June 2018

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Volume V olume 56 | Is o Issue ssue 6 | J June une 2018

Hackitt rreport Hackitt eport ffails ails tto o back b ack k industry ind dustry objectives objectives

The CIPHE The CIPHE h has as e expressed xpressed d disappointment isappointment w with ith tthe he rrecently ecently p published ublished H Hackitt ackitt R Review eview w which hich h highlights ighlights potential p otential areas areas of of reform reform within within the the construction construction industry industry following following the the Grenfell Grrenfell Tower Tower fire. fire. ed In The Charter Chartered Institute nstitute of Plumbing and Engineeriing (CIPHE) has voiced voiced its Heating Engineering concern that some e of the rrecommendations ecommendations in the rreview eview by

by Dame D Judith Hackitt Hackitt have hav ve Judith not gone far en nough to pr otect public public enough protect health, safety and healt th, or raise raise competency competency levels industry. levels within the e construction industr y. independent The inde penden nt Review Review of Building Re gulations and F ire Safety outlines a Regulations Fire n umber of rrecommendations ecom mmendations for change, change, number but the CIPHE argues argues g that it falls short of deli vering fundam mental rreform. eform. delivering fundamental CEO K evin Wellman We elllman says: say ys: “As “A As a body, body, Kevin w e w elcomed the th he findings pr esented in we welcomed presented Dame Hackitt’s Hackitt’s interim i report and had report hoped the final rreview eview would would push further. further.

While w e support suppo ort the need for rrobust obust we rregulatory egulatory c hange and the establishment establishment change of accounta bility y throughout throughout the build accountability and e veryda ay use e of high rise buildings, everyday the rreview eview has not gone far enough to immediatel y address address the issues of immediately competenc y, formal formal accreditation accreditation and competency,

rregulation egulation of those in volved in i the building involved a and maintenance industries .” industries.”

“It looks, once again, again, like like a missed o opportunity when rrecommendations ecomme endations are are only rrestricted estricted to onl y residential residenttial buildings above storeys. regulatory a bove 10 stor eys. Many Man ny of the t regulatory f failings appl y equally equally to thousands tho ousands more more apply b buildings both in size and in i purpose purpose.. It i equall is y disappointing that tha at once a gain equally again tthere ther e has been no rrecommendation ecommen ndation for the w wholesale adoption, including includiing retrofit retrofit in e xisting buildings, of residential residen ntial sprinkler existing ssystems.”” systems.

The CIPHE E has long ad vocated the need nee ed advocated for the use e of rresidential esidential fire fire sprinkler sprinkler systems and a the rrelated elated need for f pr p ofessiona al tr aining g in their installation installatio on professional training and servicin ng. servicing.

Man ufactturer Ge berit has echoed echoed Manufacturer Geberit some of the e concerns about about the Review’s Review’ ws failur e to rrecommend e ecommend failure the installation of sprinklers in n ne w or existing existing buildings. new “Sprinklerr systems can pr otect lives lives protect and buildin ngs, and reduce reduce the burden burden on buildings, pub lic sector secto or funding,” funding,” argues argues UK MD Mark Ma ark public Larden.

Lar den. “It is i no coincidence that nobody nobo ody ever has e ver died die ed from from a fire fire related related incident incide ent building working in a buildi ng with a w orking sprinkler sprink kler system in th he UK. the “It is no w easier, easier, quicker quicker and and now less disrup ptive than ever ever before before to disruptive rretrospectively etrospectively install sprinkler system ms systems into e xisting properties properties and it is therefore therefo ore existing disappointi ng that these benefits are a e ar disappointing not being taken advantage advantage of through throu ugh mandator y installations. mandatory installations.””

to use laser tool to be won!

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Throne T hrone rroom oom

Exploring E xploring w ways ays to to detect detect CO CO poisoning poisoning T The he Gas Gas Safety Safet y Trust Tr ust has has published published a new new rreport eport which which explores explores the the latest latest methods methods of of det detecting ecting c carbon arbon m monoxide onoxide ((CO) CO) p poisoning. oisoning.

T The he fuel f uel safety safet y c charity har it y ssays ays tthat hat tthe he m most o st commonly used biomarker c ommonly u sed b iomarker associated associated w with it h tthe he iidentification dent ificat ion o off e exposure xposure tto oC CO, O, c arbox yhaemoglo obin, iis s n ow c onsidered carboxyhaemoglobin, now considered useful lless ess u sef ul tthan han previously p ev iously thought pr thought and and is is concerned cases off e exposure could be c oncer ned tthat hat c a se s o xposure c ould b e missed. m issed. The The report repor t argues arg ues for for tthe he need need tto o new biomarkers iidentify dent if y n ew b iomarkers – iindicators ndicators that t hat will assist clinicians w ill ultimately ult imately a ssist c linicians in in making making off C CO a diagnosis diag nosis o O poisoning poisoning and and help help tthem hem iin n their their assessment assessment of of patient patient outcome outcome and and rreferral efer ral decisions. decisions.

Diagnosing CO poisoning notoriously Diag nosing C Op oisoning iis sn otor iously difficult, d ifficult, as as it it produces produc u es common, common, non-specific non-specific

as headaches and nausea, ssymptoms ymptoms ssuch uch a sh eadaches a nd n ausea, and other more common a nd mimics mimics o ther m ore c ommon ailments ailments ssuch uch as as flu flu and and food food poisoning. poisoning. This This makes makes exposed know iitt difficult dif ficult for for tthose hose e xposed tto ok now that t hat have been poisoned and tthey hey h ave b een p oisoned a nd what what they t hey have by. h ave been been poisoned poisoned b y.

The T he report repor t acknowledges acknowledges that t hat there t here are a re gaps g aps iin n the the evidence ev idence base base and and that that little little is is known k nown about ab bout the the effects effe f cts of of low low level level chronic chronic exposure e xposure tto o CO. CO. It It argues argues that that a combination combination off a approaches o pproaches is is required required to to develop develop novel novel biomarkers b iomarkers and and that that developing developing a dedicated dedicated programme ffunding unding pr og ramme of of research research work work is is critical c ritical to to success. success. The The needs needs of of the the clinician, clinician, often o ften the t he first first person person to to be be approached approached by by ssomeone omeone ssuffering uffering from from CO CO poisoning, poisoning, must must also a lso be be considered. considered.

Chris Bielby, Chris Bielby, GST GST Chair, Chair, comments: comments: “The “The Gas G as Safety Safety Trust Trust is is committed committed to to supporting supporting tthe he improved improved diagnosis diag nosis and and treatment t reatment of of CO poisoning.

What emerging other C Op oisoning. Wh at iis se merging ffrom rom o ther we are rresearch e s ea r c h w ea re ffunding unding is is that t hat incidents incidents are may be a re being being missed missed and and that t hat people people m ay b e being att llower b eing poisoned poisone n da ower levels levels for fo or extended extended periods off time without knowing p er iods o t ime w it hout k now ing iit. t. I am am optimistic o pt imist ic that t hat improved improved biomarkers biomarkers will w ill ensure e nsure those those people people are are identified identified ssooner.” ooner e .”

The GST has created an online carbon T he G ST h as c reated a n o nline c arbon monoxide portal m onoxide p or tal that that is is designed desig ned to to be be the the central data and c entral rrepository epositor y ffor or d ata a nd iinformation nformation rrelating elating to to CO CO in in the the UK. UK. It It contains contains the the latest latest ass well rreport eport a well as as other other data, data, documents documents and and general CO. can g eneral iinformation nfor mat ion rrelating elat ing tto oC O. IItt c an be at: www.coportal.org b e ffound ound a t: w w w.copor tal.org

Inspired b Inspired by y tthe he Royal Royal Wedding Wedding o off P Prince rince Harry H arry and and Meghan Meghan Markle, Markle, interior in nter erior designer de esigner Helen H ele en C Crouch ro ouch created created this this inspired inspired ‘throne ‘throne rroom’ oom’ as part part of of the the Lavatory Lavator y Project, Pro oject, a series s eries of of installations installations on on display display at at the the rrecent ecent Grand Gra and d Designs Desig gns Live Live exhibition. exhibition. With With off w wedding-themed and bespoke a myriad myriad o edding-them e ed a nd b espoke ttouches, ouches, rranging anging ffrom rro om the the striking striking Union Union JJack ack fl floor oor tto o tthe he m more ore s subtle ubtle Mr Mr & Mrs Mr s hand h and towels, towels, Helen’s Helen’s creation cre reation was was one one of of e ight designs designs centred centred on on different diffferre ent themes themes eight encourage tto o en courage ccreativity reativ vit y in in the the smallest smallest rroom oom off tthe he h home. ome.

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June 2018

NEWS N EWS W R Review eview

3

The best best places places to to E IInside nside this this issue issue The Editor’s ditor’ss work w ork as as a plumber plumber Viewpoint V iewpoint Gadgets &T o ools Tools

Powerful pliers and an nd other gadgets and d tools designed to make the working g day y easier easie er

Starts page 20

Water W ater a & Sy System ystem T reatment r Treatment The latest innovati innovations ions and developments to en nsure ensure smooth running hot h and systems cold water system s

Starts page 30

Training T rraining & Education Why on-going trai training ining is so important and a roundup of o some so e of o the t e latest l courses for busy in installers nstallers

Starts page 37

Ventilation V entilation e & Heat Recovery Recov very Highlighting somee of the opportunities to gr grow row your business b i iin th the h he ventilation sector

Starts page 44

The Technical The Technical M Magazine agazine for for the the Plumbing, Plumbing, H eating & A ir Movement Movemeent IIndustry ndustr y Heating Air

The best The best and and worst worst places places ffor or p plumbers lumbers tto o w work ork iin n tthe he U K have have b een rrevealed evealed UK been by b y workwear workwear specialist specialist MI MI S upplies. The The company company has has Supplies. a nalysed tthe he y early p ay ffor or analysed yearly pay plumbers p lumbers iin ne every very c city ity across across tthe he c ountr y in in a bid bid to to find find country where w here plumbers plumbers c can an e earn arn the the most m ost – and and the the least least – money money ffrom rom b eing e mployed iin n tthe he being employed ttrade. rade.

T he sstudy tudy a nalysed tthe he The analysed annual a nnual salaries salaries for for plumbers plumbers with w ith a att least least fi five ve y years ears o off e xper ience a cross 6 9c ities experience across 69 cities iin n tthe he UK. U K. Nott surprisingly, No sur pr isingly, London London came c ame out out on on top, top, with with an an average off £ £28,003, a verage rreturn eturn o 28,003, but b ut with with an an average average pay pay of of £27,194, £ 27,194, plumbers plumbers operating operating Bristol iin n B r istol are are not not too too far far behind comes b ehind when when iitt c omes tto o making m aking a decent decent lliving. iving.

Plumbers P lumbers working working for for companies Plymouth and c ompanies iin nP lymouth a nd Belfast, B elfast, meanwhile, meanwhile, were were be working ffound ound tto ob ew orking for for the the They llowest owest yearly yearly ssalaries. alaries. T hey both b oth came came at at the the bottom bottom of of tthe he list, list, with with £24,297 £24,297 the the average wage Plymouth a verage w age ffor or P lymouth plumbers, and £24,325 p lumbers, a nd £ 24,325 ffor or tthose hose iin n Belfast.

Belfast.

Despite being D espite b eing a relatively relatively area, llucrative ucrattive a rea, tthe he rreport eport ssays ays tthat hat the the average average wages wages for for plumbers p lumbers iin n the the capital capital have have rremained emained static static for for the the last last five However, fiv e years. years. H owever, tthere here

by C Chris hris JJones ones

Plu Plumbers umbers ccan an be be llife iffe ssavers avers remains remains a £3706 £3706 difference difference between pay between the the average average p ay for for plumbers working London plumbers w orking iin nL ondon compared compared to the the lowest lowest earning UK city. earning U Kc it y.

City C ity lliving iving The T he other other three three best best places places to to make m ake a living living as as a plumber, plumber, according a ccording to to MI MI Supplies, Supplies, are: are: Gloucester G loucester (£26,997), (£26,997), No Nottingttingham h am (£26,944) (£26,94 4) and and Stoke Stoke ((£26,893). £26,893). M Meanwhile, eanwhile, jjoining oining Belfast B elfast and and Plymouth Plymouth in in the the bottom b ottom fi five ve are are Peterborough Peterborough (£24,489), (£ 24,489), B Bradford radford (£ (£24,636) 24,636) and a nd Southampton Southampton (£24,773). (£24,773).

The T he data datta ffor or tthe he rreport eport w was as provided pr ovided by

by PayScale, PayScale, said said tto o b be e the the largest largest real-time real-time ssalary alar y ssurvey ur vey in in the the world, world, where w here more more than than 150,000 150,000 new new ssurvey ur vey re records cords are are added added every e ver y month. month.

According A ccording tto o a separate separate rreport eport by by the the Office Office for for National N ational Statistics, Statistics, the the average a verage UK UK salary salary is is £27,271, £27,271, although a lthough most most people people will w ill have wait h ave tto ow ait until until they they reach reach 30s before ttheir heir 3 0s b efore tthey hey are a re earning much. e arning tthat hat m uch.

When you’re When you’re next next trying tr y ing to to fix fix a leaky leaky pipe pipe or or have have your y our arm ar m plunged plunged d down own somewhere somewhere you you would would rather rather not n ot tthink hink about, about, iitt m might ight b be ee easy asy tto o llose ose ssight ight o off tthe he v ital role role that that plumbers plumbers have have long long played played in in helping helping vital tto o provide prov ide tthe he p public ublic w with ith a c clean lean a and nd h healthy ealthy h habitat. abitat.

This T h is y year’s ear’s a annual nnual llecture e c t u re h hosted osted b by yT The he W Worshipful orshipful C ompany o lumbers pr ov ided a w elcome rreminder eminder Company off P Plumbers provided welcome tthat hat we we would would all all be be living living in in a very ver y different diffe erent world world had had tthe he plumbing plumbing profession profession not not developed developed the the necessary necessar y sskills kills to to deliver deliver clean clean running running water water and and safe safe sanitation sanitation ((see see rreport epor t o on np page age 1 11).

1).

Unfortunately, as Professor Mala Rao explained U nfor tunately, a s P rofessor M a la R ao e xplained iin n her millions off p people are obliged h er presentation, presentation, m illions o eople a re o bliged tto o make areas where m ake their their homes homes iin na reas w here ssanitary anitar y sstandards tandards are a re either either nonexistent nonexistent or or fall fall far far short shor t of of that that taken taken granted developed countries.

That’s why, ffor or g ranted in in more more d eveloped c ountr ies. T hat’s w hy, according a ccording to to the the World World Health Health Organisation, Organisation, plumbers plumbers can be c an b e considered considered to to be be the the most most important impor tant frontline frontline health workers he alth w orkers around around the the globe. globe. we off IIn n tthe he UK UK w e may may be be lucky lucky enough enough to to enjoy enjoy a level level o ssanitation anitation tthat hat helps helps to to minimise minimise the the spread spread of of disease disease orr a att lleast endangers but could be –o east rrarely arely e ndangers llives ives – b ut tthere here c ould b e other opportunities plumbers perform o ther o pportunities for for p lumbers tto op erform llife ife ssaving av ving duties. d uties. The The installation installation of of piped piped sprinkler spr inkler systems systems has be an effective way damage h as proved proved tto ob ea ne ffective w ay tto o llimit imit tthe he d amage caused and buildings. c aused by by fire fire in in homes homes a nd llarge a rg e b uildings. Industry Industr y representatives have expressed disappointment re presentatives h ave ttherefore herefore e xpressed d isappointment tthat hat the the review review of of the the Grenfell Grenfell fire fire tragedy tragedy has has failed failed to to any rrecommend ecommen m da ny legal legal requirements requirements that that would would encourage encourage cover ttheir heir wider w ider specification specification (see (see this this month’s month’s c over sstory) tor y) but –b ut if if policies policies were were to to change, change, the the plumbing plumbing iindustry ndustr y has h as the the knowledge knowledge and and skills skills to to rise r ise to to the the challenge. challenge.

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Bee-ware B ee-ware o off pollen pollen

Incorporating: Incorporating: Plumbing & Heating Ne News wss Plumbing & Heating Equipment Equippment News News Published b by: y: Pi d Publishing Pinede P bli hi | 16/18 16/1 18 Hawkesyard H Hawkkesyard H Hall, ll Armitag Armitage A it e Park, Park, k Nr Rugeley, Rugeley, Staf Staffordshire fordshire WS15 1PU T el: 01889 577222 | Fax: Faxx: 01889 579177 Tel: info@phamnews.co.uk Email: inf o@phamnews.co o.uk www.phamnews.co.uk www .phamnews.co.uk Managing Manag ing Editor Editor Chris Chr is Jones Jones Assistant Editor Editor Carol Hitchcock Car ol H itchcock Publisherss Publisher Chris Chr is Evans Evans Russ Jackson Jackson

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©C Copyright opyright 2018 2018 | Plumbing, Plumbing , Heating Heating & Air Air Movement Movement News N ew s All rrights ights rreserved. eserved. No par partt of this ppublication ublication ma mayy be rreproduced eproduced or stor stored ed in a rretrieval etrieval system without w wr written itten consent from fr om the publisher publisher.. A Attributed ttributed ar articles ticlees rrepresent epresent the vie views ws of the A Author(s) uthor(s) and ar aree not the necessa necessarily arily those of the EEditor. ditor.

The T he publisher publisherss accept no rresponsibility esponsibility ffor or claims made bbyy man manufacturers ufacturers or adv advertisers. ertisers. TThis his mag magazine a azine includes a nnumber umber of colour editor editorial ial photo photographs graphs paid ffor or bbyy supplier suppliers. s.

With tthe With he hay hay y fever fever season season n now ow iin n ffull ull sswing, wing, a w warning arning h has as been b een iissued ssued tto ob building uilding m managers anagers tthat hat H HVAC VAC e equipment quipment can c an suffer suffer as as much much as as people people w when hen tthe he pollen pollen c count ount is is on on tthe he rise. r ise. ECEX, ECEX, a manufacturer manufacturer of of air air intake intake screens, screens, says says tthat hat a airborne irborne d debris ebr is a and nd p pollen ollen c can an rreduce educ ce tthe he e efficiency fficiency off plant o plant such such as as air air handling handling units units and and air air conditioning conditioning ssystems. ystems. The The company company offers offers a range range of of screens screens to to help help protect protect iinternal nternal c coil oil fins, fins, p perishable er ishable fi filters lters a and nd o other ther c components. omponents.

MD M D John John Grenville Grenville explains: explains: “As “As well well as as allowing allowing p pollen ollen tto o enter e nter a b building, uilding, ffouling ouling c caused aused b by ya airborne irborne d debris ebris rrestricts estricts tthe he movement movement o off a air, ir, w which hich m means eans tthat hat p plant lant h has as tto ow work ork harder h arder tto oa achieve chieve d design esig n a airflow, ir flow, c costing osting more more money money to to rrun un a and nd increasing increasing the the risk r isk of of breakdown breakdown and and downtime.” downtime.”

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June 2018

NEWS Review

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Outside pollution an Recognition for campaigning installer indoor problem too With recent research by the World Health Organisation indicating that nine out of 10 people around the globe are breathing polluted air, the need for effective ventilation is all the more vital, claims the ventilation specialist FläktGroup.

Product Manager Chris Jones argues that more companies should be investing in ways to reduce the harmful effects of unclean air: “Whether learning at school or working in an office building, we as a population spend a large portion of our day indoors – as a result, companies need to make sure the climate is a comfortable and productive one,” he says.

Many in the ventilation industry say that an unhealthy outdoor environment can also pose challenges when it comes to providing a healthy indoor environment. Pollution will discourage occupants from opening windows for ventilation, yet ventilation is needed to avoid overheating in the warmer months, and to ensure that indoor CO2 levels stay within appropriate levels.

Chris Jones argues that mechanical ventilation can play a key role in delivering optimum indoor air quality (IAQ) in buildings that are exposed to high levels of noise and air pollution.

FläktGroup Product Manager, Chris Jones

“When occupants may be discouraged from opening windows to avoid pollutants, a mechanical ventilation unit with speed controllable fans can match ventilation rates according to the amount of people in the room to optimise energy consumption.

“With the impending release of the Government’s new Air Pollution Plan, as well as the revised Building Bulletin 101 (BB101), now is the time to take action and invest. In inner-city buildings where air and noise pollution often go hand-in-hand, not only can improved indoor air quality give occupants a healthier lifestyle, but a more productive environment too.”

For more on the latest ventilation solutions, see pages 44-49 in this month’s issue.

The Aberdeenshire based installer Shaun Scott of Derek Scott Plumbing and Heating has followed up his winning of the 2016 UK Plumber of the Year title by landing the 2018 Heating Installer Award. His victory, the result of a public vote, was announced at a special presentation at the recent Installer2018 industry trade show in Coventry.

“It’s amazing to get recognition for hard work and effort,” says Shaun, who is currently the face of WaterSafe and has recently worked to highlight awareness surrounding the use of lead within the

Last year’s winner Peter Booth presents the trophy to Shaun Scott

industry. “I go into my job everyday to help people out, but this isn’t just for me – it’s for all the loyal customers that have looked after me

as much as I’ve looked after them over the years.”

Rachel Smith, General Manager at Polypipe Underfloor Heating, one of

the sponsors of the awards, says: “We work closely with the best installers on a daily basis and are always looking for ways to celebrate the talent the industry has to offer. Seeing the entries for the Heating Installer Awards reinforced just how much talent there is.

“We would like to congratulate Shaun on winning this year’s awards and encourage installers to consider entering next year.”

Huw Jenkins of Cardiff based Thornhill Plumbing and Heating, one of nine regional winners, was voted this year’s runner-up.

Club membership Fighting cowboys A new installer club has been launched by water treatment specialist ADEY to provide its trade customers with a mobile-friendly method of registering products and earning pointsbased benefits.

The ADEY ProClub is available as an easy-touse app, providing an accessible platform for installers to access all job records in one place alongside a calendar of installations. Installers can access manuals and resources for ADEY products and services, for both quick reference on the job or for further training, and the app also allows installers to demonstrate to customers that their system has been properly protected.

Members can gain further benefits by collecting points when registering warranties, which can then be redeemed against Love2Shop vouchers, workwear and branded merchandise.

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is calling for more regulation in the construction industry to end the tyranny of cowboy builders. The trade association is hoping to persuade the Government to introduce a licensing scheme in construction as part of its post-Grenfell agenda for quality and professionalism in construction.

“Until we introduce a licensing scheme, cowboy builders will continue to run rampant in our industry,” says Brian Berry, Chief Executive.

“Licensing would ensure

a minimum level of competence and professionalism and give consumers greater assurance when hiring a builder.

“Our latest research shows that almost 80% of our members are in favour of introducing a licencing scheme. It also shows that one third of homeowners in the UK are so anxious about hiring a dodgy builder that they don’t commission any building work whatsoever. It’s time to release this pent up demand for building work through a licensing scheme consumers can trust.”

Pouring big money into water charity

Kohler Mira, parent company of Mira Showers, has revealed that it raised £58,330 last year as part of its stewardship programme for ‘charity: water’ – an organisation that aims to bring clean and safe drinking water to developing countries.

To help raise the money, staff at the Cheltenham-based shower manufacturer participated in a range of fundraising activities including a water-themed bake-off, sponsored walks and a charity ball. The company has also raised nearly £12,000 for Cancer Research UK. MD Liz Hazeldene comments: “Charity is such a significant part of our company ethos. Both Cancer Research UK and ‘charity: water’ are extremely close to our hearts and we are delighted with the results of our fundraising efforts.”

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News Review

Conference for women in the trade returns in July Stopcocks Women Plumbers and its partner Polypipe Building Materials have teamed up for the second consecutive year to stage the Women Installers Together conference, taking place in London on 4 July. As the only national industry event aimed at women, the main objectives of the #WITConference are to give women plumbers and gas engineers the opportunity to meet one another – a first for many – and to encourage them to continue pursuing their career.

Hattie Hasan, the founder of Stopcocks Women Plumbers, devised the conference to highlight the visibility of women gas engineers and plumbers and to make the profession more inviting to women and girls. The project has attracted the support of some of the biggest names in the industry, including headline sponsor Graham

Anna Hemmings, MBE and Olympian, will be the special guest at the conference

The Plumber’s Merchant, event partner Polypipe, plus Vaillant, Fernox, Impey, Calor Installer, Keir, Monument Tools and more.

The day-long event includes training sessions, inspirational speeches, a raffle, and an opportunity to network with other women in the trade and the sponsors of the event.

Jazz Jones, Polypipe’s Learning & Development Business Partner, will begin the conference with a talk on Advanced Relationship Management. The session will cover issues like selfawareness and empathy, and it can be used by employers as part of their employees’ CPD. “Good relationship management is built on a solid foundation of emotional intelligence,” explains Jazz.

“These skills will help to increase the quality of your interactions with others and boost your own productivity by enabling you to manage yourself better. Emotional intelligence is as critical as logical intelligence in determining an individual’s success.”

Special guest Anna Hemmings MBE, the two time Olympian and six time world champion kayaker, will join the conference to talk

In brief • The Stiebel Eltron Group has acquired Danfoss Värmepumpar AB, known under the brand name ‘Thermia’, from Danfoss A/S of Denmark.

about how she has succeeded despite the odds.

“I’ll be telling the tale of my of triumph over adversity, the challenges I’ve faced, and the strategies I’ve developed to overcome them,” says Anna. “I hope a lot of the women plumbers at the WIT Conference will identify with and get inspiration from my story.”

Hattie Hasan will seek to motivate women in the industry with her talk ‘Destiny and Creating your Own’. Having founded and grown her own business, Stopcocks, the only national franchise of women plumbers in the country, Hattie has

UK pipe systems facility expanded The plastic pipe system specialist Wavin has expanded its Chippenham site following a multi-million pound investment by its Mexican parent company, Mexichem. The company says that the investment will help to ensure that it remains highly responsive and competitive in a rapidly changing market.

The 8000m2 expansion is comprised of four new bays, which will drive productivity improvements in the factory.

Changes in transportation and handling will also reduce the carbon footprint of the business.

Wavin UK is a member of the Wavin Group, the European manufacturer of plastic pipe systems for

residential, non-residential and civil engineering projects, with annual revenues of around €1.2 billion. Systems offered include Osma above and below-ground drainage, Hep2O hot and cold plumbing and underfloor heating, as well as a wide range of Wavin drainage and stormwater management solutions for all application areas.

Wavin became part of the Latin American Mexichem Group in 2012.

Still going strong

Royal attendance The Princess Royal attended a commemoration ceremony at a Norman parish church in Minchinhampton, near Stroud, which had been refurbished to include an entirely new heating and plumbing system and pump room. As the project’s patron, Princess Royal met the engineers and builders who had worked on the project, which included Cheltenham-based plumbing and electrical specialists SW&L and Nick Miles Building Contractors.

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A vintage 1950s Heatrae Sadia direct water cylinder has been discovered in perfect working condition at a property in the New Forest, Hampshire. The cylinder had been working for 60 years without trouble before the owners decided to upgrade to a new, more environmentally friendly model.

Despite its age, the cylinder was described as being in impeccable condition, offering a glimpse into the technology used by British households in a world before colour TV and the hoover.

Rather than dispose of the cylinder, Anita Rowland of

become a role model for women looking to enter the trade. Commenting on her upcoming speech, she says: “Believe it or not, we are all creating our own destinies anyway. It’s up to each of us to believe we can create the destiny we want and find a way to do it.”

Book now The WIT Conference will be held on 4 July in London at the Building Centre on Store Street, and tickets are free.

Lunch will be included, but booking is essential. Just go to https://2018witconference. eventbrite.co.uk to reserve a place.

• After five years based in Kingswinford in the West Midlands, Intergas Heating has moved its head office to Kidderminster.

• The Wiser Radiator Thermostat range from Drayton has won a Red Dot Design Award.

• BSRIA has extended its scope of UKAS accreditation to include heat interface unit (HIU) testing in accordance with BESA UK HIU Test Regime Technical Specification – December 2016.

• Monodraught’s Coolphase cooling and ventilation system has been awarded a Queen’s Award for Innovation.

Engineering in an uncertain future Payment reform, the likely economic impact of Brexit and the technical implications of the Grenfell review will be the focus of the upcoming Building Engineering Services Association Conference, set to take place on 1 November at the Park Plaza Victoria hotel in London. The event will focus on how building engineering firms can win profitable work and deliver high quality projects against a seriously disrupted economic and regulatory backdrop.

“The ability to demonstrate competence and compliance is even more important when the market enters uncharted waters – as it will do next year,” says BESA Chief Executive David Frise. “Our conference will

BESA NATIONAL CONFERENCE & AWARDS 2018 Thursday 1 November

Park Plaza Victoria, London

focus heavily on technical excellence, with guidance on how firms can develop the range of skills they need to visit www.thebesaconference.com and thrive.” forcompete more information or to book tickets Further details will be revealed nearer the date, but early bird delegate packages and exhibition areas can now be reserved by visiting www. thebesaconference.com EXPERT SPEAKERS

INNOVATIVE EXHIBITIONS

PANEL DISCUSSIONS

SPECIALIST GROUPS

SECTOR GUIDANCE

INDUSTRY DEBATES

Following the Conference we will be hosting the BESA National Awards join us for a black tie gala dinner & awards to celebrate the brightest talent in the building engineering sector.

BESA Member tickets cost as little as £50 and discounted packages are available to attend both the Conference and the Awards Gala Dinner

headline sponsor:

Longer guarantee Studio 64 Interiors, who made the discovery, decided to return it to Heatrae Sadia so it could be placed on display.

“I would have felt terrible sending it to scrap,” she says.

Vaillant and Glow-worm have announced new extended guarantees on selected boilers. Launching in July, installers who fit either the ecoTEC pro or ecoFIT pure boilers will now benefit from a free seven-year guarantee when registered with Vaillant’s Advance loyalty programme.

Also, the ecoTEC plus and ecoTEC exclusive both come with a 10-year warranty when installed with the new Vaillant boiler protection kit and registered using Advance.

Meanwhile, installers who fit Glow-worm’s Energy boiler will benefit from a seven-year guarantee as standard.

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News Review

Ignorance about bathroom updates

much a new bathroom would cost to purchase and fit. Just 8% of people said they would have a very good idea.

CEO of DigitalBridge, David Levine, says: “There is evidently some work to do around educating homeowners on how straightforward the process can be, so providing them with relevant channels for design, purchase and fitout can be an invaluable way The Saniflo macerator is celebrating to reduce purchasing 60 years of the innovation worldwide cycle, build brand loyalty, WIN UP TO and ultimately grow sales.” *

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Pumps for prizes sfa60.com

To mark the diamond anniversary of the Saniflo macerator, the company has launched a prize draw that can be entered each time a purchase is made of specially marked domestic macerators. With a top prize of €6000, there are also 10 prizes of €600 and 100 of €60 (or Sterling equivalent). A website URL and QR code printed on the sticker takes the installer to a dedicated web page where they can enter their details and submit a proof of receipt to be automatically entered into October’s random draw.

W

WIN!

YOU WIN!

The Saniflo macerator is celebrating 60 years of innovation worldwide

Please visit sfa60.com for full Terms and Conditions. * Or equivalent in £ sterling.

WIN UP TO

€6,000

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A new survey from Logic4training has shown that 57% of installers have little or no knowledge of the Boiler Plus legislation and how it will affect them. Brought in to improve efficiency in domestic heating systems, the scheme came into force on 6th April, and heating engineers should now be working to it.

The survey’s respondents were evenly split as to the benefits of the new scheme, and only half felt they were equipped to take on the work that the new requirements would demand.

Despite Boiler Plus encouraging energy efficiency improvements, two thirds of respondents (64%) felt that its introduction would not lead to more business,

an opinion that could be in part due to information not getting through to the very people Boiler Plus will effect.

Mark Krull from Logic4training says: “The government has stipulated the addition of various measures to improve the energy efficiency of domestic heating systems, and engineers will be responsible for delivering these. However,

it appears that the general sense of confusion about the scheme has lead to a feeling of negativity, which is masking the real potential.

“Boiler Plus represents a great opportunity for installers, and their customers will reap the benefit of more energy efficient heating that has less environmental impact and saves money on fuel bills.”

Coming to a cinema near you Any heating and plumbing company that also takes on electrical work may be interested to know that there is still time to buy tickets to a special live talk on the forthcoming 18th Edition, set to be beamed via satellite to 40 cinemas on 4th July from the Faraday Theatre at the Royal Institution.

Hosted by industry experts Darren Staniforth and Alan Wells, the talk will focus on the changes included in the new regulations and what it will mean for electricians.

There will be audience contributions from representatives of the electrical industry, including those

responsible for writing the new regulations.

“The upcoming launch of the 18th Edition will be an important time for every electrician across the UK,” says NICEIC and ELECSA’s Marketing Director Mark Smith. “We wanted to do something unique, affordable

WIN!

Trade professionals are carrying out a wide range of unpaid services while on the job in customers’ homes according to research from CORGI Home Plan, which estimates they are missing out on £2.7m in potential earnings each year. Over half of UK homeowners don’t expect to pay the usual hourly rate for extra tasks, preferring to pay in cups of tea or not paying at all.

Tradespeople are asked to do everything from mending a broken socket plug to putting up shelves, changing light bulbs, keeping an eye on the dog and putting the bins out.

When asked why they seek extra work from a trades professional on top of what has been agreed, 62% cited the convenience of having a professional in the home. A further 40% of those surveyed revealed it was because the professionals are experts, and 23% admit they’re rubbish at any kind of DIY themselves.

Peter Southcott, Chief Executive of CORGI HomePlan, says: “We should all remember that the next time we say ‘while you’re here, can you take a look at…?’, a trades professional’s expertise and time are to be valued and not taken for granted in this way.”

‘Vriendly’ rivalry

sue!

W

t u re in

and easily accessible to help provide an insight into the forthcoming changes.”

NICEIC and ELECSA have partnered with Vue, Odeon, Showcase and Omniplex cinemas to put on the event.

Tickets cost £5 and can be booked online by visiting www.18edition.com/cinema

Working for free

s is i

WIN! e’ve teamed up with Gas App Uk to offer readers

pic

th

Win a Makita job site radio!

YOU

s

nt ’

Almost three-quarters (71%) of UK homeowners wouldn’t know where to start if they wanted to complete a bathroom refurbishment, according to new research by DigitalBridge. 57% said they would feel very unsure, and 14% stated they would have no idea whatsoever where to begin.

Renovation uncertainty was most prominent among 55-64 year olds and least common among 25-34 year olds. A further 74% would have very little or no idea about how

Widespread uncertainty

Find A

8

the chance to win a fabulous Makita radio – ideal for carrying around on site. The robustly built DMR104W has been designed to withstand up to five minutes exposure to rain and comes with elastomer bumpers to protect against rough handling. It receives both DAB and FM stations and delivers stereo sound from two powerful 76mm side firing speakers. It also features a micro USB port for software upgrades, easy-to-read digital tuner with LCD display, and AUX-IN jack for connecting to an external audio source.

Please visit sfa60.com for full Terms and Conditions. * Or equivalent in £ sterling.

How to win For a chance to win the radio, all you have to do is search for the picture of Gas App Uk founder Ant Proven (shown above) hidden inside this issue. Once you’ve found him, simply take a picture of the page and send it via What’sApp with your name, email and telephone number to 07879 627403, or send a text to the same number (complete with your contact details), or email editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk. Good luck!

May’s winner:

8.indd 1

Congratulations to last month’s lucky reader, Adam Cowie, who found Ant on page 12 in and amongst readers’ letters to the editor.

German and English installers trained by Viessmann competed last month in the company’s second annual ‘Vriendly’ football match at Huddersfield Town FC. Unfortunately for the host side, the score was 8-1 to Germany, but the result did little to dampen the spirits of the 11 players recruited from Plymouth, Kendal, Cambridgeshire, and Derby, as well as the Huddersfield area. Viessmann is the official heating partner to Huddersfield Town and has been a team sheet sponsor for the past three seasons. The match came just days after it was confirmed that Huddersfield Town would stay up in the Premier League next season.

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June 2018

10 NEWS Review Heat pumps have ‘Affinity’ for summer sport Peace of mind is high profile backer doubled TV presenter, architect and writer George Clark has clenched a deal with Mitsubishi to help promote Ecodan air source heat pumps.

George is best known for his work on Channel 4 shows including ‘Amazing Spaces’ and ‘Restoration Man’.

“For us, George is a perfect fit with Ecodan because he is such an inspiring pioneer and a real advocate of the need to build quality into the homes that the nation desperately needs,” says Donald Daw, Commercial Director Living Environment Systems.

As part of his remit, George Clarke will help promote renewable heating and write a monthly column on the company’s blogsite (thehub.mitsubishielectric.co.uk) which covers a diverse range of topics around energy use in buildings.

“We know we need to build a lot of homes each year to address the housing

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This summer, members of Vokèra by Riello’s Affinity loyalty scheme can redeem points to win sports-themed rewards, just in time to cheer for club and country. Until 31st August, points can be earned for every Evolve or Vision combi or system gas boiler installed and registered. Multiples of three Evolve or six Vision boilers will receive even more with bonus points.

Free to join, Affinity is

George Clark

shortage, but we also need to make sure we build quality homes,” comments George Clarke. “The way we design, build, heat, power and recycle our homes needs to change, and renewable heating is an important part of our future. I’m therefore delighted to associate myself with the market-leading brand of heat pumps which are built in the UK and can help reduce energy bills and lower emissions for almost any home.”

open to Gas Safe registered installers in the UK and the Register of Gas Installers of Ireland in the Republic of Ireland. Members can register a Vokèra boiler for warranty, Gas Safe notification (UK

only), and earn Affinity points on qualifying products.

Any installers who are not currently members will gain 70 bonus points when signing up. To register, visit www.vokeraaffinity.co.uk

Simon Austin golfing day

(l-r) Steve Zouch of Intergas, winner Richard Wigg, and Tony Smith of Courtney Smith Group

Over 50 golfers turned out last month to play in the Simon Austin Memorial golf day at the Shires of London golf venue. This annual event is held in memory of the former MD of Vaillant who died in a car accident in 2004.

Friends of Simon came from all over the UK to take part on this day. This year’s competition saw Richard Wigg score 38 points to win the day on a count back from Simon Chambers, who also scored 38 points. The winning team was captained by Peter Fletcher of Polypipe.

Demonstrating the confidence John Guest has in its products, the manufacturer has doubled the guarantee on its core plumbing range from 25 to 50 years. the new guarantee will be applicable to any material and manufacturing defect.

Lee Flood, Director of Quality, says: “John Guest products have long been synonymous with quality, and our guarantees reflect this. We have also invested heavily in technology and expertise to ensure that quality is built in at every stage of manufacture.

Our push-fit plumbing range meets British and many other national and international standards, but our testing techniques and product experience has now given us the confidence to bump our guarantee up to 50 years.”

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June 2018

NEWS Review

Why a plumber is just as essential as a good doctor PHAM News reports on the recent 24th Annual Lecture of The Worshipful Company of Plumbers which provided a reminder about the importance of good plumbing in providing a healthy environment.

The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, one of the oldest livery companies in the City of London, hosts a presentation on plumbing related topics every year.

This year’s lecture, given by Professor Mala Rao, recently took place at the Royal College of Physicians near Regent’s Park – a fitting venue for a talk which emphasised the vital role that plumbing and sanitation plays in maintaining public health.

Professor Rao, Senior Clinical Fellow at Imperial College London and a Trustee of WaterAid UK, set the theme for her talk by posing a question to the invited audience: “Good Morning. Do you wish to see a doctor or a plumber?”

With the aid of a series of informative slides, she was able to demonstrate that good sanitation and safe drinking water remain key to preventing the spread of disease, but they cannot be taken for granted in many parts of the world.

The professor pointed out that although 89% of the world’s population has access to clean water in or near the home, that still leaves 844 million people with long journeys or who are dependent on contaminated wells, rivers and ponds. Perhaps even more concerning is that an estimated 2.3 billion people lack basic sanitation services.

Professor Mala Rao speaking at the 34th WCP Annual Lecture

The potential impact of climate change in wealthier parts of the world was also highlighted. Residents in Cape Town have been told that they might lose their piped potable water supply unless they dramatically reduce their water usage.

Closer to home, the increasing population density in the south-east of England means that much greater consideration needs to be given to ways that supplies can be conserved.

Time for action While highlighting that water, sanitation and hygiene are global challenges, Professor Rao argued that it was everyone’s responsibility to make a difference. She suggested four possible courses of action that could be taken up by the plumbing industry and wider community: (1) Stronger Voice It’s important that the industry is represented

at decision making levels in regional, national and international levels.

(2) Funding We should all do more to promote funding and investment in water and hygiene projects.

(3) Strengthening Systems We should do more to help develop partnerships between industry, charities and communities.

(4) Building Capacity A plumbing skills and knowledge framework is needed to address the challenge of skills shortages and provide wider acknowledgement that plumbing is an engineering discipline.

With a final rallying call to inspire the audience, Professor Rao concluded: “Together we can make a difference through our advocacy and a refreshed and renewed approach to training, regulation, practice and leadership.”

Professor Mala Rao

Professor Mala Rao with Worshipful Company of Plumbers Master Robert Burgon and Court Assistant Richard Soper

An NHS public health physician, Professor Rao has gained international recognition for campaining to improve access to safe water and sanitation and for raising awareness of the impact of climate change on health. She was appointed as a Trustee of WaterAid UK last year and has done much to highlight the issue of water scarcity and water quality around the world.

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12 YOUR Views

Left out in the cold It was interesting to read in your coverage of reforming the retentions system in the wake of Carillion’s collapse that countries like the USA, Germany, France, Australia and Canada all have legislation designed to prevent abuse of retentions. What they are really preventing is the abuse (and destruction) of hard-working contractors – the backbone of the construction industry in any country. So why hasn’t our government done anything before now to protect UK businesses that build this nation? Why does it take a monumental catastrophe to make parliament get off its backside and act in the interests of its citizens?

PEOPLE on the Move

Sponsored by

£10

Lett 0 er

This Government engages in an unrepentant system of crony capitalism and has an unchecked loveaffair with corporate players like Carillion.

Why else would its Chairman have been appointed to act as Theresa May’s advisor on corporate responsibility – a position he was clearly unqualified for?

The Government delights in its profitable associations with giant corporations, leaving SMEs in this country fending for themselves. They have delighted us long enough, and it’s time for a change of guard in the halls of power.

Bill Bowman Via email

Short-sighted on ID cards

Responding to the news item ‘The most trusted trade, but too few are asking for proof of qualifications’ in May’s issue – I don’t know what the answer is, but carrying an identity/ registration card is not the answer in my opinion. Here’s a story to explain my position: Awarded a local authority contract, I was required under the terms to increase my liability insurance. Searching through my paperwork I found my current ID card in the filing cabinet and discovered that the one I’d been showing tenants and others for the past year was over a year out of date, and nobody had picked up on it. It is obvious that most people can’t see well enough to read the details and small print and that they only look at the photo on the card.

A long time ago I won the Star Letter in PHAM News, and so pleased with myself that I cut it out and took it to show my mates up the pub, and that proved a point: none of them could read it as they hadn’t got their glasses with them. I wear mine all the time – you’ll find most don’t!

Ged Pitchford Via email

The Tweet spot

Chemical water treatment and filter manufacturer Fernox has welcomed Nick Clift as Area Sales Manager in the southern central region. With over 20 years experience in the industry, Nick’s role will include developing new and existing relationships with merchants, contractors and local authorities to service and manage their business needs. He joins Fernox from QRL Radiators Group.

The new Trade Sales Director at Bristan is Gareth Griffiths, who will be responsible for the Bristan trade sales team, with independent control over the merchant and buying group strategy. Gareth has a wealth of experience, having worked within the industry for almost 20 years. He was previously General Manager for Heritage Bathrooms, a brand owned by Bristan Group.

Nuaire has announced the appointment of Rob Erwood as the company’s new Sales Director. Rob joined the ventilation manufacturer in 2004 as a sales rep and has worked his way through various sales posts, including most recently National Sales Manager, to reach this new position. In his role as Sales Director, Rob is responsible for both commercial and residential projects.

As part of Flame Heating Group’s expansion plans, the independent merchant has appointed Darren Kipling as Commercial Manager for Scotland. With more than 13 years experience, Darren started out as a warehouse assistant at a national merchant before progressing to Technical Sales Advisor. He will be responsible for the development of the commercial side of business.

Conex Bänninger has completed the expansion of its UK sales team with the appointments of two new Technical Sales Managers. Tom Dickson will cover Scotland and Northern Ireland while Micky Simpson (pictured) will look after London and the South East. Tom has 15 years industry experience and Micky has nearly 20 years, having held sales positions from Merchant Manager to Sales Manager.

UKLPG, the trade association for the LPG industry, has announced Peter Westwood (pictured) as its new Chief Executive. Effective from 1st July, following the completion of his employment with Insite Energy, Peter succeeds Rob Shuttleworth who retired this month after 12 years in the role.

Peter has 26 years experience in a variety of roles including organisation design and strategy development.

R.A.J Heating Ltd @Rajplumbheat Great to see the apprentice coming on so well.

Lauren E Plumbing @plumbing_e Having a great time with the #HeroesOfHeat today, and this is my first-ever tweet!

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12.indd (Letters) 1

Part of the Immergas Group

Martin Mercer has joined the Saniflo sales team as Area Sales Manager for the South East. With extensive experience in similar and allied industries, Martin previously worked at RAK Ceramics, Farmiloes and Porcelthin Tiles. He also managed a plumbing merchant and is said to have exceptional knowledge of the bathroom and plumbing markets.

Ideal Commercial Boilers has appointed Murray Low (pictured) of MRL Sales as a sales agent in Scotland.

With over two decades of experience within the building services industry, Murray will work alongside the company’s Senior Business Development Manager for Scotland, Charlie Newell, in helping the business to grow its footprint across the region.

Extending its team of Technical Sales Managers, Alpha Heating Innovation has appointed Chris Westwater to promote the Alpha brand and provide support to installers in the South East of England. Chris has spent the last four years as a self-employed installer and, prior to that, was employed as Branch Manager for the Brighton branch of Plumbase.

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June 2018

GREEN GR EEN Matters Matters r 15 PM o PM opens pens biomass biomass G Ground round source source llowers owers REE REEF F footprint footprin nt ffacility acility a ollege att ccollege Equipment from Equipment from K Kensa ensa Heat Heat Pumps has P umps h as been been iincorporated ncor porated iinto nto a new new rrenewable enewable energy energ y rresearch esearcch centre centre re on on the the University Universitty off E Exeter’s Penryn Campus o xeter’s P enr yn C ampus iin n Cornwall.

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has and has ttended ended tto o iincrease ncrease a nd then back almost then ffall al l b ack a lmost every ever y two years. t wo y ears.

BEC believes B EC b elieves tthe he GovernGovernment is is the the main main source source ment of of barriers barriers to to clean clean energy energ y development. development. It It says say ys the the current current administration administration has has reduced Feed-in Tariffs reduced F eed-in T ariffs to the the point point where where most most people people see see small small renewables renewables as as economically unviable. economically u nviable. It It has has also halted also h alted tthe he development d velopment de of of ssolar olar farms farms via via the the removal removal of Renewable Obligation of tthe h R he enewablle l O bligatio i n scheme. scheme.

Other O ther barriers barriers include include stripping stripping renewables rene ewab bles of of their eligibility under their eligibiliity under Venture Venture Capital Capital Trusts Trusts and and the the Enterprise Enterprise Investment Investment Scheme, and Scheme, a nd tthe he rremoval emoval of Climate Change Levy of tthe he C limate C hange L evy exemption exemption ffor or rrenewables. enewables.

Furthermore, Government Furthermore, tthe he G overnment has has implemented implemented a host host of of minor measures minor rregulatory egulattorry me asures that are chipping away att that a re c hipping a way a clean clean energy energ y development. development.

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June 2018

20 GA GADGETS G DGETS & Tools Tools Get G et your your pipes pipes straight straight with w wiith a line line llaser aser R Radio adio on on the the m move ove

Wit h tthe With he llaunch aunch of of the t he PM PM 40-MG 4 0-MG multi-line multi-line llaser, aser, Hilti Hilti ssays ays iitt iis s revolutionising revolut ionising tthe he a ccurac y, e ff icienc y accuracy, efficiency and a nd d durability urabilit y o off iinterior nter ior worksite w orksite multi-line mult i-line lasers l a s er s The T he rrobust obust PM PM 40-MG 4 0 -MG uses u se s g green reen lines lines – which which are easier a re e asier tto o ssee ee tthan han rred ed llines ines – tto om maximise aximise visibility visibility and a nd is is powered powered by

by Li-ion Li-ion ffast a st c charging harg ing batteries. batter ies.

This T h is a all-in-one ll-in-one llaser aser level level aligns, a lig ns, ssquares quares a and nd p plumbs lumbs by b y pr producing oducing ffour our v vertical er t ical as llines ines a s well well as as being being able able tto o pr produce oduce a 3 360º 60º horizontal horizontal lline. ine.

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needs o needs off tthose hose installing installing dry dry walls, w alls, ssuspended uspended ceilings, ceiling s, electrical e lectr ical c conduits, onduits, piping piping

and and H HVAC VAC ssystems. ystems.

The The PM PM 40-MG 4 0 -MG uses uses the t he same B 1 2V b atter y a nd same 12V battery and charger that that are are utilised ut ilised by by charger other H ilti tools, tools, and and if if only only other Hilti vertical ver t ical lines lines or or horizontal hor izontal line line functions f unct ions a are re used, u se d, r unning time t ime is is can can be be up up running to to 14 14 h hours. ours.

The Hilti Hilt i g reen laser l a s er The green family family also also includes includes a dual-line dual-line llaser, aser, a rrotating otat ing laser with w it h enhanced enhanced head head laser protection and and a long-range long-range protection rotating llaser aser e with with a utomatic rotating automatic functions. f unct ions.

PHAM P H A M NEWS NEWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

www.hilti.co.uk/pm40 w ww.hilti.co.uk/pm40

104 10 4

Non-slip N on-slip gripping gripping M Multiple ult l iple meters meters

Pliers specialists Pliers s pecialists Knipex Knip pex has has launched launched the the Raptor Raptor Multiple Multiple Slip Spanner metric and nuts and screws Slip Joint Joint S pannerr ffor or m etric a nd iimperial mperial n uts a nd s crews with with widths widths from from 10 10 to to 32mm.

32mm.

The Multiple Slip Spanner The Raptor Raptor M ultip ple S lip JJoint oint S panner ccombines ombines tthe he convenience convenience of of a comfortable comfortable push-button push-button adjustment adjustment on on the with off a an all-purpose th he workpiece workpiece w itth h tthe he ffunction unctiion o na ll-purpose tightening tightening tool. tool. JJaw aw gripping gripping w with ith z zero ero b backlash acklash prevents preven nts slipping slipping on on tthe he b bolt olt h head ead o orr rrounding ounding e edges. dges. T The he p powerful ower e ful cclosing losing gripping gripping jaws jaws will will firmly firmly grip grip rusty rust y or or thick-coated thick-coated bolted bolted connections, connections, e even ven nw when hen tthere here e are are e no no surfaces surfaces that that can can be be reliably reliably gripped gripped by by a conventional conventional s spanner. panner.. www.knipex.com w ww.knipex.com

PHAM PH A M NEWS NEWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

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Extech Instruments Extech Inst r uments has ha s llaunched aunched a new new environenv ironmental m ental meter meter series ser ies for for HVACR and air H VACR a nd indoor indoor a ir quality q uality (IAQ) (IAQ ) professionals. professionals.

The T he series ser ies includes includes an an airflow a irflow meter, meterr, a combination combination hygro-thermometer h yg ro-t her mo ometer and and psychrometer, p sychrometer, a and nd a 1 100iin-1 n-1 multifunction mult if unct ion meter. meter.

The new are T he n ew iinstruments nst r uments a re designed de sig ned to to provide prov ide quick, quick, accurate a ccuratte readings readings on on a range range off e environmental conditions o nvironmental c onditions are essential HVACR tthat hat a re e ssential ffor or H VACR and ttroubleshooting roubleshooting a nd rrepairs, epairs, ass well a well a ass IAQ IAQ a assessments ssessments tto o improve improve occupant occupant health health and a nd c comfort. omfor t.

The 510 meters T he new new 5 10 series series m eters are equipped with core a re e quipped w it h a c ore sset et of of shared shared capabilities capabilit ies and a nd features feat ures tto o maximise ma x i m i se

versatility. versat ilit y. They They share share an an oversized o v er s i z e d d display isplay a and nd a bright bright backlight backlight ffor or ttesting esting iin n dark dark jjob ob ssites, ites, while while an an autoautopower-off power-off function function helps helps to to preserve preser ve battery batter y life. life. Useful Useful data data ffunctions unctions include include data data hold, ass w well hold, a ell as as minimum minimum and and maximum maximum readings. reading s.

PHAM P H A M NEWS NEWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

www.extech.com w w w.extech.co om

If you If you love love rradio adio o on n tthe he m move, ove, tthis his llightweight ight weight p pocketockets i ze d D AB a nd F Mp ersonal rradio adio ffrom rom P ure g ives y ou sized DAB and FM personal Pure gives you up u p to to 15 15 hours hours of of n non-stop on-sto op llistening isten e ing a and nd iincludes ncludes iin-ear, n-ear, noise n oise cancelling cancelling headphones. headphones.

Slim Sl im a and n llightweight, nd ig ghtweig ght, tthe he P Pure ure M Move ove 2 2520 520 R Rechargeable echargeable P ersonal Digital Digital DAB/FM DAB/FM R adio ccomes omes w ith n oise Personal Radio with noise iisolating solating h headphones eadphones a and nd a rrechargeable echargeable L Li-ion i-ion b battery atte er y w hich d elivers u p tto o1 5h ours o se p er ccharge. harge. T he which delivers up 15 hours off u use per The e ar phones ccancel ancel o ut m ost b ackground n oise, while while earphones out most background noise, bass b ass and and d treble treble adjustment adjustment lets lets users user e s customise customise the the a udio. General General software soft ware improvements improvemen nts have have also also been been audio. made m ade for for en enhanced hanced audio audio performance. performance.

O ther fe ffeatures atures include include a backlit backlit LCD LCD display, display, the th he ability abilitty y Other tto o set set 1 0d igital radio radio and and 10 10 FM FM presets, presets, a sleep sleep timer, timerr, 10 digital and a nd U USB SB iinput nput for for ffuture ut u r e u upgrades pgrades a and nd rrecharging. echarging. It It iis s available available on on Amazon Amazon for fo or £59.95. £59.95.

Attachments A ttachmen nts make make drill dr ill a d do-it-all o-it-all tool tool

106 10 6

Bosch Bosch h has as e equipped quipped iits ts llatest atest 18 cordless 18 V c ordless drill drill driver driver with with the the FlexiClick FlexiClick attachment attachment system system to to create create a do-it-all do-it-all tool.

Using tool. U sing a range range of of adapters, adap pters, the the Bosch Bosch GSR GSR 18 18 V-60 V-60 FCC FCC Professional Profe f ssional D Drill rill D Driver river w with ith FlexiClick FlexiClick can can be be turned turned into into anything anything from from a screwdriver screwdriver to hammer drill. to a rrotary otary h ammer d rill.

The T he same same system system provides provides flexibility work flexibility ffor or w ork in in various various difficult diffi ficult ssituations, ituattions, iincluding ncluding hard-to-reach hard-to-reach places. places. To To these advantages, Bosch has these a dvantages, B osch hh as also and also added added connectivity connectivity a nd electronic protection. electronic cp rotect ion.

Att jjust A ust 140mm 14 0mm in in length, leng t h, this this d drill rill driver’s driver’s dimensions dimensions are are suited suited to to operation operat ion in in tight t ight spaces, spaces, and and flexible flexible ENQUIRY

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adapters allow a dapters a llow iitt to to reach reach even e ven further. further. Its Its application application versatility v ersatility enables enables drilling drilling in in wood, and concrete, as w ood, metal metal a nd c oncrete, a s well ass classic w ell a classic screwdriving. screwdriving.

The main FlexiClick The m ain F lexiClick adapters a dapters iinclude: nclude: a drill dr ill c hu uck adapter adapt p er that that holds holds d rill chuck drill bits up b its u p tto o 13mm 13mm diameter; diameter; an a n angle angle screw screw adapter adapter with HEX driving w ith H EX ssocket ocket ffor or d r iving around corners; offsscrews crews a round c orners; o ffsset et angle angle screw screw adapter adapter that that allows a llows precise p ecise screwdriving pr screwdriving close edges; c lose tto oe dges; and and a rotary rotar y hammer h ammer adapter, adapter, that that turns turns drill SDStthe he d r ill driver dr iver into into a S DS plus p lus rrotary otary hammer hammer with with an an iimpact mpact energy energ y of of 1 joule joule .

PHAM P HAM N NEWS EWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

bosch-professional.com/gb/en b osch--professional.com/gb/en

107 10 7

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22 COMPANY Spotlight

Big plans for the UK oil burner market ELCO Burners may be a new name to the UK market, but the company believes that the introduction of its new oil-fired burner range will be welcome news to installers and service engineers. PHAM News talks to MD Giuliano Conticini about the company’s plans to work closely with both manufacturers and heating engineers.

P

art of the Ariston Thermo Group, ELCO Burners has over 90 years experience in the design and production of burners for the domestic, commercial and industrial markets. The company’s new EKL oil-fired burner range is the result of an extensive development programme, which ELCO Burners believes to be a major advance in combustion technology.

Giuliano Conticini

Why is this a good time to enter the UK and Ireland market?

“The market will change in the next few years, not just in the UK and Ireland, but across the EU, with upcoming legislation driving manufacturers to develop new, highly efficient technologies. This September the new Energyrelated Products Directive (ErP) will introduce new lower limits for NOx levels, which put the spotlight on the boilers and how manufacturers are managing the required changes in technology.

“At ELCO Burners, we believe we’re in a strong position to offer the market a new oil-fired burner with outstanding performance levels and superior levels of quality and reliability – which should be an attractive alternative to existing brands. We’ve been manufacturing burners for over 90 years, and over the last 25 years we have been developing low and ultra-low NOx solutions for the strictest markets.

So we have the understanding and technical capabilities to create products that meet – and often exceed – the latest industry legislation, including those expected in 2022.”

Do you think the UK market should be approached any differently to the rest of Europe?

“The UK and Ireland have a large number of oil-fired heating installations, but the technology used differs from other European oil markets – which makes the approach very different. Historically, the UK and Ireland have relied on ‘yellow flame’ technology, as there has not been any local legislation driving through new, alternative combustion technologies.

“However, due to the new ErP legislation, the UK and Irish markets are now having to adapt to low NOx technology and fully understand the ramifications to the industry. Indeed, everyone needs to update their knowledge and skillsets to effectively implement the latest oil-fired heating equipment.

“For example, it is imperative to correctly match combustion technology with low NOx burners, especially as boilers in the UK and Ireland are more compact. This requires burners to have small dimensions, a shorter flame, as well as higher ventilation levels.”

How important is the EKL launch compared to other milestones in the company’s history?

“Incredibly important. ELCO Burners is already present throughout the world, especially in markets that require a high level of technical competence. So, we are taking our experiences and proven technologies from other sectors and applying them to the new EKL burner,

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ELCO burners are available worldwide and are manufactured at the company’s production facility in Resana, Italy

which is a specific product for the UK and Ireland.

“However, the UK and Irish markets are incredibly wellestablished, which has made it difficult to enter them in the past. So we must be confident we can make a positive impact – which is only possible due to the decades of experience we have in manufacturing products for the sector.

“Needless to say, we’re sure the ELCO EKL burner will be a big success in the coming years – after all, low NOx technology is our field of expertise.”

The latest burner offers improved energy efficiency and reduced NOx emissions, but do you think burner technology could be advanced still further in the near future?

“Absolutely! We have been ready with low NOx and blue flame technology for many years, which demonstrates how far we plan ahead!

“However, the other consideration is the need to provide boiler manufacturers with extra efficiency gains over the coming years and this will be achieved by offering high-end products.

Currently, domestic oil burners installed in UK and Ireland are based on single stage operation only, with some manufacturers offering dual stage units. However, in addition to dual stage, ELCO can already offer fully modulating oil burners, which go beyond anything else currently available on the market – so there are plenty of advancements to be made!

“It’s also noteworthy that ELCO’s modulating technology is well trusted in the European market, with thousands of burners installed every year – which underpins our knowledge and experience in supporting the market with innovative and reliable solutions.”

What key features that will attract installers to consider switching from a brand that they are more familiar with?

“From the serviceability side, installers and service engineers will certainly appreciate the clean combustion from the ELCO burner, thanks to the EKL’s impressive technology, including a very powerful ventilation system. We have also designed our burner with the installer/service engineer in mind. It can be installed, commissioned and serviced using a single Allen key, plus,

it really is a ‘plug and play’ burner, with only two settings for pump and air pressure. Another useful feature is the burner’s ‘service position’, which allows installers/service engineers to have easy access to the main components.

“Performance wise, the new EKL burner is accomplished in all field conditions, with reliable starts and high ventilation levels that surpass any other burner present in the UK and Ireland. It also has extremely low CO emissions, smoke free running, and incredibly reliable operation, even in windy conditions.

“When it comes to reliability, ELCO Burners are developed and tested on an extensive range of boilers to ensure they meet all the appliance specifications. Also, every one of our burners is fully calibrated before leaving the factory, with each unit’s combustion parameters thoroughly checked. This alone is sure to be an influential factor in making the switch to ELCO Burners.

“It’s these sorts of features that can help an installer on a day-to-day basis and make their lives that bit easier.”

What can the company offer in terms of customer service and easy access to spare parts?

“Our approach throughout the UK and Ireland is to work closely with boiler manufacturers to offer the appropriate level of support for the market. We know it is essential to offer good customer service and fast access to spare parts, so we have implemented suitable processes to guarantee the highest level of back-up.”

How important is installer training and what courses are available to UK and Ireland installers?

“It’s essential we train installers in the UK and Ireland on ELCO burners, so we’ve invested in new courses that are specifically designed for the new EKL range. We’ve already begun training sessions at our Italy-based facilities for installers in the UK and Ireland, plus we’ll be launching new initiatives soon.”

For more information on ELCO Burner’s new EKL oil-fired burner range, turn to page 50. www.elco-burners.com

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Business Matters

HORROR SHOW Installation work that will make you shiver!

Gas App Uk members have unburied some of the latest horrific evidence of shocking installation work. Seen some terrifying installation sights of your own? Share your snaps with Gas App Uk!

To join the Gas App community simply visit the Apple or Google store and search for Gas App Uk and get a 7-day free trial.

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Making sure the work-life balance is right for you In his sixth and final column offering advice to small heating and plumbing businesses, Martin Jones, MD of TradeHelp, highlights the importance of balancing a hectic working life with quality time spent with friends and family.

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n my previous column I Holidays talked about pensions.

I don’t necessarily mean For many of us jetting off to exotic retirement seems a lifetime destinations, but taking time away, and we certainly off from work completely, don’t want to wish our lives whether it’s two weeks away waiting for our days or two days. Even if you off work. Working hard at can only take a short time a business is important, off on holiday, don’t take however, I firmly believe business calls and e-mails that it’s essential to make while you are off. By all time for other things such means check you phone as hobbies and family. And for urgent messages once it’s not just for people with a day but don’t get pulled children. A 2017 FlexJobs Martin Jones, TradeHelp into responding unless Survey of 2200 employees you absolutely have to. It’s found that 79% of people without children important to switch off from time to time thought that the number one reason for – and it could even benefit your business a flexible work arrangement was better in the long run. work-life balance. In the same survey, 80% In the past I have fallen into the trap of working parents say work-life balance of thinking I must be available 24/7 the matters when considering a job. whole year round for any issues that might Of course, everyone has different arise. It’s important to develop staff to pressures and responsibilities to deal with, take responsibility and make day-to-day but here’s how I try my best to achieve operational decisions, or they are never that ever-desired harmony between work going to grow and learn. Encourage them to do this while you are away. The business and home life. can and will survive without your input Exercise for short periods of time. You can’t relax Busy installers are likely to burn off a fair away from it if you are constantly microfew calories during a typical working day, managing all the daily issues for your staff but if you’re not out on the tools on a regular on the phone or via e-mail. Switch the basis then it’s easy to let your fitness levels phone off! slide. It’s no secret that exercise is good for our bodies and minds and it’s certainly a Time Prioritise your time. Nobody ever gets to brilliant escape after a stressful day.

I get my endorphins going by cycling to retirement wishing that they’d just spent work as often as I can in the summer. It that extra hour at the office every evening. not only invigorates me and sets me up Of course, some days will be busier than for the day ahead but it helps keep the lid others and will require a lot of your time, on my waistline! Although cycling to work but is that extra paperwork or that final may not be an option for some, try getting late night job really that important – or up a little earlier in the summer months can it wait until the next day?

There are many benefits to having a and taking the dog for a walk. Or instead of sitting around in the van at lunch time, good work-life balance for an employee, take a stroll and get some all important including increased productivity in work, feeling happier at work and an improvement steps in. in general health and well-being. What’s Family more, employers will find that their staff It’s easy to say that we’re too busy to turnover is reduced if they allow for a good spend time with friends or family, when work-life balance, meaning that they save in fact we should be doing our best to fit in time and money on the recruitment process. seeing them whenever we can. I have three young daughters and spending quality time About TradeHelp together without interruption helps put work issues into perspective. Remember to turn your e-mails off, go for a walk together (more steps!) or have dinner around the table as a family and chat about the day that’s gone.

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June 2018

BUSINESS Matters

Crack the VAT code: a primer One of the pressures in the lives of many small business owners is paperwork, and VAT comes top of list for many. Benjamin Dyer of Powered Now looks at some of the methods for dealing with VAT.

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ll registered plumbing and heating businesses have to add VAT to their sales invoices. All businesses, irrespective of whether they are a limited company, sole trader or partnership, must register for VAT with HMRC and then start charging VAT within 30 days of when their last 12 months sales go over the VAT threshold. This is currently £85,000. They must then also file a quarterly VAT return and make quarterly VAT payments to HMRC.

Calculations For example, when a company completes a job that involves buying £5000 of materials with £1000 VAT at 20% added, this gives a total materials bill to be paid of £6000. They do £2500 worth of labour, so they charge the customer £5000 + £2500 = £7500. Accordingly, £1500 VAT at 20% is then added, giving a total bill to the customer of £9000.

The company is not £1000 out of pocket for the VAT on the materials. The company only has to pay HMRC £1500 (the VAT from the customer) – £1000 (paid to the supplier) = £500, so the company gets the full £2500 for labour.

Using the same example, a non-VAT registered business would charge the customer £6000 (the amount paid for materials including VAT) + £2500 (labour) = £8500. This is £500 less than the VAT registered business for the same work and pay. This gives the non-VAT registered business an advantage.

Various rates

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Although most people think VAT is always 20% (which it usually is), there are actually four VAT rates: standard (20%), reduced (5%), zero (0%) and exempt.

Most work by the trade is charged at the standard rate of 20%,but there are exceptions and the trade has the most complex rules relating to VAT. That’s because a new

build is usually zero-rated, and some conversions and refurbishments are charged at the reduced rate of 5%. Energy saving materials or devices, and installing things related to people’s disabilities, also attract the reduced rate.

The reduced rate saves money for the customer but also provides a competitive advantage if the competition doesn’t understand the rules.

You have to establish the correct rate of VAT which applies to each job, and it’s a good idea to involve an accountant who has plenty of experience in this area if you think you might be able to charge a lower rate.

Passing on Both VAT and non-VAT registered businesses have to pass on the VAT on materials to their customers. However, a VAT-registered business also has to add VAT to their labour and any profit, so they are at a disadvantage to the non-VAT registered business, as they have to charge homeowners more to achieve the same.

When approaching the VAT threshold, the best way to stave things off is to get customers to pay directly for materials that you will be using. If you buy a boiler with the cost passed on to the end customer, it forms part of your sales turnover whether a mark-up is added or not.

The normal VAT scheme is where a business submits their VAT return once every three months based on sales

invoices, supplier invoices and expenses with a date within that three month period.

These are included based on the date they were raised – not whether they have been paid.

Cash accounting The cash accounting scheme is an alternative to the standard scheme and means that a business only becomes liable for VAT based on invoices and expenses that are paid in the three month period. This is not a benefit if you generally get paid quickly for invoices.

The cash accounting scheme can only be joined if a business’s sales will be £1,350,000 or less in the next year. If sales in the last 12 months go over £1.60m, then they must leave the scheme at the end of the next quarter.

The best advice is to consult an accountant on which scheme to use. VAT rules are more complex when a business is small due to the choice of schemes, and that’s before looking at the myriad of rules around reduced rate and zero-rated work.

I would add that I am not an accountant, although I have checked the advice here with one. Once a business is a decent size, consulting an accountant usually saves much more than it costs.

Benjamin Dyer is CEO and cofounder of Powered Now, whose mobile app aims to make it easier for plumbers, gas engineers, and other trades to run their businesses.

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June 2018

BUSINESS B BU SINESS Matters Matters Mental M ental h health ealth a and nd ccash ash fflow low Construction ssupply Construction upply c chains hains are a re now now in in the the grip grip of of a mental mentall health he alth e epidemic pidemic c d directly irectly llinked inked to to late late payment pay yment and and bullying according b ullying ttactics, actics, ac cording tto o tthe he Building Building g Engineering Eng n ineering Services Se rvices Association Association (BESA).

(BESA).

A new new ssurvey urvey by by the the Prompt Prompt Payment P ay yment D Directory irector o y ((PPD) PPD) sshows hows tthat hat a g rowing n umber growing number off o o owners, wners, m managers anagers a and nd d irectors are are suffering suffering from from directors panic p a n ic a attacks, t t ac k s , anxiety, a n x i et y, depression d epression a and nd ffeelings eelings o off extreme anger due cash e xtreme a nger d u tto ue o c ash flow fl ow problems. problems.

PPD, P PD, a payment payment rating rating organisation, 400 o rganisation, ssurveyed ur veyed 4 00 conssenior enior figures fig ures in in sm ssmall al l c onsstruction tr uction businesses businesses and and 74% had already ffound ound tthat hat 7 4% h ad a lready d been b een close close to to bankruptcy bankruptcy or or lliquidation iquidation tthis his year year – 30% 30% up u p on on the the same same period per iod in in 2017.

2 017. 48% 48% of of respondents respondents problems with cash flow ssaid aid pr oblems w ith c ash fl ow

had affected had a ffected their their mental mental health health – a rise r ise of of 27% 27% on on last Some last year. year. S ome admitted admitted contemplating suicide suicide to contemplating because because tthey hey were were struggling struggling to get to g et invoices invoices paid paid on on time time and/or and /or in in full. f u l l.

The The collapse collapse of of Carillion Car illion in carrying in JJanuary, anuar y, c ar r y ing £3bn £ 3 bn in £800m in debt debt including including £ 80 0m iin n retentions withheld retent ions w it hheld from from sub-contractors, had sub-contractors, has ha s h ad a major major iimpact, mpact, but but the the survey survey

revealed payment revealed tthat hat llate ate p ay ment practices pract ices remain remain common common right r ight across across tthe he iindustry. ndust r y.

“We have had numerous “We h ave h ad n umerous voluntary off c conduct voluntar y codes codes o onduct over none over the the years, years, but but n one have have changed pernicious changed tthis h is p er nicious behaviour,” behaviour,” says say a s BESA BESA Chief Chieff Executive Executive David David Frise.

Frise. “This “This is is now now a national nat ional scandal scandal and the t he Government Gover nment must must and legislate, human legislate, because becau use the the h uman toll toll iis s mounting.” mount ing.”

Half H alf of of firms firms underinsured underinsured Around h Around half alf of of a all ll U UK K ccontracting ontrractiing firms, firms, including including builders, b uilders, plumbers plumbers and and electricians, ele ctricians, do do not not have have a dequate e insurance insu urance iin n adequate place p lace tto o ccover over ttheir heir w work. ork k.

This T his is is tthe he finding finding of of ConstructionInsure.co.uk, C onst r uct ionInsure.co.uk, which w hich s says ays iitt m means eans tthey hey are a re putting putting themselves themselves and a nd their their clients clients a att rrisk isk b by y iinadvertently nadve ertently failing failing to to take take out o ut adequate adequate insurance. insu s rance.

T he h e i n su sure err w a r n s tthat hat the the use use of of insurance insurance ccomparison omparison w websites e sites can eb c an llead ead tto o tthe he p purchase urchase o off

an policy, and a n iinadequate nadequate p olicy, a nd tthat hat iinadequate nadequate cover cover puts and p uts ccontractors ontractors a nd the the homeowners h omeowners or or developers developers who w ho h have ave h hired ired them them a att rrisk isk of of liability liabilit y if if things things go go wrong. w rong.

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underinsured, and u nderinsure ed, a nd tthis his iis s down d own tto o th them hem n not ot p properly roperrlly informing in nform min ng insurers insurer ers about about the the nature work. n ature e of of their their w ork. ““Many Many ccontractors ontractors take take out basic policy and o ut a b asic p olicy a nd ffail ail to o ccheck heck tthe he s small malll p print, rint, w which hicch often about o ften iincludes ncludes ccaveats aveats a bout nature work tthe he n ature e of of the th he w ork tthey hey are a re e ccovered over ered for. for. assume they are ““They They as sume th hey a re ccovered, overe ed, but but the the reality realitty is is policy may tthe he p oliccy m ay not not be be worth worth h printed on tthe he paper paper it’s it’s p rinte ed o n iiff itt d doesn’t oesn’t ccover over e tthem hem ffor or work are actually tthe he w ork tthey hey a re a ctually undertaking.” u ndertaking.”

Submit ttax Submit ax rreturns eturns with w ith mo m mobile obile a app pp As A s part par t of of its it s Making Mak ing Tax Ta x Digital Dig it al (MTD) ( M T D) initiative, in it iat ive, HMRC H M RC has has approved approved the t he new Rhino App ne w R h ino Ap p for for tthe he submission off b business subm ission o usiness accounts account s directly direct ly from f rom the t he app app to to its its online online MTD MTD portal, portal, which went 15th wh i c h w ent live l ive on on 15 th March.

Rhino March. R h ino iintegrates nteg rates directly d i rect ly into into the t he Making Mak ing Tax and Ta x Digital Dig ital platform platfor m a nd iis s said said to to be be the the only only y accounts accounts package package approved approved by

by HMRC HMRC that allows business t hat a l lo w s a b usiness tto o submit own subm it its it s o w n returns. r et u r n s .

Direct HMRC Direct access access ffor or H MRC updates updates simply simply req rrequires uires a few few clicks, clicks, making making return return submissions submissions easier, easier, faster faster and and cheaper cheaper for for ssole ole ttraders, raders, small small and and medium medium sized sized businesses. businesses. The The developers d velopers de

of of Rhino Rhino App App worked worked with with HMRC and HMRC to to design desig n a nd build build the and the new new platform, platform, a nd it it operates operates seamlessly seamlessly across user’s across a u ser’s mobile mobile devices and popular devices a nd p o ular op web browsers. web b rowsers.

Rhino R h ino provides prov ides iits ts full f ul l feature feat ure set set via v ia the t he mobile mobi le device. d v ice. de Functionality includes Functionality in ncludes contact management, cont act m anagement, estimating, invoicing, est imat ing , in nvoic ing , expense ex pense ttracking rack ing and a nd financial management. financ ial management.

And now app And n ow tthe he a pp iintegrates ntegrates directly d i rect ly with w it h HMRC H M RC for fo r direct d i rect submission subm ission to to help h e lp save businesses and s av e b usinesses ttime i me a nd cost. cost.

Rhino Eugene R h ino ffounder ounde d r E ugene Blaine Bla ine ssays ay s that t hat the t he

simplicity off the simpl ic it y o t he app app means means that t hat it it should should help h e lp to alleviate burden off to a l lev iate tthe he b u r den o administration administration that that so so often often eats personal eats iinto nto tthe he p ersonal ttime ime for many and fo r m any ssole ole ttraders r ad e r s a nd small business owners. smal l b u s i ne s s o w ne r s .

ENQUIRY

320

June 2018

Getting to know you Each month, PHAM News shines the spotlight on installers around the country to get a picture of what life is like for them at work and at play.

NAME: Lincoln Smith COMPANY: Custom Heat Ltd. FROM: Rugby

At work... At play...

What’s the best thing about being a plumber?

“At the moment I’m really enjoying all of the new technology being introduced.

There’s a great range of smart controls out there for instance, and the tech now is much more intuitive and easy to use.

There is a real movement right now around the ‘Internet of Things’, and this is only going to keep on evolving in my opinion.

I also enjoy promoting my own business online and using technology to reach my customers in different ways.”

Do you belong to any industry associations?

“Custom Heat Ltd is part of a few, including the Building Engineering Services Association and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering. As a business, we’re also Trading Standards and Trust Mark approved. I feel it is important to be a part of associations and to go the extra mile to show customers you are legitimate and will do a good job for them. We also get the benefit of help and advice from some of the industry bodies and associations we belong to, including employment and legal advice, so it is well worth it.”

Do you think there is too much regulation in the industry?

“The number of rules and regulations we have to follow as an industry is extensive. I never stop moaning about it because every other month there seems to be a new piece of legislation. Recently it has been Boiler Plus and GDPR – both have been keeping me busy.”

What’s your favourite make of power tool?

“We only use Hilti power tools at my company. The price is eye-watering but the quality is immense, and from my experience they last.”

Do you expect the amount of work you do to increase in the next 12 months?

“Yes, definitely. For the last five years, the amount of work has been increasing year on year and there’s nothing to suggest it will be slowing any time soon. We’ve invested heavily in our business website over the years and regularly update it with videos and content to help increase our web ranking. I think customers really value having the chance to look at what we do online before they even have to pick up the phone.”

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Can you cook and what would you say is your best dish?

“Does going to McDonalds count?!

Just kidding. I don’t cook all that often, but I can whip up a good Sunday roast dinner. My homemade Yorkshire puddings are absolutely massive and go down really well at the dinner table.”

What mobile phone do you use?

“I use an iPhone 7 Plus at the moment. I don’t tend to have to change my phone all that much, I make sure to take care of it! A phone is a phone in my book, so I’m not interested in upgrading it all the time. As long as people can get hold of me at work and it’s easy for me to use, then I’m happy.”

Where are you going on holiday this year?

“I’m lucky that I get to go on a few holidays each year, but right now I’m looking forward to going on a Mediterranean cruise for some much-needed fun in the sun. I think it is important to make time for yourself and having a holiday to look forward to is a great incentive to work hard so that you can play hard.”

What do you listen to when you’re driving?

“I don’t think many people will have heard of my favourite band but I absolutely love listening to Enter Shikari, an alternative UK rock group. I’m a big fan of rock/ metal music in general so that genre makes up a lot of my playlist in the car, but I do love all kinds of music really. No matter what, I’ve always got some tunes playing in the background.”

What websites do you visit the most?

“I like to go to the gym in my spare time and try to keep fit so I’m always browsing the Under Armour website for new sports clothing and gear.

It’s a good place to find new sports brands and products to try, so I am guilty of visiting the site a lot…a little too often if I’m honest!”

MERCHANT News Electronic proof of delivery With the aim of reducing paperwork and delivering a better service, Wolseley UK has introduced new technology at more than 500 of its branches.

Customers will now be able to use a ‘sign on glass’ system on handheld devices for deliveries, and tablets at the branch trade counters for collections, providing electronic proof of delivery (ePODs) and collections.

They will be able to access their ePODs, invoices and credits themselves via the Wolseley website, wherever and whenever needed.

Wolseley UK IT Director Roger Connett explains: “We are continually listening to

our customers and the ways in which we can improve service. The new technology not only helps to provide seamless transactions and improved order accuracy for customers, it also means that we are able to reduce our

paper usage.”

Wolseley says that online registration will take less than 60 seconds, and a stepby-step guide is available via the ‘how to guides’ section of the website: www.wolseley. co.uk/how-to-guides

The flue specialist Bristol

fashion

The father and son team: William and David Jones

Chimney industry experts David Jones and his son William have set up The Flue and Chimney Company, trading from a 7000ft 2 unit in Avonmouth, near Bristol. The business is fully focused on flue and chimney products and will provide free technical advice and support.

David is a well-known face in the chimney world, having spent the majority of his career in senior roles. He was formerly European Sales and Marketing Director for Selkirk Manufacturing before setting up Deks Industries Europe in 2003. He comments: “Our entire focus is on chimneys, flues and associated products. Being able to access authoritative, up-to-date technical support and training on all aspects of chimney installations is important to even the most experienced installer, and that’s what we aim to provide alongside a range of products that we believe to be the best around.”

The trade counter is located at Unit 4D Severnside Trading Estate, Avonmouth. For more details call: 01174 567977.

Following on from recent openings in St Albans, Leeds and Leicester, Selco Builders Warehouse has opened its 65th branch in Bristol, marking its second offering in the city.

The new Bristol Filton branch features the company’s full offering, including the popular Selco Hire and kitchen design services, along with online services including Click and Collect where tradespeople can buy products online and collect them in-branch in 30 minutes.

It also offers a next-day courier service with more than 6500 products available, as well as the opportunity for tradespeople to create their project lists via an easy-to-use app.

Improved loyalty scheme The Plumbers Club, the customer loyalty scheme from Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, has been revised to make it easier for members to qualify and also redeem rewards.

Focused on offering ‘quick wins’, rewards will no longer be reliant on meeting a sales target. Instead, promotional periods are divided into quarterly themes, with the aim of rewarding members regularly throughout the year. Rewards will range

from crates of ale, to theme park tickets, summer festival passes and luxury holidays.

The scheme will now operate on a points-based system, where members will gain one point per pound (ex VAT) spent in branch.

Dave Pollard, Customer Ex per ience Market ing Manager, comments: “We spoke extensively to both members and non-members to understand what installers want from a loyalty scheme and have adapted our offer

accordingly. It’s now so easy to earn and redeem points, why wouldn’t you sign up?

“We have seen The Plumbers’ Club experience much success since its initial launch four years ago. This latest update demonstrates how Graham listens to its customers – putting them first and aiming to reward our loyal customers.”

For more information on The Plumbers’ Club, please visit www.theplumbersclub. co.uk

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30 WATER & System Treatment

Double down for more system efficiency Dirt separators are a good first step in protecting central heating systems, but deaerators go one step beyond in keeping them at optimal efficiency. Here, Kevan Peaker, UK Business Unit Director at Spirotech, discusses why a combination of dirt separation and deaeration is the most suitable treatment, and the benefits it can deliver.

T

he most important element of a heating system is the fluid circulating around it, and maintaining the condition of this fluid is vital to ensuring optimum system health. However, this can easily be overlooked or taken for granted, with most homeowners taking an ‘out of sight, out of mind’ approach to their pipework when it comes to servicing and maintaining their heating system. Although dirt removal is already popular in the UK – with many boiler manufacturers specifying the need for dirt separators as a condition of warranties – some installers are still unaware of how it can be combined with deaeration to further improve efficiency and reliability.

Failure to remove microbubbles can be hugely problematic in a heating system.

It compromises system performance and enables the magnetite, which a dirt separator is designed to treat, to continue to form.

Standard in Europe

While deaeration is already widely adopted by heating professionals across Europe, interest has only recently started to Spirotech’s SprioTrap MPs can be used for dirt separation increase amongst installers in the UK. In short, deaerators such as our SpiroVent RV2 debris for removal from the pipework. This method of work by creating the right conditions for dirt separation is widely acknowledged by installers as microbubbles to rise upwards out of the essential in maintaining system health, but what many water before being released by an automatic often don’t realise is how combining it with deaeration Kevan Peaker, UK Business valve at the top of the unit. can prevent the formation of debris to begin with.

Unit Director at Spirotech In the air If air in the form of microbubbles isn’t Why is removing air so important? All water contains free removed, it can be the cause of recurring call-outs for Good combination air, microbubbles and dissolved gases, namely nitrogen installers further down the line. When left untreated, Although installers may look to fit a dirt separator and and oxygen. Most heating engineers already microbubbles will eventually be reabsorbed into the deaerator separately, there are combination products recognise the need to install an automatic air system water, where the oxygen will then react with any available on the market which offer both functions vent (AAV), the valve fitted at the top of a ferrous internal surfaces in one unit, such as our system to release air before the filling or and gradually corrode the “Failure to remove microbubbles can be new SpiroCombi MB3. draining process. For a long time, it was system. Only when air, metal Combination units like problematic in a heating system” widely believed than an AAV alone could and water are present can this can be a good choice overcome the issue of air within a magnetite form, and it is this for certain applications, heating system. However, whilst corrosion process that leads to a build-up of magnetite depending on the system’s age, design, condition and the valve is very useful for the debris that will eventually clog the system and lead to the installer’s preferred approach. ongoing release of free air it does serious inefficiencies.

Selecting a combined air and dirt removal product is ideal little to remove microbubbles. for any brand new system installation, where there is no As a result, system components may fail earlier than Microbubbles are formed expected, the heat output may be reduced, there may be pre-existing build-up of dirt. In this scenario, a combined when there is either an increase the need for regular venting, and customers might also unit can be installed on the flow where the temperature in temperature or a decrease in notice noisy radiators and cold spots. is highest to remove any air and microbubbles, therefore pressure and dissolved preventing the formation of magnetite from the outset.

The SpiroCombi gases become liberated New solutions By investing in this technology early on, a heating system MB3 Combination the water, The first port of call to treat such issues would, in most will be protected from the very first time it is fired. unit brings together from instances, likely be some form of dirt separator, such as Alternatively, for existing heating systems with some a dirt separator and similar to when you deaerator in one boil a kettle or open a our SpiroTrap MB3, which utilises a magnet as well as degree of dirt contamination, a combined product convenient device bottle of fizzy drink. specialist tube technology to collect magnetite and other provides not only a remedy, but also protection for the future. Ideally installed on the return, the unit primarily works to remove dirt accumulated when the system was unprotected, but then also expels air to prevent any corrosion in the future.

Whichever package of system protection installers choose systems between 45 and The triple functionality of – whether it’s individual dirt separators and deaerators 160kW for the past three Spirotech’s SpiroCross has or a combined unit – they can help to optimise system years. We have found the proved itself ‘top of the performance by ensuring the root cause of so many SpiroCross to have a low class’ in an installation at malfunctions and inefficiencies (i.e. air) is treated and resistance to flow and, St Michael’s Catholic High removed, as well as the symptom (i.e. dirt). with the added benefits School in Garston. Specified of debris collection and

by Abbots Heating, based Full system protection air separation, found it to in Abbots Langley, near protect the systems very Watford, the Spiroross is The SpiroCombi MB3 has been developed to provide well.” a single unit that carries heating engineers with a flexible alternative water Spirotech Specification the flow and return and conditioning solution for domestic heating systems.

Manager Keith Mileham, incorporates a spiral This latest efficiency improving product from Spirotech adds: “As well as perstructure, the Spirotube, removes both air and dirt, and can be installed on forming the functions of which ensures that either the flow or return. Available from merchants, three otherwise separate microbubbles in the fluid the easy-to-install unit gives installers the option of components, the SpiroCross rise automatically while dirt 100kW cascade format administration block. fitting a combined unit, when normally only a dirt Paul Jeeves, Director of has the advantage of a heating system and an particles sink. separator is fitted, for additional system protection.

The company installed AX 125 for the 49kW Abbots Heating, says: “We market leading 20-year the AX 150 into the school’s single system serving its have used SpiroCross on warranty.”

ENQUIRY No. www.spirotech.co.uk 109

Single unit delivers multiple benefits

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June 2018

WATER WA ATER Treatment Treatment A boost boost to to eenergy nergy efficiency efficiency A new new e energy nergy ssaving aving h heating eating additive a ddit ive h has as rrecently ecent ly b been een by llaunched aunched b y Wiseman Wiseman IIndustries, ndust r ies, the t he rresult esult of of more m ore tthan han sseven even y years ea r s o off de velopment. D escribed as as a development.

Described unique u nique development developmen e t iin n fl fluid uid heat h eat ttransfer ransfer technologies, technolog ies, Thermoboost T her moboost is is claimed claimed to to rreduce educe heating heat ing bills bills by by up up tto o2 20%.

0%.

When W hen added added tto o a w water ater based b ased heating heat ing ssystem, ystem, Thermoboost T her moboost w will ill a alter lter tthe he heating h eat ing c capacity apacit y of of water, water, iimprove mprove the t he heat heat transfer t ransfer between b etween the the heat heat exchange exchange and also ssurfaces, urfaces, a nd a lso llubricate ubr icate maximum tthe he system system for for m aximum performance. p er for mance.

By B y reducing reducing the t he contact contact d rag a nd iimproving mprov ing tthe he drag and flow over fl ow o ver tthe he contact contact ssurface urface area, a rea, the t he heat heat transfer transfer iis s resulting better iincreased, ncreased, re sulting iin nb etter efficiency, e fficiency, quicker quicker warm warm up up ttimes, imes, and and improved improved room room heat.

This means heat h eat. T h is m eans lless ess h eat up u p ttime, ime, rresulting esult ing iin n lless ess energy consumption and e nerg y c onsumpt ion a nd bills. rreduced educed fuel f uel b ills. IItt iis s also and a lso non-hazardous non-hazardous a nd environmentally en v ironmentally ssafe. afe. we are ““As As iindividuals, ndiv iduals, w e a re being att o our b eing ttold old tto o llook ook a ur

environmental and carbon env ironmental a nd c arbon footprint footprint in in the the home,” home,” says says MD Harvey Wiseman.

MD H ar vey W iseman. ““The The UK UK Government Gover nment is is working working to to reduce reduce emissions emissions through through sustainable sustainable additions additions in in the the home home ssuch uch as as smart sm mart meters meters to m onitor o ur u sage a nd to monitor our usage and urging urg ing effective effect ive insulation insulat ion amongst other among st o t her sschemes. chemes.

However, However, tthere here iis s llittle itt le mention off h how we can ment ion o ow w e c an make our existing water m a ke o ur e xist ing w ater based heating more based h eatting ssystems ystems m ore efficient. ef ficient. existing homes ““Most Most e xist ing h omes in UK will not be able in tthe he U K w ill n ot b e ab le to to be be ‘carbon ‘carbon neutral’, neutral’, although alt hough we we are are being being forced We forced down down that that route. route. W e are not going be a re n ot g oing tto ob e rripping ipping

out water o ut w ater heating heat ing systems systems and a nd radiators radiators tto o rreplace eplace tthem hem with w it h an an eco-friendly eco-fr iendly alternative, a lter nat ive, but but we we can ca n iincrease ncrease their their efficiency ef ficienc y by by iimproving mproving the the home’s home’s carbon carbon and also ffootprint ootpr int a nd a lso rreducing educing e nergy c onsumption w ithout energy consumption without rreducing educing the t he heat.” heat.”

Wiseman W iseman IIndustries ndust r ies iis s now providing certificate n ow pr ov iding a c er t ificate upon which, u pon iinstallation nstallattion w hich, ssays ays will provide tthe he company, company, w ill pr ov ide evidence off tthe e v idence o he iimprovemprovement property’s carbon m ent iin n a pr operty’s c arbon footprint forr tthe homeowner, fo otprint fo he h omeowner, energy ssimilar imilar tto o tthe he e nergy rratings atings tthat hat come come with w it h electrical elect r ical goods. go ods.

PHAM P H A M NEWS NEWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

www.wisemanind.com w ww.wisemanind.com

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High capacity High ca apacity unit u nit ffits its tthe he b bill ill Water ssoftener Water ofte t ner sspecialist pecialist Tapworks T apworks says says tthat hat iitt h has as sseen een excellent excellent take take up up of of iits ts leading leading AD11 AD11 unit unit and and tthe he smaller smaller U Ultra ltra 9 unit, unit, but b ut installers installers have have been been asking a sking ffor or a h higher igher c capacity apacit y unit u nit tthat hat w will ill still still fit fit in in a k kitchen itchen c cupboard. upboard. T The he company c ompany h has as re rresponded sponded with w ith the the introduction introduction of of the the ne w ‘Infinity’ ‘Infinit y’ model, model, n ow new now available a vailable ffrom rom m merchants. erchants.

With W ith its its h higher igher c capacity, apacity, the the IInfinity nfinit y water water softener softener has has b een d esig ned tto o ssuit uit b usy, been designed busy, g rowing ffamilies amilies a nd a lso growing and also addresses a ddresses tthe he n needs eeds of of h homes omes

w here llack ack o pace c ould b e where off sspace could be a n iissue. ssue. R ecom mmended fo an Recommended forr a household household of of up up to to nine nine p eople, iitt m easures jjust ust 6 06 people, measures 606 x 296 296 x 296mm.

296mm.

Quick a nd e asy tto o iinstall, nstall, Quick and easy T apworks ssays ay ys tthat hat tthe he Tapworks units u nits should should ttake ake n no om more ore tthan han a half half day’s day’s work work ffor or a competent competent p lumber o plumber orr h eating e ng ineer. A na ll-inheating engineer.

An all-ino ne integrated integ rated installation installation one k it, c omplete w ith p ush-fit kit, complete with push-fit h oses and and a c lip tto o fi he hoses clip fitt tthe iintegrated nteg rated b ypass to tthe he bypass ssoftener, oftener, h elps to sspeed peed helps iinstallation. nstallation. inimum w ater pr essure Am minimum water pressure

of 1 .7 b ar a nd a ccess tto o a of 1.7 bar and access mains water watter supply, supply y, drainage drainage mains and electricity electricity are are all all that that is is and required. The The volume volume of of soft soft required. water created created will will mainly mainly be be water dependent o n tthe he v olume o dependent on volume off resin inside inside tthe he ssoftener oftener a nd resin and the hardness hardness of of the the water water in in the the a rea. the area.

Tapworks ssays ays tthat ay hat h av ving Tapworks having water ssoftener oftener iin n tthe he h ome a water home w ill c ommonly rreduce educe will commonly energ y b i l ls b y 15 %o ore energy bills by 15% orr m more and also also w ill h elp tto o rreduce educe and will help maintenance co sts. T he maintenance costs.

The company rrecommends ecommends tthat hat company where a softener softener is is installed installed where there is is a hard hard water water tap tap left left there operational for for d r inking operational drinking watter, u sually iin n tthe he k itchen, water, usually kitchen, but this this is is largely largely a p ersonal but personal taste de cision. taste decision.

PHAM P H A M NEWS NEWS ENQUIRY ENQUIRY No. No.

www.tapworks.co.uk www .tapworks.co.uk

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June 2018

32 WATER & SYSTEM Treatment

Regular maintenance is the key Ongoing system treatment is vital if a heating system is to continue to perform at the highest energy efficient levels. Dr Neil Watson, Global Technical Officer at ADEY, offers advice on how installers can best persuade their customers to invest in regular servicing.

T

he recent introduction of Boiler Plus legislation has one key driver: the delivery of long-term efficiency. But unless heating systems are supported by ongoing system treatment and protection, the industry could fall short of maintaining the minimum performance standards. So here are my top three tips to help installers get the maintenance message across to their customers:

41% of homeowners had an annual boiler service because their local installer reminded them it was due.

In addition, remember that customers talk to other potential customers. Our research found that when homeowners are looking for a plumber or heating engineer, 52% say asking family, friends and neighbours for a recommendation is their first port of call.

(3) Benefits the old and the new

Dr. Neil Watson

(1) It’s what you know that counts Recent research by ADEY revealed that homeowners believe their tumble dryers, washing machines and even kettles consume more energy than the household boiler.

Yet what many homeowners don’t know is that a boiler is thought to account for around 83% of a home’s energy consumption and therefore the simple decision to forego annual maintenance could lead to costly bills and poor performance when it’s needed the most.

Sadly, the number of people choosing not to invest in an annual boiler service could be on the rise, with another recent survey finding that 46% of people had skipped an annual service. However, there is reason to believe that this could simply be due to a lack of understanding about the benefits of yearly maintenance, as well as the risks of not doing it.

For example, having an annual boiler service and ensuring their heating system is properly protected could actually save homeowners money year on year. With a third of homeowners also admitting to having issues with noisy pipework, loss of pressure, low heat levels and cold spots on radiators, saving money is just one of many reasons why annual maintenance is critical.

ADEY’s MagnaClean filter can help extend the life of a boiler

However, when it comes to getting this message across, we recognise that installers are on the front line. That’s why we work hard to provide installers with solutions that will really work and ensure we give them as much information as possible so they can make informed decisions about the tools they use to get the job done. As such, more than a third of homeowners told us that reducing their energy bills is really important to them, so savvy installers can use their insider knowledge to not only repair, protect and maintain systems with a magnetic filter but choose one that’s been independently proven to reduce energy bills by 6% year on year.

(2) Remember, talk is cheap Take this literally – talking to your customers is actually the most cost-effective tool you have in your armoury.

Last year’s Trusted Trader study revealed gas and boiler engineers are the nation’s most trusted traders. As experts in the field, the insight, advice and recommendations you give to customers hold weight and the easiest way you can impart this is simply to tell them what they can do and why. As a wise man once said, it’s good to talk, and the benefits are evident in our research which revealed that

As all installers know, boiler breakdowns are all too common, especially when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

In fact, 42% of homeowners have reportedly suffered a boiler breakdown in the last three years.

Unfortunately, with annual maintenance seemingly far down the priority list for so many, this is perhaps little surprise. But there is something that every installer can do to prevent customers being left in the cold, and that’s to retrofit a magnetic filter on all repair jobs they’re called out to. The installation of an effective filter on every system will help collect and remove damaging magnetite sludge, which is the cause of most heating system issues.

When it comes to retrofitting filters, our motto is simple – do it once and do it right. Installers who also follow our six-step approach of Clean, MagnaCleanse, MagnaClean, Protect, Test and Maintain could deliver as much as a 15% energy saving a year and help extend the expected lifespan of a household boiler beyond the average 12 -15 years.

If Boiler Plus is really going to deliver an improvement in domestic boiler efficiency, it’s critical that installers ensure every installation they undertake is supported with an ongoing maintenance and protection package. Providing long term care for their customers will pay dividends for them too. It’s not just about protection when a boiler or system is new – installers can, and should, take steps to help maintain the long-term efficiency of every system they’re called to work on and that can only happen with a programme of ongoing quality system treatment. www.adey.com

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New tablet based filter protection system A new filter and tablet based water treatment system has been launched by Flamco. Said to offer a number of environmental benefits to liquid chemicals or gels, the RedProtect system is claimed to be energy efficient, environmentally friendly, quick to install, easy to store and easy to transport.

The RedProtect Filter is a side stream device which removes both magnetic and non-magnetic debris from heating and cooling systems. With only 25% of system water passing through the filter, there is a significant reduction in pressure loss compared to other units on the market, meaning reduced energy consumption by the system’s circulation pump.

The strong neodymium magnet attracts magnetic debris, while the reduced water velocity in the collection chamber allows non-magnetic debris to separate in the entrapment chamber and settle in the dirt collector at the

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of the tablets helps to minimise the cost of transportation and the storage space required. They are also easier for the engineer to handle and transport in a van, with no risk of accidental spillage.

Less waste

bottom. The unit can be cleaned using either the drain valve at the bottom of the filter or by physically removing the magnet and rinsing it under running water.

The tablets – inhibitor (RP1) and cleaner (RP2) – have been designed to fit neatly inside a plastic container that slots into the filter. They simply dissolve in the filter and circulate around the system, cleaning the system

or providing protection.

RP1 contains both anodic and cathodic corrosion inhibitors to provide protection for system base metals against corrosion and limescale. RP2 is a universal cleaning agent that helps to rid the system of magnetic and nonmagnetic system debris, ready to be either flushed to drain or collected by the filter.

The reduced size and weight

Flamco says that the tablet based system offers the heating industry an ideal opportunity to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated after use of the chemical, in line with global and local opinion on plastic waste in the environment.

Compared to traditional liquid domestic heating chemicals, the RedProtect offers approximately an 84% reduction in plastic packaging content when compared to a traditional one litre chemical jerrycan, and an approximate 77% reduction in plastic when compared to a standard 0.5 litre chemical bottle.

“We’re proud to be able to launch a new water treatment system

that offers a range of genuine benefits over existing options,” says John Lynch, Sales Manager – Domestic for Flamco. “From the reduced energy consumption of the circulating pump, to the simplicity of the system, the cleanliness, the reduced weight and the significant environmental benefits, RedProtect is a winner from every angle.”

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June 2018

WATER & SYSTEM Treatment 33 Limescale inhibitors now made from stainless steel Newly relaunched by TeBe, the CombiBuddy and the LimeStop TS are now made from stainless steel. These limescale inhibitors were previously made from copper.

The range uses Siliphos as the limescale-beating medium, and comes with a money-back guarantee if limescale forms. Barry Foster of TeBe says that consumers like this because it gives them reassurance that the

LimeStop really works: “We’ve been manufacturing them since 2003 and have never had to return anyone’s money. We believe that’s a great endorsement of their ability to halt limescale.”

The CombiBuddy is suitable for combi boilers and is compact at 7in high by 2in wide. The larger LimeStop TS (over twice as much Siliphos) is for thermal stores and whole-

house protection for small homes/apartments. There’s also a LimeStop ‘Ultimate’ for whole-house protection against limescale that contains 1.2kg of Siliphos.

All three are British-made, come ready to fit from the box, and last for two years before replacement is due, which is sold at a discount.

The range retails from £99 and can be purchased directly from TeBe.

Made to last filter

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Filter’s magnetic and cyclonic action Now available from Giacomini, through Professional Plumbing Supplies (PPS), is a dirt separator with three-way fitting. This compact model eliminates dirt and debris from the system via a combination of magnetic and cyclonic action, as well as a built-in inox filter.

It comes with 3/4in connections and is 141mm in height.

The metallic debris is attracted by a powerful magnet, while other impurities sink to the bottom of the valve body thanks to the cyclonic action created by a conical-shaped insert,

which enhances sedimentation. A stainlesssteel filter holds dirt particles until they are flushed via the drain tap.

Matt Lowe, MD of Giacomini UK, comments: “Professional Plumbing Supplies, which prides itself on delivering ‘value engineering’, focuses on working with manufacturers whose products and engineering are technically advanced, so we are delighted that they have chosen to stock our product.”

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Part of Fernox’s extenseive portfolio of water treatment products is the TF1 Omega filter, a nickel-plated brass inline system filter for domestic heating systems. The high performance filter is said to offer excellent collection capacity of magnetic and nonmagnetic debris, helping to maximise boiler protection and contribute to system efficiency.

The TF1 range comes with a 25 year body parts warranty and combines the strength of a powerful neodymium magnet with hydronic particle separation technology. Small yet robust, the filter is suitable for both new and existing installations. It fits onto horizontal and vertical 22 and 28mm pipework and can be positioned at a 45° angle.

The product offers the additional benefit of dosing water treatment chemicals via the filter in less than 30 seconds using the Fernox Express range. www.fernox.com

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34 WATER & SYSTEM Treatment

Reasons to choose the soft option With over 13 million homes suffering from problems caused by hard water, installers have a lot of potential customers who would benefit from the use of a water softener. We talk to Monarch Water about the potential for installers to open up a new revenue stream.

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ore than 60% of the UK suffers with hard water, which means around 13 million households are experiencing the negative effects of limescale in their homes. However, with just 6% of homes living in hard water areas owning a water softener, the sales potential is considerable.

“Every boiler can have a water softener fitted, so there is scope for every hard water home to have one,” says Kevin Johnson, Monarch Water MD. “Thanks to advances in

technology, water softeners have become more compact, making them even easier to site than ever before. They are also far superior in terms of efficiency than their older counterparts, with the new generation of water softeners designed for today’s modern high flow rates.”

A major portion of Britain is vulnerable to limescale due to water passing through underground chalk beds containing calcium and magnesium that accumulates onto anything it comes into contact with.

Once these minerals in the water are heated they turn into limescale, which is why there is more scale in hot water than cold. This means scale and scum is commonplace around the home as well as incurring damaging build-up within pipes and equipment such as dishwashers, washing machines, hot water cylinders and boilers.

Limescale can be seen all over the home – on taps, sinks, toilets, baths and showers, but it’s the hidden scale that can cost families dearly. Hard water contains around 300mg of dissolved minerals per litre which can accumulate to 70kg of limescale a year, most of which stays inside pipes, coating heating elements in boilers, washing machines and dishwashers, making them less energy efficient. Remember, you have to heat the scale before you can heat the water!

According to British Water, just a 1.6mm coating of limescale on a heating element makes it up to 12% less effective and significantly decreases its working life.

Sales tools Educating customers about the perils of limescale is vital in order to increase sales of water softener installations.

Many households may not be aware of the damage that limescale causes in their homes or the potential savings that can be made, or the lifestyle benefits, by introducing a water softener.

“It’s important that customers have an understanding of the negative effects of limescale and how a water softener could help,” says Phil Bailey, water softener installer from Basingstoke. “I sell the product to them by showing them an old copper pipe caked in limescale and explain how softening their water could benefit them. I also give them a testing kit so they can measure the hardness of their water.”

Highlighting the advantages of introducing a water softener to customers, such as scum-free bathrooms and more efficient equipment, is a great selling tool. Not only will customers be able to cut back on detergent in their washing machines, but they will need less salt in dishwashers and see better wash results too. Additionally, they won’t need to use as much soap, shower gel or shampoo, which can accrue significant savings.

Offering customers advice and protection for their home will not only reinforce customer loyalty, but ensure repeat business – allowing installers to build a profitable relationship.

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There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to water softeners so it’s important that installers know how they work in order to sell the benefits to customers.

Water softeners are the most effective method of treating hard water and work using a simple process of swapping calcium, which forms limescale, with sodium. On average, there is four times more sodium in a glass of milk than from a glass of softened water. Softened water has

Limescale can build up on pipework, reducing energy efficiency and causing long term damage

been classified as ‘wholesome water’

by WRAS since 2007, so the myth about salt in water needs dispelling totally, says Kevin Johnson.

The mains water is passed through the softener, which contains a sealed chamber of thousands of tiny resin beads specially formulated and charged with sodium ions. Calcium and magnesium ions in the hard water are then replaced by sodium ions, resulting in soft water flowing out of the unit.

Once a certain volume of hard water has passed through, the water softener needs to regenerate, flushing its resin beads with a weak brine solution (salt mixed with water). Most water softeners – either twin-tank or single cylinder – regenerate automatically at pre-set volumes. With twin-tank models the softening is continuous, while the harder the water, the faster salt gets used.

“The calcium and magnesium collected in the brine are automatically sent to drain,” explains Kevin Johnson. “At no time does the brine enter the water supply, dispelling the myth that soft water contains salt.”

Space saving Thanks to innovations in technology, water softeners have evolved into more compact units that are easier to install, with an average installation in just 3-4 hours.

Water softeners come in electric and non-electric models.

Non-electric models are ideal for customers short on space, as they stand at just 20 inches tall and don’t need electricity to run. Electric models are best suited to sites with a little more space, as they are slightly larger and can handle higher flow rates.

Price will always be a sticking point for customers, but Monarch suggests that installers encourage them to consider the initial outlay of a unit compared to the potential payback, which is just a few years.

“We have some units that have been going over 30 years, so the overall cost is very low compared to all the benefits they offer,” points out Johnson.

The units’ running costs are simply the price of salt blocks or tablets, which is around £8-10 per person per year. The electric units cost around just £3.50 in electricity a year to run in addition the salt, which is negated by the savings made in other areas.

There are some serious financial benefits for installers too, as buying from a merchant at a trade discount enables them to offer customers a competitive supply-and-install quote, allowing them to pocket a decent profit.

“The average softener can easily return the installer £100 to £150,” explains Johnson.

Monarch argues that millions of UK residents could benefit from installing a water softener, so by educating customers and offering professional advice, installers can also reap the rewards of soft water.

“They are so straightforward to install,” assures Johnson. “If you can fit a washing machine, you can fit a water softener.”

Monarch’s Ultimate water softener is available in a range of sizes

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PRODUCTS in Action 35 In balance, under control

Quietly does it A recent renovation project carried out on an early 19th century townhouse in London’s Holland Park area has made use of Omnie’s new TorFloor RdB system. The specifiers chose the TorFloor RdB for its ability to reduce sound transmission between levels of the building. The product offers a dry install, where the panel doubles as the structural decking.

A spokesperson for the project team comments: “This residential refurbishment contract on a period

property raised many of the problems encountered by architects and heating installers across the country.

“Specifying the Omnie TorFloor RdB system for the three floors above lower ground offered us an easyto-install solution with several combined benefits – including the control of sound transmission and avoiding the installation of a separate structural deck. It is a system we would employ again.”

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Danfoss NovoCon, a multi-tasking digital actuator to connect a hydronic HVAC system with a building management system (BMS), is part of the energy-efficient design of a new civic centre in south west London.

Combined with Danfoss AB-QM pressure independent control valves (PICV) and utilising remote fieldbus communication, NovoCon maintains correct hydronic balance within the building’s active chilled beam system at all loads. Providing this advanced level of control cuts energy consumption and carbon emissions, reduces running

costs and creates a comfortable and more productive working environment.

Approximately 500 Danfoss NovoCon digital actuators and AB-QM PICVs are installed in the new offices. Actuators are connected to the BMS via a BACnet communications protocol. This brings a number of benefits, including remote commissioning of the system via the BMS, making it possible to balance hundreds of valves with a single mouse click.

Being a digital device, NovoCon also has the ability to collect and store performance data on individual terminal valves.

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ENQUIRY No.

UFH powered by air source heat pumps A home recently featured on Channel 4’s ‘The Restoration Man with George Clark’ has been fitted with Panasonic’s Aquarea air source heat pump to supply hot water and heating for the UFH system. Energy specialists Eco Installer completed the installation of two 16kW Aquarea T-Cap threephase heat pumps in a 17th

century barn conversion.

Roland Gurner of Eco Installer explains: “This was

a major restoration project, with the client looking for an alternative to an oil or

fossil-fuel based system for a 4000m² agricultural barn with high ceilings, with performance and efficiency being key.

“The two T-Cap heat pumps were chosen as a perfect solution for the large internal areas and to provide a reliable and efficient source of heating.”

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PRODUCTS in Action Boilers for botanic garden Four XL Series boilers from ATAG Commercial have been installed as part of an extensive refurbishment of the Botanic Gardens Tropical Ravine, a listed building located in the heart of Belfast.

Three XL140 and one XL70 were fitted in a cascade system at the venue, which is home to many tropical and native plants. The new boilers were installed in June last year, with the entire refurbishment being completed and opened in May. The Tropical Ravine management contacted Belfastbased Hanna Mechanical Services to specify a more efficient system. The company carried out works to a newly formed plantroom, which included a network of stainless steel pipework supplying low water temperatures. When it came to selecting the gas

boilers, they turned to ATAG Commercial and the XL Series.

Commenting on this decision, Glenn Coburn, Contracts Manager at Hanna Mechanical Services, says: “We’ve used ATAG Commercial’s boilers on many previous projects, due to their great build standards and high

quality cascade capabilities.

Installing them at the Tropical Ravine should not only prove more economical in terms of lower fuel bills, but should also result in significant energy savings when compared to the previous boiler plant.”

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Fast heating in vast venue Fan convectors from Dunham-Bush have been specified for Middlesbrough Town Hall, which recently underwent a major £7.7m restoration, transforming it into a modern cultural venue.

The challenge for Leon Atkins of DTA Consulting Engineers was to design a heating system for the Town Hall’s main hall that would deliver the most ecological and efficient heating, whilst providing comfortable environmental conditions for the people using the facility.

The hall has a large capacity and can hold up to 1420 people. Its variable daily occupancy meant that it was necessary to select a heat emitter that would respond quickly to the changing heating demands.

Dunham-Bush Series BM7 reverse air flow chassis fan convectors with high output and low water content WA3 coils were selected as the most appropriate product to meet the requirements at stage level in the main concert hall. dunham-bush.co.uk

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Boiler proves its worth

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A family in Rotherham recently had a new Alpha boiler installed in their home, following the success of its predecessor, which completed over 20 years of service. Paul’s Plumbing and Heating Services, based in South Yorkshire, fitted the Alpha E-Tec, and its selection was largely due to the customers’ confidence in the service they had received from their previous Alpha over the years.

Roy Hobson, the homeowner, comments: “When choosing our new boiler, we decided that we couldn’t go wrong with another Alpha product, having had such a

good experience previously.

We went with the E-Tec on advice from the installer in terms of matching the needs of our home, and it’s proved to be very efficient.”

Paul McNamara, installer on the project, says: “I’ve only been recently introduced to Alpha, but the customers were adamant that they were going to stick with the brand. I was very impressed – they also offer fantastic value for money. Taking into consideration my customers’ individual needs, I found that the E-Tec would be the best choice. Whilst installing I was pleased with the high quality of the E-Tec’s internal parts.”

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TRAINING & Education 37

Skilled tradespeople always in demand The domestic heating market continues to evolve, but the demand for knowledgeable and skilled heating engineers is one thing that is unlikely to change. David Knipe, OFTEC Training Manager, argues that continuous development holds the key to future success.

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he world of work is rapidly changing and you don’t have to look far to find reports on how automation will soon replace many of the jobs we commonly see today. Yet even with major advances in technology, the need for heating and hot water will remain – and so will the important role of heating technicians.

A career in the heating David Knipe, OFTEC OFTEC-trained and registered technicians have proven standards and skills which help to provide consumers with peace of mind sector offers job security, Consumers are also increasingly aware of the importance even more so for those technicians who are willing to affordable for all, heating businesses should seriously of employing qualified tradespeople – and rightly so. The continue learning so they can evolve along with the changing consider this valuable opportunity.

At OFTEC we are currently offering free registration for OFTEC logo is an endorsement of competence, and those market and take full advantage of the additional work the first year to newly qualified apprentices in Great Britain, technicians who can prove their professional skills and opportunities this brings.

There is certainly no shortage of domestic or commercial the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland who have qualifications can reap the rewards. This is reflected in heating work out there, but currently there are simply completed training up to Level 3 and are employed with the use of our online ‘find a technician’ search, which has not enough qualified professionals to carry it out. This an OFTEC registered business. seen a 30% surge in visits over the past year. situation could be further exacerbated if EU migration is Registration also brings many other additional benefits On the up restricted under the final Brexit deal and the industry has such as the ability to self-certify installation work where to rely solely on home grown talent. Skilled tradespeople Despite the heating sector’s well publicised skills crisis, applicable, access to complimentary marketing materials make a vital contribution to our economy and without OFTEC has seen a strong increase in registration numbers, and discounts on business support services such as website with figures now standing at the highest level since 2013 their valuable work, productivity will falter. design and fuel cards.

This makes last year’s fall in the number of apprentices and rising.

As the heating market evolves, we will continue to listen Demand for oil registration has been particularly buoyant, entering the heating sector even more concerning. Just and respond to the needs of our registered technicians to 1070 heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration undoubtedly boosted by the low oil prices over recent years ensure our training and services remain current, relevant apprenticeships were started in England during the 2016/17 which have prompted many consumers to stick with, or and, importantly, add strong business value both now and even switch to oil. We have also seen a academic year, accounting for only 0.2% into the future. growing number of gas technicians adding of the total number of apprenticeships PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. oil registration to their business to capitalise www.oftec.org.uk 124 “OFTEC registration taken up across the country. on the additional work opportunities.

This is despite increased government numbers now stand As a result, the number of centres offering support introduced in April 2017 in at the highest level oil training is increasing all the time. There the shape of the Apprenticeship Levy are now 89 centres operating up and down since 2013” scheme to help businesses of all sizes the country and this figure is expected fund on the job training. to hit the mid 90s by the end of the year.

Perhaps it is still early days, but as an Solid fuel training and registrations are also growing industry we are facing severe skills shortages and we need to do more to encourage young people to enter the sector. at a steady pace and we will be attending the National This should start at education level. Traditional trades Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) Exhibition on 12-13 are still all too often viewed as second rate but equipping April next year to advise the growing number of chimney school leavers, both male and female, with professional sweeps who are looking to expand into the heating sector. training, skills and qualifications will not only help to We also continue to offer registration services for those bridge the skills gap but, importantly, provide more young technicians working in renewable and electrical trades. people with the key to a secure and rewarding future.

Trailblazers Over the last two years, OFTEC has been working closely with both City & Guilds and BPEC to improve the standard of heating and plumbing apprenticeships as part of the Government’s ‘trailblazers’ initiative.

The idea behind the scheme is to provide businesses with the opportunity to design training to meet their specific needs. Our role is to ensure that technical competence standards align directly with OFTEC requirements so those students completing the qualification can register directly.

The new Level 3 Domestic Plumbing & Heating course will be rolled out from September and we hope this move will encourage more heating businesses to take on an apprentice.

Apprenticeships offer an excellent way for businesses to upskill their workforce and expand at low cost. With the Apprenticeship Levy designed to make apprenticeships

Registration benefits

One question we often get asked is why should I become OFTEC registered when my business is doing very well without it? The answer is trifold. OFTEC registration may not be mandatory like GasSafe but it doesn’t make it any less important.

Learning shouldn’t stop the minute a technician becomes qualified. Continually changing – and challenging – sector and business legislation, along with rapidly evolving technology, all demand installers keep up to speed. Our regular newsletters and technical updates help registrants stay one step ahead.

Registration also provides protection. Free technical advice is available via our dedicated helpline, and should a customer not be entirely satisfied with an installation or maintenance work, technicians have a full audit trail to fall back on.

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38 TRAINING & Education

Why training is time well spent For self-employed installers, a day’s training can mean a day’s loss of earnings, but it can really pay dividends for business growth in the longer-term. Graham Aird, Product Manager at Geberit, highlights the benefits of the free training available from manufacturers.

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eeping up to date with industry best practice, plugging gaps in knowledge and refining skills are all essential elements that will give any installer the edge in a competitive market. Training is a win-win for both the installer looking for professional development and, ultimately, the end-user.

It sounds like a no-brainer, but the reality can be quite different. Self-employed installers, for example, can find their own development taking a back seat to the daily demands of running a business. Many are, naturally, reluctant to take a day off the road to improve their learning. Can installers justify the potential loss of earnings for the sake of training? In short – just how important is training?

Profit motive Let’s look at the more obvious motivation for why installers should think about keeping on top of their skills and knowledge – the bottom line. Product development is constantly evolving, with R&D a big area of investment for manufacturers. At Geberit, for example, we invest 2.3% of our sales straight back into developing the future of our products. What this means for the installer is that manufacturers are always refining and improving both products and installation techniques.

Training provides installers with the opportunity to learn about these new developments and products, not only giving them a competitive edge but also the means to boost their sales. And it’s not just about profit. By improving their own knowledge of the industry, installers will also have the confidence to provide customers with sound expertise and wise counsel, helping to grow their reputation by acting as a trusted advisor.

Many self-employed installers will know all too well how easy it is to feel disconnected from everyone else in the industry. Attending a training course provides an opportunity for installers swap tips, exchange best practice and even potentially form new business relations.

Don’t underestimate just how valuable a day spent with others in the trade can be.

Geberit Product Manager Graham Aird

Installers attending training at Geberit’s Warwick facility

But, arguably the most important case for investing in training is reputation – and not just that of the installer.

Comprehensive training is vital to ensure that installers get the most from every application and helps to protect the standard of installations. And that means, in turn, protecting the standard, and reputation, of our industry.

Plugging the gap

Hands-on experience David Rigg, Contracts Manager at Washroom Ltd, recently attended a Geberit product training course. He comments: “We are getting asked more to supply Geberit IPS frames and so it’s been really useful learning how to incorporate these framing systems properly.

“We’re often asked by architects to specify products.

Training helps us advise on this and even add to it. Often designers can cherry pick a product from a brochure, perhaps not taking into account the fact that products may not work together. Training gives us better product knowledge and means that we can advise architects and designers accordingly.

“Training is very important for the industry – the more hands-on training you can have, the better. It can help make the installation process quicker which is more financially viable and makes for a better installation.

Product training also means that you know exactly what products are available so you can better match the client’s needs.”

All this is why leading manufacturers are investing heavily in training programmes and support for the benefit of those in the trade. At Geberit, for example, we have recently opened a CIPHE-accredited, state-of-the-art training academy in Warwick, where installers have the opportunity to undertake free training on our supply, drainage and sanitary systems.

So, what should installers be looking for when it comes to manufacturer training? A good training course will combine best practice methods with the specific product knowledge required to maximise the quality, speed and integrity of every single installation. It should also cover an introduction to the latest technology and newest techniques.

Manufacturer training also provides installers with an opportunity to ask about the tools required for the job, including ways you can mitigate the inevitable cost of new equipment, as well as the maintenance and calibration requirements to make sure those tools remain fit for purpose.

The industry has spent years taking measures against unqualified installers and raising public awareness of the importance of opting for reputable and trusted tradespeople.

The importance of installers investing in training and enhancing their knowledge is greater now than ever before.

It is one of the simplest steps you can take to grow your business.

To book your free installer training, please visit: www. geberit.co.uk/services/training/installer-training www.geberit.co.uk

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The benefits of industry partnerships With the support of partners across the gas, plumbing and electrical industries, Steve Willis Training has been able to expand and improve its training provision.

Installers can now attend OFTEC-approved oil training courses at the company’s Portchester training centre.

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Steve Willis Training will also be delivering 18th Edition courses from July this year when the new regs come into force. The first two free seminars on lightning and

surge protection under the 18th Edition have recently been delivered by DEHN UK and, says the company, have proved very popular.

MD Steve Willis believes

there are a number of benefits in working with manufacturers and experts in the field. He comments: “We are specialists in gas, plumbing and electrical training, and our customers trust us to provide them with the highest quality service.

This comes from working closely with our partners across the industry. We’ve built up strong relationships over the years, and this enables us to bring the very best in both equipment and expertise to our customers.”

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TRAINING & Education 39

Stay on top of technology The best way to keep up with new products and developments in technology is to take advantage of the various training courses available from manufacturers, says Neil Mattock, Marketing Director at Vokèra.

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eeping up to speed with the latest legislation, product developments and installation techniques is vital for installers. The best way to ensure you are on top of your game is by attending training, so it should be viewed as an essential part of an installer’s working life.

Armed with more knowledge, you can offer customers more when it comes to servicing a boiler or upgrading a heating system, which should then lead to happier customers and more business.

By frequently attending training sessions, you can learn about the latest gas boiler, renewable and control products on the market, as well as the installation procedures and best practice, which can help save time and money on site. It also means that with this expanded knowledge, you will be better advised when it comes to recommending the right product to suit a customer’s requirements.

Training should give installers a chance to work on appliances

For best results, training should focus on the needs of the engineer and cover the key areas they need to learn proficiently and quickly, because no one wants to be stuck in a training room for longer than necessary.

Fully engaged Courses should contain information on the different appliances available, addressing details on installation, operation, wiring, flueing, benchmark completion,

fault finding and commissioning.

A comfortable, fully equipped and modern training environment is also important, with top rate instructors capable of keeping installers engaged throughout the day, of course.

Technolog y is constantly evolving, so if you consistently skip training opportunities, you run the risk of your knowledge and qualifications becoming outdated.

Installation and commissioning competencies are also continuing to improve on particular appliances, so it’s important to maintain an awareness of the latest information available.

Legislation is constantly changing and is another reason why retraining may be required.

For example, Boiler Plus for England was introduced in April this year and it’s important for installers to keep on top of what this change means for them and their customers.

Getting smarter At Vokèra we believe that making training courses as accessible and educational as possible is an important part of the manufacturer’s role. We are therefore constantly updating and adding to our range of courses to ensure installers have access to all the training they need.

Our latest course takes a deeper look at controls and our BeSMART Internet connected thermostat in particular. The course aims to help attendees understand the fundamentals of how control technology – including weather compensation and modulating OpenTherm room thermostats – can work in conjunction with boiler operation and how and when to incorporate these technologies into existing and new heating systems.

The course covers installation requirements and how it can be connected to our current range of

Learning about the latest controls

boilers, plus discontinued models and other brand boilers. It also looks at zoning, remote room temperature and commissioning a completed system.

The main points installers will learn on the course are: r $POEFOTJOH CPJMFST m )PX controls help ensure they maximize efficiency r 0WFSWJFX PG A#PJMFS 1MVT r 8IBU TBWJOHT DBO CF BDIJFWFE with different types of controls r )PX UP NBLF UIF CFTU VTF PG controls depending on different property types r $POTJEFSBUJPOT GPS FOE VTFS training r 4IPSU IBOET PO XJSJOH UP boiler PCB and setup r 7BSJPVT FMFNFOUT PG UIF BeSMART thermostat PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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www.vokera.co.uk

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40 TRAINING & Education

Bringing installers up to speed Heating technology doesn’t stand still, so it’s important for installers to remain on top of developments. That’s why boiler manufacturers like Ravenheat provide free training for heating engineers, providing an opportunity for them to get to grips with the latest products.

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he heating and plumbing industry is constantly evolving as new technologies and products are discovered and developed. In the 31 years since Ravenheat Manufacturing was established, the domestic heating market has changed significantly.

When Louis Pickersgill decided to set up Ravenheat as a young plumbing and heating engineer in 1987, most homes were using heat-only boilers. Louis focused his efforts on creating a combi boiler that would better fit the needs of gas engineers. He knew that the market was transitioning from heat-only boilers as the majority, over to combi boilers.

Getting smarter

John Wilson, Ravenheat’s Technical Service and Training Manager

Today, there is a huge focus on efficient boilers and how smart controls can help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and gas bills. These constant changes mean the technologies and products heating engineers learn and practice on when they first get into the industry can be very different to what they end up working on over the course of their careers.

Ravenheat believes the best way to

keep up to date with new additions to the industry is through frequent training and refresher courses. John Wilson, Technical Service and Training Manager at Ravenheat, says: “Training is so important for working engineers – our industry is constantly updating itself, so we need to change along with it. With so many different products and types of technologies around, it’s important to continue to learn and educate yourself

Installers attending a training session at the Morley headquarters

throughout your career. We are never done learning and should never be afraid to ask questions or ask for advice.”

To help engineers stay at the top of their game, Ravenheat puts on one-day training courses to satisfy demand, which are completely free to attend. These courses allow engineers to gain a full understanding of the product range, from the thinking and innovation behind how they were created to the reason for choosing each component or system inside them.

By looking at the boilers themselves and understanding the thinking behind them, Ravenheat allows engineers to reach their own conclusions about each product’s quality and reliability, rather than telling them what they should think.

Highly rated Tahir Rafiq, whose company Signature Construction is headquartered in Rochdale, has attended four of Ravenheat’s training days so far and rates them highly.

“They are one of the best training days I have ever been to. When we go to most training days they do not go as in-depth as Ravenheat do,” says Tahir.

“Others go on about their products and the components and why they are different.

I was expecting the same from Ravenheat.

They went through the faults and diagnostics and how to do it all. They put imaginary faults on the boiler and then started from the top and showed how to work out what is wrong and the whole process.

“We got the opportunity to get handson, stripping the whole boiler apart. Other training days do not always do that. The trainer had all the parts and went into detail on each, including how they operate and how each component works. It is so very informative. I would recommend anyone to attend.”

Tahir also highlighted the importance of training for engineers in an ever-changing industry.

Robert Ward of RW Gas Services travels 40 miles from his home in Swinton, Greater Manchester to attend Ravenheat’s training days. He also had some good feedback about the courses, noting plenty of handy hints and tips are shared by the training team, ENQUIRY

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as well as other installers. He too would recommend attending.

“Our industry is fairly constantly moving and we know that a lot of things change frequently – just look at Boiler Plus,” says Robert.

“The free training days are very comprehensive and are very important to me. I think the fact that manufacturers like Ravenheat offer free training shows they are investing in the installers and are putting themselves forward to the installers – it says, ‘We will look after you’. I think that is something that is very important.

It shows that the company actually values your custom.”

Expert guidance Ravenheat’s training facilities at its head office in Morley, near Leeds, feature working boilers. Installers can learn about and easily practice the different aspects of installing, commissioning, servicing and running diagnostics on the company’s boilers and related products, with guidance from experts. Whether an engineer has worked on Ravenheat boilers before or it is their first experience, they are all welcome to attend the courses.

As well as a structured programme about Ravenheat’s boilers and the brains behind them, the training days also give installers the opportunity to ask any specific questions they have about the products, components or even real-life examples they have faced.

Furthermore, the manufacturer encourages engineers to talk to each other and learn from their peers, who each have their own wealth of knowledge to share.

Alongside their regular training days, the company also holds technical events across the country to cater for installers who are unable to make the journey to Yorkshire.

These events are the perfect opportunity for engineers to get a closer look at the boilers and ask any questions they may have.

Find out more Details of upcoming training days and technical events can be found on Ravenheat’s website and social media channels.

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June 2018

TRAINING & Education 41 Learn to quickly find the faults in the system

Accredited status for ventilation Ventilation manufacturer EnviroVent is now accredited as an NICEIC Approved Assessment Training Centre.

Located in Harrogate, the facility includes fully operational ventilation units that allow contractors and installers to work in real-life ventilation scenarios, as well as being able to commission and set up ventilation systems.

The two-day NICEIC Domestic Ventilation course is aimed at experienced installers and heating

engineers who are looking to improve their knowledge and understanding of domestic ventilation systems.

The NICEIC certified course has been designed to provide the skills in design, installation, testing, commissioning, handover, servicing and fault finding of ventilation systems in line with National Occupational Standards and Minimum Technical Competency (MTC) documents.

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With 16 years experience in providing breakdown, fault finding and multimeter courses to heating engineers, Mr Combi is a specialist in helping installers gain a more technical understanding of boilers. Courses take a comprehensive view of heating systems, enabling students to diagnose faults more quickly and efficiently.

Mr Combi will also show how to spot poorly installed systems, such as problems with pipework and room thermostats. Other issues considered are incorrect wiring, no auto-bypass, gate valves on the cylinder not flushing, high pressure and magnetic filters. Students learn how to test any system to find faults in a matter of minutes.

Also available is instruction in wiring, with training done on Danfoss and Honeywell rigs. Students will also get an A4 colour diagram of wiring systems. Courses are delivered in Bedford, but DVDs are available to order.

www.mrcombi.com

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Heat free jointing systems explained With the aim of supporting increasing interest in heatfree jointing solutions, Pegler Yorkshire has launched its latest Continuous Personal Development (CPD) module.

The new accredited CPD module – ‘Benefits of Heat Free Jointing’ – addresses key issues now found on many projects where heat is not permissible. It talks about

the history and evolution of jointing technology, the development behind the proficiency of the technology, how to make the most of push and press solutions, and looks at projects which have successfully incorporated heat free jointing into their build.

“It’s well documented there is a huge skills gap within

the general construction industry and we believe it is our duty to provide learning modules that address current needs and support both a person’s and company’s future development,” says Eleanor Johnson, Fittings Market Manager for Pegler Yorkshire.

“We have made learning easy to access for all so

either individuals can log on and complete it via our online training programme or we can deliver the module to groups of company employees at their offices.”

To access modules users need to create a ‘My PY’ account in the ‘Links’ section on the company’s website. . NEWS ENQUIRY No. PHAM www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk 131

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June 2018

42 TRAINING & Education

Making life easier for installers Any heating engineer needs to keep up to date with new technology and legislation, helping them to provide heating systems that are safe, efficient and perform well. Rob Evans, veteran gas engineer and Training Officer at Baxi, highlights why ongoing learning is so important.

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hilst training can mean time off the job, the reality is that it can pay dividends in the long run. It can help installers to become more experienced working with products, while remaining one step ahead of emerging trends. Plus, as their work is likely to be of better quality, happy customers may also recommend them to friends and family, resulting in additional work and income.

A practical, hands-on approach to training is key, as it means installers can spend plenty of time with products to familiarise themselves with how they work. Handson courses allow installers to get to grips with a product in situ, for example, by getting in front of a boiler and being encouraged to fault-find or by inspecting individual components to see how they fit within a system.

Giving installers the technical knowledge of the various parts of a boiler while they are tested throughout the day

One installer’s view

Visitors to Baxi’s training facilities will get a chance to benefit from hands-on experience and are encouraged to ask questions

with a ‘learn by doing’ approach is a highly effective type of training. This helps installers to prepare for all kinds of situations that they could be faced with when attending a call-out in a customer’s home.

Screen tests

Christian Duncan from CD Heating LTD discusses his experiences of training with Baxi: “I attended the three-day long fault finding course with Baxi, which was fantastic – I met some great people and learnt so much. The sheer amount of knowledge I gained in just three days was unbelievable.

“Following the course, I’ve found that I am now much quicker at diagnosing faults across all brands of boiler, meaning I can get on to the next job faster – overall I’ve definitely come out a better fault-finding engineer.

“I love Baxi as a company, and their incredibly supportive attitude towards engineers and customers alike. My employees and I will be attending more Baxi training days in the near future. In fact, I’ve just recently booked on to the unvented hot water storage training with Baxi, as I liked the training style so much.”

Online training is equally important. At Baxi, we already upload videos for the majority of our products to YouTube and Wistia so that everyone can see how they work. But now we have also started sharing weekly #TrainingTuesday videos on our social media channels, fronted by our training team, to help bring the classroom to installers wherever they are. Each piece will cover a different lesson, with topics ranging from servicing, maintenance, installation and repairs. At no more than a minute in length, even the busiest installer can fit them into their day.

It’s not just the training itself that’s changed over the years, but the supporting materials too. We now send all trainees information on who will be training them, the trainer’s industry experience, and a course schedule along with clear instructions on how to get to the training centre. And, at the end of the training, installers are able to take away engineer manuals to help with servicing and maintaining appliances, ensuring our delegates feel supported before, during and after their course.

At Baxi we believe that the greater the installer’s knowledge of their trade, the more they can offer to

their customers. That’s why we’re constantly honing our training courses to ensure that they can be tailored to installers’ needs.

Our training courses are designed to cover an increasingly wide variety of topics – from sharpening up on the basics, like how a combi works, through to more specialist subjects designed for experienced and established installers looking to widen their remit. These include fault finding, boiler diagnostics, combi boiler appreciation, and system wiring and controls.

We train installers with the aim of making it easy for them to do their job effectively and to the highest standard possible, every time. The right training course can be instrumental in helping a heating engineer to sell more services or products to their customers. Over time this means the financial benefits can easily outweigh that relatively small investment of a day or two out of work.

Find out more Baxi offers a range of free, paid and accredited courses from 17 training centres across the UK and Ireland. To find out more, visit www.baxi.co.uk/training. For quick tips or an answer to a burning question, look out for Baxi’s #TrainingTuesday videos on Twitter (@baxiboilers), Instagram (baxiboilers) and Facebook (baxiuk). www.baxi.co.uk/training

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Opening commercial opportunities With the launch of a new Commercial Training Academy, Baxi Heating hopes to encourage more domestic installers to consider the opportunities to grow their

business in the commercial sector. With working products from the company’s commercial brands – Andrews Water Heaters and Potterton Commercial – the

Installer Paul Hull at the new Commercial Training Academy

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Academy is designed to help heating engineers to refine their skills and gain practical experience in a real-world environment.

All product training is free and installer courses will offer the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and cover practical tips about installation, commissioning and maintenance.

Mark Lovegrove, Baxi’s Commercial Training Manager, explains: “Attending a course will build confidence in working with our products, which will not only benefit them but also result in a better service for the end user. They also get the opportunity to network

with their peers, share knowledge and experiences, and potentially form new business relationships.

On course Paul Hull, Director of P R Hull Plumbing & Heating Ltd, recently attended one of the courses for Potterton Commercial. He comments: “When it comes to improving gas safety, manufacturer training courses are paramount. It’s not enough just to become accredited and start doing gas work; engineers should make sure they know everything about the products they’re working with. Some may think they don’t have the

Mark Lovegrove, Commercial Training Manager for Baxi

time to take a day out of work to attend a training course, but it’s a small price to pay to keep customers safe.

“I hadn’t worked with Potterton Commercial products for a few years and wanted to get back up to speed. It was really useful; Mark, the trainer, was very knowledgeable and more

than happy to answer any questions I had.”

Find out more For further information, or to book on a training course, please visit either www.andrewswaterheaters. co.uk/training or www. pottertoncommercial.co.uk/ training

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June 2018

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June 2018

44 VENTILATION & Heat Recovery

Ways to improve air quality in the home Improvements to the air tightness of modern housing has resulted in energy savings but has also led to poor indoor air quality. David Treharne, Senior Engineer at Domus Ventilation, argues that the installation of mechanical ventilation can provide a cost-effective solution.

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ver recent years we’ve done a good job of improving the energy efficiency of new build homes, with a focus on sealing the building envelope to prevent wasteful heat leakage. And it’s worked remarkably well; so much so that we’ve created air-tight homes that, in some circumstances, over heat and trap the stale, humid air indoors along with the pollutants. What we’ve failed to do is match the improvement in energy efficiency with the provision of ventilation.

As well as making for an uncomfortable home environment, poor ventilation can directly affect the health

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of residents. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has known links to allergies, asthma, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease and even dementia.

Research conducted by the University of Exeter Medical School amongst social housing in Cornwall found that for every increase in SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) ratings – which is used to measure the energy efficiency of dwellings – there was a 2% increased risk of asthma. The UK already has one of the highest occurrences of asthma in the world, and we are unwittingly making this worse.

‘Why not just open a window or two if you need ventilation?’ is a common refrain, but in cooler or damp weather that’s not ideal, nor is it enough in warmer summer months. That’s where continuous mechanical ventilation systems step in.

Main options Building Regulations Approved Document F details the different types of ventilation suited to a domestic property starting from a System 1, which is Intermittent Extract Ventilation, but for whole house continuous mechanical ventilation systems you are looking at a choice between a System

3, Continuous Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV), or a System 4 Continuous Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR).

An MEV system actively extracts air from ‘wet rooms’ (kitchens, bathrooms, utility spaces) via ducting to a central ventilation unit which further ducts to an exhaust point. The systems are typically dual speed, providing low speed continuous trickle ventilation and high-speed boost flow, where replacement fresh air is drawn into the property via background ventilators located in the habitable rooms and through air leakage.

A sub-set of System 3 is Decentralised Mechanical Extract Ventilation (dMEV).

These systems represent an extremely cost effective and easy-to-install ventilation solution. They offer continuous low levels of ventilation to a single wet room, coupled with virtually silent operation.

Unlike MEV, MVHR systems combine supply and extract ventilation in one system.

They work on the principle of extracting and re-using waste heat from wet rooms. MVHR systems efficiently pre-warm the fresh air drawn into the building with stale waste air using a heat exchanger. The filtered, pre-warmed air is then distributed around the home, effectively meeting part of the heating load in energy efficient dwellings.

There’s no doubt that MVHR systems provide effective ventilation, are energy efficient, extremely effective at reducing the risk of condensation and cold air draughts and, with their builtin air filters, are particularly useful in more polluted areas.

But MVHR systems also come with a higher price tag than their counterparts and are considerably more complex to install and commission. MEV systems, which are more affordable and straightforward, are often a more practical solution.

MEV still provides excellent

A typical installation of the Domus CMX-S MEV unit

ventilation, but the capital costs are lower, they are easier and therefore more economical to install, and operating costs are low.

Less ducting On the installation side, MEV systems require less ducting because air is being drawn one way only: out. With an MVHR system there is a further set of ducting to take the air from the unit into rooms. This also has a direct impact on the level of commissioning required.

Commissioning involves marrying the unit’s performance to the actual air flow passing through the valves situated throughout the property. As MEV systems have extract valves only, this is a relatively straightforward process, unlike MVHR systems which must balance the extract and supply rates.

The MEV units themselves are smaller and lighter than those of MVHR and can therefore be easily wall mounted rather than in a loft.

In fact, our CMX-S MEV unit is just 125mm deep, making it the only unit on the market shallow enough to fit in a ceiling void.

MEV systems are also very easy to use – more of a fit-and-forget scenario than MVHR systems which require maintenance, including regular filter changes. In the case of our own CMX-S MEV system, the optional speed and user controls enable simple operation and control for the homeowner, making them less likely to experience difficulties. Models are also available with an integral humidistat which identifies changes in humidity and automatically adjusts the air

flow of the unit accordingly.

With access to properties often an issue in social housing, MEV systems can be a more appealing option here.

Both MEV and MVHR systems are most suitable for new properties rather than retrofit, but MVHR systems really do require a more airtight property where virtually all of the air flow can pass through the heat exchanger, if they are to perform efficiently.

Interestingly, with inner cities having higher pollution levels, MVHR systems are seen as more suitable because of the filter element, but in apartment blocks it is often the case that only the first four floors are fitted with MVHR and the remaining with MEV, as polluted air is heavier and therefore stays closer to the ground.

Front of mind The issue of IAQ is finally making it onto the political agenda. An All-Party Parliamentary Group for Healthy Homes and Buildings has been set up to investigate IAQ more fully, and trade association BEAMA has submitted recommendations to address this, which includes rewriting Building Regulations so that focus is given to achieving performance in practice, not just theory.

This is positive news. After all, in the UK we spend around 90% of our time indoors and around 16 hours a day on average at home; we wouldn’t accept drinking poor quality water from our taps at home, so why should we accept breathing poor quality air?

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VENTILATION & Heat Recovery 45

Good planning is key to success MVHR systems are in high demand to meed the need for whole house ventilation, particularly in new build properties. Christian Rehn, National Design and Project Manager at National Ventilation, highlights the opportunity for growth and the importance of good design.

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When it comes to MVHR systems then entered into an airflow ith MVHR incalculator. This ensures that contractors can be put off by the arduous creasingly the the ventilation specified can and specialist nature of traditional plastic ventilation sysmeet the airflow demands of ductwork, but there is now a cost effective, tem of choice for new build each room. Once the total simple alternative. Semi rigid ductwork, projects, and with the pace airflow figure is calculated an such as our Monsoon radial ducting, is of house building in the UK MVHR unit can be selected ideal for smaller developments since it is showing no sign of slowing to meet this need and also flexible but robust and is up to 60% quicker down, now is the ideal to improve indoor air quality and easier to install, with a Stanley knife time for installers to take and reduce space heating the only real tool needed to install it. This advantage of this growth type of ducting also means fewer mistakes, costs. through projects in small It is important to specify since even a novice can install it to a high housing development plots. the correct unit for a standard, resulting in an airtight installation However, installers will property, as different MVHR and improved system performance. With a need to be familiar with the units will offer different plethora of plenums and accessories, this design and specification of configurations. We therefore system can overcome over 99% of issues MVHR. Add to this the need Christian Rehn, National work closely with contractors that may occur on site. for specialist knowledge of Design and Project Manager of National Ventilation to design a system that will the equipment or software Switched on programmes to correctly calculate the provide the correct levels of ventilation and pressure in the system over a given length of will physically work within the structure. The next step to consider is controls. ducting, and this can be a daunting prospect We also design the system to ensure the Traditionally MVHR is often boosted on for contractors who are unfamiliar with MVHR unit is never working at more than bathroom lighting. However, not every 75% of its maximum capacity, helping it bathroom visit is a shower or a bath, so system design. systems can boost unnecessarily. An Luckily, there are design services available work quietly and efficiently. alternative more efficient control method to help installers win new business. At Best location is an in-duct humidistat fitted in the ducting, National Ventilation we specialise in which means the boosts only triggers when The next step is to decide where best to providing a full design service for selfhumidity rises. An in-duct humidistat locate the MVHR unit.

The loft is an ideal build and design-and-build projects to help contractors win business they might location for the MVHR, but in properties also takes less time to install and is more otherwise have walked away from. The with vaulted ceilings an alternative location cost effective since less wiring is needed service supplies a full design and quotation is needed, such as a utility room or a plant to install it. Installers only need to wire the humidistat back to including unit calculations, a full kit list room. the fan because the fan is Next, it is important to as well as recommended duct routes, constantly on, drawing air making the whole process simple and work out where to locate from the bathroom. risers and ducting. It is straightforward.

Once the location of the important to consider First steps MVHR units, risers and the building design and ducting has been decided So what do installers need to do in order whether the ceilings the next stage is to send to obtain a ventilation system design and have voids to run the the design and quote to the specification? The first step in designing a ducting, or alternatively installer’s supplier. This ventilation system is to obtain the drawings webbed eco joists where is provided with detailed from the architect or developer. This is the ducting can be run. calculations, proposed needed to specify the correctly sized However, if these aren’t ducting layout, where to ventilation unit and the correct type and an option contractors can put the MVHR unit and lengths of ducting – whilst ensuring it consider other solutions risers and how to control complies with Building Regulations. such as running the the unit. However, although The architect drawings and property ducting between floors The Monsoon heat recovery unit details, including room dimensions, are or within stud walls. available from National Ventilation a design may appear correct

Semi-rigid ducting helps to provide more flexibility when deciding on the best location of the MVHR system

on paper it is vital to ensure it works on site.

Quite often plans only tell half the story and contractors can often be caught out if things don’t show up on the original plans.

The knock-on effect of this can be a need for additional materials that haven’t been considered in the original calculations.

To avoid any issues, our BPEC accredited project managers carry out a free pre-order site visit to ensure the design will perform as intended. A service like this is a great trouble shooting exercise and is also a good opportunity for the installation team to learn more about the installation process.

By using a free planning and advice service installers can be safe in the knowledge that they are installing a well designed, fit-forpurpose system and will have a point of contact that will assist them throughout the whole job.

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June 2018

46 Ventilation & Heat Recovery

Getting it right first time and every time Quality ducting, together with good design and commissioning, are essential elements to the successful installation of any ventilation system. Darren Chadwick, Quality Director at EnviroVent, advises on how installers can help to deliver long lasting performance.

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ver the past three years, since the ErP has been introduced, there has been a drive towards increasing the energy efficiency of MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) systems, part of which involves ensuring that these systems are correctly installed.

Accredited courses have become the recognised standard for ventilation and installers have undergone training which is driving Darren Chadwick, EnviroVent up standards. However, there are a number of potential pitfalls with ventilation installation and the most common issues relate to the quality of ducting. With MVHR units, leakage of air from duct work means it is unlikely to deliver the required airflow and may cause damage to the fabric of the building.

High quality ducting is therefore essential to the effective running of a ventilation system, and there are a number of important considerations.

Longer lasting When ducting is selected and installed correctly, it can improve and prolong the efficiency of the whole system, leading to long term low maintenance. On the other hand, a ventilation system that has issues with the ducting, which can range from ‘slump’ of flexible types, through to inadequate jointing mechanisms, is always going to underperform.

An NHBC (National House-Building Council) report recently highlighted how poorly installed systems have a negative effect on indoor air quality and the effectiveness of MVHR systems in new homes.

Accredited training courses have helped to raise installation standards within the ventilation industry

Semi-rigid ducting can provide a quick and reliable solution

Choice of ducting has proven to be very important and many installers prefer semi rigid ducting as it is quicker to install and gives a guaranteed seal. It also offers lower maintenance and improved performance of the ventilation system.

Rigid ducting is often chosen for the main trunk and more flexible ducting for offshoots. However, fully flexible ducting poses a greater risk of issues developing later on.

In some spaces, flexible ductwork can be the only choice, for example, when reaching vents in difficult places, such as corners or house eaves. Over time it is prone to ‘slump’ if it isn’t supported along its entire length. This can lead to pooling of condensation in the section affected, restricting the flow of air through the system.

Air leakage Another potential issue is leaking ducts, and these can occur for a variety of reasons, such as kinks or other mechanical stresses. It can result in up to 20% loss of efficiency of a ventilation system. Air leakage in ductwork can also cause moisture damage within the building fabric. Leaks can be

Intelligent control of condensation The new SANO intelligent Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit from Elta Fans automatically adjusts air flow according to the temperature and moisture content of the incoming air.

The unit’s Eco-LoFlo mode checks moisture content when the incoming air is less than 10°C to reduce airflow to a minimum and maximise energy efficiency.

Additional ‘normal’ and ‘summer’ modes, plus an ability to override the unit’s automatic controls, help to ensure that the unit’s performance will always match user preference.

For installation flexibility, the system is available in

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both a loft and wall-mounted unit. The loft-mounted model boasts low maintenance, large G4 grade filter, while the wall-mounted equivalent contains a G2 filter.

Six different settings can

be chosen by the installer from the wall-mounted unit’s integral controls, with a further two speed settings available on the loft-mounted version. This ensures each unit can be fine-tuned

to suit the specific size, layout, thermal properties, and moisture production of the home. Such flexibility also ensures each setting matches the corresponding ventilation rates prescribed

by Part F of the Building Regulations.

John Bradley, Elta’s Head of Sales, says: “PIV technology has largely remained the same for decades, so it’s with some excitement that we can unveil a unit that marks such a significant leap forward.

It can control condensation without any compromise to comfort levels or energy bills.”

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a common issue in flexible ducting due to vermin attack, coming into contact with sharp objects, wear on abrasive surfaces in the loft space or damage during installation.

Issues can also arise with the installation of ventilation systems if the duct is too small for the airflow rate, which results in high resistance and noise issues. Our ventilation specialists are able to advise on the optimum size of ducting for a given system. Correct commissioning of the system is also crucial to ensure that the correct airflow is delivered and that the system is properly balanced.

Sealed up HM Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide 2.0 (NHBC Standards) states that all duct connections require sealing.

The guidance says that where ducts are installed against a solid structure, this can be difficult to achieve – in such locations, pre-assembly of duct sections should be considered.

It also states that joints in ductwork, and between ductwork and other system components, should be securely fixed and sealed with purpose-designed connections, in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations. In addition, it requires that all joints be durable and airtight.

Unsealed connections can cause a problem with high pressure drop in ductwork. This can result in significant air leakage, leading to increased energy consumption and noise, due to the units having to work harder to provide adequate ventilation.

Fast track Because of the issues that the industry faces and how this impacts on the effectiveness of ventilation systems, we recently introduced a new type of ductwork – the Fast Track ducting range. This purpose-designed ventilation ductwork can be installed very quickly and easily, making it immediately airtight. Available in thermal, semi-rigid and rigid components, the range offers the complete ducting solution for best practice installation to ensure the optimum performance of the system. It overcomes all of the issues associated with traditional ductwork.

Commissioning Correct commissioning of an MVHR, MEV or dMEV (decentralised mechanical extract fan) is essential to ensure that the correct airflows are achieved. Using smart connected devices can speed up the installation process of MVHR systems, making set up and commissioning far simpler and quicker than in the past. We recommend the use of app-enabled ventilation systems where possible.

Correct installation can ensure a ventilation unit’s power consumption and noise levels are minimised and that running costs are lower, with the end result a much improved level of indoor air quality. Undertaking NICEIC certified training can assist with ensuring that ventilation units are installed right first time, avoiding many of the issues that could arise at a later stage. www.envirovent.com

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48 Ventilation & Heat Recovery

Picked up Passivhaus accreditation

Modular approach To meet the variable demands in multi-occupancy buildings, Gilberts offers its Mistrale Fusion System (MFS), a singleunit hybrid solution focused on natural ventilation with heat recovery.

The core MFS is manufactured as a standard product, with ‘add-on’ items to meet the varying specifications of each project.

Elements such as heating coils, filters, silencers, duct connection outlets and louvre transformation, plus a range of air volumes for warm up or purge ventilation to supplement the standard airflow rates ensure the MFS brings a comprehensive hybrid solution to the

extensive, variable building demands for ventilation.

“This modular approach makes it as simple as possible for the precise needs of each room to be met, in line with the latest regulatory requirements,” explains Gilberts’ Technical Director Roy Jones.

“It means the MFS is retained as a standard individual module to which bespoke parts are added in compliance with the architectural requirements, simplifying and accelerating the whole building services design, supply and installation process.”

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The new HRV3 PH ECOaura MVHR unit from Titon has achieved Passivhaus accreditation. The unit, when used with Titon’s aura-t touchscreen or aurastat VT controller, is described as providing exceptional indoor air quality and energy efficient performance within a building.

Commenting on the achievement, UK Sales Director Lee Caulfield says: “The new version of the HRV3 PH ECOaura has been developed to fulfil increasing market demand for Passivhaus requirements.

The addition of the duct heater to this unit was crucial to successfully meet the high standards and criteria of Passivhaus testing.”

The HRV3 PH ECOaura is a modified design of Titon’s existing HRV3 Q Plus Eco unit, with the main addition being a new

duct heater as featured during testing. This ensures that cold air does not return into the system, allowing balanced ventilation at low temperatures; otherwise, the cold supply must be reduced to prevent any moisture in the stale extracted air from freezing. In turn, this eliminates any risk of the heat cell freezing and stopping the unit from working. As a result, the ventilation system can run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even if the temperature drops to -15ºC. The HRV3 PH ECOaura offers a 100% airflow diverting summer bypass and also includes intelligent humidity options. The Passivhaus versions are fitted alongside either Titon’s aura-t touchscreen or the aurastat VT controllers.

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Easy air quality control SAVECair is the name of a new intelligent control system for use with the

SAVE range of highefficiency MVHR units from Systemair. Designed

to be mounted on a wall, it comes with a user-friendly interface which displays all functions on the main screen, making it easy to use and navigate the system to optimise indoor air quality and reduce energy consumption in eco-mode.

Users can also access the system via a smartphone or laptop by simply adding an internet access module (IAM).

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Extract and supply fans for Pure and healthy commercial environments Known for its activity in the residential sector, Domus Ventilation (formerly known as Polypipe Ventilation) has introduced its new D Series range of extract and supply fans aimed at the commercial ventilation market.

The D Series features 6, 9

and 12in fans available as kits or individual parts, and a selection of integral and remote sensors. The single remote control DX-CON can be set to both extract and supply, and can work in conjunction with an integral sensor. The choice of integral sensors include timer, humidistat and PIR, as well as a remote humidistat sensor. The DX-CON can also support multiple fans, provided they are all the same size, i.e. up to five fans in 6 and 9in, or two fans in 12in in one building.

To make installation easy, the D Series is available in kit format, making it simple to order and install in a variety of places such as windows, walls, ceilings, pitched roofs and flat roofs.

Furthermore, the D Series fan units are available with other ancillaries such as window frame adaptors, wall plates, roof and weather terminals to make the units energy efficient and act as partial retrofit products.

With motor and impellor technology, combined with wax thermos actuators, the new fans are said to be among the quietest of their kind on the market, ensuring they are suitable for installation in commercial environments such as offices, pubs or take-aways.

Manufactured in the UK, the D Series comes with a three year warranty as standard.

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Designed to provide enhanced air purification in applications such as hospitals, schools and hotels, Panasonic’s nanoe X technology is currently available with the company’s new R32 Floor Console and MU2/PU2 90x90 indoor cassette units compatible with VRF, PACi and GHP heating and cooling solutions.

Said to be 10 times more powerful than its predecessor, nanoe X works by generating hydroxyl radicals (OH) for healthier air and a consistently pleasant environment.

The technology works simultaneously with heating or cooling operation to remove pollen, pollution, fungi and cigarette smoke from the air. It also reduces odours in the room and includes an internal dehumidifier to limit the propagation of mould and bacteria. www.aircon.panasonic.eu

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With high performance and minimal sound, the new IPX5 Quiet Fan from Manrose offers an extraction rate of 75m³/hr and operates at 27dB(A), which the company says is 60% quieter than a standard 4in (100mm) domestic fan.

The fan’s IPX5 rating means it can be safely installed within Zone 1 without the need for a low voltage transformer, which is handy in a small bathroom or shower room where space is at a premium.

Designed for wall and ceiling mounting, the Quiet Fan features a low energy motor with a maximum consumption of 7W and a low SFP of 0.33W/l/s. It comes complete with integral backdraught shutters and is double insulated so it does not require an earth.

The fan’s motors are continuously rated and warranted for a minimum of three years. The unit also includes a performance enhancing turning vane system located in the spigot to improve performance by maintaining a high output.

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VENTILATION & Heat Recovery 49 Fan will perform at high pressure

Fan is a smooth operator Designed for bathroom ventilation, the 100mm/4in Smooth Fan is the latest addition to Xpelair’s extensive range of fans. Available in two models, the XS100S and the XS100T, the axial fans feature a baffle cover rather than a grille front, thereby providing a more sleek and discreet appearance.

The fan comes in both a standard and timer version,

and both are single speed AC ball bearing models. Said to be ideal for both new build and refurbishment applications, the range conforms to Part L and Part F of the latest Building Regulations.

Lee Stones, Senior Product Marketing Manager, says: “The Smooth range is the ideal high-performance offering, eliminating humid-

ity, condensation and odour in bathrooms, WCs and shower rooms. We believe that installers will benefit from the option of a lowcost product that provides homeowners with discreet ventilation.”

Both fans come with a twoyear guarantee and are IPX4 rated, so they can be used in bathrooms zones 1 and higher.

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Economical way to deliver fresh air The new VL-50 Lossnay unit from Mitsubishi Electric is a simple heat recovery ventilation unit for domestic use which is designed to improve indoor air quality, increase efficiency and help protect the building fabric.

Easily retrofitted to existing buildings, the system can be fitted to an exterior wall and ducted out using a single pipe.

It is claimed to capture up to 84% of heat energy that would otherwise be wasted.

The VL-50 is available as a pull-cord, hard-wired, or wireless remote controlled unit and measures just 52cm

by 24.5cm. It can be fitted vertically or horizontally to suit the interior décor and needs no pipework other

than the connection through the wall to the outdoors. The VL-50 is also said to deliver low sound levels, low power consumption and easy maintenance.

“This new system can be simply added to a room to bring fresh, energy efficient ventilation to any home or building, regardless of age,” says Product Manager Janvi Patel.

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The high performance inline Mixed Flow Fan range, available from Titon, is suitable for bathrooms, kitchens and other residential applications and is capable of supplying or extracting air, depending on individual requirements. It can be fitted in a loft or ceiling and comes in a range of sizes (100, 125, 150 and 160mm diameters) and a choice of three fan speeds.

The powerful in-duct mounted mixed flow fan is said to be ideal for removing internal condensation and eliminating the potential for mould growth within a home. It is also capable of operating at higher working pressures in applications requiring high airflows, while keeping noise levels to a minimum.

In addition, the fan offers ingress protection to IP55, complying with BS EN 60529 and ensuring sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from dirt and foreign bodies.

Plus, each fan has a high quality ball bearing motor, as well as an overrun timer and LS live switching.

Compatible with both rigid and flexible ductwork, all Inline Mixed Flow Fans are supplied with a one-year manufacturer’s guarantee as standard. www.titon.co.uk

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50

What’s New

New burner range Low noise levels worth shouting about to boost efficiency To mark its entry into the UK and Ireland domestic oil markets, ELCO Burners has launched the new EKL series – a range of low NOx monoblock burners with outputs from 12 to 100kW. Suitable for kerosene, gasoil and bio oil blends, the burners are said to be ideal for high efficiency domestic oil boilers.

All the EKL burners are designed to minimise their environmental impact, thanks to a combustion head design that significantly reduces NOx levels to below 120mg/ kWh – complying with the ErP Directive. The EKL burner is also available in a blue flame model (EKL Blue), which already complies with the more stringent emission targets expected in 2022.

For ease of installation and servicing, a single Allen key can be used to remove and adjust key components,

including the burner head, while all parts are easy to access thanks to a dedicated servicing position and a simple layout.

With high ventilation performance, low electrical consumption and reliable operation in windy conditions, the new burner range is claimed to be one of the most advanced and robust products on the market.

For increased efficiency, the burners are also available in two stage fully modulating models.

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The latest generation of Ecodan air source heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric are claimed to offer market-leading energy efficiency and sound levels.

The Ultra Quiet Ecodan air source heat pumps are available in 8.5 and 11.2kW sizes and benefit from low sound levels that are three times quieter than previous models.

Mitsubishi says that the low noise will virtually eliminate the issue of planning restrictions, allowing the units to be fitted in residential areas where there might previously have been a problem.

To ensure neighbours aren’t disturbed, Permitted Development currently requires sound levels to meet certain limitations, with the sound pressure level not exceeding 42 decibels, dB(A) when measured at a point 1m away from the neighbour’s nearest door or window.

“One of the key areas that will affect adoption of these energy-saving

(PUHZ-W85VAA and PUHZ112VAA) are A++ ErP rated and are also available with coastal protection for areas where they can be exposed to saline.

“This is a result of a decade of manufacturing Ecodan in Scotland and we have used this knowledge and experience to refine Ecodan and design it specifically for UK residential use,” adds Halliwell.

“Our market leading Ecodan heat pumps have always been amongst the quietest on the market and are designed to provide any home with reliable, troublefree renewable heating and hot water.”

systems is noise, which is why permitted development exists, and these new units are designed specifically to overcome any issues with noise,” says Max Halliwell, Product Manager for the company’s renewable heating systems.

The 8.5kW Ultra Quiet Ecodan has a sound power level of only 58 dB(A), which

Full protection against CO and fire The new 3000 Series is the latest range from domestic fire alarm and CO detection specialist Aico. The 3000 Series features the Ei3028 Multi-Sensor Heat & CO Alarm, providing whole property coverage from one alarm, plus a mains powered Multi-Sensor Fire Alarm and single sensor Optical, Heat & CO Alarms.

All alarms in the series use the same ‘easi-fit’ base and are compatible with the company’s AudioLINK data extraction and SmartLINK wireless interconnection system. AudioLINK enables real time alarm data to be

extracted via a smartphone or tablet, while AudioLINK enables alarms and accessories to be interconnected using RF signals rather than hard wiring.

“The 3000 Series represents one of the most significant advances of the Aico product range in recent years,”

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plugged into a home’s router, and communicates with the boiler and thermostat via an 868MHz RF signal.

Further details More information about the performance of the units, including a short animation on the importance of sound levels in achieving Permitted Development, can be found on the dedicated website (see below).

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Recovering heat from shower use

says MD Neal Hooper. “We refer to the 3000 Series as having ‘intelligent simplicity’ – we’ve built intelligence into every alarm whilst ensuring simplicity for every install.”

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Getting consumers better connected Touch Connect is a new smart control range from Ideal Boilers, designed to give consumers complete control of their heating and hot water use via their smartphone or tablet.

Touch Combi Connect has the same easy-to-install boiler mounted transceiver as the company’s current Touch Combi RF. The transceiver simply clicks into the boiler’s front panel and pairs with the thermostat. The gateway provides connection to the internet via an Ethernet cable

is an 8 dB(A) drop over the model it replaces. It also has a sound pressure level of just 45 dB(A) at 1m.

Innovations in fan design and the use of ultra-soft compressor feet dampers have enabled the units to achieve such low levels of sound whilst increasing performance and efficiency.

Both models in the range

Programming is said to be easy too, either using the fully interactive colour touch screen on the thermostat, or

via the Touch app, which is available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Touch Connect will meet three of the criteria of Boiler Plus – firstly, it is a smart control with optimisation and automation features in the app; secondly, it provides load compensation to the boiler based on set and actual temperature differences; thirdly, the app uses internet weather data to further enhance boiler modulation.

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The energy saving Zypho is a device that is designed to be installed under a shower tray or a bathtub, becoming part of the drainage system and allowing around 10°C from the shower water that passes through the device to be recovered.

The recovered heat is then transferred to the cold-water mains before arriving at the shower tap mixer already preheated, meaning less hot water is required to reach the optimum shower temperature.

“To create the ideal shower temperature of 40ºC, the tap has to mix a large amount of electric or gas-heated hot water at around 60ºC, with cold water coming in at 10-20ºC. But so much of that energy is wasted – it literally goes down the drain,” explains the Portuguese inventor José Meliço.

Over 10,000 Zypho units have already been installed in 15 different countries. The product is suitable for domestic applications, but is also suitable for any building with high shower usage, such as gyms, hospitals, hotels and other businesses looking to cut their carbon footprint and energy usage. www.zypho.eu

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COMPETITION

WHat’s New

Win

Electric combis are bang up to date With the upcoming ErP directive in mind, EHC has redesigned the Comet Electric Combi Unit to meet current and future regulations. The new Comet V1 electric combi boiler provides the comfort and convenience of a wet central heating and hot water system to domestic properties with no access to mains gas.

It is a fully packaged unit housed within a compact enclosure and comes complete with the option of a 9, 12 or 14.4kW output that incorporates a 140 litre Duplex stainless steel hot water cylinder. The

boiler’s internal plumbing is configured to an ‘S’ Plan design that also has an inbuilt magnetic filter for protection. Also incorporated within the unit are preplumbed expansion vessels for both the heating and DHW circuits.

In line with regulations, the unit has in-built weather compensation. For enhanced efficiency, users can opt to add a titanium PV immersion heater to the cylinder.

Connected to a solar PV diverter, it will automatically start heating the cylinder within the unit to provide further energy savings.

with

sy to use laser measuring tool PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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5

chances to win a professional laser distance measurer from GRANT UK

Manifold for mixed supply Now offering a ‘smart’ manifold, Multipipe has developed a control system for all types of hot water heating systems. Designed to simplify system design for architects and engineers, it allows the user to adapt each outlet to the temperature for each individual circuit of pipe. The maximum temperature applicable is 80°C, with a minimum temperature of 7°C for cooling applications.

The all-in-one system is said to be compatible with all high and low temperature generators.

It can accommodate mixed supply temperature whole-

house heating installations from the same manifold including underfloor heating with radiators, towel rails or trench heating, removing

the need for two or more manifolds. It can also serve a mixed floor construction underfloor heating system,

such as screed floors mixed with timber suspended or overlay solutions, and can even allow for localised high output areas.

Mike Young, MD of Multipipe, comments: “This new smart manifold uses exciting technology that further revolutionises heating installations. We believe that this unique precision technology has the capability to save installers time and money on projects by enabling them to set individual circuit temperatures.”

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Get smarter water control The intelligent water control system, Grohe Sense Guard, can now connect with Nest connected home devices and other brands that connect with Nest.

Installed directly in the main water line, the Sense Guard can automatically stop the water supply if, for example, a leak has been detected. The Sense Guard is monitored and controlled via the Grohe Ondus app.

Connecting this app with Nest’s Home/Away feature provides the possibility of extending the Sense Guard’s capabilities. When Nest users are away – as indicated via Nest’s Home/Away Assist – the app can automatically

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Leading heating specialist Grant UK is giving FIVE lucky readers the chance to win a highly accurate and user-friendly laser measuring tool, which is perfect for taking rapid and precise measurements when doing building heat loss calculations. Simplicity of use combined with an easy-to-read LCD display screen and accuracy to within 3mm over the entire 50m measuring range makes the tool indispensable for plumbing and heating installers.

Ahead of the curve From 26th September, new legislation under the ErP Directive comes into effect setting maximum levels for NOx emissions for oil-fired boilers of 120mg/kWh. The good news is that advances with burner technology, coupled with Grant’s efficient boiler designs, have enabled all of the company’s Vortex Pro and Eco boiler ranges to achieve these new targets with virtually no visible change to the existing lineup. Grant’s VortexBlue (Blue Flame) range has already far exceeded these lower NOx emission targets from their launch in 2016.

With over 40 years of pioneering research and development behind each of its products, the Grant brand has established a reputation for innovation, efficiency and reliability. Consequently, Grant oil boilers, such as the Vortex Pro Utility 15/26kW and VortexBlue Combi 26kW, both ‘Which? Best Buys’ in 2017, are the favoured choice for many installers and homeowners.

How to enter Entering the competition is easy and doesn’t even cost the price of a stamp.

Simply read the question below and write the correct number on the freepost reader enquiry and registration card inside this month’s issue. So, for example, if you think the answer is ‘1916’, you should write 101 on the card. Only one entry will be allowed per person and the five winners will be drawn from all the correct entries received before the closing date of 2nd July 2018.

shut off the water supply immediately or within a pre-set time period.

“When it comes to digitisation, customer value and quality will always have the highest priority for us.

We do not seek innovation for its own sake,” says Robert Veltrup, Grohe Chief Digital

Officer. “That’s why we set up the Sense Guard on an open technology platform.

With collaborations like our ‘Works with Nest’ integration, we are able to offer consumers an increased level of water security.”

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Grant’s VortexBlue (Blue Flame) range was launched in: 101

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Advertisement Feature

52 PRODUCT Spotlight

Robust, reliable washrooms

P

ublic washrooms must be able to withstand intensive and often heavy-handed use. However, this is often at the expense of aesthetics, with function taking precedence over form.

DELABIE’s TEMPOMATIC 4 recessed urinal seeks to redress this balance. Specifically developed for the commercial sector, this new electronic urinal combines design and functionality.

Fully WRAS approved, it also promotes good washroom hygiene.

Design

A duty flush every 24 hours after the last use also ensures that the pipework is flushed to prevent urine crystallisation, blockages or vacuums.

Sustainability Reducing water consumption in commercial washrooms is an ongoing concern, and the TEMPOMATIC 4 features an ‘intelligent’ urinal valve able to detect high-frequency periods and adapt its rinsing accordingly. During peak periods, only the bowl is rinsed between two users, reducing water consumption.

At the end of the

system has been purged and the wall finish completed, the flush valve can be installed during the second fix.

Versatile There are multiple installation options for the waterproof housing: fixing via the sides onto plasterboard rails, from the front onto solid walls, or from the rear onto an IPS panel. The housing can be cut to size to fit wall finishes up to 120mm such as bricks or breeze blocks for commercial installations subject to high levels of vandalism. A waterproof seal is integrated into the collar and the housing for the TEMPOMATIC 4 urinal is cut to size in front of the collar, ensuring a perfect seal.

DELABIE’s new electronic, recessed

Attractive products and well-maintained fixtures with clean, bright surfaces are more likely to elicit respect and care from users. The engineers at Behind the DELABIE therefore made discreet, shockdesign a key priority for resistant wallplate is the machinery the TEMPOMATIC 4. The of the Tempomatic 4 recessed urinal, wall plate is compact including all the sensitive elements and discreet with a timeless design. Its smooth busy period, a complementary urinal surface limits the build-up of rinse takes place to rinse the provides the perdirt and facilitates cleaning, bowl completely. fect solution for commaintaining an attractive Easy to install mercial washrooms that appearance.

Design should not come at the accommodate high user Function expense of practical issues turnover. TEMPOMATIC 4 In the non-domestic sector such as installation. The will withstand intensive urinals subject to intensive TEMPOMATIC 4 is available use while optimising water use must be fit for purpose. in two kits which facilitate consumption and maintaining TEMPOMATIC 4 is fully installation. A pre-assembled hygiene standards. Available recessed, with all the first fix kit means that the in four stylish finishes, its sensitive elements completely housing can be installed design also facilitates its concealed from the user and water connections made, installation and regular behind the shock-resistant system purged and wall finish upkeep. wall plate. A sensor detects completed during the first fix. the user and rinses the urinal The second kit includes the Find out more bowl automatically when the sensitive elements (solenoid For further information on user leaves, with no manual valve, filter and electronic Delabie’s product range, please contact required. This also has unit) which are replaced by visit the website below. a hygienic benefit, reducing a temporary casing during PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. 154 www.delabie.co.uk the spread of germs by hand. commissioning. Once the

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WHat’s New Special promotional packs Now available from Ravenheat is a range of boiler and thermostat promotional packs with a variety of choices. Options include a 31kW HE98S combi boiler or a 25kW HE80 combi boiler with a standard horizontal flue.

The boiler and flue can be bought along with one of the following: a wired simple OpenTherm programmable thermostat; wired round OpenTherm thermostat and mobile access kit; or wireless round OpenTherm thermostat and mobile access kit.

MD Louis Pickersgill says: “We speak to heating engineers on a daily basis and from this we know they love helping and supporting their customers

to get the best fit for them.

Different options for those with varying financial means was one thing installers often asked about, especially with the recent Boiler Plus changes, so we created the perfect range to ensure there’s something for everyone.”

The HE80 features brass and copper components, a backlit LCD screen, and OpenTherm compatibility as standard. The new HE98S boiler includes the same internals as the HE80, but comes with a stainless steel heat exchanger.

The new promotional packs will be available from merchants until 31 August. ravenheat.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 155

Controllable electric UFH Comfort E is the name of a new electric underfloor heating system from Uponor.

It has been designed to offer ease and speed of installation for any room, with a mat that is simply rolled out under the floor finish and connected to the electrical system.

Suitable for both new builds and renovation projects, the system is available in two variants: a 3mm thick fibreglass mesh mat with sewn-in cables to avoid cable uplift and reduce installation times for use under tile, Karndean or Lino floor finishes; and an

aluminium foil mat with optional 6mm insulation for use under laminate or tongue and groove wooden flooring.

David Playfoot from Uponor says: “Underfloor heating is not always required in every room, and

our Comfort E electrical UFH system offers the flexibility to add underfloor heating to specific areas, such as the bathroom or bedroom of a residential property, the bathrooms in hotels or restaurants, or even the smoking areas at office buildings.

“For conservatories, Comfort E enables the room to be heated on a standalone circuit to comply with Building Regulations, while offering reliable and controllable heat on an asneeded basis.”

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www.comfort-e-co.uk

Customisable shower-bath comes with more options New features have been added to Saniflo’s walk-in shower-bath, the Kineduo, making it completely customisable. Customers can now choose the brassware and shower, with a choice of a T-bar shower or classic model. The overhead rainshower comes complete with taps and water filler.

Also new are the round overflow filler, which can be purchased separately; an 800mm glass end screen panel added to the offering of the existing 750mm panel; and a new soft close seat.

Kineduo’s practical features include a simple step-in access using a hinged, toughened safety glass door, and the bath is available in a variety of sizes and fit options.

Made from fully encapsulated acrylic, Kineduo is robust and long lasting and has an adjustable feet system to add stability. www.saniflo.co.uk

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What’s New 53 Robust cylinders Fan convectors deliver more benefits keeping the heat Fan convector manufacturer DunhamBush has added a number of new models to its growing range.

The Smart-Vector has been introduced to help maximise indoor air quality, particularly when Building Bulletin 101 is a requirement. The new models are suitable for installation in classrooms and offices where high standards of air quality are required.

There are two floor standing and one high-wall models in the range with outputs from 1.7 to 12.5kW. All models are available with EC motors and connectivity via BMS for increased controllability and comfort levels.

Also new for this summer are Series SL slimline wall mounted fan convectors

Three new vertical heating options have been unveiled by Myson: the LST Vertical as well as the Plan Vertical and Plan Plus Vertical.

The LST Vertical has been designed with safety in mind and comes equipped with a round steel casing that conceals the pipework.

It comes with a 10 year warranty for both emitter and casing and fully complies with NHS Guidance notes 1988. The unit is finished in an antibacterial paint and can be specified in widths ranging between 420mm and 870mm. Joining the rest of the LST family, it creates a total range of 94 stocked sizes.

Myson has also added vertical radiators to complement the existing Plan and Plan Plus collection.

Providing a solution for offices, hotels and contemporary buildings, the sleek flat front panel design of the Plan Vertical offers a modern alternative to the traditional panel radiator, while the Plan Plus Vertical (pictured) features a decorative front panel. They come in heights of 1800 and 1950mm.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Switch on to intelligent controls The extended range of Smart Home connected products from Salus now includes the SR600 Relay, a switch device that enables users to safely control more appliances, lighting and heating that require more current.

Unlike the Salus Smartplugs that connect pluggedin appliances to the Smart Home system, the SR600 Relay creates a hardwired

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Larger multi filling valve A larger version of LK’s MultiFill filling valve is now available, designed for large ground and geothermal heat pumps with heat transfer fluid. It can also be used in other applications requiring filling and filtration, such as solar panels. The large dimensions of the connections (2in) and the high Kvs value (40 m³/h) are distinctive features.

“As far as we know, there’s no other product

like it on the market,” says Lars Adolfsson, LK Product Manager. “Previously, fitters themselves had to fabricate these kinds of valves for larger heat pump systems.

MultiFill is an efficient, cost-

Fab fillers

Known as a manufacturer of automotive body shop coatings and fillers, U-Pol has now introduced three new construction fillers: Toughfill, Fastfill and Easyfill. They are two-part fillers that dry quickly, are easy to sand, and can be ready for painting in as little as 20 minutes. The products are suitable for interior and exterior repairs, fill to any depth, don’t crack or shrink, and can be drilled, screwed or nailed. They can also be used on multiple substrates. www.u-pol.com/uk/en-u ENQUIRY No. 162

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(pictured) with top or front grilles and outputs ranging from 1.4 to 9.0kW. Built to the same standards as the existing range of heating products and available

with EC motors, they feature easy access for maintenance, pencil-proof grilles and built-in or remote control options.

The Avant-Garde fan convector models have been designed specifically to interface with condensing boiler systems where return water temperatures are below dew point. The increased water temperature differentials across the coil also help to reduce pumping energy usage by up to 87%, while the decreased water temperatures reduce standing losses from pipework. The option of an EC motor will help to reduce electrical consumption by up to 80% compared to a standard AC motor. Outputs range from 1.7 to 12.5kW. dunham-bush.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 159

effective solution that makes our customers’ lives a little easier.”

The new model comes with expansion vessels, safety groups, and brackets to ensure easy, installation. It also has a filter that provides protection against particles during filling and operation.

No maintenance is required, except for cleaning the filter.

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Protects tiles from grout Dunlop has launched a new Temporary Tile Sealer. The product is a protective sealer for use on sensitive tile types like terracotta, marble, limestone, and other natural stone to protect the surface of the tile from discolouration from pigmented tile grouts. Water-based and easy to apply, the sealer is removed by simply washing off after grout application. Available in 500g containers, the undiluted sealer covers approximately 5m2, although on very porous tiles this may be less. dunloptrade.com ENQUIRY No. 163

semi-permanent solution that is able to control devices such as lighting, electrical

heating, and even household appliances. All of this can be controlled from anywhere the user may be by using the Smarthome app.

For homes with electric heating, this switch device brings the same level of control, comfort, and accuracy as found on hydronic and UFH systems.

Installation of the SR600 Relay usually requires an

electrician, and the device can be installed either directly into the junction box or discretely wall mounted using the SRS600 Surface Wall Mount Bracket. Once installed, the Relay is simple and quick to set up by simply adding it to the existing Salus Smart Home system via the Universal Gateway.

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salus-smarthome.com

Competition

Sm

ile with Si

e m

Win a Murelle Advanced HE ErP combi!

PHAM News has teamed up with boiler manufacturer Sime to give away a Murelle Advanced HE ErP boiler each month to one lucky reader.

Available in 30 and 40kW combination boilers, the Murelle Advanced HE ErP is among the most intelligent, practical and comforting combination boilers on the market. With its three star domestic hot water delivery, active combustion control, large user display and built-in service reminder, the Advanced is packed full of technology to effectively and efficiently deliver its users’ heating and hot water demands.

Sime is so confident with the reliability of the product that it offers extended warranties of up to ten years. For more details visit sime.co.uk

Who’s behind the famous smile?

To be in with a chance of winning a Sime Murelle Advanced HE 30 ErP combi, simply identify the famous person behind this smile. Please send your answer, complete with contact details, via email to editor@ phamnewsedit.co.uk with ‘Smile with Sime’ in the subject line. All correct answers received before the closing date of 2nd July 2018 will be entered into the prize draw.

Only one entry will be allowed per person.

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June 2018

54 DIRECTORY Radiators

Controls

BANICO CONTROLS

ENQUIRY

10

Heating Controls

Elegance E legance & S Style t yle 2017 2017 www.apolloradiators.co.uk

made m ade in the UK and urope urrope o

APOLLO RADIATORS

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14

Tundish (Dry Trap)

HEATING CONTROLS ONLINE

Advertiser’s Index

11

ENQUIRY

Safety Products hotun – not just a tundish hotun hiflo – the only dry trap tundish available on the market accepted for use by Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal, Ariston and Navien. hotun dry trap tundishes allow a compliant connec on to internal waste or soil pipe, perfect for landlocked and elevated installa ons saving you me and money. *speedfit range coming soon, incorpora ng JGSpeedfit technology www.hotun.co.uk HOTUN

ENQUIRY

15

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Water Heating & Chilling GOTEC

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further your ambitions, telephone 023 8066 8900 for information and application pack.

www.idhee.org.uk The professional body We are not a trade association, and we the the Domestic Heating Engineer. recognised forms of study and achievement.

IDHEE

ENQUIRY

13

HYCO

Airflow Developments Ltd 44 Alpha Heating Innovation 7 Anton Industrial Services Ltd 20 BES Ltd 1 Baxi Heating UK Ltd 39 BWT 31 CMR Controls Ltd 45 Delabie UK Ltd 52 Domus Ventilation 47 Dunham Bush 4 EG Training Services Ltd 40 ELCO Burners 35 EnviroVent Ltd 49 Firebird Products Ltd 29 Flamco Ltd 11 Ford Motor Company 56 GasApp Uk 36 Gastec Training 43 Honeywell Control Systems Ltd 13 Intatec Ltd 15 John Guest Speedfit Ltd 26, 27 Kamco Ltd 33 Logic 4 Training 37 MV Fluids Handling Ltd 3 Maincor Ltd 25 Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd 14 Polypipe Group plc 23 Potterton Commercial - Baxi Commercial 41 Practical Refrigeration Training Centre Ltd 38 Riello 5 Screwfix 2 Viessmann Ltd 10 Wiseman Industries Ltd 34 Wunda Group plc 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 Xylem Water Solutions UK Ltd 9

Plumbing Products

PLUMBPAL

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June 2018

INFORMATION Centre 55 Central Heating Wiring & Controls Book

Central Heating combination boilers fault finding & repair

For years electricians and heating engineers have commented that wiring heating controls is a difficult subject to learn, existing diagrams are not always easy to follow.

Mr Combi® Training has developed a fantastic set of easy to follow coloured wiring diagrams for central heating wiring and controls, 2 / 3 port systems, Faults, Frost stats, testing components, everything you need in one handy A5 book.

John Reginald has released his easy to read, easy to understand book that takes the reader through the background and operation of each major component within combi boilers past and present.

The comprehensive fault finding logic guides provide professional solutions helping you to achieve professional standards.

Priced at £26 this Industry leading book is available from all High Street and Online Book Stores.

COPPERJOB

ENQUIRY

Please order from www.mrcombi.com or enter the PHAM No.

372

The launch of the new Envirogreen Low NOx boiler range from Firebird follows a three year research and development programme to produce an affordable yet technologically advanced replacement for the traditional yellow-flame boiler. Featuring a Low NOx burner for Firebird by European burner experts’ elco, the new range complies with the stringent limits on flue gas emissions which come into force on September 26th.

For further information on the new Envirogreen range and brochure please visit www.firebird.uk.com Email sales@firebird.uk.com or enter the PHAM No ENQUIRY

375

AQATA launches new Luxury Shower Screens & Enclosures brochure

ENQUIRY

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A Superior Range of Hi Vis Working Clothes – for all kinds of light conditions.

Snickers Workwear takes personal protection very seriously. That's why this new range of cool and functional Hi-Vis summer clothing is streets ahead of anything else.

There’s a host of different garments in the range to satisfy the specific requirements of Classes 1, 2 and 3 protection levels.

For more information call the Helpline on 01484 854788; Email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk Download a digital catalogue www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. SNICKERS

ENQUIRY

376

The latest downloadable guide to plate heat exchangers (PHEs) is now available, it is an invaluable resource when seeking to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. The Ultimate Guide to Plate Heat Exchangers explains what comprises a PHE system, the way they work and the technical benefits.

The Guide also considers the suitability of Stokvis Heat Interface units (HIUs) for distributing heating and/or hot water within individual dwellings, connected to centralised boiler plant as well as wider district heating schemes.

The entire Stokvis range of PHEs and HIUs offers high build quality and low maintenance from compact, well-engineered units.

To view the Guide or for further information please call 020 8783 3050 visit www.stokvisboilers.com or enter the PHAM No. STOKVIS

ENQUIRY

379

Grant UK unveils new website

Easy Bathrooms Spring/Summer 2018 brochure launched Easy Bathrooms has launched its new 200-page bathroom product brochure for 2018, highlighting this season’s most on trend furniture, sinks, showers, radiators, taps and toilets.

Allowing customers to browse through a glossy, inspirational guide, you can rest assured that there’s styles and prices to suit everyones’ tastes.

To receive free brochures, or to set up a trade account, call 0330 660 1120, visit www.easybathrooms.com or enter the PHAM No. EASY BATHROOMS

373

Stokvis offers a holistic guide on PHEs and HIUs

The new look brochure incorporates AQATA’s entire Spectra and Exclusive Solutions Collections, coordinating shower trays and their bespoke Made2Measure Service. Designed to inspire and make the process of choosing a shower enclosure or screen as easy as possible. It’s packed full with design options to suit all shapes and sizes of bathrooms, along with detailed product information and prices.

The brochure is available to view online www.aqata.co.uk call 01455 896500 to order a copy or enter the PHAM No. AQATA

ENQUIRY

Snickers Will Stretch Your Visibility

New Envirogreen Low NOx Brochure from Firebird

FIREBIRD

CIBSE DBSP

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The Solid Gear VENT Safety Shoe – Precision Safety and Comfort

Solid Gear continues to modernize safety footwear with the revolutionary ‘Infinity’ technology in this new shoe.

Combining a lightweight athletic look with maximum breathability and superb safety features, the new VENT safety shoe is ideal for workers who are constantly on the move.

So get to know more about the quality and innovation plus the top class safety functionality in every Solid Gear product – your feet will notice the difference.

To get more information on Solid Gear - the Next Generation of Safety Footwear - visit the website at www.solidgearfootwear.com alternatively, call the Helpline on 01484 854788 or enter the PHAM No. SOLID GEAR

ENQUIRY

377

New Brochure for Nuance Tiling Alternative Bushboard’s new brochure for its best selling Nuance, alternative to ceramic tiling, waterproof wall panel collection is packed with inspiring design ideas and practical advice. Inspired by natural materials, the decors include stone, marble and wood effects available in gloss, ultramatt and textured finishes and is packed with ideas on how to use the panels to create stylish bathrooms – including a swish hotel style and a super practical family shower room.

An online version is available from www.bushboard.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. NUANCE

ENQUIRY

380

REHAU Launches New Brochure for Tabs

Heating specialist Grant UK’s new website incorporates the Company’s new branding while also delivering greater functionality, product information and includes exciting new features.

The product registration form has been simplified, the spares area has been restructured, the latest brochures and technical manuals for Grant’s current product portfolio continue to be available via the Downloads hub, and the Grant Events Diary details the upcoming Roadshows and Trade Events. It also enhances the established online offering which includes the G1 Portal platform and their apps, including the TechBox and G1 Click.

Visit www.grantuk.com or enter the PHAM No. GRANT UK

MR COMBI

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382

REHAU has a new no-nonsense brochure to introduce its innovative Thermally Activated Building Structures (TABS) technology to architects and specifiers looking for an environmentally-friendly heating and cooling system solution.

The brochure gives a simple, concise overview of the system, its benefits and suggested applications.

There is also a breakdown of the key benefits of TABS, such as its low operating costs, quick and easy installation and reduced maintenance requirements, it also details REHAU’s compression joint system.

For a copy of the brochure please email jo.trotman@rehau.com Download the brochure at www.rehau.co.uk/tabs or enter the PHAM No. REHAU

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