June 2022 by PHAM News

JUNE 2022 | VOLUME 60 | ISSUE 5

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JUNE 2022 | VOLUME 60 | ISSUE 5

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Lower-income households left Ģł ŶĞā ùÖũĴ ŋł āłāũėƘ āƧóĢāłóƘ A new report issued by Utilita Energy suggests that lowerincome households lack information and the resources to make their homes more energy PʯNTPY_ The energy supplier’s study of the energy usage and opinions of ˞˙˙˙ UK households has concluded that those on a lower income are the least energy-efficiency engaged, with only ˢ% claiming to have received clear enough advice on ways to cut their energy wastage, compared to ˝ˠ% of higher income households. The study also found that despite ˠ˚% of households wanting to cut their energy usage today, only ˝˜% plan to ‘spend to save’. Those that recognise the benefits of investing in energy saving are only prepared

Fuel poverty plans are way ŋƦ ŶÖũėāŶ New research undertaken by AgilityEco estimates that the government’s statutory fuel poverty target will take until ˛˙˟˞ to achieve without further TYaP^_XPY_ TY PYP]Rd PʯNTPYNd ɧ ˜˞ years later than planned. The Surrey-based company, which specialises in providing services for vulnerable households,

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to spend an average of £˚˝ˡ over the next ˚˛ months, while ˜˚% say that they would only be interested in free measures to save energy. Renters have also been left out in the cold with almost half (˝˟%) assuming they cannot make their own, or request any non-essential changes, despite new legislation introduced in ˛˙˚ˡ allow ing tenants to make energy efficiency improvements. Only ˚ˡ% of the energy users

surveyed declared an intention to purchase ‘big ticket’ items such as an electric vehicle, heat pump or solar technology, leading the report to conclude that the government’s Net Zero strategy is only resonating with an ‘energy elite’. “Our findings confirm this short-sighted ‘spend to save’ approach to energy efficiency is harming progress by leaving millions of households who can’t

afford these technologies feeling disengaged and not part of the nation’s net zero journey,” says Utilita chief executive Bill Bullen. Meanwhile a separate report by the Tony Blair Institute makes a number of recommendations designed to halve heating bills by ˛˙˜˞. These include setting up a new independent home energy service to advise on home energy plans, government grants and interest-free loans. The government’s current Simple Energy Advice website for England and Wales “is failing to reach householders with good advice when they need it most,” according to the report, and “without an integrated financial offer they often serve only to highlight how little support is available to households”. The study estimates its plan would cost around £˜ˢbn but save between £˝ˠbn and £˚˝˙bn overall, depending on energy prices.

claims that the government will fail in meeting its legally binding target to ensure as many fuel poor households as reasonably practicable achieve a minimum PYP]Rd PʯNTPYNd ]L_TYR ZQ MLYO ‘C’ by ˛˙˜˙. Rising energy prices, with a further increase in the energy price cap this October, is expected to raise the average annual energy bill to £˛ˡ˙˙. This would bring the total number of fuel poor homes to ˜̍˞ million. Though the energy price cap is expected to fall from April next year, it is likely that the number of fuel-poor homes will remain the same.

While manifesto-promised TYaP^_XPY_ TY PYP]Rd PʯNTPYNd could take around ˛˙˙̇˙˙˙ homes out of fuel poverty in ˛˙˛˝, and a further ˚˙˙̇˙˙˙ by ˛˙˛˞, continuing at this rate means it would take more than ˝˙ years to bring every home up to the required standard. Joint CEO Gearóid Lane says: “It is imperative that further policy and funding is focused on TX[]ZaTYR _SP PYP]Rd PʯNTPYNd of fuel poor homes to support the wellbeing of the most vulnerable people in our society. Investment in energy efficiency is the only truly sustainable solution to the

energy bill crisis and to achieving low carbon homes.” AgilityEco is calling on the government to: • Swiftly implement existing promises and proposals such as the new ECO˝ programme and _SP 8TYTX`X 0YP]Rd 0ʯNTPYNd Standard (MEES) for privately rented homes. • Extend these schemes to ˛˙˜˙ to provide longer-term certainty for the organisations working in this area. • Expand the funding available and ensure it is focused on TX[]ZaTYR _SP PʯNTPYNd ZQ Q`PW poor homes.

Inside this issue Talent show Installations to be proud of See page 12

Gadgets & Tools Get equipped for the job in hand See page 15

COMPETITION Win an electric UFH system! See page ˝˞

06/06/2022 12:25

PHAM MAY22 HOTUN:Layout 1 05/05/2022 17:07 Page 1

Inside this issue 5 JUNE 2022 VOLUME 60 ISSUE 5

Editor’s Viewpoint by Chris Jones

Where there is darkness... Despite the best efforts of the government and interested parties, it seems that most UK households remain in the dark when it comes to knowing what practical measures they can take to reduce their energy usage and save on heating costs (see this month’s cover story). Equally, many homeowners have failed to be convinced that investing in energy efficiency measures will save them money in the long-term, while those few that are prepared to spend have budgets far below that required to benefit from ‘big ticket’ items such as solar panels and heat pumps. All in all, it’s not a very encouraging picture if the government hopes that people are fully on board the country’s journey to net zero, with only the relatively wealthy able and willing to invest in low carbon technologies. Despite the announcement of a £400 energy bill discount, there has been a general wringing of hands about the soaring cost of energy and the increasing number of households driven into fuel poverty. The financial aid will certainly make a difference to anyone currently struggling to make ends meet, but there is no guarantee that things will be any easier next year or the one after. So what about the longer-term? One proposal is the setting up of a new independent home energy advisory service, which if coupled with easy access to grants and interest-free loans, could advise householders of the measures they can take and answer questions about potential benefits and payback periods. It is hoped that such an advisory service will be able to throw some light on why it is not just to the country’s benefit, but also that of individual households, to reduce their carbon usage and save on energy too. At least then if people remain unconvinced by the arguments put to them, failure to act won’t be because of ignorance or uncertainty.

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06 News Review 10 Your Views

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44 Product News 47 Directory

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Training & Education

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The upskilling of Gas Safe installers will be key to ensuring a successful transition to low carbon heating

Understanding important regulatory changes that will help to improve indoor air quality

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06/06/2022 15:09

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

News Review

Inflation, not volume, driving sales at merchants The latest Plumbing & Heating Merchant Index (PHMI) report shows total value sales through specialist plumbing and heating merchants were up 2.9% in Q1 2022 compared to the same period last year (with no difference in the number of trading days). However, analysis suggests that the increase in sales has come purely from price inflation (+8.9%), while volumes were down 5.5%. When compared to the same threemonth period (January to March) in 2019, a pre-pandemic year, Q1 2022 value sales were up 6.5%. Plumbing and heating merchant sales in the 12 months to March 2022 were 16.9% ahead of April 2020 to March 2021, with one less trading day in the most recent period.

Installers bullish on business prospects

+16.9% +2.9%

Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research, which produces the report, says: “Q1 figures show that sales through specialist plumbing and heating merchants are still moving in the right direction, however growth is being led by price inflation rather than volumes, which are down year-on-year. “The impact of inflation and rising costs looks set to be the focus for everyone this year – not just plumbing and heating merchants – and how this will affect sales for the rest of 2022 isn’t yet clear.

+4.0%

On one hand, escalating energy costs and the prospect of more to come in the autumn will encourage some people to invest in home improvements to boost eﬃciency, while shrinking surplus income for other households will see projects and purchases being postponed. “Much will depend on the return of consumer confidence, which has been further dented by the war in Ukraine, and the possibility of government support for households who are struggling to meet energy costs.”

Education is the key to reaching water targets

RMI Index

Surveying the Nation’s Tradespeople

A survey of over 1500 May 2022 tradespeople across the UK has revealed that the vast majority are optimistic on their near-term business prospects, with increased demand for projects designed to reduce energy consumption. Over nine in 10 (93%) respondents to the survey, undertaken by Travis Perkins, believe their workloads will increase or remain the same over the next two months, while 61% expect their materials purchasing requirements to increase. 71% say they are seeing an increased level of demand from homeowners for projects designed to make their homes more energy eﬃcient, such as improved insulation for cavity walls, lofts, walls and ceilings, as well as heat pumps and renewable energy sources. Use the link below to see the full survey results in the ‘Repair, Maintenance and Improvement Index’ report . ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/08

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+6.5%

Industry must tackle a “massive” gap in consumer understanding of water efficiency if the government is to meet its target of limiting household water use to 110 litres per person per day –this is according to Yvonne Orgill, MD of UWLA, who argues that use of the Unified Water Label will help achieve this. The Unified Water Label was created for use on water using products to provide clear, concise and easy-to-understand messaging about a product’s water and energy consumption. “The real issue is how many consumers understand what 110 litres of water looks like, or even know how much water they typically use in a day,” says Orgill. “Until we give consumers a means to measure and make choices, then these targets are meaningless and will never be met. We must promote the use of the Unified Water Label so consumers can understand the impact their choices make and we can help them to become more water savvy.” The Unified Water Label is currently used by over 10,500 architects on new building projects and is supported by a database of over 13,500 individual products.

Call for hybrid systems to be supported by government The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) is calling for greater support for hybrid systems in the government’s net zero strategy, to provide a practical method of achieving low-carbon heating for consumers. The current Boiler Upgrade Scheme only extends to all-electric systems, with hybrid set-ups ineligible for funding. Following the conclusion of the Renewable Heat Incentive in March, this now means that there is no subsidy scheme in place for those looking to install a hybrid system. Stewart Clements, director at the HHIC, says: “The supporting initiatives surrounding heat pumps demonstrate the key role that this technology will play in the nation’s decarbonisation eﬀorts. However, as this legislation does not currently extend to hybrid systems – in this case an air source heat pump and gas boiler, operated by an intelligent control system –

we feel that BEIS has eﬀectively discontinued support for one of the most viable routes to achieving low-carbon heating. All-electric technology simply isn’t going to be an option for many consumers, so it’s vital that support is extended to hybrid systems too as a means of bridging the gap.” The case for hybrid heating systems has been set out in the HHIC’s latest whitepaper, ‘Hybrid Heat Pumps: A Flexible Route to Decarbonise Heat’, which also addresses the challenges of skills and training. To read the report, please use the online link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/07

Ambitious expansion plans This month will see Screwfix open the doors to its 800th store, and there are plans for a further 80 new store openings across the UK and the Republic of Ireland by January next year. Screwfix CEO John Mewett comments: “We know how important it is to be able to find a Screwfix store close to site. In opening more stores across the UK and Ireland, we’re making Screwfix even more accessible to tradespeople, ensuring they can get their job done quickly, affordably and right first time. We’re also delighted to be having a positive impact on local communities, creating more than 800 jobs for local people.”

06/06/2022 12:09

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PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 06/06/2022 08:13 Page 8

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

News Review

Burnley plumber named the Local Hero Altruistic Burnley plumber 5LXP^ ,YOP]^ZY bSZ ^_L]_PO a charity to help elderly and a`WYP]LMWP [PZ[WP SL^ MPPY named the winner of the SGS Engineering Local Hero Award ˛˙˛˛. 0L]WTP] _ST^ dPL] @6 ]P^TOPY_^ bP]P L^VPO _Z nominate ‘hero’ tradespeople in their area who have gone above and beyond to help their community with their generosity. Nominations for selfless tradespeople flooded in from across the NZ`Y_]d LYO _SP _PLX L_ >2> Engineering then shortlisted seven finalists for a public vote. James received a huge share of the votes (ˠ˙%) and won a well-deserved £˚˙˙˙ cash prize. Three regional ʭYLWT^_^ LW^Z ]PNPTaPO L n˛˞˙ cash prize. James has devoted his personal and professional time by setting up / 0 ; 3 0 = L Q]PP ^P]aTNP

1ƧóĢāłŶ ĞāÖŶĢłė ŭƘŭŶāĿŭ óÖł raise the resale value of a home

designed to help elderly and vulnerable people who are ^_]`RRWTYR _Z XLVP PYO^ meet. He even came to the attention of Hollywood star 3`RS 2]LY_ bSZ OZYL_PO £˚˙̇˙˙˙ to help the cause of Burnley’s local hero. Visitors to the D.E.P.H.E.R 1LNPMZZV R]Z`[ Q]P\`PY_Wd see examples of James’ R P Y P ] Z ^ T _ d T Y N W ` O T Y R free boiler repairs and installations for people TY YPPO Q]PP PXP]RPYNd plumbing support for elderly LYO a`WYP]LMWP [PZ[WP LYO even purchasing shopping for homeless people. :Y ]PNPTaTYR _SP LbL]O 5LXP^ ^LTO% ɭ?SLYV dZ` very much for nominating

myself and D.E.P.H.E.R QZ] _ST^ QLY_L^_TN LbL]O T_ T^ ZaP]bSPWXTYR LYO T_ T^ humbling. From a business [ZTY_ ZQ aTPb _SP [PZ[WP bP SPW[ XLd YZ_ MP QLXTWd bP XLd YZ_ MP MWZZO M`_ bP will continue to treat them L^ QLXTWd LYO bP bTWW LWbLd^ be here. As long as we have _SP [ZbP] _Z OPWTaP] dZ` bTWW YPaP] PaP] MP LWZYP LYO dZ` bTWW YPaP] MP TY _SP OL]V ɭ?ST^ T^ QZ] _SP [PZ[WP _SL_ bP ^`[[Wd _SP [PZ[WP _SL_ bP ZʬP] ^`[[Z]_ ^P]aTNP^ _Z LYO LbL]O^ WTVP _ST^ RTaP `^ Q`]_SP] [ZbP] _Z SPW[ _SPX ɮ ?d[TNLW ZQ ST^ RPYP]Z^T_d James said that ‘a lot of QLXTWTP^ɪ bZ`WO MPYPʭ_ Q]ZX his £˚˙˙˙ cash prize.

A quality heating system can XLVP L MTR OTʬP]PYNP _Z ^PWWTYR L []Z[P]_d LNNZ]OTYR _Z YPb ]P^PL]NS Q]ZX BZ]NP^_P] -Z^NS in collaboration with The Property Centre estate agency. According to last year’s sales statistics from The Property .PY_]P SZXP^ bT_S L STRSWd efficient boiler went under ZʬP] bT_STY _S]PP bPPV^ ˡ˞% ZQ _SP _TXP -d NZY_]L^_ ZYWd ˚˞% of properties requiring a boiler upgrade in the coming dPL]^ bPY_ `YOP] ZʬP] bT_STY the same time period. :Y _Z[ ZQ _SL_ ˢ˙% of properties with efficient boilers and cheap running costs achieved ˚˙˙% or more ZQ _SP L^VTYR []TNP bSTWP ˜˞% of properties that needed an upgrade to their boiler and had higher utility costs had to reduce in price to achieve a sale.

¦ŋť ˚˙ ĞÖĿĿāũāù by tool theft A tool has been stolen from a tradesperson every ˚ˠ XTY`_P^ TY 0YRWLYO BLWP^ LYO Northern Ireland since March ˛˙˛˚ according to new analysis of police force data from Direct Line business insurance. 4Y _Z_LW ˜˚̇˚˟˚ _ZZW^ bP]P ^_ZWPY _SP majority of which (˚ˠ̇˜ˠ˙ bP]P _LVPY Md _STPaP^ M]PLVTYR TY_Z aPSTNWP^ ?ST^ XL]V^ LY TYN]PL^P ^TYNP MPQZ]P the Covid-˚ˢ pandemic. In the ˛˙˚ˢ calendar year ˛ˡ̇˟ˡ˚ cases of tool theft bP]P ]P[Z]_PO _SP P\`TaLWPY_ ZQ ZYP stolen every ˛˙ minutes.

A property’s EPC rating is LW^Z L VPd QLN_Z] M`dP]^ WZZV L_ when viewing a home. BZ]NP^_P] -Z^NS ^_L_P^ _SL_ Md upgrading from a G-rated boiler to a more sustainable A-rated model (including TRVs and a smart controller) users can save up to £˞ˡ˙ a dPL] bSTWP LW^Z TYN]PL^TYR L []Z[P]_dɪ^ ZaP]LWW PʯNTPYNd and desirability. 8L]_dY -]TORP^ OT]PN_Z] ZQ technical services at BZ]NP^_P] ^Ld^% ɭ:WOP] MZTWP]^ NLY XPLY TYPʯNTPYNTP^ TY Q`PW NZY^`X[_TZY LYO future maintenance will be more difficult due to rarer replacement parts. For installers visiting customers bSZ L]P WZZVTYR _Z ^PWW _ST^ T^ L RZZO _TXP _Z []ZXZ_P MZTWP] ^P]aTNTYR Z] bSP]P YPNP^^L]d LY `[R]LOP ɮ

This growing problem is unsurprisingly hitting tradespeople SL]O ʭYLYNTLWWd BT_S _SP LaP]LRP aLW`P of a stolen tool costing £˜ˡ˞˛ _SP]P SL^ been £ˡ˙ million worth of equipment _LVPY ZaP] _SP WL^_ dPL] NZX[Z`YOTYR the issues for tradespeople trying to MZ`YNP MLNV Q]ZX _SP [LYOPXTN BSTWP _SPQ_^ Q]ZX 7ZYOZY ]P[]P^PY_PO ˟˛% of all incidents (˚ˢ̇˜˞˚ Northumbria came out on top when population density was considered. The >Z`_S BP^_ NLXP TY _ST]O QZ] SL]OP^_ ST_ QZWWZbPO Md% ˝ DZ]V^ST]P LYO _SP 3`XMP] ˞ 0L^_ 8TOWLYO^ ˟-North 0L^_ ˠ 9Z]_S BP^_ ˡ 0L^_ ZQ 0YRWLYO ˢ >Z`_S 0L^_ LYO ˚˙-Northern Ireland.

VIP day at Ascot in summer promo

Consultants and engineers will have the opportunity to win an all-expenses paid VIP trip to Ascot Racecourse this September when they choose products from ELCO Heating Solutions in its summer promotion – ‘Be in the running… Specify ELCO’. ,WW ^[PNTʭNL_TZY^ ZQ 07.: SPL_ [`X[^ boilers or CHP units will be rewarded with LY PY_]d TY_Z _SP []TeP O]Lb bT_S ʭaP W`NVd winners receiving an all-expenses paid VIP trip to Ascot Racecourse in September. There is no limit to the number of times [L]_TNT[LY_^ NLY PY_P] bT_S Z`_[`_^ ZQ products directly converted into prize draw PY_]TP^ 1Z] PcLX[WP _SP ^[PNTʭNL_TZY ZQ L ˚˞˙VB MZTWP] []ZaTOP^ ˚˞˙ PY_]TP^ bSTWP heat pump specifications receive a ˚˙x MZZ^_ bT_S L ˛˞VB `YT_ ]PNPTaTYR ˛˞˙ entries. 1Z] XZ]P TYQZ]XL_TZY ZY _SP []ZXZ_TZY TYNW`OTYR Q`WW ? .^ aT^T_ _SP bPM^T_P `^TYR _SP ]PLOP] WTYV MPWZb ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˙ˢ

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Distribution boost Spirotech has invested in a new logistics partnership and distribution centre to provide faster delivery and enhanced service QZ] N`^_ZXP]^ LN]Z^^ _SP @6 ?SP ˜˝̇˙˙˙ft² distribution facility adjacent to Manchester LT][Z]_ bTWW OPWTaP] ^TRYTʭNLY_Wd PYSLYNPO @6 ^_ZNVSZWOTYR QZ] _SP /`_NS SPLOquartered business. It will also facilitate next-OLd OPWTaP]d L^ ^_LYOL]O bT_S ^LXPday available when needed. The investment forms part of >[T]Z_PNSɪ^ R]Zb_S ^_]L_PRd bSTNS bTWW ^PP _SP M`^TYP^^ ]PWZNL_P _Z L YPb @6 SPLO ZʯNP WL_P] _ST^ dPL] _Z SZ`^P T_^ R]ZbTYR ^LWP^ N`^_ZXP] ^`[[Z]_ LYO _PNSYTNLW teams.

31/05/2022 15:14

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Your Views

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Planning for the Future The Tweet Spot

Recent tweets that caught our attention Follow us on @PHAMnews

When affluent clients worry about their gas bills

Increased concerns about spiraling gas prices has helped to further emphasise the need for the UK to move away from fossil fuels. Jonny Hancock from NIBE Energy Systems highlights the energy saving potential of heat pumps.

I write in response to last month’s cover story. I don’t know if anyone else out there is experiencing the same thing, but for the first time in my career I am getting a sizable number of customers asking me how they can save energy in order to lower their heating bills. Most of my customers are fairly affluent, and in the past their questions about energy saving were geared more towards a green agenda, wanting to cut their carbon emissions and do their bit for the environment. Now they are asking purely on the basis of how to save money, and the solutions I can provide are fairly limited. I should add that no more than one or two are prepared to let go of their boiler for a heat pump, so I have to go back to basics. Most of them already have a good set of heating controls in place (though to be fair, most don’t have weather compensation, which would help). They keep their boilers well maintained – obviously, because I am there doing it! And I can’t say I work on any non-condensing boilers any more, so it’s no use telling them to upgrade to a high efficiency boiler. So what to do? Once I’ve exhausted the list of things I can do to make their systems more efficient, I’m left with common sense advice – lower the temperature on your thermostat, don’t heat rooms you don’t use, don’t heat the house when you’re not home, wear a jumper, get electric blankets, use your wood burner. The truth is, the soaring cost of gas is hitting most everyone, even the high-end customers I look after, and they all want to know how to cut their consumption. What I really worry about is if the doctors and lawyers I look after are worried about paying the gas company, how on earth are the poor devils at the other end of the economic scale going to survive?

here isn’t a conversation about energy at the moment that doesn’t touch upon the recent and forecasted energy cost increases. Ofgem’s new energy price cap has certainly been a hot topic recently, it being a move that has lasting consequences for approximately 22 million customers across the UK. Both gas and electric driven systems have been aﬀected, with running costs and energy bills rising for all homeowners. However, it is undoubtedly the unprecedented increase in global gas prices, due in part to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, that has contributed most heavily to this crisis. To our calculations, the price cap for gas has risen by around 80% since April 2021 including standing charges. Clearly this isn’t the price rise for all – some householders are seeing higher increases, but it does demonstrate the impact of the change. Now more than ever, we can see what the future could hold in store for a society dependent on fossil fuels – limited supply due to a phasing out of carbon intensive fuels and potentially hiked-up costs. Homeowners are aware that maximising the energy eﬃciency of their properties is the best way to reduce the impact of higher bills. However, we need to emphasise that heat pumps are a viable alternative to gas boilers and could in fact lower energy bills today.

M.D. Page via email

Rising demand

Drinking dilemma I know it’s said that when a customer offers a cup of tea or coffee that it’s only polite to accept it, but what’s the thinking when the homeowner offers something stronger? I was fitting some bathroom tiles the other day and it was getting onto lunchtime when the lady of the house offered a G&T, saying I’d earned myself a break. She had two generously sized glasses in her hands and I guessed she was really looking for someone to have a drink with. I initially intended to make a gentle refusal, but she was most insistent and, perhaps inevitably, one drink was very soon followed by another... and then another. I’m not sure the alcohol improved the quality of my tiling, but the customer seemed happy enough!

J. Westbrook via email

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How to respond to rising gas prices

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

The demand for energy efficient measures, including heat pumps and cavity wall insulation, saw a 20% spike ahead of the increase in energy bills, according to data from Rated People. The Renewable Heat Incentive also saw a surge in applications before it closed in March. Indeed, the new price caps tell us much about both the comparable performance of fossil fuel and low carbon systems, and the resulting running cost to provide 1kWh of heat. A heat pump system operating at a 350% efficiency will have a running cost comparable to a gas boiler operating very efficiently at 90%, at 8.18p/kWh of heat delivered. It is worth noting that many incumbent gas boilers are likely to have a lower efficiency rating, suggesting the potential for heat pumps to become even cheaper as time progresses.

Jonny Hancock

Product manager at NIBE Energy Systems

Environmental levies The potential for heat pumps to provide cleaner, cheaper energy in the years to come is even more interesting when we consider the eﬀect of environmental levies. We know the government is considering a consultation on rebalancing these, which will further increase the attractiveness of heat pumps vs gas boilers. Moreover, if the heat pump installed is smart and can use energy when it is cheapest, then costs can be reduced even more. Our NIBE S-Series heat pumps allow customers to control their heating from a smartphone, access real-time data and optimise settings to provide improved comfort and lower bills. It is clear, therefore, that the main way that we can prevent an escalating cost of living crisis and high levels of fuel poverty is to focus on the potential of such low carbon solutions. The government has set out its legislative aims to extend the price cap and encourage innovation through the Energy Security Bill. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) has also now opened for applications, providing monetary support for homeowners looking to move away from fossil fuel heating.

Partner programme If you don’t yet offer your customers heat pumps as a solution, but would like to know more about them and the benefits of a low carbon proposition, visit our website to find out about our NIBE Pro Installer Partner Programme. To find out more about getting involved, please use the online link below:

◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/10

01/06/2022 08:29

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42-54

NEW APPOINTMENTS

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

People on the Move National distributor and manufacturer of plumbing and heating products, Mark Vitow Ltd, has welcomed Matt Fletcher as sales director. Matt comes with signiﬁcant experience in the industry, having spent over 20 years with JG Speedﬁt and RWC in a number of senior sales roles, latterly as divisional sales manager.

Sanitary equipment specialist Wirquin has appointed Jay Hackett as area sales manager (buying group) for the North. Jay comes to the role with 30 years experience, working in local and national merchants before moving into manufacturing. Most recently Jay worked as a sales manager at Fluidmaster.

Heat pump manufacturer NIBE has made a number of new appointments, with Laurence Allison (pictured) joining as business development manager Scotland and Firat Ucer as technical sales engineer. Both bring a wealth of experience to their roles and between them have some 60 years in the industry.

Cheltenham-based Kiwa Training has enhanced its team with the appointment of Mike Harvey as head of training. Mike was previously training & technical support manager at HETAS. At Kiwa, he will focus on growing the training oﬀer and installer training business, with a particular focus on hydrogen courses.

New to the Grant UK team are Steven Paton (pictured) as area sales manager for the north of Scotland and Rob Dyer as sales support engineer for the Midlands and East of England. Both will be providing product support to engineers, merchants and speciﬁers out in the ﬁeld, to increase the level of customer service.

Altecnic has expanded its sales team with a number of new appointments. Steven Preston is now area trade sales manager for the South West and Wales; Paul Hunt is area trade sales manager for the South East; and Paul George and Barry Fentem (pictured) each take on a role as key accounts manager.

ONLINE For further information about any of the stories featured in this issue, simply enter phamnews. co.uk/622/ followed by the relevant enquiry number

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The commercial sales team at Saniﬂo has welcomed two new members: Matt Watson (pictured) joins as national sales manager and Trevor Davies as technical sales engineer for the North. Matt was previously in senior roles at Honeywell, while Trevor worked in the pump hire market in dual sales and technical roles.

Measuring tools specialist Stabila has welcomed Oliver Partington to the newly created position of sales director UK & Ireland. Oliver joins Stabila after working for more than 12 years for the Akzo Nobel group in several responsible sales positions, most recently as sales director of the Dulux Decorator Centres.

27/05/2022 11:25

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01.12.22

PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 06/06/2022 11:45 Page 15

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Gadgets ͽ ¦ŋŋķŭ 15 More accurate read on vibrations Handy trio of pliers all rolled up The Knipex Pliers Wrench set (˙˙ ˚ˢ ˞˞ ˟) now comes with a hard-wearing fabric tool roll that protects the pliers. A hook-and-loop fastener keeps them within easy reach when you are working out on site or in a van. The set TYNW`OP^ _S]PP [WTP]^ b]PYNSP^ ZQ OTʬP]PY_ sizes, with slim, plastic-coated handles. Their ^XZZ_S [L]LWWPW ULb^ LWWZb ʭ]X dP_ RPY_WP gripping, even when working with chrome. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˙˟

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recordable data on usage and highlights the risks of operating vibrating tools. It uses personalised sensors to make monitoring a simple, intuitive process, with information sent to the Cloud for PʬPN_TaP ]P[Z]_TYR ?SP NZX[LYd ^Ld^ the product is a “game changer” because it provides consistent accuracy by measuring the vibration on the tool itself. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˚˚

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01/06/2022 16:14

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Point of View

Why gas still has a future Is the long predicted demise of the gas boiler premature? Peter Thom, MD of Green Heat and an experienced environmental campaigner, argues that the government is misguided in its attempts to encourage the widespread installation of heat pumps and that there are far easier and more cost-effective ways to reduce carbon and save energy.

oasting more than 50 years in the industry, an ex-president of the IDHEE and a current Trustee of the CIPHE, Peter Thom modestly claims to have accumulated a little knowledge of heating design and how to meet customer needs. An independent, yet influential voice in the industry, he has sat on industry advisory panels for Parts L & J of the Building Regulations and had a hand in producing the first Domestic Heating Compliance Guide. Over the years, he has been witness to a number of changes in the industry and seen government schemes come and go, so he is in a better position than most to predict how the heating market might evolve in the near future. The government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme is now up and running. Do you think it will help to drive demand for heat pumps? PT I think the Boiler Downgrade Scheme would be a more fitting name for it. I can’t get my head around it. They’re putting money in for three years, to help fund 30,000 heat pumps a year, which is the size of the market anyway. So all they’re doing is supporting the ‘able to pay’ market –people who are probably going to buy one anyway. They should be spending money on the 8m people currently in fuel poverty instead of the able-to-pay market. I think it’s morally wrong to spend that kind of money when you have so many people who can’t even heat their homes. So do you think public funds would be better invested elsewhere? PT I’m not a great believer in just giving money away to people, but the boiler scrappage scheme was introduced a few years back and I think it worked very well – so that would be an easy win and a very cost effective way of saving energy. I don’t know how many ‘F’ and ‘G’ rated gas boilers are out there, but there’s probably between two and four million still chugging away. And the same with heating controls. We all know that some of the older heating controls probably don’t work, so perhaps they should consider introducing a heating controls upgrade scheme to encourage people to invest in modern heating controls, which again would be relatively cheap to do. Wouldn’t a boiler scrappage scheme encourage the installation of new boilers? That’s something the government is clearly reluctant to do. PT But why are gas boilers so bad now? Because they’re not –they’re actually really efficient. The word has gone out that they’re going to be banned, but that doesn’t encourage anyone to enter the industry. If you were at school thinking of a career you’re not going to go into an industry where the boilers are likely to be banned, but they’re all still going to need service and maintenance. You’ve got a high age profile in the workforce, which will be dropping off very soon – myself included – and who’s going to maintain and keep safe all these existing boilers? There’s currently 6000 boilers being installed every day, and despite talk of a ban, I can’t see that changing anytime soon.

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Politicians in their wisdom have created this division in our industry where you’ve got heat pumps and boilers in open war now. That’s not good for the industry. They’ve all got a part to play in the route towards zero carbon. There’s space for all of it. When they discovered North Sea gas, they didn’t ban boilers using coal gas, the market just moved on and converted to a cleaner gas. And I think that is what will happen with hydrogen, which will have a big part to play in the future of domestic heating. But would the country be capable of producing enough hydrogen to meet the needs of transport, industry and domestic heating? PT It’s like everything in life, if it’s the right solution you find ways to make it work. We’ve got a massive gas supply network, so it seems crazy not to make use of it. We also know that all the boilers that are being sold now will work on a 20% blend, so why not try to benefit from that? It seems an easy win – suddenly a 20% carbon saving across 80% of the housing stock. You talk about an energy mix, so would you agree that heat pumps are an important part of that mix? PT If that’s what people want to do and they can live with the lower temperatures. I mean there are issues. It’s interesting that some manufacturers are now coming out with high temperature heat pumps, but obviously that has a negative impact on efficiency levels. We do Energy Audits and if you go to a property with a heat pump it doesn’t necessarily improve its energy rating. In fact, it sometimes makes it worse because the hot water in a property often has to be heated by an immersion heater. Also, we’ve got rows and rows of terraced houses in our cities that will never be insulated. They’re living in cloud cuckoo land if they think we’re going to have an insulation programme to insulate them – they can’t be done. In Cambridge we have many properties in conservation areas and they can’t be touched, plus people don’t want the disturbance. So are they going to force it on people? What about solar technology and biomass. Do you think they have a part to play? PT Yes, I think everything is in the mix. I think we should see more PV on the roofs. There was a big opportunity missed to get PV in more places – they could easily have mandated that several years ago. PV can be very cost effective, especially with energy prices going up. The more prices go up, the more attractive solar PV looks as an investment. I’m not sure about biomass though, which to me is still a fossil fuel. They can’t say they’re going to cut down trees in America, ship them across the Atlantic in heavy fuel boats, and then carry them to power stations on diesel trains from Liverpool docks and call that a carbon saving. Who are they kidding? Is a lack of government vision part of the problem? PT For me, the big thing is this uncertainty. Because the public, certainly the householders I deal with, are worried about what they do when their gas boiler packs up. Should they have another one or not? They don’t know. There’s so much confusion out there.

Peter Thom, MD of Green Heat

We’ve got a lot of market distortion coming in because of government policy. That’s why we need a longer visionary policy and that’s what we never seem to get. All successive governments are worried about is getting in again at the next election. It’s a game for them, but sometimes they don’t realise the repercussions. I’ve been talking about climate change for years and years. In fact, 20 years ago I said we should be getting away from Russian gas! Do you think a hydrogen strategy would help to address some of that uncertainty? PT They’ve decided to hold the hydrogen strategy until 2026, but we really can’t afford to wait that long. We need to have that strategy published this year. It will give some certainty to the industry, some certainty for future recruitment and then enable the industry to move on. It’s just another gas and we already have the necessary skills. There will be a certain amount of extra training for safety reasons – but that need simply be another module on the ACS. It will be just like doing an LPG module. Can you say more about the plans you would like to see in such a strategy? PT It would need to look at costings and time frames, and inevitably there would be a bit of crystal ball gazing, but I would hope that by 10 years time we would have started the conversion programme for hydrogen in the UK. A strategy provides a time table and it’s got to be achievable. Perhaps they can put the 20% blend in two years, we could then start putting the infrastructure in place and by 2030 we could start rolling out hydrogen supplies on a regional area, perhaps first in the north east. What we need is an achievable strategy and then let the industry get on and do it. We don’t know how fuel prices are going to change, because they have gone so high now – it’s unprecedented – but a hydrogen strategy could examine if it would be cost-effective to extend the gas network in more rural areas. Or set up local distribution points for hydrogen. That’s the strategic planning that they should be doing now. I think Japan have already said they’re going to move to a hydrogen economy. So different parts of the world are already doing it. We’ve got an opportunity as a nation – the great inventors that we are – to come up with solutions that we can then export. The world is hungry for solutions and every country is getting a hydrogen policy in place, apart from us. We’re sitting on our hands. ◼

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Rules & Regulations

Business Matters

Compliance with The power of a Water Regulation 4 recurring income Continuing his regular column of business advice, Aaron McLeish shows how developing routes for a recurring income can help a business grow proﬁts more predictably.

What is UK Water Regulation 4 and why is it important to demonstrate compliance? Jonathan Price, business development manager at Kiwa Watertec, oﬀers a guide to current regulations and the company’s certiﬁcation scheme.

ll components/products installed on water systems in the UK must comply with UK water regulations – specifically the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 for England and Wales, the Water Bylaws 2000, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Byelaws 2014 for Scotland and the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 2009 for Northern Ireland and, in particular, Regulation 4 which lays out the specific requirements for the components which make up a water system. If you install components/products on the system that are not compliant, then you are causing an offence and could be prosecuted. It’s not an offence to manufacture noncompliant components – the duty lies with the installer to ensure that every product component connected to water supply or management will meet the relevant regulations. Therefore, it’s in the interest of all professional manufacturers of water system components to ensure that all products are certified to meet the requirements laid out within Regulation 4 of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations.

What tests must a product pass to be certified as meeting Water Regulation 4? A product must be mechanically tested to conform to a specification approved by the regulator, an appropriate harmonised standard, or conform to an appropriate British Standard. This is normally achieved by testing against the Regulator’s specification test codes sheets or relevant BS/EN standard. All the non-metallic materials in contact with drinking water within components/ products must also meet the requirements of BS 6920 ‘Suitability of non-metallic materials and products for use in contact with water intended for human consumption’. This includes a number of tests to assess the suitability of nonmetallic materials to ensure they do not impart odour or flavour, cause a change in appearance (colour or turbidity), promote

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I microbial growth, or leach substances (including toxic metals) harmful to human health.

How Kiwa UK Water Regulation 4 approval (KUKreg4) helps you demonstrate compliance Kiwa is an international certification, inspection, testing, and training company, and Kiwa Watertec specialises in testing water products and components to be certified for water regulation compliance across the world. The Kiwa UK Regulation 4 Approval (KUKreg4) is a robust method for demonstrating compliance with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. There are many benefits to KUKreg4 over alternative approval schemes, and these benefits are accessible online (see link at the bottom of this article). Kiwa certified products are listed under the Kiwa UK Regulation 4 approved product list, and this is also accessible online: https://www.kiwa.com/gb/en/ about-kiwa/water-products/

WRAS is not a mandatory requirement WRAS is historically stated in project speciﬁcations because WRAS approval used to be the most common way to demonstrate compliance against water regulations. However, WRAS is a voluntary scheme. The minimum legal requirement is for components/products to be compliant with Water Regulation 4 and this is exactly what KUKreg4 provides you with. KUKreg4 is widely accepted by water authorities and, since the terminology of ‘Regulation 4 compliance’ is more widely used and the decision making of WRAS approval no longer involves the water authorities, it has much more visibility and acceptance in the industry. Like WRAS, the Kiwa KUKreg4 approval mark demonstrates full compliance with the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, so it can be universally accepted as equal to WRAS approval.

◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/14

’m a strong plus give them a van, fuel, believer in software, and training. recurring income. By generating recurring A recurring income income, you give yourself stream is income the freedom and financial that comes in regularly, backing to grow your on a predictable basis, in business in a systematic, exchange for an ongoing predictable way. This service. Recurring will enable you to expand income (or recurring without worrying about revenue) can come in whether there will be weekly, monthly, or enough money coming in annually, and is earned each month to pay everyday on a regular basis rather expenses. Since it takes than as a one-time time and effort to establish payment. This can be a successful business, being Aaron McLeish extremely beneficial to able to develop and expand Director at Together We Count any business. at a pace that doesn’t Most of your business disrupt your cash flow is and even household bills will be paid essential for sustained growth without monthly via direct debit. Think of your over-trading. As your monthly recurring income grows, so can your monthly van payments, insurance, phone or expenses (obviously keeping your income software providers. These may all be paid higher than your expenses!). on a monthly basis.

Consistent and predictable

Adding employees

Recurring income could take many forms for a plumbing and heating business. It could be a monthly boiler service and maintenance plan for a domestic customer, or you may look after a letting agent, where you are the go-to firm for all of their CP12, for example. Moving up the scale, it could take the form of big contracts with a local housing association or council authorities, where a plumbing and heating business is responsible for a large portfolio of properties for a set budget and set period. Recurring income even includes marketing efforts or paying for leads which generate consistent work. When you can predict the work ahead, invoice for it, and have money land in the bank, then you have recurring income. If you know in a given period that you are going to service or install X amount of boilers that will generate X amount of revenue, you can then work backwards from your sales figures and allocate the gross profit to your everyday business’s operational expenses. In accounting, we call this contribution.

I was once asked by a plumbing and heating business owner: “When is the right time to hire my first employee?” My response was based on the above information. Taking on your first hire may be a daunting experience, knowing that you are responsible for a salary or another household. As a business moves from being a start-up to an established reputable firm, I feel that keeping your costs variable (i.e. they change in proportion to sales) is advisable. For a plumbing and heating firm, this may take the form of hiring subcontractors for a few days a week, while you build your recurring income. Once your recurring income is at a level that enables you to take on more costs (so that your recurring income is more than your recurring expenses), then a business could take on a full-time employee instead of a subcontractor, knowing that all of the associated costs of hiring staff are covered.

Planning for the future Monthly recurring income lets you plan better for business in the future. You’ll know what will come in, which in turn will mean you can plan what can go out (expenditure). In addition, you can plan your workload better, deploy staﬀ, not have the stress or worry of seasonality, and you can generate positive cash ﬂows. Let’s say you’ve got £10,000 of recurring income in one month. With that, you now have predictable money that can enable you to hire an engineer,

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 author of The Quote Handbook. Visit the website here: www.togetherwecount.co.uk



Aaron’s Quick Tip

Strive to think of the lifetime value of a customer: what do they want and need? Then ensure that this is delivered. It’s often cheaper to look after existing customers as opposed to ﬁshing for new customers all of the time.

30/05/2022 10:21

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Underﬂoor Heating 21

The best solution for low ﬂow temperatures As the market moves to low temperature, low carbon solutions heating systems, could valuable energy saving opportunities be overlooked by continuing to focus on radiators to the exclusion of other heat emitters? Kevin Ray from trade association BEAMA Underﬂoor argues that UFH systems represent the only practical solution.

updates to Building Regulations Part L come into force this month (15th June) which will require new heating systems to be designed with a maximum flow temperature of 55°C. This, along with other regulatory changes to building fabric, aims to ensure all new homes produce 30% less carbon emissions than is permitted under the previous Part L requirements. These changes are considered to be an interim step in the government’s pathway to the 2025 Future Homes Standard, when we expect gas boilers to be banned in newbuild properties and replaced with lowtemperature heat sources such as heat pumps. Regulations limiting heating water flow temperatures to 55°C are a real step-change and require careful consideration of the heat emitters we use, and their impact on a heating system’s energy efficiency. Consumers will still expect their homes to be comfortable, regardless of the flow temperature of their heating, and yet different heat emitters require different flow temperatures to operate at their most efficient. It is vital that the government encourages the use of heat emitters that will maximise efficiency benefits. This means not just focusing on a single option.

Compared to other heat emitters, underﬂoor heating has been shown to deliver a more consistent temperature where it is needed most 

Kevin Ray

H&V portfolio manager for BEAMA Underﬂoor

There is no point having the most efficient heat source and control methodology if the way the heat is delivered into the room compromises those developments

Most efficient

Independent research commissioned by EURAY (the European UFH trade association) in 2005 proved that underfloor heating (UFH) was significantly more efficient than radiators with any heat source and in any type of building. This study, undertaken by Prof Bjarne W. Olesen of the International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy in Denmark, was a landmark comparison of emitter efficiencies and directly led to the inclusion of UFH in the Green Deal technology list as the only efficient emitter. Further studies carried out by Prof Olesen in 2008, which focused on UK conditions specifically, also supported his previous findings that UFH was the most efficient type of emitter.

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CUT TO THE CHASE  Regulations now require that new heating systems are designed with a maximum ﬂow temperature of 55°C.  Different heat emitters require different flow temperatures to operate efficiently.  It is not the product that determines the efficiency of any emitter, but the correct sizing of the emitter for the property.  UFH systems provide further energy savings when installed in systems designed to work with even lower ﬂow temperatures.

The second study found that, compared to a low-temperature boiler/radiator system, a boiler/ UFH system uses between 5% and 15% less energy. When coupled with a heat pump, the savings are signiﬁcantly more due to UFH being the optimal emitter for generating the highest eﬃciencies from the heat pump. CO2 savings followed a similar trend.

Big issue

The study also demonstrated that, with a flow temperature of 55°C, radiators would need to be double their current size to enable a sufficient room temperature. And, while UFH could still easily heat a space with a flow temperature of 35°C, radiators would need to be almost seven times the size to heat the room to the required comfort level. Even a doubling of radiator sizes clearly raises questions of both practicality, such as use of precious living space, and of the embedded carbon involved in the manufacture and distribution of radiators. UFH can be used in both newbuild and retrofit projects and with surface temperatures of around 27°C can be more responsive and controllable, offers a design life twice as long as other emitters, and at even lower flow temperatures (e.g. 35°C) can offer greater efficiency.

Confusing labels

Government is considering further changes to heat emitter policy and regulation. Following the UK’s exit from the EU, BEIS is beginning to design its own products policy, and new measures are intended to apply in the UK from 2025. While BEAMA Underﬂoor welcomes the opportunity that this policy review brings, we are concerned that the government’s focus seems to be solely on radiators or convectors, with barely any mention of UFH. The suggestion that emitters should be labelled ‘A’ to ‘G’ for their eﬃciency, aligning them

with consumer electrical appliances such as fridges and freezers, is one that we sincerely hope is not taken forward. It is not the product that determines the efficiency of any emitter, but the correct sizing of the emitter for the property. While a 600 x 600mm double wall radiator could be efficient enough for a small room, that same radiator would be inefficient if required to provide the same level of comfort for a large room, because the flow temperature would be significantly higher. Providing a straightforward energy label to a radiator would simply cause confusion and exacerbate the problems of incorrect sizing and inefficient systems. The very real danger is that a quick fix to label radiators now, while on the surface a noble concept to benefit the older superseded technology, will hobble the potential to meet our carbon reduction commitments in three years time and lead to ever higher fuel bills for UK households. And it is an unnecessary risk, because the tools, standards and guidance already exist and have been accepted as robust by government departments and industry. Clear guidance just needs to be promoted to consumers and installers new to low-temp technology. We also believe that government should be setting a target to reduce flow temperatures even further – to 45°C – in the next Building Regulation update.

Fundamental change

We believe a fundamental change in government and industry thinking is needed if we are to see a reduction in emissions from the manufacture, operation, and

replacement of heat emitters. After all, there is no point having the most efficient heat source and control methodology if the way the heat is delivered into the room compromises those developments. Chris Ingram, nine times chair of BEAMA Underfloor and founder of Continal Underfloor Heating, says: “The suggested direction of travel that we’re seeing from government feels a bit like trying to run an efficient, aerodynamic car, with low emissions, on the sort of tyres that were once fitted to a Model T Ford. We finally have the opportunity to complete the circle of truly energy efficient heating systems, but to do that we need to consider the system as a whole, and not the products in isolation, to guarantee the best possible efficiencies.”

Backed by research

The studies and work completed by various bodies, and their adoption by government in previous green heating schemes, leave no doubt that to achieve comfort and efficiency with low water temperatures, UFH offers the most benefits in terms of performance and overall efficiency. This fact stems from decades of independent research, sponsored research, calculations based on established standards, expert opinion, and guidance from government, BRE, BSRIA, CIBSE and EST, to name a few. As we adopt low temperature heating from 2025, UFH is the only practical method of heat emitter that allows us to maximise the benefits of very low temperatures in domestic heating and ensure the subsequent carbon reductions that are needed. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/15

30/05/2022 15:30

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Underfloor Heating

Top tips that will help on your next retrofit job With most retrofit underfloor heating jobs, it’s likely that the sub-structure you’re working with hasn’t been designed with UFH pipework in mind, so the system specified will not only need to ensure the lowest possible floor build-up, but also provide sufficient output to meet the property’s heat loss. Here, Ambiente’s Gerry Shephard provides advice on how to ensure a smooth retrofit installation.

he popularity of underfloor heating as primary heating is ever increasing thanks to the flexibility of such systems, as well as suitability to pair with renewable technology and the efficiency which can be achieved. Underfloor heating also offers an array of additional benefits when compared with traditional radiator systems, including sustainability credentials, ease of installation and the possibility for interior layout freedom, to name but a few. While it is quicker to install underfloor heating systems at the new build stage, retrofit installation is in demand as homeowners seek solutions which allow them to take advantage of the benefits above, while also adding value to their property. Thanks to advances in product design, retrofitting is now more achievable than ever. In a retrofit situation, it’s likely that you’ll be working with the sub-floor and heat source that’s already in place and, with older properties, the building will not have been designed with underfloor heating in mind. However, keeping a few key planning, product and installation tips in mind will ensure a smooth installation.

System choice The major factor to consider with any retrofit project is floor levels and the final floor-toceiling height, as this can begin to affect other elements within the room. For example, if a customer has already made plans for the

22.indd 1

Gerry Shephard

Business development manager at Ambiente

CUT TO THE CHASE  Floor-to-ceiling height is a crucial consideration when specifying UFH, as it has so many knock-on effects  Manufacturers produce UFH systems that can be laid on top of an existing sub-floor  Making use of the manufacturer’s in-house design team will help avoid problems  Systems with pre-grooved channels can cut down on installation time  Calculate the floor covering’s thermal resistance to ensure it doesn’t adversely affect the output of the UFH system

finishing touches such as skirting board and kitchen worktop finishing levels, these fixtures may have been specified using the existing floor height. As such, these measurements may need to be adjusted to the revised floor height. Traditionally, retrofitting underfloor heating into a project may have involved excavating the existing floors prior to laying the pipework and re-screeding. Allowing for a much less disruptive approach, products are now available which enable underfloor heating to be laid on top of the existing sub-floor. These technologies aim to ensure minimal disruption to the floor and the lowest possible build-up, while still maintaining sufficient output to meet the property’s heat loss. When it comes to pairing the system with the heat source in place, especially if renewable technology such as a heat pump is being introduced, so working with a specialist underfloor heating supplier is key. They will not only be able to offer expert advice and provide detailed CAD drawings, but they will also take into account the parameters of the heat source to ensure the system delivers maximum overall efficiency.

Low profile The ideal retrofit solution is a low profile underfloor heating system which is specifically designed to minimise the impact

on the floor build-up. Typically, a low profile system consists of a network of pipes laid within a slim panel, incorporating pre-formed grooves to take the underfloor heating pipework and a radius return grooved into each panel. Products such as our AmbiLowboard also incorporate insulation, and each panel is covered with an aluminium foil face to ensure heat is efficiently pushed up through the sub-floor layers for maximum output. The nature of the system also offers a quicker response than a traditional screeded system.

Build in planning time The initial planning and preparation stages are crucial for retrofit underfloor heating systems as the pipework will predominantly run within pregrooved channels, which is also how the pipes are secured. This is different from a screeded system in a new-build project where the pipe layout is more flexible. Careful planning is essential, coupled with a smart and comprehensive design, to help the installation go smoothly and achieve the required heat output. The panels should be laid in a way which ensures the pipework runs with access to all areas and is also able to return to the manifold to complete the loop. In some scenarios, pipework can also be run through walls to avoid cluttered transit areas around the manifold.

p The AmbiLowboard is a low-profile system made for retrofit scenarios, where floor build-up height is at a premium

Consider the finish It’s important to ensure that the floor finish is factored in at the very beginning of any underfloor system design, together with other key parameters, especially when retrofitting. The main consideration is calculating the floor covering’s thermal resistance. This data will ensure the underfloor heating design factors in the required spacing of pipework and the rate at which the water will need to be pumped around the loops in order to meet the heat loss. This crucial planning step will ensure the chosen floor covering doesn’t adversely affect the output of the final underfloor heating system. When it comes to the choice of floor finish, tiles and wood flooring can be laid directly over most low-profile systems. This not only removes the need for an additional layer between the system and the floor covering, but it also keeps floor build-up to a minimum and eliminates the need to cost up additional materials. However, other finishes such as carpets or vinyl will require an intermediate board layer, prior to the finish being installed – adding further to the height build-up. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/16

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łùāũƪŋŋũ Heating 23

Questions answered BL]]PY 0aLY^ Q]ZX .Z^d1WZZ] ɧ L ^[PNTLWT^_ ^`[[WTP] ZQ `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR products – responds to some frequently asked questions from installers. Will I get enough heat from my UFH system if working with a heat pump? When it comes to working with heat pumps, the way that the system is designed and installed is key. Our CosyBoard system can achieve outputs up to ˚˙˙W/m2, but the system needs to be installed correctly to maintain these results. Our designers always look to achieve the maximum output from each loop by starting the ʮZb L_ _SP NZWOP^_ [L]_ ZQ _SP room (or zone) and working away from this point. This delivers _SP SZ__P^_ ʮZb _PX[P]L_`]P _Z _SP NZWOP^_ L]PL ʭ]^_ _SPY NdNWP^ the remaining heat through the ]P^_ ZQ _SP ʮZZ] MPQZ]P ]P_`]YTYR to the manifold. If the system was installed in the opposite direction, the heat would be distributed to the warmer areas ZQ _SP ]ZZX ʭ]^_ bT_S _SP NZZWP] return water then hitting the

23.indd 1

Warren Evans

Director at CosyFloor

coldest part of the room – a much WP^^ PʯNTPY_ ^d^_PX Do I need ˚˞˙mm pipe centres if using with a heat pump? No, because a system that is OP^TRYPO NZ]]PN_Wd LYO PʯNTPY_Wd

does not need to be comprised solely of ˚˞˙mm pipe centres. It all comes down to the output of _SP `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^d^_PX bT_S T_^ ]PWPaLY_ ʮZZ] ʭYT^S balanced against the desired room temperature, and taking into account the heat loss of the room L_ _SP NLWN`WL_PO ʮZb LYO ]P_`]Y temperature. It’s not a simple P\`L_TZY M`_ T_ɪ^ XZ]P PʯNTPY_ than opting for ˚˞˙mm pipe centres across the entire system. We have designed systems with ˛˞˙mm pipe centres pipework, as well as systems with ˚˙˙mm pipe centres. It’s all dependent on the heat loss of the room. !Öł R ŶĢķā̓ ķÖƘ ƪŋŋũ ùĢũāóŶķƘ ŋƑāũ CosyBoard? Yes, you can. However, we give clear directions for preparation, and these methods must be followed to maintain system PʯNTPYNd .Z^d-ZL]O T^ L gypsum-based product, and, as

any plasterer or builder will tell you, gypsum and cement don’t have the best of relationships. Therefore, before applying any cement-based product to .Z^d-ZL]O T_ X`^_ ʭ]^_ MP prepped with a primer. The primer should be applied in two stages (a ˜̆˚ mix followed by a ˚̆˚ mix) to seal the gypsum and prevent any product reaction. As you will be laying a heated ʮZZ] bP bZ`WO LW^Z ]PNZXXPYO applying a decoupling or antifracture membrane under the tiles - this will prevent any lateral movement when the system expands and contracts. What is the max loop length? The maximum loop length is dependent on the parameters of your heat source and the type of system you require. The smaller _SP /PW_L ? MP_bPPY dZ`] ʮZb LYO return on your heat source, the shorter your group lengths will become. The diameter of the pipe installed will also be a factor. If you are installing ˚˛mm, group lengths will become shorter; however, if you are installing ˛˙mm, group lengths will become larger. This is down to the velocity of water travelling through the pipework and the

power of the pump pushing the bL_P] L]Z`YO _SP ^d^_PX ?SP ʮZZ] ʭYT^S LW^Z YPPO^ _Z MP NZY^TOP]PO to ensure the system delivers the output required with the correct length of pipe, without undersizing the system. 'ŋ R łāāù ƪŋŋũ ŭāłŭŋũŭ̎ Floor sensors are required bSP]P _SP ʮZZ] NLYYZ_ PcNPPO a maximum temperature, or YPPO^ _Z XLTY_LTY L ^[PNTʭN temperature. Where temperatures cannot exceed a maximum temperature, (usually adhesive Z] bZZO ʮZZ] ʭYT^SP^ _SP ʮZZ] sensor is set to a maximum limit which will cut out when this temperature is reached. The thermostat will re-engage once the temperature reduces by ˚-˛°C. For example, a poorly installed system with pipes spaced too close together, or a sensor directly above a pipe, will continually MP _`]YTYR ZY LYO Zʬ L^ _SP ʮZZ] ^PY^Z] SPL_^ _ZZ \`TNVWd therefore taking a long time to achieve room temperature.

Expert advice Find out about the free expert advice from CosyFloor by using the online readerlink service below: ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˚ˠ

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łùāũƪ ŋŋũ Heating

Small area solutions :ʬ -_SP-^SPWQ `YOP]ʮ ZZ] SPL_TYR [LNV^ XLd XLVP QZ] L NZYaPYTPY_ [`]NSL^P M`_ _SPd []ZMLMWd bZYɪ_ MP ^TePO [P]QPN_Wd QZ] _SP ^[LNP dZ` bTWW MP bZ]VTYR TY /LaP =LdYZ] Q]ZX .ZY_TYLW OT^N`^^P^ _SP M`^TYP^^ɪ^ >XLWW ,]PL >ZW`_TZY LW_P]YL_TaP _SL_ M]TORP^ _SP RL[ MP_bPPY [LNV^ LYO MP^[ZVP []ZO`N_^

YOP]ʮ ZZ] SPL_TYR NLY MP LY TOPLW NTPY_ PYP]Rd-Pʯ ^ZW`_TZY QZ] LWXZ^_ LYd @6 SZXP 4_ Zʬ P]^ NZXQZ]_LMWP bL]X_S _SL_ RTaP^ SZXPZbYP]^ L W`c`]TZ`^ QPPW XLcTXT^TYR WTaTYR ^[LNP LYO LOOTYR aLW`P _Z LYd []Z[P]_d M`_ T_ SL^ YPaP] MPPY L ZYP-^TeP-ʭ _^LWW ^ZW`_TZY ,^ LY TY^_LWWP] _Z RP_ _SP aP]d MP^_ Z`_ ZQ _SP @13 ^d^_PX^ dZ` ʭ _ T_ɪ^ TX[Z]_LY_ _Z LWbLd^ OZ L _SZ]Z`RS ^`]aPd ZQ _SP []Z[P]_d L^^P^^TYR T_^ SPL_ WZ^^P^ LYO PcLN_ PYP]Rd ]P\`T]PXPY_^ L^ bPWW L^ bSL_ Q`PW ^Z`]NP _SP []Z[P]_d `^P^ LYO _SPY OP^TRY L ^d^_PX _SL_ T^ _LTWZ]PO _Z PcLN_Wd _SZ^P YPPO^ :_SP]bT^P dZ` ]`Y _SP ]T^V ZQ SLaTYR L ^d^_PX _SL_ OZP^Yɪ_ []ZaTOP SZXPZbYP]^ bT_S LWW _SP SPL_TYR LYO bL]X_S

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Dave Raynor Product director at Continal

_SPd OP^P]aP Z] ZYP _SL_ ]`Y^ WP^^ Pʯ NTPY_Wd LYO NZ^_^ XZ]P _SLY T_ ^SZ`WO ɧ L [L]_TN`WL] NZYNP]Y QZ] SZXPZbYP]^ L_ _ST^ _TXP ZQ ]T^TYR WTaTYR NZ^_^ LYO ^Vd STRS Q`PW MTWW^ 4Y^_LWWTYR @13 TY WL]RP Z] YPbM`TWO []Z[P]_TP^ SL^ LWbLd^ TYaZWaPO ^VTWWPO @13 TY^_LWWP]^ _LVTYR _SP _TXP _Z OP^TRY _SP ]TRS_ [T[P WLdZ`_^ LYO NZ]]PN_Wd ^TeP _SP XLYTQZWO^ M`_ bSL_ LMZ`_ bSPY dZ`ɪ]P ʭ __TYR L ^d^_PX QZ] U`^_ L ZYP-]ZZX Pc_PY^TZY Z] L^ [L]_ ZQ L ^XLWWP] ]PYZaL_TZY []ZUPN_*

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¦Ğā ķĢĿDĢƗ ķŋƒ-ťũŋĕĢķā ŭƘŭŶāĿ

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bZ]V _SPd XLd MP [WLYYTYR L_ L WL_P] OL_P* :] _SP ^d^_PX ZY _SP ^SPWQ OZP^Yɪ_ \`T_P ʭ _ _SP ]P\`T]PXPY_^ ZQ _SP []Z[P]_d dZ`ɪ]P bZ]VTYR TY* 4Q dZ` L]P WTXT_PO Md bSL_ɪ^ LaLTWLMWP bSPY dZ`ɪ]P ^_LYOTYR TY _SP M`TWOP]^ɪ XP]NSLY_ M]LYNS _SP]P T^ L ]PLW ]T^V _SL_ dZ`ɪWW PYO `[ XLVTYR OZ bT_S bSL_ɪ^ ZY Zʬ P] ]L_SP] _SLY NSZZ^TYR L ^d^_PX _SL_ RTaP^ dZ` PcLN_Wd bSL_ dZ` YPPO :Q_PY dZ`ɪO PYO `[ MPTYR WPQ_

01/06/2022 11:25

PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 06/06/2022 11:45 Page 25

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

łùāũƪŋŋũ Heating 25 Our Small Area UFH Solution ^P]aTNP ZʬP]^ L ^_LYOL]OT^PO ]ZZX ^ZW`_TZY QZ] @13 bSP]P YZ_STYR T^ ^_LYOL]O ɧ PaP]d single component is checked to make sure it’s ˚˙˙% suitable QZ] _SP []ZUPN_ LYO _Z LaZTO the unnecessary wastage that T^ ZQ_PY QZ`YO L^ [L]_ ZQ ^ZXP Z_SP] NZX[LYTP^ɪ Zʬ-the-^SPWQ UFH packs, so that you and your N`^_ZXP]^ bTWW ZYWd PaP] [Ld QZ] what you are going to use.

bT_S PT_SP] L QPb ZOO XP_]P^ ZQ pipe that go to waste at the end ZQ L UZM Z] PaPY SLaTYR _Z M`d L WL]RP] ɧ LYO XZ]P Pc[PY^TaP – system than your customer actually needs. 0aP]d @6 SZXP T^ OTʬP]PY_ LYO so heating projects are rarely standard. As a skilled installer, dZ` OP^P]aP _Z Pc[PN_ _SP ^LXP STRS ^_LYOL]O^ ZQ N`^_ZXP] ^P]aTNP LYO _PNSYTNLW ^`[[Z]_ Q]ZX dZ`] @13 XLY`QLN_`]P] QZ] PaP]d []ZUPN_ dZ` bZ]V ZY whether you’re purchasing a ˛˙m² UFH system, or one that is ʭaP _TXP^ L^ WL]RP

ķķ ƘŋŽ łāāù

āũĕāóŶ ƩŶ ?SL_ɪ^ bSd bPɪaP TY_]ZO`NPO L YPb >XLWW ,]PL >ZW`_TZY ^P]aTNP allowing installers to source complete UFH systems with no bL^_LRP ɧ PaPY QZ] _SP ^XLWWP^_ ^[LNP^ ?ST^ YPb ^P]aTNP LWWZb^ TY^_LWWP]^ _Z LNN`]L_PWd ^PWQ^PWPN_ _SP ]TRS_ `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^d^_PX Q]ZX L NZX[]PSPY^TaP ]LYRP ZQ Z[_TZY^ with the reassurance that what you choose will be checked by an experienced technical sales LOaT^Z] MPQZ]P MPTYR OT^[L_NSPO so you know you’re ordering exactly what you need.

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¦ĢķāDĢƗ Ģŭ ùāŭĢėłāù Ŷŋ ÖóóāťŶ ùĢũāóŶ tiling with a standard tile adhesive

A new online selection tool on the Continal website allows you to create your own bespoke UFH Small Area Solution, which is tailored exactly to your project’s requirements. You simply enter details about the project such L^ _SP ʮZZ] L]PL _SP _d[P ZQ ^d^_PX _SP ^TeP ZQ [T[P ]P\`T]PO the controls your customer bLY_^ LYO bSL_ _d[P ZQ ʮZZ] ʭYT^S _SL_ bTWW MP WLTO ZY _Z[ ?SP

website will then automatically generate an instant quote that RTaP^ dZ` _SP aP]d MP^_ @13 ^d^_PX _LTWZ]PO ^[PNTʭNLWWd QZ] the project at hand. -PNL`^P bP ZʬP] L Q`WW ]LYRP ZQ @13 ^d^_PX^ _SP^P >XLWW Area Solutions include packages QZ] ^ZWTO ʮZZ] ^d^_PX^ L^ bPWW as our high quality SlimFix and ?TWP1Tc ^d^_PX^ 0aP]d >XLWW ,]PL >ZW`_TZY TYNW`OP^ ʭ__TYR

kits where necessary, as well as Q`WW TY^_]`N_TZY^ _Z PY^`]P L \`TNV and easy installation. Once the system request has MPPY ^`MXT__PO PaP]d Z]OP] T^ NSPNVPO NL]PQ`WWd Md Z`] Pc[P]_ _PNSYTNLW ^LWP^ LOaT^P]^ MPQZ]P being dispatched, so you can rest assured that you’ll always ]PNPTaP PcLN_Wd bSL_ dZ` YPPO to complete the job at the most NZX[P_T_TaP []TNP

Each system comes with a Q`WW XLY`LW LYO TY^_LWWL_TZY instructions, all backed by our industry leading customer ^P]aTNP LYO []ZO`N_ R`L]LY_PP^ ?PNSYTNLW LOaTNP T^ LaLTWLMWP L_ _SP PYO ZQ _SP [SZYP L_ LYd [ZTY_ O`]TYR _SP []ZUPN_ Q]ZX _SP initial quote right through to the ʭYLW NZXXT^^TZYTYR ^_LRP 0aP]d installer is assigned one technical ^LWP^ LOaT^P] bSZ bTWW bZ]V bT_S you throughout the entire project, and who can also liaise with your customers and any other trades ZY ^T_P TQ ]P\`T]PO ?SP ZYWTYP >XLWW ,]PL >ZW`_TZY ^PWPN_TZY _ZZW NLY MP QZ`YO `^TYR the online link below. ͻ ťĞÖĿłāƒŭ̍óŋ̍ŽĴ̓˟˛˛̓˚ˡ

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łùāũƪŋŋũ Heating !ŋĿťķāŶā óŋłŶũŋķ ƒĢŶĞ ķŽāŶŋŋŶĞ ?SP -W`P_ZZ_S []ZR]LXXLMWP _SP]XZ^_L_ -?˛˚̇ Q]ZX ?SP]XZ>[SP]P SL^ MPPY OP^TRYPO QZ] MZ_S bP_ Z] PWPN_]TN `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR LYO NLY LW^Z NZY_]ZW _ZbPW ML]^ >LTO _Z MP \`TNV LYO PL^d _Z ^P_ `[ _SP -?˛˚ OZP^ YZ_ ]PWd ZY L BT-1T ^TRYLW ɧ TY^_PLO T_ `^P^ -W`P_ZZ_S NZYYPN_TaT_d QZ] NZX[WP_P NZY_]ZW TY _SP SZXP PaPY bSPY _SP TY_P]YP_ T^ OZbY ?SP OTLW Z[P]L_TZY ZY _SP -?˛˚ bZ]V^ bT_S U`^_ L ɩ_L[ɪ LYO ɩ_bT^_ɪ _Z LOU`^_ _SP .ZXQZ]_ LYO 0NZ XZOP^ ɧ PaP]d_STYR

LOU`^_PO bT_SZ`_ SLaTYR _Z YLaTRL_P _S]Z`RS NZX[WTNL_PO XPY`^ 1Z] X`W_T[WP _SP]XZ^_L_^ _SP -?˛˚ L[[ TYNW`OP^ L OdYLXTN ɩNZ[d LYO [L^_Pɪ Q`YN_TZY LWWZbTYR _SP SPL_TYR ^NSPO`WP LYO ^P__TYR^ _Z MP NZ[TPO Q]ZX ZYP _SP]XZ^_L_ _Z LYZ_SP] ,^ T_ bZ]V^ bT_S LWW [Z[`WL] ^PY^Z] _d[P^ ZWOP] _SP]XZ^_L_^ NLY ^TX[Wd MP ]P[WLNPO LYO `[OL_PO ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˛˙ PW^P T^ OZYP ZY _SP L[[ ?Z XLVP _SP _SP]XZ^_L_ _LX[P]-[]ZZQ `^P]^ NLY LN_TaL_P _SP 7ZNVOZbY XZOP 4_ NLY _LVP WP^^ _SLY L XTY`_P _Z ^P_ _SP SPL_TYR ^NSPO`WP^ LYO _SP ^P__TYR^

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN! 8YVR XS TEKI XS ƼRH SYX LS[ ]SY GER [MR XLI &8 &PYIXSSXL TVSKVEQQEFPI XLIVQSWXEX 4097 YT XS Qs SJ 8LIVQS7TLIVI 1IQFVERI JSV ]SYV RI\X IPIGXVMG 9*, LIEXMRK TVSNIGX

Dry-ƩƗ ŭŋķŽŶĢŋł ŶĞÖŶ̪ŭ !ÖũāĕŽķķƘ óŽũÖŶāù óŋĿťŋłāłŶŭ Ģł ðāŭťŋĴā ťÖóĴÖėā āÖŭĢāũ Ŷŋ ĢłŭŶÖķķ ?SP B`YOL_SP]X `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^d^_PX T^ _SP ʮLR^ST[ []ZO`N_ Q]ZX B`YOL 2]Z`[ BT_S YZ YPPO QZ] ^N]PPO Z] NPXPY_ T_ T^ L O]d-ʭc ^ZW`_TZY _SL_ NLY ^TX[Wd MP WLTO OT]PN_Wd ZY _Z[ ZQ PcT^_TYR ʮZZ]TYR ?SP ^d^_PX `^P^ WTRS_bPTRS_ ^_]ZYR R]ZZaPO MZL]O^ NZaP]PO bT_S L _STNV LW`XTYT`X QZTW LYO QPL_`]TYR NWZ^P [T[P NPY_]P^ bSTNS SZWO ˚˟mm [WL^_TN [T[P bT_S LY LW`XTYT`X NZ]P 4Y[`_ _PX[P]L_`]P^ QZ] B`YOL_SP]X NLY MP L^ WZb L^ ˝˞{. XLVTYR T_ NZX[L_TMWP bT_S WZb NL]MZY SPL_ L[[WTLYNP^ 4_ NLY LW^Z bZ]V bT_S _]LOT_TZYLW MZTWP]^ M`_ T^ ^`T_LMWP QZ] LYd SPL_ ^Z`]NP TYNW`OTYR SPL_ [`X[^ 4_ T^ LW^Z NZX[L_TMWP bT_S LWXZ^_ LYd ʮZZ] _d[P ?SP NZX[LYd NWLTX^ _SP B`YOL_SP]X NLY ]PLN_ \`TNVWd _Z L NLWW QZ] SPL_ ^LdTYR T_ NLY MP LOU`^_PO _Z ]PLNS OP^T]PO _PX[P]L_`]P^ TY L^ WT__WP L^ ˜˙ XTY`_P^ ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˚ˢ

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9Zb LaLTWLMWP Q]ZX @YT_SP]X T^ L MP^[ZVP `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^ZW`_TZY^ [LNVLRP []ZaTOTYR TY^_LWWP]^ bT_S PT_SP] L NZX[WP_P @13 ^ZW`_TZY ]PLOd QZ] TY^_LWWL_TZY Z] TYOTaTO`LW NZX[ZYPY_^ L^ ]P\`T]PO ?SP NZX[LYd ^Ld^ T_ OTO YZ_ ^TX[Wd M]TYR TY L []Z[]TP_L]d ^d^_PX LYO MLORP T_ bT_S @YT_SP]X QZ] ]P-^LWP _Z TY^_LWWP]^ 4Y^_PLO _SP _PLX WZZVPO L_ LWW _SP LaLTWLMWP NZX[ZYPY_^ LYO ^Z`]NPO bSL_ T_ NZY^TOP]PO _Z MP _SP MP^_ TY `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR Q]ZX _SP OdYLXTN MLWLYNPO ^_LTYWP^^ ^_PPW XLYTQZWO^ _Z _SP `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR [T[PbZ]V @YT_SP]X NLY []ZaTOP LY LNN`]L_P \`Z_L_TZY bT_STY ˛˝ SZ`]^ LYO L Q`WW OP^TRY bT_STY ˝ˡ SZ`]^ ZQ _SP Z]OP] MPTYR [WLNPO ?SP aL^_ XLUZ]T_d ZQ _SP NZX[ZYPY_^ L]P LaLTWLMWP TY ^_ZNV bT_S ^ZW`_TZY^ QZ] MZ_S _SP R]Z`YO ʮZZ] LYO `[[P] ʮZZ]^ ?SP]P T^ LW^Z L ^PWPN_TZY ZQ LW`XTYT`X ]LOTL_Z]^ TQ ]P\`T]PO ?SP NZX[LYd LW^Z ^`[[WTP^ LYO OP^TRY^ Q`WW ]PYPbLMWP SPL_TYR ^d^_PX^ _Z TYNW`OP SPL_ [`X[^ _Z RZ bT_S @13 LYO ]LOTL_Z]^ ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˛˚

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

łùāũƪŋŋũ Heating Start out right with onthe-job training ?SP _]LTYTYR _PLX L_ ;ZWd[T[P -`TWOTYR ;]ZO`N_^ SL^ WL`YNSPO LY `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^T_P ^`[[Z]_ ^P]aTNP QZ] TY^_LWWP]^ 4_ ZʬP]^ _SP NSLYNP _Z RP_ ZY-_SPUZM R`TOLYNP LYO _]LTYTYR _SL_ T^ ɭNWPL] NZYNT^P LYO Q]ZX _SP Pc[P]_^ TY _SP ʭPWOɮ >Z QL] TY ˛˙˛˛ ;ZWd[T[Pɪ^ ^T_P ^`[[Z]_ SL^ SPW[PO bT_S PaP]d_STYR Q]ZX _SP LOaLYNPO QPL_`]P^ ZQ ^XL]_ NZY_]ZW^ LYO bT]TYR NPY_]P^ _Z MWPPOTYR _SP []TXL]TP^ ZY L XLYTQZWO ^d^_PX ?SP^P ZY^T_P _]LTYTYR ^P^^TZY^ SLaP ZNN`]]PO ZY L bTOP aL]TP_d ZQ []ZUPN_^ Q]ZX ^TYRWP ^_Z]Pd SZXP^ _Z W`c`]d L[L]_XPY_^ LYO _SPd SLaP MPPY WZNL_PO TY _ZbY^ LYO NT_TP^ Q]ZX -Z`]YPXZ`_S _Z /`YOPP ;ZWd[T[P ^Ld^ _SP XZ^_ NZXXZY \`P^_TZY^ L]P L]Z`YO ^P__TYR `[ ^XL]_ NZY_]ZW^ bT_S YPb ^d^_PX^ ?SP NZX[LYdɪ^ ^XL]_ NZY_]ZW^ NLY MP [LT]PO bT_S LYd ;ZWd[T[P `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^d^_PX LYO YZb ZʬP] ^XL]_[SZYP L[[ TY_PR]L_TZY LYO L]P NZX[L_TMWP bT_S XZ^_ aZTNP L^^T^_LY_^ QZ] PʬPN_TaP SLYO^-Q]PP Z[P]L_TZY 4Y LOOT_TZY _Z _]LTYTYR _SP _PLX NLY SPW[ TOPY_TQd T^^`P^ TY ^d^_PX^ LYO MLNV _ST^ `[ bT_S _SP]XLW TXLRTYR ?SPd bTWW LW^Z SPW[ _Z TY_P][]P_ Q`WW OP^TRY OZN`XPY_L_TZY _Z TX[]ZaP LYO ^[PPO `[ TY^_LWWL_TZY ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˛˛

Comprehensive range will suit most applications BL]X`[ ZʬP]^ L NSZTNP ZQ `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR ^d^_PX^ _Z ^`T_ L M]ZLO aL]TP_d ZQ TY^_LWWL_TZY^ ?SP ?Z_LW-˚˟ >d^_PX [TN_`]PO T^ ^`T_LMWP QZ] []ZUPN_^ _SL_ YPPO L WZb-[]ZʭWP []ZO`N_ ,OOTYR ZYWd ˚˟XX _Z _SP ʮZZ] M`TWO-`[ _ST^ SdO]ZYTN ʮZZ] SPL_TYR QPL_`]P^ L XZO`WL] WZb-bPTRS_ OP^TRY LWWZbTYR L \`TNV LYO SL^^WP-Q]PP TY^_LWWL_TZY ,W^Z LaLTWLMWP T^ _SP .Wd[^Z >d^_PX QZ] `^P bT_STY ʮZL_TYR ^N]PPOPO ʮZZ]^ ?d[TNLWWd T_ OZP^ YZ_ LʬPN_ _SP OP[_S ZQ L ʮZZ]ɪ^ NZY^_]`N_TZY ?SP [LYPW^ QPL_`]P L bZaPY WLXTYL_P NZL_TYR bSTNS T^ WTYPO TY ˞˙XX R]TO^ QZ] L NWPL] LYO PL^d TY^_LWWL_TZY

?SP 9PccL ˚˛ 7Zb ;]ZʭWP @YOP]ʮZZ] 3PL_TYR 8PXM]LYP T^ L ^WTXWTYP ^d^_PX bT_S L XZO`WL] NL^_PWWL_PO OP^TRY ^`T_LMWP QZ] ]PYZaL_TZY []ZUPN_^ 4_ SL^ ˚˛XX ;0=? [T[P bSTNS

T^ TY^_LWWPO bT_STY _SP LNNZX[LYdTYR NL^_PWWL_PO ^PWQ-LOSP^TaP MLNVPO [LYPW^ bSTNS MZYO OT]PN_Wd _Z L ^XZZ_SPO LYO []TXPO ^`MʮZZ] ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˛˝

All you need to deliver a low temperature system ?SP 0YaT]ZLT] @YOP]ʮZZ] 3PL_TYR ^d^_PX Q]ZX 1T]PMT]O T^ ^`T_LMWP QZ] L bTOP ]LYRP ZQ R]Z`YO LYO `[[P] ʮZZ] NZY^_]`N_TZY^ LYO NLY PL^TWd MP NZXMTYPO bT_S ]LOTL_Z] ^d^_PX^ QZ] Pc_PY^TZY^ LYO NZY^P]aL_Z]TP^ =`YYTYR L_ WZb _PX[P]L_`]P^ _d[TNLWWd L_ ˝˞{. T_ SPW[^ _Z ^LaP PYP]Rd LYO ]`YYTYR NZ^_^ P^[PNTLWWd bSPY `^PO bT_S L ]PYPbLMWP SPL_ ^Z`]NP WTVP _SP 0YaT]ZLT] LT] ^Z`]NP SPL_ [`X[ ?SP 0YaT]ZLT] @YOP]ʮZZ] 3PL_TYR T^ L X`W_TWLdP] ]LTWTYR ^d^_PX QPL_`]TYR X`W_TWLdP] [T[P bT_S LY PXMPOOPO LW`XTYT`X WLdP] /P^[T_P MPTYR STRSWd ʮPcTMWP _SP X`W_TWLdP] [T[P T^ ^LTO _Z MP NSL]LN_P]T^PO Md STRS _PYLNT_d LYO QL_TR`P ^_]PYR_S ?SP ʭcTYR ZQ _SP `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR [T[P^ _LVP^ [WLNP bT_S _SP SPW[ ZQ ^PWQ-LOSP^TaP ʭcTYR ]LTW^ , ]LTW TY^_LWWL_TZY SL^ _SP LOaLY_LRP _SL_ _SP SPL_TYR NT]N`T_^ NLY MP NSLYRPO L^ OP^T]PO bT_SZ`_ OLXLRTYR _SP `YOP]WdTYR TY^`WL_TZY 4_ []ZaTOP^ L RZZO LNZ`^_TN L^ _SP]P T^ YZ YPPO _Z [PYP_]L_P _SP TX[LN_ YZT^P TY^`WL_TZY ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˛˜

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Product Spotlight

It’s time to raise the alarm The hotun range of dry trap tundishes from RA Tech UK now includes a PRV water alarm unit to alert users when water is escaping and needs attention. We highlight one recent case study that demonstrates just how it can help to minimise the risk of potentially costly damage and waste.

ost people recognise the importance of saving water and energy, but there is one area that is often overlooked. What happens if a temperature/pressure relief valve (T/PRV) starts to pass water, and then, going sight unseen, causes minor damage, or worse, results in major repairs to the building fabric? Recently, an installer, Dan Tempest from S T Plumbing and Heating Services based in West Yorkshire, had an incident that highlighted the issue. A customer’s T/PRV had been passing for some time. It was a standard (and compliant) installation and there was nothing wrong with the original installation, which featured

standard products used in many projects. However, not unusually, the unvented water heater was probably not serviced very often (if it had been serviced at all!) and, unbeknown to anyone, including the homeowner, the standard open sided tundish was allowing water to run over the sides and then gradually drip onto the storage cupboard ʮ ZZ] LYO _SPY OZbY _Z _SP ceiling below. Water has a habit of going to places that it’s not supposed to, but two other things are happening here that are not so obvious and are wasteful in terms of both water and energy. We all know that the PRV will drip if the system method of accommodating expanding water (ie, the expansion vessel or air bubble) has, in some way, failed. Due to a lack of servicing, this type of water discharge is far more likely than the T/PRV discharging due to excessive

temperature. This is clearly a waste of water, but what is less obvious is that the water will invariably be warm/hot, and this means that any water discharged will also be wasting energy, not through standing heat loss but by reheating the water wasted down the waste pipe. This is a cost that is on top of any damage being caused due to water escaping out of the tundish in the wrong direction!

Simple solution What if there was a simple, and cost-Pʬ PN_TaP ^ZW`_TZY* Well there is – and it costs less than £˛˙ an installation – the hotun detect in-tundish alarm unit. The alarm unit has been invented and developed by professional plumber Russell Armstrong to add to his other invention, the hotun dry trap tundish. As a plumber, Russell had come across the same situations

that Dan had and realised that the design of his patented hotun dry trap tundish (with its in-built non return valve), lent itself ideally to be able to trap a small quantity of water above the valve before it passed into the downstream pipework. The design of the alarm casing allows the water sensor to be accurately located where this water starts to puddle on the valve in the tundish. This water then immediately activates the alarm and draws the attention of the home owner/user to the issue, and a G˜ \`LWTʭ PO PYRTYPP] NLY be called on to carry out an investigation and make good any problems in good time. This alarm would also usefully give the repair engineer the opportunity to discuss the importance of regular maintenance and servicing with the homeowner, resulting in more cylinders serviced, ceilings saved, water and electric saved, and more future service work for the plumber.

āóŋłùŭ Ŷŋ Ʃ Ŷ With its hook-on design, hotun OP_PN_ _LVP^ ^PNZYO^ _Z ʭ _ ZY any hotun tundish. It is battery operated, with auto mute and reset with manual mute/reset override, together with battery level alarm and test functions. The unit also features an inbuilt temperature sensor which gives ZYP ZQ QZ`] OTʬ P]PY_ LWP]_^ _Z

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indicate the temperature of water passing from the T/PRV. The ˠ˛dBA alarm is loud enough to ensure that the alert is heard from behind a cupboard door and even from the loft, but specially designed to bring attention to the issue rather than cause an annoying noise. As an in-tundish alarm unit, the hotun detect alarm allows installation engineers to comply with clause G˜ ˜̍˞˞ in a very simple and cost-Pʬ PN_TaP manner.

Waste avoidance To avoid waste and potential damage, the hotun detect intundish alarm unit represents a simple solution that has already received a lot of interest. As Dan states: “For anyone that’s seen a standard tundish let the water escape the wrong bLd ʭ __TYR L n˛˙ alarm can potentially save £˚˙˙’s in repairs to ceilings and decorations, let alone getting into claims on house insurance. 1Z] XP ʭ __TYR SZ_`Y OP_PN_ T^ L no brainer every time.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˛˞

01/06/2022 09:15

Next Generation Gas Combis P

Meet the new family of gas condensing boilers that are set to turn up the heat on the industry. With the NCB range, Navien is putting hot water first!

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Our game changing combi boiler delivers hot water to large family homes

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• Built-in text driven display

• Up to 3x showers at once

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• Powerful hot water delivery

• Ultimate hot water performance

• Compact dimensions

• NaviFill - Keyless Filling Link

• Rapid hot water with NaviCirc™

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To find out more visit

navien.co.uk

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Training & Education

Are you ready for the low carbon future of heating? Upskilling the UK’s thousands of Gas Safe installers will be key to ensuring a successful transition to low-carbon heating systems, says Neil Mattock from Vokèra by Riello, but what are the options for both established professionals and the new entrants?

s one of the main points of contact for consumers, installers can play an important role when it comes to decarbonising our domestic heating and hot water systems. Heating professionals who have the necessary knowledge and skills in low-carbon technologies will be able to advise homeowners on the best option for their needs and provide them with the most eﬃcient and aﬀordable solution. Therefore, as the energy transition gathers pace, we need to ensure that the UK’s installer base is trained and ready to meet the anticipated growth in demand for low-carbon heating systems from their customers. Needless to say, this will require coordinated planning and communication from policy makers and those at the sharp end of this challenge, from training providers and trade bodies to manufacturers of heating products.

Preparing for the future

Vokèra offers both faceface-to to--face training opportunities and virtual, online sessions

Retraining challenge Many will remember the retraining task the industry faced when condensing gas boilers became mandatory as part of the 2005 Building Regulations to reduce carbon emissions. New products had to be developed to comply with the legislation, while installers had to adapt longstanding working practices and learn how to manage unfamiliar issues like condensate discharge and pluming from the flue terminal. The 2005 regulations also recommended minimum levels of controls, which some installers might not have been used to fitting, and introduced flushing (previously a British Standard but not part of Building Regulations) and cleansing of systems at the same time. Although we can now look back on the successful switch to condensing boilers, decarbonising domestic heating is clearly a much bigger challenge, with a more diverse range of products and technologies to get to grips with. For its part, Vokèra already offers Gas Safe Engineers expert-led training in our expanding portfolio of low-carbon energy solutions, alongside related topics such as heat optimisation and efficiency, together with system design and drawing support. Our in-person training and webinars cover a broad spectrum of subjects, from product familiarisation through to practical considerations when specifying and installing these new technologies. And courses are being added all the time to reflect new product developments – in fact, we are currently preparing a webinar for the launch of a brand new range of Riello monobloc air source heat pumps for the domestic market. Vokèra’s training to prepare installers for the energy transition is designed to meet different needs and skills, whether that’s introductory level or a more in-depth course. Additionally, we are forming a partnership with an accredited third party so that, where required, we shall also be able to offer installers a route to qualification.

New entrants Whilst manufacturers have a part to play in this process, large scale upskilling is likely to require

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wider development of retraining schemes to bring heating engineers up to date with the full range of clean energy products and practices, including heat pump sizing and installation, hydrogen-compatible boilers, and establishing low temperature readiness. In addition, providing regulatory guidance covering the home Energy Performance Certificate and Benchmark scheme, for example, will help installers achieve compliance. Training for new entrants will be equally important to ensure that the next generation of heating professionals is able to play its part in a greener future for UK heating systems. At Vokèra we have already established close partnerships with colleges around the country and donates low-carbon products from our range and other training resources for use in educational facilities. Alongside this support there probably needs to be further development of courses to accommodate different skills levels and apprenticeships backed by accredited certification. According to a recent HHIC (Heating and Hotwater Industry Council) whitepaper on ‘Heating up to Net Zero’, a Low-Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship has already been approved. The whitepaper also highlights a proposed Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician course that will provide an overview of all heating technology, and a new training opportunity for gas operatives in low-carbon hydrogen.

Neil Mattock

Marketing director and head of training at Vokèra

Heating professionals can build on their current skills to upskill to low--carbon heating systems low

We need to ensure that the UK’s installer base is trained and ready to meet the anticipated growth in demand for low-carbon heating systems from their customers

Whereas a typical replacement installation today is often a traditional ‘boiler swap’ (possibly adding a control upgrade to comply with Boiler Plus), installers must now accept that this will soon become a thing of the past and get their business futureready. Upskilling the UK’s installer base will facilitate the correct assessment of millions of existing fossil fuel systems and the potential for incorporating renewable technologies. Although some may already have the necessary skills we know that there are many who would welcome expert advice on how to conduct room-byroom heat loss calculations, for example, in order to assess the low-carbon potential of an existing heating system. These calculations will identify emitter improvements that are required for specific rooms and, importantly, identify individual spaces as ‘hard to treat’. Some installers may also benefit from additional training in system design, installation and commissioning to ensure the specified solution is fully compliant and the theoretical energy savings are realised in practice. There are even calls for a British Standard Code of Practice for the design of heating systems, including low-temperature designs, to help support training and guidance for Building Regulations.

Industry priority Given that installer training is clearly fundamental to the correct specification and delivery of the right low-carbon heating solution for each property, creating appropriate training and support programmes must be a high priority for our industry. However, as well as upskilling the trade we believe it is equally important to educate consumers in the energy transition. Giving homeowners access to information and impartial guidance will help them understand the options available and the benefits of switching to a cleaner, greener heating system. Furthermore, having consumers who are more informed and engaged in this inevitable process should make life easier for the installers who will be guiding them towards a decarbonised future for domestic heating. To meet the needs of the broadest range of installers, we offer both face-to-face training (in training centres across the country) and virtual sessions covering topics such as Boiler Installation and Commissioning, Fault Finding and Heating Optimisation & Efficiency. Our dedicated team works hard to regularly update and expand our training offering to ensure we keep pace with installers’ learning needs. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/26

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Training & Education NāÖŶĢłė óŋłŶũŋķŭ ƒĢũĢłė Installers have the opportunity to learn how to wire a basic heating system or acquire more in-depth knowledge of how to install LYO NZYʭ R`]P evohome thermostats via two new courses from Resideo – Heating Controls Wiring and evohome Installer, to be held on ˛˜rd and ˜˙th June respectively. Ideal for beginners wishing _Z []ZR]P^^ _SPT] ^VTWW^ TY ʭ __TYR heating controls, the Heating Controls Wiring course will

provide participants with practical wiring and application training on both ˛-port valve and ˜-port valve systems, plus guidance on how to use the Honeywell wiring guide app. The evohome Installer course will explore the installation, NZYʭ R`]TYR LYO QL`W_-ʭ YOTYR of the home comfort system, covering pre-installation site surveys, installation, good practice, and customer handover. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˛ˠ

¦ũÖĢłĢłė ŋł ŶÖť Bristan, the showers, taps and bathroom accessories supplier, is looking to support installers through its On Tap group which features exclusive training opportunities, as well as events and rewards. The company’s dedicated trainer, Maria Howley, also runs a series of training initiatives including regular Live Lounges on social media, as well as regular virtual and in-person ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions. “Our sessions give installers all the information they need on our products, either when dealing with our products on the UZM Z] bSPY Pc[WLTYTYR _SP MPYPʭ _^ _Z _SPT] customers,” says Maria. “It’s important that we ʭ WW TY^_LWWP]^ bT_S NZYʭ OPYNP bSPY `^TYR Z`] products and arm them with everything they may need to know.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˛ˢ

ŽÖķĢƩ āù Ŷŋ Ʃ Ŷ ÖĢũ ŭŋŽũóā ĞāÖŶ ťŽĿťŭ Now available from Daikin UK is a range of training courses designed to upskill plumbing and heating engineers in the installation of air source heat pumps. The course – DUK-H˛˞: LCL Awards Level ˜ Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems (non-refrigerant circuits) – consists of two days of training followed by one day of assessment, comprising online multi-choice theory exams along with practical assessments. ?SP 7.7 ,bL]O^ \`LWTʭ NL_TZY T^ ^[PNTʭ NLWWd LTXPO at existing fossil fuel and heating engineers who are looking to add air source heat pump installation _Z _SPT] ^P]aTNP Zʬ P]TYR @[ZY NZX[WP_TZY ZQ _SP NZ`]^P _SP \`LWTʭ NL_TZY []ZaP^ Q`WW NZX[P_PYNP TY the installation of these types of system and can be counted towards MCS accreditation. Martin Passingham, department manager product

and training at Daikin UK, says: “We are thrilled to announce the LCL Awards training courses that will ensure plumbers are fully upskilled in the installation and maintenance of air source heat pumps. It is crucial that the industry looks towards these heat pump solutions as we strive to use fewer fossil fuels.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˛ˡ

'āũðƘ óŋķķāėā ðāłāĕĢŶŭ ĕũŋĿ ĕŽķķ ũÖłėā ŋĕ āŨŽĢťĿāłŶ A partnership between Ideal Heating and Derby College Group (DCG) will support the upskilling of current and future installers in a multi-faceted training facility on the college campus. A new training suite will include Ideal’s full range of equipment TYNW`OTYR STRS Pʯ NTPYNd MZTWP]^ LYO LT] source heat pumps. Staged at DCG’s Roundhouse technical and professional skills college in Derby’s Pride Park, Ideal’s team will deliver expert training themselves and also share their VYZbWPORP bT_S _SP NZWWPRPɪ^ _PLNSTYR ^_Lʬ as part of their professional development. Ideal Heating training director Andrew Johnson explains: “As one of the UK’s

leading boiler manufacturers, we have long recognised the importance of training across the industry to ensure that our products are installed correctly for XLcTX`X Pʯ NTPYNd “We are also committed to playing our part in training the installers of the future

and raising awareness amongst young people of the career opportunities available to them. We chose to open this new training facility for the East Midlands at DCG because of their amazing facilities and easy access by road and rail.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˜˙

NÖłùŭ-ŋł ĞāÖŶ ťŽĿťŭ

DÖóāðŋŋĴ ĕÖóĢķĢŶƘ Drayton is helping installers stay up to date with the latest legislation and industry changes via its community Facebook page. Throughout the year industry experts will contribute, and topics of these live sessions range from the future of heat, legislation updates and need-to-know information about the new Boiler Upgrade Scheme, through to simple steps that installers can take to help their customers reduce energy and save money. The live Facebook sessions will complement Drayton’s wider plans for the year, which includes a consumer campaign focusing on upgrading their heating systems, on-the-]ZLO LN_TaT_d L_ OTʬ P]PY_ trade and consumer events, and product launches coming later this year. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˜˚

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Designed for experienced heating installers who wish to install heat pumps in domestic and small commercial properties, @YT_SP]X Zʬ P]^ _SP 7.7 4Y^_LWWL_TZY LYO 8LTY_PYLYNP ZQ ,T] Source Heat Pumps course. This meets the training entry ]P\`T]PXPY_^ QZ] _SP 8TN]ZRPYP]L_TZY .P]_Tʭ NL_TZY >NSPXP (MCS). Details of MCS and how to join are also covered. The three-day course covers a broad range of materials, from health and safety to the requirements to install, commission and hand over air source heat pump systems. Assessment is carried out through work performance activities and a ˛˞ question multiple choice online assessment. All learning materials are included in the cost and provided for engineers to keep. The training center, located in Exeter, is equipped with three fully working air source heat pumps, installed for hands-on experience. These include two monoblocs and one split system. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˜˛

01/06/2022 14:09

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Training & Education

Growing with the evolving industry Big changes in the building services sector are contributing to an increased consumer interest in low carbon and renewable heating systems. Mark Krull from Logic4training explores what’s happening and explains some of the training options for installers looking to upskill for developing technologies and new business.

emand for heat pumps has grown 312% since the beginning of 2021. We conducted a survey in January which showed 59% of installers reporting increased customer demand for renewable and low carbon technologies, and I expect this ﬁgure has only gone up since then thanks to various factors, such as a greater awareness of environmental targets and climate issues, the cost-of-living crisis, concerns about energy security, changes to building regulations and new incentives designed to stimulate interest. With customers asking more questions, installers must step up to the mark and provide valuable and accurate information – in many cases de-bunking misleading headlines from social media and polarising views on the future heating mix. Setting aside time to complete new qualiﬁcations, industry updates and product training ensures installers are well informed and can deliver future-proof heating solutions.

Changes in regulations In recent years, we’ve seen a greater commitment from the government to phase out carbon intensive heating and incentivise low carbon heating systems. The new Approved Document L comes into force on 15 June 2022, requiring new builds to reduce carbon emissions by 31% (compared to current standards) and introduce a holistic energy modelling method to improve construction and prevent the oﬀsetting of emissions through renewable technologies. Heating systems will have to be designed for maximum eﬃciency, whatever the technology, and future-proofed.

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 Installers looking to build on their skills and offer new services could consider a Level 3 qualiﬁcation in the installation and maintenance of ASHPs

Mark Krull

MD of Logic4training

BY NUMBERS

312% Demand for heat pumps has grown 312% since the beginning of 2021

59% A survey in January found 59% of installers have seen increased customer demand for renewables and low carbon technology

87% Air source heat pumps account for around 87% of all heat pump installations in the UK

Low temperature systems are often renewable, for example air source heat pumps (ASHP), but high eﬃciency gas combi boilers could also meet the new standards when combined with secondary measures, such as underﬂoor heating or solar PV. This is a big step forward for the heating sector, and specialist training will be of value to anyone who installs heating and hot water systems.

Low temperature heating A new qualification has been designed to meet demand for low temperature heating and hot water technologies. Developed by LCL Awards, CIPHE and the Heat Pump Association, the Level 3 RQF qualification in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings upskills installers in the concept of low temperature heating system design for domestic buildings. Heating installers can develop their knowledge and understand the requirements for installing low temperature heating and hot water systems, covering roomby-room heat loss calculations, correct sizing of heat emitters, pumps and pipework, and basic design principles. Correct design and sizing ensures that energy efficiency is maximised and costs are kept down – a no-brainer for installers looking to deliver value

to their customers now and in the future.

Renewable incentives The government announced a zero-rating early this year that cuts VAT to 0% for some energy saving installations for the next five years, fitting nicely with the start of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Installers can now apply for an account with Ofgem and begin making applications under the scheme on behalf of their customers. The BUS is designed to stimulate demand for heat pumps and strengthen supply chains over the next three years, with the aim of delivering 90,000 new heat pump installations. This marks the first step on the ladder to achieving the government’s aim of 600,000 heat pump installations every year by 2028.

ASHP course A Level 3 qualification in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems is ideal for experienced heating installers looking to build on their skills and offer new services. This training course is a regulated RQF qualification and is recognised by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) as a demonstration of competence. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) make up around 87% of heat pump installations in the UK. They can easily be retrofitted and perform well in a wide variety of properties, from Victorian mid-terraces to pre-WWII semis and 1960s blocks of flats, as was recently demonstrated by the

government’s Electriﬁcation of Heat project. ASHPs oﬀer a great low-carbon replacement for fossil fuel central heating and electric radiators in most homes, including built-up residential areas.

Free choice There is a wealth of innovation out there, including hydrogen boilers, heat pumps, hybrid systems and SMART heating controls to name but a few. Many manufacturers offer product training – sometimes free of charge – to help installers make the most of sustainable technologies. Webinars are another free training option, offering insight and discussion from a wide range of industry voices on topical issues. Once you’ve got your qualifications under your belt, you can build your knowledge base to deliver the best options for your customers. Trade shows are also a great place to see the latest equipment in action, ask questions, network with manufacturers and meet suppliers.

Self-development It can be very diﬃcult for busy tradespeople to get away from work. However, with so many changes happening, setting aside time for professional and business development is critical for installers who want to become familiar with new technologies and deliver high eﬃciency, future-proof solutions to customers. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/37

30/05/2022 13:01

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PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Training & Assessments

1st TRAINING LTD ASSESSMENT & TRAINING CENTRE Domestic and Commercial, ACS, NG, LPG and appliances, Un-vented hot water TEL: Huntingdon (01480) 450 872 www.1st-training.co.uk 1st Training Ltd info@1st-training.co.uk phamnews.co.uk/622/110

GAS ENGINEERS & PLUMBERS NEED ACS ASSESSMENTS? AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP TRAINING AVAILABLE NOW INSTALL ONLY £500.00 + VAT INSTALL & DESIGN £600.00 + VAT DESIGN ONLY £160.00 + VAT On completion of any of the above courses, you can gain MCS Registration. As always our prices are unbeatable! o rt e be urs at um Co v Pl as 0 + G 200 £

If you want free friendly advice just call me, Graham Hawkes 07775 506124 anytime for an informal chat

WE ARE SITUATED JUST 5 MINUTES FROM JUNCTION 36 M1 WHY NOT VISIT US ON ONE OF OUR OPEN DAYS AND ASK ALL THE QUESTIONS THAT YOU WANT CALL US FOR DATES

ECS Gas Training 10 Market Street, Hoyland Barnsley S74 9QR

Tel: 01226 741800 www.ecsgastrainingltd.com phamnews.co.uk/622/113

phamnews.co.uk/622/115

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phamnews.co.uk/622/116

phamnews.co.uk/622/111

MIDLANDS GAS ASSESSMENTS

Unit 1, Mainstream Way, Nechells, BIRMINGHAM B7 4SN email: mgabrum@tiscali.co.uk www.mgabrum.co.uk Domestic Natural Gas & LPG Changeover, Energy Efﬁciency and Water Regulations. Un-vented, Part P Electrics, Training & Assessments.

0121 333 3903

phamnews.co.uk/622/112

phamnews.co.uk/622/117

PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 30/05/2022 14:42 Page 34

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Training & Education

Back to face-to-face courses in Warwick The Warwick Commercial Training Academy is now open for in-person courses for installers of Baxi Commercial Solutions appliances. The free product training courses are designed to help develop knowledge on a range of commercial heating and hot water appliances within the Baxi .ZXXP]NTLW >ZW`_TZY^ [Z]_QZWTZ TYNW`OTYR =PXPSL ,YO]Pb^ BL_P] 3PL_P]^ ;Z__P]_ZY .ZXXP]NTLW LYO Heatrae Sadia. The centre was originally established to ensure that SPL_TYR PYRTYPP]^ SLaP _SP Z[[Z]_`YT_d _Z ]PʭYP _SPT] skills and gain practical experience in a real-world PYaT]ZYXPY_ 3ZbPaP] _bZ dPL]^ LRZ LWW _]LTYTYR bL^ forced to move online when the pandemic struck. .ZXXPY_TYR ZY _SP ]PZ[PYTYR -LcTɪ^ NZXXP]NTLW _]LTYTYR ZʯNP] 8L]_TY BLW_ZY ^Ld^% ɭBPɪ]P OPWTRS_PO to be able to provide a safe welcome to those attending

Pathway to sustainable heat

our Training Academy and a return to face-to-face product training. The full-day format lends itself to hands-on training sessions in which engineers can WPL]Y aLW`LMWP _T[^ LMZ`_ TY^_LWWL_TZY NZXXT^^TZYTYR and maintenance of key product ranges and practise their new skills in a safe environment.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˜ˡ

Introduction to hydrogen for installers Installers looking for an introduction to hydrogen and the future of the gas network can turn to Kiwa Training for a course delivered online via Microsoft Teams. The event is suitable for gas ʭ__P]^ TY^_LWWP]^ LYO LYdZYP TYaZWaPO bT_S _SP ^[PNTʭNL_TZY ZQ SPL_TYR ^d^_PX^ _Z RLTY LbL]PYP^^ LYO knowledge about the key themes of a potential transition to hydrogen. 8TVP 3L]aPd SPLO ZQ _]LTYTYR L_

34.indd 1

6TbL ^Ld^% ɭ3dO]ZRPY SL^ L [TaZ_LW ]ZWP in the UK’s energy strategy. In the coming years domestic and commercial gas installers will need to undergo training to deliver the installation of appliances running on hydrogen.” The seminar lasts ˢ˙ minutes and will be delivered by a Kiwa Hydrogen >[PNTLWT^_ ?Z ʭYO Z`_ LMZ`_ OL_P^ LYO ]L_P^ `^P _SP ZYWTYP WTYV MPWZb ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˜ˢ

NIBE Pro is a streamlined installer [L]_YP]^ST[ ^NSPXP ZʬP]PO Md 94-0 0YP]Rd >d^_PX^ ^[PNTʭNLWWd designed to guide heating engineers on their journey to becoming a heat pump installer. It steers the installer through the 8.> NP]_TʭNL_TZY []ZNP^^ Q]ZX ^_L]_ _Z ʭYT^S L^ bPWW L^ []ZaTOTYR OTRT_LW _ZZW^ _PNSYTNLW ^`[[Z]_ and business support. Training costs are fully redeemable through a voucher ^NSPXP XPLYTYR TY^_LWWP]^ NLY recover the costs of gaining an industry-]PNZRYT^PO \`LWTʭNL_TZY (MCS) by purchasing NIBE products once they’ve completed the training.

Installers on the scheme L]P ]PbL]OPO QZ] _SPT] WZdLW_d MPYPʭ_TYR Q]ZX PcNW`^TaP LNNP^^ _Z ^[PNTLW ZʬP]^ LYO PcNW`^TaP NZX[P_T_TZY^ LYO _SP LMTWT_d _Z buy selected products and earn points that can be exchanged for branded workwear and merchandise. The scheme has recently been enhanced with the launch of a new online portal. Exclusively available to installers on the ^NSPXP _SP [Z]_LW PY]TNSP^ _SP journey by providing installers bT_S _PNSYTNLW TYQZ]XL_TZY marketing support and a history of their installations. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˝˙

30/05/2022 12:30

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Ventilation & Heat Recovery 35

Parts F & L: What you need to know about the changes The new Approved Document Part F (Means of Ventilation) and Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) of the Building Regulations will accelerate the move towards low carbon ventilation while improving indoor air quality, and they bring some signiﬁcant changes for installers when it comes to specifying and installation. Christian Rehn from National Ventilation explains what you need to know.

when adding energy efficiency measures? You could install intermittent extract fans to wet areas and trickle vents that meet Part F; or continuous mechanical extract with smaller trickle vents in habitable rooms only; or balanced supply and extract (normally heat recovery) without trickle vents. For example, the Monsoon Energysaver IntelliSense i7 is a clever multi-function fan with a choice of intermittent or continuous running so is an ideal solution. It runs quietly at low speed at just 17dB(A) and offers an intelligent humidity sensor, a useful overrun timer and presence sensor, an airing function to avoid stuffy odours in the bathroom, while offering a high performance of up to 110m3/hr. Installation is easy too - suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting, once the wall frame is installed the fan is simply fixed to the wall frame, live and neutral are connected, and the job is done.

New build

ince the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997, the UK has been striving to reduce its carbon emissions - but this has often been at the expense of indoor air quality (IAQ). This has only become worse as buildings have become increasingly airtight and insulated to improve energy eﬃciency. But this is set to change with the new Part F, which requires a balance between ventilation levels and energy eﬃciency – for domestic or commercial, new build, or an existing property. The Regulations come into force this month for anything without planning, or June 2023 for anything which already has planning. So, what do installers need to consider?

For new build properties there are also significant changes. The new regulations include a reduction of almost a third less carbon for new homes, meaning homes must become even more airtight to improve efficiency and help achieve this goal. Hand in hand with this, the new Regulations require higher rates of ventilation to protect resident health. This means a move to more advanced ventilation solutions, such as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) and continuous mechanical extract ventilation. Here, continuous mechanical extract units that offer a larger 125mm diameter spigot will be favoured, as the larger duct area allows greater airflow through the fan at a much lower noise level and SFP, meaning fewer fans are required to achieve whole house ventilation rates.

Existing homes

Rely on the experts

One of the biggest changes for installers is adding energy efficiency measures to existing properties. Previously, when the airtightness of buildings was increased to improve energy efficiency, many homes suffered from condensation, mould and poor IAQ because ventilation was not considered too. This has now been addressed with a key addition to Part F. A new sub-section, ‘Installing Energy Efficiency Measures’, states: “When carrying out energy efficiency measures to an existing dwelling, an assessment should determine what, if any, additional ventilation provision is needed, based on the estimated impact of the work”. So how can installers work out the correct levels of ventilation? There are two options included in Part F and in most cases the simplified method is suitable. This looks at what energy efficiency measures have been added and whether they are minor (e.g. cavity wall or roof insulation) or major (e.g. wall insulation or replacing more than 30% of windows and doors). It then works out if more ventilation is needed. For houses that significantly differ from the original construction when it comes to energy efficiency measures, there is a second option which provides the alternative of expert advice, which you can receive from National Ventilation.

For those unfamiliar with MVHR technology who need guidance on ventilation or ventilation design, it’s important to get expert help. There are design services, such as the free service from National Ventilation, that support installers in using this technology, and other solutions, to meet the Regulations. This service for design-and-build projects of 100 plots or less provides a full wholehouse ventilation design with unit calculations, a full kit list, recommended duct routes, as well as a pre-order site visit. A design service is a valuable asset for these projects too and services like the one offered by National Ventilation is not limited to domestic solutions; the design team can offer the same support for commercial and industrial applications as well. They offer expert advice and support on the new Building Regulations and can update installers on how they affect ventilation in individual developments. For installers, the new Regulations offer an opportunity to expand their ventilation install business and provides opportunities to upsell to the latest solutions that provide an effective way to ensure homes meet the new regulations while delivering good IAQ to support health and to prevent condensation and mould. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/41

35.indd 1

Christian Rehn

National sales manager at National Ventilation

CUT TO THE CHASE Changes to Part F of the Building Regulations mean ventilation must be considered when installing energy eﬃciency measures 

A simpliﬁed method of working out correct levels of ventilation is suitable in most cases 

 Regulations for new build properties require more advanced ventilation solutions  Mixed-mode ventilation combines mechanical and natural ventilation to manage the indoor climate

 Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) units can be installed in the loft (above, top) or conveniently placed in a cupboard

Simple approach With the simpliﬁed method, a home that has a maximum of two minor changes and no major changes (Category A) probably won’t require any additional ventilation. But for homes falling under Categories B and C that have more than three minor changes, and/ or one or more major measure, additional ventilation will be required. And with about 85% of UK homes having double glazing, any additional energy eﬃciency measures mean an upgrade in ventilation is likely to be needed. So, what are the ventilation options

31/05/2022 12:35

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Ventilation & Heat Recovery

Strike a balance between IAQ and efficiency Good indoor air quality is a key pillar not just for better learning, but also general wellbeing. Alan Macklin at Elta Group discusses how schools must reassess energy saving priorities and introduce quality-designed mechanical ventilation systems into these buildings.

ith the eﬀects of the pandemic placing greater emphasis on ventilation, the high levels of CO2 across school building stock have become a prevalent concern. Yet, at the same time, saving energy remains a top priority in line with sustainability agendas. Schools have historically relied on natural ventilation methods such as opening windows to maintain low energy usage, but this approach does not guarantee good quality air. Many schools are located in suburban or heavily urbanised areas where a high count of nitrogen dioxide is in the air, along with harmful particulates such as car brake pad dust, fumes and sulphur dioxide. Numerous scientiﬁc studies have found that CO2 and harmful particulates directly hinder pupil learning and concentration.

Legislative landscape While the Building Bulletin (BB101) is in place as a framework for ensuring effective ventilation, upcoming changes to the Building Regulations reflect the growing concerns around management of indoor air quality. With updates to Part F coming into force, there will be firmer guidance to adhere to – namely that buildings must provide sufficient ventilation to keep CO2 levels below 800ppm. This indicates the need for measuring and controlling CO2 as part of a ventilation strategy – placing further onus on schools to implement appropriate solutions. Alongside acknowledgement of regulatory guidance, there must also be an understanding of what good quality or ‘fresh’ air is. As outlined, good quality air isn’t simply air brought in from the outside. Many harmful compounds can be present that affect both health and

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 The PREMA range of ceiling void energy recovery units represent some of the smallest and lightest energy recovery units on the market and are ideal for controlling airﬂow in schools

Alan Macklin

Group technical director at Elta Group

A good quality ventilation system is one that extracts pollutants, brings air in from the outside and filtrates it before reaching the classroom CUT TO THE CHASE  CO2 can act as a proxy for air quality, so measuring it allows for effective control of air quality and energy usage  Building ventilation systems based on maximum occupancy levels sacrifice energy efficiency  Demand controlled ventilation (DCV) is a way to ensure a building is ventilated costeffectively while maximising IAQ  Any solution must be well maintained and serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently

concentration levels in pupils. Another misconception is that continuous recirculation and purification constitutes fresh air. In actual fact, this air becomes stale, allowing for CO2 and VOC (volatile organic compound) levels to rise. While air purifiers do have their place in a ventilation system, they should not be treated as a comprehensive solution. Such applications will remove pollutants, but have no impact on CO2 levels. A good quality ventilation system is one that extracts all pollutants, brings air in from the outside and filtrates it before reaching the classroom.

Mechanical means To ensure adequate ventilation, CO2 should be considered as a proxy for air quality. The CO2 level rises as a result of building occupants exhaling, while increasing the ventilation rate reduces it. On this basis, measuring CO2 can allow for eﬀective control of both air quality and energy usage. Building ventilation systems often operate on maximum occupancy levels, resulting in consequent energy wastage. This is not only due to the fan

operation, but also includes the energy used to condition the air for both heating and cooling modes. Through MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) solutions such as Elta Fans’ PREMA range, the amount of airflow can instead be controlled to suit occupancy levels and delivered through demandcontrolled ventilation (DCV). DCV is recognised as a reliable method of ensuring a building is ventilated cost-effectively, while maximising indoor air quality. Closed loop speed control for both EC and AC motor options provides major energy savings, as the fan power is proportional to the speed cubed. CO2 or temperature sensors are used to continuously measure and monitor ambient conditions in the conditioned space and provide real time feedback to the zone controller. From here, fan speed is adjusted – modulating the ventilation rate to match the specific use and occupancy of the building. Significant energy savings are made by effective DCV, which ensures that the ventilation rate continuously matches the current occupancy rate and varying ambient conditions.

System support When designing and specifying a mechanical ventilation system, it’s important to always consult with the manufacturer, as quite often it can offer best practice and guidance to achieve the desired performance. For schools, there should be a particular focus on specifying high quality filtration methods to restrict external pollutants. In line with requirements, all ventilation systems from Elta Fans come with ePM ePM1 Filters that offer high filtration levels and follow the ISO 16890 Standard. When specifying mechanical ventilation systems, it must be ensured that the fan has enough power output to overcome any pressure development drop due to the filtration solution. Layout and length of the ducting, as well as any other ancillaries in the design will also need to be considered. Post-installation, any solution must also be well maintained and serviced to ensure they are operating efficiently. Here, consulting with a manufacturer can ensure the right maintenance schedule is created and followed.

Due consideration As the school rebuilding programme comes into eﬀect, it’s clear that ventilation and air quality must not be an afterthought. Schools must have a well-engineered system for ventilation – whether it is mechanical or hybrid – and receive the necessary support to realise such solutions. From manufacturers to designers, consultants to speciﬁers and beyond, the entire supply chain must consider how to deliver good indoor air quality and follow through to enable better learning environments for years to come. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/42

31/05/2022 12:56

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PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 30/05/2022 14:42 Page 38

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Ventilation & Heat Recovery

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38.indd 1

Out of sight

Lee Page Sales director at S&P UK

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Small minded >Z SZb OZ dZ` ^ZWaP L []ZMWPX WTVP ^[LNP* DZ` U`^_ YPPO _Z OP^TRY LYO M`TWO dZ`] []ZO`N_ PcLN_Wd _SP ^LXP ɧ SL]YP^^TYR LWW _SP WL_P^_ _PNSYZWZRd LYO LOSP]TYR _Z YPb ^_LYOL]O^ LYO N`^_ZXP] Pc[PN_L_TZY^ ɧ M`_ U`^_ ^XLWWP] 3ZbPaP] _SP _L^V ZQ ]P_LTYTYR _SP ^LXP ^[PNTʭ NL_TZY^ LYO OPWTaP]TYR Z[_TXLW ]L_P^ ZQ LT]ʮ Zb ʭ W_]L_TZY SPL_ PcNSLYRP PYP]Rd Pʯ NTPYNd LYO LNZ`^_TN WPaPW^ NLYYZ_ MP `YOP]P^_TXL_PO 9PaP]_SPWP^^ SP]P L_ > ; @6 bP SLaP U`^_ WL`YNSPO Z`] ^XLWWP^_-PaP] SPL_ ]PNZaP]d `YT_% _SP .,/ .ZX[LN_ bSTNS NTPYNd MPYPʭ _^ Q]ZX L STRS-Pʯ NZ`Y_P]ʮ Zb [WL_P SPL_ PcNSLYRP] `[ _Z ˡˡ LYO T^ NP]_Tʭ PO Md 0`]ZaPY_ 4_ NZXP^ TY ^PaPY ^TeP^ ]LYRTYR Q]ZX _SP .,/ .ZX[LN_ ˞˙˙ _Z _SP ˝˞˙˙ ?SP ˞˙˙ `YT_ OPWTaP]^ LY LT]ʮ Zb ZQ ˝˟˙X3 S LYO SL^ OTXPY^TZY^ ZQ ˚̍˚˛˙ c ˟ˢˡ c ˛ˡˢXX 8PLYbSTWP

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On the quiet 9ZT^P T^ ZQ NZ`]^P LYZ_SP] TX[Z]_LY_ T^^`P bSPY T_ NZXP^ _Z aPY_TWL_TZY LYO _SP YPb .,/ .ZX[LN_ SL^ MPPY NP]_Tʭ PO Md <`TP_ 8L]V BP L]P LW^Z _SP ʭ ]^_ XLUZ] aPY_TWL_TZY XLY`QLN_`]P] _Z SLaP UZTYPO 9-> >Z`]NP LY TYYZaL_TaP ZYWTYP [WL_QZ]X bSTNS LTX^ _Z TX[]ZaP []ZO`N_ ^[PNTʭ NL_TZY ]PWTLMTWT_d LN]Z^^ _SP M`TW_ PYaT]ZYXPY_ bSP]P Z_SP] `YZM_]`^TaP LYO WZb-YZT^P <`TP_ 8L]V NP]_Tʭ PO []ZO`N_^ L]P LW^Z WT^_PO <`TP_ 8L]V ]PNPY_Wd LYYZ`YNPO L YPb [L]_YP]^ST[ bT_S 9-> _Z PX[ZbP] L]NST_PN_^ _Z ^[PNTQd ɩLNZ`^_TN^ ʭ ]^_ɪ Md []ZaTOTYR L ^SZ]_N`_ _Z ^Z`]NP ]P^[ZY^TMWP []ZO`N_^ ?SP [L]_YP]^ST[ LTX^ _Z PWPaL_P _SP L`]LW OP^TRY ZQ M`TWOTYR^ LYO Z[_TXT^P LNZ`^_TN NZXQZ]_ QZ] ZNN`[LY_^ ?ST^ T^ L bPWNZXP XZaP LYO LYZ_SP] ^_P[ TY SPW[TYR TYO`^_]d []ZQP^^TZYLW^ _Z TYaP^_ TY WZb YZT^P LYO ^[LNP ^LaTYR ^ZW`_TZY^ ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˝˜

30/05/2022 11:57

PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 30/05/2022 14:42 Page 39

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Ventilation & Heat Recovery 39 A fan for those who want a quiet life As the name suggests, the Quiet Fan X˞ from Manrose has been OP^TRYPO _Z ZʬP] `W_]L-quiet yet PʬPN_TaP LYO PʯNTPY_ aPY_TWL_TZY 4OPLW QZ] ML_S]ZZX TY^_LWWL_TZY the fan operates with a running aZW`XP L^ WZb L^ ˛˞O- , bSTWP ZʬP]TYR L STRS Pc_]LN_TZY ]L_P ZQ ˢ˙m3S] ]PXZaTYR XZT^_`]P WLOPY LT] bSTWP TX[]ZaTYR TYOZZ] LT] \`LWT_d ?SP QLY T^ ^`T_LMWP QZ] MZ_S bLWW LYO NPTWTYR XZ`Y_TYR bSTWP boasting an IPX˞ rating, meaning

_SP QLY NLY MP ^LQPWd TY^_LWWPO TY _SP ^[WL^S eZYP bT_SZ`_ _SP YPPO QZ] L WZb aZW_LRP _]LY^QZ]XP] 1Z] PL^P ZQ TY^_LWWL_TZY T_ NZXP^ bT_S L ]LYRP ZQ NZY_]ZW^ ɧ ML^TN _TXP]

Part F CPD course updated 1ZWWZbTYR _SP `[OL_P _Z _SP -`TWOTYR =PR`WL_TZY^ ;L]_ 1˚ /bPWWTYR^ ˛˙˛˛ ?T_ZY SL^ ]PaT^PO its ‘Part F ˛˙˚˙ /ZXP^_TN -`TWOTYR^ .ZX[WTLYNPɪ .;/ []P^PY_L_TZY The updated CPD is designed to []ZaTOP L MP__P] `YOP]^_LYOTYR ZQ the new requirements of Part F ]PRL]OTYR aPY_TWL_TZY LYO SZb _Z LNSTPaP Q`WW NZX[WTLYNP ,^ bPWW L^ ZʬP]TYR L NWPL]P] VYZbWPORP ZQ ;L]_ 1 _SP .;/ WZZV^ L_ RZZO []LN_TNP QZ] TY^_LWWL_TZY LYO []ZaTOP^ L NSPNV

39.indd 1

WT^_ ZQ aPY_TWL_TZY ^d^_PX^ 5LXP^ 2]Tʯ_S^ ?T_ZYɪ^ XL]VP_TYR XLYLRP] NZXXPY_^% ɭ.ZX[WTLYNP T^ P^^PY_TLW LYO `YOP]^_LYOTYR _SP `[NZXTYR NSLYRP^ _Z _SP -`TWOTYR =PR`WL_TZY^ T^ bSP]P Z`] VYZbWPORP LYO Pc[P]_T^P NLY ]PLWWd SPW[ _Z ^TX[WTQd _SP []ZNP^^ :`] .;/ ZʬP]^ L ]PLWWd NWPL] `YOP]^_LYOTYR ZQ PaP]d_STYR YPPOPO OPWTaP]PO Md Z`] _]LTYPO aPY_TWL_TZY Pc[P]_^ ɮ ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˝˞

S`XTOT^_L_ LYO ;4= Z[_TZY^ ɧ LYO NZXP^ NZX[WP_P bT_S TY_PR]LW MLNVO]L`RS_ ^S`__P]^ 8LY`QLN_`]PO `^TYR STRS RWZ^^ ,-> _SP]XZ[WL^_TN^ QZ] ^_]PYR_S LYO O`]LMTWT_d T_^ WZYR-WTQP XZ_Z]^ L]P NZY_TY`Z`^Wd ]L_PO and warranted for a minimum of ˜˙̇˙˙˙ SZ`]^ Z] _S]PP dPL]^ ?SP `YT_ LW^Z TYNW`OP^ L [P]QZ]XLYNP PYSLYNTYR _`]YTYR aLYP ^d^_PX WZNL_PO TY _SP ^[TRZ_ _Z TX[]ZaP [P]QZ]XLYNP LYO T^ LaLTWLMWP TY L _TWPO aP]^TZY Z] LY Z[PY R]TWWP Z[_TZY “The Quiet Fan X˞ _TNV^ LWW _SP ]TRS_ MZcP^ QZ] LYdZYP WZZVTYR QZ] L \`TP_ QLY _SL_ɪ^ NZ^_ PʬPN_TaP _Z ]`Y ]PWTLMWP LYO PL^d _Z TY^_LWW ɮ ^Ld^ ^LWP^ OT]PN_Z] 7PP BL]]PY ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˝˝

Smart fan provides an easy way to comply with new regs ?SP T.:9^XL]_ ˚˞ Q]ZX ,T]ʮZb NZX[WTP^ bT_S _SP ]PNPY_Wd `[OL_PO -`TWOTYR =PR`WL_TZY^ LYO NLY MP ʭ__PO TY_Z LYd bP_]ZZX _ZTWP_ en-^`T_P ML_S]ZZX `_TWT_d LYO VT_NSPY _Z TX[]ZaP TYOZZ] LT] \`LWT_d bSTWP PY^`]TYR _SL_ L ]ZZX T^ YPaP] `YOP] Z] ZaP] aPY_TWL_PO Featuring an energy PʯNTPY_ XZ_Z] _SP T.:9^XL]_ ˚˞ LW^Z NZYYPN_^ _Z L ^XL]_[SZYP aTL -W`P_ZZ_S []ZaTOTYR _SP `^P] bT_S NZX[WP_P aPY_TWL_TZY NZY_]ZW @YOP] _SP YPb ]PR`WL_TZY^ TY^_LWWP]^ L]P ]P\`T]PO _Z _P^_ LWW QLY^ LYO [L^^ _SP [L[P]bZ]V ZY _Z the homeowner, but with the T.:9^XL]_ ˚˞ T_ T^ PL^d _Z aTPb ʮZb ]L_P^ aTL _SP 8d,T]ʮZb L[[ ,NN]POT_PO 94.04. TY^_LWWP]^ bTWW LW^Z MP LMWP _Z `^P _SP L[[ _Z ^`MXT_ PLNS QLYɪ^ [P]QZ]XLYNP OL_L _Z -`TWOTYR .ZY_]ZW bT_SZ`_ _SP SL^^WP ZQ [L[P]bZ]V 9ZT^P T^^`P^ SLaP LW^Z MPPY LOO]P^^PO L^ _SP QLY SL^ LNSTPaPO _SP <`TP_ 8L]V ,bL]O PY^`]TYR _SL_ Z[P]L_TYR YZT^P T^ X`NS \`TP_P] _SLY _SP ]PR`WL_TZY^ NLWW QZ] ?SP <`TP_ 8L]V ,bL]O T^ LY 4Y_P]YL_TZYLW ,bL]O QZ] WZb-noise _PNSYZWZRd _SL_ T^ ZYWd RTaPY _Z XLY`QLN_`]P]^ bT_S _SP \`TP_P^_

[]ZO`N_ []ZaTOTYR NZY^`XP]^ bT_S L XZ]P TYQZ]XPO NSZTNP ZQ []ZO`N_ 2ZZO aPY_TWL_TZY NLY LW^Z SPW[ _Z LOO]P^^ NZYNP]Y^ LMZ`_ TYOZZ] LT] \`LWT_d LYO _SP YPPO QZ] L SPLW_STP] PYaT]ZYXPY_ ,T]ʮZb [ZTY_^ Z`_ _SL_ [ZZ] aPY_TWL_TZY L_ SZXP NLY NL`^P ^ZXP NZYNP]YTYR T^^`P^ TYNW`OTYR WLNV ZQ NZYNPY_]L_TZY O]Zb^TYP^^ SPLOLNSP^ NZ`RS^ T]]T_L_TZY ZQ YZ^P LYO _S]ZL_ ?SP T.:9^XL]_ ˚˞ NLY SPW[ []PaPY_ these issues and maintain good SPLW_S ^Ld^ _SP NZX[LYd ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˟˛˛̓˝˟

30/05/2022 11:59

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Water & System Treatment

Understanding the Code of Practice With widespread concern about the increasing cost of energy, it is all the more important for installers to ensure that any domestic central heating system is protected and maintained in accordance with BS 7593:2019 – explained here by the BEAMA Water Treatment Group.

ith rising fuel costs on everyone’s mind, and the need to make sure all heating appliances are as low carbon as they possibly can be, it is even more important to follow the guidance that is in place to keep heating systems running as efficiently as possible. This process starts from the point the system is installed and carries on throughout its life. Luckily, there is a British standard, BS7593:2019 (recently revised), that covers this.

Maximising efficiency A correct water treatment and system protection regime is designed to maintain the maximum efficiency of the system. A consumer purchasing an A-rated boiler or system would in effect not experience

WHAT IS BS7593:2019? BS7593:2019 is the Code of Practice which establishes best practice procedures for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance, and the ongoing water treatment, of domestic central heating and cooling water systems. The guide supports the new Building Regulation Part L, Conservation of Fuel and Power, contained in Approved Document ADL1, updated and released in 2021. This Building Regulation covers the installation of wet heating systems in residential properties and directly references BS7593 as the standard to follow.

this high rating if heat transfer is restricted by corrosion and installation debris in the system. Heating systems should be treated with an approved chemical inhibitor to limit system corrosion, debris from which collects as sludge and limescale. This debris restricts heat transfer (and therefore energy efficiency) and threatens system components.

Cleaned and flushed A heating system with a new boiler should also be ‘thoroughly cleaned and flushed’. In a new system, this clean-and-flush is crucial for removing installation debris that would also obstruct heat transfer and threaten system components. In an existing system that is having a new boiler fitted, this cleanand-flush is crucial for removing corrosion debris that would similarly continue to restrict heat transfer in the system and also jeopardize the new boiler. BS7593 establishes best practice procedures for the protection of heating and cooling systems against corrosion, sludge, scale formation and microbiological contamination. It details the key considerations that need to be followed to carry out an adequate system clean and details the three principal cleaning and flushing methodologies: powerflushing, mains pressure clean, and flush and gravity clean and flush.

Ongoing protection Following the system clean, BS7593 specifies the necessary steps to ensure ongoing system protection against corrosion, sludge, scale, and microbiological formation. This requires the fitting of an in-line filter and the addition of an NSF CIAS-approved scale inhibitor, as well as chemical antifreeze and biocidal products, if appropriate. Lastly, BS7593 specifies the ongoing maintenance of the water treatment regime that is required to ensure system protection throughout the

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life of the system. Periodic checks should be carried out and inhibitor levels topped up, subsequently.

after five years • If the property is at risk of freezing, then a heating system anti-freeze should be added.

How to Comply

Conclusions

The new regulations reference BS7593:2019 as the standard to follow to ensure compliance with Building Regulations when installing or replacing a new heating appliance in a domestic building. These are summarised as follows: • Thoroughly clean and flush the entire system • Fit a heating system filter • Add an NSF CIA approved chemical inhibitor to the system • Check the concentration of the inhibitor on installation • In hard water areas, fit a scale reducing device to the feed water to instantaneous water heaters • The inhibitor concentration should be checked on installation to the manufacturer’s specification and then again annually and topped up if required • Complete the checklist in the Benchmark App, adding inhibitor type and concentration • If this is a low temperature heating system (<55°C flow temperature) then a biocide should additionally be added. Maintenance: • Annual check of inhibitor concentration • System must be re-dosed

Water treatment fulfils a number of roles within domestic central heating systems, including: • To minimise the corrosion of metals within the system • To inhibit the formation of scale and sludge • To inhibit the growth of microbiological organisms • To maintain or restore the energy efficiency of the system through a combination of the effects described above. By following the updated industry-approved practices established in BS7593:2019, installers and specifiers will ensure that their heating systems benefit from modern cleaning and flushing methods and subsequent measures to ensure ongoing system protection, receiving the benefits outlined above and ensuring the durability of the heating appliance and system.

Find out more BEAMA Water Treatment represents manufacturers and suppliers of water treatment products. For more advice and guidance please use the online link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/47

30/05/2022 17:48

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PAG-PUBB_ARIASILENT_F292389_GB.indd 1

30/05/22 16:51

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Water & System Treatment

Complete solution to system safety Controlling the safety and hygiene of a water system is an essential element of the overall safety of users and should be a priority for those who design, install and maintain the system. Stephanie Allchurch from Altecnic explains how specific components can help to improve the hygiene and safety of a commercial water system.

ize and complexity of pipework and plumbing means that commercial plumbers are faced with a unique set of challenges. In commercial buildings there are often many storeys, which all require individual sinks, toilets, cold water systems, and pipework. As a result, commercial plumbers must have the knowledge and skill to design and install systems that can cope with high demand, whilst still being able to run efficiently. On top of this, it’s important to be aware of issues like bacteria growth within the system. Most crucially, this is because legionella risk assessments are a legal responsibility of employers, landlords, and duty owners of commercial properties and managers of residential accommodation. The bacterium that causes Legionnaire’s disease grows in water systems where water is stored at between 20 and 60°C. Due to this, it makes sense to keep water stored and distributed at temperatures above 60°C to thermally disinfect systems, without use of chemicals. There are various components that can be installed to ensure the circulation of safe, hygienic, legionella-free water, right up to the outlet, including: thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs), flow through vessels, and thermal balancing valves

Starting with TMVs The recommended temperature range for delivery of safe hot water where a TMV is installed is 38° to 44°, as dead legs of stagnant water can still be present in the system. To prevent the growth of legionella bacteria, water should be stored below 20° or above 60°. As TMVs allow for high temperature

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Stephanie Allchurch

Product development manager at Altecnic

Legionella bacteria

water storage, the risk of bacterial growth is reduced but not eliminated. It is highly recommended that once installed, TMVs are checked and maintained regularly to ensure they are still providing the required and intended scald protection. The outlet temperature should be tested to check that there is no significant change (≤ 2°C) and the fail-safe shut-off activates as intended. If the TMV does not meet these requirements, there is a risk of scalding to the user and, because of this, a full TMV service plus recommissioning, or valve replacement, will be required.

Free flowing

There are various components that can be installed to ensure the circulation of safe, hygienic, legionella-free water, right up to the outlet, including TMVs, flow through vessels and thermal balancing valves

Flow through expansion vessels, when used with a flowjet valve, are designed to keep potable water moving through a system in order to prevent any stagnation or contamination. When stagnation or contamination occurs, it is more likely that harmful bacteria such as legionella can develop. The flowjet design encourages flushing through the vessel, greatly reducing the opportunity for clusters to form. In a closed hot water circuit, the water cannot be compressed, so any increase in volume, created by an increase in temperature, must be accommodated by an expansion vessel. When water is cold, the pre-charge pressure forces the bladder to collapse until the pump is started when the bladder starts to inflate. As the temperature in the system increases, with the associated increase in pressure and volume, the expanded water enters the bladder, creating additional volume and lowering the pressure. When the temperature decreases, the precharge pressure forces the water from the bladder and back into the main water circuit.

On balance A thermostatic balancing valve, or thermostatic regulator, is intended to be installed on the return pipe of each re-circulation circuit. It encourages flow to automatically maintain the specified water temperature. It also allows a greater flow below its set point and restricts flow when water temperature rises to the set point. Clusters of cold water are thus prevented from being formed throughout the system. Additionally, the valves incorporate a bypass which can be opened and allows for a higher flow rate and temperature to move through the system for disinfection purposes, thus removing and killing legionella bacteria.

Bigger picture When looking at controlling legionella bacteria in water systems, look at the nature of the individual site and system as a whole, including dead-legs and parts of the system used intermittently. These should be included because they can create particular problems, as microbial growth can go unnoticed. When they are brought back online, they can cause heavy contamination, which could disrupt the efficacy of the water treatment regime. For this reason, it is recommended that TMVs are installed as close to the water outlet as possible, mixing water at the point of use where possible. Also, multiple TMVs should be used in the case of multiple outlets - use of a single TMV increases the risk of bacteria growth. In addition, the movement of water through the system should be controlled, preventing the flow of stagnant water. ‘Sentinel’ outlets must be identified and checked monthly, with hot water and cold water cylinders needing to be cleaned and checked for

debris periodically. So, each individual component in their design meets a part of this recommendation.

Complete solution A simple solution for commercial plumbers is a TMV that is WRAS approved and TMV3 / D08 NHS regulatory certified that allows easy thermal disinfection right to the outlet – removing the time and cost of recommissioning the valve. The Mixcal Careflo Plus TMV removes the need to take off the TMV to ‘flush’ out the whole system, making the process quicker and more efficient. Using a special tool and the manual override function allows thermal disinfection to be performed through to the outlets, enabling a complete rather than a partial flush, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. Look to manufacturers who offer a range of flow though expansion vessels, varying from 8 to 1000 litres, which are suitable for a wide variety of system sizes. Vessels that also offer the benefit of being nitrogen filled can reduce the chance of internal corrosion, preventing the loss of pre-charge pressure. This then contributes to extending the life of the expansion vessel. Flowjet valves should also be supplied as an optional component.

Well regulated To offer the full solution, commercial plumbers can also advise the installation of thermal balancing valves. For example, the 116 Series Thermal Balancing Valve from Altecnic regulates and controls the flow rate in accordance with the inlet water temperature. The regulator is equipped with a thermal disinfection function, which is useful if the water temperature exceeds 55 to 60˚C. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/48

30/05/2022 15:24

PHAM JUNE22:Layout 1 31/05/2022 14:14 Page 43

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Water & System Treatment

Protecting commercial interests Craig Worth from BoilerMag highlights the TX[Z]_LYNP ZQ XLRYP_TN ʭW_]L_TZY TY TX[]ZaTYR _SP PʯNTPYNd LYO WZYRPaT_d ZQ NZXXP]NTLW boilers and heating systems

hile heating system treatment programmes are now commonplace in domestic properties they are arguably more important for larger buildings. Heating system failures in buildings such as hotels, X`YTNT[LW M`TWOTYR^ ZʯNP blocks, and factories could be extremely costly in terms of commercial losses through building closure or ongoing energy costs. To ensure the optimum performance of a larger heating system, an PʬPN_TaP _]PL_XPY_ []ZR]LXXP must be implemented. Larger heating systems ]P\`T]P PʬPN_TaP _]PL_XPY_ []ZR]LXXP^ _Z bL]O Zʬ T^^`P^ that will put a system at risk. From the moment it is installed, a heating system is at risk as water reacts with steel NZX[ZYPY_^ ?ST^ NZ]]Z^TaP process causes a build-up of black sludge or magnetite, a black mud-like substance that is LY LNN`X`WL_TZY ZQ ʭYP QP]]Z`^ particles of corrosion. Left unchecked this can cause problems including blocked heat exchangers and pipes, cold

43.indd 1

Craig Worth BoilerMag’s national sales manager

Buildings such as hotels, public buildings and hospitals, will not ŋłķƘ ðāłāƩŶ ĕũŋĿ business continuity, they’ll also reduce their energy bills and maintenance costs

spots in radiators, damage to [`X[^ LYO aLWaP^ LYO TY ^ZXP cases premature boiler failure. :aP] _TXP _SP ^d^_PX bTWW LW^Z ^`ʬP] Q]ZX ]PO`NPO PʯNTPYNd greater CO˥ emissions, and higher energy and potentially S`RP NL[T_LW TYaP^_XPY_ ZY replacement parts such as boilers.

The combination of good quality water treatment chemicals with careful testing, the use of an inhibitor to reduce limescale, and the installation ZQ L XLRYP_TN MZTWP] ʭW_P] T^ essential for the maintenance LYO PʯNTPYNd ZQ NZXXP]NTLW heating systems.

Chemical set

!ķāÖũ ðāłāƩŶŭ ?SP MPYPʭ_^ ZQ RZZO ^d^_PX treatment for larger heating ^d^_PX^ L]P ^TRYTʭNLY_ Buildings such as hotels, public buildings and hospitals, bTWW YZ_ ZYWd MPYPʭ_ Q]ZX business continuity, they’ll also reduce their energy bills and maintenance costs. In addition, _SP]P L]P S`RP PYaT]ZYXPY_LW MPYPʭ_^ L^^ZNTL_PO bT_S ]PO`NPO energy use due to increased SPL_TYR PʯNTPYNd TYNW`OTYR L reduction in carbon emissions. While it is only aimed L_ []ZaTOTYR R`TOLYNP QZ] domestic properties, the latest update of Part L of the -`TWOTYR =PR`WL_TZY^ []ZaTOP^ a good practice blueprint for measures that should be taken _Z XLcTXT^P _SP PʯNTPYNd LYO circulation of hot water systems in all types of properties. It’s highly recommended _SL_ ^[PNTʭP]^ LYO M`TWOTYR managers adopt a sensible approach to cleaning and protecting heating systems to ensure that the health of larger hot water systems is maintained and protected in the long term. Existing systems should be NZ]]PN_Wd NWPLYPO LYO ʮ`^SPO before using an inhibitor NSPXTNLW _Z []PaPY_ ^NLWP formation and the corrosion of XP_LW^ 1TYLWWd L ʭW_P] ^SZ`WO MP ʭ__PO TY_Z _SP SPL_TYR NT]N`T_ _Z XLTY_LTY _SP PʯNTPYNd ZQ the system and prolong its life. 0aPY QZ] YPb ^d^_PX^ T_ T^ RZZO []LN_TNP _Z TY^_LWW []PaPY_L_TaP XPL^`]P^ ^`NS L^ ʭW_P]^ _Z

The BoilerMag XL is the ideal size ĕŋũ ĿāùĢŽĿ-sized commercial or retail properties

ensure that systems remain NWPLY LYO PʯNTPY_

Magnetic attraction High-performance magnetic ʭW_P]^ L]P bT_SZ`_ OZ`M_ _SP XZ^_ PʬPN_TaP bLd ZQ []PaPY_TYR of the build-up of magnetite or black sludge in larger heating systems, reducing energy bills, reducing maintenance costs and increasing boiler life. ,_ -ZTWP]8LR bP NLY []ZaTOP L ]LYRP ZQ STRSWd PʬPN_TaP NZXXP]NTLW ʭW_P]^ QZ] XLYd small and large commercial and industrial properties. The BoilerMag XL is compatible with ˚ ½in pipes and has an operating pressure of up to ˚˛ bar, making it the ideal size for medium-sized commercial or retail properties. With powerful magnets and a high collection capacity, they extract ultra-ʭYP particles and can be cleaned easily during the normal system ]Z`_TYP ^P]aTNP ?SP -ZTWP]8LR C? T^ LaLTWLMWP TY ^TeP^ _Z ʭ_ ˛ up to ˚˛in pipes with PN˚˟ ʮLYRP^ LYO NLY MP TY^_LWWPO TY L aL]TP_d ZQ WL]RP] buildings, including factories, ZʯNP^ SZ^[T_LW^ LYO ^NSZZW^

Cleaning chemicals are the perfect addition to commercial heating maintenance processes, SPW[TYR bT_S _SP PʬPN_TaP ]PXZaLW ZQ WTXP^NLWP OP[Z^T_^ installation debris, and magnetite. Limescale deposits tend to stick to heating elements, heat exchangers, pipes and radiators LYO NLY ^TRYTʭNLY_Wd ]PO`NP SPL_TYR PʯNTPYNd L^ bPWW L^ reducing the life of the boiler. It NLY LW^Z NL`^P L ɩVP__WTYRɪ PʬPN_ bSTNS RTaP^ ]T^P _Z PcNP^^ YZT^P Good quality, highperformance cleaning chemicals will display the Benchmark logo, bSTNS T^ L aLW`LMWP PYOZ]^PXPY_ of the product and associated MLNV`[ ^P]aTNP^ 4Y LOOT_TZY to excellent limescale and iron oxide dispersal rates, cleaning chemicals should be phosphateQ]PP _Z LaZTO OLXLRP _Z [`X[^ and bearings. BSTWP ʭW_P]^ LYO _]PL_XPY_ chemicals are becoming commonplace in domestic installations, direct limescale treatment methods are often ZaP]WZZVPO :`] B=,>L[[]ZaPO -ZTWP]8LR 0WPN_]ZWd_TN >NLWP =PO`NP] ZʬP]^ ^TX[WP cost-PʬPN_TaP WZYR-lasting protection. The combination of a copper body and an internal zinc anode releases zinc ions into the water which reacts with limescale particles and makes them less likely to stick to key heating components – thereby reducing the potential for future blockages. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˟˛˛̓˝ˢ

30/05/2022 12:02

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Product News

Integrated macerator provides a neat solution The new Saniflush from Saniflo is a complete ceramic toilet that features an integrated macerator, thereby providing a neat and compact solution for installing a WC into spaces where gravity drainage isn’t an option. Whether fitted in a bathroom in a basement or loft, or a cloakroom under the stairs, the installation of a Saniflush is possible with just a water supply and electrical connection. Thanks to its two outlets, a basin or a shower can also be connected. Standard macerators are often visible behind the WC unit, so the new Saniflush eliminates that issue for customers that prefer a more discrete solution. Featuring a modern rimless design and traditional bowl base, the WC comes in a classic white

ONLINE For further information about any of the products featured on this page, simply visit phamnews. co.uk/622/ followed by the relevant enquiry number.

design and is flange-free for easy cleaning. It also offers the water saving benefits of a push button flush system, a 3.6 litre tank and soft close seat. A powerful 400W motor in the macerator enables waste to be pumped up to height of 5m m and up to 100m horizontally. A non-return return valve is supplied as standard. For ease of pump maintenance and servicing, access to the macerator is cleverly provided by a sliding ceramic that exposes the pump. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/50

Drain top can match the bathroom tiles This July, Impey is launching the Tiled Insert drainage grate for its Aqua-Dec EasyFit floor former range. In addition to the variety of drainage grate designs currently available for the Aqua-Dec EasyFit, the new Tiled Insert option will enable installers to coordinate the drain top using the same tiles as the rest of the wetroom floor, creating a seamless aesthetic. This latest addition to Impey’s portfolio also offers more options for personalisation of the wetroom space. The frame and tile tray are both manufactured from high quality

Range expands for more choice and efficiency

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Concealed shower melts into the decor

stainless steel, with a frame measurement of 130 x 130mm. For tilers and wetroom fitters, fine-tuning and adjustment options ensure versatility and ease of installation throughout the tiling process, with suitability for both 8mm to 10mm tiles. The new product also includes a new WaterGuard clamp, specifically created to work with the sheet membrane and ensure a complete watertight installation. In addition, the Tiled Insert has been designed with a tiling aid which assists in marking the centre of the drain top, saving time, and aiding installation. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/51

Navien’s NCB family of gas boilers has been enhanced with the addition of two new high efficiency NCB500 and NCB300 models, both of which are said to offer the same high quality construction as the company’s established NCB700 model. Each is available as a combi, while there are also system and regular versions of the NCB500. All models can achieve hot water outputs of up to 41kW while achieving an ErP efficiency of 93%. Thanks to an advanced flow adjustment valve and auto mixing valve, the NCB500 is able to meet high hot water demand, without any changes in DHW temperature or flow rate. The

boiler also boasts a built-in, text-driven digital display panel. Simple to programme and use, it includes a two-channel timer and allows end users to monitor their energy usage with ease. The NCB500 is available in outputs of either 37kW or 41kW and also benefits from a keyless filling link. Because no key or hose is required, repressurising the heating system is easy for installers and homeowners alike. The range is completed by the NCB300, which is a pared down version of its larger cousins, but still achieves high levels of hot water performance. There are three sizes of NCB300 available, with DHW outputs of 28kW, 37kW and 41kW to choose from, plus each unit benefits from an LCD control panel for easy management of heating and hot water temperatures. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/52

The Evoco is Mira’s new fully concealed mixer shower, designed for style, reliability and ease of installation. This latest addition to the brand’s portfolio features a fully enclosed box design that is said to guarantee specifiers and installers longlasting and leak-free confidence, while offering the user a clean and contemporary aesthetic for the modern, refined bathroom. The shower comes in chrome as standard and is operated with the press of a button and a precise temperature control dial, for simplicity and ease of use. Installers can also choose from stylish upgrades that offer a more premium edge, including Matt Black and Brushed Nickel finishes, and dual and triple outlet options that includes a 200mm deluge overhead and 110mm single spray handset. Engineered for easy fitting, the Evoco uses Mira’s patented push-fit system to ensure a quick, leakfree installation and a perfectly flush finish. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/53

Ticks efficiency box The MAXXflo EVO range from Andrews Water Heaters now includes the new high output EVO 150 and the smaller output EVO Lite series. These units are designed to be fully compliant with the new minimum heat generator seasonal efficiency for direct-fired water heaters, which have increased to 91% (GCV) for natural gas and to 92% for LPG. Described as robust and serviceable, the MAXXflo EVO 150 and EVO Lite condensing water heaters offer efficiencies as high as 98% and reduced carbon and NOx emissions, offering a sustainable, high-performance solution for all commercial hot water applications. The 150 model delivers the same performance as the current MAXXflo EVO family, but with a larger output of 150kW. With integral twin heat exchangers, tank capacity of 300 litres and a high recovery rate of 2572 L/hr, it meets the most demanding commercial requirements in a compact footprint. The EVO Lite has been specifically designed to meet industry requirements for superior energy efficient operation. It is available in four models with lower outputs of 15, 25, 35 and 45kW, 200 litre storage and recovery rates of 232 to 695L/hr. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/54

30/05/2022 16:48

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Product News Brushed brass that brings on the bling Due to be launched in July are two new colour additions in the Roman Select Wetroom Panel range: brushed brass (pictured) and brushed nickle. This is in addition to the existing chrome and matt black finishes. All four finishes will be available on all Select Wetroom options from 1st July, and all are priced identically. The Select Wetrooms range from Roman provides a way to create a wetroom tailored to whatever configuration is required. The appeal and elegance of the brushed brass

Sealant’s in the pink The Pinkgrip range from Sika Everbuild has been enhanced with the addition of a highly versatile grab adhesive Pinkgrip MS. It brings together the application and performance beneﬁts of both the original solvent-based Pinkgrip and solvent-free Pinkgrip SF products. Because it is formulated with minimal solvents, the MS version can be used freely on the increasing number of construction sites that now require low VOC products as standard. The new hybrid formula is claimed to bring improved performance, with very few application barriers. As well as increased weather resistance, meaning it can be used both inside and out, Pinkgrip MS will stick virtually any two materials together – making it a versatile and reliable grab adhesive for projects demanding high performance. Pinkgrip MS is available in 290ml cartridge, Pinkgrip in a 350ml cartridge and Pinkgrip SF in a larger 380ml cartridge. All three products are available in the distinctive pink shade while SF also comes in white. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/56

remains timeless, says the company, and brushed nickel fixtures are becoming more commonly used by architects and designers in high-end bathroom design. The matt black finish is sandblasted to give a consistent and smooth finish. The Select Collection features Roman’s Wetroom Panel options, which can be fitted to the company’s low-level shower trays or straight to floor to create a true wetroom. They come in a number of panel sizes and options. David Osborne, Roman CEO, says: “We are delighted with these new finishes, and they add further reason to choose the Select Wetroom range. All four finishes are on trend and cover all wetroom design options. Plus, they are made in Britain from a carbon neutral manufacturing facility.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/55

Two million milestone Intatec recently marked a milestone with the sale of its two millionth Intamix TMV. The product was launched when the company was founded in 2002 and is designed to deliver safe, blended hot water to taps. “The longevity and continued popularity of Intamix is a testament to our team’s adaptability and attention to detail,” says MD Stuart Gizzi. “We have consistently adapted Intamix to the demands of the market, constantly listening to our customer base and building on what was already a compliant, cost-effective and user-friendly product. “Reaching two million sales is a great milestone to achieve. We are proud that so many people have trusted and are benefitting from our commitment to providing safe, high quality products.” The Intamix is independently tested and TMV3 approved and has also been tested, approved and certified under the NSF TMV2 scheme for domestic installations. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/57

Whirl action turns the bathroom into a spa New from Kaldewei are whirl bathtubs made of sustainable steel enamel to pamper both body and soul. The four new whirl systems are said to combine aspirational bathroom design with the joy of a luxurious private spa, offering intensive massage, a gentle caress or floating weightless in the water. Powerful jets of water loosen muscles, tendons, and joints, while preheated air bubbles stimulate the skin. The whirl programme and intensity can be adjusted separately to achieve four different types of massage, varying in intensity. The side nozzles can be individually aligned to the body, while special micro-nozzles treat the back and feet. The side and floor nozzles can be selected separately and be adjusted in their intensity. The whirl systems come with an automatic cleaning system and a ‘spectral light’ function (in deep red, soft green, airy blue, or a neutral white light), designed to enhance the spa experience. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/58

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COMPETITION

Win an electric underfloor heating bundle!

We’ve teamed up with ThermoSphere to give one lucky reader an electric underfloor heating package ThermoSphere – the British electric heating manufacturer – is giving away its BT21 Bluetooth programmable thermostat and up to 5m² of ThermoSphere Membrane for your next electric underfloor heating project – ideal for tile or stone floors found in wet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens. The BT21 thermostat is designed for both wet or electric underfloor heating. It’s the perfect complement to ThermoSphere‘s Membrane, the awardwinning electric underfloor heating solution. A quick and easy-to-install electric underfloor heating system, it consists of a decoupling membrane layer which encases the electric heating cable. ThermoSphere says its Membrane is the

 The dial operation on the BT21 thermostat adjusts the Comfort and Eco modes – everything else is done on the app

fastest and easiest way to create a heated wet room. Its decoupling, waterproofing and load bearing properties make it perfect for the ultimate floor finish. It is IP68impervious to moisture and safe in bathrooms, showers and wet rooms.

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win, 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 before 1st JULY 2022. One entry per person only.

What is the temperature shown on the BT21 thermostat in the picture appearing on page 26?

(a) 20ºC (b) 22ºC (c) 24ºC

Email your answer to editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk with ‘ThermoSphere’ in the subject line and include the following: (1) Your name (2) Your company’s name (3) Contact phone number (4) Please type ‘YES’ or 'NO' after your answer to indicate if you are happy to receive email offers from ThermoSphere

Competition closes on 1st July 2022

www.thermosphere.com

31/05/2022 09:34

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022

Product News

Grant streamlines boilers for easier speciﬁcation

Bigger range includes basic black As part of a wider expansion of its product portfolio, Bristan has launched the Mila range of contemporary bathroom taps, available in both chrome and black (pictured) ﬁnish options. They incorporate an elongated angled sprout design with an easy-to-use lever. The range features Bristan’s precision glide and secure ﬁx components, and all come with a 10-year guarantee

To make ordering its products more straightforward, Grant is streamlining its Vortex oil-fired boiler range by consolidating a number of existing models. The range currently features 63 models across internal, external, floor standing, wall hung, boiler house and combi sub-ranges. From July, Grant will simplify the range of Vortex yellow flame models, making it easier for merchants to stock and installers to specify. In total, 20 of the current Vortex Pro internal, Pro outdoor, Pro system and Boiler House models are being consolidated down to 10 new models. For example, Grant currently has a Vortex Pro Utility 15-21kW and a Vortex Pro Utility 15-26kW but these two models will be consolidated into one model which will be a Vortex 15-26kW. The range of heating outputs available in the Pro range will effectively remain the same. Grant has produced a useful download which details the Vortex models currently available alongside their new consolidated, equivalent models. This can be accessed using the online readerlink service below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/59

Hot water control in the palm of your hand Installers looking to oﬀer their customers the latest in electric water heating technology can recommend the Aqua Ariston Net, which is compatible with Ariston’s Velis Evo Wi-Fi range of electric storage water heaters. The app allows users to set and manage the water temperature – as well as monitor hot water

A lifetime of peace of mind The Wirquin Neo Air now comes with a lifetime guarantee. It was launched in September 2018 and since then over one million NEO traps have been sold, with nine product innovation awards to its name. The bottle trap provides an air system function that acts as an integrated ventapipe air admittance valve (AAV) to prevent the rise of bad odours and noise in pipes. When a vacuum is created in the pipes, the product’s membrane opens, creating ventilation and thus preventing the

PU insulation foam for ﬂexible pipes In collaboration with Switzerland-based Brugg Pipes, chemicals company Huntsman has developed a polyurethane (PU) foam with insulation properties that enables the production of highly ﬂexible pre-insulated pipes, suitable for connecting ground-source heat pumps and local heating units to domestic and commercial buildings. Brugg Pipes has applied the Suprasec Daltofoam TE system from Huntsman in its Flexstar products. The Suprasec Daltofoam TE system is said to produce foam with better insulation properties than polyethylene (PE), according to

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and three years on ﬁnishes. As well as the Mila launch, Bristan has also introduced a

suction of the water seal. Thanks to bi-injection technology, all washers are over-moulded onto the body so there can be no loss of washers giving complete protection against leaks. Each bottle trap is designed to be quick and easy to ﬁt thanks to the ‘quick safe’ function – a quarterturn captive nut that ensures a quick and reliable installation. It is also height adjustable, with up to 60mm adjustment. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/62

Huntsman. The insulation layer is thinner than PE but still delivers good overall insulation performance (low U-value). In addition, thinner and lighter pipes are quicker and easier to transport and install. Bora Yayla, head of marketing at Brugg Pipes, says: “Key to our success was achieving a good degree of flex in our pre-insulated pipes to ensure ease of handling without compromising insulation performance. Pipes that are more flexible have a smaller winding radius, meaning they are easier to transport and quicker for heating engineers and installers to lay in confined spaces or where there are tight bends and building entry points to navigate. Working with Huntsman, we’ve achieved all of our project objectives for Flexstar.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/63

usage – all from the palm of their hand. With the ability to operate the water heater remotely, users can access a variety of functions, such as turning it on in advance of showers, programming weekly

choice of new black finishes across some of its popular taps and bathroom accessories. Its Cobalt and Hourglass bathroom tap ranges will now include the option of both chrome and black finishes, with matching wastes, and round and square bathroom accessories for the perfect finishing touches. In addition, the company has introduced three new black kitchen sink mixer taps in this durable modern finish. All feature Bristan’s patented Easyfit technology kit for easy and quick installation from the top of the sink, making it simple to change whenever required. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/60

shower schedules, and switching between operational modes. Commenting on the app, Victoria Gutierrez, head of marketing at Ariston, says: “Aqua Ariston Net oﬀers so many advantages. Whereas water heaters could only previously be set manually, our state-of-the-art app with smartphone compatibility allows many adjustments to be made remotely. End users don’t even have to be at home – they can even ask their Amazon Alexa or Google Home voice assistant to adjust any relevant settings.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/61

Spa style electric showers an easy retrofit Answering consumer demand for spa-style bathrooms, Triton has launched the DuElec electric shower and diverter kit. The product allows the user to divert water between a fixed overhanging rainfall shower head, often found in hotels and spas, and a five-spray handheld option. Available packaged with the Amore 9.5kW electric shower, the DuElec comes in matching black or chrome finishes for a seamless and stylish look. Featuring a digital temperature display and simple soft touch on/off button, which complements the minimalist design of the shower, the Amore is an ideal pairing to recreate a boutique experience within the home. Additionally, the kit is compatible with showers from the wider Triton electric range that are 9.5kW and over in power rating, and can be easily be retrofitted to existing units. Tina Simpson, marketing director at Triton Showers, says: “The Amore DuElec is our solution for homeowners wanting an efficient electric shower which doesn’t compromise on looks or quality. As well as being available with the Amore, DuElec is also compatible with showers in our wider range, making it ideal as a quick bathroom upgrade.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/622/64

30/05/2022 17:34

33 47 PHAM DIRECTORY-TRAINING-INFO JUNE22:Layout 1 06/06/2022 11:50 Page 47

PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2022