May 2022 by PHAM News

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MAY 2022 | VOLUME 60 | ISSUE 4

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Increased heating costs putting more UK households into debt The number of UK households in debt to their energy supplier has risen by 52%, according to a new survey from Uswitch, while an estimated six million households are said to owe money to their provider. The amount of money that households collectively owe to their energy suppliers has doubled in the past year to reach £˚ billion, with ˛˜% of consumers now in energy debt, according to new research from comparison and switching service Uswitch. Some six million homes now owe an average of £˚ˡˡ to their energy provider, which is £˞ˡ more than this time last year, while the number of households in credit with their supplier has decreased by ˚ˡ% compared to last year.

Rising bills mean that many consumers are taking a different approach to their credit balances, says Uswitch. Rather than asking their supplier for their credit balance to be returned, two thirds of people in credit plan to leave the money with their supplier to try to reduce their monthly bills. Only one in ten intend to ask their supplier to return some of their credit. Four in five consumers have attempted to cut down their energy use at home amid rising

prices, with ˜ˢ% turning down the thermostat, ˜˜% only using the heating on days it felt particularly cold, and ˚˞% turning off their heating entirely. Justina Miltienyte, energy policy expert at Uswitch.com, says: “Higher prices over the winter has meant we are seeing many more people in energy debt at a time when they should be building up their credit again. The situation is going to get far worse in October when we expect another price rise.”

A separate study undertaken by City Plumbing concludes that heating a single room to ˚ˡ°C is now costing the average household £˞˛̍˛˙ extra each month. The company also surveyed ˛˙˙˙ people in the UK on how the price crisis was influencing their energy habits at home and found that the great majority of those surveyed (ˡˢ%) reported that they have changed (or are in the process of changing) their energy usage because of a rise in their heating bills. A lthough many households may view such measures as a temporary response, some energy experts have predicted that bills will remain significantly above average up to ˛˙˜˙ and beyond. Researchers from management consultancy Cornwall Insight forecasts that there is little prospect of pre-˛˙˛˚ prices making a comeback over the next ˚˙ years, with gas set to remain the primary fuel source for producing power throughout the remainder of this decade.

Prosecuted for dangerous gas work

˛˙˚ˢ by HSM Builders Ltd, the principal contractor for a domestic renovation in South London, to carry out plumbing and gas work, including the installation of a new gas boiler and gas cooker. However, some of the gas work was later found by a Gas Safe Register inspector to be an immediate danger if connected to a live gas supply. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that Mr Pauliuc was not registered with Gas Safe Register, and that HSM Builders did not check.

Valentin Pauliuc pleaded guilty to a breach of Regulation ˜(˜) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations ˚ˢˢˡ. He was sentenced to ˚˙ months in custody, suspended for ˚˛ months, and was placed under a curfew and was also ordered to pay £˚˟˝˝ in compensation to the owners of the property, and £˝ˠ˝ˠ in costs. Enfield-based HSM Builders pleaded guilty to a breach of Section ˜(˚) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act ˚ˢˠ˝. The NZX[LYd bL^ ʭYPO n˞˙̇˙˙˙ and ordered to pay £˝ˡ˞ˢ in costs.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Gordon Carson, said: “All gas work must be done by registered Gas Safe engineers to ensure the highest standards are met to prevent injury and loss of life. HSE will not hesitate to take enforcement action against people who break the gas safety rules, which are in place to protect the public. We would encourage anyone who is asking for gas work to be done to make sure they check the engineer has the right skills and is registered with Gas Safe Register.”

, RL^ ʭ__P] LYO M`TWOTYR NZX[LYd have been sentenced at Southwark Crown Court following unsafe and unregistered gas work that was deemed ‘immediately dangerous’ by a Gas Safe inspector. The Court heard that Valentin Pauliuc, trading as VP Plumbing & Heating, was hired in February

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Inside this issue Training Update Heat pump advice for installers See page 14

New products Is this the future of showering? See page 39

COMPETITION Win a press & push tool kit! See page ˝˚

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Inside this issue 5 MAY 2022 VOLUME 60 ISSUE 4

Editor’s Viewpoint by Chris Jones

Immediate savings Any trip to a local supermarket will confirm that the costs of many household staples have risen significantly in recent months, but it’s the spiraling price of energy that has probably had the biggest impact on household budgets. Inflationary pressures have of course been exacerbated by the Ukraine war, but while it is hoped that the current inflation rate will start to stabilise in time, it seems that the days of relatively cheap energy bills are not going to be returning anytime soon. The government’s recently published Energy Strategy was more about the need to invest in longterm solutions than coming up with policies to alleviate the stress of those struggling to meet the cost of heating their home. While outlining a way forward to help reduce the country’s dependence on expensive fossil fuels and achieve its 2050 net zero target, any positive impact from investing in renewable technologies and low carbon energy generation is unlikely to be noticed by households until well into the next decade. In the meantime, the easiest and most immediate way to save on energy costs is simply to use less of it – an objective which any professional in this industry should be capable of helping their customers achieve. Not many people are in the position to invest heavily in a complete overhaul of their existing heating system, but installers are well placed to advise on ways to maximise the efficiency of their current system without having to break the bank. Whether it’s a controls upgrade that’s needed or the removal of sludge and blockages, there’s no doubt that many homeowners are relying on systems that are not working to their full potential – and the rise in energy costs does at least mean that the payback for employing your services will be realised that much quicker!

Special Features

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Putting the case for copper piping as a more sustainable, durable and responsible material

06 News Review 11 Merchant News

Water Heating & Cylinders

Why instantaneous water heaters can provide an eco-friendly and space saving solution

16 Energy Matters 16 Planning for the Future 18 Horror Show

18 Business Matters 30 Products in Action 39 Product News

15 Your Views

Installations that will scare any professional

Don’t forget to use our online reader enquiry service to quickly ﬁnd the web page you need

Look out for next month’s issue

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Heating Controls

Factors to consider when choosing the best type of pipe for your plumbing project

How remote appliance monitoring can help to improve business eﬃciency by avoiding unnecessary call-outs

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© Copyright 2022 Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement News All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without written consent from the publisher. Attributed articles represent the views of the Author(s) and are not the necessarily those of the Editor. The publishers accept no responsibility for claims made by manufacturers or advertisers. This magazine includes a number of colour editorial photographs paid for by suppliers.

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PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 05/05/2022 14:59 Page 6

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

News Review

Air quality targets lack ambition The government must be more ambitious in its proposed changes to air quality standards, says the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). DEFRA has proposed a ‘headline target’ that would halve the current limit for fine particulate matter (PM˛̍˞) in England to ˚˙ micrograms per cubic metre of air (μg/m³) by ˛˙˝˙. However, BESA says this is double the level recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) which updated its guidance last year and set ˞ μg/m³ as a maximum level to protect human health. “Numerous studies have shown that PM˛̍˞ contributes to heart attacks and strokes – and increases the risk of severe asthma attacks and lung cancer,” says Nathan Wood, chair of BESA’s Health & Well-being in

Safe havens guide

Buildings Group. “We need to go further and faster. Surely, our targets should be aligned with the WHO’s. Also, setting a goal ˚ˡ years into the future condemns another generation of children to impaired lung function and increasingly severe asthma.” The Association also believes the government should set specific targets for indoor air quality (IAQ) so that buildings can become ‘safe havens’ that protect occupants from pollution.

łũāėĢŭŶāũāù ėÖŭ Ʃ ŶŶāũŭ prosecuted in Northern Ireland The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has led a prosecution against two gas engineers, David Horner trading as EDH Plumbing, Belfast, and Ian Campbell trading as Ian Campbell Gas Services, Bangor, Co. Down. Sentenced at Belfast Magistrates Court in Laganside, David Horner and Ian Campbell were fined £˛˞˙˙ and £˚˞˙˙, respect ively, for mult iple offences under gas safety legislation. David Horner was LW^Z ʭ YPO QZ] QLTWTYR _Z NZX[Wd with an earlier prohibition notice. The HSENI investigation QZWWZbPO YZ_Tʭ NL_TZY _SL_ /LaTO Horner had been conducting gas work despite being suspended as a gas engineer from the Gas Safe Register. It was found that

6 (News).indd 1

between February and October ˛˙˚ˠ, David Horner completed multiple gas safety checks and a gas boiler installation at various residential properties within the Greater Belfast area. The investigation also found that David Horner conducted gas work despite having been prohibited from carrying out such work following the service of a prohibition notice in June ˛˙˚ˠ by an HSENI Inspector. A total of ˜˝ gas safe checks were sub-contracted to him by Ian Campbell, who had initially failed to check and ensure that David Horner was a registered Gas Safe engineer before any gas work commenced. The court found their actions put others at significant risk from gas installations.

BESA has launched a guide on indoor air quality that shows how to convert a building to protect occupants from health risks linked to airborne contaminants. ‘Buildings as Safe Havens – a practical guide’ is the third in its suite of guidance for measuring, monitoring, and improving IAQ and the second produced with the support of Mitsubishi Electric. The ‘BASH’ Guide offers practical steps that facility managers can take to measure indoor air quality and offers advice on the questions to ask ventilation experts. “This guide will help contribute to a greater understanding of the type of equipment available, as well as encouraging more productive conversations about what can be achieved in our buildings in the long-term,” says Hern Yau, ventilation product specialist at Mitsubishi. “It also reinforces the importance of building managers only working with properly trained and competent IAQ specialists.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˙˛

Welsh student is Learner of the Year Ruben Duggan, a student from Coleg Y Cymoedd’s Ystrad Mynach Campus, has been named HIP Learner of the Year. Ruben (pictured) won the final of six regional winners having completed a live ˚˛-hour practical test, carried out across two days, at the Worcester Bosch headquarters in Worcester. Thousands of pounds worth of prizes were given to the competitors, with each finalist receiving tools, branded merchandise and a certificate for taking part. Commenting on his win, Ruben says: “It was a big surprise! I found the competition really challenging, it wasn’t easy. It’s such a big thing to put on your CV!” This year’s five other finalists included Charlie Oliver from Shrewsbury College, Jack Payne from Buckinghamshire College Group’s Wycombe Campus, Andrew Poland from St Helens College, Elliot Julian from Cornwall College and Kai Alexander-Weir from Darlington College. Organised by HIP magazine, a publication for plumbing & heating students and apprentices, this year’s competition was sponsored by Worcester, Milwaukee, Graham’s, Wilo, Kingspan, Triton, Roca, WaterSafe, Pegler, Stelrad, Fernox, Talon, CIPHE, and VW Commercial Vehicles.

Both plumbers and homeowners aim to be greener this year New research from Rated People’s ˛˙˛˛ Home Improvement Trends Report has found that both tradespeople and homeowners are looking to become more environmentally friendly this year, with ˡ˞% of bathroom installers and ˟˙% of plumbers saying they will make eco changes this year. Rated People analysed its own data of over ˡ˙˙̇˙˙˙ home improvement jobs posted on its platform and spoke to more than ˟˙˙ tradespeople and ˛˙˙˙ homeowners to conduct the study. Two out of three (˟˜%) of all surveyed trades said they will green up the way they conduct their business in ˛˙˛˛, while ˝˜% of homeowners said they would be more likely to choose a tradesperson if they were ecofriendly. ?SP ʭ YOTYR^ ^SZb _SL_ _]LOP^[PZ[WP L]P ]PO`NTYR travel by taking more local jobs, giving quotes remotely, and using British parts where possible. They’re also planning to recycle more, use greener materials and drive electric vehicles to make their businesses more eco-friendly.

Four in five (ˡ˚%) tradespeople think eco home improvements will be more popular this year, with ˠ˙% planning to extend their skillset to take on more eco jobs. When looking at some of the most popular eco adaptations for this year, ˛˙% of customers are planning to have a smart meter installed, ˚ˡ% want solar panels, ˚˝ bLY_ L WZb ʮ Zb _ZTWP_ LYO ˚˜% want a smart thermostat. Meanwhile, Rated People says it has seen a ˜˚˛% increase in inquiries for heat pumps.

05/05/2022 14:37

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

News Review

Installers eyeing the heat pump opportunity UK plumbing and heating installers remain optimistic about the future of their businesses according to new research from Daikin UK. The company’s Installer Confidence Monitor, which surveys members of its Sustainable Home Network, found that nearly two thirds (65%) see the government’s commitment to net zero and the recent launch of the £5000 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants as an opportunity for business growth. A quarter believe that up to half of their business will come from installing heat pumps and hybrid heat pumps in the next ﬁve years – double what two in five say they’re installing at the moment. But nine out of ten (91%) agree that more must be done to make heat pumps aﬀordable and accessible. And more than two thirds (67%) agree that the government should

Collect some cashback in Grant’s new promotion

support hybrid heat pumps as an important transitional technology for homeowners. Iain Bevan, commercial manager, heating and renewables at Daikin UK, comments: “It’s encouraging that Sustainable Home Network installers are seeing the road to net zero as an opportunity. Training is high on the agenda for many, who plan to invest time and money in installation training for both heat pumps (85%) and hybrid heat pumps (51%) over the next 12 months. Hybrid systems can play a big role in advancing mass market take-up of renewable heating technologies. We believe that including hybrids in the Boiler

Upgrade Scheme would help it to reach its full potential.” More than seven in ten (71%) respondents say they have benefited from the free training that’s available through their membership of Daikin’s Sustainable Home Network, with just under a third saying sales leads (29%) and free technical support (44%) have also benefited their business. The Daikin Sustainable Home Network is free to join and offers heat pump installers a wide range of business-building benefits and expertise. Find out more about Daikin’s pathway to becoming a Sustainable Home Expert. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/03

A new installer cashback promotion has been launched by Grant UK in support of the company’s VortexBlue blue flame oil-fired boiler. Eligible boilers include the entire range of VortexBlue internal, external, and combi boilers and the promotion is open to any boiler ﬁtted between 1st May and 31st July 2022. Once an installer has purchased an eligible blue flame boiler through their local merchant and installed the product, they will be able to claim £250 cashback. To submit a claim, installers need to visit www.grantuk.com/ professional/vortexbluepromotion to complete the online claims form. Claims should be completed in full providing a proof of purchase (copy of the merchant invoice). Grant UK will then pay the installer directly within 30 days of receiving a valid claim. To be eligible for this

support, installers should submit claims before 31st October 2022. Full terms and conditions apply. For more information please use the reader link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/04

In-person purchases rob you of time

Barriers to convert off-grid Oil heating installers have voiced concerns over the government’s proposals to convert off-grid homes to heat pumps with the vast majority (87%) believing that less than one fifth of the properties they service are currently ready for the technology. In the survey of 229 OFTEC registered technicians, poor insulation was cited as the biggest barrier (72%) followed by the age and condition of the property (67%) and heat emitters, such as radiators, needing replacing (27%). Responding to the findings, Malcolm Farrow, head of public affairs at OFTEC, comments: “The government is focused on a heat pump solution for off-grid homes but heating technicians working in these properties every day are very clear about the real world challenges with this approach. “They know it makes little sense to install heat pumps in inefficient buildings and the vast majority of their customers are simply not ready

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to transition without expensive and disruptive energy efficiency improvements. Combined with an average price of £11,000 for the heat pump itself, rural homeowners are at risk of facing the highest costs and the worst outcomes.” Over half (56%) of the installers surveyed also said the most common reason for a boiler installation was a distress purchase after a breakdown. Of those, 57% highlighted that their customers wanted the least disruptive and the lowest installation cost. When asked about an alternative low carbon solution, 72% of technicians said they would prefer the government focused on renewable liquid fuels, such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), for oﬀ-grid homes. OFTEC says more than 100 oil heated homes have already converted to the sustainably sourced fuel and cut emissions by 88% as part of a demonstration.

Plumbers are wasting 120 working hours a year (on average) by having to delay jobs to make in-person purchases for work-related items. This is the equivalent of 15 days, based on an eight-hour day. The ElectricalDirect study found that plumbers spend two and a half hours a week on such tasks, including driving to merchants, parking, browsing and paying. This equates to 120 hours a year – the same as 15 eight-hour working days of time. Dominick Sandford, MD at ElectricalDirect, says: “It’s clear that many find it frustrating when they have to sacrifice working hours to go shopping. When you look at the earnings they’re potentially losing out on, this isn’t surprising. “Shopping online can address many of the major grievances, and at ElectricalDirect we offer top trade

brands, at competitive prices, with several delivery options and late order cut-oﬀ, providing lightning quick delivery.” To see how much extra trades-

people could potentially earn if they spent less time in shops and switched to online purchasing, visit the weblink below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/05

van theft over the two years. The number of trade vehicles stolen rose from 68 in 2020 to 138 in 2021. Cumbria isn’t far behind, with offences doubling over the time period from 15 to 30 (100%). Other notable increases in van theft occurred in territories

covered by Bedfordshire Police (46%), Hertfordshire Constabulary (30%), South Yorkshire Police (18%), Leicestershire Constabulary (14%), Humberside Police (13%), Dorset Police (12%), Lancashire Constabulary (7%) and Cheshire Constabulary (7%). Almost half (46%) of the total number of offences were in London. In 2020 and 2021, 6839 incidents of van theft were reported to The Metropolitan Police Service. For a detailed look at van theft issues, read IronmongeryDirect’s Trade Theft Report using the reader link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/06

Van theft hot spots Cambridgeshire has seen the biggest rise in van theft in the UK over the past two years, according to a study from IronmongeryDirect. The online hardware retailer issued Freedom of Information requests to find out how many vans were stolen in 2020 and 2021, with a focus on the change in number of thefts in that time period. Some regions saw the number of oﬀences more than double. Cambridgeshire was found to be the UK’s biggest hotspot for the crime, with a 103% increase in

05/05/2022 15:34

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

News Review

Heat pump production scaled up in new deal Octopus Energy is investing in Renewable Energy Devices (RED), a British heat pump manufacturer in Craigavon, Northern Ireland, in a deal that will expand the factory to produce over ˚˙˙˙ heat pumps a month for UK customers. A statement released by Octopus says that the partnership will allow the companies to bring down costs for heat pumps by scaling production, while creating ˚˙˙ new green engineering jobs in the next two years. The company plans to ZʬP] L ]LYRP ZQ OTʬP]PY_ ^TePO SPL_ pumps, with a focus on smaller options for the most common homes in the UK. The factory is being geared to produce over ˚˙˙˙ heat pumps a month by the end of this year. The partners are also

Water-saving help at hand

in the process of scoping other locations to build further heat pump manufacturing facilities. Greg Jackson, founder and CEO of Octopus Energy Group (pictured), NZXXPY_^% ɭ?ST^ LR]PPXPY_ will involve major investments into heat pump manufacturing, creating valuable green jobs across the UK and helping increase our energy security by getting more

SZXP^ Zʬ RL^ LYO O]TaP OZbY costs for customers. ɭ?ST^ T^ _SP ɩ8ZOPW ?ɪ XZXPY_ for the heat pump industry. Thousands of heat pumps rolling out of RED’s Craigavon factory a month is just the beginning. Like the original Ford, we’re planning to scale production every year, cutting costs even further and making heat [`X[^ LʬZ]OLMWP QZ] PaP]dZYP ”

Showers and taps specialist Methven is working with the Rainy Day Trust to provide water-saving shower heads to help reduce water and energy bills for those who have fallen on hard times. The Rainy Day Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting people who have worked in the UK’s home improvement industry, will install Methven’s water-saving shower SPLO^ TY _SP SZXP^ ZQ _SZ^P bSZ ʭYO themselves in financial hardship. They can ask the Trust for assistance and to have one of Methven’s showering solutions delivered free of charge. This includes the company’s

Kiri low-ʮZb ^SZbP] SPLO^ bSTNS save at least ˜ litres of water per minute, due to its Satinjet watersaving technology. James Gibbard, head of sales at 8P_SaPY NZXXPY_^% ɭBP _LVP R]PL_ pride in being able to support the Rainy Day Trust in providing its MPYPʭNTL]TP^ bT_S XZ]P ^`^_LTYLMWP showering solutions that can proactively support a reduction in water and energy bills. The partnership is a fantastic opportunity for us to recognise those who have OPOTNL_PO _SPT] _TXP LYO PʬZ]_ _Z _SP home improvement sector.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˙ˠ

˟˙ prizes to win on ˟˙th anniversary

given back to others. For installers, this means those who went above and beyond for their customers, particularly during the uncertain times of the pandemic. Victoria Billings, director of marketing at Worcester Bosch, NZXXPY_^% ɭBP SLaP RZYP _S]Z`RS an incredible journey as a company over the last ˟˙ years; and the one thing we have always aimed to do is warm lives. We want to recognise those who also warm lives in any way and who go that extra mile for others. We’re looking forward to hearing the inspiring stories of those who are nominated.” For more information on the company’s ˟˙th birthday celebrations and the rewards initiative, please use the link below. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˙ˢ

Production boost Stay informed with new CIPHE website

New investment in a digital printer will enable Showerwall to increase its manufacturing capacity by ˝˙˙% and deliver faster turnaround times for customers. The printer also allows for production of larger panels up to ˜m, and will use water-based inks with high adhesion and scratch resistance to increase durability. Product manager Steph Harris ^Ld^% ɭ-d TYN]PL^TYR Z`] []TY_TYR NL[LNT_d bP NLY meet the rising demand for acrylic. It was the right time to invest in this new technology. Reducing lead times will enable further growth, enhance customer service, and help retailers and installers deliver dream bathrooms for their customers.”

10 (News).indd 1

A new website has been launched by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), designed to give members more control over their membership, and consumers and professionals access to industry insights, news and advice. >LTO _Z ZʬP] L ZYP-stop-shop for all things plumbing, heating and renewable, the new site boasts an online shop and password protected members-only area. It also includes advice on a range of public health issues, such as fuel poverty, information on careers and training, along with enhanced online tools such as the updated and improved ‘Find a Plumbing or Heating Engineer’ facility. Members can log in to manage their membership ZYWTYP Z] ʭYO Z`_ XZ]P LMZ`_ _SP MPYPʭ_^ ZQ membership. They can also register for free online for the Approved Contractor Person (ACP) and WaterSafe schemes, or start a path to registration with the Engineering Council at Engineering Technician, Incorporated Engineer or Chartered Engineer levels. Visit the new CIPHE website by using the link below. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˙ˡ

Marking its ˟˙th anniversary this year, UK boiler manufacturer Worcester Bosch has launched a new prize-winning campaign that will see ˟˙ prizes gifted to deserving recipients. The rewards will range from new power tools and van wraps, to day out experiences and new heating systems. The initiative is open to four OTʬP]PY_ L`OTPYNP^% TY^_LWWP]^ `^P]^ community groups and Worcester Bosch employees, and the company is looking to reward people who have

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PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 04/05/2022 16:06 Page 11

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Merchant & Distributor News 11 New service targets ŽťťŋũŶ ĕŋũ ŶŋĿŋũũŋƒ̪ŭ ŶÖķāłŶ ÖƦŋũùÖðķā ĞŋŽŭĢłė Independent supplier of plumbing and heating materials James Hargreaves has joined forces with Burnley College to help students learn best practice on their chosen career path. As well as establishing the ‘James Hargreaves Centre of Plumbing Excellence’, the partnership will enable the college to receive ^TRYTʭNLY_ _]LOP N]POT_ LRLTY^_ products purchased, and the XP]NSLY_ bTWW LW^Z ZʬP] LYY`LW []TeP^ to students who excel in their studies. “We have one of the strongest construction departments in the North West,” says Karen Buchanan,

principal at Burnley College (pictured, left). “To now have the power of the James Hargreaves brand behind us will help us develop still further and support the highly-skilled plumbing and heating engineers of tomorrow.” Jack Rothwell (pictured, right), systems director at James Hargreaves Plumbing Supplies, adds: “We have ^PPY L_ ʭ]^_ SLYO _SP LXLeTYR bZ]V ZQ _SP ^_Lʬ LYO ^_`OPY_^ L_ -`]YWPd College and we want to help them in any way we can. We are keen to create a partnership which provides opportunities and incentives for students.”

Targeting housing associations and local authorities, City Plumbing has launched a new Integrated Solutions M]LYO 4Y^_LWWP]^ TY _SP LʬZ]OLMWP SZ`^TYR ^PN_Z] NLY take advantage of the Integrated Solutions’ team of experts providing repair and maintenance material supply chain solutions. The service focuses on product supply, distribution, frameworks, IT, and administrative solutions. Products in the Integrated Solutions brand are OP^TRYPO _Z ZʬP] L bTOP] ^ZW`_TZY-based proposition with a range of value-added services. In addition to over ˜ˠ̇˙˙˙ product lines and over ˜˞˙ branches to Q`WʭW NZY_]LN_ ]P\`T]PXPY_^ N`^_ZXP]^ NLY YZb LNNP^^ an expert digital development team to ensure that the latest systems will meet the needs of customers. Curated systems and KPI portals monitor stock levels, ^LWP^ LYO [`]NSL^P^ _Z SPW[ N`^_ZXP]^ TX[]ZaP ʭ]^__TXP ʭc ]L_P^ UZM^ NZX[WP_PO [P] OLd LYO ]P^TOPY_ satisfaction. “We go above and beyond the role of a supplier and work with all our customers to improve the lives of their tenants,” says Richard Adams, sales director of Integrated Solutions. “Whether it be through providing bZ]V [WLNPXPY_^ L[[]PY_TNP^ST[^ ʭYOTYR PX[WZdXPY_ for ex-military personnel, or teaching tenants new skills to complete jobs that fall outside of their tenancy agreement, Integrated Solutions places itself within the heart of local communities to raise the wellbeing of individuals, strengthen local economies and deliver on maximum social impact. “Our expertise and digital solutions enable us to ZʬP] MP^[ZVP ^ZW`_TZY^ _SL_ LOL[_ _Z Z`] N`^_ZXP]^ɪ systems and meet the satisfaction of their customers, building trust throughout the value chain.” ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˚˙

Charity partner A hospice which provides support to babies, children and young people with life-threatening and lifelimiting illnesses across London has been named L^ _SP NSL]T_d [L]_YP] ZQ 0YʭPWO-based TG Lynes. Noah’s Ark provides care for over ˜˞˙ children and their families, and the product and materials supplier aims to support the charity with a series of fundraising events during the year, including charity golf days and a gala dinner. Martin Hastings, MD at TG Lynes, says: “Given the proximity of Noah’s Ark to where our colleagues work, and for the most part live, we are all aware of the outstanding work the charity does for hundreds of youngsters across London each year. “We have raised funds for Noah’s Ark in the past so, when we were looking for a charity partner to support, it was a straightforward decision from colleagues as to which one we would select. The support and care it provides both the children and their families at an Pc_]PXPWd OTʯN`W_ _TXP T^ Z`_^_LYOTYR LYO bP SZ[P the contributions we will make throughout the year will go some way to support this incredible charity.”

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PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 04/05/2022 16:18 Page 12

NEW APPOINTMENTS

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

People on the Move Daikin Europe has announced the appointment of Hiroyasu Ishikawa (pictured) as its new managing director. Hiroyasu succeeds Angela McGinlay, who is transferring to a new assignment within the company. Hiroyasu has served as deputy MD since ˛˙˚˟ and in his new MD role will be supported by Mark Dyer, who succeeds him as deputy MD.

The Kinedo sales team is expanding with the appointment of James Day as area sales manager – south. James joins the business with ˚ˡ years experience in the plumbers merchant sector. His new role will entail generating displays, as well promoting general awareness of the Kinedo range of cubicles, enclosures and trays in the retail and merchant sectors.

Kensa Group has announced a number of new appointments to its senior management team. Dr Matthew Trewhella (pictured), previously MD of Kensa Contracting, has been named CEO of the Kensa Group, while Paul Eveleigh has been promoted from operations director to MD of Kensa Heat Pumps.

Heat pump supplier Go Geothermal has welcomed Alan Brooke as its new technical manager for the North. With over ˜˞ years in the heating and renewable energy industry, Alan will provide support to installers who purchase products from the company’s CTC brand, particularly ground and air heat source heat pumps.

ALWaP^ LYO [T[P ʭ__TYR^ XLY`QLN_`]P] Conex Bänninger has enhanced its UK team with two key promotions. Ged Grimes, who has been with the company for eight years, has been made business unit director while Lisa Cox steps up to the role of sales coordinator after four years. -Z_S 2PO LYO 7T^L L]P \`LWTʭPO TY^_LWWP]^

The former head of sales at British Gas, Phill Cox, has joined Heatable, a national online installation company, as commercial sales director. With over ˛˙ years experience in the domestic heating market, Phill has held a number of senior positions at British Gas including national sales performance manager and, most recently director, of sales.

ONLINE For further information about any of the stories featured in this issue, simply enter phamnews. co.uk/522/ followed by the relevant enquiry number

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Air conditioning specialists Coolair Equipment Limited have announced a new hire to head up expansion into Scotland and the North East. The operation will be led by senior sales engineer Mark Walsh, a veteran of the industry with more than ˛˙ years experience working with the likes of Kooltech and Midea UK.

LG Electronics has welcomed Peter Spurway as national sales manager – heating projects. Peter has almost ˛˙ years experience in the heating sector, having previously worked at Vaillant Group and Baxi Heating in senior sales positions. He began his career as an HVAC engineer at Bracknell Forest Council.

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PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 04/05/2022 08:53 Page 13

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Gadgets & Tools 13 Measure and record with accuracy Claimed to achieve high accuracy over distances up to ˚˞˙m, Bosch’s GLM ˚˙˙-˛˞ C and GLM ˚˞˙-˛ˠ C Professional laser measures LW^Z Zʬ P] ]L[TO []ZNP^^TYR documentation, and remote control via the MeasureOn app. Users can measure distances in bright environments and over long distances, both indoors and outdoors. The two models are equipped with a camera and zoom function to make it easy

Put a torch and powerbank in your wallet

to precisely aim at the target point. This means that even large distances can be measured precisely. Bosch says its new WL^P] XPL^`]P^ Zʬ P] L ^TRYTʭ NLY_ advantage: The camera image can be seen in real time throughout

the measuring process. It remains visible even after measuring so that the correct target point can MP ]PNSPNVPO LYO NZYʭ ]XPO ?ST^ allows users to recognise and avoid errors. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˞˛˛̓˚˚

Machine for easy pipe and drain cleaning Described as user-friendly and secure, Rothenberger’s RospiMatic CL is a pipe and drain cleaning machine for basins, sinks, baths, showers and urinals. The drill connects via a hex-free drive and has a free-wheel clutch for delivering a smooth cable feed. It can be operated via a hexagonal connection compatible with other drill drives. The tool starts and stops smoothly, while the freewheel ensures that there is no kickback in the drill drive during operation. The feed can be switched between forward and reverse without having to change the drill drive’s direction of rotation. This saves time, because it makes changing hands or stopping the machine unnecessary while users have full control of the spiral at all times during use. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˞˛˛̓˚˛

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The Lite Wallet Plus by Ledlenser OPWTaP]^ L _]TZ ZQ MPYPʭ _^ TY L YPL_ ˚˙˙% leather-bound case – it is a wallet, torch and powerbank all in ZYP 4_ Zʬ P]^ YTYP ^WZ_^ QZ] NL]O^ and bank notes, an impressive light output and additional energy as a powerbank for electronic devices. While keeping cards safely stowed away, it can also give you a bright light when on the job, whether working in a shadowy boiler room or looking behind

pipes where the lighting doesn’t reach. The integrated LED lamp is brighter than the average mobile, with precise optics and two power modes: high (˚˞˙ lumens) and low (˚˙ lumens). Meanwhile the powerbank function lets you charge electronic devices via USB-C or wireless charging (both input and output). The product also includes an integrated RFID protection to secure personal data. ͻ phamnews.co.uk̓˞˛˛̓˚˜

03/05/2022 15:17

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Training Update

Expanding network of Sustainable Home Centre s Daikin UK has extended its national network of Sustainable Home Centres by teaming up with Halifax-based Viva Training. The facility, which was officially opened in April, will provide a ‘hub’ for installers, developers and consumers looking to find out about, purchase and/or train in heat pump installation. As a heat pump training provider, Viva can offer installers training and advice on taking advantage of the growing demand for low carbon heating solutions. For end users, including individual homeowners, and social housing and private developers, the SHC will provide a place to purchase heat pumps and get matched with a suitable local installation company. Richard Firth, MD of the Viva, comments: “Partnering with Daikin means we’re not only

Providing expert UFH advice onsite

able to support homeowners and provide them with the best products in the market; we can also offer training, including Daikin specific product training and a Level 3 air source heat pump course to installers, create new job opportunities in the area and help make our national carbon reduction goals more achievable. Iain Bevan, commercial manager - heating & renewables at Daikin UK, adds: “It’s never been more important that

homeowners can access expert advice and guidance, helping them find the best solution for their household’s heating and hot water needs. And the need for installers to train on sustainable technologies is paramount.” Installers who join Daikin’s Sustainable Home Network can benefit from free, hands-on training. Other benefits include dedicated technical support, sales-ready leads, business support and special offers. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/14

The training team at Polypipe Building Products has launched an underfloor heating site support service. The company’s new support team offers on-the-job guidance and training from the experts in the field. Since the beginning of the year, the site support team has provided training sessions on a wide variety of projects, from single storey homes to luxury apartments, and tackled everything from the advanced features of smart controls and wiring centres to bleeding the primaries on a manifold system. Training is only part of what is available from the onsite support. The team can help identify issues in systems and back this up with thermal imaging. They will also help to interpret full design documentation to improve and speed up installation. Dean Asher, head of technical and customer services, says: “The

new Site Support Service has been a phenomenal success with 10/10 ratings from customers across the board. “Having an expert onsite has been great for installers, but it’s been good for us to get out to see our customers and help them ensure perfect installation of our underfloor heating products. “It has proved so successful that we are hoping to expand the team even further this year.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/15

Green light for new training Easy way to gain access facility in County Durham to online learning

A new training facility has opened in County Durham to deliver qualifications in the installation, servicing and maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) and help tradespeople in the area take advantage of growing demand for low carbon heating. Based in Peterlee, Go Green Training is the brainchild of Brian Weir and Lee McCann, who have over 40 years of ASHP installation experience between them, and will be running courses that will lead to fully certified LCL Awards ASHP qualifications. “We are on a mission to upskill installers in the North East with the training they need to take advantage of the expanding renewables sector,” says Brian (pictured above). “We want to be at the forefront of training the next generation of air source heat

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pump engineers across the North of England and Scotland.” Tracy Harker, quality assurance and relationship manager at LCL Awards, adds: “We are delighted to be working with Go Green Training Academy and can see that their facilities offer a great learning environment. Lee and Brian are experienced trainers/ assessors with a fresh approach to course delivery. There are plans in place to offer a range of renewable technology qualifications. We wish them every success with this new venture.” Government funding is available for air source heat pump training and Go Green Training is in talks with several North East colleges with regards to incorporating this training into the curriculum of relevant courses. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/16

Responding to installer feedback highlighting the need for training options which can fit around busy schedules, Vaillant has launched its new Vaillant Academy which can be accessed both through the company’s Advance loyalty programme and directly through its main website. The new e-learning platform combines a wealth of online training courses, technical information, and valuable marketing tools. The blended learning approach allows installers to compete theorybased modules at home, meaning they only need to visit a Vaillant Centre of Excellence to complete practical training elements. Additionally, by completing part of the course online before attending an in-centre practical course, installers can maximise their time working with the boiler or heat pump itself. And, with all training certificates available through the online portal, installers can clearly demonstrate to customers they are fully up to speed on the latest training. A similar online training portal has also been developed for the company’s sister brand, Glow-worm. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/17

Domestic ventilation course A new dedicated training suite has been opened by ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia at its Crawley headquarters for its NICEIC Domestic Ventilation Training Course. The facility offers a comfortable environment for installers to improve their knowledge and understanding of domestic ventilation systems, with the room featuring an array of working Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) units so attendees can put into action the theoretical skills they learn on the course. The two-day NICEIC Domestic Ventilation Training Course is aimed at anyone with an interest in installing ventilation systems, particularly experienced electricians, plumbers, ventilation installers and heating engineers looking to improve their knowledge and understanding of domestic ventilation systems. It also

looks at legal requirements, why ventilation is important and the different types of ventilation available. This includes information on the updated Building Regulations to ensure installers are aware of and comply with the new changes. Upon completion, installers will be able to apply to join a Competent Person Scheme, such as that run by the NICEIC, as the course meets all the minimum technical competency requirements. “We are delighted to be able to offer this dedicated new training suite,” says David Cook, technical product manager at Vent-Axia. “With ventilation being more important than ever, our NICEIC course allows attendees to ensure they comply with best practice, as well as being able to gain hands-on experience with MVHR units in a comfortable environment.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/18

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Your Views Global warming and the future of heating When someone is lost and asks you for directions, how often do you reply, “I would not start from here”? The world is in a similar situation right now with global warming and decarbonising. How successful was COP ˛˟? Not very from what I can see. It is like looking for the station and hoping to catch a train back to normality. “Sorry, but the train left ˛˞ years ago”. All we can do now is hope for the best. People have been campaigning since the ‘ˠ˙’s, but back then it was called pollution. No one took much notice until Thatcher went to war with Scargill and took on the miners. The world needs to stop using coal. We have done our bit in the UK. Our deep mines were an asset and could/ should have been used to bury our waste (nuclear, asbestos, etc.) and it would have kept many XTYP]^ M`^d MLNV ʭ WWTYR -`_ _ZZ WL_P YZb

Where it went wrong So what happened? There was the dash for ‘hydrocarbon’ gas, found by chance in the North Sea, plus a lovely light crude oil. That was good, but it should have been seen as transition fuel. And, yes, some PV, hot bL_P] ^ZWL] LYO bTYO QL]X^ SL[[PYPO -`_ for me, this is where it all went wrong. Instead of building up a sovereign wealth fund like Norway, our government ^\`LYOP]PO _SP WZ_ ɧ [W`^ ^PWWTYR Zʬ _SP QLXTWd ^TWaP] LYO OT^[Z^TYR ZQ _SL_ L^ bPWW The electricity produced from part of these fuels should have been designated for the production of hydrogen, not simply fed into the grid. Hydrogen can be used to power HC gas power stations, all manner of vehicles, trains, aeroplanes, etc. Hydrogen is a wonderfully clean fuel because water and oxygen are the ‘waste’ products. Surely it’s far better to ‘make’ our own hydrogen for vehicles and inject it into XZOTʭ PO PYRTYP^ ]L_SP] _SLY RZ PWPN_]TN and rely on the production of lithium batteries. Hydrogen can also be sold at ʭ WWTYR ^_L_TZY^ TY [WLNP ZQ SdO]ZNL]MZY fuels. I am told that during the World War II ^ZXP aPSTNWP^ bP]P XZOTʭ PO _Z ]`Y ZY towns gas, with a bag of gas on the roof. And about ˜˙ years ago I understand that ^ZXP ;]TYNPɪ^ ?]`^_ NL]^ bP]P XZOTʭ PO _Z run on gas, with a cylinder in the boot. Just think of the savings – let alone avoiding the need to dig up and transport boat loads of raw ore around the world. It is not as though hydrogen is an unknown. It was the major element in the Town Gas we used for a century – street lights (plus lamplighters), lighting for homes, cooking, heating. It is reported

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

that the USA has found a way of reducing the cost of hydrogen production and that Dublin University is also working on the same problem.

Nuclear option Our government is all for more and more electricity from wind – which does not blow all the time and sometimes too much. And how many birds and bats do they kill? So they choose nuclear as the stand-by with its SZ]]TMWP bL^_P XL_P]TLW There is a lot of very heavy embodied CO˥ in a nuclear power station. And if nuclear, why not thorium in place of uranium? How long is the current nuclear waste ‘active’ and are we taking into account the rise in the sea level due to the glaciers melting away? Why are we not thinking/planning tidal production of electricity on a major scale? ?bZ _TOP^ L OLd LYO T_ YPaP] QLTW^ 3Z[PQ`WWd we will soon see a River Severn scheme come to fruition, after a ˚˙˙ years of proposals. Wales seems to be the only part of the UK really thinking tidal.

Too much upheaval I am one of those who believe heat pumps are not the answer for the existing home heating market. With the cost and major upheaval to every property, it’s crazy. New gas boilers are hydrogen ready, with no need to modify anything else – it’s simply a question of adjusting the boiler as we did back in the ‘ˠ˙s. And for existing oil and LPG boilers – bio fuels are already available. So what is the problem? BSd OZ bP YZ_ SPL] Q]ZX _SP -04> committee on all of this? Surely they are supposed to check and challenge the government’s thinking. It just seems to go along with the government’s current thinking which is very disappointing. 4 NZ`WO RZ ZY -`_ PYZ`RS @YWP^^ bP RP_ the real contributors to global warming on board, what is the point?

Neil Husbands MCIPHE Bristol

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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

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04/05/2022 12:05

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Energy Matters

Planning for the Future

Responding to market forces

Big surge in demand for solar PV panels National merchant City Plumbing says it is anticipating a further rise in demand for solar photovoltaic (PV) solutions after seeing a notable rise in sales during the first quarter of this year. The merchant’s specialist renewables business, Energy Efficiency at City Plumbing, has reported an unprecedented increase in sales for solar PV products compared to the same period last year. The business believes the surge in demand is the result of a combination of factors, including increasing energy costs, forcing businesses and consumers to look at alternative sources of power. National and regional housing developers are also looking to prepare

With the recently launched Boiler Upgrade Scheme set to generate increased interest in heat pump systems, what should installers do to capitalise on consumer demand? Jonny Hancock from NIBE Energy Systems points the way.

for changes to Part L of the Building Regulations in June, while social housing landlords are turning to proven technologies to tackle energy efficiency concerns. Other drivers include the realisation from consumers that solar can be used to charge electric and hybrid vehicles, which have also seen a surge in popularity over recent years. City Plumbing predicts that this demand will continue to rise and is therefore looking to significantly increase

its stockholding in PV panels, mounting systems, inverters and battery storage solutions. The company says it is also upskilling its branch staff to assist with general queries around this alternative source of energy. Steve Smith, MD of Energy Efficiency, Electrical and Underfloor, comments: “With our increased stockholding and in house technical design, we are in a great place to support our customers with all their energy efficiency needs.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/19

Net Zero podcast proving popular A new podcast series dedicated to low carbon heating solutions is proving to be very popular with installers, according to sponsor Grant UK. The Net Zero Heating Show is hosted by leading industry experts and engineers and is available in easy-tofollow episodes. “The podcast is a really easy way to access information about the move to Net Zero and how it affects installers in real life,” explains Anna Wakefield, head of marketing at Grant UK. “The guests explain how their businesses have adapted with the transition to renewables, the

different ways heat pumps can be installed, and biofuels and their part in reducing the carbon footprint of home heating systems. It sets the scene and gives any installer looking at entering the market an insight into what’s involved.” Whether you are new to renewables, an established oil boiler engineer or an experienced air source heat pump installer, the Net Zero Heating Show has something to offer and is available on the leading podcast platforms, as well as via the online link below: ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/20

HVO conversions now over 100 There have been further calls for the government to back a wider rollout of the HVO renewable liquid fuel following the announcement that over 100 oil heated properties across the UK have now converted to the fossil-free kerosene alternative. Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, otherwise known as HVO, is derived from used cooking oil. It has been claimed to reduce carbon emissions by 88% and works in existing oil heating systems following a simple £500 conversion, which can be completed as part of a normal service. Cornwall based fuel distributor Mitchell and

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f you’re a heating installer, chances are you have heard all about the government’s ambitions to change the way homes are heated. A greater focus on climate change and the need to become energy independent in the UK has left us with no other option but to shift away from fossil fuels. But how much appetite is out there for low carbon heat amongst homeowners? Before looking ahead to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), it is worth exploring the impact of the recently closed Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (DHRI) and its effectiveness in increasing the uptake of low-carbon heating solutions like heat pumps.

Rising demand The recent releases of the statistics for DRHI over its eight-year duration provide us with confidence that interest in heat pumps is ever-rising. Applications saw a steady rise from 2018 onwards and peaked in the first quarter of 2022. One thing this shows is that demand for low carbon heating systems is growing, giving us every reason to believe that uptake could keep on rising in the years ahead. However, this will need to be aided by government support in the way of policy, funding and awarenessbuilding. While eligible technologies under the scheme included both air source and ground source heat pumps, biomass and solar thermal, applications for air source heat pumps proved most popular year upon year. Applications for air source heat pumps steadily increased from 36% in 2014 when the scheme began to 82% in 2022 (Q1) when it closed. Other technologies experienced a steady decline during this time, with solar thermal applications actually falling from 21% in 2014 to 2% in 2022. Applications for ground source heat pumps also declined, but to a lesser degree, from 16% in 2014 to 14% in 2022.

Installer growth Webber, which has been supplying kerosene to homes and businesses across Cornwall and Devon for over 120 years, converted the first oil property to HVO in November 2020. Since then, the firm has expanded

the rollout and has now transitioned nearly 50 sites in the Kehelland area to HVO, from domestic homes to businesses as well as two churches, two schools and a pub. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/21

The benefits of low carbon heating systems are widely understood, and so are the challenges with installing them at the scale required to meet UK climate targets. However, while the high proportion of applications for heat pumps under DRHI has instilled

Jonny Hancock

Product manager at NIBE Energy Systems

more confidence in the heat pump market and enabled the growth of MCS registered installers, applications under the scheme, in general, were still lower than anticipated. Part of the reason for this is the way in which the funding was delivered, with the payments being issued to households as back payments following the initial installation over a long period of time. The scheme was therefore of very little help to those without the upfront capital to purchase a low carbon heating system to begin with, despite being an attractive proposition to those with the available funds.

Boiler Upgrade Scheme Open to households and small nondomestic properties in England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) could see heat pumps installed in 90,000 homes by 2025. While this is just a fraction of the 26 million homes that need to be decarbonised, there are hopes that the scheme will help to boost uptake of the technology in combination with other plans outlined by the government – one of which is the Future Homes Standard which will see all new homes built ‘net zero ready’ from 2025. Installers have been able to create an account on the BUS platform since 11th April and are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. The scheme opens for grant applications for installations, including those that have been commissioned from 1st April, on 23rd May 2022. To find out more about getting involved with the scheme, please use the online link below:

◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/22

11/05/2022 12:20

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Business Matters

The customers you should be talking to HORROR SHOW Plumb App Uk users show some truly horriﬁc sights they have unearthed in the ﬁeld.

Continuing his regular column of business advice, Aaron McLeish discusses how tailoring your advertising message to your ideal client may lead to more of your favourite customers.

feel it’s important There is a saying in to talk to your business: ‘If you try to talk ideal customers, to everyone you’ll end up so all your external talking to no-one’. It’s a well-known fact messages to your that if you try to talk with customers are aligned everyone, then no-one will and it’s clear who you, as listen! a plumbing and heating business, want to look Shout about it after, the type of work If you have a speciality you want to do and the that you cater for that is areas covered. lucrative for your business, I recently had a then shout about it, scream conversation with a it from the roof tops! If plumbing and heating you want to make your client, and we were on Aaron McLeish business more successful, the topic of enquiries. Director at Together We Count then focus on what He receives a lot of sets it apart from other enquiries for small businesses. Marketing can be difficult plumbing works such as tap and washer and time consuming but if there’s replacements. Small jobs which his something specific about the company business can do, but not where he that makes it stand out in your niche specialises or where the money is at. market - then tell people about it! We dived into this and established If you’re still unsure about who your that on his website, the company clearly ideal client is or what they want, don’t states, ‘no job too big or small, we worry. Lots of businesses struggle with change anything from a boiler to a tap this. Sit down with your team and create replacement or washers’. a profile for an imaginary ideal client. Smart searches Be as specific as you can. From age and My understanding of how a search engine location, right down to what they like to works is that if people are searching for watch on TV! The more details the better. something, the relevant website which Once you know who they are and what matches their search criteria will pop up. makes them tick – or put their hand in If people in my client’s local area want their wallet and hand over their bank a tap replacement or need their washers card – it will be much easier to gear your changed, they’ll Google that and because marketing efforts in the right direction. of my client’s message on his website So, what are you waiting for? they are receiving regular enquiries for Any questions? that service. Do you have a question for Aaron? Send We went on to discuss their ideal client it to info@togetherwecount.co.uk and the to establish what kind of work they really answer could feature in a future column. wanted to do. It transpired that due to my client living on the coast, his ideal client is one who has a second home in Find out more the town. He likes working with affluent As the director of homeowners, where his firm can be left Together We Count, with the keys to do repairs, maintenance, Aaron McLeish is an upgrades or whatever needs to be done. accountant specialising in the plumbing and However, nowhere on the company’s heating sector. Aaron is website does it say: ‘We cater for people also author of The Quote with a second home in this town. You Handbook. Visit the can trust us with the keys while we website: get the repairs done. We’ll make sure www.togetherwecount.co.uk everything’s in order and waiting for you when it is time to come home again. When you do come and visit your home at the weekends you can rest assured that Aaron’s Quick Tip you’ll be nice and cosy’. The Pareto Principle states that 80% So to link back to the title of the article: of outcomes are consequential of If you want to talk to your ideal client, 20% of causes. Do you notice that 80% of your sales come from 20% gear your advertising efforts to talk to of your customers? Most businesses have a them. Talk to your ideal clients with the dedicated base of ‘super fans’ who hold up the right tone of voice. If you want to reach bottom line. These are the guys you should be out and connect, talk like they’re already talking to in your marketing. a loyal customer.



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04/05/2022 15:42

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customer service +44 (0) 800 156 0010 www.pegler.co.uk

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Getting your penny’s worth with copper One way a plumbing business can become more environmentally friendly is to choose sustainable materials, like copper, which is inﬁnitely recyclable and is durable enough to hold up over the long haul. Andrew Surtees from the Copper Sustainability Partnership looks at the beneﬁts of copper.

ver the last few months, both the COP26 summit and the Sustainable Innovation Forum have highlighted the need to educate people on sustainable plumbing and construction. The construction industry is a major contributor to waste and, with the population of the UK increasing, and the growing pressure to build housing quickly and cheaply, many professionals in the industry are turning to cheap, unsustainable materials. But with the government setting a number of new sustainability targets to the industry, now is a great time for plumbing professionals to turn to copper piping as a more sustainable and responsible material.

Changing times

Copper began replacing galvanised steel in plumbing systems back in the 1970s. Today, it is the most common metal used in plumbing systems because it holds various properties that make it the perfect material to supply water, heating, and gas to homes and commercial buildings. Not only this, but it also has the added benefit of being infinitely recyclable, so it is well suited to address public and government concerns on the impact the construction industry has on the environment. In contrast, plastic pipes are manufactured from many different types of plastic. One of the first plastic alternatives used for plumbing systems was polybutylene, which became commonly used from the late 1970s. While this proved popular back then, it was largely replaced due to its faults and inadequacies in keeping up with modern advances, with a tendency to split and leak. Most plastic pipes pose the same environmental problem in that they are unrecyclable, despite industry claims, and the use of plastic is fast becoming an environmental crisis. It’s

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There is simply no match for traditional copper piping when it comes to versatility, durability and sustainability Andrew Surtees

Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP)

 Copper is a sustainable choice that also looks the business

time to put an end to the plastics greenwash and challenge the myth that this material has a circular, end of life economy.

Choose carefully

There are a range of factors to consider when choosing the best type of pipe to use in your plumbing project, so here’s a breakdown of four common types of plastic piping and how their properties compare to copper pipes. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): This material is a combination of plastic and vinyl and is a popular choice for mains water lines. However, it is not as flexible as some other types of plastic and, because it warps and can melt at temperatures hotter than 140°F, it cannot be used for supplying hot water or heating to buildings. Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX): Unlike copper, PEX cannot be recycled at all as it doesn’t melt down like other types of plastic. What’s more, when used for plumbing, it can’t be directly connected to a water heater, as they require 18in of a heat resistant material (usually copper) to be directly connected to the water heater before it is connected further down the line. In addition to this, PEX is only suitable for indoor use as it can be damaged by sunlight and it is one of many types of plastic that has been flagged for contamination caused by thermal degradation, often affecting the taste and odour of drinking water. Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC): Common in industrial plumbing, CPVC pipes are PVC pipes which are treated with chlorine. While this makes pipes better at handling hotter temperatures and pressures than standard PVC, this plastic tends to crack when subject to colder temperatures and will break down when exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time. This makes it an unsuitable material to use for pipes that need to be outside or underground, such as water

mains, unlike copper which is perfectly suited to this use. Multi-Layer Plastic Pipes (MLP): These pipes are made using two thin layers of plastic – typically a form of polyethylene (PE) – with a layer of aluminium in between. This material is complex in terms of recycling, as it is virtually impossible to separate both materials, even if the plastic was reusable. Additionally, like many plastics, the outer coating can be damaged by UV rays, which reduces its use to indoor only.

Copper bottomed

Known for its exceptional durability, resistance to corrosion, and a multitude of other benefits, copper pipes can last for decades and are also anti-microbial. Better yet, they are infinitely recyclable and do not lose any of their benefits during the recycling process. With its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, pressures, and exposure to UV and oxygen, copper can be used for a range of purposes and across a multitude of environments, without its integrity being altered. There is simply no match for traditional copper piping when it comes to versatility, durability, and sustainability. Using one material which ticks all requirements is a vital consideration within the plumbing industry, particularly when meeting climate targets and new challenges that the government has set to build more sustainable buildings. Professional plumbers are aware of the properties and benefits that copper has over its plastic alternatives, which position the material as the most sustainable, high performing choice for industrial and domestic environments. There are clear reasons why copper pipes are better than plastic pipes and, with sustainability at the forefront of conversations, now is the time for more industry professionals to join the Copper Revolution. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/23

03/05/2022 15:25

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Flexible solution to meet the needs of apartments and high rises

popularity of this building type continues to grow. By offering practical solutions to the common problems that are faced, a manufacturer can help to progress the overall compliance, quality, and performance of water system design.

Common approach

Well-designed water meter assemblies that offer a monobloc as a standalone product, with an option for a wide range of water meters to be connected, provide flexibility of install and design to meet the needs of each individual apartment. As we look to the future of how compliance will impact the design and installation of products, it is important to consider the impact of 4MSI* on products in contact with drinking water in all installations. The initiative aims to develop a ‘common approach’ to the suitability and assessment of materials in contact with drinking water in the countries involved. Due to this, it is likely to become a key consideration for the future of specifying and installing materials and products in contact with drinking water.

Water systems in multiple occupancy buildings present a unique set of challenges for a designer. Stephanie Allchurch at Altecnic explores how component flexibility, from design to install and finally to maintenance, can help combat these unique challenges.

ith dwellings now becoming taller and larger than ever before, the complexity of a system continues to increase, with designers needing to consider how to create a system with all required valves, which is efficient, compliant, and does not compromise on space. The Water Supply (Water Fitting) Regulations 1999 require that each individual premise in a multioccupancy building be supplied with a stop valve and suitable backflow prevention device, such as a single or double check valve, or other no less effective back flow prevention device, according to the level of risk as judged by the water undertaker. Furthermore, wherever practicable hot and cold service pipes should include sufficient draining taps to facilitate the draining of all supply and distributing pipes within the building. In addition to this, under the Water Industry Act 1991, for every self-contained apartment or flat in a multi-occupancy build, there must be an individual water meter fitted to the supply pipe, regardless of whether it is a new build or a retrofit. Moreover, the inclusion of a pressure reducing valve to this valve selection is advantageous as you can ensure the pressure from the system is controlled, and protection is provided to each individual property.

Design and install issues

To comply with these standards and regulations, selecting individual valves, which must then be fitted and tested by plumbers on installation, can be extremely time consuming at both the design and installation phases. This approach can also contribute to additional maintenance problems. One of the most common problems with water systems is leaks from poorly installed components. The quality of the workmanship, and the time and care needed to ensure this

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Complete solution

Stephanie Allchurch

Product development manager at Altecnic

Selecting individual valves, which must then be fitted and tested by plumbers on installation, can be extremely time consuming at both the design and installation phases COMMON PROBLEMS  Leaks: poor installation can lead to leaks, so components that facilitate proper workmanship and save time can help  Freezing pipes: can occur when pipes and fittings are not well insulated  Access to components for maintenance: a system should be designed in a way which ensures easy access for maintenance

t Altecnic Apartment Control Assembly with insulation and Class D water meter

is overcome, is a consideration that must be had when a designer specifies the componentry in the water system, as surplus time is often not available. Another common problem is the freezing of pipes. Often, a designer will need to consider the location and the temperatures that the pipes will likely to be subjected to when installed. Lack of insulation around the pipes and fittings can lead to the loss of water supply due to freezing and splitting of components. For the insulation to be effective, the workmanship at installation must be of a high standard to prevent any opportunity for the cold to penetrate the system.

Easy access

A further issue faced by designers, and eventually installers, is access to the components. To ensure that the water system maintains the designed quality and efficiency, a system should allow easy access for maintenance. This can be difficult where designers wishing to optimise space for the apartments themselves can then only provide minimal space for the system install. Manufacturers of water system componentry should always consider design, installation and maintenance when developing solutions for multiple occupancy projects, especially as the

The Altecnic Apartment Control Assembly allows designers, and installers the flexibility to control and monitor water supply for any individual self-contained apartment in multi-occupancy dwellings. The monobloc contains a full-bore spherical stop valve, self-contained pressure reducing cartridge and single check valve, with union connection for direct connection to a water meter. This modular approach means that the valve assembly can be ordered as a standalone monobloc, with the option to add a moulded insulation cover and gauge, a nonpulsed water meter, a water meter with MBUS connectivity, or a class D water meter. Importantly, there is no requirement for additional adaptors to be used with any water meter configuration, saving additional time and cost at install.

Quality counts

Through design, the valve assembly is made from high quality low-lead brass to ensure all installations are future proofed against proposed 4MSI regulation. So, as multiple occupancy buildings continue to be an effective solution to meet housing demand, the requirement for water system componentry to offer flexibility for varying applications will assist in delivering greater efficiency overall. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/24 * In 2011 Germany, France, the Netherlands and the UK agreed on collaboration in the harmonisation of tests for the hygienic suitability of products in contact with drinking water, known as the 4MS Initiative. Denmark joined the alliance in 2019.

04/05/2022 11:34

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Good product design can enhance safety levels Investing in the best designed and most suitable products can help to minimise risks onsite and improve safety levels within the construction industry. Shaun Hughes from Victaulic highlights the importance of using pipework that avoids the hazards of open flame welding.

rom hazardous equipment to risky situations, health and safety is understandably a top priority in the 21st-century construction industry. According to global estimates, work-related accidents and injuries (although not exclusive to the construction industry) cost the EU €476 billion each year. The construction industry is acutely aware of the risks. Findings from the Health and Safety Executive showed an encouraging downward trend in the overall rate of selfreported non-fatal injuries to workers in construction, prior to the coronavirus pandemic. While there are undoubtedly several causes which may have contributed to this reduction, particularly a decrease in operations during this period due to the economic downturn, it could also be due to a more concerted effort in the industry as a whole to reduce risk and improve safety. Improvements in safety policies have been brought in at a time of new technological development and adaptation of product design in order to improve safety and prevent injuries. At Victaulic, we look at the issue of safety from many different perspectives, including exploring how our products’ design can boost safety through the three stages of a project’s life cycle: pre-site, on-site and post-site. While there is a general standard of safety throughout the construction process, the stages of a project have different safety challenges to consider. From before arriving on site, to the management of installation processes, to maintaining safety standards through regular check-ups, every stage of construction has specific practises which can help alleviate risk.

Pre-site

Companies in the construction sector are increasingly employing the latest technology tools in their operations before getting on to the site. 3D modelling and BIM are revolutionising the construction industry and have expanded into Virtual Reality (VR). This means that construction professionals can immerse themselves in

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Shaun Hughes

Regional manager – England & Wales – at Victaulic

Grooved mechanical pipe joining systems provide an attractive alternative to welding and flanging for engineers, installers and owners alike

CUT TO THE CHASE  Good product design can help to improve safety levels and prevent injuries  Working with an open welding flame can make jobsites more vulnerable to fire and fumes  Grooved pipe-joining systems are three to four times faster to connect than welded or flanged methods  The choice of the right product can improve the safety of post-installation maintenance

the digital version of their project, which allows them to visualise, amend and mitigate issues before committing to the installation. Not only does this mean that firms can save money and preempt mistakes, but also the time it takes to solve problems on site is reduced, as any potential issues or suggested changes are caught and handled at the design stage. By mitigating any design faults and on-site alterations, the use of VR and BIM can improve the safety level on construction sites. Following the use of modelling techniques, pre-fabricated spools and assemblies are another way Victaulic is encouraging the industry to improve its safety record. Though pre-fabricated products and systems differ in scale, ultimately the benefits to construction safety are universal. By designing systems which can be pre-fabricated offsite – for example, data centre piping systems – site workers are less exposed to risky tasks once on site. As many potential issues have been pre-addressed in a more stable environment, the prefabricated design allows for a more controlled planning of a project.

On-site

Now that we have done what we can to alleviate future risk on the job site through BIM and prefabrication, let’s focus on the job site itself. Easier-to-install products translate to less time on the job and thereby reduced risk. For example, our grooved pipe-joining systems are three to four times faster to connect than welded or flanged methods and don’t require open flame for installation. Avoiding welding not only makes construction tasks much safer, but also makes jobsites cleaner and requires less specialised training. Working with an open welding flame can make jobsites more vulnerable to fire, and the fumes released by the process are often toxic. The hazards of welding have been seen to cause both short and long-term health impacts, such as nausea, irritation of the respiratory system or even cancer, so when it comes to safety, the benefits of avoiding this process are clear. Grooved mechanical pipe joining systems

p Victualic’s Quickvic rigid coupling system has been designed for quick and easy installation

provide an attractive alternative to welding and flanging for engineers, installers and owners alike. They can be quickly, easily and safely installed and maintained in order to meet tight project schedules and operate efficiently. Our Installation-Ready Technology couplings do not require any disassembly prior to installation and can further help keep the jobsite safer as it limits the amount of loose parts which can be easily misplaced or dropped. In addition, as mechanical pipe joints only consist of three parts (the gasket, the housings, and nuts and bolts), the system can easily be installed without the need to use dangerous equipment. By not requiring any additional man hours, electricity or excessive on-site preparation time, easy-install and flexible product design further reduces the risk of accidents and injuries as it does not introduce any excessive outside threats.

Post-installation

Once products have been safely designed, prepared and installed, the importance of site safety doesn’t finish. The choice of the right product at the BIM phase can ensure that any post-installation maintenance and refurbishment procedures can also be done in a safe way long after a project is completed. This is particularly pertinent in

sensitive facilities such as data centres, hospitals and airports, where maintenance work is usually carried out when a facility is open to the public. For example, when dealing with any systematic maintenance in these situations, it is more convenient that the methods used are flame-free to avoid the risk of fire. This is also the case during refurbishment projects, which often involve delicate materials used in the previous construction and take place in unstable environments which could be damaged by the welding process. Products consisting of only a few parts, which fit together without requiring welding, not only help to speed up the installation and maintenance stages, but also help to reduce the risk of injury in these situations. Consequently, whilst several factors impact jobsite safety in the construction industry, it is clear that investing in the best designed and most suitable products and ensuring safety throughout the construction process are both integral to the decrease in jobsite injuries at work. The European construction sector has enjoyed a positive period of increasing safety over recent years. Looking ahead, thanks to better technology, innovative products and improved safety standards, jobsite safety levels are expected to improve even further. At Victaulic we aim to be a central part of that story. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/25

04/05/2022 12:43

PHAM MAY22 FRANKISCHE:Layout 1 28/04/2022 15:12 Page 1

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

A multi-layer solution for water supply piping Multi-layer piping can offer a flexible solution for a wide range of applications. Here, Antony Corbett from Geberit and a technical representative of the British Plastics Federation – Pipes Group explores some of the key benefits.

ne of the most important choices for any plumbing and heating engineer to make when installing a piping system is material choice. Whether working on a major new build project or a domestic bathroom refurbishment, projects must be delivered on time and on budget. Making the wrong choice with piping can result in engineers having to go back to fix issues that may have developed over time. It is costly to fix faulty fittings, leakages or corrosion caused by incorrect decisions. Incorrect design choice can also lead to hygiene issues such as limescale build-up and the risk of Legionella. With rising project costs and greater pressure on margins in a challenging economic climate, material selection is arguably more important than ever to help save installation time, cut project costs and reduce the risk of errors.

Better choices

There are of course a range of materials available when installing piping for hot and cold water supply systems, notably copper and flexible plastics, which have both proven their worth over the years. Copper offers a number of benefits including inherent strength and stability, resistance to the effects of heat and

26.indd 1

 The smooth interior surface of Geberit Mepla multi-layer pipes ensures good ﬂow rates  Mepla system pipes are ﬂexible and easily bent by hand, with or without a protective hose

concern for some in the industry. Crucially, it delivers a system which is stronger and more durable than plastic piping, yet is lighter and more flexible than metal options. This winning combination not only ensures a more efficient installation, but also overcomes many of the specification challenges that could lead to errors or faults later down the line. With new technologies including pressfit innovations constantly in development, the solution will only improve.

Antony Corbett

Product applications engineer at Geberit

Crucially, multilayer piping delivers a system which is stronger and more durable than plastic piping, yet is lighter and more ﬂexible than metal options

pressure, as well as hygiene properties. It has been used extensively since the 1940s (and particularly since the 1969 ban on lead piping) and remains a common choice for many engineers. Some in the trade have switched to plastic piping, which is flexible, inexpensive, easy to install and less impacted by freezing. Others have switched on to the benefits of multi-layer piping systems, combining the benefits of metals and plastics, delivering a strong and flexible solution. Conscious of the need to make highly considered early choices

and driven by key factors such as cost, reliability and ease of installation, plumbers on both small and medium sized projects are considering this adaptable all-rounder – a product which is suitable for hot and cold potable water systems, heating and a host of other applications.

Project beneﬁts

Multi-layer pipework is not a new solution. In fact, the first multi-layer composite pipes were introduced to the UK market over 40 years ago. With greater discussion over materials selection and increased awareness of the benefits it is proving to be an effective allrounder that can overcome the challenges faced on projects. The product typically consists of three main layers, starting with an outer plastic layer usually made of polyethylene. This encases a central aluminium layer up to 0.7mm thick, ensuring that the pipe can be bent into position and remain in shape, which in turn houses a final plastic layer, usually made from the same or similar material to the outside layer. Multi-layer piping is corrosion-resistant, hygienic and is not susceptible to oxygen diffusion through the pipe wall, which in turn minimises the risk of damage from corrosion elsewhere in the system. It offers reduced thermal expansion requirements due to the metal layer, is a poor heat conductor, and has low intrinsic scrap value too, reducing the risk of theft from site, which remains a

Updating standards

I have seen the shift towards plastics and multi-layer piping first hand, not only through commercial sales at Geberit but through an increased focus from the British Plastics Federation Pipes Group. The BPF Pipes Group is the leading trade association of the UK plastic pipe and fittings industry. The five Technical Groups encompass the application areas in which plastic piping systems are utilised. The Groups offer a wide range of support and resources for the industry, from thought leadership pieces and webinars, to guidance notes to information on correct standards for the manufacturing, supply and installation of plastic piping systems. As a trade federation it is our responsibility to ensure that these standards are understood and updated in line with changing industry trends, and we ensure multi-layer piping is included. The focus is on making sure multi-layer piping products and systems are correct for the marketplace and that installers are aware of how they can and should be using such products for various applications. Ultimately, this is happening because multi-layer piping is a proven technology, here to stay and with a host of benefits for heating engineers and contractors across a wide range of projects. We need to promote the benefits to continue the shift. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/26

04/05/2022 12:11

PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 04/05/2022 08:53 Page 27

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Dispelling the myths about plastic push-ƩŶ /P^[T_P _SP [Z[`WL]T_d ZQ [`^S-ʭ_ [W`XMTYR _SP]P L]P L QPb Xd_S^ LMZ`_ _SP^P []ZO`N_^ _SL_ XLVP ^ZXP TY _SP _]LOP ]PW`N_LY_ _Z `^P _SPX ZY _SPT] [T[PbZ]V []ZUPN_^ BT_S _SP LTX ZQ ^P__TYR _SP ]PNZ]O ^_]LTRS_ >_PaP 3L]]T^ Q]ZX BLaTY LOO]P^^P^ ^ZXP ZQ _SP XZ^_ NZXXZY XT^NZYNP[_TZY^

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Myth 1: Copper will get every job done just as well ,^ NZ[[P] T^ ^_TWW NZXXZYWd `^PO LN]Z^^ _SP TYO`^_]d bSd MZ_SP] bT_S [WL^_TN* =PLWWd T_ NZXP^ OZbY _Z ʮPcTMTWT_d ?SP [ZWdM`_dWPYP [`^S-ʭ_ [T[P^ ZʬP] L WPaPW ZQ aP]^L_TWT_d _SL_ NZ[[P] ^TX[Wd NLYɪ_ XL_NS BT_S XZ]P ʮPcTMWP [T[P [`^S-ʭ_ T^ OPʭYT_PWd _SP MP^_ ^ZW`_TZY bSPY bZ]VTYR TY STRS LbVbL]O Z] SL]O-_Z-]PLNS L]PL^ ?ST^ T^ MPNL`^P _SP [T[P^ NLY MP MPY_ LYO XZ]P PL^TWd NLMWPO _S]Z`RS UZT^_^ LYO `YOP] ʮZZ]MZL]O^ `YWTVP ]TRTO ^d^_PX^ BSPYPaP] _SP]P L]P LYd WL^_-XTY`_P NSLYRP^ Z] dZ` YPPO _Z LOU`^_ ^ZXP_STYR ɧ bSTNS WP_ɪ^ QLNP T_ _ST^ SL[[PY^ [WPY_d ZQ _TXP^ TY []ZUPN_^ ɧ T_ɪ^ TX[Z]_LY_ _Z `^P ^d^_PX^ _SL_ _LNVWP _SP^P NSLWWPYRP^ \`TNVWd LYO PL^TWd ;WL^_TN [`^S-ʭ_ OZP^ U`^_ _SL_

Myth 2: Plastic pipes will burst and snap /TO dZ` VYZb _SL_ [ZWdM`_dWPYP [WL^_TN T^ LN_`LWWd ˛ˡˡ _TXP^ XZ]P ʮPcTMWP _SLY NZ[[P] XPLYTYR T_ɪ^ L WZ_ WP^^ WTVPWd _Z ^YL[ `YOP] []P^^`]P* -`_ _SL_ɪ^ YZ_ LWW ,W_SZ`RS -]T_T^S ;T[TYR >_LYOL]O^ ]P\`T]P [T[P^ _Z [L^^ _SP ˝˝ ML] []P^^`]P _P^_ Z`] 3P[2: []ZO`N_^ L]P LMWP _Z _LVP []P^^`]P `[ _Z ˟ˡ ML] bSTNS XLVP^ _SPX aP]d `YWTVPWd _Z M`]^_ BSPY TY^_LWWPO NZ]]PN_Wd [WL^_TN [T[P^ bTWW [P]QZ]X QZ] XZ]P _SLY SLWQ L NPY_`]d 4Y QLN_ bP R`L]LY_PP _SL_ bT_S BLaTY 3P[2: DZ` LW^Z OZYɪ_ SLaP _Z bZ]]d TQ dZ` LNNTOPY_LWWd [`_ ^ZXP_STYR SPLad ZY _SP [T[P^ MPNL`^P _SPdɪ]P LW^Z XLOP _Z MP N]`^S-]P^T^_LY_

Myth 3: Plastic pipes can’t take the heat DZ` XTRS_ MP ^`][]T^PO _Z VYZb _SL_ [`^S QT_ NLY SLYOWP STRS _PX[P]L_`]P^ ;]ZO`N_^ WTVP BLaTY 3P[2: NLY SLYOWP _PX[P]L_`]P^ ZQ `[ _Z ˚˛˙{. TY _SP ^SZ]_-_P]X bSTNS T^ LMZaP -]T_T^S >_LYOL]O^ ]P\`T]PXPY_^ @YOP] YZ]XLW NT]N`X^_LYNP^ SPL_TYR ^d^_PX^ ]`Y L_ ˡ˞{. ZaP] WZYR [P]TZO^ ZQ _TXP ^Z [`^S-ʭ_ ^d^_PX^ ^SZ`WOYɪ_ PaP] MP LʬPN_PO Md SZ_ bL_P] BSPY NZX[L]TYR [WL^_TN LYO NZ[[P] [WL^_TN LW^Z _LVP^ _SP WPLO bSPY T_ NZXP^ _Z T_^ ]P^T^_LYNP _Z _SP NZWO 0aPY bSPY

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_PX[P]L_`]P^ OT[ L^ WZb L^ -˚˞{. [`^Sʭ_ ^d^_PX^ bTWW VPP[ _SPT] ʮPcTMTWT_d XLVTYR _SPX WP^^ WTVPWd _Z M`^_ _SLY ]TRTO NZ[[P] ^d^_PX^

Myth ˝: Soldering pipes requires skill, so push-ƩŶ ùāƑÖķŽāŭ ŶĞā trade Push-ʭ_ [WL^_TN [W`XMTYR SL^ MPPY L]Z`YO QZ] ZaP] ˝˙ dPL]^ YZb LYO O`P _Z NZY^_LY_ OPaPWZ[XPY_ T^ ^_TWW ZYP ZQ _SP XZ^_ TYYZaL_TaP _PNSYZWZRTP^ ZY _SP XL]VP_ ,^ bZ]V []LN_TNP^ LYO SPLW_S LYO ^LQP_d WPRT^WL_TZY SLaP NSLYRPO [WL^_TN ZʬP]^ LOOT_TZYLW LOaLY_LRP^ :YP ZQ _SZ^P LOaLY_LRP^ T^ _SL_ _SP]P T^ YZ YPPO QZ] ^ZWOP]TYR Z] LYd SZ_ bZ]V^ ZY ^T_P bT_S [`^S-ʭ_ ZYWd YPPOTYR _Z MP _bT^_PO LYO WZNVPO TY_Z [Z^T_TZY _Z N]PL_P L bL_P]_TRS_ ^PLW ?ST^ R]PL_Wd TX[]ZaP^ ^LQP_d LYO ^LaP^ _TXP _SL_ NLY Z_SP]bT^P MP ^[PY_ ZY RP__TYR _Z R]T[^ bT_S Z_SP] R]ZbTYR _PNSYZWZRTP^ WTVP SPL_ [`X[^ `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR Z] NZY_]ZW ^d^_PX^ ?S]Z`RS Z`] ZbY Pc[P]TPYNP NZWWLMZ]L_TYR bT_S [W`XMP]^ bSZ bZ]V OT]PN_Wd bT_S dZ`YR WPL]YP]^ WTVP 5Ld 1LT]M`]Y LVL 8] 7ZYOZY ;W`XMP] bP VYZb SZb `^PQ`W [`^S-ʭ_ _PNSYZWZRd T^ TY _]LTYTYR _SP YPc_ RPYP]L_TZY 5Ld ]`Y^ L [Z[`WL] LNNZ`Y_ ZY 4Y^_LR]LX LYO bZ]V^ ]PR`WL]Wd bT_S [`^S-ʭ_ ,^ bPWW L^ `^TYR ^ZNTLW NSLYYPW^ L^ L [WL_QZ]X _Z ^SL]P ST^ Pc[P]_T^P bT_S ST^ QZWWZbP]^ 5Ld _PLNSP^ L_ ST^ WZNLW NZWWPRP BPɪ]P LMWP _Z ^SL]P PO`NL_TZYLW BLaTY 3P[2: [TY-`[ MZL]O^ LYO []ZO`N_^ _Z SPW[ ST^ ^_`OPY_^ QLXTWTL]T^P _SPX^PWaP^ bT_S XL_P]TLW^ bSTNS bTWW XLVP \`TNV bZ]V ZQ _SPT] UZM^

Find out more 1Z] ^ZXP _`_Z]TLW aTOPZ^ LMZ`_ `^TYR 3P[2: ^TX[Wd ^PL]NS QZ] BLaTY @6 ZY DZ`?`MP :] QZ] Q`]_SP] []ZO`N_ TYQZ]XL_TZY [WPL^P `^P _SP ZYWTYP WTYV MPWZb% ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˛ˠ

03/05/2022 16:29

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves

Pipe bender Flexible gas pipe reduces time on site set saves on materials

Claimed to be up to three times faster to install than rigid pipe materials, the TracPipe semirigid gas piping system from OmegaFlex not only ^LaP^ _TXP TY TY^_LWWL_TZY M`_ LW^Z Zʬ P]^ ^`[P]TZ] RL^ ʮ Zb ]L_P^ _SLY NZX[L]LMWP []ZO`N_^ ZY _SP market. Manufactured in the UK, TracPipe is four times lighter than rigid steel pipe and can be run in continuous lengths direct from the meter to the appliance. It can be bent by hand and cut with a standard stainless steel tube cutter. TracPipe can be buried in the ground or screed and used above ground without the need for additional corrosion protection. It is supplied in sizes from DN˚˛ to DN˞˙, with lengths of up to ˢ˙m as standard. Kits are available in ˞, ˚˙ and ˚˞m lengths. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˛ˡ

The new alpex pipe bender set from Frankische enables installers to bend ˚˟ and ˛˙mm alpex MLC pipes to the desired angle in just a few simple steps, thereby helping to save on ʭ __TYR^ LYO ]PO`NTYR []P^^`]P losses. The bending tool allows the installer to precisely shape the pipes – as tight as twice the outside diameter of the pipe if needed. The direction changes obtained by means of the pipe MPYOP] ^P_ PY^`]P^ Z[_TXLW ʮ Zb conditions and minimises the ʮ Zb YZT^P TY _SP [T[P^ Pipes can be bent prior to installing or even during installation as long as only one ^TOP ZQ _SP [T[P SL^ MPPY ʭ ]XWd ʭ cPO >TYNP _SP _ZZW^ NZY^T^_ ZQ two components – a bending segment and a counterpart with a bending shoe or bending roller – they can be used at any point of the pipe. Depending on the

requirement, the pipe can be variably bent up to an angle of ˚ˡ˙°. The markings on the tools indicate the obtained angles of ˜˙°, ˝˞° or ˢ˙°. “With our new bending tools, the installer can change the direction of a pipe entirely bT_SZ`_ LYd ʭ __TYR^ Z] ^SL[PO parts,” explains sales director Matt Densham. “Due to this, they can save on press connections, reduce material costs and lower pressure losses.” The manual bending tools are available for the dimensions of ˚˟ x ˛mm and ˛˙ x ˛mm, and are packed as a set in a box. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˛ˢ

New partnership CSST pipework specialist Flexigas has announced a partnership with plumbing and heating distributor Tesla UK. The Flexigas product range – which includes the Flexigas DS, FGLink and FG Bond ^d^_PX^ ɧ T^ OP^TRYPO _Z Zʬ P] RL^ LYO SPL_TYR engineers a quick and simple solution for all gas pipe installations. As an established manufacturer and distributor within the gas sector, Tesla UK has many years of experience in product development and bringing new ranges to market. The company aims to open up the Flexigas product range to a broader customer base and enable installers to easily obtain the products wherever their project may be. Training sessions for the Flexigas range will be NP TY available either on-^T_P Z] L_ ?P^WL @6ɪ^ SPLO Zʯ >`__ZY .ZWOʭ PWO ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˜˙

AT LAST WE HAVE THE ANSWER The New self-sealing extended PRV for combi boilers ✔ No more time wasted fitting the PRV on Combi boilers ✔ Now fitted from inside the property ✔ Just cut to length, one soldered joint and that’s it ✔ Used by British Gas, approved by NHBC ✔ 15mm now at leading plumbing merchants

See it at www.pipecowl.com

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03/05/2022 16:20

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Pipes, Fittings & Valves 29 Housing pipes and cables with ease Gripple has made advancements in the design of its Fast Track system, a prefabricated suspension ^d^_PX QZ] SZ`^TYR NLMWTYR LYO [T[P^ _Z Zʬ P] PaPY R]PL_P] Pʯ NTPYNTP^ ZY NZXXP]NTLW TY^_LWWL_TZY^ The new bracket can be used in any orientation, and it allows use of standard channel products and accessories, while the suspension point guide allows for tool-free adjustments. ?SP YPb _]LNV LW^Z MPYPʭ _^ Q]ZX L WLOOP] ^_dWP design. This allows brackets to be installed in increments of ˚˙XX XPLYTYR ^[PNTʭ PO SPTRS_^ NLY MP VP[_ bT_S XTYTXLW Pʬ Z]_ LW^Z PYLMWTYR _SP _TP]TYR of brackets, to increase the number of services per run. New manufacturing technologies mean that

Cold press ŋƦ āũŭ Žť ðāłāƩ Ŷŭ

the ladder track is now curved and can be snapped Z] MPY_ []ZaTOTYR L YPL_ LYO _TOd ʭ YT^S bSTWP delivering increased track rigidity and load ratings. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˜˚

Give customers a way to repressurise The Jepp Valve is a push button combi MZTWP] ʭ WWTYR aLWaP _SL_ []PaPY_^ ZaP]pressurising the system and stops fresh water from being discharged and wasted. Loss of water pressure is one of the most common faults that will stop a boiler from working. In most instances the problem can be resolved by repressurising the system, however, it may not be practical for every customer and can risk the system being over-pressurised, if not done

29.indd 1

correctly. The valve has a pre-set maximum pressure (˚̍˝ bar), allowing the homeowner to simply press and hold the button down until the system reaches the correct pressure, at which point T_ ^_Z[^ ʭ WWTYR ?SP OPaTNP NLY LW^Z be used in new installations for topping up a drained system. For landlords and social housing providers, the valve has the potential to keep tenants warm in times of high engineer demand, when they are attending genuine breakdowns. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˜˛

Megapress press connection technology from Viega is designed to connect thickwalled steel pipes, in diameters of ˿ to ˝Ģł, using cold press technology. When compared with welding, installations that use Megapress technology can be completed up to 80% faster. Being a cold press method, contractors will not have to obtain hot works permits. They NLY PWTXTYL_P _SP ]T^V ZQ ʭ ]P O`P _Z `^TYR LY Z[PY ʮ LXP bSTWP also reducing the risk of injury. The Megapress connections use SC-Contur technology, which is proven to deliver a ˚˙˙ [Z^T_TaP WPLV TQ _SP ʭ __TYR T^ inadvertently unpressed, making T_ PL^TWd TOPY_Tʭ LMWP O`]TYR pressure testing. This makes new installations easier and safer while reducing the length of time a system must be shutdown for maintenance in the future. Recently, Viega has seen

its Megapress connection technology awarded Wates Approved Innovation Partner Status. This means it will be listed on the Wates Innovation Network portal, an interactive marketplace that connects companies and suppliers directly. “Thanks to the partnership network, we have been presented with a fantastic opportunity to showcase our Megapress technology, and its exceptional performance properties, to a much wider audience,” says Scott James, Viega’s MD. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˜˜

03/05/2022 16:27

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Products in Action

Modern piping in historic Grade I home

Renewable solution for apartments

A 13th century, Grade I listed building on the Worcestershire border is being fitted with a plumbing solution from Multipipe. C.R.H. Plumbing & Heating Ltd, known for its careful work in period properties, carried out the work, which involved 95% of the property needing to be re-piped. Multipipe’s MLCP and preinsulated MLCP was chosen for heating, cold water, hot water and specifically the hot water returns. Chris from C.R.H. wanted a solution that was secure, reliable and would retain heat to offer maximum fuel economy. C.R.H need to run water from the external plant room to the internal plant room and used 100m of Multipipe’s 75mm single heating pre-insulated underground pipe to ensure a

A high temperature air source heat pump unit from Stiebel Eltron was specified by New Heat Solutions as part of a complete mechanical package for OCB Construction Ltd on a new build project in Epsom, Surrey. The package included all heating and hot water requirements for the 2600m² single-occupant property. The 6-bedroom property features UFH throughout the entire ground floor, with convector style radiators throughout the first and second floors of the property. The system incorporates the WPL25 AS air to water heat pump, combined with a glass lined Stiebel Eltron SBB 302 WP unvented cylinder and SBP 100 classic buffer vessel, providing hydraulic separation between the underfloor heating and radiator circuits within each apartment. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/35

long term, secure solution. While Multipipe products may not be as cheap or as quick to fit as plastic push fit alternatives, Chris from C.R.H. believes they are worth the investment because the quality is superior. When working on listed or luxury properties Chris says he is not prepared to

Food bank heats up more efficiently A food bank in Stoke-on-Trent has benefitted from a new oil boiler from Firebird after the charity found its fuel bills rising due to reliance on an aging, inefficient boiler. Gary Davies, national sales manager from Firebird, picks up the story: “It was clear that the existing 70 cast iron standard efficiency boiler installed was not performing to optimum efficiency and needed to be replaced. Not only did they need a replacement urgently, but they were keen to ensure that the new boiler would be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.” Firebird supplied a boiler from its new Low NOx Envirogreen range, with low NOx emissions.

30.indd 1

compromise on quality. “Working on listed buildings requires the highest quality materials to ensure a faultfree future. I trust Multipipe’s products with my reputation and know there won’t be any issues for years to come,”explains Chris. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/34

Heat pump delivers for barn conversion

With outputs of 100kW, the boiler is also future-proofed for HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), which is an advanced fossilfree fuel derived from 100% renewable waste streams. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/36

When the owners of a five-bedroom Essex barn conversion wanted to replace an ageing oil boiler, they turned to Modutherm and its efficient and highly sustainable Alira air source heat pump. The RHI-compliant installation highlights the flexibility and adaptability of the Alira range, which uses R290 natural refrigerant. The 8.5kW unit works with the existing underfloor heating and radiator circuits in the 3200ft² property. It was connected to the existing four-zone manifold, delivering a flow temperature of 45°C to the underfloor circuits and oversized radiators. For the property’s DHW requirements, the owners opted to install a new 300 litre Juniper XL stainless steel heat pump-ready cylinder, alongside Modutherm’s wall mounted Hydraulic Module. Compatible with a wide range of cylinders, the Module contains all the heating system components for simple servicing and maintenance, while its compact dimensions allowed it to be installed neatly into the existing ground floor airing cupboard. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/37

04/05/2022 18:25

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Heating Controls 31

Simple way to address high energy costs As the UK faces an energy bill crisis, Danfoss’s Gareth Ash looks at how installing modern heating controls could signiﬁcantly improve domestic heating eﬃciency for millions of households.

hese days, keeping a home comfortably and – most importantly – affordably warm is a major challenge for many people. According to a study into energy use and heating costs by the European Building Automation and Controls Association (EUBAC), around 26 million houses in the UK have a ‘wet’ central heating system consisting of a boiler, most likely a gas-fired combi, and radiators. If they are not already fitted, high-efficiency heating controls, such as TRVs and electronic room controllers, can improve the efficiency of these wet systems and so reduce energy consumption.

 The Danfoss TP1-S offers a range of energy-saving features

Gareth Ash

Marketing communications manager at Danfoss

Compelling evidence

A series of tests conducted independently at Salford University Energy on behalf of BEAMA indicate the potential energy savings that can be achieved with better system control. The first test was based around a typical installation of a 30kW combi boiler and the impact of different controls, from a standard on/off model through to more advanced products. The second repeated these tests but with a less oversized boiler (24kW) that was adjusted (range-rated) to suit the system, carefully balanced radiators to DT20 and lower flow temperature – as will be required in the Part L 2022 regulations for England – to optimise condensing efficiency. The results showed that replacing a standard room thermostat with one that controls the boiler using proportional on/off load compensation can reduce the gas used by 10% over the heating season. The tests also estimated that where the boiler and control were able to talk to each other through a suitable communication protocol, installing a directly modulating load or weather compensating room thermostat delivered energy savings of 12%. We know that Boiler Plus standards recognise the

32 (Danfoss).indd 1

As energy costs continue to soar, research is illustrating how controls can improve system efficiency and reduce energy bills CUT TO THE CHASE  Studies prove that with better system control, systems operate more energy-eﬃciently  Replacing a standard room thermostat with one that uses proportional on/off load compensation can reduce gas usage by over 10%  Weather compensation increases eﬃciency by adjusting the temperature of the boiler to account for weather changes  All Danfoss room thermostats, even the basic models, offer load compensation

 TRVs help the boiler operate in condensing mode

beneﬁts of load and weather compensation. Whilst this can be a feature in some modern boilers, you don’t have to fork out for a brand new appliance to access this energy saving function, as it can be available within some heating controls – and not just smart devices.

Compensation

At Danfoss we appreciate that internet connected products may not be suitable for some users, which is why all our room thermostats, even basic models, now offer load compensation. This facility measures the gap between the temperature of the home and what the occupant wants it to be, and then will either fire the boiler for shorter periods as it gets closer to the desired temperature or modulate the output of the boiler so that it is just hot enough to provide the extra heat needed for optimum comfort and efficiency. This allows the

boiler to operate in condensing mode for more of the time, thus saving more fuel, than purely standard time and temperature control. Most heating professionals will be familiar with weather compensation, which interacts intelligently with the boiler to provide just enough heat to keep the home warm and adjusts the temperature of the boiler output to account for changes in the weather. If the weather is cold the boiler will send warmer water to the radiators. In warmer weather, less heat is needed to keep rooms warm enough, so the boiler temperature turns down. Operating at a lower temperature makes the boiler more eﬃcient, which saves fuel without compromising user comfort. Weather compensators can be installed as an external sensor feeding weather data back to the boiler or a digital product that uses weather data from the internet alongside other functions. The EUBAC study mentioned

earlier also found that when wet systems are configured correctly with self-regulating devices, such as TRVs that control the temperature in each room, occupants can reduce their fuel consumption and heating costs. As we know, to maximise the efficiency of a condensing boiler it is critical that the boiler operates in condensing mode most of the time. Typically, in a wet heating system with manual radiator valves the boiler will only operate in condensing mode about 5% of the time, compared with 80% if TRVs are fitted. As part of a hydronically balanced system, TRVs will also prevent unwanted overflows, and wasted energy through the radiators. According to some figures, this could bring up to 36% of extra savings for homeowners compared with constantly open manual valves. Additionally, TRVs are easy to install and offer an affordable solution for consumers with an estimated payback period of just two heating seasons.

Cost-effective solutions

As energy costs continue to soar, recent studies into modern domestic heating controls illustrate how these simple and easy-to-install products can improve system eﬃciency and reduce energy bills. Heating professionals who want to ﬁnd out more and get hands on with the latest heating controls and tech can come along to the 2022 Danfoss Installer Life Tour, which is currently making its way around Britain. Installers can hop onto the tour bus when it comes to their area and meet the Danfoss team. Once on board they can check out new products, take part in training sessions and have fun while learning new tips and tricks of the trade. To get a list of tour dates and locations, use the reader link below and sign up to the newsletter. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/38

03/05/2022 16:39

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Heating Controls

How to arm yourself with data to manage customer call-outs Arranging a call-out over a boiler issue can be frustrating for the customer and time consuming for the installer. Here, Aldo D’Ingeo from Resideo discusses how Remote Appliance Monitoring (RAM) can help increase business eﬃciencies for both you and your customers by reducing time spent on unnecesary trips.

ost large and medium-sized heating and plumbing businesses will be aware of the beneﬁts of a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system in keeping down paperwork and managing customer records. Giving access to your customer information in one place, an intelligent CRM system will provide you with a full record of the customer’s heating system, including any previous repairs, as well as contact details and other notes that help you to carry out the job quickly and eﬃciently.

WHAT IS RAM?  Remote Appliance Monitoring (RAM) lets you see what is happening to a customer’s heating appliance in real-time  RAM can be integrated with a CMR system to have all the relevant data an engineer needs for a ‘deep dive’ into the data  It can help reduce call-outs by solving problems remotely

Aldo D’Ingeo

EMEA business development manager at Resideo

 RAM from Resideo is compatible with all Opentherm boilers and Honeywell home connected thermostats, including evohome

Knowledge is power

While this helps to keep your records in good order, by introducing Remote Appliance Monitoring (RAM) to your operation you can take these eﬃciencies even further. Integrating RAM with your existing CRM means you can monitor your entire heating portfolio in real-time. You can see exactly what is happening to each customer’s heating appliance quickly and easily – without needing to pay a visit. For your engineers, this helps support them in their expert role and means that they can focus on maintaining and repairing systems rather than excess paperwork.

 Engineers can use RAM to make sure they have all the parts they need on the van to address an issue before arriving on site

RAM provides real-time visibility, monitoring, fault diagnosis, and predictive faults all from a single point of access and control

Cloud continuity

The cloud integration between remote appliance monitoring and a CRM system gives your engineers access to all the relevant data they need to do a ‘deep dive’ into the data available on temperature, water pressure and flow on a single software platform. They can contact a customer as soon as a potential issue is identified with their heating system and arrange for an engineer to visit. What’s more, the ability to access this data means your engineers can fully prepare for a follow-up visit in advance, getting the parts and equipment you need ready or providing diagnostic advice over the phone to give the customer an opportunity to fi x the issue themselves. In addition, your back-office staff will be able to manage customer priorities more easily, streamline processes, and improve service levels.  RAM gives back office staff the ability to manage customer priorities more easily and streamline processes

32.indd 1

Remote Appliance Monitoring is the next step in streamlining your business and ensuring that your engineers’ time is being used as eﬀectively as possible. By reducing time spent on wasted callouts and having a deeper understanding your business’s heating portfolio, you are also able to improve customer service and increase revenue, as you can demonstrate to your customers exactly what needs to be done to get their system working optimally. Understandably, there may be some apprehension about integrating a new technology into your processes, particularly if you have a wide variety of appliances and systems to look after.

Compatibility

To provide reassurance and a universal solution for plumbing and heating businesses, Remote Appliance Monitoring from Resideo is compatible with all Opentherm boilers (for example: Ideal Boilers, Viessmann, Intergas, Baxi, Remeha, Ferroli, Daikin, Navien, ATAG, Vokèra, etc.), and all Honeywell Home smart connected thermostats including the evohome. Data security is a growing and important topic for UK business, not only due to additional legislation such as the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), but also the rise of smart devices and webbased apps which can use your personal data to deliver tailored content to you. What’s more, while the ability to predict and apply a fix to a system before it breaks down and causes a major inconvenience is undoubtedly a significant benefit for a homeowner, the use of smart technology can be intimidating to some customers.

Data security

Resideo’s RAM solution has been designed in compliance with GDPR, so that the customer ‘owns’ their data throughout. A mandatory consent form

 Remote Appliance Monitoring can communicate with Honeywell thermostats such as the T6 smart programmable model

must be signed by the end user to initiate the connection – this also explains how their data will be used, which is particularly useful if the customer has any questions. The customer can also withdraw consent at any time and stop the service. With Remote Appliance Monitoring the customer doesn’t need to do much at all to realise the beneﬁts. It essentially provides an additional support service for heating systems that enables potential issues to be foreseen. At Resideo, we like to call this ‘The Supported Home.’

Customer care

RAM software only accesses information that you as the installer could see during a visit. By facilitating remote access to this information, the customer is simply allowing you to monitor and resolve potential issues more quickly. In addition, only you as the installer can access the ‘deep dive’ data about the customer’s boiler and heating system. This allows you to prioritise issues and avoids the homeowner misinterpreting the data and making false alerts. Instead, the customer will receive simple and clear notifications to their smart phone to let them know when an issue has been raised, and when it has been fi xed. Remote Access Monitoring from Resideo has been designed to save time and deliver higher levels of satisfaction to your customers, paving the way to a more efficient and profitable business. It provides realtime visibility, monitoring, fault diagnosis and predictive faults of the heating systems across your businesses’ entire portfolio – all from a single point of access and control. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/39

03/05/2022 16:48

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Heating Controls 33 Simply scroll and swipe

Controls which meet every requirement

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^d^_PX 7TVP _SP !T0 T_ `^P^ >XL]_2PZ _PNSYZWZRd _Z WPL]Y _SP PYO-`^P]ɪ^ routines and can be programmed ]PXZ_PWd `^TYR BL]X`[ɪ^ ^XL]_[SZYP apps. :_SP] NZY_]ZW Z[_TZY^ TYNW`OP _SP Konekt range, featuring a wireless _SP]XZ^_L_ bT]TYR NPY_]P ^XL]_ S`M LYO P?=A^ ?SP 6ZYPV_ NZY_]ZW^ NLY MP bT]PWP^^Wd [LT]PO bT_S LYd -W`P_ZZ_S NPY_]LW SPL_TYR ^d^_PX bT_S _SP Z[_TZY ZQ R]Z`[TYR SPL_TYR eZYP^ _ZRP_SP] QZ] R]PL_P] NZXQZ]_ LYO Pʯ NTPYNd ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˝˚

Claim cash and help your customers to save on bills , YPb TY^_LWWP] NL^SMLNV ^NSPXP SL^ MPPY LYYZ`YNPO Md ?LOZ bSTNS ]PbL]O^ []ZQP^^TZYLW _]LOP^[PZ[WP bT_S PaP]d [`]NSL^P Q]ZX _SP NZX[LYdɪ^ NZY_]ZW^ range. Focusing initially on retailers City ;W`XMTYR >N]Pbʭ c LYO ?ZZW^_L_TZY TY^_LWWP]^ bSZ [`]NSL^P _SP^P []ZO`N_^ NLY NWLTX NL^SMLNV aTL LY ZYWTYP [Z]_LW Md `[WZLOTYR _SPT] ]PNPT[_^ LYO ]PNPTaTYR _SPT] NL^SMLNV ?SP []ZXZ_TZY bSTNS bL^ WL`YNSPO on ˜]O 8Ld L[[WTP^ _Z _SP QZWWZbTYR products: • £˞ for every tado° Smart Radiator ?SP]XZ^_L_ • £˚˙ for every tado° Smart

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T^ _SP XZ^_ RPYP]Z`^ TY _SP TYO`^_]d :`] products are easy to install, and now easy _Z ]PNZXXPYO 4_ɪ^ _TXP bP RTaP MLNV _Z _SP TY^_LWWP]^ LYO ]PbL]O _SPX QZ] _SPT] SL]O bZ]V TY SZXP^ LN]Z^^ _SP NZ`Y_]d ɮ ?SP NZX[LYd [ZTY_^ Z`_ _SL_ ^XL]_ _SP]XZ^_L_^ Zʬ P] L []ZaPY bLd ZQ []Z_PN_TYR SZ`^PSZWO^ Q]ZX ]T^TYR PYP]Rd NZ^_^ bT_S _SP LaP]LRP _LOZ{ ^XL]_ _SP]XZ^_L_ ^LaTYR ˛˛ ZY SPL_TYR NZ^_^ 4Y^_LWWP]^ NLY UZTY _SP ?LOZ ;]ZQP^^TZYLW 4Y^_LWWP] .L^SMLNV ^NSPXP at installer-rewards.tado.com to start NWLTXTYR NL^SMLNV ZY _SPT] [`]NSL^P^ ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˝˛

03/05/2022 16:54

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Water Heating & Cylinders

Good reasons for instant hot water systems Eﬃciency, space saving and reduced environmental impact are just a few of the reasons you should be specifying instantaneous water heaters in a range of buildings, says Mark McManus from Stiebel Eltron.

ith rising costs and a greater emphasis on sustainability, the new build sector is under increased pressure to ensure properties offer heating solutions that are both efficient and eco-friendly. Electric instantaneous water heaters are extremely efficient by design. The units do not store water, meaning there are none of the standing heat losses that are associated with storing hot water. Here at Stiebel Eltron we offer a full range of bare wire heaters, in both 240V and 400V models. Bare wire water heaters offer greater efficiency and longer product life than traditional tubular heaters. Other benefits include: faster heat up time, ability to take preheated water, resistance to scale, and faster reaction to changes in voltage and water pressure for greater temperature consistency. Bare wire heating elements are especially suitable for use in hard water areas. The very small amount of water inside the appliance and the low-mass heating system means there is hardly any post-heating after the appliance has been switched off – a major reason for the reduction in scale build-up.

Myth busting

Centralised hot water systems are increasingly going out of favour due to their running costs and environmental impact. As an alternative to the traditional electric cylinder or centralised plant, instantaneous water heaters can unlock extra space, and reduce both energy use and the ongoing cost to residents. For projects such as student accommodation, decentralised water heating systems simplify and streamline the process during construction as the hot water systems are installed in each individual residence. They can also free up space within an individual apartment compared to a boiler and/or cylinder. Developers can even save enough space on larger projects to ﬁt more apartments within

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 The compact size of instant hot water systems offers a variety of beneﬁts, from space saving to reducing maintenance issues

Mark McManus

UK MD at Stiebel Eltron

Instantaneous hot water systems can greatly reduce a building’s environmental footprint, allowing residents to save money without compromising on lifestyle CUT TO THE CHASE  Instantaneous water heaters save on space and the time required to install them  They are ideal for multioccupancy buildings because there is no need for an annual check of a cylinder  Good design should insure that the electrical supply of most multi-dwelling buildings will be sufficient  Because they do not store water, they are eco-friendly and are resistant to scale build-up

a property, substantially increasing the sale or rental value of the building. Instantaneous water heaters also oﬀer a large advantage in maintenance costs for landlord owned buildings. The standard cylinder must have an annual service check, a complex and time-consuming process to schedule checks and gain access all properties. Instantaneous water heaters are essentially routine maintenance free.

Made for multi-occupancy

There are many other beneﬁts of the instantaneous hot water system, particularly in the installation period. Due to their small size (30 x 15 x 10cm), these systems are quicker, easier and lighter to install, opposed to large cylinders which can take up to 3m2 of space. It is a common misconception the instantaneous water systems are unsuitable for large multi-occupancy due to the property’s electrical supply that simultaneous operation of many

instant units would require. However, many successful installations around the world have shown that this is an unfounded concern if taken into consideration during planning. Actual electrical demands are never 100% of the connected load and the application of tried and tested diversity factors can be used when calculating the actual electrical infrastructure required. In fact, the larger the building and the more units installed, the greater the diversity of use. This application of diversity factors has long been used to calculate water supply requirements to all buildings, In fact you are likely to run out of water before you run out of electricity.

Student success

Single-phase power supplies have recently been installed in The Maltings, an 850-study bedroom student accommodation, with a shared kitchen on each ﬂoor. Installed close to the draw-oﬀ points, the

system provides the required volume of hot water at the right temperature, demonstrating instantaneous water heat is an eﬃcient solution for multiresidential buildings. Other beneﬁts include less plumbing being required, as well as bare wire technology ensuring that the systems are kept in better condition, and require less servicing, as the units remain free from limescale. Our wide range of electric instantaneous hot water systems can greatly reduce a building’s environmental footprint, allowing residents to save money and potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions without compromising on lifestyle. The systems are placed close to the point of use, enabling endless hot water whilst minimising waiting time for the water to run hot, and only heating water when required. This eliminates water and energy wastage, ensuring energy bills to the end user are accurate.

Creating change

To achieve net zero targets, it requires a large-scale change, and it is essential that specifiers and developers aren’t sticking to traditional solutions and expecting different outcomes. Developers must adopt new alternatives that will prove more effective and efficient in the long term. At Stiebel Eltron we have consistently demonstrated the reliability and capabilities of instantaneous hot water systems in both small and large developments, while also tackling the challenge of sustainability. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/43

03/05/2022 17:13

ANDREWS QUALITY TURNED UP TO THE

Introducing the MAXXflo EVO Lite and the MAXXflo EVO 150. Condensing water heaters with power and precision. Robust and serviceable. Improved efficiency with reduced CO2/NOx emissions. Improved operating efficiency with reduced stratification. Protection against over temperature and over pressure of the appliance. We can help you make the switch to condensing water heaters from non-condensing with free site surveys and our Size-it tool.

Contact your Technical Sales Manager for a free site survey www.andrewswaterheaters.co.uk/ quality-condensed

Andrews. Built to perform.

Baxi Commercial Solutions is a sustainable business, committed to supporting the energy transition towards a zero-carbon economy.

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Water Heating & Cylinders

Credible alternative to air source heat pumps? As a manufacturer of infrared space heating systems, Ambion has developed a complementary technology – an indoor heat pump that recycles waste heat from within a home to produce domestic hot water. Oliver Baker from Ambion Heating explains how the solution works.

or many households, the spring of 2022 has brought the unwelcome prospect of higher energy prices. There was the hope that the recent Energy Security Strategy would include more measures to help households increase their energy efficiency and lower bills. However, in the absence of new policies in this area, there is an urgent a need to look at cost-effective and highly efficient ways to reduce energy consumption now. One of the main areas where savings can be made is by installing an efficient water heating system. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have been heralded as one of the best solutions to reduce energy usage for both heating and hot water. However, they come with their limitations. The market knows that ASHPs are not a one-size-fits all solution. The UK has a hugely diverse housing

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stock, and research has shown that ASHPs aren’t realistic for around 40% of properties, which represents 8 to 12 million homes. For example, ASHPs aren’t suitable where there is a lack of space, which is a particular issue for terraced properties and accommodation blocks. They can also be costly and complex to install, even with the government grants, as they often require additional measures such as insulation and electric immersion heaters to be effective. That is why there needs to be choice – a range of technologies in the mix that are feasible for all properties, whatever their configuration or thermal efficiency.

Another way

Oliver Baker

CEO of Ambion Heating

As a manufacturer of computercontrolled infrared (CCIR) space heating systems, we already have a technology that could provide a low carbon form of heating. That is why we chose to expand our portfolio to include KERS, which is a highly eﬃcient water heating system that uses an indoor heat pump with an integrated mechanical extract ventilation (MEV). There are several reasons why CCIR and KERS – together – provide a credible alternative to ASHPs.

KERS works by recycling the warm air generated inside a home, such as in the kitchen and bathroom, to produce hot water. This means that it can achieve temperatures of up to 65°C without using the electric immersion heater, which saves energy, helping end users to keep their electricity bills down.

Marks for efficiency KERS uses 70% less energy than standard water heating systems, which – when you combine it with CCIR’s 60% energy savings – can result in significantly reduced bills for end users, as well as reduced carbon emissions. Unlike ASHPs, KERS is not reliant on the weather to perform to the highest levels. As outdoor heat pumps use external air, they are less efficient in colder temperatures. KERS’s indoor heat pumps recycle waste heat, so users have a constant source of low cost hot water with no loss of efficiency. The KERS water heater also has its own integrated control panel with full functionality, so users can easily change the settings to suit their needs. Both CCIR and KERS work together to provide a more comfortable experience for the end user. CCIR heats the materials in the room rather than the air, providing a more comfortable, radiant source of heat. It also reduces humidity, as well as improve the air quality within a building, lowering the amount of circulating dust. KERS builds on this by removing condensation

and humidity. For installers, one of the main beneﬁts of CCIR space heating systems is their ease of installation. So, we wanted to ensure our water heating solution was also simple to install. Like CCIR, the KERS system simply wires into the mains, whereas installing outdoor heat pumps can be complicated and expensive. It also has a discreet cylinder design that can easily be installed in a cupboard, therefore taking up no additional space. In addition, there are no planning implications. The KERS system doesn’t require an external condenser, unlike traditional heat pumps, which removes any potential planning issues.

Satisfying solution The space and water heating systems we install need to reduce energy bills and lower emissions. The combination of CCIR and KERS does just this. It is a great solution for housebuilders, landlords, developers, specifiers and social housing providers looking to significantly reduce energy consumption and improve the overall experience of their properties. And, for installers, they are easy to install, meaning the system can be fitted quickly, enabling you to move onto the next job in minimal time. That is why having a range of options to choose from will be key to the success of the low carbon transition. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/44

03/05/2022 17:15

PHAM MAY22:Layout 1 05/05/2022 14:59 Page 37

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Water Heating & Cylinders Multiple input from ùĢƦāũāłŶ āłāũėƘ ŭŋŽũóāŭ

Point-of-use zips ĞŋŶ ƒÖŶāũ Öķŋłė

The Advance SFUTS (Solid Fuel Universal Thermal Store) from Advance Appliances incorporates multiple inputs for heating systems, including from boilers, wood burners, solar systems and more, to help reduce reliance on gas. It is suitable for sealed central heating and mains pressure hot water. With all the plumbing, controls and wiring pre-installed, the unit is said to be easy to install in any multi fuel system. Each input has a thermostat control pre-bT]PO _Z L U`YN_TZY MZc _Z control all inputs. Solar thermal is not []PʭR`]PO L^ [LYPW ^`[[WTP]^ `^`LWWd supply the control package. ?SP >1@?> `YT_ NLY MP ^[PNTʭPO TY three domestic sizes – ˛˚˙̇ ˛˞˙ and ˜˙˙ litres – and can be supplied as suitable for sealed heating systems so `YOP]ʮZZ] SPL_TYR LYO XZOP]Y sealed system boilers can be incorporated. The sealed system unit meets G˜ safety requirements with three levels of safety so wood burners can be safely installed on a pumped circuit. The unit is CE marked, in addition to its HETAS listing. ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˝˞

?SP /.C 9Pc_ T^ ET[ɪ^ YPbP^_ RPYP]L_TZY of electronic instantaneous water heaters for wash basins, showers and bath. It caters for all power outputs from a single adjustable ˚ˡ̟˛ˠkW model. ;L]_ ZQ _SP ET[ 4Y7TYP TY^_LY_LYPZ`^ water heaters range, it is suitable for any type of washroom or bathroom requiring the production of a large volume of hot water. The water is heated at the point of

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Versatile choice of vessels for commercial applications The Adveco GL family of glass lined ^_Z]LRP _LYV^ ZʬP] L ^PWPN_TZY ZQ Zʬ-the-shelf vessels for commercial hot water projects requiring direct PWPN_]TN SPL_TYR M`ʬP] ^_Z]LRP indirect heating or preheat. The GLE model is designed to ^P]aP L^ M`ʬP] aP^^PW Z] PWPN_]TN water heater and is available in a range of sizes from ˛˙˙ to ˞˙˙˙L to support larger all-electric systems. The GLC glass lined steel

use when required, making the product XZ]P PYP]Rd PʯNTPY_ .ZYaPYTPY_ _Z`NS button control allows the temperature _Z MP LOU`^_PO Pc_P]YLWWd ZY _SP ^N]PPY instead of internally like in the previous models of the range. A reduced inlet water volume starts at ˚̍˞ L/min, and twin temperature control (TTC) monitors ensure precise temperature control to the degree, PaPY TQ _SP bL_P] []P^^`]P ʮ`N_`L_P^ ,Y PʯNTPY_ ML]P bT]P SPL_TYR ^d^_PX reduces limescale deposits and provides LY Pc_PYOPO ^P]aTNP WTQP ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˝˟

NLWZ]TʭP]^ bT_S L ^TYRWP ʭcPO indirect heating coil at low level are designed to serve as indirect water heaters or preheat vessels. Finally, the GLT glass lined steel NLWZ]TʭP]^ L]P OP^TRYPO _Z ^P]aP

as indirect water heaters. The tanks, also available in ˛˙˙ to ˜˙˙˙ litre capacities, incorporate _bZ ʭcPO TYOT]PN_ SPL_TYR NZTW^ one each at low and high level, designed for use with two separate heat sources. To prevent corrosion, the tanks are constructed from a carbon steel shell with a glass lining (˛˙˙-˚˙˙˙L) or enamel lining (˚˞˙˙-˞˙˙˙L). They are suitable QZ] `^P TY ^d^_PX^ bT_S XLcTX`X working pressure up to ˚˙ bar and temperatures up to ˡ˞°C and include as standard a magnesium ^LN]TʭNTLW LYZOP []P-ʭ__PO in ˜˙˙-˚˙˙˙L variants), and a temperature gauge (pre-ʭ__PO TY tanks up to ˚˙˙˙L). ͻ phamnews.co.uk/˞˛˛̓˝ˠ

04/05/2022 17:13

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Water Heating & Cylinders

Vans & Racking

Preparing for an allelectric future With the gradual phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles, there’s no denying that electric power represents the future of motoring. To help ease the transition for van drivers and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, Ford has unveiled a comprehensive support package designed to reduce the cost of ownership and ensure that drivers spend more time on the road.

Pre-plumbed and energy efficient Many renewable heating technologies require a dedicated hot water storage cylinder with a larger coil to enable maximum heat transfer of renewable energy into the stored water. The Envirocyl range of cylinders from Firebird, which have been designed for use with the company’s Enviroair air source heat pumps, allow for the combination of different heat sources in an efficient and space saving manner. Priority hot water is enabled on all units, meaning that hot water is available on

demand and the fast reheat and high insulation values further boost efficiency levels. With a large proportion of the plumbing work already completed at the manufacturing site, these pre-plumbed cylinders can substantially cut onsite installation time – by around 70% – reducing the amount of disruption to the customer. Firebird points out that, in addition to significant reductions in installation times, pre-plumbed cylinders bring a consistency

to multiple cylinder installations, delivering a neater, more aesthetically appealing finish. They can also represent a substantial reduction in disruption to the homeowner or a house built as part of a planned build project. With the most timeconsuming aspects of the installation taken care of, all the installer has to do is connect the Quick Plumb Unit, do a quick check of all the connections, and it is ready for commissioning. ◼ phamnews. co.uk/522/48

Heat pump cylinder offers a sustainable solution The new Juniper HP heat pump water heater is the latest addition to Modutherm’s expanding range of sustainable heating and hot water products. The floor standing unit combines an air source heat pump with an unvented cylinder for efficient and convenient hot water production and is said to provide an ideal solution for electric-only residential apartments. Available in 200 or 300 litre direct models, with CoPs up to 3.4, the Juniper HP is capable of raising the water temperature to 50°C with just the heat pump, while a 1.5kW electric element can be used in ‘boost’ mode. This allows the Juniper HP to satisfy hot water demand in a wide range of property sizes. The WRAS approved unit transfers energy from the heat pump through a condenser coil, which is wrapped around the outside of the cylinder. This ensures maximum hygiene and safety by preventing any possible contact between the heating fluid and the sanitary water. The unit also features a built-in controller,

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which provides access to key parameters that simplify installation and commissioning. It also incorporates a seven-day programmer, allowing end users to set specific heat-up schedules that maximise efficiency of the unit. All models are tested to 10 bar and feature a glass-lined steel cylinder, including a Polywarm coating and cathode protection to increase durability. Commenting on the new heat pump water heater, Modutherm MD Ian Bradley says: “We’ve seen an increased demand for sustainable products in the last couple of years, in both domestic and light commercial applications. “The Juniper HP is the perfect option for a wide range of projects and provides a great alternative to traditional water heaters, while offering an all electric solution that can work perfectly alongside electric radiators. It’s also a high quality addition to our

heat pump range, which already includes some of the best performing models on the market.” The Juniper HP has a five-year guarantee and the electrical components are guaranteed for two years. ◼ phamnews. co.uk/522/49

elping customers to navigate the journey to a zero-carbon future, Ford has combined the introduction of an expanding range of E-Transit options with the launch of Ford Pro – a new sales and servicing business aimed at improving the productivity of commercial vehicle users. Ford Pro is described as the manufacturer’s commercial vehicle services arm, providing the back-up and support necessary for the running of an efficient E-Transit fleet. Aimed at businesses of all sizes, Ford Pro solutions combine software, charging, service and financing options, providing customers with one platform as they adopt connected and electrified vehicles across their business. “We are entering the always-on digital age, and running a fleet has never been more complex,” says CEO Ted Cannis. “Ford Pro makes it easy for businesses to boost their productivity, with a one-stop-shop solution delivered by a brand they can trust.” The new support package is available to all businesses, whether they run diesel and petrol powered vehicles,

all-electric models, or even non-Ford vehicles. At the heart of the offering is the use of digital technology and data management to enable users to maximise productivity and uptime. Designed to reduce the cost of ownership, Ford Pro software provides a connected digital ecosystem that uses live data including real-time vehicle location, health alerts, and driver monitoring.

Charging ahead

Ford Pro Charging offers an integrated businessfocused charging system to highlight the most effective charging strategies, while built-in connectivity enables

the system to detect potential issues before customers are even aware of them. The onboard software will provide information on current charging status and the remaining range with customisable low range alert thresholds. The system can also set the E-Transit’s battery and cab to be warmed or cooled before a shift to save time and conserve battery energy. Following the successful introduction of the E-Transit, with 5000 customer orders received before vehicles rolled off the production line, Ford has announced the launch of four new all-electric models – the all-new Transit Custom one-tonne van and Tourneo Custom multi-purpose vehicle in 2023, and the smaller, next-generation Transit Courier van and Tourneo Courier multi-purpose vehicle in 2024. For more information on what Ford Pro and the latest E-Transits have to offer, simply use the online link below. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/50

05/05/2022 08:29

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Product News Combi made to meet large hot water demand With the launch of the NCB700 combi gas boiler, Navien is claiming a first in delivering a combi that can easily serve hot water to three bathrooms simultaneously. Busting the myth about a combi boiler’s suitability for large properties, the NCB700 maximises recirculation of domestic hot water (DHW) in applications to significantly reduce water wastage and offer flow rates up to an industryleading 22 litres per minute (at 35°C temperature rise). The new boiler features a turndown ratio of 15:1, is hydrogen-ready and can also achieve ErP A+ when used with Navien’s Smart Plus controller. It is available in two models capable of delivering up to 41kW and 54kW of hot water respectively. An advanced flow adjustment valve and auto mixing valve enables the NCB700 to provide lashings of hot water to three showers or baths at the same time, with no changes in DHW temperature or flow rate. Plus, a built-in recirculation pump helps ensure hot water is

supplied to taps faster than if using a traditional cylinder. Each model features a high quality stainless steel heat exchanger, ensuring a long lifespan, reliability and performance. This core component has been developed to maximise heat transfer efficiently, as well as cope with a range of high temperatures and pressures – without compromising hot water delivery. In addition, there is a built-in, text-driven digital display panel, simple to program and use, and it includes a two-channel timer. Commenting on the new product, Jason Davies, national business manager at Navien, says: “The NCB700 combi boiler provides a reliable and high quality means of providing ample hot water for even the largest of families. Not only does our 54kW model match lower capacity boilers for price, it also removes the need for a cumbersome cylinder – freeing up valuable storage space and eliminating having to wait for water to heat up. The range also uses less gas compared to the system boilers traditionally used in larger properties,which users will appreciate, given the energy price hikes.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/51

New premium brand of digital showers Elisa is the name of a new premium bathroom brand from Aqualisa. First to be unveiled is a range of heritage-style mixer showers and smart digital showers, designed for people seeking a personalised showering experience. The Intuition and Incite smart digital showers can be controlled with the ShowerMe smart app, enabling every member of the household to create their own personal profile for a fully tailored shower routine. Users can control water temperature, shower duration, and bath fill. Alternatively, a wireless remote control offers simple on/off operation, and the Intuition model

includes a motion-controlled proximity sensor which activates the shower when someone steps in. Also being launched is the Valenteena mixer shower, built from solid brass. This classicstyle shower features precise thermostatic technology to control the temperature of the water, and an automatic cut-off system, to ensuring safer showering. “We have worked closely with our premium showroom customers and listened to installers and homeowners alike,” says sales director Tim Creedon. “Elisa has been an exciting journey for us to bring a bold vision to life.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/52

Heat pumps offer an easier replacement of existing systems The latest generation of domestic air source heat pumps from Viessmann are monobloc designs that have been produced to offer an alternative to boilers in the UK’s existing housing stock. Available in outputs of 10, 13 and 16kW, both the wall-mounted Vitocal 150-A and the floorstanding Vitocal 151-A have a high maximum flow temperature of 70 °C (at an outside temperature down to -10 °C), meaning that in most cases they can use existing radiators and do not require underfloor heating. Both models use the

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same control platform as Viessmann’s boilers and integrate previously separate system elements in the indoor unit (IDU), reducing installation time by a full two hours. The buffer tank, expansion vessel, and overflow valve – components which usually have to be installed and connected separately – are now integrated in the IDU. For future-proofing and to ensure very low global warming potential (GWP), the heat pumps use R290 (propane) refrigerant, with GWP of less than 1. Marketing director Darren McMahon says: “With the Vitocal 150-A and 151-A air source heat pumps, the end user gets an efficient, environmentallyfriendly solution that delivers heat like a boiler; the engineer gets a unit that’s much easier and faster to install. Having fewer pieces of equipment has cut the time needed for installation by 90 minutes.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/53

ONLINE For further information about any of the products featured on this page, simply visit phamnews. co.uk/522/ followed by the relevant enquiry number.

Specially designed for heat pumps Designed to work with heat pumps, the IntaKlean HP Magnetic Filter is part of Intatec’s commercial range. The new filter is specifically engineered for use with heat pumps, which have different flow rates, operating pressures, and can require greater levels of protection compared to traditional systems. As well as separating magnetic debris and trapped air in circulating system fluid, the IntaKlean HP also includes a unique direct filtration system containing a multi-layered stainless steel 300 micron fine gauze. System debris that is carried in the fluid is actively forced directly into the filter, separated from the fluid, and captured by the fine gauze filter, while ferrous particles are still taken care of by the strong internal magnet. Other key features of the IntaKlean HP include its servicing capacity, which can be done without having to drain a system, and its filter pot, which has a 500ml volume. Stuart Gizzi, MD of Intatec, says: “We believe this is the first filter specifically designed for heat pump installation and certainly the first that features direct filtration. Intatec has a long history of producing high quality, cutting edge products that respond to market demand and this is the latest in that tradition.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/54

Showered in bubbles Known as a specialist in water and air powered technology, Kelda has launched the BubbleSpa shower which produces water bubbles in a continuous stream for a luxury spa experience. The spray technology creates very large droplets filled with air that fall softly and are described as simulating a rhymthical tapping, or Bubble Tapping as the company calls it. An LED light is included to illuminate the bubbles Each shower features a compact digital fan and intelligent microprocessor that controls the delivery of water and air to sixteen precision engineered nozzles. The HydrO2 nozzle is positioned within the overhead shower to ensure that BubbleRain provides the optimum experience and rinsing performance. Each bubble is designed to be 20mm in diameter to provide the perfect stimulation to relax the skin. “Kelda represents the future of showering. Driven by a desire to provide consumers with a spa-like experience at home, our vision was to design a shower that would awaken the senses and leave you feeling invigorated and relaxed,” says CEO Richard White. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/55

04/05/2022 12:40

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Product News Electric fire has realistic flames

Unveiling new heat pump range Commercial air source heat pumps have been added to Remeha’s range of sustainable heating solutions. Quiet, smart and energy efficient, the new Remeha E-HP AW heat pumps can be seamlessly integrated with other Remeha products and heat sources to provide sustainable heating and hot water solutions for new build and retrofit applications. The new air to water heat pump range is available in three outputs with individual heat capacities of 44, 88 and 168kW and cascade options that dovetail with current commercial

customer heat demands. The 44kW unit is eligible for capital grants under the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) to support the installation of heat pumps in domestic and smaller non-domestic buildings. The monobloc design is a self-contained heat generator, extracting renewable heat from the atmosphere and amplifying it using refrigerant compression. Specifically manufactured for Northern Europe climate conditions, the E-HP AW can deliver a high supply temperature of up to 65°C and operate down to ambient temperatures of -20°C. “We are delighted to offer low carbon commercial heat pumps as part of our expanding Remeha range to help our customers achieve their sustainability goals and commitments,” says Ryan Kirkwood, heat pump business development manager. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/56

New from DRU is the Virtuo, a realistic electric fire with a projected 3D flame. It is available in front-facing, two-sided and three-sided models that are installed into false chimneybreasts or other architectural features around the home to create complete, contemporary fireplaces. The Virtuo is controlled by an app that can change the height

Natural slate effect finish joins Connect2 A slate effect finish has been added to Kudos’s Connect2 shower tray collection. The eyecatching dark grey tray features an exclusive surface pattern, taken directly from a piece of locally sourced slate, to ensure an authentic finish. This low-profile tray is manufactured in acrylic capped ABS filled with a structural resin bonded stone for strength and durability. It is both slip and stain resistant and contains an anti-microbial additive to inhibit the growth of microbes, including bacteria and mould. It stands at just 35mm in height and is guaranteed to avoid standard joist spans. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/59

Essentials range is value for money With the introduction of a new ‘value’ product line, Bristan is offering installers a way to give customers a greater choice of products across a range of price points. The new Bristan Essentials range of WRASapproved taps and showers represents an entry-level price point. It will complement Bristan’s core product portfolio, with a five-year parts warranty (two-years on electric showers), compared to the 10-year warranty offer across Bristan’s core range. Essentials will include seven kitchen taps and four bathroom taps in a hard wearing chrome

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finish, with Bristan’s Aster bath shower mixer priced at £125 RRP. The range will also include one electric shower and one bar mixer shower. All products come with Bristan’s next-day delivery. Senior product manager Chris Tranter says: “Our new Essentials range will sit alongside our core Bristan offer, giving installers an entry-level, accessible price point but with all the reassurance of Bristan’s service and reliability. The different styles across this new range will suit a wide range of bathroom and kitchen designs and will offer something for all plumbing systems. Plus, as with all of Bristan products, the Essentials range has a no-quibble guarantee and all the spare parts you need to keep caring for your customer. ” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/60

and density of the flames and regulate the energy consumption. In addition, DRU has now introduced four new flame patterns (gentle,magic, graceful and elegant). It delivers a 2kW heat output,

or it can be run as a purely decorative fire. There are no ribbons to twist or spindles to squeak and installation only requires a standard domestic power supply. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/57

Affordable stoves With an aesthetic that will complement both modern and traditional styles, the Go Eco Excel range of stoves from Charlton & Jenrick is minimalist in design but bold in statement. These stoves can be fitted in an inglenook, a large fireplace or left freestanding. Charlton & Jenrick describes these stoves as the very best value-for-money appliances it carries, meaning they benefit from high-end technical features at an affordable price point (starting at £899). They are designed and engineered to be extremely efficient and environmentally friendly. These stoves benefit from the company’s firebox combustion technology for Ecodesign 2022 ready and DEFRA exempt heating as standard, as well as achieving clearSkies 5 certification beyond Ecodesign emissions and efficiency standards. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/58

Accessibility upgrades to electric shower range

Adding to its inclusive bathroom solutions, Triton has unveiled the new and improved family of Omnicare thermostatic electric care showers. The Omnicare and Omnicare Design options incorporate new features that continue to place user accessibility and safety at the heart of their design. The two upgraded units feature a refreshed cover design, in addition to a single hand slider to facilitate easy customisation for those with limited dexterity. A safety function allows temperature to be set internally to a maximum of 43°C, whilst allowing full rotation of the temperature dial. To ensure water remains at a safe temperature, water is constantly regulated within +/- 1°C. A large, soft push Start/Stop button includes illumination and offers audible feedback. In addition, the Omnicare Design continues to offer a tactile temperature dial, which utilises soft grey tones and bold markings to help those with visual impairment. For complete peace of mind, Omnicare and Omnicare Design carry both RNIB and BEAB Care approvals for safety and performance. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/61

03/05/2022 17:51

PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

COMPETITION

Product News

Fully integrated for better control The entry-level Economy+ range of pipeless electric radiators has been upgraded by RadiWarm so it can now be integrated with the company’s existing Signature range. This means that for the ﬁrst time, Economy+ radiators will connect to RadiWarm control systems (purchased separately), allowing the water-ﬁlled Signature radiators and electric Economy+ radiators to be mixed and matched and controlled from the same device. The RadiWarm 7-day controller consists of

a programmable thermostat and timer, whereby each radiator can be connected by a radio frequency (RF) link to the same control unit in the home, from where they can be zoned and programmed with different settings for each day of the week and for each zone. Additional functions include boosts, overrides and the ability to see the heating status of each zone at a glance. For maximum economy and control there is the alternative Wi-fi control system - RadiWarm’s Smart Controller. Using a gateway that plugs into an existing Wi-fi router, the heating programmes can be managed from a webbased app. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/62

This month we’ve teamed up with Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems UK (TA) Pegler to offer a chance to win a Push & Press Tool Kit

Prize worth £2900!

Black brassware makes an impact

British bathroom specialist Aqualisa has introduced a range of matt black models to its premium Downtown taps collection. With a reﬁned and contemporary

finish, the matt black Downtown taps make a bold impact, adding contrast to any modern interior, and continuing the ongoing industrial trend for black bathroom brassware. Each tap features an angular, soft square lever style with ultra-smooth movement, allowing precise operation. The matt black surface is both easy to clean and scratch-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity. The new line-up includes a small and large pillar mixer tap, a deck-mounted bath filler and a bath shower mixer. All models in the Downtown range come with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/63

Top marks for efficiency The latest generation of ESTIA air-towater heat pumps has been unveiled by Toshiba Carrier, operating on lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant R-32. Four models are available, spanning 4 to 11kW, with larger capacities available soon, providing space heating and domestic hot water for year-round comfort in homes and small businesses. The new units incorporate Toshiba’s twin rotary compressor, which contributes to the system’s A+++ energy efficiency rating. It enables the heat pump to continue supplying hot water to the heating network even during exceptionally cold weather, delivering water at 62°C when outdoor temperatures fall to -25°C. For gas boiler replacement projects, Toshiba offers a space-saving, wall-mounted hydromodule with a choice of 150, 200 or 300 litre capacity external cylinders. For use in newbuild projects, an all-in-one floor-standing hydro-module with an integrated 210 litre tank

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Leading UK manufacturer Aalberts Integrated Piping Systems UK (TA) Pegler are giving you the chance to win a combination tool kit designed to give you the equipment you need to speed up installations. The Push and Press Tool kit provides the essential equipment for the modern heat-free push and press installation techniques. Heat-free installations have become necessary techniques to provide time eﬃcient installs safely.

• REMS 3-35mm pipe cutter suitable for Copper, Carbon and Stainless • 15, 22 and 28mm Jaws • 15-108mm XPress

Copper Depth Gauge

• Tectite Sprint and Tectite Classic Depth Gauge and Deburrer • 15mm Multi-layer Tube Straightener • 10-28mm tube cutter for use with PEX Multi-layer tube

The unique VSH XPress leak-beforepress design allows installers to instantly identify unpressed ﬁttings, and the VSH Tectite patented Tectseal includes a directional seal prelubricated for reduced insertion force and the provision of a reliable seal.

provides a compact solution for both heating and DHW storage. “With its top A+++ eﬃciency rating and ability to continue operating in low ambient temperatures, ESTIA provides a superb solution for homeowners or small businesses looking to replace less eﬃcient units,” says David McSherry, head of sales. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/522/64

The prize

• Plus, demount clips, mini press tool, spare battery and dri-slide

HOW TO ENTER: To enter the competition, all you need to do is scan the QR code, which will take you to the dedicated registration form on Pegler’s website. Fill that out and you will oﬃcially be in the running for this fantastic prize! A winner will be chosen at random from all entries submitted before 1st June 2022.

04/05/2022 15:47

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Directory Calibration Services

Radiators

The Copper King

GAS CALIBRATION ..EASY AS

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

test 4 less www.test4less.co.uk

phamnews.co.uk/522/110

Controls phamnews.co.uk/522/116

Instruments for control, regulation & protection phamnews.co.uk/522/114

New Plumbing Product JeppCone

11⁄2” & 2” Appt

A quick & easy fit for back to wall toilet pans/concealed cisterns. Includes an 8” extended spigot which can be cut to suit application and a telescopic flex which has a 1 - 11⁄2” & 2” Syphon adaptor. 1 year guarantee

0161 946 0088 www.banico.co.uk

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

phamnews.co.uk/522/111

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

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

phamnews.co.uk/522/117

Water Heaters

www.heatingcontrolsonline.co.uk phamnews.co.uk/522/112

Safety Products

phamnews.co.uk/522/115

phamnews.co.uk/522/118

To Highlight your Business, Products or Training Courses to over *27,000 PHAM News readers Contact Sharon on 01889 577222 or email: classified@phamnews.co.uk *27,373 ABC Audit (Jan-Dec 21)

phamnews.co.uk/522/113

Plumbpal Products

www.plumbpal.co.uk phamnews.co.uk/522/119

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PHAM NEWS | MAY 2022

Training & Assessments

Information Centre 43

Recruitment

Information Centre

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

phamnews.co.uk/522/151

phamnews.co.uk/522/120

Training

Snickers Workwear LITEWork Trousers They’re great for working hard in the warmer months. Delivering superior ﬂexibility and cooling comfort, these stretchable, lightweight work trousers provide e cient moisture transport, ventilation and sun protection. They also come with CORDURA® reinforcements for extra durability and they feature a 4-way stretch fabrics, the patented Snickers Workwear KneeGuard® system and detatchable holster pockets if you need them. Checkout www.snickersworkwear.co.uk Or enter the code shown below.

phamnews.co.uk/522/123

phamnews.co.uk/522/152

ALTECNIC Release New Product Brochure The new brochure includes 146 new product ranges and a shift in focus to sustainable heating through the introduction of a heat pump focussed section to provide a complete sustainable solution. Also featured are a number of new products such as the 108 Anti-Freeze Valve, a coste ective solution to protecting heat pump installations from freezing, and the Cale XF, a new multifunction dirt and air separation device. To download the new brochure visit www.altecnic.co.uk or enter the code shown below.

phamnews.co.uk/522/153

phamnews.co.uk/522/121

New website for CIPHE The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) has launched a new website to give members more control over their membership, and professionals access to industry insights, news and advice. The site includes advice on a range of public health issues, information on careers and training, along with enhanced online tools such as the updated and improved Find a Plumbing or Heating Engineer facility. Online application forms for CIPHE membership are also available. To ﬁnd out what else is available visit www.ciphe.org.uk Or enter the code shown below.

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/522/122

phamnews.co.uk/522/124

phamnews.co.uk/522/154

phamnews.co.uk/522/125

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