2017/18 EDITION £7.99
THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS
FEATURING...
NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY
Arriving this heating season, our new filter is the best you’ve never had.
#ThinkDirty SentinelProtects.com/Dirty
EDITOR’S NOTE | HIP BOOK 2017-18
2017/18 EDITION £7.99
THE ESSENTIAL BOOK: PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS
FEATURING...
NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
REACHING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INSTALLERS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY
EDITOR: BECKY MARTIN editor@sng-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING: PATRICK BLORE sales@sng-publishing.co.uk GRAPHIC DESIGN: STUDIO 74 www.studio-74.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR: NATACHA FIELDING natacha.fielding@sng-publishing.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.
Welcome to the 2017/18 edition of the HIP Handbook. One of our most popular publications, the HIP Handbook is used all year round by students and newly qualified installers who use this as a go-to source for guidance, tips and product recommendations. Each manufacturer that has sponsored a section within these pages is investing in the future of the plumbing and heating industry. They are at the forefront of new technologies and their reputations have been built over time through the trust they have secured from their customers. They are excited to work with you, the next generation of the industry. As a plumber, installer or heating engineer, you want to know what you need and where to get it from so that you can provide the best possible service to your customers and this book is here to help you with that. We have also included NQI Magazine at the back of this book, which is full of useful information tailored specifically for the newly qualified installer that is sometimes difficult to find elsewhere. If you enjoy this book, please follow us on Twitter and Facebook and join the HIP community!
Becky Martin EDITOR © SNG Publishing Ltd, 2017
HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK HIPPLUMBER @HIPMAGAZINE
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2
HIP BOOK 2017-18 | CONTENTS
REGULARS
CONTENTS 4
HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
7
INDUSTRY CONTACTS
17
GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION
SPONSORED CONTENT
165
Sponsored by
NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
Sponsored by
33
BATHROOMS
39
BOILERS
45
CIRCULATOR PUMPS
Sponsored by
53
COPPER PIPEWORK
Sponsored by
63
DEAERATION
Sponsored by
69
FITTINGS
Sponsored by
75
FLEXIBLE PLUMBING
Sponsored by
81
HOT WATER CYLINDERS
87
MACERATORS
95
MERCHANTS
Sponsored by
101
PLUMBING TOOLS
Sponsored by
107
SHOWERS
113
SHOWER PUMPS
119
SMART CONTROLS
Sponsored by
125
SUPPORT & REWARDS
Sponsored by
131
UNDERFLOOR HEATING
137
WATER REGULATIONS
Sponsored by
153
WATER TREATMENT
Sponsored by
159
WETROOMS
Sponsored by
Sponsored by Sponsored by
Sponsored by Sponsored by
Sponsored by Sponsored by
Sponsored by
Simple. Smart. Solutions. for Underfloor Heating Underfloor heating has never been more affordable and unlike bulky radiators it is completely hidden from sight and is more energy efficient. JG Speedfit Underfloor is offering a wide range of solutions this season to make underfloor heating simple and smart for installers.
Innovative, tried and tested heating solutions
Smart heating control
Whether working on a new house, an extension or renovation, you can always find an ideal solution with our huge range of systems that are compatible with the desired floor finish.
The free JG Aura App allows occupants to control heating from anywhere, at anytime using a smart phone or tablet.
Bringing projects to life
All-round heating control
Our highly skilled design team is at your disposal to offer free CAD drawings and project estimates. They pay great attention to detail for designing the most effective underfloor heating solution for the property and occupant’s lifestyle.
Alongside underfloor heating, JG Aura smart controls can be combined with existing or new radiators. Creating a single solution capable of controlling different temperature times and settings throughout the property.
Instant Estimate
Technical Helpline
Find out more by calling us on (0) 1895 449233 or visit speedfitUFH.co.uk
Free Design with Detailed Estimate
Support on Your Doorstep
Handy Installation Videos & Guides
4
HIP BOOK 2017-18 | UK COMPETITION
WILL YOU BE THE NEXT HIP UK HEATING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR? The winner of HIP Magazine’s biggest event of the year will go home with prizes worth thousands of pounds from the competition’s sponsors.
HOW DOES IT WORK? Each college can put forward one student for the competition. You can find the online application form on the HIP Magazine website at hip-magazine.co.uk and it must be completed no later than 1st December 2017. The entrant must be a Level 2 or 3 student who has completed an in-house practical test successfully and be no older than 24 years of age. Previous finalists cannot be entered and there can be only one student entered per college or campus.
UK COMPETITION | HIP BOOK 2017-18
What did this year’s winner have to say about it?
What happens then? Students will be invited with their lecturers to attend one of seven regional events around the UK where they’ll spend the day competing against other students on practical tasks. Check out the HIP Magazine website to find out where these regional heats will take place. The winner of each regional heat – plus the person who has received the highest score overall from all of the seven regional heats - will then go forward to the grand final which will be held at the ADEY Professional Heating Solutions’ Training and Conference Centre in Cheltenham on 25th & 26th April 2018.
Tayla Wileman from Burton and South Derbyshire College said: “I couldn’t believe it when my name was called out! I’ve never done anything like this before. The main thing I’ll take away from this experience is knowing that I can work within a time limit and do tasks like this.”
2017 WINNER
5
EARN
10
POINTS
10
POINTS
50
POINTS
Redeem points for workwear, power tools and training
30 POINTS
Sign up today! Start collecting your points by registering at worcester-bosch.co.uk/greenstar-rewards
INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
INDUSTRY CONTACTS
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8
HIP BOOK 2017-18 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS
ADEY Gloucester Road, Cheltenham GL51 8NR T: 01242 546700 | E: info@adey.com
www.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.
Aladdin Plumbing Products NLB Engineering Ltd, Units E-F Housham Hall Farm Harlow Road, Matching Tye, Essex CM17 0PB T: 01279 730363 | E: sales@nlbengineering.co.uk
www.aladdin-products.co.uk
Aladdin provide smart solutions for plumbing problems; best known for the Aladdin Autovents (automatic radiator bleed valves) and the award winning Aladdin Easyfit Isolator – the emergency WRAS approved stopcock that fits to pressurised pipe, used by water companies, plumbing maintenance companies and emergency plumbers. New for Autumn 2017 the Aladdin PipeGenie – the tool that punctures and blocks live pipework without the need to freeze / drain down or shut off the water. The Genie is an alternative to freezing which can be used on hot, running or cold water.
Armitage Shanks Armitage Shanks, Old Road, Armitage, Staffordshire WS15 4BT T: 01543 490253 | E: productinfo@thebluebook.co.uk
www.idealspec.co.uk
With 200 years of experience, Armitage Shanks truly understands how a bathroom works. The company manufactures its own products in the UK using the best materials and skilled craftsmanship, ensuring every item meets the highest quality standards.
Bahco Moorhead Way, Bramley, Rotherham, South Yorkshire S66 1YY T: 01709 731731
www.bahco.com
Bahco is a long established, global tool brand respected by trade professionals for innovative design, high tech manufacturing, product safety and great performance. Specialist tools for plumbers and heating installers include a wide range of adjustable wrenches, water pump pliers and socket sets. The first adjustable spanner was patented by Bahco’s founder in 1886.
INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Baxi Heating UK Ltd Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL E (Technical): technical.helpline@baxi.co.uk
www.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 market-leading warranties backed by Baxi Customer Support, Baxi Genuine Parts and training.
Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering T: 01708 472791 | E: info@ciphe.org.uk
www.ciphe.org.uk
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is the professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, dedicated to championing best practice and protecting the health and safety of the general public. For more information about CIPHE membership, please visit www.ciphe.org.uk, call: 01708 472791 or email: info@ciphe.org.uk.
Copper Initiative c/o Copper Development Assoc., 5 Grovelands Business Centre Boundary Way, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 7TE E: info@copperalliance.org.uk
www.copperplumbing.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.
Fernox 2 Genesis Business Park, Albert Road, Sheerwater Woking, Surrey GU21 5RW Sales: 0330 100 7750 | E: sales@fernox.com
www.fernox.com
Fernox is Europe’s leading brand and manufacturer of domestic and commercial water treatment chemicals, equipment and filters. Products include the new nickel-plated, brass TF1 Omega Filter, Inhibitors, Cleaners, Leak Sealers and Plumbing Consumables such as LS-X and Powerflow Flux.
continued>>
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS
Fluxuator T: 01268 561300
www.fluxuator.co.uk
A flux applicator that is new to the market. The ergonomically designed applicator makes the Fluxuator easy to hold, and the click system safely delivers the minimum amount of flux for maximum coverage. The key benefits are; QUICK to use, just twist and go. SAFE, reduced risk of contamination. DURABLE and ROBUST, to withstand heavy use onsite. SELF CLEANING FLUX, with washable head system. EFFICIENT, up to 500 measured applications. Available in 22mm and 15mm, with a one size fits both refill.
Glow-worm Glow-worm Head Office, Nottingham Road Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1JT T: 01773 824 639 | E: info@glow-worm.co.uk
www.glow-worm.co.uk
Glow-worm has held a strong tradition of producing reliable heating and energy products for over 80 years. With continuous improvements we remain as one of the leading manufacturers of exceptional, efficient and durable energy solutions.
Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant T: 02476 560 777 E: website@grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk or turningpro@grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk
www.grahamplumbers merchant.co.uk
Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant is a major supplier of plumbing, heating, bathroom materials and renewable solutions. Graham has over 180 branches across the UK, as well as 25 bathroom showrooms.
Grundfos Pumps Ltd Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4TL T: 01525 850000 | E: grundfosuk@grundfos.com
www.grundfos.co.uk
Grundfos Pumps are a UK leader in the supply of energy efficient pumps for a wide range of applications around the home. This includes the award-winning ALPHA3 circulator system that simplifies hydronic balancing.
INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Henkel Ltd Wood Lane End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4RQ T: +44 (0)1442 278100 E: technicalservice.loctite@uk.henkel.com
www.loctite.co.uk
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
Edlington Lane, Doncaster DN12 1BY T: 0844 856 5165 | E: info@hep2o.co.uk
www.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, OSMA and Tigris K1.
Impey Showers Ltd Conquest Business Park, Cad Road, Ilton, Somerset TA19 9EA T: +44 (0)1460 256080 | E: info@impeyshowers.com
www.impeyshowers.com
Wetrooms specialist Impey offers a market-leading choice of leak free wetroom solutions designed and manufactured in Britain. Impey’s versatile portfolio of high-quality products is ideal for any size or style of wetroom; from floor-formers and tanking (waterproofing) kits to underfloor heating, shower screens and bathroom accessories. Installers who are keen to learn about fitting a wetroom can join Impey on the UK-wide ‘We Are Wetrooms’ training tour, to gain essential skills and knowledge.
JG Speedfit Ltd Horton Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 8JL T: 01895 449233 The Push-fit People
www.speedfit.co.uk www.speedfitUFH.co.uk
JG Speedfit, a British manufacturer that invented the push-fit technology, offers a wide variety of push-fit Plumbing and Heating solutions that make installations quick, easy and reliable even in the tightest spaces, without the need of additional tools.
continued>>
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS
Kingspan Environmental Ltd 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
www.kingspanenviro.com
Kingspan Environmental is a leading manufacturer of environmental solutions, specialising in renewable energy generation. Our portfolio ranges from wind turbines and solar thermal to a wide selection of hot water cylinders for domestic, industrial and commercial markets.
McAlpine Kelvin Avenue, Hillington, Glasgow G52 4LF T: 0141 882 3213
www.mcalpineplumbing.com
McAlpine, the market leader in plumbing products, continue to expand their range and the latest innovative products include a short 90 degree flexible WC Connector for a Back to Wall WC Pan and a dry fixing spring-loaded centre pin basin waste suitable for basins with or without overflow.
Mira Showers Cromwell Road, Cheltenham, Gloucester GL52 5EP T: 0844 571 5000
www.mirashowers.co.uk
Mira Showers is the UK’s Number 1 shower manufacturer with over 90 years of experience. Offering a complete range of showers, taps, enclosures and trays as well as a UK-based call centre providing support and advice for the professional.
INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd St Catherine’s Avenue, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN4 8DF T: 01302 560560 | F: 01302 560203 E: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk
www.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.
Rhino Products Ltd
www.rhinoproducts.co.uk
Sixth Avenue, Zone 2, Deeside Ind Park, Deeside, Flintshire CH5 2LB T: 01244 833790 | 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.
Plumb and Parts Center The Wolseley Center, Harrison Way, Spa Park Royal Leamington Spa CV31 3HH T: 01926 705000 | E: customerservices@wolseley.co.uk
www.wolseley.co.uk
Save time
Plumb and Parts Center is the UK’s leading supplier of plumbing and heating products to the trade, including heating systems, renewables, plumbing, drainage, bathrooms, showers, trade essentials and spare parts. It operates from more than 500 branches.
Save money
Save hassle
60 seconds is all it takes Register today Wolseley.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS
Ridge Tool UK C/O Emerson Electric, 2nd Floor Accurist House 44 Baker Street, London W1U 7 AL T: 0808 238 9869 | E: ridgid.gb@emerson.com
www.ridgid.com
RIDGIDÂŽ, 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 Unit 2c Colima Avenue, Enterprise Park West Sunderland SR5 3XE T: 0191 516 2002 | F: 0191 548 4445 E: sales@salamanderpumps.co.uk
www.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 smarter water performance.
Saniflo Ltd Howard House, The Runway, South Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 6SE T: 020 8842 0033 | F: 020 8842 1671 E: sales@saniflo.co.uk
www.saniflo.co.uk
Saniflo is the market leader in the production and sales of macerators, pumps and lifting stations for domestic and commercial use and also has a range of popular Kinedo shower cubicles.
Sentinel Performance Solutions Ltd 7650 Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BS T: 01928 704330 | E: info.uk@sentinelprotects.com
www.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.
INDUSTRY CONTACTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Spirotech One Cranmore Drive, Shirley, Solihull B90 4RZ T: 0208 451 3344 | E: marketing_uk@spirotech.com
www.spirotech.co.uk
Spirotech is the global leader in fluid conditioning and analysis, providing domestic and commercial heating system protection. Its range of products work continuously to ensure energy savings, reliability, reduced maintenance costs and increased service life.
Stelrad Radiators Ltd Marriott Road, Mexborough, South Yorkshire S64 8BN T: 0844 543 6200 | E: info@stelrad.com
www.stelrad.com
Stelrad, the No.1 radiator manufacturer in the UK, offers the widest range of radiators in the marketplace. Unbeatable on quality, reliability, availability and range, Stelrad offers radiators for every application, at every price point, from entry level to designer level, horizontal, vertical, in colours – all easy to install.
Stuart Turner Ltd Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 2AD T: 01491 572655 | F: 01491 573704 E: pumps@stuart-turner.co.uk
www.stuart-turner.co.uk
Stuart Turner offer a comprehensive range of simple to install, specifically designed total water boosting solutions for both mains water and gravity fed / unvented systems to deliver water where you want it, when you need it.
Vaillant Nottingham Road, Belper, Derbyshire, United Kingdom DE56 1JT T: 01773 596660
www.vaillant.co.uk
As a leading manufacturer in the heating industry, Vaillant offers its customers worldwide energy-saving heating and hot water systems, utilising both gas fired and renewable technologies. Its product portfolio encompasses high-efficiency boilers, solar-thermal, heat pumps and larger output boilers for light commercial use as well as a range of intelligent controls.
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | INDUSTRY CONTACTS
Van Guard Accessories Ltd Fair Oak Close, Exeter Airport Business Park, Exeter, Devon EX5 2UL T: 01392 368351 | E: sales@van-guard.co.uk
www.van-guard.co.uk
Van Guard are a long-established manufacturer of high quality aluminium van roof bars, roof racks, pipe carriers (inc. lined pipe carriers), internal racking and other van accessories - all products are Made in Britain.
Viessmann Ltd Hortonwood 30, Telford TF1 7YP T: 01952 675000 | F: 01952 675040 E: info-uk@viessmann.com
www.viessmann.co.uk
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 Borderlake House, Unit 7 Riverside Industrial Estate London Colney AL2 1HG T: 01727 744002
www.vokera.co.uk
Vokèra is a leading manufacturer in heating solutions, offering a comprehensive product range, including domestic and commercial boilers, controls, water heaters, unvented cylinders and renewables. Vokèra products are supported by its industry leading service backup and technical training.
Wilo UK Second Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton-upon-Trent Staffordshire DE14 2WJ T: 01283 523000 | E: sales@wilo.co.uk
www.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 airconditioning technology as well as water supply and sewage disposal.
GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2017-18
GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO
A LOOK AT WHAT MAKES PLASTIC FANTASTIC FOR YOUNG PLUMBERS Plastic push-fit technology is fast becoming the norm for young plumbers thanks to its fast and effective installation characteristics, but do you know how their design facilitates this advantage? Nigel Sanger, Divisional Technical Director at JG Speedfit, analyses the various components which comprise the company’s renowned plastic push-fit fittings.
O-Rings The O-rings you will find in Speedfit push-fits are created with a highly-engineered material, known as EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer.) This is the same material used for O-rings which provide the primary seal pressure for disc brake calipers in cars, and which have a working life of up to 50 years. EPDM O-rings are incompressible
and able to perform at high pressure. However, they can also be distorted and it is this ability to change shape and conform to the outside of the pipe and inside surface of the fitting, which facilitates a leak-proof seal.
When designing O-rings, we always ensure that there is scope for the O-ring to change shape. This enables the pipe to be pushed easily into the fitting, without dislodging the O-ring from its position.
Collets
This is the product that Mr John Guest first invented in 1974 and a design that all Speedfit products are based upon. The collet allows you to complete a secure connection with minimum insertion force. In the early days of push-fit plumbing, stainless-steel rings were used in place of collets. These would have teeth that
GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2017-18
had to be pushed apart when inserting the pipe. However, while the action of pushing the pipe through the teeth would stop it from falling out, it could cause scratches on the surface of the pipe. To counter this, the O-ring had to be applied first, sealed, and the ring gripped into place. It was impossible to make the seal once the pipe had been pushed through the stainless-steel ring and got scratched. However, plumbers often pushed the pipe through the O-ring and not the grip ring, which caused it to fall apart over time, leading to catastrophic failure. The collet reversed this because it was designed to have a low insertion force without damaging the surface of the pipe. Today, you can insert the pipe into the collet which grabs the pipe before pushing it through the seal, thus guaranteeing a secure connection.
Twist and lock
Speedfit fittings are engineered to have a strong seal and a low insertion force, through the use of a twist and lock mechanism. Once you push the
Speedfit fittings are engineered to have a strong seal and a low insertion force, through the use of a twist and lock mechanism. pipe into the fitting, the collet tightly clamps onto the pipe, increasing the grip. It also pushes the spacer washer against the O-ring, giving a greater seal on the outside of the pipe. This ensures that when plumbers tighten the screw cap, they end up with a more secure connection, which is part push-fit, part compression. It’s deceptively simple, but highly successful because of the clever engineering that goes into the fitting.  For further information, please visit: speedfit.co.uk
O-ring Seal Ensures a permanent leak-proof connection.
Superseal Pipe Insert Creates a secondary seal.
Stainless Steel Teeth
Collet
Spacer Washer
High quality stainless steel teeth grip the pipe when fully inserted.
Advanced gripping mechanism utilises stainless steel teeth for a strong connection.
Provides additional support to the O-ring Seal.
TRUSTED BY THE BEST
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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.
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.
CIRCULATING PUMP
The device which generates the flow of water around the heating circuit.
PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE (PRV) 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.
AUTOMATIC BYPASS VALVE A valve which ensures a minimum flow rate through the boiler if all zone valves or TRVs are closed.
LOCKSHIELD VALVE 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 2017-18
RADIATOR VENT
THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE (TMV)
A device that releases air from within a radiator.
REDUCED PRESSURE ZONE VALVE (RPZ) The RPZ Valve is a device which prevents backflow, 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.
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 2017-18 | 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
1.2
1.8
0.6
1.2
1.8
2.4
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
35
1¼
2.4
3.0
0.8
1.7
2.7
3.0
42
1½
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 2017-18
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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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 EQUAL STRAIGHT CONNECTOR
3 REDUCING STRAIGHT CONNECTOR
5
4 REDUCING TEE
7
6 EQUAL ELBOW
8 STOP END
SLIP TEE CONNECTOR
REDUCING ELBOW
9 APPLIANCE TEE
11
10
EQUAL TEE
STEM TEE
12 STRAIGHT TAP CONNECTOR
FEMALE COUPLER TAP CONNECTOR
GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2017-18
13
14 BENT TAP CONNECTOR
15 EMERGENCY SHUT OFF TAP
17
16
18 REDUCER
2 WAY DIVIDER
20
19
APPLIANCE TAP
ANGLE STOP VALVE
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21 STOP VALVE
4 PORT RAIL MANIFOLD
22
DOUBLE CHECK VALVE
24 PLAIN PIPE INSERT
26
STEM ELBOW
DOUBLE CHECK SERVICE VALVE
25 SUPER SEAL PIPE INSERT
27
PIPE REPAIR KIT
28 4 WAY MANIFOLD
TANK CONNECTOR
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO
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
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 2017-18
HAZARDS & TYPES OF PPE EYES Hazards: Chemical or metal splash, projectiles, dust, 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
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | GENERAL PLUMBING INFO
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. FIGURE 1.
Span (L)
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&#x201A;Š 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 (above).
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.
GENERAL PLUMBING INFO | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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
FIGURE 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
FIGURE 3. REQUIREMENTS FOR DRILLING HOLES THROUGH ENGINEERING (‘I’) JOISTS
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | CIPHE MEMBERSHIP
WHERE WILL TRAINEE MEMBERSHIP TAKE YOU? Sometimes when you are starting out in a new industry, you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and where you want to go with your career. Sometimes you haven’t even thought of where you might be in 10 or 20 years time.
Free technical info
Either way, joining the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) as a Trainee Member or newly qualified Affiliate Member can help, whether you’ll be working on the tools, building a business or branching into the world of teaching or consulting.
Including access to p&he journal, CIPHEpd, techtalk and smarttalk, membership can really boost your studies and technical knowledge (before and after qualification).
Helping you develop & grow
CIPHE’s Industrial Associate Supporters include the biggest named manufacturers in the industry, delivering discounted access to their training for our members.
The CIPHE wants its members to be the best they can be and will help you reach your career highs. We offer a clear route for career development through our Apprentice, Journeyman and Master Plumber awards. And if you want recognition of your status from Engineering Council, we will advise and support you through applications for Engineering Technician, Incorporated Engineer or Chartered Engineer status.
Access discounted short courses
Discounts galore Supporting members in their professional lives is key. This includes discounts with partners providing work opportunities, insurance, accountancy, CPD recording and much more.
Access to bursaries We will assist members with applications to access bursaries worth thousands of pounds through the Worshipful Company of Plumbers.
Make your CV stand out Being a CIPHE member identifies you as a professional, will help impress future employers and makes you stand out from the crowd.
Free first year membership If your college is one of the CIPHE’s Approved Training Centres, then you may be eligible for funded membership for one year! Launch your career the right way and download an application form at ciphe.org.uk/join, call 01708 472791 or email membership@ciphe.org.uk
BATHROOMS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
BATHROOMS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BATHROOMS
HOW INSTALLERS CAN TURN INCREASED CONSUMER DEMAND FOR WATER SAVING TO THEIR ADVANTAGE Last year saw a major increase in consumer use of water-efficient appliances, including taps, showers and washing machines, as Britain’s savvy shoppers look to safeguard their spending against rising household bills – that’s according to a report commissioned by Armitage Shanks’ parent company, Ideal Standard, and Waterwise. Here, Armitage Shanks’ Tony Rheinberg outlines how this greater demand for bathroom products that save money and water could affect installers’ workloads – and how tradespeople can use this knowledge to their advantage.
DID YOU KNOW? “Each year, we work with Waterwise, the leading authority on water efficiency in the UK and Europe, to produce a report that looks into the water use habits of UK consumers. The report, dubbed the annual waterefficiency tracker survey, looks at the public’s attitudes and actions when it comes to water management.
Increased demand for water efficient products “The survey undertaken at the end of the year found that there has been an 18 per cent increase in the number of British adults actively taking action when it comes to addressing water saving: up to 88 per cent of respondents this year compared to 70 per cent a year ago. “Actions include utilising water efficient appliances and taking steps to reduce wastage, like not leaving the tap running, for example. “Thirty seven per cent of those surveyed said that they do not know how much water they use in a single day, suggesting that the UK does not understand where its water consumption comes from. “The results suggest that those with a water meter, who can actively see how much water they are using, are more likely to be water savvy continued>>
CELEBRATING OUR FIRST TWO CENTURIES IN BRITAINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BATHROOMS AND WASHROOMS. JOIN THE CELEBRATION: www.celebrate200.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BATHROOMS
than those paying a fixed tariff. Eighty two per cent of those with a water meter who responded to the survey actively take steps to reduce water usage and therefore save money, compared to just 30 per cent of those with a set bill. “Those that did not know how their water charges are calculated were less able to estimate how much water they use each day and were more likely to underestimate this figure. “To compile these results, 2,016 consumers from across the UK were surveyed.
What this means for installers – and how can it be used to their advantage? “It’s common knowledge that saving water is a great way to create a more sustainable environment. This however doesn’t seem to be front of mind for consumers when it comes to purchasing bathroom products that offer water efficiency; instead, it’s the financial aspect of water saving that is truly driving UK homeowners and househunters to make reducing water usage a priority. “Almost a fifth (18 per cent) more of UK consumers are now actively taking action when it comes to cutting back on water consumption compared to this time last year – an enormous rise in just 12 months. “This result suggests the need to effectively manage a household budget is tying in well with an increased awareness of the need to take account for how much water is used on a daily basis. “These savvy consumers want to know how much money their new home’s water consuming products could save them, so it’s well worth installers finding out the possible cost savings of the products they put forward for the homeowner’s selection. Such figures could prove to be more
than useful when it comes to helping steer the customer in the direction you want.
What products are available for home installations? “The market is flooded with options when it comes to providing projects with the best in water saving technology. Ideal Standard, which is the parent company of Armitage Shanks, is committed to delivering change through this product category and is constantly working to address the challenge of reducing the amount of water being wasted in the UK. “All Ideal Standard basin mixers are fitted with a 5 litre per minute water regulator, therefore saving water by over 40 per cent. Low capacity baths are available, offering a soak whilst using 20 per cent less water.
“Its Concept Blue fittings range, with IdealBlue technology, is a revolutionary system engineered to use less water and energy. The amount of water held in the tap when closed is reduced by 80 per cent, meaning less water is wasted. The low water content reduces the time taken to achieve the selected water temperature by seven seconds, saving both water and the energy to heat it.
BATHROOMS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
“It’s advisable to take the time to talk through all of the best options for your project with the suppliers you purchase bathroom and water products from. Work through all the possibilities until you find a combination which provides optimum water saving potential for the property or properties. “Doing so will help to fulfil energy criteria while making the eventual completed home more attractive to its prospective occupant; a winning combination for any specifier. “Ideal Standard is committed to water efficiency and all of its products across its entire range display the European Water Label, which is a single label scheme across Europe that clearly shows the volume of water that the tap or shower head will consume per minute if installed correctly and in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, and offers an actual performance band per product. “The scheme provides a recognisable, consistent measurement of water efficiency of bathroom products, allowing for an easy comparison of the water efficiency of similar products for the consumer or installer.
Water savings don’t end there – think commercially too “However, it’s not just homeowners who care about saving water. This will also be front of mind
Armitage Shanks has products for all commercial bathrooms and washrooms... for those with purchasing power when it comes to commercial washrooms, which often come with strict targets when it comes to managing water and reducing energy consumption. “Armitage Shanks has products for all commercial bathrooms and washrooms – be they in hotels, healthcare establishments, office facilities or public spaces – all of which work to save water wherever possible.
Front of mind for all bathroom purchases “It’s clear that whatever the specification, water saving is among the top deciding factors for whoever has final say on purchasing bathroom products; be that a homeowner, developer or facilities manager. Highlighting the potential savings when discussing the project showcases installer expertise and can help secure that all-important contract.” For more information on Armitage Shanks and its water-saving bathroom products, please visit: idealspec.co.uk
For more information on Ideal Standard, please visit: ideal-standard.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BATHROOMS
MADE IN BRITAIN: 200 YEARS OF ARMITAGE SHANKS This year marks the two hundred year anniversary of Armitage Shanks. Here we look at the history – and the future - of this iconic British bathroom brand… Founded in 1817, the company emerged during a time when the lack of sanitation was so bad in the UK that life expectancy was only 40 years. As a leader in the sanitation industry, the business has come a long way since then, with highlights including:
Being the first business to connect water closets to sewer systems, rapidly improving public sanitation Building the first factory dedicated entirely to sanitaryware in 1851 in Armitage, Staffordshire Generating influence that spread across the globe; by the 1890s, the business had offices in Australia, Amsterdam, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Warsaw and Brussels Supplying sanitaryware to iconic ships, such as Titanic and the Queen Mary Adapting products and creating a virtuous glaze that made products more hygienic and durable. By the 1950s, all of its domestic products were made using virtuous glazes Creating 1970s bestseller - the original avocado bath
And with 200 years of success behind it, Armitage Shanks has plenty of expertise to
keep on innovating, ensuring it retains its place as the market leading sanitary ware provider in the commercial bathroom sector and healthcare bathroom sector. Armitage Shanks has never stopped looking to and investing in the future, with a focus on utilising the latest in factory techniques, including the purchase of a £2.2m robot which is used to create innovative ceramic bathroom designs. While Armitage Shanks may be the last remaining large scale British manufacturer, it certainly isn’t a business stuck in the past. The brand looks forward to continuing to push bathroom boundaries in the future, growing alongside the latest group of trainee installers as the industry continues to develop. To find out more about Armitage Shanks and its products, please visit: idealspec.co.uk
BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
BOILERS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BOILERS
HOW CONDENSING BOILERS WORK Viessmann’s training manager, Tony Lobley explains the company’s simple but brilliantly effective technology. Whenever you install a gas- or oil-fired boiler, it will have to be (with a few very rare exceptions) a condensing boiler. This has been a legal requirement under UK Building Regulations for more than 10 years now and quite rightly so, because today’s pre-mix condensing boilers are the most efficient gas technology available, however condensing boilers are much more energy efficient than non-condensing boilers only if they are set up to be able to condense. Condensing boilers are good
for end-users, because they help keep energy consumption and heating bills under control, and are good for the environment because they reduce CO2 emissions. The government is legally obliged to reduce CO2 emissions under the Climate Change Act and every little helps.
How condensing technology works Condensing technology is an efficient method of converting natural gas or fuel oil into useful heat by means of combustion. They have been designed to follow the rule of operating the boiler with only the temperature that is actually required to cover the current heat demand.
...today’s pre-mix condensing boilers are the most efficient gas technology available...
continued>>
Which? endorsed Viessmann boilers. Best Buy for Vitodens 100-W and Vitodens 050-W
The quality of Viessmannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boilers has now been recognised by receiving Best Buy status from members of the public and installers surveyed by Which? in the UK. With more than 1.5 million members and supporters, Which? is the largest independent consumer body in the UK and its Best Buy Award is instantly recognisable. At Viessmann, we are incredibly proud that our boilers have received Best Buy status 2017. For more information visit our website at www.viessmann.co.uk/which?
Viessmann Limited ¡ Telford ¡ Telephone 01952 675000
Which? endorsed boilers Vitodens 100-W Vitodens 050-W
Heating systems Industrial systems Refrigeration systems
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BOILERS
DID YOU KNOW? Condensing boilers generate most of their heat, of course, in the same way as other types of boiler, by burning gas or oil. But condensing boilers obtain additional heat from the waste gases produced by the boiler’s combustion process, by extracting heat energy that would otherwise be lost as gases passing through the flue.
Fuel oil and natural gas both predominantly consist of compounds of carbon and hydrogen. During combustion these compounds react with oxygen content in the air, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide and water vapour. The water vapour contains latent heat and it’s this that condensing boilers capture and use. In fact,
condensing boilers extract almost all of the heat contained in the flue gases. The component that makes this possible in condensing boilers is the heat exchanger, which cools the gases before they are routed into the flue. When the surface temperature of the heat exchanger, which is in contact with the flue gases, drops below the water vapour dew point (≈55°C), the water vapour in the hot gas is turned into liquid or condensate. The heat given up by the vapour is then captured by the heat exchanger and transferred to the heating system. This process gives condensing boilers a level of efficiency that once seemed impossible. Before condensing technology, boilers were commonly achieving about 75% efficiency, losing almost 25% through the flue. With todays best condensing boilers it is possible to lose less than 1% if they are properly set up. And the heat exchanger technology that makes this possible is available without any maintenance or reliability issues:
BOILERS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Viessmann’s Inox-Radial heat exchanger is made of high grade stainless steel and that means it’s 100% corrosive resistant. One of the many advantages of stainless steel is that it’s ideally suited to condensing boilers. It is temperature stable and resistant to condensate, making it very corrosion resistant and extremely durable.
Return flow temperature is crucial It’s critical to note that the temperature of water returning from the heating system to the boiler needs to be low enough to enable the boiler to condense. Boilers will often have a flow temperature (that is, the water flowing out of the boiler) of around 80°C or higher - but the return temperature needs to be less than 50°C. This is the dew point, where the water vapour in the flue gas will start to condense. The lower the return temperature, the lower the flue temperature and therefore, the greater the condensation and the more efficient the boiler becomes. Natural gas and fuel oil have different chemical compositions and therefore different temperatures at which the water vapour in the hot gas will condense. Whereas the water vapour dew point temperature for natural gas is approximately 55°C in the near stoichiometric range, for fuel oil EL it is approximately 47°C. Hence the return flow needs to be around 10°C lower in fuel oil boilers than in gas boilers. Oil also has less latent heat than gas; therefore the benefit of condensing oil is not as great (6% vs. 11%).
temperature and thus as a result changes radiator temperature immediately (unlike a room thermostat, which only takes effect after the inside of the building has become too hot from over-heating or too cold from heat loss through walls and windows). This is made possible by connecting the boiler controls to a small temperature sensor located outside the building, usually on a north-facing wall. Recent research by the University of Salford, Manchester, has shown that connecting a boiler to weather compensation controls will reduce energy consumption by 15% when the outside temperature is 3°C, by 31% when it’s 8°C outdoors, and by 45% when it’s 12°C outside. Over the course of a year this will cut the end-user’s energy bill by about 15%. With this impressive level of efficiency, correctly commissioned condensing boilers will almost always be the best choice for properties connected to the gas main, regardless of their being required by Building Regs.
Weather compensation is important For maximum effectiveness, the boiler needs to condense for as long as possible. Weather compensation is needed to achieve this. With weather compensation, the boiler responds to changes in outside temperature by increasing or decreasing boiler flow
Visit viessmann.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | BOILERS
WEATHER COMPENSATION CONTROLS THE SECRETS TO 15 PER CENT SAVINGS What are weather compensation controls? Weather compensation controls offer an advanced yet low cost way to make a boiler run more efficiently. They ensure that a boiler burns the exact amount of fuel required to match the heat lost from the building as determined by the weather. Viessmann Vitodens boiler controls are set up for weather compensation. All that’s needed is an outdoor sensor. The sensor measures outside air temperature and prompts the boiler to increase or decrease the boiler flow
Glen Wakeling, 32, has been working for the family business Heatspec for 13 years. Having covered many areas of the HVAC industry, Glen has gained great experience of technicalities, build quality and controls.
temperature, and as a result the temperatures of the radiators, to compensate. This pro-active mechanism means that people inside the building won’t even notice that the temperature outside has changed. It also means that the boiler is able to operate at the lowest temperature required to keep the building warm.
What can customers expect to save? Weather compensation results in significant fuel savings compared to thermostats alone. Customers stand to save up to 15 per cent in fuel savings per year, the equivalent of over £120 per annum, which could see the initial investment recouped within one year.
How can Viessmann help? Weather compensation controls are available for all Viessmann Vitodens domestic boilers such as the Vitodens 100-W, and can be retrofitted to all past Viessmann models.
Visit viessmann.co.uk “I believe Viessmann weather compensation is a fantastic way for homeowners to save money on their heating bills. It also provides a better comfort temperature. “The weather compensation on the Vitodens 200-W has a great visual of the ‘Curve’ you are altering. It gives your customer better understanding of the technology and offers them a way to lower their bills. Viessmann also offer a wireless outdoor sensor which is charged by its own solar charge – very helpful if it is tricky to get to the ideal north wall with a wired sensor. “Having worked with Viessmann for over 5 years fitting most of its domestic and commercial range, we’ve found working in partnership to be essential. Viessmann offer such great training and back-up which far exceeds any other manufacturer. We really like how our relationship is reciprocated - Viessmann help us to keep our customers with service reminders and other communications and recommend us via their ‘find an installer’ scheme.”
CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
CIRCULATOR PUMPS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS
READY TO GET INTO CIRCULATION WITH GRUNDFOS The domestic circulator has been subject to many changes in recent years. These have come about because of a combination of engineering and technological advances as well as changes to legislation. Fig. 1
Today Grundfos offer a range of domestic circulators that are among the most advanced circulators that are available to the market. This makes them the ideal choice for a variety of domestic circulation heating systems, as they provide effective, reliable, 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 a very important one. As a global pump manufacturer, Grundfos are aware that when it comes to replacement time, it is frequently the case where the details are taken directly from the pump plate and an identical pump is requested, or if this has been discontinued, the closest alternative is sought.
But is this 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 Grundfos ALPHA3 (see Fig. 1)
continued>>
PROUD TO CHOOSE GRUNDFOS
“I always look for the best in new technology” HANNAH APPRENTICE PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER
GRUNDFOS ECADEMY
INSTALLER COMPANION
WIN & EARN REWARDS
Combines training, news & reward schemes in one easy access point Join now at www.grundfos.co.uk/installer
IT’S A FACT. PROPER BALANCING MAKES A REAL DIFFERENCE. AND NOW IT’S REALISTIC
FIND OUT MO RE ru
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HA
g w. Note: Grundfos ALPHA READER tool supplied separately to pump
3
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Research shows a single unbalanced radiator can increase heating costs by 3.5%, whilst system wide imbalance raises them by 9-27%. That’s up to £120 extra per year in a typical UK household. Traditionally though it has often been too time consuming to balance systems for efficiency – if all the radiators get hot, that’s been good enough. Grundfos can help you change that, saving your customers money on their bills whilst giving you a fast, easy and chargeable service to offer.
fos.co.uk/A
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS
TODAY THE RANGE OF MODERN ENERGY-EFFICIENT DOMESTIC CIRCULATOR CHOICES AVAILABLE FROM GRUNDFOS INCLUDES:
UPS2 The UPS2 15-50/60 is our popular, compact, high efficiency replacement for the earlier generation Grundfos UPS 15-50/60 circulator pumps. 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 also 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 offer 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
ALPHA3 The award-winning ALPHA3 is the latest addition to the Grundfos domestic circulator family. It still delivers Grundfos quality as well as guaranteeing easy installation, but it is its world-class energy efficiency (it can cut heating costs by 20%) and flow based balancing that can save hours which really sets it apart. This means that today flow-based balancing of a heating system no longer needs to be complicated and time-consuming as with the ALPHA3 system this can be done in three easy steps. Simply install the ALPHA3 pump, attach the ALPHA Reader to the pump and follow the step-by-step instructions in the Grundfos GO app (available on IOS and android). FEATURES: Market leading energy efficiency rating of EEI 0.15 Makes hydronic balancing in 2-string radiator and underfloor heating systems simple Patented AUTOADAPT functionality Permanent magnet motor Ceramic shaft and bearings prevents magnetic build-up Robust start-up and dry run protection Quiet operation ‘Plug and pump’ electrical connection for fast fitting 5-year warranty
CIRCULATOR PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
GRUNDFOS FOR INSTALLERS We have developed a new online platform called Grundfos for Installers. This is a one-stop-shop for installers and heating engineers that offers ready access to a range of useful pump-related materials. Designed specifically to meet the needs of today’s plumbing aficionados, this portal offers access to the best tools and information from the Grundfos world to support people in their daily work. Since it launched in 2016, it has been under constant development and will continue to evolve broadening the range of tools, features and information to make sure it continues to meet your needs. One example of this is the WIN & EARN Grundfos loyalty scheme. This scheme means that people who purchase a range of Grundfos pump products get an opportunity to earn points that can be exchanged for either Amazon vouchers or sporting goods that are unique to Grundfos.
The benefits don’t end there – there is also lots of other options available from the Grundfos for Installers portal, such as a range of digital tools and information on new products. There is also access to the ever-popular Grundfos Ecademy learning platform that supports a wide range of product and industry related topics all delivered in bite-sized modules.
Getting started on WIN & EARN is as easy as 1-2-3: 1. CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT
Either online or by downloading the GO Installer Companion app in Google Play or the App Store.
2. REGISTER A PRODUCT
Open the WIN & EARN sticker from participating product boxes, register the code and get points. You can register products on your computer, tablet or smart phone.
3. CLAIM YOUR REWARDS
Once you have earned 2000 points you can start claiming your rewards from Amazon or you can opt to convert your WIN & EARN points into credits for branded sports kit with our partner Sportyfied.
This internet-based learning tool assists in improving knowledge on pumps, their applications and the theory behind them and is available 24/7. Its aim is to help keep pump professionals up-to-date on a range of industry related topics and has been specifically developed to assist installers, heating engineers and merchant counter staff. With Grundfos for Installers available 24/7, you can access the hub when it suits you. Visit grundfos.co.uk/gfi to find out more and remember to book mark this page for quick, convenient access in the future.
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | CIRCULATOR PUMPS
YOU CAN WIN & EARN WITH A RANGE OF GRUNDFOS PRODUCTS... Grundfos Pumps are offering you even more reasons to purchase our products with the WIN & EARN loyalty scheme.
The scheme We have been working hard to make this the best scheme available and can now offer points on a range of twelve product families, that cover the whole spectrum of pump products that we offer.
The points Today the extended line-up for the Grundfos WIN & EARN scheme and their associated points value is: Conlift
100 points
UPS2 15-50/60, UPS2 25-80 and 32-80 and Unilift
300 points
ALPHA2L, COMFORT, Shower Booster and UPS 15-50N
400 points
SCALA2, MQ and SOLOLIFT2
800 points
ALPHA3
4000 points
The EARN element of the programme is aimed at UK pump installer company owners / managers. At registration, you are asked to enrol as an owner / manager or an employee. You will then be able to start collecting points using the codes from the pump packaging that is on relevant participating products. Once you have reached a minimum of 2,000 points these can be translated either into Amazon vouchers or a range of sports goods that are unique to Grundfos. If you join the scheme as an employee, you can enter WIN & EARN sticker details and these will be credited to the owner / manager. Plus, each code correctly logged will gain an entry into the monthly prize draws for the chance to WIN a super prize such as a voucher for a hotel break, a SatNav, a Roberts radio or a FitBit smart watch. ď&#x201A;Š To get started, simply download the Grundfos GO Install App or visit grundfos.co.uk/win and join this scheme, because it really does add up.
QUICK QUIZ | HIP BOOK 2017-18
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF CIRCULATOR PUMPS Fill in the following sentences about what circulator pumps do and how they function using the missing words below. Vent pipe Pressure 1 litre
Three 1.5 litres Positive
Isolation valves Centrifugal Circulate
Litres 5 or 6 m
Impeller Microscopic
1. Domestic circulating pumps are fitted with to permit service and maintenance. 2. Pumps consist of an electric motor which drives a circular fluted wheel called an . This ‘accelerates’ the flow of water by force. 3. The pump is required to water around the central heating system, ensuring that the water is delivered at the desired quantities throughout all of the system components. 4. The majority of pumps have settings and pump manufacturers provide performance data for each, which shows flow rate in per second and in k Pa and m head. 5. The flow rate should not exceed systems and can create noise in the system.
per second for small-bore per second for micro-bore systems. Anything higher
6. Most pumps deliver or head. This should be enough to overcome the flow resistance of the whole heating circuit. 7. For good practice, the pump should be positioned so that it gives a pressure within the circuit. This ensures that air is not drawn into the system through leaks. 8. In a fully pumped system, the position of the pump is even more critical because of its position in relation to the cold feed and .
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Maximum operating convenience thanks to ‘Green Button Technology’ with new, intelligent settings, intuitive interface and new functions Quick, easy installation and seamless replacement thanks to new, optimised construction Optimised energy efficiency thanks to adjustable EC motor, settings with an accuracy of 0.1m and display of the current power consumption Easy maintenance and higher operational reliability due to automatically and manually activated re-starter pump venting function
WILO BRINGS THE FUTURE. Find out more: www.wilo.co.uk | T: 01283 523000 | E: sales@wilo.co.uk
Pioneering for You
COPPER PIPEWORK | HIP BOOK 2017-18
COPPER PIPEWORK
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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.
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.
There are 4 essential stages in the jointing process:
1. PREPARATION 2. FLUXING 3. HEATING 4. REMOVING FLUX 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 2017-18 | 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 2017-18
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.
NOTE ON PLASTICS COVERED TUBE 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
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 HIP UK Heating 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 PDFs 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 2017-18
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 3-4
7.96
-4
26.00
18.04
-
28
45
0.72
22
2.5
0.33
4
37
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
4-5
20.5
0.45
22
1.5
0.13
3.5
9
1.17
-
5.31
5-6
14.5
0.38
22
1.2
0.09
2
3
0.27
-1.5
2.64
4.14
-
22
2.37
1
22
6-7
11.5
0.32
15
2.3
0.48
2
3
1.44
+0.8
3.17
1.73
0.5
15
7-8
10
0.30
15
2.2
0.43
1.5
2.5
1.08
+0.5
5-9
6
0.20
15
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 2017-18 | COPPER PIPEWORK
ď &#x17D; 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 2017-18
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
0.6 0.5 20 0.4 10
0.8
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 2017-18 | 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
DEAERATION | HIP BOOK 2017-18
DEAERATION
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | DEAERATION
THERE’S SOMETHING IN THE AIR Have you heard of deaeration? If not, it’s time to get on board. The method is fast emerging as one of the industry’s best-kept secrets in maintaining system health, so there’s no better time to get to grips with all things air-related… So what’s the issue with air? One of the main issues with air within a system is its corrosive nature, which leads to one key problem: the build-up of dirt. It’s commonly acknowledged that a dirty system means poor performance, so we can all agree that dirt separators are vital in maintaining system health. And yet, weren’t we always taught that prevention is better than cure? To some extent, everyone knows that air within a system is problematic. Installing an AAV (automatic air vent) is a no-brainer to most installers, which begs the question: what’s the need for a deaerator? The belief that an AAV does the job of a deaerator is a very common misconception even among some of the most experienced installers in the industry. This is primarily due to a misunderstanding of the types of air that can be found within a system.
The belief that an Automatic Air Vent does the job of a deaerator is a very common misconception... Here’s the breakdown:
Free Air Free air is the one we all know about. When a system is filled, the air within it is pushed upwards and will then need to be released. This is where an AAV comes in handy. It is very useful for removing large quantities of free air during the filling process, or for the inlet of air when draining. However, an AAV cannot combat the other types of air found within a system…
Dissolved Gases & Microbubbles Unbeknownst to many, there are actually three different types of air that can be found inside a system.
Second and third up to the plate are dissolved gases and microbubbles, and now is the time to really listen up. Dissolved gases exist in all liquid, but due continued>>
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to cut your air. Cutting out the air from heating systems, prevents corrosion and increases efficiency. Air inside a piped water system during installation or operation will: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Corrode the steel surfaces Create magnetite Wear out pump seals Block up heat exchangers Develops leaks with in radiators
The SpiroVent range of domestic and commercial deaerators are quick and easy to install and come with an exceptional Spirotech guarantee.
Want to find out more or have a live demonstration of our products? Call us on 0208 451 3344 or visit www.spirotech.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | DEAERATION
to being contained within the solution, cannot be seen. However, just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean that dissolved gases won’t be an issue.
Microbubbles are formed when there is either an increase in temperature or a reduction in pressure of the liquid. This causes dissolved gases to come out of solution as microbubbles. Due to the rising temperature within a heating system, microbubbles are repeatedly produced from these dissolved gases.
Their microscopic size means they are unable to overcome the mass flow conditions of the water, and they also have a very hard surface tension, meaning they cannot merge to form a single larger bubble, which could then be released via an AAV. Instead, they remain within a system’s liquid, and this retention of oxygen gradually corrodes the pipes’ internal surfaces, resulting in a build-up of debris. Removing these microbubbles means that system efficiency is vastly improved and the lifespan of each individual component, including the boiler, is maintained.
What is deaeration and how does it work? Deaeration, simply put, is the continual removal of air (microbubbles and free air) from heating system liquid. Deaerators should be fitted at the hottest point of a system, on the common flow, as this is the point where microbubbles will be formed, due to the increase in temperature from the heat exchanger. The key component of a deaerator is its internal spiral, made up of a cluster of tube arrangements that decreases turbulence as the liquid passes through. This decrease in turbulence, along with a decrease in velocity allows for any free air and microbubbles to rise upwards and leave the system liquid, to be released via an automatic venting valve on the deaerator. The use of continual deaeration will minimise the effect that air can have on the system: reducing noise, heat output, corrosion and flow.
What can we learn from Europe? Air removal is regarded with high importance within the European market. For example, a German government directive known as the VDI 2035 found that in order to properly prevent pipework corrosion, ‘there must be consistent prevention of continually introduced oxygen into the heating water.’
Deaeration, simply put, is the continual removal of air (microbubbles and free air) from heating system liquid. SpiroVent RV2
DEAERATION | HIP BOOK 2017-18
This understanding of the negative effects of oxygen within system fluid means that deaeration is widely regarded as the go-to for aiding a system’s hydraulic flow.
RV2 and MB3 under boiler
How do you get best results? Although air is the root cause of a contaminated system, and by installing a deaerator alongside an AAV system performance will be much improved, it is only one part of successful water treatment. To ensure full system health over a long period of time, a combined approach is key. This includes two other essential practices: dirt separation and chemical application. Whilst a deaerator will go a long way in vastly reducing the amount of debris that builds up within a system, fitting a dirt separator, such as the SpiroTrap MB3, to work in tandem will ensure that the system remains free of dirt over a long period of time. A good dirt separator will remove both magnetic and non-magnetic dirt particles. It should be installed on the return pipework, removing dirt from the circuit before it enters the boiler. Dirt separators achieve this by separating and then holding the dirt particles in a chamber, which can be then emptied independently. Chemical inhibitors react with the pipe’s internal surface and form a protective layer that can temporarily prevent corrosion. However, inhibitors themselves are not immune from the damage, and so after a sustained period of time, they too will fall victim to the oxygen through a process called diffusion. This means that applying chemical inhibitors requires frequent upkeep to ensure that the levels remain high
enough for effective protection. With a deaerator efficiently removing oxygen from a system, the problem is massively reduced.
TREATING THE CAUSE The understanding of deaeration is vital in the way installers approach maintaining system efficiency. Rather than taking a “quick fix” approach, a deaerator can protect against inefficiencies in years to come, saving installers significant time and money in the future. Thanks to the SpiroVent RV2’s automatic venting valve, no maintenance is required throughout a system’s life, making it a one-time investment both in time and financial cost. SpiroVent RV2 open
For more information on how Spirotech can help you maintain system efficiency, including its range of deaeration solutions, please visit spirotech.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | DEAERATION
PREVENT AIR BUILD-UP WITH SPIROVENT RV2 Protect and improve heating system inefficiency with the SpiroVent RV2, an industry-leading deaeration unit from water conditioning specialist, Spirotech.
What is a deaeration unit, you ask? Well, here’s a quick rundown: Installed at the hottest point of a system, on the common flow, the SpiroVent RV2 tackles the issue of air within a heating system, thus vastly reducing the onset of corrosion and, ultimately, the build up of dirt.
As a pioneer in the field, Spirotech has long recognised the negative impact of air within domestic and commercial heating systems. Air can be the root cause of numerous heating system problems, leading to inefficiencies that increase residents’ energy bills and system blockages, excessive wear and component corrosion, resulting in system breakdowns and costly callouts for maintenance teams.
This all comes as a result of microbubbles within system fluid, which are too small to leave via an automatic air vent (AAV). Instead, they remain within the fluid and react with a pipe’s internal surfaces, gradually corroding them and causing a build up of debris.
The SpiroVent RV2 is designed to combat the issue by systematically removing microbubbles. At the heart of the unit is the Spirotube, a cluster of spirals that temporarily decrease water velocity and turbulence in order to allow microbubbles to rise and exit the system via an automatic venting valve. Made from solid brass, the SpiroVent RV2 comes with a 20-year warranty and is equipped with a swivel connection to make it very simple to install horizontally, vertically or diagonally.
For further information on the SpiroVent RV2 or other products in Spirotech’s comprehensive range of dirt, air and chemical solutions for both domestic and commercial applications, visit spirotech.co.uk
FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
FITTINGS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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>>
FOR A FASTER CONNECTION
PUSH OR PRESS WITH PEGLER YORKSHIRE
For a comprehensive range of quality, innovative plumbing and heating products backed by a superb technical support service, make sure you connect with Pegler Yorkshire.
FREE Phone: 0800 156 0010 email: uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk
www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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.
DID YOU KNOW? There is now multilayer tube available in sizes 15mm & 22mm for use with Tectite push-fit fittings.
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.
Flexible metal tube PE-Xc Aluminium PE-Xc
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
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.
Using the right support for the new flexible metal tube is critical - ensure you’re using the TectSEAL!
FITTINGS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
PRESS-FIT FITTINGS Press-fit is a relatively new jointing technique that uses force applied to the fitting by a presstool 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 and 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. Press fittings are available with different materials of O ring making them suitable 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 copper, carbon steel and stainless steel for use in sizes 12mm - 168.3mm.
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. 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 2017-18 | 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
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
Photo: Tectite Sprint by Pegler Yorkshire
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FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2017-18
FLEXIBLE PLUMBING
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 1970s. 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 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 principle of push-fit fittings A number of different manufacturers’ systems are now available but they all share a similar operating principle:
Hep2O Polybutylene pipe comes off the coil straight. (Pictured here with less flexible PEX pipe)
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 2017-18 | FLEXIBLE PLUMBING
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.
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.
Plastic systems are quick to install, whether it’s a complex cabling system or a simple appliance connection
BENEFITS... LOWER COST OF 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
4 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
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
6
All connections are made by hand – no tools are required
2
Fewer joints means less risk from leaks
7
No tools means much easier to install in confined spaces
8
Most plastic push-fit systems can also be connected to copper pipework
3 Jointing is quicker which means installation time is dramatically reduced
FLEXIBLE PLUMBING | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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 2017-18 | 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 2017-18
HOT WATER CYLINDERS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 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. ď&#x201A;Š Visit planningportal.go.uk/buildingregulations continued>>
NEW ULTRASTEEL PLUS WITH BUILT-IN THERMAL EXPANSION SPACE FOR HASSLE FREE INSTALLATION AND SETUP
No need for an external expansion vessel, saving an average 2m of 22mm copper tube per installation
Quicker, simpler to fit; save up to 20 minutes on a typical retrofit installation
Improved reliability for a reduced risk of call back
To learn more about the Ultrasteel Plus, visit kingspanenviro.com/ultrasteel-plus or call 0345 260 0258
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. 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
insulated using environmentally friendly polyurethane foam, to meet the latest ERP regulations for energy efficiency, ensuring a low standing heat loss. Q. Does the cylinder comply with the relevant Building Regulations? 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
job to job and is affected by many factors, such as the type and size of cylinder as well as the specific installation location itself, but on average a pre-plumbed cylinder will save you about 70% of your time.
materials? A. Kingspan only uses high quality Duplex 2304 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance and long life.
Q. How much hot water will a 120L cylinder
provide? A. When hot water is drawn from a cylinder it is normally mixed with cold water down to a usable temperature, typically about 40°C. This means that a normal 120L cylinder will provide about 233L of water at 40°C. However, if you are using a cylinder with built-in thermal expansion you will get even more hot water, typically well over 265L.
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 much faster is it to install a pre-plumbed cylinder?
A. The precise time saving will vary
Q. Why on a pre-plumbed cylinder do I have to check the compression joints are tight?
A. A cylinder may have travelled well over 500 miles
before arriving on site, meaning it will have experienced significant levels of vibration in transit. This can result in compression connections working loose. As the installer, it’s your responsibility to ensure all connections are watertight, including those on pre-plumbed pipework.
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.
HOT WATER CYLINDERS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
TOP SAFETY TIPS Operating under high pressure, an unvented cylinder is potentially dangerous unless properly installed. Remember:
1. You need to have a
recognised qualification to fit unvented cylinders 2. Notify the Building Control Officer before starting the job 3. Use a competent person to isolate the electrical system and immersion heater wiring if replacing an old cylinder 4. Check the new cylinder for any damage to outer casing or controls 5. Always read the fitting instructions 6. Check that the incoming water pressure and flow rate meet the requirements of the new cylinder 7. Ensure the fitting of Temperature relief and Pressure relief valves complies with Part G (Building regs) and correctly discharge outside the building 8. Visually inspect for leaks and ensure all valves are working 9. Ensure all commissioning details are entered into the Benchmark log book
OPEN VENTED HOT WATER SYSTEMS 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 2017-18 | HOT WATER CYLINDERS
INTERNAL THERMAL EXPANSION Cylinders featuring built-in thermal expansion are becoming increasingly popular, largely driven by the new build sector looking to reduce installation times. The technology is also being adopted by plumbers for retrofit jobs because of the reduced risk of call back with no external expansion vessel to go wrong, giving homeowners extra space in the airing cupboard for additional storage.
1
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 2¼" BSP connections, and are sealed using a gasket. Stainless cylinders traditionally have 1¾" 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. Kingspan Ultrasteel direct cylinder
2 Albion Ultrasteel AUXSN250 Cold
Albion Ultrasteel AUXSN250 Hot
An air bubble that forms at the top of the cylinder helps to protect the heating system by absorbing excess pressure created as the water heats up and expands. The integrity of this air bubble is maintained by a floating baffle that reduces the amount of air absorbed into the water for longer intervals between system re-pressurisation. For more information on Kingspan products call 0345 260 0258 or go online at kingspanenviro.com
A DIRECT CYLINDER...
AN 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.
Kingspan Ultrasteel indirect cylinder
MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
MACERATORS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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.
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 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.
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 2017-18
DOMESTIC Conventional plumbing uses gravity to allow drainage to conveniently sited pipework and sewers. But what if gravity isn’t on your side? What if drainage pipework is inconveniently positioned, perhaps when working in a loft or a basement?
DOMESTIC
Conventional plumbing uses gravity to allow drainage to conveniently sited pipework and sewers.
Saniflo works where convention doesn’t. The domestic range consists of 18 solutions for bathrooms But what if gravity isn’t on your side? What if drainage pipework is inconveniently positioned, and kitchens. perhaps when working in a loft or a basement? Saniflo works where convention doesn’t. The domestic range consists of 18 solutions for bathrooms and kitchens.
LOFT CONVERSION EN-SUITE Need an additional en-suite? Try a Sanipro Up
MAIN BATHROOM
BEDROOM EN-SUITE
Need to pump bath water waste? Possible with a Saniaccess Pump
Want a shower in the en-suite? Possible with a Sanishower +
KITCHEN
AIR-CONDITIONED LIVING ROOM
Problems removing kitchen water waste? You need a Sanivite +
Air-conditioning dripping? You need a Sanicondens Clim Pack
BASEMENT UTILITY ROOM Creating a new utility room? Try a Sanivite +
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
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 Sanicubic2 ultimate security. The new Classic 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 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 Sanispeed 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 Sanibest Pro for full functionality.
Disposal of acidic condensate SANICONDENS BEST, PRO, ECO, NEUTRAL, CLIM PACK, CLIM MINI AND 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 Sanicondens Pro refrigeration units.
MACERATORS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL
Tough conditions require tough products and the Saniflo commercial range now has 14 products that are robust enough to perform in some of the most demanding situations. Having manufactured Saniflo products for over 55 years, no other manufacturer has the years of experience and expertise to Tough conditions require tough products and the Saniflo commercial range now has 14 products that are robust produceenough such toa perform comprehensive range of units for commercial applications. in some of the most demanding situations. Think Having of themanufactured possibilities… Saniflo products for over 55 years, no other manufacturer has the years of experience and expertise to produce such a comprehensive range of units for commercial applications. Think of the possibilities…
GYM Need to install multiple showers? The Sanicom 2 will do the job Public toilets for the gym? Try Sanicubic 2 Classic
OFFICES 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 Kitchen water waste from the café? Try a Sanispeed +
PUBLIC TOILETS & BOILER ROOM Ensure public toilets never let you down – Use Sanicubic 2 Pro
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | MACERATORS
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
PRODUCT SELECTOR PRODUCT SELECTOR
All bebe used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Floor, Allofofour ourunits unitscan can used in any of these situations: Basement, Ground Upper Floor, Loft/Attic — just choose the right product for your installation... Floor, Upper Floor, Loft / Attic — just choose the right product for your
SANITOP UP
N
SANIPLUS UP
N
Ref 600�
Alarm�
Sink
Dishwasher
Washing Machine
Bidet
Power shower
Shower
Bath
Wash Basin
EW
Ref 6003
EW
Ref 6002
EW
SANIFLO UP
Wall-hung WCs
WC
installation...
N
SANISLIM Ref �054/1
SANIPRO UP
N
Ref 6052
EW
Ref 6006
EW
SANIPACK PRO UP
N
SANICOMPACT 2 Ref �08�
SANIVITE +
N
SANISHOWER +
N
Ref 6��0
EW
Ref 6043
EW
Ref 6004
EW
SANIWALL PRO UP
N
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL
92
SANISHOWER FLAT Ref �043/3
SANIFLOOR
Ref ��54/1155/1156
TRAYMATIC EXTERIOR Ref RD590AD/1AD/ 2AD/3AD/4AD/5AD
SANIMATIC Ref �116
4
EW
Ref 6045
N
SANISPEED + SANIBEST PRO Ref �053
SANICOM �
4
SANICOM 2
4
Ref �046/1
Ref �046/2
N
SANICUBIC 2 PRO
N
SANICUBIC 2 CLASSIC
N
SANICUBIC 2 XL
N
SANICUBIC 2 XL
N
SANIPUMP
N
Ref 610�
EW
Ref 6�09
EW
(THREE PHASE) Ref 6305
EW
(SINGLE PHASE) Ref 6105
EW
Ref 6103
EW
Ref 6�02
EW
SANICUBIC �
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
4
3
�
Sanialarm can be fitted to these units if required.
2
Sanicompact can be installed in locations with a minimum water supply pressure of �.7 bar.
3
Sanialarm is fitted to these units as standard.
4
If connected to a kitchen sink, a grease trap must be fitted.
WE’RE
UPPING OUR GAME
When you’re the UK’s No. 1, you can’t rest on your laurels, which is why we’re constantly evolving our products. The new ‘Up’ range, featuring the Saniflo Up, incorporates features like an easy-access motor panel, and noise-reducing suspension. Add this to a platform with the same inlet and outlet locations for seamless system integration and you can see how we’ve earned our title. Anything’s possible. Visit saniflo.co.uk to see how.
SOLOLIFT2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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
MERCHANTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
MERCHANTS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | MERCHANTS
GETTING MORE FROM MERCHANTS The role of the merchant has evolved far beyond simply supplying products to now providing a key source of advice and support, not only for those new to the industry but also those embedded in their careers. Due to a merchant’s unique position they are ideally placed to provide guidance on a range of product areas and brands from the tools and materials used everyday to the growing and potentially lucrative areas of renewable energy and smart technology. This includes keeping up to date with both the latest product developments and regulatory changes.
When looking for a product or solution for a specific job it can often be difficult to know which option best meets the project’s specific requirements. A merchant team can offer impartial advice and answer questions about
suppliers’ products – helping you to make the right selection. For this reason it is important to engage with a merchant who commits to continually train and update its in branch teams on new developments and innovations.
Training In addition to their own staff training, merchants will often provide training to help installers keep their knowledge up to date on specific product areas such as renewable technology and smart controls. This invaluable information allows installers to take on a wider range of jobs. Having this type of training also helps ensure that installers are providing the very best service to their customers. Often available free of charge at dedicated training centres, these sessions combine practical and theory based exercises, from overviews of
...merchants will often provide training to help installers keep their knowledge up to date on specific product areas...
continued>>
JOIN NOW FOR EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS, SPECIAL OFFERS & INDUSTRY NEWS. DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS OUT! Register now at www.grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk IN COLLABORATION WITH
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | MERCHANTS
benefits and incentive schemes to product and installation training.
For example, smart and connected home technology can provide significant financial and lifestyle benefits to the customer but can require a higher level of investment than traditional alternatives. Providing customers with clear and easy-to-understand information about the potential advantages will help them to make an informed decision. The added benefit to the installer, especially for smart and connected technology, is the opportunity to upsell or provide additional services to existing customers – helping them to grow the business.
Keeping it compliant Showrooms & Customer Resources Bathroom installations can be highly lucrative but often complex jobs. The design needs to meet the requirements of the customer not only physically but also aesthetically. Merchants can support installers by providing resources to help the homeowner to select the right products for them. For example, dedicated bathroom showrooms can provide an extension to an installer’s business by providing full inhouse bathroom design services and helping the customer to select the products that best suit their lifestyle. A bathroom installation is a huge investment for a customer so seeing the products in person is paramount in the decision making process. Bathroom Showrooms allow the end customer to view a range of bathroom fixtures and fittings including, baths, showers, basins and taps in-situ.
Non-genuine parts can present a serious risk, not only to the customer but also to an installer’s reputation. While it can be tempting to consider a low cost alternative when looking at spares, if it seems too good to be true it probably is. With counterfeit parts there is no traceability or guarantee of the materials used or the overall quality of the product. There is also no support available if something goes wrong. The most important reason for using only genuine parts is that counterfeits raise serious safety issues and can cause damage to the rest of the system, especially when working on boilers and heating systems. It is not always easy to identify a nongenuine product and they may unknowingly be purchased from unfamiliar suppliers – especially online. The best way to ensure the quality of the products and achieve peace of mind is to use only reputable merchants.
Project Support Merchants will also provide resources such as brochures and guides designed specifically as sales tools for the installer to utilise. These help installers to communicate the benefits of a product or even a whole new technology to their customers.
Finally, there are also specific product areas where merchants can be especially valuable to an installer. For example, renewable energy solutions for domestic and commercial applications have huge business potential for installers and the current growth in the market shows that consumers are increasingly aware of its advantages. However, renewable energy may be an area that an installer
MERCHANTS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
has less experience in and approaching a new type of job for the first time, such as fitting a heat pump, can be daunting.
It is vital that installers are up to speed with current government programmes, the specifics of the technology and best practice for installation. For this, merchants should be an installerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first port of call. Specialist teams within merchants are on hand to provide support from start to finish including estimation services and assistance with planning the installation. This support will give the installer the confidence to deal with this type of product effectively.
...merchants, now more than ever, represent a unique and valuable resource to those in the industry. For installers at every stage of their career, a strong relationship with a merchant is vital to not only help provide the best possible service to customers but also to grow their business. From product support and advice, to information about the latest developments, merchants now more than ever represent a unique and valuable resource to those in the industry.
ď&#x201A;Š Visit grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk to find out more about the services and support that Graham offers. For more information about Turning Pro, Grahamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scheme for students and apprentices visit grahamturningpro.co.uk
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SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION Graham Plumbers’ Merchant understands that product quality and customer service are key for a brand to build and sustain customer loyalty, especially for those early on in their career where first impressions mean everything. As such, it offers a wealth of benefits to plumbing & heating apprentices.
Heating and plumbing students represent the next generation of installers and Graham recognises this as an opportunity to support the future of the industry. Therefore, it works hard to provide opportunities for apprentices at every stage of their career: before they enrol on a course, during their training and then once qualified, offering valuable advice both in-branch and online.
Turning Pro Scheme To encourage employers, Graham has created a guide explaining the many benefits of hiring an apprentice. It also recognises the need to support future plumbers and heating engineers by offering work experience, often working with local colleges to offer placements. Once enrolled onto a course, apprentices can register to join Turning Pro, Graham’s apprentice / student program specifically aimed at those completing their plumbing & heating training. As well as receiving regular emails about upcoming training events at the Saint-Gobain Greenworks Academy, the scheme includes voucher offers such as money off parts, MOTs, £25 off when £50 ex VAT or more
is spent in branch and much more. Newly qualified installers can take full advantage of showrooms, which offer installers a helping hand in delivering excellent customer service. Graham Plumbers’ Merchant has over 25 showrooms nationwide, all with 3D design services available. This service is designed for installers to help their customers choose their perfect bathroom. Once they’ve selected their products, Graham eases the pressure by dealing with the customer themselves and providing a reliable delivery service. Apprentices are sometimes overlooked but Graham values the talent and fresh perspective they can bring to the industry. By working closely with colleges and employers and then offering support throughout their career, Graham seizes the opportunity to promote a motivated workforce. To sign up to the Graham Turning Pro Scheme, please visit: grahamturningpro.co.uk. For more information about Graham Plumbers’ Merchant and its services, please visit the website: grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk
PLUMBING TOOLS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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PLUMBING TOOLS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 needs 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
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air pro eld thr p h e d r n d a n H a enance t n i a m eal for
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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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 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.
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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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.
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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 2017-18
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EQUIPMENT 6
By moving the locator over the ground, the display shows information about the maximum signal strength, the equipmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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&#x201A;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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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | PLUMBING TOOLS
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.
For further information on RIDGID’s innovative tools, please visit RIDGID.com
SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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SHOWERS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SHOWERS
WELCOME TO THE FUTURE OF SHOWERING:
DIGITAL SHOWERS
As digital showers work in a similar way to mixer showers – taking the water from the hot and cold supplies and blending together to achieve the desired temperature – their benefits could potentially be overlooked. However, the key difference between a digital shower and a mixer shower is that its digital technology enables ultimate precise temperature control – to within a degree. Digital showers, depending on the product, also have precise flow control as well as other innovative features that aren’t available on mixer showers.
In the past, digital showers may have seemed like a complex installation choice, however, the leading brands have all of the tools that you need to be able to confidently recommend and install a digital shower.
Take a look through these top tips from showering manufacturer, Mira Showers, to see how the future of showering is digital.
Choose a reliable brand In the same way that a professional installer relies on their good reputation to attract customers, choosing a trusted shower brand is essential when specifying a digital shower. There is a great range of digital showers available on the market however, in order to prevent repeat call-outs, it’s important not to compromise on quality. Often a way to determine a reliable brand is by the brand’s heritage. Mira Showers has over 90 years of experience, so you can be rest assured that you are in good hands when it comes to specifying a Mira digital shower.
...in order to prevent repeat call-outs, it’s important not to compromise on quality.
continued>>
Get a Head Start. Mira Showers Headstart is a practical, hands-on 2 hour session designed to give plumbing students an introduction to Mira showers including the latest product information and installation advice. Delivered by freelance lecturers with real-life plumbing experience, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guaranteed to give you a Headstart in your career. Book in your Headstart session with Mira Showers now at:
www.mirashowers.co.uk/headstart
Plus, like and share the Mira Headstart Facebook page for all the latest information, aimed specifically at college students and apprentices.
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Discover wired or wireless options There are two types of digital shower – wired and wireless – and each have their benefits, just with a slightly different installation method. A wireless digital shower, such as the Mira Platinum, provides the precise temperature control with the addition of flow control, as well as flexible installation through the wireless connection between the controller and valve. Wired digital showers, such as the Mira Mode, provide the same digital temperature control but are hard wired to the controller.
Mira Switch Showerhead. Saturate Spray
solution. Better still, the Mira Mode comes with the award-winning Switch handshower, which also features 4 unique spray modes; the Soothe spray mode is dermatologically accredited for sensitive skin by the Skin Health Alliance – perfect for all members of the family. It’s features like this that will make all the difference to your customer.
Tools you need to fit and forget
The wireless Mira Platinum digital shower
Compatibility for your customer’s needs Depending on your customer’s water system, you may want to install either a high pressure or pumped digital shower. A high pressure option is suited to mains pressure unvented systems and combination boilers, whereas a pumped option is suited to low pressure gravity systems. Plus, choose a digital shower that suits your customer’s needs. Increasingly, a dual outlet shower is preferred for a more luxurious showering experience. The Mira Mode digital shower has 12 different combinations including single and dual outlet, bathfill and shower and bath options so it’s easy to find your installation
These aren’t just the plumbing tools, but the resources that will make your installation as straightforward as possible. Digital showers can often be perceived as having complex installations however, when provided with the correct resources and guides, it can be as straightforward as any other shower installation. With the new Mira Mode digital shower, installation is made easy by following the step by step video on YouTube, or alternatively you can follow the steps using the Information User Guide included within the packaging. Plus, in the unlikely event that something should go wrong during the installation, Mira Mode comes complete with a free app for your smartphone, including lots of useful troubleshooting features. So, for example, when installing the Mira Mode Dual digital shower, the outlets can easily be switched using the app so there’s no need for additional pipework.
SHOWERS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Also, ensure that all elements of the digital shower are included when you purchase. Often, a remote control has to be purchased separately – Mira Mode, for example, keeps it simple. This digital shower has everything, even the additional control, included within the box as standard.
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Why do customers like digital showers? Digital showers are becoming increasingly popular, as customers are used to digital products across the household. From smart plugs to smart thermostats, it’s the next step to want a ‘smart’ shower! Plus, there are genuine benefits to having a digital shower installed in your home. Mira wireless digital showers are packed with smart technology and features, all designed to make life that little bit easier.
The Mira Mode app with useful troubleshooting features
What’s new in digital? The world of digital showers is constantly innovating. The latest in digital showering comes from Mira with their new Mira Mode digital shower. This innovative product comes with a free app for your smartphone which allows your customer to switch Mira Mode on /off, set the maximum temperature and shower duration. There are also great design features: the slick LED indicator lights on the controller flash whilst the shower is warming up, and then remain on once the water has reached the desired temperature. There is an additional remote control that enables your customer to switch the shower on/off from outside the showering area which is included as standard. Visit the Mira website to discover more.
Mira Platinum is packed with handy features
Mira Platinum, for example, includes a warm-up mode; this means that when you switch on your shower, it will reach your desired temperature and then pause until you are ready to get in. There’s also the helpful digital display making it easy to keep track of time whilst you’re in the shower. Plus, an energy-conscious eco mode to help save on water and energy bills. So, when you’re recommending a digital shower make sure that it’s right for both you and your customer.
Get a Headstart Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced apprentice, see how training could help you further your career. Mira Headstart training provides the training you need to be a savvy, digital installer.
Mira Mode Remote Button
Visit mirashowers.co.uk/headstart for more information.
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INTRODUCING MIRA MODE SMART, SIMPLE SHOWERING.
Introducing new Mira Mode – the latest digital shower from Mira Showers. Its minimalist styling with luxurious chrome finish, makes Mira Mode the must-have digital shower for your customer. There is an additional remote control that enables the user to switch the shower on/off from outside the showering area and this is included as standard, so there is no need to purchase separately. As part of enhancing your customer’s showering experience, Mira has created a free app which is available on both Android and iPhone. Not only does this give your customer lots of handy features like setting the maximum temperature and shower duration, it also connects them with the Mira Customer Service team, should any queries arise.
Better still, the Mira Mode app isn’t just helpful for your customer: it’s been created with the installer in mind too. Usefully, the app assists the professional in some of the more technical installation steps, making troubleshooting easier. It helps detect and confirm if the handshower and deluge are programmed correctly to the controller and, if not, enables them to resolve the issue at the touch of a button. Available in both single and dual outlet options, for both high pressure and pumped systems, there is a configuration to suit every water system and style preference. If your customer is looking for ultimate luxury, then look no further than the Mira Mode with Bathfill. Your customer can create up to 10 bathfill presets using the free Mira Mode app, making bath time easier and safer for all the family. Mira Mode is built to last, made only from the highest quality materials and manufactured here in the UK, complete with a 5 year guarantee.
Visit mirashowers.co.uk/expert to discover more.
SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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SHOWER PUMPS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SHOWER PUMPS
SHOWER PUMPS UNDER PRESSURE Taking a shower is very much part of our daily lives and their increasing popularity can be attributed to speed, immediacy, cleanliness and convenience. They are also perceived as wasting less water - although this is not necessarily true when it comes to power showers - which use water as a rate of between twenty and fifty litres a minute. Industry forecasts still show that this market will continue to increase, although today, due to the large installed base, the new versus replacement split has swung in favour of replacement.
Sizing up the demand Whether the requirement is for a new shower pump or to replace an existing one, the first thing that needs to be established is what the demand is. This is done by working out the number of people who will be using the shower, as well as the frequency of use. Regardless of whether it is to address inadequate water pressure or simply to create a more exhilarating shower experience, Grundfos has the pump for you. However, help is at hand to ensure you make the right choice as Grundfos have produced a great online pump selector tool that will guide you through the selection process. Check this tool out at showerpumpselector.co.uk
This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only benefit Grundfos can offer, as all Grundfos shower pumps conform to both European and UK standards, including UK WRAS product approval. They are also backed by a comprehensive manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warranty and are supported by a Customer Service Department and Technical Helpline that are second to none. continued>>
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GRUNDFOS SHOWER PUMPS ARE AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING PLUMBING SYSTEMS:
GRAVITY SYSTEMS When selecting a mixer shower for use on a gravity system, the most important thing to consider is the flow rate that is achievable. Unless you have water pressure of at least 0.5 bar, which is equivalent to a gap of five meters between the bottom of the cold-water storage tank and the shower rose you will need to select a ‘Low Pressure’ shower valve, capable of supplying a satisfactory shower at water pressures as low as 0.1 bar (which is approximately one meter difference). You will be able to get a rough idea simply by observing the flow rate of water that you receive from the bath taps. Remember that you will be mixing hot and cold water but if the flow appears slow then the chances are that the shower’s performance will also be disappointing. In general, a shower pump should be sited as close to the hot water cylinder as possible, however, if the shower pump is fitted in the loft or above the hot water cylinder a minimum static head is required. Once again, check out the website for example installations.
plenty of hot water storage capacity. Standard pumped showers can deliver anything between 11 - 25 litres of blended water per minute and this can drain the average-sized cylinder very quickly. You will have an idea of the amount of hot water that you have available by looking at the physical size of the cylinder and monitoring the required everyday usage. For example, the depth of hot water that can be achieved when running a bath before the hot water runs out. If there are not large volumes of stored water the storage capacity will need to be upgraded.
Modern shower pumps are available in a variety of models and sizes. Variants can pump both hot and cold water or from an individual water source and offer various pressures ranging from 1.0 bar up to 4 bar. They come in both composite and brass bodies. The use of connection flanges on hot water cylinders is paramount to ensure hassle-free showering.
The modern shower pump To overcome the problems that can be experienced with a gravity system, the solution is to fit a shower pump that pushes the water to your shower mixer thus creating an invigorating powerful showering experience. If you opt for the pumped solution you must ensure that you have
The Amazon series
SHOWER PUMPS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
The SSR series
SPEAK TO THE EXPERTS At Grundfos we have a range of shower pumps that can help you. From single impeller pumps that are generally used to boost the pressure of cold water supplied to a combi boiler such as our SSR or Amazon series, unvented cylinder options are also served by an Amazon pump. Twin impeller pumps are used to boost the pressure of hot and cold water to a single shower using the STR or Amazon series, multiple showers or a whole domestic house system once again are covered by the Amazon range. For larger installations, such as showers in a sports facility, an Amazon EXTRA single impeller pump can be placed on both hot and cold feeds and integrated with thermostatic shower valve protection.
Newest family members The most recent additions to the range of shower booster and universal head shower booster pump ranges from Grundfos have been getting excellent reviews. The feedback for these continuously rated pumps has indicated that the shower pump’s new design, which minimises the turbulence within the pump head, is a welcome feature. The introduction of a new impeller design
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means that these units will overcome air pocket issues, plus all variants are fitted with quality shaft seals and supplied with high quality braided connection hoses and filter washers as standard. In terms of the options available, the SSR2 and STR2 are positive head pumps for boosting water pressure – typically used in shower application. They are ideal when the plumbing route has multiple ends or elbows. The SSR2 and STR2 Universal options are positive and negative head shower booster pumps for boosting pressure where the outlet is at the same height as, or is above, the water storage tank. The SSR2 1.5-2
A right shower One thing is certain: our love affair with showers shows no sign of slowing down and with an aging population, we cannot see this situation changing, so showers are here to stay. By working with a reputable shower pump manufacturer such as Grundfos, you can be assured that any shower pumps you install will be fit for purpose and will continue to deliver - taking the pressure off you. Help is always at hand to assist you to make the right decision about which pump to choose. Remember for general information on the range of Grundfos products check out our main site at grundfos.co.uk. If you just want help with shower pumps visit showerpumpselector.co.uk
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GRUNDFOS ECADEMY ADDS TO ITS CURRICULUM The Grundfos Ecademy is a popular internet-based learning tool that is designed to improve knowledge on pumps, applications and their theory. This digital training and information platform is available 24/7. Its aim is to help keep everyone with an interest in pumps and pump solutions informed and up-to-date on products plus a range of industry related themes.
Subject areas To keep it fresh and interesting, new topics are added on a regular basis. Recent subjects have included the new SCALA2 that is a new fully integrated, variable speed, water booster pump that has been specifically designed and built to deliver perfect water pressure to wherever it is needed in the home. Another new topic looks at the area of shower pumps, which is further broken down into two modules: an introduction to shower booster pumps and Grundfos shower pump solutions. These have now joined other productrelated topics that include the award-winning ALPHA3 system that
simplifies hydronic balancing, the ever popular UPS2 circulator, SOLOLIFT2 macerators plus more generic areas like Basic principles and pump types, Circulator basics and control modes, Basic hydraulics and pump performance and Hot water recirculation. The good news doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end there: at the end of each module there is a short test and on successful completion of four of these, you will be given the opportunity to select a small gift.
Learn on the move Today the Ecademy can be accessed from your smartphone, tablet or computer, which means that you can log-in whenever best suits your schedule.
ď&#x201A;Š You can register for the Grundfos Ecademy by visiting grundfos.co.uk/ecademy. Once you have signed up, you will be able to use your log-in to access not just the Ecademy, but also other Grundfos web platforms such as the WIN & EARN loyalty scheme.
SMART CONTROLS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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SMART CONTROLS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SMART CONTROLS
THE SMARTEST OPPORTUNITY SINCE THE COMBI Simon Allan, category director for smart controls at Wolseley, tells us why the business is championing the category and what they’re doing to enable installers to take ownership. *Buzzword alert* - Whether it’s smart cars, smart phones or smart homes, we’re generally becoming a smarter nation. And in our industry, it’s difficult to avoid the smart control hype at the moment. Whether you’re picking up your daily order in branch, flicking through a brochure or scrolling through your Twitter feed, you can’t miss the smart controls revolution.
Manufacturers across the board are introducing smart controls into their product portfolio and the industry is thriving. In fact, we believe smart controls present the biggest development in the industry since the introduction of the combi boiler. Nevertheless, there still seems to be some reluctance from installers to embrace this movement, despite the market opportunity it holds for their business. Installers can’t afford to dismiss the importance of smart controls in today’s heating installations and need to be ready to position controls to their customers before competitors gain a commercial advantage. This is why Wolseley is here to help. We’re investing heavily in the category through training, supplier partnerships and communications - to ensure the industry has the support network it needs to grow its offering and, ultimately, reap the rewards.
continued>>
The No.� choice for Plumbing and Heating experts Stock The UK’s largest range where and when you need it
Know-how Specialist plumbing, heating and parts knowledge
Local Over 500 branches and trade showrooms nationwide
Ordering In-branch, by phone or 24/7 online
Delivery Next-day to any branch or site
Open Mon-Fri: 7.30-5.00 Sat: 8.00-�2.00 @PlumbCenterUK
Customer Support Centre 0344 292 7060 Mon-Fri: 7.30-8.00 Sat: 8.00-5.00 Sun: �0.00-4.00
Online plumbcenter.co.uk partscenter.co.uk
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Smart controls are not a fad or a niche, they’re fast becoming a mainstream home technology. We want installers to own this space and lead the way for connected homes.
So, what’s all the fuss about? Put simply, smart controls allow you to manage your heating controls remotely from a computer, tablet or smart phone. Some even boast intelligent software and recognise your daily routine, making adjustments to your heating without manual control. The capabilities are limitless and this is only amplified by the concept of the “internet of things” which is taking the industry by storm. This is the network of physical objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and network connectivity, enabling them to communicate with one another. Systems that can control every appliance in the home will soon become commonplace and we want to ensure that our customers have the tools to capitalise on this market. And if that still isn’t enough to get you excited about smart controls remember that, ultimately, this technology is the future for heating systems.
The capabilities are limitless... Identifying opportunities to sell Nowadays, heating systems are more than just heating devices and emitters. During an installation, installers need to factor in heating controls such as TRVs and thermostats to ensure they deliver the most efficient heating system to the homeowner. Customers still rely on the installer’s
judgement and trust them to guide them through their installation requirements. This creates the opportunity to introduce the benefits of smart controls with ease at the same time as integrating them into the heating specification.
Our market It’s up to our industry to educate consumers about why they need to install smart controls.
While the word ‘smart’ might conjure up thoughts of complexity, smart controls are actually as easy to install as other wireless devices in the home. It’s just a case of fitting field devices and the products do the rest for you. No complicated electrics, just simple, self-contained products.
With so many wireless options available, complicated installations are a thing of a past.
Looking to save The upfront investment needed to integrate smart controls into the home can be a little daunting and off-putting for the customer.
SMART CONTROLS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
But with remote access and control the homeowner can manage heating more efficiently, leading to potential yearly energy savings. So while the initial cost of these products is greater, the long term benefits are clear; smart technology can lead to reduced energy bills and greater carbon savings. By positioning these energy savings to the customer, installers can expand their business, impress customers by reducing their energy bills and increase referral business from satisfied customers.
Learning the ropes Several manufacturers now offer product training to installers to help them understand and confidently install smart controls. For example, Nest and Honeywell both run ‘approved installer’ schemes that provide remote training for installers, including video tutorials and user guides. By completing the training, installers can become a ‘pro’, use the manufacturer’s logo on their van and be hosted on the manufacturer’s directory. Investing in product training opens installers up to new business opportunities and provides avenues to different fields of work.
homeowners. Consumer advertising campaigns led by Nest and Hive have helped position smart controls as desirable products for the home. Retailers like John Lewis are also joining the movement. Not long ago, the retail giant launched a new smart home experience at its flagship Oxford Street store in London. The 1,000 square-foot space is dedicated to the display and sale of Internet connected home appliances and products. Consumers, in increasing numbers, are seeking out these products - John Lewis reported that sales of smart home products increased by 81% last year alone. Smart controls are no longer just a product for geeks or early adopters but are increasingly becoming mainstream purchases. With this shift there has never been a better time for installers to capitalise on this market.
Growing your business The popularity of smart controls is set to continue to grow, opening up a profitable market opportunity to the heating sector. Installers already own the skills to capitalise on this shift, they just need the support to go out and sell.
So, what’s next? Once heating engineers have got to grips with smart heating controls, the opportunities are endless. And as consumers become more reliant on smart technology, the popularity will continue to grow outside of heating as well. For engineers able to communicate the benefits clearly, the potential commercial gain is ripe: between 50 and 80 per cent of people are interested in ‘smart homes’ according to one recent report. With manufacturers like Honeywell already branching out into areas like security and safety, the opportunity to move the conversation from ‘wireless’ to ‘smart’ in electrical, security and safety are becoming increasingly natural.
What consumers want Unlike replacing old boilers and radiators, smart controls are deemed an attractive investment by
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For more information, check out: wolseley.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SMART CONTROLS
PLUMB & PARTS CENTER With more than 500 branches nationwide, Wolseley is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of plumbing and heating products to the trade, including heating systems, renewable energy products, plumbing, drainage, bathrooms, showers, trade essentials, spare parts, refrigeration, air conditioning and much more. Ensuring branches have relevant and available stock is paramount to Wolseley. More than 200,000 products are available from industry leading names such as Mira, Worcester Bosch, BAXI, Ideal Boilers, Grundfos, Fernox, Daikin, Danfoss and Ideal Standard - all of which are also accessible online.
Saving you time, money and hassle Plumb Center’s fully transactional and mobilefriendly websites enable installers to check stock availability in real-time and in any branch across the UK.
By being able to access a local branch 24/7 at their fingertips, customers can ensure they’re working in the most efficient way possible. They can also create their own handy lists wherever they are, making re-ordering easy. Trade prices are also live and personalised to each customer with an account, so it’s a quick and easy way to quote your next job from anywhere, any time.
Parts on the move The merchant is also known for its sophisticated Parts Arena Identification System
which can identify any part needed quickly. If a part is not available for immediate delivery they can arrange for next day delivery. It’s also free to Wolseley trade account holders and includes 20,000 exploded diagrams and 10,000 images to make identification simple.
More than 200,000 products are available from industry leading names... In the know Wolseley staff are a valuable source of guidance on all aspects of legislation, incentives and new technologies such as smart controls. They help bridge the gap between installer and manufacturer to make sure they have the right product to deliver the right solution, in the most effective way for their customers. Specialist know-how is valuable: take advantage of it. From serving as a personal warehouse to giving industry insights, Wolseley is and can be much more than just a place to pick up parts. Customers can always find what they need to get the job done. To find out more, visit: wolseley.co.uk
SUPPORT & REWARDS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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SUPPORT & REWARDS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SUPPORT & REWARDS
ENJOY A MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR MANUFACTURER As your career progresses, the opportunity to get involved in the specification process will increase. So to help you get your career off on the right foot, think about how you will gain ongoing support once you’ve qualified and how you can ensure you’re providing customers with the best solution. Spencer Clark, Vaillant Commercial Director - One off Sales discusses the importance of a mutually beneficial relationship between installers and manufacturers. As consumers we are increasingly being rewarded for our brand loyalty. Whether it’s Spotify, Nandos or Uber, brands are constantly looking at ways to retain custom with rewards, offers, deals and discounts. In fact, we have become so used to brands rewarding our behaviour it’s a surprise when no added value is offered. As an installer, it’s a good idea to adopt the same attitude when looking at boiler manufacturers.
At Vaillant, we reward our installers through our Advance loyalty scheme and offer support through our Vaillant Advance app. Available to Gas Safe registered installers, they are able to enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, which can be earned by installing Vaillant products. In addition, we offer product training and e-learning courses to Advance members free of charge.
A lot of homeowners tend to rely on their installer to recommend and specify the correct solution for their home. Therefore it’s important to have confidence in your choice of manufacturer and its product range in addition to having access to a high level of service and support to get the job done.
continued>>
Look forward to a better way of working... ...with Vaillant Advance Earn cash and credits
Free extended warranties
Advance rewards you for all your hard work. Go shopping with cashback earned and redeem credits on workwear and other cool stuff.
Get access to excellent extended warranty options, totally exclusive to Advance members.
Free Gas Safe in a couple of clicks
Paperless Benchmark and service reminders
Complete Gas Safe online or on the app, with the certificate automatically sent to your customer. Less fuss. Less paperwork.
Files. Paper clips. Forget them. Advance makes all your admin digital.
Hotline to the Vaillant team
Technical data always to hand
Advance puts you in direct contact with the Vaillant team, providing all the back up you need.
Every tiny detail of any Vaillant product is right at your fingertips, 24/7.
Vaillant Advance. Look forward to it. Join today - call the Advance team on 01865 893 309 or visit www.vaillant-advance.co.uk Download the new Advance app and instantly youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re connected with the most sophisticated knowledge base in the industry. Immediately, you cut time-wasting admin. And you quickly get rewarded for your hard work. How advanced is that? Download the Advance app and upgrade your business today.
*Option to purchase up to 10 years on eligible product. T & Cs apply.
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SUPPORT & REWARDS
ď&#x201E;¸ HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE RELATIONSHIP MAKE VAILLANT A FAVOURITE One of the best ways to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends is to read as much as you can from a variety of sources. As well as leading installer and industry magazines and websites, manufacturers are also great content providers so check out their websites and blogs. Not only will you be able to learn about the latest product innovations, but also access case studies demonstrating how heating technology is used in real-life scenarios.
ADVANCE WITH THE APP The Vaillant Advance app is available to download and has a number of free features to use as long as you have a Gas Safe number. The Knowledge Base means you can quickly and easily research fault codes and find manuals for the boilers you might be working on. In addition, every Vaillant contact number you will ever need is available at the touch of a button.
FOLLOW @VAILLANTUK Make sure to follow your favourite manufacturers on social media. At Vaillant we use Twitter to share news, Advance updates and keep in touch with our installers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great space to learn from manufacturers and listen to the opinions of real working installers.
Vaillant offers free product training to all its Advance members in a variety of training centres around the country...
SUPPORT & REWARDS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
CHALLENGE YOURSELF
TOP PRODUCTS
At Vaillant, we are committed to supporting the next generation of installers and that is why we are a main sponsor of the HIP UK Heating Apprentice of the Year competitions. As a forward thinking organisation we feel apprenticeships are a great way of introducing budding engineers to the industry. Therefore, we would encourage any dedicated student looking to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to speak to their lecturers and take part in the competition.
Finally explore a brand’s product portfolio, making sure the offering reflects the latest innovations and consumer trends. For example does the brand offer smart controls, highly energy efficient boilers or even have a renewable offering? By double checking a manufacturer’s products are in demand, you as an installer will naturally be in higher demand.
KEEP LEARNING
WHAT EVERY INSTALLER SHOULD LOOK FOR IN A MANUFACTURER: Training and E-learning courses
As the heating and hot water industry continues to evolve it’s important that installers keep up-to-date with the latest innovations. It’s advisable when looking at manufacturers’ products that you also understand the level of support they offer in terms of training. Vaillant offers free product training to all its Advance members in a variety of training centres around the country in addition to a wealth of e-learning resources, so you can refresh your knowledge in your own time.
Customer service support Easy to access literature and materials Real rewards and benefits Business tools to help improve working lives
For more information about Vaillant visit vaillant.co.uk and follow the company on Twitter @vaillantuk
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | SUPPORT & REWARDS
VAILLANT’S ADVANCE LOYALTY SCHEME SUPPORTS INSTALLERS AT ALL POINTS IN THEIR CAREERS Vaillant is helping to ease the workload of Newly Qualified Installers (NQIs) with the Advance loyalty scheme and Vaillant Advance app, which is available to Gas Safe registered installers.
Advance loyalty scheme upgraded As well as continuing to enjoy rewards in the form of both cashback and credits, Advance members will now be able to save time and money with free Gas Safe registration for every gas boiler they install through both the app and other Advance platforms. The scheme will continue to advance installers’ knowledge, with free product training and e-learning courses. Through the Advance loyalty scheme, installers are able to purchase extended warranties for up to 10 years on the ecoTEC pro and plus boiler ranges. This level of flexibility gives homeowners the freedom to choose the warranty that suits them best. Most importantly, Advance will help installers raise their profile amongst potential leads by collating customer testimonials to showcase on their own websites and also improve their rating on the Vaillant Find an Installer service.
The download on the Advance app For every NQI, the Vaillant Advance app will become their new best friend. With added Benchmark capability, installers can complete their Benchmark reports on the app and email them directly to their customer, before leaving site. In addition, following the auto service reminder will enable them to update Benchmark service records when they return to service the boiler.
There’s even more time to save with the Knowledge Base, allowing installers to look up fault codes and access boiler manuals at the touch of a button. In addition, installers will never keep a customer waiting thanks to ‘Find a Stockist’, which can locate products and parts in seconds. Spencer Clark, Commercial Director - One off Sales: “It can be quite daunting as a Newly Qualified Installer starting out in the industry, however by becoming an Advance member new installers have instant access to a variety of services and tools to help get the job done.”
WHAT’S ON THE ADVANCE LOYALTY SCHEME? Customer testimonials Flexible warranties FREE Gas Safe registration Calendars and service reminders WHAT’S ON THE ADVANCE APP? Benchmarking and ‘Find a Stockist’ tools
For more information about Vaillant Advance visit vaillant.co.uk or follow the company on Twitter @vaillantuk
UNDERFLOOR HEATING | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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UNDERFLOOR HEATING
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING
UNDERFLOOR HEATING Energy-efficient comfort Underfloor Heating (UFH) using piped warm water is a modern and energy-efficient 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. 20°
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26°- 28°
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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.
Heat sources
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.
20°
26°- 28°
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. continued>>
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | UNDERFLOOR HEATING
MAIN 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 comprises 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;
1
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.
2 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 2017-18
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 14 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.
3 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 products are 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 hep2oufh.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 and system plates which allow easy spacing of pipes, and a range of panel products so you can choose the right product for your project. Hep2O 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.
As the leading plumbing brand in the UK you can be 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.
DID YOU KNOW? Fitting UFH is much easier than many installers realise. Hep2O provide a range of literature, online tools, videos and step by step guides to make installation simple. You can find all this information at hep2oufh.co.uk 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 2017-18
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WATER REGULATIONS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | 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 2017-18
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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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 2017-18 | 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 2017-18 | 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 propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 2017-18
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 supplierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consent by giving notification of the details of the proposed work. Proposed work which must be notified is summarised in the following list.
ď &#x17D; 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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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | WATER REGULATIONS
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 fluid 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 2017-18
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.
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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 below for contact details).
There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent.
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
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.
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/ Our Services/Compliance/New Byelaws/What are Water Byelaws The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (Northern Ireland) are available from NI Water: niwater.com/water-fittings regulations
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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’ 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 2017-18
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 WQ08 Area of Interest: Water Quality Topic: Maintaining wholesomeness Title: Use of petroleum tapes for wrapping pipes and fittings Clause Reference: Regulation 3 Reference Number: WQ08 Decision Date: September 2010 As plastic pipe and fittings are susceptible to permeation by organic compounds, such as the hydrocarbons present in the adhesive glues and mastics used in tapes for wrapping pipe and fittings, it is recommended that such products only be applied to plastic pipe if the pipe incorporates a protective aluminium layer or is pre-wrapped with aluminium foil prior to the wrap application.
INTERPRETATION B54 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
WATER TREATMENT | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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WATER TREATMENT
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | WATER TREATMENT
PROFESSIONAL HEATING SYSTEM PROTECTION 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, CEO 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 £1,264, 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. Despite 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. Yet, ADEY believes one of the simplest steps to save on energy is being overlooked.
DID YOU KNOW? New research by ADEY has revealed that more than a third (36%) of 2,000 UK homeowners surveyed said they are concerned about being able to afford their heating bills this coming winter.
continued>>
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Service history Research by ADEY shows that only 41% of UK homeowners surveyed had their boiler checked and serviced in the past 12 months, leaving more than half of systems unchecked. More than a quarter of householders simply believe they don’t need an annual boiler service because ‘it’s working fine.’ 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. 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, unmaintained systems.
heating system maintenance and protection will reap the benefits. This is one of the many reasons ADEY developed its award-winning Best Practice™ approach of clean, flush, maintain, protect and test. It enables installers to easily communicate the crucial ingredients for ultimate system protection in five simple steps. Best practice not only ensures a heating system is protected from the damaging effects of black iron oxide sludge and corrosion, but it can also bring additional savings for homeowners. Installing a MagnaClean filter could save up to 6% on energy bills and carbon emissions year-on-year, and the Energy Saving Trust (EST) estimates that using a premium chemical inhibitor can increase boiler efficiency by a further 3% and prevent up to a 15% reduction in the effectiveness of radiators.
Share the best practice solution Few homeowners will understand that the small parts and narrow waterways of today’s super-efficient condensing boilers are more 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 5kg of sludge within the system reduces radiator heat output by up to 36%.
Those installers who can effectively communicate with their customers to help them understand the benefits of ongoing
Effective magnetic filtration can also reduce maintenance call-outs by up to 37% and help extend the life of a household boiler beyond the average lifespan of 12 to 15 years.
WATER TREATMENT | HIP BOOK 2017-18
Today, ADEY MagnaClean filters and MC+ chemicals are collectively protecting more than three million UK central heating systems... 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 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.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
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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 the winter and many more.
Long-term benefits Today, ADEY MagnaClean filters and MC+ chemicals are collectively protecting more than three million UK central heating systems helping them operate more efficiently, reducing maintenance bills and cutting emissions. ADEY estimates significant savings could be achieved 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. For example, 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. 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.
Following ADEY’s five steps could significantly improve system efficiency and reduce bills 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% A comprehensive water test will help ensure a boiler warranty is kept intact 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
WETROOMS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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WETROOMS
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | WETROOMS
WELCOME TO WETROOMS Over the course of your training you may have heard a lot about wetrooms, or perhaps even fitted one. As the fastest growth area in the UK bathrooms market, the trend for modern, attainable wetrooms is taking the UK showering sector by storm. John Blackburn, managing director of wetroom manufacturer Impey, explains what you need to know about wetrooms and how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fitted.
WHAT IS A WETROOM? A wetroom is a level access shower area with a built in drainage. Instead of zoning wet and dry areas - as is usual when installing a shower enclosure - in a wetroom, the whole room is waterproofed and tiled, with a floor gradient for drainage incorporated.
Why choose a wetroom?
The rise in popularity of wetrooms can be attributed to the fact that they are an ideal showering environment for anyone! Coming in all
shapes and sizes, when properly designed and installed a wetroom is practical, easy-access, leak-free, space-saving and easily maintained. Modern and open plan - with a huge choice of tiles and accessories â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wetrooms are sleek, contemporary and attractive. Plus, the level access nature of a wetroom offers great accessibility, which can be vital to many homeowners, including elderly or less-mobile residents.
Four Steps to Installing the Perfect Wetroom Developments of increasingly effective wetroom floor-formers and tanking (waterproofing) kits continued>>
WE ARE
WETROOMS TRAINING TOUR
2018
“Really great wetroom installation course, superb content and great value for money. I got all I wanted and much more out of the day.” Chris, C P Bathrooms
Back by popular demand, Impey will continue its tour of the UK offering intense 1 day wetroom installation courses at a variety of locations throughout the country.
For more information Tel: 01460 256 080 www.impeyshowers.com/training #wearewetrooms
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mean that a wetroom can be installed anywhere in the home; loft or attic conversions are popular locations, as are ensuites. Once the homeowner has decided to fit a wetroom, product choice is very important.
can easily avoid joists or existing pipework without the need for under-boarding – saving valuable time and money.
AQUA-GRADE HAND-SCREED TEMPLATE When installing a wetroom onto a solid, or new-pour concrete floor, a screed template which allows creation of the drainage gradient by hand-screeding, is a quick and effective choice. Impey’s Aqua-Grade is a click-together matrix screed-template which can reduce installation time by up to 50%. A wide range of templates and bespoke options are available to cater for any size.
2
1
CHOOSE A FLOOR-FORMER
The basis for a good wetroom installation is the creation of a drainage gradient on the floor, to allow the water to disperse effectively. The easiest and most effective way to create the right wetroom drainage gradient is to use a floor former, which will ensure the wetroom floor doesn’t retain any pools of standing water. Here’s some information to help you with floor former selection:
AQUA-DEC EASYFIT FLOOR-FORMER TRAYS When installing onto timber floors, the preferred options would be a prefabricated floor-former tray, which is lightweight but offers strength and rigidity. The strongest type of floor-former can be fitted directly onto joists, waterproofed and tiled upon to create the perfect gradient for drainage. Some floor-formers can be trimmed to suit space requirements. Ensure you choose a product which is designed to alleviate fitting issues and can be installed quickly and easily. By selecting an adaptable floor-former which has a built-in drainage gradient and a rotating drain-plate, like Impey’s Aqua-Dec EasyFit, you
WATERGUARD WATERPROOFING
A wetroom that has been installed properly by a trained wetroom-installer, using high quality products, will not leak. The most effective, cleanest and fastest method of waterproofing (tanking) a wetroom is to select a highly-elastic tanking-membrane which is applied to walls and floors via a selfadhesive mechanism. Some tanking-membranes, like Impey’s WaterGuard, come on a roll to offer easy application and handling.
Impey WaterGuard
Opt for a membrane which comes with premade corners, to save time and effort.
WETROOMS | HIP BOOK 2017-18
A tanking-membrane with a polypropylene surface provides an ideal key for tile adhesive and, needs no curing time so tiling can commence as soon as the product is laid. Lastly, choose a product that’s highly-elastic, resistant to ageing and has good load-bearing and decoupling capabilities, to offer an ideal tiling surface and crack protection against any movement in the flooring.
3
AQUA-MAT UNDERFLOOR HEATING
It’s now very common and cost-effective to have under-floor heating installed. This ensures the floor is being dried quickly and adds to the showering. Underfloor heating allows the heat to rise, slowly distributing around the rest of the room and heating a larger surface area from the floor upwards at a lower temperature – resulting in a consistent temperature and economical running-costs. It is important to choose a product like Impey’s Aqua-Mat that has suitability for the floor-surface of the wetroom, is available in flexible multiple lengths and comes with mesh-backing for easier fitting.
4
TILING, GLASS SCREENS & ACCESSORISING
The final stage in the wetroom installation process creates the visual appeal of the room. Tiling possibilities are endless and will form the primary aesthetic of the room. There are a variety of drainage-grate options to consider. Depending on the configuration of the floor-former drainage gradient, the grate may be a standard square or a contemporary linear version.
Linear Tile Insert
163
Wall bracket
It’s even possible to choose a drainage-grate that can be inlaid with matching tiles, so the drain blends seamlessly with the rest of the wetroom floor. To ensure the creation of a multi-functional space, which has suitability for all occasions, additions like grab-rails can be important. Contemporary hand-rails can be strategically positioned to aid individuals who may need support getting in and out of the shower. A modern shower-seat can create an effective and comfortable option and be easily folded away when not in use. If glass wetroom panels are to be used, toughened safety glass like Impey’s Aqua-Screen X ensures safety and security. The choice of clear or modesty glass (or even coloured glass) can be an option also. All Impey wetroom trays and waterproofing come with a lifetime guarantee. Lastly, remember to use products from a reputable British manufacturer – that way, if you run into any fitting difficulties, you’ll be able to call them for advice. If you feel that you need specific product training before fitting your first wetroom, attend a manufacturer-led training course where you can experiment with the products first. Impey’s current wetroom training dates are available online.
For more information visit: impeyshowers.com or tel. 01460 256 080.
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WETROOMS HAVE THE WOW-FACTOR FOR UK HOME OWNERS Wetroom installation remains the largest growth area in the UK bathrooms marketplace, as does the associated new-business opportunities that this affords installers; therefore, understanding how to design and fit a wetroom is an essential skill for today’s installers. Pioneering showering solutions specialist Impey is the UK’s founding wetroom manufacturer, offering a revolutionary selection of leak-free wetroom solutions, designed and produced in Britain. With a versatile range of products to enable the simple creation of any size or style of wetroom, including both residential and healthcare / home adaptations, Impey’s comprehensive selection of wetroom products includes: floorformers, waterproofing products, underfloor heating options, drainage grates, glass shower screens and bathroom accessories. Impey’s innovative product design combines modern styling with market-leading wetroom technology to create a unique offering of cutting edge products, including the three-way-fall
linear floor-former, the renowned Aqua-Dec EasyFit floor former with unique rotating drainplate and an exclusive selection of contemporary drainage grates. For installers who are new to the wetroom concept, or those who simply want to brush-up on their skills, Impey runs the ‘We Are Wetrooms’ Training Tour. Visiting a variety of sporting venues across the UK, the tour incorporates extensive training on all of Impey’s market-leading products including the Aqua-Dec EasyFit floor-former and the Aqua-Dec Linear floor-former; patented floorformers, designed with the installer in mind. Plus, hands-on training focused on how to waterproof a wetroom or bathroom using the company’s popular WaterGuard tanking technology, and installation of the Aqua-Grade wetroom screedtemplates for new-pour concrete floors. To find out more about Impey products or book a place on the ‘We Are Wetrooms’ UK Training Tour visit: www.impeyshowers.com/ training or tel. 01460 256 080.
NQI | HIP BOOK 2017-18
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NEWLY QUALIFIED INSTALLER
Sponsored By
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HIP BOOK 2017-18 | NQI
START ME UP! OK, so you’ve decided to take the plunge and set up your own business. Before you can earn any money, it’s likely you’ll need to splash out on a few things like tools and equipment. And don’t forget about things like websites and advertising. But don’t be alarmed. There are various schemes and help out there to help you set up your business.
Where to start? The first port of call has to be the gov.uk website which has a useful section on getting funding if you’re starting up a new business. There are several different options as a start-up including: Using your own money A bank loan Selling shares in your business as an investment In addition to this there is public funding in the form of government schemes which may be available in your area.
Public funding Government backed support and finance for small businesses includes: Grants Finance and loans Business support in the form of mentoring and consultancy Funding for small and medium size businesses start-ups Depending on where you live, these options can vary. But again the gov.uk website has a handy list of funding and grants available in different regions. When we checked there were 534 different schemes which you can narrow down to what’s available where you are by keying in your postcode. We took what’s currently available in East Anglia for a start-up business and looked at three of the 20 options available in that region.
1
START UP LOANS
Backed by the Business Bank, the Start Up Loans Company offers loans and mentoring
NQI | HIP BOOK 2017-18
for people over 18 years old who are looking to start a business. It’s a government funded scheme offering low-cost unsecured loans, business mentoring and a range of business support products if your business plan is approved. The loan must be paid back within 5 years, and you will pay a fixed rate of interest. Capital repayment holidays are available, but you must pay interest each month. startuploans.co.uk
2 THE PRINCE’S TRUST ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME Available nationally, The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme supports unemployed young people aged 18 to 30 to work out if their business ideas are viable and whether self-employment is right for them. The scheme offers: 1 to 1 support to help you to explore and test your idea and turn it into a business plan. support to apply for a low interest loan of up to £4,000 for a sole trader and up to £5,000 for a partnership to help you to start your business mentoring to help you develop your business or access other opportunities in education, training, work or volunteering. princes-trust.org.uk
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3 BUSINESS ADVICE & MASTERCLASSES Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk & Suffolk Organised by NWES for companies with up to 249 employees, the scheme offers support and advice for pre-starts, startups and trading businesses throughout Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk. Advice is available on how to start and grow a business including information on marketing, legal issues and finance. Business grants for innovation development are available – 25% of costs up to £25,000. nwes.org.uk
The following are also great sources of advice for start-up businesses: Your local chamber of commerce. Town or city councils. For our Norfolk start up business we checked Norwich City Council’s website which had a section on business support and funding. Your county council. We took a look at Norfolk County Council’s website which has a section on funding including links to Grantnet - a service that helps local organisations identify funding streams that may be available to specific projects for voluntary and community groups, social enterprises, and small to medium sized businesses. Your local bank. Most banks have a business manager who may be able to advise on local training, support and funding sources. gov.uk/starting-up-a-business/get-funding
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WEBSITES A website is essential when it comes to marketing your business. You can either pay someone to set it up for you, or you could put one together yourself for a fraction of the cost. Don’t worry, you don’t need to have technical knowledge to do this, there are plenty of Content Management Systems (CMS) to chose from. A quick search on the Internet will bring up a variety of options. It all comes down to how complex you want it to be.
Content Management Systems The majority of CMS systems offer a choice of themes, navigation, fonts and colours and are easy to use. A basic website usually has three
pages, a ‘home’ page, a second page listing all your services and finally a contact page. Of course you could add a further page giving an idea of hourly rates for different jobs. There’s thousands of plumbing websites on the Internet, see which ones stand out – and then create your own. Good luck!
NQI | HIP BOOK 2017-18
HOME PAGE
SERVICES PAGE
This is your company’s virtual front door and is generally responsible for drawing in the majority of your website’s traffic. People on average spend a matter of seconds looking at a new web page, so you have to grab their attention. This can sometimes be done with interesting images that link to your business; colours and fonts are also important. A tacky website will kill interest. Describe what you do on the home page and if you use images make sure they capture the essence of what you are promoting. You could add a little background information about your business.
List everything you can think of associated with your business, even including what you might think of as mundane – such as installing washing machines, dishwashers or replacing taps. Think of what people will type into Google when looking for your services e.g. leaking pipe and make sure you weave it into the copy on your services page.
If you belong to any trade associations or professional bodies add their logos, including Gas Safe if you are a registered installer. Customer testimonials are also useful.
CONTACT PAGE Well, this is pretty obvious, but you could also add information like: 24-hour emergency service or that you give a discount to OAPs. Add your social media accounts. Make sure your full address is included and you have stated the areas you cover e.g. works undertaken throughout Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
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SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media can be brilliant for promoting your business and the added bonus is, it’s free! Here are some of the channels you can use.
FACEBOOK Most people these days have a Facebook page so they can link with their friends, but make sure you set up a separate one for your business. This should have links to your website and any other social media accounts you have linked to your company. Unlike a personal Facebook page where you will be getting lots of interaction with friends,
you will probably find it will take a while to get a significant number of ‘Likes’. Post photos of installations you have carried out and make your comments friendly and chatty. Update it as often as possible.
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TWITTER With over 500 million users and 135,000 signing up every day, Twitter can be a great place to connect with your target audience. If you haven’t used it before, you might wonder how you are going to get your message across in just 140 characters. You’ll find that your website or Facebook address doesn’t actually take up much space, so always add that to your message. That way prospective customers can find out all the information they need. Build up your followers by ‘following’ other people and retweeting messages.
LINKEDIN Create a company page for your business, again include your website and any other social media accounts you have. You will find an option to add contacts to your page. You’ll find that your list will grow as other people see your page and want to link with you. Customers will have the opportunity to recommend you to others. One last thing to remember about social media – it works both ways. If you provide a great service, you’ll reap the benefits. Personal recommendations are priceless. However, if you upset your customer, it could damage your reputation for a long time, especially if you lose your cool online.
...try to respond as soon as possible to people who post on your page or send you messages.
Social media is about creating a conversation, so share other people’s relevant content and try to respond as soon as possible to people who post on your page or send you messages.
REMEMBER... Keep your integrity and be diplomatic if hit by negativity – how you respond will either win you followers or lose you customers.
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WHY DO YOU NEED TOOLS INSURANCE? Richard Woolford A.C.I.I, Director, Holbrook Consultants Limited, gives us the low-down on the importance of Tools Insurance and how to go about getting it. As a professional tradesperson, you will build up a collection of hand tools and power tools that you need to carry out your work. Without the correct tools you may not be able to work for a period of time until you have managed to fund replacement items and you could lose valuable income. It is, therefore, vital that you consider insuring your hand tools and power tools against loss or damage so that you are covered to source replacement equipment, should anything happen.
As with any insurance policy it is vital that you read the full policy wording and ask for clarification on any terms and conditions that cause you concern.
Points to consider When considering Tools Insurance always obtain a few quotations for comparison purposes and remember that the cheapest policy does not always provide the best value for money. Bear in mind that your tools are at their most vulnerable when left overnight in your vehicle but not all Tools Insurance policies will cover this risk.
For example, a number of Tools Insurance policies exclude overnight theft from an unattended vehicle unless the vehicle is contained within a locked garage or compound. The policy definition of “overnight” can also vary from policy to policy but could be from 6pm at night to 9am the following morning and it will be up to you, as the policyholder, to establish the time of the loss. To avoid such limitations try to find a policy that provides 24-hour cover and one that covers your vehicle at any time, providing that your vehicle is locked when unattended and there are visible signs of a forced break in.
Add ons You may be able to find Tools Insurance cover as a “stand alone” cover i.e. a policy that can be purchased on its own. More often than not, however, you can usually add Tools Insurance to your Public Liability Insurance policy along with other benefits such as stock cover and personal accident insurance. No matter where you purchase cover always read the full policy wording carefully and make sure you understand the policy cover and the terms and conditions. Visit holbrookconsultants.co.uk
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TAKING CONTROL Running your own business may seem like a dream come true, but if you are not careful you could find yourself in a financial nightmare!
Goods on credit If you are just starting up your own business you will need to set up a credit account with a plumbing merchant. They will make an assessment on how much credit they are willing to offer you. It might be that at first they will want you to pay upfront for goods, until you become established. After that, you will usually be given 30 days to pay for the goods you have ordered. Be prompt with your payments, otherwise you
could find that they cut off your credit. In time, your credit rating will rise.
Invoicing Start off on the right foot by making it clear that payment will be due on the completion of the work. You should make sure that both you and your customer understand what work is being carried out, how long it will take, how much it will cost and when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be raising an invoice for payment.
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Accounts If at any point you realise that extra costs are going to be involved, explain the situation to your customer straight away and make sure you put it in writing.
Make sure you keep an accurate account of all earnings and expenditure. You don’t want to find yourself in trouble with the tax man.
...make it clear that payment will be due on the completion of the work.
OUTSTANDING INVOICES Chasing debts is always an awkward process, but you need to be firm. Follow these tips:
01
02
03
USE THE PHONE
INSIST ON DATES
Don’t just email customers when their payment is late – an email can be easily ignored. Contact them by phone so they are forced to explain the reason for the delay. Don’t be fobbed off by a promise of a call back. Ask them when the best time would be for you to call again.
A customer might have a thoroughly legitimatesounding excuse, but you should always insist on a practical outcome – when, exactly, can you expect to be paid?
SMALL CLAIMS COURT Debts under £10,000 can be collected for a small fee using the small claims procedure at the county court.
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CUSTOMER CARE & REFERRALS One of the best ways to gain customers is through word of mouth: people do not recommend someone they have employed unless they have been impressed, and people are much more likely to ask for the services of a plumber they have heard good things about. But a customer will only give you a referral if the customer service they have received has been of the best standard. Here are some tips on how to provide the best customer care.
TURN UP ON TIME This is essential if you want your customer to believe that you are reliable, and it is things like punctuality that people remember and think to mention to their friends and family when telling them about you and the work you have undertaken. If you are stuck in traffic or running late through no fault of your own always call the customer to let them know that you’ve been delayed.
TAKE YOUR SHOES OFF BEFORE ENTERING A CUSTOMER’S HOME Some people take a lot of pride in the cleanliness of their home and it’s respectful to display that you have respect for their property and belongings in this way. If you need to wear shoes for the job, wear shoe covers. ALWAYS WEAR SMART CLOTHES A polo T-shirt with the company logo on it is preferable to one that is looking worse for wear because it suggests professionalism from the outset.
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REMEMBER THAT MANNERS COST NOTHING Be polite by saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and behaving in a respectful manner. Listen to the customer if they have a concern and make them feel like you care about any issues they’re experiencing within their home that you can solve, because they are putting you in a position of trust by letting you into their home.
LOOK AFTER OTHER PEOPLE’S PROPERTY AS IF IT WERE YOUR OWN Make sure that you don’t cause unnecessary damage by putting down dust sheets wherever you’re working and using heat mats when necessary.
TAKE EXTRA SPECIAL CARE WITH VULNERABLE CUSTOMERS You may need to be more patient with the elderly, for example.
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GETTING PROTECTION RIGHT FROM THE START Despite the specific risks inherent to plumbing and heating work, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is often either not considered or frequently disregarded by installers. Martin Stables, Category Director at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, looks at some of the PPE required for you to be adequately protected. PPE is equipment that protects the user from any occupational risks or hazards encountered in their day-to-day job.
It’s important to be aware of the following:
When cutting or grinding pipes, eye protection should always be worn to protect the user from flying shards of metal or plastic. Prescription glasses do not offer an adequate level of protection so it is always advisable to use safety glasses that offer full coverage, including the sides.
Relatively short-term use of equipment that produces high levels of noise can result in damage to hearing, such as drilling into concrete or stone. For these tasks foam earplugs or ear defenders should always be used.
Respiratory conditions are one of the most common categories of work-related illness in the UK. Installers can be exposed to a number of potentially dangerous substances in the course of their work. A variety of facemasks, hoods and helmets are available depending on the level of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) required.
The extreme heat required when soldering or brazing pipe means that safety gloves are essential to prevent burns, not only from the heat source itself but also from the heated surface of the pipe. Gloves that combine heat protection with cut resistance will also protect the user’s hands and wrists from sharp edges when handling materials.
Finally, kneepads are a key piece of the kit that is often overlooked. Protecting the knees will help make the work easier, more comfortable and less damaging in the long term.
As equipment will be used every day, it is important to select PPE that fits well and is comfortable to use and it’s essential to make PPE part of the routine for every task, as even ‘quick jobs’ can present a serious risk. Graham Plumbers’ Merchant offers a full range of PPE and the team in branch can provide help and advice to ensure installers select equipment that is right for them.
Visit grahamplumbersmerchant.co.uk or grahamturningpro.co.uk
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INSURANCE While it’s important that you get it right, business insurance can seem a bit overwhelming at first. But put simply it can be narrowed down to three different types relevant to plumbers. 1. Public Liability Insurance:
2. Employers’ Liability Insurance:
This is about the contact you will have with a third party, i.e. the public, which will mostly be your customers. It protects you from any repercussions which may ensue from anyone that you deal with who is not an employee. These could be legal costs or compensation payments that your company could be liable for if you or someone you employ causes damage to property or injury to someone in connection with the business. It’s designed to pay these legal costs your company could become liable for.
This is a legal requirement which protects your employees and business in the event that someone is injured or becomes ill as a result of their work. It is designed to pay your legal liabilities if this occurs.
3. Professional Indemnity: This could protect you if a person believes you’ve been negligent. It is designed to cover the costs that you will be faced with if legal action is taken as a result of advice or guidance you’ve provided in a professional capacity.
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BECOME A SPECIALIST Newly qualified installers have a rewarding career ahead with several specialist opportunities available to them. Mike Harvey, HETAS’ training and technical support manager, explains… Once the assignments and exams are complete, it’s time for the real work to begin. Whichever route you take in your profession whether as an installer focussing on bathrooms, heating systems, renewables, gas, oil, servicing and maintenance, or a combination of the above - you can guarantee there is always something else to learn. As a newly qualified installer, you will be faced with scenarios that weren’t covered in college: anomalies on installation and design that require advice from manufacturers or colleagues. You will no doubt receive enquiries from customers which challenge your knowledge and may require you to undertake further training on a particular subject or an additional heating technology.
Training courses Over the years, HETAS has developed a comprehensive programme of training courses for solid fuel, wood and biomass installations for NQIs to build on their skill set and bridge the skills gap in the industry. Solid fuel (coal or multi-fuel) appliance
installation was, until the early 1990’s, taught within the apprenticeship curriculum. However, the training was deemed no longer required and omitted in favour of gas or oil until approximately 2010 when the ‘Renewables Pathway’ was introduced. Although encompassing a variety of options – namely solar thermal, heat pump or biomass – few apprentices could undertake biomass due to the complexities of meeting assessment criteria in college and onsite portfolio evidence. As a result, generations of installers are unsure of the requirements to install such appliances when asked to do so.
The majority of biomass qualifications are now being facilitated by HETAS accredited training centres. We are the leading training provider, equipping installers with the knowledge and confidence that will help to enhance their business offering and meeting consumer requests.
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Expert trainers
Once registered, installers can use the HETAS logo and marketing collateral that instils consumer confidence. Registered HETAS installers can also access the HETAS guide to products, the technical helpline and online HETAS shop which offers a range of products and workwear.
For more information on HETAS training courses visit: hetas.co.uk
HETAS COURSES INCLUDE: • • • • • • • • • • •
H001 - Introduction to solid fuel Retailer - Approved Retailer Showroom staff H002 - Solid fuel regulations and standards H003 - Dry appliance installer H003DS - Dry Appliance Installer (Defined Scope) H004 - Wet appliance installer H005DE - Biomass Appliance Installer H006 - System Chimneys H008 - Dry Pellet Strove Installer H009 - Service & Maintenance Refresher - Renew your competencies every 5 years
HETAS training courses are used as a pathway towards registration on the range of schemes available with HETAS. • • • • •
Competent Person Scheme (CPS) - HETAS Registered Installer Approved Retailer Approved Chimney Sweeps Approved Servicing Scheme Microgeneration Certification (MCS)
Burlington & Salisbury
Photograph courtesy of Chesney’s
Delivered by highly skilled industry specific trainers at HETAS Approved Training Centres, courses cover core theory and practical considerations for installation as well as service and maintenance, the importance of using appropriate fuels and regulatory requirements. Training will prepare NQIs for a variety of consumer scenarios. For example, whether a wood burner is being used as a secondary heat source in an existing fireplace or is freestanding as a focal point in a room. This encompasses appliances that are ‘linked in’ to heating systems and can be controlled via mobile and smart technology much in the same way as a gas boiler installation.
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A big part of your job will be maintaining the correct Health and Safety procedures every working day. It is crucial that you are aware of the hazards which exist wherever you are working and that you take the necessary precautions so that you are prepared in case the worst happens. The Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA) 1974 legislation should be followed to ensure your own safety and that of anyone you work with and you are legally obliged to follow its rules and regulations.
Key HASAWA responsibilities As a plumber working on domestic premises, the health, safety and welfare of the occupant becomes your responsibility because it is your place of work. You have a responsibility to both yourself and to others to keep the workplace hazard free. While your employer has a duty to ensure that the safety equipment provided is kept in good condition, you still need to make sure that you maintain your own safety as they cannot cater for human error or negligence.
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HERE ARE A FEW POSSIBLE HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS THAT A PLUMBER MIGHT FACE
1. WORKING AT HEIGHTS Working in homeowners’ attics and at internal and external high points on buildings puts plumbers at risk of falling through roofs and falling from great heights. You should always make sure that the surface you are putting the majority of your weight on is secure and has been inspected where this is relevant. Never stand on a surface unless you are 100% sure that it is safe and you are not putting yourself at risk of a fall. The COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations must be adhered to at all times. Substances that fall under COSHH will often be labelled as dangerous (i.e. toxic, very toxic, harmful, irritant or corrosive) and control measures must be applied when handling such substances. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions of use.
3. EXPOSURE TO NOISE TO HAZARDOUS 2. EXPOSURE SUBSTANCES Working on buildings and drainage systems inevitably poses the risk of you being exposed to hazardous substances, such as lead, asbestos, raw sewage, mould and more. These can lead to serious illness, including Tetanus and Hepatitis A, B or C. The best way to avoid this is to apply barrier cream before starting a job, wash your hands whenever you take a break, make sure you use the right PPE equipment (gloves, eye protection, etc.), clean all of your equipment properly after use and maintain good ventilation where you are working at all times.
Tools and machinery can create more decibels of sound than the human ear can safely be exposed to, so it is vital that you use ear plugs at all times when working in a noisy environment, as part of your PPE.
continued>>
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FROM TOOLS 4. INJURY AND EQUIPMENT Just as without the right tools you cannot do the job right, without ensuring that all of your equipment is safe, you cannot do the job safely. Always make sure to maintain any tools and equipment that you use and cut away from your face and body when using sharp objects. If the task at hand requires a lot of concentration or if you are in an awkward position whilst performing the task, make sure you take frequent breaks to eliminate the chance of error and adjust your position regularly to avoid cramping and muscle injury.
Slips, trips and falls You should be aware that the load generally accepted as maximum for a fit person to lift is 20kg and any weight being carried or lifted must be done in the safest manner possible. If you suspect a person has broken a bone, you must prevent movement at the site of the injury and keep them still until the injured part is secured and supported, unless they are in immediate danger and then they must be moved away from the hazard. However you must always make sure that you are not putting yourself at risk and ring emergency services immediately.
What else can you do to prevent these things from happening? Always lock away dangerous substances in an approved, clearly labelled place when not using them Store materials correctly. Lengths of pipe and tube should be stored horizontally so that they are less likely to fall Employers must provide protective clothing free of charge when the work being undertaken requires using it
FIRST AID FACTS Burns Hot water and steam are often contended with by plumbers and they can cause severe damage if handled improperly. If you are scalded, you should flood the burn with plenty of cold water immediately and do not remove anything that may be sticking to the burn because you may cause further damage and introduce infection into the burnt area. Always call 999/112 for emergency help so that they can advise you on what to do next.
If you would like more information, here are some website which may be useful to you. hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics.htm hse.gov.uk/legislation/hswa.htm redcross.org.uk/What-we-do/ First-aid/Everyday-First-Aid firstaid.org.uk
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