April 2022 by PHAM News

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APRIL 2022 | VOLUME 60 | ISSUE 3

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UK home improvement boom continues despite price increases Many plumbers, ML_S]ZZX ʭ__P]^ LYO tilers have experienced record levels of demand in recent months and recent reports suggest that the upward trend will continue despite rising costs and material shortages According to recent reports from ‘find a tradesperson’ platforms, Rated People and Checkatrade, demand for tradespeople has soared dramatically over the last ˚˛ months, but the cost of home improvements has also risen significantly and looks set to rise further. Findings taken from the latest Rated People Home Improvement Trends report shows that ˠˠ% of UK tradespeople experienced increased customer demand in ˛˙˛˚, with bathroom fitters, tilers and plumbers among the most

Homeowners skipping gas safety checks N e a r l y a t h i r d ( ˜˚% ) o f homeowners say they will skip booking their annual gas safety check this year due to the costof-living crisis, according to new research from the Gas Safe Register. This is despite a majority (77%) being aware that regular servicing can help gas appliances

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in-demand professionals. However, despite the surge in demand since the start of the pandemic, tradespeople have also been hit with a series of challenges, with almost nine in ˚˙ tradespeople (ˡˢ%) reporting that their costs increased last year – ˡ˝% experienced materials supply issues and just under half (˝˝%) had workforce shortages. As a result, four in five tradespeople (ˡ˜%) had to increase their prices and almost

]`Y XZ]P PʯNTPY_Wd LYO TY _`]Y save money on household bills. With the prospect of laxer household attitudes to gas safety, the Gas Safe Register has teamed up with meteorologist and TV weather presenter Clare Nasir, to launch a new national campaign – Switch Off, Check On. The campaign warns homeowners of the false economy and safety implications of not servicing and safety checking their gas boilers, LYO _SP MPYPʭ_^ ZQ OZTYR ^Z L_ _ST^ time of year before retiring them for the warmer months.

two thirds (˟˛%) had to delay or cancel jobs. According to Rated People, between ˠ˞% and ˢ˟% of the top ˚˙ most affected trades found it difficult to get the materials they needed, and ˡ˛% of respondents said that they will need to put their prices up this year. Responding to the report, Rated People CEO Adrienne Minster says: “The volume of work completed in ˛˙˛˚ is a testament to how well tradespeople and homeowners worked together, because in a Covid and post-Brexit landscape, material supply issues, cost increases and labour shortages affected home improvement work across the UK.”

The latest data from Checkatrade suggests that the average cost of carrying out home improvements increased by ˚ˠ% in January when compared to the same period last year. The ‘find a tradesperson’ website examined over ˞˙˙̇˙˙˙ customer reviews to identify that,

on average, UK home improvers had to pay an extra £˜ˠˢ for work compared to prices paid ˚˛ months ago. Categories worst affected include tiling (+˛ˢ̍ˡ%), while the cost of plumbing work increased by ˚ˢ̍˝˜% and bathroom refurbishments by ˚ˡ̍˜ˡ%. Inflation, material price increases and intense customer demand are all thought to be behind the price rises. Despite the price rises, Checkatrade reports that customer demand is as high as ever, with January being its busiest ever month, with ˝̍˚m searches for its checked and vetted tradespeople. CEO Mike Fairman comments: “Inflation is really biting the price of home improvement and is a big contributing factor to the price increases we’re seeing, as the cost of raw materials continues to soar. This doesn’t seem to be putting off homeowners however, and some price increases we’ve seen could be further exacerbated by homeowners tackling larger projects around their homes.”

Bob Kerr, gas services director at Gas Safe Register, comments: “With the cost of living rising across the country, including higher energy bills, there is no denying that we’ll all be feeling the financial squeeze over the coming months and years. But, much like with our health, prevention is better than cure when it comes to gas safety and keeping you covered for the unexpected. “Boilers are among one of the most important appliances within our homes – so it’s important that

we stay on top of their upkeep. A regularly serviced boiler not ZYWd VPP[^ T_ bZ]VTYR PʯNTPY_Wd helping reduce bills, but can also reduce the risk of gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.” Checkatrade.com estimates that the average cost to have a gas appliance safety checked is £80 a year. By contrast, if a boiler breaks down, each call-out could cost up to £˛˙˙ and replacing a boiler can cost thousands of pounds. Not getting regular safety checks could also invalidate warranties or conditions of insurance policies.

Rising costs

Inside this issue Gadgets & Tools Tablet designed for tough treatment See page 15

Business Matters Fuel card lowers the cost of van driving See page 18

COMPETITION Aqua˝ma up for grabs! See page ˝˚

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Inside this issue 5 APRIL 2022 VOLUME 60 ISSUE 3

Editor’s Viewpoint by Chris Jones

The only way is up It’s not been an easy time for everyone, but there’s no doubt that many professional tradespeople have had their work diaries pretty full over the last couple of years. Despite the pressures of the pandemic, they have seen a rise in demand for their services as UK homeowners have looked to enhance their domestic environment and have taken the opportunity to invest holiday savings into home improvement projects. How long the boom in demand will continue is anyone’s guess, but a rise in the cost of living, coupled with consumers taking advantage of the longawaited chance to travel and enjoy a summer break, could well lead to funds going elsewhere. :Q NZ`]^P _SP M`TWOTYR ^P]aTNP^ ^PN_Z] T^ YZ OTʬ P]PY_ Q]ZX _SP rest of the global economy in experiencing supply issues and a ]T^P TY XL_P]TLW NZ^_^ bSTNS TYPaT_LMWd T^ LW]PLOd MPTYR ]Pʮ PN_PO in the price of labour too. As installers plan ahead, it’s no easy task _Z \`Z_P QZ] bZ]V LYO NLWN`WL_P Q`_`]P []Zʭ _ XL]RTY^ LYO ^ZXP projects are likely to be shelved as budgets disappear and belts are tightened. However, while a large number of UK households will be feeling the pinch following the hike in energy prices, the good news for this industry is that it can play a big part in helping to minimise the strain. The axing of VAT on domestic energy saving products and renewable systems should be a shot in the arm for installers of heat pumps, solar panels and insulation. As well as helping to reduce the country’s carbon emissions, it is hoped that _SP N`_ ɧ ^P_ _Z WL^_ QZ] L_ WPL^_ ʭ aP dPL]^ ɧ bTWW PYNZ`]LRP XZ]P consumers to investigate ways of reducing their energy use. So, while there may well be a drop in demand for bathroom refurbishments and less time-pressing home improvement projects, there are good grounds to believe that demand for heating system upgrades will continue to rise.

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What is the best way to decarbonise UK homes and meet the government’s net zero target?

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?SP MPYPʭ _ ZQ `^TYR ^SZbP] []ZO`N_^ that help to speed installation and avoid costly call-backs

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

News Review

!ÖķķĢłė ŋł ėŋƑāũłĿāłŶ Ŷŋ ĢłóāłŶĢƑĢŭā ĞƘðũĢùŭ Baxi is calling on the government to incentivise hybrid heat pump systems to reduce reliance on natural gas and increase heat pump installations. The large increase in the price of gas, in part because of the conflict in Ukraine, is leading to more costly energy bills for consumers, leading the UK manufacturer to conclude that the running costs of a gas boiler may no longer be

How to claim Ö ŶĞĢũù Ʃ ķŶāũ ĕŋũ ĕũāā 4Y^_LWWP]^ NLY NWLTX L Q]PP ʭ W_P] from Sentinel with every two purchased in its new ‘Filter Fest’ promotion. The Vortex ʭ W_P]^ NLY MP MZ`RS_ Q]ZX LYd merchant, with the third, freeof-NSL]RP ʭ W_P] MPTYR NWLTXPO directly from Sentinel. Filter Fest purchases will run initially until June, and qualifying purchases can be made at any time during this period. Sentinel says the promotion will give installers the chance to sample, experience and stock up on the Vortex filter range ahead of Part L changes, coming into force this June, which will require magnetic ʭ W_P]^ _Z MP ʭ __PO ZY LWW YPb boiler installations. The Vortex filter range comprises three filters, each ZQ OTʬ P]PY_ ^TeP LYO NL[LNT_d to cover a wide range of applications: the Vortex˛˞˙, Vortex˜˙˙ and Vortex˞˙˙. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙˛

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Karen Boswell, MD of Baxi Heating

the cheapest source of heat in many households. The company is therefore recommending that the government incentivises hybrid systems which combine a specially adapted heat pump with

a traditional gas boiler, potentially reducing gas usage by up to ˠ˙%. Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the government will offer a grant of up to £˞˙˙˙ to customers for switching to a pure heat pump solution, which Baxi says will work in some houses but not others. MD Karen Boswell explains: “Hybrids could reduce gas usage by up to ˠ˙%, yet this relatively simple, easy-to-install option is almost non-existent in the UK. This is unlikely to change soon because hybrid heat pump systems will not be eligible for the new Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which incentivises ‘heat pump only’ installations. The government is taking a purist approach by not incentivising hybrids. By not offering grants, it could be

preventing existing homes from accessing low carbon heat.”

Training imperative Boswell also points to concerns about the capacity to upskill thousands of heating engineers, who will be required to fit heat pumps in order to meet government targets. “We really need an ambitious, industry-wide retraining plan for the ˚˜˙̇˙˙˙ Gas Safe engineers in the UK,” she argues. “The government, companies, and training colleges need to rethink the job profile and skillset of an installer, who in future will need to fit a wider variety of appliances and be the consultant for customers on their options to decarbonise their homes and buildings.”

Ģťā łŽė ŭāóŽũāŭ Ö ðĢė ƒĢł Ģł ŶĞā 'ũÖėŋłŭ̪ 'āł Entrepreneurs Chris Burdett (pictured) and Alex Lever have secured investment for PipeSnug after pitching their products on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den. Chris and Alex faced Touker Suleyman, Sara Davies, Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones and Steven -L]_WP__ TY L MTO _Z RP_ _SP ʭ YLYNTLW backing and experience needed to move their company forward in a time of change in the industry. They made the case that with the upcoming amendments to Part L of the Building Regulations, which includes a requirement for grommets on all pipe penetrations, PipeSnug is about to be ‘piping hot’ on the market. “We wanted to go on Dragons’ Den to help secure investment to develop new versions of the product to satisfy the increased demand in the coming months and years as PipeSnugs become the norm on site,” explains Alex.

Following a persuasive pitch and tough negotiation, they won over the show’s stalwarts, Deborah Meaden and Peter Jones, who saw the opportunity PipeSnug and FlueSnug presented and made an Zʬ P] _Z TYaP^_ “We prepared our pitch carefully and rehearsed a lot, but nothing can prepare you for the experience of Dragons’ Den,” says Chris. “We are delighted Deborah and Peter saw the opportunity and chose to work with us.”

The PipeSnug and FlueSnug products are an evolution of an idea that Chris, a professionally\`LWTʭ PO M]TNVWLdP] LYO M`TWOP] had to help solve a problem that he encountered on every job he ran with his construction business – sealing holes around pipes quickly, efficiently and effectively. PipeSnug forms an airtight seal against the wall where pipes enter and exit a building and does not require any mortar or sealant. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙˜

ķŽĿðāũŭ Öũā Ʃ ƗĢłė Ŀŋũā DIY work A new survey from Water Regs UK reveals that plumbing professionals are called in more often than any other trade to fix a botched DIY job. Over ˛˙˙˙ people were asked which home maintenance jobs they had attempted, only to end up calling out a professional to fix the problem. Almost a fifth (˚ˡ%) said they had called in a plumber after failing to fix a problem they had tackled themselves. Electricians were a close second at ˚˞%, followed by plasterers at ˚˙%. Julie Spinks, MD of Water Regs UK, says when householders turn to a plumber to fix their problem, they need to make sure the plumber is properly qualified. “Water Regs UK is working hard to educate homeowners that they really should only turn to approved plumbers if they want to be sure that installers are committed to working to quality standards,” says Spinks. “That’s why Water Regs UK always recommends seeking a professional plumber, such as one approved by WaterSafe, who is trained in the Water Fittings Regulations and Byelaws.” Find out more about joining the WaterSafe register by using the reader link below. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙˝

05/04/2022 12:52

IT’S NOT POSSIBLE. IT CAN’T BE DONE. NEVER. YOU MUST BE JOKING. ARE YOU HAVING A LAUGH? YEAH RIGHT! I DON’T BELIEVE IT. UNBELIEVABLE! IT DOESN’T EXIST. NO WAY. NEVER. YOU’RE JOKING ME. SOMEONE’S PULLING YOUR LEG. NO WAY, JOSE! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. AND PIGS CAN FLY. AN IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. NEVER IN A MONTH OF SUNDAYS. I DON’T THINK SO! NOT ON YOUR LIFE. DREAM ON. HIGHLY UNLIKELY. YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS. THE IDEA IS INCONCEIVABLE. NOTHING BUT A PIPE DREAM. DON’T BE RIDICULOUS. ARE YOU MAD? DON’T BE ABSURD. I WASN’T BORN YESTERDAY. DON’T BET ON IT. A LIKELY STORY. PULL THE OTHER ONE. I’LL BE A MONKEY’S UNCLE. LEAVE IT OUT. I’VE HEARD IT ALL NOW. WHAT A LOAD OF NONSENSE. IT’S NOT POSSIBLE. IT CAN’T BE DONE. NEVER. YOU MUST BE JOKING. ARE YOU HAVING A LAUGH? YEAH RIGHT! I DON’T BELIEVE IT. UNBELIEVABLE! IT DOESN’T EXIST. NO WAY. NEVER. YOU’RE JOKING ME. SOMEONE’S PULLING YOUR LEG. NO WAY, JOSE! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. AND PIGS CAN FLY. AN IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. NEVER IN A MONTH OF SUNDAYS. I DON’T THINK SO! NOT ON YOUR LIFE. DREAM ON. HIGHLY UNLIKELY. YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS. THE IDEA IS INCONCEIVABLE. NOTHING BUT A PIPE DREAM. DON’T BE RIDICULOUS. ARE YOU MAD? DON’T BE ABSURD. I WASN’T BORN YESTERDAY. DON’T BET ON IT. A LIKELY STORY. PULL THE OTHER ONE. I’LL BE A MONKEY’S UNCLE. LEAVE IT OUT. I’VE HEARD IT ALL NOW. WHAT A LOAD OF NONSENSE. IT’S NOT POSSIBLE. IT CAN’T BE DONE. NEVER. YOU MUST BE JOKING. ARE YOU HAVING A LAUGH? YEAH RIGHT! I DON’T BELIEVE IT. UNBELIEVABLE! IT DOESN’T EXIST. NO WAY. NEVER. YOU’RE JOKING ME. SOMEONE’S PULLING YOUR LEG. NO WAY, JOSE! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. AND PIGS CAN FLY. AN IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. NEVER IN A MONTH OF SUNDAYS. I DON’T THINK SO! NOT ON YOUR LIFE. DREAM ON. HIGHLY UNLIKELY. YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS. THE IDEA IS INCONCEIVABLE. NOTHING BUT A PIPE DREAM. DON’T BE RIDICULOUS. ARE YOU MAD? DON’T BE ABSURD. I WASN’T BORN YESTERDAY. DON’T BET ON IT. A LIKELY STORY. PULL THE OTHER ONE. I’LL BE A MONKEY’S UNCLE. LEAVE IT OUT. I’VE HEARD IT ALL NOW. WHAT A LOAD OF NONSENSE. IT’S NOT POSSIBLE. IT CAN’T BE DONE. NEVER. YOU MUST BE JOKING. ARE YOU HAVING A LAUGH? YEAH RIGHT! I DON’T BELIEVE IT. UNBELIEVABLE! IT DOESN’T EXIST. NO WAY. NEVER. YOU’RE JOKING ME. SOMEONE’S PULLING YOUR LEG. NO WAY, JOSE! NOT IN A MILLION YEARS. AND PIGS CAN FLY. AN IMPOSSIBLE DREAM. NEVER IN A MONTH OF SUNDAYS. I DON’T THINK SO! NOT ON YOUR LIFE. DREAM ON. HIGHLY UNLIKELY. YOU CANNOT BE SERIOUS. THE IDEA IS INCONCEIVABLE. NOTHING BUT A PIPE DREAM. DON’T BE RIDICULOUS. ARE YOU MAD? DON’T BE ABSURD. I WASN’T BORN YESTERDAY. DON’T BET ON IT. A LIKELY STORY. PULL THE OTHER ONE. I’LL BE A MONKEY’S UNCLE. LEAVE IT OUT. I’VE HEARD IT ALL NOW. WHAT A LOAD OF NONSENSE. A LIKELY STORY. PULL THE OTHER ONE

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

News Review

Updates to CIPHE’s manifesto The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has launched the latest update to its manifesto. Designed to shine a light on key industry issues, the document seeks to give parliament an insight into how the industry underpins many areas of government policy. The ˛˙˛˛ manifesto includes recommendations to government across a number of policy areas, including public health, energy, education and the environment. The publication outlines some of the Chartered Institute’s key concerns and recommendations, such as the enforcement of Water Regulations, a fit-forpurpose training and education programme, and the introduction of a ‘Licence to Practice’. Kevin Wellman, CIPHE CEO, comments: “As the professional body for the sector, and a registered educational charity dedicated to protecting public health, the Institute is uniquely placed to give a voice to the industry, while upholding the

Plumbers see highest job satisfaction

interest of the general public, on matters that affect the very health and wealth of the nation. “The manifesto is a living document, designed to move with the times. While the pressures caused by coronavirus have eased, we are undoubtedly navigating a period of huge upheaval and change. As the UK faces the effects of a dire energy crisis and the need for energy independence, the industry is once again at the centre of government policy in a most critical time of need. As heeded in manifestos before, the UK is going to need a plethora of skilled, qualified and competent engineers, in all disciplines, to achieve its domestic and international aims.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙˞

Poll shows that customers are checking plumbers’ credentials Water Regs UK is urging installers to apply for approved contractor status, after its latest survey revealed that millions of domestic customers check to see if installers are approved. Over ˛˙˙˙ UK householders were asked by Water Regs UK how they know they can trust a plumber to do work in their home, with one in seven saying they check to see if the installer is registered with an approved contractors’ scheme. That’s more than the number of people who check recommendations on social media (˚˛%) or third

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party review sites (˚˛%). Julie Spinks, MD of Water Regs UK, believes the findings show that approved contractor status has risen in importance among customers: “Word of mouth and personal recommendation have always been important, but millions of people now want an Zʯ NTLW NSLYYPW _Z NSPNV TQ _SPd can rely on an installer. Approved contractor status through schemes such as Water Industry Approved Plumbers Scheme (WIAPS) is one of the things people are turning to for that assurance.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙˟

UK plumbers are significantly more likely to love their jobs than the average working Brit, with more than three in five saying they really enjoy what they do, according to new research. The study by IronmongeryDirect asked UK tradespeople about their level of job satisfaction and found that across all trades, ˞˟% are happy with their careers, compared to just ˜ˠ% across all industries. Plumbers are amongst the trades with the most job satisfaction, with ˟˚% saying they enjoy their job. Furthermore, almost half (˝˝%) say they are proud of what they do. Across all trades, around a third of workers say they are happy with both their work-life

balance (˜˛%) and level of income (˜˚%). They were also asked exactly which parts of their work they find the most enjoyable. The most popular answer was interaction with customers (˛˛%), while the ability to continually learn on the job also ranked highly (˛˚%). Dominick Sandford, managing director at IronmongeryDirect and

Navien van on UK tour A new display and mobile training vehicle has been unveiled by Navien, taking its products on the road directly to installers and merchants. The ‘NaviVan’ is equipped with a wide range of heating and hot water technologies. The vehicle contains fullyworking models of the company’s NCB condensing gas boilers and LCBˠ˙˙ Blue Flame oil boilers, as well as an NPE Premium Condensing water heater. The Navi-Van will be travelling the UK during the next few months, visiting the Midlands and the North West in April, then East Anglia in May, before heading to the South West in June and then visiting the South East in July. Details of its exact locations and schedule will be posted on Navien’s social media pages, while installers can also email sales@navienuk.com for further information.

Electrical-Direct, says: “It’s great to see that so many plumbers enjoy the work they do and feel a real sense of accomplishment for their projects. We’ve always believed that for many tradies, their work isn’t just a job, but truly a passion and a way of life, and that was echoed by the majority of tradespeople in our study.”

Installers are invited to enter the re-launched Environment ˛˙˞˙ Awards, organised by Worcester Bosch. The competition is designed to encourage installers to work with customers to make environmentally-friendly choices for their heating and hot water system. Aimed at professional installers, new-builders and social housing providers, there will be a total of ˚˟ installer winners, consisting of four winners per season, in four categories: boilers, heat pumps, solar, and hybrids. Each of the ˚˟ winners will receive a prize package, which includes a Bosch cordless drill and £˛˙˙ towards a charity of their choice. The overall winner will receive a Bosch power bundle worth over £˞˙˙ and FSC certified British Oak engraved award. For every entry received, Worcester Bosch will make a £˞ donation to Rewilding Britain, a charity that supports rewilding initiatives in rural and marine areas in the UK. For more details and to enter the competition, please use the online link below: ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙ˠ

05/04/2022 09:32

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

News Review

Hiring commercial engineers

Renewables purchases help build up the points

Commercial heating and ventilation specialists Lord Combustion Services are stepping up efforts to recruit engineers as staff celebrate the company’s 40th anniversary. Founded in March 1982 the Oldbury-based business is looking to add commercially qualified gas service engineers, as the firm serves more than 1000 customers across the West Midlands including NHS sites, schools and the Edgbaston cricket ground. With a strong order book, Lord is looking ahead to 12 months of

The G1+ Points rewards programme, part of Grant UK’s G1 Installer Scheme, has been extended to cover renewables as well as boilers. This means renewable products installed and registered through the scheme will be eligible for points that G1+ members can redeem on orders for clothing, merchandise and more in the online G1 Shop. Eligible renewables products include the Aerona3 air source heat pump range, VortexAir hybrids, QR cylinders and Grant solar thermal systems, as well as oil boilers. They must be installed and registered through the G1 Portal or Click App to count. Find out more about the scheme by visiting the website: www.grantuk.com/professional/g1-scheme

Up close and personal in London Viega has unveiled its London-based exhibition in The Building Centre, offering the company a central location to showcase its products and interact directly with visitors. Engineers and installers can view the company’s portfolio offering of Profipress, Megapress, Viega Smartpress, Sanpress Inox, flush plates and Prevista, Viega’s latest generation of water compliant cisterns. The space can also accommodate live demonstrations and video content of Viega products in action. Commenting on the opening, MD Scott James says: “Our presence in the UK has been growing for a number of years now. As such, we felt that a central London location for our customers was needed. Visitors will be able to drop in when they like, or alternatively, arrange a meeting with a member of the Viega team to discuss projects and identify which solutions can benefit them. This marks just one area of a much larger investment strategy for Viega UK, which we are rolling out over the course of the year. We’re looking forward to announcing further enhancements and additions and how these will greatly benefit our customers.”

further success, having grown revenues and profits throughout the challenging Covid-19 pandemic while increasing staffing levels to nearly 50 employees. MD Stuart Smith says: “In our 40 years of operating, Lord has a proud history of delivering commercial heating and ventilation solutions for landmark buildings, including the leading West Midlands Premier League football grounds. The Lord team even installed the central heating in the 10 Downing Street study when Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister.”

Helping employees find time for charity As part of its 60th birthday celebrations, Worcester Bosch has announced a new initiative that gives its employees the opportunity to volunteer a working day for their charity or community project of choice. Worcester says that Corporate Social Responsibility is an intrinsic part of its business and extends beyond the products it makes to encompass environmental commitment, social community and the workplace. Every year, employees choose a charity to work alongside and fundraise for. This year the chosen charity is Mind, which provides mental health services. Over the years hundreds of thousands of pounds have been

raised for good causes, along with days spent helping local charities, including St Richard’s Hospice and Acorns Children’s Hospice.

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

News Review

Big donation to support Ukrainian charities

Pay boost for UK plumbers

To help the Ukrainian people and demonstrate its ^ZWTOL]T_d -/= ?SP]XPL ɧ _SP [L]PY_ NZX[LYd ZQ -LcT ɧ has announced that it will donate €˞˙˙̇˙˙˙ to an alliance of ˚˚ S`XLYT_L]TLY NSL]T_TP^ TYNW`OTYR _SP =PO .]Z^^ :cQLX Novib, and UNICEF. In a statement issued by the company, the manufacturer said that its top priority is the safety of employees in Ukraine, where it operates a small sales and service ZʯNP ?SP NZX[LYd ^Ld^ T_ T^ TY NZY^_LY_ NZY_LN_ bT_S T_^ @V]LTYTLY PX[WZdPP^ LYO T^ ^`[[Z]_TYR _SPX ʭYLYNTLWWd as well as with accommodation and transport as needed. -/= ?SP]XPL 2]Z`[ NZWWPLR`P^ TY aL]TZ`^ NZ`Y_]TP^ have launched initiatives to support refugees and provide help, while fundraising has now begun at the company’s Preston production facility.

Self-employed plumbers saw their average earnings rise by ˚˟̍˟% to £˚˚˚˞ per week during February, according to the payroll services company Hudson Contract. While the February bounce is in keeping with annual trends, the rates are ˚˜̍˝% higher than the same month last year. Average earnings across all selfemployed tradespeople rose to £ˢ˞˙ per week during February. 4LY ,YʭPWO 3`O^ZY 8/ ^Ld^% ɭ4_ has been a mild start to the year and demand on sites remains high for skilled trades, including plumbers. We

have had a busy month for entering new contracts and we are seeing anecdotal evidence of more Europeans returning to the UK labour market. ɭ:`] NZY^_]`N_TZY NWTPY_^ L]P telling us they have full order books but they are not seeing as many enquiries as this time last year.” Hudson Contract claims to deliver the most accurate indication of subcontractor pay trends, supplying statistics to keep policymakers updated with real-time insights on demand for skilled labour.

Environmental cost of transport New research has highlighted the environmental costs of transporting pipework to construction sites. Based on data from the CarbonCare emissions calculator, the analysis approximates the weight of polymer versus traditional materials systems. The study uses a typical journey from London to Manchester to estimate transportation emissions in two ^NPYL]TZ^ ɧ ʭ]^_Wd bT_S [ZWdXP] aP]^`^ steel district heating pipes, and then against copper plumbing pipes. Polymer pipes are significantly lighter than their copper and steel counterparts, and this is reflected in their reduced pollutive potential when in transit. In the case of district heating pipework, the analysis found that polymer pipes can cut carbon emissions by up to ˟ˠ% against steel. For plumbing, MLCP pipes can reduce the carbon emissions by up to ˜˞%.

;ZWdXP] []ZO`N_^ ^[PNTLWT^_ =PSL` says that such analysis should help inform contractors about material choice. ɭ?SP bSZWP NZY^_]`N_TZY TYO`^_]d T^ in a process of rapid decarbonisation, and while this is welcome news, there are certain processes that are being overlooked,” explains Steve =TNSXZYO SPLO ZQ XL]VP_TYR LYO _PNSYTNLW L_ =PSL` -`TWOTYR >ZW`_TZY^ ɭ8L_P]TLW _]LY^[Z]_L_TZY T^ L R]PL_ example of a topic that does not get the consideration it deserves, as carbon emissions are often only measured once products are on site. ɭ3ZbPaP] LWW NZX[ZYPY_^ WL]RP and small, must arrive at district heating and plumbing projects through some form of freight, even if these parts are made in the UK. It is _SP]PQZ]P N]`NTLW _SL_ ^[PNTʭP]^ ^PWPN_ lighter, high-performance materials

and solutions if they are to further reduce emissions in line with stringent sustainability targets. ɭ,^ Q`]_SP] PX[SL^T^PO TY _SP analysis, it is beyond dispute that the weight of a material does have a significant impact on carbon emitted during transportation,” concludes Steve.

WIT back in action in July After a two year ‘pandemic break’, the Women Installers Together (WIT) conference will reconvene in London this July in its full format. It is the only national event for women plumbers, gas engineers and other tradeswomen, and is organised by Stopcocks Women Plumbers. For ˛˙˛˛ BTWWTLX^ ?]LOP :YWd Plumbing and Heating Supplies will act as event partner. Hattie Hasan 8-0 QZ`YOP] LYO .0: ZQ >_Z[NZNV^ 2]Z`[ 7TXT_PO bTWW PXNPP LYO _SP SPLOWTYP ^[PLVP] T^ QZ]XP] =,1 QL^_UP_ ʭRS_P] [TWZ_ 8LYOd 3TNV^ZY The ‘Famous For Five Minutes’ session returns this year – where attendees talk about their lives, as will roundtable discussions on relevant topics, and feedback on changes since the last conference. Breakfast and lunch are also being provided, thanks to the support of Monument Tools. The conference is free to all tradeswomen and women trades trainees. The WIT conference will be held at ?SP 2]PL_ 3LWW ZQ 7ZYOZY 8P_]Z[ZWT_LY University on 6 July. To reserve a free ticket to the event, use the link below. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˙ˡ

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New distribution centre will ensure faster product delivery UK bathroom manufacturer, Kohler Mira, has officially opened a n e w m u l t i m i l l i o n -p o u n d 9L_TZYLW /T^_]TM`_TZY .PY_]P TY BZ]NP^_P] /PaPWZ[PO ZaP] _bZ dPL]^ the centre includes a ˚˞˙̇˙˙˙ft² building with the capacity for over ˚˙̇˙˙˙ pallets. It allows the company to process orders three times faster and links its manufacturing sites around the UK, to result in one seamless delivery. The new centre has been recognised bT_S L .L]MZY =PO`N_TZY ,bL]O Md _SP Bathroom Manufacturers Association.

Built on an ˚˚̍˛˞-acre site, there is room to grow and expand as the business, channels, and customer requirements evolve. 8/ .]LTR -LVP] NZXXPY_^% ɭ:`] team worked tirelessly to design this state-of-the-art facility, and it SL^ MPPY R]PL_ _Z ^PP _SP ʭ]^_ Z]OP]^ processed during our hundredth year. With innovative technologies throughout, it has been built with customer needs in mind, and will allow us to make sure they receive the very best service for years to come.”

05/04/2022 08:56

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

As part of a planned succession, UK shower manufacturer Aqualisa has announced the appointment of Mat Norris (pictured) as chief executive oﬃcer. Mat replaces Colin Sykes, who will remain as a non-executive director and strategic advisor to the business until December. Most recently, Mat was UK CEO at ventilation ﬁrm Titon Holdings.

Leeds College of Building has appointed Nikki Davis as principal & CEO. Nikki is currently the college’s vice principal for teaching, learning & quality and will take up the position on 1 August. Incumbent principal & CEO, Derek Whitehead, will continue in the role until the end of the current academic year to oversee the transition period.

Shower tray manufacturer JT has appointed Michael Kimball-Smith as southern key account manager to drive sales and develop the business in the South of England and in Wales. He brings with him 33 years of experience in the bathroom sector, including working at Bathroom Guru, No Code, Novellini, Pennybee, and Copperﬁelds in a range of roles.

NEW APPOINTMENTS

People on the Move

Talent Show

Plumb App Uk presents images sent in by users of the app showcasing the top work that earns them their wings.

The new trade sales director at Triton is Andrew Crown, who brings more than 30 years experience within the HVAC and bathroom sectors to the role. Andrew has been tasked with helping to fortify Triton’s position in the UK shower market, with a particular focus on the care and housebuilding sectors.

Commercial hot water, heating and renewables company Lochinvar has promoted Dave Ashplant to southern regional sales manager. Previously the company’s area sales manager for London East, Kent, and East Sussex, Dave will now be responsible for coordinating the company’s full southern sales team.

BEFORE

AFTER

Lecico Bathrooms has appointed Kate Hirst to the position of commercial director. Previously the sales director for the business, in her new role Kate will assume responsibility for all customer facing departments including sales, demand generation, aftersales, and marketing, alongside her additional responsibilities within the senior management team.

The sales team at VitrA Bathrooms has been enhanced with the addition of Michael Woods as contract sales manager (North). In his new role, Michael will be responsible for developing existing and new relationships with the residential house build sector. He brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge from national merchant and manufacturer roles.

Humidity control specialist, Condair, has appointed Darren Bryant as its new area sales manager for the south east of England. Having worked at Condair for 12 years, Darren moves from his previous role of service sales manager. In addition to promoting the company’s humidiﬁers and dehumidiﬁers, he will also provide CPD training, either in-house or online.

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04/04/2022 16:24

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Your Views Star letter

Share your views and you could win £100 for writing the star letter

The Tweet Spot Recent tweets that caught our attention Follow us on @PHAMnews

Why a charge for recycling? After reading your article ‘Confusion a barrier to recycling site waste’, it got me asking a few questions. Our local authority tip charges for various site waste materials: £4 for a bag or sheet of plasterboard, a bag of rubble is £2 and a gas bottle, up to 10 kg, is £5 which doesn’t encourage responsible disposal of rubbish. Even more so when a recent article stated it cost on average £270 to pick up a fly tipped rubbish drop. They still have to dispose of it once back at the recycling centre. Surely it doesn’t make financial sense to charge. So long as the job was carried out within the district it should be free. ‘Just put it in a black sack and throw it in for landfill’ is something I’m often told. This does not sit comfortably with me, not only as it feels dishonest but also I’m not sure how it is treated. If a gas cylinder should explode from being crushed by machinery and someone is injured I could never forgive myself. I use Rothenberger gas cylinders. Surely it must pay them to reuse these as the energy involved in making each one must leave a massive carbon footprint. They cost around £11.99 full but almost half again to dispose of. Another manufacturer reuses their bottles, so it is possible. My second gripe is tool manufacturers not providing parts to repair. I have a Hilmor Pipe Bender which when working properly bends the copper tube perfectly, giving pulled bends which make the installation more efficient over the heating system’s working life. The bolt the main arm pivots on is manufactured with a softer metal than the main arm so has worn and leaves the arm scraping against the formers. A part that probably costs less than a fiver. How much energy and materials are used to manufacture a pipe bender? What is the carbon footprint? When I contacted the manufacturer I was informed they do not supply this as a spare part. If they think I am going to buy another of their products to replace this they are very mistaken. I will go to another manufacturer and also tell all my colleagues of my experience. On a positive note, I have a Fein Multitool which after some ten years of hard use, the speed control packed up. Online they had an exploded view of the product with part numbers so I knew what to buy. Three days later it was up and running again and has been for the last three years. This saved me around £180 compared to buying a new equivalent machine. Two colleagues have bought a Fein since due to my recommendation. In conclusion, I try my best. All cardboard, paper and metal is recycled as are small electricals, pumps, programmers, etc. I buy radiators from Screwfix because they are packaged in cardboard and less likely to be damaged. My main landfill is polystyrene, plastic flue and black plastic packaging. If manufacturers could change black plastic to clear I would probably average 95%+ average job where I supply.

W Wiltshire Via email

12 (Letters).indd 1

Let us know what you think... Please address your letters to: The Editor PHAM News 1b Station Square Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1DP or email to: editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk

04/04/2022 16:32

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Merchant & Distributor News 13 City Plumbing owners invest in a digital future The Highbourne Group, owners of City Plumbing, has announced the acquisition of Policy Administration Business (PAB) Systems – a move which could offer a number of benefits to plumbing and heating engineers and landlords. PAB is a specialist software and systems provider that assists its clients, including housing associations, landlords, social housing contractors and insurance and warranty providers, with managing and administering policies and repairs in the heating sector. Users will be able to benefit from PAB systems to identify a boiler fault and also the required remedy, reducing the time the boiler is unavailable for use, the cost of solving the issue and the mileage and CO2 emissions for each engineer. The PAB system has a large boiler database with detailed fault code information about every boiler manufactured, and any required spare parts needed to remedy that fault. The Group hopes that the acquisition will enable City Plumbing to launch a diagnostic fault-finding service later this year – a subscription-based fault diagnostic service that will use PAB’s data and services to assist customers to diagnose faults quickly, improve first-time fix rates, and quickly source the

spares they need through the plumbing merchant’s 370-strong branch network. Claimed to be the first of its kind in the UK, the service will be a 24/7 nationwide support network that enables a ‘supply and fix’ service for trusted engineer and installer partners of City Plumbing to fix and repair any boiler efficiently, first time. Housing associations, social housing providers and contractors will be able to ensure their tenants receive quick and efficient repairs whilst also reducing costs. CEO Dave Evans (pictured) says: “As one of the nation’s largest providers of spare parts to the plumbing and heating sector, we have observed that the ways in which our customers want to do business with us are changing. We recognise that many plumbing and heating businesses and their engineers are increasingly turning to technology to help them operate more effectively and therefore we are focusing on developing our strategies and solutions with a digital-first mindset. “Through the acquisition of PAB, we will combine data, diagnostics and digital technologies with our ability to effectively stock and distribute thousands of spare parts across the country. This partnership will ensure that almost every

Edinburgh branch well stocked to meetdemand A new Plumb & Parts contract branch has been opened by Wolseley on the outskirts of Edinburgh, in Newbridge. The 14,000ft2 site, which includes a large yard to hold drainage stock, houses a wide range of products to serve local plumbing and heating businesses. The branch is conveniently located just off the M8 and M9 motorways, with easy connections to Scotland’s capital city and further afield. The new facility will provide service and components for the new build and social housing markets, while also delivering a 30-minute ‘click and collect’ service for trade customers. Wolseley has also invested in four vehicles to ensure products are delivered on time. “This is great news for customers in the region who will receive a first-class, knowledgeable service,” says Glen Scorah, national sales director at

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Make a date for open day

engineer in the country can have even quicker access to what they need, when they need it, meaning they can provide a better and ultimately more efficient service to their customers.”

E.Tupling, the national distributor to independent building and plumbing merchants, has announced the date for the company’s popular annual outdoor event. It will be held on 11th May at its Warrington Distribution centre. More than 150 merchant customers, manufacturers and key industry personnel are anticipated to attend as well as many of the UK’s leading plastics and underfloor heating manufacturers, such as Polypipe, FloPlast, Pipelife, Flexseal, Grant, Fastwarm and Alumasc. Each manufacturer has committed to showcase several new and innovative ranges at the event, alongside numerous product demonstrations and free samples.

The distributor will also utilise the event as a platform to raise money for its corporate charity, The Warrington Wolves Charitable Foundation. Claire Briars, marketing manager, says: “Our annual events are extremely popular, providing a rare opportunity for our customers to explore all of the leading UK building plastics and UFH manufacturers in one place. They also offer an informative networking experience, including personalised guided tours of our 25,000ft2 warehouse and offices, free food and drink, manufacturer exhibitions, superb raffle prizes and the opportunity to meet the entire team.” To register for the event, go to: www.etupling.co.uk/contact-us/ event

Refurbished power tools from Screwfix With the aim of supporting the circular economy and reducing waste, Screwfix has announced an enhanced service offering in refurbished power tools. Keeping products in use for longer forms a key part of the company’s sustainability strategy, and in January this year the company began selling refurbished tools directly to customers. The initial trial has proved a success and the national retailer is aiming to refurbish and sell 100,000 items this year.

CEO John Mewett comments: “We know that our customers are already making sustainable choices and the success of this trial demonstrates the demand and importance in us minimising our environmental impact, while customers can enjoy the cost savings of buying refurbished tools. The decision to sell refurbished products directly through our website not only helps reduce waste, but is another step on our journey to reducing our environmental impact.”

Big birthday celebrations

Wolseley, “not forgetting access to one of the largest product ranges in the Wolseley network, all ready to go. This branch really allows us to tailor our proposition to the markets our customers work in, ensuring the right stock in branch, best delivery on time and in full, and a professional team dealing with all your needs.” The Newbridge branch, which is headed by branch manager Adam Killen, started serving customers in February and was officially opened by Liz Mcareavey, chief executive at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. (pictured above).

With origins dating back to 1897, Smith Brothers Stores (SBS) will be marking its 125th anniversary this year. One of the largest independent merchants operating in the UK, the company was originally founded by Walter Smith in Leicester and remains family-owned today, with 5th generation family members working in the business. The business has transitioned significantly over 125 years, from manufacturing boilers for the shipping industry, to furnishing Leicestershire mills and assisting with the war efforts, before finally focusing predominantly on piping and HVAC supplies as the market grew in the 1960s. SBS now operates 17 branches, including four recently opened facilities in Glasgow, Sheffield, High Wycombe, and Cambridge, and employs over 400 members of staff. To download the company’s latest brochure, please use the online link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/09

Showroom in Stevenage Further strengthening its profile around the UK, James Hargreaves Plumbing Supplies has invested £250,000 in a new branch in Stevenage. Set to open its doors this spring, the development includes a highspec bathroom showroom that features more than 20 full displays, and follows the opening of other branches in nearby Peterborough, Hertford, Kettering, Milton Keynes and Northampton. “As we look to further growth in the south, Stevenage represents another excellent fit,” says sales director Bill Davies. “This is our 68th branch and we have more in the pipeline during 2022.” Management reins at Stevenage have been handed to 32-year-old James Kester, who has spent more than a decade in the plumbing and heating industry. He comments: “I’ve worked across branches in both Stevenage and Cambridge, but this certainly counts as the most exciting opportunity to date. It’s my first crack as a manager in my own right and I have the support of a company with a proven track record and a great reputation.”

05/04/2022 17:33

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Point of View

There’s more than one road to net zero It is widely recognised that the UK needs to decarbonise domestic heating if it is to stand any chance of achieving its net zero target by 2050. A transition to hydrogen boilers has been championed as a potential solution by many in the industry, but Russell Dean from Mitsubishi Electric argues that there are other, more viable low carbon options already available.

here is an ongoing conversation about how to heat the UK’s housing stock in a more sustainable way, with a focus on both heat pumps and hydrogen as possible solutions. Hydrogen has been labelled by some as a ‘silver bullet’ solution to meeting the UK’s goals for low carbon heating, and the government has even launched a plan for a worldleading ‘hydrogen economy’, which can help the UK achieve its net zero target by 2050, and its Sixth Carbon Budget target by 2035. The Energy Networks Association is also calling for hydrogen to be blended into the UK gas grid from as early as next year, to help support the transition to a low-carbon economy. Domestic heating in the UK accounts for around 13% of all greenhouse gas emissions, so it’s true that the way we heat our homes needs to change in order to reach net zero. However, rather than focusing on hydrogen as the sole solution, we must consider a range of renewable alternatives – including heat pumps. Taking an approach that considers multiple solutions will allow us to deploy the right heating method for each sector, and decarbonise heating more effectively by 2050.

Climate crisis

Russell Dean

Head of residential heating at Mitsubishi Electric

In order to see a reduction in carbon use by 2030, we need to consider alternative solutions that can be deployed at scale now

With the stark realities outlined in the recent IPCC report, including the likelihood of exceeding 2°C of warming unless there are deep reductions in CO2, it’s clear that we need to urgently respond to the climate crisis and decarbonise the UK economy. However, deploying hydrogen as a solution on its own will only delay the switch to low carbon heating further. This is because hydrogen is very energy intensive to create, and in some instances produces up to 20% more emissions than burning natural gas. There are also different ways of powering its production, with each method being inefficient and carbon intensive. The most common is grey hydrogen, which is created using natural gas without capturing the greenhouse gases made in the process. Blue hydrogen is also produced using natural gas, but the carbon dioxide produced as a by-product means carbon capture and storage is essential to consider this a ‘green’ form of energy production. Green hydrogen is the cleanest iteration, where hydrogen is produced without any greenhouse gases using clean electricity from renewable energy sources like solar and wind. However, this requires

battery storage technology to provide a constant supply, which can be expensive. The government’s plan to use hydrogen to heat homes will likely be driven by blue hydrogen, which still uses fossil fuels in the creation process. Unless there is 100% carbon capture at the source of production, this solution won’t allow us to reach net zero. This means that in order to see a reduction in carbon use by 2030, we need to consider alternative solutions that can be deployed at scale now – before it’s too late.

Existing technology

Luckily, there are other renewable heating solutions more suitable for home heating that are already available. For example, air source heat pumps (ASHP) are being recommended, with the Committee on Climate Change encouraging the installation of one million a year by 2030 to help the UK meet its carbon reduction commitments. However, in order to reach this milestone, concerted government effort and significant financial support is needed. For example, through the rapid training of installers to ensure they are able to offer gas and oil alternatives, alongside offering financial benefits like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). There is also the question of decarbonising homes that are not connected to the gas grid. t Mitsubishi’s Ecodan QUHZ air source heat pump has been designed to meet new-build standards of insulation and lower heating loads

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Roughly 1.5 million homes in the UK do not have access to the mains gas grid and subsequently use older methods for home heating, like LPG oil. Ensuring these homes are retrofitted with renewable heating solutions that don’t require connection to the grid, like heat pumps, will deliver significant carbon savings in the months and years ahead. This doesn’t mean that there is no place for hydrogen in a more renewable world. Rather than residential heating, the opportunities for hydrogen lie in the heavier industries like shipping and heavy vehicles. Indeed, a recent forecast by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has recommended prioritising sectors that are hard to electrify, like steelmaking and aviationwhile classifying home heating as the last priority.

Holistic approach

While hydrogen has been recommended for several of the more heavily polluting industries, it isn’t currently viable as a scalable solution for decarbonising the UK housing sector, and questions about the hidden carbon released during production remain unanswered. This means that we need to consider alternatives – like heat pumps – in order to decarbonise home heating before it’s too late. As such, it’s clear that no one solution is the answer to decarbonising UK heating. Rather, a number of different solutions for different industries, working in tandem with one another, will be the best way to reach net zero. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/10

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Gadgets & Tools 15 Suck it up for a łāÖŶ Ʃ łĢŭĞ

Connect van ŭāłŭŋũŭ Ŷŋ Ö platform Available from Rhino Products is a rear vehicle step with an integrated parking sensor. With a plug-andplay cable that integrates with the existing sensor on a van, the Connect+ system offers a safe and secure way to enter a van as well as providing easier access to the roof. Installation simply requires the removal of the existing sensors, before reconnecting them directly into the steps. The vehicle’s sensors will then work as normal,

with the added reassurance that the step at the rear of the vehicle is also protected when reversing. Connect+ is available for use with Rhino’s AccessStep, TowStep and TowStep Duo range, and for a growing range of the most popular

LCV variants. The list of compatible models now includes the Renault Master, Nissan NV˝˙˙, Vauxhall Movano, Vauxhall Vivaro, Citroën Dispatch, Fiat Scudo, Peugeot Expert, and Toyota Proace. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˚˚

Ultra-rugged tablet ĕŋũ Žŭā Ģł ŶĞā Ʃ āķù Rugged mobile device manufacturer, RugGear, has launched the RGˢ˜˞ tablet. The ultra-rugged ˚˙̍˚in tablet is equipped with two ˝˙˙˙mAh batteries that can be changed individually during ongoing operation. The ˝G-capable tablet can be operated with up to two SIM cards, has a wide Wi-Fi range and comes with Android ˚˚. As a completely independent mobile communication device, the RGˢ˜˞ can be used in a variety of industrial environments, but is especially designed for predictive maintenance. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˚˜

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Providing installers with a powerful cleaning solution, Makita has launched the XGT ˝˙VMax CL˙˙˛G Brushless Vacuum. Delivering a high output to tackle large areas and achieve a spotless clean-`[ bT_S PL^P T_ Zʬ P]^ an impressive sealed suction of ˛˚kPa and suction power of up to ˚˛˞W. As part of Makita’s XGT battery platform, professionals can use their existing XGT batteries to power the CL˙˙˛G. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˚˛

mŋũā ũāķĢÖðķā ŭāÖķĢłė ťũŋóāŭŭ In cooperation with Milwaukee, Uponor has developed new Q&E Rapid Seal Heads and redesigned its Q&E expander tool, M˚˛ Fuel for PEX pipes. The new equipment also improves the Q&E installation process for PEX pipe connections. The result, says Uponor, is a faster, more reliable, and more cost-Pʯ NTPY_ < 0 installation. The redesigned expander tool, M˚˛ Fuel, features a

brushless motor, allowing for a pipe expansion that is up to ˛˙% faster than before. M˚˛ Fuel is suitable for expanding Uponor PEX pipes with a diameter of up to ˜˛mm. The accompanying Q&E Rapid Seal Heads are said to drastically reduce the time to pressure test. Their optimised design ensures faster sealing connection of Uponor PEX pipes and the NZ]]P^[ZYOTYR < 0 ʭ __TYR^ even in cold temperatures. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˚˝

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Energy Matters

Potential to harvest heat from Oldham coal mines Former coal mines could soon be heating buildings across Oldham town centre thanks to a plan to tap into an unused, renewable energy source. The Oldham Mine Water Heat Network will use heat reclaimed from the ʮ ZZObL_P] TY OT^`^PO NZLW XTYP^ _SL_ sit underneath the town centre. 4YT_TLW ^_`OTP^ SLaP NZYʭ ]XPO _SP process looks promising and the council has now been awarded over £˚˟˙̇˙˙˙ from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to support the next stage of feasibility works. Councillor Abdul Jabbar, deputy WPLOP] LYO NLMTYP_ XPXMP] QZ] ʭ YLYNP and low carbon, says: “Oldham is one of only a handful towns in the UK to be developing plans for a mine water heat network. As the planet continues _Z ^`ʬ P] LYO PYP]Rd MTWW^ ST_ ]PNZ]O

Government urged to step up hydrogen plans

STRS^ bP X`^_ OZ LWW bP NLY ʭ YO LY Lʬ Z]OLMWP PNZ-friendly solution. The mine water heat network is an exciting opportunity to use Oldham’s industrial heritage in a new and sustainable way and supports our Green New Deal commitment to becoming carbon free as a council by ˛˙˛˞.” Mine water, which can be abstracted from boreholes and shafts, gets warmer the deeper it is. Temperatures range from ˚˙ ̞ ˛˙°C, however they can reach ˝˙°C at depths of around

One in four will not be able to pay energy bills New research published by Citizens Advice shows the predicted £˚˝˞-a-month hikes to energy costs in October could mean one in four adults – equivalent to ˚˝̍˞ million people – will MP `YLMWP _Z Lʬ Z]O _SPT] PYP]Rd MTWW This is up from around ˞m saying _SPd LW]PLOd NLYɪ_ Lʬ Z]O L []TNP increase of £˟˙ a month. Two in ʭ aP ˝˚%) of those warning they’ll be pushed into the red have already borrowed money to pay for essentials. Citizens Advice says that demand for its services has soared, with frontline ^_Lʬ SPW[TYR ]PNZ]O Y`XMP]^ LNNP^^ crisis support like food banks and one-Zʬ NSL]T_LMWP R]LY_^ =PQP]]LW^ QZ] crisis support in February surpassed January’s previous peak, with more than ˛˝̇˙˙˙ people referred for support.

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˚km. Heat exchangers and heat pumps can be used to recover the heat and distribute it via district heating networks to homes and buildings. Other projects to boost green energy are also progressing in the area. The council is exploring ways for residents and businesses to be able to purchase locally generated renewable energy directly through a ‘local energy market’, which will set its own prices independently of the main energy providers.

The government must bring forward its plans to convert the UK’s gas networks from natural gas to hydrogen, says Mike Foster, chief executive of the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), a body that represents the interests of boiler manufacturers and energy suppliers. The government had previously stated this decision would take place in ˛˙˛˟, but given the war in Ukraine, Foster believes such an announcement now would send a strong message that the UK is moving away from dependency on natural gas. Previously, the prime minister had said the government was ready to take ‘a big punt’ on hydrogen. Foster believes it is more important than ever to set ambitious targets for hydrogen now. “The only way to stop bullies like Putin is to stop buying his gas,” states Mike Foster. “Bringing forward the announcement about converting the gas network to hydrogen is something the prime minister can do tomorrow. Europe is waking up to a hydrogen future as a way of dealing with Putin’s terror, and we should signal that is our intention, too. British industry will respond positively to such news. Green hydrogen is the long-term future the world is banking on. We can become more energy independent with green hydrogen, so the sooner we make the announcement to convert our gas networks, _SP MP__P] Zʬ bP bTWW MP ɮ

Injecting green hydrogen in the grid Additionally, advisers supported more than ˚˙˙˙ people on prepayment XP_P]^ bSZ ^TX[Wd NZ`WOYɪ_ Lʬ Z]O _Z top up and were at risk of losing heat and power. The rising energy costs could see an average family on a prepayment meter facing bills of £˜˜˟ a month come December ˛˙˛˛, when the same usage would have cost them £˚˝ˠ in December ˛˙˛˚. The research also found that many (ˡ˜%) don’t think the government’s £˛˙˙ energy rebate will help. The ‘rebate’ is essentially a compulsory loan to be paid into customers’ accounts in October and paid back over _SP QZWWZbTYR ʭ aP dPL]^

Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund has granted nearly £˚˚˞̇˙˙˙ to Centrica, National Grid and other organisations to explore methods for injecting green hydrogen into the nation’s gas network. To meet the net zero targets set by the government, the gas networks need to decarbonise, and green hydrogen - produced using surplus renewable electricity - is viewed as a potential solution to this challenge. National Grid, alongside CNG Services, Element Energy and Centrica, will work together in the discovery phase. The aim is to understand what is needed to establish a connections process for putting green hydrogen in the national transmission system (NTS).

?SP []ZUPN_ T^ _SP ʭ ]^_ ZQ _S]PP phases and will build on the outcomes of previous projects to fully understand what’s needed to establish this connections process. Alongside this, it will review the economics of both green hydrogen production and injection, to inform the development of appropriate ʭ YLYNTLW TYNPY_TaP^ If successful, this project will enable excess renewable electricity to be used to create hydrogen, which can then be injected into the gas network – an example of a ‘whole system’ approach to reaching net zero. The project would also likely see National Grid Gas Transmission include hydrogen injection in its connections policy and would create the necessary conditions for increased investment in green hydrogen production. William Mezzullo, head of hydrogen at Centrica, says: “The ambition of this project is to help understand and overcome some of the barriers to realising an emissions-free hydrogen gas grid. We see hydrogen as having an important role in helping our customers transition to net zero by ˛˙˞˙.”

05/04/2022 09:25

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Training Update

Planning for the Future

Boiler Upgrade Scheme primer Continuing his regular column, Neil Hope from NIBE Energy Systems outlines the essential information installers need to know about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme that helps people buying a heat pump with the upfront capital costs.

he government’s new £450 million Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is now offering upfront capital grants to install heat pumps. Replacing the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (DRHI), BUS will drive forward heat pump installations across the UK for the next three years. Whilst there has been some discontent from the industry in regard to the gap between the schemes, with the voucher application opening on 23rd May, homeowners and small businesses can access the BUS grant for installations completed from 1st April 2022, meaning minimal impact from a consumer perspective. Further to that end, the ability to commission a system, create an account and have the new system verified before the voucher application date should make applying for the vouchers a smoother and more efficient process.

Surge in interest By shifting the focus away from the back payments of the DRHI, more households will be incentivised to make the move towards low carbon heating, as those without the upfront capital to invest in a heat pump will more readily be able to afford the transition. This increased demand will bring its own rewards for your company - and for the wider Net Zero agenda. The market must be prepared for the surge in interest in heat pumps that the scheme could bring. It falls upon the shoulders of installers and manufacturers alike to achieve widescale deployment, but there are some key things that you should be aware of before the BUS kicks into gear.

The scheme will allow 90,000 homes from across England and Wales to take advantage of the funding. Over the next three years, the pot of £450m will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to customers looking to install technologies like air and ground source heat pumps.

v Although the official launch date for voucher applications is the 23rd May, any installation commissioned from the 1st April can apply for funding. Further guidance will be published ahead of the scheme’s

17.indd 1

Neil Hope

Head of technical services at NIBE

launch on the week commencing 2nd May, with a webinar launch event focused on scheme application scheduled two weeks later (16th May).

You can create an account on the BUS platform from 11th April and are strongly encouraged to do so. Ofgem is also hosting an installer workshop on the same day (https://bit.ly/3uKRA43).

x You will have to apply for the grant on behalf of your customer, a decision that aims to simplify the consumer journey. Unlike the short-lived Green Homes Grant Scheme, it will not be the customer’s responsibility to secure a £5000 voucher for an ASHP install, or a £6000 voucher for a GSHP install. After you receive the voucher, you will have three months to install an air source heat pump or biomass boiler and six months for a ground source heat pump. After the installation is finished, you can redeem the voucher. VAT scrapped The Chancellor promised in the Spring Statement to cut VAT to zero on energy saving materials, including heat pumps, for the next five years. You can be assured that the NIBE team will support you throughout the duration of the BUS scheme and any other future incentives, and our experts will be on hand to answer any of your questions. If you are an installer looking to receive training in heat pumps and other such low carbon technologies, I urge you to look at our NIBE Pro installer partnership scheme. Start your journey today by visiting: www.nibe.eu/en-gb/professionals

Course on battery storage systems A new centre for battery energy storage training has been opened at Telford College. The accredited LCL Awards course is being run in conjunction with training company GTEC, supported by Telford-based specialist battery supplier and manufacturer, AceOn Group. The qualification covers the installation of dedicated Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) in accordance with the relevant IET Code of Practice and is recognised by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). The two-day course provides detailed theoretical and practical knowledge, focused on giving tradespeople the skills to size and safely install an EESS, and successful

candidates will receive a level three certificate from LCL Awards. Applicants should ideally hold a formal level 3 electrical qualification and also hold a current BS7671 qualification. GTEC was instrumental in the development of the EESS qualification, for which AceOn’s equipment is used during practical training and assessment. All parties have supported the MCS in putting together industry standards. AceOn’s MD Mark Thompson comments: “If we are to attain our net zero

targets in this country it is vitally important that we train existing tradespeople as well as a new generation of skilled workers in the green, sustainable technology needed to address climate change. “These are the skills which will deliver solutions today for tomorrow’s world and we are thrilled to have collaborated with Telford College, GTEC and others to make this course happen.” To register for the new course, or for more details, please use the online link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/15

Education membership for WIAPS Water Regs UK is inviting plumbing apprentices and industry lecturers to apply for education membership of WIAPS (the Water Industry Approved Plumbers Scheme). Education membership is being offered to plumbing apprentices who are studying for a plumbing qualification that is recognised by WIAPS, and for lecturers who are teaching the courses. Membership is currently free and comes with a number of benefits, including access to digital resources and technical updates relating to the Water Fittings Regulations. Julie Spinks, MD of Water Regs UK, says: “We want to help apprentices in

their journey to become fully qualified approved plumbers. The UK has a shortage of plumbers. So apprentices who fully understand the water fittings regulations are essential to help keep water flowing safely and efficiently in the future. “It’s important to note that they will not be Approved Contractors; this can only happen once apprentices have qualified and applied to be full members. Approved Plumbers receive a long list of benefits including promotion through the Water Regs UK website and online directory as well as the backing of water companies.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/16

High-rise drainage ventilation A new CPD which focuses on Active Drainage Ventilation is now available from Aliaxis UK. Particularly suited to high-rise residential and commercial buildings, Active Drainage Ventilation is a means of managing air pressure within a building’s soil and waste drainage system. It avoids the need for roof penetrations and secondary venting and minimises the risk of trap seal depletion, protecting against odorous smells and the potential for crosscontamination of sewerborne pathogens or infection spread. Backed by CIBSE, the new CPD discusses the types of systems used to manage

water and air, looks at ways to manage trap seals and the effect of loss, as well as highlighting the benefits of Active Drainage Ventilation. The presentation also provides detailed guidance on Positive Air Pressure Attenuator and formulas to produce space-saving calculations. “We hope that the CPD

will provide participants with an understanding of how these solutions can help to deliver an effective drainage system and also contribute to the creation of a healthy indoor environment,” says Adam Gatrell, technical specification consultant at Aliaxis UK. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/17

04/04/2022 15:53

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Business Matters

Why it makes sense to offer up options

New card to save on fuel costs In response to rising fuel prices, UK Fuels has launched a money-saving fuel card that gives guaranteed discounts of up to 10p per litre on both diesel and unleaded fuel. The new Fleetone card is accepted at more than 80% of supermarket fuel stations and over 70% of motorway fuel stations. Those with a Fleetone card also get access to UK Fuels’ online account management portal, Velocity, which allows fleet managers to control their fuel costs and driver performance. The portal can be used to match fuel purchase data to other data, such as mileage and telematics tracking logs to help companies improve control of their fuel costs. What’s more, the need for drivers to retain fuel receipts is removed, with HMRC-compliant invoices instantly accessible to users. In addition to Velocity, UK Fuels’ E-route app shows every fuel station in the UK that accepts their fuel cards, making it easy for

Continuing his regular column of business advice, Aaron McLeish looks at how offering customers a choice of options on the quote increases your chances of winning the work.

users to find their nearest fuel station. With the ability to select a start and destination point, it can highlight all fuel sites between two locations and show real-time traffic congestion levels. “Fuel prices have rocketed this year and prices may well continue to rise,” says Jonathan Haseler, MD of UK Fuels. “With fuel already the biggest single material cost to fleet operators, it is now more important than ever to control and reduce fuel costs.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/18

How to handle discount requests Recent research by ElectricalDirect has found tradespeople will often be asked by a friend or family member to do a job at a discounted rate. The survey reveals that UK electricians get asked for mates’ rates five times a year on average, and they typically offer a 40% saving on each job. However, many think that such requests are disrespectful (15%), and they only go along with them because they feel like they can’t say ‘no’ (23%). In response, the online product supplier has teamed up with a clinical

psychologist, Dr Marianne Trent, to share advice on how best to deal with tricky conversions with friends and family who are seeking a discount. The expert has suggested five different approaches to handling requests that will enable tradespeople to push back without causing offence or feeling uncomfortable. To find out more and for further information about the research, please use the online link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/19

Boosting profits for family business BigChange, a field service management software provider, is highlighting how it has helped to drive growth for a Welshpool-based plumbing and heating business. Morgans Plumbing and Heating is a family run business which installs, services and repairs all oil, gas and LPG appliances. It has grown its business by more than 600% since investing in the company’s software, which has been designed to enhance workforce management, customer communications, reporting and invoicing. Digital job sheets, automated scheduling and up-to-the minute stock

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control has also removed the need for home-based engineers to visit head office on a regular basis. “Before BigChange we were little more than a one-man band, with paper worksheets and no control of workflows, stock or costs,” says director Steven Morgan. “We now cover mid and north Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire and have plans to expand further up the west coast to Scottish borders and further down into south Wales and the Cotswolds. This ambitious expansion simply wouldn’t be possible without BigChange.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/20

ext time replacement as an example, you fancy you could offer: a sandwich 1. Low end cheap boiler and need 2. Mid range boiler to buy a 3. Premium boiler loaf of bread, think about 4. Standard manufacturer’s the multitude of options warranty available to you. The 5. Extended manufacturer’s shop to buy the loaf from warranty (supermarket, bakery, 6. Extended manufacturer’s corner shop), the size of warranty and additional the loaf, the freshness, the guarantees and promises ingredients or type of loaf, (see last month’s column the shelf life, the brand – for more on this option) the abundance of choice Or even: we are blessed with is 1. Light version of aftercare Aaron McLeish extensive. The abundance and support Director at Together We Count of choice is the same for 2. Normal/standard loads of everyday items aftercare and support and services. 3. Enhanced aftercare and support We as a society are used to variety of If you are attending a breakdown you choice – we like to buy based on our could offer: budgets, lifestyle, requirements and 1. A repair perceived value. You may be pondering 2. A like for like replacement why this accountant is talking about 3. Or an upgrade lunch. I want to wake up the industry Note – most people will go for the middle when it comes to quoting for works. option because as humans we are risk adverse. Customers don’t want to lose out by going for Time well spent the basic/bronze package and may not want to The majority of businesses will spend overpay for the most expensive option. a few hours preparing a quote for a Room at the high end customer, filling it with information on But there are loads of people who like the all of the features of the job in hand, then finer things in life and are happy, willing, supply their potential customer with ONE and proud to purchase the gold packages. price. That one price is the company’s Note, if a customer is not given an option price, not the customer’s price. Because of to buy a gold package, then they simply this, a lot of potential customers may then cannot buy a gold package, meaning you go and obtain around two further quotes are leaving money on the table. from competitors for a job before deciding Offering customers one option gives on a particular business to proceed with. A them two potential buying options: YES or potential customer will do this to get a feel NO. Offering customers three options gives for the price range and works involved. them multiple buying options – NO, or YES The buying process is no different when to option one, two or three. buying a boiler or a loaf of bread. The Clearly communicate what you offer to consumer wants to feel in control of the your customers and state what is included buying process. The best way to empower and excluded in each package. Tailor your your customers and let them feel in control packages to your individual customers so of the buying process is to offer packages, that your offering meets the needs of that or options within a quote. buyer.

The sweet spot

I have found over the years that presenting a quote with three packages or options boosts a business’s quote conversion rates. Customers love choices. They hate being sold to, but love to buy! Offer a bronze, silver and gold package for all of the works you do, with differing price ranges for each package. Two packages are not enough for customers to make an informed decision and offering four or more packages can create confusion or overwhelm and lead to no sale, so the sweet spot is three packages. To ease you into this concept of offering packages to customers and using a boiler

Find out more As the director of Together We Count, Aaron McLeish is an accountant specialising in the plumbing and heating sector. Aaron is also the author of The Quote Handbook. Visit the website here: www.togetherwecount.co.uk

Aaron’s Quick Tip

Track your quote conversion rate and use the data obtained to analyse your business performance. To quote Peter Drucker: ‘What gets measured gets managed’.

04/04/2022 10:51

PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 19

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

1łāũėƘ 1Ƨ óĢāłŶ ũŋùŽóŶŭ

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19.indd 1

S ¦Ğā zƦ ėāł Ģŭ Ö óŋĿťÖóŶ ĿŋùŽķÖũ āłāũėƘ ŭŶŋũÖėā ŭƘŭŶāĿ ùāƑāķŋťāù ðƘ óāķāũŋł ̞ Ö óÖðĢłāŶ óŋłŶÖĢłĢłė ķĢŶĞĢŽĿ-ion batteries, ĞƘðũĢù ĢłƑāũŶāũ̇ óŋĿĿŽłĢóÖŶĢŋłŭ ĢłŶāũĕÖóā Öłù ŭƒĢŶóĞ ėāÖũ

Carlton Cummins CTO and co-founder of Aceleron

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04/04/2022 11:11

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Energy Efficient Products

More than the sum of its parts Just like a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, an underfloor heating system depends on all parts working together effectively to produce efficient, controllable, comfortable heat. Chris Ingram from Continal explains why energy efficiency means thinking about more than just the heat source.

Quantum is Continal’s range of controls, providing seamless integration from the thermostat to the wiring centre

f you were asked to design the most energy efficient car on the market, you wouldn’t just throw together any old engine and gearbox – you’d have to consider how every part of the car works together. It’s true that you might start by finding the most efficient engine and fuel source, but you wouldn’t stop there. To make a car truly efficient you also need to consider the aerodynamics of the chassis and the tyres, not to mention its overall weight. The same is true for a heating system. The boiler or heat pump you choose is certainly an important part of the equation, but it’s not the only thing that matters. For too long the industry has focused solely on making boilers more efficient, or how heat pumps can be incorporated into existing homes, while not giving enough thought to the rest of the system it is being fitted to. The only way to make a truly energy efficient heating

UltraSlim-15 is just 15mm thick

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Chris Ingram

Founder of Continal Underﬂoor Heating

system is to consider the entire system as a whole – from heat source to pipework and water treatment, and from controls to heat emitters – as well as how that system will interact with the property it’s being fitted into. Otherwise, the heat source they’ve spent so long choosing will never deliver the efficiency levels they had hoped for. Creating an efficient heating system – or improving the efficiency of an existing system – has never been more important. Fuel costs have risen sharply over recent months, and the increase in the energy price cap this month will see around 22 million people paying more for gas and electricity to heat their homes.

How low can you go? Low-temperature heating systems are widely agreed to be more eﬃcient than their highertemperature counterparts. The government has made it clear it wants low-temperature

systems installed as standard in new-build properties to pave the way for heat pumps and other non-gas systems, but it’s important to make sure that the rest of the system is optimised to make the most of those lower temperatures.

Joined up Underfloor heating (UFH) is the perfect heat emitter to work with low-temperature systems. The greater surface area covered by the UFH pipework means the heat emitter can run at lower temperatures and still deliver the heat output needed to keep everyone warm in the winter, maximising efficiency wherever possible. But once you’ve chosen UFH, and the low-temperature heat source to go with it, you can boost that system’s efficiency even further by selecting the right controls. Successful heating systems need to deliver controllable comfort, and that means allowing the homeowner to use modern heating controls such as digital thermostats so that the heating only comes on when it is needed, and never heats an empty room. But it’s also important that the control system is chosen to suit the user – there’s no point installing an app-controlled thermostat for an elderly homeowner if they don’t have a smartphone to control it with. Or, you can make sure to fit a thermostat such as our Quantum dial thermostat-RF product, for example, which offers a simple dial control for users who prefer it, while also being compatible with a smartphone app. With low-temperature systems such as UFH it’s also important to consider the building construction, insulation levels and floor covering, to make sure the system is sized and designed to deliver heat with

the appropriate response times. UFH is extremely adaptable, and solutions exist to work with almost any type of building, floor, floor covering, or wall construction, and it’s easy to find the most efficient system for any kind of project. With UFH being up to 30% more efficient than radiators, it’s a great way to deliver cost savings for homeowners. It’s common for installers to combine multiple UFH solution types within the same property in order to get the very best efficiencies in different rooms. For example, you could use a traditional screed system on the ground floor, then switch to a low-profile system such as our UltraSlim-15 to minimise build-up heights on the first floor. Each area of the property then has the most efficient solution to maximise the occupants’ comfort levels and minimise fuel consumption.

Expert advice With all these considerations, it’s no surprise that a one-size-fitsall approach is rarely the answer when designing a modern UFH system. Instead, you should seek advice from a manufacturer like Continal, who can offer every possible solution, so that you have the widest range of systems to choose from. And, with so many different options now available on the market, you need to be sure that the manufacturer you choose has knowledgeable technical sales advisers on hand to help at every stage. At Continal, our dedicated advisers have many years of experience in UFH. We can supply full CAD designs for every type of property and UFH system, and we have systems that will work with every possible property type you might be asked to work on. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/22

04/04/2022 11:14

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Energy Efficient Products

Plug in to the benefits of pipeless heating Electric pipeless radiators are a plug-and-play heating solution that comes into its own when a hydronic system isn’t in place. But they are less well known for their superb efficiency and saving energy. RadiWarm’s Nicola Martin explains how it works.

nergy efficiency is a key factor in heating choice, of course. In terms of solutions, we hear a lot about heat pumps and solar panels, and they are ideal in many settings. But electric pipeless radiators are highly energy efficient too, although not as well-known as they deserve. Furthermore, whilst some new heating appliances require expensive infrastructure that can be disruptive and timeconsuming to install, pipeless radiators are a simple plug-andplay appliance, needing only a standard socket. Until recently, they were generally used as an additional heat source where it was too difficult or expensive to extend an existing system, but that is changing. Nowadays they are being specified as the main heating in new and refurbished houses, apartments and commercial buildings. The radiators generate the same comfortable heat as traditional wet systems and, crucially, they use electricity as their fuel, often more sustainably produced than gas.

Sealed and delivered Our Signature range is a good example of how they work. They arrive ready for use, filled with specially treated water and fully sealed. In a matter of minutes they are mounted on their wall brackets and plugged into the nearest electric socket. Thinner walls usually present no problems because additional load-bearing discs can be purchased. What makes them smart? The patented built-in miniature boiler, pump, thermostat and software working together are highly energy efficient and mean each radiator can be controlled independently. This is the gold standard product for pipeless radiator efficiency, using the least amount of electricity to reach the pre-set room temperature and maintain it. Additionally, there is an entry level silica-sand filled range, the Economy+, that has the same plug-and-play simplicity. The two

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u An app gives the user more control over comfort and efficiency

Nicola Martin

Sales manager at RadiWarm

PIPELESS BENEFITS  They arrive ready to use, and can be installed in minutes

Built-in boiler, pump, thermostat, and software combine to make these radiators smart and efficient



Easy to integrate into most situations, including care homes, when used with a LST cover



Multiple radiators can be zoned so they are used only when and where they are needed



ranges run on the same control system so they can be mixed and matched. Most pipeless ranges are offered in a variety of sizes, sometimes including and, as in the case of Economy+, upright ones for tight spaces. They have slim shells, ideal for small rooms. Overall, the entry level ranges on the market are a good place to start for any contractor wanting to try pipeless radiators.

Smart solutions Lower bills are one of the advantages nearly everyone enjoys from pipeless radiators. But how is such efficiency achieved whilst maintaining comfortable ambient temperatures? The answer again is smart radiators. With the Signature range, software controlling the internal boiler, pump and thermostat reaches the correct room temperature and switches to eco-saving mode to maintain it. For the duration of the programme, typically it only needs to consume electricity for a third of that time and then is switched off for the remaining period.

Care home example A care home operator wanted to refurbish two large period houses it owns in Glasgow. The company needed to replace the old night storage heaters with more responsive and efficient heating. Although the properties had a mains gas supply, concrete flooring would have made installing extra pipes too costly and time-consuming, so pipeless radiators were chosen as a simple, ready-to-go heating solution that would not disrupt residents or staff. They were fitted quickly and are now independently controlled in each room so that heat is used only when and where it is needed. Installers working in this sector can opt for a Low Surface Temperature (LST) cover available for the Signature range. This makes sure the external temperature never exceeds 43°C, which protects vulnerable people from scalds or burns. They are also ideal for hospitals, nursing homes, schools and children’s nurseries. q Installing a pipeless radiator is as easy as mounting it on a wall bracket and plugging in the nearest socket

Any heating system needs a good control system. Thankfully, pipeless radiators are controllable either individually or grouped in a zone. At RadiWarm, for example, we offer a 7-day controller comprising a programmable thermostat and timer device. Each radiator can be connected by radio frequency (RF) link to the control unit so heating can be controlled, zoned and operated from a central point in the home or office, with a different setting for each day and up to three programmes per day, if needed. This high level of functionality minimises the electricity that is consumed and contributes to overall lower running costs. An alternative and sophisticated option, offered by many manufacturers, is remote controllability. The RadiWarm Smart Controller, for example, uses a gateway that plugs into an existing Wi-Fi router, so that the radiators can be independently and remotely controlled from a web-based app on a smartphone or tablet. The app is easy to use and intuitive, with charts and graphs to show energy use in real time that can be adjusted instantly whether or not the residents are at home.

Is there a downside? Pipeless radiators are welldesigned and sleek using industry standard shells like Type 22. But in some properties, up-tothe-minute interior design is important, perhaps requiring a bespoke radiator design. Many manufacturers cannot currently offer this cost-effectively. Although the radiators are offered in various sizes, including upright options, some spaces are just too small for any radiator. Pipeless radiators offer outstanding controllability and energy efficiency combined with simple installation. They are becoming the heating system of choice for many installers and end users. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/23

04/04/2022 11:16

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Energy Efficient Products

The new normal for new build houses When underfloor heating is partnered with a heat pump, these technologies can achieve the low temperatures required to meet incoming standards for new build properties. Here, Ambiente’s Sheldon Cooper looks at why UFH and heat pumps make the perfect pairing.

rom this June, the low water temperature update to the Building Regulations and Part L will be enforced, from which point there will be a compulsory 31% reduction in CO2 from new dwellings, compared to current standards. New home heating systems will also be required to have a maximum flow temperature of 55°C. Plus, each zone within the home will require self-regulating control devices for the heating system. While there is flexibility on how to meet the targets, and there are a variety of renewable energy sources available, the government expects heat pumps will be the primary heating technology for new homes. However, in order for heat pumps to work at their most efficient level, they need to run at 45°C – this is something only underfloor heating can perfectly support. With this in mind, radiators would need to significantly increase in size – causing issues when it comes to interior design and layouts, as well as increasing build costs. As such, wall-mounted radiators could well become a thing of the past as homeowners discover a new way of heating their homes.

p A well designed UFH system will ensure that homeowners benefit from energy savings

Sheldon Cooper MD at Ambiente

p NeoStat thermostats can be controlled from anywhere via the NeoApp on any smart device

Hydronic underfloor heating systems are designed to cover a greater surface area than radiators and can therefore run at lower temperatures

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 Heating systems in new homes will be required to have flow temperature no greater than 55°C from June

Heat pumps partner well with UFH because underfloor heating can run at 45°C rather than 80°C 

 UFH systems can be fully zoned, with separate areas controlled via a central thermostat or smartphone  It’s important to design the system according to the parameters specified by the heat pump manufacturer

Heat pumps Heat pumps are designed to move thermal energy from one environment to another to heat the home. This process allows the heat pump to effectively bring thermal energy into an occupied space. This equipment has been tried and tested in the UK for many years and provides high efficiency, low-cost heating when paired with the right technologies. There are a variety of heat pump types available, depending on the requirements and accompanying technology. Each works differently, but in the case of an air source heat pump (ASHP), the system

CUT TO THE CHASE

absorbs heat energy from the outside into the cycling refrigerant. The refrigerant is then turned into a gas, compressed, and then condensed back into a liquid again which generates heat energy. This process allows the ASHP to bring thermal energy into an occupied space for heating and hot water. Even if it was -10°C outside, there is still enough heat outside for a heat pump to turn into energy.

Perfect partners Hydronic (water based) underfloor heating systems are designed to cover a greater surface area than radiators and can therefore run at lower temperatures (45°C rather than 80°C). As such, the demand UFH places on the energy sources is considerably less. These attributes make UFH an ideal technology to partner with a heat pump. When combined, the result is an energy efficient and costeffective heating system, which meets the demands of the low water temperature update to the Building Regulations and Part L. Underfloor heating systems can also be fully zoned, which ticks a crucial regulatory box and ensures no energy is wasted, as each zone can be controlled individually from a central thermostat, or via a smartphone app.

Down to design p The AmbiTak system provides an even and effective form of heating within a screeded floor build-up

UFH and heat pumps are the ultimate solution to meet the incoming low temperature challenge and create a high

efficiency system. However, if the system is not designed and installed properly it won’t reach its required efficiency. The impact of this will be increased energy bills for the homeowner. As such, accuracy is critically important at every stage. A good heat pump design delivers an efficient heat pump system which is capable of covering all of a property’s heat demand, regardless of outside temperature. Plus, heat pumps will also last longer if there is less strain on the system. Correct design is also a key component of validating manufacturer warranties.

Attention to detail Each heat pump manufacturer will be able to specify parameters to be observed, and it’s critical that these are incorporated into the underfloor heating system design. There will also be additional input parameters to be aware of which the system can then be designed around. The initial assessment should include aspects such as the fabric heat loss of the building to be heated, floor construction and the proposed floor coverings for each area. This information will then influence the design – from, the manifold location, size of the UFH pipework installed and spacing between each run of pipework installed. It’s important to work with suppliers who can provide expert guidance at the design stage, including CAD designs. This will ensure any specific requirements of the chosen heat pump are considered, relevant standards are met, and ultimately should mean that homeowners will truly be able to feel the benefit of this ultimate, high efficiency heating system. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/24

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

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04/04/2022 11:20

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Energy Efficient Products

Combined cylinder and heat pump solution The A+ rated Nuos Plus Wi-Fi heat pump water heater, part of Ariston’s Nuos range of combined cylinders and heat pumps, is available as either a 200-litre direct (200D) or 250-litre indirect (250I) model. The units boast a CoP of up to 3.14 and are claimed to deliver 80% more energy savings than traditional cylinders of the same capacities. They offer an extended operating temperature range of -10° to 42°C and are controlled by a touch-button interface or via the Aqua Ariston Net app. With the app, users can shuffle through modes and turn the unit on remotely while benefiting from daily and weekly programming. The heat pump water heaters benefit from three different modes: Green mode, which

ensures the only heating source is the heat pump itself (heating the water up to 62°C); Comfort mode, with the heating element either replacing or assisting the heat pump to replenish hot water

as quickly as possible; and Boost mode which switches on the heat pump and heating element at the same time until the desired temperature is reached. Each Nuos Plus Wi-Fi has an anti-legionella function, which regularly heats the contents of the tank to 65°C, pasteurising the water and preventing bacterial growth. There is also an anti-freeze feature, which keeps the stored water at a minimum temperature, even when the unit is turned off. Commenting on the latest models, Victoria Gutierrez, head of marketing at Ariston, says: “Nuos Plus Wi-Fi has been designed with sustainability in mind. Units can be easily integrated with other heating products, including boilers and heat pumps, thanks to our Sensys interface, which helps create a fully ‘Eco’ system. Installation is also straightforward, thanks to the ‘plug and play’ design, which enables it to be fitted quickly, without requiring F-Gas qualifications. It truly is the future of smart, sustainable comfort.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/26

Advice for energy conscious customers With the new energy price hikes already affecting householders, Drayton is encouraging installers to advise their customers on how they can cut their costs with smart controls. The company says its Wiser range offers homeowners the ability to closely monitor their energy usage and help them to make more sustainable choices. Users are able to integrate data from their smart meter to help save energy and money. The new insights+ feature allows them to delve deeper into their energy usage and savings, so they can view current energy consumption, access tariff and spending data, and set energy budgeting notifications. The app will even predict

future heating costs and help them identify potential savings from using Smart Modes. By combining the use of these smart heating control features, Drayton says homeowners can reap the benefits of an efficient heating system that not only helps reduce their carbon emissions, but also their monthly energy bills. MD Remi Volpe comments: “With all of these energy saving possibilities, the evolution of smart technology is key. It provides homeowners with a real opportunity to make conscious decisions about how they heat their homes and what effect this can have on their energy bills, and it is the job of the installer to help them make this transition to smart as quickly as possible.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/28

Silence is in the name The Therma V Monobloc S air to water heat pump from LG Electronics is characterised by its quiet operation, with the ‘S’ in its name standing for ‘silence’. Using R32 refrigerant, the unit can operate at low ambient temperatures to deliver renewable, energy efficient heating. The Monobloc S comes with a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance of up to 4.67 (average climate/low temperature application) and an A+++ rating. The COP rises to 4.9 (outdoor air 7°C/leaving water temperature 35°C) and can deliver leaving water temperature of 65°C if required. This model combines the indoor and outdoor features in one module. It’s only connected by water piping, eliminating the need for refrigerant piping. Hydronic components like the plate heat exchanger, the expansion tank, water pump, flow sensor, pressure sensor, air vent valve and safety valve are contained within the outdoor unit. LG says that the new version of the Monobloc also requires lower amounts of refrigerant compared to the previous model – 16.7% – reducing emissions and lessening its environmental impact still further. The near silent operation means units up to 9kW can be installed at the minimum of distance of 4m, and the 16kW units at a distance of 5m from neighbouring homes. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/29

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Radiators fit for the future of low temperature heating As heat pump installations continue to increase in the UK, specifiers need to ensure the radiators on the system can deliver the energy-efficient, lowertemperature heat they produce. Stelrad offers its K3 radiators as a solution to meet this need. As the name suggests, K3 radiators have three panels and three fins on a radiator footprint that is scarcely larger than a traditional K2 design. The K3 offers an additional 50% metal surface area over a K2 to share more heat from a similar area.

OpenTherm makes the difference to efficiency A key benefit of the Boiler Pluscompliant range of controls from ESi is their access to the OpenTherm protocol. This nonmanufacturer dependent system of communication works between modulating HVAC appliances and room thermostats to ensure the correct amount of heat is given to the heating system at the correct time. This can lead to energy savings by keeping condensing boilers in condensing mode for longer. ESi’s top-of-the-range 6 Series WiFi Programmable Room Thermostat is said to offer the latest in heating control for homes and commercial premises. Fully OpenTherm compatible, this new range of controls allows full control via the room thermostat or a mobile phone or tablet, with a range of energy efficient features. It includes optimum start/stop,

Stelrad has also increased its choice of larger radiators that work well with renewable heating appliances like heat pumps, including vertical models that take up much less horizontal space on the wall. They can slot into smaller rooms or nooks to provide the heat required without taking up excessive space. To help installers properly specify radiators on low temperature systems, Stelrad provides a heat loss calculator and radiator sizing tool on its website. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/27

domestic hot water (DHW) setpoint, hot water time and temperature control when working in conjunction with a wireless cylinder thermostat, full seven-day, 5/2 day or 24 hour programming options, a boost facility, a helpful holiday mode and is an ERP Class 5 Product. The controls are available in white or grey. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/30

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PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 27

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

1łāũėƘ 1Ƨ óĢāłŶ ũŋùŽóŶŭ Towel rail smart heating element ?SP :^bP^_ BT-1T 0YLMWPO >XL]_ 3PL_TYR Element from Ultraheat can convert a ^_LYOL]O _ZbPW ]LTW TY_Z L ^_LYO-alone heat ^Z`]NP ?ST^ YPb LNNP^^Z]d PYLMWP^ `^P]^ _Z XZYT_Z] LYO XLYLRP _SPT] _ZbPW ]LTW Q]ZX LYdbSP]P TY _SP bZ]WO _SLYV^ _Z LY L[[ QZ] MZ_S T:> LYO ,YO]ZTO ^XL]_[SZYP OPaTNP^ ?SP SPL_TYR PWPXPY_ Zʬ P]^ L Y`XMP] ZQ PYP]Rd ^LaTYR QPL_`]P^ TYNW`OTYR L`_ZXL_TN anti-Q]PPeP LY Z[PY bTYOZb Q`YN_TZY _SL_ ]PO`NP^ PYP]Rd NZY^`X[_TZY [W`^ _SP]XZ^_L_TN LYO _TXTYR O]dP] XZOP^ >`T_LMWP QZ] ML_S]ZZX ʭ __TYR^ T_ SL^ LY 4;C˝ []Z_PN_TZY ]L_TYR LYO NLY MP TY^_LWWPO TY_Z eZYP^ _bZ LYO _S]PP 1Z] PL^P ZQ `^P :^bP^_ QPL_`]P^ 70/ _Z`NS^N]PPY M`__ZY^ bSTNS NLY MP `^PO _Z _`]Y _SP _ZbPW ]LTW ZY LYO Zʬ ^PWPN_ OTʬ P]PY_ SPL_ XZOP^ LYO ^P_ _SP []PQP]]PO _PX[P]L_`]P 4_ NZXP^ TY NS]ZXP bST_P LYO _SP popular anthracite ʭ YT^S bT_S bL__LRP options of ˜˙˙̇ ˟˙˙̇ or ˢ˙˙ To view the full range of Ultraheat LNNP^^Z]TP^ [WPL^P use the online link: ͻ ťĞÖĿłāƒŭ̍óŋ̍ŽĴ̓ ˝˛˛̓˜˚

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PV panels deliver more output from same footprint

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?L]RP_TYR ]PYPbLMWP^ ^[PNTʭ P]^ 8L]WPd Zʬ P]^ T_^ >ZWL]?TWP ]LYRP ZQ TY_PR]L_PO [SZ_ZaZW_LTN^ ^LTO _Z Zʬ P] PL^d TY^_LWWL_TZY ^WPPV OP^TRY LYO PYP]Rd NZ^_ ^LaTYR^ BT_S _SP 1`_`]P 3ZXP^ >_LYOL]O calling for all new homes built from ˛˙˛˞ _Z OPWTaP] L ˠ˞ to ˡ˙% ]PO`N_TZY TY NL]MZY PXT^^TZY^ TY_PR]L_PO [SZ_ZaZW_LTN^ ;A systems can be part of the ^ZW`_TZY LNNZ]OTYR _Z 8L]WPd ?SP WL_P^_ [LYPW^ RTaP ^[PNTʭ P]^ _SP MPYPʭ _ ZQ LY TYN]PL^P TY _Z_LW [ZbP] Z`_[`_ Q]ZX _SP ]ZZQ L]PL or achieving the same output using QPbP] [LYPW^ , STRSP] [ZbP]

rating makes roof-TY_PR]L_PO solar a more cost-Pʬ PN_TaP Z[_TZY bT_S QPbP] [LYPW^ LYO ]ZZʭ YR VT_^ YPPOPO _Z ]PLNS _SP []ZUPN_ PYP]Rd _L]RP_ SolarTile comes with all the YPNP^^L]d NZX[ZYPY_^ TYNW`OTYR ʭ cTYR^ _Z LWWZb TY^_LWWP]^ _Z NZX[WP_P _SP UZM \`TNVWd LYO bT_SZ`_ _SP YPPO QZ] _ST]O-party []ZO`N_^ ?SP NZYYPN_TZY ZQ ^TX[Wd pushing the panels together to create a weather _TRS_ LYO ^PN`]P ʭ cTYR XPLY^ ^ZWL] TY^_LWWL_TZY^ can be less than ˝˞ minutes per kilowatt-[PLV ͻ ťĞÖĿłāƒŭ̍óŋ̍ŽĴ̓˝˛˛̓˜˜

04/04/2022 11:25

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures

Think outside the box to save time on installation

The iBox is also installed for use with a selection of wall mounted multi-functional showerheads, three-way diverters and even a selection of wall mounted electronic basin mixers. The circular design makes the iBox virtually impossible to fit incorrectly, providing a future-proof installation which at some point can easily be updated to the latest designs and colours without breaking into the tiled finished wall. The universal footprint of the iBox makes it compatible with most Hansgrohe valves, and the shower valve can simply be removed from the centre of the iBox and updated or maintained. The ability to fit a product safe in the knowledge that it won’t cause the customer further issues later is key to unlocking customer loyalty and protecting your reputation as an installer. It also reduces the potential for emergency callouts, giving you time back to get more jobs completed and increase revenue for your business.

For installers, time is money so it pays to ﬁnd ways to speed up the job while maintaining high standards of workmanship. Here, Keith Dyson from Hansgrohe discusses the role products can play in not only speeding up each job but in ensuring installers can deliver on customer expectations, protect their reputation, and avoid the added pressure of repeat emergency call outs.

he coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on the way we live our lives, and for many it meant spending more time at home. Now, in a post-pandemic world, this trend looks to continue as more companies embrace hybrid and flexible working. As a result, homeowners are spending more on home improvement projects. According to the 2021 Houzz & Home Renovation Trends Study, 2020 saw a 36% increase in home improvement median spending compared to 2019 - from £11,000 to £15,000. In addition, more than 50% of homeowners reported to be planning renovations. With upgrades to bathrooms often being a key area for renovation projects, the plumbing sector appears to be booming. It’s good for business, but it will also mean that installers need to think more about where efficiencies can be achieved in the installation process. While some may have the ability to integrate intelligent scheduling software and CRM systems into their operation, time-saving opportunities can just as easily be found by selecting high quality products that are easy to fit and won’t result in future call-backs.

Installer-led design

A well designed product guarantees a slicker, more professional look when the job is completed and ensures a great result for the customer. While it’s widely accepted that exposed shower pipes tend to be easier to ﬁt, customers looking for a sleeker, more premium ﬁnish will often want most of the hardware in their shower system to be concealed

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Sustainability

For consumers, sustainability is becoming a growing concern. There is a signiﬁcant stepchange happening, seeing more people move away from a culture of responding to trends and replacing items regularly, to carefully selecting products that will last for years to come. For installers, this provides a great opportunity to advise customers on products known for high quality materials, great design, and robust testing processes. For example, our showers and taps only use high quality materials that are approved for use with drinking water, with every single part complying to the relevant standards. Everything is tested with water or air to get as close to the bathroom experience as possible. We also ‘over-test’ to ensure robustness of all our showers and taps – in the UK, three bar working pressure tends to be the average water pressure, but our products are all tested to sixteen bar as standard.

Keith Dyson

National technical sales manager for Hansgrohe UK

 The iBox offers a universal footprint for all hansgrohe and Axor standard and thermostatic mixer solutions in the bathroom and is designed to be ﬁtted even if the customer hasn’t yet selected their shower system

CUT TO THE CHASE  With the booming home improvement market, installers will have to fit more work into their busy schedules  Using high quality products can help speed up installations  The iBox universal is the base for a number of hansgrohe concealed installation solutions  A circular design makes the iBox virtually impossible to fit incorrectly  The universal footprint of the iBox future-proofs installations, enabling easy updates without having to break into the tiled, finished wall

– with just the showerhead and controller visible. There are more things that can go wrong with a concealed valve installation compared to an exposed shower pipe, so it’s even more important to get the ﬁt right ﬁrst time to save a lot of dismantling and mess to rectify the job in future.

Consistently familiar

There are differences from one brand to another in terms of fitting, and there can be a different valve for each type of control panel. For installers that are unfamiliar with a certain

brand or product, it may take some additional time or training to be able to ﬁt these. Hansgrohe is a manufacturer with more than 120 years of expertise, so we understand that for installers, time is money. That is why we developed the iBox universal to make concealed valve installations as straight-forward as possible. Designed with installers in mind, the iBox, which was launched over 20 years ago, is a single point of installation for most shower valves, from fully thermostatic to manual versions.

Future support

With so many brands offering different guarantees and warranties it can be difficult to navigate the products with the most longevity. Looking out for products that guarantee every single part is a good way to provide reassurance to customers should any issues arise. As well as a five-year whole product warranty, we carry spare parts even after the product is discontinued – for up to 15 years – providing further peace of mind on the continuity of supply for you and your customers. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/34

04/04/2022 11:28

PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 29

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures Safer showering for sport and leisure centres Bringing the comfort of home to public washrooms, Delabie has launched a touch-free thermostatic version of its flagship Sporting ˛ shower panel. The new Sporting ˛ Securitherm combines the hygiene benefits of touch-free, electronic control with anti-scalding thermostatic technology in a compact housing. Inside the showerhead a thermostatic cell blends the water at the point-of-use to a safe temperature, simultaneously ensuring user comfort and removing any scalding risk. The showerhead also houses a solenoid which opens and closes the water flow automatically when a hand passes in front of the sensor. To minimise the risk of Legionella, the hot and cold water supplies connect directly to the mixing valve, removing potential dead legs where water can stagnate. If unused for long periods, a duty flush occurs, ensuring the water circulates within the system to prevent stagnation. The new model also offers water and energy saving benefits. A pre-set ˟ litres/ minute flow rate guarantees water efficiency without compromising comfort, while an anti-blocking system prevents voluntary waste. Powered by batteries, the solenoid valve uses active-pulse infrared technology, ensuring low energy and water consumption, delivering up to ˡ˙% water savings compared to domestic showers. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˜˞

DāÖŶŽũāŭ Ŷŋ ĿÖĴā ƩŶŶĢłė ĕÖŭŶāũ With a wide range of shower products to help installers meet the demands of the job at hand, Bristan’s core bar shower range benefits from the Wallmount ˚˛ fixing kit. This selfisolating technology is designed to make installation, maintenance and replacement fast and easy. It removes the need for back-of-the-wall installation or turning off the mains water supply after first fix, giving flexibility to change a bar shower valve with ease. For maximum flexibility, the Mini and Maxi valve range features adjustable elbows

on the water inlet connections of the valves to enable adjustment to exactly match existing pipework in the wall, from ˚˚˙ to ˚˞˞mm for Mini Valves and ˚˜˟ to ˚˞ˡmm for Maxi Valves. Bristan also offers a selection of ‘safe touch’ bar shower valves that keep the exterior cool to the touch. The valves feature thermostatic temperature controls that auto shut-off, preventing surges in hot or cold water and maintaining constant water temperature. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˜˟

'ŽÖķ Ŀŋùāķ ŋƦāũŭ ƪāƗĢðķā ƩŶŶĢłė Said to deliver a spa-like experience, the Beacon Dual from Mira Showers, offers an array of features, including the company’s innovative ‘HydroGlo’ technology. HydroGlo is a wireless and self-powered light that emits a glow to communicate to the user once their shower has reached the desired temperature. Featuring a generous ˚˚˙mm handset, the Mira Beacon Dual offers four spray modes for indulgent showering, as well as a ˛˞˙mm overhead deluge which will perform well even at low water pressures. Push-fit pipe connections and a first fix kit which includes fixings and template means that installation should be trouble-free. Both the single and dual outlet variants use the same first fix kit, while the adjustable, moveable deluge head further increases installation flexibility.

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With ˞˙mm pipe centres, Mira Beacon is ideal for new installations but also offers a seamless retrofit for the Mira Agile and Mira Pronta range of showers. The slimline model, which comes in a chrome finish, utilises a flush design to provide a built-in look without the hassle of a complicated in-the-wall installation. The seamless look can be achieved using existing front-of-file fittings, via retrofits or in new bathroom installs. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˜ˠ

04/04/2022 11:35

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures

More consumers seeking a convenient alternative to tiles The market for bathroom wall panelling may be firmly established, but with the rise in home improvements and a growing interest in tile alternatives, could it be set for a period of new growth? Keely Greenhalgh from Mermaid explains how this kind of solution offers the key to an installer wanting a truly water-tight finish that is built to last.

s many installers will know, bathroom panels have been available to buy and ﬁt for some 30 years now, so the availability of the product is nothing new. With that said, the main barriers standing in the way of panels becoming much more commonplace have typically been habits and traditions – for many years now, when homeowners have thought about a waterproof, decorative material to adorn their bathroom walls, they generally think no further than tiles. But there are a few signs that suggest this could be on the verge of changing.

Evolving market

At the time of writing, we’ve seen a 50% rise in online searches for ‘bathroom tile alternatives’ – a search that was also up 23% year-on-year as recently as February. While this may not oﬀer any guarantees that wall panels are on the cusp of a golden era, it does at least show that homeowners are becoming increasingly open to having a product on their bathroom walls that isn’t the traditional tile.

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The reasons for this are in part down to market forces over the last two years or so. A home improvement boom kick-started by the pandemic quickly led to unprecedented demand for bathroom installers’ services. With lead times and, in some cases, costs, creeping up, the incentive for installers and their customers to consider time-saving options soon grew. When you consider that the typical bathroom can take two to three days to tile, yet three to four hours to panel, the savings in time as well as cost are significant. Installing a panel couldn’t be simpler, with no need for grout. An adhesive is all that is required to secure the panel to any flat wall, with a water-tight finish accomplished by applying a sealant to the panel surface. With post-formed panels such as our Elite range, tongue and groove edges also slot together easily for a contiguous look that removes the need for unsightly trims. But the latest generation of bathroom panels have come to offer far more than a quick alternative for time-pushed installers.

World of choice

Keely Greenhalgh

National sales manager, Mermaid

Homeowners are becoming increasingly open to having a product on their bathroom walls that isn’t the traditional tile

From textured finishes such as stone, marble and wood effects, to a tiled look, the growing range of bathroom panelling enables homeowners to create their ideal aesthetic. Contrasting colours or textures can be used to create a feature panel behind a basin, WC, or even a freestanding bath to replicate in the home the kind of striking look most frequently found in a luxury hotel. Where minimalism is the preference, the same panel can be used for the bathroom’s walls as its vanity units and sills, to create a seamless design. By opting for a bathroom panelling system with a post -formed edge, installers can also offer their customer an aesthetic with no metallic trims and the option to fit the panel either vertically or horizontally, further enhancing the minimalist look for the space.

Performance beneﬁts

The wealth of design options available certainly makes panelling a viable choice for any bathroom space, but so too does its list of performance beneﬁts.

Opting for panelling adds a whole new level of durability to features such as bath panels, which can be susceptible to knocks, particularly in a family bathroom environment. Consumer demand for convenience is also at an alltime high, so it is no surprise to see growing levels of interest in products which don’t require grout. With no grout lines to clean, and the option of a panel made from a completely waterproof synthetic compound, surfaces couldn’t be easier to clean and maintain, without the worry of silicone sealant breaking down over time. The net result of this is a much more hygienic bathroom space with a need for nothing more than a typical bathroom cleaner to maintain it.

Long life

At Mermaid we also supply our own patented adhesive and sealant called Complete, a liquid polyurethane-based formula adopted from the marine and aerospace industries, which offers strong grab adhesion and gap filling properties that will repel water. We also provide a 15-year guarantee on installations using the Complete formula. With the market for tiles in the UK said to stand at some £850m per year, installers can feel assured that the market opportunity for alternatives is vast to say the least. By familiarising themselves with the choice of materials, colours and finishes available, installers have the perfect opportunity to capitalise on a growing opportunity from homeowners eager to achieve a premium look with convenience at its core. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/38

04/04/2022 11:38

Bemis Ultra-Fix® Doesn’t loosen! The Professional Toilet Seat Fixing System

Bemis Ultra-Fix® is a patented hinge fixing system that will actually keep your toilet seat tight. How does it work?

Bemis Ultra-Fix® is easy to install

First, a unique finned bushing flexes to provide a snug fit in any toilet pan mounting hole and prevents movement.

Secondly, the one-piece plastic nut provides superior clamping force, eliminates fumbling with individual nuts, rings and washers during seat installation, and resists corrosion. And third, the bottom of the nut snaps off at the optimum tightening torque, locking the seat down perfectly tight

Finned bushing provides a snug fit and prevents movement.

The one-piece plastic nut provides superior clamping force.

The bottom of the nut snaps off at the optimum tightening torque, locking the seat down perfectly tight.

The Result An easy to fit, secure seat. Saving you time and costly call outs! Toilet seats with the Bemis Ultra-Fix hinge system never loosen.

Professional Fixation in 3 easy steps. Scan the QR Code and watch the video.

*Formerly STA-TITE

bemisemea.com

+44 (0)1282 438 717 ukcs@bemismfg.com

Bemis_PHAM News AD_V2.indd 1

01/11/2021 11:18

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures

Addressing water pressure issues and dripping heads Problems such as low water pressure and dripping showerheads are two of the most common shower issues that installers will need to address from time to time. Here Martyn Brown from Triton Showers provides some guidance on the quickest ways to identify and ﬁx the problem.

wo of the most common installation or maintenance challenges faced by installers are low water pressure in electric showers, and mixer valves that won’t fully shut oﬀ that then causes a drip from the shower head. For installers, to avoid hours of troubleshooting, there are methodical approaches to both issues that can lead to faster diagnosis and simple, easy ﬁxes.

Low water pressure

Frequent causes of inadequate water pressure include low mains water pressure and electric showers that are piped onto gravity systems or connected to combination boilers. Where lack of pressure is an issue, an orange mechanical indicator light on the shower unit may illuminate to highlight this. Here is a stepby-step guide to checking what the issues are: Step one – When the shower is switched on, the indicator should change, and the orange light should go off. If this doesn’t happen, there may be a fault with the mains water supply. Step two – Remove the showerhead and block the water flow from the hose with a thumb or finger on the cold power setting. If the indicator gradually starts to lift, then it means that low pressure is the issue, and the mains supply is most likely operating correctly. Step three – If the mechanical indicator is lifting, then there is still a bit of pressure there. However, it may not be enough to provide maximum flow to the shower. This could be due to having poor water pressure, or it’s a sign that an inlying valve is only partially open. It may also suggest that you need to make sure the stop tap at the point of water coming into the property is fully open too, so there are no blockages or restrictions at all. If this appears to be the issue, once you have ensured all valves are fully open, the indicator should lift easily and overcome the safety interlocks. Heat should then be provided by the shower’s internal element and the shower can be used accordingly.

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Step four – If the mechanical indicator doesn’t rise, then this would suggest the shower has been ﬁtted on a gravity system or it could be joined to a combination heat system. If the showerhead is producing nothing but hot water, even on the cold setting, this clearly indicates this is the case. The easiest way to check is to feel the incoming connection pipe. If that’s hot, then you’re supplying the shower with hot water, which needs further investigation.

Dripping mixer valves

Martyn Brown

Technical manager at Triton Showers

To avoid hours of troubleshooting, there are methodical approaches that can lead to faster diagnosis and simple, easy fixes WATER WASTAGE As the saying goes, time is money, and while these issues discussed here are common callouts for installers, they need to be rectified quickly and ensure the shower does not fail again so as to avoid any unnecessary call backs. Alongside this, reliable, long lasting fixes mean installers can go some way to reducing unnecessary water and energy consumption. Triton Showers’ latest report, ‘Greener UK Showers: Lowering the water and energy consumption of showers in residential properties’, outlines the significant challenges that water waste is posing to both individuals and to the nation. Research conducted by a committee of MPs in July 2020, for example, found that the country could run out of water within the next 20 years if significant improvements aren’t made.

If you have a mixer valve that won’t shut off and is causing a drip or a little run of water from the shower head, then the following steps will help. Each of these stages is based on a Triton Dene Cool Touch Bar Mixer Shower, so the flow valve in question is on the right-hand side. However, on most mixer showers you will find the on/ off flow valve positioned on the left-hand side. To carry out this task, you will need a Pozidriv two screwdriver, an adjustable spanner and a craft knife. Step one – Turn the water supply off to the mixer valve. Then, using the craft knife, remove the cap off the end of the flow handle - there is a slot designed to assist with this. Step two – Use the screwdriver to remove the handle to access the flow valve. Certain models may have a screw on the underside of the bar that will need releasing first. Unscrew the valve using the spanner, being aware that it has a quarter turn ceramic disc. This means it’s off when there are no gaps, and it fully opens if you continue another quarter turn. Step three – Insert the new flow valve by winding it in and then using the spanner to secure it. Make sure the valve is in the off position and then place the handle back on, screwing this back in place. Step four – Turn on the water supply and test that the shower is working with no leaks or flow issues. To double check this, remove the hose from the mixer and place a thumb or finger over the mixer seal for a few seconds. If no water has collected and no pressure has mounted to push your thumb away, then the shower is functional and you can reattach the hose. If this isn’t the case, then there may be another underlying issue that needs further investigation.

Video guides

Triton has produced a number of how-to troubleshooting videos. If you’re experiencing either of the problems discussed in this article, and want to view the accompanying step-by-step videos, please visit: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/39

04/04/2022 11:43

PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 33

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures

Get the look of Brooklyn Aimed at mid to high-end specifications, the new Kinedo Brooklyn shower cubicle range is available in two colour options – a black version that offers an industrialchic look (pictured), and grey profiles and chrome shower, giving the traditional look a modern twist. Brooklyn features transparent glass on the grey version and black silk screen printed lines on the black version. The cubicles have been designed for

quick and easy assembly, without silicone and predominately without screws. They come with a pivot or sliding door option, white Biocryl shower tray with chrome waste, metal handles and a choice of profile colour, shower and glass. Described as being leak-free, robust, stylish, safe, swift to fit, easy to maintain and economical, the Kinedo range is designed and manufactured by Saniflo. It comprises ˚˚ shower cubicle ranges, four shower enclosure ranges, plus the walkin shower-bath, Kineduo. They offer a wide choice of solutions for domestic and commercial applications. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˙

Black makes a modern impact The premium Midas ˛˛˙ mixer shower collection from Aqualisa now includes a choice of an elegant black metal finish. All models in the series are equipped with a thermostatic brass body and brass handles, and each model complies with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) criteria for quality. An adjustable shower head comes standard on the three models in the Midas ˛˛˙ in Black line-up: single outlet bar mixer, dual outlet shower column mixer with ˛˝˞mm drencher, and a bath shower mixer. Tim Creedon, sales director at Aqualisa, says: “The black brassware has never been as popular as it is now. The Midas ˛˛˙ in Black blends an iconic and trusted design with refined, on-trend styling for the modern home environment. With three stunning choices, this new collection makes an immediate impact, as well as offering the versatility to accommodate an array of different bathroom spaces, configurations and sizes.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˚

Mixers are cool to the touch New mixer showers have been added to Gainsborough’s portfolio, with models incorporating thermostatic temperature valves with Cool Touch technology. Customers can select from a high-pressure round or square dual outlet shower, or a single outlet bar mixer model with integrated soap dish. A versatile three spray mode handset is supplied with the round head showers. Also available are a dual outlet shower with round or square head design and thermostatic temperature control, as well as a space-saving manual mixer shower, suitable for smaller bathrooms or over-bath applications. Each shower in the collection features a stainless steel rail, chrome stainless steel ribbed hose and a convenient push-button handset holder. All products in the line-up

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are equipped with rub-clean jets for quick and simple cleaning. Gainsborough says these six new mixer showers are available at a range of competitive price points to suit every budget. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˛

04/04/2022 11:45

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures

Fitting a modern shower in a few simple steps

Wall panelling can provide an ideal solution for anyone looking for a stylish shower enclosure without the time and hassle of tiling. Steph Harris from Showerwall provides a guide to ﬁtting the company’s Acrylic wall panelling system in a shower enclosure.

f you’ve been tasked to create a bathroom that offers a real wow-factor design, or a unique feature wall, all while providing a low-maintenance, cost-effective alternative to tiles, then wall panelling could be the answer. At Showerwall we can offer a large choice of stylish designs to create a visually striking finish. Watertight and hard-wearing, wall panelling can create a seamless look with no grouting required. It’s simple to fit, making it perfect for use in a shower enclosure. Our stunning Acrylic collection offers a library of stylish and bespoke designs, manufactured using a 4mm acrylic sheet that is rear printed to create a polished, glass-like finish. The panels don’t require the use of trims and can simply be joined with our acrylic panel sealant, which is available in 14 colours to provide an exact match to the wall panels. Our Acrylic wall panelling can be installed in a shower enclosure following just a few simple steps:

Getting started

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accordingly. You can do this with either a jigsaw or circular saw. Please refer to the installation instructions for the correct blades. Next, mark your water supply cut-out, making sure you cut larger than required to allow for expansion. Any internal square cuts will need to have the corners drilled out prior to cutting, as sharp 90 degree corners will risk cracking the panel.

Fixing to the wall Once panel one is ready to be installed, apply vertical beads of Showerwall Translucent Silicone Sealant to the wall 100mm apart. Next, fix the panel to the wall making sure you’re allowing a 3mm expansion gap at the internal corner. Use a straight edge to press the panel against the wall at regular intervals. For the second panel, apply the sealant as before and then fix it to the wall. Again, remember to maintain the same 3mm expansion gap to the face of panel one, before pressing the panel with a straight edge to fix securely to the wall.

The Acrylic panels can adhere to the wall with our Translucent Silicone Sealant. Before you begin, ensure you are familiar with the pattern configuration of your wall panels, indicated by the coloured dots. The tools you will need include: a 1200mm spirit level, a tape measure, suction cups, power drill, set square, clamps, a sealant gun and a jigsaw or circular saw. Ear protection is also recommended. The wall panels can be fixed to an existing wall or directly over tiles, providing the surface is flat and plumb. It is essential that the walls are completely dry, clean and free from dust. If the walls are not flat, then treated battens must be used to install the panels.

Finally, seal the expansion gap at the ceiling edge to ensure it is watertight. Fill any holes made for pipes or showerheads with sealant, before sealing around the ﬁxtures and ﬁttings. Leave for 24 hours for the sealant to set, and it is ready to use. Once complete you will have a hard-wearing watertight system with a 30 year customer guarantee.

The ﬁrst panel

Video guide

Before you begin, measure the width, height and location of the water supply. Then measure and cut panel one

A full installation video guide can be found by using the online link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/43

Applying the sealant The next step is to apply sealant down the internal corner and butter flush it to make sure there are no gaps within the seal, before finally applying the sealant to cross the shower tray and profile.

Final steps

04/04/2022 11:48

PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 35

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Showers & Enclosures More sizes in luxury portfolio

?SP ;TYYLNWPˡ W`c`]d ^SZbP] ]LYRP of semi-frameless shower enclosures SL^ MPPY Pc[LYOPO Md 6`OZ^ 4_ T^ YZb LaLTWLMWP L^ L ˚˙˙˙mm quadrant, four YPb Zʬ^P_ \`LO]LY_^ ˢ˙˙cˡ˙˙mm, ˚˙˙˙cˡ˙˙mṁ ˚˙˙˙cˢ˙˙mm and ˚˛˙˙cˡ˙˙mm) and two new door sizes to the hinged range, ˚˚˙˙mm and ˚˜˙˙mm, _SL_ L]P ^`T_LMWP QZ] `^P TY PT_SP] NZ]YP] Z] ]PNP^^ TY^_LWWL_TZY^ ,WW XZOPW^ QPL_`]P N]d^_LW NWPL] ^PLW^ LYO ˡXX _Z`RSPYPO ^LQP_d RWL^^ _S]Z`RSZ`_ which is treated with Lifeshield, a lifetime []Z_PN_TaP NZL_TYR QZ] PL^d NWPLYTYR ?SP NZWWPN_TZY NLY MP [LT]PO bT_S _SP 6`OZ^ 6>_ZYP Z] .ZYYPN_˛ ^SZbP] _]Ld^ LYO T^ NZaP]PO Md L WTQP_TXP R`L]LY_PP Pinnacleˡ PYNWZ^`]P^ SLaP MPPY OP^TRYPO _Z MP PL^d _Z TY^_LWW bT_S L ^WTXWTYP bLWW []ZʭWP bT_S Q`WWd NZYNPLWPO ʭcTYR^ XLTY_LTYTYR ˛˙mm wall LOU`^_XPY_ >XL]_>PLW _PNSYZWZRd T^ `^PO ZY _SP N]d^_LW NWPL] ^PLW^ LYO RWL^^-toglass corner join seals, to ensure a clean `YTY_P]]`[_PO ʭYT^S LYO L bL_P] _TRS_ MZYO ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˝

Drain kits for point or linear /PaPWZ[PO _Z []ZaTOP Q]PPOZX LYO ʮPcTMTWT_d bSPY _`]YTYR NZYN]P_P ^`M^_]L_P^ TY_Z L ^WZ[TYR _TWPLMWP bP_]ZZX ʮZZ] 8L]XZc 8TYTWLd SPW[^ N]PL_P ^SZbP] ^[LNP^ TY MZ_S YPb M`TWO LYO ]PQ`]MT^SXPY_ ^T_`L_TZY^ :ʬP]TYR L bTOP NSZTNP ZQ OP^TRY Z[_TZY^ P^[PNTLWWd bSP]P ZaP]LWW SPTRS_ Z] `YOP]ʮZZ] depth is restricted, the drain kits L]P LaLTWLMWP TY ˟˙˙mm long Linear or ˚˛˙ c ˚˛˙mm Point formats to remove water from the tiled L]PL -Z_S L]P manufactured from stainless ^_PPW ?SPd L]P LW^Z LaLTWLMWP bT_S PT_SP] L >WTXWTYP BL^_P bSTNS requires just a ˟˙mm depth, or the ˜˟˙° >bTaPW BL^_P bSTNS NLY ]Z_L_P TYN]PXPY_LWWd Q]ZX SZ]TeZY_LW _Z aP]_TNLW ?SP 8L]XZc 8TYTWLd bL^_P^ L]P QLN_Z]d ʭ__PO TY_Z L SPTRS_ LOU`^_LMWP Q]LXP which is itself set into a small section of

]TRTO MZL]O _SL_ PYLMWP^ _SP NSZ^PY ʮZZ] ʭYT^S _Z NZY_TY`P Z`_ LN]Z^^ L ˝̆˚ sand/ cement screed, spread across waterproof 8L]XZc ʮPPNP ?SP 8>; ˜˟˙ adhesive is used to seal where the ˝˙mm waste pipe passes through _SP ʮPPNP bT_S more of the XL_P]TLW MPTYR MZYOPO ZY _Z[ ZQ _SP MZL]O BSTWP _SP NZX[LN_ >WTXWTYP BL^_P ^T_^ OT]PN_Wd ZY _SP ^`MʮZZ] SPTRS_ LOU`^_LMWP WPR^ NLY ^`[[Z]_ _SP MZL]O where the ˜˟˙{ >bTaPW BL^_P T^ []PQP]]PO while the level of the grates within the O]LTY Q]LXP L]P LOU`^_LMWP `^TYR TY^P]_^ []ZaTOPO 8`W_T[WP WLdP]^ ZQ ˚˙mm thick C;> TY^`WL_TZY NLY LW^Z MP PX[WZdPO _Z ^`[[Z]_ _SP MZL]O^ L_ _SP OP^T]PO WPaPW ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˞

Digital shower lets users pre-set a trio of functions >XL]_ _PNSYZWZRd T^ L_ _SP SPL]_ ZQ =ZNLɪ^ YPb >XL]_ >SZbP] bSTNS RTaP^ `[ _Z _S]PP `^P]^ _SP LMTWT_d _Z []P-^P_ ^SZbP] O`]L_TZY XLcTX`X _PX[P]L_`]P LYO ʮZb ]L_P^ LWW ML^PO ZY _SPT] ZbY TYOTaTO`LW YPPO^ ?SP TY_PWWTRPY_ NZY_]ZW SL^ L ^TX[WP TY_P]QLNP _SL_ QPL_`]P^ L NZWZ`] 7./ OT^[WLd LYO _Z`NS ^PY^T_TaP NZY_]ZW^ bT_S ^ZQ_ _`]Y OTLW^ ?SP >XL]_ >SZbP] ^d^_PX NLY TY^_LWW _bZ Z] _S]PP Z`_WP_^ TYNW`OTYR L =LTYO]PLX ^SZbP]SPLO SLYO^P_ LYO ;`eeWP >\`L]P 5P_^ ?ST^ OTRT_LW ^SZbP] NLY MP NZY_]ZWWPO aTL LY L[[ _ZZ ;PZ[WP NLY `^P _SPT] [SZYP Z] _LMWP_ _Z turn on the shower and activate the warm-up Q`YN_TZY ?SP L[[ LW^Z SPW[^ bT_S PYP]Rd LYO bL_P] ^LaTYR PYLMWTYR `^P]^ _Z XZYT_Z] _SPT] bL_P] LYO PYP]Rd NZY^`X[_TZY _Z ]`Y _SPT] ^SZbP] XZ]P PʯNTPY_Wd 1Z] dZ`YR QLXTWTP^ _SP ^SZbP] T^ P\`T[[PO bT_S L NSTWO ^LQP_d XZOP ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˝˛˛̓˝˟

35.indd 1

04/04/2022 11:50

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Products in Action UFH and air source heat pump combo

Radiators turn up the heat in fire station As part of a major refurbishment project, Avonmouth Fire Station has seen the installation of 45 Concord Plane radiators from Stelrad. The Concord Plane radiators have been supplied in a variety of models to fit the rooms in the new station, both horizontal and vertical models, with new radiators for the communal areas – the offices and the corridors and smaller models for the quiet areas for the team members to

36.indd 1

relax in between call outs. “We’re delighted that our radiators were speciﬁed for this new building and particularly to illustrate that radiators have a role to play in commercial buildings as well as in residential ones where we tend to think of them mainly being installed,” comments Neil Jarman, Stelrad’s speciﬁcation manager for the South West and South Wales. “These radiators work really well in this modern building – both in the way they share heat around the premises and their aesthetic look which matches the modern style of the station.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/47

Omnie has supplied a complete underfloor heating package, including LG air source heat pumps, for a development of high specification three and four bedroom homes in Laugharne, near Carmarthen. Built by Salem Construction, Omnie provided full drawings and specifications for each plot, indicating the layout of the Staple and TorFloor UFH arrays across the ground and first floor to each dwelling. Dale Jones of MJ Plumbing and Heating comments: “The

TorFloor, combining a ﬂoor and heating system in one structural panel, is a fantastic system and really quite straightforward to install. I was sceptical at ﬁrst that the 7kW heat pumps would be

able to heat such large homes, but they have coped perfectly: even providing ample hot water for the four-beds, which have two en-suites and a main bathroom.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/48

Heat pumps help meet the Future Homes Standard Two complete Baxi Assure air source heat pump systems have been speciﬁed for ‘Project 80’ in Handsworth, Birmingham, which aims to meet the Future Homes Standard three years ahead of schedule. The project is led by housing association Midland Heart. The houses will be lived in by families and will be a ‘living lab’ to test how they manage in their futuristic homes. The evidence gathered will help to inform how developers and their suppliers adapt to the standard ahead of an expected technical consultation in 2023. The homes are due for completion by Easter 2022, three years ahead of the government’s target. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/49

04/04/2022 11:52

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Test & Measuring Instruments 37

Looking after your ƪ Žā ėÖŭ ÖłÖķƘŭāũ ,^ bPWW L^ ^PYOTYR TY^_]`XPY_^ Zʬ QZ] ]PR`WL] ^P]aTNTYR _SP]P L]P L Y`XMP] ZQ _STYR^ dZ` NLY OZ _Z SPW[ PY^`]P _SL_ dZ`] ʮ `P gas analyser continues to provide reliable and accurate readings – Jon Bawden from Testo UK explains more.

lue gas analysers have become an essential tool as part of boiler servicing, but it’s important to make certain aspects of use are correct to avoid errors and ensure trouble-free operation, including ensuring that your analyser is within its yearly service/calibration. Due to the requirements of gas safety, all XLY`QLN_`]P]^ ]PNZXXPYO dZ` SLaP dZ`] ʮ `P gas analyser serviced annually to ensure it is in proper working condition and fully calibrated/ _P^_PO ?SP PWPN_]ZNSPXTNLW ^PY^Z]^ `^PO TY ʮ `P gas analysers react with the target gas they are designed to measure (such as O2 or CO), and this reaction causes a change in electrical response that the analyser can then use to determine the gasses present. As these sensors deplete, they will eventually need replacing as they cannot give correct readings, and an analyser that has not been calibrated and serviced for over ˚˛ months may begin to show less accurate results, potentially meaning that any combustion reading taken could be inaccurate. Unregistered gas work and uncalibrated or faulty tools can put the lives of people at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, ʭ ]P LYO Pc[WZ^TZY @^TYR LY `YNLWTM]L_PO Z] QL`W_d ʮ `P RL^ analyser is unsafe in addition to being a N]TXTYLW Zʬ PYNP LYO OZTYR ^Z NZ`WO ]P^`W_ TY dZ` WZ^TYR dZ`] UZM MPTYR ʭ YPO Z] PaPY N]TXTYLWWd charged. It is an important part of being a Gas Safe engineer that any analyser you use has a aLWTO NLWTM]L_TZY NP]_Tʭ NL_P LYO T^ ^LQP QZ] `^P

Jon Bawden Product manager HVACR, Testo UK

It is an important part of being a gas engineer that any analyser you use has a valid calibration óāũŶĢƩóÖŶā Öłù Ģŭ safe to use

damage the sensors within an analyser. • Make sure you have the correct analyser for the appliance under test - our analysers are designed for domestic use have sensors capable of measurement up to ˝˙˙˙ ppm of CO. If you are working on more commercial sized boilers, then products such as the Testo ˜˙˙LL allows measurement without damage up to ˜˙̇˙˙˙ppm of CO due to its unique dilution system. • Only have the analyser pump running when taking a reading - the analyser, if left running unobserved, can be subject to high levels of CO on boiler start up and will unnecessarily pull excess condensate into the water trap. This will also needlessly deplete the battery. • !ĞāóĴ ŶĞā ťÖũŶĢóķā Ʃ ķŶāũ – it’s

important to make sure that the [L]_TNWP ʭ W_P] TY _SP []ZMP T^ NWPLY LYO YZ_ bP_ =P[WLNP _SP ʭ W_P] bSPY oil deposits blacken the whole of _SP ʭ W_P] LYO PcNSLYRP _SP ʭ W_P] TQ T_ T^ bP_ 4Q L ʭ W_P] T^ bP_ M`_ T^ YZ_ contaminated it will dry naturally in the analyser’s carry case, but it is always good practice to make sure _SL_ dZ` SLaP L NWPLY LYO O]d ʭ W_P] L_ all times in case you need to make a change. • Store your analyser correctly- it should be kept in a warm, dry place overnight. Condensation can form internally within the sensors, or even on the circuit board, which can cause damage to the analyser.

Calibration service ?Z RP_ dZ`] ʮ `P RL^ LYLWd^P] ^P]aTNPO please visit the online link below: ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˞˙

Taking care In addition to regular servicing and calibration, it is important to maintain your analyser to help ensure it is functioning correctly. So what can you do to ensure that your instrument continues to function correctly? • Empty the condensate trap - to make sure that no water is potentially going to be sucked into the analyser. This can cause the sensors to become damaged and potentially provide incorrect readings. You should also make sure that the condensate bung is fully seated correctly after emptying the condensate trap. Water could cause damage within the analyser ^Z XLVP ^`]P _Z ^SLVP Z`_ LYd bL_P] TY _SP ʮ `P gas probe before connecting it your analyser. • Fully charge your device - make sure that your analyser has enough battery charge to complete the test - it’s no good to you without a charged battery! • Purge the analyser with fresh air – this should be done before and after every use, for _ST^ _Z MP OZYP []Z[P]Wd _SP ʮ `P RL^ []ZMP X`^_ be connected during this process. • Wait until the boiler has warmed up - to help prevent you from gathering incorrect readings, make sure the boiler has warmed up MPQZ]P TY^P]_TYR _SP ʮ `P RL^ []ZMP TY_Z _SP ʮ `P This is because high levels of CO can potentially

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04/04/2022 11:54

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Test & Measuring Instruments

Getting safety down PAT with a new skill that passes the test

latest code of practice makes it clear there is a responsibility to test these appliances, but the person involved must be properly trained in safe isolation.

Equipment options

If portable appliance testing (PAT) is not part of your repertoire, you may be missing a trick. Steve Dunning from Martindale Electric explains how taking on this skill could lead to new business opportunities for plumbing and heating engineers.

f you are a plumbing and heating engineer who works or carries out maintenance checks in oﬃces, schools, hospitals and other places of work, then Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) may provide you with a new business opportunity. That is because Portable Appliance Testing is not just the domain of electricians, and today specialist companies and even trained in-house personnel carry it out. User friendly test equipment, software and training is available to anybody who wants to add it to their services. If you are already providing services into a workplace, then asking them who carries out their testing will be straightforward and could potentially lead to more work for you.

Who’s responsible? In accordance with the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), any electrical equipment that has the potential to cause injury must be maintained in a safe condition. Designed to help raise the standards of electrical safety in the workplace, PAT ensures that electrical appliances and equipment that have been classiﬁed as ‘portable’ are safe to use. Although the requirements around PAT are clear in their intent, they do not specify what needs to be done, by whom, or how frequently. Organisations that neglect the inspection and testing of appliances or fail to nominate a competent or appropriately trained individual risk invalidating their insurance policies and endangering lives. Should a fault arise in an appliance that is left unchecked or undetected

38.indd 1

 The HPAT600 stands up to demanding applications and offers a greater range of tests, plus it can store test results for later recall on screen

Steve Dunning

MD at Martindale Electric

by an under-qualiﬁed individual, the consequences could prove fatal. According to the Health and Safety Executive, 25% of all reportable electrical accidents involve portable appliances. From these ﬁgures, it is clear that a large number of incidents and injuries could be prevented with proper electrical checks, inspections and safety tests.

Choice of tester

If you are already providing services in a workplace, then asking them who carries out their testing could lead to more work for you

Often overlooked, but vitally important, do make sure that you cover all bases with the capability to test not only appliances, but mains extension leads too. It is also important to consider accessories early in the selection process. Ideally, a unit will have a good range of readily available accessories for use across a wide range of applications. A small, lightweight design is ideal for maximum portability and a backlit

Take the Martindale Electric PAT quiz Do you know a PASS from a FAIL when it comes to Portable Appliance Testing? Can you recall the recommended pass limit for an earth bond continuity test? Electrical safety test equipment specialist Martindale Electric has put together a fun online quiz that tests your knowledge on PAT Testing and helps gauge where there may be gaps in your understanding.

Don’t worry if you get any incorrect, as along with the quiz Martindale has also launched a dedicated ‘Essential Guide to PAT Testing’ area of its website, crammed with useful information, hints, tips and an overview of its HPAT series of PAT Testers to help top up your knowledge and point you in the right direction. Take the quiz using the link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/51

display is particularly handy for use in a wide range of locations. If you can, opt for equipment with easy-to-read help guides on the tester itself or on-screen. One button operation makes testing incredibly easy, and a unit with a clear pass / fail indication with test results on-screen makes light work of record keeping. A soft carry case allows the unit to be used without having to unpack and repack, which speeds up the process for maximum efficiency. Furthermore, by selecting a rechargeable unit you can optimise efficiency and reduce running costs. For the purposes of PAT regulations, portable appliances are defined as those that use a flexible cable or plug and socket. This means that if there is an appliance that has a plug that is connected to a wall socket or generator, it should be PAT tested. This definition includes equipment that is either hand-held or handoperated, intended or likely to be moved.

Fixed vs portable Portable equipment also includes appliances which may have been fixed for security purposes, such as those in hotels or changing rooms including kettles, hairdryers and hand dryers, for instance. There is now an extensive range of portable appliance testers available to suit a wide range of applications – including some which just offer a simple pass / fail result. As truly fixed appliances, such as wall mounted hand dryers, appeared to fall between the code of practice for PAT testing in its older editions and the wiring regulations, the

When it comes to testing portable appliances, the HPAT Series of portable appliance testers enables competent people to quickly and safely verify the electrical safety of all types of appliances. Designed to perform safety checks in accordance with the IET Code of Practice, these lightweight rechargeable handheld testers are easy use, with one button automatic testing and clear connection details shown on the tester. The small, lightweight design and one-button operation make the HPATs ideal for testing in all locations, be it under a desk or behind a monitor. The bright backlit display provides a clear pass/ fail indication. For more demanding PAT applications, other more sophisticated testers are available which incorporate a greater range of tests and have the ability to store the test results for later recall onscreen, such as the HPAT600. For downloading results to a PC in order to manage assets and re-test requirements, we oﬀer the MPAT Plus with MPATSUITE software.

Care and convenience To keep running costs down and to ensure that no time is lost due to ﬂat batteries, a good solution is to choose a battery powered rechargeable PAT tester which can also operate from a mains power supply, such as the HPAT500 and 600. The capability to easily test mains leads and extension leads is essential and it’s useful to have connection instructions either on-screen or on the tester as a reminder of what to do when used infrequently.

Simple solutions We know how important it is to carry out eﬀective PAT testing and we also understand that those responsible for safety and compliance need to carry out that testing as productively and eﬃciently as possible. That is why we have developed simple solutions to electrical safety compliance that enable users to safeguard their electrical infrastructure, quickly and easily, ultimately keeping people safe. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/52

04/04/2022 11:57

PHAM APRIL22:Layout 1 04/04/2022 15:03 Page 39

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Test ͽ māÖŭŽũĢłė RłŭŶũŽĿāłŶŭ

FGA facts in a nutshell: your questions answered DZ` XTRS_ `^P dZ`] ʮ`P RL^ LYLWd^P] ZY L OLTWd ML^T^ M`_ SZb bPWW OZ dZ` ]PLWWd `YOP]^_LYO T_* ;P_P] ;STW[Z__ Q]ZX ?;4 ]P^[ZYO^ _Z ^ZXP ZQ _SP XZ^_ Q]P\`PY_Wd L^VPO \`P^_TZY^ Q]ZX TY^_LWWP]^

'ŋ Öķķ ƪŽā ėÖŭ ÖłÖķƘŭāũŭ ėĢƑā Ŀā Öķķ ŶĞā readings I need? , WW 12, XZOPW^ TYNW`OTYR _SP WL_P^_ L[[-ML^PO ZYP^ bTWW RTaP _SP ML^TN ]PLOTYR^ ]P\`T]PO _Z QZWWZb ->ˠˢ˟ˠ M`_ OTʬP]PY_ XZOPW^ bTWW SLaP LOOT_TZYLW Q`YN_TZY^ _Z L^^T^_ bT_S _SP aL]dTYR ]LYRP ZQ _L^V^ LY PYRTYPP] PYNZ`Y_P]^ ^`NS L^ NLWN`WL_TYR PʯNTPYNd PcNP^^ LT] LYO OTʬP]PY_TLW _PX[P]L_`]P^ >ZXP XZOPW^ LYO VT_ Z[_TZY^ XLd LW^Z TYNW`OP a manometer for performing tightness tests or a aL]TP_d ZQ []P^^`]P ]PLOTYR^ >Z dZ` XLd OPNTOP _Z ^_L]_ bT_S L ML^TN XZOPW LYO M`TWO `[ dZ`] VT_ ZaP] _TXP ^Z ^SZ[ L]Z`YO _Z ʭYO bSL_ bZ]V^ QZ] dZ`

I see these new styles of FGAs that connect to apps on a phone or tablet – they must be more complicated or time ĢłŶāłŭĢƑā Ŷŋ Žŭā̇ ũĢėĞŶ̎ 9Z_STYR NZ`WO MP Q`]_SP] Q]ZX _SP _]`_S 4Y QLN_ bT_SZ`_ VYZbTYR T_ dZ`ɪaP []ZMLMWd ^_L]_PO `^TYR _PNSYZWZRd TY Z_SP] [L]_^ ZQ dZ`] bZ]V WTQP ^`NS L^ L[[^ bSPY ʭ__TYR smart thermostats, or gas rating, pipe sizing, or even L ^L_ YLa TY dZ`] bZ]V aLY ?SP^P SLaPYɪ_ LWbLd^ MPPY L]Z`YO LYO _SP ^LXP NLY L[[Wd _Z _SP YPb L[[-ML^PO ^_dWP^ ZQ 12,^ ?SPd XLd WZZV OTʬP]PY_ M`_ _SPd bZ]V TY LY TY_`T_TaP bLd _SL_ɪ^ LW]PLOd QLXTWTL] _Z dZ` LYO OP^TRYPO _Z XLVP dZ`] WTQP PL^TP] YZ_ harder.

What are the ÖùƑÖłŶÖėāŭ ŋĕ connecting to an app? @YOZ`M_POWd ZYP ZQ _SP MTRRP^_ LOaLY_LRP^ T^ dZ` NLY RZ R]PPY Md PXLTWTYR _SP ]P[Z]_^ ]L_SP] _SLY []TY_TYR _SPX bSTNS TY _`]Y ^LaP^ XZYPd L^ dZ` YZ WZYRP] YPPO _Z [`]NSL^P L []TY_P] Z] replacement rolls of paper. 4_ LW^Z RTaP^ R]PL_P] ʮPcTMTWT_d bT_S _SP LMTWT_d _Z PL^TWd ^PYO _SP ]P[Z]_^ _Z X`W_T[WP ]PNT[TPY_^ TY ZYP RZ ]L_SP] _SLY []ZO`NTYR WZ_^ ZQ [L[P] NZ[TP^ ɧ ZYP QZ] _SP SZXPZbYP] ZYP QZ] _SP WLYOWZ]O ZYP QZ] dZ`]^PWQ >ZXP L[[^ NLY PaPY []ZaTOP 2;> _LRRTYR ZY _SP ]P[Z]_^ _Z []ZaP bSP]P _SP ]PLOTYR^ bP]P _LVPY bSTNS NZ`WO [Z_PY_TLWWd ]PO`NP _SP YPPO QZ] `YYPNP^^L]d NLWW-MLNV^ ^LaTYR _TXP LYO XZYPd .ZYYPN_TYR _Z _SP L[[ LWWZb^ QZ] XZ]P OP_LTWPO ]P[Z]_^ ^`NS L^ RL^ ^LQP_d ]P[Z]_^ _Z MP N]PL_PO Q]ZX _SP 12, ]PLOTYR^ ^ZXP_STYR bSTNS U`^_ NLYɪ_ MP LNSTPaPO ^_]LTRS_ Z`_ ZQ L _]LOT_TZYLW FGA. Utilising the high-]P^ZW`_TZY 7./ ZY dZ`] [SZYP _LMWP_ LWWZb^ QZ] L NWPL] NZWZ`]Q`W _]LʯN

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light indication of readings, and more descriptive hints and tips. >ZXP XZOPW^ ZʬP] MP__P] ML__P]d WTQP MPNL`^P _SPd L]PYɪ_ [ZbP]TYR L []ZNP^^Z] VPd[LO Z] OT^[WLd 4_ LW^Z SPW[^ _Z ^_]PLXWTYP dZ`] M`^TYP^^ Md ]PO`NTYR _SP ZʯNP [L[P]bZ]V LYO XLVTYR T_ PL^TP] _Z WZNL_P ʭYT^SPO UZM^ ^SZ`WO _SP]P MP L YPPO _Z \`TNVWd []ZO`NP _SP ]P^`W_^ Q]ZX L []PaTZ`^ bZ]V^

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¦ R̪ŭ '!ˠ˚˙ ĿÖũŶ ķŽāŶŋŋŶĞ DķŽā FÖŭ łÖķƘŭāũ ķĢłĴŭ with a mobile phone and a free app to produce multiple óŋķŋŽũ óŋùāù ũāťŋũŶŭ̇ óŋĿťķāŶā ƒĢŶĞ ùÖŶā̇ ŶĢĿā Öłù F ķŋóÖŶĢŋł̇ ŋƦāũĢłė Öł ÖũũÖƘ ŋĕ ðāłāƩŶŭ ŋƑāũ Ö ŶũÖùĢŶĢŋłÖķ DF ̍ ŭā ŶĞā ķĢłĴ ðāķŋƒ Ŷŋ Ʃłù ŋŽŶ Ŀŋũā about this next-generation FGA technology. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˝˛˛̓˞˜

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What is the cost and how long does it take? .Z^_^ aL]TP^ Q]ZX XLY`QLN_`]P] _Z XLY`QLN_`]P] and from model to model, often depending on the LRP ZQ _SP 12, L^ bPWW L^ _SP _d[P Z] Y`XMP] ZQ ^PY^Z]^ ʭ__PO 3ZbPaP] XZ^_ XLY`QLN_`]P]^ bTWW ZʬP] L ʭcPO NZ^_ ^NSPO`WP ?SP^P NZ^_^ YPPO _Z MP QLN_Z]PO TY bSPY NZY^TOP]TYR L YPb [`]NSL^P ?`]YL]Z`YO _TXP^ NLY LW^Z aL]d M`_ XZ^_

04/04/2022 12:00

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Product News Show your colours

Bespoke UFH solution Renewable heating specialist Unitherm has launched its own bespoke underfloor heating solutions package for installers and developers. The company can offer a full UHF solution, ready for installation, or individual components, as required. Unitherm says the UFH range has been selected by professionals to provide ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and technical support, easily available at the end of a phone. Unitherm can provide an accurate quotation within 24 hours and a full design within 48 hours of the order being placed. The vast majority of the components are available in stock, with solutions for both

A new colour coordination service is now available from The Radiator Company, enabling installers to pair the right radiator to customers’ interior design briefs. This service offers even more choice for those looking to create a uniquely personal look. Customers are able to order a colour sample of their favourite popular or premium paint brand, which will then be mixed to create a highly durable powder coat formula that is suitable for application onto radiator surfaces. Once signed off, the colour is then incorporated into the manufacturer’s production process for each radiator order. The move comes with the launch of the company’s redesigned website, which features an improved search function. Users can now search and discover the heating options available to them based on different criteria, such as material, style, column depth and more. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/55

the ground floor and upper floors. There is also a selection of aluminium radiators, if desired. “We bring a level of expertise in system design and equipment provision that comes with over 20 years experience in the industry,” says Unitherm UFH sales manager Gina Parsons. “Alongside the equipment and the design service, we provide bespoke drawings for each project and offer a number of different floor solutions that cover both new build and renovation projects.” Unitherm also supplies and designs full renewable heating systems which include heat pumps to run alongside both UFH and radiators. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/54

Clean burn beauty Charlton & Jenrick has unveiled a new addition to its Purevision line-up. The 5kW Purevision Countryman Stove range offers a modern take on a classic design, looking at home in a farmhouse inglenook as well as in a new townhouse. This range comes in 5kW and 5kW Wide versions, with efficiencies that start at 80.2%. Both are compatible with both wood-burning and solid fuel. These stoves achieve the

Long lasting suite aimed at social landlords With the launch of the Navlin sanitaryware range, AKW is answering the need for social landlords to provide tenants with durable, contemporary-looking bathrooms that are easy to clean and maintain. The new range includes a rimless toilet pan that comes with a cistern that is fully WRAS compliant. A Navlin Doc M toilet pan is also available that is fully compatible and interchangeable with the Navlin sanitaryware range for ultimate flexibility. In addition, the full and semi-pedestals and seat and flush options ensure that there is a solution for any requirement. There are also three basin widths that allow for a variety of tap hole layouts, for use with twin basin or mixer taps. The brassware includes the AKW Denova mixer and twin taps, the Monobloc mixer, Peg Lever twin taps and the TMV3 Thermostatic mixer and Cross Head twin taps. These have all been designed with longevity in mind. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/57

Hidden benefits in the Tubist T New to the Tubist Collection from Abode is the Tubist T: a single lever kitchen tap with aerated water flow and ergonomic pullout spray. The Tubist T is said to offer improved practicality without compromising on style or space in the wash zone. It has been designed to give the user even more control when prepping

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food, pot filling or cleaning necessities like kitchen utensils, cookware or dirty dishes. Paul Illingworth, design director at Abode, says: “Our latest new tap is designed with physical ergonomics in mind to offer a single lever tap that fully optimises both performance and efficiency in the kitchen. Taking influence from our popular Tubist range, Tubist T comes with an iconic T-bar style pull-out spray, which is shaped to keep both hand and wrist in a neutral, stress-free position, and weighted to ensure a fast, gravitational pull back.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/58

highest level of clearSkies certification (clearSkies level 5), which go much further than the SIA Ecodesign 2022 certification scheme. They feature a patented active baffle, tertiary air systems as well as airwash technology, which combine to provide all the benefits of a modern, highly efficient stove. Optional log and stand accessories are available to enable users personalise the installation. The new stoves are available from Charlton & Jenrick’s network of 400 independent retailers. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/56

Outlet performance boost with single point pump Before

TapBoost is Salamander’s solution to boosting the performance of a single tap or outlet by adding up to 6 litres of additional flow. The pump can be fitted at multiple locations around the house, including bathroom and kitchen sinks, bath taps, garden taps, toilet cisterns, dishwashers, washing machines and showers. The product is also quiet and its inline design with brass fittings makes it easy to install in either a mains-fed or a gravity-fed system. When there is more than one outlet that’s causing an issue, Salamander has a range of other products to help boost water around the home, including shower and whole house

After

pumps, larger inline pumps and accumulator tanks. Gareth Richards, technical director at Salamander Pumps, says: “There’s no competitor product quite like it. Our research and development team have worked hard to develop a pump that uses a different type of motor that means we don’t need mechanical seals – reducing the possibility of leaks. We’ve specifically designed TapBoost to offer a cost-effective solution for homeowners who have one main problem point in their property, where they want to improve their water performance, but where a whole-house solution may not be necessary.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/59

04/04/2022 16:46

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Product News Contemporary sink style with matching taps The FlexLinea, designed by Teka and available from PJH, is a range of contemporary styled stainless steel sinks in two ‘SofTexture’ finishes – Polished Brass and Polished Titanium. Colour coordinating mixer taps are also available to team with the sinks. Designed with flexibility in mind, the new sink can be installed in all kinds of countertops due to its triple mount installation option allowing undermount, top mount or flush mount. In addition, Teka’s SilentSmart technology, a lownoise design feature, can reduce noise from water flow during operation (up to 50% reduction claimed). The sink also features the PureClean treatment, which ensures a clean and dry surface during use to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria. With the antiseptic benefit of stainless steel, the PureClean coating means lime, dirt, and all the particles that typically remain in the

sink are drawn away for a more hygienic product. The sinks are available in size W540 x D440 x H200mm and can be ordered separately or together with Teka’s ICT 915 Dual Lever Mixer Tap that is available in the same gold and titanium ﬁnishes. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/60

With over 60 colours and finishes available across its radiator collection, Vogue is highlighting its full grey heating pallet, from the darker anthracite shade to atypical finishes like silver crackle, brushed steel and modern silver. Pictured is the MD001 Silver Crackle Towel Warmer. The finish is a mottled paint effect finish offering rich grey tones with rugged texture. Designed with matching adjustable brackets for ease of installation, Focus MD001 is available in a wide range of sizes to ensure a high capacity for hanging and drying. Vogue says variations of contemporary grey are continuing to define UK bathroom trends, adding a touch of sophistication and luxury in the home. Chrome accessories still top the charts as the number one finish of choice. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/61

The Aerona3 air source heat pump range from Grant UK has been approved by CEN Keymark, an independent European certiﬁcation mark for all heat pumps, combination heat pumps and hot water heaters. All models in the range, which uses R32 refrigerant, have an ErP rating of A+++. In addition to their MCS and Keymark accreditations, Grant heat pumps have also been recognised for their quiet operation with both the 13 and 17kW units having the Quiet Mark.

Win a watertight wetroom solution!

This month we’ve teamed up with Kudos showers to offer the chance to win £1000 worth of showering products!

Popular grey adds sophistication

Keymark status for heat pumps

COMPETITION

“We are very pleased that our Aerona3 range has achieved Keymark certification,” says commercial technical manager Neil Sawers. “The Keymark logo helps customers find products that fulfil core requirements and efficiency standards as set out by Ecodesign. The Grant Aerona3 heat pump delivers high performances and reliable operation, which are just two reasons why the range is a favourite for many installers and their customers.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/422/62

The Prize

One lucky winner stands to get a KUDOS Aqua4ma evolution shower deck, waste, skirting and shower panels up to a retail value of £1000

The Aqua4ma evolution is a wetroom system that introduces a number of additional features to the original Aqua4ma system first produced in 2010. Designed to be quick and easy to install, the 25mm shower decks can be used on their own within a showering area, or coupled with floor, skirting and wall panels to provide totally watertight room protection. A key feature of the Aqua4ma wet room system is that it is suitable for immediate finishing with tiles, vinyl or micro-cement, while the robust panels also allow tiles to be removed and replaced without any risk of compromising the waterproof integrity of the system. The system also comes with a choice of centre or end waste, available in polished silver or matt black, and a selection of floor and wall panels in 7, 15 and 25mm thicknesses.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win the Kudos products, all you have to do is read the question below and email your answer to PHAM News. The winner will be selected from a draw of all the correct answers received. Only one entry is allowed per person.

The Kudos Pinnacle8 shower enclosures (see page 35) feature 8mm toughened safety glass treated with:

(a) Lifebouy (b) Soulshield (c) Lifeshield

Email your answer to editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk with ‘KUDOS’ in the subject line. Please make sure you include the following: * Your name * Your company’s name * Contact telephone number * Please type ‘YES’ or 'NO' after your answer to indicate if you are happy to receive email offers from KUDOS

Please email your entry before the closing date of 30th April 2022

www.kudosshowers.co.uk

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PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Directory Calibration Services

Radiators

The Copper King

GAS CALIBRATION ..EASY AS

we collect - we calibrate - we deliver Book online or call 01782 567 099

test 4 less www.test4less.co.uk

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Controls phamnews.co.uk/422/116

Instruments for control, regulation & protection

Valves phamnews.co.uk/422/114

NEW push button filling device for Combi Boilers that prevents over pressurising the system and water wastage. Easy to fit & use, with 2 year guarantee Durable and tested to BS Specification Saves expensive callouts & time WRAS Approved

0161 946 0088 www.banico.co.uk

VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO ORDER, PLUS OTHER EXCITING PRODUCTS!

Email: info@hub-distribution.co.uk Telephone: 07305 429544 Website: www.hub-distribution.co.uk

phamnews.co.uk/422/111 phamnews.co.uk/422/117

Next Day Delivery Available on 100s of Controls Thermostats, Programmers, TRVs,Underfloor

Water Heaters

www.heatingcontrolsonline.co.uk phamnews.co.uk/422/112

Knee Pads

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Plumbpal Products

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42-43 PHAM DIRECTORY-TRAINING-INFO APR22:Layout 1 05/04/2022 11:18 Page 43

PHAM NEWS | APRIL 2022

Training & Assessments

Information Centre 43

Recruitment

WE ARE CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR A PART TIME GAS ASSESSOR/TRAINER FOR OUR ESTABLISHED ACS TRAINING CENTRE IN BR1 AREA. WOULD SUIT A FREELANCE ASSESSOR, MUST HAVE ASSESSOR AWARD (A1) AND HOLD CURRENT ACS QUALIFICATIONS. THIS POSITION IS ON AN AD-HOC BASIS. PLEASE EMAIL SARAH BYGRAVES ON sarah.bygraves@bromleytraining.co.uk FOR MORE DETAILS. phamnews.co.uk/422/120

Training

Information Centre

ESSEX SKILLS CENTRE • Domestic ACS Reassessment QUOTE • Domestic ACS Initial Assessment PHAM22 FOR • Unvented G3 (Hot water systems) DISCOUNT OFF • Legionella Operative/Manager ALL COURSES • Water Regulations • Energy Efficiency • LPG Reassessment / Changeover • MLP Foundation Gas experienced • MLP Foundation Gas no experience • Pipe Skills Course (Beginners) • C&G NVQ Level 2 Plumbing & Heating • Installation & Maintenance Course • Add to scope - Cookers/ Boilers/ Fires etc

10%

https://essexskills.co.uk/

01702 804318

phamnews.co.uk/422/123

phamnews.co.uk/422/151

Snickers New LITEWork Working Clothes Long-lasting, innovative new fabrics for comfort, sustainability and longevity. Clothes change as the seasons do. That’s why Snickers Workwear’s LITEWork working clothes combine superior comfort and protection for working in spring and summer on site. There’s new Trousers, Shirts, Shorts, and Jackets and a High-Vis range with new styles and stretch features for enhanced freedom of movement plus trousers that feature the bio-based Sorona® fibre for a more sustainable approach. For more information visit www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or enter the code shown below.

phamnews.co.uk/422/152

Gilberts New Guide to aid Energy Reduction With new Building Regulations on ventilation and energy e ciency coming into force later this year ventilation components manufacturer GILBERTS BLACKPOOL has published “Sustainable Building Design & the Zero Carbon Evolution”. The Guide aims to help architects and consultants deliver significant energy consumption reduction in new build ventilation. The Guide can be downloaded free of charge at www.gilbertsblackpool.com Or enter the code shown below.

phamnews.co.uk/422/153

phamnews.co.uk/422/121

Abode strengthen brand offering with new Digital Products & Services

MIDLANDS GAS ASSESSMENTS

Abode, award-winning designer and distributor of market leading kitchen taps, sinks, bathroom taps & showering solutions continue to strengthen its brand o ering by investing in a series of new digital products and services designed to grow its online footprint and integrated retail support. To further support the company’s omnichannel approach and new online strategy, Abode has also invested in a new inhouse media hub. For further information visit www.abodedesigns.co.uk Or enter the code shown below.

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

phamnews.co.uk/422/122

phamnews.co.uk/422/124

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phamnews.co.uk/422/125

TO HELPING YOU DELIVER SUSTAINABLE HEATING SOLUTIONS As more and more homeowners choose air source heat pumps, now is the time to invest in your business and partner with Mitsubishi Electric for success.

Multi-award-winning range of air source heat pumps

“

Market-leading ultra quiet sound levels

Guaranteed low temperature operation

Smart control and remote monitoring via MELCloud App

The best thing about the support is your technical help guys. These guys are incredible! They’re the jewel in the Mitsubishi Electric crown.

Find out more on why Mitsubishi Electric and Ecodan are the best choice for your business

DAVID COOKE / Ecodan Installer

ecodan.me.uk/pn5

Expert training, after sales and technical support

SCAN ME

MANUFACTURED

IN THE UK

_JB2323_Ecodan_UpSkills_advert_Pham_News_APR2022_01.indd 1

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