Hip book 2015 web

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2015/16 EDITION £7.99

The Essential Book: THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS

REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY


For all your plumbing and heating needs A growing network of over 200 branches nationwide A core range you need to get the job done A reliable, flexible, delivery service Friendly, professional service from our specialist staff Clear competitive trade prices

sig Bathroom de

n

service availaBle

www.cityplumbing.co.uk

NEED TO PLACE A LATE SPARES ORDER? 0844 892 2218


EDITOR’S NOTE | HIP BOOK 2015-16

2015/16 EDITION £7.99

The Essential Book: THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS

REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY

EDITOR: RACHEL MACSWEENEY editor@sng-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING: SUE CATT sue.catt@sng-publishing.co.uk

Welcome to the 2015/16 edition of the HIP Annual Book.

GRAPHIC DESIGN: STUDIO 74 www.studio-74.co.uk PUBLISHER: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-publishing.co.uk PRINTERS Stephens & George, England GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to HIP Magazine call 0870 774 3049 or subscribe online at www.hip-magazine.co.uk DISCLAIMER HIP is published by SNG Publishing Ltd (SNG). All content and artwork is © SNG Publishing Ltd or its contributors and SNG and HIP are trademarks of SNG Publishing Ltd. No part of HIP may be copied, transmitted or published in any form or by any means without prior permission. Although SNG has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it does not verify any claims or other information appearing in the advertisements contained in HIP. It therefore cannot accept any responsibility whatsoever for consequences that may arise from the content or artwork contained in HIP, including any errors or omissions or any opinions or advice given therein. This publication and its content is not a substitute for professional advice on a particular matter. Advertisements are accepted for publication in HIP only upon SNG Publishing Ltd standard terms of advertising.

Published every year, the HIP Annual Book is an essential source of information for the next generation of plumbers, installers and heating engineers. Designed with easy to follow sections, each element provides guidance and advice for students. Not only does HIP have a new logo this year, but HIP Magazine and the HIP Annual Book have been updated with fresh new designs. However, many of our original and unique features remain such as the exercises to complement course modules which we publish in the magazine. Also new this year is a brand new website packed with the latest news and product launches - hip-magazine.co.uk. In true HIP style we’ve made our website slightly different to other magazines, and have included videos, competitions, polls and the ever popular ‘hall of shame’ of bad installations. We hope you find the HIP Annual Book both useful and easy to use. If you haven’t visited the website then pop along and take a look, and please get in touch with us if you have any stories or news from your college.

Rachel MacSweeney EDITOR

© SNG Publishing Ltd, 2015

HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK  HIPPLUMBER  @HIPMAGAZINE

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | CONTENTS

CONTENTS 27

BATHROOMS

Sponsored by

33

BIOMASS

Sponsored by

39

BOILERS

45

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Sponsored by

53

COPPER PIPEWORK

Sponsored by

63

ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

69

FITTINGS

Sponsored by

75

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Sponsored by

81

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

Sponsored by

87

INSURANCE

Sponsored by

93

MACERATORS

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

101

OIL BOILERS

Sponsored by

107

PIPE CLIPS

Sponsored by

113

PLUMBING TOOLS

Sponsored by

119

POWER TOOLS

Sponsored by

125

RENEWABLE TRAINING

131

SEALANTS

137

SHOWER PUMPS

143

SHOWERS

149

UNDERFLOOR HEATING

155

WATER REGULATIONS

171

WATER TREATMENT

Sponsored by Sponsored by Sponsored by Sponsored by Sponsored by Sponsored by Sponsored by

5

HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

7

INDUSTRY CONTACTS

15

GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION

a

company


The Push-fit People JG Speedfit is a pioneering connection technology allowing plumbing installations to be completed efficiently and with ease. With significant engineering expertise subtly hidden behind the JG Speedfit push-fit concept, the uniqueness of each Speedfit connector lies within its high reliability of performance, longevity of service and suitability for a wide variety of applications.

Technology

speedfit.co.uk info@johnguest.com


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | QUIZ TIME

JUST FOR FUN! Hidden in our topical wordsearch are a number of HIP BOOK plumbing related words. Can you find them all? p m u p g n i t a l u c r i c t

m c t i s e l b a w e n e r i o

u o t i e r p a d e i m d i l t

p p o v a u o i n h a s n t u a

t p i r r w e a p c p s i e a r

Copper Ball Valve Energy Condensate Installer  Fixings Hot Water Pipework Hot Water Cylinder Shower Macerator Pump Circulating Renewables  Valve

a e r m h d s h e e c a l a r t

e r i a e s o r v n w m y f d

h s i n s t a l l e r o c n y t a

i h a v w t a w b r v i r a h a

a o e a o v r s b g e b e k d c

o w t r l r l l n y a t t t u c

 Biomass Ball Valve  Copper Renewables Biomass  Heat Pump Magnetic Filter  Hydraulic Condensate  Magnetic Filter Solenoid Valve Hot Water Cylinder  Shower  Washroom

r e t l i f c i t e n g a m r t

r r a l m e n n i u d t w w y u

o b t r y a i c s e e n t i w e

i e v l a v d i o n e l o s s a

v p p u e f i x i n g s h c f a

 Circulating Pump Water  Energy Heat Pump Fixings  Hot Water Hydraulic  Installer Macerator  Pipework Washroom  Solenoid  Water


NATIONAL COMPETITION | HIP BOOK 2015-16

HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2016 Have you got what it takes to win? The search is on to find the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year 2016! Launched in 2009, the competition gives students the chance to be recognised for their hard work and skills. It’s a great opportunity for lecturers, employers, industry leaders and manufacturers to get involved and support the next generation of installers.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

IN IT TO WIN IT For 2016 there’s a fantastic list of prizes including items worth up to £5,000 donated by the platinum sponsor Adey. A pressfit machine worth £2,500 has been donated as a prize by gold sponsor Copper Initiative, whilst silver sponsor Vaillant will be giving boilers to colleges as prizes. Bronze sponsors Pegler Yorkshire, Graham Plumbers’ Merchant and CORGI have also donated prizes

How to enter Students working towards NVQ Level 2 or 3 can enter, whether they are industry or college based. Colleges can enter one student for the competition. To enter, the students must be no

BRONZE SPONSORS

more than 24 years old, and must successfully complete the 2014 HIP Practical Test Paper which can be downloaded from the HIP website. Competitors will be invited to attend one of the six regional heats taking place in January and February 2016. The individual winners from each heat will go through to the grand final on 27th and 28th April 2016 at Adey’s state of the art training facilities in Cheltenham. For all the latest competition news visit hip-magazine.co.uk

 The closing date for entries is 31st October 2015.

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INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

INDUSTRY CONTACTS

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

ADEY

www.adey.com

Gloucester Road, Cheltenham GL51 8NR T: 01242 546700 | E: info@adey.com ADEY Professional Heating Solutions is Europe’s No.1 manufacturer of magnetic filters for domestic and commercial heating systems. Inventor of the Queen’s Award winning MagnaClean range. ADEY also manufactures advanced formula chemicals for best practice system maintenance and protection.

Aqualisa

www.aqualisa.co.uk

Installer Hotline: 01959 560010 | Brochure Line: 0800 6523669 Training Enquiries: 01959 560042 One of the UK’s leading shower manufacturers, Aqualisa is dedicated to innovation and delivering quality showering and bathing solutions. Developed with the installer in mind, our product ranges offer quick, easy and hassle free installation plus safety, performance and longevity for the user. With unrivalled back up service and support, our products are a tried and trusted option for installers countrywide.

Baxi Heating UK Ltd

www.baxi.co.uk

Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL E (Technical): technical.helpline@baxi.co.uk Baxi has been manufacturing in the UK since 1866 and continue to manufacture boilers that are straightforward to install and service, easy to use and have marketleading warranties backed by Baxi Customer Support, Baxi Genuine Parts and training.

Brian Hyde Ltd

www.brianhyde.co.uk

Stirling Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4LZ T: 0121 704 2324 | F: 0121 251 2260 | E: sales@brianhyde.co.uk Brian Hyde is a long established hand tools distributor focused on a range of quality brands including LA-CO plumbing consumables, Markal Markers, Stabila Levels and Lasers, Rhodius Cutting and Grinding Discs and Wiha Screwbits, Drivers & Pliers.

Cistermiser Ltd

www.cistermiser.co.uk

Unit 1, Woodley Park Estate, 59-69 Reading Rd, Woodley, Reading, Berks. RG5 3AN T: +44 (0) 118 969 1611 | F: +44 (0) 118 944 1426 | E: sales@cistermiser.co.uk Cistermiser develops, designs, manufactures and distributes innovative washroom control products including water saving and efficient hydraulic and infrared urinal flush control valves, hands free hygienic WC flush valves for industry, the public sector and the commercial and domestic environment.

City Plumbing Supplies Ltd

www.cityplumbing.co.uk

Lodge Way House, Lodge Way, Harlestone Road, Northampton NN5 7UG T: 01604 754168 City Plumbing Supplies are specialist in selling quality plumbing and heating products to the trade and are a growing network of over 300 branches nationwide. We also have dedicated bathroom showrooms, that stock leading branded sanitaryware and our own brand iflo.

Copper Initiative

www.copperplumbing.org.uk

c/o Copper Development Assoc., 5 Grovelands Business Centre, Boundary Way, Hemel Hempstead, Herts. HP2 7TE | E: info@copperalliance.org.uk Copper Initiative promotes the benefits of copper pipework to the construction industry. Copper Initiative works in close association with the tube and fittings manufacturers throughout the UK and Europe.


INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

CORGI Insurance Services

www.corgi-insurance.co.uk

Ockford Mill, Ockford Road, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1RH T: 0800 915 0486 | E: enquiries@corgi-insurance.co.uk CORGI Insurance Services specialises in insurance for plumbing and heating engineers, with a hard to beat combination of a quality product backed by a household name insurer and over 30 years of industry knowledge.

Danfoss Ltd

www.heating.danfoss.co.uk

Ampthill Road, Bedford MK42 9ER T: 01234 364 621 | F: 01234 320 297 | E: ukheating@danfoss.com A leading heating manufacturer of world-class heating controls, from programmers and thermostats to TRVs and zone valves, with factories in the UK and Denmark. Installer training courses and online training are offered, covering domestic and commercial heating techniques.

Drayton

www.draytoncontrols.co.uk

401 Southway Drive, Plymouth PL6 6QT | E: customer.care@invensys.com Sales: 0845 130 5522 | Technical: 0845 130 7722 Drayton is one of the leading brands in the UK domestic heating market. Manufactured in Plymouth, Drayton has a reputation for quality, reliability and technical excellence. These attributes have been instrumental in ensuring that Drayton has continued to lead the field within the UK heating controls market.

EAL

www.eal.org.uk

Unit 2, The Orient Centre, Greycaine Road, Watford, Herts. WD24 7GP T: 01923 652400 | F: 01923 652401 | E: customercare@eal.org.uk EAL is the specialist awarding organisation for plumbing, heating, gas and industry qualifications. It is committed to investing in the industries it serves and the careers of those who work within them.

Fernox

www.fernox.com

2 Genesis Business Park, Albert Road, Sheerwater, Woking, Surrey GU21 5RW Sales: 0330 100 7750 | E: sales@fernox.com Fernox is Europe’s leading brand and manufacturer of domestic and commercial water treatment products. Products include the award -winning TF1 Filter range which includes the new commercial TF1 Delta Filter. The introduction of the universal F1 Filter Fluid+ Protector - a proven inhibitor with dispersant to work alongside any system filter to safely deliver and remove contaminants for system water. This innovative is an extension to Fernox best-in-class chemicals.

Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant T: 02476 560 777 | E: Website@grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant is a major supplier of plumbing, heating, www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk bathroom materials and renewable solutions. Graham has over 180 branches across the UK, as well as 25 bathroom showrooms.

Grant Engineering (UK) Ltd

www.grantuk.com

Hopton House, Hopton Industrial Estate, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2EU T: 01380 736920 | E: info@grantuk.com Grant UK has been manufacturing award winning heating products for over 35 years, from its Vortex oil fired condensing boilers to the latest renewable technologies like solar thermal, air source heat pumps and condensing biomass boilers. continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Grundfos Pumps Ltd

www.grundfos.co.uk

Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4TL T: 01525 850000 | E: grundfosuk@grundfos.com Grundfos Pumps Ltd is a UK leader in the supply of pumps and pump systems for a range of applications including being suitable for use in a wide range of domestic applications.

Heatrae Sadia

www.heatraesadia.com

Hurricane Way, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6EA Sales enquiries (UK & Ireland): 01603 420220 Heatrae Sadia is the UK's largest manufacturer of electric water heating products. Established over 90 years ago, Heatrae Sadia is known for quality and durability, supplying its products, including the iconic Megaflo range, worldwide.

Henkel Ltd

www.loctite.co.uk

Wood Lane End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4RQ T: +44 (0) 1442 278235 | F: +44 (0) 1442 278071 Henkel is well known for its quick, easy and effective LOCTITE® 55 pipe sealing cord and its anaerobic sealing adhesives, many of which carry DVGW and WRAS approval. Free technical advice is always available.

Hep2O

www.hep2o.co.uk

Edlington Lane, Doncaster DN12 1BY | T: 0844 856 5165 | E: info@hep2o.co.uk Hep2O is part of the Wavin Group and offers a complete range of push-fit plumbing and underfloor heating systems. Wavin is the leading supplier of water management, plumbing and drainage systems for the Building and Construction markets. Other Wavin brands include Hepworth and OSMA.

Hitachi Power Tools (UK) Ltd

www.hitachi-powertools.co.uk

Precedent Drive, Rooksley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK13 8PJ T: 01908 660663 | E: info@hitachi-powertools.co.uk Hitachi Power Tools (UK) Limited is based in Milton Keynes. Hitachi Power Tools has been at the forefront of power tool development for many years, striving for continual innovation and cutting edge design. The company has won prestigious international awards for its power tool designs.

JG Speedfit Ltd The Push-fit People

www.speedfit.co.uk www.speedfitUFH.co.uk

Horton Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 8JL | T: 01895 449233 JG Speedfit is recognized as a world leading manufacturer of the Speedfit push-fit plumbing fittings for heating, hot and cold water supply. The company has also developed underfloor heating and heating controls solutions. JG Speedfit has a reputation built on producing consistently high quality products with an on-going commitment to value engineering and product development.

Kingspan Environmental Ltd

www.kingspanenviro.com

Unit A, Tadman Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF1 5QU T: 0345 260 0258 | F: 0345 260 0259 Technical Helpline: 0345 812 0007 | Customer Service: 0345 260 7260 Kingspan Environmental is a leading manufacturer of environmental solutions, specialising in renewable energy generation. Our portfolio ranges from solar thermal and air source heat pump packages to a wide selection of hot water cylinders for domestic, industrial and commercial markets.


INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

McAlpine

www.mcalpineplumbing.com

Kelvin Avenue, Hillington, Glasgow G52 4LF T: 0141 882 3213 | F: 0141 891 5065 McAlpine, the market leaders in plumbing products, continue to introduce additional items to their range and the latest innovative products include two flexible WC Connectors for Back to Wall WC Pans, a 90 degree short bend for a vertical position and a 90 degree long bend for a horizontal position. A further new product is a straight telescopic WC socket extension.

Mira Showers

www.mirashowers.co.uk

Cromwell Road, Cheltenham, Gloucester GL52 5EP | T: 0844 571 5000 Mira is the UK’s leading manufacturer of showering products and accessories. It offers a complete range of innovative products; and has a solution for every requirement. Mira also sets the standard in terms of guarantees, customer service and technical advice.

Mitsubishi Electric

www.ecodan.co.uk

Heating Systems Division, Travellers Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 8XB T: 01707 282880 | E: heating@meuk.mee.com All Ecodan heat pumps have received A++ rating in the European ErP energy label scheme. These renewable heating systems can help to reduce both emissions and running costs in commercial and residential properties. MCS-approved and RHI ready, they are ideal for both retrofit and new-build in sizes from 4kW to 960kW. Endorsed with the Noise Abatement Society’s Quiet Mark, Ecodan includes remote energy monitoring as standard.

Monument Tools

www.monument-tools.com

Restmor Way, Hackbridge, Surrey SM6 7AH T: 020 8288 1100 | F: 020 8288 1108 Since 1931 British company Monument Tools Ltd has lead the way in designing, manufacturing and distributing tools and equipment for the plumbing, drainage and roofing industries. Visit us at www.4pipetools.com where you will find new product details, product videos, instructions and lots more. If you have an idea for a new tool we can probably turn it in to a product for you. Good luck with your studies.

N L B Engineering Ltd

www.nlbengineering.co.uk www.easyfitisolator.co.uk

Units E-F Housham Hall Farm, Harlow Road, Matching Tye, Essex CM17 0PB T: 01279 730 363 | E: sales@nlbengineering.co.uk N L B Engineering develop innovative plumbing products, best known for the Aladdin autovents and the award winning Aladdin EasyFit Isolator; the emergency WRAS approved stopcock that fits to pressurised pipe, used by the Water Companies, plumbing maintenance companies and emergency plumbers.

OFTEC

www.oftec.org

Oil Firing Technical Assoc., Foxwood House, Dobbs Lane, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 2QQ T: 01473 626298 | F: 01473 636536 | E: enquiries@oftec.org OFTEC is a trade association for the oil heating industry and the provider of a competent person scheme (CPS) for heating technicians. OFTEC offers scopes of registration across a range of off-gas heating technologies, including oil, solid fuel, Part P electrical, biomass, heat pumps and solar thermal.

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

St Catherine’s Avenue, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN4 8DF T: 01302 560 560 | F: 01302 560 203 | E: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk In the world of plumbing and heating, Pegler Yorkshire has been leading the way in the specialist fields of fittings, taps and valves since 1888. This pedigree, combined with the company’s commitment to new product development and leading edge innovations, ensures Pegler Yorkshire remains a key manufacturer and major supplier in the global plumbing and heating marketplace.

Plumb and Parts Center a

company

www.plumbcenter.co.uk www.partscenter.co.uk

The Wolseley Center, Harrison Way, Spa Park, Royal Leamington Spa CV31 3HH T: 01926 705000 | E: customerservices@wolseley.co.uk Stocking over 200,000 products and with over 500 branches nationwide, Plumb and Parts Center is one of the UK's leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products including central heating systems, bathrooms, showers, drainage and renewable technologies.

Regin

www.regin.co.uk

8-12 Tower Square, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 7DT T: 01480 412415 | F: 01480 457484 Regin Products is a leading manufacturer / distributor of tools and consumables for heating and plumbing engineers. Regin offers over 750 products ranging from the essential smoke pellet to the more recent requirements for Part P testing equipment.

Aerodynamic designs with practicality, the Rhino Products Range.

Can ca to 50 rry up x copp 15mm er tu bes

nd l wi ima easy n i M e& nois ading lo

w. rhinoproducts.co.uk

t. 01244 833 790

e. sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk


INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Rhino Products Ltd

www.rhinoproducts.co.uk

Sixth Avenue, Zone 2, Deeside Ind Park, Deeside, Flintshire CH5 2LD T: 01244 833790 | F: 01244 289269 | E: sales@rhinoproducts.co.uk Rhino Products are the UK’s leading manufacturer of roof racks, roof bars and commercial vehicle accessories, including the Pipe Tube – 2 & 3 metre aluminium tubes for safely transporting copper and plastic tubing. For further information or to identify the most suitable system for your needs, visit our website today.

Ridge Tool UK

www.ridgid.com

C/O Emerson Electric, 2nd Floor Accurist House, 44 Baker Street, London W1U 7 AL T: 0808 238 9869 | E: ridgid.gb@emerson.com RIDGID®, a leading manufacturer of tools and equipment, markets its products in over 140 countries. The company offers more than 300 types of tools serving the rental, plumbing, HVAC/R, utility, industrial, electrical, petroleum, institutional, commercial and hardware markets.

Salamander Pumps

www.salamanderpumps.co.uk

Unit 2c Colima Avenue, Enterprise Park West, Sunderland SR5 3XE T: 0191 516 2002 | F: 0191 548 4445 | E: sales@salamanderpumps.co.uk With a comprehensive range of shower and whole house pumps, along with the new and innovative HomeBoost mains water pump. We at Salamander pride ourselves on delivering quality, technology, service and value.

Saniflo Ltd

www.saniflo.co.uk

Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 6SE T: 020 8842 0033 | F: 020 8842 1671 | E: sales@saniflo.co.uk Saniflo are the market leaders in the production and sales of small-bore pumps and macerators. They have been trading for over 30 years and have sold in excess of six million units.

Sentinel Performance Solutions Ltd

www.sentinelprotects.com

5670 Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BS T: 01928 704330 | E: info.uk@sentinelprotects.com Sentinel helps you protect heating and hot water systems by providing best practice solutions and quality water treatment products. Our approachable experts and downloadable tools can help you to protect domestic and commercial systems against breakdown.

Stelrad Radiators Ltd

www.stelrad.com

Marriott Road, Mexborough, South Yorks S64 8BN T: 0844 543 6200 | E: info@stelrad.com Europe’s leading radiator manufacturers, Stelrad and its sister brands provide the widest range of radiators in the marketplace including steel panel radiators, premium panel radiators, low surface temperature radiators, decorative and designer radiators and towel warmers and rails. They also provide the UK’s leading radiator sizing and heat loss calculator package – free, as a download from its website.

Stuart Turner Ltd

www.stuart-turner.co.uk

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 2AD T: 01491 572655 | F: 01491 573704 | E: pumps@stuart-turner.co.uk With over 100 years of engineering excellence in manufacturing quality products, you can be confident that when you choose a Stuart Turner pump, you are investing in a name you can trust to deliver quality, reliability and design innovation. continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS

Talon Manufacturing Ltd

www.talon.co.uk

Units 2-5 Chieftain Close, Gillingham Business Park, Gillingham, Kent ME8 0PP T: 0845 095 2828 | F: 0845 095 2929 | E: sales@talon.co.uk Talon has been manufacturing quality pipe clips, fixings and cover profiles in the UK for over 25 years. With 450 product lines available via plumbers’ merchants, Talon offers the professional installer a complete range of plumbing fixings.

Triton Showers Ltd

www.tritonshowers.co.uk

Shepperton Park, Triton Road, Nuneaton CV11 4NR T: 0844 980 0730 | F: 02476 634 9828 Triton is one of the UK’s leading shower manufacturers providing the best quality electric, mixer and power showers with the added benefit of full technical support and installation advice from the experts.

Twyford Bathrooms

www.twyfordbathrooms.com

Lawton Road, Alsager, Stoke-on-Trent ST7 2DF UK T: 01270 879777 | E: twyford.sales@twyfordbathrooms.com Twyford has led the way in bathroom product design and innovation for over 160 years and is the only bathroom manufacturer in the world to hold the Royal Warrant. Twyford is part of the globally operating Geberit Group.

Viessmann Ltd

www.viessmann.co.uk

Hortonwood 30, Telford TF1 7YP T: 01952 675000 | F: 01952 675040 | E: info-uk@viessmann.com Viessmann Limited, part of the Viessmann Group of Companies, which is one of the leading international manufacturers of heating systems. Viessmann’s comprehensive product range encompasses all fuel types and applications, allowing it to deliver high quality, efficient and fully integrated solutions, with an output range of 1.5 to 120,000 kW.

Vokèra Ltd

www.vokera.co.uk

Borderlake House, Unit 7 Riverside Industrial Estate, London Colney AL2 1HG T: 01727 744002 Vokèra is a leading manufacturer in home heating solutions, offering a comprehensive product range, from condensing boilers, water heaters, cylinders and renewables. Vokèra products are supported by its industry leading service backup and technical training.

Wilo UK

www.wilo.co.uk

Second Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire DE14 2WJ T: 01283 523000 | E: sales@wilo.co.uk Wilo is a significant driving force in the pumps sector in the UK, providing pumps and pump systems for heating, cooling and air-conditioning technology as well as water supply and sewage disposal.

Worcester, Bosch Group

www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

Cotswold Way, Warndon, Worcester WR4 9SW T: 0330 123 3366 | E: technical.enquiries@uk.bosch.com Worcester, Bosch Group is a leading manufacturer of Which? Best Buy Accredited Greenstar Gas Boilers, LPG and Oil-Fired Domestic Boilers; with innovative renewable technologies for sustainable heating and hot water solutions.


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

VALVES & CONTROLS A valve is a device that regulates, directs or controls the flow of water by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways. CIRCULATING PUMP

AUTOMATIC AIR VENT A device which releases air trapped within a water system, automatically. The air vent is usually fitted at the highest point of the heating system.

AUTOMATIC BYPASS VALVE A valve which ensures a minimum flow rate through the boiler if all zone valves or TRVs are closed.

The device which generates the flow of water around the heating circuit.

PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE (PRV)

LOCKSHIELD VALVE

This is a safety device fitted to relieve excessive pressure within a heating system or boiler. Once excess pressure has been relieved, it will reset itself automatically.

YOUR LOCAL BRANCH IS NOW OPEN 24/7 FOR YOU

A Lockshield Valve is fitted at the return side of a radiator and is used to balance the system when it is first installed. It is usually covered with a cap.


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

RADIATOR VENT A device that releases pressure within a radiator when the pressure inside exceeds the operating limits of the vent.

REDUCED PRESSURE ZONE VALVE (RPZ) The RPZ Valve is a device which prevents backow, protecting against the contamination of mains cold water supply. RPZ valves are widely used in the UK.

ROOM THERMOSTAT A Room Thermostat switches the heating system on and off as required. It works by sensing and responding to the air temperature. It switches on the heating when the air temperature falls below the thermostat setting, and switches it off once this set temperature has been reached.

SAVES YOU TIME SAVES YOU MONEY SAVES YOU HASSLE

plumbcenter.co.uk partscenter.co.uk

THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE (TMV) A TMV blends cold water with hot water to ensure constant, safe shower and bath outlet temperatures, preventing scalding.

THERMOSTATIC RADIATOR VALVE (TRV) A valve fitted to one end of a radiator automatically opens and closes as necessary to achieve the pre-set room air temperature.

WIRELESS PROGRAMMABLE ROOM THERMOSTAT The Wireless Programmable Thermostat is designed to provide wireless time and temperature control to heating or cooling systems in domestic and light commercial buildings.

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

 PIPE DISCHARGE DIMENSIONS Shown below are some of the most common pipe discharge dimensions that you will come across.

DIAMETER OF TRAP (MM)

APPLIANCE

DEPTH OF SEAL (MM OR WATER / EQUIVALENT)

Washbasin

32

75

Bidet

32

75

Bath

40

50

Shower

40

50

Sink

40

75

Washing machine

40

75

Dishwasher

40

75

Urinal bowl

40

75

WC pan – outlet <80mm

75

50

WC pan – outlet >80mm

100

50

 PIPE CLIP SPACINGS Listed below are the recommended spacings to use between internal fixings when using copper pipe, plastic pipe or low carbon steel pipe (LCS).

PIPE SIZE

COPPER

PLASTIC

LCS

mm

in

Horiz. (m) Vert. (m) Horiz. (m) Vert. (m) Horiz. (m) Vert. (m)

15

½

22

¾

1.8

2.4

0.7

1.4

2.4

3.0

28

1

1.8

2.4

0.8

1.5

2.4

3.0

1.2

1.8

0.6

1.2

1.8

2.4

35

2.4

3.0

0.8

1.7

2.7

3.0

42

2.4

3.0

0.9

1.8

3.0

3.6

54

2

2.7

3.0

1.0

-

3.0

3.6


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 FIXING SCREWS Listed below are the most common types of fixing screws you will come across on a day-to-day basis.

1.

1

2 PHILLIPS CROSS HEAD SCREW

SLOTTED SCREW

4

3

5 COUNTERSUNK SCREW

7

6 PAN HEAD SCREW

8 ALLEN SCREW

POSIDRIV

ROUND HEAD SCREW

9 SET SCREW

SET SCREW WITH NUT & WASHER

 PLASTIC PLUGS: Shown below are common size matches for screws, drill bits and plugs. SCREW SIZE (GAUGE)

DRILL SIZE (MM)

PLUG COLOUR CODE

6-8

5

Yellow

8 - 10

6

Red

10 - 14

7-8

Brown

14 - 18

10

Blue

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20

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

 FITTINGS As a plumber you will need to be able to recognise the different types of fittings and their correct applications. Shown below are some of the most common you may come across.

2

1 STRAIGHT FEMALE CONNECTOR

4

3 BENT MALE UNION CONNECTOR

5 FEMALE ELBOW

7

6 FEMALE TEE

8 PARTIAL CROSSOVER

10

STRAIGHT MALE UNION CONNECTOR

9 FULL CROSSOVER

11 STREET ELBOW

MALE ELBOW

SLOW BEND

12 ELBOW

SLOW BEND


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

13

14 STOP END

15 STOP END

17

16 TEE, ONE END & BRANCH REDUCED

19

SWEEP TEE, 90째

18 TEE, BOTH ENDS REDUCED

20 EQUAL TEE

23

21

STRAIGHT UNION ADAPTOR

26

STRAIGHT MALE CONNECTOR

25 STRAIGHT COUPLING, SLIP PATTERN

27 REDUCING COUPLING

22

MALE ADAPTOR

24 STRAIGHT COUPLING

TEE, REDUCED BRANCH

STRAIGHT COUPLING

28 ADAPTOR

ADAPTOR

21


22

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) Safety at work should always come first, and employers have duties concerning the provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at work to meet the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992. These rules apply if you’re self employed as well, so you’ll probably need to use some type of personal protective equipment (PPE) in your job. PPE is equipment that will protect the user against health or safety risks at work. It can include items such as safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear and safety harnesses. It also includes respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

tOp tips  Choose products which are CE marked in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002 – suppliers can advise you

 Choose equipment that suits the user – consider the size, fit and weight of the PPE. If the users help choose it, they will be more likely to use it

 If more than one item of PPE is worn at the same time, make sure they can be used together, eg wearing safety glasses may disturb the seal of a respirator, causing air leaks

 Never allow exemptions from wearing PPE for those jobs that ‘only take a few minutes’


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

HAZARDS & TYPES OF PPE  EYES Hazards: chemical or metal splash, dust, projectiles, gas and vapour, radiation. Options: Safety spectacles, goggles, face screens, faceshields, visors.  HEAD & NECK Hazards: Impact from falling or flying objects, risk of head bumping, hair getting tangled in machinery, chemical drips or splash, climate or temperature. Options: Industrial safety helmets, bump caps, hairnets and firefighters’ helmets  EARS Hazards: Noise – a combination of sound level and duration of exposure, very high-level sounds are a hazard even with short duration. Options: Earplugs, earmuffs, semi-insert / canal caps.

Options: Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) including respirators, facepieces and breathing apparatus. If you are using respiratory protective equipment, look at HSE’s publication Respiratory protective equipment at work: A practical guide.

 HANDS & ARMS Hazards: Abrasion, temperature extremes, cuts and punctures, impact, chemicals, electric shock, radiation, vibration, biological agents and prolonged immersion in water. Options: Gloves, gloves with a cuff, gauntlets and sleeving that covers part or all of the arm.

 WHOLE BODY Hazards: Heat, chemical or metal splash, spray from pressure leaks or spray guns, contaminated dust, impact or penetration, excessive wear or entanglement of own clothing. Equipment: Conventional or disposable overalls, boiler suits, aprons, chemical suits.

 FEET & LEGS Hazards: Wet, hot and cold conditions, electrostatic build-up, slipping, cuts and punctures, falling objects, heavy loads, metal and chemical splash, vehicles. Options: Safety boots and shoes with protective toecaps and penetration-resistant, mid-sole wellington boots and specific footwear, eg foundry boots and chainsaw boots.  LUNGS Hazards: Oxygen-deficient atmospheres, dusts, gases and vapours.

FURTHER INFORMATION For general information on health and safety at work, and FREE leaflets you can download.  hse.gov.uk There are plenty of health and safety training courses available around the country. Find the one nearest you.  learndirect.co.uk

23


ACCESS PARTS ARENA 24/7 AT partscenter.co.uk


GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2015-16

NOTCHING & DRILLING When drilling or notching structural timbers it is crucial that the holes / notches are made in a way that does not compromise the integrity of the structure. Span (L)

FIG 1.

It is essential that structural members are not weakened by indiscriminate notching and boring. In this respect both the size and positioning must be in accordance with fig 1 (right).

0.25 x L Depth (D)

Max depth of notch = D/8

0.07 x L Rules for joist depth up to 250mm. For deeper joists assume D = 250mm

Notches should be in this zone

ď Ą NOTCHES SHOULD BE CUT AS FOLLOWS... They should be cut no deeper than 1/8 of the depth of the joist. They should not be cut closer to the support than 0.07 times the span, nor further away than 0.25 (1/4) of the span.

Register now at: partscenter.co.uk or call today 0344 292 7057

25


26

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO

Requirements for notching traditional joists Drilled holes should be no greater in diameter than ¼ of the depth of the joist. They should be drilled on a neutral axis and should not be less than 3 diameters apart, measured from centre to centre. Drilled holes should be located in the area between 0.25 and 0.4 times the span of the joist from the support. See fig. 2 (right).

Span (L)

0.4 x L 0.25 x L

Holes should be located in this zone and drilled at the neutral axis Depth of joist (D)

Maximum diameter of a hole = 0.25 x D Not less than 3 diameters apart centre to centre

Neutral axis of joist

FIG 2. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRILLING HOLES THROUGH TRADITIONAL JOISTS

Engineering Joists Buildings that incorporate timber ‘I’ joists (Engineering Joists) allow for more flexible drilling of holes for pipe work. ‘I’ joists incorporate 38mm knockouts (dependant upon the manufacturer), and also allow for larger holes to be drilled through the joists.

The same rules apply when drilling through ‘I’ joists as for drilling traditional joists where horizontal measurements between holes are concerned. However, as the strength of ‘I’ joists is in the flange (see fig. 3), these joists are not suitable for notching, as notching the flange will damage the structure of the joist which will have a detrimental effect on its strength. The size and positioning of holes drilled through ‘I’ Joists must be in accordance with fig. 3 (right).

Not less than 3 diameters apart centre to centre

38mm diameter knockouts are incorporated in TJI joists at approx 300mm centres

Flange

Web Flange

Additional holes can be cut but leave minimum 3mm of web at top and bottom

FIG 3. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRILLING HOLES THROUGH ENGINEERING (‘I’) JOISTS


BATHROOMS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

BATHROOMS

Sponsored By

27


28

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BATHROOMS

HELP YOUR CUSTOMERS SAVE WATER & REDUCE THEIR HOUSEHOLD BILLS Over 40% of households in the UK now have a water meter fitted and the bathroom is a hotspot for water use. There are now a whole host of bathroom products you can recommend which don’t cost the earth, but will help your customers save water….and money. 

Dual-flush toilets give your customer the choice of how much water to use, usually either 6 or 4 litres per flush, which is a massive saving on the older-style systems which can use up to 13 litres.

You can install low-volume baths that have internal contours so that they use less water, but still give the feeling of a proper soak

Flow regulators can be fitted, or even retrofitted, to basin and bath taps and showers to control water usage

A low-volume bath and dual-flush toilet, like these from Twyford, can save your customers a lot of water and reduce household bills

Twyford e500 Flushwise®, Rimfree® toilet

 DID YOU KNOW? One third of the water we use every day is literally flushed down the loo. Waterwise recommend installing toilets with a dual-flush mechanism. Why not try a Twyford Flushwise® 4/2.6 litre dual-flush that can save up to 60% compared to a standard 6 litre flush. If required the flow can be adjusted to 6/4 litres.


BATHROOMS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 BAthROOm instALLAtiOn tips When it comes to installing a bathroom, you naturally want to make sure of a perfect job every time. Here are Twyford’s top tips:

1

Most importantly, remember to read and understand the instructions fully prior to starting the fitting, as this avoids unnecessary and costly mistakes!

2

Check all of the connections on the cistern for the inlet and outlet valve, and the connecting rods from cistern to pan, are all fully tightened to prevent leaking.

3

Fill the cistern full of water prior to installation to check for leaking on the seal. Adjust the seal as required.

4

Some bath legs will come pre-assembled, but they will always need the feet adjusting to the height required. It’s imperative to get a good, level finish and ensure the legs and feet are set to the right height.

Twyford Total Install® washbasin with wall bracket

A Twyford Galerie bath with a Total Install® pre-assembled flip-up leg set

 DID YOU KNOW? Twyford has its own, unique Total Install® system on many of its products to make installation quicker and simpler thanks to clever in-built fittings to help you give a perfect, professional finish to every job. To see how it works, simply search online for ‘Twyford Total Install’ and you’ll find a handy YouTube instructional video.

continued>>

29


30

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BATHROOMS

 Keep Up With the tRenDs AnD sUppORt YOUR CUstOmeRs Part of your job will involve keeping up with the latest trends and technology, even for everyday products like toilets. It’s amazing how much they’ve developed over the last few years. For example, most manufacturers now offer toilets with no rim, following Twyford’s introduction of Rimfree® technology to the UK. The real selling points of rimless toilets are the added hygiene, because there is nowhere for germs to hide and multiply, and the fact that they are much easier to clean. The bonus for you is that there’s no special plumbing needed to install a rimless toilet, so you can offer the benefits without the hassle.

Another growing trend is wall-hung toilets, especially for en-suites and cloakrooms where space is tight. That’s because wall-hung sanitaryware can help make a small space look larger, as you can still see the floor underneath. It’s also a lot easier to clean the floor below if everything is raised, more hygienic all-round. Twyford’s e100 square wall-hung Rimfree®, Flushwise® toilet

Being able to discuss trends with your customers gives you a chance to showcase your breadth of knowledge, giving them full confidence in your installation job and maybe leading to them recommending you to a friend.

Twyford’s e500 Rimfree®, Flushwise® toilet

To see the benefits of rimless technology, simply search online for ‘Twyford Rimfree’ and you’ll find a helpful YouTube video.


CLEAN, GREEN & STYLISH

3D

e500

e100 700mm projection

Moda

e500

Galerie

e100 square

e100 round

Revolutionary Rimfree® technology is available across five best-selling Twyford collections. There’s no rim, so there’s nowhere for germs and dirt to hide. Light on cleaning, light on water usage and good looking too. Twyford Rimfree®. Simple, but brilliant.

For a brochure call: 0333 999 7731 or email: twyford@yesresponse.co.uk www.twyfordbathrooms.com

Transforming bathrooms since 1849

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN MANUFACTURERS OF BATHROOM & WASHROOM FITTINGS TWYFORD BATHROOMS STOKE-ON-TRENT


32

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BATHROOMS

TWYFORD IS BURSTING WITH ENERGY Twyford’s Energy Collection is perfect for installers, with a range of ceramics, furniture and shower enclosures that suit a wide range of projects, customers and budgets. There are three ceramic and furniture ranges, the entry-level e100, space-saving e200 and the trendy e500, plus two shower enclosure ranges, es200 and es400, combining fashionable styles with value for money. There are products for people of all ages and abilities, with extended and raised height toilets and shallow wall-hung washbasins, for improved access and greater comfort.

Backed by a 25 year guarantee for ceramics and a lifetime guarantee on shower enclosures, Twyford is assuring you and your customers of quality and buying confidence.

The Collection, along with all of Twyford’s other ranges, can be viewed on their user-friendly website twyfordbathrooms.com. The super-value e100 ceramics & furniture with an es200 shower enclosure, from Twyford’s Energy Collection

 To order a brochure call 0333 999 7731 or email twyford@yesresponse.co.uk. For details on Twyford, call 01270 879777 or visit twyfordbathrooms.com


BIOMASS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

BIOMASS

Sponsored By

33


34

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BIOMASS

EXPLORE THE POTENTIAL OF BIOMASS Biomass boilers are an efficient and sustainable form of off-gas heating, explains Anna Wakefield, Marketing Manager for Grant UK. Over the last few years there has been a marked rise in the installation of renewable technologies, such as biomass boilers. Biomass is a reliable, low carbon fuel, so more rural property owners are therefore opting for this green source of heating.

Additionally, biomass boilers can be eligible for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), as long as the product and importantly, the installer (when applying for the domestic tariff) are Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) approved. This scheme financially rewards the end user for generating and using renewable energy to heat their building.

Biomass boilers

Biomass boilers are fuelled by wood, and so burn wood pellets, chips or logs to provide

environmentally friendly heating, whether for a home or commercial site. Spira


Grant Spira. The high efficiency condensing biomass boiler. With outputs from 5kW to 72kW, the unique Grant Spira Wood Pellet Boiler range combines easy installation with straightforward daily operation and low maintenance.

• MCS approved • Automatic pellet feed and ignition • Award winning condensing heat exchanger • Modulating burner

Awarded Best Renewable Energy Product 2011 by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the Spira range provides a highly efficient, convenient and environmentally friendly way of heating a property.

• Flue box with integral fan/draught stabiliser • Automatic wash system for condensing unit

MCS CERTIFICATE BBA 0121

ering. e n i g n e . Grant g n i k n i h t t a cts. Gre Green produ For further information visit: www.grantuk.com or call our sales team: 01380 736920


36

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BIOMASS

The fuel is made using waste products from sawmill industries or wood from managed forests (where trees are planted to replace the ones cut down).

Increasingly, the most popular type of fuel is wood pellets.

Increased demand With the demand for biomass heating increasing, we feel it is important to continue to develop our product offering, which now includes several boiler models, bulk wood pellet stores, outdoor boiler pods, and vacuum systems, all of which are designed to make the lives of the end user and installer easier. We combine years of experience gained in manufacturing off-gas heating solutions with installer feedback, to produce highly efficient products. Our pioneering biomass boiler, the Grant Spira, is a unique condensing appliance that burns wood pellets.

It utilises the exclusive Grant turbulator bafe system, used in our award winning Vortex oil-fired boilers. Many modern standard efficiency pellet boilers lose up to 20% of the energy produced through waste gases exhausted by the ue system, but the Spira has this secondary heat exchanger, designed to capture lost heat energy. Available in various outputs from 5 to 36kW, the range combines easy installation with straightforward daily operation and low maintenance. Installations up to 72kW can also be accommodated by utilising two boilers (separately ued) with a central hopper / twin auger arrangement. Using two boilers to achieve higher outputs is very cost effective. When the boilers are combined, their precise electronic burner controls allow both units to modulate as one, down to just 25% of maximum load when the full output is not required. This, along with the extremely high efficiencies achieved, makes the Spira a unique option when considering a biomass boiler.

The Spira range also welcomed a new indoor model this year, featuring a 5 to 18kW output. Importantly, this model will not only be exempt under the Clean Air Act, but listed on the MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) database.

Wood pellets We also manufacture wood pellet bulk stores in various sizes from 500kg to 6 tonnes. While wood pellets can be bought in bags (typically around 10 to 15kg), if space is available, a bulk store can be installed which can directly feed (by auger or vacuum system) the intermediate Grant pellet hopper supplied as standard with the boiler. This allows end users to buy pellets in large quantities, which is more cost effective.


BIOMASS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

One of our latest products to be unveiled is the Grant SpiraPod, which was developed to help increase the options when siting a Spira boiler.

...we support fully qualified installers with an accredited scheme called G-One, as well as several free of charge product courses. With a lack of easily accessible information about biomass heating online, we were inspired to create the Grant Biomass Forum, www.grantbiomassforum.com where trade professionals can find answers to technical queries and have discussions with others. Not only does it enable consumers and installers to educate themselves, but also gives potential customers a gateway to finding knowledgeable, accessible installers in the area.

YouTube channel This purpose built external housing solution is suitable for all weathers and is designed to shelter the Spira from the elements. It includes an integrated 190kg pellet store and it neatly houses both the Grant wood pellet vacuum and sealed system kit too.

Support With so many developments in the renewables market, we understand the importance of offering comprehensive training and support with products. Furthermore, we firmly believe improving knowledge in the marketplace will encourage engagement and uptake of the technologies. For instance, we support fully qualified installers with an accredited scheme called G-One, as well as several free of charge product courses. The training is accessible nationwide, with academies in Wiltshire and North Yorkshire.

We have also produced a number of short films which are available on the ‘myGrantUK’ YouTube channel. The first series comprises three bite size modules specifically aimed at the end user. The Grant Guide to Biomass explains in a clear and entertaining format what biomass is, the different fuel types that are available, exactly why biomass is carbon neutral and how it is used in heating systems. A second film, The Grant Guide to the Domestic RHI tackles the Renewable Heat Incentive, how payments can be accessed and what paperwork is required to claim payments. For those end users seriously considering installing the technology or who have already purchased a Grant Spira, there is also a Guide to the Practicalities of Owning a Biomass Boiler.  For more details call 01380 736920 or visit the OFTEC award winning website grantuk.com

37


38

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BIOMASS

GRANT ENGINEERING (UK) Grant Engineering has been designing and manufacturing reliable and easy to install heating products for over 35 years. The company specialises in designing and manufacturing oil fired and renewable appliances such as wood pellet biomass boilers, solar thermal and air source heat pump technology.

To complement its oil fired boiler range, Grant also manufactures the Mag One magnetic filter, which cleans central heating systems, and its Thermawave range of thermal stores as well as a range of heating controls. In 2008 Grant expanded into renewable technology and subsequently launched Grant solar thermal, Aerona air source heat pumps and the Grant Spira, its best selling wood pellet biomass appliance. In 2015, Grant launched the SpiraPod Outdoor Boiler Housing for its successful Spira condensing biomass boiler range, which allows for greater flexibility with installation. In 2016 the Grant Vecta will be launched in the UK. This new condensing wood pellet boiler has already been awarded two prestigious titles of Best Renewable Product of Overall Product and Overall Product of the Show at the 2015 Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Show in Dublin.

Grant UK’s success and growth came in the early 2000’s with the launch of its range of Vortex condensing oil fired boilers. Today there are over 45 different model variations, with outputs from 12 to 70kW and around 1 in every 2 boilers installed in the UK is now a Grant Vortex (Source: SBGI).

Grant UK has a network of accredited installers called the G-One scheme. G-One installers receive comprehensive training and receive benefits such as marketing and technical support, as well as extended product guarantees. G-One training takes place at the company’s dedicated centre in Devizes and North Yorkshire.


BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

BOILERS

Sponsored By

39


HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BOILERS

THINKING BEYOND THE COMBI BOILER When consulting homeowners over boiler replacements, installers can offer more value by addressing the full heating picture, says Christian Engelke, technical director at Viessmann. For most installers, boiler retrofit business takes a fairly standard shape. The customer calls in a panic. They don’t care about some grand heating system solution; they just want the hot water back on by this time tomorrow. The installer saves the day and wastes no time in fitting what they know. More often than not, for the average UK home, the default response is a combi boiler installation, as clearly illustrated by market figures; more than 75 per cent of total wall-mounted condensing sales are combi boilers and 10 million have been installed since 2003. We suggest that installers are missing a trick. Distress purchase behaviour aside, consumers are waking up to energy efficiency in the home, the availability of renewable energy solutions and the benefits of integrating different heating technologies. We are much less tolerant of ‘making do’ these days; we’re less likely to replace like with like or embrace a combi boiler if it means running out of hot water every time the in-laws come to stay, or reducing our options for energy efficiency in the future.

Despite the ease of the combi solution, the boiler is just one piece of the jigsaw. The heat generator is not considered in isolation anymore. Installers who act more as home energy consultants will sell additional products and services (complementary to the well understood boiler), protect themselves against fly-bynight individual technology ‘specialists’ and attract enduring, positive reputations. Installers need to lay the foundations for a renewable-friendly, future-proofed infrastructure.

Thinking beyond the combi

Vitodens 200-W

40

Installing a combi is a lucrative and simple job for the installer. The old system, including cold water tank, cylinder and pipework, is taken out and closed off. continued>>


Quality and innovation at the heart of our boilers. Stainless steel is, without doubt, the best material for primary heat exchangers in condensing boilers. One of the unique design features of all Vitodens boilers is the Inox-Radial heat exchanger made from high grade stainless steel. We are so confident in our heat exchanger that we guarantee it for 10 years against corrosion. Designed for long-term reliability, high performance and self-cleaning 100% corrosive resistance Exclusive to Viessmann For more information please see our website or email us at, info-uk@ viessmann.com www.viessmann.co.uk

10 Year Warranty

Viessmann Limited • Telford • Telephone 01952 675000

on all stainless steel heat exchangers for gas condensing boilers up to 150 kW

Vitodens 200-W gas condensing boiler


42

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BOILERS

The homeowner is sold on the extra space and promise of hot water on demand. Yet there are system efficiencies, cash benefits and greater hot water comfort – more of it and more quickly – to be had from a systems approach and by converting to a four pipe system. The dangers often start when the new combi output is sized for a higher hot water flow rate, which leads to an increase in energy use, or based on price sensitivity, which means that the boiler has a lower output and flow rate, resulting in the end user losing the flow rate they were accustomed to. If the replacement boiler output is the same as the previous one, then something has to give.

 DID YOU KNOW? People wrongly believe that cylinders lose energy quickly. Yet replacing an old system boiler and cylinder with new can result in 30 per cent energy savings.

The roughly 1 kW per day energy loss from a cylinder translates into just £1 a month, yet £30 can be saved by upgrading a home’s cylinder (on top of the £300 saving from installing a new condensing boiler). This is why we supported the case for including hot water cylinders as a measure in the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund. The four pipe system, as used by Viessmann, allows the boiler to discriminate between the DHW and heating circuits, serving each circuit with separate flow and return pipes. This means energy cut-off valves are no longer required. In addition, cylinder overheat thermostats are not required as a DHW sensor fitted to the cylinder controls temperature and satisfies the necessary G3 building regulations. This approach allows for lower flow and return temperatures for heating, allowing the boiler to condense for around 70 per cent or more of the time, compared to a standard installation with

...the additional benefit of installing a four pipe system is being able to specify a lower output, more affordable boiler. fixed flow temperature that always runs hot; saving energy and running costs. The additional benefit of installing a four pipe system is being able to specify a lower output, more affordable boiler. In a normal S or Y plan system the boiler is typically oversized by 10-30 per cent (or 6-10 kW) to cater for the hot water demand.

The Viessmann four pipe system allows for lower flow and return temperatures for heating, allowing the boiler to condense for around 70 per cent or more of the time


BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Paving the way for solar Solar is no longer purely about the environment. Not only does it provide hot water for free, the government pays out attractive sums for heat generated under the RHI schemes. The payback period, which, depending on the property, can be as low as around 11 years, is not the issue for homeowners that it once was.

With hot water energy savings of up to 60 per cent per year, we believe that all new boiler installations should be made solar thermal ready. There is no better point at which to do this than when fitting a replacement boiler.

The installer will already be working in key areas such as the loft anyway and minimal additional work is required. Apart from the skills associated with installing the panels on the roof, the bulk of the tasks – working with fittings, hydraulics and flow rates for example – will be familiar territory. A solar controller often needs to be added which is plugged into the solar pump station in the airing cupboard or loft. The boiler is swapped for new, ideally in the four pipe configuration and then linked to the cylinder. For solar, the cylinder needs to be replaced to a twin coil cylinder which, in most cases, can sit in exactly the same space. Even if the homeowner is not considering integrating solar at this point, it is still a sensible call to specify this type of cylinder for the future, to avoid having to pay twice for a new cylinder. A system approach also prepares the property for integration between the boiler and other renewable heating products, particularly heat pumps. We see the trend for hybrid systems growing in the future. Who knows how difficult it will be to convince customers to lose the airing cupboard space they once gained, in order to access future energy saving options, unless we prepare homes for the future, now?

ChRistiAn engeLKe BiOgRAphY Christian joined Viessmann in 2007, tasked with overseeing the manufacturer’s product portfolio for the UK. He is responsible for all technical matters, from product performance to systems design. Originally a graduate of mechanical engineering, Christian began his career in Germany, working as a development engineer in R&D. Responsible for developing and launching one of the first pre-mix boilers in the UK, Christian came to England in 1996 and has been ingrained in the British market ever since. Alongside his role at Viessmann, Christian is involved with a number of trade associations to support the industry in shaping the heating market to become more energy efficient.

Christian Engelke, technical director, Viessmann

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | BOILERS

TOPTECHNOLOGY Hydraulic balancing Vitoflow  FOR ALL HEAT GENERATORS UP TO 150 KW Automatic hydraulic balancing of radiator circuits can now be implemented with all Viessmann heat generators up to 150 kW. No specialist knowledge is required.

 VitOFLOW Hydraulic balancing - simple, quick and automatic The hydraulic balancing of a heating system is necessary to ensure that all radiators in the system are supplied with the exact amount of heat. This requires the flow rates in the heating circuit piping, the output of the circulating pump and the heating curve of the heat generator to be adjusted very precisely. Subsequently, it is ensured that no room is under- or oversupplied with heat and that the energy is used in the most efficient way. The energy efficiency of a heating system can be increased by up to 15 per cent – therefore, hydraulic balancing is one of the most efficient methods of reducing heating costs and CO2 in the long term. However, hydraulic balancing is often not done because it is a complex procedure and requires a lot of time as well as expert knowledge. An innovative solution is provided by the automatic hydraulic balancing system, Vitoflow. Vitoflow simplifies and accelerates the execution of hydraulic balancing and is one of the most precise and reliable methods on the market.

 ENERGY CONSUMPTION REDUCED BY UP TO 15 PER CENT Balancing optimises the settings of integrated pumps and the heating curve, ensuring that all radiators are supplied with the appropriate amount of heat for the respective room. This can reduce energy consumption by up to 15 per cent, also resulting in a lowering of CO2 emissions.  TIME SAVED THROUGH EASY PROCESS The time required for determining the default settings on a system comprising ten radiators is barely 30 minutes, in other words a fraction of the time usually taken. Apart from a laptop, contractors only require the Viessmann service case with wireless actuators, an extension kit (depending on heat generator and heating system) and Vitosoft 300 service software.

Hydraulic Balancing Service Case

Hydraulic Balancing Extension Kit

 For more details contact 01952 675000 or visit viessmann.co.uk


CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Sponsored By

45


46

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

GET INTO CIRCULATION WITH GRUNDFOS The domestic circulator has been through a period of rapid change over recent times. This was been driven by both new technological advances and changes in European legislation. Today Grundfos can offer a range of domestic circulators that are among the most advanced energy efficient circulators that are currently available to the market. This makes them the ideal choice for a variety of domestic circulation heating systems, as they provide effective, energy efficient solutions. Pumps have for many decades been central to meeting the ideal ambient temperature in our homes, and with a replacement cycle of approximately 15 years, the decision made at the point of replacement is important.

But this is the best way? At Grundfos we have spent many years working to design in a wide number of features into our range of domestic circulators that are already engineered to meet future legislative demands and offer many features and benefits:  Grundfos UPS2 15-50/60 & UPS2 25-80/32-80  Grundfos ALPHA2L  LATEST Grundfos ALPHA2

Today Grundfos can offer a range of domestic circulators that are among the most advanced energy efficient circulators that are currently available.... As a global pump manufacturer, Grundfos are aware that when it comes to replacement time, it is frequently the case where the details taken directly from the pump plate and an identical pump is requested, or if this has been discontinued, the closest alternative is sought. continued>>



48

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

Today there is a range of modern energy efficient domestic circulator choices available from Grundfos:

UPS2 The UPS2 15-50/60 is a compact, high efficiency, replacement for Grundfos UPS 15-50/60 circulator pumps that are built in the UK. With just one model, the UPS2 family can be used to replace 4m, 5m and 6m versions of the UPS 15-50/60 models and are suitable for use in domestic heating systems. FEATURES:  Energy efficient circulator pump  5 year warranty  Allows you to choose the setting that fits the system demands  UPS2 cable gland is the same as the UPS  Dimensions are very similar to UPS models  No need to disconnect pipework  Minimises access issues and leakage risks If you require a larger pump that will deliver up to 8m head then select either the UPS2 25-80 or 32-80 models that offers all the same benefits and are ideal for larger applications.

ALPHA2L Then we have the reliable and efficient Grundfos ALPHA2L that is designed for circulating water in domestic heating systems with constant or variable flows and in systems with variable temperature. These high efficiency circulators

can be installed in central heating and primary hot water circuits up to 35kW and offer many advanced features as standard. FEATURES:  Energy efficient circulator  5 year warranty  Automatic variable speed and traditional fixed speed operation for optimum performance  Quiet operation, minimal system and valve noise  ‘Plug and pump’ electrical connection for fast fitting  Permanent magnet motor

ALPHA2 The latest ALPHA2 version D circulator is the most advanced domestic circulators available to the market. They offer all the benefits of the ALPHA2L plus the patented AUTOADAPT setting as well as an LED display that shows power on and the electrical usage. New for 2015/16 they also now also feature an extra robust start-up dry run protection and Summer Mode functions. FEATURES:  Energy efficient circulator  5 year warranty  Patented AUTOADAPT setting for easy set up  Permanent magnet motor  Ceramic shaft and bearings prevents magnetic build-up  Robust start-up, dry run protection and summer mode functions  Quiet operation, minimal system and valve noise  ‘Plug and pump’ electrical connection for fast fitting  LED display showing power on and electrical usage.


CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

To further assist you at Grundfos we also have available the Grundfos Ecademy - a free digital training tool and information platform. Here is a quick 10-point guide to explain why you should join:  WHAT IS THE GRUNDFOS ECADEMY? An internet based learning tool that it designed to improve knowledge on pumps, applications and their theory.  WHAT IS ITS PURPOSE? The Grundfos Ecademy is a digital training and information platform that is available 24/7. Its aim is to help keep pump professionals up-to-date on a range of industry related topics.  WHO IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE? Currently it is aimed at installers, heating engineers and merchant counter staff. However there are plans to expand this into other business areas over the course of the next 6/12 months.  WHAT TOPICS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE? At the moment there are seven topics available: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

The basic principles and pump types Circulator basics and control modes Grundfos AUTOADAPT Grundfos ALPHA2 Grundfos UPS2 Grundfos SOLOLIFT2 Hot water recirculation and the Grundfos Comfort NEW TOPIC

 WILL THERE BE MORE TOPICS AVAILABLE? New topics are already in the planning and will be added to the Ecademy on a regular basis so make sure you check the website regularly for all the latest news.  HOW ARE THE VARIOUS TOPICS PRESENTED? Each topic is broken down into small bite

sized tasks that will only take 5/10 minutes of your time. The content is kept interesting by presenting it in a number of ways including via training videos, downloadable presentations and in-depth articles.  BESIDES LEARNING MORE ABOUT PUMPS AND PUMP THEORY ARE THERE OTHER BENEFITS TO JOINING THE ECADEMY? As a professional, you want to deliver the ideal system for your customers. This means you need to be able to troubleshoot and advise customers about the best replacement.  IS THERE ANY REWARD FOR THE SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF MODULES? When you have completed each topic there are a few questions for you to answer. These are designed to help consolidate the content. When you have successfully completed 4 topics you will be given the opportunity to select an item from the list of available rewards as a small thank you. We also run one-off competitions / raffles, so make sure you drop by regularly.  HOW DO I ACCESS THE ECADEMY? The Ecademy can be accessed from your smartphone, tablet or computer, which means that you can log-in whenever best suits your schedule.  WHERE CAN I SIGN UP? You can register for the Grundfos Ecademy by visiting grundfos.co.uk/ ecademy. The good news is that once you are signed up, you will be able to use your login to access not just the Ecademy, but also other Grundfos web platforms.

49


50

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS

‘APPY DAYS There has never been more information available to you than there is today. The difficulty comes, when you need to assess what information adds value and in what instance it can be used. At Grundfos we have been providing information on a wide range of elements in an array of formats for many years. We’ve listened to what people like and have tried to align our support offerings with the constantly evolving options. One such recent example of this and already gaining a reputation as ‘the’ mobile assistant of choice by plumbers, installers and heating engineers, the NEW Grundfos Installer Companion App is proving itself to be a worthwhile and valuable download. This App is the latest reincarnation of the Grundfos Pump Installer Handbook that was so popular a few years ago but that grew too large to be a practical aide. However, once uploaded, no matter where you are if you need additional information or some extra assistance the App will be right there to support you. We think that you will be pleasantly surprised by the wide range of support it can provide you. This includes: access to product information; application knowhow; easy sizing and selection, a handy replacement tool, pump selection guide; a really useful set of calculators that you can reference for a range of system parameters, trouble-shooting options and service videos.

Some examples of the sorts of varied but specific information you can access are: APPLICATION INFORMATION biomass boilers, domestic hot water, underfloor heating, water boosting. Basic Principles relating to circulation pumps, heat loss, cavitation PRODUCT DATABASE INFORMATION circulators, condensate removal, multistage self-priming, submersible, hot water recirculation, domestic boosters and macerators. THE ABILITY TO PERSONALISE THE APP to store things, list memos, save your favourites and look at recently viewed items. With all of this information literally right at your fingertips, you can be assured that whatever pump assistance you require, it will be where you need it, when you need it.  To find out more visit the website uk.grundfos.com/installer-app.html or download the App from Google play or the App store.


CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

! N U F R O F T S U J HIP Book

1

2

3

4 5 6

7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14

15 16

17

18

19

6 7 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 18 19

Across Type of renewable energy ACROSS from the sun Another name for a sealed 3. systemType of renewable energy Type offrom power the tool sun that you don’t have to plug in 6. Another name for a sealed Type of flux (2 Words) system of heat A measurement Plastic plumbing systems 7. Type of power tool that you (2 Words) have tojointing plug in Type ofdon’t pipework Tap9.which hot Typecombines of flux (2 Words) and10. cold water A measurement of heat A small bore pumping unit 11. Plastic scheme plumbingtosystems Government encourage households to (2 Words) install renewable technologies (3 Words) An alternative to mains gas – often used in rural areas Renewable heat from wood

Down Type of metal used for pipework 12. Type of pipework jointing 2 This will reduce heat output 14. Tap in which if it’s the combines bottom ofhot a radiator and cold water 4 Something which a boiler 15. A small boreannually pumping unit should have Government scheme to many 5 17. A type of steel used in heating components encourage households 7 This type of boiler is capable install renewable of to producing instantaneous hot water technologies (3 Words) 8 18. Method of distributing An alternative to mainswater gas around a heating system (2 – often used in rural areas Words) 1319. Where hot water is stored Renewable heat from wood 16 Renewable heating system which uses air (2 Words) 1

1. Type of metal used for pipework 2. This will reduce heat output if it’s in the bottom of a radiator 4. Something which a boiler should have annually 5. A type of steel used in many heating components 7. This type of boiler is capable of producing instantaneous hot water 8. Method of distributing water around a heating system (2 Words) 13. Where hot water is stored 16. Renewable heating system which uses air (2 Words)

ACROSS: 3. Solar, 6. Unvernted, 7. Cordless, 9. Zinc Chloride, 10. Kilowatt, 11. Pushfit, 12. Capillary, 14. Mixer, 15. Macerator, 17. Renewable Heat Incentive, 18. LPG, 19. Biomass DOWN: 1. Copper, 2. Sludge, 4. Service, 5. Stainless, 7. Combination, 8. Circulating Pump, 13. Cylinder, 16. Heat Pump

3

DOWN

51



COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2015-16

COPPER PIPEWORK

Sponsored By

53


54

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | COPPER PIPEWORK

CAPILLARY JOINTING An important part of your plumbing training is the correct installation of copper pipework. If it’s your ambition to become a professional plumbing and heating engineer, you will need to master a range of practical skills, including: measuring, cutting, jointing and bending copper tube.

There are 4 essential stages in the jointing process:

1. 2. 3. 4.

PREPARATION FLUXING HEATING REMOVING FLUX

Capillary jointing has been part of the professional plumber’s repertoire for many years and will continue to be so. It is important to learn the correct procedure that will ensure your soldered joints are perfect every time. Getting into good habits right from the start of your apprenticeship will see you successfully through your plumbing career.

Getting it right Plumbing and heating systems make full use of the exceptional performance of soldered joints. ‘Soldering’ is a simple and very effective method of jointing copper tube, giving durable and reliable pipework installations. Correctly made, a soldered joint will help to give installations long service lives. continued>>


For the latest information on the design and installation of copper pipework, contact Copper Initiative

For your free technical literature pack, join the Copper Club at: www.copperplumbing.org.uk


56

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | COPPER PIPEWORK

 The steps required to make a correct soldered joint are very simple, but it is important not to cut corners.

1

pRepARAtiOn

Cutting the copper tube is the first step, followed by deburring the inside and outside edges of the tube end. It is vital that burrs are removed as they can disrupt water and gas flows and, in some cases, affect the integrity of the joint. The surfaces that are to be joined need to be clean to ensure that a sound joint is made. An abrasive pad should be used to remove any dirt or oxide layer from the tube end and the internal surface of the fitting. Steel wool should NOT be used as there is a possibility that small steel particles may get embedded in the copper, which can lead to problems when the pipework is in service.

2

FLUXing

Flux enables the solder to wet, adhere to and alloy with the surface of the copper, forming a watertight joint. For plumbing applications fluxes of the zinc-chloride or zinc-ammoniumchloride types are used. Extreme care should be exercised when using ‘self-cleaning’ fluxes. A thin layer of flux should be applied to the jointing surface of the tube. The tube is then inserted into the fitting up to the tube stop, whilst twisting the tube round so that the flux is spread across the fitting surface. Any excess flux should be removed. Flux is not applied to the jointing surface of the fitting because there is the potential for the tube, when it is inserted into the fitting, to push flux inside the pipework.

3

heAting

Heat is usually applied with an LPG blowtorch and the flame needs to be kept moving around the joint, as overheating one spot can lead to charring of the flux, affecting its performance. For an integral solder ring (ISR) fitting, once it has reached the required temperature, the solder will melt and a bead will form in the mouth of the fitting, all the way around. The joint is complete and there is no need for any additional solder to be fed into the joint. For an end-feed fitting, the solder is brought into contact with the heated tube and, if it melts, then the flame is withdrawn and the solder flows into the joint, forming a bead in the mouth of the fitting. Should the solder not melt on contact with the tube, further heating is required. For drinking water pipework only lead-free solders can be used as leaded solders are NOT allowed. Integral solder ring fittings contain a lead-free solder, EN 29453 alloy 23. This solder melts between 230ºC and 240ºC and can be used on all copper pipework applications.


COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2015-16

NOTE ON PLASTICS COVERED TUBE

4

RemOVing FLUX

When the joints are completed, with a bead of solder showing in the mouth of the fitting, it is important to allow them to cool so that the solder has a chance to solidify. Moving the assembly before the solder sets can affect the integrity of the joint, perhaps leading to leaks. At this stage it is vital to remove any flux residues on the outside and inside of the pipework. Fluxes on the outside can be removed with a damp cloth. Fluxes on the inside should be removed by flushing the pipework with fresh cold water as soon as possible. Flushing will remove waterbased fluxes, however grease-based fluxes will require flushing with hot water. If fluxes are not flushed away, corrosion damage can occur during the service life of the installation.

If a ‘self-cleaning’ flux has been used, flushing of pipework is extremely important.

Capillary fittings can be used in conjunction with plastics covered copper tube. For this, the plastic covering is cut lengthwise down the tube so that about 100mm of copper is exposed. The joint is made in the same way as described above but extra care is needed to avoid burning the plastics covering and allowing flux to become trapped between the copper and the plastics covering. Once the joint is made and has cooled, and fluxes removed, the plastics covering is folded back into place and spirally wrapped with a suitable tape, selfadhesive polythene or PVC. The tape should cover the last 25mm of intact plastics covering and at least 25mm of immediately adjacent bare copper tube. The capillary jointing system has been gradually evolving for over fifty years, and we can now say that - in the hands of the professional plumber - it is completely reliable. Following the procedure set out above, you can ensure that each and every one of your soldered joints will be to the highest standard, satisfying both you and your customers.  For more info on Copper Initiative visit copperplumbing.org.uk

57


58

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | COPPER PIPEWORK

COPPER INITIATIVE SUPPORT FOR YOUNG PLUMBERS Copper has long been the material of choice for plumbing engineers. The reliability, durability, versatility and good looks mean that copper reflects the professionalism of the installer. It is essential that each new generation of plumbers is equipped to design and install copper to very high standards. As part of our commitment to education, Copper Initiative sponsors the National Apprentice of the Year skills competition. We believe that people should be encouraged to develop skills that will equip them to develop a career in the plumbing industry.

Copper Initiative has a wealth of information available on how to correctly design and install copper pipework systems. Our Copper Club packs can be obtained simply by completing the on-line form on our website: copperplumbing.org.uk

 INSTALLATION TIPS is the technical manual that covers just about everything you might want

to know about copper pipework systems. Easy to follow guidance is given on many topics including jointing techniques, bending, pipe sizing for both water and gas installations, the correct choice of solders and fluxes, pressure testing and locating pipework in suspended floors.  COPPER THE MODERN SOLUTION describes the two flame-free jointing options for copper – push-fit and press fittings. For those places where you don’t want to use a flame, in roof spaces with combustible materials for example, push-fit and press fittings both offer alternatives to soldering.  COPPER PIPEWORK COMPENDIUM CD, incorporating Make the Right Start, brings together all of the educational information produced by Copper Initiative. In addition to the many pdf’s of the literature the CD contains webcasts (narrated PowerPoint presentations) and a number of question & answer sections where students can test their knowledge.  Follow us on Facebook.


COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2015-16

PIPE SIZING CALCULATIONS Use the check list below and the diagrams and tables on the following three pages to calculate the correct pipe sizing required.  Label pipework sections (column 1)  Calculate loading units to be supplied (column 2)  Convert to flow rates (column 3)  Assume tube diameters (column 4)  Reveal velocity and head loss (columns 5 & 6)  Note actual pipework length (column 7)  Calculate additional length for fittings/valves/bends (column 8)  Calculate total head loss for each pipework section (column 9)  Note any changes in height (column 10)  Calculate available head at start of each pipework section (column 11)  Subtract total head loss to get the residual head (column 12)  Compare residual head with required head (column 13)  Confirm tube diameters or re-calculate with new tube sizes (column 14) 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Design Assume Vertical Residual Final Head Pipe length (m) Total Residual Pipe Loading flow tube Velocity drop Available head tube loss head head ref. units rate diameter (m/s) (+) or head required diameter (m/m) loss (11-9) Actual Effective (l/s) (mm) rise (-) at fitting (mm) 1-2

90

1.15

28

2.4

0.22

15

36.2

2-3

45

3-4

37

4-5

20.5

5-6

14.5

6-7

11.5

7-8

10

0.30

15

5-9

6

0.20

15

7.96

-4

26.00

18.04

-

28

0.72

22

2.5

0.33

4

0.64

22

2.1

0.25

1

20.4

6.73

-3

15.04

8.31

-

22

12

3.00

-

8.31

5.31

-

22

0.45

22

1.5

0.13

3.5

9

1.17

-

5.31

0.38

22

1.2

0.09

2

3

0.27

-1.5

2.64

4.14

-

22

2.37

1

22

0.32

15

2.3

0.48

2

3

1.44

+0.8

3.17

1.73

0.5

15

2.2

0.43

1.5

2.5

1.08

+0.5

1.5

0.24

4

5.5

1.32

-

2.23

1.16

0.8

15

4.14

2.82

0.5

15

continued>>

59


HIP BOOK 2015-16 | COPPER PIPEWORK

ď Ž Pipework sections reference diagram for column 1 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 59

mains pressure system

flat 2

bath

wc

uvdhwss

wb

cold branch after PRV gives balanced pressure at shower

sink w/m

cloaks wc

flat 1 uvdhwss

60

main at 3 bar minimum pressure


COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 Loading units for column 2 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 59 LOADING UNITS

WC cistern

2

Spray mixer tap

no value

¾” bath tap

10

Shower mixer

3

½” sink or washing machine tap

3

LOCATION

200

1.5

100 1.0 50

LOADING UNITS

Bathroom ¾” bath taps 2 @ 10

20

Bathroom ½” basin taps 2 @ 1.5

3

Bathroom WC cistern 1@ 2

2

En-suite shower 2 @ 3

6

Kitchen ½” sink taps 2 @ 3

6

Kitchen 15mm w/machine taps 2 @ 3

6

Cloakroom basin spray tap 1 @ 0

0

Cloakroom WC cistern 1@2

2

Total loading units

45

2 1.5

Loading units

½” washbasin tap

0.8 0.6 0.5

20 0.4 10

Design flow rate, litres per second

FITTING

0.3

 Flow rate conversion chart for column 3 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 59 continued>>

61


HIP BOOK 2015-16 | COPPER PIPEWORK

4

2

3 2.5 2

1 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3

1.5

0.75

0.2 0.1 0.08 0.07 0.06 0.05 0.04 0.03 0.02 0.01 0.008 0.006 0.005 0.004 0.003 0.002 0.001

0.5

0.25

0.1

Velocity, metres per second

1.0

76.1

20

67

10 8 6 5 4 3 2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.08 0.06 0.05

80 75 70 65 60 55

54

50 45 40

42

35 35 30 28

25

22

20

18 15 15

12 10 10

8

5

6

Actual bore of pipe, millimetres

6 5

50 40 30

Outside diameter of copper tube to Table X of Bs 2871: Part 1: 1971, millimetres

6 5 4 3

Formula applicable between these limits only

10 8

Flow, litres per second

 Velocity & head loss calculation charts for columns 5 & 6 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 59

Wall friction gradient (head loss) in kPa per metre

62

 Additional fitting / valve / bend lengths for column 8 of the pipe sizing calculations table shown on page 59 Tap size ½" washbasin tap ¾" bath tap 1" tap

Equivalent length 3.7 11.8 22

Tube diameter (mm)

Bend

Elbow

Tee

Stop valve

Check valve

15

0.25

0.50

0.60

4.00

2.50

22

0.40

0.80

1.00

7.00

4.30

28

0.60

1.00

1.50

10.00

5.60

35

0.70

1.40

2.00

13.00

6.00

42

0.90

1.70

2.50

16.00

8.00


ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

Sponsored By

63


64

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

THE BUZZ ON ELECTRIC Alan Clarke, technical support manager at Heatrae Sadia, tells us more about electric wet central heating boilers and explains what the Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Directives (generally referred to as the ErP Directive) mean for the market. Electric heating is an ideal solution when mains gas isn’t available, or it isn’t a practical option due to installation or maintenance issues.

Compared to mains gas, there are generally few restrictions on the supply of electricity, and there aren’t any flueing, condensate drainage or plumbing issues to consider.

Electric wet central heating Fortunately, the electric heating market has moved on from the inflexible, largely uncontrollable night storage heaters that electric heating was once associated with. Heaters which store energy overnight and release it during the day (whether or not it’s needed) are not an appropriate solution for today’s consumer – and so innovative, sophisticated,

controllable products that provide heating and hot water when the end user wants it have been developed. One of the main advancements has been the introduction of electric wet central heating flow boilers. Compact, wall hung and efficient, electric wet central heating boilers are used in conjunction with conventional wet radiators or underfloor heating systems, and provide central heating on demand, when it’s actually needed. They are controlled and operated by a programmer and thermostat, working in a similar way to a gas fired boiler. Our Amptec electric boiler even modulates in the same way as a gas boiler, improving running efficiency. continued>>


A Megaflo. For every need. Today’s modern lifestyles mean we all have greater demand for hot water and how we use it. At home, and in the workplace, there’s a growing need to service multiple users at the same time, whilst striving for greater performance and reliability that’s affordable and low in environmental impact. Driven by these needs our team at Heatrae Sadia launched the groundbreaking Megaflo cylinder back in 1989 and as our customers’ needs have grown so has the Megaflo product family. UK designed, engineered and manufactured to exacting detail, Megaflo comes in over a hundred variants, all with an ErP rating for energy efficiency. Offering a product truly tailored around your individual needs.

Telephone 01603 420220 or visit heatraesadia.com


66

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

To supply hot water to all-electric properties, electric boilers can be teamed with direct cylinders. High-performance unvented hot water cylinders, which are fed directly from the cold water mains, will provide the end user with powerful showers and fast filling baths.

Our Megaflo Eco can deliver up to 72 litres per minute of hot water, and there’s no significant difference in performance if more than one tap or shower is used simultaneously (depending on the mains water pressure and flow rate coming into the property).

Product selection

Most consumers will want an electric boiler to be as comparable to a gas boiler as possible, not only in terms of user benefits like controllability but also operating life. There are various electric boilers on the market, but it’s important to remember that they differ in terms of cost, longevity and quality. Low-cost electric boilers will quickly prove to be false economy, as after just a few years it’s likely they will either need to be repaired or replaced. Some electric boilers can have an operating life similar to a traditional cast iron gas boiler (which can boast a lifespan of around 25 years). High-quality products that last might cost more initially, but will save the customer money in the long run, while also providing peace of mind. To ensure that our Amptec boilers have a long operational life, several key features were designed into the product. For example, we use solid state technology for the switching of the heating elements to ensure a much longer switching life compared to what is achievable

using conventional electro-mechanical devices such as relays and contactors. We believe that only solid state technology is suitable for the typical switching life required for a long-lasting electric boiler, and we avoid using mechanical relays to switch the heating elements on and off. In addition, the heating elements used in Amptec are designed to run at low Watts density, which is essential to prolong the boiler’s life, and we chose copper sheathed elements, as in this particular application they last longer than other materials.


ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

In addition to Amptec, Heatrae Sadia has also combined an electric boiler and a hot water cylinder into a ‘one box’ solution. Electromax provides full wet central heating and unvented domestic hot water from one compact unit. Factory assembled and tested and pre-plumbed, it’s really simple to install.

Efficiency, Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Since September 26 this year, electric boilers of up to 400kW (along with other types of space and combi space heater) have needed to meet minimum energy performance criteria in order to be legally placed on the EU market, in accordance with the Ecodesign Directive (commonly referred to as the ErP Directive). And through the complementary Energy Labelling Directive, which has applied to space heaters and combi space heaters of 70kW and below (including electric boilers) since the same date, electric boilers are now supplied with energy labels, similar to those seen on fridges and washing machines. Manufacturers must meet the requirements of the regulation (conforming to the energy and environmental standards) in order to legally place their product on the market in the UK and other countries in the European Economic Area. Due to the ‘fuel factor’ that is added to all electrically powered products, electric boilers are (at the time of writing) likely to have a D rating. It is important to remember – and to communicate to customers – that this is because the generation of electricity is currently viewed as carbon intensive and electric heating products are therefore penalised. However, we believe this is a short-sighted view, as at the

point of use electric products are very efficient – Amptec, for example, is over 90 per cent efficient.

...the heating elements used in Amptec are designed to run at low Watts density, which is essential to prolong the boiler’s life... Direct electric cylinders are also affected by Ecodesign and Energy Labelling; from September 26 2015 water heaters with a rated output of up to 400kW and hot water storage tanks with a storage volume of up to 2,000 litres have needed to meet minimum energy performance criteria, and those with outputs of up to 70kW and storage volumes of up to 500 litres have required an energy label. All direct electric water heaters are likely to be in the C category, again due to the ‘fuel factor’ applied to electrically powered products.

The electric heating market has been revolutionised by electric wet central heating boilers. Flexible, controllable, simple, cost-effective to install, low maintenance, they offer a viable alternative when mains gas isn’t an option, and are increasingly being specified as the preferred choice for urban high-rise developments.

 Further information can be obtained by calling 01603 420 220 or visiting heatraesadia.com

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS

HEATRAE SADIA EXTENDS MEGA CASH DEAL Heatrae Sadia has announced that it will continue to support installers by extending its popular Mega Cash deal until the end of the year. How to claim The electrical heating product manufacturer will continue to offer £150 cash back on every Megaflo cylinder purchased until the end of December 2015 – a three month extension on the original August deadline.

The Mega Cash offer applies to the whole Megaflo Eco range of unvented cylinders, including indirect and direct models, SystemFit, SystemReady, Eco Plus, Solar and SolaReady. The offer also includes Megaflo Commercial models. The Megaflo brand, a favourite with installers and homeowners alike, is synonymous with quality and longevity. Manufactured from Duplex stainless steel, Megaflo has a high resistance to stress corrosion cracking, fatigue and erosion, and does not require a protective coating or a sacrificial anode. With a lifetime guarantee on all units, Megaflo is the go-to water heater of choice.

To claim their £150 cashback, installers simply need to fill in a claim form and send it to Heatrae Sadia along with a copy of the VAT invoice. Claim forms can be downloaded from the Heatrae Sadia website (www.heatraesadia.com), and are also available to pick up from leading builder’s and plumber’s merchants and electrical wholesalers. Jon Cockburn, head of marketing at Heatrae Sadia, said: “We’ve had a fantastic response to our Mega Cash deal, and the feedback we’ve received from installers has been overwhelmingly positive. “Although the market has improved this year, we still firmly believe in the importance of supporting installers, and hope that the £150 cash back will help them improve their margins, and provide a useful extra bonus in time for Christmas.”  For more details on the latest Mega Cash promotion, and full T&Cs, please visit heatraesadia.com or email any queries to campaign.enquiries@heatraesadia.com


FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

FITTINGS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FITTINGS

KNOW YOUR FITTINGS There is a huge selection of plumbing fittings available to today’s plumber. Each type of fitting has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to know what these are! Other advantages include the fact that this is a heat-free jointing method so there is no need for a hot works permit and costly additional insurance, no carbon deposits or reduced risk of corrosion. The bore of the system is exceptionally clean so requires less flushing, and there are no expensive or specialist tools needed to make the joint. Some push-fit joints are also demountable so joints can be broken and remade, or fittings reused.

How push-fit fittings work

PUSH-FIT FITTINGS These are fittings where the only jointing action required, is the push of the pipe or tube into the fitting with no additional processes needed to make the joint. The main advantage of push-fit systems is speed; the installation time is significantly reduced.

Each brand of push-fit fitting works slightly differently so you should always read the manufacturer’s instructions for the type of fitting you are using.

continued>>


PU CONNECT WITH CONFIDENCE

Look at the PLUS points Market leading Push-Fit System Tectite tube - the worlds first flexible metal tube in sizes 15mm and 22mm Tectite tube - combines the advantage of copper and plastic systems Reduces number of fittings used by up to 40% Installed cost savings - joints made in a fraction of the time Heat-free. No hot works Rotatable joint - makes working in confined spaces easier Superb quality manufacture

BENDING THE RULES OF PLUMBING FOR A PLUMBING SYSTEM THAT COMBINES THE BEST OF COPPER AND PLASTIC - CHOOSE TECTITE

Tectite

FREE Phone: 0800 156 0010

Check out > INSIGHT

email: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk

The unbiased product assessment tool to help you make the right choice.

Turn to Pegler Yorkshire for fully integrated support

www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FITTINGS

But the two things nearly all push-fit fittings have in common is the use of an ‘O’-Ring to make the seal between the tube / pipe and body of the fitting and the use of some form of grab ring to hold the tube / pipe in place.

The golden rule for push-fit fittings:  Protect the ‘O’-Ring.  Good tube / pipe preparation is vital to ensure that tube ends are clean, free from damage, cut square and have no burrs.  Support liners must be used when installing PEX or PB pipe, or for 10mm copper tube and the support liner must be to the specification of manufacturer of the pipe / tube.  Keep the fittings stored in their bag until point of use, so that the ‘O’-Ring does not get contaminated or the silicon lubricant dry out from being exposed.  When inserting the tube into the fitting use a slight twisting action and keep the tube as parallel as possible to the fitting body.  To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting it is good practice to mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.

This multilayer tube bridges the gap between plastic and metal plumbing systems combining many of the advantages from each:  Retains its shape once formed  40 per cent fewer fittings required on an average installation  Lightweight and easy to handle  Requires less clipping  Offers tight bend radii of 4x tube diameter  Low scrap value making it undesirable to thieves  Resistant to corrosion  Highly cost effective

Using the right support for the new flexible metal tube is critical - ensure you’re using the TectSEAL!

DID YOU KNOW? There is now multilayer tube available in sizes 15mm & 22mm for use with Tectite push-fit fittings. Flexible metal tube PE-Xc Aluminium PE-Xc

DID YOU KNOW?

There are different cutter wheels available for cutting different types of tube. Carbon steel tube is substantially harder than copper tube and using the wrong cutter wheel will result in extra time spent deburring the tube end.


FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

The golden rule for press fittings:  As with all fittings that are dependent on an ‘O’-Ring to make the seal, the critical thing is take all necessary steps to protect the ‘O’-Ring. Just like push-fit fittings, good tube / pipe preparation and keeping the fitting in the packaging until point of use is essential.

PRESS-FIT FITTINGS Press-fit is a relatively new jointing technique that uses force applied to the fitting by a press-tool to compress the fitting onto the tube with an ‘O’-Ring providing the actual seal. Press-fit fittings generally require more time than push-fit fittings to install, but they are still much faster than traditional techniques like compression or solder joints and like push-fit systems they offer a heat-free jointing method. This means no hot works permits, no carbon deposits, less flushing as the bore is very clean with no flux or solder residues. Press-fit joints are non-demountable but you can lay out all the pipe work for positioning first and then go around and make the joints with the press tool after. Many brands of press-fit fittings offer ranges for specialist applications, such as solar installations or above ground 2nd and 3rd family gas installation pipework. Recent advances mean that there are now press-fit fittings available in PVDF and Brass for use on multilayer pipe in sizes 14mm to 75mm.

 To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting it is good practice to mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.  Make sure that you are using the correct type of jaws or sling-jaws for the brand of fittings that you are installing ensuring that they are compatible with the press tool you are using. Check the tool and fittings manufacturers guidelines if you are unsure.  The final golden rule is to use the press tool in accordance with the tools instructions keeping it at a 90° angle to the fitting and making sure that it is fully supported throughout the pressing cycle.

And finally... No matter which type of system you are installing, you should always perform thorough system testing before any plumbing system is commissioned.  Check out pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FITTINGS

NEW SIZES ADD YET MORE CONNECTIVITY WITH TECTITE SPRINT Tectite Sprint, the innovative metal push-fit plumbing system from Pegler Yorkshire, has been making installers’ lives easy for almost a decade.

Now, three new sizes – 35mm, 42mm and 54mm – have been added to the existing options of 15mm, 22mm and 28mm, opening up the award-winning solution to yet more applications.

“Tectite Sprint combines the best of both worlds for contractors and installers,” said Tectite Market Manager Janette Henwood. “Not only is it a robust, high-performance system with a long working life, but it is also quick and easy to install. “Thanks to the new sizes introduced by Pegler Yorkshire, more contractors than ever can benefit.”

Good design Designed to be as slim and attractive as possible, the copper and brass jointing system represents metal push-fit in its purest form. Consisting of only a handful of components, Tectite Sprint requires no hot work, flux or specialist tooling – making it clean, simple and up to two and a half times faster to install than traditional joints. The ultra-versatile rotatable joints make the system ideal for use in tight spaces and

Tectite Sprint by Pegler Yorkshire

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awkward corners, as do the compact design and low profile. What’s more, flawless electrical continuity is facilitated by a continuity clip or a grab ring (depending on the size). Tectite Sprint is compatible with myriad tubing materials, including plain and chrome-plated copper, PB and PEX. The metal body ensures protection from rodent damage, too. Tectite Sprint is also WRAS-approved, so contractors and installers can rest assured they have fitted a safe, durable and reliable system. In fact, Pegler Yorkshire is so confident in the quality and performance of Tectite Sprint that it guarantees the parts for up to 25 years. Thanks to the new sizes on offer, even more specifiers and contractors can now reap the rewards of this cost-effective, high-quality and user-friendly plumbing solution.  For further information regarding Pegler Yorkshire and its products, please visit pegleryorkshire.co.uk


FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2015-16

FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

PLASTIC PUSH-FIT THE MODERN SOLUTION TO HOT & COLD WATER SUPPLY Plastic push-fit plumbing systems for hot and cold water services were developed by Hep2O here in the UK during the late 1970’s. Subsequent years have seen them steadily increase in popularity amongst professional plumbers and installers – largely as a result of a growth in awareness of the obvious benefits they offer. Plastic plumbing technology started to be taken seriously in the 1990s when availability became more widespread. A significant boost resulted from the uptake in under floor heating Hep2O Polybutylene pipe comes off the coil straight. (Pictured here with less flexible PEX pipe)

systems which mainly utilise plastic pipework. Another important development in explaining the increased interest in plastic pipe was the huge take-up of manufactured joists and I-beams for intermediate floors. In fact, it has been suggested that when it comes to fitting pipework through an I-beam floor, using plastic is around fifteen times faster than using rigid metal!

The principal of push-fit fittings A number of different manufacturers’ systems are now available but they all share a similar operating principle: The pipe is cut to length with an appropriate pipe cutter and a pipe sleeve is inserted into the pipe end. This is an essential part of the technology as it keeps the pipe end rigid and circular. The pipe is then pushed into the fitting, passing through a metal grab-ring and an O-ring. The grab-ring secures the pipe and prevents it ‘blowing out’ under pressure and the O-ring provides the leak-proof seal – and of course modern plastic fittings are equally effective when joining either copper or plastic pipe. Subsequent demounting is achieved by releasing the grab-ring and withdrawing the pipe. continued>>



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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

Plastic push-fit systems are now commonly specified by RMI plumbers across a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. In fact they are so successful that 90 per cent of all new houses constructed in recent years use plastic systems throughout their entire hot and cold water supply and central heating systems.

 BeneFits LOWER COST IN USE The reason for the growth in popularity of plastic systems lies in the impressive list of benefits they offer over the more traditional rigid systems:

1 Plastic pipe is very flexible and can be ‘cabled’ in a similar way to electrical wiring, thus cutting down on the number of joints required

2 Fewer joints means less risk from leaks

3 Jointing is quicker which means installation time is dramatically reduced

4 More and more plumbers are recognising that the benefits of plastic push-fit systems lie not in a direct price comparison of components, but in the speed of installation.

There is no risk of fire because no open flame is used during installation and no Hot Permit to work is required

5 Joints are easily demountable

6 All connections are made by hand – no tools are required

7 No tools means much easier to install in confined spaces

8 Plastic systems are quick to install, whether it’s a complex cabling system or a simple appliance connection

Most plastic push-fit systems can also be connected to copper pipework


FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Easier installation Recent research asked 1,059 experienced plumbers to estimate the time required to replace all the plumbing in an average bathroom with copper and then a second estimate using only plastic. The result is a 6 hour (28 per cent) time saving in favour of plastic. Therefore a normal 40 hour week for a bathroom installer using copper would reduce to 29 hours using plastic.

Plastic push-fit fittings are equally effective whether jointing plastic or copper pipe

Providing basic manufacturers rules are followed, plastic push-fit fittings are the easiest, quickest and most cost effective of all plumbing fittings to use.

The only tool required to make joints is a specialist cutter for plastic pipe or a pipe slice for copper pipe. A hacksaw should never be used as any burrs on the pipe ends may damage the O-ring inside the fitting. They are also just as easy to demount – while different manufacturers have different demounting methods, they all share a common simplicity.

With the appropriate pipe sleeve arrangement, plastic push-fit fittings can be used on copper or plastic pipe but not on chrome plated pipe as the chrome surface is too hard. To join chrome plated pipes, compression joints should be used.

New developments The most significant development in plastic push-fit technology in recent years is Hep2O’s ‘Next Generation’ range of fittings which was launched in November 2010 and features a number of new developments: The new fittings are slimmer in size and have a much sleeker and stylish design which means they now look a lot neater and less intrusive when placed in visible locations. Clearly, push-fit technology is continuing to move forward, largely driven by the same company that was so heavily involved in its original development back in the late 1970s.

1,059 plumbers estimated that an average bathroom would take 6 hours less to renovate if plastic fittings were used instead of copper

 For enquiries or to place an order contact 0844 856 5152, email info@hep2o.co.uk or visit hep2o.co.uk

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING

PLASTIC PUSH-FIT PLUMBING FOR PROFESSIONAL USERS Hep2O is the UK’s premier flexible push-fit plastic plumbing system for domestic hot and cold water supply, including potable water and central heating. The Hep2O system is designed solely for professional users and is currently the most widely specified system in use here in the UK.

The system comprises flexible plastic ‘straight coil’ polybutylene pipework connected to fittings that incorporate an integral push-fit

mechanism, making jointing quick and simple. Unlike other similar types of coiled plastic pipe, Hep2O pipe utilises ‘straight coil’ technology, which means the pipe does not return to its coiled state when uncoiled from the SmartPackTM dispensers. Instead, it remains straight but with no loss of flexibility, which makes it much easier to handle and ‘cable’ into position. The result is a lot fewer joints and a significantly faster, safer and more cost effective installation when compared to rigid plumbing pipe systems, such as copper.


HOT WATER CYLINDERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

HOT WATER CYLINDERS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | HOT WATER CYLINDERS

AN INTRODUCTION TO DOMESTIC HOT WATER CYLINDERS Vented hot water cylinders have always been part of traditional gravity fed stored water systems, reliant on the size of the cold water tank in the loft for the amount of constant hot water that can be supplied. Unvented cylinder systems that are connected to the incoming cold main of a property can provide hot water at mains pressure. These high pressure systems are becoming an ever more popular, space saving domestic system to install, especially in properties with high levels of hot water demand, or where flow rate is an important consideration. The right type of cylinder must be specified according to the plumbing system to which it is connected. Therefore it is important to understand the differences between open vented, unvented, direct and indirect heating systems. Kingspan Environmental is a premier UK manufacturer of all types of hot water cylinder which work with most domestic hot water systems, including gravity primary and pumped solar models. There is an increasing demand for Solar cylinder (twin coil) installations, featuring a high efficiency, purpose-designed solar coil which allows maximum heat transfer of collected solar energy

into the stored water to satisfy the customers hot water requirements. However, this may be left unconnected to future proof the installation should renewable technologies be chosen at a later date (maybe because of future legislation). The second coil is suitable for connection to a gas / oil boiler. Finally, it is important to realise that extra components may be required to complete the installation. All Kingspan unvented cylinders are supplied with all the fittings and components needed for a complete package to create reliable, efficient and fast flow hot water delivery.

Most building work requires building regulations approval. For hot water cylinders, the relevant sections are Part G3 and Part L1 which stipulate requirements on water and energy efficiency for new and existing dwellings.  Visit planningportal.go.uk/buildingregulations continued>>


Discover the ALL new Range Tribune Xe — Engineered for maximum EFFICIENCY Our first ever ‘A’ rated* cylinders for energy efficiency A better operational performance Buit in thermal expansion space - No need for an external expansion vessel Up to 45% extra insulation Reduced heat loss Designed with the installer in mind - For a quicker hassle-free installation and setup

To learn more about the Range Tribune Xe, visit kingspanenviro.com or call 0345 260 0258 * A rated score from 120L & 150L indirect cylinder models


WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN COPPER VENTED CYLINDERS Traditional gravity fed, open vented domestic systems use a copper cylinder (usually found in the airing cupboard). Not all copper cylinders are the same and the following criteria need to be considered: Q: Is the product fully accredited to British Standards? A: Check the label for the kitemark symbol and references to BS1566 or BS3198 (combination type) Q: Does the product range cover direct, indirect and combination models? A: Kingspan copper vented cylinders include direct, indirect, combination and economy 7 models Q: Can you specify non-standard sizes for location flexibility? A: Kingspan will manufacture non-standard sizes with shower tappings and with different tapping configurations or heat exchanger requirements (such as gravity coils). Kwikcyl is a bespoke design service that supplies non-standard cylinders for next day delivery. Q: Are cylinders insulated? A: Kingspan copper cylinders are available with 35mm PU foam as standard and 50mm lagging available on request for low standing heat loss Q: Does the cylinder comply with the relevant Building Regulations?

Available in Grade 1, 2 and 3 to suit different working heads

35mm environmentallyfriendly foam lagging as standard

Copper heat exchanger coil suitable up to 3.5bar (or higher on request)

Up to 10 years guarantee

Available with compression fittings Top or side entry immersion heater boss for electric water heating

Extra connections can be added and tappings moved on request Suitable for 3, 6 and 9kW with 2 1/4” BSP immersion heaters

A: All Kingspan cylinders meet Building Regulations requirements for conservation of fuel and power

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN STAINLESS STEEL UNVENTED CYLINDERS More modern systems for high demand applications use unvented cylinders to provide fast, safe, high pressure water around the home. Some of the features that need to be considered are: Q: Is the cylinder made from the highest quality materials? A: Kingspan only uses high quality Duplex 2304 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance and long life. Q: Does the range include enough size options for high water usage? A: Kingspan stainless steel unvented cylinders come in a wide family of sizes from 60 to 500 litres, available in direct, indirect and solar versions Q: How good is the insulation? A: Kingspan is the market leader for unvented cylinder insulation, using environmentally friendly 50mm thick HCFC & CFC-free foam for low heat loss and economical operation

Duplex stainless steel cylinder, pressure tested to 15 bar Totally insulated with environmentally friendly 50mm thick HCFC & CFC-free foam. OPD Zero & GWP 3.1

Q: Will the flow rates adequately supply multiple hot water outlets? A: The high flow rates achieved by Kingspan products are ideal for fast filling baths and powerful showering, typically providing up to 30 litres per minute at 1 bar static pressure. Q: How good is the reheat performance? A: Kingspan stainless steel unvented cylinders have fast reheat capability resulting in high efficiency. Q: Are all the necessary fittings supplied to complete a safe installation or are there hidden extra costs? A: Kingspan cylinders are supplied either with all of the required fittings supplied boxed up. Alternatively a pre-plumbed option is available to allow fast, easy installation on site – just add the pipework connections.

Highly efficient coil-in-coil heat exchanger Long-life immersion heater

22mm hot water outlet High quality finish Factory fitted temperature & pressure relief valve operating at 90°C/7 bar Wide family of models from 60 litres to 500 litres. Direct and Indirect versions. Solar models also available 22mm cold feed with diffuser

22mm coil connections High grade immersion heater(s)

22mm coil connections


HOT WATER CYLINDERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 tOp sAFetY tips Operating under high pressure, an unvented cylinder is potentially dangerous unless properly installed. Remember:

1. You need to have a 2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

7.

8. 9.

recognised qualification to fit unvented cylinders Notify the Building Control Officer before starting the job Use a competent person to isolate the electrical system and immersion heater wiring if replacing an old cylinder Check the new cylinder for any damage to outer casing or controls Always read the fitting instructions Check that the incoming water pressure and flow rate meet the requirements of the new cylinder Ensure the fitting of Temperature relief and Pressure relief valves complies with Part G (Building regs) and correctly discharge outside the building Visually inspect for leaks and ensure all valves are working Ensure all commissioning details are entered into the Benchmark log book

OPEN VENTED HOT WATER SYSTEM  The water in the cylinder is supplied from a storage tank known as the feed and expansion cistern (F&E cistern) filled from the mains and usually found in the loft or roof space. When a tap is opened, the hot water is forced out by gravity.  The water in the cylinder is heated either ‘directly’ via an immersion heating element or ‘indirectly’ via a heat exchanger, in the form of a coil within the cylinder.  As the water in the cylinder is heated it will expand and increase the system pressure. To prevent the build-up of pressure to dangerous levels, an expansion pipe is fitted to the hot water outlet connection on the cylinder. This expansion pipe must not be fitted with any means of isolation or restriction and must terminate above the level of the water in the F&E cistern. This Open Vent pipe gives this type of system its name.

UNVENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS  Unvented cylinders are connected directly to the mains water supply. When a tap is opened the hot water is forced out by mains pressure.  The water in the cylinder is heated either ‘directly’ via an immersion heating element or ‘indirectly’ via a heat exchanger, usually in the form of a coil within the cylinder.  An expansion vessel incorporating a flexible membrane is fitted with the cylinder connected to one side of the membrane. The other side of the membrane is charged with a gas at a set pressure.  The water in the cylinder expands and cut-out thermostats ensure the isolation of heat sources if failures occur.  A pressure reducing valve controls the incoming mains pressure, a non return valve prevents expanded heated water returning to the mains and an expansion relief valve will open if other components fail allowing the safe discharge of pressure from the cylinder.  Every unvented cylinder is fitted with a temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P Valve) which will allow the safe discharge of water from the cylinder if temperatures or pressures exceed a set point.  The system is sealed as there is no open vent pipe which is why it is called an unvented system. Temperature and pressure relief valve

continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | HOT WATER CYLINDERS

SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

 A twin coil solar cylinder must be used in conjunction with solar collectors such as Kingspan Thermomax vacuum tube collectors or FPW flat plate.  The transfer fluid is heated via the collectors and passed through the lower coil of a cylinder to indirectly heat the water. Typically a second coil is present in the upper half of the cylinder which allows the water to be heated by a secondary heat source (Gas or Electric Boiler) for use when an additional energy source is required to meet the water demand.  Cylinders are available with specially designed coils for use with heat pump systems such as the Abion Aerocyl Plus.

1

A DiReCt CYLinDeR...

uses an electrical immersion element which transfers its heat “directly” to the water within the cylinder. The Immersion heaters are supplied in a number of varieties. Copper cylinders traditionally have 2 ¼” BSP connections, and are sealed using a gasket. Stainless cylinders traditionally have 1 ¾” connections, and are sealed with an O-ring. Immersion elements are traditionally supplied up to 6 kW in single phase rating but can also be rated up to 9kW in three phase.

2

An inDiReCt CYLinDeR...

Tribune direct cylinder

Immersion heater

Tribune indirect cylinder

is when heat from a heat source is “indirectly” transferred to the water in the cylinder via a heat exchanger, usually in the form of a coil within the cylinder. Hot water is pumped by the boiler through the heating coil within the cylinder. The hot water transfers energy to the coil, which in turn conducts this heat into the cold surrounding water in the cylinder heating it up for use at the outlets.

 For more information on Kingspan products call 0345 260 0258 or go online at kingspanenviro.com


INSURANCE | HIP BOOK 2015-16

INSURANCE

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INSURANCE

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS Working for yourself can be a rewarding experience, but ask any plumber who has been involved in a public liability claim and they’ll tell you that when it comes to protecting your business, having a good insurance policy is one thing you shouldn’t be without. Rules and regulations affect every business person from the sole trader to the multinational company, and from the small matters of maintaining the correct business bank accounts to VAT returns and contractual disputes. Part of this business administration maze is insurance. Hopefully, you’ll never need to claim, but what would happen if you didn’t have it, and just what business insurance should you have? In order to fully maximise your business potential it is essential to seek the correct training and advice on technical and professional matters. You will have completed, or be attending, a training course at College and therefore be up to date on the technical issues facing your chosen profession. But have you also received the same level of training on accountancy, legal and insurance matters? CORGI Insurance arranges insurance policies for thousands of plumbing & heating engineers within the UK Construction Industry.

The majority of our clients are sole traders or partnerships who require Public and Products Liability insurance for themselves as well as Public and Employers’ Liability insurance for trainees and temporary / casual sub-contractors.

In the UK, the only business insurance required by law (aside from motor insurance) is Employers’ Liability insurance - if you have employees - however there are other insurance covers that you really should consider. continued>>


www.corgi-insurance.co.uk

CORGI

0800 915 0486

Insurance

CORGI Public Liability insurance Cover designed to grow as your business does

Comprehensive cover • £1M, £2M or £5M Public Liability cover • Up to £5,000 Tools cover available • £10M of Employers’ Liability if you have employees • £50,000 of Professional Indemnity available • £100,000 Financial Loss included • Covers domestic and commercial property work • A wide range of optional extensions available CORGI Insurance Services is a trading name of Trade Direct Insurance Services Limited, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INSURANCE

Public Liability Public Liability insurance is designed to pay the legal costs and any compensation payments that your company could be liable for should you or one of your employees cause damage to property, or injury to a person in connection with your business.

Employers’ Liability

THE TERM EMPLOYEE, AS DEFINED IN MOST INSURANCE POLICIES IS: A a person under a contract of service or apprenticeship with you.

B a person under a work experience training scheme.

Employers’ Liability insurance is designed to pay your legal liabilities should your employees be killed, or injured while working for you in connection with your business, or contract a disease as a result of that work. If you have employees, this is a legal requirement in the United Kingdom.

When arranging insurance it is necessary to disclose all material facts to the insurer / broker so that the correct premium can be calculated. Your policy cover could be invalid if an insurer considers that there has been misrepresentation, misdescription or non-disclosure of a material fact.

C a labour master or labour only sub-contractor or any person supplied or employed by them.

D a self employed person.

E a person hired or borrowed by you under a contract of agreement stipulating that such a person shall be deemed to be in your employment for the period of such contract or agreement.

Additional cover As well as core covers, you should look out for policies that allow you to add cover as you need it, such as Professional Indemnity insurance, which is designed to cover legal costs and expenses that might be incurred if you find yourself the subject of litigious action resulting from advice or guidance you have provided in your professional capacity. You should also look out for optional extensions such as Tools, Owned-Plant, Hired-In Plant and Contract Works. A good policy will allow you to select these as your business needs change. Nobody likes reading small-print, but when choosing or buying insurance, the small-print


INSURANCE | HIP BOOK 2015-16

CORGI Insurance arranges insurance policies for thousands of plumbing & heating engineers within the UK Construction Industry. is important. Almost every policy will have restrictions and exclusions on cover, and you should take the time to read and understand them. For example some policies will have restrictions and exclusions relating to the application of heat and / or fire precaution condition(s) that impose conditions when you use blow lamps, blow torches and ame guns etc away from your premises. Some conditions are likely to be little more than common sense, such as ensuring that lighted blow lamps are not left unattended and you should have a suitable fire extinguisher available for immediate use. Other parts may require you to undertake a thorough fire safety check at regular intervals for a period of at least one hour after completion. These are examples only, and policies differ. Always be sure you understand the applicable conditions and restrictions.

Business Insurance is an important form of protection designed to provide peace of mind as well as protection in the event of an insured loss.

The premium you pay could be wasted if you have not fully read and understood the policy terms and conditions. It is not always the lowest premium that provides the best protection as it is the policy cover that is important rather than the initial outlay.

Before choosing insurance you should consult an insurance specialist who understands your trade and your working practices.

ď‚Š For more information visit: corgi-insurance.co.uk

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | INSURANCE

CHOOSING THE INSURANCE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS For many people, insurance is likely to be about their car, home or holiday. Once you’ve bought a policy, you may not need to change your cover very often. Buying business insurance is a little different, and there are more reasons why you might need to change your policy. What if your business grows, and you take on bigger jobs or start giving advice? What if you buy tools or plant, take on staff, develop an additional/ secondary trade, or employ bona fide sub-contractors? You won’t necessarily want a policy with cover you don’t need from the outset, and you need to know that you can add cover or increase limits as you need.

It’s not all about price Saving a few quid can be a false economy if you can’t claim when the time arises. Choose a reputable insurer that’s up front and honest, and look to see if they publish customer reviews – see what others think of them.

Range of cover Can you start with a core Public Liability policy, and then add cover such as Employers’ Liability, Professional Indemnity, Tools, Stock, Plant, Jury

Service and Personal Accident? You won’t want to have to change insurer to add cover.

Can you increase your limits? Even if you can get the cover you want, are the limits big enough for your growing business? Can you lower them if you need to?

Fees Take note of what fees are charged to change your policy. You won’t want to pay to update your policy just because you’ve moved. A good policy from a good insurer will grow with you, and won’t cost the earth or charge for un-necessary extras. CORGI Insurance has been insuring plumbing and heating engineers for many years, and we know that a flexible insurance policy can help protect your growing business.  CORGI Insurance. Expertise you can rely on, protection you can trust.  Why not give us as ring on 0800 915 0486, or visit us online at corgi-insurance.co.uk


MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

MACERATORS

Sponsored By

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | MACERATORS

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

MACERATOR PUMPING UNITS Bath in the basement, loo in the loft, shower under the stairs. All made possible by small-bore macerator pumping units. Thanks to small bore macerators it is possible to create extra bathroom, kitchen or utility facilities almost anywhere in a domestic property including ‘hard to plumb’ locations that would be impractical or expensive using conventional large-bore gravity drained discharge pipework.

showers, whilst other models, such as the new Sanifloor low level shower pump, will take waste water from the shower alone or the Sanivite that discharges grey water waste from kitchen sinks, dishwashers and washing machines. All the units pump waste horizontally and vertically through 22 / 32mm diameter pipework to existing drainage systems and provide an easy, quick and economic option for installing facilities where it would not be otherwise possible.

Benefits for the customer. Benefits for the installer.

Small-bore macerators can overcome limitations of traditional gravity fed drainage systems. The possibilities for new facilities in a domestic setting are endless. It’s even possible to create an ‘on trend’ wetroom space with the Sanifloor.

There is a huge range of macerators and pumps available to suit all types of plumbing needs. Some models will discharge waste from the whole bathroom including basins, WCs and

Today’s homeowners are increasingly adding value to their properties by converting spaces previously thought impossible due to drainage restrictions. But by selecting the correct Saniflo it is possible to convert under-stairs cupboards, lofts, basements, storage areas and garages into WC and washroom facilities. The clever, useful units also allow installers to spot opportunities for work even when access to mains drainage is remote. Once a plumber knows the capabilities of Saniflo pumps and macerators he (or she) can say yes to more jobs.


MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Domestic Range Solutions  DOMESTIC RANGE SOLUTIONS Saniflo works where convention doesn’t. The domestic range consists of �8 solutions for bathrooms and kitchens.

Saniflo works where convention doesn’t. The domestic range consists of 8 solutions for bathrooms and kitchens.

MAIN BATHROOM

Need to pump bath water waste? Possible with a Saniaccess Pump

LOFT CONVERSION EN-SUITE

Need an additional en-suite? Try a Sanipro

BEDROOM EN-SUITE

Want a shower in the en-suite? Possible with a Sanishower

AIR-CONDITIONED LIVING ROOM

Air-conditioning dripping? You need a Sanicondens Clim Pack

CLOAKROOM

Not much room to make a cloakroom? Possible with a Sanislim or Sanicompact

BASEMENT GARAGE/BOILER ROOM

Take away acidic boiler condensate Use a Sanicondens Best

KITCHEN

Problems removing kitchen water waste? You need a Sanivite

BASEMENT UTILITY ROOM

Need a new utility room? Try a Sanivite

continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | MACERATORS

MACERATORS & PUMPS FOR THE COMMERCIAL SECTOR The benefits of macerator pumping units have been recognised by the commercial sector and this has led to the development of products developed specifically for the sector. Saniflo has a range of 8 professional products that are tough enough to perform in some of the most demanding situations where it may be necessary to deliver waste water over a distance of 110m or vertically to a height of 11m through small-bore pipework.

High performance macerating pumps SANICUBIC 1, SANICUBIC 2 PRO, SANICUBIC 2 CLASSIC, SANICUBIC XL: The 4-model strong Sanicubic is a range of robust macerator pumps designed to discharge waste from multiple appliances. Some models have twin pumps to provide continuity of service and all models feature alarms for the ultimate security. The new XL model is the largest yet and can handle up to 40m³ per hour of waste water. SANICOM 1 & SANICOM 2: These pumps have very powerful oil and fan cooled motors encased in aluminium housing. They can pump water up to 75°C in heat over a huge 110m horizontally or 11m vertically for the Sanicom 2, or 80m and 8m for the Sanicom 1. The high flow rate to pumping head is ideally suited to demanding industrial or commercial environments such as industrial-glass washers / dishwashers / sinks and areas where there is a combination of

Sanispeed

Sanicondens Pro

constantly busy showers, baths and sinks. Sanicom 2 has a second motor to provide continuity of service for added security.

Light commercial pump SANISPEED: This pump is for lighter applications such as a sink in a busy catering kitchen and can handle water up to 75°C for short periods. Water is discharged through 32mm pipework that pumps up to 70m horizontally. Maximum discharge height is 7m with an impressive flow rate of up to 43 litres per minute.

Radical macerator action SANIBEST PRO: High performance motors combined with a radical macerator action ideal for heavy usage public or commercial environments, this macerator pump can handle connection to a WC, basin, bidet and shower and has three inlets for full functionality.

Disposal of acidic condensate SANICONDENS BEST, PRO, ECO, NEUTRAL, CLIM PACK, CLIM MINI & CLIM DECO: A comprehensive range of 7 units designed specifically for the disposal and treatment of acidic waste from condensing boilers, air conditioning units, dehumidifiers and refrigeration units.

Sanicubic Pro

Sanibest Pro


MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Professional Range Solutions  PROFESSIONAL RANGE SOLUTIONS Tough conditions require tough products, the Saniflo professional range now has 8 robust products to perform in some of the most demanding situations.

Tough conditions require tough products, the Saniflo professional range now has 8 robust products to perform in some of the most demanding situations.

GYM

Need to install multiple showers? The Sanicom 2 will do the job Public toilets for the gym? Try Sanicubic 2 Classic

OFFICES

Air-conditioned offices You need a Sanicondens Clim Mini to catch the condensate Need extra facilities for the employees? All possible with a Sanibest Pro Office kitchen getting used all day A Sanispeed keeps it working

CAFÉ & BAR

Busy café? A Sanicom 1 for the glass washer and a Sanicondens Clim Pack for the air-conditioning Kitchen water waste from the café? Try a Sanispeed

PUBLIC TOILETS & BOILER ROOM

Take away or neutralise acidic boiler condensate A Sanicondens Pro or a Sanineutral Ensure public toilets never let you down - Use Sanicubic 2 Pro

continued>>

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | MACERATORS

PRODUCT SELECTOR Product Selector

Pump along (mtrs)

Discharge (mm)

40

22

SANIPACK

5

�00

22 22

SANIPRO

Ref �003

Ref �052

Ref �006

SANICOMPACT 3 SANIWALL SANIVITE

Alarm

2.5

Ref �002

SANIPLUS

Sink

SANITOP

Dishwasher

22

SANISLIM Ref �054

Ref �00�

Washing Machine

22

�00

Bidet

�00

5

Power shower

5

Shower

22

Bath

�00

Wash Basin

5

SANIFLO

Wall-hung WCs

WC

Pump up (mtrs)

All of our units can be used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Floor, Upper Floor, Loft / Attic - just choose All of our units can be used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Floor, the right product for your installation... Upper Floor, Loft/Attic — just choose the right product for your installation...

Ref �08�

5

�00

3

30

32

Ref ���0

5

�00

22/32

Ref �004

5

50

32

4

40

22/32

3

20

22/32

3

30

32

�00

22/28/32

SANISHOWER

Ref �043/2

SANISHOWER FLAT SANIFLOOR

Ref �043/3

Ref ��54/5/6

SANIACCESS �

Ref �900

5

SANIACCESS 2

Ref �90�

5

�00

22/28/32

SANIACCESS 3

Ref �902

5

�00

22/28/32

5

50

32

7

70

32

7

��0

22/32

SANIACCESS PUMP SANISPEED

Ref �903

Ref �045

SANIBEST PRO

Ref �053

SANICOM �

Ref �046

SANICOM 2

Ref �046/2

SANICUBIC �

Ref ��02/�

SANICUBIC 2 PRO

Ref ��02

SANICUBIC 2 CLASSIC SANICUBIC XL

Ref ��39

Ref ��02/2

8

80

32

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

��

��0

50

2

�0

�00

80/�00

Sanialarm can be fitted to these units if required.

For more information, contact:

2

Sanialarm is fitted to these units as standard.

3

Sanicompact can be installed in locations with a minimum water supply pressure of �.7 bar.

Saniflo Limited Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip Middlesex HA4 6SE, United Kingdom

N.B. Our pumping systems are designed for the disposal of normal organic waste product, water or paper. They are not intended to replace kitchen waste or sanitary waste disposal units. As our policy is one of continuous product improvement we reserve the right to alter product specification and price without notice. All information in this publication is given in good faith. No responsibility can be accepted for any errors, omissions or incorrect assumptions. Illustrations are diagrammatic and should be regarded only as indicative of technical requirements. All vertical pumping distances are measured from base of unit.

Tel 020 8842 0033 Fax 020 8842 1671 Web www.saniflo.co.uk


MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Correct Saniflo installation? CORRECT SANIFLO INSTALLATION? Check out the 10 Golden Rules

Check out the 10 Golden Rules 1

1% Fall

2

3

If a vertical lift is needed, this should be as close to the start of the run as is practically possible and from the highest point there must be a minimum 1% fall. The closer the vertical lift is to the machine, the more efficient the pump will be.

Bends should be smooth/long radius. This principle is true for all pipe sizes. Plastic

22mm Copper

Bends should not be tight radius. All pipework should be supported according to pipe manufacturers recommendations.

Discharge pipework should be copper or rigid solvent weld plastic, not ‘pushfit’. 1% fall on horizontal runs.

5

6

Pipes entering the Saniflo should have a gravity fall of 3%.

Where the pipework falls significantly below the unit e.g. a lower floor, fit an air admittance valve at the highest point capable of withstanding 10psi pressure, or increase pipe size coming down to ‘break’ syphon.

The unit should be easily accessible and removable in the event of maintenance being required. if boxed in, the boxing should be easily removed. Any extension between the WC pan spigot and wall should not exceed 200mm.

Min 0.5m

4

200mm max

3% Fall

7

Each Saniflo discharge pipe should run separately to the soil pipe. If wastes are combined, it can only be into a larger pipe, which is on a gravity fall.

10

8

9

Since many closed coupled WC suites do not have the space between the WC pan spigot and the wall, you may have to batten the cistern off the wall to make room for the Saniflo. However Sanislim will fit behind most closed coupled WC suites without the need for this.

Position the Saniflo behind the toilet not beneath it.

Saniflo offer a complete range of pumps and macerators for all applications. Download our e-learning Module: www.saniflo.co.uk/e-learning.aspx

Electrical connection should be via an unswitched fixed wiring connector with a 5 amp fuse for Domestic range macerators. Professional range may vary – check individual instruction manual.

Macerators may only be used in a dwelling where there is access to a gravity discharging WC (Building Regs G4).

Saniflo Ltd. Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip, Middx. HA4 6SE Saniflo Ltd. Howard House, Southe-mail: Ruislip,sales@sanifl Middx. HA4o.co.uk 6SE Tel: 020 8842 0033 Fax: The 020Runway, 8842 1671 Tel: 020 8842 0033 Fax: 020 8842 1671 e-mail: sales@saniflo.co.uk

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SOLOLIFT2 – SEE THE BENEFITS OF INNOVATION External pressure switch, outside the tank and isolating all moving wastewater.

Lift out motor for easy access servicing.

Hardened steel cutter, based on industrial technology for maximum durability.

Adaptable connections, ensuring maximum flexibility and easy replacement of other models and brands.

Practical, accessible service drain, so the appliance does not need removing to drain the tank.

Reliable welded tank, eliminates the risk of leakage if a system blockage occurs.

Designed to directly address traditional installation, reliability and service issues, the Grundfos SOLOLIFT2 range takes macerator innovation to a new level. For more information, please visit www.grundfos.co.uk


OIL BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

101

OIL BOILERS

Sponsored By


102

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | OIL BOILERS

DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS With so many heating technologies on offer today and changes in legislation, it’s important to get ahead during your apprenticeship by attending additional manufacturer product training, explains Anna Wakefield, Marketing Manager for Grant UK. There’s a world of efficient heating methods for apprentices to discover. Here at Grant we not only supply an award winning range of condensing oil-fired boilers, but we also have a portfolio of renewable technologies like solar thermal water heating systems, condensing biomass boilers and air source heat pumps, as well as ancillary products such as cylinders, thermal stores and energy management controls. The Grant Training Academy offers comprehensive courses on all of these products, both on site in Devizes, Wiltshire and off-site at our partner centre in Hawes.

We see some outstanding apprentices pass through our Academy for both oil and renewable related products. One of the youngest women working in the oil industry, Tia Allen, recently took her OFTEC 101/ 105E/ 600A qualifications at the Academy in Devizes, Wiltshire.

Tia Allen

Since leaving school, 17 year old Tia has worked full time for Dan North Ltd, having achieved NVQ Level 2 in plumbing and is now diagnosing and servicing Grant boilers, enjoying her work and helping customers with their appliances. Let’s look more closely at our range. continued>>


Grant Vortex. Oil-fired boilers have never looked so good. Now with 45 different model variations and outputs ranging from 12 to 70kW (40,000 - 240,000 Btu/h) this versatile condensing boiler range provides a tried and tested, low cost heating and hot water solution for homes of all sizes. As well as providing unbelievable performance and reliability, the Grant Vortex is also highly efficient, stylish and whisper quiet. It’s time to bring off-gas heating out of the utility room and into the kitchen!

• 45 different models • Outputs from 12-70kW • Internal and external, floor and wall hung options • 89.5 - 93.3% Gross SAP2009 annual efficiency • Whisper quiet operation • 5-year heat exchanger guarantee

eering n i g n E t • Gran g n i k n i h t t a cts • Gre Green produ

For further information visit: www.grantuk.com or call our sales team: +44 (0)1380 736920


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | OIL BOILERS

Oil-fired boilers

Vortex Pro Combi XS

As Tia will know thanks to her training, modern oil-fired boilers are no longer the inefficient machines of the past. New condensing appliances can operate at almost half the cost of a typical 25 to 30 year old boiler, providing an instant return on investment and making it an easy decision for householders. The highly efficient Grant Vortex range features 46 different model variations with outputs from 12 to 70kW. Boilers available include internal and external, standard, system and combination versions, in wall hung and floor standing variants. Around 1 in every 2 oil-fired boilers installed in the UK is now a Grant Vortex (Source: SBGI). To complete the line-up, we launched the Vortex Pro Combi XS, the slimmest 26kW oil-fired condensing combi boiler on the market. At only 515mm wide, the XS is designed as a replacement for older inefficient standard efficiency oilfired combis, which tend to be smaller in physical size. To save on space, the 24 litre expansion vessel, normally located behind the front door of the boiler, is supplied as an ‘externally fitted vessel kit’.

The market for oil-fired boilers has been under pressure in recent years from other technologies and a lack of Government support for greener oil alternatives like bio-fuels. However, whilst in some cases renewable products are an option for off-gas users, there is no doubt that for the majority of homes, upgrading to a modern oil-fired condensing boiler from a standard efficiency model, is a good solution which would vastly reduce oil consumption and lower carbon emissions. Given that most installations are boiler replacements for older inefficient products and often are distress purchases, in our opinion the oil fired market is likely to remain strong for the foreseeable future, especially now the price of oil has hit a 5-year low.

The highly efficient Grant Vortex range features 46 different model variations with outputs from 12 to 70kW.


OIL BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Magnetic central heating filter Maintaining a central heating system is just as important as looking after the appliances. Our installer friendly universal Mag One filter provides protection for all types of system.

With a simple to install, triple action filtration design, the Mag One filters magnetite and non-ferrous debris from central heating systems, using a 12000 gauss neodymium magnet. Easy to clean and drain, with a clever design which enables 360° installation, the product is extremely installer friendly. Features also include an installation and servicing date wheel, 28mm chrome isolation valves with 22mm reducers, manual air bleed and a 500ml dosing capacity.

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Additional support

As apprentices, you can download our brochures, technical manuals and product guides from our website. The ‘myGrantUK’ YouTube channel also features a series of short films covering product such as solar thermal, oil and biomass. We also have a Technical Sales Team on the road, able to assist you in your journey to qualification. Contact details can again be found in the trade section on our website www.grantuk.com

g-One ACCReDiteD instALLeR sCheme Once fully qualified and established as a heating engineer with some experience under your belt, you can take advantage of our G-One Scheme, which comes with an array of benefits from exclusive offers to free of charge extended product guarantees. This is just the tip of the iceberg, there is a far greater range of heating methods to explore in this industry, and with the correct product training, a whole world of opportunity will open to you in the future.

 Look out for our feature on biomass boilers in this edition of HIP. For more details call 01380 736920 or visit our award winning website grantuk.com


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | OIL BOILERS

GRANT ENGINEERING (UK) Grant Engineering has been designing and manufacturing reliable and easy to install heating products for over 35 years. The company specialises in designing and manufacturing oil fired and renewable appliances such as wood pellet biomass boilers, solar thermal and air source heat pump technology.

To complement its oil fired boiler range, Grant also manufactures the Mag One magnetic filter, which cleans central heating systems, and its Thermawave range of thermal stores as well as a range of heating controls. In 2008 Grant expanded into renewable technology and subsequently launched Grant solar thermal, Aerona air source heat pumps and the Grant Spira, its best selling wood pellet biomass appliance. In 2015, Grant launched the SpiraPod Outdoor Boiler Housing for its successful Spira condensing biomass boiler range, which allows for greater flexibility with installation. In 2016 the Grant Vecta will be launched in the UK. This new condensing wood pellet boiler has already been awarded two prestigious titles of Best Renewable Product of Overall Product and Overall Product of the Show at the 2015 Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Show in Dublin.

Grant UK’s success and growth came in the early 2000’s with the launch of its range of Vortex condensing oil fired boilers. Today there are over 45 different model variations, with outputs from 12 to 70kW and around 1 in every 2 boilers installed in the UK is now a Grant Vortex (Source: SBGI).

Grant UK has a network of accredited installers called the G-One scheme. G-One installers receive comprehensive training and receive benefits such as marketing and technical support, as well as extended product guarantees. G-One training takes place at the company’s dedicated centre in Devizes and North Yorkshire.


PIPE CLIPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

107

PIPE CLIPS

Sponsored By


108

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | PIPE CLIPS

PIPE CLIPS & COVER SYSTEMS FOR THE 21 CENTURY ST

Across the country, building contractors working in the perennially busy RMI sector regularly pull up floorboards or tear down plasterwork to discover old pipe runs fixed to timber joists and studs using an assortment of bent nails and brutal looking metal bands. carries on, but the way the humble pipe clip has metamorphosed into something far more sophisticated and multifunctional is a reflection of just how much the building products industry has advanced since the post-WWII years. Currently, the heating industry and its specifiers are trying to come to terms with the new ErP directive and energy labelling of products or systems, but in respect of their long term effectiveness, choosing the correct clips and – where appropriate – cover systems is a crucial part of any installation. Sometimes the plumber or heating engineer – probably retired by now – will have wrapped the pipe in a bit of hessian to try and cut down the creaking and banging noises they make as they expand and contract. Like timber herring-bone struts and horsehair plaster, such anachronisms are gradually disappearing from our built infrastructure as the pace of refurbishment and redevelopment

Properly securing the pipework is essential to ensuring a safe working system, while it may also need to be enclosed for health & safety or aesthetic reasons.

continued>>



110

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | PIPE CLIPS

For domestic installations there are generally three types of pipe clip available, Hinged clips, Open clips and Nail in clips. It is universally recognised that the most secure way to hold a pipe is via a hinged clip which ensures that the pipe has 360 degree support. When pipes are fitted to timber, typically in a roof space or under floorboards, nail in clips are usually the best option for speed and efficiency. Open clips are perceived by most professionals as a DIY option and although they offer a good snap tight fixing for the pipe, the clip does not have a closed top and therefore is not as secure as a hinged clip.

However, in recent years the move towards barrier pipe has introduced some new sizes, mainly 16mm and 20mm. In line with the introduction of new pipe sizes Talon developed a new range of ‘Flexi’ Pipe Clips which are now available to suit these sizes, but currently only in the hinged variety Also, for more robust environments such as public toilets and industrial premises, metal clips may be deemed necessary to resist vandalism or heavy usage: in which case there is a wide selection of copper, brass and chrome-plated clips available.

 DID YOU KNOW? Hinged pipe clips are now available colour coded to easily identify pipes,   

RED for hot water BLUE for cold and YELLOW for gas

pipe CLip spACeR Experienced tradesmen tend to be good at improvising, and where pipes are to be insulated it has been common to find a plumber has slipped an off-cut of copper pipe behind the clip as a ‘spacer’ for the screw fixing. It will allow room for pipe insulation to be fitted, but can look uneven and is a waste of copper, when a simple but effective Pipe Clip Spacer is available to slot into the base of a Hinged or Open Clip: raising it by precise 12 mm increments.

Traditional copper pipe sizes of 10, 15, 22, and 28mm have been around for many years. Plastic pipe manufacturers came into the market and followed copper sizes with the same dimensions when they were introduced in the 1990s - and therefore the existing pipe clips remained suitable for both copper and plastic pipe.

Pipe Cover Systems Exposed pipes are rarely attractive, while in situations such as schools or care homes they are considered a potential risk, requiring protection. Happily, however, a simple pipe


PIPE CLIPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

The raw materials used to manufacture Talon products are always of the highest grade polypropylene or uPVC... cover profile which just snaps into place once the installation is complete will address the situation: fitting onto a protrusion either side of the Talon Hinged Clip. Where pipes are to be run beneath radiators, or around a room at skirting level, special brackets are available – including those with integral pipe clips – onto which the PVC-U profile is simply attached via a push fit tooth mechanism built into the profile. Where larger diameter pipe such as waste or soil and vent pipes have to be hidden Talon’s sister company Pendock offers a range of bigger profiles www.pendock.co.uk From relatively humble beginnings over a quarter of a century ago, Talon has grown to become the UK’s best known manufacturer of pipe clips, covers and related products. Talon Manufacturing not only managed to defy the downturn in the construction industry during the recession, but continued to invest in new product development and has emerged stronger since being purchased by Davidson Holdings.

111

Thanks to the products’ quality, ease of use and cost-effectiveness, Talon has become the Hoover of pipe clips; and continues to move forwards with an increasingly diverse range, under the leadership of Don Theobold.

 DID YOU KNOW? All Talon products are distributed by the leading National Plumbers Merchants plus virtually all Independent merchants. They are also available through all leading catalogue based distributors.

The raw materials used to manufacture Talon products are always of the highest grade polypropylene or uPVC and the virgin grade materials used ensure that the quality is maintained and is consistent.

The future Continuing research and development enables Talon to react to changes in market demands, while at its premises in Gillingham, Kent, 24 state-of-the-art injection moulding machines run 24 hours a day to make sure that production keeps pace with demand at the company’s stockists. As a result Talon can therefore now offer a range of 14 hinged clips that covers 20 different pipe sizes from 10mm to 35mm.

 DID YOU KNOW? The market leading Talon Hinged clip has been manufactured in the UK for almost 30 years with more than 500 million already sold!

 Check out talon.co.uk


112

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | PIPE CLIPS

TALON GROWS FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH Talon Manufacturing Limited has been designing and producing pipe clips, covers and related products for almost 30 years, currently operating from its 25,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Gillingham, Kent. Undeterred by the recession, Davidson Holdings acquired the company in 2012, promoting Don Theobald from Commercial Director to Managing Director, taking Talon forward into both the European and Worldwide markets. This proved a confident move, confirming high quality products manufactured in the UK can still be competitive.

Don Theobald soon recruited talented Mike Freeman as a new Sales Director, who was formerly National Key Accounts Manager for Andrew Sykes where he worked closely with the leading boiler manufacturers and had responsibility for merchant sales as well as regular contact with the country’s

big heating & plumbing companies. Bringing with him good contacts in the market, Mike Freeman has also delivered what Don Theobald describes as “fresh impetus and inspiration, as well as nous to the team.” Regarding Talon’s product development over the years, the company’s management believes it has always responded to the needs of its customers through its dedicated R&D team. Now supporting over 450 lines, Talon offers a one-stop shop via its comprehensive product ranges, backed by excellent nationwide customer service. Listening to plumbers and installers, Talon began business through the production of Talon Hinged Clips, progressing in 1991 with the launch of Snap-in Open Clips, Nail-in Clips and Olive ranges. Since then, customers have seen the introduction of Talon Fixing Plugs, Double Clips and Pipe Collars - before in 1997, fire protection products were added – then the Skirting Cover and Sundry ranges, as well as the U-Box, Boiler Box and Snappit ranges. Talon’s portfolio has been further extended with products such as Metal Clips and Boiler Flue Box Covers, thus covering just about every eventuality in a plumber or heating engineer’s working day. Talon’s reputation is based on quality UK-manufactured products, available via next day delivery.  Visit talon.co.uk


PLUMBING TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

113

PLUMBING TOOLS

Sponsored By


114

HIP BOOK 2015-16 | PLUMBING TOOLS

THE VIDEO INSPECTION OF SMALL DRAIN LINES SERVICE RIGHT ON THE SPOT WITH THE VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEM Even routine jobs may conceal unpredictable issues which extend work times for the plumber and pose an inconvenience for his customers. A blockage, for example, indicates a probable pipe breakage of which the full-blown effects become evident once the obstruction has been removed. The significance of such warning signs can be assessed with the aid of the video inspection camera system.

When is video inspection a good idea When re-laying the drains of a home, using this equipment on the pipes and storing the video recorded enable you to prove, in the event of a complaint, that the job was done properly. This is useful, especially when the drains are installed prior to other jobs during which paints or debris, caused by accidents or negligence might enter. After the video inspection job is done, a report can be sent to the customer. Inconvenience can be reduced even further by combining the camera with a locator. This locator will pinpoint the exact location where the pipe need repair, avoiding unnecessary additional construction works or even accidental damage to the piping.

The product The photographs illustrate the use of the RIDGID® SeeSnake® microDrain™ Inspection System, which is a portable pipe inspection diagnostic reel and camera with a 20m push

cable, combined with a hand-held RIDGID (www.RIDGID.com) micro CA-300 Digital Inspection Camera monitor of a 3.5 inch colour LCD screen. The product range includes different versions of reels, depending mainly on the push cable length and camera diameter. The pushrod inner drum is removable and interchangeable and is compatible with all other SeeSnake microReel or nanoReel models.

There is no risk of rust or accidental breaks as there are no weld lines. Drain lines from 32 to 100 millimetres can be easily inspected with the SeeSnake microDrain inspection system. The camera can pass multiple turns and 90-degree bends from 40 millimetres upwards with no need to dismantle them.

The RIDGID Navitrack Scout® locator is able to trace the pipeline and precisely detect the signal of a sondes (transmitter) to see where assessment or service is needed inside the pipe. The SeeSnake HQ software, which comes with the SeeSnake equipment and which can continued>>


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Follow RIDGID Europe on Facebook and Twitter to find exclusive updates on trends, tips and tools!

“Everybody knows that a workman is only as good as his tools. So I like to use brands that I’ve had a good experience with and I can rely on, and as far as I’m concerned, RIDGID fits the bill perfectly. Our relationship has only got better over the years.” Dirk Peytier – Owner of Plumbing Company & National Chairman of the Trade Federation for Central Heating, Sanitary & Air-conditioning Installers & Affiliated Trades Bruxelles.


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be updated – free of charge, enables data to be monitored and managed right on the work site by connecting the equipment to a PC. Reports, which can include confidential remarks – not visible to the customer, can then be exported to a CD or USB memory stick. The 235MB internal memory can store over 2,000 photographs. Images and videos can be stored on the included 4GB SD card that comes with the micro CA-300 camera and transferred via the USB port to a computer.

Advice for the plumber “Before using the equipment, make sure the customer has not attempted to remove obstructions with hydrochloric acid. Any residues of this substance inside pipes might seriously damage the video inspection system. If hydrochloric acid has been used, remove the blockage with a pipe cleaning hose, run water through the pipe and then perform the video inspection: this procedure enables to check the obstruction’s causes and the condition of the pipes. Also make sure that the camera diameter is compatible with that of the pipe to be inspected. For example, if the minimum siphon diameter is 40 millimetres, the camera will be able to enter a pipe even of 32 millimetres, but it will get stuck from the first turn. To prevent damage to the drain lines and the equipment, first find out the minimum and maximum diameters and then use the appropriate reel. Also refer to the operator’s manual to comply with all the parameters described for a well done job.”

Using the 1

The RIDGID micro CA-300 Inspection Camera and its case.

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The push cable of the SeeSnake microDrain reel, shown in the photo, is 20 meters long. It can inspect from 32 to 100mm in diameter.

The monitor’s menu can be used to rotate the image into the best position for the inspection job.

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Using the arrow keys, the image can be enlarged as required for optimal viewing.

In the most complex situations, the Navitrack Scout locator helps to identify the exact point where the camera is located.


PLUMBING TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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equipment 6

By moving the locator over the ground, the display shows information about the maximum signal strength, the equipment’s degree of perpendicularity to the line on the screen, the depth and the battery level.

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The camera monitor has a headset with an integrated microphone for recording audio commentaries on the videos.

Videos or photographs can be reviewed 10 right after they were made.

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The range includes three different types of reels, chosen to suit the size of the pipe to be inspected.

The equipment has detected an obstruction in a water pipe: this is what the display shows.

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The SeeSnake HQ software, supplied with any SeeSnake equipment, facilitates the management and editing of images and video reports.

For better management and cleaner 12 work, SeeSnake microReel, microDrain and nanoReel drums are interchangeable. ď‚Š For more information, contact Ridge Tool UK by phone +44 (0) 808 238 9869 or by email ridgid.gb@emerson.com


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RIDGID® DEVELOPING INNOVATIVE TOOLS FOR MULTIPLE MARKETS Established in the 1920s, the company Ridge Tool evolved from a pipe wrench manufacturer into one of the world’s largest suppliers of quality engineered tools for the professional building and construction trades. Pushing the boundaries the RIDGID brand now serves global heavy industrial sectors such as utilities, drilling and mining oil and gas, processing and refining as well as commercial building and plant and facility maintenance. The company has consistently anticipated and addressed technological and market trends and today the RIDGID brand maintains a strong reputation for innovation, design and world class engineering. The company’s creative product portfolio of highly engineered tools has been developed to utilise video, smartphone apps and laser technology. As a part of Emerson Commercial and Residential Solutions, all RIDGID products are designed with the user in mind - attention to detail, ease of use, durability, speed and efficiency.

Global reach Today RIDGID manufactures over 300 different tools in more than 2,000 models and sizes.

These range from the original RIDGID pipe wrench to multiple purpose pipe and tubing tools, pressing tools for joining copper tubing, stainless steel, PEX and multilayer tubing - also pipe and drain cleaning equipment and diagnostic inspection and locating tools. RIDGID has developed into one of the world’s largest supplier of tools to the professional trades and today distributes to over 140 countries through 5,000 distributors in over 51,000 locations. RIDGID tools are known throughout the world as industry-leading, innovative products that provide confidence and efficiency for any professional tradesman.  Visit RIDGID.com


POWER TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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POWER TOOLS

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | POWER TOOLS

MOTOR YOUR WAY TO MORE POWER Simon Miller, Brand Manager for Hitachi Power Tools, looks at the latest battery and brushless motor technology available to apprentices. Buying your first set of power tools is an important decision. Your lecturer at college may influence you on which brand of power tools you use, but it is worth doing your own research and looking carefully at the different options and technology on offer. By selecting the right brushless motors and Li-ion batteries, you can increase run time and efficiency, saving yourself time and money. Cordless power tool technology is now providing tradespeople with greater performance, more run time per charge and longer warranties than ever before.

Getting in those hard to reach places can be tricky, and that’s when cordless power tool technology really comes into its own, especially if there is no on-site power source available for corded tools. There is nothing more frustrating than when the battery life does not last long enough or does not provide enough power to get the job done.

LI-ION BATTERIES Hitachi Power Tools was one of the first power tool manufacturers to have both 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery technology and brushless motors available on its 18V cordless range. This provides many advantages for users, including increased power, runtime and service life.

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when registered online within 4 weeks of purchase


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Lithium-Ion battery technology is prevalent in the cordless power tool market because of its low memory effect and very slow loss of charge when not in use. In comparison cheaper battery packs often rely on a simpler “dump” charger with a less rigorous method of monitoring. This means they have to have a built-in margin of safety of up to 20% of charge, so can be less reliable, have shorter run times and could possibly be dangerous if misused.

The best Li-Ion battery packs, such as Hitachi’s, have telemetry to monitor temperature, discharge and heat of each individual battery cell, thus protecting the battery cells, the tool and the user more than ever before.

For instance, there’s the versatile and powerful CV18DBL 18V 5.0Ah LithiumIon Cordless Multi Tool, which features the efficient brushless motor designed to give outstanding and durable performance. The Multi Tool comes with a huge range of blades with which to get a multitude of tasks done. There are over 37 accessories available allowing users to edge, plunge and flush cut in wood, copper, tiles, plastics and nails.

Go brushless To increase performance, tool manufacturers are also turning their attention to developing extremely efficient electric motors. Brushed motors produce sparks, friction and heat, so the recent introduction of brushless motors by manufacturers such as Hitachi has seen an increase in efficiency, sometimes providing as much as twice the performance of a brushed motor. Hitachi’s brushless motor technology performs 150% more efficiently compared to conventional brushed motors.

Brushless motors improve dust proofing, which is important for installers as it gives the power tools a longer service life. This saves you time and money, not just in respect of cleaning your power tools, but replacing them too. The brushless motor can increase working time by up to 40% when used on those longer high-volume drilling jobs -but the brushless technology isn’t just confined to drills. Other accessories allow rough sanding, routing and caulk removal, all of which makes the CV18DBL 18V 5.0Ah LithiumIon Multi Tool a must have for every toolbag.

Flexibility Lithium-Ion technology and the introduction of brushless motors also provide tradesmen with more flexibility and choice in terms of which tool and battery pack they will use for the task in hand. For instance, a kitchen fitter who


POWER TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Lithium-ion batteries combined with the very latest brushless motors within cordless power tools offer apprentices flexibility and choice for the job in hand. spends much of the day driving small screws could work just as smartly with a smaller drill, combined with a higher Ah battery pack. This way they may only need to charge it once a week instead of daily. Larger capacity batteries combined with fewer charging cycles could also mean that the battery pack could last years before it reaches the end of its useful life. This enables quality power tool manufacturers to offer extended warranties on battery packs as well as the tools they power. Hitachi, for instance, offers

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a three-year warranty once the tool has been registered online within four weeks of purchase. This covers not only the tool but any 4.0Ah and 5.0Ah Li-Ion batteries included.

Our 18V 5.0Ah cordless range includes combi, driver and SDS-Plus Hammer drills; circular, jigsaw and reciprocating saws; a planer, angle grinder, impact driver and wrenches; an automatic screwdriver and fan. There are also work lights and radios for use on site.

In conclusion, Lithium-ion batteries combined with the very latest brushless motors within cordless power tools offer apprentices flexibility and choice for the job in hand. Subsequently, longer warranties, such as our three-year offer, save users time, money and hassle.  For more details visit hitachi-powertools.co.uk


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MUSIC TO YOUR EARS! Hitachi Power Tools launches an industry first - a rugged high quality DAB site radio with Bluetooth functionality. Hitachi Power Tools has launched the UR18DSDL DAB site radio with Bluetooth, designed to give tradespeople high quality sound out on site, all powered by any Hitachi 18V Li-ion slide in battery, from 1.5Ah all the way to 5Ah.

The UR18DSDL comes equipped with a DAB receiver for superior sound quality and low noise, and the built in Bluetooth wireless technology enables users to link their own compatible devices with the unit and listen to their own playlists.

 BeneFits Hitachi has added some great features, including...  a USB socket to charge your device,  a storage case which holds most smartphones  and, for those quieter moments, an auxiliary input that connects to a standard 3.5mm headphone socket.

As it is designed for use on working building sites, the radio is IPX4 water resistant, features a folding rubber antenna and has a resin and rubber frame for extra protection. The radio provides up to 19 hours operation from a single 5.0Ah battery and comes complete with an AC adapter. It is also backed by Hitachi’s outstanding three-year warranty for added peace of mind. This becomes available when the tool is registered online within 28 days of purchase.  For more details visit hitachi-powertools.co.uk


RENEWABLE TRAINING | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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RENEWABLE TRAINING

Sponsored By

a

company


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | RENEWABLE TRAINING a

company

FOUR OF THE BEST Training to become a renewables installer can be a daunting concept, but Plumb and Parts Center is dedicated to helping green installers all the way. Below are just four ways that Plumb and Parts Center supports its renewable customers.

Scheming for success Both established and trainee installers may be on the fence about getting qualifications in renewable technologies. It may seem like a lot more training, but there are plenty of benefits. You’re probably aware of the financial benefits the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) can bring to the table for you and your customer, but did you know that MCS qualified renewable installers can reap brilliant rewards by getting in contact with Plumb and Parts Center? Plumb Center this year introduced its Energy Efficiency+ Installer Scheme to help installers with renewables businesses make the most of the industry. Scheme members must be fully MCS accredited before they can take part, but will be privy to a whole host of awesome benefits.

The scheme is designed to help installers grow their renewables business and make it profitable. Installers that sign up will be the first to know of Plumb Center’s latest renewables’ deals and promotions, as well as being invited to events in their area with Plumb Center’s suppliers. A dedicated specialist team will help scheme members find more work for their business, as well as teaching them about great training opportunities in technology, sales and marketing Members will also be able to take advantage of Plumb Center’s free Computer Aided Design (CAD) service, which uses client information to help with loss calculations, sizing, heating installation drawings, full underfloor layout drawings and a schedule of materials. There’s never been a better time to go green!  For more information on, or to sign up to, the Energy Efficiency+ Installer scheme email renewablesupport@wolseley.co.uk or call on 01926 705075. continued>>


Your one-stop resource for renewables

Contact us to find out how we can help grow your business

01926 705075

renewablesupport@wolseley.co.uk


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | RENEWABLE TRAINING a

Mobilise Sometimes it doesn’t benefit your working schedule to have to go into your local Plumb or Parts Center when you have a lot to be getting on with. You have to get the right parts somehow though, right?

company

Spotlight on the SBC Another great resource for renewable installers is Wolseley’s Sustainable Building Centre (SBC). The building was designed so that under the right circumstances it can be entirely self-sustainable.

Save yourself time and money with the Plumb and Parts Center mobile sites, which enable customers to buy 180,000 products from the palm of their hand, while on the move.

Simply find the products you need, add them to your basket, and continue through to checkout. They can be delivered to any UK address or collected from any of their 500 plus branches nationwide. Stock availability is constantly updated so customers will get the very latest information about the products they need. Payment is quick and secure for delivery via credit cards, or for those with accounts, it’s just logged for future payment. If you’re collecting from a branch you can pay on pick-up. Customers can login, search and refine results, navigate and browse. Account customers can see their own prices and stock availability. You’ll also be able to take advantage of Plumb and Parts Center’s exclusive, direct to customer, UK-wide, premium delivery service, Parts Direct. Parts Direct provides next day delivery to customers on an unbeatable range of over 35,000 parts, which can be delivered to your address of choice as early as 10.30am the next day providing you order before 8pm.  You can take advantage of any of these services by visiting plumbcenter.co.uk or partscenter.co.uk

Built at a cost of £3.2 million, the 6,800 sq ft Sustainable Building Center is a living, interactive centre for decision-makers throughout the construction and heating industries. The unique building helps make sustainable building a reality. It enables professionals from architects through to installers to experience the latest technologies and the widest range of sustainable, energy-efficient and recycled building products. The building itself features 170 types of products, including: photovoltaics; micro wind; sedum roof; e-glazing; natural lighting; natural insulation; green floor coverings; rainwater harvesting; biomass; ground source and air source heat pumps; low energy lighting; water saving devices; solar thermal; and sustainable urban drainage. Installers can take training course at the SBC through Plumb Center’s external training partners, and Plumb Center’s supply partners often conduct their product training at the SBC because of its top notch facilities.  For more info on the SBC visit wolseleysbc.co.uk


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company

Getting social You don’t need us to tell you how important being online is these days. You can check your emails on top of a mountain with the latest 4G mobile data technology and you can upload your memoirs using the free Wi-Fi at your favourite fast food chain. Checking your Facebook feed or seeing what’s trending on Twitter has become second nature by now, but did you know that the savvy installer can use the net, and most importantly social media, to the advantage of their business too? The renewables plumbing and heating industry, like many others involves extensive networking. A lot of business is earned through

Twitter is a great way for installers to quickly respond to their customer’s queries. The biggest positive from signing up for Twitter is the goldmine of information that can be found on it – and fast. Pretty much every company or organisation that you’ll work with have a Twitter account. Following the right accounts gives you access to the latest news in the industry as fast as it comes out, whether it’s links to the latest government energy legislature or limited time offers on top products.

...the virtues of social media for small businesses cannot be overstated. word of mouth – installers often get work through recommendations from customers, colleagues and even merchants. This can all be very helpful and lucrative, but for some smaller companies, expanding their business beyond word of mouth can be tough, so the virtues of social media for small businesses cannot be overstated.

Think of a webpage for your CV – that’s LinkedIn. Users can add all of their work experience as well as connecting with people they have worked with, or for, in the past, as well as those that they’d like to in the future. It’s great for young installers starting out who are looking for a job at a renewables company, and most employers will expect you to have one now.

Smart business owners can create pages for their companies that customers can ‘Like’ and leave feedback on. Having good reviews from customers on a platform that reaches millions of people is never a bad thing, and it’s also a great place to post pictures of a job well done. Obviously on the opposite end of the scale are bad reviews, these are not be feared however. Installers can reply to the customer feedback publically or privately. It may be tempting to reply to a disgruntled customer in a private message, but sometimes openly talking to them about it in a constructive and humble way can really help a business owner come across as someone who really cares about their work and their customers.

 Follow Plumb and Parts Center’s official Twitter account at @TradeOnTap


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company

PLUMB & PARTS CENTER With over 500 branches nationwide, Plumb and Parts Center is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products including central heating systems, bathrooms, showers, drainage and renewable technologies. Stocking over 200,000 products from the industry’s leading names such as Mira, Worcester Bosch, Ideal Boilers, Grundfos, Baxi, Fernox and Ideal Standard, you can always find what you need to get the job done.

Parts Center is the UK’s largest specialist supplier of spare parts. It supplies some 50,000 parts for all forms of domestic and commercial heating, ventilation and catering appliances to the trade.

Reaching the parts, others only dream of Parts Center staff are renowned for their knowledge and their sophisticated Parts Arena Identification System can identify any part you need quickly. If a part is not available for immediate collection, they can arrange next day delivery. Parts Center stocks wide ranges from the industry’s leading names such as Worcester Bosch, Baxi, Grundfos, Ideal Boilers, Myson, Honeywell, Testo, Satchwell and Siemens. 25 branches are official Worcester Bosch Group profile stockists, providing same day collection for its core range of products. This demonstrates Parts Center’s commitment to delivering excellent customer service, enabling

Customers can also see live prices 24/7, enabling them to manage their account and view the latest branch promotions and deals. them to satisfy 98% of customer requirements for Worcester products on the spot.

Saving you time, money & hassle Customers who create an account at plumbcenter.co.uk or partcenter.co.uk can check stock availability at their local branch, create and save product lists, and order on the move, at home or from their office. They can collect from any branch or we’ll deliver direct to site. Customers can also see live prices 24/7, enabling them to manage their account and view the latest branch promotions and deals. Online customers can view technical information making it easy for them to order any of our 200,000 products. All of this can be done direct from their smartphone – so the local branch is in their pocket 24/7, even when it’s closed.  Visit plumbcenter.co.uk or partscenter.co.uk


SEALANTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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SEALANTS

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SEALANTS

THREAD SEALANTS YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S AVAILABLE

Non-curing and solvent-based sealing compounds, PTFE tape and hemp & paste are time-served methods of preventing leakage of gases and liquids from pipe joints. Increasingly, however, plumbers are turning to new technologies. Naturally, these products have been designed to make the job quicker but are they as effective? Let’s consider the pros and cons.

Traditional methods One of the oldest methods of sealing the spiral leak paths of threaded joints is with non-curing pipe pastes. Although they lubricate and compact into the threads creating a seal, they provide no locking. Furthermore they can squeeze out under pressure, have poor solvent resistance and do not work on parallel threads. Solvent-based sealing compounds also lubricate and compact into the threads creating a seal although fittings must be re-torqued to minimise the voids. Their greatest disadvantage, however, is that they shrink during cure as the solvents evaporate compromising the efficiency of the seal. PTFE tape gives a good initial seal and resists chemical attack. Although its ability to act as a lubricant is an advantage in one respect, this

action also prompts fittings to loosen under dynamic loads causing loss of clamping force and leakage. It also encourages over-tightening of fasteners, adding stress or fracturing parts. Its tendency to shred also makes it unsuitable for use in hydraulic systems as this can clog key apertures and lead to severe maintenance problems. Hemp and paste has been used for many years but it is messy and slow to assemble requiring a degree of experience and technique to achieve a complete seal. Another disadvantage of this sealing method is it cannot be used on fittings carrying potable water.

Emerging technologies  ANAEROBIC ADHESIVES In recent years new technologies have been introduced that are designed to be simple and speedy to apply and also address the shortfalls of traditional methods. Top of this continued>>


Rely on the Best Seal with LOCTITE 55 and LOCTITE 577 – the perfect thread sealing combination

LOCTITE 55 Pipe Sealing Cord

LOCTITE 577 Liquid Pipe Sealing

Already the installers choice for modern, cost-efficient installations:

For certain installer applications even LOCTITE 55 can’t achieve:

• Fast and easy to use

• For parallel to parallel as well as taper to parallel metal threads

• Gas, water, potable water, LPG approved

• Seals olives and radiator fittings

• Allows reliable re-adjustment of the joint

• Can be used on oil line fittings

• Works with metal and plastic joints

• Locks and seals in any position

The ideal pipe and sealing solution for installers. LOCTITE 55 and LOCTITE 577 are available from your plumbing supplier or log into www.loctite55.co.uk for more details.


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SEALANTS

list are anaerobic thread sealing compounds and sealing cord. These newcomers have some common advantages but essentially they are distinctly different technologies. Dealing with anaerobic thread sealing compounds first, they are single component products that rely on the absence of air and contact with metal to make them cure. They fill the space between the threads and provide an instant, low pressure seal.

A typical example is LOCTITE® 577. Suitable for bonding all coarse threads, this general purpose sealant has already been proven in the industrial market. It is a fast-cure product and provides a medium strength bond with excellent chemical and thermal resistance.

By comparison with traditional methods of sealing, anaerobic sealants are clean and easy to apply, can be used on the most popular sizes of pipe fittings and protect mated threaded areas against corrosion. Importantly, they also lock the fitting and resist vibrational loosening. These products don’t creep, shrink or block systems and any excess material can be simply wiped away.

Specific grades of anaerobic sealants are available for use with potable water, gas, LPG and heating oils. In practice, however, one grade of sealant could be used on the majority of domestic and industrial sealing applications where metal fittings are involved.

Anaerobic thread sealants are ideal for any type of metal fitting – typically iron, brass, copper and stainless steel. They seal regardless of assembly torque and to the burst rating of the pipe, providing controlled disassembly torque for subsequent maintenance. After cure, these sealants resist most industrial liquids and gases. They also have low toxicity and therefore specific products are often used in the food and beverage industry. Service temperatures are generally -55°C to +150°C but brief exposure to higher temperatures will not impair the seal. Continuous development of anaerobic adhesives has also led to the introduction of products that have no need to carry any hazard symbols, risk of safety phrases. They have been formulated to meet the growing demand for products that are kind to the user but don’t compromise the quality of the seal in the process.


SEALANTS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 SEALING CORD For many plumbers, a general purpose, threaded pipe and fitting sealant in the form of a cord – LOCTITE® 55 - has become a toolbox essential for sealing metal and plastic tapered threads. It’s easy to apply, clean to use and produces a highly reliable seal that meets all industry standards. There’s no need for special training to achieve an instant leak-proof joint. All the plumber has to do is wrap the sealing cord around the second, third and fourth male threads in a criss-cross action and assemble; instructions on the pack recommend the number of turns for the thread size. And another big benefit of the technology is that it allows fittings to be backed-off to achieve special alignments without fear of leakage. Cord seals against hot or cold water, gas and compressed air but is not suitable for oil fittings. For that application an anaerobic adhesive is the ideal choice and it’s a product that can also be used to seal olives to pipes and valve bodies, radiator valve faces and radiator tails with parallel threads.

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Anaerobic thread sealants are ideal for any type of metal fitting – typically iron, brass, copper and stainless steel.  SILICONE TECHNOLOGY Thread sealants, based on silicone, polymerise at room temperature by reacting with ambient moisture.

This product group is a good choice for threaded plastic or plastic-metal substrate combinations and, in common with sealing cord, allows post assembly adjustment; in an uncured condition.

This technology also includes latest generation sealing wraps. Developments in material technology now allow 300% elongation of the silicone wrap to achieve an extremely strong compression seal that protects damaged pipes against leakage and corrosion, even in temperature extremes. In summary, achieving a lasting seal is no longer a hit-or-miss process that is messy, time consuming and wasteful. The new breed of pipe sealants has turned a complex and temperamental task into one whose consistent quality is easily assured.  For more details visit loctite.co.uk


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SEALANTS

LOCTITE PIPE SEALING PRODUCTS SIMPLE, EFFECTIVE & QUICK

For many plumbers, LOCTITE® 55 Pipe Sealing Cord is now a toolbox essential because it is so simple to use, produces a highly effective seal and saves time. By comparison with a hemp joint, a leak-free LOCTITE 55 seal is achieved in half the time and for less cost. It can also be backed off by up to 45° without fear of leakage. Simply wind onto the male threads in a criss-cross action; the thread size determines the number of turns. Cut the cord with the cutting device provided on the dispenser and press the loose end onto the thread. Screw on and fasten the joint with a pipe wrench and re-align if necessary. LOCTITE 55 is certified to DVGW standards, carries EN751-2 Class ARP for the gas industry and WRAS approval for use with potable water to 85°C. This product has been a top seller for Henkel for several years and on the strength of its effectiveness plumbers are now exploring what else is new in LOCTITE anaerobic technology. One product that is proving increasingly popular is LOCTITE 577, a general purpose sealant for all coarse threads. Time-served in the industrial market, LOCTITE

577 cures to provide a medium strength bond with excellent chemical and thermal resistance. It will not creep, shrink or block systems by shredding and is resistant to oil and coolants making it ideal for heating applications. In addition to oil fittings LOCTITE 577 is suitable for sealing olives to pipes and valve bodies, radiator valve faces and radiator tails with parallel threads. Another relative newcomer is LOCTITE 5075 insulating silicone wrap which can stretch up to 300%, effectively sealing and protecting damaged pipes against leakage and corrosion. It withstands harsh operating conditions and temperature extremes and is available in black and red.  For further information visit loctite.co.uk


SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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SHOWER PUMPS

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SHOWER PUMPS

Finding solutions to the increasingly common problem of low mains water pressure is greatly simplified by Stuart Turner’s patented range of flomate mains boost pumps. Water pressure Although OFWAT stipulates that water companies must maintain a minimum pressure in the supply pipe of seven metres static head (0.7 bar pressure) at pavement level, most UK water authorities typically quote a standard of service which specifies that water pressure should not normally fall below ten metres head (1 bar pressure). A number of factors affect the actual pressure available at any given time. Pressure from your tap is largely dependent on the height of the tap above pavement level. Whether you share a service pipe with your neighbours, the time of day and the condition, size and length of your service

pipe will also influence the pressure available. The refurbishment of older three, four or even five storey high city properties can present very real problems for apartments on the higher floors. Another key factor is the amount of water being consumed in your area at peak times such as first thing in the morning and early evening. In some areas seasonal factors such as the use of water in tourist locations will have an effect. If you think that your water pressure is too low, the water supplier will investigate free of charge and provide advice on what you need to do.

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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SHOWER PUMPS

However, even when the water pressure at pavement level meets the water supplier’s service agreement, problems may still be experienced on upper floors of the building.

Water flow Water flow is generally determined by the length and diameter of the supply pipe to your property. Problems with water flow can be caused by something as simple as a corroded stop tap that won’t open fully or, particularly in older developments where two or more properties share a single supply pipe.

Generally, if flow problems experienced relate to the size of the supply pipe it may be possible to install a storage cistern, a larger diameter pipe or a pipe dedicated to the property concerned.

Unfortunately in many situations the above solutions may prove to be impractical or extremely expensive.

The flomate pump uses an extremely reliable flow regulator to ensure flow does not exceed the 12 litre per minute UK water regulation limits.

Pumping water directly from the mains supply An alternative approach, and one which is finding increasing popularity with householders and installers alike is the installation of a water pump directly in line with the rising main. Many installers are uncertain as to whether a water supplier will permit the connection of a pump directly to the mains supply to a property. This belief is based on the fact that historically, pump products that complied with water regulations for direct mains connection were simply not available. This situation is no longer true. A WRAS approved pump drawing more than 12 litres per minute from the mains water supply may still be permitted in some situations, but the water supplier must be consulted beforehand.


SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

A pump may be fitted directly to the incoming mains water supply, as long as it has been approved by WRAS – The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (www.wras.co.uk) and has been designed to limit the water flow drawn from the mains to a maximum 12 litres per minute.

Flomate – for when your mains needs a boost WRAS approved products such as Stuart Turner’s patented flomate provide a simple and cost effective solution to boost low or intermittent mains water pressure without the need for a cold water break tank, making it ideal for properties where space is limited.

DID YOU KNOW? In fact, flomate will boost an incoming mains water pressure by an additional 1.5 bar at 12 litres per minute. The flomate pump uses an extremely reliable flow regulator to ensure flow does not exceed the 12 litre per minute UK water regulation limits. If, however the mains water pressure increases at times of low water demand and exceeds the minimum guaranteed by the water supplier, flomate’s patented bypass feature ensures that the resulting increase in water flow will bypass the flomate’s pump head and be supplied to the property without being restricted to 12 litres per minute, unlike alternative mains boost systems. Stuart Turner pumps are renowned for their superior quality and extraordinary reliability and longevity. In this respect, flomate is no different, featuring a machined brass pump and impeller coupled to a continuously rated high performance induction motor.

Boosting shower performance without a break tank Last year, Ricky Wilson of Central Emergency Services Ltd in Twickenham fitted a flomate pump and said “I was called out to a flat in Earls Court where the water pressure was really sporadic. The shower performance was not good at the best of times and if someone in an adjoining property turned on a tap, it really wasn’t worth getting into the shower at all!” “Installing a flomate made a dramatic difference to the shower performance. It was easy to install, located directly in line with the mains after the stop cock. The flomate pump has been installed and running for over a year now and is working perfectly, I haven’t had to make any return visits to the installation.” As with all Stuart Turner pumps, flomate offers tried and tested engineering designed and built to the highest standards of quality, innovation and reliability.  Flomate is WRAS approved, operates in accordance UK water regulations and is supplied with a 2 year guarantee.

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WHEN EVEN FLOMATE ISN’T ENOUGH & YOU NEED EXTRA Although the boost to water pressure and flow created by the standard flomate unit may be suitable for smaller dwellings, in larger properties with higher occupancy the demand for water may exceed the 12 litre per minute limit supplied by the standard flomate solution. In direct response to this increasing trend, Stuart Turner has introduced flomate mains boost extra. This exciting new development combines all the features of the standard flomate pump and so can still be installed directly in line with the cold water mains supply pipe, but combines this with additional water storage provided by a 60 litre pressure vessel to supplement the increase in pressure and flow created by the pump. Stuart Turner’s flomate mains boost extra sits neatly within a standard 500mm kitchen base unit and is suitable for properties with more than one bathroom.

DID YOU KNOW? It will deliver up to 16 litres per minute water flow at up to 3 bar pressure to multiple outlets within a property for a defined period and will then continue to deliver 12 litres per minute until water demand ends and the pressure vessel recharges.

By supplementing the water pressure boosting performance of the flomate pump with the supply from the pressurised water cylinder, the patented ‘flomate mains boost extra’ offers the householder the ability to store water at pressure to meet peak demand.

It is easy to install, requiring no on-site commissioning and provides a fully assembled and tested solution to low water pressure problems.

 For more information, visit stuart-turner.co.uk or email: info@stpumps.co.uk. Alternatively, contact PumpAssist on 0844 98 000 97


SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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SHOWERS

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SHOWERS

A DIGITAL TOP 10 Roger Crabb, marketing manager of Mira showers, looks at how digital showers continue to provide the sector with growth opportunities – and explains why not all digital showers are equal. Despite well publicised difficulties in the sector during the recession, one segment of the showers market continued to do rather well. Formerly the preserve of the up-market, digital products are now more widely available and at increasingly affordable prices. The technology is tried and trusted too – digital long having been a mainstay of the commercial bathroom market, where precise temperature control and no-touch technology are essential features in healthcare and other settings. Hard numbers on the volume of digital products entering the market are hard to come by, not least because at least one manufacturer chooses to hide its light under a bushel and not share its data with either to the Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) or BRG Consult. That said, we do know digital showers currently represent less than 5% volume share of the UK shower market; but the sector has seen considerable growth since the first launched in 2001. continued>>


Get ahead. Get online. With over 1.2 million views and 60 videos, our YouTube channel shows how installing our showers, enclosures and trays is quick, simple and hassle free.

To view our latest ‘step by step’ installation videos and subscribe to our YouTube channel visit: www.youtube.com/mirashowers


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SHOWERS

Digital showers continue to outperform the recessionary market; and will – no doubt – start to pull away strongly when the economy cheers up again.

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Is the digital control fully functional: by which one means, does it performs more functions than simply on or off? Ideally, the shower should be programmable to allow a number of functions to be set; including shower duration, maximum and minimum temperatures and flow rates, as well as a warm up mode and an eco mode.

2 That growth is anticipated to increase dramatically over the next few years as the technology becomes more accessible, prices reduce – and the ‘Smart Home’ concept increasingly takes hold. It is estimated that digital share of the market will double over the next five years, though that estimate could prove conservative. In the context of the Smart Home, the prospect of automation has been much vaunted over the past few decades, but has yet to make real inroads. However, a proliferation of new wireless and networkable devices is bringing the prospect of advanced control into the realms of the possible. Of course, like all technologies, some are more equal than others: remember Betamax, DAT or MiniDisc? Of course not! It’s the same in the digital showering arena – there are digital showers and there are, as you might say, digital showers. Some are bang-up-to-date, while others haven’t quite moved on in the same way since the early days of the concept. Consequently, what are the features (and their benefits) you should look for in a digital shower to ensure that you, and your customer, are getting today’s technology and not a Betamax job.

FULLY FUNCTIONAL WIRELESS CONTROL

FULLY FUNCTIONAL SECONDARY WIRED CONTROL

As above: if not using the shower wirelessly, does its wired control provide for more flexibility than simply on or off?

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DIGITAL DISPLAY

As incredible as it may seem, there are digital showers out there that don’t, er, display digitally. Apart from the seeming contradiction – why would you want a digital watch with hands? – it makes it difficult for the user to appreciate what settings have been programmed; and which ones are operational at the time of use.

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CLOCK DISPLAY

Going back to the watch analogy: one might as well have a clock if there’s going to be a digital display. And, actually, it’s surprising how many time-poor consumers concern themselves with shower duration – either programmed in, or by keeping a weather eye on the clock.


SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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WARM UP MODE

Does what is says on the tin really. This function allows the user to operate the shower for a short period in anticipation – improving the experience and avoiding any early bursts of ‘dead leg’ cold water.

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ADJUSTABLE FLOW CONTROL

Single lever operated showers definitely have their place, but when one is presented with the operational opportunities provided by digital, it’s obvious that temperature and flow controls can be easily separated. Which, obviously, gives the user greater convenience and flexibility in choosing the shower that’s ‘right’ for them.

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ADJUSTABLE LOCATION FOR UI

The beauty of digital is that the user interface needn’t actually be adjacent to the actual shower at all. The siting possibilities are many, and means that the main UI – or controller – can be located to the consumer’s convenience – or even ported like a remote control.

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10 UP, DOWN, HIGH LOW And a choice of supply and pressure installation options is always very handy: be it either ceiling or rear fed fitting and with a choice of high pressure valves for mains pressurised systems or combination boilers or pumped valves for low pressure or gravity fed systems. Not to mention the flexibility to site the valve somewhere discrete; be it in the loft, under a bath or other convenient location up to 10 metres from the controller.

MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT ON USER INTERFACE (UI)

As implied above in the comment regarding fully functional wireless or wired controls; it is convenient for the user – within safe bounds – to be able to set their own maximum temperature limits. Where such an opportunity doesn’t exist then, of course, they have to have one set in advance by their installer in the valve assembly; and future adjustment is going to be a pain.

EXTRA REMOTE CONTROLLERS

And where the UI is fixed to a wall? Your customer’s family is like our family and your family. It helps to have more than one controller knocking around...

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Digital showers continue to outperform the recessionary market; and will – no doubt – start to pull away strongly when the economy cheers up again. As the technology becomes more accessible, prices reduce – and the ‘Smart Home’ concept increasingly takes hold; consumers will be lining up to enjoy the same breadth of digital functionality that they enjoy from other appliances. Of course, any forward thinking installer will be there to exploit that – if not doing so already – but it pays to know what you’re offering: Betamax, VHS or, instead, Blu-ray!  Visit mirashowers.co.uk


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | SHOWERS

INNOVATION & QUALITY KEEPS MIRA AHEAD People do not continue to improve as they get ever older particularly as they pass their 94th anniversary but companies can, as Mira – Britain’s biggest and longest established shower manufacturer – demonstrates. The Cheltenham-based firm, revealed by research as the one most trusted by UK installers, is at the forefront of showering technology with a range of sophisticated products that incorporate a raft of innovations, from digital showers to remote controls. In 1921, when James M Walker and Walter W Crossweller founded the original firm, the company distributed German industrial instruments as well as American water and oil meters. The move into valves came when it was appointed the UK distributor and licensed manufacturer of Leonard thermostatic range in 1936. Later It developed the Leonard 722, the first thermostatic shower valve to cope with the UK’s unique pressure conditions, and the Mira 8 manual mixer. And the Mira 8, launched in 1963, swiftly became the best-selling brand on the market, selling its millionth unit in 1984 in a production run that lasted well over 20 years. And the innovations just kept coming – the then revolutionary thermoscopic mixing valves launched in 1979, the Mira Supreme electric shower with patented flow regulator and the Mira Electronic Bathroom control system – a world first in integrated electronic controls for all bathroom functions. The company launched the world’s first thermostatic electric shower, the Mira Advance, in 1995 with 8.7kW and 9.8kW versions and 5 memory variants.

Having launched its first ever digital shower in 2005, the latest offer is Platinum Dual which offers users both a deluge head and a handset that can be used together or independently. Further luxury is also possible for consumers combining their shower and bath tub with the bath fill function which eliminates the need for taps, creating a clean minimalist look. And Mira wireless technology has been extended to the Mira’s Advance Flex Extra Wireless, which offers wireless pairing to a waste water pump. This simplifies installing or retro-fitting a wet room in situations where a conventional gravity fed drainage system would not be feasible.

Whatever the application, and whatever shower type you opt for – you can always trust Mira for innovation and engineering quality.  For more info visit mirashowers.co.uk


UNDERFLOOR HEATING | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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UNDERFLOOR HEATING

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING

UNDERFLOOR HEATING Energy-efficient comfort Underfloor Heating (UFH) using piped warm water is a modern and energyefficient option for heating homes and other buildings. UFH also delivers comfortable warmth for occupants, as well as other practical benefits.

Heating principles With UFH, the floor is gently heated by piped warm water (or alternatively by electric cable) and the heating energy is emitted from the floor by natural radiation. This heat is absorbed by other surfaces in the room which then also emit warmth. The result is an all-round, more even warmth than is typically achieved by other space heating techniques. Radiators, for example, use room air to transfer the heat, mostly by convection. This reliance on the convection of air to heat the room results in uneven warmth and higher temperatures at ceiling height compared with floor level. 20°

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Heat sources

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As radiators intrude on the usable space within a room, there is a general desire to keep them as compact as possible. As a consequence of this, the piped water has to be hotter than for UFH in order to achieve the same level of comfort for the occupants.

20° 20°

26°- 28°

Plumbed UFH uses piped warmed water from any primary heat source. This may be from a conventional domestic boiler that is also supplying domestic hot water. In some situations, the boiler may be supplying heated water for radiators as well as for UFH. Alternative sources of warmed water may be heat pumps or solar water heating. UFH is especially suited for such renewable heat sources because it requires water at lower temperatures than traditional heating techniques. continued>>



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PRINCIPAL ADVANTAGES OF UFH Underfloor heating offers many benefits to the homeowner.  Lower water temperatures required for UFH mean better energy efficiency with fuel bills up to 20% lower  More even room temperature ensures all round comfortable warmth  Silent running – no expansion creaking or water flow noise  Unhindered room layout - because there are no wall-mounted radiators  Healthier environment - because less dust is circulating in the air  Decreased irritants - as the warm floor inhibits the breeding of dust mites and fungi  Greater safety - because there are no exposed hot surfaces  Low maintenance - no radiators to redecorate or renew, or to be ‘dropped’ to allow room redecoration

The Three Essential Elements Plumbed UFH comprise of three key elements that work together to deliver the required heating performance and effect: 1. Floor products incorporating UFH pipe: to create the pipework circuits within the floor that will emit heat. Many floor products help to hold the pipe at the correct spacing to ensure even distribution of heat across the floor surface above. 2. Manifold: to provide flow and return circulation of warm water at the correct temperature and flow rate to ensure an even, comfortable temperature across the whole floor surface.

3. Controls: to monitor water and air temperature and signal the heat source. In effect, the nerve centre of the installed system. The careful selection of each of these is critical to the efficient operational performance of the entire installation. Let’s look at these in more detail;

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FLOOR pRODUCts

The choice of floor product is influenced by several factors:  Whether the floor is being newly constructed or already exists  Its type of construction: solid / screeded or dry / timber  The size and shape of the space to be heated  The type of floor finish that will be installed over the UFH A solution to suit any combination of these factors, can be found within the Hep2O underfloor heating product range.

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mAniFOLDs

A manifold is required wherever UFH is to be installed to serve two or more plumbed circuits from the same primary heat source. When UFH is being connected to a high temperature heat source which also controls hot water or other heat emitters, a mixing unit is connected to the manifold to mix the water to the required temperature for the system.


UNDERFLOOR HEATING | HIP BOOK 2015-16

The Hep2O underfloor heating range includes manifold solutions that can be tailored to each situation. The composite Manifold can be sized to serve the exact number of individual UFH circuits up to a maximum of 15 circuits. Single circuit installations which require water temperature control will be connected to their heat source via a mixing unit, but will not require a full manifold.

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COntROLs

As with any type of heating, UFH operation requires time and temperature control. The choice of controls will initially be based on these key factors:  Whether wired or wireless installation is practical or preferred  Requirement for programmed or non-programmed operation  Number of individual circuits – and whether these are to be controlled separately or linked In addition, special operational features and functions may be included to enhance convenience (e.g. remote operation) or operational safeguards for householders (e.g. frost settings, child / interface lock). Many controls are now web enabled and can be controlled by Apps. Hep2O underfloor heating controls provide a comprehensive choice for solutions tailored to the specific needs of each installation – and the preferences of the householders.

Floor finishes All UFH installations are overlaid with a final floor finish. This may be: carpet; resilient vinyl; linoleum (or equivalent); stone; ceramics; timber or laminate. As with different types of floor construction, the thermal resistance of each floor finish option varies. This can affect heat output. Allowance should be made for the thermal resistance of the floor finish, in combination with

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that of the floor construction, to ensure this will not prevent efficient heating performance.

Typical layouts When laying out the pipe there are several patterns that can be used. This will depend on the size and shape of the room and installer preference. TYPICAL PIPE LAYOUT PATTERNS There are two typical patterns for laying UFH pipe:  Spiral – this follows room shape in a spiral to the middle and is then reversed out. This pattern is possible with two Hep2O underfloor heating systems – Staples and System Plates. SPIRAL LAYOUT

SERPENTINE LAYOUT

 Serpentine - pipe is laid in parallel runs up and down room length, with loop turns at each end. For systems that use pre-drilled channels e.g. Hep2O low build system, this is the pattern which is used.

Advice, tools and guidance Most manufacturers will offer advice and online tools to help you select the correct system, calculate the heat losses determine what product required for the job, and give advice on installation. Hep2O have an online calculator which will help you work out what you need for a specific project and give you a list of materials you can take in to your merchant. They also have a range of product and installation guides with detailed guidance on each system. These can all be found at wavin.co.uk


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MAKING UNDERFLOOR HEATING SIMPLE More and more homeowners are seeing the advantages of installing underfloor heating in their properties. Whether it’s an extension, conservatory or a retro fit to an existing room, UFH means more wall space, greater comfort and controllability and often cheaper heating bills. It also adds a touch of luxury at an affordable price. To help you make the most of the opportunities, Hep2O Underfloor Heating offers a range of systems for both screeded and dry floor constructions. The range includes staple systems, system plates which allow easy spacing of pipes, and a range of panel products so you can choose the right product for your project. We also have a range of single room packs which contain everything you need for projects up to 24m2. Hep2O UFH has a range of thermostats and controls, ranging from simple to use wired and wireless options, to the latest Web enabled, App based systems, so you can meet the needs of any client.

Hep2O Underfloor Heating offers a range of systems for both screeded and dry floor constructions. As the leading plumbing brand in the UK you can sure that the products will perform, and all system components have been quality tested to the highest standards and come complete with manufacturer’s guarantees. And fitting UFH is much easier than many installers realise. Hep2O provide a range of literature, on-line tools, videos and step by step guides to make installation simple. And if you need help and advice, our team can offer guidance on the technical helpline. Hep2O Underfloor heating is fully compatible with Hep2O plumbing products and is widely available from plumbers and builders merchants nationwide.  For further information visit wavin.co.uk or follow @Hep2O on facebook and twitter.


WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

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WATER REGULATIONS

Sponsored By


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | WATER REGULATIONS

INFORMATION & TECHNICAL ADVICE Now you’ve completed your training and put away your text books, you’ll never need to get them out again, right? Well, maybe…. but remember that as the installer, you’re the one who has to ensure that your work complies with the Water Fittings Regulations. And if your work doesn’t comply, you risk prosecution for a criminal offence and the water supplier can require alterations, at your own cost, to make your work comply. So - because no-one knows everything - sooner or later you’ll have questions about some part of the Water Fittings Regulations. Where can you look for answers?

WRAS One place to try is the new website of the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme WRAS (www.wras.co.uk). This has advice and guidance on topics ranging from the legal requirements for installing and maintaining reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valves (type BA devices), designing air gaps for cold water storage cisterns, installation of rainwater harvesting and reclaimed water systems, and accessibility of water fittings in walls and under floors.

There are leaflets about commissioning plumbing systems and about fluxes and where you mustn’t use lead solders.


WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

And although you may know about the regulations, your customers might find useful the leaflets on what the regulations are about and how to give proper notification of planned work to the water supplier. There’s a series of customer-friendly booklets which describe how the regulations apply to different types of premises, such as farms, caravan sites and sports grounds, with more titles being added from time to time.

Guidance on regulations Maybe even more useful is the website section which gives recent water industry interpretations of the regulations. You may have a copy of the Water Regulations Guide, but there have been further interpretations of the Regulations which aren’t printed in the Guide. These are in the ‘Interpretations & Advice’ section of the website.

DID YOU KNOW? Water can be dangerous, no-one wants their drinking water to be unsafe. Backflow prevention is one of the most important aspects of the Water Regulations, and in addition to point of use protection, zone and whole site protection may be required.

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Advice And if you can’t find the answer from all that, WRAS offers a technical advice service. You can ring up, or send a letter or email asking any technical question about the regulations and WRAS will do its best to answer you. And the best thing is – it’s all free.

 DIRECTORY Finally – to be sure the water fittings and appliances you are about to install will comply with the regulations (in line with your legal obligation!) you can check if they are listed in the WRAS Water Fittings and Materials Directory. The Directory has thousands of fittings and appliances which have been assessed for their compliance and have been approved on behalf of the water suppliers. If it’s listed in the Directory and installed in accordance with any installation requirements, it should comply with the regulations. The Directory is FREE on the internet (www.wras.co.uk/Directory) and is updated monthly. The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) is funded by the UK water suppliers to publicise and to promote consistent interpretation of the Water Fittings Regulations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and the Scottish Byelaws hereafter referred to as the regulations

 Contact WRAS Ltd. at Unit 13, Willow Road, Pen-y-Fan Industrial Estate, Crumlin, Gwent, NP11 4EG. Alternatively call 0333 207 9030, fax 01495 248 540, email info@wras.co.uk or visit wras.co.uk


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | WATER REGULATIONS

IT’S DOWN TO YOU! You might think no-one would sell a plumbing fitting which was illegal to install…but sadly, you’d be wrong. DID YOU KNOW? Under the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations, it’s not illegal to sell you a fitting which doesn’t comply, but you could commit an offence by installing it. It’s the Installers’ legal duty to ensure that water fittings they install meet the requirements of the Regulations.

Using approved products ensures rapid acceptance by the water company’s inspector and will reassure users that their plumbing is correct, robust and reliable. When you’re buying or installing products look for the logo.

Testing

Approved products So how on earth can you tell if the product is OK? One reliable method of demonstrating this is to use WRAS Approved products. These have been assessed and approved by the Water Suppliers who enforce the Regulations, so if it’s got their OK, and you install it in accordance with any conditions which are written down, your work will be fine.

Every product is extensively tested to performance requirements which are laid down by Government. Taps are operated 200,000 times to check they’re leak-tight over their full life. Pipes are pressure tested with hot water as well as cold if they’re for heating systems. Air gaps are measured for backflow protection and materials in contact with water are tested for absence of nasty tastes or toxic substances. When it comes to toilets, in addition to wash-down tests, flush rate tests and endurance tests, they’re tested with artificial poo to see if it clears the pan correctly! And of course, check valves are checked.  You can find WRAS Approved products in the WRAS Water Fittings and Materials Directory FREE OF CHARGE on the WRAS website at wras.co.uk/Directory


WaterSafe is the new nationwide accreditation scheme for plumbers. As a member, you’ll have a lot to STAY smile about.WATERSAFE.

GET APPROVED.

–– Attract customers with quality assurance –– Get industry endorsement for your business WaterSafe is the accreditation scheme for

–– List your services on our national website existing Approved plumbing businesses in

It’sthe free and easy toget join, so be on the safe side and UK. Members water company sign up today. and customers have peace-of-mind endorsement WaterSafe.co.uk with a name they can trust.

Call today on 0333 207 9030 or visit www.WaterSafe.org.uk Follow us on Twitter @WaterSafeUK


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | WATER REGULATIONS

BECOME A WATERSAFE APPROVED PLUMBING BUSINESS Why Be A ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Business? Some unqualified installers pretend to be competent but do a poor job. Being a ‘WaterSafe Approved Plumbing Business’ reassures customers that you’re not a cowboy. Approved contractors can also carry out some installation work without waiting for the Water Supplier’s consent, saving time, reducing paperwork and avoiding delay. Usually, Water suppliers don’t require inspection of Approved Plumbers’ work, speeding up the supply turn-on. Customers value the certificate you give them as an Approved Plumbing Business stating your work complies with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Water Byelaws.

Approved contractors’ schemes To become ‘WaterSafe Approved’ you need to join one of the existing Approved Contractors’ Schemes.

WHO RUNS APPROVED CONTRACTORS’ SCHEMES? There are seven Approved Contractors’ schemes, run by:

 The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC)

 The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE)

 The Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF)

 Water Suppliers - Anglian Water, Severn Trent Water or Thames Water in their respective areas and by the Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) for the remaining water suppliers’ areas. In England and Wales you can join the scheme in your water supplier’s area. There’s flexibility, so water suppliers accept each others’ certificates if you work across supply boundaries. ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Businesses are recommended to customers by their water supplier. You can get extra business - some organisations will only use Approved Plumbing Businesses.


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Customers value the certificate you give them as an Approved Plumbing Business... What is watersafe? Introduced in 2013, ‘WaterSafe’ is an umbrella organisation bringing together the seven existing Approved Contractors’ Schemes under a nationally recognisable brand which can be promoted to customers across the UK. It provides a customer-friendly website listing Approved Businesses which are members of the Approved Contractors’ Schemes and each ‘WaterSafe’ recognised individual within them. Water suppliers are promoting the use of ‘WaterSafe Approved’ Plumbing Businesses to their customers through newsletters, billing information and leaflets.

The Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) Membership of WIAPS is free. To join, you need a plumbing qualification (NVQ Level 2 or equivalent as a minimum), a Water Fittings Regulations Certificate along with public liability insurance and employers’ liability cover where appropriate. On joining, you get free packs of ‘Work Completed’ certificates and regular technical updates. Members can use the WIAPS and WaterSafe logos on their letterheads and get free vehicle stickers.

Details of WIAPS plumbers are freely available to the public on the WRAS and WaterSafe websites.

 Visit wras.co.uk/plumbing_professionals/ get_approved_-_wiaps for further details of WIAPS, call 0333 207 9030 or email: wiaps@wras.co.uk. Log on to WaterSafe at watersafe.org.uk for details of other Approved Contractors’ Schemes, or go directly to the organiser’s website.


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | WATER REGULATIONS

WATER REGULATIONS GUIDE INFORMATION ON NOTIFICATION OF PROPOSED PLUMBING WORK The following information is an extract taken from the Water Regulations Guide. What are the Water Fittings Regulations? The Water Fittings Regulations, or Byelaws in Scotland, hereafter referred to as regulations, are national requirements for the design, installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using appliances. Their purpose is to prevent misuse, waste, undue consumption or erroneous measurement of water and, most importantly, to prevent contamination of drinking water.

WHERE DO THEY APPLY? All plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using equipment in all types of premises supplied or to be supplied from the public water supply come under the regulations. The regulations apply from the point where the water enters the property’s underground supply pipe. Premises without a public water supply connection are not governed by these regulations.

Who has to comply with the Regulations?

Owners and occupiers of premises and anyone who installs plumbing systems or water fittings have the legal duty to ensure that the systems satisfy the regulations. Architects, building developers and plumbers have to follow the regulations on behalf of future owners or occupiers. Advanced notice must be given of most proposed installations to obtain consent for the work from your water supplier. It is a criminal offence to breach the regulations and offenders may face prosecution.


WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

Plumbing system design and installation

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Plumbing systems must be designed, installed and maintained to meet the requirements of the regulations and their Schedules. This is to protect water quality, to ensure safety, ease of access for maintenance, detection of leakage, protection against damage or freezing etc.

At present they must either conform to an appropriate British Standard or some other European Economic Agreement state specification which provides an equivalent level of protection and performance or conform to a specification approved by the Regulators. The Water Fittings and Materials Directory, published by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), gives up-to-date details of a wide range of items which satisfy the Regulators Specification.

If you are carrying out your own installation work ensure you know what requirements you must meet. If you are employing someone else, consider using an Approved Plumber who will certify compliance of the new installation.

Whilst it is not illegal to sell unsuitable fittings and appliances, to install one would be illegal, so check suitability before purchase. The Directory is free to access on the WRAS website: wras.co.uk/directory.

Advanced Notification Prevention of contamination by backflow Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows in the opposite to intended or normal direction of flow. Where water or water-using equipment is used with fluids or materials which could contaminate the water, there must be adequate protection to stop backflow of potentially contaminated water into other parts of the system, especially drinking water outlets. The regulations define Fluid Risk Categories according to the contaminants which are present and specify the appropriate type of devices or arrangement which must be fitted to protect against backflow.

Choice of materials & fittings Plumbing materials and fittings must meet the standards given in the regulations.

In most cases, before work starts on any proposed installation, the installer, owner or occupier must obtain the water supplier’s consent by giving notification of the details of the proposed work. Proposed work which must be notified is summarised in the following list.

 The installation of a water fitting in connection with: 1. The erection of a building or other structure, not being a pond or swimming pool 2. The extension or alteration of a water system on any premises other than a house (#) 3. A material change of use of any premises 4. The installation of: a. a bath having a capacity, as measured to the centre line of the overflow, of more than 230 litres (*) b. a bidet with an ascending spray or flexible hose (#) continued>>


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c. a shower unit of a type specified by the Regulator (none are currently specified) (*) d. a pump or booster drawing more than 12 litres per minute, connected directly or indirectly to a supply pipe e. a unit which incorporates reverse osmosis f. a water treatment unit which produces a wastewater discharge or which requires the use of water for regeneration or cleaning

g. a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve assembly or other mechanical device for protection against a uid which is in Fluid Category 4 or 5 h. a garden watering system unless designed to be operated by hand (*) i. any water system laid outside a building either less than 750mm or more than 1350mm below ground level 5. The construction of a pond or swimming pool over 10,000 litres capacity, designed to be replenished automatically with water supplied by a public water supplier. (*)


WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

In Northern Ireland and Scotland, in addition to the above, notification is required for:  grey water, recycled water, reclaimed water and rainwater harvesting systems  water systems for firefighting, including domestic sprinklers  a flexible shower hose or other flexible outlet for use in conjunction with a WC (#)  a ‘shower toilet’ or ‘bidet-toilet’ where either as part of the WC itself or as an addition or adaptation of it, a stream of water is provided from below the spillover level of the WC pan for personal cleansing (#). In Scotland, there is an additional requirement for notification of any system incorporating a private water supply.

DETAILS TO BE NOTIFIED For installations to be supplied with water from the public water supply, the following information must be sent to your local water supplier:

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Granting consent There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent. Work on installations must not start until consent has been given. If consent is neither granted nor refused within ten days of the water supplier receiving a valid notification, consent is deemed to have been granted. This does not alter the obligation upon the installer and owner or occupier to see that the Regulations are fully met.

APPROVED CONTRACTORS An approved contractor, often called an approved plumber, will certify that their installation work satisfies the Regulations. In the event that this certified work contravenes the Regulations, the owner or occupier can use the certificate as a legal defence against prosecution.

 The name and address of the person giving notice and, if different, the name and address of the person to whom the consent should be sent.  A description of the proposed work or any significant change of use of premises.  The location of the premises and their use or intended use. Except for items marked (*) in the list overleaf, a plan of those parts of the premises which relate to the proposed work and a diagram showing the pipework and fittings to be installed.  The plumbing contractor’s name and address, if an Approved Plumber is to do the work.

continued>>


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There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent. An approved contractor, when installing items marked (#) in the list adjacent, does not have to receive prior consent before starting work, but on completion in addition to supplying a certificate to the person who asked for the work to be done, a copy of the compliance certificate must also be sent to the water supplier.

Most UK water suppliers either operate their own approved contractor scheme or support the national Water Industry Approved Plumbers Scheme (WIAPS), whose members have demonstrated their experience of plumbing work plus knowledge of the Regulations and have liability insurance cover.

Notification through Approved Contractors’ Schemes WaterSafe is an online national register and search facility that enables customers to locate an approved contractor in their area. As well as the four approved plumber schemes operated by water suppliers, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF) and the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC) also list approved plumbers (see right for contact details).

Where can I get a copy of the Regulations & further advice? For England and Wales, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and their Schedules, Statutory Instruments 1999 No.1148 and No.1506, are available from HMSO and via: legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/1148/ contents/made A Guidance Document relating to the Schedules to the regulations is available on the Defra website. Copies of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 are available from Scottish Water or via: scottishwater.co.uk/business/ourservices/compliance/water-byelaws/ water-byelaws-documents/waterbyelaws-2014 The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (Northern Ireland) are available from NI Water: niwater.com/water-fittings-regulations/ or via: legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2009/ 255/contents/made


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DEAD LEGS, SERVICING VALVES & REGULATION INTERPRETATIONS The following information is an extract taken from the Water Regulations Guide with additional helpful advice. possible and capped off, ideally no longer than twice the length of the pipe diameter. See the interpretation on the next page for full details.

If you are installing branch pipes to facilitate future connections, don’t connect them until they are ready to be used. Install the pipework but seal both ends to prevent anything getting inside. Once the pipework is ready to be used, cut your tee piece in and connect the pipework, remembering to thoroughly flush it before making the final connection.

REDUNDANT FITTINGS & DEAD LEG  g11.7 Any draw-off fitting that is permanently removed from the installation should have the branch pipe serving the fitting disconnected at its source. By leaving redundant pipework connected to the plumbing system you increase the risk of contaminating the water. Stagnant water may promote the growth of bugs, especially where it is in a warm area. Any redundant pipework should be completely disconnected and removed from the system, ideally removing the tee piece. There may be occasions where it is just impossible to remove a tee piece, in this instance the redundant pipe should be cut as short as

If you disconnect an appliance that requires repair, there is no need to disconnect the branch pipe. Just make sure the appliance is repaired or replaced and reconnected within 60 days. Again, just remember to flush the pipework before you reconnect.

PROVISION OF SERVICING VALVES  g11.1 Inlets to all float-operated valves, cisterns, clothes washing machines, dishwashing machines, water heaters, water softeners and other similar appliances should be provided with a servicing valve to facilitate maintenance. continued>>


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 g11.2 Servicing valves should be fitted as close as is reasonably practical to float operated valves or other inlet devices of an appliance.

To facilitate compliance with, and support consistency in the application of these Regulations, water suppliers, assisted by WRAS, have produced a number of technical interpretations and other advice.

 g11.3

 INTERPRETATION N05

Servicing valves may be of the screwdown or spherical type. Servicing valves should be installed adjacent to the appliance they are serving, and in readily accessible locations. Usually servicing valves are the screwdriver operated type, but screw down stop valves would be perfectly acceptable. You can even use hose union bib taps for isolating appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers! See the interpretations on the next page for more information. There is no requirement to fit servicing valves to taps, but it is certainly good practice to do so. It makes life easier should you need to replace a tap at a later date, and less water will be wasted as you won’t have to drain the whole system.

Area of Interest: Notification Topic: Material change of use Title: Notification of changes relating to storage and use of fluid category 4 or 5 substances Clause Reference: Regulation 1& 2 Reference Number: N05 Decision Date: June 2015 It is a requirement to notify any proposed plumbing work relating to a material change of use. This includes any changes to a plumbing system for the storage and / or use of substances which if mixed with water would be classified as either fluid category 4 or 5, for example the installation of a rainwater harvesting or grey water system in any premises.

 INTERPRETATION I21 INTERPRETATIONS & ADVICE Water suppliers have a legal duty to ensure that the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Water Byelaws are complied with in their appointed area of supply.

Area of Interest: Installation Topic: Dead leg Title: Dead legs Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2) (i) Reference Number: I21 Decision Date: September 2008 Where water is allowed to stagnate there is a risk of contamination. Minimising this risk can be achieved by:  Completely removing redundant pipe work. Where this is not practicable the pipe should be terminated so that any ‘dead leg’ so created is no longer than twice the diameter of the pipe.  This general principle should also be applied to fittings which by design incorporate areas which do not have a steady through flow of water.


WATER REGULATIONS | HIP BOOK 2015-16

 For pipework supplying fittings which are used infrequently i.e. fire supplies or water reuse systems with a back-up supply, appropriate backflow protection should be installed as close as reasonably practicable to the mains or supply / distributing pipe.

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 INTERPRETATION B34 Area of Interest: Backflow prevention Topic: Fluid category Title: High risk tap installations Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15 & G15.3 Reference Number: B34 Decision Date: May 2005 (revised June 2015) Taps used in high risk installations, such as kitchen sinks, are considered to be a fluid category 5 risk. Backflow protection is usually provided in the form of an AUK3 tap gap. Where an AUK3 tap gap cannot be maintained, for example where the tap gap is compromised as a result of:-

 the tap being lowered in any way;  adjustment to the spout which reduces the 

 INTERPRETATION B54

distance between the tap outlet and spillover level of the sink; or the operation of a pull out hose attachment

alternative fluid category 5 backflow protection is required.

Area of Interest: Backflow prevention Topic: Temporary filling loops Title: Disconnection of temporary filling loops Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 24 & G 24.2 (a) Reference Number: B54 Decision Date: June 2012 When not in use it would be preferable for temporary filling loops to be completely disconnected and totally removed, however a partial disconnection, that is to say only detaching one end of the filling loop, will be permitted providing that the disconnection is made between the filing loop and the backflow prevention device on the supply pipe. (Also see B09 ‘Temporary arrangements for rapid filling of heating and cooling systems in non-domestic premises’ & B22 ‘Filling and topping up heating system primary circuits’)

 Call WRAS on 0333 207 9030 to buy your copy of the complete guide or go online at wras.co.uk for further information.


Metric Conversion Tables

METRIC CONVERSION TABLES

 To convert METRIC to IMPERIAL divide by the conversion factors below.  To convert IMPERIAL to METRIC multiply by the conversion factors below. Metric

Imperial

Conversion Factor

Millimetres (mm)

Inches (ins)

25.40000

Centimetres (cm)

Inches (ins)

2.5400

Metre (m)

Feet (ft)

0.30480

Metre (m)

Yard (yd)

0.9144

Square Metre (m2)

Square Yard (yd2)

0.8361

Cubic Metre (m3)

Cubic Yard (yd3)

0.7646

Litre (l)

Pint

0.5683

Litre (l)

Gallon (gal)

4.546

Kilogram (kg)

Pound (lb)

0.4536

Joule (J)

British Thermal Unit (BTU)

1055

Kilowatt (kW)

Btu per Hour BTU/h

0.0002931

Kilowatt (kW)

Horse Power (hp)

0.7457

Newton (N)

Pound Force (lbf)

4.448

Newton/Sq Metre (N/m )

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in )

6895

Pascal

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in2)

6895

Bar

Pound Force per Sq Inch (lbf/in )

0.06895

Metres per Second (m/s)

Foot per Second (ft/s)

0.3048

2

2

2

Temperature Conversions Fahrenheit (oF) to Celsius (oC) = oF – 32 ÷ 1.8

Celsius (oC) to Fahrenheit (oF) = oC x 1.8 + 32


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WATER TREATMENT

Sponsored By


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TRUST ME, I’M A PROFESSIONAL INSTALLER Recent research shows that energy costs remain the biggest concern for UK households. Homeowners are more worried about affording energy bills than paying the rent or the mortgage. According to the Energy Saving Trust, household boilers account for around 55% of what we spend in a year on energy bills. That’s why taking care to ensure it’s working as efficiently as possible is one of the easiest ways every home can save. John Vaughan, Managing Director at ADEY Professional Heating Solutions considers why this is a great opportunity for professional installers to become a trusted and practical source of money-saving advice.

Hot headlines Just a decade ago, the average annual household energy bill was £472. Today, it stands at a whopping £1,265, so it’s little wonder there’s a lot of heat in the headlines when they’re talking about energy companies, price rises and the effect they have on cash-strapped homeowners and tenants,” he says. Despite recent small reductions in tariffs, costs remain high or even unaffordable in some circumstances so most are still looking for other ways to cut their home energy usage. continued>>


To find out more about delivering best in class system protection, call 01242 546717 or visit www.adey.com


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HIP BOOK 2015-16 | WATER TREATMENT

Yet, ADEY believes one of the simplest steps to save on energy is being overlooked.

Service history Research by ADEY shows that only 46% of the 1,300 UK homeowners surveyed had their boiler serviced in the past 12 months, leaving more than half of systems unchecked. One in ten householders even consider having an annual boiler service an unnecessary expense. This means that every year, thousands of boilers are left chugging away in the corner without checks to ensure that they’re running efficiently or even safely. In fact, 20% of householders only took any notice of their poor hard-working boiler when something went wrong. ADEY believes that having an annual service should be considered just as important as a car’s MOT. While it’s not a legal requirement, it will ensure that the boiler and heating system are running as they should, helping to keep potentially costly repairs at bay and any boiler warranties intact. More importantly, it could also help to keep a household safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide, particularly on ageing systems.

Share the best practice solution Few homeowners will understand that the small parts and narrow waterways of today’s superefficient condensing boilers are prone to the damaging effects of the natural corrosion that happens inside every heating system. However, treating the symptoms caused by debris in the system is an installer’s daily bread and butter.

DID YOU KNOW? Research shows that the presence of just 5kg of sludge within the system, which is not uncommon, reduces radiator heat output by up to 36%.

Installing a MagnaClean filter is proven to reduce system carbon emissions by up to 6%, resulting in a 200-250kg carbon saving year on year. Those installers who can effectively communicate with their customers to help them understand the benefits of ongoing heating system maintenance and protection will reap the benefits. This is one of the many reasons why ADEY developed its award-winning approach to best practice. It enables installers to easily communicate the crucial ingredients for ultimate system protection in four simple steps. ADEY’s recommended best practice follows the maintenance mantra of clean, flush, maintain, protect. The combined effect of system cleaning, quality water treatment chemicals and the most effective magnetic filtration, work to improve heating system efficiency, protect against breakdown and reduce household heating bills. Adopting best practice can also help installers to build a reputation for excellent customer service and encourage repeat business.

Protecting the pounds Statistics from Moneywise, show that typically, a fifth of UK households have a boiler breakdown over the winter, at an average repair cost of £320. However, a new study has highlighted the worrying number of households unprepared to cover these unexpected emergency costs with many admitting it would drive them into debt. Most UK householders (55%) said that if they were hit with a bill for emergency heating repairs of £1,000 or more, they would have to ask for a bank loan to cover the cost. To pay a


WATER TREATMENT | HIP BOOK 2015-16

bill of £250, 49% said they’d have to borrow the money from friends or family and 30% said they’d need to pay on credit card.

By encouraging customers to take steps to maintain and protect their heating systems effectively for the long-term, installers can help them reduce this financial risk and ensure their boiler is ready to make it through this winter and many more.

ADeY Best pRACtiCe BeneFits Following ADEY’s four steps could reduce annual household heating bills by £150-£170

Long-term benefits Today, ADEY MagnaClean filters and MC+ chemicals are collectively protecting three million UK central heating systems helping them operate more efficiently, reducing maintenance bills and cutting emissions. ADEY estimates savings of up to 15% on individual annual household heating bills where its best practice approach to central heating system maintenance is employed, using proven effective filters and high-quality chemicals. That could amount to a saving of £150–£170 a year for the average three bedroom property. Installing a MagnaClean filter is also proven to reduce system carbon emissions by up to 6%, resulting in a 200-250kg carbon saving year on year. This could equate to saving more than 600,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year which is equivalent to removing more than 126,000 cars from Britain’s roads.

ADEY’s best practice could reduce annual heating bills by up to 15% MagnaClean is proven to save up to 6% a year on heating bills and carbon emissions Adding a quality chemical inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by 3% Installing a MagnaClean can reduce maintenance call-outs by as much as 37% Best practice protection could increase the life of a boiler beyond 12-15 years

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ADEY PROFESSIONAL HEATING SOLUTIONS ADEY is Europe’s leading manufacturer of the largest range of magnetic filters delivering best practice maintenance and protection for central heating and cooling systems. The company also manufactures premium quality water treatment chemicals developed at its independently accredited research centre in Kent.

The Queen’s Award winning firm that invented magnetic filtration commits considerable ongoing investment to product development to create the industry’s most advanced filters including MagnaClean Professional2, MagnaClean Micro2 and MagnaClean Professional2XP.

MagnaClean is the best-selling brand with three million filters installed in UK homes. Tens of thousands are fitted monthly making it the leading filter for professional installers. It also delivers multiple benefits for householders and the environment:  Saves up to 6% on heating bills a year  Helps reduce maintenance call-outs and repair costs by up to 37%  Helps reduce carbon emissions by up to 250kg a year  Helps extend the life of the boiler

Like all the best inventions, the idea is simple. A powerful magnet removes virtually 100% of the suspended black iron oxide, or magnetite, that builds up in heating systems. The black sludge affects boiler performance and, left untreated, causes breakdowns. Powerful magnets and superior design and engineering set MagnaClean apart and hold the key to effective filtration within an innovative swirl chamber. Small or poor performing magnets will only deliver poor filtration results which could be detrimental to heating systems. ADEY’s growing range of chemicals bring ongoing innovation to the market with the addition of MC1+ RAPIDE Protector and MC3+ RAPIDE Cleaner. Developed by the most experienced technical experts in the sector, the fast single-dose products provide system cleaning and ongoing protection for up to 15 radiators which can be delivered in just 20 seconds. ADEY also offers customers a tailored, responsive and totally reliable online water testing service.  For further information visit adey.com


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177

PIPEWORK / SUPPLY SYMBOLS Shown below are some of the most common pipework and supply symbols used within the plumbing industry.

1. Radiator

2. Three-Port Valve

3. Isolation Valve

4. Pipe above suspended ceiling

5. Circulating Pump

6. Pressure-Reducing Valve

7. Direction of Flow

8. Float-Operated Valve

9. Union

10. Flange

11. Capped End

12. Pressure-Relief Valve


An accent on training… We know our boilers are only as good as you – the installers who fit them. That’s why we put so much into our training and support programmes – so there’s more for you to take out. And when it comes compliance and new developments, like ErP, we help you stay on top of your game and ahead of the field.

Scan the QR code to go mobile with the NEW App for installers!

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With an expanding number of training centres across the UK and hundreds of courses every year, we make sure that you’re ready for anything.

Find out more at vokera.co.uk

Vokèra Affinity offers FREE Gas Safe notification, extended warranty activation and automated points claims. Register today at www.vokeraaffinity.co.uk


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