July/August 2019

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Volume 57 | Issue 7 | July/August 2019

New standard could add to costs and confusion Leading players in the heating industry have expressed serious concerns about revisions to PAS 2035 that could add an unnecessary layer of cost and bureaucracy to energy efficiency retrofits.

Recent revisions to the PAS 2035 standard for energy efficiency retrofits have sparked concern within the industry that undue burden will fall upon the professionals tasked with delivering the efficiency measures, such as condensing boilers.

The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) believes the new standard could leave vulnerable householders without heating and bury installers in mountains of red tape.

Stewart Clements, Director of the HHIC, comments: “The proposals are yet another example of unnecessary burden. Up to five ‘professionals’ may be required for every installation and loopholes could mean that they don’t have to actually be qualified.

Bureaucratic delays could leave vulnerable people without heating and hot water.”

He also believes that PAS 2035 does not offer any demonstrable benefit to the industry or consumers.

“In most instances, the presumed additional red tape would be a detriment to both,” he says, “particularly those having boilers installed or replaced under government-backed retrofit schemes such

as ECO, which aims to tackle fuel poverty in the UK. “These new rules may increase costs, create confusion and not provide any additional, meaningful safeguards to consumers. It would also, almost certainly, increase installation time, leaving those most in need potentially without heat or hot water while they wait for the boxes to be ticked.”

Martyn Bridges from Worcester Bosch has expressed concerns that the revised standard was not written by anyone from the heating sector.

He says: “A panel consisting of, amongst

others, several certification bodies published PAS 2035, bringing new measures for those required to fit energy efficient measures. The first point to make is that this new PAS, or publicly available standard, was not authored by anybody from our industry. It is the certification market that stands to gain from putting the extra compliance in place, not installers or even end-users.

“In short, it looks like that there are two new trades that have been introduced – A Retrofit Project Manager and a Retrofit Designer – alongside the existing Retrofit Installer.”

Martyn believes it will be homeowners who will be most affected. “You can imagine that with two more parties involved, the costs for installing a new boiler will go up – and it will be coming out of the homeowner’s pocket. This is another example of a regulation body that hasn’t approached the industry it will directly affect for advice and discussions. It will be interesting to see what implications PAS 2035 will bring, both for the industry and the general public.”

Uncertainty causes sharp fall in demand The latest figures from the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply have revealed a sharp loss of momentum for the UK construction sector, with business activity and incoming new work both falling at the fastest pace for just over 10 years. The slide in demand was mainly attributed by survey respondents to risk aversion among clients in response to heightened political and economic uncertainty.

The fall in house building was the largest reported for three years, which construction companies linked to weaker demand

conditions and concerns about the outlook for residential sales, while commercial work fell for the sixth consecutive month and remains the worst performing area of construction activity.

Total new work received by construction companies decreased for the third consecutive month in June, accelerating to its sharpest decline since April 2009. Lower volumes of new business were primarily linked to a lack of tender opportunities and a ‘wait-and-see’ approach to spending decisions. Some firms also commented

that softer economic conditions had led to reduced client budgets.

Tim Moore, Associate Director at survey complier IHS Markit, comments: “While the scale of the downturn is in no way comparable to that seen during the global financial crisis, the abrupt loss of momentum has been the worst experienced across the sector for a decade. A lack of clarity from policymakers has amplified the poor performance in June.

Swift decision-making and a break in the political impasse hold the key to pulling the construction sector out of the quicksand.”

You’re one question away from winning a Glow-worm boiler!

See page 50 for details

Up to the job

As part of a refurbishment of a prestigious 19th century brewery in Hertford – to be converted into three houses, three apartments and a penthouse – Alpha’s FlowSmart unit with InTec 40GS2 has been chosen to provide a high-efficiency system for one of the site’s four bedroomed houses.

A powerful boiler system was considered essential because this particular plot has three levels of underfloor heating plus four bathrooms, a utility room and kitchen. John Lontton, Installer & Developer at White Hart Developments, explains: “Choosing the right company to provide the heating system was an important requirement for the redevelopment of this old building. I performed plenty of research and decided Alpha was the best company for the job.”

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July/August 2019

NEWS Review

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Inside this issue Report points to Editor’s bathroom growth Viewpoint Bathroom Design

The future of technology in the bathroom and the potential growth of the shower toilet market

Starts page 23

Renewable Energy Exploding some of the myths surrounding the installation of heat pumps in the UK

Starts page 33

Light Commercial Heating Why installer training can open up opportunities to grow your business in the light commercial sector

Starts page 41

Vans & Racking We review the Peugeot Expert Asphalt van and round up some of the latest news on the road

Starts page 47

The Technical Magazine for the Plumbing, Heating & Air Movement Industry

A new report on the bathroom market from MTW Research suggests that bathroom sales will grow by around £40 million in 2019, with real term growth returning in 2020 for most bathroom product sectors.

Based on data from 130 bathroom suppliers, the report identifies rising ‘pent up demand’ in the bathroom market, highlighting latent demand, but consumers remain reticent to commit to purchase due to Brexit paralysis and economic uncertainties.

Discussing the 200 page report, MTW Director Mark Waddy says: “Rising disposable incomes, consumers delaying bathroom refits for three years now, growth in experiential bathroom retailing and some great product innovation across the bathroom market are just some trends waiting to boost bathroom sales as soon as Brexit uncertainties are resolved.”

Whilst the report identifies a dwindling number of bathroom suppliers able to unlock these opportunities, a number of products are outperforming overall bathroom market sales.

MTW identifies a growing polarisation of the bathroom

by Chris Jones

No time for putting up barriers market, with higher value products underpinning optimism for some bathroom retailers.

The report also discusses key bathroom design trends with the bathroom’s evolution as a ‘retreat’ giving way to more multifaceted demands from multi-generational and disabled households, changing lifestyles and design trends. Other growth trends include zoning in the bathroom furniture market, rising sophistication of the bathroom lighting market and mix-and-match trends in the brassware market.

Looking at how products are distributed, the research found that share growth is slowing for online bathroom retailers in 2019, with prices rising, and some online retailers repositioning to enhance margins.

MTW’s ‘Bathroom Market Trends Report 2019’ is available from £475 at: www. marketresearchreports.co.uk

If forecasts are correct, the unreliable British summer might finally bring some rays of sunshine, but there’s no getting away from the fact that some dark clouds have started to gather over the British economy. The country’s house building market has reported its biggest fall in demand for three years and the wider construction industry appears equally in the doldrums (see cover story). As ever, the stall in demand can partly be put down to global events outside this country’s control, but there’s no doubt that the prolonged period of political uncertainty and the lack of resolution over Brexit has had negative and possibly long-lasting repercussions.

With consumers not having to look too far for reasons to hesitate over any major expenditure, it’s perhaps not the best time for extra barriers to be put in the way of potential investment in an energy efficiency upgrade.

Unfortunately, latest proposals under PAS 2035 – the standard that governs the energy retrofit of domestic buildings – seem set to do just that. With the aim of ensuring that consumers receive the best possible advice, it is recommended that up to five industry professionals should be consulted about such a project, including a Retrofit Project Manager and a Retrofit Designer, all adding to costs and potential confusion.

The suggestion within the heating industry is that it’s another example of certification and regulatory bodies looking to profit from another unnecessary layer of bureaucracy – and one that will only result in less energy saving projects being given the green light. If that proves to be the case, it’s hard to see how PAS 2035 can possibly benefit either the consumer or the installer.

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Incorporating: Plumbing & Heating News Plumbing & Heating Equipment News Published by: Pinede Publishing | 16/18 Hawkesyard Hall, Armitage Park, Nr Rugeley, Staffordshire WS15 1PU Tel: 01889 577222 | Fax: 01889 579177 Email: info@phamnews.co.uk www.phamnews.co.uk Managing Editor Chris Jones Assistant Editor Carol Hitchcock Publishers Chris Evans Russ Jackson

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Asa Finnigan, Area Director for Kent and East Anglia at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, has raised over £3500 for Graham’s Together charity partner, Barnardo’s, after completing the 2019 London Marathon. Having completed the marathon in just over five hours, Asa exceeded his original fund-raising target of £1500 and the money raised will be used to help change the lives of children and young people in the care system. Asa comments: “I was so motivated by the amount of support and encouragement I received from my colleagues at Graham throughout the whole process.

I have completely smashed my target, and I’m pleased to say that the funds will support some incredible and life-changing projects for young people across the UK.”

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July/August 2019

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NEWS Review Installers slow to embrace renewables

Hard work pays off for apprentice Aaron Housen from Hayes has been named JTL’s ‘National MES Apprentice of the Year’. Chosen from a pool of more than 1200 final year apprentices, Aaron was presented with an engraved glass award and a £500 toolkit from sponsors Monument Tools at a ceremony held in London on 6th June.

One of the largest workbased learning providers in England and Wales, JTL runs its annual awards to celebrate the highest achieving young trainees in the building services engineering sector. The candidates – all in the final year of their apprenticeships – are nominated from each of the organisation’s seven regions based on their performances throughout their four years of training.

The selection process began with a regional awards competition which saw JTL’s network of training officers and managers nominating the apprentices they felt deserved special recognition.

Aaron, who works for his father’s company, Dunamis Heating and Mechanical Services Ltd, says: “Despite

winning the regional award, I didn’t really believe I had a chance of taking the National Award as well. It’s been really rewarding working my way through an apprenticeship.

To end up with an award as well has hugely exceeded my expectations.”

Fine example JTL Training Officer, Mark Brown, comments: “Aaron has passed all his exams to the highest level completing his NVQ Level 3 and his Gas Safe training. In addition, he has been an exemplary attendee at Amersham and Wycombe College over the four years of his apprenticeship.

“He works in large domestic properties with wealthy and often testing clients, but he always conducts himself professionally. He now does surveys and quotes for the business and has begun training another apprentice. He always seems to have time, however busy the business is, which is a skill in itself. He works to the highest standards I’ve seen in an apprentice in my 14 years as a training officer.”

With the aim of assessing how installers perceive renewable technologies, Worcester Bosch recently set up a series of workshops on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), taking place in Thurrock and Worcester. Installers who attended were asked questions about customer demand, installation feasibility, willingness to pay and their knowledge of renewables such as heat pumps.

The research has revealed that only 20% of installers felt confident or qualified to fit a heat pump, should they be asked by a customer.

Nearly all the attendees agreed that if heat pumps were to become a serious alternative to boilers then national training courses would need to be introduced.

It was also thought that such courses should be free for installers and cover not just heat pumps but solar, smart controls, heat recovery

systems and other renewable alternatives.

At both workshops installers reported that householders had a low awareness of alternatives to gas boilers. Most customers are very price driven and rated value for money as a key consideration.

When asked if they would be able to persuade a homeowner to invest in a heat pump today, there was an overwhelming feeling from attendees that this wouldn’t be possible. It was therefore suggested that a government subsidy would

Charity bike ride

A team of amateur cyclists from Kohler Mira will be embarking on an epic 270-mile challenge, cycling from Cheltenham, where the company is based, to the centre of Paris, raising money for Mira’s chosen charity for 2019, Alzheimer’s Research UK. A Just Giving page has been set up to collect donations: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ miracheltenhamtoparis

New specification team for London With the aim of providing dedicated support to architects, consultants, developers and main contractors in London and the South East, Vaillant has formed a new speciÿcation team. The team will be on hand to provide stakeholders in the region with resources for the design and development of industrial, commercial, domestic and renewable systems.

Leading the initiative is Business Development Director Chris Goss, a

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speciÿcation expert with a decade’s worth of experience at Vaillant, who will be joined by two new additions to the business: Rob Arkle (the City and East London), who has 25 years of experience in technical sales for the HVAC sector, and Peter Spurway (the City and West London), who has previously worked with brands such as Strebel and Andrews Water Heaters.

“This is a completely new initiative for Vaillant, and one which we believe

will offer a whole new level of service to stakeholders across London and the South East,” says Chris “The appointment of Rob and Peter ensures that our dedicated division is able to provide a highly specialised service, enabling us to supply a level of design and speciÿcation support which is unmatched in the market.

We look forward to working with architects, consultants, developers and main contractors throughout the area.”

need to be in place for any homeowner to consider making such an investment.

Limited demand Perhaps one of the biggest pitfalls installers had found when discussing gas boiler alternatives was that there is very limited demand from homeowners. Only one or two customers had ever asked installers attending the workshops for anything other than a new boiler. In fact, virtually all the installations they had undertook in the last few years were combi boilers.

However, when explained that the alternatives to gas could be heat pumps, hydrogen gas boilers or a combination of both, the installers felt more confident with hydrogen. They felt the homeowner would be more accepting of this technology and it would therefore be easier to convert them.

Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, says: “It is clear from our work for BEIS that there is still a lot that needs to be done for installers before heat pumps should be seriously considered as an alternative heating technology.

“Hydrogen could be a more suitable and less intrusive alternative to natural gas fired boilers. A simple switch, without the huge price increase, will be much more attractive to them – and installers feel they will be able to convince customers of the benefits of changing.”

Top awards go to Perth College UHI

Apprentices from Perth College UHI have taken home the top awards at the latest SNIPEF SkillPLUMB competition held in June.

First place in both the lead and copper competitions were won by third-year apprentices attending Perth College UHI. Shaun McTavish, employed by McDonald & Buist Ltd, won the first prize for lead, while the top prize in the copper competition went to Kyle McGeoghie, employed by William Combe & Son Ltd. The lead competition saw second place go to Iain Winnard who attends Glasgow Clyde College and

works for Blair Plumbing & Heating Solutions Ltd. Second place in the copper competition was awarded to Samuel Henderson of Tullos Training Centre, employed

by Derek Scott Plumbing & Heating.

Gordon Nisbet, Plumbing and Gas Lecturer at Perth College, was thrilled with the results. “We are very proud of the way Kyle and Shaun conducted themselves during the competition. The work they produced was to a very high standard and they both were worthy winners. They’re very good ambassadors for the college and their respective employers.”

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NEWS Review

Plumbing apprentice beats New Presidents inaugurated other trades to Screwfix title Callum Abberley, a plumbing and heating apprentice from Burton upon Trent, has been named Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2019.

After beating competition at the national final in London, 18-year old Callum, a JTL plumbing and heating apprentice at Burton and South Derbyshire College, won a career-boosting £10,000 business bundle.

The final saw 10 of the UK’s brightest up-and-coming trade apprentices gather in London for two days, with the first day spent at the Global Academy where finalists were taught vital skills on how to take their business forward, including social media training and green screen filming. The final took place at Google HQ, where Callum impressed a panel of judges by demonstrating his passion for his trade.

Currently working towards his NVQ Level 2 Diploma

in plumbing and heating, Callum caught the judges’ attention with his desire to run his own business one day. His goal is to help sufferers of dementia to live better lives through the use of technology, such as auto shut off timers that ensure gas and taps are switched off to reduce risk in the home.

Callum comments: “I am so honoured to be crowned

Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2019. The prize will help me to achieve my dream and specialise in helping dementia sufferers.

I also want to become an ambassador to those coming into the trade. The skills I have learnt so far have helped make dementia sufferer’s lives easier and this prize will only help me develop further.”

The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering has a new President. Outgoing CIPHE President Tracey Richardson passed on the chains of office to Christopher Northey at the Institute’s AGM in June.

Chris started his plumbing career in 1987 as an apprentice within the family business and attained his Master Plumber Certificate in 2004. For the past seven years, Chris has been a design director, responsible for leading teams of public health engineers on a variety of projects.

In his first Presidential address, Chris emphasised his belief in the importance of working in partnership with other bodies to improve the industry, raise standards and petition Government on important issues. Chris also emphasised the importance of training and career progression.

“Encouraging young people into our great industry and giving them opportunities

Christopher Northey, CIPHE

Neil Hadden, SNIPEF

for career progression must be one of our key goals and objectives for securing our industry’s future,” said Chris.

“We have the technical knowledge and experience as plumbing and heating professionals, and we must ensure that this continued transfer of both practical and technical knowledge is maintained to the next generation of young plumbing and heating engineers.”

SNIPEF, the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation, also has a new President – Neil Hadden from Elgin is the 97th member to take on the role.

Calling on other members to be more active, he said: “I believe we need to continue to find better ways of engaging with our membership base and I strongly encourage our members to become more involved with their local association.”

Golf day raises big New Intergas owners plan to invest money for charity Intergas has been acquired by Rheem Global, a North American based provider of heating and cooling solutions. A brand leader in the Netherlands for condensing boilers, Intergas has grown rapidly in the UK in recent years and also has fast-growing subsidiaries in Canada and the United States via its IBC brand.

The company will join Rheem’s Global Water Division and operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Paloma Rheem Global, Inc. Its headquarters will remain in Coevorden and the Intergas brand name will remain unchanged.

Speaking about the acquisition, Stephen Zouch, MD of Intergas UK, says: “We are delighted to be

joining Rheem at this very exciting time for our brand’s development in the UK. Rheem understands our core business and its leadership is committed to long-term growth plans for Intergas. We look forward to accelerating product innovations together with Rheem and expanding into new markets and regions in the future.”

At the heart of future design Boost for PipeSnug

Fernox recently hosted its 10th annual charity golf day, raising money for its chosen charities: Shooting Star Chase and Combat Stress. The event was held at the Draycote Hotel and Whitefields Golf Club and welcomed over 70 heating and plumbing industry professionals. Over the last 10 years, the Fernox charity golf days have raised an impressive £93,212 in donations. Fernox split the £5000 raised at this year’s event between its chosen charities.

Shooting Star Chase cares for 700 babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions living in London and Surrey. The charity offers a range of therapies, specialist nursing and respite care as well as support groups for the children and their families.

Combat Stress provides mental health therapies, rehabilitation help and support for former servicemen and women dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

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Ideal Standard’s new £1m Clerkenwell showroom is now open for business following an official opening by the Group’s CEO Torsten Türling and UK MD Stephen Ewer on 26th June.

The London Design and Specification Centre has been created to bring together a variety of industry professionals, from architects and designers to project developers and specifiers.

An Italian-inspired launch, reflecting the company’s recently announced partnership with design studio Palomba Serafini Associati, offered an opportunity to view a number of inspirational collections born out of this collaboration.

Other brands in the Ideal Standard family are also featured with innovative healthcare and commercial washroom solutions from Armitage Shanks and the latest products from Sottini.

Speaking at the event, Torsten Türling, said: “Working closely with architects, designers, urban planners and

construction companies, we want to positively shape the future of modern living. This latest flagship Design and Specification Centre in the heart of London’s creative hub was created with exactly this philosophy in mind and we look forward to welcoming all of our customers and partners.”

PipeSnug, the innovative product that gives a quicker, smarter ÿnish around pipework, has announced it is entering a new era which will enable the company to focus on bringing new products to market.

A distribution agreement with national distributor Davant will signiÿcantly expand PipeSnug’s availability and will allow founders Chris Burdett and Alex Lever to focus on new product development.

“The agreement will allow Chris and I to concentrate on inventions and ideas which make life easier for the trade,” says Alex.

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NEWS Review New standard for in-line filter Major milestone for plumber roll

Sailors ahoy!

The Polypipe charity regatta is inviting members of the industry to sign up for this annual event, taking place at Portsmouth on Thursday 5th September. Now in its 21st year, the regatta welcomes guests from the building, construction and plumbing sectors.

A choice of yachts is available for guests and the entry fee includes a place on a yacht, a skipper, breakfast, afternoon tea, waterproofs and entry to the regatta.

Guests are also invited to join Polypipe the night before sailing for a celebrations evening, including a street food supper, a welcome drink and entertainment.

For more information and to book your place visit www.polypipe.com/ polypipe-regatta

Following the recent publication of the new British Standard, BS 7593:2019, ADEY has welcomed the new guidance, saying it will help drive the adoption of best practice in whole system health, not just boiler protection.

The revised standard for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic heating and cooling water systems came into effect on 31 May 2019, superseding BS 7593:2006.

BS 7593:2019, which is applicable to both closed loop heating and cooling circuits, now includes a requirement for the fitting

of a permanent in-line filter, in addition to a chemical clean and fresh water flush, stating that an in-line filter should be fitted to all systems. The guidance also says an inhibitor should be re-dosed every five years or a full system water test undertaken.

The changes are aimed at driving greater consideration for correct water treatment chemistry and filtration including prevention, maintenance and monitoring to properly protect a system.

Dr Neil Watson, ADEY’s Chief Technical Officer, explains: “The changes made acknowledge that chemical water treatment isn’t a fit and forget solution, and magnetic filters shouldn’t just be considered a ‘nice to have’.

Including these solutions in BS 7593 recognises a critical shift in moving the industry towards a holistic approach to system maintenance.”

Connect with your customer The government endorsed quality scheme, TrustMark, has launched a new business and consumer portal that offers a secure, free and convenient platform for businesses and their customers to communicate. Registered Businesses and consumers can exchange information on the site to ensure total clarity on both sides of all aspects of the

job, including the work agreed, costings, delivery dates and expected outcomes.

Registered Businesses can also opt in to personalise their website profile, adding company logos, photographs of previous work and areas of specialism.

For further information about TrustMark, visit www.trustmark.org.uk

The CIPHE has welcomed its 70,000th Registered Plumber (RP) to its rolls, first begun in 1886, with Sam Demeza from Newmarket claiming the honour.

In its time, the Register has been managed by the Worshipful Company of Plumbers (WCP), the Registered Plumbers Association (RPA) and, most recently, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE), which took over its management on merging

with the RPA in 1970. Its role has been widened to move with the changing demands of the industry, with the Register of Heating Professionals introduced by the CIPHE in 2009.

Sam Demeza is MD of Bentley Mechanical Services.

He’s been a lifelong member of the industry, working his way up from being on the tools, after originally being an apprentice at the company under its founder, Stuart Bentley, who was also a CIPHE member.

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July/August 2019

10 NEWS Review Shower company Visit addresses decarbonising heat backs cricket club The CEO of the Committee on Climate Change recently paid Worcester Bosch a visit to discuss the future of the decarbonisation of heat. The visit occurred prior to the recent announcement that the Government was committed to net zero UK carbon by 2050 following recommendations from the CCC. During his tour of Worcester’s headquarters, CCC CEO Chris Stark saw firsthand the company’s fully-functional hydrogen boiler. The prototype runs on 100% hydrogen gas and could potentially lead the way to a

Nuneaton-based Triton Showers has pledged support to Nuneaton Cricket Club as its main sponsor for the 2019 season. The sponsorship deal will see the Triton Showers logo premiere on the club’s main scoreboard and the team’s kit throughout this season’s cricketing period.

Making its debut at the next Warwickshire County Cricket League fixture, the first team will don the newly sponsored kit for their home game against Hampton & Solihull.

Gary Cox, Chairman at Nuneaton Cricket Club, says: “We are enormously grateful to Triton Showers for its generous sponsorship of the Club. The funds provided will enhance our facilities for both adult and junior cricket at a time when cricket, in a World Cup year, is seeing a growth in popularity.”

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CCC’s Chris Stark (l) with Worcester Bosch CEO Carl Arntzen

new fuel source for heating and hot water in the UK. Martyn Bridges, Director of Technical Communication

and Product Management at Worcester, says: “It is excellent to see organisations and bodies such as the CCC

directly connecting with big heating companies to discuss decarbonisation.

“Now there is a confirmed commitment on net zero, it is the responsibility of all of us in the heating sector to contribute fully. We believe hydrogen has a major part to play so we are happy to have been able to show Chris what our research and development has produced.”

Also in attendance was Mike Foster, CEO of Energy and Utilities Alliance. Worcester Bosch will be officially revealing its hydrogen boiler prototype at an event later this year.

TechTalks return to the UK circuit The latest dates for the electrcial industry’s TechTalk Series have been announced by NICEIC and ELECSA. Returning in September, the regional shows are aimed at anyone operating in the sector, keeping them up to date with the latest news.

This year’s TechTalks are now CPD accredited, meaning attendees

can use information from the day as part of their on-going professional development.

TechTalk host and Senior Technical Presenter for NICEIC and ELECSA, Darren Staniforth, will be leading the discussion along with Technical Engineer Jake Green.

Topics on the agenda include: BS

5839 part 6, smart installations, EICR coding in line with the 18th Edition, technical Q&A and much more. The first event takes place in Wadebridge on 25th September. For a full listing of dates and venues and to book tickets (£25 each) visit online at www.shop.niceic.com/ events

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July/August 2019

NEWS Review 11 Oil heating conference looks to the future with low carbon liquid fuels

T

he potential for liquid biofuels to provide a low cost, carbon reduction solution for oil heated homes was the main focus of this year’s OFTEC conference which took place at the Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel and Golf Club near Tewkesbury in June. Some of the oil heating industry’s main stakeholders gathered to hear the outcomes of a six-month independent study by energy consultancy group Perpetuum Partners into the potential of liquid biofuels. The research, presented by founding partner Jason Woods, provided a detailed analysis of oil heated housing stock in England and compared the viability of biofuels with other low carbon heating options currently available.

The key finding of the research project is that biofuels, whether a 100% pure biofuel or a 30% blend, offer the best carbon reducing routes for the least financial outlay. The study also highlighted how oil heated properties tend to be older, detached and often poorly insulated, with many properties built pre-1919. This means there is considerable scope to reduce heat demand from these homes by carrying out fabric improvements, and this should be addressed before switching to low carbon fuels.

Modelling showed that making ‘reasonable’ upgrades, such as installing double glazing and cavity wall and loft insulation, would reduce heat demand by 15% at an average cost of approx. £6350 to £9150 per home. Further improvements, such as floor and solid wall insulation would cost significantly more, on average £10,100 to £14,350, but reduce heat demand by a substantial 42.5%.

Paul Rose added: “Now we are in no doubt that biofuels provide the future path for oil heating. The next step will be to develop ‘pathway options’ for government, detailing how and when industry will develop and roll out low carbon liquid fuels. Field trials will also begin to confirm the performance of biofuels and we will further step up our communication with Government and stakeholders to secure recognition and support for this compelling solution.”

At the conference, Kiwa UK Group Technical Director Mark Crowther, who has provided guidance to the Committee on Climate Change, also shared insights into the role hydrogen could play in decarbonising heat and transport.

From left: outgoing OFTEC Chairman Niall Fay, Grant Engineering; Jason Woods, In Perpetuum Partners; Mark Crowther, Kiwa UK; OFTEC CEO Paul Rose; and new OFTEC Chairman Laurance Coey, Harlequin Manufacturing

Well timed Commenting on the study findings, OFTEC CEO Paul Rose said: “This year’s conference couldn’t be more timely. Just last week, the UK became the first major nation to commit to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, replacing the original target of an 80% reduction on 1990 levels. The result is we must all now push harder to meet this new, tougher goal.

“The liquid fuel heating industry has the potential to play a pivotal role in decarbonising rural homes. These research findings show that biofuels offer the most cost-effective solution for this hard-to-treat sector. Government and all sector players must now get behind biofuels and make this option a reality to secure a sustainable future for off-grid consumers and industry alike.”

Paul Rose acknowledged that progress would be difficult without government support, which would be vital to encourage consumer action.

“This is particularly true for those on lower incomes,” he added, “and given the higher rates of fuel poverty in rural areas, we must all ensure the transition to low carbon heat is fair, practical and as affordable as possible.”

Cost analysis

Conference delegates were able to learn about the latest research on the potential for biofuels

Following an analysis of the cost of fabric improvements and the operating and capital cost of each low carbon heating option currently available, the research ranked all solutions by Carbon Saving Cost, measuring both decarbonisation and cost to the end consumer.

The results show that a 100% biofuel offers the lowest cost and highest impact solution compared to all other options, costing an average £166 per tonne of carbon saved, followed by a 30% blend of biofuel and kerosene at £204.

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PEOPLE on the Move Stuart Turner has announced the appointment of Richard Harden as its new Managing Director. Richard previously served as Commercial Manager, Sales Manager and, most recently, MD at Wilo Pumps. His remit at Stuart Turner is to build on the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success to date and expand the brand into new markets, particularly the commercial sector.

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!

The latest recruit to Brymec is Andy Lenton, the new Business Development Director for the building services component supplier. Andy has spent the last 28 years in the supply industry, with most of his career in branch management. Most recently, he was a Sales Director at a competitor company where he looked after the sales team for London and the South East.

Sunderland-based Salamander Pumps, a manufacturer of shower and domestic water pumps, has appointed Tristan Cawte as Business Development Manager. Based in the Midlands, Tristanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main area of focus will be to continue to drive awareness of the Salamander brand and range of products, as well as increase regional sales in existing and new markets.

Following four years of service as Business Development Manager at ACV UK, Jason Hartigan has been promoted to National Sales Manager. Jason joined the company in 2015 to look after customers in the Northeast, Cumbria, and Yorkshire. His career in the heating industry spans 25 years and includes sales and management as well as helping customers with design and specification.

Commercial heating and hot water specialist Adveco has appointed Greg Brushett as UK Sales Manager, responsible for all Adveco and A.O. Smith Water Heaters product and system sales. As part of the appointment, Greg is to spearhead a review and restructuring of the UK sales function to drive greater focus on supporting customer engagement.

Commercial boiler manufacturer Ideal Commercial has made two new appointments to its sales team. Peter Breeze will serve as Business Development Manager for West Midlands and Mid Wales while Lorraine McFadden acts in the same role for Scotland. Peter has been promoted from within, having joined the company in 2017 as Sales Support Engineer, while Lorraine joins from Herz Valves.

Easy Bathrooms has strengthened its sales team for the contracts market with two promotions. Paul Blanksby, formerly manager of the Sheffield showroom, and Charlotte Wood, who was a Sales Executive, have both been made Area Sales Managers. They join Rob Holroyd, who has headed up the division since the business was founded in 2013.

Expanding its growing sales team, Blanco has named Stuart Claydon as Sales Account Executive. Stuart joins the team with knowledge of the kitchen industry, having previously worked for Wilson Fink, Alno Kitchens and Homebase. Stuart says he is looking forward to putting his experience from his time in previous positions to good use in his new role.

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

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New to the sales team at Baltur is Tony Stockton. Tony brings a wealth of experience to the new position, having been in the industry for over 40 years. He has worked in roles varying from service and installation to sales and management with major energy suppliers including British Gas and Shell Oil. He is fully qualified in natural gas, LPG and oil, and is currently undertaking renewables training.

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YOUR Views Ambitious targets, weak political will With reference to your June cover story: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;New zero carbon goals receive industry backingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: So the government reckons we are going to be a carbon neutral country by 2050 does it? Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just over 30 years away â&#x20AC;&#x201C; how does it think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to do this? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all very well having grand aims, but if there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a plan about how itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to happen, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just pie-in-the sky. And letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face it: our government hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exactly shown itself capable of achieving much of anything over the past three years.

As for converting all the existing boilers to hydrogen, howâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that going to work? You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run hydrogen and natural gas through the same pipework at the same time, so either everyone is going to have to convert at exactly the same time, or a completely new network will have to be built alongside the existing one. Every road in the country will have to be dug up, probably

ÂŁ100r Lette

more than once. I just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see it happening.

So where does that leave us? The CCC and others point to heat pumps as the technology that will bring us closer to zero net carbon, which might be a reasonable expectation if we had the nuclear plant capacity of France or Japan, which of course we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t and probably wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do in our lifetime.

Which brings me to solar. All that free energy â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rainingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; down upon us, and we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even begun to capture its outpouring for heating buildings and hot water.

In my opinion, every new home should be required to integrate both solar thermal and PV into its construction. Add that to a heat pump ][ML _Q\P ]VLMZĂ&#x2020; WWZ PMI\QVO IVL \PMV weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re really talking. The technology is there, but where is the political will?

A. Davidson Via email

The Tweet spot

Sunrise Plumbing & Heating @sunrise_heating When you ask the customer where the faulty boiler is located and they say in the cupboard... yep and it looks like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knackered too

Becky Bates @Becky_BBPlumb 3URMHFW &RSSHU 6SODVK %DFN GRQH 7RRN D ZKLOH WR Âż QG D ELJ HQRXJK F\OLQGHU 'D\ DW WKH ROÂś PDQÂśV ZRUNVKRS DQG D ORW RI HOERZ JUHDVH to clean & polish. Proper happy with the end result!

Vietec Heating @VietecHeating Look, no trap or waste. Well, it looks that way, but no, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just more @mcalpineplumb WHB1 traps Âż WWHG 7KHVH WUDSV WDNH XS VXFK OLWWOH VSDFH LW IUHHV up so much space.

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July/August 2019

14 POINT of View

Time for an assessment overhaul With too many vested interests and a lack of accountability, is the current training and assessment system for gas installers letting down both the public and competent installers? John Martin argues that it’s about time that the industry considered serious reform.

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here seems to be a distinct lack of accountability with regards to the training and assessment of gas installers.

Instead, there just seems to be a continuing increase in the various layers of so-called approvals, with none of these being adequately policed – just another layer of fees ultimately being swallowed by the already hugely burdened John Martin installer.

The latest is the IGEM approval of new entrant training, commonly referred to as ‘Managed Learning Programmes’ (MLP), under the document IGEM/IG/1. Having been privy to, indeed having paid for one such approval audit, I can say that from an experienced auditor perspective, the process was nothing short of a joke.

What makes it worse still is that those certificating the MLP are not obliged to review the candidate’s portfolio of evidence. As such, many portfolios which should demonstrate on-site experience are instead the product of in-centre simulations.

‘That shouldn’t matter’, I hear you say, ‘as the individual has to complete an ACS initial assessment’. But again, certification bodies and UKAS fail to adequately police ‘rogue’ centres, because these centres are typically the very centres generating the most fees for the Certification Body – surely a conflict of interest.

Remember also that in the early days of ACS, the Health and Safety Executive asked to see the ‘pass rate’ statistics and when it was found to be 98% they were satisfied that there were no serious concerns with the competence of gas installers. They should have asked how many pass on the first attempt because that would have told a different story.

Now, let’s be honest, a scheme that gives you potentially five attempts before you have failed the assessment, when the multiple-choice questions only have four potential answers,

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is hardly robust – you would have to go some to fail it!

‘But surely’, I hear you say again, ‘when Gas Safe Register comes to inspect a new registrant, they will suspend him if he cannot demonstrate adequate knowledge and competence?’ But no! They may reduce his scope of work, but in reality they do not withhold registration, even though in some cases the applicant cannot even carry out a tightness test correctly.

Instead, Gas Safe Register reports to Certification Bodies that an operative has been identified as undertaking dangerous work and that he was trained/assessed at one of their approved centres, leaving it to the Certification Body to decide what, if any action should be taken.

Assessment process New entrants are no longer assessed by Gas Safe prior to their registration being approved.

The reasoning for this is that a candidate has been certificated as competent by a UKAS accredited Certification Body so, therefore, it should be reasonable to assume that the candidate is indeed competent.

If we look at data from Gas Safe Register for the last five years we can see that, on average, there are 7096 new entrant registrations each year and, of these, Gas Safe only inspect 23% in the first year. Of those inspected, 30 are found to have carried out gas work categorised as either ‘At Risk’ or ‘Immediately Dangerous’.

It can therefore be assumed that if all new registrants were inspected then over 120 such installations might be found. Remember, this is just one inspection of work, so how many other installations have gone undetected?

Many of these new entrants will have undertaken an IGEM approved MLP and then been assessed at an approved centre before being certificated as competent by a UKAS accredited Certification Body!

Production line

Safety concern

The truth is candidates are being coached to pass assessments rather than being properly trained. It is a very lucrative production line.

If we take the Gas Safe Register failure rate for new entrants and assume just one gas job per day is being undertaken by new entrants, and assuming 250 working days per year, then over the last five years there could have been as many as 160,000 unsafe jobs undertaken. Is this really acceptable? Is the current system protecting the public?

I believe that Gas Safe Register should have confidence in the system, but their findings suggest that maybe they should re-introduce the pre-registration assessment of new entrants as the UKAS accredited process is clearly no longer fit for purpose and perhaps after 20 years it is time to overhaul this process.

The new entrant market is extremely lucrative. Unfortunately, this means the ‘guaranteed pass’ scenario comes into play – pay your money and away you go, instant Category 1 applicant, despite potentially never having worked on a real job.

The whole process is actually simple to police, but at every level, conflict of interest applies (a contravention of one of the fundamental principals of ISO17024:2012): • Centres operating in a competitive market can’t make it too difficult for candidates to pass, or word gets out and they lose their clients to another even less scrupulous centre.

• Some Certification Bodies are reluctant to suspend or sanction centres that flaunt the rules as they are generally a high revenue customer and may very well jump ship if they are put under pressure to comply.

• IGEM, new to the game, but a nice new and welcome income stream for them approving the MLPs, but the Gas Safe statistics show this process to be flawed.

• UKAS – the gas scheme is a good earner for UKAS and if the scheme failed due to Certification Body suspensions or lost credibility then the HSE might rightly question the point of UKAS.

How can we have this situation where competent engineers who work hard, maintain their competence and who jump through all the hoops are having to contend and compete with installers who should not be allowed to work? The even bigger concern is the seeming disregard for public safety.

Over the years, I have had many installers say to me how sickened they have been to see new entrants being passed by ACS centres.

In fact, passed is not the right word, being coached and in some cases even given the answers, is the truth of the matter.

One of the problems with our industry is that nobody wants to make a fuss, happy to have a moan down at the plumber’s merchants over a coffee, but it seldom goes further. We might seem to be dotting all the I’s and crossing all the T’s with procedures coming out of our ears, but if nobody actually bothers to look to see if these procedures are being followed, then it’s all pointless.

I believe I could go into several of the ACS Certification Bodies tomorrow and demonstrate they do not have the resource to undertake the decision-making process as they document it in their UKAS approved procedures, so why can’t UKAS? Perhaps the HSE should police the industry, build a small charge into the process (at the same time cutting out one or two layers of ineffective regulation and the associated fees) and then there is no conflict of interest. Hefty fines need to be imposed on those found to be in breach because, as it stands, they know that there is little chance of being found out or brought to task.

About the author Having worked on the tools for 16 years, John Martin entered the training, assessment and certification market, where he has worked for more than 20 years for the likes of Zurich Certification, before becoming Scheme Director of Logic Certification and then owner and MD of Benchmark Certification. He is currently working as a freelance consultant and author.

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16 ENERGY Matters

Solar export pay The decline of smart meter installs under new rules

The Solar Trade Association has welcomed the new rules governing the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) which gives homes and businesses that install solar panels a payment for exporting electricity back to the grid.

By 1st January 2020 suppliers with more than 150,000 retail customers will be required to offer terms of payment for the surplus power that new solar homes put on the grid. Smaller suppliers are also able to offer a Smart Export Guarantee voluntarily.

Installation standards will be safeguarded through a requirement that systems be demonstrated to suppliers

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that they are MCS certified or equivalent.

The new rules replace the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme, which closed to new applicants in March.

However, unlike the FiT, which paid households for all electricity they generated and exported, the new SEG rules will only provide payments for the electricity that is exported.

While the STA welcomes the SEG, it says important barriers still need to be resolved in order for a fully competitive market to develop, as there are no comprehensive offers yet beyond the domestic market.

Recent figures have revealed that smart meter installs have dropped significantly, despite the fact that the rollout deadline is only 18 months away. Figures from Cornwall Insights indicate that the current installation rate would need to quadruple in order to meet the 2020 target, which is the equivalent of 51,000 meters per day.

Oliver Archer, an analyst at Cornwall Insight, believes that meeting the current deadline now looks incredibly challenging.

“The drop-off in installations will come as no surprise to many, especially given the ongoing issues with the transition to SMETS2 (smart metering

equipment technical specifications) meters,” he says. “Even an extended target of 2023 presents difficulties – install rates would still need to increase by close to 6000 meters a day to reach

this. As the industry finally moves over to SMETS2, technical issues are also beginning to make themselves felt.

“Installations have consistently lagged on what one might expect to meet the target by the end of the decade. However, the drop-off in installations shows a deceleration rather than acceleration, despite the proximity of 2020.”

The north of England, which has historically seen higher penetrations of smart meters, saw installations fall 14% following the SMETS1 end date as suppliers reported difficulties connecting meters to the region’s communication network.

Low cost solutions to low carbon heat The fossil fuel heating industry will play a key role in transitioning homes to a low carbon future – this was a main theme at OFTEC’s recent Low Carbon Homes forums.

As one of a number of specialists speaking at the events, OFTEC’s Head of Communications Malcolm

Farrow emphasised the need for all sectors of the heating industry – including the existing fossil fuel sector – to play their part in reducing emissions. Malcolm argued that harnessing the expertise and capability of the oil and gas sector was critical in taking decisive action quickly.

Focusing on the situation

specific to oil-heated homes, Malcolm said that biofuels could make a significant contribution towards progress in the difficult to treat rural heating sector. He pointed out that, as most future gains in energy efficiency and carbon reduction will require people to make changes to their homes, consumer buy-in

would be paramount and low-cost options essential.

“Asking people to make considerable changes to their own homes and to spend money to do that is a challenge we need to overcome. We must ensure the transition to low carbon heat is fair, practical and as affordable as possible,” he says.

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July/August 2019

GADGETS & Tools 17 Better control with D-shaped handle

Keep safe with electrics Gas service engineers at Baxi Heating have been supplied with a device from Martindale Electric for checking appliance wiring and earthing, together with locking off devices to ensure circuits can be safely isolated before carrying out any work. The tools keep engineers safe when installing and servicing heating equipment and are essential for achieving compliance with the latest Gas Safe Register guidance TB118 2018 and ensure best practice for electrical safety. The new guidance also requires verification of mains earthing.

The EZ650 earth loop and polarity checker for socket and spur testing simplifies the process for identifying a satisfactory earth by combining a basic socket tester with an earth loop check that uses red/green LEDs, making it easy to interpret the results. The EZ650 socket and loop tester can be used on both 13A sockets and fused spurs to quickly identify a hazardous earth before starting work. This approach offers a simple solution to complying with TB118 and keeping service teams safe.

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Choose from preconfigured kits Three new analyser kits for commercial and industrial flue gas analysis have been launched by Testo. The Testo 340 analyser kits are preconfigured to make it easier to buy a device for a particular application, whether it’s standard combustion analysis, true NOx measurement, or SO2 and NO measurement.

Each kit includes a hard carry case, mains charger and analyser carry strap. Probes can be chosen from a comprehensive set, ranging from standard probe with thermocouple to

engine probes with built-in particulate filters, and ceramic probes for high temperature applications. The new analysers also come with a built-in dilution feature to enable measurement range extension, which is essential when there are high emission concentrations.

The analysers all have Bluetooth with connection to the Testo app to display measurements on Android devices. The Testo 340 is an advanced industrial analyser approved to EN50379.

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Claiming a first, Bosch Professional has launched a cordless 18V rotary hammer with a D-handle, offering KickBack Control and providing a higher level of user protection. In the event of sudden and unpredictable rotation of the rotary hammer around the drilling axis – which can occur if the drill becomes blocked in reinforced concrete – the integrated sensor shuts off the motor in a fraction of a second.

This prevents unexpected kickback and can therefore reduce the risk of injury.

A brushless motor contributes to the efficiency of the tool. When combined with a 5.0Ah battery, the GBH 18V-26 D Professional can drill around 110 holes (8 x 40mm) in concrete. For particularly demanding applications, users can use the high-performance ProCORE 18V battery.

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18 TRAINING Update Chance to up your pump know-how

Change of name

boosting solutions for vented systems, the company offers a course covering its Monsoon and Showermate ranges, with waste water removal covered by the Wasteflo range.

The modules look at sizing and selection for the products, best installation practice, and basic fault diagnosis. The day also includes lunch, a quiz and presentations about the benefits of the products, with samples and demonstrations.

To book a Stuart Turner training course, please visit www.stuart-turner. academy

Hosted throughout the year, Stuart Turner offers comprehensive product training to give installers knowledge of the latest legislative requirements and water boosting solutions. Courses are held at the company’s head office in Henley-On-Thames, as well as various other UK locations.

Training is free to installers who sign up via the Stuart Turner Academy portal.

There are three modules to choose from. Solutions for low mains water pressure in unvented systems is covered by two product ranges, Aquaboost and Mainsboost. To better understand water

Halifax expansion Logic Certification Ltd. has changed its name to LCL Awards to better reflect the company’s direction.

Established in 2004, the company has expanded from its roots in gas ACS to deliver a wide range of BSE and related qualifications, covering the electrical, refrigeration, renewables, smart metering, and health and safety sectors.

LCL Awards has over 100 approved centres located throughout the UK, and in 2017 its 200,000th certificate was issued.

Mark Krull, Director for LCL Awards, comments: “The qualifications we offer and the amount of approved centres in the LCL Award’s family has grown significantly over the past

15 years. Our customer base and the way people access and share information has also changed during this time period. We needed an image that reflected these changes and worked well on the range of different platforms people now access information.

“The new look is contemporary, professional and versatile, using a more modern colour palette and the option for a standalone hexagonal ‘badge’, which over time we hope will become instantly recognisable. We are an experienced, highquality and forward thinking awarding organisation and we feel our new branding better reflects this.”

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A training centre showcasing a range of Sime domestic gas boilers is set to expand after a successful year.

Calderdale Gas, based in Halifax, launched its facility in May last year to train new engineers and support the skills development of existing engineers.

The centre has run a range of courses since then using the Murelle One HE, Murelle Advanced HE, Murelle Elite HE 30 combi and the Elite HE 35 System T model.

Director Raman Mistry says: “The new place will offer us more space and more classrooms to extend our provision. Sime has supported us right from the beginning – training students, providing us with boilers and offering lots of support.”

New academy will allow for growth The centre runs courses for people who want to become gas engineers and for existing gas engineers who must re-sit their qualifications every five years. Visit www. calderdalegastraining.co.uk for more information.

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A new bespoke Training Academy has been opened

by Watts Industries UK at the company’s St Neots head office. Munish Nanda, President Americas and Europe, and UK MD Nigel Woods led the opening ceremony for the new training facility, which will enable customers to learn about the company’s commercial and residential water products and, in the future, undertake CPD work.

Two of Watts’ long-serving employees, Trevor Harling and Sue Barnes officially opened

the Academy and began the celebrations by cutting a cake in recognition of their long service and commitment to the company.

Kerry Harris, Sales Leader UK, said: “Watts is proud to be based in St Neots and this new training facility provides modern accommodation to welcome and train our customers. We’re excited to celebrate this new investment that signals our commitment to growing our business in the UK.” PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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It’s elementary

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Serving the Midlands area, Elements Training & Assessment Centre is fully equipped to provide training and assessment on plumbing, heating and gas at a purpose-built training facility in Stourbridge.

A wide range of plumbing courses are available, ranging from one day to five days long. Qualifications include Unvented Competent Person Schemes certificates and Legionella Prevention to Water Treatment certificates.

The company also offers gas training courses and accreditation, from commercial catering, catering appliances, domestic gas safety to boiler fault finding and diagnostics and much more.

The centre, which is BPEC and CIPHE accredited, features three climate controlled training suites, 12 training bays and demonstration areas. All courses are led by qualified and experienced instructors.

Find out more by visiting the website: www. elementstrainingcentre.com

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July/August 2019

20 BUSINESS Matters

Energy advice adds more value Continuing our series of business advice columns from Baxi Heating, this month Sales Director David Cook suggests that installers who present themselves as energy advisors are opening up opportunities for more business and more satisÿed customers.

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iven the increased focus efficiency. A clean-up of the current system on sustainability, people is therefore needed to remove the debris and want reassurance that their sludge that builds up in the pipes and radiators boiler is as efficient as possible. Even over time. These can cause blockages, cold more importantly, the more efficient spots on radiators and the clogging of boiler something is to run, the less it will components. By recommending a power flush cost. With that in mind, installers and system treatment ahead of installation, should be positioning themselves as both the customer and the installer can be energy advisors in order to foster better confident the central heating system is clean relationships with their customers and and protected before the boiler is fitted. generate more business.

Adding on It is common knowledge that Once a boiler has been installed into a clean condensing boilers are much more heating system, it is important to explain the efficient than older standard efficiency steps your customer needs to take to ensure models. New boilers are over 90% David Cook, Sales Director at Baxi Heating it stays that way. For example, after time, efficient, meaning customers can magnetite, or sludge, forms in the system that save money on their gas bills. By can settle in pipes, radiators and even the boiler, causing contrast, an old standard efficiency boiler could be as little as 60% efficient, meaning that for every £1 of gas major problems for the customer.

Advising them of this issue and recommending the burnt, only 60p is spent generating heat. Explaining this can help customers become more aware of the energy installation of a magnetic filter to attract metal particles saving benefits of modern boilers and be more likely to that can cause inefficiencies can lead to more work for the installer. This can also lead to a conversation about upgrade their current model. servicing, as the magnetic strip will require cleaning Preparation is key to maintain its efficiency during the scheduled annual Before a new boiler can be installed, it is essential to carry service. out a survey of the property and find out the customer’s Taking the temperature hot water and heating needs to avoid a false economy.

Bigger isn’t always better, and it is false economy to It may seem like an obvious thing to talk about, but a install a boiler with an output that is too high for the surprising number of homes do not have a room thermostat.

In such cases, demonstrating the benefits of controls such requirements of the household.

In addition, the last thing the customer wants is to go as timers, room thermostats and thermostatic radiator to the effort of having a boiler installed, only to find the valves may be useful to the customer.

For example, show how a room thermostat lets them condition of the overall heating system is hindering its

It’s all in hand A new app from Intergas has been unveiled to help busy installers make more of their time. Among its services, the app provides an online tool that makes preparing quotes and invoices faster and more efficient.

It tailors purchase orders that can be sent direct to a specific merchant and it even has bathroom planning software. It will also help with gas pipe sizing, measuring the gas rate and it can even turn a smartphone into a spirit level.

Speaking about the Intergas app, Manny Puletti, Sales Director, says: “The key benefit of our app is the facility to streamline a business so that it runs more efficiently and effectively.

20.indd 1

But it’s also a great way to help installers to take back more time for business development and for themselves.”

The app will help installers up their game, but there are some finance packages that can be offered to customers too and a consumer credit licence won’t be needed. Using TradeHelp’s finance arm, customers can be offered interest-free finance over 12 months and interest-bearing finance over a period of up to 10 years.

TradeHelp has an alternative process available for licensed installers.

The app is free and available to download from the App Store and Google Play.

set the temperature to suit their personal tastes, making the system run more efficiently and saving them money by preventing over-heating the room.

Indeed, attention-grabbing facts – like how simply lowering the thermostat by 1°C could give savings of up to 10% on their heating bill – will help the customer see you as an energy advisor. Taking this one step further, explain how greater savings could be made if a timer is set to only heat the home when it is needed, or radiators are turned down in rooms not in use.

Get smart Providing customers with ways to further tailor their heating systems, such as through smart controls, is another way to establish yourself as an energy expert.

Most controls include their own downloadable app, so it can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or tablet.

Customers can monitor their energy use and costs. They will appreciate the opportunity to find the most costeffective settings using the app.

For example, a Baxi uSense smart room thermostat can be connected through OpenTherm, unlocking additional features, including boiler fault diagnosis.

Sharing your knowledge about energy efficiency, heating and boiler maintenance, and money saving tips can help foster a strong relationship with your customer and provide new and repeat business opportunities.

Baxi Works To ÿ nd out more about best business practice and other support, visit Baxi Works: www.baxi.co.uk/ trade/baxi-works

Launching a business on a budget Establishing a new trade business is always going to cost money, even if you already have your own van and tools and maybe even a few clients, but a small budget should be no reason to shy away from starting a business. This is the advice from Lee Murphy, founder of Pandle, a cloud bookkeeping software solution for small business owners.

“Having a small budget should not stop you from setting up business if you plan properly,” explains Lee. “But if you want to be your own boss and don’t have large sums in the bank, then you need to be prepared.”

Here, Lee offers some strategies to launching and running a business on a small budget.

1. Consider renting, not buying Whatever you need – tools, transport, stock – it’s worthwhile considering the cost of renting rather than

buying to free up cash that can be put to better use elsewhere or simply held in reserve for emergencies. You may be given the option to buy at the end of the lease for a reduced price, something that is well worth considering.

2. Turnover is vanity, cashflow is sanity Your turnover figure will give you a skewed view of your finances. So if you simply look at the money you have

in the bank, you will overestimate how well you are doing. Instead, a good cashflow forecast will show you income and future expenditure, giving you a clearer picture of the books.

3. Set a payments policy that works Did you know that more than one in five insolvencies are the result of businesses not being paid on time? Making sure your customers know

how and when to pay you is fundamental for your business. Having a standard payments policy that customers are asked to sign before you start the job will help you should payment problems arise further down the line.

4. Work ‘on’ and ‘in’ your business It is important to keep up with industry developments as well as what your peers are doing if you are going to be competitive. Becoming too inwardly focused could mean that you miss out on commercial opportunities, or, worse still, you fail to spot broader issues that pose a real threat to your business.

To read the full version of this article, please visit: w w w. ph a m n e w s . c o.u k / launching-a-trade-business-ona-shoestring-budget. For more information on Pandle’s business software solutions, go to: www.pandle.com

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HEALTH & Safety Course looks at cancer risks The Considerate Constructors Scheme has announced a new e-learning course, ‘Occupational Cancers’, to help the industry’s workforce improve its understanding of occupational cancer risks and how to mitigate them. 40% of all deaths from occupational cancers arise within the construction industry.

The main causes of occupational cancers in construction work are exposure to silica dust, asbestos, diesel exhaust emissions and UV radiation, with those working in construction 100 times more likely to die from an occupational disease than a workplace accident. They are

The e-learning course highlights some of the main causes of cancer in the industry

also six times more likely to develop skin cancer than the general population.

The ‘Occupational Cancer’ e-learning module is made freely available to the entire construction industry via the Scheme’s Best Practice Hub. It follows the successful series

of e-learning courses on other cross-industry issues, including air pollution, drugs and alcohol, and mental health.

Edward Hardy, Chief Executive of the Considerate Constructors Scheme, says: “We call on everyone in our industry to take the Occupational Cancers course and to encourage colleagues, friends and family members to do the same. The Hub also features the ‘Spotlight on…occupational cancers’ campaign which provides excellent examples of best practice in tackling this issue.”

To take the course, go to: ccsbestpractice.org.uk/elearning

Changes coming for those applying for a SKILLcard As of the 2nd September, CSCS and SKILLcard are requiring all applicants to have satisfactorily completed the CITB health, safety and environment test or approved equivalent. This will be the only way to show satisfactory evidence of health and safety compliance.

Currently, if an applicant has achieved an SVQ or NVQ within the last two years, they do not have to sit the CITB test. This is because NVQs or SVQs have included separate learning modules as part of the syllabus and therefore were deemed a suitable equivalent to the health and safety requirements. As of the September date, this will no longer be the case.

As a CSCS partner card scheme for the mechanical sector of the building engineering

services industry, SKILLcard must meet the requirements of the Industrial Strategy for Construction. SKILLcards are only issued to applicants who hold nationally recognised construction qualifications and have passed a separate health and safety element.

Any SKILLcard applicant requiring more information can send an email to skillcard. info@theBESA.com

Myth-busting dubious rules A recent study by Dickies Workwear has resulted in a top 10 list of unexpected health and safety rules. The workwear brand asked its social media followers for the most ludicrous health and safety issues they had come across and voted on which ones they had also experienced.

Following an interesting range of results, Dickies Workwear made it a mission to myth-bust some of the most dubious rules. Mark Tapper, Head of Ecommerce at Dickies Europe, comments: “Over the years we have seen the number of seemingly bizarre rules on sites increase for sure. However, in some cases these were perfectly legitimate policies, for example, rules on sleeve

length may be in place where high visibility is required to ensure the employees have the correct surface area of reflective material to comply with specific EN ISO regulations for the dangerous surroundings.”

The number one complaint among respondents was about a ban on shorts, even in summer. It was found that more than 61% of participants experienced a ban on shorts on a construction site, even in the sweltering heat of summer.

Some 31% said they had been forbidden from wearing short sleeves shirts on site, while 63% of participants said they had experienced a ban on listening to the radio.

Hand hygiene is also being enforced on construction sites, with 14% of respondents reporting that they had been told to wash their hands after going to the toilet or risk removal from site.

To see the full report, go to: www.dickiesworkwear.com/ uk/blog/ludicrous-safety-rules

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Do we want more tech in our bathrooms?

Smart home devices may be all the rage, but will they actually enhance the bathroom experience for the consumer? Paul Pickford, Director of Innovation, Product and Marketing at Aqualisa, takes a look at how new technology can be used to best effect.

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s smart products for the home become increasingly popular, appliance manufacturers have begun to explore the potential of this technology for a number of different devices.

Improvement is the nature of the home product industry, but at this early stage in the smart home revolution is the excitement of a futuristic, tech-aided life a distraction from the core objective of Paul Pickford, Director at quality, user-friendly home Aqualisa appliances?

Since the launch of Amazon’s revolutionary home assistant Alexa, people have adapted to voice-activated tech with surprising ease. The presence of this tech in the kitchen, bedroom and sitting room has become the norm, inspiring brands to produce compatible devices that can be controlled by spoken command. It seems logical to predict that in the not-too-distant future, every space within the home will feature smart technology. However, when it comes to the bathroom, there are some key questions the industry should consider around how this integration will truly affect consumers and installers.

The innovation game Innovation is a wonderful thing. At Aqualisa, our company identity has been built upon innovation. However, each time we have created an industry-changing product, the quality and efficiency of the product for the consumer, and convenience for the installer, have been fundamental to the process.

The introduction of innovative new tech can often be so inspiring that developers design for the future instead of the present, launching products that have exciting new capabilities at the expense of answering the needs of the consumer. It is exciting and novel to buy a showerhead that

A remote control available with Aqualisa’s digital showers offers extra convenience for consumers

Aqualisa’s Q range of showers provide smart technology such as touch control and pre-set flow and temperature

contains a Bluetooth speaker, but these tech integrated products have not taken off because they can detract from the efficiency of the most important feature (i.e. the flow of the showerhead itself).

New tech innovations rarely arrive at the market perfect.

It takes time to iron out kinks and discover necessary improvements, and voice activation is still subject to this process. Voice-activated bathroom appliances – such as intelligent toilets with built-in surround sound and Alexa compatibility – have not yet become the standard because innovation purely for the sake of it doesn’t lend itself to long term adoption.

However, if you utilize tech advancement to truly elevate the user experience, there is a much higher chance of long term adoption. For example, a shower that is digitally customised to the individual’s needs before they step under the flow is simply a more satisfying experience than shouting commands to an in-shower assistant over the sound of the water flow.

Smart home products have become a booming industry, with huge profit to be made by appliance manufacturers as consumers are willing to pay for the most contemporary products. However, as we have learned from social media giants, internet connectivity creates the potential for collecting personal data, and personal data is always valuable to someone.

vocally remind them to purchase more shampoo?

The future for smart tech-enabled bathrooms has amazing potential benefits, such as improved accessibility for the elderly and disabled, and solutions for maintaining public bathrooms, as well as bringing more convenience to household routines. Brands remaining focused on how to use new technology to improve the consumer’s experience is how the best innovations will become the future standard.

The challenges presented to installers answering these new consumer demands will create new opportunities for development along the way. The future bathroom will be more luxurious and convenient than ever before, and it is most certainly smart tech that will enable these improvements. www.aqualisa.co.uk

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Private space

Designing a modern bathroom should be about convenience and elevating the user experience

The bathroom has always been considered the most private room in the home, and in present times, this also translates to the room with the least connected devices. A less considered factor of bringing voice commanded tech into the bathroom is the impact on consumer’s privacy.

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Game of thrones: shower toilets Fitting a bidet in Britain’s typically tiny bathrooms can be a challenge, but what if your customer could have a WC with the bidet built in, along with a host of other features that turn the humble toilet into a high-tech throne? PHAM News reports on the latest in shower toilets.

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hen you are designing a bathroom for a customer looking for the ultimate in luxury, there are endless choices to help you exceed their expectations and create the bathroom of their dreams.

Whether it’s a digital shower or a bathtub fitted with lights and sound, or an LED Bluetooth mirror that doesn’t fog up, there seems to be a clever product for every conceivable demand. But how can you improve upon the humble toilet?

Thanks to the efforts of manufacturers over the years, the toilet has been treated to a variety of design enhancements that has given us things like soft close seats, concealed cisterns, dual flush plates, rimless bowls and wall-hung WCs to name just a few. For many in the UK, this might represent the zenith of toilet design, but they have probably never experienced the joys of the shower toilet, arguably the most sophisticated version of the porcelain throne you can buy.

Unseen benefits Sometimes called ‘smart’ toilets or bidet toilets, the shower toilet at its most basic is a WC with built-in bidet functions to offer outstanding standards of hygiene. The bidet is discreetly built into the bowl and emerges at the touch of a button to shoot a jet of water right where you need it. It’s essentially a hands-free process, and who wouldn’t want that? Top-of-the-range versions offer so much more, like heated seat, drying function, deodorizers and night lights. Either way, shower toilets of any specification can give your customer the ultimate in cleanliness, hygiene and comfort. The only problem is, most customers have no idea that they are an option for their own bathroom.

The shower toilet is not a new concept. About 100 years ago an American patented a device that incorporated bidet functions into the standard toilet, but it would be decades before the idea was commercially viable. In the 1950s, Swiss company Closomat sold its first ‘wash and dry’ toilet to the disabled market to provide independence and dignity in toileting, with added benefits of improved personal hygiene.

However, the Japanese are credited with perfecting the shower toilet – global toilet brand Toto mass produced the first ‘Washlet’ bidet toilet seat in the early 1980s and since then has sold more than 40million units worldwide.

Today, over 80% of Japanese households have shower toilet facilities. The same cannot be said in the UK, where WCs are a bit more ‘bog standard’ and usually adorned with a packet of wet wipes on the back of the cistern.

European manufacturers, however, are making strides in bringing shower toilets to the UK with the aim of making them a bit more common, if not mainstream.

Market trends Shower toilets in the UK are largely pitched at the high-end of the market. Some brands will cost in the thousands of pounds, but considering the country’s significant population of aging people with disposable income, and a desire to

Control of Roca’s In-Wash Smart WCs can be found in the seat itself or on the handy remote control

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Geberit’s AquaClean range: the bidet arm is stored in the back of the bowl and emerges at the touch of a button to deliver warm jets of water. Another arm delivers warm air drying.

The VitrA Aquacare comes complete with a pre-assembled and integrated air breaker and a WC seat and cover. The WC pan requires no additional preparation besides water installation.

stay in their own homes as they become less independent, shower toilets are an attractive investment for them.

Manufacturers have incorporated plenty of high-tech gadgetry into their shower toilets that go some way in justifying the hefty price tag. Claire Gay, Marketing Manager at Roca, says their many benefits suit them to a wide variety of users. “In homes they are perfect for multi-generational living where all ages can benefit from their functionality,” she says. “Alternatively, in a hotel shower toilets can meet the cultural needs of guests whilst not requiring extra space for a bidet. The applications are broad.”

For some disabled people, the shower toilet may be the only way they can maintain independence and privacy in this area of life, and manufacturers have specifically developed models that answer this need. Holly Aspinall, Marketing Manager at Geberit, says: “Most units are specified by occupational therapists through DFG (disabled facilities grant) funding and they give users a better quality of life.

A shower toilet allows you to clean the most sensitive part of your body gently and thoroughly and leaves you feeling exceptionally clean.”

With so much going for them, shower toilets have the potential to make a big impact in the UK. Margaret Talbot, Marketing Manager for VitrA, says: “Rarely do we see a product with so much potential to deliver so many genuine lifestyle benefits. The showering WC is pivotal, along with products like level-access showering facilities. Toileting and bathing are critical to allow older consumers to maintain their independence, so products that allow them to stay at home will be in high demand.”

turbo option, provides an enhanced level of drying.”

High-tech toilets Technology plays a key role in product development. Claire Gay says that the growth of technology within the home in general is helping to normalise using technology in the bathroom. “In the past people may have been unsure about the functions of a shower toilet,” she says, “but that is changing. We created our In-Wash Inspira range knowing that consumers are becoming more accustomed to using technology, so they are interested in having extra functions such as a dryer, deodorizer or a self-opening heated seat.

“We have been working to incorporate more functionalities into our In-Wash Smart Toilets. For example, there is a new ground-breaking dryer that has been designed based on modern aerodynamics. This technological innovation projects air in one single direction and, together with its

Tailored experience Geberit is also emphasising its technology advances. For example, it has recently expanded its AquaClean shower toilet range with the launch of the Sela, which features an oscillating spray of warm water. Holly Aspinall explains: “The Sela introduces innovative technology. It has four programmable buttons so an individual can tailor their experience by customising everything from the temperature of the water to the water pressure itself via the remote control, a wall-mounted control panel or an app. It even has a lighting feature that activates when a user approaches in the middle of the night. Plus, the Geberit AquaClean range can also be controlled by voice recognition with the app,” The V-Care Comfort is VitrA’s best selling shower toilet.

It is a wall-hung WC that features a sensor that opens the lid as the user approaches, adjustable washing and drying, and a heated seat. The integrated shower functions are activated with the remote control. The remote can also be used to control the temperature of the heated seat, while primary functions of the WC can be controlled via touch buttons on the right and left sides of the pan.

Installation ease When it comes to installing shower toilets, the main consideration will be access to power connections. Shower toilets require an electrical supply with a fuse switch (usually located outside the bathroom – like the extractor fan) and a separate water feed. Good plumbers will find them straightforward to install, and manufacturers are at the ready with technical support should you need it.

The UK may not be at risk of shower toilets flooding the market any time soon, but there is plenty of room for growth. People are coming to expect more from their bathrooms as they look to create the perfect retreat, and a WC offering superior hygiene, comfort and convenience can go a long way in achieving that aspiration.

Find out more For more details on the products referenced in this article, please visit the following websites: geberit-aquaclean.co.uk www.uk.roca.com/smart-toilets/in-wash/ www.vitra.co.uk

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Get to grips with high expectations More and more is being asked of installers when it comes to creating a new bathroom. Graham Aird, Senior Product Manager – Bathroom Systems & AquaClean at Geberit, explores the trends that are driving this evolution and discusses why training is time well spent.

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he days of a bathroom installer simply turning up at a customer’s house to fit pipework and a bathroom suite are numbered, with today’s customers expecting more from their tradesman. The demand now is for someone who can guide space design and product choice, as well as have a view on the latest trends and innovations. Customers are increasingly looking for a complete end-to-end service, from product selection right through to the finishing touches. In a competitive market, bathroom installers are quickly learning they can’t afford to ignore this shift. Those wanting to steal a march on the competition are therefore skilling up to supplement their technical skills and offer the complete rounded package.

Ultimately, this is about changing your mindset and thinking like a bathroom advisor, not just a fitter. Consumers are armed with more information on products, price and preferences than ever before, and installers must add value to stand out from their competitors. But how?

Train to gain The most important step is to arm yourself with the knowledge you need by making the most of training opportunities. It can be a daunting step for some, but manufacturer training provides a clear, accessible and often free chance to close any knowledge gaps.

Speak to your chosen manufacturer to identify their training provision and take advantage of it, because in the race to add value training is increasingly seen as time well spent – whether product-specific or more general industry insights to understand the latest trends and customer demands. Online resources can help too, like Geberit’s online bathroom inspirations webpage for example.

Keeping 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.

Steps to success So, what exactly do you need to be able to demonstrate when embarking on an end-to-end bathroom project? You already know how to fit a basin or move the pipework, but here are six topics worth exploring further to help meet customer demands and add value to your next bathroom job.

Training can expose installers to new products and installation techniques, such as wall-hung WCs (pictured right)

Product innovation Take note of the latest product developments from leading manufacturers because in many cases they will not only make your life easier but help impress your customers by presenting creative solutions to their own bathroom challenges. From rimless toilets and protective glazes to innovative overflow systems and floor-even shower drainage design, don’t fall into the trap of selling what you have always sold – because there might be a better, possibly more profitable, solution.

Creative installation systems A 2018 survey by Houzz revealed that bathrooms topped the list of interior refurbishments, but more specifically showed that they are looking for a better use of existing space, not necessarily a bigger bathroom. Space can be created in more ways than you might think, so don’t think it’s about knocking a wall down! Creative installation systems can help you achieve the illusion of space in any bathroom, with a growing trend for wall-hung toilets, made possible by innovations like the Geberit Duofix system.

It is no secret that today’s new build properties are much smaller than they were 30 years ago. The average UK bathroom is just 4.4m2 – not much bigger than a king-sized mattress.

Furniture offers greater versatility Geberit’s Acanto Bathroom Series has been developed to meet the widest variety of everyday, individual needs, with options for furniture, basins and toilets that work well within a busy lifestyle.

Furniture for the new range provides organised storage spaces. The detailed solutions include options for the inside of the furniture to be flexible, and the arrangement of the drawers, compartments and shelves contribute to an uncluttered environment.

Bespoke spaces can also be created within the bathroom area with magnetic boards for attachable storage trays which can be mounted on the wall so cosmetic items

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can be kept precisely where they are needed and moved as desired.

The mirror cabinet, which is a standard in most bathrooms, has also been transformed so the room can become a beauty centre with a built-in magnifying mirror, USB charging port and an integrated shaving point, offering greater versatility.

Geberit says the designers of the Acanto series placed particular emphasis on a modern combination of contrasting materials and surfaces, such as glass, metal, painted and wood finishes, along with individual composition of the furniture types.

Space saving bathroom solutions are therefore more popular than ever, and it’s important to know what’s available – from basics like corner sinks and slimline towel rails to wall hung toilets and custom-made storage solutions.

Design trends You don’t need to be an interior designer, but a little appreciation of the latest bathroom design trends can go a long way with the modern homeowner. From traditional designs to contemporary bathroom suites, patterned tiles or acrylic shower panels, some customers may just want a helping hand, but others will turn to their bathroom fitter to help create a timeless design from start to finish.

However, it’s also important to note that our lives are becoming increasingly more demanding. And with greater pressures and less opportunity for downtime, installers need to consider the functionality of the bathroom space.

It is the one room in the house that can be designed as a true sanctuary – away from the pressures of modern life and the distraction of technology.

Of course, installers are constantly being told to keep up with the latest interiors trends to help add value to refurbishment projects, but this approach goes beyond interior design. By demonstrating an understanding of wellbeing and the elements that go into a multi-sensory bathroom design, forward thinking installers can combine stylish design with genuine health benefits – and create significant opportunities to add value in doing so.

Storage and furniture Impress customers with your storage furniture suggestions, using the latest designs to help minimise clutter and make the most of the space. Showing that you understand their needs can go a long way, and it’s easier than ever to achieve.

Choose furniture solutions which include the clever arrangements of compartments, drawers and soft lighting that not only create practical storage space but enhance the bathroom’s aesthetics.

Finishing touches Delivering a bathroom refurbishment project from concept to completion also opens opportunities for finishing touches such as mirrors and accessories, which is a great way to up your customer’s spend. There are rewards to be had if you can save the daunting task of drilling into new tiles – an added service which even skilled DIYers would appreciate.

Find out more For further information on Geberit installer training, please visit: www.geberit.co.uk/services/training/installer-training. www.geberit.co.uk/en

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Myth-busting wetrooms As many customers have preconceived ideas of wetrooms, Richard Coles, Showrooms Business Development Manager at Plumbase, suggests how installers can respond to some of the most common misconceptions.

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espite the rising popularity of wetrooms, installers are often tasked with addressing homeowners’ unfounded concerns surrounding this type of installation. Such as:

Wetrooms will leak One of the most common misunderstandings about wetrooms is that when fitted upstairs, water will leak through the ceiling due to a lack of a traditional shower tray. It goes without saying that leaks are a common concern for both installers and their customers, but a correctly fitted wetroom will not leak, regardless of whether installed on a ground floor or upstairs.

We’ve all heard horror stories of water-damaged floors and ceilings, but this is easily avoided by ensuring that the waterproofing (tanking) of the wetroom is completed correctly. This is achieved by installing a membrane across the whole showering area

including the floor, walls, and any junctions that may come into contact with water. Products such as Impey WaterGuard feature a fleece membrane with a selfadhesive butyl rubber backing, making it quick and easy to install, and guaranteed for life to prevent leaks.

Wetrooms are difficult to install Installing a wet room in a family bathroom might feel like a difficult task for an installer, but with correct planning and creating a gradient for drainage, the job in hand can be easily managed.

The most practical way to create a level-access wetroom shower space is by using a wetroom floor former which is specifically designed to sit directly on top of the floor joists, flush with the floor.

Wetroom floor formers have an in-built gradient to channel water directly to the drainage point.

Strong, load-bearing wetroom floor formers, designed to be tiled over,

are now widely available.

While the use of a traditional shower tray is familiar territory for installers, it’s important to remember that some wetroom floor formers will need to be repositioned to suit the joists on the floor unless they feature a rotating drain plate than can be repositioned to avoid joists and other under-floor obstructions, saving valuable time.

Wetrooms are unattractive When discussing wetrooms, many people automatically think of a space that is built for function rather than aesthetics. However, thanks to the demand for stylish, spa-like bathrooms, manufacturers are now creating wetroom furniture and fittings that are both attractive and functional, so homeowners no longer need to compromise on style if they install a wetroom.

Installers now have access to an extensive range of modern wetroom accessories, allowing them to meet the design briefs of their

customers who want a practical wetroom with a contemporary feel.

Even functional products, such as handrails or shower seats, are being designed with visual appeal in mind and can seamlessly complement an existing bathroom design.

Wetrooms can only be installed in large bathrooms Contrary to popular belief, there is no maximum or minimum size for a wetroom. In fact, wetrooms can be ideal for small bathrooms as installers can make the most of awkwardly-shaped rooms that can’t accommodate a traditional shower unit. Conventional shower trays, for example, can be bulky and will only fit into specific spaces, which is where a wetroom offers a great alternative in a smaller room, such as an en-suite or loft conversion.

A wetroom screen offers the ideal solution to isolate a wetroom space. The showering area remains spacious and the screen will ensure towels and the rest of the bathroom

Wetrooms can make the most of an awkwardly shaped room

stay dry and free from any water spray.

No matter how popular wetrooms are, homeowners will always have queries regarding the installation of one in their property. Learning about the common misconceptions surrounding wetrooms, and how to dispel these myths, ensures that installers are confident to recommend a wetroom and can give peace of mind to customers that their bathroom will be both functional and beautiful.

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Fitted furniture Wall-panelling for style conscious

Kit for sealing floor level trays A variety of new solutions from Kaldewei have been launched to help installers ensure that floor-level showers are easy to install flat and secure. The manufacturer has added more sizes, ultra-flat waste fittings and a number of other solutions so that Kaldewei now claims to offer over 100,000 options to choose from when designing a floor-level shower area.

To ensure the reliable sealing of floor-level

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showers, Kaldewei has developed a sealing kit especially for sealing floorlevel shower surfaces.

The ESR Floor-level installation system also ensures security in the bathroom, thanks to a second sealing layer. This installation system for enamelled shower surfaces, offers a reliable sealing across the shower’s entire useful life – protecting against moisture damage.

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Offering a ‘one box’ bathroom furniture solution, PJH has launched a modern classic range of fitted bathroom furniture called Benita as part of its Bathrooms to Love collection. Replacing the previous ‘Fresco Classic’, Benita is styled with a tactile woodgrain textured finish and modern door front.

The range is available in three colours – Indigo Ash, Grey Ash (pictured) and Satin White Ash – and is teamed with a beehive-style brushed chrome handle. The fitted Benita range is versatile

enough to be combined with both modern or traditional ceramics.

A wide selection of units allows for many design and storage possibilities that maximise on storage space. The options include a 600mm vanity unit, 600mm WC unit, 300mm tall unit, wall and base units, and a 600mm mirrored wall unit.

Bathrooms to Love also offers a choice of worktops and ceramics to combine with the fitted furniture.

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Bushboard has enhanced its range of acrylic wall panels with the introduction of seven new designs. It has also unveiled a new Designer Collection for those who prefer the look of natural materials, like stone.

The latest products in the Nuance acrylic line include three new marble designs, plus exotic Moroccan prints and subtle Hexagon Marble and Natural Finestra (pictured is the Nuance Casablanca Classic). Acrylic panels are just 4mm thick and have a sleek, reflective gloss finish. Like all Nuance panels they are installed without joining strips or trims.

The new Designer Collection includes motifs of washed brick, herringbone woods, fossil stone and washed timber.

The large format panels have a post-formed outer edge that means there is no need to use trims for finishing – giving a streamlined, sleek look that suits all sizes and styles of bathroom. www.bushboard.co.uk

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BATHROOM Design 29 Signature look comes in many forms Pivot doors suit the small spaces Hudson Reed has overhauled its brassware collection with the launch of new products including coordinated families of bathroom taps and valves and signature designs etched with the initials ‘HR’.

The refreshed Hudson Reed Collection, which will also include other new bathroom introductions within its furniture, wetroom and traditional Old London ranges, will see the addition of five

brassware designs: Astra, Sottile, Willow, Drift and Soar.

Pictured is one of the high specification design-led brass taps, a wall plated basin mixer from the square Soar range.

All tap families will include a comprehensive choice of models, including mono, cloakroom, tall, wall plated, bath filler and bath shower mixer categories, all with a 20-year guarantee.

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Reflecting glamour Contributing to the look of modern minimalism, Exos is a mirrored cabinet from HiB, edged with simple illumination to add a touch of glamour to any bathroom.

Double sided doors allow the mirror to be used even when the unit is open and they are fitted with heated pads, helping to clear condensation from the surface. For extra user convenience, Exos conceals integrated charging sockets and USB points for use with electric toothbrushes, shavers and trimmers. The cabinet also features

ambient lighting and removable ‘keep clean’ mats.

Sales Director Ash Chilver says: “The interior design industry as a whole has experienced a surge in demand for modern minimalism, and our stunning new Exos cabinet meets this whilst remaining faithful to the sophisticated look and high quality synonymous with HiB’s products.”

Exos is available in three widths: 50, 60 and 80cm.

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For small bathrooms, Merlyn offers the space-saving shower enclosure Arysto Eight Virtually Frameless collection. With ultra-slim profiles and 8mm toughened glass coated with Mershield Stayclear and concealed fittings, the 8 Series Pivot Door shower panels open inwards and outwards to maximise space in and around the shower. www.merlynshowering.com

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30 BATHROOM Design

Measuring up to the challenges The market is full of solutions that help bathroom designers overcome challenges, whether it’s drainage issues or meeting special needs.

Sani˜ o UK Head of Marketing and Product Development, Ann Boardman, looks at some of the products that simplify speciÿcation.

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athroom design is about achieving the contemporary look with products that are easy to fit, use and maintain.

But an important first step is to ensure all products are manufactured to EU safety standards. Choose manufacturers who offer robust warranties, technical support, customer service and a wide range of products.

even feature magnetic handset holders that ‘stick’ to any part of the shower rail, making it easier to handle for people with a weak grip.

When it comes to shower enclosures, there are designs for small bathrooms including corner enclosures with swing doors that can be fitted to open inwards. Smart folding panels with 180° hinges also help optimise space by enabling the panel to fold flush against the wall and opening up the area. Some come as small as 700mm wide, providing ample splash protection without taking up too much space.

Pump power Secondly, remember that you are not limited by the drainage. You can have wet areas anywhere in your bathroom a water supply can reach by using a combination of macerators and pumps to remove waste water. This means you can have a bath in the middle of the room if you choose, or any combination of wet areas you desire.

It could be that you’re designing a bathroom that was once a bedroom. You can save time, money, mess and hassle by using a combination of macerators, pumps and specially made shower trays with built-in pump system instead of lifting floors and adding drainage. In fact, in some cases, entire properties function thanks to the use of macerators and pumps.

Designed for all When designing a new bathroom space, ensure it’s going to stand the test of time as the homeowners age. The growth of the inclusive bathroom market is steady and expected to continue. Schemes such as the Disabled Facility Grant (DFG) provision to pay for improvements to provide inclusive

Shower trays

The Kineduo allows for a walk-in shower facility without having to sacrifice the bathtub

bathrooms, which is set to reach more than £500 million by 2020, are fuelling this growth. Inclusively designed bathrooms feature showers, walk-in baths, wall-hung WCs and basins, and anti-slip shower trays.

Despite the growth in baths being replaced by showers, many Brits still like a good old soak in the tub. Look for walk-in baths that give your customer an opportunity to customise their product. Maybe they’d like a different colour or to switch access from left to right to suit their bathroom. Perhaps your customer would like a rainshower in their walk-in bath.

How about a nice glass screen? Or a soft close seat? All that is possible in a walk-in bath.

For showering possibilities, shower cubicles remain the ideal choice. Today’s contemporary shower cubicles not only look good, but they are durable and need minimal maintenance. With no grout to discolour or silicone to maintain, the cubicles can remain pristine-looking for years.

In the cube Some shower cubicles offer a quick and hassle-free bath replacement. They should be guaranteed to be leak-free, come with safety features like optional seat and grab bars, be comfortable to get in and out of, easy to clean, and deliver on design. Some

If you’re offering a shower tray or complete bathroom floor solution, choose ones that offer safety, style and flexibility. Some products are so versatile that they are easy to cut and shape for awkward spaces, including around WCs. When it comes to shower trays and flooring, a low entry, anti-slip surface is important. Go for designs with adjustable feet for unbreachable and uneven floors to ensure a flat and even installation.

There’s a growing trend for natural stone colour products that create a focal point and can be recessed to create a flat surface or very low-level profile. Choose options that can be cut to size on site so that they can be trimmed to size or cut to fit around an obstacle. High quality and durable trays should combine modern manufacturing techniques with natural looks to create a good looking, long-lasting, product.

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Wall-hung solutions offer a cleaner look Clean, minimalist design is the most soughtafter look for most homeowners, and there is a wide range of products that will deliver this aesthetic. Here, David Barker, Head of Category Management at Multikwik, discusses how installers can help achieve this with sanitary solutions.

The trend for fuss-free bathrooms is one that maximises space and creates a clean and uncluttered feel. However, minimalist bathrooms do present installers with the challenge of providing sanitary solutions that will meet this desire for sleeker lines.

Wall-hung sanitaryware provides clean design lines, offering an advantage in terms of aesthetic. Hiding unsightly pipework can help to generate the illusion of more space, even within the smallest of bathrooms, and projects a clean and modern style. With the sanitaryware suspended from the frame, this makes cleaning easier too, as there is no exposed pipework to work around.

Strong and stable The backbone of wall-hung WCs is the sanitary frame. There are various height options available and frames can be installed in front of suitable load bearing solid masonry blockwork walls, in front of a lightweight metal stud partition wall, or integrated within metal stud partition framework or traditional timber stud walls.

This can be under a window, under a vanity shelf or at full height depending on the space available.

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Our sanitary frames are available in heights of 820, 985 and 1120mm and can support loads in excess of 400kg (63st). The frames are supplied with a cistern already installed, which makes installation fast and efficient.

If you choose not to use a sanitary frame, an efficient compact concealed cistern is a viable alternative. For ease of maintenance, any necessary work can be done through the flush plate.

Where it isn’t possible to conceal sanitary solutions, careful consideration should be given to the aesthetics of products that will be on show. Traps, for example, which are used for basins, baths and showers, are now available in attractive finishes for a better look.

Flush plates are another important aspect of the design. Flush plates are what is visible to end users and so it is important that they complement the overall aesthetic of a design.

They are generally available in dual flush, and come in a variety of designs and finishes such as glass and stainless steel. In addition, more technologically advanced flush plates such as infrared, vandal resistant and electronic touch solutions are also being introduced to the market, providing installers with even more options.

With the demand for contemporary and minimalist bathrooms on the rise, it is important that installers are aware of the various sanitary solutions available to create such spaces. Manufacturers like Multikwik have a dedicated technical support team that can provide assistance during the design phase to help installers meet the requirements of their client.

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BATHROOM Design Glow has installation ease Glow Thermostatic is the name of Redring’s new multi-entry instant electric shower collection. With multi-entry points – six for electricity and eight for water – the Glow Thermostatic makes installation faster and cleaner, adapting easily to accommodate existing plumbing and fixture work.

This reduces the need for drilling to align the plumbing and wiring connections, saving significant time and disruption to the bathroom’s tiling structure.

Providing safety, comfort and complete peace of mind, the Glow Thermostatic also offers temperature control within +/-1.5°C. It comes equipped with phased shutdown safety protection for cool start-up for the next

user, with temperature limiter lock options which can be set at installation.

It has a large LED backlit temperature display and push button controls with audible adjustment.

Available in 8.5 and

9.5kW models, the shower is supplied with a 600mm riser rail, five mode rub-clean showerhead, 1.5m flexible shower hose and soap dish with integral hose retainer.

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Pick of panels in acrylic Acrylic panels form Lustrolite are suitable for most bathroom applications and kitchen splashbacks. They have a sleek, modern look and finish and are easy to clean and maintain. The panels are highly resistant to harsh chemicals and can be cleaned with just warm water and a soft microfibre cloth. The non-stick surface prevents the growth of mould and bacteria as well as soap or calcium build-up.

By incorporating beautiful colours and textures on the splashback or bathroom wall, various styles can be complemented, such as the popular grey/white Scandi,

industrial, minimalist style of furniture. Colourful statement pieces can be added to provide a striking

contrast with appliances or furniture.

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Origin of taps and showers New from VitrA is the Origin range of brassware and accessories. Elegant design is the key theme of

the range and it includes over 150 pieces to choose from, offering designers and consumers with a complete

and versatile collection that partners with contemporary sanitaryware and furniture.

The collection includes monoblock taps in four heights, wall and deck mounted mixers, and both concealed and exposed thermostatic and manual showers with a choice of handheld or fixed overhead showers.

The taps and showers are complemented by a comprehensive range of accessories. All pieces are available in chrome, brushed nickel, copper and matt black (pictured) finishes.

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32 MERCHANT & Distributor News Business attracts awards attention

North East-based Flame has been named Scale-Up Business of the Year by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) at its national Celebrating Small Business Awards 2019. The Awards recognise the best small businesses and the selfemployed across the UK, from every sector and industry and from businesses of all ages and sizes.

Since Flame was established in 2011, it has achieved yearon-year double-digit growth and employs in excess of 60 staff. Flame currently operates 12 trade counters across the UK and is expecting to invest further in its branch network, as well as double its head count over the next three years.

John Savage, MD of Flame Heating Group, comments: “To be recognised by the FSB is a fantastic achievement. I am proud and delighted with this latest award win.”

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Milestone for bathroom showrooms The Bathroom Showroom, part of the Travis Perkins Group, has opened its 250th branch in Sittingbourne, Kent. Interior designer, TV celebrity and Multipanel brand ambassador Linda Barker was on hand to perform the ribbon cutting duties at the official opening on the 24th June.

Speaking at the event, Kevin Williams, MD Operations, said: “This is a milestone for the business and I’m really proud that we can offer our customers in Sittingbourne and right

across Kent the very best showroom.”

Maurice Webb, Branch Manager, added: “I’m so

pleased that the hard work of a lot of people has finally paid off. I am really proud to manage this fantastic branch with such a friendly, enthusiastic and experienced team. The 250th Bathroom Showroom really puts us on the map!”

The Bathroom Showroom can be found at Unit C1, Trinity Trading Estate, Mill Way, Sittingbourne, ME10 2PD. The showroom employs a dedicated team of two showroom staff and is attached to the branch of City Plumbing.

Incentives for independent retailers Running until the end of September is wholesaler Primaflow F&P’s Rewards initiative. Independent merchant and retailer customers will earn points for every £1 spent across all product sectors.

These points can be redeemed for a range of rewards – from personal items such as iPads, TVs and fashion accessories, to team events and luxury

breaks, both in the UK and abroad.

Rewards can be claimed as they are earned – meaning that customers can enjoy multiple reward items throughout the redemption period – which runs until the end of November.

Head of Marketing Tim Ramsey says: “To hone the scheme this year, we’ve broadened the range of rewards, extended the time period during which

points can be earned, and improved the online platform, with a daily tracker, enabling customers to more closely monitor their progress.”

Customers who signed up for Rewards last year have been automatically enrolled into this year’s initiative and can check progress by logging onto the dedicated site at www. primaflowfandprewards.co.uk

July/August 2019

RENEWABLE Technology 33

The growing case for heat pumps It has been an eventful year for heat pumps as Government strengthens the case for low carbon heating. Graham Wright, Chairman of the Heat Pump Association, re˜ ects on key developments so far and dispels the myths surrounding this technology.

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limate change has been in the headlines for various reasons since the beginning of the year and the HPA has been closely monitoring policy proposals and government statements. In February the HPA’s Technical Consultant Graham Hazell gave evidence on behalf of the HPA to the Parliamentary Science and Technologies Select Committee as part of their inquiry into ‘Technologies for meeting Clean Growth emissions reduction targets’. Graham Wright, Chairman The Committee considered potential long term scenarios that could meet the UK’s emissions reductions targets, as well as actions the Government should be taking now to enable the UK to determine and pursue the optimum routes to these future scenarios. Graham was able to emphasise that heat pumps are a technology that exist today and can contribute greatly to carbon emissions reductions.

Climate change In April we had the climate change protests led by Extinction Rebellion. While their methods certainly divide opinion, they do keep the future of our planet well and truly in the spotlight. It is easy to lay blame at the door of governments, past and present, but we are where we are now.

In May we welcomed the latest report from the Committee on Climate Change (CCC). The report, titled ‘Net Zero – The UK’s contribution to stopping global warming’, was published by the CCC in response to a request by governments of the UK, Scotland and Wales to reassess the UK’s longterm emissions targets. Until now, the target had been to reduce carbon emissions by 80% (compared with 1990 levels) by 2050. The CCC has adjusted its targets with the aim of raising international ambition ahead of the UN Climate Action Summit in September.

Training up a skilled workforce of heat pump technicians will be needed as heat pumps become more mainstream

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Acting now The report highlights the need for the Government to act immediately to implement a clear regulatory framework to achieve the decarbonisation of heat and recommends a range of policies to do so. This has led very recently to the government’s announcement that the UK will be net-zero in carbon emissions by 2050 – one of the first countries to make such a commitment. Whilst this ambitious target will require a great deal of innovation, it is important to stress again that heat pumps are a well understood technology that is available now.

Widespread deployment of heat pumps is a suggested path to lowering carbon emissions One of the issues arising from this proposal is the need for skilled technicians to be Myth 3. Air source heat pumps are not efficient in cold able to design, install and operate low carbon technologies. weather Whilst there is an element of truth here, stated alone it The HPA has identified this as a key objective and is looking to develop its own training courses to enable heating is misleading. Heat pumps do work more efficiently with engineers to transition to become heat pump technicians. higher source stable temperatures and lower delivery (load Heat pumps are one of the few low carbon heating side) temperatures. However, its performance is assessed systems available right now, yet the Government seems over a year. This gives rise to ‘seasonal’ performance figures, to be delaying clear policy in the hope that there will be whether Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCoP) or Seasonal other low carbon options from bio/fossil fuel mixes or Performance Factor (SPF). These seasonal figures either predict hydrogen, which in itself is not a very new technology the performance over a typical year for a typical weather both in its production (which currently consumes large pattern, or actually measure the performance over a season.

I emphasise that SCoP and SPF are similar but not amounts of fossil fuel), and in the way it will be distributed and used. Heat pumps can produce low carbon heating, and necessarily exactly the same. This is further complicated when using renewable electricity with thermal storage, by the fact that some standards (e.g. the EU RED) use them incorrectly or interchangeably. In general, SCoP is the they become an even more attractive option.

There are, however, still some myths which surround predicted seasonal efficiency of a piece of equipment, whilst SPF is the measured performance of a heat pump system, heat pump technology which I will try to dispel here.

Myth 1. Heat pumps don’t work well in poorly insulated but which can include or exclude various components, such as circulation pumps. buildings Although our damp oceanic climate requires higher than Any building with poor insulation will struggle to be heated efficiently, no matter what type of system is used to heat it. average defrost cycles than a drier environment would, With older buildings contributing to a high proportion of the oceans around us tend to keep the winter temperature the UK stock, it is vital that buildings that can be insulated higher than more land based countries (e.g. Central Europe) are insulated. There will always be exceptions, but there and this offsets much of the reduced efficiency from defrost are many houses out there which would benefit hugely cycles – something which may not be represented in standard from insulation. Equally, there are many examples of much tests from other European countries. older buildings, which may often be off the gas grid, where Myth 4. Field trials proved heat pumps to be inefficient This is probably the most inflammatory statement possible a heat pump is a far more efficient means of providing to the heat pump industry. Field trials have actually been heating than currently used technology.

Myth 2. Heat pumps only really work with underfloor proven to be unreliable and inconclusive. Again we can extract some ‘truth’ - like ‘all heating systems efficiencies heating Heat pumps generally produce water at a lower flow measured in the test cell are unlikely to be repeated and temperature (c. 55˚C) than boilers (c. 70˚C). Given that likely to be significantly lower than those measured in underfloor heating can work effectively at flow temperatures use’. Results significantly poorer than laboratory tests of 35-40˚C if correctly designed, then clearly this fits well have been revealed for oil and gas fired boilers as well as with a heat pump as the source of hot water. However, significantly for biomass boilers.

Heat pumps offer an opportunity to reduce the UK’s in many examples – particularly new build situations emissions as well as help to address issues such as fuel – a heat pump system can be designed to heat a house poverty and air quality. We have the means to achieve effectively using more heat traditional heat emitters, albeit the net-zero target – what we need now are clear policy they may have to be slightly larger than those used with changes and for the heating industry as a whole to develop more traditional heat sources. In retrofit situations, it is technology for a greener future and increase awareness frequently found that the heat emitters have been oversized with accurate information on the technologies available. in the first place, and hence fitting a heat pump does not impact on performance and efficiency. This highlights a The Heat Pump Association (HPA) is an authority on vital fact – the need for any heat pump system, whether the use and benefits of heat pump technology and new build or retrofit, to be properly specified and designed comprises manufacturers of heat pumps, components with efficiency in mind. This again focuses on the need to and associated equipment (www.heatpumps.org.uk). have well trained and skilled heat pump installers.

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34 RENEWABLE Technology

It’s easy to switch to a low carbon alternative BioLPG offers LPG users an easy way to reduce their carbon emissions. Karl Bateman, National Speciÿer Manager at Calor, discusses the installer and homeowner beneÿts of low carbon fuel and how Government legislation could accelerate its uptake.

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he past 12 months have seen UK energy usage and carbon emissions come under great scrutiny, with the Government announcing its Clean Growth Strategy, and a report from the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) warning decarbonising targets will not be met unless there is a big shift towards renewable energy.

With around 4 million properties in the UK situated Karl Bateman, Calor in off-grid areas relying on alternative fossil fuels such as heating oil, many homeowners have begun assessing the longevity of their fuel choice and the impact it has on the environment.

Although many renewable systems require significant upfront investment for the customer, there is a low carbon solution available that is reliable, familiar, and won’t break the bank to install – BioLPG.

A greener gas So, what is BioLPG, how can it help meet Government targets, and how can installers capitalise on promoting this greener fuel option to their rural customers? BioLPG is a renewable fuel that shares an identical chemical structure to LPG, but can reduce a home’s carbon footprint for heating by 38% compared to heating oil, and 15% compared to standard LPG. BioLPG is created using a range of feedstocks – around

60% are waste materials and residues whilst the remaining 40% is from sustainably-sourced vegetable oils.

All materials and oils undergo a series of complex treatments, which are combined with hydrogen to separate and purify their energy content. The refining process produces a variety of waste ‘off-gases’ that contain propane or BioLPG. The BioLPG is then purified to make it identical to conventional propane.

Customer benefits BioLPG offers the versatility and convenience of mains gas, suitable for heating, hot water, cooking and appliances.

It is a drop-in fuel, so it’s compatible with current LPG heating systems and appliances, and the system requires no additional changes or adjustments. If your customer is currently using LPG, the switching process to a renewable solution is really simple. The familiarity of gas is a big plus for many homeowners who want to switch to renewables, but are unsure about some of the more technical systems available such as air source heat pumps.

It’s also a very reliable fuel choice as its performance is not dependent on certain environmental conditions, which is especially important in the winter months when rural properties are exposed to harsh weather.

Customers can choose from below ground tanks, aboveground tanks and gas cylinder packs. Below ground tanks are a great option for those who would like to preserve their garden view, whilst gas cylinder packs are a compact option for space conscious customers. In addition, homeowners also have the added benefit of auto-ordering – sensors in the storage tanks monitor fuel levels and schedule a delivery with a driver.

Installer support With very similar technology to mains-gas combi boilers, many installers find LPG boilers that run on BioLPG very familiar to install. This can make installation quicker, and where an oil boiler could take a day and a half to install, an LPG boiler would only take a day to fit. BioLPG also broadens your service offering, meaning you can offer a low carbon option to your customers.

At Calor we provide an online LPG tariff quote tool that includes BioLPG, making it easier for installers to discuss this greener option with their customers and advise of ongoing fuel costs. Also found on the website, the ‘Find an installer’ tool helps potential customers find a local LPG gas engineer, generating valuable leads.

It’s our target to only supply renewable sourced energy products by 2040, and installers are at the forefront of educating UK homeowners on the options available. To thank our installer community, we offer an incentive of up to £250 for every successful domestic bulk customer conversion.

Spread the word It’s clear to see that BioLPG has the potential to play a huge part in helping the UK to reduce carbon emissions and give those living ‘off-grid’ a reliable renewable option. But in order for BioLPG to truly make an impact, installers need to educate their customers on the many benefits they could be reaping. If you want to learn more about how you can help your customers switch to BioLPG, call 0800 121 7828 or visit www.calor.co.uk/home-energy/biolpg. www.calor.org.uk

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Hybrid solution delivers energy savings A homeowner in Shropshire is enjoying a significant reduction in heating bills and the added comfort of constant room temperatures following the installation of a MCS Approved, 16kW Firebird Enviroair air source heat pump. Installed by EGE Energy Ltd, the heat pump was added to an existing gas-fired boiler and solar thermal panels to create a hybrid heating system. Designed to reduce running costs whilst achieving high levels of efficiency, the system maximises the use of renewable energy and minimises the use of the existing boiler.

The five-bedroom detached property was particularly suited to this type of heating system as the existing boiler can be used to support the air source heat pump when the weather is particularly cold and the ambient air contains less heat energy. Once installed, the Enviroair was set at a target external temperature to suit the heating requirements of the property. When this external temperature is reached the gasfired boiler will automatically come into use to assist the heating system. Anything above this target external temperature is easily catered for by the heat pump.

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temperature of the DHW and determines whether there is sufficient heat being generated by the solar panels, or whether it needs additional support from the heat pump or gas-fired boiler. A Firebird EnvirocylHP Heat Pump Cylinder which has been designed specifically for use in conjunction with a heat pump was also installed. The cylinder features a purpose-designed coil which allows maximum heat transfer of renewable energy into the stored water.

Saving energy Solar thermal panels are linked directly to the Enviroair Air Source Heat Pump

The installation of a Firebird Low Loss Header ensures that delivery of the required temperature water to the heating system is maintained. The system controller automatically runs the entire heating system and incorporates RF thermostats for each heating zone which can also be operated remotely.

The system also incorporated two solar thermal panels which were linked directly to the heat pump. The system monitors the

Available in single phase outputs from 7.5 to 16kW, the Enviroair range of air source heat pumps boasts an impressive CoP, producing in excess of 5kW of energy for every kW of energy used to power the heat pump.

To maximise energy efficiency, the system uses DC inverter technology which keeps temperature fluctuations to a minimum and ensures heat output matches the heating load of the property.

Ideal for both newbuild and refurbishment projects, the Enviroair air source heat pump can be retrofitted alongside an existing heating system or used as standalone.

A Firebird Low Loss Header ensures water delivered to the heating system is the correct temperature firebird.uk.com

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Advertisement Feature

RENEWABLE Technology 35

Quick response to user demand

The Therma V R32 Monobloc air to water heat pump range from LG Heating delivers higher capacities, lower noise levels and a quicker response to heating or cooling demand, helping to drive demand for air source heat pumps. Read on to find out more.

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ver many years, LG has developed a high quality air to water heat pump range under its Therma V branding. Thousands of these units have been installed up and down the country. The latest introduction to its popular range, operating on the low GWP R32 refrigerant available in 5 to 16kW 1Ø and 12 to 16kW 3Ø, in a wide operating range of between 10-135Hz and water temperatures up to 65°C without an electric backup heater, is the LG Therma V R32 Monobloc range.

It comes with an energy label rating of A+++ (ready for September 2019 ErP changes).

The new version of the Therma V Monobloc contains a plate heat exchanger, expansion tank and an energy efficient water pump. The new units have a higher capacity due to the choice of refrigerant. The electric heater can be installed as an optional accessory as this is not always required. The latest units have a 5 to 6dB lower sound power level than previous models and incorporate a number of additional new features including a new revolutionary scroll compressor, designed and manufactured by LG Electronics with ‘wet vapour’ injection. The unit has excellent performance at low ambient temperatures – 100% at -7°C.

Andrew Hooper is LG’s UK & Ireland Heating Manager in the Air Conditioning and Energy Solutions business: “As a package for the installer and the end user, this is a game changer in the air to water air source heat pump marketplace,” he says. “The market for air source heat pumps is set to explode in the UK and this new range puts LG in pole position to take advantage of that increase in popularity.”

The latest offering from LG comes with a revolutionary

new scroll compressor combining high efficiency and low noise characteristics of the scroll compressor with the stable compressing structure of a rotary compressor in one unit.

LG equipment has always benefitted from exceptional controllers. The new series comes with an intuitive controller with a 4.3in coloured LCD display that is perfect for installers and end users alike. partner.lge.com/uk

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Quicker response LG units offer quicker response times for the provision of heating and cooling by sensing not only the temperature but also pressure – a pressure control sensor provides a faster and more accurate response, reducing the time delay for implementing heating or cooling commands significantly. The addition of pressure control enables the Therma V R32 Monobloc to take less time to reach the desired temperatures, with up to 30% quicker response in cooling and 44% quicker response in heating, with a high level of accuracy and stability built in.

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36 RENEWABLE Technology

The quiet revolution is coming As we look to the end of high carbon fossil fuel heating in our homes, Max Halliwell, Communications Manager for Residential Heating at Mitsubishi Electric, heralds a rise in demand for heat pumps and explains why it’s not just performance that you need to look at.

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redicting the future is risky but one thing we can see from the present is that ‘climate’ is the big issue, and I predict it’s one that is not going to go away soon.

As we see more and more days of grid electricity coming from renewable sources, the case for a switch to electric air source heat pumps is made even stronger. Yes, gas is still dominant and due to subsidies is cheap, but heat pumps in social housing are now challenging the oil heating sector with lower running costs, less CO2, less maintenance, and more convenience with intelligent, in-built, web-based controls.

Admittedly, there’s still much to be done, especially with many of the major housebuilders, who are still too slow to adopt sustainable building methods and are often building as far back as the 2006 Building Regulations as they have ‘broken ground’

controls, installation and technical support.

The main thing to remember about a heat pump’s performance though (even the most basic one) – it will work best if properly designed and correctly installed.

Quiet please!

Max Halliwell, Mitsubishi

The quiet-running Ecodan heat pump from Mitsubishi Electric

– frankly a loophole that government must close and quickly. And yes, there are issues to address with retrofit, but as the social housing sector has shown, this can be done in a planned, measured way.

permeate into the public psyche.

This will see heat pump sales grow further, with the government forecasting one million sales a year by 2030.

Couple this with ambitious zero carbon targets, along with calls for a ban on gas boilers for new homes by 2025 and we can see that the market is rapidly changing.

Within the next decade, the UK domestic heating market is going to look very different from today.

Greater awareness At the same time, we are also seeing a growing awareness among the UK general public of the damage we are doing to our planet, and this urgent need to act is starting to

Is it time?

It’s up to you whether you choose to learn about heat pumps today, tomorrow or in the next five years but the market will grow and grow, so you could do worse than ask the leading manufacturers about training courses and support.

In addition to telling you what they want you to hear about their product, you should have the chance to ask them about performance,

Make sure you ask about noise too because this is an area that will become increasingly important as heat pump sales increase, to ensure that neighbours aren’t disturbed – which is why Permitted Development exists.

In the residential environment, sound is important because low sound output gives more flexibility in where a heat pump can be positioned.

That is exactly why we as a manufacturer have looked beyond performance and focused heavily on developing some of the quietest units ever available – a library

quiet sound pressure level of just 45 dB(A) makes passing Permitted Development requirements much easier.

Another string Engineers in the heating industry have always embraced change but the pace of that change is likely to increase quicker than ever.

Burning ‘stuff’ to keep warm is simply no longer viable in the long-term which means we have to find alternatives and we need them now.

And that is where modern, advanced air source heat pumps are ready to step up with technology that is as reliable as a kitchen fridge.

There is also a phenomenal market out there amongst the growing numbers of UK homeowners that are interested in being more sustainable. So are you ready to join the renewable revolution and deliver reliable, sustainable heating?

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Can the grid cope with demand?

With Government announcing a ‘future homes standard’ mandating the end of fossil fuel heating systems in newbuild properties from 2025, low carbon heating technologies, such as ground source heat pumps, could be looked upon as the new standard for heating much like we view gas boilers today.

The decarbonisation of heat is hot on everyone’s agenda following ambitious new targets set by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) to reduce the country’s carbon emissions. Parliament recently passed a motion declaring an ‘environment and climate emergency’, and many major British cities have stated their intent to become zerocarbon within the next 20 years.

It is clear from the recommendations published by the CCC that electriÿed heating has a critical role to play in providing a more sustainable infrastructure to heat our homes. This has made waves in the industry, with some key players questioning whether the national grid can cope with the additional electricity demand.

Capacity concerns Kensa Contracting, specialists in the installation of largescale ground source heat pump projects, has examined the potential impact of the proposed widespread deployment of electrically powered renewable heating systems on the grid, and how advances in technology and energy efÿciency measures have the potential to address capacity concerns.

A paper that was recently published in the international peer-reviewed journal, Energy Policy, examined the impact of the large-scale deployment of heat pumps and found that the electriÿcation of domestic heating on the grid is far less problematic than previously thought.

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The paper concluded peak heat demand is 170 GW, around 40% lower than previously thought, and the maximum ramp rate is 60 GW/h, around 50% lower than previously thought. The paper says, ‘the difÿculties surrounding the electriÿcation of heat are far less profound than previously assumed’ and ‘a shift towards heating GB’s homes using electricity rather than natural gas will therefore put much less pressure on the electricity supply system than previously anticipated’.

Less consumption MD of Kensa Contracting, Dr Matthew Trewhella, conÿrms: “The rapid decarbonisation of the electricity grid over the last ÿve years has added more momentum towards the electriÿcation of heat. Concerns have been expressed that shifting load from fossil fuels such as oil, LPG and ultimately mains gas, will unduly increase the strain on the electricity grid beyond its capacity – particularly at peak times.

“However, unlike direct electric, heat pumps produce more heat than the electric that they consume, and therefore actually reduce the load imposed on the grid. When using ground source heat pumps in particular, this strain is further reduced because they are typically 20-25% more efÿcient than air source heat pumps.”

Future innovation The Energy Policy’s paper acknowledges that ‘the electriÿcation of heating nevertheless remains a signiÿcant challenge, and is likely to result in considerably greater peaks in electricity demand and seasonal variation’.

However, Kensa argues that the way in which UK housing stock is set to evolve, advances in heating technology

How a typical borehole array installation links homes

and changes to the UK demographic will mitigate this.

The emergence of dynamic tariffs (which vary electricity charges depending upon the time of use), heat storage products, smart controls and battery storage will ease capacity problems and further enhance the cost and carbon beneÿts.

Dr Trewhella explains: “By using smart controls that learn the occupant’s preferences and building heat physics, it is possible to avoid the peaks of grid strain and shift load to the times when the grid can best accommodate it. Ground source heat pumps have far more potential to participate in load shifting initiatives than air source variants, as the ground is a very stable temperature heat source. This means the heat pump can be run at the same efÿciency any time of day or night (unlike air source where the efÿciency is lower when the outside air temperature is colder at night). If you combine some energy storage local to the heat pump, it is possible to even further reduce the peak demand.” www.kensaheatpumps.com

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38 RENEWABLE Technology Heat pump/UFH combo The Enviroair air source heat pump and the new Envirofloor underfloor heating range from Firebird have been designed as highly efficient heating partners. The MCS approved Enviroair heat pump range boasts quiet operation and a CoP to produce 4kW of energy for every 1kW of energy used to power the heat pump.

Available in single phase outputs from 7.5 to 16kW, the Enviroair incorporates a screed drying function and the range also includes heat pump compatible hot water cylinders, both standard and pre-plumbed.

The energy efficiency of the range is achieved with DC inverter technology

that keeps temperature fluctuations to a minimum and ensures heat output matches the heating load of the property – said to save up to 40% of energy compared to systems without this technology. Room temperatures are controlled via an intuitive, wireless programmable thermostat, which can be operated remotely.

When installed with Envirofloor UFH, which runs at a low temperature, the system achieves even greater efficiencies, making the two technololgies complementary partners.

R32 models deliver greater efficiency

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Solar suited for northern climates Available from Northern Ireland based distributor, CoolSky, the Apricus Vacuum Tube Solar Collector is a highly efficient solar hot water system particularly suitable for northern climates like the UK and Ireland.

The curved absorber inside each vacuum tube means that the Apricus system collects energy from early morning until evening, maximising the potential of this collector. This is known as the incident angle modifier and makes the product more efficient.

CoolSky provides a complete package,

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making it easy to order all the components required to install a single domestic system. Parts include collector, roof fixing frame, pumping station, controller, expansion vessel and solar fluid. Copper or stainless steel tanks are also available in twin and triple coil versions.

CoolSky offers a comprehensive preand post-sales technical support service and system design. Regular training sessions are available around the UK and Ireland. www.cool-sky.co.uk ENQUIRY No. 128

Four new heat pump models have joined Grant UK’s R32 range, consisting of 6, 10, 13 and 17kW outputs.

Described as cleaner and more sustainable working products, they are also highly efficient, achieving an A+++ energy rating at low temperatures such as 35°C or 45°C (new ErP labelling from September 2019).

All four have SCoP values delivering improved efficiencies and performance levels. All are monobloc in design, single phase, DC inverter driven, have built-

in weather compensation and base tray heating element.

Furthermore, each model is also available as a pack consisting of the R32 heat pump and its key accessories.

The new Aerona3 R32 models will supersede the current heat pumps available from Grant, with the company’s four current air source heat pumps being replaced by the R32 equivalent models. They are available with a guarantee of up to seven years.

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40 PRODUCTS in Action Pipe goes in quickly at high end flats Luxury home gets boosting solution than having to dogleg as you would with rigid copper pipework. With so many apartments to fit the drinking water and heating pipework in, we recognised the huge potential for time savings across a large construction project.”

Another selling point was the Everloc compression sleeve joint system. Lengths of Rautitan are joined together using the compression sleeve joint system using a Rautool device. This system produces a guaranteed permanently sealed joint without the need for O-rings.

Rehau’s Rautitan pipework has been specified for Hungate, a new high quality, town centre housing development being built in York. Once complete, the complex will provide more than 1000 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Building services consultants TÜV SÜD was enlisted in the third phase of the scheme to ensure the newest apartment blocks would be operationally efficient.

Colin Hindmarch, Associate at TÜV SÜD, says: “The ease of installation was a real selling point for us. The contractors could fit it very quickly, bending the flexible pipe around obstructions rather

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Heat pump warms the welcome centre A new multi-million pound welcome centre at the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) flagship garden at Wisley, Surrey, will be heated by highefficiency Carrier AquaSnap air-to-water heat pumps. The spacious welcome centre is expected to receive 1.4 million visitors per year and includes a restaurant, shop, and one of the largest plant centres in the UK.

The centre’s heating system includes two Carrier AquaSnap 30RQP air source heat pumps with a combined capacity of 600kW. The scroll

compressor-based units are highly energy efficient, harvesting ‘free’ energy from outside air. The low noise units have a reduced

refrigerant charge due to use of Carrier’s Brazed Plate Heat Exchangers, further reducing environmental impact.

The heat pumps, specified

by NG Bailey, are located remotely from the building and connected to the centre’s heating system via 80m of insulated underground pipework.

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Stuart Turner has worked closely with Urban Space Plumbing to design and supply a bespoke mains water boosting solution to meet the high water demands of a fivebathroom property in South West London.

Gary Porter, Senior Project Manager at Urban Space Plumbing, brought Stuart Turner in to provide a bespoke 978 litre one-piece GRP cold water storage tank and an Aquaboost Horizontal Twin Pump Booster Set to the luxury home, after Gary Porter, Senior Project Manager at Urban Space Plumbing.

“The issue of mains water pressure is often overlooked on refurbishment projects, particularly when existing pipe infrastructure is loaded with additional outlets from added bathrooms or extra storeys,” says Gary.

“Due to the size of the structure and the number of

outlets situated throughout the property, a booster set was needed to ensure water would sufficiently flow throughout the building – and I knew Stuart Turner would be well placed to assist with meeting the high water output needs.”

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Air distribution in a luxury setting

Saving space and cost for offices Compact, high power Condexa Pro condensing boilers from Vokèra by Riello have played a part in the conversion of a former council building in Smethwick into modern private offices.

Installed on a cascade rig, two 90kW Condexa Pro fully modulating gas boilers replaced the building’s inefficient and outdated boilers and significantly reduced costs by eliminating the need for a Building Management System (BMS).

The modularity of the Condexa Pro system meant output could be accurately sized to suit the new heating demands of the building with

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maximum efficiency, and in a compact footprint to fit the small, triangular-shaped plant room. Thanks to the boiler’s advanced built-in features, there was no need to install BMS controls, which saved project time and cost, as the Condexa Pro boiler controls are able to manage the day-to-day operation of the heating system.

Vokèra worked with heating specialists, Bog Standard Plumbing, to specify and supply a Condexa Pro system to meet requirements, including the confined space in the unusually shaped plant room PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Waterloo has supplied air distribution products as part of the creation of the Riverlight luxury apartments.

The development occupies a prime central London location directly fronting the River Thames and comprises a group of six pavilions ranging from 12 to 20 storeys in height.

Waterloo delivered linear bar grilles which were integrated at a high level in every room. The APM plasterline grille was chosen so that the surrounding frame could be plastered into the wall with only the central

core visible. Special clip fixings were developed so that the frame could be installed first.

After the room was decorated, the core was then fitted.

Diffusers were fed via thermally-lined plenums sized to give good throw patterns at various fan coil air volumes. Before the

installation, Waterloo created working mock-ups in a test lab to ensure perfect air performance and specified noise levels could be achieved.

Waterloo’s variable ventilation controllers deliver the exact amount of air flow to enhance the luxurious feel of each of the residential and retail blocks.

Maximising space and ensuring each grille was finished to a high specification was of paramount importance to Waterloo.

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All in one shower solution A Saniflo Kinedo shower cubicle is providing showering facilities in a Bristol homeless shelter. The Kinedo Eden features in a Newspace Sleepover Pod, inspired by the work of ‘Help Bristol’s Homeless’ charity.

The Saniflo Kinedo Eden was selected thanks to its ease and simplicity of installation. With no requirement for tiles, grout or silicone, the Eden can be installed in just a few hours and once connected to a water source is ready for use.

Mike Judge from Newspace says: “We are saving time in our manufacturing process with the Eden. It’s an integrated package that includes the tray, the shower

valve, shower head and handheld valve, plus the door and panels. This means we also save time by taking delivery of a single box rather than bringing all the separate elements together before the fix. We also do not have to specify and order all the individual elements, so that helps too. It’s also a stunning shower and really upgrades the bathroom.”

The sleepover pod arrives on site readybuilt after fabrication in Newspace’s Lydney factory. The concept is now being pitched to local authorities as a quick, cost-effective and short term solution to alleviate homelessness.

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating 41

Taking commercial opportunities The light commercial sector offers a number of opportunities in areas including shops, restaurants and ofÿces. Paul Martin, National Sales Manager at ATAG Commercial, explains how undertaking the relevant training can further help installers grow their businesses.

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fit boilers with outputs of up to hile the UK heating 70kW, as long as any pipework industry continues is less than 35mm in diameter to flourish in terms (or 0.035m3 in volume). However, of new energy efficient products and boiler technology, it should in order to move beyond this not be overlooked that skilled and onto larger scale products installers are still required to and heating systems, additional fit such systems. Indeed, the training is required.

Federation of Master Builders Installers are required to (FMB) found that construction have been Gas Safe registered companies, particularly SMEs, for a minimum of six months Paul Martin, National have been struggling to recruit Sales Manager at before they can participate in skilled tradespeople, including ATAG Commercial commercial boiler training, but plumbers and heating engineers, with applications such as retail with demand for these skills far outstripping stores, restaurants and offices falling under supply. the ‘light commercial’ umbrella, it is worth In April 2017, the UK Government the wait. It is common for light commercial introduced the Apprenticeship Levy to projects to require boilers with outputs from encourage more young people to join the 70 to 145kW, operating in environments trades; however, in April this year it was different from the domestic ‘norm’. revealed that apprenticeship starts were Key differences include commercial down by 26%. Given that the government applications being more load intensive on the target is to have three million starts by boilers installed, which are also frequently 2020, it is apparent more needs to be done installed in cascade arrangements of up to to encourage people to take up the tools. eight units – either wall mounted in line or So, what can be done to help bridge this back to back. These types of arrangements skills gap? One option is for domestic heat- are extremely reliable, responding more ing engineers to upskill and move into the efficiently to different heat loads, as well realm of commercial applications. It is the as easier to size for specific building needs. responsibility of manufacturers to offer the System efficiency is enhanced via the necessary levels of customer service, technical ability to switch individual boilers on and support and training to achieve this. off, according to demand. Plus, deeper turnNow, the standard domestic Gas Safe down rates can be achieved as heat outqualification enables heating installers to put is reduced when demand is low (such

ATAG Commercial’s XL boilers have recently been fitted at Bristol Grammar School

as during a sweltering summer following a particularly harsh winter). As a result, training is also required on the different commercial control options available.

Size matters Installers also need to be aware of the amount of space commercial boilers can take up, with some models having larger dimensions and footprints than anticipated.

This is something that needs to be factored in at the beginning of a commercial project, especially in an environment where space is at a premium. Furthermore, flue regulations

Commercial boiler range is in demand ATAG Commercial has announced record boiler sales in the ÿrst quarter of 2019.

Year-on-year analysis has revealed that overall sales increased by 62%, with the XL Series range of boilers proving to be the standout performer, as ÿgures revealed an 83% upsurge in units sold compared to the same period in 2018. Similarly, the company also reported a 66% increase in A Series boiler sales, while the Q Series experienced a 41% upturn.

Paul Martin comments: “It’s fantastic to see our boilers continuing to increase in popularity among installers. A lot of research and development has taken place to ensure we can offer high efÿciency products suitable for a wide range of applications.

Plus, our portfolio is further strengthened by an advanced range of heating controls, as well as a comprehensive choice of ° ue arrangements.”

Available in outputs of 70, 110 and 140kW options, ATAG Commercial’s XL Series offers ° exible cascade arrangements, a stainless steel heat exchanger and speed controlled pump.

Paul adds: “We’d already seen sales of XL Series boilers increase by 61% yearon-year from 2015 to 2016, which then improved a further 7% in 2017. Last year, we achieved 19% growth on this range, so to now see an 83% increase in XL sales is

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are also different for commercial properties – any flue is required to comply with IGEM/ UP/10 (covering the safe installation of gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises), as well as BS 6644:2011.

Finally, as with all boilers and heating systems, regular servicing and maintenance is essential. Attending a manufacturer’s training course will explain all aspects of commissioning, servicing and repair, providing installers with a thorough understanding of how to keep all components in optimum working order.

Manufacturers can support their installer customers by offering suitable training. At ATAG Commercial, we are committed to installer training, having set up a dedicated UK training programme, providing free gas boiler courses, detailing key aspects such as commissioning, servicing and faultfinding, as well as controls, flues and cascade options. Undertaking regular training allows heating engineers to keep up to date with any technological and product developments, as well as legislative changes. Plus, not only does training enhance existing skillsets, it also provides installers with a means of attracting new customers themselves – helping to develop a strong reputation and increase profit margins.

The payoff

The ATAG XL Series offers a flexible cascade arrangement and comes in outputs of 70, 110 and 140kW outputs

absolutely phenomenal. It’s a testament to the boilers’ exceptional performance, reliability and quality that they continue to go from strength to strength.”

The other models contributing to ATAG Commercial’s success include the Q Series, which features three combination and four system models speciÿcally designed for larger homes and properties with high hot water demands. As a result, outputs of 25,

38, 51 and 60kW are available, each with a wealth of °e xible cascade conÿgurations and ° ue options.

Completing the ATAG commercial range, the A Series range of combination boilers is suitable for domestic and small commercial properties. Offering outputs of 20i to 32kW, units have a high duty plate and frame heat exchanger for DHW, as well as a built-in speed-controlled pump.

Although some installers are reluctant to take time off work to attend a training course, doing so offers long-term benefits. After all, industry recognised training schemes include hands-on advice and learning, each designed to build upon heating engineers’ existing knowledge and skills.

So, it remains the responsibility of manufacturers to ensure their installer customers remain up to date with all aspects of training. This includes having the capability to help them upskill from domestic to commercial heating systems.

Doing so will certainly play a key role in ensuring the skills gap doesn’t widen – and the heating industry continues to thrive for many years to come. www.atagcommercial.co.uk

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42 LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating

Finding value outside the box Heating product choices should be based or more than just what’s behind the casing. Andy Green, Technical Director at Potterton Commercial, explains how a manufacturer’s value-added services can help contractors to stay competitive and prepare for the future.

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n the competitive commercial market, it makes business sense to take advantage of manufacturer resources that will help you stand out in the crowd. While things like punctuality, customer service and quality installs are all essentials to earning customer loyalty, there are additional services provided by manufacturers that contractors can take advantage of, particularly in the light commercial space. From making the most of training to accessing Andy Green Technical Director phone and on-site technical support when necessary, contractors should be aware of the additional perks that heating manufacturers offer.

Training edge A crucial aspect of staying ahead of the competition is keeping abreast of the latest products, services and legislation. In a recent survey undertaken by Potterton Commercial, it found that 53% of contractors think there should be more certification and compliance to keep standards high, and 68% agree that certification and compliance is going to take up more of their time. What’s more, 58% admitted that keeping up with new technology is going to become harder. As such, it is crucial for contractors to make the most of manufacturer-led training which can help to ease these concerns and is often run free of charge.

A typical training course will offer practical installation, commissioning and maintenance tips alongside advice on specifying the correct appliance for requirements and legislation updates to help installers to stay up to date and

access to genuine spares, as and when they need them.

When choosing a commercial boiler, lengthy warranties are crucial to giving the end user peace of mind. Many manufacturers are able to offer free extended warranties and free warranty registrations. Often is the case that if a heating system is commissioned by the manufacturer, then the warranty is more substantial.

Technical support

Look at the big picture when specifying heating equipment

remain compliant. It’s also a great way to network with like-minded individuals to share knowledge and advice.

It is also important to opt for genuine parts to help ensure the reliability and longevity of a heating system Use components designed, tested and approved to work perfectly alongside the specific manufacturer’s products.

Official spares meet the required safety and quality standards and will play a part in validating a boiler’s warranty. Most manufacturers will have a dedicated spares offering, and in the case of Potterton Commercial, thousands of genuine replacement parts are available for the entire product range, for up to 10 years after a product has been discontinued.

Genuine spares Commercial heating installations tend to have a minor and major service on an annual basis as a minimum, with various other checks likely to take place. Given this and the need to avoid downtime in commercial buildings, commercial contractors should ensure they have reliable and speedy

The level of technical support available pre- and post-sale is hugely important. Contractors should look for manufacturers that offer 24-hour telephone support and on-site assistance, but also those that offer a range of technical literature such as maintenance guidelines, technical specifications and installation guides. With a contractor’s reputation based on how well a piece of equipment runs from the moment of installation, this two-pronged approach will ensure the most appropriate solutions are chosen for customers and if problems do occur on site, they are resolved quickly.

In addition to all this, contractors should seek out manufacturers that go above and beyond. The importance of being able to access additional business support and benefits shouldn’t be underestimated. At Potterton Commercial, the likes of design services, a solid BIM offering, online tools/apps, and dedicated area sales managers all help to support contractors in their day-to-day role and to encourage customer buy-in.

While price, speed and ease of installation are all primary considerations for contractors and installation teams, support outside of the core product such as afterspecification, purchase and sales support are important factors when it comes to deciding on what commercial heating system to specify, buy or install for a new build project. As such, these features are equally important for manufacturers to consider too. www.pottertoncommercial.co.uk

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Providing incentives for high energy users With the Energy Technology List set to be withdrawn next year, Pete Mills, Technical Operations Manager at Bosch Commercial & Industrial, discusses how such schemes can help the UK achieve carbon reduction targets.

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ince 2001, the Energy Technology List (ETL) has been in place to encourage businesses to opt for energy efficient plant and machinery products. Part of the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) tax scheme, it means businesses are able to claim 100% first year capital allowance on a product if it is on the ETL at time of purchase.

Bosch Commercial & Industrial has 18 heating products on the ETL, including our latest improved and innovative GB162 range, and we have always been supportive of the list. In particular the fact it actively encourages businesses to opt for more efficient products is something that is more

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essential now than ever.

However, the Government announced last year that the ECA will be shelved in April next year. So what will replace it?

Goodbye to ETL I think honestly the ETL has run its course. Over the years there has been steadily less demand from customers and business owners for ETLaccredited products.

However, there are still positives to choosing products on the ETL in the short term, in particular for smaller companies that would benefit from the financial savings. Businesses can take advantage of the ETL until next April and I’d strongly advise those looking to replace or improve their

heating systems to use this small window of opportunity and make the most of it whilst it lasts.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, recently announced he will be scrapping the capital’s Cleaner Heat Cashback Scheme. This was originally put into place to incentivise small businesses to replace old boilers with more efficient systems. However, the pickup from the scheme was below expectations and unsurprisingly the Mayor is looking to place that investment in other areas.

It would seem the Cleaner Heat Cashback Scheme and ETL have experienced the same demand issues recently and, although ETL may continue to exist, it

would be more of a reference point for advice. It’s doubtful that new technology would directly link to it after next year and we may even see the list gradually wither away. What is certain, though, is that a new scheme or initiative is needed to fill that gap

Hello to the IETF The Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF) is looking to be a proposed £315 million scheme that will support businesses that have high energy use.

Ahead of a consultation, the Government expressed that this will look to cut bills and emissions through increased energy efficiency and help large companies transition to a low carbon

future through the use of lower carbon energy and processes.

However, efficiency can only take us so far and ultimately there needs to be a fundamental shift to a decarbonised gas network if we are to hit the new carbon-free targets for these industrial applications.

In short, the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund is another response to the urgent need for decarbonisation. It is a good idea in essence because it could help achieve better results than perhaps the ECA has in recent years.

Of course, in an ideal world it would be good to have seen the ECA continued so smaller businesses could continue to benefit

Pete Mills, Technical Operations Manager at Bosch Commercial & Industrial

financially for doing their part in tackling climate change.

However, by targeting real high-energy users and energy intensive sectors, the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund will be able to make inroads into increasing industry efficiency and reducing the carbon emissions, particularly as we look towards Net Zero by 2050.

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating 43

Free up time with flexible supply The latest in smart thermostatic technology has the potential to cut the running costs of water heaters without the need for frequent user interaction – so says Roy Marsden, Product Manager at Heatrae Sadia.

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acilities managers are invariably faced with the difficult task of providing hot water to a building while simultaneously keeping running costs to a minimum.

As a result, product selection should go beyond simply looking at upfront cost, with increased attention paid to the energy efficiency of hot water systems, which can drastically impact their ongoing expenditure.

Hands off One of the most effective ways to improve efficiency is to look for water systems which combine intelligent technology with intuitive design. By facilitating a flexible approach to water supply, the latest innovations can contribute to a reduction in user interaction while

Roy Marsden, Product Manager, Heatrae Sadia

optimising water efficiency.

Intelligent and adaptive technology is one of the best ways to reduce the total cost of ownership of a hot water system. Smart thermostatic controls are capable of continuously monitoring usage, and within a few weeks can learn the typical patterns of a building.

Given that water demand is rarely uniform, the system adjusts output accordingly, self-managing through peak and trough demand periods in order to maximise efficiency. Crucially, this can result in a reduction in fuel consumption of up to 19%.

One of the defining features of modern unvented systems is that their energy efficiency credentials are achieved without sustained userinteraction.

Ultimately, this frees up labour time for facilities managers to concentrate on tasks which may require a more hands-on approach.

Some systems will also offer vacation modes, a function which ensures water isn’t heated unnecessarily when a building’s occupants are away, resulting in further significant energy savings.

This means that facilities managers can, in turn, rest assured that the system will continue to operate effectively.

Usability Heatrae Sadia’s Multipoint Eco uses this latest technology, ensuring that output is carefully controlled to match demand. With an ErP rating of up to ‘A’, depending on the output, it provides managers with the peace of mind that total cost of ownership will be as low as possible.

The overall usability of unvented point-of-use water heaters shouldn’t be ignored, given its role in reducing interaction time, a contributing factor to total cost of ownership.

Aside from the above smart features, which eliminate the

need for constant human interaction, the displays and controls on a system should be as easy to use as possible.

An intuitive design enables users to quickly familiarise themselves with the controls, freeing up time for them to do more demanding tasks.

An intuitive set of controls will also help to improve the performance of a system by providing easily accessible temperature readings.

Combined with a reduction in downtime as a result of less user error, the usability of unvented point-of-use water heaters is a crucial consideration for any company that is seeking to lower running costs.

With numerous tasks and considerations to juggle, facilities managers are challenged with delivering a reliable hot water supply,

Heatrae Sadia’s Multipoint Eco unvented water heater

amongst several other crucial building services. Therefore, opting for hot water solutions which prioritise energy optimisation on a continual basis will significantly ease some of your customer’s dayto-day pressure.

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44 LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating

Bigger systems, bigger impact System contamination can spell bad news for light commercial heating systems, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns, limiting performance and reducing system efÿciency. Rob Jacques, National Key Accounts and Technical Sales at Spirotech, explains more.

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When sizing up a light commercial project, installers will need to keep in mind the heat output of the boiler, as this will help determine what type of product is suitable.

The other key sizing factor to consider is pipework, as this is usually larger for light commercial projects.

nefficiency and malfunctioning can occur in all heating systems if air and dirt (magnetite) are not correctly or sufficiently removed from the system’s water. Both contaminants are catalysts for trouble and if these issues are not diagnosed and dealt with, the likelihood of problems, including system breakdown, increases.

Within larger light commercial systems, common problems are magnified when compared to those experienced in a domestic environment. What’s more, whilst modern heating systems are markedly improved in terms of design and efficiency compared to their older counterparts, they are much more sensitive to air and dirt contamination.

Calculated outcomes

Overlooked issues With so much emphasis placed on big ticket items like boilers, system water is too often not given enough consideration. System water quality still remains overlooked by many, despite the fact that a failure to properly care for system water means endusers are setting themselves up for a host of long-term problems and unnecessary costs.

Here are some of the most common system complaints to look out for, which suggest air and dirt could jeopardise the performance of a light commercial heating system.

Energy consumption: All of the components in today’s systems will likely have an ‘A’ or ‘B’ energy label at day-one of installation, but no matter how good the core system units are, the level of energy efficiency will rapidly decline if system water isn’t treated correctly and dirt and air aren’t appropriately removed.

System noise One of the telltale signs of a contaminated system is an audible

Larger heating systems are more severely affected by problems due to poor water quality

increase in noise levels when the system is in operation. Air pockets will naturally occur if air is not constantly being removed through deaeration, which will cause bangs and clanging within radiators and pipework.

The presence of air gives rise to increased system dirt, too, which can accumulate in radiators or clog up the pump, which will generate unwelcome intrusive sounds. If these sounds become noticeable, action should be taken immediately to prevent problems persisting.

Excessive wear on parts With regular checks essential to maintaining a healthy heating system, you may notice that key components are deteriorating at a much

faster rate than anticipated. If the boiler’s pump is contaminated with magnetite, it will work harder to try to achieve the same output, inevitably decreasing the product’s expected life span. This excessive wear on parts can often lead to larger issues such as breakdowns, which are both costly and time consuming to rectify.

Solution oriented Treating the presence of air and dirt in a light commercial heating system is similar to that of a domestic property. For the best results, it is important that an installer is specifying the right product for the job, and there are a number of factors to consider when choosing.

Deaerators and dirt separators are all designed to work based on a certain flow rate, and this will dictate which size fitting an installer will need. If a deaerator or dirt separator is undersized, it will still work, however it will not perform at its optimum level and can lead to further inefficiencies.

The brass SpiroVent RV2 is available in connections up to 2in, which may cover some light commercial systems. For pipework larger than this, the steel version of the SpiroVent would be required.

For systems with multiple zones, a hydraulic separator may be required to ensure the circuits do not interfere with each other. A hydraulic separator such as the SpiroCross should be considered in systems where primary and secondary pumps are used; when primary and secondary flows are not equal; or when a constant primary flow is required. A well designed hydraulic separator will not only perform hydraulic balancing, but will also have both deaeration and dirt separation capabilities too.

Find out more For more information on the comprehensive range of air, dirt and chemical solutions from Spirotech, enter the number below.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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www.spirotech.co.uk

Boilers attract maximum credits New from Lochinvar is the EFB range of wall-hung, gas fired, high efficiency condensing boilers featuring low NOx emissions. They incorporate a stainless steel heat exchanger, which is supported by a new ‘Five plus Five’ extended warranty.

NOx emissions are lower than 24mg/ kWh, which the company believes to be the lowest level produced by any commercial wall-hung boiler currently available on the UK market. As a result, all EFB models qualify for the maximum two credits awarded for air quality on BREEAM-rated projects.

The new ‘Five plus Five’ warranty covers the heat exchanger, which will be replaced free of charge in the first five years of operating life in the event of a manufacturer’s fault.

Thereafter the warranty moves onto a sliding scale where 60% of the cost of

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replacement will be covered in the sixth year, 40% in years seven and eight, so on down to 20% in the ninth and tenth.

The four models in the range offer outputs from 85 to 151kW. The stainless steel heat exchanger has excellent resistance to corrosion and will operate at working pressures of up to six bar.

EFB boilers can be either wall or frame mounted and, at only 440mm wide and 539mm deep, they provide a compact solution for commercial, industrial and large residential buildings.

Up to sixteen units can be installed in a cascade system to provide maximum flexibility and operating reliability in larger projects. EFB cascade mounting frame assemblies are also lower than 1.8m in height, which is helpful for both installation and maintenance.

All four models have integral controls, which include cascade operation, with or without BMS connection. They will manage the cascade system, boiler operation and pumps as well as the cylinder temperature.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Hotel hospitality The Touchpoint One Hotel from Priva combines modern aesthetics with ease of use, enabling hotel guests to enjoy a comfortable room climate. An LED display and touchscreen control enables the guests to adjust the settings to their preference in their rooms.

For added ease of use, easily understood icons indicate a range of functions such as cooling, heating or an open window. Temperature can be displayed in either Celsius or Fahrenheit. If the climate control is turned off because an open window has been detected, guests can clearly see this on the display. This avoids unnecessary efforts for the hotel maintenance staff to troubleshoot the problem.

The Priva Touchpoint One Hotel is available in black or white, and it is also possible for hotel owners add their own logo to the front of the control. www.priva.com/uk

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating 45 Cascade controller manages efficiency Little and large The new Aquarea Cascade Controller from Panasonic can operate up to 10 Aquarea air to water heat pumps (160kW) simultaneously or in cascade mode, helping to meet the heating or cooling demand of commercial buildings more efficiently.

Each heat pump within the cascade requires its own Modbus Interface (PAWAW-MBS-H) to allow it to communicate with the Aquarea Cascade Controller.

It directly integrates with

a building’s BEMS by a builtin modbus for a smart way to manage heating, cooling,

domestic hot water (DHW) and monitor energy usage.

PV panel functions, a 3-way

external valve for cooling, and up to three external heat meters can also be connected to the controller at one time to oversee all operations and view essential information in one place.

In addition, the controller includes a touch screen display with information about each of the connected heat pumps – ideal for quick servicing and maintenance tasks.

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www.aircon.panasonic.eu

Hot water comes from VRF systems The Super Heat Recovery Multi (SHRMe) variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air conditioning system from Toshiba Carrier can now be used to produce hot water up to 82ºC by adding a hot water module.

The unit transforms Toshiba’s threepipe VRF air conditioning system into an efficient hot water generator that is suitable for use in hotels, gyms, restaurants, shops and offices. With a wide operating range from minus

25 to 40ºC, it can produce hot water year-round without impacting normal cooling and heating operation.

It uses a cascade heat exchanger to harness the output from SHRMe’s high performance heat pump, adding a second stage of compression to upgrade the energy to produce high temperature hot water via a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger.

The energy costs for hot water production compared to a conventional

electric immersion system are cheaper.

For example, heating 3000 litres of water from 15 to 65ºC using an electric system costs £23, whereas using the hot water module costs just £6.62.

The high temperature hot water module is available in 5HP configuration, which is capable of providing 14kW of heating to generate hot water up to 82ºC. PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Commercial and industrial chimney and flue systems specialist, A1 Flue Systems, has extended its range with the launch of a new 100mm flue pipe – the company’s smallest diameter Deltavent twin-wall flue system.

Previously, the smallest Deltavent was 150mm, but, thanks to the availability of a new V band (which seals the joint between lengths of flues), the North Nottinghamshirebased company can now introduce the 100mm flue pipe into its flagship range, which goes up to 1100mm.

“The 100mm Deltavent will be ideal for smaller projects, such as schools and small offices,” says Director John Hamnett. “Being able to go down from 150 to 100mm may not sound much, but it will make a massive difference to how we engineer projects.”

The Deltavent twin wall system is typically connected to diesel generator exhausts, condensing boilers, CHP systems, fan-assisted flue systems, kitchen extraction systems and smoke extractors.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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46 LIGHT COMMERCIAL Heating Compact response Constant flow of hot water to DHW demand Commercial locations such as schools, universities, hotels, prisons, care homes and leisure centres, plus buildings of similar size, are proving to be popular applications for the recently launched Econoplate BV Series of semi-instantaneous hot water units from Stokvis.

Combining an Econoplate plate heat exchanger with different sizes of storage vessel, the compact solution is available in a wide choice of sizes and outputs to suit premises with modest plant room space and medium levels of hot water demand.

Crucially, the hybrid unit takes up less space than installing a separate Econoplate PHE and could typically cut capital cost by £2000 or more.

The units are capable of supplying domestic hot water direct on demand, or rapidly reheating the stored volume which can be 300, 500, 800 or 1000 litres.

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The HDC 1200i is a continuous flow water heating unit from Rinnai which is said to be ideal for locations which require limitless amounts of usable hot water, such as restaurants, hospitals, hotels and leisure clubs, with no fluctuations in temperature.

The unit can deliver in excess of 1500 litres of hot water per hour, with an overall gross efficiency of more than 95%. It can also be combined with other units

in a cascade system with a common flue. The manifolded units can be delivered direct to site in one complete package and there is no limit to the number of units that can be linked together.

Available for use with both natural gas and LPG, the compact units help to optimise plant room space and come with a choice of internal or external weather-proof models. For extra efficiency, the water

heaters can modulate down from 54kW to just 2.4kW and can also be linked with renewable technology such as heat pumps or a solar thermal system.

As well as increasing capacity, the Rinnai Infinity water heater has lower greenhouse gas emissions because of the new reduced NOx burner technology and, because there is no hot water storage, this scores well with BREEAM.

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Taking control to optimise efficiency There are five heat output capacities, rising from 56 to 231kW, with flow rates from 606 litres to 1551 litres in 10 minutes. For higher demand applications, it is possible to install multiple units in parallel.

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Burner manufacturer EOGB Energy Products Ltd has launched a new service to design, develop and integrate bespoke burner controls for commercial heating systems and industrial processes.

Working in partnership with customers to understand their production process and specific heat control requirements, the

company’s team of engineers will develop a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) configured to individual requirements. These deliver a range of functions such as sequencing systems to control multiple boilers and furnace control systems to accurately regulate temperature.

The interface can also be custom designed to provide

sophisticated management and a real-time view of system conditions and operational data, which engineers can access remotely from any internet connected device.

Technical Director Martin Cooke says: “Unlike other PLC developers, EOGB has over 25 years’ experience in the combustion industry, meaning we are uniquely

placed to provide PLC solutions to integrate with combustion equipment.

By working closely with customers to fully understand what they want to achieve, we can design PLCs to optimise the use of advanced and highly efficient combustion equipment.”

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Van Test: Peugeot Expert Asphalt Building on the success of the previous generation, Peugeot redesigned the Expert van to deliver a better driving experience with plenty of perks incorporated into the base model. Mike Smyre tested the Expert Asphalt Long model, with favourable results.

G

walk-through cabin the space iven the massive between the gearstick and the expense involved middle seat is too small even in developing a new for my skinny shins. Storage vehicle these days, it makes space within the cab is also sense for manufacturers to somewhat limited compared collaborate and share their to larger vans, although R&D costs. From the grille back Peugeot have made clever use the Expert shares pretty much of the space available. There everything with the Citroën are large bins on each door, Dispatch and the Toyota storage under the passenger Proace, and while looks are seat, another bin on the dash subjective I think the Peugeot and a couple of decent-sized comes out top aesthetically glove boxes. with its purposeful, almost The upside is a van that aggressive front-end design. drives like, and is equipped The Expert comes in Mike Smyre at the wheel like, an MPV. The media centre compact, standard or long bodies (all with a single roof height) with a incorporates digital radio, satnav, phone choice of two engine sizes and five power connectivity and a settings menu, and turns outputs ranging from 94 to 178 bhp. Gearboxes in to a reversing camera when reverse gear range from a five-speed manual on the 94 bhp is selected. This has the neat trick of also model, through to an eight-speed auto with displaying a bird’s eye view of the van as if steering wheel paddle shift as standard on the there was a camera about ten meters above 178 bhp. There are four levels of specification: you. What wizardry is this? the ‘S’; the Grip – an ‘S’ with more ground clearance and an engine protection plate for Easy rider site work; the Professional; and the Asphalt The whole set-up is extremely instinctive, (previously called the Professional Plus). Our and I didn’t once have to refer to the user’s test model was the Asphalt Long with the 2.0 manual to navigate my way around. The litre 148 bhp engine and six-speed manual steering column controls are similarly easy to work out, which is a good thing as visually gearbox.

Even the basic ‘S’ comes with a decent they hide themselves behind the arms of spec, which includes Bluetooth, DAB radio the steering wheel. While this takes a day and cruise control/speed limiter. The or two to get used to, you quickly appreciate Professional adds A/C, a 7in touch screen the great ergonomics and the quality feel for radio and connectivity, rear parking of all the switchgear. sensors and electrically folding heated door The seats (well, two of them at least) are mirrors among others. The Asphalt package comfortable with plenty of adjustment and further adds metallic paint, colour coded provide good support over long journeys. bumpers, 17in alloy wheels, front and rear The third seat folds up to provide a table parking sensors and the rear parking camera. for maps or paperwork; this is probably a Everything in the pictures comes standard better use for it as the gear change column at this trim level, except the two-tone alloys is exactly where a second passenger’s leg which add £100. would want to be and the van simply isn’t The Expert also shares its platform with the wide enough for three hefty blokes to be Peugeot 308 and Citroën C4 Picasso, which comfortable over any distance. shows up in the cab in both positive and The lack of spaciousness in the cab is not negative aspects – mostly positive, so let’s reflected in the load area. There is space get the niggles out of the way first. The seating for three Euro pallets and easy access is trying hard to accommodate three but not from the sliding doors, which come both quite making it, and while technically it’s a sides as standard. The floor is long enough to accommodate 3m pipes thanks to the removable hatch underneath the passenger seats. The 50/50 split rear doors open 180 degrees on a simple-to-operate latch, but here we find the only bit of bad design in an otherwise very well thought-out vehicle.

Once the doors are open past 90 degrees they are, quite literally, left flapping in the wind.

On the road the MPV heritage again comes into its own. The 148 bhp engine has plenty of grunt, and gives a very respectable 0-62 time of 11 seconds. The steering is nicely weighted if slightly lacking in feedback and the Expert takes twisty roads in its stride, with minimal roll. The six-speed box is slick and precise and the clutch is light and progressive. The brakes also feel just right and haul the van down rapidly in an entirely predictable manner. I didn’t get the chance to drive the Expert fully The 50/50 split rear doors open 180 degrees

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The reversing camera gives a bird’s eye view

loaded, but the brakes and suspension give the impression of being more than capable of handling the van’s 1311kg load capacity.

Wind and tyre noise are minimal and the engine only intrudes when you are pushing it hard. While there’s not a lot of noise from behind, I would consider the optional insulated bulkhead, as apart from making life quieter it allows the driver’s seat to recline a couple of inches further when the coffee break alert tells you it’s time for a quick nap.

Room for manoeuvre Manoeuvring in tight spaces is made easy by the reversing cameras and front and rear sensors and a very respectable 12.4m turning circle. The single vision mirrors are adequate, although I don’t think I’d be happy relying on those alone.

As well as MPV technology and drivability, you also get all the safety features you’d expect from a modern mid-range car, and if you want to delve into the extras catalogue there is an impressive range of safety technology, some of which is not yet available in the car range. You can specify Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and even a camera that reads road speed signs and alerts the driver to set the speed limiter appropriately. Physical safety is taken care of by the 5-star Euro NCAP rating (conducted on the Traveller version in 2015) which is quite an achievement considering this is one of the lightest vans in the midpanel class.

Generous load area and a load-through hatch

The 1446 kg kerb weight also contributes to the class-leading economy figures. Testing a vehicle involves rather more, shall we say, spirited driving than daily use and I was not able to match the official 53.3 mpg (combined cycle) figure, but the 44mpg I did achieve is still impressive in the circumstances. This was helped by the stop-start feature that is so unobtrusive I had to keep checking to make sure it was working.

The verdict Prices for the Expert range start at around £17.5 k, with our test model costing £27,565, giving an OTR price of £34,108 excluding the wheel upgrade.

Peugeot have made massive improvements over the second generation incarnation of the Expert. This is a well-spec’d van, packed with safety features, fun to drive, competitively priced and economical to run. If you’re not looking for massive load capacity and only carry one passenger on a regular basis, it’s definitely worth a closer look. business.peugeot.co.uk

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48 VANS & Racking Plumbing firm fleet always delivers

It’s bang up to date behind the chevrons The 2019 Citroën Dispatch range introduces new specification, WLTP-compliant Euro 6.2 engines, and revised options. Following the launch of Worker and Driver variants for the New Berlingo Van range late last year, Worker and Driver variants of Dispatch are now introduced. This will provide four trim levels for Dispatch: X, Enterprise, Worker and Driver.

The changes, available in Panel Van and Crew Van versions, will help to simplify the engine range and trim options, while ensuring that Dispatch complies with the latest EU emissions and fuel consumption testing ahead of the implementation date this September.

Adopting the same approach as the new Berlingo Van Worker, Dispatch Worker equipment will include the Moduwork bulkhead with load-through flap, dual passenger bench seat with fold-up outer seat

and fold-down writing table, ground clearance raised by 20mm, accompanied by a 20mm thick sump guard and enhanced traction modes. Dispatch Worker models will offer payloads of up to 1400kg and will be equipped with 17-inch steel wheels with all season mud and snow tyres, improving traction on unsurfaced roads and in poor weather.

All Dispatch models will be equipped with the Citroën Connect Box as standard, providing emergency call and assistance services.

In an impact involving the vehicle, the system makes an automatic call to the appropriate emergency services and can provide the exact location of the vehicle.

The manufacturer recommended prices for Dispatch ranges from £21,320 for the smallest Panel Van to £34,035 for the largest Crew Van Driver.

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Colin Laver Heating has taken another step on the road to an all-MercedesBenz van fleet with the recent arrival of another eight Vito models, plus its first X-Class pickup.

The Pontypridd-based firm, which last year celebrated its 50th anniversary, offers domestic heating, plumbing and electrical services. It acquired its first Merc vans 2016 and since then has been steadily taking on more as replacement vans for its mobile engineers.

With more than 50 long-bodied Vito 111 CDIs on the road, as well as six small Citan 109 CDI extra-longs, MercedesBenz accounts for the most part of the company’s fleet of vans and cars.

MD of Colin Laver Heating, Howard Leyshon, says: “It is essential that our vans don’t let us down. I need my guys to be able to turn the key and know their van is going to start, and the Vito offers the all-important reliability that is crucial

to the smooth running of our business.

“I can count on one hand the number of issues we’ve had with our Mercedes-Benz vans, and none were major. The Vito is also cost-effective to operate, reassuringly safe, and popular with our engineers,

who appreciate its comfort and quality.

I’ve no doubt that the brand’s premium image reflects well on Colin Laver Heating in the eyes of our customers, too.”

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/vans/en

Fully tailored to specific needs Mobile use in vehicles The van racking solutions from Van Guard are constructed from aluminium to keep the weight of the units as low as possible and have passed the industry standard ECE Reg 17 crash test to ensure that goods being carried are safely secured in the back of a van.

The units can be tailored to specific needs – shelves can easily be added in or taken out, and with different height units and different length shelves available. In addition, the racking can be transferred from one vehicle to another in the future if needed, making it a longterm investment. Shelves take the most common tool boxes on the market.

Additional accessories such as dividers, non-slip matting, plastic bins and unit height extensions can

www.van-guard.co.uk

be purchased to fully utilise the shelving and personalise the racking system according to individual needs.

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What you need to know about Clean Air Zones A new guide – ‘Clean Air Zones and the UK van operator: what you need to know’ – has been published

by Manheim, a commercial vehicle remarketing company. The guide aims to explain what the incoming clean air zones (CAZ) are, how they will likely operate and give direction to van operators trying to understand what this change could mean to their business.

As much as 80% of dieselengine vans currently on UK roads will attract penalty charges when entering a CAZ because they do not meet the required emission standards, according to Manheim’s analysis.

London’s Ultra Low

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Emission Zone (ULEZ) – a CAZ for the capital – is the first urban centre in the UK to levy a charge on non-compliant vehicles.

Birmingham and Leeds will see similar schemes by 2021. According to Manheim, around 3.3 million vans do not currently meet the ULEZ/ CAZ exemption criteria.

The only vans exempt from ULEZ/CAZ penalty charges will be those with Euro 6 diesel engines, Euro 4 petrol engines or battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), 30% of the 4.3 million vans currently in operation are over 10 years old. It’s estimated that 99% of

those in operation today are diesel powered. CAZ charges will apply to some vehicles which are not yet three years old because Euro 6 did not become mandatory on new vans until September of 2016.

London’s ULEZ, enforced 24/7, will initially operate within the Congestion Charge Zone, and will see non-compliant vans charged a daily rate of £12.50 plus the £11.50 congestion charge.

Birmingham City Council has indicated non-compliant vans entering its CAZ will face an £8 daily charge from January 2020.

The guide can be downloaded by visiting the website: Manheim.co.uk/ CleanAirZones

More than half of van drivers admit to making calls behind the wheel without using a handsfree device, according to new research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Since March 2017, driving while using a device – including making calls, texting, taking selÿes or posting on social media – has carried a ÿne of £200 and a six penalty points on your licence.

Being caught twice is enough to have your licence revoked.

However, many are risking breaking the law by not having a handsfree kit in their vans (23%) or failing to use the technology even if their vehicle is fully-equipped (33%). Just over a quarter (27%) said their vehicle was ÿtted with handsfree and they always use it to make phone calls while driving.

Volkswagen offers a Bluetooth handsfree kit as standard across its entire model range. The brand’s vehicles are also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for complete customer convenience.

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VANS & Racking 49 MOTs more often

Ideas to add extra security to vans Installing CCTV in your van could be a significant deterrent against wouldbe tool thieves according to LeaseVan.co.uk. The experts from the van leasing company have issued some tips for installers who need to protect their work vehicles, especially if forced to leave tools or equipment in vans while working or overnight.

Tim Alcock from LeaseVan. co.uk comments: “Wherever possible, it’s advisable to move expensive tools and equipment indoors for secure storage. But sometimes location and circumstances mean tradespeople have no other option than to leave items in their vans while they’re parked up on a job or overnight. To help deter criminals and make a theft less likely to occur or be successful, we’ve identified some precautionary steps van owners could take.”

Top tips Intruder alarms Fit a coded device that triggers when your van is accessed by someone who doesn’t have permission.

Tool vault boxes A van vault box or safe will add a layer of security similar to a personal home safe, but often with tailored compartments for specific tools.

Deadlocks These enhanced defences provide a stronger locking point to cab and rear doors. They are operated independently to a vehicle’s factory fitted locks, giving the driver more control.

CCTV Quality devices can be bought relatively cheaply online and one should be installed on both the inside and outside of vans.

Permanent tool marking Invisible anti-theft marking on your tools and equipment that requires ultra-violet light make them easier to

trace and make ownership indisputable.

Dye tags Similar to those used in clothing retail, this method will catch thieves literally red handed.

Concealed packs of dye Used by many banks in stacks of notes, this could also be hidden within expensive equipment. They’re armed by magnets and triggered by radio waves on a timer.

Inaccessible parking When

there are tools and equipment in your commercial vehicle, reverse it into a parking space where the rear doors are practically touching a wall or other obstacle.

Simple dissuasion A basic sticker on the outside of a van declaring that no tools are stored in the vehicle may be enough to convince a criminal to try elsewhere.

Even if it’s not true, it’s cheap, quick and worth a go.

Consumer website Honest John Vans is calling on Government to modernise the MoT rules after official data revealed that one in four vans on the UK’s roads fail their first MoT. Millions of van MoT records were analysed and it was found that just 75% of vans pass their first MoT test at three years, with lighting, brakes and tyres the most common causes for failure.

One of the reasons that vans are thought to have a poorer MOT pass rate is because they are worked harder and driven over greater distances.

A typical van clocks up 47,000 miles by the time it has its first test at three years, while the average car has covered 26,000 miles over the same period of time.

Daniel Powell, Managing Editor of HonestJohn.co.uk, says: “Our MoT data shows that drivers are putting themselves and others at risk, often without knowing,

so it’s imperative that vans get their first MoT before cars.

The introduction of a twoyear MoT exemption would not affect the majority of responsible van operators, who are meticulous when it comes to vehicle maintenance.

Instead it would target drivers who do not take vehicle safety very seriously by failing to perform the most basic of checks.”

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www.honestjohn.co.uk

Calculator refines In-cab device cuts insurance claims used LCV selection A device that provides realtime feedback on a driver’s performance has helped Quality Heating Services save significantly on insurance claims. The Lightfoot device was installed in all 100-plus vans in QHS’s fleet, leading to a 34% fall in atfault claims and a 66% drop in claims costs.

The Buckinghamshirebased company was introduced to Lightfoot by its insurers who were looking for ways to reduce risk for their client without having

Customers looking to purchase a used VW van can take advantage of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ new online Used Van Finance Calculator to help find the deal that suits them best.

Hosted on the Das WeltAuto approved used website, the facility allows Van Centres to display hire purchase, personal contract plan, and lease purchase options for many of the vehicles advertised via the Used Van Locator.

The calculator lets customers check affordability and personalise a finance example with the

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ability to change details such as deposit, mileage and length of agreement.

Head of Marketing Sarah Cox says: “The Used Van Finance Calculator continues our ability to deliver our ‘Working With You’ promise to customers through an enhanced digital solution.

We understand businesses want to do more online in their own time and the new calculator allows users of our Das WeltAuto service to build a finance quote on a used vehicle that suits their budget perfectly at their leisure.”

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to train drivers.

Lightfoot helps drivers achieve greater efficiency from their vehicles through audible and visual guidance

via a small dashboard display.

The device uses live engine data to give drivers bespoke feedback on their driving style in real-time, helping them to

improve efficiency and safety.

The accompanying driver app hosts a rewards platform for drivers, which serves to further incentivise the adoption and maintenance of a smoother driving style.

Comparing performance before and after Lightfoot, the trial period showed an 11.3% improvement in fuel economy, reductions in speeding by 69%, and a reduction in CO2 emissions by roughly 11%.

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New generation, higher specification The third generation Vivaro medium van is now in production at the company’s Luton plant. It is available in two lengths (L1H1 4.95m and L2H1 5.30m), and body styles include panel van, doublecab for up to six occupants, and a platform chassis.

Priced from £22,020 excluding VAT, the Vivaro comes in three trim levels: Edition, Sportive and Elite.

Dual side sliding door, driver/ passenger airbags and cruise control with speed-limiter are all available as standard on Vivaro for the first time.

Reflecting the demands of an evolving market,

Sportive models are higher specification than the outgoing model, with standard equipment including body coloured mirrors, handles and

body side moulds, alarm, auto lights and wipers, acoustic windscreen and thickened side glazing.

The top-of-the range Elite

features the latest safety technology as standard including lane departure warning, speed limit information, intelligent speed adaptation, driver attention alert and blind spot detection.

The Vivaro features ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear aprons.

They warn the driver of obstacles when parking and monitor the side blind spot.

Depending on the equipment level, the rear-view camera image is displayed either in the interior mirror or on the seven-inch display.

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01/07/2019 17:27

Win a Glow-worm Easicom boiler!

To mark the relaunch of the famous Glow-worm Mystery Trip we’re offering PHAM News readers the chance to win the company’s Easicom boiler. There are six to win, with one boiler given away over the next six issues.

The Prize The super light, super efÿ cient, super value Easicom boiler has been speciÿcally designed with the needs of the installer and their customers in mind. The range features a low maintenance automotive grade aluminium silicate heat exchanger and a patented four-sided cooling system to reduce the stress on the heat exchanger to deliver long-term reliability for homeowners.

Compatible with the existing ° ue range for easy replacement of older boilers, the boiler also comes with a choice of bespoke accessories, including a large aesthetic pipe cover panel and universal upward piping kit. Each boiler also offers a DIN pipe layout to make boiler swaps quick and easy, and larger waterways, making it perfect for retroÿt jobs.

Easicom’s sleek design features a bright and easy-to-read LCD display, and its quiet operation means minimal noise for homeowners. The range can also be used alongside a choice of controls, including Glow-worm’s Climastat simple digital thermostat, which not only empowers homeowners to efÿ ciently manage their heating and hot water, but will also meet Boiler Plus regulations.

The range is connected to Glow-worm’s Club Energy installer scheme which, when the Easicom installation is registered, will initiate a ÿ ve-year guarantee.

How to enter Glow-worm has recently revealed that Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, will be the destination of the 2020 Glow-worm Mystery Trip.

Guests on the all-expenses ÿ ve-day paid trip will be treated to a stay at the Intercontinental ÿ vestar hotel, sited right in the heart of the city, just minutes away from bustling street markets and iconic landmarks.

For a chance to win an Easicom boiler, all you have to do is answer the following question about the next Mystery Trip destination:

The official currency used in Vietnam is: (a) Ding (b) Dang (c) Dong Email your answer to editor@phamnewsedit.co.uk with ‘Win an Easicom’ in the subject line. Please make sure you include the following:

* Your name and your company’s name * Your contact telephone number * Your Gas Safe registration number * Please type ‘YES’ in the body of your email if you are happy to receive offers from Glow-worm via email All correct answers received before the closing date of 26th August 2019 will be entered into the prize draw. Only one entry per person will be allowed.

For more details about Glow-worm products, please visit the website below:

www.glow-worm.co.uk

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WHAT’S New Get fittings when buying kit for accessible bathrooms Now available from AKW, the provider of accessibility solutions, is a range of plumbing and pipe fittings to help installers and specifiers get everything they need to fit an accessible bathroom from the same company.

Available in convenient pack sizes, installers can order exactly what is needed for the job. The range includes compression and copper pipe fittings, as well as plastic push fit tubes and fittings.

AKW has also incorporated tap connection flexi-hoses, solvent weld waste fittings and a selection of isolator valves into the range for extra flexibility.

The new plumbing and fittings range is part

of the AKW One service that ensures installers and specifiers can order everything needed to complete an accessible bathroom project from one source. The service offering includes showers, trays, formers, screens, seats, grab rails and waste pumps, as well as brassware, sanitaryware, wall panels and bathroom furniture. Recent range additions also include safety flooring, lighting, tiles, timber, plywood and now plumbing and pipe fittings.

AKW claims installers who use AKW One services will save approximately £100 per job.

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www.akw-ltd.co.uk

Concentrated formula inside Fernox has re-launched the ‘F’ range of 500ml liquid and 400ml Express products: Cleaner F3, Protector F1 and Protector+ Filter Fluid. The new formulations have a much higher concentration of the main active ingredients, so a new 500ml bottle or 400ml Express canister with the market leading ‘F’ range can now treat a 130-litre system, up from a 100-litre system previously, 16 radiators (previously 10) and 250m2 of under° oor systems. This reduces the risk of installers inadvertently under-dosing a system, as over 97% of UK homes can now be successfully treated with just one dose.

fernox.com

ENQUIRY No.

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Bolt forward Get control in in pipework each room To make installing pipework easier, Maincor has launched mechanical ÿttings which are said to signiÿcantly reduce install time. Made from high quality brass, Maincor compression ÿttings for joining Flextra Pipe and making building connections feature two bolts: one for opening the ÿtting and one for tightening it on to the pipe, guaranteeing ease of installation.

Minimising the potential for human error and reducing ÿtting times while never compromising on safety, these connectors from 32mm and above are made with a clamping sleeve.

Creating huge pressure to the joint, Maincor says this simple solution makes it impossible for the pipe to slide out of the connector.

ENQUIRY No. 161 www.maincor.co.uk

Hive has launched smart radiator valves that allow for the management of the heating in each room of the home. They can be set to an exact temperature in degrees, rather than just selecting a setting between 1 to 5.

When working with Hive Active Heating, Hive Radiator Valves are smarter and give better control of individual radiators by using the Hive app. It will tell the Hive Active Heating to kick in without affecting the heating in the rest of the home.

Hive Radiator Valves also work without Hive Active Heating by working in conjunction with the Hive Hub to connect to a smartphone.

ENQUIRY No. www.hivehome.com 162

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July/August 2019

WHAT’S New 51 Connected fan is Electric shower delivers two ways packed with data The newest addition to the iCON range of fans from Airflow Developments is the iCONsmart, an app controlled range of modular axial fans.

The app provides data that helps to identify issues and ensure a healthy indoor environment.

Aimed at residential applications, the iCONsmart comes with full Quiet Mark approval. It incorporates a flow sensor that automatically adjusts to the specific installation situation.

This removes the need for manual alterations to be made during commissioning to achieve the required flow rate and minimises the potential performance gap.

The innovative flow sensor also ensures consistent performance throughout the life of the system as it will automatically adapt to changing wind back pressures to maintain the correct level of ventilation.

The fan is linked to the myAirflow app that provides an easy-to-use interface for contractors and users.

During installation, the app guides the installer through the simple, intuitive setup www.airflow.com

process to configure elements such as the activation range, overrun duration and silent hours. NICEIC approved installers can also use the app for certification and notification of works – a feature unique to myAirflow.

The iCONsmart range also provides access to live and historic data on the usage and performance of the fan. Users can access a three-month downloadable rolling data log for time on, power usage and humidity.

This can help landlords and homeowners deal with issues such as damp caused by the fan being used incorrectly.

Where the humidity module is fitted, the ‘live room health’ feature provides real time data on the indoor air quality.

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Easicom revamp The Easicom range of valuepriced boilers from Glowworm has been revamped and is available exclusively through independent merchants. Starting at £499 with a five-year guarantee, the Easicom includes combi, system and regular models, and has been specifically designed with the needs of the installer and their customers in mind.

The range features a low maintenance automotive grade aluminium silicate heat exchanger, and a patented four-sided cooling system to reduce the stress on the heat exchanger to deliver long-term reliability for homeowners.

Compatible with the existing flue range for easy replacement of older boilers, the range also comes with a choice of bespoke accessories, including a large aesthetic pipe cover panel and universal upward piping kit. Each boiler also

An optional longer 1m hose is also available as a free accessory should the installation require it. Water and electrical supplies enter the unit from the left-hand side, making installation and replacement easy and straightforward.

Roland Boal, Head of Industrial Design, says: “We’ve analysed the market and it’s clear that there is a growing demand for more stylish electric showers, but it’s also important that a new product still delivers maximum performance.

The Decor Dual will seem familiar as it incorporates the same innovative Mira features that consumers are used to, but it also gives the added option of a dual outlet.”

Now available from Mira Showers is a dual outlet electric shower, the Mira Decor Dual. The product is available in White, Black Onyx and Warm Silver, and is exclusive to B&Q and Screwfix.

The new shower features Clearscale technology, which reduces limescale and enhances the shower’s performance by winding the two heater elements together in a coiled helix, allowing for a more even distribution of heat and reducing the hot spots where limescale can build up.

Key features include an overhead outlet that can pivot 180° to ensure the water flow is in the centre of the showering space, whatever the configuration, while the diverter can be adjusted to allow the fittings to be installed either side of the unit, making it suitable for any bathroom layout.

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www.mirashowers.co.uk

Detect leaks and prevent the damage Aqualeak, a specialist in water leak detection and prevention systems, has launched a new connected product, the AquaSmart. It includes the company’s Flow Reporter technology, an intelligent metering and data analytics software, and is a way to protect a property against costly and disruptive water damage.

A flow meter measures the volume and duration of water passing through a pipe, comparing it against limits that can be set using the AquaSmart Flow Reporter app. If an unexpected flow of water happens and a limit is exceeded, a valve on the pipe will automatically close to shut off the water supply. A text message or email alert will also be sent directly to the user’s connected device to warn of the problem.

Using the web app, a user can close the valve from anywhere in the world.

A holiday mode also allows users to tell their AquaSmart when they will be away so that alternative alert requirements can inform of flow in the empty property.

Users can also get insight into water consumption with the ‘machine

learning’ Flow Reporter software. The AquaSmart analyses data to identify trends and patterns in water usage.

By monitoring real-time, daily and monthly consumption, users can be more efficient about where and when they use water in their property. Potentially troublesome issues, such as leaking taps and overflowing tanks, can be identified before they become major problems.

This device is suitable for installation across all types of property, including residential (individual or multioccupancy) and commercial premises.

It is also effective in helping provide landlords and facilities managers with an effective overview of a broader portfolio of properties.

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www.aqualeak.com

Drip-free oil filter for mess-free work

offers a DIN pipe layout to make boiler swaps quick and easy, and larger waterways.

The range can be used alongside a choice of controls, including Glow-worm’s Climastat smart thermostat, which not only empowers homeowners to efficiently manage their heating and hot water, but will also meet Boiler Plus regulations.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Anglo Nordic has redesigned its OFTECapproved oil filter that can be changed without oil dripping from the screw point.

Developed based on feedback from oil installers around the country, the design allows engineers to loosen the main bolt and remove the bowl without oil running out through the hole.

Styled in the classic oil filter shape, the internal design forms an oil-tight seal around the bolt, allowing the bowl to be removed without the normal mess. Until now the process of changing a filter has been messy and inconvenient, with oil

frequently leaking out and onto an engineer’s hands.

This new oil filter offers an OFTEC approved product with the convenience of a non-drip design at the same price.

Available with either ¼ or 3/8 inch connections, the Crosland equivalent style filter can be used with diesel, kerosene and biofuel blends up to B35, so the unit can simply and easily replace existing filters. A ‘universal’ replacement element and seal kit is available that can be used both with this filter and other Crosland equivalent style filters.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

www.anglo-nordic.com

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July/August 2019

52 WHAT’S New Enhancements to plugin boiler for small jobs An improved version of Advance Appliances’ original Plug & Glow small stainless steel boiler has been launched.

The Plug & Glow 2 comes with bespoke software and is the same size as the original version (120x195mm).

It has 22 connections for ease of installation and can be programmed twice a day, with a five day/weekend option. Temperature is adjusted by a calibrated knob on the front of the case or it can be controlled by an off board thermostat. With a 2.7kW output, the unit is fitted with a 13 amp plug and can be plugged into a household socket.

The product is designed to be added

Hyper approach to heavy corrosion

to an existing gas or electric central heating circuit to boost the power if an extension has been added to the house. It can also be used for a small office or garage workshop heating system.

The boiler will run a couple of radiators or a standalone underfloor system, such as in conservatories, up to 20m2 floor area. It is also suitable for use to protect plants from frost in a greenhouse, or holiday homes from freezing in winter with a frost thermostat.

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Suitable for thick walled steel tube The Megapress range from Viega has been extended with new Easytop ball valves designed for thick-walled steel tube systems. They are available in ½ to 2in sizes and with both a standard EPDM sealing element and a Megapress S version with an FKM sealing element suitable for higher temperature applications up to 140ºC. The press connection valves are said to be quick,

simple and clean to install.

They feature SC-Contur technology that is able to deliver a 100% positive leak during testing if the fitting is inadvertently unpressed.

This method of detecting

missed connections prevents issues occurring after the installation is complete.

The internal design of the valves and easy-to-operate actuating lever ensures smooth and accurate control.

The structure of the fitting also makes maintenance and servicing simple. The main valve section can be removed for cleaning or

replacement if required without the need to modify the pipework.

Scott James, Director at Viega, says: “The new Megapress Easytop valves offer a high-quality solution with the simplicity of press connection technology – overcoming installation issues traditionally associated with thick-walled steel tube.”

PHAM ENQUIRY No.

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The new HyperFlush from Kamco is a non-acidic performance cleaning chemical for cleaning heating systems with heavy corrosion and scale deposits. It may be used alone or with a power flushing pump for even faster and more effective cleaning.

Modern condensing boilers often have aluminium heat exchangers, so HyperFlush is formulated to take into account the reactivity of aluminium, whilst retaining high solvency power for corrosion, scale and sludge deposits. These are taken into suspension without forming particulate matter that can cause further blockages in small water passages found in many boilers.

HyperFlush reacts with rust to create a water soluble iron complex, whilst unreactive magnetite is efficiently removed by dispersion. The product is suitable for use in systems of all ages and may be used with all metals and materials commonly used including steel, cast iron, brass, copper

and aluminium.

Keith MacBain, Kamco MD, says: “Service records show that more than 80% of initial service calls when a new boiler has been installed are as a result of poor water quality or lack of corrosion inhibitor in the system.

“Combine this with the increasing length of new boiler warranties and it can be seen that really effective cleaning of a system is vital before installing a new boiler.”

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Push-fit gaskets Radiators made for open plan living ease installation A trio of monochrome heating solutions for the modern kitchen and dining room has been launched by Aestus. The Diapason, Time and Expression come in black, white and grey.

Pictured is the Time Towel Warmer in anthracite. It comes in 20mm square horizontal tubes. Set against a white brick wall, Time creates visual impact with its accent greyscale finish and contemporary profile.

Saint-Gobain PAM has redesigned the gasket for its Timesaver Heritage range to ease installation without losing performance. The new push-fit Heritage sockets give the appearance of traditional socket and spigot soil stacks, which are predominantly installed on the outside of buildings.

The new design has been introduced in response to installer feedback that suggested certain fittings were difficult to install due to the hardness of the gasket. The new gasket is softer and more flexible, making for easier installation without any compromise to the system’s performance.

Marketing Manager Mike Rawlings says: “The new gaskets have significantly improved the ease of installing the Timesaver Heritage couplings. They are designed to be much more flexible, which reduces the physical effort required, but it also saves time when compared with traditional socketed fittings using a cold caulking compound.” www.saint-gobain-pam.co.uk

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The Diapason is a modern radiator created with 16mm round tubing and is available

in three widths, coming in white as standard.

Manufactured from mild

steel, Diapason has a high heat output and is suitable for closed heating systems.

Finally, the Expression is a modern flat panel design.

Thanks to its clever use of opposing colours and directional stencil design, Expression is described as a working piece of art.

The Diapason, Time and Expression all come with a 15 year guarantee.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No.

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Lockable cabinets with built-in sink The Nova range of stainless steel lockable cabinets from Pland Stainless are available as an easy-to-build ˜ atpack unit or, if preferred, they can be supplied in a factory built rigid format. The new cabinets offer a reduction in cost of around 40% compared to the welded versions.

The product comes in varying widths as standard including a single door cabinet (450 and 600mm in width) and a double doored cabinet (900 and 1200mm). They are freestanding and supplied with lockable doors for security, with or without internal shelving, and 180° clip-off hinges. If the cabinet is selected with a shelf it comes with a full height back and a half height back if no shelf is required. The product is made from 304 grade stainless steel making it secure, robust, long lasting and resistant to most chemical spills. All are suited for use in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals and catering establishments.

PHAM NEWS ENQUIRY No. www.plandstainless.co.uk 173

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July/August 2019

DIRECTORY 53 Radiators

Radiators

Controls

BANICO CONTROLS

ENQUIRY

01

Heating Controls Next day delivery available on 100s of controls

APOLLO RADIATORS

ENQUIRY

05

www.heatingcontrolsonline.co.uk HEATING CONTROLS ONLINE

ENQUIRY

02

PALADIN

ENQUIRY

07

ENQUIRY

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Safety Products

Heating Engineerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Professional Body 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 recognised forms of study and achievement.

Heating Engineer.

IDHEE

ENQUIRY

03

Panel Heaters (Electric) GOTEC

To advertise your Product or Services to over 29,000* readers in the next issue of PHAM News please ring Sharon on 01889 577222 or email classified@phamnews.co.uk HYCO

ENQUIRY

04

HURLINGHAM

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*29,040 Verified ABC circulation Jan-Dec 18

Plumbing Products

New Product Accessories Pipelagger Pro Stickers (PipeLagging Bonding Stickers)

Pipelagger Pro Saw Guard New H&S Guard protector for the Pipelagger Pro Saw PLUMBPAL

New Product Accessories Drill Bit & Guide Set To drill new fixing holes where required

Cut to Length Bolts One Bolt that suits ALL Clips

ENQUIRY

09

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July/August 2019

54 TRAINING & Assessments MIDLANDS GAS ASSESSMENTS

Unit 1, Mainstream Way, Nechells, BIRMINGHAM B7 4SN email: mgabrum@tiscali.co.uk www.mgabrum.co.uk Domestic Natural Gas & LPG Changeover, Energy Efficiency and Water Regulations.

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TRAINING@AQUALISA.CO.UK 01959 560042 AQUALISA.CO.UK/TRAINING

MIDLAND GAS ASSESSMENTS

ENQUIRY

13

Pictured: Adam (loves installing Aqualisa products) AQUALISA

MR COMBI

ENQUIRY

ENQUIRY

10

11

STEVE WILLIS TRAINING

14

ENQUIRY

STAMFORD GAS TRAINING

ENQUIRY

16

STEPHENSON COLLEGE

ENQUIRY

17

NORTH WEST GAS TRAINING

ENQUIRY

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ENQUIRY

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Tuition from Industry Experts for 20 years Focussing on Student Success Courses on o er include; Domestic Gas Foundation Training Gas Engineering Apprenticeship Level 3 ACS Refresher HTR1 Package, Refresher and Assessment OFTEC - OFT101, OFT600a, OFT105e Domestic Solar Hot Water Heating WRAS Energy E ciency Photovoltaic Systems Bristol • Redruth • Plymouth • Newton Abbott • Exeter

For further information visit www.thefocustraininggroup.com ELEMENTS TRAINING

SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD

ENQUIRY

12

FOCUS TRAINING GROUP

ENQUIRY

15

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July/August 2019

INFORMATION Centre 55 Central Heating Wiring & Controls Book

‘Central Heating 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.

This 200 page book written by John Reginald, is designed to help the reader understand central heating and hot water systems. Offering a stepby-step guide to the fault finding and repair process of systems and components enabling the reader to achieve professional solutions to professional standards.

Priced at £26 this Industry leading book is available from all High Street and Online Book Stores COPPERJOB

ENQUIRY

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The Hultafors Group Adds Hellberg Safety PPE products to its premium brand portfolio for professional tradesmen and women.

With over 50 years experience in the PPE industry, the Hellberg Safety specialist equipment includes highly advanced hearing protection products, face protection and communication solutions for personal protection on site.

Hellberg PPE products complement the Snickers Workwear and Solid Gear Safety Footwear product portfolios.

For information on the new Hellberg Safety product range visit www.hellbergsafety.com or enter the PHAM No. ENQUIRY

372

Supplies4Heat Latest Brochure Release

Supplies4Heat is delighted to announce the release of its latest company brochure, which contains a number of new products, plus all of the company’s existing solutions.

Supplies4Heat specialises in the distribution of designer radiators offering a wide choice of good looking, high-quality products suitable for all manner of projects.

The new brochure outlines all the latest additions to an already extensive portfolio and all of these products can be delivered free in the UK through a reliable service and are all backed by a comprehensive guarantee. What’s more, products can be specified through the EasyQuote software.

To download the new brochure and view the updated products, please visit: www.supplies4heat.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. SUPPLIES4HEAT

ENQUIRY

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ENQUIRY

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379

This 200-page catalogue has all you need to know about the UK’s most extensive range of working clothes including market-leading designs and the latest fabric technology innovations.

Complimented by Snickers Profiling and Embroidery services and the most extensive range of garment sizes, the Snickers Workwear system delivers the ultimate solution to make every man and woman’s workday easier and safer.

For more information visit www.snickersworkwear.co.uk Or enter the PHAM No. SNICKERS

ENQUIRY

380

Viega Launches New Industrial Sector Brochure

New Brochure presents the Cistermiser infrared urinal control valve Cistermiser’s market-leading IRC® infrared urinal flushing control valve is fully detailed in an informative new sales brochure, designed for ease of use.

Fitted together with a robust and proven brass-bodied solenoid valve assembly, the IRC® sensor now features a compact body shape, an economy mode option to provide even greater water savings, a newstyle mounting bracket for recessed installations and an improved design which allows batteries to be replaced easily.

For further information visit www.ourworldiswater.co.uk Or enter the PHAM No. CISTERMISER

ENQUIRY

New Snickers 2019 Workwear Catalogue

Fully accredited, advanced Protective Wear for heat and flame, electrostatic and chemical risk environments. ProtecWork is a new collection of protective working clothes and accessories which has developed out of over 40 years leading the workwear industry.

With over 60 different garments and accessories to choose from, you can make sure you get the right protection, visibility, flexibility, comfort and durability.

Check out the new Snickers ProtecWork range to fit your workday and well-being on site.

Visit www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or enter the PHAM No. SNICKERS

MR COMBI

ENQUIRY

377

Viega has launched a new industrial sector brochure detailing its product solutions for a range of specialist applications. This clear and concise guide provides an overview of Viega piping and press connection technology and how it can help meet the specific requirements of industrial, manufacturing and engineering environments.

For more information visit: www.viega.co.uk To download the Viega industry brochure visit: https://bit.ly/2Xpmih9 Or enter the PHAM No. VIEGA

ENQUIRY

381

New Service and Maintenance Guide

VitrA launches VitrA Academy VitrA one of the leading bathroom companies, has launched a new online learning site, which is designed to be an unbeatable professional resource.

It is user friendly and delivers a firstclass learning environment from which to better understand the VitrA products.

The new site also contains links to VitrA’s comprehensive product ranges, installation videos and to brochures which can be downloaded instantly or viewed online.

The VitrA Academy is available to view now, and it is easy to create a login without waiting for approval www.vitra-academy.co.uk Or enter the PHAM No. VITRA

CIBSE DBSP

NEW ProtecWork Protective Clothing From Snickers

Hellberg Safety PPE and Snickers Workwear – Comfort and Safety Combined

HELLBERG

Please order from www.mrcombi.com or enter the PHAM No.

ENQUIRY

374

Graham Plumbers’ Merchant has launched a new pocket-sized booklet containing all the key products required when servicing or repairing a heating system, with listed locations of Graham’s Spares Specialist branches.

The guide outlines Graham’s new and improved range, stock availability and prices on key boiler spares from top brands and includes consumables, tools and the company’s in demand cylinder and oil spares range.

The new Service and Maintenance Guide is now available to pick up in store, to view online visit: www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk Or enter the PHAM No. GRAHAM

ENQUIRY

378

Advertiser’s Index Anglo Nordic Burner Products (Hytek (GB) Ltd 8 BES Ltd 1 The Bathroom Manufacturers Association 22 CMR Controls Ltd 14 Cistermiser Ltd 27 Comap 15 Dallmer Ltd 23 Danfoss Ltd 13 Delabie UK Ltd 31 Electronic Temperature Instruments Ltd 51 Firebird Products Ltd 39

Flir Systems Ltd Ford Motor Company Ltd Gastec Training Geberit - Twyford Bathrooms Graham, The Plumbers' Merchant Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd Heatrae Sadia Heating Ltd (Megaflo) Ideal Heating Intatec Ltd KSB Ltd Kamco Ltd

17 2 18 29 5 37 45 43, 56 11 46 32

Keston Boilers Kohler Mira Ltd Lecico plc LG Electronics UK Ltd MV Fluids Handling Ltd Nero Pipeline Connections Ltd Nu-Heat UK Ltd Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd Stiebel Eltron UK Ltd Wirquin Ltd Worcester, Bosch Group

10 25 28 35 3 16 9 19 38 21 7

PHAM JULYAUG19 IDEAL BOILERS:Layout 1 02/07/2019 09:52 Page 1

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