with significant water pressure and flow demands will benefit from Stuart Turner’s flomate iBoost. This fully integrated package combines a 200 litre cold water break tank, which overcomes restricted mains water flow, and a high performance multi-stage pump to dramatically boost pressure. The f lomate iBoost is capable of delivering water at pressures up to 4.5 bar and peak flow rates in excess of 100 litres per minute. In normal use, the system will deliver 60 litres per minute at 3 bar which is adequate for four showers each delivering 15 litres per minute. Designed for use in conjunction with the latest high-flow combi boilers and
pressurised hot water cylinder systems, the iBoost features a high gloss white front panel and won’t look out of place if standing amongst other appliances in a kitchen, utility
room or garage. Alternatively, being less than 540mm wide and not requiring the large ventilation clearance gaps associated with some systems, it can be concealed within a 600mm width cabinet. The pump itself is described as a reliable, vertically mounted, multi-stage unit featuring brass and stainless steel construction and a smooth running, induction motor rated for continuous operation. The control panel on the front of the unit features clearly visible power and status indicators in addition to a reset button which protects the unit if the mains water supply is interrupted or disconnected for any reason. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.stuart-turner.co.uk
152
Colour comes to anti-slip tray The Safe Flight range of antislip shower trays from Mira now comes in a new range of contemporary colours. Aimed at premium hotels, discerning yet vulnerable homeowners, and retail showrooms, Flight Safe combines showering safety confidence with the new colours of anthracite grey, titanium grey and taupe – as well as classic white (pictured). The colours are offered in nine of the square, rectangle and quadrant sizes. Flight Safe is also suitable for creating a minimalist wetroom look, at 40mm high. In respect of showering safety, the trays have been independently certified to
exceed the most stringent anti-slip test available – Class C DIN 51097. They also have anti-bacterial BioCote incorporated into the material to help prevent discolouration and reduce
mould growth. The coating won’t wear or peel off, nor wash away, so the trays retain their anti-bacterial properties for life. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.mirashowers.co.uk
tubular design targeted at the consumer and one-off installer, and it sits close to the wall. Available in nine sizes, the smallest measures
153
400 x 650mm and the largest comes in at 600 x 1785mm. “The new Slimline towel rail is made for new build developments and retrofit bathroom refurbishment projects, offering high quality, simple lines to enhance any bathroom,” says Stelrad’s Marketing Communications Manager Sarah Baker. “It’s very competitively priced and offers a high quality chrome finish that will heat the bathroom and warm the towels – it’s a simple solution for specifiers looking for affordable quality in the bathroom.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.stelrad.com
51.indd 1
Sponsored by
Continuing our new series of articles, oil heating service engineer Tony shares his experiences in addressing some of the issues that come up during the course of his work in the field.
Beauty or the beast?
I
would say, without a doubt, that the majority of my breakdown calls are combi boilers. In fact, you could say they have become my ‘bread and butter’ as I have seen the popularity of this type of packaged boiler rapidly grow in recent years. On the whole, as long as you follow the basic principles, fault finding is straightforward. If you speak of combi boilers in front of some lads who ‘ply the trade’, they go ashen at the mere suggestion. “Temperamental”, “unreliable”, “poor performance and a headache to repair”, are just some of the kinder words that can be printed in this column, and in some respects when you are under pressure to fix a problem I would tend to agree.
Bad rap
Slimline version added The Aqua Series from Stelrad has been expanded with the addition of a new Slimline towel rail. It’s a modern, chrome plated 22m
Tech Talk
154
It seems that when you fix one snag, just like the ‘whack a mole’ method, another rears its ugly head. Sometimes you can spend hours chasing your own tail. I have colleagues who won’t touch ‘em, and like an ancient sage of heating engineers, they mutter “once bitten twice shy”. So does the oil combi deserve such bad press? You only need look at some of those ‘professional forums’ on the internet to understand the trepidation surrounding them. For me, I think it’s just a case of having some basic knowledge. You have to wonder at the logic of an engineer specifying a mid-range combi boiler for a house with three bathrooms fitted with Jacuzzi style 2000 litre tubs and four Hollywood max flow showers and expect it to deliver constant piping hot water through a 32 plate heat exchanger and mixing valve! That’s a recipe for a Sunday morning call when the customer tells you that the water was cold again this morning after only three hours of being under the shower! You may smile, but it happens. It’s important we understand this type of boiler has its limitations and doesn’t deserve the bad rep it receives.
History lesson As properties become smaller and lifestyles change, so has space for cylinders and all the ‘gubbins’ that go with a traditional domestic hot water system. So what is the solution? Combining the functionality of heating rads and the supply of hot water on demand, the combi was born. Combination – or combi boilers as they’re now known – became the buzz word for economy and simplicity and,
in the gas world, this was as true then as it is today. Oil combis are somewhat more complex. A gas combi could regulate or ‘modulate’ its flow rate, in both gas and water passing through the plate to obtain the perfect conditions – not so in the oil combi. You are dealing with a fixed rate pressure jet burner here and the designers of the day had to come up with some ingenious engineering to overcome such issues. We all remember the diverter valve, a classic piece of engineering until the diaphragm gave up and the whole thing became blocked! Some of the control systems (relays, countless stats, etc) would not look out of place in a space rocket. This made for disastrous relationships between the maintainer and the maintained.
Sized to fit Thankfully, even oil combis can be straightforward nowadays with easy PCB fault finding facilities and thermistor control. All combis operate on the same principle of hot water priority and once you have mastered that, fault finding is simple. Needless to say a well thought out and planned combi install, taking into account the lifestyle of the end user, will pay dividends in the end. In next month’s issue I will explain more!
If you have a boiler problem and need advice, just send me an email at Techtalktony@hotmail.com and I will see what I can do to help.
28/04/2016 09:44
May 2016
52
WHat’s New
Get in touch with updated smart ‘stat Compact TRV The Touch2 Wi-Fi is Myson’s second generation appcontrolled thermostat that manages a heating system remotely via a smartphone or tablet. It works with the free Myson Heating app, which can be downloaded from the company’s website. The app allows for up to four time and temperature period settings per day. It displays the live temperature and offers the facility to check the temperature
When activated, the Geo Location feature can automatically turn the heating off when occupants leave, or turn the heating on when individuals reach a target distance on their way home. “Smart phones and tablets are increasingly used for a wide variety of tasks,” says Peter Spiers, National Development Manager. “With the Touch2 Wi-Fi, a householder can ensure that their home is always
history in the property. If required, the Touch2 WiFi Thermostat is lockable, using PIN protection, giving the bill payer overall control on domestic fuel usage.
comfortable, and the app gives them versatility to control the system should their plans change.” The thermostat uses an inbuilt hub to communicate the user’s instructions. It uses mesh communication for multi zone control, which means that the system will still be responsive in larger properties with a weaker broadband signal. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.myson.co.uk
Infrared heat goes large Aimed at the commercial sector, the Select XL from Herschel is suited for applications such as hotels, new homes, student accommodation and rental properties. Described as cost-effective and efficient, the frameless far infrared panel heater is available in outputs of 250W through to 1000W and employs a heating element said to be up to 10% more effective than competitor products. Infrared heating works on the basis of gentle, long-wave infrared which
penetrates the air and heats solids. The heat it provides is subtle and comfortable, similar to the warmth of winter sun. With an aluminium casing, the Select XL features Herschel’s easy-fix bracket. The discreet, ultra-slim white panels are designed for ceiling or wall-mounting and will complement any interior. They are TÜV approved, have an IP44 rating and come complete with a five year warranty. ENQUIRY No. herschel-infrared.com 156
Take a
Break
for chance to win £50 cash
Camping Wordsearch Camping Wordsearch Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?
Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?
A J S P E L E S E L F F U R T W C S
S E P E E R E L I W A L I E N G T A
E C A N V A N H E V S U O Y A S B H N G W V M E S A I A B G C R T L T A A N C I Z E M E L E P H P C M I E U I T L E I C N U T T E N G V S O G S E I G B R D K A A I T C B G H U R O S R O O H W M X I L N S R Chocolate F B Wordsearch A S T
S E S I N N S R R I I O O S H T T O
F N L T T D I S P V O T S R I E S O
Which one of the words is NOT in the grid?
S E E E I R E M I W A L I U N G T A
E
I
S
I
R A M R
H F X F
O U L B
S O L M
A D T O E G A S R U C L A E E R Z R W N A B N
N H E V S Airbed T A L O C N G L T M Camping S A E A B E U T L I Canvas P C C I Z E E E E P W C M S A Fields L T L Z I T N I T E Flasks T L A R O N I G P D Ground K A Sheet L N I
Bars Beans Belgium Brazil Nut Cacao Caramel
N E H E N N B G R D N W P A M R E B
F N C H O C O L A T I E R S I T A M
G L X C I T E A A O W L A T M A S M
Chocolate Chocolatiers Easter Egg Flakes Fondant Ganache
T P O A T L H S C N M G L E B I O A
B D L N C R E N I A E I I R A M R S
O F M O G
G L R Y N T E E A R W T A N N A S B
T P O U T L E S S N O D F T B I M G
R D O W C L O N C V E O S W A A R N
S R A I S K E I E I T E F S P L T I
G I K K S R S S V C N Q T S M I E K
E E F I O Y S A I B U C B S M I L L
P U L L H L M A C E L O I S G W N A
B E S G N F L A S K S L U P M I I W
Airbed Camping Canvas Fields Flasks Ground Sheet Maps Outdoors Pegs Picnic Rucksack Sleeping Bags Stoves Survival Tents Torches Waterproofs Walking Boots
Last Month’s Winner
E I E I E Maps Stoves A A N L S A G N L G and Answers Outdoors Survival E L E S N R R Y L I Winner: Mr ATents Roberts from Port Talbot Pegs E G S M F M K T A C Bars Chocolatiers Pieces T A I H T Picnic Torches Beans Easter Egg Praline N C R E E C M Belgium Flakes Selection U A S Rucksack Waterproofs U W L O C Brazil Nut Fondant Truffles N E B I F Cacao Ganache Sleeping Walking Boots E G G L Bags P Caramel Ginger D L E P
M K E N
A I L Y
G W N S
M I I L
Ginger Marzipan Pieces Praline Selection Truffles
Chocolate
Marzipan
Word not in the grid: Belgium
Please email your answer, including your name and address to: info@phamnews.co.uk The closing date for the May 2016 issue will be 24/05/2016
Missing word - Belgium
52 (WAS 56).indd 1
Claimed to be the smallest automatic TRV on the market, the Eclipse from IMI Hydronic Engineering is also said to offer optimally balanced heating in the system, enhancing efficiency and saving on energy costs up to 35% in a household. Eclipse is compatible with existing heating systems, making it suitable for retrofits and is also said to be quicker to install than traditional TRVs. There is no risk of complex pressure loss calculations and reduced risk of system overflow. It automatically provides the required flow at the radiator and then quietly maintains it, optimising radiator and boiler efficiency to maintain the required room temperature, even if other valves are closed.
Eclipse TRVs are suitable for two-pipe radiator systems, UFH systems or mixed systems using A-exact, Multilux 4-A Set, Multibox AFC or Dynacon heating manifolds. Valve bodies can easily be changed, even those with automatic flow control. A wide variety of mounting options are available including straight, angle, double angle, right and left body housings, making Eclipse suitable for systems with unknown piping or small systems. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
www.imi-hydronic.com
157
Sartorial style while on site
PHAM NEWS WORDSEARCH No.184
A J S N E L E P F I E L D S L W C S
155
on duty
Responding to demand for more high-end workwear, Plumbfix has expanded its range to include more than 2000 choices online. Clothing and footwear from brands such as Puma Safety, JCB and Lee Cooper are just a few of the names that combine style and functionality. The JCB and Lee Cooper workwear lines offer footwear, trousers, shorts and glove options. For specialist work calling for safety workwear, Plumbfix has extended its offering, including highvis jackets and flame retardant clothing. The Dickies Flame Retardant Coverall (pictured) offers maximum protection against heat and flames, with an extended collar for additional neck/throat protection. The lightweight suit also has a generous action back for ease of movement. Mark Brooks, Workwear Buyer for Plumbfix, says: “The increase in online sales for workwear shows how plumbers are choosing how and when they shop. To respond to this increase, we’ve significantly extended our online range, offering greater choice for the trades.” www.plumbfix.com
PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.
158
Suave way to heat the room Vogue’s new Suave radiator, part of the premium Design collection, is now available in a textured anthracite finish, capturing the latest trend for tactile, atypical materials. The flush panel creates a minimalist profile suited for contemporary interiors. Crafted from mild steel, Suave is also available in white. The unit delivers an output of 669W and has an optional magnetic towel bar. Measuring 1800mm high and 500mm wide, with a depth from 85 to 110mm, the radiator can be controlled by the classic Arne Valve (pictured), with new fixed wall brackets for the height of concealment. Suitable for central heating systems, Suave is also available in dual fuel or sealed electric versions with a choice of controls. It is covered by a 15 year guarantee. www.vogueuk.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 159
28/04/2016 09:47
dy the the Engineer.
can help mbitions, 8900 for ation pack.
May 2016
DIRECTORY 53 Accreditation
Radiators
Heat Pumps
GROW YOUR COMPANY
Partner Distribution Portal Access Heat Pumps from leading manufacturers Boiler and heat pump floor heating kits Genuine replacement parts
Win more business with your own Consumer Credit License and finance home improvements
... all with generous trade discounts Register for FREE today
Win more business as a Green Deal Provider with your own ECO and green deal funding
extranet.iceenergy.co.uk
0808 145 2333
Give me a call to explain how I can help you. ICE ENERGY
Tel: David 07887 552 442 ENQUIRY
01
Underfloor Heating Systems
Biomass Boilers
Total project design High quality products New wireless controls Trade only prices Fast delivery
www.ecoangus.co.uk 01934 862642
Simple solutions for greener heating suppliers of MCS accredited wood burning boilers
07
To Advertise HERE Contact 01889 577222 or classified@phamnews.co.uk
AEL
08
0161 946 0088
www.banico.co.uk
2 Madleaze Trading Estate Bristol Road Gloucester GL1 5SG Tel 01452 311712 Fax 01452 311719 E mail info@apolloradiators.co.uk Website www.apolloradiators.co.uk
ENQUIRY
03
made in the UK and Europe
made in the UK and Europe
Banico A2 Banico Landscape_Layout 1 11/12/2012 16:22 Page 1
BANICO CONTROLS
11
January 2016
ENQUIRY
Heating (Water)
HYCO
ENQUIRY
46798apo Cover.qxp_46798tpd COVER 09/12/2015 14:53 Page 1
GAIA
02
Controls
www.gaiacs.com 0845 434 9488
ENQUIRY
09
Magnetic Filters
made in the UK and Europe
Made in the UK and Europe
ENQUIRY
HEATING CONTROLS ENQUIRY ONLINE
www.apolloradiators.co.uk
3 Offer the complete range of wood log boilers 3 Products fully MCS certified 3 Two complete ranges Angus Super and Angus Orligno 200 3 Output range 18kW, 25kW, 40kW, 60kW, 80kW, 96kW and 130kW 3 Grants available under Renewable Heat Incentive 3 92% Heat Efficiency 3 Significantly reduce heating costs 3 Incorporate into existing heating system ECO angus
06
Underfloor Heating
Heating Controls
I have been working with installers for several years helping them stay one step ahead of their competitors GREEN DEAL SPECIALIST
ENQUIRY
Elegance & Style 2016 www.apolloradiators.co.uk
made in the UK and urope
APOLLO RADIATORS
ENQUIRY
12
Dust Sheets
Wilkinson Industrial Textiles
SCAN FOR BROCHURE
Good Quality Indian Cotton Dust Sheets 4’ x 4’ - £1.25 I 8’ x 4.5’ - £2.00 I 12’ x 8’ - £4.00 I 12’ x 11’ - £6.50
Large amounts of 6’ x 4’ off cuts - £1.00 Stair sheets (1mt x 7mts) - £5.00 Plus carriage and VAT Unit 8 Copenhagen Road Hull HU7 0XQ Phone/Fax: 01482 226 265 Email: info@dustsheetshop.co.uk www.dustsheetshop.co.uk wilkinson
ENQUIRY
www.radiatorfactory.net
04
FOR ALL TYPES OF DESIGNER & ECO-ALUMINIUM RADIATORS
To find out how we can help you to further your ambitions, telephone 023 8066 8900 for information and application pack.
Tel: 0116 260 9257
www.idhee.org.uk
THE RADIATOR FACTORY
The professional body We are not a trade association, and we the the Domestic require our members to be qualified through Heating Engineer. recognised forms of study and achievement. IDHEE
ENQUIRY
05
JOHNSON MAGNETIC FILTERS
ENQUIRY
10
ENQUIRY
13
To Advertise HERE Contact Sharon on 01889 577222 or classified@phamnews.co.uk
org.uk
sociation, embers to ecognised hievement. DIRECTORY & INFO MAY 2016.indd 2
28/04/2016 13:03
May 2016
54 DIRECTORY Solar Water Heating Storage
Mr Combi Training
Solar Ready Thermal Stores n n n n n n n n n n
Learn to repair Boilers/Combies BOOK NOW
APPS FOR ANDROID PHONES
GAS SAFE REGISTERED & ACS only
Danfoss & Honeywell NEW
British Designed/manufactured. Duplex stainless or copper. Hot water at mains pressure. Open vented for long life. Solar space heating assist. Glycol FREE solar system design. From 100-300 Litres. All heating devices are direct. No solar stagnation issues. No annual servicing required.
’s DVD
'Hands on' learn how to use a Multimeter and Easy Fault Finding
Wiring & Controls Course
APPS FOR APPLE PHONES
Kiwa Training courses
NEW
At Our New Training Centre
01234 84 11 22 www.mrcombi.com MR COMBI
ENQUIRY
What we do:
17
• Gas Training • Oil Training • Solid Fuel Training • Industrial Boiler Assessment (IGAS) • Commercial Boiler Assessment (BOAS) • Bespoke Training
Thermaltricity International (UK) Sales office (Wimborne, Dorset) enquiries@thermaltricity.com Tel: 0044 (0)7968025855 www.solar-speed-flex.com Thermaltricity
ENQUIRY
14
STEVE WILLIS TRAINING & ASSESSMENTS
ENQUIRY
18
T: +44 (0)1242 662121 F: +44 (0)1242 676506 E: training@kiwa.co.uk www.kiwa.co.uk/training
KIWA
ENQUIRY
19
Safety Products Kiwa Training Ad 88x127.indd 1
01/02/2016 15:59
www.sanctustraining.co.uk
For open courses and bespoke training across HVACR Plumbing Electrics 10 day Intro to Air Conditioning & Refrigeration FGas category 1/2/3/4 Service & Maintenance Applications Hydrocarbons-6187-21-course
GOTEC
ENQUIRY
Legionella Disinfectant Unvented Water Water Regulations Combination Electrics
15
Training & Assessement MIDLANDS GAS ASSESSMENTS
Unit 1, Mainstream Way, Nechells, BIRMINGHAM B7 4SN email: mgabrum@tiscali.co.uk www.mgabrum.co.uk Domestic Natural Gas & LPG Changeover, Energy Efficiency and Water Regulations. Un-vented, Part P Electrics, Training & Assessments.
0121 333 3903
MIDLAND GAS ASSESSMENTS
• • • •
ENQUIRY
Domestic Core & Appliances Non-Domestic & Appliances Commercial Core Catering & Appliances Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG)
SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD
DIRECTORY & INFO MAY 2016.indd 3
Training & Consultancy to fit and meet your needs onsite offsite mobile
info@sanctustraining.co.uk • H&S: 01453 828555 • HVACR: 01453 899101 • www.sanctustraining.co.uk 16
SANCTUS TRAINING
ENQUIRY
•
OFTEC Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e 600a)
•
Swimming Pool Boilers
•
Renewable Energy Courses
•
Unvented Domestic Hot Water/ Legionella/Water Regulations
•
LPG & LPG Generators
•
Courses designed for your specific needs
•
Electrical Part P & City & Guilds Electrical Courses
•
Static, Touring Caravans & Boats
•
Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266
ENQUIRY
20
21
28/04/2016 13:03
May 2016
INFORMATION Centre 55 Mr Combi Training 9
10
H-Series Motorised Valve
®
ORANGE
Available online at www.centralheatingrepair.co.uk Price £26 inc P&P Also available from High Street and Online Book Stores. COPPER JOB
ENQUIRY
371
Airflow website gets a revamp
To view Airflow’s new website, or for more information on its range of ventilation solutions for both domestic and commercial environments, visit: www.airflow.com. Or enter the PHAM No. AIRFLOW DEVELOPMENTS
ENQUIRY
372
7
3
George Staszak
IDHEE
ENQUIRY
375
ENQUIRY
ENQUIRY
379
Snickers’ ALLROUND Work Trousers – Ready For Everything
The Hultafors Group's new ‘Solid Gear’ brand - available through Snickers Workwear stockists is revolutionizing footwear on site – just look at the new HYDRA GTX trainer-style safety shoe. It’s a highly technical safety shoe that integrates a modern, sporty design with best-in-class materials for water protection and durability. It also has the unique BOA closure system for maximum comfort. To get more information on Solid Gear - the Next Generation of Safety Footwear - visit the website at www.solidgearfootwear.com alternatively, call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788 or enter the PHAM No. HULTAFORS
MR COMBI
The WorkTrousers are in new, contemporary designs packed with innovative features that focus on fit, comfort and freedom of movement using hardwearing fabrics for long lasting protection. They have a host of handy pockets, and extra features like an advanced side panel design that gives superior weight distribution when carrying tools and fixings. For more information on Snickers’ range of Next Generation Workwear call 01484 854788 Email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk or download a digital catalogue www.snickersworkwear.co.uk 376
SNICKERS
ENQUIRY
380
Product Catalogue Launch
New Lecico Brochure
SANHA updates its extensive product catalogue
Hyco are set to release an exciting, new product catalogue. The latest edition boasts a slim line, compact design and will offer product information in a concise and convenient form. Additions to the Hyco portfolio are showcased in the new literature, such as the Zen boiling and chilled tap range. The growth of this range stands as testament to Hyco’s continuous investment in innovation. The hand and hair dryer collection has also been re-branded. Once released, the catalogue will be available on the Hyco website, hyco.co.uk. Or enter the PHAM No.
Lecico bathrooms has created a new Space Saver bathroom brochure, crammed with short projection products, designed to aid planning and ensure that even the smallest room in the house can still be big on style. Tel: 01234-244030 or ukinfo@lecico.co.uk. Check our their website at www.lecico.co.uk. Or enter the PHAM No.
In an effort to enhance its service and product portfolio for customers, SANHA has produced both a digital and printed version of the 2016 product catalogue. The catalogue contains SANHA’s extensive range of piping systems with comprehensive information on products detailing fields of application through to properties of the system and operational conditions. For ease of use, a digital version of the new SANHA product catalogue can now be downloaded, free of charge, from the SANHA UK website www.sanha.com/en. Alternatively, for a physical copy or to discuss the benefits of the new NiroTherm System range contact SANHA on 01628 819245 or enter the PHAM No.
HYCO
ENQUIRY
373
TIME CONTROLLER
1
2
3
4
N E L BOILER
5
6
1
2
4 1 2
RMT230 ROOM STAT L N E
L N CH HW ON HW OFF
Please order from www.mrcombi.com or enter the PHAM No.
NEW from Snickers
Airflow Developments has launched a redesigned and responsive website, which can now be easily navigated via all smart phones, tablets and PC’s. The website offers users a wealth of information including access to the latest training and advisory videos, 3D BIM files on many of the company’s products, brochure downloads, as well as a new dedicated blog page.
BLUE
Mr Combi® Training has developed a fantastic set of easy to follow coloured wiring diagrams for Danfoss and Honeywell Controls, 2 / 3 port systems, Faults, Frost stats, testing components, everything you need in one handy A5 book.
230V 3amp fuse
This 200 page book written by John Reginald, is designed to help the reader understand central heating and hot water systems. Offering a step-by-step guide to the fault finding and repair process of systems and components enabling the reader to achieve professional solutions to professional standards.
BROWN / WHITE
For years electricians and heating engineers have commented that wiring heating controls is a difficult subject to learn, existing diagrams are not always easy to follow.
ATC CYLINDER STAT
8
L N E PUMP
GREY
Danfoss & Honeywell Book of Wiring
‘Central Heating fault finding & repair’
LECICO
ENQUIRY
377
SANHA
ENQUIRY
381
4-In-1 Kitchen Tap From Abode
All-new Big Wipes Quad Fabric!
Redring launches new and improved product brochure
PRONTEAU Profile 4-in-1 boiling water kitchen tap - the latest innovation from Abode. Profile is just one of five new designs of 4-in-1 mixertaps offering all the benefits of a normal kitchen mixertap with the addition of filtered cold drinking water and 80-98º filtered, steaming hot water from one single tap. The boiling water function can only be used with the unique Abode Hotkey, for added safety. PROBOIL3 is WRAS approved for use in new build and retro-fit installations, unlike other units offering just two degrees more. Approved peace of mind! For more information and to see the complete range visit www.abode.eu or enter the PHAM No.
The wipe you’ve been waiting for is here! Incorporating the latest high adhesion web technology, the all-new Abrasive Quad Fabric from Big Wipes grips 40% more grime with every wipe, so you can mop up even the toughest dirt in the quickest time, leaving your hands, tools and surfaces cleaner than ever. No chemicals or preservatives have been added and the fabric is made from pure polymers, which is 100% recyclable. So grab a new abrasive Quad Fabric wipe from Big Wipes and feel the power in every clean. For more information about Big Wipes visit www.bigwipes.com Or enter the PHAM No.
The new brochure provides information on Redring’s entire range of showering, water heating and washroom products. The new literature includes information and technical details for Redring’s product line up, including it's new best in class Expressions Revive and entry level Dash electric showers, which are both A rated for energy efficiency. Other products featured in the brochure include the 3 in 1 Instant Boiling Water Tap and instant hand wash units, as well as the Powerstream range of unvented instantaneous water heaters and Redring’s RNIB approved Selectronic care shower. For further information on the full range of Redring products and to download a copy of the new brochure, visit www.redring.co.uk. Or enter the PHAM No.
ABODE
ENQUIRY
374
BIG WIPES
Advertiser’s Index ACV UK Ltd 45 Albion Cylinders (Kingspan) 43 35 Aliaxis Group (Multikwik) Aquabion 3 BES Ltd 8 Buteline UK Ltd 32 CMR Controls Ltd 49 Conex Universal Ltd 27 Elco UK 4 Ford Motor Company 2 Heatrae Sadia 41 John Guest Speedfit Ltd 30,31 Kamco Ltd 20 Kingspan Environmental 1 MV Fluids Handling Ltd 23 Nerrad Tools Ltd 16 Nu-Heat UK Ltd 15
Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd 22 Plumber of the Year - JT Plumbing 13 33 Polypipe Plc Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd 25 Ridge Tool UK 36 26 Sanha UK Ltd Spirotech UK Ltd 9 Stelrad Radiators 21 Stiebel Eltron UK Ltd 6 Tacotherm UK Ltd 34 28 Talon Manufacturing Ltd 10 Twyford Bathrooms 56 Warmup Plc Wavin Ltd 5, 29 Wolseley (Plumb Center) 19 Wunda Group plc 17 ZIP Heaters 7
ENQUIRY
REDRING
ENQUIRY
382
The Elements Have Combined... INTRODUCING THE NEW WEBSITE FOR PHAM NEWS. THE SAME INDEPTH INFORMATION, THE SAME EASE OF USE AND THE SAME HIGH STANDARD. JUST WITH A BRAND NEW FACE.
www.phamnews.co.uk
1507042 Pham Web Adverts.indd 1
DIRECTORY & INFO MAY 2016.indd 4
378
01/09/2015 09:16
28/04/2016 16:29
The right temperature. The best tariff. Effortlessly. A typical home can save up to ÂŁ378 on energy bills with the 4iEÂŽ Smart WiFi Thermostat.
Always at the right temperature automatically, and up to 25% lower energy usage. Just like magic.
Simple and secure set up using WiFi, with 24/7 technical support.
0345 345 2288 uk@warmup.com www.warmup.co.uk ENQUIRY
WARMUP 330.indd 1 Installer Advert April 2016 - Alex.indd 1
330
28/04/2016 18:21 28/04/2016 18:05:47