PLUMBERS, INSTALLERS & HEATING ENGINEERS
FE ATU NEWLY
RI N G . .
.
INSTAQULALIFIED LER
THE ESSENTIAL BOOK
2 0 2 0 ⁄ 2 1 E D IT I O N £ 7. 9 9 PRI NTE D I N TH E U K
R E AC H I N G T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N O F I N S TA L L E R S
New
Express Inhibitor Test Tests
50
systems
n Quick and simple on-site testing of inhibitor concentration n Download Fernox Water Test App for lab-style report certificate n Allows compliance with BS 7593:2019 and Benchmark
www.fernox.com
Download the Fernox Water Test App today
E D I TO R ’S N OT E I HI P BOOK 2020-21
DIGITAL EDITOR: TOM TRACEY tom.tracey@sng-publishing.co.uk
Welcome to your course companion!
C
ongratulations on making one of the best decisions of your life by pursuing a career in plumbing. You’ve chosen one of the most vibrant, muchneeded trades, full of diverse career opportunities.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-publishing.co.uk ADVERTISING: PATRICK BLORE patrick.blore@sng-publishing.co.uk OPERATIONS MANAGER: EMILY HILTON emily.hilton@sng-publishing.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR: ZOË TANNER zoe.tanner@sng-publishing.co.uk PRINTERS: Stephens & George, Wales GENERAL ENQUIRIES To subscribe to HIP Magazine call 0121 606 3016 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’s standard terms of advertising.
© SNG Publishing Ltd, 2020
01
To be the best plumber you can possibly be, always take pride in your work, leaving every job knowing that you’ve done your very best. Your days will be full of challenges, rewards, problem solving and ultimately huge satisfaction… and most importantly remember to have fun and enjoy each day! Every section in this book has been designed to help you widen your knowledge of the industry, covering some of the most important subjects you will come across on your course, from learning how an air source heat pump works to giving you the latest Water Regulations. The NQI (Newly Qualified Installer) section at the back of this book is dedicated to supporting you at the end of your course, giving you useful tips on building your brand and dealing with finance and insurance. To help improve your knowledge and prepare you for your exams, check out our revision guides at the back of our magazines. Ask your lecturer for a free copy. You’ll find the answers to all the questions on our website. We are here to support you in these early stages of your career and wish you the best of luck!
Tom Tracey DIGITAL EDITOR
SEARCH FOR HIP MAGAZINE
02
HIP BOOK 2021-21 I C ON T EN T S
09 Industry Contacts
97 Plumbing Tools
17 General Plumbing
103 Push-fit Fittings
33 Air Source
109 Shower Pumps
39 Boilers
115 Smart Control Showers
45 Circulator Pumps
121 Training
53 Compliance
127 Underfloor Heating
59 Customer Interaction
133 Wall-hung Toilets
65 Drainage
139 Water Regulations
71 Flexible Plumbing
155 Water Saving
77 Hot Water Cylinders
161 Water Treatment
83 Macerators
167 Wiring Connectors
91 Merchants
173
Information
Heat Pumps
CONTENTS
THE COMPETITION RETURNS
LE ARNER OF THE YEAR
2021
COULD THIS BE YOUR YEAR? T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N S TA R T S N O W … With a new name and a new format, we’re excited to announce the launch of the 2021 HIP Learner of the Year competition.
WWW.HIP-MAGAZINE.CO.UK
04
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I LOY C O M PE T I T IO N
THE SEARCH IS ON FOR THE 2021 HIP LEARNER OF THE YEAR! With a new name and a new format, we’re excited to announce the launch of the 2021 HIP Learner of the Year competition. Between January and April, Level 2 and 3 students from colleges nationwide will take part.
> ROUND ONE Two learners from each college will compete against each other to secure their place in Round Two. The competition will take place within their own college. Each college will enter one of the regional heats depending on their location.
> ROUND TWO The winner from each college will complete a short written test for the chance to represent their region at the Live Final in April.
> LIVE FINAL The six regional winners will compete in the two-day final in April for the chance to become the HIP Learner of the Year 2021. As well as the prestige that comes from winning the competition, there are fantastic prizes up for grabs, with every competitor receiving a certificate for taking part.
#HIPLOY21
LE ARNER OF THE YEAR
2021
LOY C O M PE T I T I ON I HI P BOOK 2020-21
The 2020 winner was Thomas J Thomas from Coleg Llandrillo, who said that anyone thinking of entering next year should ‘100% do it’. He added: “It’s an amazing thing to put on your CV – if I ever need to look for work in future, I can say I’ve done it and it’ll give me a step up. It definitely increases your technical skills and gives you a focus on being accurate to the point of complete precision. You have to be confident in what you do and not second-guess yourself.” Colin Yearp, Senior Technical Trainer at 2020 platinum sponsor ADEY, said: “Grab the opportunity with both hands. The profile and knowledge you will gain from the experience will stand you in tremendous stead in your future career. The competition is miles ahead of anything I’ve seen.”
2020 WINNER Thomas J Thomas
“The final was definitely a step up from the regional competition. Overall, it’s been brilliant!” For more information and to enter the competition head to www.hip-magazine.co.uk/events
05
06
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I K AHO OT
TEST YOUR
PLUMBING KNOWLEDGE Whether you’re new to the trade or back for another year, our Kahoot! quizzes are a great way to test your plumbing and heating knowledge in a fun, interactive way. There are a few quizzes in this book, starting with some Health & Safety questions here, and plenty more online.
See if you can get this one right from our Power Tools quiz
Which tool is necessary when using core bits?
Circular saw
Cordless drill
Rotary hammer drill
SDS hammer drill
Answer: SDS Hammer drill
Answer
K AH OOT I HI P BOOK 2020-21
HEALTH & SAFETY 1) Which of these are examples of toxic substances?
4) At which noise level should employers carry out a risk assessment?
a b c d
Cyanide, asbestos, lead Leftover curry Petrol, LPG, cleaning agents Paints, solvents and sealants
a b c d
10 decibels 35 decibels 80 decibels 1,000 decibels
2) Which of these work incidents must be reported to RIDDOR by law?
5) Which colour is the cylinder for bottled propane?
a b c d
Birthdays Major injuries Mugs not being washed up Under ‘three-day’ injuries
3) Which of these are forms of asbestos?
a b c d
Chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite Hydrochloric acid and sulphuric acid Carbon monoxide Welding fumes
a b c d
Yellow Maroon Signal red Black
6) True or false: A ladder should extend five rungs (one metre) above a working platform.
Which of these is NOT a hazard which may cause accidents on site?
This quiz is taken from Kahoot! You can play this and other fun quizzes to test your plumbing and heating knowledge at
Site cleanliness
Inadequate PPE and equipment
Personal conduct
Bad jokes
hip-magazine.co.uk/learning-resources
07
Answers: 1a 2b 3a 4c 5c 6 True
Answer in the phone is Bad jokes
FOLLOW
SEARCH FOR HIP MAGAZINE
INDUSTRY CONTACTS
10
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S
Alpha Heating Innovation Nepicar House, London Road, Wrotham Heath, Kent TN15 7RS T: 0344 871 8760 I E: info@alpha-innovation.co.uk
www.alpha-innovation.co.uk
At Alpha, we believe in putting our customers first. That's why we pride ourselves on the quality of the products we offer and in being there to support you in making the most of your business. Our range of gas boilers meets the needs of a wide variety of property types and requirements, from an average family home right up to large commercial buildings.
Altecnic Altecnic Ltd, Mustang Drive, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1GW T: 01785 218200 I E: sales@altecnic.co.uk www.altecnic.co.uk
Altecnic is the UK’s leading manufacturer of hydronic solutions products for both commercial and domestic markets. Part of the Caleffi Group, our products satisfy the needs of trade merchants, original equipment manufacturers, engineers and specifiers.
Baxi Heating Brooks House, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 4LL T: 0344 871 1525 I E: info@baxi.co.uk www.baxi.co.uk
Baxi has been manufacturing in the UK since 1866 and provides reliable, energy efficient boilers, backed by industry-leading customer support, hands-on training by experienced professionals and nationwide availability of parts.
Blåkläder Workwear Ltd 1 Chapel Street, Warwick CV34 4HL T: 0800 028 8234 I E: uksales@blaklader.com www.blaklader.uk/en
Our workwear just loves dirty workshops, muddy building sites, weld spatter and grinding wheel sparks. Cold winter days, drizzle and biting winds are also welcome. This is because our garments are designed to protect you when you work in exposed environments.
Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) T: 01708 472791 I E: membership@ciphe.org.uk www.ciphe.org.uk
The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) is the professional membership body for members of the UK plumbing and heating industry, dedicated to promoting best practice and protecting the health and safety of the general public.
11
IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S I HI P BOOK 2020-21
DEWALT 270 Bath Road, Slough, SL1 3YD T: 01753 511234 www.dewalt.co.uk
DEWALT is a leading manufacturer of premium power tools, accessories, anchors and fixings that provides a fully integrated system solution for various applications. DEWALT tools offer unparalleled performance, with durable construction for a professional finish.
Fernox 2 Genesis Business Park, Albert Drive, Sheerwater, Woking GU21 5RW T: 0330 100 7750 I E: sales@fernox.com www.fernox.com
Fernox has pioneered the use of high performance chemical water treatment and filter technology to keep central heating systems working to optimum efficiency. Fernox recognises the importance of education and training for the next generation of gas engineers and installers.
Geberit Geberit House, Edgehill Drive, Warwick CV34 6NH T: 01926 516800 I E: enquiries@geberit.co.uk www.geberit.co.uk
At Geberit, we use our passion for design and technology to deliver contemporary, high quality solutions that transform efficiency, increase safety and enhance living and working environments. As a European market leader in sanitary technology we apply our vast know-how and over 150 years of experience to everything we do.
Graham The Plumbers’ Merchant T: 02476 560 777 I 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, smart and renewable solutions. Graham has over 140 branches across the UK, as well as 15 bathroom showrooms.
GROHE World Business Centre 2, Newall Road, London Heathrow Airport, Hounslow, Middlesex TW6 2SF T: 0871 200 3414 www.grohe.co.uk
GROHE is a global leader in premium bathroom and kitchen fittings, offering complete bathroom solutions and a diverse range of sinks, taps and innovative Water Systems for the kitchen. Continued >>
12
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S
Grundfos Pumps Ltd Grovebury Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4TL T: 01525 850000 I E: grundfos-uk@sales.grundfos.com www.grundfos.co.uk
Grundfos Pumps is a UK leader in the supply of energy efficient pumps for a wide range of applications around the home. This includes a great line-up of domestic circulator pumps that will meet all your demands.
Henkel Ltd Wood Lane End, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4RQ T: 01442 278100 I E: technicalservice.loctite@uk.henkel.com www.henkel-adhesives.co.uk
LOCTITE® is the trusted choice for high-performance adhesives and sealants and is well known for its quick, easy and effective LOCTITE® 55 pipe sealing cord. New WRAS approved LOCTITE® 5400 generalpurpose metal pipe and fittings sealant is hazard-label free.
Hep₂O Edlington Lane, Doncaster DN12 1BY T: 0844 856 5165 I 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.
Ideal Industries EMEA Unit 3, Europa Court, Europa Boulevard, Warrington, Cheshire WA5 7TN T: 01925 444 446 I E: eur.sales@idealindustries.com www.idealindustriesemea.com
From the introduction of our first twist-on wire connector in 1924, IDEAL has been the leading force in wire termination technology. Through ingenuity, proven performance and innovative engineering, IDEAL supplies products for fast, easy and safe installation.
Kingspan Water & Energy Unit A, Tadman Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF1 5QU T: 0345 260 0258 I F: 0345 260 0259 Technical Helpline: 0345 812 0007 I Customer Service: 0345 260 7260
www.kingspancylinders.com
Across all the Kingspan Water & Energy businesses we’re pioneering new technologies to preserve and protect water & energy for future generations. This ideology is especially clear in our hot water cylinders business, where we’re committed to delivering high quality, energy efficient cylinders in both traditional Albion copper and our modern Ultrasteel unvented cylinders ranges. Continued >>
14
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S
McAlpine Plumbing Products Kelvin Avenue, Hillington Park, Glasgow G52 4LF T: 0141 882 3213
www.mcalpineplumbing.com
Cut corners? Choose cheap products? Get hassle from customers? Keep having to go back to fix things? We know that we can’t make you buy our products. All we can tell you is that with thousands of quality products to choose from, all easy to use, fit and forget, it’s no wonder that good plumbers always choose McAlpine. McAlpine Plumbing Products - No Compromise
Neoperl UK Enigma Business Park, Sparrowhawk Close, Malvern WR14 1GH T: 01684 564869 I E: info@neoperl.co.uk
neoperl.net
Neoperl is the world’s leading manufacturer of flow regulators and aerators that can be found in most showers, taps and boilers. Many of its products can also be retro-fitted providing great water saving solutions for the home.
Pegler Yorkshire Group Ltd St Catherine’s Avenue, Balby, Doncaster, South Yorkshire DN4 8DF T: 01302 560560 I F: 01302 560203 I E: uk.sales@aalberts-ips.com www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk
Pegler (a member of Aalberts) has earned a worldwide reputation for superb quality fittings and valves and has combined its expertise, knowledge and engineering capabilities to develop Integrated Piping Systems (IPS).
Polypipe Building Products Broomhouse Lane, Edlington, Doncaster DN12 1ES T: 01709 770000 I E: residential@polypipe.com www.polypipe.com
The UK’s leading manufacturer of plastic piping systems for the residential market, including above ground drainage products, plastic plumbing fittings and pipes and underfloor heating solutions. Stocked in plumbers’ and builders’ merchants nationally.
Rhino Products Ltd Rhino House, Deans Road, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, CH65 4DR, UK T: 0151 319 2931 www.rhinoproducts.co.uk
Rhino Products is Europe’s leading manufacturer of commercial vehicle accessories. With a range including roof racks, bars, pipe tubes and more, Rhino supplies products of unrivalled quality for van users around the world.
15
IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S I HI P BOOK 2020-21
Ridge Tool UK c/o Emerson Electric, 2nd Floor Accurist House, 44 Baker Street, London W1U 7AL T: 0808 238 9869 www.ridgid.com
RIDGID®, a leading manufacturer of tools and equipment, markets its products in over 140 countries. The company offers more than 300 types of tools serving the rental, plumbing, HVAC/R, utility, industrial, electrical, petroleum, institutional, commercial and hardware markets.
RJW Engineering T: 01384 442852 I E: RJWEng@btinternet.com
www.rjwengineering.co
Established in 1989, RJW has brought new innovative products to the plumbing industry. The only NHBC approved fitting for the PRV on boilers, the PIPE COWL. The only permanent fix to a holed pipe without cutting the pipe, the CLICK FIX. The only answer stopping dust sheets moving on stairs, the Safety Stair Rods. Also in the Guinness World Records for the largest copper pipe fitting in the world.
RWC Horton Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 8JL T: 01895 449233
www.RWC.com/family
RWC and its family of brands develop safe, sustainable and efficient solutions through a range of engineered and innovative products. Its JG Speedfit, Reliance Valves and SharkBite brands offer a complete range of pipes, valves and fittings. They’re designed to seamlessly integrate, from boiler to point of use, within the modern built environment.
Saniflo Ltd Unit 1, Watford Interchange, Colonial Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4WP T: 020 8842 0033 I E: sales@saniflo.co.uk www.saniflo.co.uk
Saniflo is the market leader in the production and sale of macerators, pumps and lifting stations for domestic and commercial use. They also have the Kinedo showering range which includes cubicles, trays and enclosures.
Sentinel Performance Solutions Ltd 7650 Daresbury Park, Daresbury, Warrington WA4 4BS T: 01928 704330 I E: info.uk@sentinelprotects.com www.sentinelprotects.com
Sentinel is a water treatment expert, providing best practice solutions across the world for 30+ years as well as helping you clean, protect & maintain heating and hot water systems. Our quality water treatment products are available for domestic and commercial systems, and are reinforced by industry-leading technical knowledge and support. Continued >>
16
HIP BOOK 2020-21 I IN D U S T RY C O N TAC T S
Stuart Turner Ltd Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 2AD T: 01491 572655 I F: 01491 573704 I E: info@stuart-turner.co.uk www.stuart-turner.co.uk
Stuart Turner is a leading UK manufacturer, offering a comprehensive range of water boosting solutions, from a shower pump to whole house pumps specifically designed for a wide range of applications. With a reputation for quality and reliability you can rely on Stuart Turner. #POWERINGWATER
Viessmann Hortonwood 30, Telford, Shropshire TF1 7YP T: 01952 675000 I E: info-uk@viessmann.com www.viessmann.co.uk
Founded in 1917, Viessmann develops seamless and integrated climate solutions for the entire living space. The company vision: “Creating the living space for the generations of tomorrow” is the responsibility of the 12,000-strong Viessmann family worldwide.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Selecta Post 14, Sheffield S97 3ZT T: 0800 717131 I E: customercare@vwcv.co.uk
www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk
Whether you're after a new van to help build your business, or a used vehicle that offers reliable performance and peace of mind, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has the answer.
Wilo UK Second Avenue, Centrum 100, Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire DE14 2WJ T: 01283 523000 I 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.
WRAS 13 Willow Rd, Pen y Fan Ind Est, Crumlin, Gwent, Wales NP11 4EG T: 0333 207 9030 I E: info@wras.co.uk
www.wras.co.uk
WRAS gives advice on the Water Fittings Regulations and Scottish Byelaws, on behalf of UK water companies. Plumbers and other water fittings professionals can join our free Approved Plumbers Scheme, run on behalf of 14 water companies. WRAS also publishes The Water Regulations Guide. WRAS Approvals provides a voluntary approval scheme for products and materials. This is one way to demonstrate products are of a suitable quality and standard.
GENERAL PLUMBING INFORMATION Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PLUMBING PRODUCTS FOR A JOB Customers expect fast, reliable and durable installations every time, but how do installers complete jobs quicker without compromising on quality? Nigel Sanger, Technical Support Director at RWC, talks about what options and products are out there to make everyday installations as easy as possible for new plumbers. Plumbing is all about making the right connections. An installed system must deliver and control water effectively, to ensure the right flow and temperature from the tap through to central or underfloor heating systems. So, to achieve an efficient installation, it’s vital to have pipes, valves and fittings (PVF) that integrate seamlessly with each other, helping simplify and speed up jobs. As the world’s largest global manufacturer of plastic and brass push-fit fittings, pipes and water control valves, at RWC we have developed a broad range of solutions to simplify everyday challenges faced by plumbing and heating installers.
> DELIVERING JOB EFFICIENCY There have been many debates in the industry around using push-fit pipes and fittings instead of traditional methods. However, over the years plumbing systems have become more demanding in terms of layout, aesthetics and space-saving solutions, raising the need for more flexible products to complete any given job. At RWC we have carefully combined our plastic and metal push-fit solutions to offer the most extensive and flexible system to complete a job. Our push-fit brands – JG Speedfit plastic range and SharkBite metal plumbing range – use the most reliable pushfit technology, meaning that installations are fast, durable and effective, without the need for using hazardous and time-consuming solders, flux and glue.
“It’s vital to have pipes, valves and fittings that integrate seamlessly with each other” Both our brands – JG Speedfit and SharkBite – perfectly complement each other to offer quick, easy and reliable installations in tight and difficult to reach spaces.
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
JG Speedfit is known for its flexible plastic push-fit pipe and fittings, which are ideal for cabling through a full system behind the walls, and the second-fix range for connecting to appliances, without the need for tools. SharkBite, designed to withstand high temperature and pressure, is the preferred choice for connecting to the boiler or hot water cylinders in airing cupboards. Both our systems work hand-in-hand to provide a versatile, durable and leakproof system for any new-build, retrofit, or repair and maintenance jobs. They help you complete installations with full confidence and comfort without the need to use solder, flux or heat. And especially with most building sites either restricting hot works or causing delays to secure hot work permits, our push-fit solutions are the way to go. Designed to fit together, our fully compatible metal and plastic push-fit fittings and plastic pipes give new plumbers more flexibility to install a full system from boiler to the point of use. Suitable for hot and cold water, central heating and underfloor heating, both our systems are also ideal for repair and renovation work.
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a call away, and with their expert guidance and our solutions you can confidently solve any installation challenges out in the real world of plumbing.
> EFFECTIVE WATER CONTROL Alongside pipes and fittings, no plumbing installation is complete without reliable and efficient water control valves that can regulate safe and sustainable water temperature and pressure around the building, helping protect occupants from burns and providing optimal flow. This is where our Reliance Valves brand comes into the picture. We have been longstanding pioneers in the water control valves market for over 70 years, and have a range of specialist valves to help control water temperature and pressure in any building size.
At RWC simplifying installations to make installers’ lives easier is at the forefront of any technology we develop. As is our commitment to shaping a safer and more comfortable built environment. All our complementary brands JG Speedfit, Reliance Valves and SharkBite present smart, time-saving and space-saving solutions to solve your everyday installation challenges.
Our extensive range of industry accredited thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs), pressure reducing valves (PRVs) and space-saving combination valves such as Tenant Valve Plus allow you to protect and safeguard hot and cold-water systems, while creating safe and comfortable homes and workspaces. Offering precise control of the delivery of water throughout domestic and commercial buildings, our valves come with a variety of sizes and end connections.
Alongside offering clever solutions, we heavily focus on supporting our new installers with all the on-site technical training and support they need to make the right connections. Our support team is always just
To learn more about our family of brands visit: RWC.com/family
> SOLVING INSTALLATION CHALLENGES
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
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.
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> RADIATOR VENT
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.
> COMPACT PRV
> THERMOSTATIC MIXING VALVE (TMV) A TMV blends cold water with hot water to ensure constant, safe shower and bath outlet temperatures, preventing scalding.
> THERMOSTATIC RADIATOR VALVE (TRV) A valve fitted to one end of a radiator that 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.
> TENANT VALVES Precisely controls and regulates water flow and pressure for safe operating conditions.
A space saving and compact all-in-one water monitoring unit, that consists of a ball type isolating valve, pressure reducing valve, double check valve, test point and a connection point for RWC single jet water meter.
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
PIPE DISCHARGE DIMENSIONS Shown below are some of the most common pipe discharge dimensions that you will come across. DIAMETER OF TRAP (MM)
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
APPLIANCE
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
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
23
FIXING SCREWS Listed below are the most common types of fixing screws you will come across on a day-to-day basis.
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 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
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 45˚ ELBOW
4
3 45˚ STREET ELBOW
6
5 90˚ FEMALE ELBOW
7
8
9 APPLIANCE TEE
11 SLIP TEE CONNECTOR
90˚ TAP CONNECTOR ELBOW
90˚ MALE ELBOW
STOP END
10
90˚ ELBOW WITH BACKPLATE
DOUBLE BRANCH MANIFOLD TEE
12 STRAIGHT TAP CONNECTOR
FEMALE COUPLER TAP CONNECTOR
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
13
14
15
STRAIGHT CONNECTOR
JG SPEEDFIT ELBOW
17
16
18 REDUCING COUPLING
TWO WAY DIVIDER
20
19
APPLIANCE TAP
ANGLE STOP VALVE
23
21 STOP VALVE
22 DOUBLE CHECK VALVE
24
FOUR PORT RAIL MANIFOLD
DOUBLE CHECK SERVICE VALVE
25
PLAIN PIPE INSERT
26
BENT TAP CONNECTOR
SUPER SEAL PIPE INSERT
27 FOUR WAY MANIFOLD
PIPE REPAIR KIT
28 TANK CONNECTOR
25
Family connections made faster All the control and reliability of Reliance Valves with the speed and simplicity of JG Speedfit. At RWC weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bringing our family of brands closer together by combining two of our world-leading technologies to transform the speed and simplicity of installations. Designed for domestic and light commercial applications, our new Reliance Valves range delivers ultimate control with fast, reliable push-fit connections â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for tight spaces as no tools are required. Find out more at rwc.com/valves
NEW
EASIFIT TMV
312 COMPACT PRV
NICKEL PLATED BALL VALVE FOR WATER
AUTOMATIC AIR VENT
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
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
1
Choose products which are CE marked in accordance with the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002 – suppliers can advise you
2
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
3
If more than one item of PPE is worn at the same time, make sure they can be used together, e.g. wearing safety glasses may disturb the seal of a respirator, causing air leaks
4
Never allow exemptions from wearing PPE for those jobs that ‘only take a few minutes’
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
HAZARDS & TYPES OF PPE > EYES Hazards: Chemical or metal splash, projectiles, dust, gases and vapours, 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.
> 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.
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.’
> 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. Options: 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, e.g. 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 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
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
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.
G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G I N FO I HI P BOOK 2020-21
Span (L)
> 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).
31
0.4 x L
Holes should be located in this zone and drilled at the neutral axis
0.25 x L
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 2020-21 I G E N E R AL PLUM B IN G IN FO
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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AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS
Sponsored by
Continued >>
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S
HOW DOES A HEAT PUMP WORK? Heat pumps are gradually becoming more and more popular, however they still only make up around 1% of the heating market - gas boilers, either wall hung or floor standing, make up around 95% in 2020. However, by 2025 gas boilers will no longer be installed in new builds, meaning the future of the heat pump looks promising. But how do these appliances actually work?
> HOW HEAT PUMPS WORK Heat pumps work by taking natural warmth out of the surrounding environment to provide hot water and heating to your home.
“By 2025 gas boilers will no longer be installed in new builds”
There are three main types: ▸ Ground source ▸ Air source ▸ Water source The name of each one describes where the appliance takes its heat from, and, therefore, each one works in a slightly different way.
Continued >>
Space-saving monobloc heat pump for outdoor installation: Vitocal 100-A – For new build and modernisation. Maximum efficiency with minimum energy consumption. + Coefficient of Performance to EN 14511 up to 4.9 + Energy efficiency class: A+++ + Maximum flow temperature: to 60 °C at –8 °C outside temperature + Installer does not require a refrigerant certificate + Corrosion-resistant gold-plated heat exchanger viessmann.co.uk/vitocal
Viessmann Limited Hortonwood 30, Telford, TF1 7YP | Tel: 01952 6750000
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S
> ABSORPTION Before anything else can happen, the heat must first be collected. Depending on the type of heat pump, the heat will be absorbed by a refrigerant either from the ground, air or water source. This takes place in the evaporator with the refrigerant changing from liquid to gas in the process.
> COMPRESSION The refrigerant is now a gas instead of a liquid and the gas is compressed to increase its temperature even more. It is this heat that can be used to warm up your radiators or underfloor heating.
> CONDENSER As the refrigerant transfers the heat that is to be used in your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heating system, it gradually cools down and condenses back into a liquid. This occurs in a second heat exchanger. One of the reasons why heat pumps are so efficient is because cooler water from the central heating can continue to absorb the heat from the liquid refrigerant within this second exchanger.
> REPEAT Once the refrigerant has cooled right down, it passes through an expansion valve. In here, the liquidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pressure is decreased and it returns to the evaporator to begin the whole cycle again.
> HOW ARE AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS INSTALLED? Before undertaking a heat pump installation, you will need to visit the property to check that the site and property is satisfactory. To qualify for government RHI funding in the UK you will need to produce an MCS report (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). This will include assessing the amount of insulation in the building, as this will influence the size of the required heat pump. To do this, you will need to check inside the house and loft.
AIR SO URC E HE AT PU M P S I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> COST > NOISE An air source heat pump is relatively easy to install. However, to minimise sound pressure for both the homeowner and neighbours, distance from the house and neighbours is a key consideration. As a result of years of intensive research and development work, Viessmann air source heat pumps operate very quietly and are hardly audible while in use. In particular, low-frequency sounds that are often perceived as subconsciously disturbing have been minimised.
> SIZING Generally the heat pump is sized to meet the heat loss of the home. This means that on a cold day in winter, the heat pump should be able to heat the home comfortably. Calculating the building’s heat loss is part of the MCS paperwork and calculation tools are available. The calculation can be complex as it requires a lot of data, however, it is important that this calculation is carried out accurately to ensure that the home is neither left cold in winter; nor conversely that too large a heat pump is installed, which would cost more than necessary and will produce excess heat that needs to be dissipated. In some cases, particularly for larger homes, the heat pump is sized to cover part of the heating load with a gas or oil boiler covering the shortfall, this is known as a hybrid or bivalent system. It is important that any shortfall in heating the home is never covered by an electrical heater element.
As the UK works towards reducing its carbon footprint and increasing its use of renewable energy, more people are looking to invest in a heat pump. Things for end users to consider when purchasing are: ▸ Installation cost
I
▸ Electricity usage
Both of these things should be looked at realistically so that you can work out the annual cost compared to that of a gas boiler. It’s worth noting that the installation of the heat pump only needs to be done once. When the pipework is in place, it’s only the heat pump units that need to be replaced in the future. This means that a replacement heat pump could cost considerably less. Some people may think that heat pumps use a lot of electricity too, however, bear in mind the end user’s gas bill would drastically reduce and it’s important to discuss their total energy usage and costs.
> HOW WILL THE INSTALLATION PROCESS WORK? Air source heat pumps are usually easier to install than other types of heat pump. For example, unlike ground source heat pumps, they don’t require any digging in the garden. The process can often be completed within two days, but this will vary depending on the size of the system and how complicated the installation is. As the installer your job includes providing the homeowner with a detailed schedule before you begin work. A good installer also turns up with all the equipment necessary to complete the job efficiently and will clean up after themselves once the work is complete!
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I AIR SO URC E HE AT PUM P S
NEW PRODUCT: VITOCAL 100-A HEAT PUMP With the compact and affordable new Vitocal 100-A heat pump, Viessmann makes environmentally-responsible heating accessible to many more British homes. > COMPACT AND AFFORDABLE Viessmann has introduced the new Vitocal 100-A air source heat pump, the most compact and affordable model in its range. Designed for ease of installation in the standard British heating system – and therefore ideal for the replacement of gas and oil boilers – the monobloc unit’s tight dimensions are perfect for homes where space is at a premium. Its A+++ rated energy efficiency will benefit end-users with low running costs.
Viessmann UK’s Managing Director, Graham Russell, said: “Viessmann is serious about offering a quality product in this volume sector of the market and therefore the Vitocal 100-A is price-competitive with equivalent standard monobloc air source heat pumps from other leading manufacturers.”
> FULLY INTEGRATED UNIT The Vitocal 100-A is a fully integrated outdoor unit that does not require a complementary indoor unit. The monobloc design means installers are not required to work on, or connect any, refrigerant-carrying parts; therefore, a refrigerant certificate is not required. Environmentally-friendly R32 refrigerant is used.
Vitocal 100-A air source heat pump
“A+++ rated energy efficient” Where a greater output heating system is needed, such as in larger buildings, Vitocal 100-A units can be arranged in a cascade system of up to seven heat pumps. The Vitocal 100-A heat pump achieves 60°C temperature at -5°C outside temperature. It also shines with high COP (coefficient of performance) of up to 4.9 (@ A7/W35). Energy efficiency is enhanced by having the fins on the evaporator goldplated. This also ensures a long service life; it reduces defrosting times to promote the rapid flow of condensate, and improves long-term corrosion-resistance, which is particularly beneficial for coastal properties. For further information, visit www.viessmann.co.uk or, www.viessmann.co.uk/hip
BOILERS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21
I BOILERS
THE FUTURE IS NOW The world of plumbing and heating is changing, with new, more modern appliances revolutionising the way our homes perform. Therefore, as an apprentice installer, you are entering the industry at an exciting moment, filled with plenty of profitable opportunities.
You may already understand and appreciate the possibilities offered up by the Internet for both self promotion and product awareness. You may also have an interest in current and future technological advancements as well as the traditional methods and products available. In the present climate, both of these factors will be crucial in taking your craft to the next level.
> START BUILDING ONLINE It is likely that you spend a good amount of time online, whether in a professional or personal capacity. As such, you already know that a lot of businesses have a strong online presence, particularly customer-facing ones.
> CUSTOMER REVIEWS When working as an installer, your reputation and ability to attain consistent positive reviews will be key in attracting new customers. Whilst word of mouth is still important, online reviews have opened up a whole new avenue to promote your services. According to a survey from BrightLocal,
90% of consumers regularly use the Internet to find local businesses, with 82% also looking to read online reviews. To this end, online reviews do not only help to endorse your quality of work, but also highlight a level of customer care, which potential future clients will appreciate.
> GOOD IMAGERY Furthermore, shifting your resources online gives you an opportunity to better highlight examples of your work, which can help to attract more customers. As part of this, consider investing into professional photography, particularly on a project that best highlights your skills.
BOILERS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
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> FUNCTIONAL TOOLS
> PERSONAL PROFILE
With a website, you are also able to incorporate more functional features, for example an online quotation tool, into your operations. An online quotation tool should provide a simple break down of the expected hours and price of a job, making it easier for customers to make a decision and in turn accelerate bookings.
Company websites should also feature a personalised ‘about you’ page, to highlight any relevant trade qualifications you might have. It is also a good idea to convey a sense of personality through your website and social media channels, which will make customers more comfortable inviting you into their home.
At Alpha Heating Innovation, we provide a free, online quotation tool - QuoteLink - for our AlphaOne installers, which can be personalised and embedded into your Facebook page or website. With the system, customers have a clear and easy way to get in touch with you for potential jobs.
On the other hand, it is really important not to ‘over-share’ across your work platforms. Posts can be fun, but should always be professional. Similarly, it is imperative to keep a professional tone whenever discussing new jobs with customers on social media or via email.
> SOCIAL MEDIA At Alpha Heating Innovation, we’d recommend looking at social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as additional parts of your business. In doing so, companies can increase interest and engagement amongst customers, generating greater returns.
> DIGITAL SOLUTIONS We want to help plumbing and heating installers introduce more digital solutions within their operations. Particularly for new installers, solutions like the popular AlphaOne app, which is available on Apple and Android devices has helped to make the goal more attainable. The software makes it easy for installers to register their customers’ boilers, which is key to helping ensure that warranties and Gas Safe certifications remain valid. The app also allows installers to complete registrations on the go, avoiding a build-up of admin to be completed later.
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HIP BOOK 2020-21
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ALL UNDER CONTROL Apart from smart speaker systems, smart thermostats are the most popular smart home devices in UK households. > SMART THERMOSTATS Why so popular? Well, for one, smart thermostats can help homeowners to generate significant energy savings. With heating accounting for as much as 60% of the energy used in a home, having the right heating controls is crucial. According to some reports, smart thermostats can reduce energy usage by 37% and save homeowners up to £130 a year on energy bills. Modern, connected controls, like our Alpha Connect system, allow heating to be remotely monitored and controlled via a tablet or smartphone. With a system like this, heating schedules can be fully programmed based on the day to day routine of a household.
Alpha Connect
When recommending a smart thermostat system, look for a solution with a geo-fencing feature, which will alert homeowners when they leave their home, reminding them if they have left the heating on and allowing them to adjust the heating schedule remotely, if necessary.
Whilst the right time and temperature controls greatly benefit homeowners, they also offer a significant additional revenue stream for installers as they can be sold to homeowners during annual services, or boiler installations. Their ability to reduce energy bills offers a simple, value-based ‘sell-in’ message for installers to pass on to their customers. Finally, in England, fitting an intelligent control, like the Alpha Connect, will help a household comply with the existing Boiler Plus requirement. Therefore, if you are just getting started in the trade, it is important to read up on the products available and their selling points, to help you pitch them in to your customers – generating business while ultimately saving them money.
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HIP BOOK 2020-21
I BOILERS
TRUSTED PARTNER At the heart of Alpha’s business philosophy is a focus on creating lasting, mutually beneficial working relationships with our customers, regardless of their career level. > RANGE OF BOILERS On top of our smart control systems and business development tools, we are proud to offer an extensive range of boilers to meet the heating and hot water needs for a wide variety of property types. Our popular E-Tec Plus combi boiler comes with a 10 year warranty straight out of the box and features a stainless steel heat exchanger, high efficiency Grundfos pump and hydroblock assembly. We also have an extensive range of low NOx commercial boilers to suit any application, footprint or output requirement. By combining outstanding components, with high manufacturing standards, we are able to create boilers that deliver remarkable levels of performance and reliability. What’s more, all Alpha appliances come with generous parts and labour warranties to provide ultimate peace of mind. We also support all installations with our dedicated service team, helping to create confidence and trust in the Alpha brand – for you and your customers.
For more information visit www.alpha-innovation.co.uk Find Alpha Innovation on: @alphahi
“All Alpha appliances come with generous parts and labour warranties”
CIRCULATOR PUMPS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I C IRC UL ATO R PUM P S
MAKING HEATING SYSTEMS BETTER TOGETHER The circulator pump is the heart of a heating system and of course, the better the pump, the healthier the system. As a global pump manufacturer, Grundfos is aware that when it comes to choosing a replacement, it is frequently the case that 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? Grundfos has spent many years working with
installers to design a wide number of features into its range of domestic circulators, that are engineered to meet the most energy efficient demands and offer many additional features and benefits.
GO Balance ALPHA3
Grundfos offers a range of domestic circulators that are among the most advanced available to the market. This makes them the ideal choice for a variety of domestic heating systems, as they provide effective, reliable, energy efficient solutions.
There are just three models in the range, all with a five year warranty, which makes choosing the correct pump for the job all the easier. The top of the range, high efficiency ALPHA3 has integrated two-way Bluetooth communication that allows for connection via apps to a smartphone for pump set up and hydronic balancing. The mid-range ALPHA1 has the same high efficiency but without the wireless functions. The more traditional UPS3 has maintained many of the features that we know have been very popular on previous models, whilst still achieving high efficiency and with the addition of onboard diagnostics and the ability to replace many internal boiler pumps. Continued >>
LET’S MAKE BETTER HEATING SYSTEMS – TOGETHER GET THE RIGHT SOLUTION AND SUPPORT FOR ANY CHALLENGE
UPS3 15-50/65
ALPHA1 15-50/60
ALPHA3 15-50/60
Heating systems frequently face challenges, at Grundfos we are very proud to be at the forefront of technology, to help overcome this. We have been continuing to invest in our domestic circulator range, to ensure that we can bring you the very best. Together, we can make better heating systems. Discover our range of domestic circulators grundfos.co.uk/newteam
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I C IRC UL ATO R PUM P S
> ALPHA3 15-50/60 The ALPHA3 has an Energy Efficiency Index rating of EEI ≤0.17 making it (along with the ALPHA1) the UK’s most energy efficient domestic heating pump in its class. The ALPHA3, which is suitable for applications up to 6m, has an AUTOADAPT mode which analyses the pattern of use and automatically adjusts the power output down to as little as 3W when the demand is low. The built in two-way communication system connects to the intuitive Grundfos GO app, which enables you to easily exchange information between the pump and your smart phone. From the moment the circulator is installed and connected, all pump operation, including setup wizard, can be controlled on your smartphone (iOS and Android). Pump settings can be changed quickly and easily. And you get access to all relevant data, such as flow, pump performance, work log history and weekly running schedules, as well as warnings and alarms. So knowing exactly how the pump runs has never been easier. In addition, you can balance an entire
heating system through the GO BALANCE app, with real-time calculations of the flow required in your radiator and underfloor heating systems. A step-by-step guide takes you through the whole process of hydronic balancing all the home’s radiators and underfloor heating zones. Noise/heat insulation shells are supplied as standard. The ALPHA3 has redefined what a small domestic circulator can do, filled with useful features and robust hardware. It raised the bar for efficiency and reliability in domestic circulators, even in the toughest systems.
> ALPHA1 15-50/60 ALPHA1 also offers the highest efficiency on the market at EEI ≤0.17 and the flexibility to cover 5 or 6m applications with one pump. The reduction in power consumption is achieved by using permanent magnet motor technology and this power consumption can be as low as 5W. The variable speed modulating modes allows the pump to match its performance to the system requirements, helping to reduce noise when thermostatic valves are closing down.
C IRC UL ATO R PU M P S I HI P BOOK 2020-21
As well as proportional pressure modes, the ALPHA1 has a special constant pressure mode for underfloor heating and single pipe heating systems, and its one touch operation enables simple set up. There is also a WRAS approved stainless steel version available the ALPHA1 15-50 N for advanced high efficient secondary hot water circulation.
to fix even integrated pump issues in one visit, saving you time and your customer money. This simple replacement recognition has proved to be a big hit with the many installers who are now using this tool.
Like the ALPHA3, the ALPHA1 is simple to install in new or existing systems, with 130mm between ports and an ALPHA plug for ease of wiring. Both models also feature LCD energy display and come with noise/heat insulation shells as standard.
> UPS3 15-50/65 The UPS3 combines improved energy efficiency (EEI ≤0.20), an easier to wire plug and on-board diagnostics with stalwart features such as ceramic bearings and shafts, a manual deblocking port and robust start-up functionality. Built on a highly reliable platform that has been proven in millions of boilers, the UPS3 improves on efficiency, head (up to 6.5m), diagnostics and fitting time.
The clever design features don’t end there, as the new UPS3 can be used not only in system installations but also inside many of the UK’s domestic boilers. Simply scan the old pump with the Grundfos GO Replace smartphone app and it will tell you if the UPS3 is a compatible fit. This gives you the chance
> ‘APPY DAYS WITH GRUNDFOS On top of the great circulator ranges on offer, there is also a fantastic range of supporting apps that have been designed to help you in your working life. These include the Grundfos GO Balance that, used with the award winning ALPHA3, will assist with hydronic balancing of a domestic heating system. The Grundfos GO Remote app, for use with ALPHA3 and MAGNA3 pumps, delivers an easy and reliable remote control tool for installers for commissioning and maintenance – providing fast and simple set up, control and monitoring of the pump. Grundfos also recognised that getting hold of a specific internal OEM pump can add a significant amount of time, delays and cost to a job. In response, Grundfos created a smartphone app, the GO Replace, that uses a look-up database to confirm if the UPS3 will be a suitable replacement. You just need to scan the old pump and in seconds you’ll have the answer. All these apps are available on both iOS and Android.
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GRUNDFOS FOR INSTALLERS Grundfos for Installers 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 professionals, this portal offers access to the best tools and information from the Grundfos world to support you in your daily work.
On top of all these great elements, being part of the Grundfos for Installers club can also offer you some surprising added extras, that are aimed at helping you to maximise your business potential with both on and offline support suggestions and ideas. These practical guides are available as animations and will help you to stand out from other similar organisations.
> LEARNING TOOLS Launched in 2016, it is under constant development and today it now offers a range of features and information to make sure it continues to meet your needs, such as a range of digital tools, information on new products as well as 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. 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 that includes pump theory, circulator basics, shower pumps as well as product specific modules, all of which have been specifically developed to assist industry professionals.
The Grundfos for Installers hub is ready to help you to fulfil a wide range of tasks as well as providing you with 24/7 assistance and some great hints and tips, all of which can be accessed from your computer tablet or smartphone. Next time you’re unsure about something pump related, come and pay us a visit on www.grundfos.co.uk/gfi because we’re on your side.
K AH OOT I HI P BOOK 2020-21
CIRCULATOR PUMPS 1) True or false: The circulating pump is generally installed on the flow pipe.
a b c d
Clutches Veined pumps Accelerators Centrifugal force pumps
3) Why should the water velocity not be too fast?
a b c d
It will break the pump It will generate noise It will generate heat It will burst the pipes
4) What is the recommended limited velocity for water through circulator pumps?
a b c d
1 m/s 1.4 m/s 1.8 m/s 2.2 m/s
This quiz is taken from our Kahoot! You can play this and other fun quizzes to test your plumbing and heating knowledge at
a To reduce its noise output b To ensure water can be drawn into the pump c To reduce risk of breakage d To ensure no air is drawn into the system
6) Circulator pump energy efficiency is measured using an EEI rating, but what does EEI stand for?
a b c d
Energy efficiency identifier Energy efficiency index Efficiency equipment index Equipment energy index
Which of the following are circulators not used for?
Supplying water to radiators
Underfloor heating
Hot water circulation
Increasing water pressure in low mains pressure areas
Answer: Increasing water in low mains pressure areas
hip-magazine.co.uk/learning-resources
Answers: 1 True 2c 3b 4a 5d 6b
2) What are circulator pumps also known as?
5) Why should circulator pumps be located to give positive pressure within a circuit?
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COMPLIANCE
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I C O M PL I AN C E
A QUICK GUIDE: PLUMBING & HEATING APPROVALS When working with water itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to make sure you are using the best products to provide great customer service, such as providing the right level of comfort, reliability and efficiency. Ensuring you have the correct product for the job is vital, but it's also important to understand what product approvals and accreditations it needs in order to be compliant with relevant building regulations.
The easiest way to achieve this is by choosing products from reputable manufacturers who only place products into the market that are approved and accredited. This is a quick guide to approvals, public bodies and associations that all plumbing and heating engineers need to know about. Continued >>
Keep ahead of the game with knowledge on the go!
#knowledgehub
Our YouTube channel is packed with a range of bitesize training videos on topics from TMVs, Solar, Pressure Reducing Valves to Deaeration. To subscribe search YouTube for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Altecnic Limitedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
altecnic.co.uk
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> APPROVALS & STANDARDS WRAS approval shows that a material or water fitting is of a suitable quality and standard. KIWA UK Regulation 4 Approved Product demonstrates that the product connected to the UK water supply complies with Regulation 4 of Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. NSF-WRC provides testing and calibration for approval and certification and is the UK’s largest purpose-built testing and calibration laboratory for water fittings and materials. TMV2 is an independent testing scheme for thermostatic mixing valves to ensure that national and international standards are met (BS EN 1111 and 1287). TMVs are installed in both domestic properties and other domestic type environments. TMV2 valves are designed and tested to be used in domestic environments in order to reduce the risk of scalding at home. In 2010, the TMV2 scheme became part of the British building regulations to control the temperature of hot water to a safe maximum in domestic bathrooms, specifically for baths and bidets. The regulations apply to all new build domestic properties in the UK, along with homes where bathroom renovations are being undertaken involving any movement or replacement of bath, bidet or shower outlets. TMV2-designated thermostatic mixing valves are compliant with BS EN 1111 (high pressure) and/or BS EN 1287:1999 (low pressure). The UK Building Regulations Part G requires that mixing valves are compliant with BS EN 1111 and/or 1287:1999 to reduce the risk of scalding. NSF International delivers TMV2 testing and certification against the updated performance standards BS EN 1111:2017 and BS EN 1287:2017. TMV3 is an independent testing scheme for thermostatic mixing valves to ensure that national and international standards are met (NHS D08 Standard).
This scheme applies to thermostatic mixing valves for use in high-risk commercial healthcare applications within the UK. These valves offer a high level of protection, reacting much more quickly in shutting off the flow of water if the cold water fails, or a safe temperature is exceeded. Testing bodies must ensure that the valve adheres to the NHS D08 regulatory standard, which ensures stable temperature output despite varying supply pressures and temperatures. Other important factors taken into consideration when carrying out performance testing for both TMV2 and TMV3 accreditation include: ▸ The company/manufacturer applying for accreditation of the valve must prove their compliance with ISO 9001 (or equivalent quality management system) ▸ The valve must feature the correct markings, making it identifiable in the field ▸ The installation and maintenance documents must include information stated by the scheme
The Altecnic Merchant Mixing Valve – ART 5213 is approved to WRAS, TMV2 and TMV3
C O M PL I A N C E I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> PRODUCT MARKING & LABELLING
> ASSOCIATIONS, DIRECTORIES & CHARITIES
TELL classification scheme is a European label scheme to clearly demonstrate a product’s energy efficiency. The scheme is applicable to thermostatic radiator valves with ‘I’ being the most energy efficient.
WaterSafe is a free online search facility funded by the water industry to help customers find competent and qualified plumbers in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Unified Water Label helps consumers understand how much water they use within the bathroom environment.
The Water Management Society (WMS) provides practical and technical training solutions in legionella and water hygiene.
BSI Kitemark is a signal to Gas Safe registered engineers that the product has been robustly tested on a regular basis to perform and to be safe to the latest standards.
Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) exists to exchange life-enhancing skills and knowledge to reduce serious accidental injuries – such as preventable heating and plumbing accidents that have occurred as a result of poor system design.
The Altecnic Intaball range of gas lever ball valves was one of the first UK products to be certified to EN 331:2015 (Class C) via the BSI.
Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) is the UK’s leading charity working to reduce the number of children and young people killed, disabled or seriously injured in accidents. Such plumbing and heating related accidents include scalding and burns injuries. The Hot Water Association (HWA) is a member organisation committed to effectively promoting the concept and use of stored hot water in domestic and commercial buildings.
> BUILDING REGULATIONS The Building Regulations Approved Document G; ‘Sanitation, hot water safety and water efficiency’ came into force in April 2010. Together with the Code for Sustainable Homes, it ensures a reduction in water use, sets standards for water quality and promotes the safety of hot water systems. The Building Regulations Approved Document L provides guidance on the conservation of fuel and power. Guidance provided includes insulation regulations, boiler productivity, lighting and storage techniques for hot water.
The European Association for the Taps and Valves Industry (CEIR) gathers together a large number of European manufacturers in the field of valves and fittings. CEIR represents the common economic, technical and scientific interests of the European valve industries.
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I C O M PL I AN C E
PRODUCT INFORMATION
YOU CAN TRUST It is paramount that manufacturers provide accurate and up-to-date product information that you can trust. According to a recent survey by the Construction Products Association (CPA) and National Building Specification (NBS), 89% of tradespeople read the technical literature when looking for product information and trust that this information is correct. One tradesperson said, ‘We cannot check the quality of manufacturers’ information, we have to trust it is accurate.’
> CODE OF CONDUCT
> COMPLIANCE We also take our role seriously as a responsible manufacturer in the development of new standards working alongside industry bodies. The most recent examples include TMV2 with NSF and EN 331:2015 (Class C) with BSI. We encourage all apprentices to use the information and resources available on our website, join our free webinars, and follow our social channels, to ensure you are kept ahead of the curve in only fitting approved and accredited products you can trust.
The research supports the introduction of a ‘code of conduct’ to ensure the accurate provision of manufacturer product information. At Altecnic, we would be happy to support this. We already invest a huge amount of time and money into ensuring our product information is clear in detailing its intended use, as well as being easily accessible. This is particularly important for products used with potable water, pressure or gas.
For further information visit: www.altecnic.co.uk
CUSTOMER INTERACTION
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I C U S TO M E R IN T E R AC T IO N
FIVE TOP TIPS FOR GROWING YOUR BUSINESS WITH GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE For installers, good customer service can make all the difference when it comes to growing your business. Making an effort to go above and beyond to offer support before, during and after a job not only helps you retain customers but also attract new ones. In the digital age, customer service is becoming increasingly important as more and more customers choose their products and services based on online reviews. A negative review can have a real impact on your business and can turn people away. In contrast, a glowing review will help to set you and your business apart from others in the industry.
through the problem and let them know what they can do differently. This will not only show your customers that you care but will also position you as an expert and someone to turn to for advice, helping to build a strong relationship and putting you front-of-mind should they need a plumber or heating installer in the future.
On top of doing the best job possible, offering fantastic customer service is a great way to keep your customers happy and ensures that they post positive things online about your business. This in turn helps to guarantee future business growth as more people want to work with you. To help you out, we’ve provided some top tips for improving your customer service:
1
PUT YOUR CUSTOMERS’ INTERESTS FIRST
In order to build a relationship with a customer you need to have their best interests at heart. For example, rather than simply fixing their boiler, you should offer useful hints and advice to help them prevent future problems. Customers will really appreciate it if you take the time to talk them
“Offering fantastic customer service is a great way to keep your customers happy” Continued >>
h s i B h s a B h s o B
s duct
o of pr n o i t lu ce so tems. i t c a pr ys best ing s t e a t e e l p rh Com rvices fo e and s
Ensure heating systems are given lifetime protection, simply get in touch with us and find out more:
www.sentinelprotects.com
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2
KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS
In order to give the best advice to your customers, you need to have an extensive knowledge of the products you’re using. Today’s customers research many items online but as a professional, you can offer added value by providing additional information and advice on the best products to use. Some manufacturers offer free tools and training for installers to learn new skills and keep up-to-date on the latest products, helping you to impress your customers and making sure you can answer any questions confidently. Improving your knowledge of the products you’re using is also essential to guarantee you do the best job possible, which is obviously a must if you want happy customers!
you can. Obviously, you can’t reply if you’re on a job but try to make it as easy as possible for customers to contact you. As well as giving customers your phone number, set up a chat service on your website that has an automated response when you’re on a job so customers know you’re not ignoring them.
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USE BOOKING APPS FOR APPOINTMENTS
No one likes waiting around for a package to arrive that doesn’t show up when it should. Customers don’t like waiting around for service appointments either. While having a list of customers waiting shows you’re doing a good job, the inability to manage a busy workload can lead to dissatisfaction and potentially a loss of business. One way to help with this is to use booking apps to allocate set amounts of time to customers. This helps you to stick to your schedule and avoid wasting customers’ time waiting around for you. It also helps to demonstrate yet again that you care about customers.
5
STAY CONNECTED THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media is a brilliant way of staying in touch with your customers after a job. It’s important to continue offering great customer service even after you’ve completed the work, to help maintain your relationship and make
3
MAKE SURE YOU'RE AVAILABLE
In the modern world, we’re constantly connected. The internet gives us many different ways of getting in touch, making it easier than ever to get hold of people when you need them. As a result, customers now expect to get a response from you as soon as possible and if they can’t reach you, they’ll simply go elsewhere. With that in mind, it’s important to handle enquiries as quickly as
C U S TO M E R IN T E R AC T I ON I HI P BOOK 2020-21
sure they use you for future jobs. Rather than posting one-way updates, make an effort to engage with your audience and create conversation. Social media is also great for gaining customer feedback – you could run polls and surveys to find out what customers want and need from you.
“Social media is a brilliant way of staying in touch with your customers after a job”
Here are our top five small business apps that will help you to grow your business even further:
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PAYPAL HERE
This app is great for making sure you get paid on time for jobs. It allows you to take payments on the go, track cash and cheque payments and issue invoices simply and securely on your mobile: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/paypalhere-point-of-sale/id505911015?mt=8
2 With a huge range of installers available online for customers to choose from, you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd. Improving your customer service is a simple and effective way to make sure you get noticed and become the go-to installer in your location. Follow these tips to help get people talking about your business positively both on and offline. Great customer service leads to good reviews and happy customers, who are likely to tell others how great you are, resulting in more business.
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QUICKBOOKS ACCOUNTING
This is another brilliant app for managing your cashflow - easily manage your business’s expenses, create invoices with invoice templates, and view your profit and loss: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/ quickbooks-accounting/id584606479?mt=8
3
GOOGLE MY BUSINESS
This app helps you to manage your online presence - update your business name, address and hours, manage and respond to customer reviews and get notifications when customers are talking about your business: https://itunes.apple.com/bt/app/google-mybusiness/id853371601?mt=8
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GAS APP UK
This is a must-have for any gas engineer – it’s a one-stop shop for every information resource related to the day-to-day work of gas engineering: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/gas-appuk/id1033168436?mt=8
5
LOGO MAKER
Every good business needs a good brand. Create your brand logos, icons, symbols and posters in just a few clicks with this app: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/logomaker-create-a-design/id1143390028?mt=8
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I K AHO OT
COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY 1) Which of these are NOT effective forms of communication?
a b c d
3) When there is a conflict, what is reaching an agreement through discussion known as?
Phone call Email Written letter Telepathy
a b c d
Losing the argument Backing down Negotiation Not getting your way
2) When speaking with someone whose first language is not English, it is a good idea to...
4) Which of these may result from poor communication at work?
a Avoid using slang words and speak clearly b Speak as quickly as possible c Use long, complex sentences d Nod your head and pretend you understand
a b c d
Mistrust of others Greater morale Messages being clearly understood More efficient work
5) True or false: A quotation can go up or down in price.
Which document is a description of the installation being quoted for?
This quiz is taken from our Kahoot! You can play this and other fun quizzes to test your plumbing and heating knowledge at
Time sheet
Delivery note
Job specification
Working drawings
Answer: Job specification
hip-magazine.co.uk/learning-resources Answers: 1d 2a 3c 4a 5 False
DRAINAGE
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I D R AIN AG E
DRAINAGE The world of residential drainage is mostly a hidden one. Boxed away in cupboards and beneath floors and plasterboard, it’s something the homeowner isn’t really aware of unless something goes wrong. But even though it’s hidden, the hard-working drainage system is a key part of a well-functioning home and it deserves some real consideration when it comes to installation and maintenance.
> WHAT DOES A WASTE SYSTEM DO? Generally speaking, a house’s waste drainage system will cover its sinks, baths and showers, and household appliances including the dishwasher and washing machine. So if it were to fail, the resulting leakage would have multiple consequences – from flooding the immediate space with foul water, to knocking a household essential out of action whilst the problem is resolved.
“…the hard-working drainage system is a key part of a well-functioning home…”
> CHOOSE YOUR PIPE AND FITTINGS There are multiple options for household waste and you can choose the system that best works for you and your project. ▸ POLYPROPYLENE PUSH-FIT SYSTEMS: Offer fast, secure and demountable joints. They are also much easier to install in spaces which are hard to access and manoeuver in. ▸ SOLVENT WELD ABS SYSTEMS: Offer permanent jointing and are particularly suited to areas where the system is exposed, such as where the system exits through an external wall or will be in a public area. ▸ UNIVERSAL COMPRESSION SYSTEMS: Can be used to join push-fit systems to solvent weld systems. This system can also be used to join onto legacy copper or lead piping. This is particularly useful when updating a section of a waste system or working on houses where multiple systems are already in place.
> WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A HOUSEHOLD WASTE SYSTEM? It’s best to view a household’s waste drainage as an interconnected system, made up of waste pipe, fittings and traps. Continued >>
What’s in it for you? Fit-Rite technology for easy fitting.
Polypipe understands the importance of making a job as simple as possible, thats why our new WP46 Trap has been engineered incorporating our unique Fit-Rite technology to help get the job done quickly. It’s easy to fit, easy to remove and is part of the only range of traps on the market with KitemarkTM Accreditation.
BS 3943 KM09979 BS EN
Over and above, it has to be274-1 Polypipe KM98694
BS EN 13476-2
To view the rest of our new and improved traps range, visit: KM13476
polypipe.com/overandabove BS EN 13476-3
•
New Fit-Rite technology for simple fitting and removability
•
New and improved finned seal for ease of installation
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The only traps range on the market to be KitemarkedTM Accredited
•
Contains BioCote antimicrobial technology to combat odours
•
Exclusively endorsed product by Help for Heroes*.
*79p from the sale of the WP46 Trap will be contributed to Help for Heroes Trading Limited, which Gift Aids all of its taxable profits to Help for Heroes (Registered Charity Number 1120920).
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> CHOOSE YOUR TRAP The choice of trap is down to finding the right product for the right installation. Each trap is designed to do a specific job in a specific place and it’s your job to play matchmaker. For example, a bottle trap is typically installed under a basin but manufacturers with comprehensive product ranges can offer you a standard bottle trap, one with an adjustable telescopic connection, one with an anti-syphon addition, or one with both. Then there are the appliance traps, with specific products for washing machines or dishwashers. There are hard-working multi-tasking kits which can provide waste drainage for sinks with multiple bowls. And there are new low level traps designed to sit neatly beneath shower trays and baths and solutions for wet rooms. There are even self-sealing valves which don’t rely on water levels to achieve an air tight seal – meaning you won’t run the risk of bad smells entering the building in low or no flow situations.
Look for a manufacturer that offers a wide range of traps so you get the right product every time.
> WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A WASTE SYSTEM ▸ STANDARDS AND CERTIFICATION Choose a system which holds all of the relevant standards and certifications. Look for BBA Approvals and British Standards Institute (BSI) Kitemarks. Kitemarks are a trusted symbol of safe, reliable products. They are only awarded to companies which complete an initial quality assessment and undergo ongoing independent auditing to ensure products always meet the highest possible standards. Look for a manufacturer that offers all three types of waste pipe and fittings, in a choice of diameters and colours. If you’re based in the north of the UK, you’re far more likely to work on houses featuring push-fit systems, but in the south you’re more likely to encounter solvent weld systems.
D R AIN AGE I HI P BOOK 2020-21
▸ INSTALLATION BENEFITS
“Look for products which offer added benefits for you, the plumber”
Look for products which offer added benefits for you, the plumber, for example features which make installation easier or more secure. ▸ HOMEOWNER BENEFITS Wherever possible, look for products which offer added benefits for the homeowner too. This positions you as a professional with pride in choosing the best product for the job. This could be a low level bath trap to make the most of that tub the homeowner’s been eyeing up, or it could be a waste trap which prevents bad smells rising in to the property. ▸ ONGOING MAINTENANCE Look for products which offer you the confidence to fit and forget, which need little to no ongoing maintenance and have a long life expectancy.
> OVER AND ABOVE Finally, a real mark of quality is a product which offers all of the above and that little something more. Polypipe’s WP46 bottle trap is a Help for Heroes endorsed product, meaning 79p from the sale of every trap is donated to the charity. Every year, over 14,000 servicemen and women return to Civvy Street, with one in four forging a new career in construction. The funds will be used to support Help for Heroes initiatives, working with men and women living with injuries and illnesses sustained while serving in the British Armed Forces.
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OVER AND ABOVE, IT HAS TO BE POLYPIPE Polypipe's innovative waste system offers great features and benefits for plumbers and homeowners alike.
The system is made up of seven new and improved waste traps and a new multi-layer waste pipe and enhanced fittings range.
> WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? Developed with the plumber in mind, the new traps feature finned seals, and improved threaded nuts for superb product integrity. The traps also include Polypipe’s brand new Fit-Rite technology. The Fit-Rite insertion aid helps guide the pipe into place, giving you the assurance that you’ve made a secure joint when you’re fitting in fiddly and hard-to-reach locations. Unlike other products, the Fit-Rite insertion aid is easily removable so when it’s not required, there’s no need for you to break out the stanley knife and cut it free. That means no more jagged edges that can potentially harm the pipe during installation. What’s more, our traps are stocked in plumbers’ merchants nationally, so you can find them when you need them. All of which gives you the confidence to fit and forget Polypipe waste products, and move on to your next job.
> WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOUR CUSTOMER? As an additional benefit for homeowners, we’ve added Biocote to our waste system.
By killing up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria, mould, fungi and viruses, Biocote significantly minimises the build-up of bio-film. This reduces unpleasant odours and blockages for the homeowner. This antimicrobial protection will remain active for the lifetime of the product, giving plumbers and homeowners added peace of mind.
> OVER AND ABOVE Feel good when buying Polypipe as 79p from the sale of each WP46 bottle trap goes straight to Help for Heroes.
Polypipe’s waste systems are the ONLY range on the market to incorporate antimicrobial technology, reducing odours and blockages through combatting the build-up of bio-film.
Polypipe’s are the ONLY traps on the market to hold a BSI Kitemark
For more information visit polypipe.com
FLEXIBLE PLUMBING
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I 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 underfloor heating systems which mainly utilise plastic pipework. Another important development in explaining the increased interest in plastic piping 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 15 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: 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
Hep2O Polybutylene pipe comes off the coil straight. (Pictured here with less flexible PEX pipe)
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.
Supp rting plumbers f the future
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I FLEXIBLE PLUMBING
Plastic push-fit systems are now commonly specified by RMI (repair, maintenance and improvement) plumbers across a wide range of domestic and commercial applications. In fact they are so successful that 90% of all new houses constructed in recent years use plastic systems throughout their entire hot and cold water supply and central heating systems.
BENEFITS LOWER COST IN USE The reason for the growth in popularity of plastic systems lies in the impressive list of benefits they offer over the more traditional rigid systems:
1 Plastic pipe is very flexible and can be ‘cabled’ in a similar way to electrical wiring, thus cutting down on the number of joints required
2 Fewer joints means less risk from leaks
3 Jointing is quicker which means installation time is dramatically reduced 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.
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
6 All connections are made by hand no tools are required
7 No tools means much easier to install in confined spaces
8 Plastic systems are quick to install, whether it’s a complex cabling system or a simple appliance connection.
Most plastic push-fit systems can also be connected to copper pipework
FLEXIBLE PLUMBING I HI P BOOK 2020-21
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> 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 six-hour (28%) 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. 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.
Plastic push-fit fittings are equally effective whether jointing plastic or copper pipe
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 features a number of new developments: The new fittings are slimmer in size and have a much sleeker and more 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 six 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 2020-21 I 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 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 costeffective installation when compared to rigid plumbing pipe systems, such as copper.
HOT WATER CYLINDERS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS
WHEN TO USE A CYLINDER
Is this hot water system capable of meeting the demands it could face? That’s the crucial question you can ask yourself when working with your customers on adaptations, retrofits and extensions to their home. If the answer is ‘no’, it’s an opportunity for you to upgrade your customer to an unvented hot water cylinder. Combi boilers can be just the job for smaller homes with only one bathroom, but they’re often left lagging when using more than one hot water outlet at the same time. If your customer is adding a bathroom,
building an extension for a new utility room or a workshop with hot water, it could be time to consider adding an element of stored hot water to the system. It’s no good installing the most luxurious en-suite shower or beautiful new bathroom if your customer is left disappointed because the bath takes forever to fill or the shower becomes a trickle as soon as someone turns on the kitchen sink tap. That’s where hot water cylinders are the best product for the job. Whether it’s in a home with one bathroom and an en-suite, or in a multiple-occupancy home with four or five bathrooms, they can handle hot water being used simultaneously in multiple places throughout the home.
Hot Water Energy Storage Unvented Cylinders GB & NI
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS
CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOT WATER CYLINDER > CYLINDER SELECTION GUIDE FOR INSTALLERS There are four key steps in choosing the right hot water cylinder to meet the needs of your customer and their household hot water usage. Following this simple guide will help you select the best type and size of cylinder for their needs. This guide is aimed at professionally trained and qualified installers.
STEP 1: IDENTIFY THE CYLINDER TYPE NEEDED FOR THE SYSTEM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; VENTED OR UNVENTED? > VENTED CYLINDERS Vented cylinders were the traditional way to supply hot water in most British homes between the 1940s and 1990s. A vented cylinder gets its cold-water feed from a header tank, usually located in the loft. It then uses gravity to feed the cylinder with its water supply, as opposed to being fed directly by the cold mains. Relatively speaking, vented cylinders offer poor performance in terms of water pressure. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to replace an old vented cylinder that has failed, a like-for-like replacement with another vented cylinder will provide the easiest and cheapest way of getting the hot water back up and running quickly and with the least disruption.
> UNVENTED CYLINDERS Unvented cylinders use the mains cold-water supply and not a cold tank in the loft. This allows them to provide high flow rates and mains pressure hot water (regulated to 3bar) for the fast filling of baths and powerful showers. Unvented cylinders are ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms or where the home has both a kitchen and utility room, as they can support multiple hot water outlets at the same time. Modern unvented cylinders are very well insulated for minimum heat loss and come in a protective casing to give an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
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HOT WATER CYLINDERS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> THERMAL STORES
STEP 2:
When you’re assessing a home’s current hot water system, you may also come across a thermal store. Before unvented cylinders were developed, if you wanted mains pressure hot water, you would need a thermal store.
SPECIFY THE CYLINDER DEPENDING ON ITS HEAT SOURCE
As the name suggests, a thermal store enables water to be stored at a very high temperature and uses that stored water to heat the mains pressure cold water. This is passed through the cylinder’s heat exchanger – essentially working in reverse to a traditional cylinder – with the heat exchanger taking heat out of the cylinder instead of putting it in. Thermal stores integrate well into systems with multiple heat sources and where the heat source is unregulated, for example a solid fuel wood burner.
Once you’ve decided whether the house needs a vented or unvented cylinder or a thermal store, the next step is to confirm the heat source and what that means for the type of cylinder you need.
> IMMERSION HEATER USING ELECTRICITY When the only option for the property is to heat the cylinder electrically through an immersion heater, you need to select a ‘direct’ cylinder.
> GAS OR OIL BOILER When your customer has a conventional boiler as a heat source, you need to select an ‘indirect’ cylinder.
> RENEWABLE ENERGY – SOLAR THERMAL OR HEAT PUMP When the property has rentable heat sources available, you need to select either a ‘solar indirect’ or ‘heat pump’ cylinder. Solar indirect cylinders feature two heat exchanger coils – one for connecting to the solar heat source and the other for connecting to a conventional boiler for when insufficient solar energy is available.
> SOLID FUEL, AGA OR OTHER UNREGULATED HEAT SOURCE When dealing with any unregulated heat source or when there are multiple heat sources available, a thermal store will usually provide the best solution.
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I HOT WATER CYLINDERS
STEP 3:
STEP 4:
WHAT SIZE CYLINDER DO YOU NEED?
OTHER KEY INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
When choosing the cylinder capacity for your customer’s home, you should always look to future-proof the installation by considering any likely change in their hot water needs. For example, if you know they have a growing family, or intend to add an additional en-suite bathroom. For those not familiar with hot water storage, it is important to remember it is usually held at about 60°C, but is intended to be mixed with cold water down to a usable temperature. A bath using 100 litres of hot water at 40°C actually only equates to 60 litres at 60°C. A shower can use 18 litres of hot water per minute at 40°C, which is only 11 litres at 60°C. The following average consumption levels of hot water (40°C) per person per day can be used as a guide: ▸ Low consumption = 20-30 litres ▸ Average consumption = 30-50 litres ▸ High consumption = 50-70 litres Old British Standards recommend the following, but do not fully consider the number of users: HOT WATER DEMAND
1 standard bath or shower
BEDROOMS
INDIRECT CYLINDER CAPACITY (LITRES)
DIRECT CYLINDER CAPACITY (LITRES)
Bedsit / 1 bed
90 / 120
120 / 150
2-3 bed
120
180
3-4 bed
150
210
2-3 bed
120
210
3-4 bed
150
210
1 standard bath
1 bath and en-suite
2 standard baths
3 bathrooms
2-3 bed
150
210
3-4 bed
150
210
4-5 bed
180
250
2-3 bed
180
210
3-4 bed
180
250
4-5 bed
210
250
3-4 bed
250
300
4-5 bed
250
300
5-6 bed
300
300
In addition to the type of cylinder and its capacity, installers also need to consider any physical restrictions that may apply. Examples include the amount of available space in the airing cupboard, any narrow loft hatches you need to get the cylinder through and installation time.
> SLIMLINE CYLINDERS Slimline cylinders allow you to get through narrow loft hatches or fit the cylinder in a tight airing cupboard. You will be compromising on the cylinder’s energy efficiency slightly, as tall cylinders such as these lose more heat than shorter, fatter cylinders.
> HORIZONTAL CYLINDERS A horizontal cylinder allows you to maintain cylinder capacity in situations where height restrictions apply. But be aware that horizontal cylinders are marginally less energy efficient, with slightly higher heat loss.
> BUBBLE-TOP CYLINDERS All unvented cylinders, being a sealed system, need some form of thermal expansion control. Cylinders using internal thermal expansion control (bubble-top cylinders) can eliminate the need for an external expansion vessel, saving space and providing an average of 14% more hot water output. Bubble-top cylinders are quicker and easier to install and offer slightly improved system reliability.
> PRE-PLUMB CYLINDERS With a large proportion of the plumbing work already done at the factory, a pre-plumb cylinder can cut on-site installation time by around 70%. On installations using multiple cylinders, pre-plumb cylinders help ensure consistency from one installation to the next.
MACERATORS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I MACERATORS
MACERATORS & LIFTING STATIONS The macerator was introduced into the UK by Saniflo over 40 years ago. The range has since grown from a single product to a range of over 37 pumps and lifting stations, each designed to get waste from places previously thought inaccessible. Whether it is a domestic or commercial space, a loft conversion or a basement, Saniflo can provide a solution.
TERMINOLOGY > MACERATOR Invented to take waste away from situations where gravity drainage canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, a macerator is a pump featuring a cutting blade that grinds up solid waste into a pulp for discharge through small bore pipework to a drain pipe. Macerators generally fit to the back of a toilet pan and, dependant on model, can take waste from either a single WC or a combination of WC, basin, bidet and shower depending on the nature of the installation.
> PUMPS Units that discharge grey wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, showers, washing machines, wine coolers, ice machines etc. by pumping it out through small bore pipework.
> LIFTING STATION Lifting stations are pumps that are used when waste needs to travel upwards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i.e. lifted away. They can be used for grey or black waste and can be specified with either macerator blades or a vortex system. Lifting stations can be floor standing or underground.
Sanivite + Sanitop Up
Sanicubic 2 Pro
Caveat: Terminology can vary by manufacturer. Always check the product description and specification when deciding which product to use. Continued >>
READY TO TAKE ON ANYTHING.
From attic en-suites to tight-fit utility rooms, you’ll always find a way with Saniflo. We’re constantly enhancing our extensive product range with clever innovations, like easy-access panels and vibration-reducing suspension, so you know you can ‘get it done’ whatever ‘it’ may be. Anything’s possible. Visit saniflo.co.uk to see how.
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> DID YOU KNOW?
1
According to UK Building Regulations, Part G4, macerators may only be used in a dwelling where there is access to a gravity discharging toilet. This is in case there is a power failure to the building, as the macerators will not work and the regulations say that a toilet must still be available.
2
Due to back-flow issues, the UK Water Byelaws dictate that if you have a complete bathroom that needs pumping, including a bath, shower, toilet and wash basin, the bath must be pumped separately using a grey water pump and the toilet, wash basin and shower must be connected separately to a macerator.
ONE SIZE DOESN'T FIT ALL No two jobs are ever the same so it is important to match the right product to the job. Over the last 41 years – since the introduction of the macerator into the UK – the range of products has grown and today there are many different pumps available; for single WCs, and WC and basin, through to products with multiple connections for a full en-suite, laundry or kitchen in domestic residences. Larger pumps can discharge waste from a multi-storey building, a site with multiple smaller buildings or a large single storey building. These are mainly destined for the commercial sector, which naturally has a much higher footfall and therefore these pumps are designed to withstand heavy usage. Many have twin pumps to ensure continuity of service in a busy environment. In the case of one pump failing, the other will assume its duties until the issue is resolved. Many of these larger pumps have alarms for early notification of problems.
“There are pumps available for single WCs through to products with multiple connections”
Sanicubic 2 Pro with alarm
MACERATORS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT MACERATORS Q: Are macerators, pumps and lifting stations noisy? A: No louder than a toilet flushing. Noise emissions vary from one installation to another depending on the surroundings – size/shape of room, floor coverings etc. Correct installation will minimise unnecessary noise. For example: ▸ Ensure no direct contact between macerator and wall ▸ Place anti-vibration pads under the tank ▸ Mount the piping at intervals ▸ If required place a further layer of sound insulation between the macerator and the floor and/or wall Q: Are macerators IP rated? A: Ingress Protection ratings are used to explain levels of sealing effectiveness against dust, dirt and moisture. Domestic macerators are rated IP44 which means they have adequate protection in damp, steamy conditions. Larger macerators, pumps and lifting stations are rated to IP67 offering protection against temporary immersion in water. IP68 is given to units that are installed in areas such as cool, damp basements and designed to withstand continuous submersion in water. Q: Is water temperature important when specifying a macerator? A: This is application-dependant. If a macerator is simply attached to a toilet or to a combination of toilet, basin and shower, the ability to handle higher water
temperatures is not important. Waste water temperature is unlikely to exceed 35°C for any period longer than a few seconds. Most macerators have a working waste water temperature of 35°C. If you’re using a pump with a washing machine or dishwasher, then the waste water temperature requirements can be higher. Remember that water has normally been cooled before it leaves a washing machine and enters the pump. In a café or restaurant, even hotter water will be required sporadically to discharge dirty, soapy or greasy water. Q: How does a macerator get rid of solid waste? A: A macerator pump uses a blade to reduce waste to a liquid form and then discharges it via small-bore pipework to a soil stack or sewer. Domestic pumps tend to feature a two-bladed cutter. A commercial lifting station features a more durable cutter blade system. The option of a Vortex system eliminates the need to macerate by creating a circular churning motion to reduce and suck up the waste. Q: How far away can a macerator pump to? A: For each job, it is important to work out how far away the mains drain or sewer is from the macerator installation point before selecting the appropriate macerator. Manufacturer’s technical literature will have full information on maximum vertical and horizontal pumping distances for every product. The figure required is the combination of both.
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SANIFLO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MARKET LEADER
FOR OVER 40 YEARS With the widest range of products on the market, Saniflo has been a leading name in the plumbing sector since the introduction of its first product back in 1979. > RANGE OF PRODUCTS The range of products for the domestic market has increased in line with trends for bathroom sanitaryware. Traditional macerators such as the Sanitop Up sit behind a WC or behind a de-mountable panel. However, the popularity of wall-hung and back-to-wall sanitaryware has led to the development of specific products including the Sanipack Pro Up. This slimline macerator can be concealed behind fitted furniture, while the Saniwall Pro Up has a built-in frame designed for location behind a wall or furniture.
Saniwall Pro Up
Sanislim
If a macerator cannot be concealed, the super compact Sanislim needs just 145mm depth behind the WC and also takes waste from a shower and basin. For conversions such as cupboards under the stairs, the Sanicompact is a WC with integrated macerator, which requires no cistern.
MACERATORS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
The Sanifos
The latest developments in Saniflo’s commercial product range include the introduction of the largest floor-standing lifting station – the Sanicubic 2VX – and the Sanifos range, which is designed to be sited outside and underground.
> SANIFOS RANGE
> THE SANICUBIC 2VX
Offers the option of a macerator or a vortex system and is used where drainage is too low for a sewer or surface-mounted pumping station. Both single and three phase options are available and these units can be used to pump residential and industrial waste.
Is available in single and three-phase versions and features a vortex pump. It is ideal for commercial premises and has an alarm plus two easily removable motors for servicing.
For more information visit www.saniflo.co.uk
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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
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I MERCHANTS
GETTING MORE
FROM MERCHANTS For plumbing and heating installers, choosing the right merchant can make a huge difference to their work and business. But those new to the industry may be unaware of the additional offerings available to them through their local trade counter.
“Branch staff are ideally placed to provide guidance and advice”
Due to a merchant’s unique position as a supplier of a range of different manufacturers’ products, branch staff are ideally placed to provide guidance and advice on products and installations. This position also means merchants have a key role in helping customers stay up-to-date with legislative changes and evolving technologies – for example, many merchants provide
installer training courses and host trade days. The quality of service also depends on the merchant’s ability to offer high quality products that are available when they are needed, a fast service, knowledgeable staff and value for money. As such, this forms the basis of the Graham Plumbers’ Merchant pledge to customers.
Continued >>
TIRED OF SAVING HARD?
GRAHAM HAS YOU COVEREDâ&#x20AC;¦
SAVES YOU TIME & MONEY! Pick up your copy today in your local Graham branch or download a copy at grahamdirect.co.uk
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I MERCHANTS
> YOU GET THE PRODUCTS YOU’RE AFTER Product availability is one of the main reasons why customers choose a merchant and so Graham constantly analyses the requirements at a national, regional and local level, with regional differences and seasonality taken into account, to get the stock profile of each branch right. Graham prides itself on its product offering and strong relationships with suppliers, which ensures in-demand items are always in stock. If an item from Graham’s Always Available range is out of stock, the customer will receive a £10 voucher to spend on a future purchase. Not only do merchants offer the chance to purchase all necessary products under one roof, but by using a merchant, installers can also ensure that they are only purchasing genuine parts and spares from reputable manufacturers. It is not always easy to tell a non-genuine product, especially when purchasing online. While it can be tempting to consider a low-cost alternative from an unfamiliar supplier, the use of non-genuine parts can present a serious risk, not only to the customer’s safety but also to an installer’s reputation. When purchasing these parts, there is no guarantee of the materials used or the overall quality of the product and there is no support available if something goes wrong. The best way to ensure the quality of the products is to use only reputable merchants who stock directly from manufacturers.
> YOU GET SORTED FAST For installers, any unnecessary time spent getting the parts and materials they need is time that can’t be spent on work that will earn them money. Choosing a merchant that can streamline the process is therefore important.
Good merchants can also often provide delivery direct to site or to a customer’s home if necessary, saving the installer valuable time collecting the products from store. Part of Graham’s promise is to ensure customers have their queries and orders ‘sorted fast’ and it selects its suppliers accordingly.
> YOU TALK TO PEOPLE IN THE KNOW Merchants can be especially valuable to an installer with regards to their product knowledge and know-how and are happy to provide support, expertise and advice to installers. Graham works closely with its suppliers to ensure its staff are trained across all product ranges. Likewise, it is vital that installers keep up to speed with current legislation, technological advancements and best practice. For installers looking for assistance in any of these areas, a merchant is an ideal place to start, with specially trained staff on hand to provide technical support, product advice and assistance with planning and installation. Free manufacturer courses and product training are also available for installers to keep their knowledge up-to-date. As well as covering stocked products, training can also cover current trends and market drivers such as renewable technology and smart controls.
“Free manufacturer courses and product training are available for installers”
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MERCHANTS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> YOU ALWAYS GET YOUR MONEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WORTH Value for money is also an important factor, so installers should look for competitive pricing and great value deals on products and tools. In recent years, customers have fallen out of love with the traditional merchants pricing structure and are increasingly looking for consistent pricing rather than spending their time negotiating deals. Graham has introduced a fixed price range that includes products from across bathrooms, heating and plumbing, tools, commercial products and smart technology. A quarterly Trade Saver brochure has also been launched, updated every three months and giving the fixed prices of the most popular lines.
There are also brochures, guides and online resources designed specifically as sales tools for installers. For new as well as experienced installers, it is important to remember the advantages of using a specialist merchant for support and advice to help ensure work completed is compliant and products are fit for purpose, so installers can give their customers the best service possible and grow their businesses. With additional benefits like competitive pricing, speed-focused delivery and free installer training, merchants represent a unique and valuable resource to those in the industry. For more information or to find your nearest branch, visit www.grahamdirect.co.uk
Graham has also added a No Fuss Free Returns policy (T&Cs apply) on its range of 30,000 fixed-price products. Customers can return any unwanted goods completely free and without question, providing they are in a good condition and that they have the original invoice.
> YOU GET HELP ADVISING CUSTOMERS Merchants have a wealth of resources available to help installers advise their customers on the products that are right for them. Where merchants have onsite showrooms, installers can make use of these facilities to introduce their customers to the products on offer. Graham is constantly reviewing and refurbishing its bathroom showrooms to reflect the current interior design trends. The showrooms also offer a full in-house bathroom design service and 3D CAD drawings to enable installersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; customers to envisage their bathroom plan.
Continued >>
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AT YOUR SERVICE
IMPROVING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE As a result of its extensive, ongoing customer research, Graham Plumbers’ Merchant is improving its customer experience – listening to and incorporating customer suggestions with regards to staffing, pricing and training. The first stage of the process was a series of focus groups across the country with installers, to understand their perception of the brand and what they would like from their local merchant. This was followed by an online survey sent to Graham branch managers and showroom colleagues. The next step was to launch Tell Graham towards the end of 2018. This scheme is designed to achieve ongoing customer feedback and improves on Graham’s previous telephone survey approach to monitoring customer satisfaction. The online survey gives customers the opportunity to answer simple questions about their experience and rate the service they receive from their local branch.
for customers alongside the all-important product training. Stock profiling has also been reviewed and where other merchants might be destocking and relying on next day delivery, Graham is increasing stock in line with local demand at each branch. Alongside its ongoing showroom refurbishments and new branch openings, this continued focus on enhancing customer experience is part of Graham’s wider strategy to solidify its standing as a national business with a local flair.
Customers are either sent an email inviting them to complete the survey or they can pick up a Tellgraham.com invitation card from the trade counter when they visit their local branch. All showroom and trade customers who complete the survey and leave feedback are automatically entered into a monthly prize draw. In response to the feedback received, Graham has already increased staffing at popular times. It has also shifted the focus of its staff training to include more on how they can provide the best possible service
For more information please visit www.grahamdirect.co.uk
PLUMBING TOOLS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I 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 their 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 enables 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. < Image 1
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 over the page 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-350x Digital Inspection Camera monitor with 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.
Image 2 > Continued >>
RIDGID C-STLYE CLOSE QUARTERS COPPER TUBING CUTTER Cut 15/22 or 28 mm with the unique “quick size change” feature
Follow FollowRIDGID RIDGIDEurope Europeon on Facebook Twitter Facebook and Twitter to to find findexclusive exclusiveupdates updates on on trends, trends, tips tips and and tools! 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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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I PLUMBING TOOLS
Drain lines from 32 to 100 millimetres can be easily inspected with the SeeSnake microDrain inspection system. The camera can pass multiple turns and 90-degree bends from 40 millimetres upwards with no need to dismantle them. The RIDGID Navitrack Scout® locator is able to trace the pipeline and precisely detect the signal of a sondes (transmitter) to see where assessment or service is needed inside the pipe. The SeeSnake HQ software, which comes with the SeeSnake equipment and which can 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 4,000 photographs. Images and videos can be stored on the included 8GB SD card that comes with the micro CA-350x camera or transferred via Wifi or Bluetooth in real time.
USING THE The RIDGID micro CA-350x Inspection Camera and its case (image 1 on page 98).
1
The push cable of the SeeSnake microDrain reel, shown in the photo, is 20 metres long. It can inspect drains from 32 to 100mm in diameter (image 2 on page 98).
2
The monitor’s menu can be used to rotate the image into the best position for the inspection job.
3
> 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 you 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 of even 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.
4
5
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 I HI P BOOK 2020-21
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EQUIPMENT 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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9
10
11
7
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The range includes three different types of reels, chosen to suit the size of the pipe to be inspected.
The display shows when the equipment has detected an obstruction in a water pipe.
12
Easily relay live footage to other devices via WiFi or Bluetooth for ease of recording.
Videos or photographs can be reviewed right after they were made. The SeeSnake HQ software, supplied with any SeeSnake equipment, facilitates the management and editing of images and video reports. For better management and cleaner work, SeeSnake microReel, microDrain and nanoReel drums are interchangeable.
For more information, contact Ridge Tool UK by phone 0808 238 9869 or by email ridgid.gb@emerson.com
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MECHANICAL UNBLOCKING Here are the reasons why you should consider using mechanical instead of chemical drain unblocking. > CONSIDER YOUR TIME Low-cost liquid drain cleaners could unclog your customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drains, but it is most likely a temporary solution. The investment cost of a hand or mechanical tool may seem high at first, but it will do the job on the first try, saving you time having to re-visit customers with ongoing blockages.
> THE SOLUTION RIDGID manufactures a diverse range of Drain Cleaning equipment to tackle these annoying obstructions.
1
HAND SPINNERS OR POWERCLEAR
For residentialuse, these can retrieve objects from the sink or shower drain if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not too far down.
> CONSIDER NATURE Chemical drain cleaners get poured and washed into the sewer system, which travels into our local waterways. Sadly, this damages plant and animal habitats. Hand and mechanical drain cleaners have no negative impact on nature.
2
Designed to penetrate and break up heavy build-ups of wet wipes blockages and many other types of softmaterial, like soap, hair and grease build-ups.
> CONSIDER YOUR HEALTH Chemical drain cleaners can cause serious burns. If ingested, liquid drain cleaners can be fatal. When used according to the manual, hand and mechanical drain cleaners are a much safer alternative.
> CONSIDER PIPE DAMAGE With regular use or when used with compromised pipes, liquid drain cleaners could create holes or seriously damage the pipes. A hand or mechanical tool, however, will clean and de-clog pipes without damaging them. For more information visit: www.ridgid.eu/gb/en/drain-cleaning
FLEXSHAFT
3
K-40 AND K-45 SINK MACHINES
The professional choice for tackling those residential blockages from the sink or shower drains. They offer different cable and tool options to tackle a wide range of blockages.
PUSH-FIT FITTINGS
Sponsored by
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HIP BOOK 2020-21 I PUSH-FIT 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! 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. Other advantages include the
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. 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.
Continued >>
Push or Press
for a faster connection with Pegler
For a comprehensive range of quality, innovative plumbing and heating products backed by a superb technical support service, make sure you connect with Pegler.
for more information Pegler Yorkshire Group Limited st. catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s avenue / doncaster south yorkshire / DN4 8DF / england tel:
+44 (0) 1302 560 560
email: info@pegleryorkshire.co.uk
www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk
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> TIPS 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.
DID YOU KNOW? There is now multilayer tube available in sizes 15mm & 22mm for use with Tectite push-fit fittings.
Flexible metal tube PE-Xc Aluminium PE-Xc
▸ 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 the 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 silicone lubricant dry out from being exposed. ▸ When inserting the tube into the fitting use a slight twisting action and keep the tube as parallel as possible to the fitting body. ▸ To ensure the tube is fully inserted into the fitting it is good practice to mark the tube with the socket depth so that you can check this corresponds with the mouth when the joint is made.
This multilayer tube bridges the gap between plastic and metal plumbing systems, combining many of the advantages from each: ▸ Retains its shape once formed ▸ 40% 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
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.
▸ Resistant to corrosion ▸ Highly cost effective
Using the right support for the new flexible metal tube is critical – ensure you’re using the TectSEAL!
PUSH-FIT FITTINGS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
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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 is a relatively new jointing technique that uses force applied to the fitting by a press-tool to compress the fitting onto the tube with an O-ring providing the actual seal.
Press-fit 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.
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
Recent advances mean that there are now press-fit fittings available in copper, carbon steel and stainless steel for use in sizes 12mm to 168.3mm.
> PRESS-FIT FITTINGS
> TIPS FOR PRESS-FIT FITTINGS ▸ As with all fittings that are dependent on an O-ring to make the seal, the critical thing is to 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 manufacturer’s guidelines if you are unsure. ▸ The final golden rule is to use the press tool in accordance with the tool’s 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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NEW SIZES ADD YET MORE CONNECTIVITY WITH VSH TECTITE SPRINT VSH Tectite Sprint, the innovative metal push-fit plumbing system from Pegler, has been making installers’ lives easy for almost a decade. Sizes within the range include 15mm, 22mm, 28mm, 35mm, 42mm and 54mm – opening up the award-winning solution to yet more applications.
“VSH Tectite Sprint combines the best of both worlds for contractors and installers,” said Helen Salter, head of marketing. “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, 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, VSH 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). VSH 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.
VSH Tectite Sprint is WRAS-approved, so contractors and installers can rest assured they have fitted a safe, durable and reliable system. In fact, Pegler is so confident in the quality and performance of VSH Tectite Sprint that it guarantees the parts for up to 25 years.
For further information regarding Pegler and its products, please visit pegleryorkshire.co.uk
SHOWER PUMPS
Sponsored by
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THE GRUNDFOS ECADEMY IS READY WHEN YOU ARE The Grundfos Ecademy is a popular internet-based learning tool that is designed to help improve your knowledge on pumps, applications and their theory. > DIGITAL TRAINING PLATFORM This digital training and information platform is available 24/7, so it can be accessed whenever and wherever suits you. Its aim is to help keep everyone with an interest in pumps and pump solutions informed and up-to-date on products and a range of relevant industryrelated themes.
To keep it fresh and interesting, new topics are added on a regular basis. Some recent subjects include the exciting UPS3 as well as other members of the latest generation of domestic circulators families. These have now joined a range of other topics that includes the award-winning SCALA2, a compact whole house booster, SOLOLIFT2 macerators, drainage pumps, plus more general areas of interest that cover basic pump principles and pump types; circulator basics and
control modes; basic hydraulics and pump performance, and hot water recirculation. Additionally, there is also an Ecademy section that covers shower pumps, which is further broken down into two modules â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an introduction to shower booster pumps and Grundfos shower pump solutions. At the end of each module there is a short test to help you to assess your new-found understanding and how much you have learned about the various topics.
Today the Ecademy can be accessed from your smartphone, tablet or computer, which means that you can log-in whenever best suits your schedule. Registering for the Grundfos Ecademy can be done by visiting: www.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 Grundfos for Installers.
THE BEST HOMES ARE GRUNDFOS HOMES SUPERIOR WATER SOLUTIONS FOR HOMES AND GARDENS SSR2 & STR2 UNIVERSAL RANGE
SSR2 & STR2 RANGE
AMAZON UNIVERSAL RANGE
AMAZON RANGE
INTRODUCING THE GRUNDFOS SHOWER PUMP RANGE Renowned in the trade for reliability and innovation, Grundfos pumps offer quiet, energy efficient and powerful solutions to the challenges of making good homes great. For more information on our latest range please visit www.grundfos.co.uk
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SHOWER PUMPS THAT CAN TAKE THE PRESSURE Taking a shower is part of our daily lives and their continuing popularity can be attributed to speed, immediacy, cleanliness and convenience. They are also perceived as wasting less water but this is not necessarily true, as when it comes to power showers they use water at a rate of between 20 and 50 litres a minute.
Industry forecasts still show that this market will continue to increase, although today due to the large installed base, the new vs replacement split has swung in favour of replacement.
> SIZING UP THE DEMAND Help to make the right choice is at hand, as Grundfos has a great online pump selector tool that will guide you through the selection process. This explains that 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 is the demand? 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 the need is to address inadequate water pressure or simply to create a more exhilarating shower experience, Grundfos will have the pump to suit the need. Check this handy tool out at www.grundfos.co.uk/showerpumps This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only benefit Grundfos can offer, as all our 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 our customer service department. Today, Grundfos shower pumps are available to support the following systems:
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> GRAVITY SYSTEMS When selecting a mixer shower for use on a gravity system, the most important thing to consider is the flow rate that can be accessed. Unless you have water pressure of at least 0.5 bar, which is equivalent to a gap of five metres 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 a one-metre difference). You should 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” 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.
> 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 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 an 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 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.
> SPEAK TO THE EXPERTS At Grundfos we have a range of shower pumps that can help you. Our single impeller pumps are generally used to boost the pressure of cold water supplied to a combi boiler, such as our Grundfos SSR or Amazon series. Our unvented cylinder options are also served by an Amazon pump. The 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 are covered by the Amazon range, as are larger installations, such as showers in a sports facility.
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> NEWEST FAMILY MEMBERS The more recent additions to the range of shower booster and universal head shower booster pump ranges from Grundfos continue to receive excellent reviews. The feedback for these continuously rated pumps has indicated that the shower pump’s design, that minimises the turbulence within the pump head, is a welcome feature. The introduction of an improved impeller design 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.
> A RIGHT SHOWER
SSR2
One thing is certain – our love affair with showers shows no sign of dissipating 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 that you install will be fit for purpose and will continue to deliver – taking the pressure off you. Help is always at hand to help 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. If you just want help exclusively with shower pumps visit us at www.grundfos.co.uk/showerpumps
SMART CONTROL SHOWERS
Sponsored by
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SMART CONTROLS FOR SHOWERS The shower is one of the most developed bathroom products when it comes to eco-friendly credentials. Whilst the average shower will use considerably less water than the average bath, the flow rate for a standard shower without any eco features is still around 16l per minute. Meanwhile, some of the best eco showers on the market use as little as 7.5l-9.5l per minute.
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MASTERPIECE OF TECHNOLOGY GROHE RAPIDO SMARTBOX SYSTEM With its universal solutions, our GROHE Rapido SmartBox System is the answer for everything. Never before has a rough-in from GROHE offered so many different options and so much flexibility and freedom. And with the GROHE Rapido Smartbox System you can install the box now and decide on a trim in the future. grohe.co.uk
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EDUCATING HOMEOWNERS One of the biggest challenges in the showers market today is educating homeowners on how water-saving technologies and high-performance showers can, in fact, work hand in hand. Luxury performance and enjoyment is almost always the top priority for a customer looking to replace their shower, so they need to be reassured that this wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be compromised if they opt for a more efficient model. > SHOWER HEADS Predominantly, the head shower houses most of the water-saving technology, although in recent years, thermostats have undergone significant improvements to ensure they can minimise temperature fluctuations and maintain a steady temperature, helping to improve energy efficiency. Meanwhile, ecofriendly head showers incorporate features such as air-infused spray patterns which add air to the water, making the droplets of water bigger to ensure the customer can continue enjoying the same showering experience. Particular attention has been paid to the nozzles of the shower head; from technology that guarantees even water distribution from each individual nozzle for a full coverage shower experience even when a flow limiter is in place, to smart technology that forces the nozzles to close when there is no water pressure. This eliminates any dripping after the shower has stopped, further reducing unnecessary water wastage.
SMART CONTROL SHOWERS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> HOW SMART CONTROLS WORK GROHEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SmartControl shower systems deliver intuitive showering thanks to the stylish button interface and simple operation that requires just a push and turn of a button. A push of the button activates the chosen water outlet whilst turning the dial allows the user to select their preferred water volume.
> SHOWERING COMBINATIONS SmartControl offers much more than just simple bath/shower combinations, allowing multiple spray patterns and up to three water outlets to work simultaneously, from delicate rain sprays and powerful jet sprays to head showers, hand showers, bath fillers and even body jets, in order to create a truly premium and customised shower experience.
> INSTALLATION OPTIONS The SmartControl system comes in a number of configurations that provide a range of different installation options to suit every need. As well as traditional exposed systems that are ideal for retrofit projects, GROHE also offers concealed designs. Behindthe-wall installations can completely transform the aesthetic of a bathroom, streamlining the shower enclosure and maximising overall space in the room. Concealed showering also offers more personalisation of the individual space when it comes to layout, which can be of particular benefit when working with small or awkwardly shaped bathrooms. Thanks to the concealed valve which can be placed on an opposing wall away from the outlet, installers can create a truly bespoke shower space.
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Q&A SMART BOX SMART CONTROLS Here, Adam Logan, Training Manager at Grohe, answers some of the most frequently asked questions. Q: What kind of water system is this shower designed for? A: SmartBox/SmartControl is designed for use on any water system with a dynamic pressure greater than 1.5 bar and minimum flow rate of 7l/min. We always advise that a flow and pressure reading is taken prior to starting the install.
Q: Is SmartBox/SmartControl easy to install? A: Yes! SmartBox is one of the easiest concealed shower units on the market to install. The concealed unit can be installed in walls from 75mm to 105mm, the hot and cold water inlets are conveniently placed at the bottom of the shower to speed up the install so no pipe bending or additional fittings need to be used. All of the brass connections on SmartBox are standard ½” so no adapters are necessary. Also, the trimset can be independently adjusted by up to 6 degrees to ensure the controls are perfectly level.
Q: Why install SmartBox/SmartControl? A: Currently we have over 220 different trim sets that can be fitted giving your customer unrivalled choice in design and features. SmartBox is our new universal concealed first fix box and is also the only concealed shower that can control three separate outlets from the one box without having to purchase additional controls. This means you can run the bath, overhead and handset all from one thermostatically controlled valve. Of course, SmartBox is also available for single or double outlet applications. Q: Are concealed showers difficult to maintain? A: While this used to be true the SmartControl can be fitted with service valves making future servicing simple as you don’t have to switch the water to the whole house off. The cartridges and thermostat can be removed and replaced in a few simple steps.
“SmartBox/SmartControl offers your customers unrivalled choice in design and features” For more information visit www.grohe.co.uk
TRAINING
Sponsored by
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THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTINUAL TRAINING The plumbing and heating industry is constantly evolving as a result of changing legislation and standards, but also through new product introductions. With this in mind it’s vital that installers, regardless of experience and position, continue their learning journey. Steve Owen, National Training Manager at Baxi Heating, explores the importance of an ongoing training programme for apprentices.
> TRAINING PROGRAMME
on practical training, with just 20% behind a desk reviewing PowerPoint slides. The simple shift means that installers have a greater opportunity to learn more about identifying faults, servicing and installing products under the supervision of a trainer.
Completing an apprenticeship or training programme is undoubtedly a momentous occasion. For many it can feel like the days of learning are over and an end to classroom study, but the reality is that working in a constantly evolving market means training is vital throughout an individual’s career. From new product introductions and electrical safety courses to fault-finding, there is a broad range of training on offer to help installers, regardless of experience, day-today. The style and structure of these sessions has been designed following in-depth feedback from attendees across the industry – ensuring the information is presented in the most suitable format and covering the topics of greatest interest and need. For example, 10 years ago the main format for most training sessions was PowerPoint. This meant that around 80% of the time in training was spent on theoretical knowledge and just 20% hands-on. Now however, we’ve reversed this process, focusing 80% of time
> INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE This change to the course content also maximises a trainer’s wealth of industry experience. Being able to provide real-life examples and relate to problems that may be identified on the job makes the sessions much more important and ultimately interesting for participants. Training also presents the ideal opportunity to meet with other installers, share experiences and provide helpful hints and tips on the job, which is invaluable. Continued >>
Every Tuesday at 12 noon, one of the Baxi trainers shares their top tips and advice on social media. And, at no more than a minute long, even the busiest students can find time to watch. So, for nuggets of boiler wisdom, follow Baxi.
To subscribe head to youtube.com/baxiboilers
baxi.co.uk
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> KNOWLEDGE SHARING AND ONLINE It can be incredibly refreshing to see newly qualified professionals providing tips and advice to more experienced professionals and vice versa. Many believe the process of learning is always passed on from those who are more experienced to new starters, but it works both ways. The rise of online video training means that the learning process can continue outside of the classroom. Making use of video content adds a new layer of flexibility to installer training, providing people with the chance to fit training in around their busy schedules. For some more experienced heating engineers, the use of these channels, however, may be limited. Some installers still have large product specification files in their vans. For many, this file is their day-to-day bible, providing them with all the information they need for each boiler. However, without attending courses or reviewing content in magazines and other sources, they may not be aware that new apps and online tools can help them on the job quicker and simpler than ever before. Smarter interconnected heating controls are the perfect example here. Experienced installers are not always comfortable working with smart controls or digitally-connected components. But with customer interest in the sector gaining momentum, it offers a strong potential growth area for businesses. This may be just one example of how consumer demand is affecting product specification, but it also highlights an opportunity for installers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; experienced and new-to-industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to upsell to customers on a job. Training provides the perfect vehicle to learn more about these new technologies and how to upsell them.
> THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA With social media playing a vital role in encouraging engagement and training within the plumbing and heating sectors, it is essential manufacturers utilise it to appeal to young people interested in a career in the industry. Baxi is actively engaged in delivering easily-digestible pieces of training information online using #TrainingTuesdays. This is not enough information to be used as a single resource for training. However, it does enable manufacturers to
TRAINING I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> THE FUTURE communicate information with younger engineers in a format that they like and respond to. Video reminders of lessons learnt in the classroom also help students to consolidate learnings. Being able to refer back to previously-taught information gives trainees a second chance to understand challenging concepts in their own time. Providing those on training courses with this extra resource supports them in their journey to becoming a skilled installer, able to demonstrate a sound understanding of the systems they are required to work with.
In order to compete on a global level and to develop new technologies, we need to train and expand our workforce. There’s no denying that young people need to be targeted by offering them unparalleled training and apprenticeship schemes. The opportunities however, do not only lie with the young. Many experienced installers are constantly looking to upskill to ensure they can meet ever-changing consumer demand. There are also professionals with transferable skills from other industries increasingly opting for a career change. As a result, apprentices aren’t all straight out of college, and so training needs to be aimed at every generation. With the skills gap continuing to be a problem for the heating and hot water industry and with not enough young people entering the sector, it’s more important than ever that older installers have access to, and are encouraged to embrace, new technologies. This will not only benefit the industry as a whole, as they will be able to pass down invaluable knowledge to the next generation of gas engineers, but will also improve the range of choices available to customers.
“Learn more about new technologies and how to upsell them”
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THE CONSTANT NEED
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Just as the heating industry has evolved, so too has the training offered by manufacturers. Hands-on experience provides unrivalled knowledge and awareness of industry issues and products, helping installers each and every day, regardless of their experience level. “Hands-on experience provides unrivalled knowledge and awareness of industry issues”
It remains important however to consider the talent to hand and ensure that more experienced installers have access to relevant training opportunities to ensure they aren’t left behind and are aware of the latest technologies. This will enable them to offer advice and guidance to younger apprentices and like-minded professionals, futureproofing the industry for many years to come. Find out more about Baxi’s range of training courses, visit: https://trade.baxi.co.uk/tradearea/training/training-courses.htm or call 0344 335 4207
UNDERFLOOR HEATING
Sponsored by
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UNDERFLOOR HEATING BASIC PRINCIPLES & BENEFITS > 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.
uneven warmth and higher temperatures at ceiling height compared with floor level. 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.
> 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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> 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.
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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 Continued >>
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> 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
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.
▸ 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.
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 I HI P BOOK 2020-21
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
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This can affect heat output. Allowance should be made for the thermal resistance of the floor finish, in combination with 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. There are two typical patterns for laying UFH pipe: 1. 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
▸ Requirement for programmed or nonprogrammed 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 of 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.
2. 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 has 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. It also has 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 has 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 simpleto-use wired and wireless options, to the latest web-enabled, app-based systems, so you can meet the needs of any client.
“Hep²0 underfloor heating offers a range of systems for both screeded and dry floor constructions” As a 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 provides 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 more information visit wavin.co.uk or follow @Hep2O on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
WALL-HUNG TOILETS
Sponsored by
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GOING WALL-HUNG:
THE BENEFITS The average size of a home in the UK today is now smaller than ever, leaving installers with a growing challenge of coming up with practical, stylish and affordable bathroom solutions. Category Manager, Sarah Hillson from Geberit makes the case for wall-hung sanitaryware, looking at how a wall-hung toilet can transform even the smallest of bathroom spaces and the potential opportunities that these systems can offer to installers and their customers. > SHRINKING SPACES Homeowners today are contending with ever-shrinking spaces, with today’s new build properties typically smaller than 30 years ago and the average size of a bathroom now standing at just 4.4 square metres. In fact, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) estimates that the average size of a onebedroom new build home is just 46 square metres – that’s the same size as a tube carriage. Yet, despite these space issues in the home, the bathroom remains an important part of our lives. Geberit carried out research in 2018 which told us that the bathroom was the most important place for sanctuary in the home – and, of course, the significance of having such a sanctuary in the home will have been keenly felt by many over the months of lockdown. So, all this leaves installers with a challenge – how to create the perfect bathroom that addresses this issue of space? Continued >>
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> THE WALL-HUNG WAY
> SPACE-SAVING FLEXIBILITY
With homeowners increasingly seeking out design-led solutions, installers are, in turn, having to come up with ‘instagrammable’ bathrooms that are stylish yet overcome these space constraints – in short, a practical, flexible and attractive space. As a result, manufacturers are developing a number of bathroom solutions that maximise space without compromising on style and we’re predicting real growth in particular for wall-hung toilets and sanitaryware in the UK market. Providing a space-saving alternative to traditional close coupled toilets, these systems are now more affordable and readily available than ever.
Bathrooms are valuable spaces, yet all too often require the most versatile solutions. Wall-hung systems can easily make even the smallest of bathrooms appear bigger, simply by concealing the toilet’s cistern and lifting the footprint off the floor. Opting for a wallhung system can also bring real flexibility to a project, with the frames enabling toilets to be easily installed in more awkward spaces, such as under a window, in a narrow wall duct or under a sloping ceiling.
> MODERN DESIGN If the customer is looking to create a standout space, installing a wall-hung system will provide a modern yet functional washroom solution. The sleek and streamlined appearance of wall-hung furniture can really enhance the room’s aesthetics and transform the space.
“We’re predicting real growth for wall-hung toilets and sanitaryware in the UK market”
> EASY TO CLEAN Lifting the toilet off the floor is an effective way to make cleaning easier and more hygienic, significantly reducing hidden areas around the pan where bacteria may thrive.
WALL HUNG TOILETS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> REDUCED SANITARY SOUND Opting for a wall-hung toilet is a sure-fire way to reduce sanitary sound in any bathroom. Raising the toilet from the ground stops noise travelling directly from the toilet pan to the floor. By incorporating a pre-wall frame into a bathroom design, the installer can also help optimise all acoustics values for the customer. Some frame systems will, for example, include integrated rubber tipped push rods to reduce noise from the flush plate when pressed for flushing, a polythene jacket insulating the cistern, circlips on threaded rods to eliminate movement and sound absorbing seals on drainage brackets.
> WALL-HUNG ON A BUDGET? In bathroom refurbishments bound by tighter budgets, there are typically two considerations when it comes to installing wall-hung toilets: the cost of the ceramics and the cost of the installation. However, with extensive product and system development by leading manufacturers, affordable wall-hung ceramics ranges are now available through merchants.
> EASY TO INSTALL We all know that difficult installations can ramp up the cost of any bathroom project but pre-wall frame systems for wall-hung ceramics have been specifically designed with installation and ease of maintenance in mind. Cleverly concealed fixings and the inclusion and position of water inlets for example, make life easier for installers - and with the cistern concealed inside a drywall, there is no need for additional studding. Maintenance is also made safe and simple with these systems. A good concealed cistern will allow full access to the cistern internals through removal of the flush plate or removable shelf.
> THE BOTTOM LINE We believe that demand for wall-hung systems will continue to grow – and it’s easy to see why. We installed 181,000 in 2019 alone. When we consider how the innovative design of these systems overcome the ever-present issue of shrinking space in today’s home, the opportunity to sell these is a win-win for the installer and customer. The growing availability of these systems offers installers a very simple opportunity to come up with the perfect design for customers – and, just as importantly, can also offer the perfect opportunity to grow reputation by acting as a bathroom advisor as well as installer.
For more information visit www.geberit.co.uk/wallhung
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THE GEBERIT DUO
MADE FOR EACH OTHER Thanks to product development from leading brands such as Geberit, wall-hung bathroom ranges now offer homeowners an affordable, flexible, hygienic and stylish solution to traditional close coupled toilets. > INSTALLATION BENEFITS Quick and affordable prewall frame systems, such as Geberit Duofix, have been specifically designed with ease of installation in mind. In fact, opting for a Geberit Duofix frame can typically reduce the complex installation previously associated with wall-hung systems. Cleverly concealed fixings and the inclusion and position of water inlets, for example, mean a simpler installation and, with the cistern concealed inside a drywall, there is no need for additional studding. Removing the toilet’s cistern also reduces the amount of ceramic, making for a much lighter toilet to transport and move. Plus, thanks to the ingenious cistern design and easy access via the flush plate, servicing is as straightforward as a conventional floor standing toilet.
Geberit’s Duofix frame and ceramic toilet range – made for each other
> GREATER FLEXIBILITY But it’s not just the installation benefits. Going wall-hung can make a difference for your customers. Geberit’s Duofix frame can be used with our range of wall-hung toilets and, by concealing the toilet’s cistern and lifting the footprint off the floor, can open up even the smallest bathroom. Opting for a Geberit wallhung system can also bring real flexibility to a project, with different frame options enabling toilets to be easily installed in more awkward spaces. It can support a weight up to 400kg and the concealed cistern is fully insulated against condensation and acoustics. And, with the spotlight now very much on hygiene, removing the toilet from the floor also makes cleaning easier and ensures a more hygienic space.
For more information visit www.geberit.co.uk/wallhung
WATER REGULATIONS
HOT & COLD WATER SYSTEMS
Sponsored by
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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, or Water Fittings Byelaws if you are working in Scotland. 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 Water Regulations Advisory Scheme WRAS (www.wras.co.uk). They have advice and guidance on all kinds of topics, whether installing or maintaining fittings such as reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valves (type BA devices); designing air gaps for cold water storage cisterns; installing rainwater harvesting systems; or the accessibility of water fittings when they are in walls or under floors.
There are leaflets about commissioning plumbing systems and about fluxes and where you mustn’t use lead solders.
WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
Although you may know about the regulations, your customers might find useful the leaflets explaining what the regulations are, or what work needs to be notified to a water supplier. A series of customer- friendly booklets describe how the regulations apply to different types of premises, such as farms, caravan sites or sports grounds, and more titles are being added.
> GUIDANCE ON REGULATIONS Perhaps even more useful are the technical interpretations and other pieces of advice from the water industry, which can be found in the ‘Resources’ section of the website. You may have a copy of the Water Regulations Guide, but there is extra advice online that isn’t printed in the Guide.
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 If you can’t find the answer, WRAS offers a technical advice service. You can ring up, or write in asking any question about the regulations and WRAS will do its best to provide an answer. 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 online Water Fittings and Materials Directory. The directory lists thousands of fittings and appliances which have been assessed to check that they are of a suitable quality and standard. Don’t forget to look at the installation requirements (IRNs) as these provide essential information which must be followed if they are to be installed compliantly. Access to the directory is FREE at wras.co.uk/ directory and is updated monthly.
DID YOU KNOW – the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme is funded by UK water suppliers to publicise and to promote consistent interpretation of the Water Fittings regulations and Scottish Byelaws across the UK.
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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THE RIGHT PRODUCTS You might think no-one would sell a plumbing fitting which was illegal to install... but sadly, you’d be wrong. > APPROVED PRODUCTS So how can you tell if the product is OK? Products should have been tested to ensure they comply with UK requirements. But it is not always easy as often there is no information about this. One reliable method is to use WRAS Approved products. You must install in accordance with any conditions which apply and are shown as Installation Requirements & Notes (IRNs). Water companies, the enforcers of the regulations, are separate from WRAS and make their own enforcement decisions. With water fittings, they will consider not only whether a product conforms to an appropriate quality and standard but also its suitability and where it is being installed.
DID YOU KNOW? Under the 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 installer’s legal duty to ensure that water fittings they install meet the requirements of the Regulations.
> TESTING To gain WRAS Approval, every product is extensively tested to performance requirements, which are set by Government. Taps are operated 200,000 times to check they are leak-tight over their full life. Pipes are pressure tested with hot water as well as cold if they’re for hot water or heating systems. Air gaps are measured for backflow protection and materials in contact with water are tested to make sure there are no nasty tastes or toxic substances. Toilets are even tested with artificial poo to ensure it clears the pan correctly! And of course, check valves are checked. Head to youtu.be/60inkL0wacg to see a short video on WRAS product testing.
When you’re buying or installing products, look for the logo.
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
Stay WaterSafe. Get approved. Got the right plumbing qualifications under your toolbelt? Congratulations! So whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next?
WaterSafe is the free online directory and national accreditation body for approved plumbers in the UK. As a member youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get endorsement and support from your local water company. Your customers will have peace-of-mind with a name they can trust and a certificate showing your work complies with the water regulations.
For information on joining call today on 0333 207 9030 or visit watersafe.org.uk @WatersafeUK
@watersaferegister
watersafe
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WHAT IS WATERSAFE? WaterSafe is the UK register of approved plumbers. It provides a free, online directory of qualified, professional plumbers trained to work safely with customers’ drinking water. WaterSafe is supported by all UK water companies, the drinking water inspectorates, Citizens Advice and the Department of Health. Being a WaterSafe approved plumber shows potential customers you have specific training in the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Byelaws, designed to maintain the high quality of water supplies and avoid the risk of contamination.
> WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF JOINING FOR YOUNG PLUMBERS? By joining the national accreditation scheme of more than 5,700 approved plumbers you will: ▸ reach more customers – WaterSafe’s online directory is one of the largest in the UK ▸ enjoy support from your local water company – who refer their customers to WaterSafe for approved plumbers and can support you with advice ▸ benefit from free promotion and a stamp of approval for your business – members can display WaterSafe branding on their vehicles, stationery, websites and social media ▸ have access to the latest Water Regulations and Byelaws information – to keep you upto-date with changes in the industry ▸ be able to issue a compliance certificate – to give customers confidence, reassurance and legal protection ▸ give peace-of-mind to customers looking for a professional, competent plumber.
> HOW CAN I BECOME A MEMBER OF WATERSAFE? To join WaterSafe, you firstly need to complete your training and gain a water regulations certificate. Once qualified, you can join one of the seven existing Approved Contractors Schemes in the UK, who can sign you up to WaterSafe free of charge. ▸ The Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) operates across England and Wales ▸ The Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE) operates across the UK ▸ The Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) operates across Northern Ireland and Scotland. ▸ Water suppliers Anglian Water (APLUS scheme), Severn Trent Water (WaterMark scheme) and Thames Water (TAPS scheme) ▸ The Water Industry Approved Plumbers’ Scheme (WIAPS) in the remaining water suppliers’ areas in England and Wales. For information on the schemes and the minimum requirements and qualifications involved, visit watersafe.org.uk/howtojoin
WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> WATER INDUSTRY APPROVED PLUMBERS’ SCHEME - WIAPS Membership of WIAPS is free. To join you need a plumbing qualification (minimum of NVQ Level 2 or equivalent), a Water Fittings Regulation certificate, public liability insurance and employers’ liability cover if needed. On joining you’ll get free packs of branded compliance certificates and regular technical updates.
“Being a member is important – so many people think they’re ‘plumbers’ because they can put together two pipes. There’s more to the job than just that – people’s health can potentially be at risk if they use unqualified plumbers”
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WaterSafe approved plumbers have the authority to self-certify to water companies for certain types of plumbing work (e.g. existing buildings extensions and bidets) – avoiding delays, reducing paperwork and making you more attractive to developers.
“I think being a member of WaterSafe is great – a way for people to recognise reputable plumbers that have the knowledge and competency to do a job safely”
Hannah Dorkenoo Leggat, WaterSafe member
Steve Bartin, UK Plumber of the Year 2018
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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, even if it is just a backup 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.
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> PLUMBING SYSTEM DESIGN AND INSTALLATION
protection and performance; or conform to a specification approved by the Regulators.
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.
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 how to meet your legal obligations. If you are employing someone else, consider using an Approved Plumber who will certify compliance of the new installation.
> PREVENTION OF CONTAMINATION BY BACKFLOW Backflow occurs when water flows opposite to the intended 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. They only specify the appropriate type of devices or arrangements which must be fitted to protect against backflow.
> CHOICE OF MATERIALS & FITTINGS Plumbing materials and fittings must meet the standards given in the regulations. At present they must either conform to an appropriate British Standard; or some other European Economic Area state specification which provides an equivalent level of
Whilst it is not illegal to sell unsuitable ďŹ ttings 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 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.
> THE INSTALLATION OF A WATER FITTING IN CONNECTION WITH: 1. The erection of a building or other structure, not being a pond or swimming pool 2. The extension or alteration of a water system on any premises other than a house (#) 3. A material change of use of any premises 4. The installation of: a. a bath having a capacity, as measured to the centre line of the overflow, of more than 230 litres (*) b. a bidet with an ascending spray or flexible hose (#) Continued >>
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c. a shower unit of a type specified by the Regulator (none are currently specified) (*) d. a pump or booster drawing more than 12 litres per minute, connected directly or indirectly to a supply pipe e. a unit which incorporates reverse osmosis f. a water treatment unit which produces a wastewater discharge or which requires the use of water for regeneration or cleaning
g. a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve assembly or other mechanical device for protection against a 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. (*)
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In Northern Ireland and Scotland, in addition, 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 (#). There is one extra item which only applies in Scotland, that is to notify of any system that incorporates 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:
> 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, 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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“There is no charge by your water supplier for dealing with notifications or granting consent”
> 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 & Heating Engineering (CIPHE), the Scottish & Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation (SNIPEF) and the Association of Plumbing & Heating Contractors (APHC) also list approved plumbers.
> 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: Unless their contractor scheme requires them to do so, when installing items marked (#) in the list on the previous pages, water suppliers do not have to receive prior notification before starting work. On completion, as well as 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.
▸ legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1999/1148/ contents/made A Guidance Document relating to the Schedules to the regulations is available on the Defra website. Copies of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 are available from Scottish Water or via: ▸ scottishwater.co.uk/en/Businessand-Developers/Byelaws-and-TradeEffluent/Water-Byelaws/ The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (Northern Ireland) are available from NI Water: ▸ niwater.com/water-fittingsregulations/
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DEAD LEGS, SERVICING VALVES & REGULATION INTERPRETATIONS The following information is a small selection of guidance that can be found in the Government’s (Defra) guidance. as short as possible and capped off, ideally no longer than twice the length of the pipe diameter. See interpretation I21 on the next page for full details.
> REDUNDANT FITTINGS & DEAD LEGS
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, and if necessary disinfect it, before making the final connection.
DEFRA GUIDANCE 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 not practical to remove a tee piece, in this instance the redundant pipe should be cut
> PROVISION OF SERVICING VALVES DEFRA GUIDANCE 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.” DEFRA GUIDANCE G11.2 “Servicing valves should be fitted as close as is reasonably practical to float operated valves or other inlet devices of an appliance.”
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DEFRA GUIDANCE G11.3
> INTERPRETATION N05
“Servicing valves may be of the screwdown or spherical type.”
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
Servicing valves should be installed adjacent to the appliance they are serving, making sure they are readily accessible. Usually servicing valves are the screwdriver operated type, but screw down stop valves may be acceptable. You can use hose union bib taps for isolating appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers! 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. The following information is a small selection of advice provided by water suppliers.
> 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. 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. Please note these offer guidance only and are subject to change. Check out the Resources section of the WRAS website for up to date information and advice wras.co.uk/resources/ interpretations_and_ advice/
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 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. ▸ 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.
WATER REGULATIONS I HI P BOOK 2020-21
> INTERPRETATION I20 Area of Interest: Installation Topic: Expansion vessels Title: Installation of expansion vessels Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2) (i) Reference Number: I20 Decision Date: September 2007 (Revised April 2013)
Air charge Expanded water
Water feed
In recognition that water stagnation and particulate accumulation can have detrimental effects upon water quality it is recommended that any fitting on a wholesome water system which accommodates expansion or pressure surges, such as expansion vessels, pressure accumulators and surge arrestors, be installed so as to avoid localised low turnover (stagnation) leading to the formation of biofilms and/or the accumulation of particulates. That is to say be installed in the vertical so that the fitting accommodating thermal expansion or a pressure surge is:Examples of good practice for installing expansion vessels or pressure accumulators.
> INSTALLATION 1. bottom fed and upright; and 2. that the connecting pipework to the fitting:- rises continuously; and - is kept to a minimum
> SIZED 3. sized correctly for the system; and
> SYSTEM DESIGN 4. designed to ensure an adequate turnover of water within the fitting. When installing expansion vessels you should not forget that there will be a need to carry out maintenance at some point. The installation should also take into account the requirement not to waste water. Installing a servicing valve on the pipework connecting the expansion vessel is permitted, however, it is recommended that servicing valves be a tamperproof design, such as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;lockshieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; valve.
Examples of installation practices which can lead to detrimental effects on water quality
INSTALLATION Orientation: Bottom fed & upright Connecting pipework: > Rises continuously > Is kept to a minimum INSTALLATION Orientation: Bottom fed & upright Connecting pipework: > Rises continuously > Is kept to a minimum Fitting: Sized correctly for the system System: Designed to ensure adequate turnover of water within the fitting
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INSTALLATION Orientation: Bottom fed & upright Connecting pipework: > Rises continuously > Is kept to a minimum indicates those areas where there is the potential for low turnover which could result in the formation of biofilms or accumulation of particulates.
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 SAVING
Sponsored by
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REDUCE THE FLOW TO HELP SAVE WATER Nowadays, aerators can be found on the spouts of virtually all washbasin and bathtub taps. They shape the water to produce a non-splashing stream and add air to make the water pleasantly soft. They also reduce plumbing noise and help to save water and energy.
> WATER USE FACTS Even in the UK with all the wet weather we experience, water is still in short supply. The average water used per person per day in the UK is estimated to be 146 litres, that equates to 9.7 billion litres used daily. As water becomes more scarce building new infrastructure to meet growing demands is a huge expensive. The importance of saving water is well documented, but what about the energy used to heat it? This also has an impact on cost and carbon footprint; adding to our carbon emissions further depletes what is becoming
“The less water we use, the less energy we use” a scarce resource. One great use of energy in the home is to heat water. Typically, around 20% of the homeʼs gas heating bill is spent on heating water for the shower, baths and hot water taps, so there is plenty of opportunity to save on energy and water meter bills.
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LESS WATER, LESS ENERGY > YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Today, we have the technology to easily reduce the flow of water in valve showers and taps without compromising the experience. We all have taps in the home or workplace where water is largely used for just washing hands or cleaning teeth. Many showers and taps have a higher flow rate than required and we are simply throwing clean water down the drain.
Mikado, economical for handwashing, offers an attractive water stream with a flow rate of just over a litre a minute
A clever little flow regulator device is technically engineered and has an integral dynamic control ring (DCR) at its core. As water flows through it and as the pressure fluctuates the DCR deforms into the core of the flow regulator, either reducing or increasing the size of the orifice, to enable a stable and constant flow, independent of pressure. To retro fit a flow regulator is an easy job for a plumber, they simply need to obtain the right advice as to which regulator to fit to retain adequate performance and they need to purchase a simple tool to fit it. A quick simple fix we could all do to help save water and the environment.
Typical Neoperl flow regulator
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> WATER SAVING AUDITS Why not offer your customers a ‘Water Saving Audit’ whilst in their home or on their business premises? It’s a great service to offer them and may result in additional business for you:
1 2
Offer an audit on the water flow for all taps, showers and urinals Assess flow rates and propose changes to reduce flow for relevant appliances
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Assess whether flow regulators and/or aerators can be installed in any taps and showers
products can be retro-fitted, also providing great water saving solutions for the home. The company produces over 100 million flow regulators each year, in all shapes and sizes, shipped across the world to help save water and preserve the life of appliances.
> REDUCE THE FLOW Tailor the flow rate for each tap you fit for your customer. If a tap is only used for washing hands or cleaning teeth then you can reduce its water flow. It takes minutes to do, saving water, energy and reducing fuel bills. Flow rate on tap as purchased
4
Suggest urinal controls or waterless urinals, efficient flush toilets and automatic sensor taps
Check out how to install Neoperl products on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/NeoperlGroup
For more information visit: www.neoperl.net
> ABOUT NEOPERL NEOPERL is the world’s leading manufacturer of water saving flow regulators based in Malvern, Worcestershire. It’s part of a global group with headquarters in Switzerland, employing around 1900 people across 16 countries globally and 160 here in the UK. The Group produces plumbing products that can positively impact on our water wastage, both in the workplace and at home. In the UK, they largely manufacture the flow regulators and can boast over 90% of the world’s supply. Their flow regulators and aerators can be found in most showers, taps and boilers across the UK. Many of their
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when fitted with a Pressure Compensating Aerator (PCA)
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REDUCING THE FLOW IS EASY! Encourage your customers to save water by fitting a PCA aerator onto their existing tap.
Check out how: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NFttMz3iUt0 or follow these simple steps below.
> STEP 01
> STEP 02
> STEP 03
Using a special tool, available from Neoperl, loosen the existing aerator housing at the end of the tap.
Once loose, remove the housing by gently unscrewing with fingers.
Take the new Pressure Compensating Aerator. These are colour coded to help identify the flow rate and stream pattern of the model (aerated or laminar).
> STEP 04
> STEP 05
> STEP 06
Insert into the existing or new circular chrome housing unit.
Ensure the washer is placed on top to prevent leakage.
Screw the housing back into the tap, tighten with the tool.
All taps may vary slightly in sizing and specification. For technical support: 01684 564869
WATER TREATMENT
Sponsored by
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YOUR GUIDE TO A
HEALTHY CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEM Here, Richard Crisp, Head of Chemistry at Fernox explains the role of testing in maintaining the health of a central heating system, and how to comply with BS 7593:2019 and the Benchmark Commissioning Checklist. > HEATING MAINTENANCE In May 2019, BS 7593:2019 was updated to offer installers more comprehensive guidance on the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and one of the most significant updates was to the role of testing.
Richard Crisp
BS 7593:2019 directs installers to check inhibitor levels annually and conduct a laboratory test of the system water every five years to identify any issues early on and allow installers to remedy them, before significant damage occurs. This subsequently keeps the system working at optimum efficiency and will extend system life. The Benchmark Commissioning Checklist supports this by asking installers to confirm whether the system inhibitor concentration has been checked and if appropriate action has been taken in accordance with the regulations. Continued >>
Continued >>
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> WHY TEST THE SYSTEM EVERY YEAR? If corrosion and limescale form within the central heating system, it will lead to the formation of harmful sludge and debris which can build up and cause blockages in the pipework. This forces the system to work harder and results in a sluggish, inefficient system. It can also result in problems such as radiator cold spots and system noise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and in a worst-case scenario, premature breakdown of the system. To prevent these issues from occurring, BS 7593:2019 recommends dosing with a high-quality corrosion inhibitor, that works to protect the metals commonly found in central heating systems and prevent
rust and corrosion formation. It is important to add inhibitor to a clean system, either before a new boiler is fitted or when it is isolated from the rest of the system. This will prevent existing contaminants from reaching and depositing in the boiler and causing lasting damage. Always check that the correct quantity of chemicals is used, as underdosing could mean the treatment is not fully effective. To keep systems protected long-term, it is important to maintain inhibitor levels. That is why BS 7593:2019 recommends conducting an annual on-site test of the system water to see if the correct concentration of inhibitor is present.
> ON-SITE TESTS For ease, on-site tests like the Fernox Express Inhibitor Test can be used. This dip test is quick and easy to use and will instantly indicate whether the system water is fully protected with inhibitor. Simply dip the test strip provided into the system water and within just 10 seconds, it will change colour. Next, compare the test strip to the colour chart on the bottle - a fully protected system will have inhibitor levels of 100ppm or above. If the dip test shows less than 100ppm, it is important to dose with a high-quality inhibitor like Fernox Protector F1 to provide ongoing protection.
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> FREE WATER TEST APP Fernox has also made it easier to keep track of test results with the free Fernox Water Test App. Using the in-app camera function, installers can create a record for each test on each property, by taking a picture of the test strip and colour chart and uploading the colour details of the test strip. The app will then log the pass or fail result and provide the user with a digital certificate that can be used as evidence that the test has been conducted. If the test result shows a fail, installers can also demonstrate that action was subsequently taken to receive a pass result.
For problem systems, further on-site kits like the Fernox Universal Test Kit offer an extended range of on-site tests, such as tests for water turbidity, pH levels and water hardness, as well as the presence of chemical water treatment using the Protector Reagent supplied. The Fernox Protector Test Kit can also be used to determine the concentration level of inhibitor.
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> THE LABORATORY TESTING PROCESS To avoid the risk of chemical degradation over time â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which means the system may not be fully protected - BS 7593:2019 also recommends re-dosing the system with inhibitor every five years, or conducting a full laboratory analysis of the system water. If the test shows insufficient inhibitor levels, the system should be re-dosed with inhibitor. To make the laboratory testing process easy, leading manufacturers offer laboratory testing services, using water quality testing kits. For example, the Fernox Water Quality Test kit includes everything needed to take a sample of the system water and post it free of charge to the Fernox laboratory. Here, the technicians will conduct an analysis of key system water parameters, before returning pass or fail results via the Fernox Test App within 24-48 hours of receipt of the sample and providing a full diagnostic report â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including how to remedy any issues to the user online. BS 7593:2019 and the Benchmark Commissioning Checklist champion lifelong protection of central heating systems. Adopting a best practice approach by conducting annual and laboratory tests of the system water will ensure that any issues are quickly identified and remedied, before significant damage occurs. Handy on-site kits such as the Express Inhibitor Test and app, Universal Test Kit and Protector Test Kit and the laboratory Water Quality Test Kit and app make this easy and help keep systems working at optimum performance.
For more information visit www.fernox.com or subscribe to the Fernox You Tube video channel for up to date videos. Continued >>
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EXPRESS TESTING
WITH FERNOX
The new Fernox Express Inhibitor Test makes testing central heating systems for the correct concentration of inhibitor quicker and easier than ever, with a pass or fail result shown in just 10 seconds. > NEW DIP-TEST The Express Inhibitor Test is a new dip-test from leading water treatment manufacturer Fernox. The test is designed to maximise installer productivity and make annual testing of central heating systems – a core requirement under BS 7593:2019 and the Benchmark Commissioning Checklist – easier and quicker to comply. Using the test is simple: dip the test strip provided into the system water and within seconds, it will change colour, and should be compared to the colour chart on the bottle, to clearly show whether the system includes the correct levels of inhibitor. A fully protected system will have inhibitor levels of 100ppm or above – and will pass the test. However, if the test fails and a result of less than 100ppm is received, the system should be re-dosed with Fernox Protector F1. Fernox has also made it easier to keep track of test results with the free to download Fernox
Water Test App. Installers need to register only once and can use the app to evidence each test by taking a picture of the test strip using the in-app camera function and select the colour of the strip when prompted. If the test passes, users will receive a digital certificate that acts as evidence that the test has been completed and the system is fully protected. If a test fails, installers can also demonstrate that action has been taken and the system subsequently re-tested to receive a positive result. This saves the installer time and the householder money as there is no requirement for a repeat site visit. The Express Inhibitor Test will check for the presence of any molybdate based inhibitor within the system water – including Fernox Protector F1. Each small, portable kit contains enough test strips to test 50 systems. For further information about Fernox and its range of products please speak to your Fernox sales representative or visit www.fernox.com
WIRING CONNECTORS
Sponsored by
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OUT WITH THE OLD! While electrical installation work makes up only 10-15% of the average project for a heating engineer, it can represent a much larger proportion of the headaches. Fiddly and time-consuming electrical terminations can slow the installation down and any that have not been completed as required can be hard to identify, causing further delays or snagging issues. “IDEAL wire connectors – for a fast, easy and safe installation”
Electrical cable terminations are traditionally done using a terminal strip. They’re not difficult to use, but even the simplest of traditional techniques can be improved upon and, in this case, the use of In-Sure® lever or push-in connectors can save time, make the job easier, and help heating engineers achieve a more consistent and compliant installation.
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THE KEY BENEFITS Listed below are the many benefits of switching from traditional terminal strip connections to push-in and lever wire connections. These innovative connections from IDEAL are perfect for plumbing apprentices who are still learning. > REDUCED ARCING OR LOOSE SCREWS When using traditional terminal strips the screws can loosen over time, causing arcing in the connector. This presents a potential fire risk and is just one of the reasons why push-in and lever connectors are being more widely used instead of terminal blocks in numerous applications.
> FASTER INSTALLATIONS
> COMPLIANT INSTALLATIONS
The old adage ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ is a mantra often quoted by those content to remain permanently within their comfort zone. The problem is, without trying new tools and techniques, we don’t find out whether the job can be done faster, better and with a greater level of consistency.
The 18th Edition requires that traditional terminal strip connections should be accessible for annual inspections in compliance with BS EN 60670-22 which makes it difficult to select a suitable location for terminal strip connections, leading to noncompliance for many projects.
> IMPROVED QUALITY
Lever and push-in connectors are classified as ‘maintenance-free’ when used in conjunction with an approved enclosure box, so can be part of a compliant installation anywhere within the property.
Often, keeping to the same routines can mean missing an opportunity to save time and improve quality, both of which can deliver commercial advantages for heating and plumbing installers.
> REDUCED CALL BACKS Even small time savings on a single task can add up to a significant time and cost saving over the length of a full installation. What’s more, consistent quality not only reduces the risk of snagging and call backs; it could also enhance the success rate of bids for repeat work.
SpliceLine® In-Line Wire Connector, Model 42 Orange
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> CHOOSING THE RIGHT ENCLOSURE A traditional junction box with screw terminals has always needed to be installed in an accessible location as over time terminals will need to be checked. If an appropriate location could not be found, access panels were needed. Choosing an enclosure which has been tested to and complies with BS 5733 maintenance free accessory standard like the IDEAL In-Sure® Box makes it possible to save money on materials and keep the enclosure installation process as quick and simple as possible.
> REDUCED LABOUR COSTS A barrier to change when it comes to switching from terminal strips to lever or push-in connectors is perceptions of cost. While the unit price of connectors may be slightly more than terminal strips, the time savings they offer easily offset the minimal additional costs. Connectors not only help to keep the job within programme, but also reduces labour costs over the length of the project.
> PEACE OF MIND What’s more, making the switch provides peace of mind because use of connectors removes any inconsistency associated with the tightening of terminal strip screws, thereby building value into the cost of the connectors by reducing the need for quality assurance checks or call backs.
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> REMOVED MARGIN FOR ERROR This standardised approach to making the connections ensures lever and push-in connectors deliver a fit-and-forget solution, as well as driving speed of installation. While speed and consistency of terminal strip installations grows with experience, connectors remove any margin for error, even for inexperienced installers who are still training.
> CONSISTENT CONNECTIONS Using connectors rather than terminal strips ensures every connection is consistent because there is no variation in the tightening of the fixing screw that fastens the cable in place. Ideal Industries’ wire connectors even include a stripping guide on the side to aid consistently accurate stripping of the cable prior to connection, along with a CPC port for relevant testing.
The In-Sure® Push-In Wire Connector
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QUICK, RELIABLE CONNECTIONS WITH IDEAL INDUSTRIES IDEAL Industries’ range of wire connectors provides heating and plumbing installers with a timesaving, modern and safe alternative to traditional screw-down terminal strips. > IN-SURE® LEVER WIRE CONNECTORS ▸ Perfect solution for joining solid, stranded or flexible conductors
> 32A IN-SURE ® PUSH-IN WIRE CONNECTORS (2, 3 & 4 PORT) ▸ Reduce installation time by up to 50%
> 32A SPLICELINE® WIRE CONNECTOR ▸ Excellent for extending and connecting wires
▸ Easy glide-in wire connection
▸ 3x faster to install than traditional crimped butt splices
▸ Safe, reliable and re-useable – no need to lift the lever
▸ Perfect replacement for crimped splices
▸ Provides a crimp free, solderless butt splice
▸ Compact design that takes up less room in junction boxes and enclosures
▸ Low insertion force for fast connections
▸ Tool free, push-in straight line connector
▸ 0.75 mm2 to 4.0 mm2 for solid and 1.5 mm2 to 2.5 mm2 stranded
▸ 0.5 mm2 to 4.0 mm2 for solid and 1.0 mm2 to 2.5 mm2 for stranded
▸ Modern alternative to traditional strip connectors
▸ No screwdriver required ▸ 0.2 mm2 to 2.5 mm2
> ADDITIONALLY, ALL THREE TYPES COME WITH: ▸ Check port for continuity testing ▸ Clear shell allowing for visual inspection of connection
Robust and well-designed at an attractive price point, IDEAL wire connectors offer a user-friendly, cost-effective and quality-led alternative to terminal strips. They are BS 7671:2018 (18th Edition) compliant and conform to EN 60998-1 and EN 60998-2-2 connecting device standards. For further information, visit: www.idealindustriesemea.com
Sponsored by
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STARTING A BUSINESS So, you’ve completed your apprenticeship. You’re now a newly qualified installer. What’s next? It may be that you’re desperate to start your own business and be your own boss. There are lots of things to think about but you aren’t on your own – there is help available for young people with business ideas. You might be in a position to finance your business yourself, but at some stage you might need a loan or a grant to help get things up and running. Luckily, there are a number of schemes set up to help. The exact schemes open to you will depend on a number of factors, including your age and where you live.
> START UP LOANS There is loads of advice and information on the gov.uk website, including how to apply for a Start Up Loan. These are unsecured personal loans of between £500 and £25,000 that are backed by the government (the average loan amount is £7,200). You’ll be offered free support and guidance to write a business plan for your application, and if successful you’ll get 12 months of free mentoring.
> HOW TO APPLY To apply for a Start Up Loan you must: ▸ Live in the UK ▸ Be 18 or over ▸ Have, or plan to start, a UK-based business that’s been fully trading for less than 24 months You can repay a Start Up Loan over one to five years and you’ll be charged a fixed interest rate of 6%.
For more info visit: startuploans.co.uk
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> THE PRINCE’S TRUST ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME The Prince’s Trust has helped more than 86,000 young people start their own business through its Enterprise programme, which is broken down into three stages. 1. A free information session in your local area, explaining how you can get support 2. A four-day workshop covering business planning, marketing, sales, budgeting and tax 3. Building your business with the help of a mentor and the chance to apply for funding (loans up to £5,000 offered by the Start Up Loans Company) Before you launch your business, you’ll also get to present your business plan to the Prince’s Trust’s Business Launch Group, get feedback and more financial support if you need it. For more info visit: www.princes-trust.org.uk
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“There is lots of help available for young people with business ideas”
> ADVICE AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT There are government-run helplines offering free advice and support around the UK, including the Business Support Helpline in England, Business Gateway in Scotland, the Business Wales Helpline and Invest Northern Ireland. There is a searchable list of schemes offering financial support and advice at gov.uk/business-finance-support . Most banks have access to a business manager, who may be able to advise on local training, support and funding sources. Your local council or chamber of commerce might also be a good place to find out what help is available locally.
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GETTING YOUR WEBSITE RIGHT Word of mouth is still a vital way of getting new business, but increasingly people will head straight to Google when they need a plumber. In fact, a 2019 study by WRAS showed that while 54% of people still ask family and friends for recommendations, a fifth (17.5%) rely on online search results. That’s why it’s important to have a website that works for you. When people in your local area search online for a plumber, you want it to be your name they find. Start by building a basic website - at the start of your business, you want to keep your costs down as much as possible so we'd suggest using Wix.com or a similar online platform which are either free or fairly inexpensive.
“When people in your local area search online for a plumber, you want it to be your name they find”
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If you’re keeping it simple, stick to three pages for your website – a homepage, a services page listing everything you offer, and a contact page.
> HOMEPAGE This has to grab people’s attention but avoid being tacky. Describe what you do and use images that reflect your business.
> SERVICES PAGE List every service you offer as part of your business, including those that may seem obvious or mundane to you, like installing washing machines and dishwashers or replacing taps. Think about what people will type into Google when looking for a plumber.
> CONTACT PAGE Include your full business address, contact numbers, an email address and links to your social media accounts. Make it easy for people to get in touch with you.
You could also add an ‘about’ page, so people can find out more about you. And if you can put in more time, it might be beneficial to create individual pages for the different services you offer. For example, a ‘boiler’ section on your website could contain separate pages for installations, repairs, servicing and emergency call-outs. Other things you can do to boost your website: ▸ Create a Google Business Listing (go to google.com/business) ▸ Encourage your customers to leave reviews ▸ Register with business listings websites like Yell, Gumtree or Checkatrade
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MAKING THE MOST OF SOCIAL MEDIA Social media can be brilliant for promoting your business – and the different platforms each have their own strengths. > FACEBOOK Most people have a personal Facebook page, 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. Post photos of installations you’ve carried out and make your comments friendly and chatty. Update it as often as possible.
> TWITTER Twitter is great for starting and joining in conversations. Build up your followers by ‘following’ and engaging with other people and retweeting messages. The plumbing Twitter community is full of people sharing images of their work and learning from each other. Links automatically condense in your Tweet, so it’s easy to add your website to your message.
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.
Social media works both ways. If you provide a great service, you’ll reap the benefits. Personal recommendations are priceless. However, if you upset a customer, it could damage your reputation for a long time, especially if you lose your cool online.
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> 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. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.
> INSTAGRAM Instagram reached 1 billion users worldwide in 2018 and is becoming an increasingly popular platform used by the plumbing and heating industry. Manufacturers and businesses alike share pictures and videos regularly. Instagram can be a great way to showcase your best work and impress those potential customers.
> YOUTUBE YouTube is a great platform for picking up hints and tips from other plumbers, manufacturers and merchants â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and there are some great personalities to follow. Consider starting your own channel, it's completely free and it's a great way to share ideas.
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GETTING TO GRIPS WITH THE JOB Your local Graham Plumbers’ Merchant branch is an ideal place to get all the advice you need when it comes to the best product for the job in hand. Here are some tips from Graham’s experienced team for those just starting out.
1 OPEN A TRADE ACCOUNT It is important to open a trade account with a specialist merchant as these can provide you with cost savings and regular special offers. Try to opt for an account that you can manage online for ultimate ease of use.
2 GET YOUR PPE RIGHT It is essential to ensure that you are equipped with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Goggles, ear defenders, safety gloves and respiratory protective equipment should be included in your day-to-day PPE kit.
3 TRAIN TO GAIN Newly qualified installers will be bombarded with potential training courses from manufacturers and organisations; merchants can advise on the most valuable courses and many will run free events in local branches for installers to attend.
4 BEWARE CHEAP IMITATIONS
For further guidance on legislation, product news as well as how-to videos and guides visit www.getplumbedin.co.uk
When it comes to boiler parts, don’t be fooled with cheap spares. In all likelihood they won’t be genuine, and you could encounter problems with long-term performance as well as endangering your customer, any warranties from the original equipment manufacturer and your reputation.
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HANDLING FINANCES Balancing the books may not be the reason you became a plumber, but looking after the financial side of things is an important part of running your own business. > GOODS ON CREDIT If you are just starting out 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. At first they may 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 and in time, your credit rating will rise.
> ACCOUNTS 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.
> PRICING UP A JOB The ability to price up a job is something that will probably develop over time and with experience, but here are a few tips to help when you’re starting out.
“Make a thorough list of the materials you'll need to complete the job. For big jobs get prices from different merchants”
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> TOP TIPS FOR PRICING UP ▸ When pricing work for customers, the first thing to establish is whether the customer requires a quote or an estimate. Remember a quote is a firm price, while an estimate is your best guess and may vary from the initial price.
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▸ If you provide a quotation you should not invoice the customer for anything extra unless they have asked you to do extra work. If the customer asks for extra work to be carried out during the installation you should re-price the work and present a variation order for the customer to sign. ▸ Sometimes you will have to do extra work you couldn’t have reasonably known about when you quoted. You may be able to add this to the invoice but you should let the customer know as soon as possible. ▸ Make a thorough list of the materials you’ll need to complete the job. If it’s a big list, get prices from two or three different merchants. It’s worth spending that extra time making sure that your materials are priced right. ▸ If a job takes longer than you thought all you’ve lost is your time, but if you’ve underpriced the materials it will come out of your pocket. Charge the customer list price for all materials. Any reductions you receive from the list price should be marked as profit margin. ▸ For labour costings, allow time for travelling to and from jobs, and also for the time you’ll spend collecting materials. Work out an hourly rate and how long you think the job will take. If you’re not sure how much to charge customers per hour, you could call other plumbing companies in your area to learn their hourly rates. With experience, you’ll learn how long most jobs will take and allow for any problems. When starting out, predict how long an individual job will take and write it down, then compare it with how long the job actually took. It will help to price jobs more accurately. Also allow for any time you have been out to look at a job beforehand, and if it’s a larger job you may want to allow for coming back and snagging.
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BEING A PRO Even in the age of Google and social media, one of the best ways to gain customers is through word of mouth. Being professional is a simple way to impress your customers and earn that all-important recommendation. These are our top tips:
> TURN UP ON TIME
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Being punctual shows that you’re reliable. Showing up late is not going to endear you to a customer who has potentially waited in all morning for you to arrive. If you’re stuck in traffic or running late through no fault of your own, call ahead to let your customer know you’ve been delayed.
> LOOK AFTER PEOPLE’S PROPERTY
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Show your respect for people’s property by taking off your shoes when you enter their home. If you need to wear shoes for the job, wear shoe covers. And remember to put down dust covers wherever you work and use heat mats when necessary.
> LOOK THE PART
3
Dressing smartly suggests professionalism from the outset. A polo shirt with your company logo on it is much better than a tatty old T-shirt.
> MANNERS COST NOTHING
4
Something as simple as saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ can make a real difference to how a customer sees you. Listen to your customer and be sympathetic to their concerns, no matter how trivial they may seem to you.
> TAKE EXTRA CARE WITH VULNERABLE CUSTOMERS
5
You may need to be more patient with elderly customers, for example.
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INSURANCE JARGON BUSTER Confusing insurance jargon has been baffling plumbers for years. But this handy guide has you covered.
1 ASSURANCE Insurance cover against an eventuality, for example - the death of a person being covered under a life insurance policy.
2 ADDENDUM An additional piece of policy information.
3 WARRANTY A written guarantee or a commitment issued to the purchaser to repair or replace the article purchased if necessary, within a specified period.
4 PREMIUM The cost of the policy which includes taxes and broker/insurer fees.
5 RATE Mark Herbert at ConstructionInsure.co.uk compiled this jargon-busting list to help plumbers understand complex insurance issues in simple terms. He said:
â&#x20AC;&#x153;When people begin to understand these frequently used terms, and realise it is not as complex as it sounds, insurance becomes a much simpler matterâ&#x20AC;?
The risk calculation used to arrive at the premium, minus broker and insurer fees.
6 COVER The amount of risk or liability that is covered for an individual or object by insurance services.
7 CLAIM A formal request to an insurance company for coverage or compensation for a covered loss. Claims are made in the event of loss or damage.
8 LOSS The injury or damage sustained by the insured.
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9 POLICY A document that has been put together with an insured (the first party) to best protect their risk.
10 ENDORSEMENTS Sections of a policy which state exclusions and recommendations.
11 BROKER A middle man acting between a client and an insurer. They have a legal duty to help you obtain appropriate coverage at a reasonable price.
12 QUOTATION A document presented to a client before the parties agree to go ahead. It details an estimate of a rate with a potential insurance carrier.
13 CONTINGENT INSURANCE A policy that is contingent on the absence of other insurance.
14 ALL RISK COVER All risk cover insures all losses arising from an unexpected or fortuitous cause except those that are specifically excluded.
15 INDEMNITY Security or protection against a loss or other financial burden.
16 EXCESS Is the first amount payable by a policy holder in the event of a loss.
17 LIABILITY A person or companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legal responsibility for an act of negligence, or a circumstance in connection to their business, causing loss or damage to a third party.
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18 NEGLIGENCE A failure to act in a way that a reasonable person would when faced with certain situations or circumstances. For example, if water is coming into your home due to a burst pipe, your insurance policy will require you act to prevent further damage. If you do not, you may be considered negligent.
19 NO CLAIMS BONUS A discount given for being claim free.
20 NON-DISCLOSURE Holding back information that would bear an effect on a policy.
21 RISK The exposures covered within a policy.
22 POLICY HOLDER The lead name on an insurance document, a person whose name an insurance policy is held in.
23 REINSTATEMENT The rebuild value of a property.
24 RENEWAL Re-application of insurance after the existing policy has expired.
25 STATEMENT OF FACT A document which contains all information given by a policyholder.
26 THIRD PARTY Insurance is purchased by an insured (the first party) from an insurer (the second party) for protection against the claims of another (the third party).
27 UNDERLYING INSURANCE The basic or primary layer of coverage, the initial policy that will respond to the covered loss.
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HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK A big part of your job will be maintaining the correct Health and Safety procedures every working day. It is crucial you are aware of the hazards that exist wherever you are working and that you take the necessary precautions so 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 RESPONSIBILITES ▸ 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 maintain your own safety as they cannot cater for human error or negligence.
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> HERE ARE SOME OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS A PLUMBER MIGHT FACE:
> WORKING AT HEIGHTS Working in attics and at internal and external high points on buildings puts you at risk of falling. Make sure the surface you’re putting the majority of your weight on is secure and has been inspected where this is relevant. Never stand on a surface unless you’re 100% sure it is safe.
> EXPOSURE TO HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES Lead, asbestos, raw sewage and mould are just some of the hazardous substances you are at risk of being exposed to as a plumber. These can cause serious illnesses such as Tetanus and Hepatitis A, B or C. Make sure you apply barrier cream before starting a job, wash your hands whenever you take a break and always wear the correct PPE (gloves, eye protection etc). Clean your equipment properly after use and maintain good ventilation where you are working at all times. 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.
> EXPOSURE TO NOISE Tools and machinery can create more decibels of sound than the human ear can safely be exposed to, so use ear plugs or ear defenders at all times when working in a noisy environment, as part of your PPE.
Continued >>
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> SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS If you suspect someone has a broken bone, keep them still until the injured part is secured and supported. If the person is in immediate danger, then of course they should be moved away from the hazard – but do not put yourself at risk and always call emergency services immediately.
> INJURY FROM TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT 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, take frequent breaks to eliminate the chance of error and adjust your position regularly to avoid cramping and muscle injury.
> BURNS Don’t underestimate the damage that can be caused by hot water and steam. If you are scalded, flood the burn with plenty of cold water immediately and do not remove anything that may be sticking to the burn – this may cause further damage and introduce infection. Always call 999/112 for emergency help.
DID YOU KNOW? The load generally accepted as the maximum for a fit person to lift is 20kg
If you would like more information, here are some websites which may be useful to you. ▸ hse.gov.uk/coshh ▸ hse.gov.uk/legislation ▸ www.redcross.org.uk/about-us/ what-we-do
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HEAD TO www.hip-magazine.co.uk
LEARNER OF THE MONTH Fancy bagging some great prizes just by tagging us in a photo of your amazing install? The HIP Learner of the Month award, which is open to all full-time learners and apprentices, aims to celebrate the amazing work that upcoming talent in the industry is producing. There is a prize usually worth £100+ for the winner each month – and you will feature in our online Hall of Fame and in the next issue of HIP!
LEARNER OF THE MONTH
#HIPLOTM For full entry details go to
www.hip-magazine.co.uk
HOW IT HOW WORKS WORKS > BETWEEN THE 1ST AND 20TH OF A MONTH Tag us in a new photo of your best work on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter – use #HIPLOTM. Any entries later than the 20th will roll over into the following month.
> BETWEEN 21ST AND 23RD OF A MONTH We will choose our favourite entries (up to a maximum of eight).
> ONE WEEK BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH We will share the top entries on the @hipmagazineuk Instagram page to allow our followers and your friends, family, clients and colleagues to vote for your image.
> ON THE LAST DAY OF THE MONTH We will reveal who has got the most votes and therefore won!
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